MADISON – “They’re back!” Players masquerading in scary-but-harmless costumes, and a few historical characters, will haunt the turf on Oct. 29 at the 2022 Halloween Chess Tournament.

The Halloween tourney will open at 10 a.m. in Madison City Schools Stadium, 211 Celtic Drive. Youth will play on the field turf of the stadium.

“Parents and family members will be able to observe the chess games from the stadium stands. Normally, parents would not be allowed inside a tournament playing room, but here parents can even bring binoculars and watch the games as they are played,” Ranae Bartlett said. Bartlett serves as Executive Director of Madison City Chess League.

“Kids can also run around along the end zones or designated areas around the field in between rounds. Parents can also bring tents and yard chairs in designated areas,” Bartlett said.

Sullins Eye Care Center is sponsoring the Halloween Chess Tournament.

The tournament will have the following structure:

* Rated Sections – Grades Kindergarten-3; Kindergarten-5; Kindergarten-8; Kindergarten-12. Only the rated section requires USCF membership.

* Non-Rated Section: Grades Kindergarten-2; Kindergarten-5.

Approximate round times for play are 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. Time control is Game 20/d5.

The registration fee is $20 for MCCL members. Players who are not MCCL members will pay $25.

Registration deadline is Oct. 27. Players will receive awards in rated sections for first through tenth places. In non-rated sections, prizes will go to players in first through fifth places.

In case of rain, the tournament location will change to Mill Creek Elementary School, 847 Mill Road.

“Another unique aspect of the event is a Halloween Costume Contest that will include categories for “Best Mask,” “Scariest Gloves,” “Best Chess-Themed Costume” and “Most Creative Costume,” acknowledging the unique circumstances we find ourselves in,” Bartlett said. “Kids will wear their Halloween costumes while they play.”

“Another fun event will be the Halloween Dance-Off set to fun Halloween music,” Bartlett said.

For more information, visit madisonchess.com.