The New Zealand Chess Federation (NZCF) is proud to holding the “Chess for Champions of Determination” chess tournament on 18 October 2025 at Parkside Specialist School (184 Wellington Street, Pukekohe) as part of the International Chess Federation’s ‘Year of Social Chess’.

The tournament is free to enter for people with physical disabilities as well as those who have Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down syndrome, ADHD or cognitive delay.

This inclusive event welcomes players of all abilities, creating a respectful and encouraging environment for everyone to enjoy the game of chess.

Who Can Enter

• Individuals with physical disabilities
• People with the following conditions: Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down syndrome, ADHD or cognitive delay.

Note: Participants must be able to manage basic self-care or attend with a caregiver if specialized support is needed.

Registration

– Free entry
– Limited to the first 40 people who apply

– Entries close 15 October 2025

Tournament Schedule

Players Meeting: 9:00 AM
Round 1: 9:30 – 10:20
Round 2: 10:30 – 11:20
Round 3: 11:40 – 12:30
Lunch Break: 12:30 – 13:15
Round 4: 13:15 – 14:00
Round 5: 14:10 – 15:00
Prize Giving: Approximately 15:00

Note: Players MUST be in attendance at 9:00 am, however, players don’t need to stay for the whole tournament – if they would like to leave early they may.

Tournament Format

– Five rounds
– 30 minutes per player, no extra time

Support and Safety

– Teacher aides will be available for general support
– Players who require specialized assistance with meals or bathroom needs must attend with their own caregiver
– Players are responsible for managing their own medication
-Security guard will be present throughout the tournament

– First aid trained staff member might be on-site (still to be confirmed)

– Despite our best efforts and all preventive measures to reduce risk such as the presence of supporting staff and security guards, the NZCF cannot guarantee that accidents or inappropriate behaviour will not occur during the tournament. Visitors and players need to be aware that due to the characteristics of the tournament there is a degree of risk involved – although it is unlikely it is still possible.

– Photographs and videos taken at the event may be used for promotional purposes by the organisers / the NZCF.

Prizes and Recognition

– Trophies, certificates, and chess books (no cash prizes), chess lessons!
– Certificates of participation for all players

Enquiries to the NZCF Admin Officer Richie Christie admin@nzcf.newzealandchess.co.nz