News Notes
Chess is simply the game that keeps on giving. The strategic thinking game began 1,500 years ago but is often overlooked by modern society. For those who love the game, however, it’s everything.
Peter Giannatos saw an opportunity to revive the love of the game without the exclusivity or barriers to entry of its checkered past. In 2014 he founded the Charlotte Chess Center, providing local children and adults with opportunities to learn the game and compete with others.
Giannatos aims to provide students of all ages with the wide-ranging benefits of what he terms a “mind sport,” supporting overall development, critical thinking skills, and performance in school subjects by exercising the brain. For many students, it’s a safe space to engage, have fun, and compete with their peers.
On January 13-15, 2024 renowned American chess Grandmaster Yasser Seirawan will be traveling to Charlotte for the first time to attend an event hosted by Giannatos and the Charlotte Chess Center – The 2024 Charlotte Open.
A 6-round tournament with a $20,000 guaranteed prize fund in 8 US Chess-rated sections, a free $1,000 blitz, and a one-day scholastic K-8 tournament, this is a great opportunity for Charlotte chess enthusiasts. In addition to the main and side events, Seirawan will lead Q&As, blitz challenges, game analysis, and more – accessible to the public.
For more details, visit charlottechesscenter.org/events/charlotteopen.
