Happy New Year to all Hammers! Chess is back for 2019, and there is plenty to get you in the mood! First up…
Hammer Goes East – Poland Beckons in 2019
Yes, with the Christmas and New Year festivities done & dusted, Hammer Chess Club members and minds – like a TUI Boxing Day advert – are switching to thoughts of destinations for a Summer holiday.
In the past two years Hammer have sampled the delights of the beautiful cities of Amsterdam and Cork in search of Summer chess satisfaction.
The 2019 destination will be Wroclaw, in Western Poland. Formerly known as Breslau, and situated on the River Oder, it is the fourth largest city in Poland.
It is one of the most stunning and beautiful European cities, and the trip will encompass chess, culture, new friendships, and the odd beer or two.
I must thank Artur and the Wroclaw Chess Club for agreeing to host us, and we will certainly reciprocate with a return visit (fingers crossed!) in 2020.
From a chess point of view, Wroclaw are a top chess club and this will be a brilliant chess weekend.
I must also thank Ryszard for introducing me to Artur, and must also emphasise the strong ties between Hammersmith and Poland. The Polish Cultural Association is based in the heart of Hammersmith and is a visible example of the friendship and historical ties between our countries.
The visit will take place from the 7th – 9th June. I have just booked my flights and am returning early Monday morning (10th June).
So, how do you book a place:
- Email Clueless at john.white49@ntlworld.com, stating that you wish to come!
- Next, book your flights – Ryanair and Wizz airlines both fly direct to Wroclaw.
- Contact Clueless if you would like to share accommodation – probably airbnb.
Please respond ASAP – the Hammers who have been involved in the last two trips had a brilliant time. This is going to be an amazing weekend!
More Chess Action in January
Plenty more is coming up this month too – The Hammersmith League kicks off again this coming Tuesday 8th, at Lytton Hall, with a second round of fixtures on Tuesday 29th. Captains have already begun arranging their teams – if you are yet to be contacted, please get in touch.
The Celtic Tigers have a match weekend coming up on the 12th and 13th – expect a report the following week once the dust has settled!
If you’ve not done so already, you may wish to purchase a ticket or two for the Raffle being organised to raise funds for Hammersmith and the Celtic Tigers. There are dozens of prizes to be won – including some really valuable training sessions with top players – and the odds are very favourable!
And last but not least, Hammersmith is fielding teams in a further 22 competitive games this month. In fact, there are only 3 weeknights where we’re not in action – amazing! Check out the Calendar for details.