The estimated pool is realistically based on 30 paying entrants (15 x $40 and 15 x $30).
Open Prizes: 1st $400 (guaranteed), 2nd $250, 3rd $150
Plus Play-off Bonus: 1st $250, 2nd $120, 3rd $80 4th $50
Sponsored by Australian Commercial Kitchens (many thanks to Keith Hogan).
Immediately following presentation of prizes, the top four finishers in the Open will be invited to a 30-minute guillotine play-off... 1 v 4 and 2 v 3, then winner plays winner.
The first two losers will receive $80 and $50, the player finishing highest in the Open to receive the higher amount.
Draws to be decided by lightning games.
Prizes for each Division: 1st $200, 2nd $100 3rd $50
Divisional prizes will not be given in the traditional U1600, U1400 etc.
The field will be divided evenly into three groups, eg 30 = 3 x 10. The highest-rated group will compete for Open prizes and the lower-rated groups will compete for their respective divisional prizes as well as the Open prize.
If paid entries exceed 30, as is hoped, organisers will increase total prizemoney either by adding extra divisions or by increasing prizemoney in each division. If less than 30, prizemoney will be reduced accordingly.
A player list showing the divisions will be posted prior to Round 2.
Other details...
Directions:
Take the Wyong/The Entrance exit from the Sydney-Newcastle Freeway, turn east toward The Entrance and stay on the same road for about 8 kilometres (through several roundabouts). You'll see the club on your right. See map. Registration:
Registration 10 to 10.20am, four rounds on the Saturday and three on the Sunday with play to start at 10.30 am each day. An extra half-hour will be allowed for lunch, otherwise two and a half hours will be allocated for each round. Time control:
1 hour plus 10 seconds per move from the start. Entry fees:
Adult $40 (down from $60 last year), junior, pensioner, full time student under 25 or Mingara Chess Club members $30 (down from $45 last year). Those claiming discounted entry must show pension card or evidence of full-time student status and age.
Accommodation:
The following accommodation has been selected primarily with price in mind. If you find better value from your own research, please advise so that we may add to the list.
Details may change. Early booking is the best safeguard. Regular bus service between Wyong and The Entrance drops at Mingara Club. See www.redbus.com.au
Strathavon River Retreat, 31 Boyce Ave, Wyong 4352 1161 - 15 minutes' drive, $85 for room taking up to six, historic guesthouse.
Long Jetty Hotel, The Entrance Rd, Long Jetty, 4332 1888 -- 5-10 minutes' drive, $50 single.
Chittaway Motel, 98 Chittaway Rd, Chittaway Bay 4388 9110 - 10 minutes' drive, $110 for a room taking up to four, includes continental breakfast.
Buccaneer Motel, 398 The Entrance Road, Long Jetty, 4334 3100
5 minutes' drive, $90 single on Saturday (less $20 surcharge other days).
Note: Those who are not NSWCA members may pay their $10 membership fee at Mingara. All players must be NSWCA members in order for the tournament to be rated.
Tournament Inquiries:
Gary Losh (most evenings except Mondays or Tuesdays) on 4390 8176 or at
glosh51@dodo.com.au or Hugh Winsor on 4332 3020.