Local chess players are being invited to enter a new rapid play chess tournament to be held in March.
The City of Manchester Stadium will play host to this new national tournament, the first to be held at a Premier League stadium.
Organised by Sport 4 Life on behalf of the Manchester Chess Federation and Eagle Chess Club based in Clayton in east Manchester, the tournament is being held on 2 March 20008 and can accommodate 100 entrants aged 10 to 70. Participants of all standards can take part, with over £500 of prize money available.
Tournament organiser, John Dwan, Director of Sport 4 Life said: "It has been great for us to support another worthwhile community initiative, by helping the Eagle Chess Club and Manchester Chess Federation bring the first Rapid Play Chess Tournament to a Premier League Football Stadium."
Osma Caka from Clayton's Eagle Chess Club said "We're really delighted to be able to bring rapid play chess to a local audience. We are currently seeing excellent growth in members of the club and will be establishing a regular club night in the community room of the Manchester Climbing Centre. The chance to compete on a national level is a fantastic opportunity and we're really looking forward to the tournament."
Sean McGonigle, Director of Regeneration at New East Manchester said: "The Eagle Chess Club has gone from strength to strength and this is all down to the hard work and dedication of Bill Booth and Osman Caka who have done a fantastic job of teaching local young people this skillful game. I wish all that enter the tournament the best of luck."
The entrance fee is £10 (Adults) & £5 Juniors with prizes from £25 to £120. Anyone interested in entering the tournament should contact Sport 4 Life on: Tel: 0845 1300849, E-mail: info@mysport4life.co.uk or web:http://www.mysport4life.co.uk/.
Applications can be taken on the day.
Media contact:
Roz Hughes, tel: 0161 223 1155