The 2025 South Dakota Governor’s Cup invites chess enthusiasts to Sioux Falls from September 19–21, 2025, for a thrilling weekend of high-level competition and community spirit. Organized by Chess Weekend, Inc. in collaboration with the South Dakota Chess Association, this tournament features an unconditionally guaranteed $12,000 prize fund and awards 80 US Chess Grand Prix points, making it one of the most anticipated chess events in the region. Truly, the 2025 South Dakota Governor’s Cup promises excitement for players and spectators alike.
📅 Event Overview
- Dates: September 19–21, 2025, perfect for the 2025 South Dakota Governor’s Cup
- Rounds: 5
- Time Control: G/90 + 30 (Game in 90 minutes with a 30-second increment)
🏢 Venue
Best Western Plus Ramkota Hotel
3200 W Maple Street, Sioux Falls, SD 57107
On-site amenities include free parking, indoor pool, airport shuttle, and spacious playing halls. Attendees of the 2025 South Dakota Governor’s Cup can also enjoy nearby restaurants, cafes, and cultural attractions.
💰 Prize Fund
The total guaranteed prize fund is $12,000, distributed across 4 sections.
Championship (Open to all)
- 1st: $2,000
- 2nd: $1,200
- 3rd: $800
- U2300: $600 / $400
- U2100: $600 / $400
Under-2000
- 1st: $1,000
- 2nd: $600
- 3rd: $400
- U1800: $300 / $200
- U1600: $300 / $200
Under-1500
- 1st: $600
- 2nd: $400
- 3rd: $200
- U1300: $150
- U1100: $150
- Unrated: $150
Under-900
- 1st: $300
- 2nd: $200
- 3rd: $100
- Trophy awards for Top U700 and Unrated
⏰ Tournament Schedule
- Friday, Sept 19:
- Round 1 – 7:00 PM
- Saturday, Sept 20:
- Round 2 – 10:00 AM
- Round 3 – 3:30 PM
- Sunday, Sept 21:
- Round 4 – 9:00 AM
- Round 5 – 2:00 PM
Optional ½-point byes available for rounds 1–4 (limit 2) during the 2025 South Dakota Governor’s Cup.
📝 Registration
- Entry Fee:
- $99 if paid by September 15
- $120 after that date or on-site
- US Chess Membership: Required for all sections
- Rating System: September official US Chess ratings used
✈️ Travel & Accommodation
- Closest airport: Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD) – 10 minutes from venue
- Free shuttle service available from the hotel
- Ample free parking for guests
- Rooms available at discounted chess rates – reserve early to secure your spot!
📣 Organizer Information
Chess Weekend, Inc.
Organizing top-quality chess tournaments across the Midwest, known for their professionalism and smooth event execution.
Contact:
📞 +1 (605) 310-8918
✉️ chessweekend@gmail.com
Additional Details
Playing Venue - Best Western Plus Ramkota Hotel
Prize Fund - $12,000
Organizer - Chess Weekend, Inc.
Organizer Phone - +1 605 310 8918
Organizer email - chessweekend@gmail.com
Time control - G/90 + 30 (Game in 90 minutes with a 30-second increment)
Number of rounds - 5
Rating - FIDE
Organizer
Chess Weekend, Inc. is a leading chess tournament organizer based in the Midwest, known for delivering professionally managed events that cater to players of all skill levels. With a strong emphasis on fairness, efficiency, and a welcoming atmosphere, the company has built a trusted reputation among both casual enthusiasts and serious competitors. Whether hosting Grand Prix events or local open tournaments, Chess Weekend, Inc. consistently ensures high-quality playing conditions, timely pairings, and generous prize funds to elevate the tournament experience.
The company collaborates closely with state chess associations and local venues to bring exciting and well-structured tournaments to various U.S. cities. Their events attract participants from across the country, offering players the chance to compete, improve, and connect within the broader chess community. Chess Weekend, Inc. actively promotes chess growth through a robust calendar of events and engaging outreach on social media.