In recent years the rise of chess in the region has gained noticeable momentum, with local clubs from Alicante repeatedly earning national praise. Yet a broader push was needed to spark sustained competition among players and broaden participation. That gap prompted the launch of Promochess, a company devoted to promoting chess across the province and beyond.
Alicante chess takes center stage
VL Deltel
First regular league
The I Promochess Provincial Chess Circuit marks a new phase in regional chess, backed by the Alicante Provincial Council and the municipalities of Elche, Crevillent, Guardamar, Alicante, Rojales, and Monforte del Cid. The Dama de Guardamar Chess School and the San Alberto Magno de Monforte School are also partners in this effort.
This circuit is set to host seven tournaments through June next year. The opening event is scheduled for this Sunday at the Luis Vives School in Elche, a campus celebrating its 50th anniversary. The school is among a handful in Spain where chess is a core subject and the team behind Promochess aims to ensure a strong start for the national tour, drawing more than a hundred players to the first date. Marcos García, serving as the sporting director of Promochess, also coordinates the circuit.
Multiple competition categories
More than a hundred players are expected on the first date and will compete across several categories. The circuit’s goal is to be inclusive, inviting participants of any age and level. The competitions will be structured to balance play; divisions will separate groups by age and experience, including primary school children through to seniors. The organizers stress that the event should be welcoming for newcomers, ensuring a positive first-tournament experience while allowing seasoned players to challenge themselves.
The categories are designed to fit the participants, fostering morning play, friendship, and camaraderie, while building a healthy competitive spirit and facilitating learning, according to Promochess’ sports director.
The circuit will move to other venues in the second phase, including Nuestra Señora del Carmen School in Monforte del Cid, Rojales, Guardamar, Matola-Elche, Crevillent, and Alicante. The closing day will take place at Jesús María de Asís School in Alicante, home to the ASSSA Enric Valor Club.
Players may join one or multiple events, accumulating points across tournaments. Cash prizes and gifts will be awarded at each stop and at the circuit’s conclusion, with total prize money exceeding €6,000.
Among the circuit’s goals is to raise the profile of chess where it is underrepresented and to highlight the sport’s value. While it remains provincial in focus, players from other provinces or regions are encouraged to participate, noting that cross-provincial participation is common in these events.
Registrations for the first phase are open via Promochess. Prospective players can contact Promochess through its website and official social channels for information and enrollment. Newcomers are invited to learn, compete, and connect with a growing chess community in the region.
Attribution: Promochess organizational notes and provincial partners are cited for event details and structure.