Battersea Chess Club is pleased to announce that the El Chessico, the biggest London derby of them all, is back.

Battersea will face old rival Hammersmith in a rated double-header next month for the coveted El Chessico Trophy. It is the first over-the-board match between the two sides since lockdown started.

The first encounter will be at Battersea with the return at Hammersmith’s new home, the London Mindsports Centre in Ravenscourt Park.

The El Chessico
The El Chessico

The last time El Chessico took place was during lockdown, when a 19-board extravaganza was played on a purpose-built online platform courtesy of Theo Wait, from Lichess.

Unfortunately, Battersea came out worse on that particular exchange.

But now the club has had an influx of new players and is out for revenge. The match is open to players of all levels with both clubs keen to give debuts to strong players and beginners alike.

Your club needs you. Are you ready to play in the El Chessico?

Here are the details

HOME at Battersea Chess Club on Tuesday, October 5. Battersea Labour Club, 81-83 Falcon Road, London, SW11 2PF.

AWAY at Hammersmith Chess Club on Monday, October 11. London Mindsports Centre, 21 Dalling Road, London, W6 0JD.

  • Clocks for both matches start at 7.30pm.
  • Time control will be 75 minutes plus a 15 second increment.
  • All games will be ECF Standard Play rated.
  • Masters to beginners welcome. We’ll pair you with an appropriate opponent.
  • All players must be registered with the ECF.

How to sign up

Anyone who wants to place needs to fill out this form. Please also remember to join up to the ECF if you haven’t already. You can do so here. Note the club recommends choosing either the “Bronze” or “Silver” levels.