2025 AGCA Winter Classic

Organizers:

Chief: GM Alex Mista

Deputy: GM Andrey Stukopin

Email: info@austin-chess.com

Chief Arbiter: 

When: December 26-30, 2025

Playing Venue:

Austin Grandmaster Chess Academy

12466 Los Indios Trail, Ste.100

Austin, TX 78729

Hotels Nearby:

Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Austin Northwest/Research Blvd,

13087 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78750 (1.1 miles away)

SpringHill Suites by Marriot Austin North

13309 North US Highway 183, Austin, TX 78750 (1.5 miles away, our recommended hotel)

Entry Fees:

$850 – norm seekers

$650 – foreign federation norm seekers

Time control:

G/90 minutes; increment 30 seconds - 90 minutes for the entire game plus 30 second increment from move 1. There is only one time control, no additional time at move 40.  Players must keep accurate scoresheets for the entire game.

Schedule:

Regulations

• All players are expected to play all 9 rounds. No exceptions.
• Current FIDE Laws of Chess apply. This tournament is FIDE and US Chess rated.
• All games will use the equipment provided. Players shall sign scoresheets after each game.
• Electronic Device Policy: players are strictly forbidden from having electronic devices with them during the game, even if they are turned off. Players found with any device during the game may lose the current game. Turn in cell phones at the arbiters’ desk before each round. No electronics are allowed in the playing hall unless they are checked in with the arbiter.
• Default/forfeit time: 60 minutes unless the arbiter decides otherwise. White’s clock will be started at the start of the round even if the players are not present.
• The organizers request that all players arrive on time for each round.

Confirmed players (IM):