Beaches Chess Club set to host outdoor tournament by the lake on Sunday, Aug. 25
By AMARACHI AMADIKE
When the Beaches Chess Club (BCC) began its journey eight months ago, its founder, Ivan Rudakov, had ambitions of nurturing an outdoor space by the waters of Lake Ontario for chess enthusiasts to gather.
Since its inception, Beaches Chess Club has now grown to about 100 players with the organization gearing up to host its largest tournament yet at the Leuty Boathouse (also referred to as the Leuty Kew Beach Pavilion) located at the foot of Lee Avenue on Sunday, Aug. 25 from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Katerina Rudakova, one of the organizers, told Beach Metro Community News that it “feels good” to achieve the club’s goal of hosting outdoor events. However, there are “lots of steps” left to take in the club’s journey.
After hosting two previous outdoor events which served as a “trial phase” to understand the world of outdoor chess events, Leuty Boathouse was chosen for the third outdoor tournament (BCC Chess at the Beach) due to the flexible nature of the space.
“It’s covered, so on sunny days it gives us shade and (protects players) from rain,” said Rudakova.
She said that the chess matches are expected to take place in the park next to the boathouse and will only be moved under cover depending on weather conditions.
“We don’t have to cancel no matter what the weather condition will be,” said Rudakova.
According to a BCC media release, the aim of hosting outdoor events is to “combine the beauty of Toronto’s lakeside with the mind-enhancing hobby of chess.”
This, the organizers believe, will create an environment that is unique to the City of Toronto.
“We believe that playing chess outdoors, in such a picturesque setting, offers an incomparable experience that indoor clubs simply cannot match,” stated the release. “A good environment is crucial for beginners to make progress and for professionals to enjoy a fresh and natural experience.”
With their indoor events taking place at the Beaches Recreation Centre, Beaches Chess Club utilized the expertise of community recreation programmer Roland Roushias who was able to secure Leuty Boathouse for the upcoming tournament.
As experienced in their first two events, the outdoor setting attracts more eyes with various passersby showing curiosity for the game and signing up to participate.
“People on the Boardwalk were stopping by to ask questions or to leave their email addresses,” said Rudakova. “So we can see the interest.”
The recent success Beaches Chess Club has experienced, coupled with the increased public curiosity about the club, has resulted in a growth in the club members ambitions as they now aim to host outdoor events every two weeks.
This updated calendar will come with training sessions for beginner chess players. Ivan Rudakov, as well as Erik Malmsten (a member of the old Beach Chess Club), will be teaching upcoming talent how to navigate the terrain of a chess board.
Robbert Morrison, a Beach local and FIDE Chess Master who participated in some BCC tournaments, has also made himself available for sessions in which lower ranked players have a chance to observe the strategies of a master.
“We’re deeply grateful for all the people who have helped and continue to help us along the way,” stated the club’s media release.
For more information about how to volunteer, donate, or to RSVP for the Aug. 25 event, please contact beacheschessclub@gmail.com
