OTTAWA CHESS-in-the-STREET 2009

2009 Photos 

Saturday and Sunday June 13th and 14th, 2008

an event part of:

What is Chess-in-the-Street?

An outdoor chess event to be held as part of Ottawa's biggest street festival WESTFEST, on Saturday and Sunday, June 13th and 14th, 2009. The official announcement publicizing this event can be found on the WESTFEST site ( http://www.westfest.ca ) is as follows:

"Chess-in-the-Street is an outdoor chess event that takes the game of chess from the parlour to the street. Chess-in-the-Street will have numerous activities appealing to everyone: from kids to adults and from those who have never played before to the seasoned tournament player. With each game you play, your name will be entered in a draw for prizes. Chess-in-the-Street will also have GIANTCHESS!, a giant-sized chess board on the street. There will be a Simultaneous Chess Competition in the afternoon each day, featuring a Chessmaster who will battle 15 simultaneous chess opponents.  June 13th, 14th, 2009, 10 am through 4 pm Richmond Road & Roosevelt Avenue".

What‘s the point of Chess-in-the-Street?

Chess-in-the-Street is an OUTREACH EVENT, not a tournament. The theory goes, that there are tons of people who are aware of chess, but are not aware of what chess can offer to them. The success of this event only depends only upon the people having fun with chess in a novel and festive setting.

To appeal to kids, a big part of WESTFEST, Chess-in-the-Street is part of the ON-THE-STREET program, which is a series of interactive events and performers. This will encourage participation, especially their kids, their parents and adults to to play with one another. The point of it all is to show that chess is a social game. If just one person gets turned on to chess because of this event, it's a success.

What’s the format of Chess-in-the-Street?

Overall format:

• Casual pick-up chess in a street setting starting at 10am.
• To attract participation, each game played will be entered into a draw for prizes at the end of the day.
• There will be regular sets available for play, and a giant chess set. Clocks will also be available for those wishing to use them.
• A simul is scheduled to wrap-up each day – approx 3:30pm – 5:00pm.

Site Plan & Logistics

• 10’x10’ tent
• 4 x 6’ tables accommodating eight (12) games for a total of sixteen(24) people.
• Tables will be re-organized to accommodate a simultaneous event (1 against 15 opponents)
• A giant chess set on the street (courtesy CMA)
• Promotional literature.

Sponsors and Supporters

Thanks to the following sponsors for helping to make this event a reality!

• WESTFEST
• Mrs. Tiggy-Winkles
• Scholar's Choice
• Chess'n Math Association
• Chess Federation of Canada
• Dovercourt Recreation Association
• All Saints Westboro
• Ottawa Academy of Martial Arts 
• Westboro Beach Community Assocation
• Calvin Christian Reformed Church

Volunteers

• We need volunteers to make this event a success. Our requirements are below.
• A minimum of one person (preferably two) at all times to monitor games, accept entries for draw; must be knowledgeable of chess.
• Knowledgeable chess volunteers to help during the day- mostly to hang out and encourage people to play. We're looking for minimum commitment of a two-hour block.
• For the simuls, highly-rated chess players (volunteers already found!!!)
• Check Volunteer Schedule

If you wish to volunteer, please contact the organizer

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR WISH TO VOLUNTEER,

PLEASE LET ME KNOW!!!

TIM BOUMA (613) 725-1645

trbouma@gmail.com

Copyright 2008. Tim Bouma All rights reserved.