Will it be Rochester’s Largest Ever Chess Tournament?

Chess players from throughout Minnesota and neighboring states will be converging in Rochester this weekend for what organizers say could be the biggest chest tourney in the city's history.

The 2024 Rochester Chess Open will be taking place Saturday and Sunday at the Mayo Civic Center. The Rochester Chess Club is hosting the event and is expecting more than 150 players, including some of the top chess masters from throughout the Midwest.

That list includes three time Minnesota High School Champion Matt Jensen from Rochester's John Marshall High School.

The competition is rated by the United States Chess Federation and offers more than $5400 in prizes.

Anyone interested in joining the competition can still register online through 7 PM on Friday. On-site registration will be available on Saturday from 8:15 until 9 AM.