Bill Wright Saint Louis Open 2026 takes place from April 17-19, 2026 in St. Louis, Missouri, USA. This is a chess tournament in St. Louis, Missouri, in 2026. The event features a 5-round Swiss format, two sections, a classical time control of G/90 with a 30-second increment, and a guaranteed cash prize fund. In addition, the Saint Louis Chess Club hosts the competition in one of the most recognized chess cities in the United States.

Moreover, Bill Wright Saint Louis Open 2026 gives players a strong opportunity to compete in a serious over-the-board chess event in St. Louis. Because the schedule fits a full weekend, many club players, improving competitors, and experienced tournament regulars can join without a long travel window. Furthermore, the combination of a FIDE rated open section and a US Chess rated reserve section makes this chess event in St. Louis attractive for a wide range of players.

🗓️ Event Details

🏆 Prize Fund

The event offers a guaranteed total cash prize fund of USD 7,500. Additionally, the reserve section includes extra non-cash awards, although the cash total below includes confirmed cash prizes only.

Premiere Section

Reserve Section

In addition, the reserve section also includes non-cash awards for U1200 2nd and Top Unrated.

⏱️ Time Control & Pairings

Each game uses a classical time control of 90 minutes per player with a 30-second increment from move one. Therefore, players can expect a true classical chess tournament rather than a rapid chess tournament or blitz chess tournament.

The event follows a 5-round Swiss system. Moreover, players may request up to two half-point byes, provided they declare them before Round 1 begins. For prize purposes, the organizer uses US Chess ratings in all sections. As a result, players should review their current rating status before registering.

📂 Sections / Groups

📅 Schedule

📝 Registration

👥 Organizer

Saint Louis Chess Club organizes Bill Wright Saint Louis Open 2026 as part of its established calendar of rated events in St. Louis. Moreover, the club has built a strong reputation for hosting major chess competitions, training programs, and community activities. Because of that, players can expect a professional tournament setting and a well-known chess atmosphere.

• Address: 4663 Maryland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA

• Email: tournaments@saintlouischessclub.org

• Phone: +1 314 361 2437

• Website: https://saintlouischessclub.org/

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stlchessclub

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stlchessclub

🏨 Venue

Saint Louis Chess Club, 4663 Maryland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA

The venue sits in the Central West End, which is one of the best-known neighborhoods in St. Louis. In addition, the club forms part of the wider STL Chess Campus, so players compete in a venue closely connected with top-level American chess. Meanwhile, the area offers convenient access to dining, lodging, and city services.

🛎️ Accommodation

Hampton Inn & Suites St. Louis at Forest Park, 5650 Oakland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA

This hotel appears in the club’s accommodation information for visiting players. Additionally, it offers practical amenities such as free breakfast, Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. Because it is about a 7-minute drive from the venue, it can serve as a convenient option for tournament participants.

🚗 How to Get There

The Saint Louis Chess Club is located in the Central West End of St. Louis. Therefore, players arriving by car can use nearby street parking, metered parking, and local garage or lot parking options.

Meanwhile, public transportation also works for many visitors. The Central West End MetroLink Station is about a 21-minute walk from the venue. In addition, players staying in other parts of the city can reach the neighborhood by local transit or short rideshare trips from nearby hotels and major arrival points.

If you want a serious classical chess tournament in one of America’s leading chess cities, Bill Wright Saint Louis Open 2026 offers strong competition, a respected venue, and an excellent weekend atmosphere.