Heart of the Carolinas FIDE Summer Classic
We are thrilled to host this prestigious tournament, offering players the chance to test their skills, climb the rankings, and compete for top prizes in a professionally organized, over-the-board event.
Whether you’re a seasoned FIDE-rated competitor or newer to the tournament scene, this is your opportunity to play in a high-quality event featuring generous prizes, flexible schedules, and sections tailored to every level.
With 60 Grand Prix Points and $9,520 in guaranteed prizes, the 2025 Summer Classic is a standout event on the regional chess calendar. Held in the heart of downtown Winston-Salem, this tournament is expected to sell out—register early to secure your spot and join us this August!
No residency restrictions – Open to all players.
Tournament Overview
Date
Friday–Sunday, August 8–10, 2025
Location
Winston-Salem Marriott
425 North Cherry Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Marriott Event Room Rate
$149/night for standard 2 Queens
➡️ Book by July 17 for special rate
Call: (800) 228-9290 or (336) 725-3500
Registration Cap: 130 players
USCF Event Page: https://new.uschess.org/2025-dkc-heart-carolinas-fide-summer-classic
Thank you to our Sponsors and our Host!
New School Montessori Center
Indermaur Chess Foundation
Marriott Winston-Salem
Tournament Format
5 Rounds – Swiss System
Choose from two flexible playing schedules:
⏱️ 3-Day Schedule
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Round 1: Friday, 6:30pm
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Rounds 2 & 3: Saturday, 10:30am & 4:00pm
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Rounds 4 & 5: Sunday, 10:00am & 3:00pm
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Time Control: G/100, increment 10 seconds
⏱️ 2-Day Schedule
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Rounds 1–3: Saturday, 10:00am, 1:00pm*, and 4:00pm
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Rounds 4 & 5: Sunday, 10:00am & 3:00pm
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*Rounds 1 & 2 played at G/45, inc/10
Sections and Prizes
🏆 Open (FIDE Rated) — 60 Grand Prix Points
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$1100, $550, $350, $250
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Top U2300: $300 | U2200: $250 | U2100: $200
🔰 Under 2000 (FIDE Rated)
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$900, $480, $300
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Top U1900: $280 | U1800: $240
🔰 Under 1700
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$800, $440, $280
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Top U1600: $260 | U1500: $220
🔰 Under 1400
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$700, $350, $260
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Top U1300: $240 | U1200: $200 | U1100: $150 | U1000: $100
👴 Senior Bonus (Age 50+)
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Each Section: $50 + $30 bonus
Section Eligibility (100-Point Rule):
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Open: min rating 1900
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U2000: min rating 1600
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U1700: min rating 1300
Entry Fees and Deadlines
Entry Fees:
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Register by June 1: $99
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Register June 2–July 1: $119
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Register July 2–25: $139
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Register July 26–August 1: $149
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After August 1 or on-site: $159 (half-point bye likely)
Refund Policy:
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Cancel by August 6 for a full refund minus a $10 processing fee
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After August 6: 50% refund available up to one hour before Round 1
Re-entry Option:
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$60 for players rejoining after an early tournament exit
Titled Players (GMs, IMs, WGMs):
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Free entry if registered by June 1
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If registering after June 1, $100 will be deducted from any prize won
Additional Information
🧩 Up to 2 optional half-point byes allowed (must be declared before Round 3)
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🚫 No-shows without notice may be fined up to $100
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🔒 USCF Membership Required
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🧾 USCF August 2025 Regular Ratings used
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📧 Questions or changes: jon@dragonknightchess.com
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📱 Event contact: (919) 422-2535
For questions or details, message IM Jonathan Schroer using the link below.