CDA Chess Club News

  On a crisp October day, chess enthusiasts near and far gathered at Starbucks on Ironwood for our exciting monthly tournament. This free USCF-rated event, hosted by the Idaho Chess Association and generously sponsored by Starbucks, drew competitors from varying regions, including Oregon and across Idaho. Congratulations to Sean Tobin from Oregon, who triumphed with an impressive 3.5 out of 4 points. The ambiance was electric as participants engaged in intense matches. Players boasting ratings well over the 1600 ELO mark made their impactful presence felt. Whether facing intense competition or enjoying the strategic banter among peers, every attendee contributed to the event's success and was left with enriched chess knowledge and experience. We are thrilled to announce our next gathering on November 9th at noon. This is a beautiful opportunity for chess lovers of all ages and skills to challenge themselves, meet fellow enthusiasts, and bask in the vibrant community spirit. While o

[Payton Akers] The inaugural event of the North Idaho Scholastic Chess League held on September 20th at the Coeur d'Alene Public Library was a resounding success! Seventeen passionate chess enthusiasts gathered from various schools and communities to compete in an intense four-round tournament. The atmosphere was electrifying, with each match showcasing strategic brilliance and sportsmanship. Leading the pack were four outstanding players: Payton Akers of Liberty Launch, Milo Davis and Leo Grace, who both competed independently, and Serena Grace from Holy Family. All are proud members of the CDA Chess Club and their performances underscored their dedication and skill in the game. The match rankings were meticulously calculated using the USCF rating system, ensuring a fair and competitive environment for all participants. The event was seamlessly organized thanks to the assistance of dedicated volunteers such as Mailee, Eric, and Ava, who took charge of setting up the venue, and Ali

  The September With Class Chess Tournaments have concluded with resounding success. Over three weeks, we gathered at the McDonald's at Riverstone, exchanging strategic moves and cultivating camaraderie among chess enthusiasts of all skill levels. A total of 26 players participated during the event, which not only fostered individual growth but also strengthened our vibrant chess community. Tournament Highlights and Winners In the 1201+ section , we witnessed intense competition, with Eric and Andrew [1] each achieving an impressive 5 wins out of 6 matches. Eric's memorable victory in their head-to-head match ensured his top position on the leaderboard. The night’s biggest rating boost was achieved by Mike, who notched two victories and soared by an impressive 40 points. Meanwhile, in the 1200- section , Rich emerged victorious, matching the record of 5 wins and 1 loss. Not to be outdone, Matt made an astounding leap in his ratings, achieving a 90-point increase, showcasing rem

John was seen practicing his chess at Silverwood! As we gear up for an exciting North Idaho Scholastic Chess League (NISCL) season, chess enthusiasts have never had a better time sharpening their skills and deepening their love for the game. The NISCL offers a unique opportunity for players of all ages and skill levels to compete, collaborate, and grow as part of a vibrant chess community. Whether you are just starting or are an experienced competitor, this league is designed to cater to everyone's needs. To ensure you're fully prepared for the challenges, consider attending meetings at the Coeur d'Alene Chess Club (CDA Chess Club). These gatherings provide a supportive environment where players can practice, engage in strategic discussions, and receive valuable tips from peers and mentors alike. Regular attendance will improve your gameplay and help you forge friendships with fellow chess enthusiasts. As we near the league's opening on September 19th at the Coeur d'

  Michael Cambareri and David Griffin in an intense moment! The 8th North Idaho Open Chess Championship , hosted by the Idaho Chess Association, was a resounding success. It drew 21 participants who showcased their strategic talents over an exhilarating weekend. From the intense competition to the camaraderie among players, this event was a true testament to the vibrant chess community in North Idaho. Congratulations to our Co-champions, Nikolay Bulakh, and Eric Balleaux , for their outstanding performances! Their journeys through the tournament were marked by thrilling matches that captivated players and spectators alike. The tournament’s diverse participant pool included ten scholastic players, highlighting the encouragement of young talent in the chess scene. Notably, we had club members such as Kaleb Wrenchey, Deon Goodwin, Steve Dahlstrom, Leo Grace, Sophia Grace, Payton Akers, Serena Grace, Milo Davis , and Logan Davis contributing to the competitive spirit. Kaleb made his tour

As we reflect on the thrilling three-week journey of our August chess tournament, it's time to celebrate not only the winners but also the remarkable growth and enthusiasm displayed by all participants. In the B section, comprised of 22 players rated at 1200 or below, Jonathan emerged victorious with an impressive score of 5 out of 6 matches. His strategic prowess was truly commendable, putting him at the pinnacle of this competitive group. Rick and Payton followed closely, each collecting 4 points, demonstrating their skill and determination throughout the tournament. The competitive spirit was palpable, and we are excited to welcome Kai to our chess community! The standout player of the night was undoubtedly Emmaus, whose rating surged by an impressive 94 points, showcasing significant improvement and establishing himself as a formidable contender. In the over 1200 section, Eric and John were the only participants this week, but there were 9 overall, bringing the total in both se