The Inaugural Cleveland Rec Center Tournament - Zelma George Rec Center, 2023 August 11th, 2023
On August 19th, 2023, players from across the Greater Cleveland area got together at the Zelma George Recreation Center to celebrate the game of chess in a friendly unrated competition hosted by Progress With Chess. As part of our partnership with the Cleveland Office of Prevention, Intervention and Opportunity, and the Cleveland Department of Recreation, Progress With Chess arranged for the inaugural “Cleveland Recreation Center Tournament” for players of all ages and skill levels, which reached over 70 participants across its sections.
Scholastic players competed for 1st-5th place and “Outstanding Performance” trophies (awarded to players who received 3.5 points out of the possible 5), while adult players competed for luxury chess equipment, including boards, pieces, and clocks. Parents, friends, and curious onlookers packed into the tournament area to watch the games, while enjoying complimentary beverages and pizza.
The tournament received participants from a number of Cleveland Rec Center Chess Clubs facilitated by Progress With Chess throughout the city, the schedules for which can be reviewed at progresswithchess.org/cle-rec. These programs are free for Cleveland residents and are staffed by experienced chess instructors who are able to teach the basics to beginners and novice players, and play competitive games with advanced players.
We thank all of our participants and the City of Cleveland for joining us in celebrating
the world’s favorite game! We look forward to seeing you next year.
