Get ready for one of the most exciting scholastic chess events of the summer! The 3rd Annual DMV Open Scholastic Championship returns to Dulles, Virginia on Saturday, July 12, 2025, promising a day full of sharp moves, intense competition, and trophy-worthy performances. This rapid-rated, US Chess-sanctioned tournament brings together young talents from across the DMV region—District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia—and beyond.

Hosted at the modern Executive Conference & Training Center, just minutes from Dulles International Airport, the event features four rapid games packed into one thrilling day. With sections for every age group and beautiful awards for the top finishers, this tournament is a must-play for both new players and seasoned scholastic competitors. If you’re looking to sharpen your skills, win a trophy, or simply enjoy the thrill of over-the-board chess in a professional setting—this is the event to mark on your calendar.

📝 EVENT DETAILS

⏱️ TIME CONTROL

All games are played with a G/25 + 5-second delay—25 minutes per player with a 5-second delay per move from move one. This rapid time format encourages fast thinking and keeps the tournament exciting, yet gives players enough time to think through strategic decisions. The time control applies to all sections (K-3, K-5, K-8, and K-12).

📅 TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

Rounds 2–4 begin as soon as the previous round finishes. The entire event is expected to conclude by mid-afternoon, making it perfect for families and younger players.

🏆 PRIZE FUND

This is a non-cash scholastic event, focused on rewarding performance with recognition:

• 🥇 Trophies awarded to the top 5 players in each section
• 🎖️ Medals for players scoring 3.5 points or more
• 🎯 Possible bonus awards: Best Female Player, Biggest Upset, Best Unrated Performance

All participants will leave with more experience, and many will leave with awards to celebrate their performance!

📝 REGISTRATION

• Entry Fees:

  • €33 (~$35) if registered by June 21
  • €38 (~$40) by June 28
  • €43 (~$45) by July 5
  • €48 (~$50) by July 11
  • €53 (~$55) on-site (if space allows)

• Registration Method:
  Register online through the DMV Chess tournament portal. Payments are accepted by card.
• On-Site Registration:
  Closes promptly at 9:30 AM. Arrive early if you haven’t pre-registered.
• Byes:
  No byes are offered. All players are expected to play all 4 rounds.
• Refund Policy:
  Full refunds (minus €5 fee) available through July 10. No refunds issued after that date.
• Contact for registration questions:
  📧 tournaments@dmvchess.com
  📞 703-415-6600

🧳 TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION

✈️ Getting There:
The tournament venue is just 5 minutes from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), making it extremely convenient for out-of-town families.

🚗 By Car:
Take VA-28 N, exit onto Innovation Ave, then turn onto Holiday Park Drive. Free parking is available at the venue.

🏨 Nearby Hotels:

• Hampton Inn & Suites Dulles Airport – Complimentary breakfast, family rooms
• Best Western Dulles Airport Inn – Shuttle service to/from airport, budget-friendly

Many restaurants and grocery stores are within a 5-minute radius, including options for dine-in and takeout.

👥 ORGANIZER

DMV Chess is a respected organizer of scholastic and open chess tournaments throughout the Mid-Atlantic. With a strong reputation for well-run, family-friendly events, they provide a welcoming and competitive environment for chess players of all skill levels.

• 🏢 Based in Vienna, Virginia
• 📧 Contact: tournaments@dmvchess.com
• 📞 Phone: 703-415-6600
• 📧 Organizer: Josh Hiban (josh@dmvchess.com)
• Official Website: https://www.dmvchess.com/

✅ WHY YOU SHOULD PARTICIPATE

Whether you’re aiming for your first tournament experience or preparing for bigger events ahead, the 3rd Annual DMV Open Scholastic Championship delivers everything young players and families look for in a chess event—clear structure, fast rounds, an encouraging environment, and a chance to take home a trophy. The tournament’s streamlined format, quality venue, and proximity to major transit options make it one of the best one-day scholastic events of the year. Come play, grow, and compete with the region’s brightest young minds!