The fourth annual Community Chess Challenge will be held Saturday at Chanute High School, hosted by the CHS chess team. Registration begins at 9 a.m., with the first matches starting at 10 a.m. There is no charge to compete, but freewill donations will benefit the chess team.
Chess coach Kyle Gregg said the event is designed to mirror the format of the tournaments his team regularly attends, giving community members a true competition experience.
“It’s an open tournament for anybody in the community,” he said. “Any age, any skill level — it’s just a family-friendly event.”
Participants will indicate their skill level at registration so they can be paired with comparable opponents. Gregg expects the modified time limits to keep rounds under 30 minutes.
Gregg said former coach Wendy Jones created the event to build stronger community connections, and interest has continued to grow. Last year’s tournament drew 107 competitors, a number Gregg hopes to match.
Senior chess captain Eric Erbe said he especially looks forward to seeing former teammates.
“I’ve had a lot of friends graduate over the years, and it’s nice to get to see them again,” he said.
Junior Nathan Studebaker said he enjoys the open competition and the opportunity to challenge himself.
“It’s great to be able to connect with the community,” he said. “I also enjoy the chance to prove I am the best.”
While participation is free, the team will accept donations to help fund a potential trip to the national tournament.
“We have a dream and a goal to go back to nationals this year,” Gregg said. “It is in Chicago, and we want to take a team of six.”
Erbe and Studebaker competed at nationals two years ago, placing 52nd out of roughly 800 teams. Erbe said it’s an unforgettable atmosphere.
“About 2,000 kids in one room, and this dead silence besides chess being played,” he said. “It is a really unique experience you can’t get anywhere else.”
