Get ready for an unforgettable chess experience at the 33rd Annual Southern Open, taking place from July 25 to 27, 2025, at the scenic Delta Hotels Orlando Celebration in Kissimmee, Florida. Located just a mile from Disney World, this thrilling summer tournament attracts players from across the country to battle for a $20,000 guaranteed prize fund. With FIDE-rated sections, a variety of rating brackets, and enhanced US Chess Grand Prix points, this event blends competitive intensity with the charm of a Florida getaway.

♞ Tournament Dates & Venue

• 🗓️ Dates: July 25–27, 2025
• 📍 Venue: Delta Hotels Orlando Celebration, 2900 Parkway Boulevard, Kissimmee, FL 34747
• ♿ Accessibility: Handicap accessible
• 🎖️ US Chess Grand Prix Points: 150 (Enhanced)
• 🌍 FIDE Rated: Yes, for top two sections

⏱️ Time Control & Schedule

📅 3-Day Schedule

• Friday: Registration closes at 6:00 PM | Round 1 at 7:00 PM
• Saturday: Rounds 2 & 3 at 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM
• Sunday: Rounds 4 & 5 at 10:00 AM and 3:30 PM

📅 2-Day Schedule

• Saturday: Registration closes at 10:00 AM | Rounds 1–3 at 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 5:00 PM
• Sunday: Same as above

🕰️ Time Controls

• Main: 40 moves in 80 minutes, followed by 30 minutes with 30-second delay
• 2-Day Rounds 1–2: Game in 60 minutes, 10-second delay

♟️ Number of Rounds & Playing Sections

• 🔄 5 rounds in each section
• 🎯 5 playing sections:

  • Major (1900+)
  • Under 2100
  • Under 1800
  • Under 1500
  • Under 1200

🏆 Prize Fund – $20,000 Guaranteed

Major (1900 & Above):

• 1st: $2,000 | 2nd: $1,200 | 3rd: $800 | 4th: $500
• Clear 1st Bonus: $100
• Top U2300: $1,000 | 2nd U2300: $500

Under–2100:

• 1st: $1,600 | 2nd: $800 | 3rd: $500 | 4th: $300
• Top U1900 or Unrated: $600 | 2nd: $300

Under–1800:

• 1st: $1,400 | 2nd: $700 | 3rd: $400 | 4th: $300
• Top U1600 (no unrated): $500 | 2nd: $250

Under–1500:

• 1st: $1,200 | 2nd: $600 | 3rd: $400 | 4th: $200
• Top U1300 (no unrated): $400 | 2nd: $200

Under–1200:

• 1st: $800 | 2nd: $400 | 3rd: $200 | 4th: $150
• Top U1000 (no unrated): $200 | 2nd: $100

👥 Mixed Doubles Bonus:

• 1st Team: $800 | 2nd: $400 | 3rd: $200
• Teams must register by 2:00 PM Saturday and average under 2200

📝 Registration & Participation

💵 Entry Fees:

• Top 4 sections: $128 by July 23 | $150 after
• Under 1200: $88 by July 23 | $110 after
• GMs, IMs, WGMs: $120 deducted from prize

♻️ Re-entry Option:

• Re-entry available for $60 (not allowed Major to Major)

🎯 Ratings Used:

• July official USCF ratings
• USCF Online Regular rating used if no other rating available
• Players may not play in sections 100 points below Online Regular rating

🕊️ Byes:

• Up to 2 half-point byes available (request by Round 2)

🎒 Bring Your Own Equipment:

• Boards, sets, and clocks not provided – players must bring their own

💳 Payment & Prizes

💰 Payment Options:

• All major credit cards accepted onsite
• No personal checks accepted at the venue

💸 Refund Policy:

• $15 service fee applies to all refunds

📩 Prize Distribution:

• Organizers usually pay prizes via PayPal within a few weeks

🧳 Travel & Accommodation of 33rd Annual Southern Open

🏨 Hotel Rate:

• $119 per night at Delta Hotels Orlando Celebration

📞 Booking Instructions:

• Book by July 3 to secure the discounted rate

🚗 Parking: Free on-site parking
🚌 Transportation: Free shuttle to Disney World and Universal Studios
🚙 Car Rentals: Discounts available through select providers

📣 About the Organizer – Continental Chess Association

The Continental Chess Association ranks among the most respected and experienced chess tournament organizers in the United States. Since the 1960s, they have hosted countless high-quality events for scholastic players, amateurs, and professionals. They design each event to deliver excellence in organization, playing conditions, and competition.

• 📧 Email: director@chess.us
• 📍 Address: P.O. Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577
• 📱 Social Media:

  • Facebook: @continentalchess
  • Instagram: @continentalchess
  • Twitter: @chesstour