Chess in the Park Rapid Open 2025

Come and show your support for the chess enthusiasts participating in Chess in the Park.

This is an annual, free chess tournament that welcomes players of all ages and skill levels. The games take place at Bethesda Fountain in Central Park.

If you'd like to participate, make sure to register.

TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

Check-in: 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM

Opening Remarks: 10:45 AM

Rounds: 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 4:00 PM

Awards Ceremony: 4:30 PM

COMPETITION SECTIONS

All sections are playing "Clock Move" and not Touch Move. All moves are complete once a player hits their clock. Also, illegal moves result in the loss of one minute, and an illegal move with less than a minute on the clock results in a loss. Games without a clock will be marked as a draw.

(Subject to change)

• Youth Unrated: Open to unrated players under age 12
• Adult/Teen Unrated: Open to unrated players ages 13 and up
• Novice: Open to players rated under 900
• Reserve: Open to players rated 900-1299
• Intermediate: Open to players rated 1300 to 1699
• Open Championship: Open to players rated 1700 and above

For more information visit Chess in the Schools