In a world often too quick to forget, the legacy of a true Grandmaster endures, especially when celebrated with the very game he loved. Prague recently became the epicenter of a moving tribute, hosting the inaugural Rapid Memorial Tournament in honor of the legendary Vlastimil Hort.
On Sunday, September 28, 2025, the historic Hotel Don Giovanni in Prague buzzed with a different kind of energy. It wasn`t just another Sunday in the Czech capital; it was a day dedicated to memory, strategy, and the enduring spirit of one of chess’s most charismatic figures, Grandmaster Vlastimil Hort. Organized by the Czech Inn Hotel Group, this first memorial tournament was more than a mere sporting contest; it was a heartfelt homage to a giant of Czechoslovakian and international chess.
A Venue Steeped in Personal History
The choice of the Hotel Don Giovanni was no accident. This elegant Prague establishment held a special place in Hort`s heart, known to be one of his favorite haunts. This personal connection imbued the event with an intimate, almost familial atmosphere, transforming a competitive hall into a space of shared reminiscence.
The solemnity and significance of the occasion were underscored by the presence of Hort`s family. His wife, Brigitte Hort, opened the proceedings with a poignant speech, sharing glimpses of her “37 wonderful years” with Vlastimil. Her voice, filled with both sorrow and pride, conveyed profound gratitude for the impressive turnout, a testament to her husband’s indelible impact. Beside her, their son Daniel, added to the emotional weight of the gathering, witnessing firsthand the community’s collective embrace of his father`s memory.
The Board, The Clock, The Legacy
A total of 95 chess players, spanning various generations and skill levels, gathered to engage in seven intense rounds of rapid chess. With a time control of 15 minutes per player plus a 10-second increment per move, the format demanded quick thinking and decisive play – a fitting challenge in an event designed to honor a master known for both his strategic depth and his engaging personality. While the pace was swift, the reverence for the occasion was palpable, a curious blend of urgency on the board and timeless respect in the air.
The tournament culminated in a well-deserved victory for FM Gustav Brejník, who secured first place with an impressive 6.5 points. He was closely followed by IM Pavel Čech, who took second with 6 points, and Pavel Postupa, who claimed third with 5.5 points. Beyond the top three, category prizes were also awarded, highlighting the diverse talent present. IM Josef Přibyl excelled in the over-70s, Miroslav Muroň led the over-60s, WIM Olena Žemličková was recognized as the best female player, and Boris Pogorelsky dominated the under-15s category.
Brigitte Hort herself participated in the award ceremony, presenting cash prizes to the victors. In a truly touching gesture, over thirty players also received a copy of Vlastimil Hort`s celebrated book, My Chess Stories, ensuring his narrative voice continued to resonate long after the final move.
An Annual Tradition in the Making
The success of this inaugural event unequivocally confirmed that Vlastimil Hort, the great chess master and beloved storyteller, is anything but forgotten. The chess community`s enthusiasm to honor his memory was undeniable. The organizers, buoyed by this success, have expressed a clear intention to make this tournament an annual fixture.
Jaroslav Svoboda, owner of Czech Inn Hotels, articulated this vision, stating, “We will hold the tournament every year on the last Sunday in September. We have no doubt that it will be a success, both at home and abroad. Vlastimil would be proud of us.”
This commitment ensures that the name and spirit of Vlastimil Hort will continue to inspire new generations of chess players. From his peak Elo rating of 2620 and world ranking of 6 in the late 1970s, to his numerous championship titles across Czechoslovakia and Germany, his storied participation in Olympiads, and his famous victory over Lev Polugayevsky in the “Rest of the World” vs. USSR match of 1970, Hort’s career was nothing short of brilliant. He was a player who captivated audiences not just with his moves, but with his character and wit, earning him honorary memberships in prestigious chess federations.
The Enduring Checkmate of Memory
The Vlastimil Hort Memorial Rapid Tournament is more than just a competition; it is a vibrant testament to the power of memory and the unbreakable bonds of the chess fraternity. It serves as a reminder that while the clock may tick and seasons may change, the legends who shape our games continue to live on, inspiring every pawn pushed and every king defended. Prague, with its rich history, now proudly adds a new chapter to its chess narrative, one that promises to keep the legacy of Grandmaster Vlastimil Hort alive and thriving for years to come.
