An exciting event designed to showcase chess to a broader audience has been announced for later this year.
On December 7, 2024, the best chess players in Cumbria will converge at Rheged, Penrith, for a day of competition and public engagement.
John Lydon, chair of event organisers Cumbria Chess Association explained that the event is a response to the challenges posed by Cumbria’s unique geography.
“Cumbria being geographically large but sparsely populated can be challenging for chess activity, hence the Cumbria League is split with an open and south league,” he said.
The idea for a North vs. South match has been discussed for some time, but Mr Lydon suggested taking it a step further.
“My suggestion was to hold the event in a more public environment to promote the game to the general public, which playing in the privacy of a chess club doesn't do very well if at all,” he explained.
The event will include matches between the region’s top adult players in the afternoon, while the morning will feature a match for junior players.
“Naturally, it made sense to try and promote junior chess as well,” Mr Lydon added.
READ NEXT: Top young chess players shine at Cumbrian tournament
The aim is not just to hold a competitive event but to make chess more accessible and spectator-friendly.
Attendees will have the opportunity to observe players during their matches, listen to post-match discussions and analyses, and even play chess with them.
“In short, the plan is to go part way towards being a spectator game,” Mr Lydon said.
The event schedule includes a Children’s North vs. South Cumbria Match from 9am to 12pm, followed by the Adult’s North vs. South Cumbria Match from 12pm to 5pm.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here