How to Host a Chess Tournament

Decide on the type of event you would like to hold and the standard of player you would like to attract. Consider using the Swiss system if you are inviting players with a wider variety of skill levels. The Swiss system places the winning players from the first round into a different group than the losing players. So for the second round on, each player plays someone with the same "score," and this format continues throughout the tournament until one player is left with a perfect score.

Alternatively, use the Round Robin system where players are listed in order of their chess ratings. Split the listing in half so low-ranking players are picked from the bottom of the draw to play seeded players with higher rankings from the top half. This stops the better players meeting in the early stages of the tournament. Tennis also uses this type of system for major tournaments.

Calculate an entry fee for each player based on the number of competitors taking part in the tournament and the prize money you would like to generate. Never make the prize money less than the entry fee. Try using prizes instead of a cash reward if the number of competitors is low. Purchase trophies, chess books or chess sets for prizes so the theme of the tournament is maintained throughout. Call local companies to try to raise sponsorship for the event and offer free tournament entries for their staff if it helps to secure a deal.

Choose an appropriate venue for your tournament. Make sure the location is relatively quiet so the concentration of players remains unaffected, and that there is sufficient room to set up tables and chairs. Organize facilities so players can purchase drinks and snack food items. Chess tournaments often last for an entire day so participants will also need an area to relax when they are not taking part in matches. Always ensure that toilet facilities are available for players of both sexes.

Publicize your event to attract a larger number of players. Advertise in specialist chess magazines and on chess websites so your target audience is reached more easily. Don't forget to contact local chess clubs and schools to reach more potential players. Hand out promotional literature to friends and family, and ask if they could distribute them to any chess players they know.

Ask volunteers to help run the tournament. Consider asking presidents of chess clubs, as they will already have the organization skills to help make your event a success. Allow the volunteers to help you set up the tournament and to enforce the rules of the game once play begins. Always review the rules of the tournament with entrants before play begins and be especially clear about time limits, first-touch rules and prizes.