Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.10, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Hammersmith Chess Club Més que un chess club ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](http://hammerchess.co.uk/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [What Makes Hammersmith So Special?](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/07/11/what-makes-hammersmith-so-special/) - After nearly 14 years as a member of Hammersmith Chess Club, I believe the answer is clear. What makes this club special is not just the chess. It is the spirit of the place. It is the sense of ownership that members feel: this is their club. It is the camaraderie — the way Hammers - [Season Review and Annual Awards Night!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/07/08/season-review-and-annual-awards-night/) - Club Captain Gaston Franco shares a brief review of our results, as well as announcing our annual Awards Night, with the return of world-famous GM Danny King - [Reminder: General Meeting 7.30pm Monday 13th July MSC](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/07/06/reminder-general-meeting-7-30pm-monday-13th-july-msc/) - All members are warmly invited to attend. The General Meeting will be followed by a blitz tournament including our guests from Lübeck! The committee for the coming year is: Adam Cranston – Chair Christof Brixel – Treasurer Dave Lambert – Secretary Gaston Franco – Club Captain Sarah Ewart – Membership Secretary David Steyn – Webmaster - [From The London League To The Hanseatic League](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/07/06/from-the-london-league-to-the-hanseatic-league/) - Twenty-two members of Hammersmith Chess Club travelled to Lübeck last weekend to renew a friendship that began seven years ago when a group from Lübeck Chess Club visited Hammersmith during our summer season at the Albion. We always intended to return the visit, but the pandemic intervened. This year, we finally made the journey. - [Hammers get proud!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/06/29/hammers-get-proud/) - We recently marked the occasion of LGBTQ+ Pride month at Hammersmith with a big team rapid tournament at our home venue, London Mindsports Centre. 54 players took part in all, from Hammersmith Chess Club and beyond, spanning all ages and all rating levels (300 to 2400) across 8 boards. Players were assigned to 6 teams, - [Notice of General Meeting](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/06/25/notice-of-general-meeting/) - Members are hereby given notice that a General Meeting of Hammersmith Chess Club will take place at the Mindsports Centre on Monday 13 July 2026 at 7.30pm. A important milestone in our history, this will be the first General Meeting of Hammersmith Chess Club as a registered charity. It marks the next stage in our - [Hammers In The Community: 18th July](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/06/25/hammers-in-the-community-18th-july/) - Hammersmith Chess Club will be taking part in a community event in Ravenscourt Park on Saturday 18 July, where we’ll be flying the flag for the club and showcasing the joys of over-the-board chess to the wider public. It’s a great opportunity to promote the club, meet local people, and perhaps inspire a few - [Hammer Celebrates Pride!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/06/04/hammer-celebrates-pride/) - June is LGBTQ+ Pride month, and with diversity and inclusion at the very heart of Hammersmith Chess Club's ethos, we are very excited to celebrate with a big team tournament on Monday 15th June (7.30pm at London Mindsports Centre). Entrants will be assigned a colour of the rainbow Pride flag and placed on an appropriate - [Beginners Take Over](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/05/30/beginners-take-over/) - Last Monday, Hammersmith Chess Club hosted something special for half-term: Beginners Take Over, a juniors + adult beginners rapidplay tournament in the Mindsports Centre's main hall, with feedback provided by volunteer mentors. On a normal Monday we run both a Junior Hour and an Adult Beginners' session at Hammersmith. Both offer games and coaching for - [The Gambit Experiment](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/05/12/the-gambit-experiment/) - In the first of a new series, we invite Christof Brixel to discuss how he reinvented himself and his chess: There is only one generation between me and the romantic era of chess. I learned the game from my grandmother when she was 88 years old. She had been born in 1878, around the time - [Hammersmith Chess Club Becomes A Registered Charity](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/04/21/hammersmith-chess-club-becomes-a-registered-charity/) - We’re delighted to share some important news: Hammersmith Chess Club has been formally registered as a charity by the Charity Commission for England and Wales. This marks an important step in the club’s development. Over recent years, Hammersmith has grown not just in numbers, but in ambition—expanding our junior programme, launching initiatives such as our - [Central London League: “1, 2, 3 in 1, 2, 3”](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/04/20/central-london-league-1-2-3-in-1-2-3/) - At the start of the season, we set ourselves a clear set of goals in the Central London League. With three teams entered—Hammersmith 1 and 2 in Division Two, and Hammersmith 3 in Division Four—the brief was simple: Promotion for Teams 1 and 3 to Divisions One and Three Consolidation for Team 2 in Division - [Welcome to the Chess Academy!