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Chess tournaments in Kentucky: Where to find the best ones

Updated: Jul 1

Here’s a guide to chess tournaments in Kentucky, organized by chess institutions. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, these clubs offer regular tournaments for chess enthusiasts. Let’s dive in:


The Kentucky Chess Association is the governing body for chess in the state. They organize official tournaments and maintain a comprehensive tournament calendar1. Here are some notable KCA events:

  • Kentucky Open: Held annually in Louisville, KY, the Kentucky Open attracts players from all skill levels. Dates vary, but it generally takes place in June.

  • KCA Rapid Championship: A rapid time control tournament for players looking for faster-paced games.

  • Louisville Chess Returns: Regular tournaments held in Louisville, KY.

  • Kentucky Bourbon Chess Classic: A classic tournament with a touch of Kentucky flair.

. You can visit their website to learn more about their activities and membership.


Chess Education is an organization dedicated to promoting chess as a tool for education and personal development. They offer a variety of chess tournaments for different age groups and skill levels, providing opportunities for players to compete, learn, and improve their game.

Here’s a list of regular chess tournaments organized by Chess Education:

  • CHESS PRACTICE LEVEL UP 5+2

  • Date: May 20, 2024

  • Format: 5+2 Blitz, Rated, Swiss tournament

  • Location: Online at lichess.org

  • Details: A competitive event designed to help players ‘level up’ their game.

  • Monthly Novi’s AccelerateKid Scholastic Tournament

  • Date: Second Sunday of every month (special instance on May 19, 2024)

  • Venue: 24404 Catherine Industrial Dr No. 316, Novi, MI 48377

  • Format: 5 Round Swiss, USCF REGULAR Rated

  • Sections: Open, Under 900, Under 600

  • Time Control: G/30; d5 (5-second delay)

  • Entry Fee: $30 per participant

  • Awards: Trophies for top finishers and a special “Best Notation Award” for the most legible score shee.

If you are interested, you can visit their website


Louisville Chess is a vibrant community that organizes regular chess tournaments for players of all levels. They are committed to fostering a competitive yet friendly environment where chess enthusiasts can gather to test their skills and strategies against one another.

Here’s a list of regular chess tournaments organized by Louisville Chess:

  • Kentucky Action Championships

  • Date: May 21, 2024

  • Venue: Clear Creek Family Activity Center

  • Format: 5 rounds, G/30 with a 5-second increment

  • Entry Fee: $20

  • Prizes: $100 for 1st place, $40 for 2nd place

  • Registration: 12:00 - 12:40 PM

  • Start Time: 1:00 PM.

  • Louisville Chess Returns .#019

  • Date: February 5, 2023 (historical event for reference)

  • Venue: 816 East Broadway Louisville, KY 40204

  • Format: 4 rounds, G/25 with a 5-second increment

  • Entry Fee: $20

  • Prizes: $40 for 1st place

  • Registration: 12:00 - 12:40 PM

  • Start Time: 1:00 PM.

  • The Lenderman Classic

  • Date: July 22-23, 2023 (historical event for reference)

  • Details: Grandmaster Lenderman returned to Louisville for Chess Tournaments, Simultaneous Exhibitions, and more.

The Ogden Chess Club is a friendly and welcoming community of chess lovers. It offers a variety of tournaments for different preferences and abilities. If you are interested in learning more about them you can visit their website.


Bullitt County Chess League is an organization that aims to bring together chess players of all ages and skill levels. They are dedicated to the promotion of chess as a sport and educational tool, providing a platform for both casual play and competitive tournaments.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t find specific upcoming tournaments organized by the Bullitt County Chess League. However, they typically offer a variety of events throughout the year, including:

  • Weekly Club Meetings

  • Date: Every Tuesday

  • Location: Bullitt County Public Library

  • Details: Casual games and occasional mini-tournaments

  • Annual Bullitt County Chess Championship

  • Date: Varies (usually in the fall)

  • Location: Local schools or community centers

  • Format: Swiss-system tournament

  • Eligibility: Open to all residents of Bullitt County

  • Summer Scholastic Open

  • Date: Varies (during summer break)

  • Location: Bullitt County Public Library

  • Format: Round-robin or Swiss-system, depending on the number of participants

  • Sections: Different age categories for school students

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on their tournaments, it’s best to visit the Bullitt County Chess League’s official website.


Conclusion

Whether you’re an adult player seeking competitive matches or a young chess enthusiast, Kentucky has something to offer. Stay updated by subscribing to the KCA’s official calendar and explore the local chess scene!


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