Our region has a rich history of chess, boasting historic chess clubs in Hastings and Bexhill, and a world-famous chess tournament in Hastings. It wasn’t until I started working in the chess industry, meeting hundreds of Chess Masters at competitions around the world, that I realised how ubiquitous “Hastings chess” was internationally. As a citizen of neighbouring Rye, I thought to myself, “How is it that ancient Rye not only has no famous club, but no club at all?”
Rye held its first ever chess tournament this month. It was a 4-round Rapid Chess Tournament, lasting two hours, and we had a broad swathe of abilities taking part. The entrants were members of Rye Chess Club (which has been running weekly since December), along with some new faces, including the ultimate tournament winner, Mark Rich (National Chess Master). Congratulations to Mark!
Rye Chess Club meets every week on a Thursday from 5pm to 7.30pm, at Grounded Community Cafe (on Lion Street, near the Kino cinema). People frequently comment on the relaxed atmosphere and plethora of other activities for people visiting. Please do come along for a game of chess, no matter what your level of chess ability! We have a great teacher who can teach you the rules if you are new to it.
The tournament itself will be held monthly, on the first Thursday of each month; the next one is on 6 August. We run it in the Swiss-style, meaning that it’s suitable for all levels of ability. Free as always, no prior knowledge needed, just turn up. All details of the Rye Chess Club can be found at www.ryechess.org.uk
Image Credits: David Beaton .
This is brilliant news. Well done to the Grounded Chess Crew.