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23rd EU Youth Chess Championship Kicks Off in Czech Republic
The 23rd European Union Youth Chess Championship has officially started in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm, Czech Republic. The event is being held at Hotel Energetic from August 19 to August 27, 2025.
This popular tournament is organized by Šachový klub Světlá nad Sázavou in cooperation with the Czech Chess Federation, under the patronage of the European Chess Union.
Exciting Format
The championship features four age categories: U8, U10, U12, and U14.
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Boys and girls compete together in a nine-round Swiss tournament with classical time control.
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The organizers make the rankings separately for boys and girls.
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Every game is being broadcast live online, so fans can follow the action in real time.
Record Participation in 2025
This year has broken records with 127 players from 16 federations competing.
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The top seed overall is Andrii Diachek from Poland (rating 2223) in the U14 section.
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The highest-rated girl is also from Poland – Lila Rząd kowska (rating 1964), leading the U12 girls’ category.
More Than Just Chess
The event is not only about tough battles on the board.
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Parents and fans can enjoy a variety of chess and non-chess activities prepared by the organizers.
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Players also get to use the hotel’s facilities for rest and fun.
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Rožnov is famous for its beautiful mountains and outdoor sports opportunities.
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Many participants will also visit the Wallachian Open Air Museum, the largest of its kind in Central Europe.
Prizes and Awards
On August 27, Eight new EU Youth Champions will be crowned.
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Winners in each age group will receive laptops.
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The organizers will award digital chess clocks to the silver and bronze medalists.
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Every participant will take home a diploma, medal, and a championship T-shirt.
The championship promises a mix of competitive chess, cultural experiences, and lifelong memories for all the young players.
Photos: FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
