Calling all Chess lovers, the Brightwater Commons is gearing up to get suited in ebony and ivory for the Brightwater Chess Festival, which is taking place on Sunday, 25^th March from 09h30 to 16h30.

 “Chess is the only game that doesn’t have the traditional poverty constraints, so it goes beyond race, social status and physical capabilities”, says Garry Kasparov a Russian chess master and former World Class Champion in an interview with Leadership Magazine. 

Besides being open to all people, despite economic status, did you know that chess improves children’s all round performance? It is an activity that will soon be introduced into schools as part of the extramural syllabus.  Why not bring the family through to Brightwater for a fun and educational outing?

There will be a number games taking place during the course of the day in two categories; the primary school and the open tournament. Entries are charged at R50 per tournament.

“This is the first time we will be hosting a Chess Festival at the Brightwater Commons and we’re quite excited because the venue is so family friendly. It provides the perfect environment for us to have the tournaments. We believe that chess is both educational and beneficial to humanity in other areas of our lives. Furthermore, it is our aim to make the event as exciting as possible for both players and spectators”, says Clyde Wolpe, Event Co-ordinator of Go For Chess.

The promotions court at the centre will be equipped with a number of chessboards and the necessary equipment. The action will be taking place on a number boards, so many contestants will be able to enter on the day.  Prizes will be awarded to the winners in the tournament.    

Although not the traditional method of presenting a Chess tournament, a knockout system will be used. That’s not all though, for those who don’t know how to play or would like to know more about chess, there will be a coach available to answer all your questions.  Advanced players may bring strategy questions and find answers to the most challenging tactics. 

A simultaneous exhibition, which is a display whereby one player is challenged by a number of players at the same time, will be a great opportunity for 10 school kids to take on an ex-South African Champion.

“It’s going to be really great to see the kids playing chess and having a good time, as well as a great inspiration to the rest of us spectating. We’re hoping that the Festival will help spread the benefits of Chess to the public and show people what an exciting sport it can be”, say Francois Du Buisson Marketing Manager at the Brightwater Commons.

Go For Chess is involved in chess education, coaching as well as the development of products to enhance chess playing. They provide the link to Schools who would like to offer Chess but may not have the financial ability to do so.  Go For Chess has also just launched a book on the coaching or education of Chess, to help teachers coach children in the game.

For more information, please contact The Brightwater Commons on 011 789 5052 or visit www.brightwatercommons.co.za and find them on Facebook.