10.20.16 At this year's Common Ground Country Fair in Unity, Maine, a first-of-its-kind chess tournament was held on Saturday, September 24th in the Children's Homsteading Area. The non-rated event was attended by six brave competitors and a good-sized crowd of onlookers cheering the players on. The three round event was won by Luke Hankins with a perfect 3.0 points. Here's the tournament report with images courtesy of Charles Altschul.

Games were played at the time control of G/10 d5 (game in 10 minutes with a 5 second delay after each move). Luke Hankins won all of his three games to take home the first place trophy. Close on the winner's heels were Bjorn Collins with 2.0 points, Zeke Dieter with 1.5 points, Ollie Dieter and Riley Bredbeck each scoring 1.0 point and Stephanie Altschul who put up half a point.

All players received a medal for participating.

Thanks to the staff at the Children's Homsteading Area for serving flat breads, apple cider and potato leek soup! And thanks to all who participated and observed.

We hope to offer a larger, rated, Swiss System tournament at the 2017 Common Ground Fair. Watch the events page at ChessMaine.net for more details.

Zeke Dieter makes a move during his game with Riley Bredbeck.

Surprise! Stephanie Altschul pulls a fast one on her opponent.

Ollie Dieter

Notice the chess-themed button this young player made in the Children's Area just before coming to the tournament. That's dedication!

Maine Chess Association Policy Board member Barry Magda, who serves the Common Ground Fair as Director of Safety, was spotted at the tournament getting in some skittles games.

This tournament was organized and directed by Dan DeLuca. Thanks again to all who made it a great event!