Join hundreds of chess enthusiasts this summer in the charming town of Pfaffstätten, just a stone’s throw from the historic city of Baden, Austria. The Sparkasse Baden Open 2025 runs from August 26 to 31 at the welcoming Gemeindezentrum Pfaffstätten. This classical, FIDE-rated tournament promises intense over-the-board action, a friendly atmosphere, generous prizes, and competitive excitement across all rating levels. Whether you’re a seasoned master or a rising amateur, this event is your chance to shine in the heart of Lower Austria.
🧾 EVENT DETAILS
Dates: August 26–31, 2025
Tournament Type: Classical (Standard)
Place: Pfaffstätten/Baden, Austria
Venue: Gemeindezentrum Pfaffstätten
Address: Dr. Josef-Dolp-Straße 2, 2511 Pfaffstätten, Austria
Organizer: SK Sparkasse Baden
Federation: Austrian Chess Federation (ÖSB)
Tournament Director: Bernhard Geismann
Chief Arbiter: IS Peter Stadler
Time Control: 90 minutes for 40 moves + 30 minutes for the rest of the game with 30-second increment from move one
Number of Rounds: 7
Chess-Results: View on Chess-Results
Official Website: www.schachklub-baden.at
⏰ TIME CONTROL
Each game follows the classical format with deep strategic potential:
- 90 minutes for the first 40 moves
- 30 minutes for the rest of the game
- 30-second increment per move starting from move one
This thoughtfully structured time control allows ample room for both tactical brilliance and long-term planning.
📅 TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
| Date | Time | Event |
|---|---|---|
| August 26 | 15:00 | Round 1 |
| August 27 | 15:00 | Round 2 |
| August 28 | 15:00 | Round 3 |
| August 29 | 15:00 | Round 4 |
| August 30 | 15:00 | Round 5 |
| August 31 | 09:00 | Round 6 |
| August 31 | 15:00 | Round 7 & Closing Ceremony |
💵 PRIZE FUND
The Sparkasse Baden Open offers an attractive prize fund across multiple categories and rating groups:
| Group | Rating Range | Prize Distribution (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Königs (A) | Open | 1st: €1,000 · 2nd: €700 · 3rd: €500 |
| Turm (B) | ≤1849 Elo | 1st: €600 · 2nd: €400 · 3rd: €300 |
| Springer (D) | ≤1449 Elo | 1st: €400 · 2nd: €300 · 3rd: €200 |
| Damen-Turnier | Women Only | 1st: €300 · 2nd: €200 · 3rd: €100 |
| Special Prizes | Various | Best Junior · Senior · Local Player |
All prize values are subject to final participant numbers and may be adjusted accordingly.
📝 REGISTRATION
Fees:
- Adults: €50
- Juniors (under 18): €30
How to Register:
Send your full name, FIDE ID, preferred group, and contact info to:
📧 turnierleitung@schachklub-baden.at
Payment:
Payment instructions will be provided upon registration confirmation. Early payment is recommended to confirm your participation.
Deadline:
August 15, 2025 (or until spots are filled)
🧳 TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION
Getting to Pfaffstätten:
- By Car: Take the A2 highway south from Vienna and exit at Baden. From there, Pfaffstätten is a 10-minute drive.
- By Train: Trains run regularly from Vienna to Baden, followed by a local bus or taxi to Pfaffstätten.
- By Plane: Vienna International Airport (VIE) is around 35 minutes away by train or car.
Nearby Hotels:
- Hotel Schloss Weikersdorf (Baden)
- Hotel Sacher Baden
- Gasthof Martinek (Baden)
- Hotel Krainerhütte (Helenental)
Booking your stay early is highly recommended due to high tournament demand.
🏢 ORGANIZER
SK Sparkasse Baden, founded in 1923, is one of Austria’s oldest and most active chess clubs. Known for its commitment to organizing top-tier events, the club brings both professionalism and passion to every tournament.
Contact Details:
SK Sparkasse Baden
Breyerstraße 1, 2500 Baden, Austria
Email: turnierleitung@schachklub-baden.at
Website: www.schachklub-baden.at
🎯 WHY YOU SHOULD PARTICIPATE
The Sparkasse Baden Open 2025 is more than just a chess tournament — it’s a celebration of strategy, sportsmanship, and community. Set in one of Austria’s most charming regions, this event offers competitive action, welcoming hospitality, and a vibrant chess atmosphere. Whether you’re aiming for the top prize or simply eager to play, learn, and enjoy, this is your stage. Don’t miss the chance to be part of it!
Additional Details
Playing Venue - Gemeindezentrum Pfaffstätten
Prize Fund - €5,300 EUR
Organizer - SK Sparkasse Baden
Organizer email - turnierleitung@schachklub-baden.at
Tournament Director - Bernhard Geismann
Chief Arbiter - IS Peter Stadler
Time control - 90 minutes for 40 moves + 30 minutes for the rest of the game with 30-second increment from move one
Number of rounds - 7
Tournament system - SWISS
Rating - FIDE
Organizer
SK Sparkasse Baden is one of Austria’s most established and prestigious chess clubs, proudly founded in 1923. With over a century of rich history, the club has played a pivotal role in the development and promotion of chess in Lower Austria. It actively supports players of all levels—from youth talents to international masters—and consistently fields competitive teams in both regional and national leagues. The club is widely respected for its well-organized tournaments, training programs, and its strong emphasis on chess education.
SK Sparkasse Baden is also the driving force behind some of the most popular chess events in the region, including the annual Sparkasse Baden Open, which attracts players from all over Europe. The club’s dedication to excellence, professionalism, and community spirit makes it a cornerstone of the Austrian chess scene. Whether you’re a casual player or a tournament regular, SK Sparkasse Baden provides a welcoming and competitive environment to grow and enjoy the game.