Queenstown Chess Classic About the Tournament Dates and Round Times Prizefund Entry Form and How to Enter Conditions for masters/grandmasters Contact Us Tournament Venue New Zealand Rapidplay and Lightning Queenstown Junior Chess Classic Tournament Regulations Combining the chess with a holiday Travel to New Zealand from abroad About Queenstown and New Zealand Accommodation and car hire in Queenstown Queenstown 2006 Calendar of NZ chess events

ABOUT THE TOURNAMENT

The 2009 Queenstown Chess Classic is a 10-round internationally rated tournament, open to all players. Based on the successful 2006 Queenstown Classic - attended by 193 players from 18 different countries - it will be the most prestigious chess competition ever staged in New Zealand. It is expected to attract players from all levels, from novices to Grandmasters. Everyone is welcome. Some overseas enthusiasts will surely combine the event with a holiday of a lifetime - Queenstown is set in the heart of one of the most stunningly beautiful regions of New Zealand.

The guaranteed prizefund of NZ $50,000 is a record for a chess event in New Zealand. There is an additional $6500 in prizes on offer in the New Zealand Rapidplay and Lightning Championships. For junior players a six-round Queenstown Junior Classic is additionally being introduced, to be played over four mornings.

In cooperation with the New Zealand Chess Federation (NZCF), this 2009 Queenstown Chess Classic will also incorporate the official 116th New Zealand Chess Championships. This event has a famous history, being the oldest continuously staged national championship in the world.

Many top Australian players are expected to participate in the Queenstown Classic. The event has been timed to avoid a clash with the Australian Championships (staged in early January).