How to prepare for your first chess tournament
Over-the-board (OTB) chess involves players facing each other in person, using a physical board and pieces. This format differs from online and play in several important ways.
Touch Move Rule
If you touch a piece during an OTB game, you must move it if a legal move is possible. This rule does not exist online, where you can reposition pieces until you click to finalize a move.
One Hand Rule
When moving pieces and pressing the clock, use the same hand for your entire move. This rule also applies to castling: move your king with one hand, then move your rook with the same hand.
Press the Clock
Each player must press the clock after making a move with the same hand that they used to move the piece. Beginners often forget to press the clock. If your opponent forgets to do so, you may politely remind them.
Recording Moves
Recording moves is not compulsory but players may choose to record their moves so they can review their games. We provide notation sheets and stationery for anyone who wishes to record their game.
Report the score
Once your match is over, raise your hand and an arbiter will come to you to record the score. Alternatively, the tournament may require you to go to the arbiters table to report the score.
What to do if my opponent makes an illegal move?
If your opponent makes an illegal move or if you are unsure about anything, simply raise your hand and an arbiter will attend to you. If there has been an illegal move, a warning may be issued or the other player may be awarded additional time. If two serious illegal moves occur in a match, the arbiter may declare the game lost by the player in breach.
What to bring on the day itself?
Bring along a water bottle, jacket and a bag to your competition! As phones are not allowed to be used, it’s safest to keep your phone in your bag during the round. Make sure to put it on silent mode too. Also, check if there is a lunch break or if you should eat before going for the competition.
Finding my board
Most chess tournaments use chess-results.com. This website allows participants to check their board number for each round of the tournament. It takes a while to learn how to use it but once you’ve learnt it, you’ll never forget it! Try it out for yourself at our sample link here
You’re ready!
You’re now ready to participate in your first over-the-board chess tournament. All the best!