The third stop on the 2013 Illinois Chess Tour will attract 64-square combatants to the Normal Open Saturday, May 4.

Organizer Jeff Smith indicates registrations are already in the double-digits. Last year's event drew 27 players. Among this year's pre-entries is National Master Pete Karagianis fresh off his triumph at the Greater Peoria Open. Says Jeff, in addition to folks from Bloomington-Normal, it's hoped the event will draw players from active Decatur, Springfield, Peoria and Champaign clubs. Will northern Illinois be in the house?

Even a few non-Baptists are likely to show up at North Bridge Baptist Church for the four-round, one-section event.  The first round gets underway at 10am, meaning travelers won't have to get up at the crack of dawn to participate. Jeff indicates the church is about five minutes north of Normal.

In addition to overall prizes, the Normal Open will provide Class A through E prizes, with a prize available for the top score among previously unrated players.

Game/70, five-second delay means Regular USCF-ratings will be impacted. Further details can be found elsewhere on this ICA site.

Says Jeff, "The games will be played in the sanctuary and skittles will be in the gym. The players can unwind between rounds by shooting baskets." Chess and basketball? Whomever suggested chess players avoid physical activity was clearly mistaken!

Jeff says lunch orders will be taken for delivery for those entrants who don't wish to drive back into Normal-proper. "Drinks and snacks will be available (donations accepted, but not required)."

With the fourth Illinois Chess Tour event, the Chicago Open, looming on the calendar later this month, even newcomers to the tour can start piling up the participation points.

Three groups of prizes will be awarded at the tour's conclusion, including a $400 award for Open players, $150 for adult Reserve players and $150 for scholastic Reserve players. Plaques will be awarded for first through fifth place in each section after the Illinois Class late this year.