NKY Rated Beginners Open

If you have been considering entering the active over-the-board tournament scene, then this tournament is for you.

This tournament is open to all players that are rated U1201 USCF as well as new players. Players of all ages are welcome. Due to space considerations, there is a limit of 35 players so please register as soon as possible.

Date: May 2, 2026
Entry Fees: $30 by 5/1, $35 at door. Early registration is encouraged and appreciated.
USCF membership is required for registration. Contact Tim Sawyer prior to registration if you need to join USCF or renew
Registration: 8:30 am - 9:15 am.
Format 4 rounds
Time Control: G/45 d5 (this means each player has 45 minutes to complete the game. After each move there is a five-second delay before your time elapses)
Round times (Eastern Dayligt Time): 10 am, 12:30 pm, 2:30 pm and 4:30 pm
Byes: One 1/2-point bye is allowed in rounds 1 - 3, no byes in 4th round. Additional byes may be taken but these will be scored as 0.
Location: Open Door Community Church, 3534 Turkeyfoot Rd. Erlanger, KY 41018
Sections: 1 (U1201)
Prize fund (based on 20 entries)
1st: $150, 2nd: $90, 3rd: $60
Class Prizes: Top U900: $35, Top Unrated: $25

Rules:
Notation is required for all players. Elecronic scorekeping devices are allowed, provided they are USCF approved. See TD prior to round 1 if you are in doubt. Players must make their move before recording on the scoresheet per rule 15A of the USCF rules, 7th edition.
Mandatory player's meeting at 9:30 am
Please bring boards, sets and clocks as there will be a very limited supply on hand.
All prizes will be paid electronically via Venmo, PayPal or CashApp. No exceptions.
Cell phones: All players in active games must have cell phones turned off, face down on the table or in a bag. While in an active game no player may have a cell phone on their person.

Tournament Director: Tim Sawyer. Questions can be sent to tasawyer81@icloud.com
Tournament Affiliate: MBD Chess Mates