The 2026 Cardinal Open
The 2026 Cardinal Open brings a premier weekend of open chess to Akron, Ohio, featuring multiple sections, flexible schedules, and a competitive prize fund.
Hosted at the DoubleTree by Hilton Akron‑Fairlawn, the tournament emphasizes on‑time rounds, clear pairings, and comfortable playing halls.
Event Details
| 📅 Dates | 30 January – 1 February 2026 |
| 📍 Location | Akron, Ohio, USA |
| 🏟️ Venue | DoubleTree by Hilton Akron‑Fairlawn |
| 🏁 Tournament Type | US Chess rated; Open FIDE‑rated |
| 🧩 Tournament System | Swiss System |
| 🔢 Number of Rounds | 5 |
| ⏱️ Time Control | 40/90, SD/30 + 30s |
| 💰 Prize Fund | $15,000 guaranteed |
Prize Fund
| Section | 1st–3rd | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Open (FIDE) | Top prizes | U2400/U2200 class prizes |
| U2200 | Top prizes | Class/boosters |
| U1900 | Top prizes | — |
| U1600 | Top prizes | — |
| U1250/Unrated | Top prizes | — |
Time Control & Tournament System
- 5‑round Swiss across all sections
- 40 moves in 90 minutes, then 30 minutes to finish, with 30‑second increment
- Tiebreaks: Buchholz → Sonneborn‑Berger → Direct Encounter → Most Wins
- Saturday night Blitz side event (G/5 + 2)
Sections / Groups
- Open (FIDE‑rated)
- U2200
- U1900
- U1600
- U1250/Unrated
Schedule
| Date | Event / Round | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Fri, Jan 30 | Registration & Round 1 | 19:00 |
| Sat, Jan 31 | Rounds 2–3 | 10:00 / 17:00 |
| Sat, Jan 31 | Blitz (side event) | 21:00 |
| Sun, Feb 1 | Rounds 4–5 & Awards | 09:00 / 15:00 |
Registration
Tiered entry by date and section. US Chess membership required; FIDE ID required for Open. Up to two half‑point byes if requested before Round 2.
Organizer
Progress With Chess (PWC) runs scholastic and open events across Ohio, emphasizing accessible, high‑quality tournaments.
- Email: info@progresswithchess.org
- Website: progresswithchess.org
Venue
DoubleTree Akron‑Fairlawn provides ballroom space, analysis areas, and free parking with easy access from I‑77.
Accommodation
Chess block rate at host hotel; additional Fairlawn/Akron lodging nearby.
How to Get There
- By Air: Akron‑Canton (CAK) ~15 min; Cleveland Hopkins (CLE) ~45 min
- By Car: I‑77 corridor; free on‑site parking
A classic Midwest weekender: solid prizes, friendly atmosphere, and competitive chess — the Cardinal Open 2026 delivers it all.
