The 27th edition of the Vlissingen HZ Tournament 2025 invites chess lovers from around the world to compete in a friendly yet high-level open tournament on the sun-drenched coast of Zeeland. This prestigious event takes place in the charming city of Vlissingen, combining strong international competition with a relaxing seaside atmosphere. With its unique setting, professional organization, and exciting prize fund, this summer chess week promises an unforgettable experience for all participants.
📅 Dates
August 2–9, 2025
📍 Venue
HZ University of Applied Sciences – Edisonweg 4, 4382 NW Vlissingen, Netherlands
The tournament unfolds in the spacious and modern atrium of the university, just a short walk from Vlissingen’s beaches and city center.
⏱️ Time Control
Each game uses a classical format: 90 minutes for the first 40 moves + 30 minutes for the rest of the game, with a 30-second increment from move one.
🗓️ Schedule
| Date | Time | Event |
|---|---|---|
| August 2 (Sat) | 15:00–17:30 | Player Registration Confirm |
| August 2 (Sat) | 18:00 | Official Opening |
| August 2 (Sat) | 18:30 | Round 1 |
| August 3 (Sun) | 11:30 | Round 2 |
| August 3 (Sun) | 18:30 | Round 3 |
| August 4 (Mon) | 18:30 | Round 4 |
| August 5 (Tue) | 18:30 | Round 5 |
| August 6 (Wed) | 18:30 | Round 6 |
| August 7 (Thu) | 18:30 | Round 7 |
| August 8 (Fri) | 18:30 | Round 8 |
| August 9 (Sat) | 11:30 | Round 9 |
| August 9 (Sat) | 17:30 | Award Ceremony |
🔢 Number of Rounds
9 rounds, played in one Open Swiss group.
💰 Prize Fund and Prizes
The total prize fund is approximately €7,300, distributed across main and special prizes.
🥇 Main Prizes
- 1st: €2,000
- 2nd: €1,300
- 3rd: €800
- 4th: €500
- 5th: €400
- 6th: €300
- 7th–10th: €200 each
- 11th–15th: €100 each
🎯 Special Prizes
- David vs Goliath: For defeating a higher-rated player by the largest margin
- Youth Prize: To the youngest winner of each round
Each player may win each special prize only once.
📝 Registration & Participation
💸 Entry Fees
- €70 if registered before May 1
- €80 between May 1 – July 1
- €90 after July 1
Free for GM, IM, WGM, WIM
50% discount for FM, WFM
🧾 How to Register
Registration is available online. The number of participants is limited to 266, so early registration is strongly advised.
💳 Payment Details
- IBAN: NL56 RABO 0117 0969 62
- BIC: RABONL2U
Please use your name as payment reference.
👨⚖️ Tournament Officials
- Tournament Directors: Hans Groffen, Corné Boogaard
- Chief Arbiter: Bart De Vogelaere (IA)
🏢 Organizer – Stichting Schaak Walcheren
Stichting Schaak Walcheren is a long-standing chess organization in Zeeland committed to promoting chess across all levels. The team behind the Vlissingen HZ Tournament has over two decades of experience organizing top-tier events, drawing in strong international fields while maintaining a warm and welcoming environment.
📬 Contact Information
- Address: Dorpsstraat 59, 4352 AB Gapinge, Netherlands
- Email: info@hztoernooi.nl
- Phone: +31 118 601 219
🌟 Why You Should Participate
The Vlissingen HZ Tournament offers much more than just a chess competition. You will experience high-quality international chess in a relaxed summer setting, surrounded by beaches, lively terraces, and a friendly atmosphere. With strong titled players, generous prizes, and evenings free for exploration, this event is perfect for ambitious players, norm seekers, and those looking for a memorable chess holiday. Play hard, unwind by the sea, and be part of one of Europe’s most scenic summer chess traditions.
Additional Details
Playing Venue - HZ University of Applied Sciences – Edisonweg 4, 4382 NW Vlissingen
Prize Fund - €7,300
Organizer - Stichting Schaak Walcheren
Organizer Phone - +31 118 601 219
Organizer email - info@hztoernooi.nl
Tournament Director - Hans Groffen, Corné Boogaard
Chief Arbiter - Bart De Vogelaere (IA)
Time control - 90 minutes for the first 40 moves + 30 minutes for the rest of the game, with a 30-second increment from move one
Number of rounds - 9
Tournament system - SWISS
Rating - FIDE
Organizer
Stichting Schaak Walcheren is a dedicated chess organization based in the Dutch province of Zeeland. With a mission to promote chess across all levels, the foundation organizes tournaments, workshops, and events that cater to both amateur and professional players. Their flagship event, the Vlissingen HZ Tournament, has become a staple in the international chess calendar, attracting participants from around the globe.
Beyond organizing tournaments, Stichting Schaak Walcheren actively collaborates with local schools and community centers to introduce chess to a broader audience. By fostering a love for the game among youth and adults alike, they aim to cultivate a vibrant chess culture in the region. Their commitment to excellence and community engagement has solidified their reputation as a cornerstone of Dutch chess development.