On May 13th, the Hannibal Free Public Library in Missouri will host its annual chess tournament for players of all skill levels. The tournament is free and has divisions for adults and juniors, with each division winner receiving a trophy. Players from all over, including Quincy and Hannibal, regularly attend, with occasional visitors from farther out, such as a former Coloradan who played while home visiting family. Registration for the tournament begins at 10 a.m., with the three-round tournament starting between 10:30 and 11 a.m. and ending when all games are complete, or no later than 4 p.m., with a lunch break after the first round.
The Hannibal Free Public Library has hosted the chess tournament for years, with some regulars attending annually. The tournament offers a chance for players to play outside their normal peer groups and to compete against a wider range of players. The tournament is designed to be open and inclusive for different skill levels, with trophies awarded to both adults and children, and players may register on the day of the event.
Chess has been a popular pastime and even competitive sport for hundreds of years and has a devoted following of players worldwide. Despite the rise of video games and digital entertainment, there remains a strong interest in chess because of its mental challenge. Chess can be a solitary or social activity, but opportunities like the Hannibal Free Public Library chess tournament allow players to connect with others who share their passion while also competing.
