General Information
The HSL Nappula Tournaments began on April 23, 2005, and will therefore celebrate their 20th anniversary on April 23, 2025. The Nappula Tournament is intended for children under the age of 16 (born on or after January 1, 2010) who know the rules of chess.
Players do not need to have an official rating; however, if a player does have a rating, it must not exceed 1600 (nor may it have exceeded 1600 before the tournament). However, if a player has played at least one Nappula Tournament during the year before their rating exceeds 1600, they may continue to participate in the tournament series until the end of that year.
Before the competition, players are divided into groups according to their playing level, so that as many participants as possible can experience a sense of success.
HSL started the Nappula Tournaments aimed at new young players in 2005. Initially, the tournaments were held at Shakkikoti from 2005 to 2011, and since 2012 at Shakkiareena. If necessary, players are taught how to use a chess clock at the beginning of the event, and the most important tournament rules are reviewed.
Playing Dates in 2026
The tournaments will be held on six days in 2026. The playing dates are:
- Saturday, January 24
- Saturday, March 28
- Sunday, May 31
- Saturday, August 15
- Saturday, October 10
- Saturday, December 19
Venue
The venue, Shakkiareena, is located in connection with the Bridge Arena in Pitäjänmäki at Hiomotie 10, 00380 Helsinki (2nd floor).
Playing Format
The competition is played in groups of roughly equal playing strength. Group sizes are 4–8 players (with subgroups formed if necessary). As a NEW group, an F group will be formed entirely for first-time participants, provided there is a suitable number of players present.
Registration
Registration must be completed by Thursday evening at 8:00 PM prior to the tournament using the online registration form!
Schedule
Confirmation of participation and late registration at the venue takes place from 9:15 to 10:00 AM. The tournament begins at 10:20 AM and ends at approximately 5:00 PM. There will be a meal break after the 3rd or 4th round.
Time Control
The time control is 20 minutes + 10 seconds per move (20' + 10"/move), which corresponds to approximately 30 minutes of playing time per player.
Fees
The entry fee is €15 and is payable at the venue. The participation fee can also be paid using MobilePay.
Further Information
- Sauli Tiitta, phone +358 45 674 2464, sauli.tiitta(at)gmail.com
- Timo Munukka, phone +358 50 931 0608, timo(at)munukka.net
Prizes
The top three players in each group of all Nappula Tournaments will be awarded medals.