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/04/01/welcome-to-the-chess-academy/) - A New Junior Chess Academy Launches at the Mindsports Centre We are delighted to announce that a new Junior Chess Academy will be launching at the Mindsports Centre this summer term, run by Adam Cranston. This is a very exciting development for junior chess in West London. The Academy will focus on competitive play and - [A Call to Arms from John White](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/03/18/a-call-to-arms-from-john-white/) - The Lübeck Heist is back, and this is your final call. From 26–28 June, Hammersmith heads to Germany for one of our legendary summer raids: blitz, the Beck–Hamm Trophy match, great company, and a proper Hammer weekend. We’re aiming for a big turnout, adults + juniors. ⏳ Deadline: 31 March If you’re interested—even vaguely—contact John - [The Lübeck Heist Is Back On!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/02/21/the-lubeck-heist-is-back-on/) - Six years ago, our planned visit to Lübeck Chess Club was one of the many casualties of Covid. It was a huge disappointment at the time but some ideas are simply too good to die. We are delighted to announce that the Lübeck Heist is officially back on. Our German friends have warmly invited us - [Gaston Franco Awarded National Master Title](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/02/15/gaston-franco-awarded-national-master-title/) - We are delighted to share some wonderful news from further afield. Our club captain Gaston Franco has been awarded the title of National Master (Maestro Nacional) by the Argentine Chess Federation. It is a thoroughly well-deserved recognition of Gaston’s strength, consistency and long-standing contribution to the game — and it will come as no surprise - [A Blast from the Past - Hammersmith hosts GM Jonathan Mestel](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/02/14/a-blast-from-the-past-hammersmith-hosts-gm-jonathan-mestel/) - Hammers, we’re in for something special. We’re delighted to announce that Jonathan Mestel will be our guest speaker at the club on Monday 2nd March at 7.15pm. Not only is he one of the great figures of English chess, he is also Professor of Applied Mathematics at Imperial College. Expect insight, stories, and probably a - [The First Silverware of the Season](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/01/30/the-first-silverware-of-the-season/) - With seven wins from seven matches, Hammersmith has wrapped up the Central London League Division 4 title in emphatic style. Sitting top by a wide margin with three games still to play, the team can no longer be caught — promotion secured, and the club’s first silverware of the season in the bag. Last night’s - [The Hammersmith Blitz Open - Thursday 5th February](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/01/23/the-hammersmith-blitz-open-thursday-5th-february/) - Hammersmith Chess Club is delighted to host an Open Blitz Tournament on Thursday 5 February, in collaboration with Chess.com, who are generously providing a substantial prize fund, including signed memorabilia. With 100 places available and only £10 to enter (Hammersmith members free), we're expecting a popular and competitive tournament, run by London's largest chess club - [Hammersmith Chess Featured on the Perpetual Chess Podcast](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/01/06/hammersmith-chess-featured-on-the-perpetual-chess-podcast/) - Hammersmith was featured on the Perpetual Chess Podcast. Club Captain Gastón Franco talks about how the club grew into one of the most active and welcoming clubs in London. - [Half Way Stage, Half Our Teams No. 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/01/04/half-way-stage-half-our-teams-no-1/) - Happy New Year! We share an update on how we've done so far this season. Almost half of our teams stand at the top of their respective league tables! - [The Year of the Horse (Knight?!)](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/01/01/the-year-of-the-horse-knight/) - A new year, and the chess season bursts back into life on Monday 5 January. We’ve got 21 club matches lined up this month, with opportunities for players of every strength. Check out the new Calendar tab, then use the new Club Matches tab to get in touch with a team captain if you’d like - [New Year, New Resolution?](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2026/01/01/new-year-new-resolution/) - : The Tools We Use, And How They Shape Our Chess January is the month when chess players make big promises. More study. Better openings. Fewer blunders. No more late-night bullet (well… maybe). The problem isn’t enthusiasm. The tricky part is working out what to actually use. There are now so many platforms, courses, coaches - [When The Clocks Stop And The Pieces Rest…](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/12/22/when-the-clocks-stop-and-the-pieces-rest/) - …it’s time for the winter break. The club will be closed from 25 December to 1 January inclusive. As the year draws to a close, we’d like to thank everyone who has been part of Hammersmith Chess Club in 2025 — whether you played your first game, your fiftieth match, captained a team, coached a - [The Perfect Christmas Gift](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/12/20/the-perfect-christmas-gift/) - Beginners & Improvers Chess Course — Starting 15 January Adam Cranston’s popular Beginners & Improvers Chess Course at the MindSports Centre returns in January. This friendly, structured course is ideal for complete beginners, returning players, and anyone who wants to build confidence and understanding beyond casual play. Start date: Thursday 15 January 2026 Time: 5:30pm - [Save the Date: Gastón’s Christmas Quiz 22nd December, and….](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/12/13/save-the-date-gastons-christmas-quiz-22nd-december-and/) - [Thor’s Mighty Hammers: Thursday Club Nights](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/12/04/thors-mighty-hammers-thursday-club-nights/) - Every Thursday evening, the Mindsports Centre becomes the beating heart of Hammersmith Chess Club. Whether you’re brand new to the club, returning after a break, or already a Hammer, Thursday nights are the friendliest and easiest way to get involved. We run a blend of social chess, rated classical games (Sledgehammer), and rated rapid games - [The Last Team Matches of 2025….](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/12/03/the-last-team-matches-of-2025/) - The year may be drawing to a close, but our teams are far from winding down. We’ve got a packed schedule over the next two weeks before the Christmas break, and you can explore everything that’s coming up via our live calendar below: 👉 https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/category/league-matches/ We’ll shortly be sharing a round-up of how all our - [Hammer Juniors Triumph!