A new year brings football bowl games, renewed resolutions and, most importantly, a new Illinois Chess Tour! The 2013 tour kicks off this weekend with the five-round, two-day Tim Just Winter Open. This marks the 29th continuous year for the event and organizers report a record pre-registration count already!

Over $4000 in prize money is guaranteed based on 125 total entries and that registration level is rapidly approaching. Competitors will be paired in two sections: Open and Reserve (Under 1800).

Early registration (at the early discount rate!) remains open through 6pm today (Friday, January 4th), Automated registration can be accessed at: Chessforlife.com

Onsite registration is also available tomorrow at the opulent Double Tree Hotel, 1909 Spring Road, Oak Brook, for a slight upcharge.

For scholastic players (aged 18 or younger), a five-round event will run between noon and 5pm tomorrow (Saturday, January 5). The time control is Game 25 with no delay. The Winter Scholastic will feature two sections, Under 1200 and Under 700. Registration is available at: http://chessforlife.com/chess/wint11/scholastic11.html.

The Illinois Chess Tour features 10 events this year, highlighting the incredible chess landscape across the Land of Lincoln. All events feature at least four rounds and time controls of at least Game/60. For more information regarding the tour, check out information elsewhere on this ICA website.

Happy 2013, safe touring and, in the immortal words of organizer, Tim Just, good chess!