This is one amazing United States Chess Federation sanctioned event with an unusual offering of recognition for all levels of performance, not just the absolute best players. Last year we had 113 players in sections for Primary (k-2), Elementary(K-5), Middle(K-8) and High School players. Players were recognized for 1st thru 5th place. We also had the BEST IN JAX awards for grade level excellence at the individual level with Gold, Silver or Bronze medals for the top K-12 player from Greater Jacksonville (Duval, St Johns, Clay, Nassau & Baker counties). Then every player who did not receive one of those were given a souvenir token to being a part of this event. We're doing it all again this year, but bigger! All players must have a US Chess membership, but that is built in the registration program.
This year we will have UNDERPRIZES for low or new players who finish outside of the top group. This is done at the National tournament level and we're bringing it to JAX. More players will be in the running for recognition as the event progress and that keeps EVERYONE more engaged to the end of the tournament. Example: An unrated player is not in the top 5, but they are scoring better than other Unrated players will garner a 1st Place Underprize or a player rated below the Top finishers will also be awarded a trophy for Best Rated Beginner.
School Team awards too: It only takes two to make a team, so bring a friend. Throphies to the TOP 5 teams in each section.
And all players who do not receive a performance trophy will receive a commemorative medal as a keepsake for the event.
Then there is the PIZZA lunch for all players! This will be the best event in the area. Hands down. Register now at chessregister.com. See who is already registered now at the Registrants link
DON'T MISS THIS. IT ONLY HAPPENS ONCE AN YEAR AND YOU WILL HAVE TO TRAVEL TO NATIONAL EVENTS (NASHVILLE, ORLANDO OR CHICAGO) TO SEE THIS KIND OF RECOGNITION POTENTIAL.