News

Dorset Junior Chess Championships

Presented by Dorset County Chess Association

? Sunday 1st March 2026

? 10:30 to 17:00

? Lytchett Matravers Village Hall
Vineyards Close, Lytchett Matravers, BH16 6DF

? Entry Fee: Just £8!


? Who Should Enter?

All juniors in school years 2 to 13 inclusive from across Dorset and surrounding counties, whether a complete novice or an experienced player.

? Note: To be eligible for the Dorset County trophies you must reside in or attend a school in Dorset, but players from areas or schools outside Dorset are welcome to compete for medals.


? Format and Age Groups

Players are guaranteed to play all 7 rounds of chess against other junior chess players in the same/similar age groups. Groupings will depend on number of entrants in each age group.

? Championship Trophies and Medals

Awards will be presented to the following age groups:

  • U8 (Under 8)
  • U9 (Under 9)
  • U10 (Under 10)
  • U11 (Under 11)
  • U12 (Under 12)
  • U13 (Under 13)
  • U14 (Under 14)
  • U16 (Under 16)
  • U18 (Under 18)
  • ? Overall Championship Cup

⏰ Timing

? Doors Open9:45 AM (for prompt 10:30 start)
? Competition Start10:30 AM
? Prize-Giving5:00 PM (17:00)
⏱️ Time Control20 minutes / 15 minutes with increments per player
(One or two sections)

? How to Register in Advance

? Register on the Dorset Chess website:

Online payment is preferred.

⚠️ IMPORTANT DEADLINES

  • Entries close: 28th February 2026 at 12:00 (noon)
  • Organisers may close entries early if maximum number is exceeded
  • No entries or payment on the day please

? What’s Included

✅ Free Refreshments

  • ☕ Tea & Coffee
  • ? Squash
  • ? Biscuits

? Food Available

Hot snacks will be for sale at a notional cost

?‍?‍?‍? Parent Facilities

  • Plenty of space in a separate room
  • ? Free WiFi available

?️ Parking

Free parking available at the venue


ℹ️ Important Information

⚠️ Please note:

  • Parents and guardians remain responsible for the welfare of their children during the event.
  • We may publish results and take photographs during this event for use on the Dorset Chess website and in the weekly Dorset Chess newsletters and/or other public chess sites.
  • Entry to this event constitutes acceptance of these conditions.

? Don’t Miss This Exciting Event!

Register now and join junior chess players from across Dorset
for a day of competitive chess, fun, and learning!

For more information, visit www.dorsetchess.co.uk