New Year, New Moves: Kickstart 2026 with Our January Tournament

 


The holiday decorations are coming down, the resolutions are written, and the chessboard is calling. There is something uniquely refreshing about flipping the calendar page. It’s a blank score sheet, waiting for your next brilliant combination.

We are thrilled to announce our first major event of 2026: the "New Year, New Moves" January Club Tournament.

This isn't just another monthly meet-up. It is a chance to shake off the rust, try out that risky opening you studied over the break, and set the tone for a fantastic year of chess. Whether you are a seasoned grandmaster in the making or just learned how the knight moves last week, this tournament is built for you.

Why "New Year, New Moves"?

We chose this theme because January is the perfect time for experimentation. Too often, we get stuck in our comfort zones. We play the same London System every game. We accept draws when we should push for wins. We fear losing rating points instead of valuing the learning experience.

For this tournament, we are encouraging boldness.

Did you vow to play more aggressively this year? Do it here. Want to finally test out the Sicilian Defense? Now is the time. The "New Year, New Moves" spirit is about shedding old habits and embracing the creativity that makes chess so addictive.

Tournament Details You Need to Know

We are keeping things accessible and fun. Here is everything you need to mark on your calendar.

When is it happening?

The tournament spans three consecutive Monday nights:

  • January 12
  • January 19
  • January 26

Play starts promptly at 6:00 p.m. each night. We recommend arriving a few minutes early to grab a seat and settle in.

What is the format?

We know our members love variety, so we are packing plenty of action into each evening. You will play two rounds each night:

  1. Round 1: 20-minute time control. Perfect for quick thinking and testing your instincts.
  2. Round 2: 30-minute time control. A bit more breathing room to calculate those deeper lines.

This rapid format keeps the energy high and ensures you get plenty of games in without staying out too late.

Where are we playing?

We are returning to a local favorite: Riverstone McDonald's.

It provides a casual, relaxed environment that takes the pressure off. Plus, nothing fuels an intense endgame calculation quite like access to fries and coffee. The atmosphere is always buzzing, and it’s a great spot for spectators to watch the action unfold.

Who can play?

All club members are eligible.

We mean it. If you are a member, you are in. We do not care if your rating is 400 or 2400. Our club thrives on diversity, and stronger players are always happy to analyze games with newer members after the round.

What does it cost?

Absolutely nothing. There is no entry fee for this tournament. It is our way of welcoming everyone back for the new year.

A Welcoming Atmosphere for Everyone

One of the biggest hurdles in competitive chess is the intimidation factor. Walking into a silent hall with ticking clocks can be scary.

That is not us.

At the Riverstone McDonald's, the vibe is friendly and social. While the games are serious, the environment is warm. You will hear laughter between rounds, see players analyzing games on their phones together, and maybe even sharing a meal.

If you have been hesitant to join a tournament because you think you "aren't good enough," let this be your sign to jump in. The "New Year, New Moves" theme is all about growth, not perfection. Every master was once a beginner who lost many games. The only way to get better is to push pawns and make moves.

How to Prepare

You have a few days before the first round on January 12. Here is how you can get ready:

  1. Brush up on tactics: Spend 15 minutes a day solving puzzles. This is the best way to sharpen your vision for the rapid time controls.
  2. Pick one new opening: In the spirit of the theme, learn the first 5-6 moves of an opening you don't usually play.
  3. Relax: Remember, there is no entry fee, and the stakes are low. The primary goal is to have fun.

Join Us at the Board

2026 is going to be an excellent year for our club, and we want you to be part of the kickoff.

Come for the chess, stay for the community. Let’s make the "New Year, New Moves" tournament a memorable start to the year. Dust off your board, bring your boldest strategies, and let's see what happens when we step out of our comfort zones.

We will see you at Riverstone McDonald's on January 12 at 6:00 p.m.!


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