Mission Statement: The Millionaire Chess Open strives to provide a top-tier chess tournament experience that is both organized and enjoyable for all participants. The goal is to create an environment where players can focus on their game without distractions, with a strong emphasis on preventing cheating and ensuring fair play throughout the event.
Playing Rooms
To maintain a serious and focused atmosphere, the tournament room will have a strict silence rule. Players should expect an environment conducive to concentration, with no conversations or noise disruptions. Additionally, players are not allowed to bring food into the playing hall or unwrap food at the tables. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in the tournament space.
After each game, players are required to adjourn to the designated skittles rooms. Post-mortems or discussions of games are not permitted in the playing hall to avoid disturbing the concentration of others.
Electronic Devices Policy
The use of electronic devices is strictly prohibited during tournament play. Players may not use or wear any type of electronic or digital device, including but not limited to phones, tablets, computers, earpieces, headsets, microphones, or any communication devices. The only exceptions to this rule are devices for medical or emergency purposes, which must be approved by a Tournament Director (TD).
The penalty for using an electronic device during play is an automatic forfeiture of the round, with further investigation to determine whether disqualification from the tournament is warranted.
Security and Scanning: Upon entering the playing area, players will be subject to a security scan to ensure compliance with the electronic device policy. There may be minor delays at the start of each round, so players are advised to arrive 15 minutes early to allow for this procedure. No one will be permitted to enter the playing area without undergoing the security scan.
There will be a designated cell phone check-in station near the security scanners, but it is recommended that players leave their phones in their hotel rooms if possible.
Making Emergency Calls: If a player needs to make a phone call during the game, they must first seek permission from a TD. The call must take place in the presence of the TD, ensuring that no rules are violated during the process.
Players are also not allowed to leave the playing area without obtaining permission from a TD. If a player anticipates receiving an emergency call, they should notify a TD at least one hour before the game begins and will be provided with an alternate number for the caller.
Searches for Electronic Devices
If requested by the Chief Tournament Director, players must submit to a search for electronic devices. Refusing to comply with a search request will result in the forfeiture of the game and immediate ejection from the tournament, with no refund provided. Searches will only be initiated if there is credible evidence of cheating. A simple accusation without substantial evidence does not warrant a search.
In the event of clear and indisputable evidence of cheating, whether electronic or otherwise, the player will be disqualified from the tournament. The player will not be refunded, and they will be banned from all future Millionaire Chess events.
Cheating and Integrity
Players cannot accuse others of cheating without concrete evidence. The tournament is equipped with various methods to ensure fair play, including security staff, overhead cameras, additional TDs, and other undisclosed monitoring systems to uphold the integrity of the event. All accusations of cheating must be based on solid proof, not speculation.
Tournament Area Restrictions
Players are prohibited from using or possessing cell phones or any electronic devices within the tournament area. This includes the playing rooms, designated restrooms, skittles area, vendor area, charts area, director’s area, lecture rooms, and any adjacent foyers. These areas are considered part of the restricted tournament space to prevent any form of cheating or distraction.
By adhering to these policies, the Millionaire Chess Open ensures a fair, focused, and secure environment where all players can compete with integrity and respect for the game.