International Chess Masters set to return to Kilkenny for 47th annual event

Kilkenny is set to once again host the International Chess Masters which will take place at The Ormonde Hotel and The Club House Hotel from Friday, November 21– Sunday, November 23.

The Kilkenny Chess Congress is the longest running tournament of its kind in Ireland. The flagship event of the weekend is the International Masters competition. This was established to give the best Irish players an opportunity to play against top chess grandmasters.

Since its inception the event has welcomed more than 100 internationally recognised chess players including grandmasters Michael Adams from the UK, Matthieu Cornette of France, Ian Rogers from Australia and Ivan Cheparinov of Bulgaria.

It is now customary that the Irish, French and British chess champions are invited to the event each year.
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This year, more than 200 players are due to compete during the weekend which includes a popular Sunday night ‘fun blitz’ providing novice players with an opportunity to test their skills against elite competitors in a more informal, social atmosphere.

Maurice Buckley, Event Organiser said: "Combining elite competition with the celebration of local talent in a welcoming festive atmosphere, the Kilkenny Chess Congress continues to go from strength to strength as a staple of the annual Irish chess calendar.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming some of the world’s finest players again this year and are proud to have created an event which provides an invaluable opportunity for local and novice players to test their chess skills against internationally renowned competitors and have a good time in the process!”

Jack Lowry, Event Organiser added: “We are delighted that Kilkenny is set to play host to this prestigious event once again. As well as celebrating and promoting the great game of chess, the tournament brings many visitors to the heart of this wonderful city, benefiting local businesses and the wider community.

“I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to making the event such a success. Their efforts are crucial in ensuring that the event runs smoothly each year and that the international spotlight can shine once again on Kilkenny.”

This year’s event is once again sponsored by CRH.