Al Fresco Rapid Chess Tournament

Saturday | July 26th

Spokane Chess Club, 1832 W Dean Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
04:00PM - 8:00PM

Hosted by Blitz and Blunders in partnership with Spokane Chess Club

Ready to play sharp and fast? Join us outdoors for a 5-round G/10; d5 chess tournament, open to both rated and unrated players. Whether you're chasing USCF points or just want to enjoy great games and good company, this is your chance to compete, connect, and maybe even win a prize!

🔍 Tournament Format & Details

  • Rounds: 5-round Swiss | G/10; d5

  • Sections:
    • Rated – $10 entry (USCF ID required)
    • Unrated – $5 entry (open to all; same format as rated)

  • Prizes: Entry fees go into a pot and will be split among top finishers

  • Registration: Walk-in only—no advance sign-ups

  • Tiebreaks: Modified Median ;Solkoff; Cumulative; head-to-head tiebreak match

⏱️ Why Play This Event?

  • Fast & Fun: Blitz-style games with just enough time to think

  • All Levels Welcome: Whether you're rated or brand new, there's a section for you

  • Community Energy: Meet Spokane’s chess scene and make new connections

  • Learn & Grow: Get tips, share ideas, and sharpen your skills

  • All Equipment Provided: Boards and clocks supplied

☕ Extras

  • Light refreshments available

  • Outdoor setting (weather permitting)

  • No gear needed—just bring your game!

*** By entering the tournament, permission is granted to the organizers to use photos for publicity and news on the internet, newspapers, and promotional materials. Participants assume all risks associated with over-the-board tournaments.

How to get a USCF rating?

  • A USCF-rated game is an official chess game recognized by the United States Chess Federation (USCF), the national governing body for chess in the United States. In rated games, players' results are used to calculate their USCF rating, which is a numerical measure of skill. Ratings allow players to gauge their progress, compete against players of similar skill levels, and participate in organized events, from local tournaments to national championships. Ratings start at 100 and go up as players win games against stronger opponents.

    How to Get Started:

    Join the USCF: To play in rated games, you'll need a USCF membership. You can sign up online on the USCF website. Use my affiliation number A9280179 when registering.

    Learn Tournament Rules: USCF-rated games follow specific rules, such as using chess clocks, maintaining written scores, and adhering to touch-move rules (if you touch a piece, you must move it). Familiarizing yourself with these rules will help you play confidently.

    Find Local USCF Tournaments: You can find rated tournaments on the USCF’s tournament calendar or at your local chess club, such as Blitz and Blunders. Our club offers beginner-friendly events to help you ease into competitive play.

    Play in Your First Tournament: Once you’re registered, you’re ready to compete! Beginners typically start in lower sections, which are designed to match players with similar skill levels. As you play more games, your rating will be adjusted based on your performance.