Tournament Regulations
Invitation
Welcome to ChessFest Cyprus our monthly scholastic chess series hosted in schools across Cyprus. With categories like Prodigy Pawns, Young Knights, Budding Bishops, Tactical Rooks, Strategic Kings, and Chess Queens, we bring the exciting world of chess to players of all ages and skill levels. This series is more than just a competition; it’s a journey of discovery and growth in the game of chess. Whether you’re a budding enthusiast or an experienced player, ChessFest Cyprus offers a unique platform to learn, enjoy, and excel in chess. Join us for this thrilling event and experience the joy and challenge of chess!
Participation
ChessFest Cyprus welcomes all young chess enthusiasts under the age of 18. Secure your spot in this competitive and engaging event by getting your Player Pass online. This pass provides access to the tournament, where you can compete for top-tier prizes and showcase your chess prowess.
We encourage participants to register for a FIDE ID for global chess recognition. Additionally, for local players, obtaining a KOA Health Card is necessary in adherence to the Cyprus Sports Regulations. Below are the links for your convenience:
Ready to make your move? Register now for the ChessFest Cyprus and join us in celebrating the spirit of chess!
Categories
Welcome to the Categories section of the ChessFest Cyprus. Here, we celebrate every stage of a chess player’s journey, from eager beginners to seasoned strategists. Each category is tailored to different age groups and skill levels, ensuring a competitive yet fair experience for all. Explore each tab to find out more about the unique characteristics of our Prodigy Pawns, Young Knights, Budding Bishops, Tactical Rooks, Strategic Kings, and Chess Queens.
- Age Limit: Under 6 years (born 2018 and after)
- Description: Every grandmaster’s journey begins with a single step; embrace the magic of discovery and let your little one shine.
- Age Limit: Under 8 years (born 2016 and after)
- Description: Harness the energy and bravery of youth, letting their adventurous spirit guide their chess journey.
- Age Limit: Under 10 years (born 2014 and after)
- Description: Nurturing a passion for chess early lays the foundation for future champions; let them lead with wisdom and foresight.
- Age Limit: Under 12 years (born 2012 and after)
- Description: As their understanding deepens, watch them stand firm like towers, refining tactics and setting the stage for mastery.
- Age Limit: Under 18 years (born 2006 and after) *Girls Only
- Description: Empowerment on the board and in life; watch her command her destiny with grace and unmatched strategy.
- Age Limit: Under 18 years (born 2006 and after) *FIDE Rated
- Description: With every game, they grow, evolving into strategic thinkers and leaders, ready to conquer any challenge.
Each category promises exciting rounds of chess, with five rounds for all categories. Note that only the Strategic Kings is FIDE Rated. The game format is set at 10 minutes per game with a 3-second increment from move 1.
In each category, the spirit of competition is complemented by a clear and fair approach to determining winners. We employ a series of tiebreaks to resolve any ties, ensuring a transparent and just outcome. The tiebreak criteria, in order of application, are as follows:
- Direct Encounter (Comparing results between the tied players)
- Buchholz Score (Calculating the total score of the opponents each player faced)
- Sonneborn-Berger Score (This score is determined by summing the points scored against each opponent, multiplied by their final score in the tournament)
- Number of Wins (Prioritizing players with more wins)
- Number of Wins with Black Pieces (Recognizing the challenge of winning with black pieces)
Proudly, the top three players in each category will be awarded trophies, recognizing their skill, strategy, and dedication. Additionally, every participant will receive a certificate, celebrating their participation and effort in this grand chess festivity.
At ChessFest Cyprus, experience the thrill of chess and the joy of tradition with our vasilopitta celebration. In each of the six chess categories, a vasilopitta awaits, each hiding a lucky coin. As the vasilopitta is being cut, anticipation fills the air – one participant in each category will find the coin and win a special prize. Six vasilopitta means six winners – join the excitement and festive spirit of this unique event!
Schedule
Let’s kick off the chess spectacle with the wisdom of rules and the fun of pairings – it’s strategy with a dash of surprise!
It’s the opening move, and the game is afoot! Make that first move with confidence and conquer the board.
Round two is here, and the plot thickens! Your pieces are your allies; lead them to victory.
Round three, where strategies clash like titans! Plan your moves, and let the chess battles continue.
Round four, the tension mounts! Stay sharp, and your checkmate dreams might just come true
In the final round, it’s all or nothing! Bring your best, and let’s end this chess showdown with a bang!
Time to celebrate our champions and hand out the hardware – it’s the chess equivalent of winning the jackpot!
Registration
Ready to embark on this chess adventure? Secure your participation by registering for the ChessFest Cyprus. It’s your chance to showcase your skills, compete with fellow enthusiasts, and experience a blend of tradition and competition. Ensure your spot in the tournament – register now and become part of this exciting chess tradition!
Officials
Organizing Committee
Mark Bryan
Chief Organizer
SIMBA Trainers LTD
Panagiotis Dionysiou
Organizer / Tournament Director
Arion Chess Club
Stefanie Bryan
Organizer
SIMBA Trainers LTD
Arbiters
FA Mark Bryan
Chief Arbiter & Pairings Officer
NA TBA
Arbiter
Strategic Kings
NA TBA
Arbiter
Chess Queens
NA TBA
Arbiter
Tactical Rooks
NA TBA
Arbiter
Budding Bishops
NA TBA
Arbiter
Young Knights
NA TBA
Arbiter
Prodigy Pawns
Player Appeals: If a player wishes to appeal a decision made by their category arbiter, they may do so until 5 minutes after their game has been completed. All appeals will be reviewed and decided upon by the Chief Arbiter, whose decision is considered final.
Questions and Inquiries: For any questions or inquiries related to the events, please feel free to contact us via email (info@simba-trainers.com). We’re here to assist you and ensure a smooth tournament experience.
Anti-Cheating Measures
At ChessFest Cyprus, we are committed to maintaining fair play and adhering to the highest standards of chess integrity. To ensure a level playing field, we follow the FIDE Anti-Cheating guidelines as outlined in the FIDE Handbook (Section A.10).
- Identification Verification: Upon arrival or at any time during the event, parents or players may be requested to present identification for the verification of a player's age and identity. Additionally, players may be required to provide their KOA Health Card to establish eligibility to participate in the event.
- Random Searches: To further ensure fair play, random searches may be conducted by arbiter(s) using hand-held metal detectors. These searches may occur before, during, or after the games. These measures are in place to safeguard the integrity of the tournament and to ensure a competitive and equitable environment for all participants.
By implementing these Anti-Cheating measures, we aim to uphold the spirit of chess and provide a fair and enjoyable experience for all participants while verifying eligibility through the KOA Health Card.
Code of Conduct
At ChessFest Cyprus, the safety and well-being of all participants are our top priorities. We are committed to fostering an environment where everyone can enjoy chess without any concerns. Our Code of Conduct outlines the principles of respect, fair play, and inclusivity that guide our tournament. We kindly request that all attendees, including parents, players, and spectators, familiarize themselves with our Code of Conduct to help us maintain a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.
Venue
February
ChessFest Cyprus is hosted in collaboration with The Junior School, who generously provide the venue at Junior School. This partnership ensures a welcoming and conducive environment for chess enthusiasts of all ages. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to The Junior for their invaluable support in making this event possible. Join us for an unforgettable chess tournament in this esteemed venue.
March
We are pleased to host ChessFest Cyprus at Play4Kidz, a venue that perfectly complements our event. The entry price includes not only the tournament participation but also delightful food and playful activities, ensuring a complete experience for all attendees. We value Play4Kidz’s support in creating a welcoming and engaging environment for this exciting event.