The Downriver Chess Club of New Orleans proudly presents the 2025 Downriver Classic, returning on November 8–9, 2025, at the Louisiana Bridge Association in Metairie, Louisiana.
This year’s event promises to be the biggest yet, offering the largest prize fund in the tournament’s history—$3,000 total, and drawing some of the strongest regional talents to compete for top honors. With a strict 80-player capacity, organizers urge players to register early to secure a spot.
Tournament Overview
Venue:
Louisiana Bridge Association
2709 Edenborn Ave, Metairie, LA 70002
Dates:
Saturday–Sunday, November 8–9, 2025
Registration link: Click here to register
Organizer: Downriver Chess
Contact: info@downriverchess.com
The 2025 Downriver Classic features a five-round Swiss system, two sections, and FIDE rating for the top group. Time control is G/60 with a 30-second increment per move, ensuring high-quality games under a balanced schedule.
Sections and Prizes
Sections:
- Open Section (FIDE-rated)
- Under 1500 Section
Total Prize Fund: $3,000 (50% guaranteed; based on 70 entries)
Prize Breakdown:
Open Section
🥇 1st – $900 🥈 2nd – $400
U2000 Class: 1st – $500 2nd – $250
U1500 Section
🥇 1st – $350 🥈 2nd – $200
U1200 Class: 1st – $250 2nd – $150
Class prizes will be based on the official November USCF rating list, and unrated players are eligible for both class and section prizes in the Open section.
Schedule
Saturday, November 8
- Round 1 – 9:00 AM
- Round 2 – 1:00 PM
- Round 3 – 4:30 PM
Sunday, November 9
- 10:00 AM Blitz Side Event (6 rounds, G/5;d2, USCF-rated, $20 entry, 60% payout)
- Round 4 – 12:30 PM
- Round 5 – 4:00 PM
Two half-point byes are allowed if requested before round three.
Entry Fees and Eligibility
- $60 early entry (one week prior)
- $70 standard entry (two days prior)
- $80 late or same-day entry
Capacity is limited to 80 players, with 10 on-site slots held for walk-ins. All participants must hold a current USCF membership, and free FIDE membership is available to players in the top section with valid USCF membership.
Players without a standard rating will have their highest quick or blitz rating used. Provisional ratings will be adjusted +100 Elo for section placement. Tournament directors may assign or convert ratings based on USCF or FIDE data to ensure fair pairings.
Venue and Amenities
The Louisiana Bridge Association offers private parking for participants and guests.
For accommodations, players can book at the Comfort Inn & Suites at Copeland Tower (2601 Severn Ave, Metairie) — just two blocks from the playing hall — by calling 504-526-4595 and asking for the Downriver Chess Club group rate.
Notable Players
As of November 7, 57 players have registered, including several titled competitors:
- IM Stuart Rachels (2510 USCF / 2446 FIDE)
- FM Nicholas Matta (2346 / 2249)
- Dex Webster (2255 / 2113)
The Open section promises a strong field of experts and masters, setting the stage for an intense weekend of over-the-board battles.
Additional Details
- All games USCF-rated; Open section also FIDE-rated
- No residency restrictions
- Handicap accessibility: not available at this venue
- Forfeit time: 30 minutes after round start
Players have 30 days to claim prizes after the event’s conclusion. Prize notifications will be sent via email.
Ready to compete?
Join Louisiana’s strongest chess talents for a weekend of high-stakes play at the 2025 Downriver Classic — where strategy, precision, and southern hospitality come together over the board.
I’m the senior editor of Attacking Chess, a keen chess player, rated above 2300 in chess.com. You can challenge me or asking questions at Chess.com.
