Golden State Open THIS WEEKEND in Concord

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This weekend's Golden State Open is the most exciting annual adult chess tournament in Northern California. Popular national organizer Bill Goichberg and his Continental Chess Association guarantee a minimum prize fund of $21K, with a projection of $30K based on 290 fully paid entries. The past two years saw an average of 250 participants and they hope for a modest increase.

Players may opt to stay at the comfy Concord Hilton while commuters benefit from easy access to I-680 at Willow Pass Road. Dining options are plentiful: Willows Shopping Center across the street (Claim Jumper, Quiznos and Jamba Juice), Sun Valley Mall just off the freeway, and family restaurants in almost every direction.

• Event: Golden Gate Open
• Dates: January 13-16 with 3-day and 2-day schedules (no Open in 2-day)
  
• Location: 1970 Diamond Blvd, Concord CA
  
• Format: 7 rounds in 5 sections (Open, U2100, U1800, U1500, U1200)
• Primary Time Control: 40/2, G/1, d/5
  
• 4-day schedule: Reg by Fri 6PM. Rds: Fri night, Sat (2), Sun (2), Mon (2)
  
• 3-day schedule: Reg by Sat 10AM. Rds: two G/75, then Sat night, Sun (2), Mon (2)
  
• 2-day schedule: Reg by Sat 9:30AM. Rds: four G/40, then Sun night, Mon (2).
• Entry fee: $150 on site
  
• Prize fund: guaranteed $21,000; projected $30,000
  
• Information: http://www.chesstour.com/gso12.htm
• Advance Entries: http://www.chesstour.com/ae-gso12.htm
  

No doubt, I would have played in this event. Alas, my long term health issues do not permit it. Sigh! However, I plan to visit for a few hours on either Sunday or Monday afternoon. It would be just my second Bay Area chess tournament since May 2010. I'm looking forward to seeing lots of old friends and former students! Please say hi!!