Prague Gears Up for Inaugural Vlastimil Hort Rapid Chess Tournament

On Sunday, September 28, 2025, the grand halls of Hotel Don Giovanni will resonate with the focused silence of a chess battle, as Prague hosts the first annual Vlastimil Hort Rapid Chess Tournament. This event is not merely another competition; it`s a profound tribute to one of the Czech Republic`s most celebrated chess maestros, Grandmaster Vlastimil Hort.

A Legacy Embodied in Wood and Glee

Vlastimil Hort, born in Kladno in 1944, stands as a colossus in the annals of Czech and indeed, world chess. A Grandmaster of formidable skill, Hort was renowned for his remarkably solid positional play, unwavering defense, and a tenacity that made him a challenging opponent for even the very best. His career, spanning decades, saw him compete at the highest echelons, including multiple Interzonals and Candidates Matches, firmly cementing his status as one of the 20th century`s leading chess figures. His contributions extend beyond the board, as he is also a respected author and commentator, known for his keen insights and charming wit. To honor such a luminary with a tournament bearing his name is to acknowledge a legacy that continues to inspire.

The Tournament: A Confluence of Competition and Celebration

Organized by Czech Inn Chess, this individual rapid chess tournament promises a day of intense mental engagement. Rapid chess, with its quicker time controls, demands not only profound understanding but also swift decision-making, offering a thrilling spectacle for both players and observers. The event adheres to a well-established format designed for fairness and excitement:

A Day`s Gambit: Schedule and Stakes

The day is meticulously planned to ensure a smooth flow of play, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in the competition:

• Registration: 8:00 – 8:45
• Rounds 1 – 3: 9:00 – 12:00
• Lunch break: 12:00 – 13:00 (Catering available at the Hotel Don Giovanni)
• Rounds 4 – 7: 13:00 – 17:00
• Award Ceremony: 17:15

While the glory of victory is often its own reward, tangible prizes await the top contenders. A prize fund of 2000 CZK for first place, 1500 CZK for second, and 1000 CZK for third is on offer. Beyond monetary incentives, material prizes include books personally penned by Grandmaster Vlastimil Hort himself – a unique memento and an invaluable source of chess wisdom. These prizes will not be shared, ensuring clear competition, with standard tie-break rules in place for any deadlocks.

Registering Your Move

Aspiring participants are encouraged to register promptly, as hall capacity is limited. The entry fee is a modest 200 CZK, payable on-site during registration. To secure a spot, players should register in advance via email to [email protected], with the registration deadline set for September 25, 2025. This ensures the organizers can accommodate all chess enthusiasts keen to be part of this inaugural event.

Prague: A Fitting Backdrop for Chess Excellence

The choice of Hotel Don Giovanni Prague as the venue adds an extra layer of prestige to the tournament. Known for its elegant facilities, the hotel provides an ideal environment for concentrated play, while also offering comfortable amenities for participants. Prague itself, a city steeped in history and culture, serves as a magnificent backdrop, inviting players and visitors to experience its charm beyond the chessboard. This event, therefore, is not just a chess tournament; it’s an invitation to experience the vibrant chess scene within one of Europe`s most beautiful capitals.

A New Tradition Begins

The Vlastimil Hort Tournament aims to be more than a one-off event; it is envisioned as the beginning of an annual tradition, a recurring fixture on the chess calendar that consistently celebrates Grandmaster Hort`s enduring legacy. For Czech Inn Chess, it’s an opportunity to foster the sport, engage the community, and keep the spirit of competitive chess thriving. It stands as a testament to the idea that some legacies, much like a well-played game, deserve to be revisited and celebrated year after year.