Newark, Delaware hosts the Delaware State Championship – New Castle County from Saturday, March 7 to Sunday, March 8, 2026 in Newark, Delaware, USA. Delaware Chess Association runs this weekend championship at the Ramada Inn with a classical schedule that fits five rounds into two days. The tournament welcomes a wide range of playing strengths by offering multiple rating sections and guaranteed prizes throughout the field.

This event also highlights Delaware title awards and resident prizes, including recognition for the Delaware State Champion and Delaware State Women’s Champion. Organizers keep the weekend practical with clear round times, standard US Chess rules, and on-site check-in on Saturday morning. Players should plan ahead, bring their own equipment, and register early to secure advance entry.

🗓️ Event Details

🏆 Prize Fund

Open Section:

Under 2000:

Under 1800:

Under 1600:

Under 1400:

Under 1200:

Under 1000:

Under 800:

Special Delaware Resident Prizes:
• Delaware State Champion: Crystal Trophy + free entry in the next Delaware State Championship
• Delaware State Women’s Champion (Open section preferred)
• Top Delaware U1600
• Top Delaware U1000
• Top Delaware Junior (age 18)

Prizes are guaranteed.

⏱️ Time Control & Pairings

The tournament runs a 5-round Swiss with a classical time control of G/90 with 5-second delay. Players may request up to two byes, limited to Rounds 1 and 4, and players should submit bye requests at entry.

Titled entry policy:
• GM and IM entry is free, and the organizer deducts $50 from any prize won by a GM or IM.

The organizer provides coffee and water for players.

📂 Sections / Groups

📅 Schedule

📝 Registration

Players must register in advance and hold a valid US Chess membership.

Registration rules:
• Advance registration deadline: Wednesday, March 4, 2026
• On-site entry: $130, with check-in Saturday 8:00–9:00 AM
• Organizers offer free entry to GMs and IMs, with a prize deduction rule if they win cash prizes
• Players must bring their own clock, board, and pieces
• Players may request up to two byes limited to Rounds 1 and 4

Website: https://delawarechessassociation.org/

👥 Organizer

Delaware Chess Association organizes the Delaware State Championship – New Castle County and manages entries, pairings, and on-site operations.

Email: aa.legolas@gmail.com
Phone: 4102193179
Website: https://delawarechessassociation.org/

🏨 Venue

The event takes place at the Ramada Inn, 260 Chapman Road, Newark, DE 19702, USA. The hotel setting supports a full weekend schedule with multiple rounds and provides a convenient base for players traveling within the Mid-Atlantic region.

🚗 How to Get There

Newark, Delaware sits near major regional highways and offers convenient access from surrounding states. Drivers can reach the Ramada Inn via local roads around Chapman Road, while travelers arriving by rail or air can continue to Newark by rideshare, taxi, or regional transit and then reach the hotel by a short local trip.

Play for state titles, guaranteed prizes, and a strong weekend schedule in Newark while Delaware’s championship field battles across eight competitive sections.