1. General Tournament Rules
Format: This is a Swiss-System Tournament. This means every player is guaranteed to play five (5) rounds, regardless of wins or losses. You will be paired against opponents who have a similar score to yours each round.
Time Control: Games will be played using a G/10 (Game in 10 Minutes) time control. Each player receives 10 minutes on their clock for the entire game. Once time runs out, the player loses (unless the opponent has insufficient mating material).
Touch-Move Rule: If a player deliberately touches one of their own pieces, they must move that piece if there is a legal move available. If a player deliberately touches an opponent's piece, they must capture it if legally possible. Announce (I adjust) if you only wish to straighten a piece on the square.
Recording: Notation (writing down moves) is not required for this event.
Forfeiture: Players who arrive more than 10 minutes late for their scheduled round start time will forfeit the game (0 points).
2. Sportsmanship and Conduct
Hygiene Rule (Mandatory): For the health and safety of all players, all participants are required to wash or sanitize their hands immediately before the start of each round.
Silence: During play, absolute silence is required. Players must not talk to their opponents or anyone else, nor should they sing, tap, or make distracting noises.
Respect the Board: Only the two players involved in the game should be near the board. Do not offer advice, commentary, or point out possible moves to any player.
Disputes: If a dispute arises (e.g., an illegal move, a draw claim, or a clock issue), stop the clock immediately and raise your hand quietly. A Tournament Director (TD) will come to the board and resolve the issue. Players must accept the TD's final decision.
Electronics: All electronic devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches) must be switched off and stored away during play. Having an active electronic device during a game may result in an immediate forfeit.
3. Ending the Game
Checkmate: A game is won when the opponent's King is in check and cannot escape.
Stalemate/Draws: If a game ends in a draw (Stalemate, Threefold Repetition, or Insufficient Material), both players must agree and immediately inform the TD.
Reporting Results: Once the game is over, the winner must clearly mark the result (Win, Loss, or Draw) and confirm it with the TD before leaving the playing hall.