Prague, a city steeped in history and intellectual pursuits, is preparing to add another significant chapter to its cultural calendar. On Sunday, September 28, 2025, the majestic Hotel Don Giovanni will open its doors to a new, prestigious event: the first annual Vlastimil Hort Tournament. This individual rapid chess competition, organized under the expert guidance of Czech Inn Chess, is a dedicated tribute to one of the Czech Republic`s most celebrated and successful chess grandmasters, Vlastimil Hort himself.
A Legacy Embodied: Grandmaster Vlastimil Hort
For those familiar with the annals of chess history, Vlastimil Hort needs little introduction. A formidable player, his career spanned decades, marking him as a true titan of the game. Known for his robust, strategic style and exceptional resilience, Hort represented Czechoslovakia with distinction on the international stage, achieving peak performances that captivated audiences worldwide. This tournament serves not merely as a competition, but as a living testament to his enduring influence and contributions to the world of chess. It’s a chance for a new generation to connect with the spirit of a player who consistently proved that mental fortitude is as crucial as tactical brilliance.
The Thrill of Rapid Chess: What to Expect
Rapid chess, a format known for its fast-paced excitement and nerve-wracking decisions, is a perfect choice for an event designed to celebrate dynamic play. Participants will engage in a 7-round Swiss system tournament, adhering to FIDE/Elo-rated standards, ensuring that every move counts towards official recognition.
The time control, a brisk 2×15 minutes plus a 10-second increment per move, promises a thrilling display of quick thinking and strategic prowess. There`s little room for dawdling; a 10-minute default time ensures prompt starts and keeps the action flowing. If you`ve ever felt the pressure of a ticking clock, you`ll understand the unique blend of adrenaline and precision this format demands. It’s a chess player’s ultimate test of mental agility, a sprint rather than a marathon, where one wrong move under pressure can unravel an entire game.
Tournament Structure and Key Details
Event: The Vlastimil Hort Tournament 2025 (1st Annual)
Format: Individual Rapid Chess, Swiss System (7 Rounds)
Rating: FIDE/Elo-rated
Time Control: 2×15 minutes + 10 seconds per move
Default Time: 10 minutes
Prague`s Elegant Host: Hotel Don Giovanni
The tournament will unfold in the elegant surroundings of the Hotel Don Giovanni Prague, located at Vinohradská 157a, 130 00 Prague 3 – Žižkov. This renowned hotel offers not only a sophisticated backdrop for intense chess battles but also convenient amenities for participants. Players considering an extended stay will be pleased to note that discounted room rates are available, transforming a single day of competition into an opportunity to explore the historical charm of Prague.
A Day Packed with Strategic Action
The schedule for September 28, 2025, is meticulously planned to maximize play and enjoyment:
- Registration: 8:00 – 8:45 AM
- Rounds 1 – 3: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Lunch Break: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM (Catering available on-site at Hotel Don Giovanni)
- Rounds 4 – 7: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Award Ceremony: 5:15 PM
Participation and Prizes: Compete for Glory
The organizing committee, led by Tournament Director Petr Boleslav and Chief Arbiter IA Pavel Votruba, extends a warm invitation to chess players of all levels. Given the expected interest and limited hall capacity, early registration is highly recommended to secure a spot in this inaugural event.
The entry fee is a modest 200 CZK, payable on-site during registration. Beyond the thrill of competition, players will vie for a prize fund that celebrates excellence:
- 1st Place: 2000 CZK
- 2nd Place: 1500 CZK
- 3rd Place: 1000 CZK
In a fitting tribute to the tournament`s namesake, material prizes will include books authored by Grandmaster Vlastimil Hort, offering winners not just financial reward but also a piece of chess history and strategic insight directly from the legend himself. It`s an opportunity to literally “read” the mind of a master.
To ensure fair play and clear results, prizes will not be shared. In the event of a tie, the following standard FIDE criteria will be applied in sequence: points, median Buchholz, Buchholz, Sonneborn-Berger, and if necessary, a drawing of lots. May the most consistent player prevail!
Secure Your Spot
Aspiring participants are encouraged to register in advance via email to [email protected]. The final deadline for registration is September 25, 2025. Don`t miss your chance to be part of what promises to be a memorable new tradition in Czech chess.
The Vlastimil Hort Tournament is more than just a chess competition; it`s a celebration of a storied career, a gathering of minds in the heart of Europe, and the beginning of a new annual legacy in rapid chess. Mark your calendars, prepare your strategies, and join Czech Inn Chess in honoring a true icon of the game.
