The Texas Chess Center will host the 2025 TCC DFW Summer FIDE from August 22 to 24 in Irving, Texas. The tournament takes place at the center’s Irving location, 4343 W Royal Lane #114, and is expected to draw around 40 players across three rating sections.
This FIDE-rated event offers players the chance to compete under international standards with a classical time control of 90 minutes plus a 30-second increment from move one. Pairings will use the latest USCF ratings.
Three Sections, Guaranteed Prizes
The event features three sections: Championship, U1800, and U1400, with all prizes guaranteed.
- Championship Section: 1st $600, 2nd $300, 3rd $100. Class prize U2000: $100.
- U1800 Section: 1st $200, 2nd $100, 3rd $50. Class prize U1600: $50.
- U1400 Section: Trophies for top three finishers.
Special conditions apply for titled players: the first three GMs and IMs to enter will receive minimum prizes of $200 (GM) and $100 (IM), provided they play all rounds. FMs and above may enter free before the late fee deadline.
Schedules and Time Control
The tournament runs on two possible schedules:
3-Day Schedule (Aug 22–24):
- Friday: Round 1 at 7 pm
- Saturday: Rounds 2–3 at 2 pm & 7 pm
- Sunday: Rounds 4–5 at 10 am & 3:00 pm
2-Day Schedule (Aug 23–24):
- Saturday: Rounds 1–3 at 9 am, 2 pm & 7 pm
- Sunday: Rounds 4–5 at 10 am & 3:00 pm
All games use the standard control of 90 minutes plus 30 seconds increment. Default late forfeiture time is one hour. Re-entry is allowed at half the late fee.
Entry Fees
- Championship: $98 early (by July 22), $108 regular (by Aug 18), $118 late.
- U1800: $82 early, $92 regular, $102 late.
- U1400 (US Chess rated only): $72 early, $82 regular, $92 late.
Registration sold out quickly, showing the strong demand for competitive chess in the Dallas–Fort Worth area.
Top Players Entered
The Championship section has drawn many strong competitors rated near or above 2000 USCF. Some of the highest-rated entrants include:
- Likhit Bhangale (2052) – 2-day schedule
- Rishi Kolli (2018) – 2-day schedule
- Sanjay Jaishankar (1975) – 2-day schedule
- Kushal Rambhapuri (1967) – 3-day schedule
- Arjun Bupeshnath (1942) – 3-day schedule
- Karstein Bee (1936) – 2-day schedule
- Ellery Zhang (1916) – 3-day schedule
- Lawrence Zhang (1873) – 3-day schedule
- Ishaan Ikkurthi (1870) – 3-day schedule
With young talents like Rishi Kolli (2014 born) and Sanjay Jaishankar (2010 born) mixing with experienced players, the top section is expected to be competitive throughout the weekend.
FIDE Rating Opportunities
For new players seeking international ratings, this event provides the chance to earn a FIDE ID. To be officially FIDE-rated, a player must complete at least five games against rated opponents, score at least half a point, and reach a performance rating of 1400 or higher. The Texas Chess Center assists players in obtaining their FIDE ID during registration.
Organized by Texas Chess Center
The tournament is organized and directed by Andrew Lenczycki, serving as both Chief Arbiter and Chief Organizer. Known for running smooth and professional events, Lenczycki and the Texas Chess Center continue to expand FIDE-rated opportunities in Texas.
Looking Ahead
With guaranteed prizes, clear sections for all rating levels, and opportunities for titled players and rising juniors, the 2025 TCC DFW Summer FIDE is set to be one of North Texas’s most exciting tournaments of the year. Players can expect tough games, competitive spirit, and the chance to boost their ratings on both the USCF and FIDE scales.
For more details and updates, visit texaschesscenter.com.
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.
