Strathmore, Alberta
Join a growing community of players who meet weekly to play, learn, compete casually, and enjoy the game in a friendly local space.
Annual tournament · 2026
Strathmore Chess is excited to announce the creation of the Strathmore Chess Championship: an annual tournament where the top 8 players from Strathmore compete for their chance at the title of Strathmore Chess Champion.
Whether you’ve been playing for decades or recently picked up the board, we want you there. There is no advance registration required and no entry fee. If you live in the area and want a shot at the town title, just drop in and play.
The top 2 players each Friday night lock in a spot in our Top 8 Championship Finals. If a top player has already qualified in a previous week, their spot passes down to the next highest finisher.
Feel free to come out and play as many qualifier nights as you like!
To qualify for the Top 8 Finals, players must live within a 20 km radius of Strathmore.
How to join
Walk-ins only. Just show up at Hob’s Game Cafe shortly before 6:30 PM on any qualifier night, and we will get you on the pairing sheet.
Drop in for friendly games, meet local players, and enjoy chess without pressure.
New players can learn the fundamentals while developing players can sharpen their skills.
Some Fridays include impromptu tournaments, with structured events planned as the club grows.
Our Story
Strathmore Chess exists because the game is easier to enjoy when people have a friendly place to gather, learn, and play face-to-face.
Anthony started playing chess at eight years old after watching Searching for Bobby Fischer. Growing up in Strathmore, there were not many opportunities to play locally, so much of the learning happened independently through Chess Master 9000 and computer opponents.
The love for the game never went away. As an adult, that passion returned and eventually led to years of involvement with the Calgary Chess Club .
In October 2025, Strathmore Chess started with a few boards, a handful of players, and one goal: create a welcoming space for anyone who loves chess.
In less than half a year, dozens of players have joined, from kids as young as six to retirees. With help from the Alberta Chess Association, the club has added tournament boards, pieces, and clocks.
Complete beginners are welcome. You do not need to know openings, ratings, notation, or tournament rules to attend.
The club is built around respect, growth, and creating a safe place for people of all ages to enjoy chess.
Most nights are casual, but impromptu tournaments give players a chance to test their skills when they are ready.
Players have already represented Strathmore at tournaments, showing that the town has a real passion for chess.
Meet the Organizer
A lifelong chess enthusiast, Anthony first fell in love with the game at eight years old and later served as a director with the Calgary Chess Club. He brings a passion for teaching fundamentals, building community, and helping players of all ages grow in confidence over the board.
If you are new to the club, feel free to introduce yourself. He is happy to help you get started.
Location
We meet in a friendly, casual environment with plenty of boards, clocks, and space to play. Parking is available nearby.
Tip: Please check the café’s hours if you are arriving early or late so the space is ready for the club each week.
FAQ
You do not need a rating, a chess set, or tournament experience. The club is open to anyone who wants to play and learn.
Anyone. Kids, adults, beginners, and casual players are all welcome. If children are new to the club, we ask that they are accompanied by a parent or guardian until they feel comfortable.
No experience is required. Complete beginners are welcome, and players can build their skills from the ground up.
No. Boards, pieces, and clocks are provided. Just bring yourself and a love for the game.
There is no membership fee at this time. The club is volunteer run and focused on growing the love of the game. Please consider supporting Hob’s Gaming Café by purchasing snacks or drinks if you wish.
Some Fridays include impromptu tournaments, but most nights are casual. Structured tournaments are planned as the club grows, and everyone is welcome to play at their own pace and comfort level.
Yes. We offer coaching for beginners and developing players up to approximately 1500 ELO. Sessions can be one-on-one or in small groups.
Just yourself and a positive attitude. Water is allowed, but please do not bring outside food or drinks.
You can reach us directly at StrathmoreChess@gmail.com, or visit on a Friday and introduce yourself. Everyone is welcome!
Club Rules & Culture
Chess is for everyone. Bullying, harassment, or hate toward any individual or group will not be tolerated.
Improvement requires mistakes, losses, and honest reflection. We are here to get better together.
Children are welcome and encouraged. New or not-yet-established youth players should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Hob’s Gaming Café generously hosts the club. Please do not bring outside food or drinks, other than water.
Win with humility. Lose with grace. Learn from both.
If someone is disruptive, disrespectful, or creating an unsafe environment, they may be asked to leave.
Ready to play?
No pressure, no membership fee, and no experience required. Come by, play a game, watch a few games, or ask questions.
Chess community
Looking to explore more chess events, clubs, or rated play? These organizations are great places to start.
