Brooklyn, New York – Millionaire Chess, LLC is excited to announce the debut of the third edition of the Millionaire Chess Open, the world’s largest and most lucrative open chess tournament. Following its previous successful editions, this year’s event will be held in Atlantic City, New Jersey, from October 6 to October 10, 2016.
- Total prize pool of $510,000
- Tournament moves to Atlantic City after two years in Las Vegas
- Entry fee reduced to $549
- Introduction of the Dream Maker Satellite Series for local chess clubs
Grandmaster Maurice Ashley, one of the founders of Millionaire Chess, expressed his excitement about the event: “We’re thrilled to continue the Millionaire Chess tradition and bring new, innovative changes for 2016. Over the past two years, we’ve expanded the profile of competitive chess and provided unprecedented prize opportunities for players of all levels. This year, we’re introducing even more exciting features to make the tournament even more accessible and competitive.”
In an effort to continue making the Millionaire Chess Open more inclusive, two key changes will take place this year. First, the entry fee has been halved from $1,000 to $549, making the tournament more affordable for players around the world. Second, the new Dream Maker Satellite Series will enable local chess clubs to host their own qualifying events. Starting March 14, 2016, any chess club can organize a “mini-tournament,” and the winners of these events will secure their spot in the 2016 Millionaire Chess Open.
“These initiatives are truly game changers,” said Maurice Ashley. “By reducing the entry fee, more players will have the opportunity to compete for one of the biggest prize pools in chess. The Dream Maker Satellite Series is a groundbreaking way to involve clubs from all over the world and give players the chance to earn a seat in the Millionaire Chess Open. This is how we open up opportunities and bring competitive chess to everyone.”
This year also marks the relocation of the Millionaire Chess Open to Atlantic City, after two successful years in Las Vegas. “We wanted to make the tournament more accessible to chess enthusiasts on the East Coast,” said Amy Lee, a partner in Millionaire Chess. “Atlantic City is not only more convenient for players living in the region, but it also offers greater transportation options.”
Registration for the 2016 Millionaire Chess Open will begin on April 1, 2016, via the official tournament website, http://millionairechess.com. Chess clubs worldwide are encouraged to visit the website for more details on how they can participate in the Dream Maker Satellite Series and host their own qualifying events.
About Grandmaster Maurice Ashley
Grandmaster Maurice Ashley made history in 1999 as the first African-American Grandmaster in chess. A respected coach, commentator, author, and tournament organizer, GM Ashley has significantly contributed to the growth and promotion of chess, both online and offline. In recognition of his work, he will be inducted into the US Chess Hall of Fame on April 13, 2016. His viral video in February 2016 garnered worldwide attention, making headlines in major outlets such as ESPN, TIME, and GQ, and landing on the front pages of Reddit and Mashable. GM Ashley is also launching the Dream Maker Satellite Series to further democratize access to top-tier chess tournaments.