This pioneering initiative will take place on May 29, starting at 6:00 PM. It aims to bring chess to the neighborhoods, encourage community participation, and highlight this discipline as a tool for intellectual development and social cohesion, as stated by the Valencia City Council in a press release.
The tournament, organized in collaboration with the Montolivet Chess Club, which will provide its facilities for the event, will be played under the Blitz system, in a nine-round Swiss format, and will feature official arbiters.
Furthermore, the results will be valid for the ELO FIDE, the international rating system recognized by the International Chess Federation, which places the competition at a professional level and makes it attractive for both experienced players and new talents.
“"Choosing chess means opting for healthy leisure that stimulates the mind, fosters values such as concentration, strategy, and respect, and also contributes to building community in our neighborhoods. We want the neighborhoods covered by the Board to be a benchmark for healthy activities that unite residents of all ages."
The tournament will be open to the participation of anyone interested, beyond the district's own residents, which reinforces its inclusive and open nature.
Regarding prizes, the top five overall finishers will be recognized, as well as specific categories designed to promote new profiles within chess: best female player, best veteran player (over 50 years old), and best young player (born from the year 2000 onwards).
“"A way to stimulate chess in all sectors of the population, from new talents to older people, because it's never too late to get involved in this sport."
She also acknowledged that this activity is part of the new proposals incorporated into the Russafa Municipal Board's budget in 2026, which consolidates a line of work aimed at revitalizing the district's cultural and sports life with innovative initiatives that strengthen the associative fabric, such as the urban art contest on neighborhood shutters, the photography marathon, Fallas and May Crosses awards, or the National Graffiti League.
“"With this tournament, the Russafa Municipal Board not only values chess as a sports discipline but also as a meeting point that unites generations, promotes local talent, and reinforces the role of neighborhoods as vibrant spaces for coexistence and participation."
