Discover the Bangkok Chess Club Open: A Premier Chess Experience in Thailand
For over two decades, the Bangkok Chess Club (BCC) Open has been a highlight on the international chess calendar, drawing players from around the globe to Thailand. Founded by the passionate chess enthusiast Kai Tuorila, the BCC Open is not just a tournament; it’s a tradition known for its excellent playing conditions and strong lineup of Grandmasters (GMs) and International Masters (IMs). The 21st edition was held in April 2024 and the 22nd is scheduled for April 2025. The BCC Open has become a must-visit destination for chess players of all levels.
A Legacy of Excellence
The BCC Open was established in 2002, with the inaugural event hosted at the Amari Orchid Resort in Pattaya. Since then, the tournament has consistently been held at five- or six-star hotels and resorts, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable experience for all participants. The care taken to provide optimal playing conditions is one of the reasons the tournament is so successful. This commitment to excellence has made the BCC Open a popular choice for both seasoned professionals and amateur chess enthusiasts. The tournament’s founder, Kai Tuorila, is deeply involved in all aspects of the event as Chief Organizer, Tournament Director, and often de facto Chief Arbiter. He is also the Thailand Chess Association Ratings Officer, a position he has held since 1995. In addition to his organizational roles, Kai is a passionate chess player and can be found at the weekly blitz chess tournament at the Bangkok Chess Club.
A Tournament with a Unique Atmosphere
What sets the BCC Open apart is the combination of a highly competitive chess environment with a relaxed vacation atmosphere. The tournament has one round per day, allowing participants to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Thailand. The BCC Open is timed to coincide with Songkran, the Thai New Year celebration and water festival, which adds a unique cultural experience for visitors. This scheduling has become a tradition for the tournament, which returns to its original dates to coincide with this important Thai holiday. The tournament also includes a challengers event along with the open.
Noteworthy Participants
Over the years, the BCC Open has attracted some of the biggest names in chess. While World Champion Viswanathan Anand had to cancel in 2015, top players like China’s Women World Champion and Grandmaster Hou Yifan have graced the tournament. Hou Yifan’s visit in 2012 also included a simultaneous exhibition match against 30 high-level government officials. Additionally, the tournament has seen the participation of renowned players like Nigel Short. In 2018, an 11-year-old D. Gukesh finished third, highlighting the high level of competition at the tournament. The 21st BCC Open in 2024 was won by Ukrainian GM Vitaliy Bernadskiy, with Indian GM Mitrabha Guha taking second place. Other notable players who have participated include Surya Shekhar Ganguly.
Strong Player Turnout
Despite having its dates clash with the Dubai International Open on 15 occasions, the BCC Open has consistently drawn more entries, proving its popularity and the strength of the tournament. In the 22nd BCC Open, there are currently 50 registered players including:
- 10 Grandmasters
- 4 International Masters
- 1 Woman International Master
- 4 FIDE Masters
The BCC Open is supported by the kindness of friends and enthusiasts as well as Kai Tuorila himself and the sponsorship of the playing hall and rooms for select Grandmasters. The financial support from the hotels is critical to the event’s success.
Big names like GM Nigel Short and Surya Shekhar Ganguly will be taking part.
Check out the full list here : https://bangkokchess.com/22nd-bcc-open-2025/22nd-bcc-open-registered-players/
Looking Ahead to the 22nd BCC Open
The 22nd BCC Open is scheduled for April 13-21, 2025, at the luxurious Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel in Bangkok. The tournament will again feature an open blitz championship with qualifiers and a final. The BCC Open is a fixture on the international chess calendar, and also includes a challengers event. The games are played one round a day to allow participants to have an optimal experience as a chess player as well as a tourist. The venue for the 22nd BCC Open marks a change from the previous year’s beachfront location at the Sheraton Hua Hin, moving to the “River of Kings” in Bangkok.
Join the BCC Open
Whether you are a seasoned grandmaster or an amateur enthusiast, the Bangkok Chess Club Open offers an unparalleled chess experience in a beautiful setting. The BCC Open website receives millions of visitors, and many strong grandmasters return year after year. The tournament has evolved incrementally over the years, maintaining a successful formula that has worked well. Register now and be a part of this exceptional chess tradition.
Go to their website for more info: https://bangkokchess.com/