The organisers can now confirm that the Hastings Congress will take place from 28th December 2015 to 5th January 2016 at Horntye Park Sports Complex in Hastings.
The Congress is extremely pleased to confirm that new sponsorship has been agreed with Tradewise Insurance Company in conjunction with the English Chess Federation. This will enable the Congress to retain its familiar format. Tradewise Insurance are sponsors of the world-leading Gibraltar Chess Festival and their interest in sponsoring the English Chess Federation and thereby Hastings Congress is very welcome.
Their sponsorship is intended to provide incentives for female participation and the entry fee for female players will be reduced by 50%. Prizes will also be awarded to those not already holding the title: £100 for those achieving GM/WGM norm and £50 for IM/WM norm. Limited assistance may also be offered for suitable players under 21.
Further good news is that the John Robinson Trust is offering five English players U21 on 28th December 2015 bursaries of £100. These are for the highest rated players who enter by 10 December 2015. This will be a very appropriate way of remembering John Robinson who was a valued member of the Hastings arbiting team for many years.
Further details will appear on this website.
Hastings Borough Council continues to be a major supporter of the congress despite local budget cuts requiring support to all events to be significantly reduced. We are grateful to the Council and also to the White Rock Hotel, Lansdowne Hotel and KC Computers for their continuing support.
The on-line entry form will appear on the website after the British Chess Championships is over. Congress Director, Alan Hustwayte, will now receive entries. His email address: alan.b.hustwayte@tesco.net
For all other enquiries please contact Pam Thomas on pae123@aol.com