New concept Summer Chess League launched

Lichfield Chess Club has announced the launch of a new concept Summer Chess League with the help of sponsorship from Lichfield auctioneers, Richard Wintertons.

Six teams will compete for a handsome Winterton Trophy which will be held on five evenings in May and June. Instead of the usual home and away fixtures the League will be held at central locations with all 24 chess players playing their matches in the same room.

There will be four players in each team, one board restricted to players under 1200 rating, boards two and three to players under 1600 and the top board to players under 1800 rating.

Lichfield, fielding two teams, will host three of the evenings and Tamworth and Norton Canes, who also have capacity to stage a large event, will host the other two. Rugeley and Burton complete the line-up.

Organiser David Short said that it was hoped to expand the event next year with invitations to other teams east of the M6. “Holding the event in central locations instead of the usual home and away fixtures has probably not been tried before and it will give players the opportunity to see members of the rival teams in action. It should create a sense of theatre, particularly on the final night” he said.

Inquiries David Short, Tel 01543 304212, email davidmshort42@gmail.com