Get ready to challenge your strategic skills at the thrilling ICA FIDE Championship, scheduled for July 12–13, 2025, in the scenic town of Glen Rock, New Jersey. Hosted at the inviting Community Church of Glen Rock (Education Building), this event offers classical chess enthusiasts the perfect platform to test their tactical prowess over four competitive rounds. Dual-rated by both FIDE and USCF, this tournament is designed to attract a diverse group of ambitious players seeking valuable rating points, significant prize money, and a vibrant chess atmosphere.
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor aiming to climb higher on the international rating ladder or an enthusiastic club player looking for quality competitive play, the ICA FIDE Championship promises a dynamic and rewarding experience.
♟️ EVENT DETAILS
| Dates: | July 12–13, 2025 |
|---|---|
| Tournament Type: | Classical (FIDE & USCF Dual-Rated) |
| Total Prize Fund: | €2,000 (~$2,000 USD) |
| Place: | Glen Rock, New Jersey, USA |
| Venue: | Community Church of Glen Rock (Education Building) |
| Address: | 354 Rock Rd, Glen Rock, NJ 07452 |
| Organizer: | International Chess Academy (ICA) |
| Federation: | US Chess Federation & FIDE |
| Tournament Director: | Stephen D. Lorimor |
| Chief Arbiter: | Stephen D. Lorimor |
| Time Control: | G110 + D10 (110 minutes per player, 10-second delay from move one) |
| Number of Rounds: | 4 |
⏳ TIME CONTROL
The ICA FIDE Championship employs a classical time control of 110 minutes per player with a 10-second delay from the first move, offering players ample time for deep strategic thinking and precise tactical execution. This balanced time format ensures engaging gameplay and high-quality matches.
📅 TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
| Date | Round 1 | Round 2 | Round 3 | Round 4 |
| July 12 | 11:00 AM | 3:30 PM | — | — |
| July 13 | — | — | 1:00 PM | 5:30 PM |
Players may request up to two half-point byes before the start of Round 2.
💰 PRIZE FUND
The total prize fund of €2,000 (~$2,000 USD) ensures exciting competition and rewards top performances generously:
| Placement | Prize (USD) |
| 1st Place | $500 |
| 2nd Place | $360 |
| 3rd Place | $240 |
Clear prize distribution encourages spirited competition and motivation among participants.
✍️ REGISTRATION
Participants can register easily online through ICA’s dedicated Jumbula portal:
- Early-Bird Registration: $100 (ends July 4, 2025, 11:59 PM)
- Regular Registration: $120
- Free Entry: Available for Grandmasters (GMs), International Masters (IMs), and players rated 2400+ FIDE. Eligible players should contact ICA directly to request a free-entry coupon.
Payment Options: Secure online payments via credit card.
Participants must bring their own clocks; chess sets and boards are provided by the organizer.
🚗 TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION
Venue Accessibility:
- Airports Nearby: Approximately 20 miles from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), and around 35 miles from LaGuardia (LGA) and JFK International Airport.
- Car Travel: Easy access via major highways I-80 and Route 17. Free parking available onsite but limited; early arrival recommended.
- Public Transport: Glen Rock–Main Street Station is served by NJ Transit trains, conveniently located near the tournament venue.
Recommended Hotels:
- Hilton Garden Inn Ramsey-Glen Rock (approx. 2 miles from venue, rates from ~$150/night)
- Holiday Inn Hasbrouck Heights/Teterboro (approx. 5 miles from venue, rates from ~$140/night)
Early hotel reservations are recommended due to expected tournament weekend demand.
📌 ORGANIZER
The International Chess Academy (ICA) is renowned for its expertise in organizing high-quality chess tournaments and fostering chess talent across the region.
- Email: chessdirector@icanj.net
- Phone: +1 201‑797‑0330
- Address: 354 Rock Rd, Glen Rock, NJ 07452
With seamless logistics, clear communication, and excellent support from experienced arbiters, ICA guarantees an outstanding tournament experience.
🌟 WHY YOU SHOULD PARTICIPATE
Participating in the ICA FIDE Championship is an extraordinary opportunity to enhance your chess skills in a competitive yet friendly environment. With dual ratings by both FIDE and USCF, each game holds significant value for your international chess standing. The attractive prize fund, structured time controls, and convenient travel options combine to offer an ideal chess weekend in beautiful Glen Rock, New Jersey. Whether you are seeking rating improvements, prize winnings, or simply the thrill of strategic battles, the ICA FIDE Championship is the perfect chess event for you.
Additional Details
Playing Venue - Community Church of Glen Rock (Education Building)
Organizer - International Chess Academy (ICA)
Organizer Phone - +1 201‑797‑0330
Organizer email - chessdirector@icanj.net
Tournament Director - Stephen D. Lorimor
Chief Arbiter - Stephen D. Lorimor
Time control - G110 + D10 (110 minutes per player, 10-second delay from move one)
Number of rounds - 4
Tournament system - SWISS
Rating - FIDE
Organizer
The International Chess Academy (ICA) has over 20 years of experience delivering high-quality chess education and organizing competitive events across New Jersey. ICA regularly hosts flagship tournaments such as the ICA Open Championship (rotating between Glen Rock and Bergen County), the ICA Glen Rock Quads, the GM Summer Camp, and the annual Dr. Ostfeld Memorial. These events consistently attract players from all levels—from beginning enthusiasts to titled masters—and reinforce ICA’s reputation as a premier chess institution in the region. With a dual focus on strategic depth and community engagement, ICA fosters an environment where learning and competition thrive side by side.
Committed to excellence, ICA also runs interactive programs year-round, including online classes, summer camps, scholastic training, and private coaching. Their expert-led activities attract students globally and maintain a strong presence at youth and adult events, including national scholastic championships. ICA’s dedication to fostering chess talent is matched by its professionalism in organizing tournaments like the ICA FIDE Championship, ensuring smooth logistics, timely communication, and a friendly competitive atmosphere.