♟ USCF AffiliatedFIDE Rated Events

Chess Tournaments

From a student's very first tournament to FIDE-rated competition — CKQ runs structured events at every level of play.

Practice Tournaments
Build confidence before the competition begins
Beginner

Designed for students who are just starting out and not yet ready for rated play. Practice tournaments run in a friendly, low-pressure environment — same rules as a real tournament, but the result doesn't affect your rating.

Sections:Unrated
FormatSwiss system
Rating impactNone — practice only
Who should playBeginners, first-timers
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Rapids
Fast-paced rated play for developing players
Intermediate

CKQ Rapids are USCF-rated events designed for intermediate players. With two sections — Under 600 and Under 1200 — there's a competitive home for every developing player. 30 minutes per player, 4 games total, plan for a 5-hour event.

Sections:Under 600Under 1200
Time controlG/30 (30 min per player)
Rounds4 games
Duration~4–5 hours
RatingUSCF Rated
Ideal forPawn 2, Pawn 3, Knight levels
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Classics
Full-day competitive chess — USCF and FIDE rated
Advanced

Our flagship events — Super Sundays and Classics (Cary) — attract serious competitive players. The FIDE Open section brings titled players, Masters, and internationally rated players. CKQ coaches and FIDE Masters (2200+) play free.

Sections:Under 1800FIDE Open
Time controlClassical (longer)
RatingUSCF + FIDE rated (FIDE section)
Who can play1000+ USCF (Knight level and above)
SpecialMasters (2200+) & CKQ coaches play free
EventsSuper Sundays · Classics (Cary)
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Leagues
Season-long team competition — coming soon
Coming Soon

Leagues will bring a structured season format to CKQ — teams, standings, and match-play competition over multiple weeks. Details coming soon.

Details coming soon — stay tuned.

Not sure which tournament to enter?

Our coaches can help you find the right section based on your rating and experience.