Take on the fun and challenge of playing chess!  The Akela Chess Classic is a five-round chess tournament open to all Cub Scouts from Lions through Arrow of Light and STEM Scouts in Junior Labs.  Tournament play is in two brackets: Lions/Tigers/Wolves and Bears/Webelos/Arrow of Light/Junior STEM. 

Participants must know the rules of chess as there will be no instruction on site at the tournament.  Tournament play is touch-move, meaning if a player touches a piece he must move it.  Games are at a time limit of one hour. 

Tournament rules are attached as a document to the right.  It is strongly recommended to read the tournament rules before registering.  The rules will also be available on site at the tournament.

Awards:  Each participating Scout receives a custom tournament patch.  Trophies/medals will be awarded to first, second, and third place by rank for each of the Cub Scout ranks.  Multiple awards will be issued for ties.

Fees:  The cost is $25.00 per Scout.

What to bring:  Each Scout is to wear the field uniform.  It is preferred for the Scout to bring a bag lunch – no peanuts or nut products please.  A responsible adult must be on site throughout the tournament.  Chess sets will be provided so please do not bring one. 

Registration opens on October 1!  The registration deadline is midnight on January 27.

When and Where 

February 4, check in at 8:30 AM.  Rounds are at 9 AM, 10 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM and 2 PM.  Awards at 3:30 PM.

Marriott Scout Service Center

9190 Rockville Pike
Bethesda, MD 20814
* Please note that this location follows Montgomery County Covid Guidelines - the current protocol will be emailed out closer to the event date!

Contacts 

Roger Claff, Tournament Director, reclaff@aol.com

Peter Snow, Co-Director, chessacademician@aol.com

Interested in Scouts BSA Chess Tournament? It's the following weekend! See here.