{"id":247641,"date":"2025-07-08T09:31:13","date_gmt":"2025-07-08T09:31:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/247641\/"},"modified":"2025-07-08T09:31:13","modified_gmt":"2025-07-08T09:31:13","slug":"25000-chess-players-to-descend-on-london","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/247641\/","title":{"rendered":"25,000 chess players to descend on London"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Stars of hit BBC chess show coming to ChessFest<\/p>\n

This year\u2019s event is held after a stunning year for English chess. For the first time in decades, the game enjoyed primetime TV coverage as BBC Two\u2019s Chess Masters: The Endgame showcased chess to an audience of millions.<\/p>\n

Chess coach and former Traitors contestant Anthony Mathurin will be on hand to give out advice, along with several contestants from the show.<\/p>\n

In this dynamic and practical video course, IM Andrew Martin arms you with powerful antidotes to White\u2019s most annoying sidelines.
Tired of facing annoying Anti-Sicilian openings? In this dynamic and practical video course, IM Andrew Martin arms you with powerful antidotes to White\u2019s most annoying sidelines. From the ever-popular 2.c3, Nc3 and Bb5 systems, to offbeat gambits, and even bizarre moves like 2.b3 or the oddball 2.Na3, you\u2019ll learn how to confidently crush Anti-Sicilians, and steer the game into your territory.
Free video sample: Introduction<\/a>
Free video sample: Early Bb5<\/a><\/p>\n

Since the last ChessFest, three homegrown players have been awarded the prestigious grandmaster title. They are Ameet Ghasi, Shreyas Royal, who beat the record to become England\u2019s youngest ever, and England\u2019s most recent GM-elect Matthew Wadsworth.<\/p>\n

England\u2019s success at chess has shown the game is for all ages. The nation\u2019s crop of talented juniors have been busy continuing their rise up the world rankings. Two of the leading lights in 10-year-old sensation Bodhana Sivanandan, who holds the WFM title, and 11-year-old FIDE Master Supratit Banerjee will be showing their skills at ChessFest.<\/p>\n

Recent figures released by Chess.com show 9 million people in the United Kingdom play chess regularly online.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/p>\n

International Master and Chief Executive of Chess in Schools and Communities Malcolm Pein said: “We\u2019re expecting a record turnout. ChessFest just gets bigger and bigger and the fifth edition is on the back of a chess show that was watched by millions. If you\u2019re looking for a free, family-friendly, fun day out in London on July 13th, come to Trafalgar’s 64 Squares.\u201d<\/p>\n

So why not come on down to Trafalgar Square? Everyone is invited, no need to book \u2013 just turn up on Sunday, July 13 for a full day of free chess fun.<\/p>\n

You\u2019ll be able to:<\/p>\n