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/11/23/hammer-juniors-triumph/) - Hammersmith Juniors Stun Lewisham 3 in an Historic Victory On Tuesday 18th November, Hammersmith Juniors delivered their best result ever. Facing Lewisham 3 — an experienced adult side with five players rated 1700+ — our young stars won 4.5–3.5. Whilst as ever a team effort, three games stand out for the courage, composure and inspired - [Jovanka Houska - One Day To Go!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/11/23/jovanka-houska-one-day-to-go/) - Tomorrow evening, Monday 24 November 2025 at 7 pm, we welcome IM Jovanka Houska to the Mindsports Centre for a very special event: a lecture followed by a 20-board simultaneous display. This is a friendly reminder to all members — don’t miss one of the highlights of our calendar! Jovanka is a nine-time British Champion - [Welcoming IM Jovanka Houska to Hammersmith](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/11/17/welcoming-wgm-jovanka-houska-to-hammersmith/) - A Special Evening with IM Jovanka Houska Monday 24th November 2025 – 7pm, MindSports Centre Hammersmith is thrilled to welcome IM Jovanka Houska for a very special evening at the MindSports Centre. The event will feature a lecture followed by a 20-board simultaneous display. Jovanka needs little introduction. A nine-time British Champion and one - [Happy Halloween](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/10/31/happy-halloween/) - 🎃 Hammer House of Horrors – Final Call! It’s Halloween, and the blood is still dripping from the board… The Hammer House of Horrors is coming this Monday 3rd November, hosted by Adam Cranston, and we’re still hungry for your most terrifying games. Forget ghosts and ghouls — nothing chills the soul like watching - [Hammer House of Horrors - Call for Entries!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/10/26/hammer-house-of-horrors-call-for-entries/) - Ever lost a game so bad it still haunts you at night? This is not about the everyday blunder — dropping a queen, missing mate-in-one, the kind of stuff we’ve all done. No, we are after something far more special… This is for the connoisseurs of catastrophe. The true artists of self-destruction. The players who - [From the 2025 Club of the Year, the Autumn Beginners Course](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/09/21/from-the-2025-club-of-the-year-the-autumn-beginners-course/) - Ready to Level Up Your Game? Our Beginners & Improvers Course is back, led this season by our Club President Adam Cranston!Starting Thursday 2nd October, this 8-week one hour long course is perfect for anyone who knows the rules but wants to improve, regardless of age.Each week includes:• A one-hour group lesson on strategy, tactics, - [HELP! I need somebody…](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/09/20/help-i-need-somebody/) - Liverpool Chess Club — this year’s host of the British Chess Championships — has thrown down the gauntlet and challenged Hammersmith to a showdown in the North.🗓 Saturday 8th November📍 Liverpool• 3:00–5:00pm – Meet, greet, and soak up the Scouse atmosphere• 5:00–8:00pm – Match play: Hammer vs Liverpool• 8:00–10:00pm – Celebrate chess, camaraderie, and the - [HAMMERFEST 2025: The Winners and Losers](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/09/19/hammerfest-2025-the-winners-and-losers/) - HAMMERFEST 2025Match 1: Hammer 1 vs Hammer 21. Sergiy Teslya (B) 0–1 Cian Ward (W)2. Christof Brixel (W) 1–0 Greg Billenness (B)3. Tom Townsend (B) 1–0 Paul Kennelly (W)4. Bajrush Kelmendi (W) 1–0 Mark Croasdale (B)5. Andrew Macleod (B) 1–0 Thomas Ewart (W)Final Score: Hammer 1 – 4 : 1 – Hammer 2 Match 2: Hammer Mackenzie vs Hammer Cadets6. Danielle Kelly (W) 0–1 Gergana Ilieva (B)7. - [HAMMERFEST: Next Thursday!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/09/12/hammerfest-next-thursday/) - Next Thursday, 18 September, promises to be one of the biggest nights of the year in London chess – and it’s all happening at the Mindsports Centre.In a tradition designed to keep the season fair, whenever Hammersmith enters two teams in the same division we schedule the head-to-head derby early. The result? A festival - [EGM: Monday 15 September, 19:30 at the MindSports Centre](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/09/12/egm-monday-15-september-1930-at-the-mindsports-centre/) - We’ll be holding a short Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on Monday 15 September 2025, from 19:30 to 20:00, at the MindSports Centre. The purpose of the meeting is to consider and vote on: A proposed new Constitution for Hammersmith Chess Club (http://hammerchess.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/HCC-Constitution.pdf) The accompanying Resolution (http://hammerchess.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/HCC-Resolution.pdf) We expect business to be brisk — less than - [2024/25 Awards Night with GM Danny King](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/09/03/2024-25-awards-night-with-gm-danny-king/) - Hammersmith Chess Club invited GM Daniel King once again to present our annual awards for the 2024/25 Season. Danny selected our Game of the Season and showed interesting positions from other nominated games. There were additional prizes for the best players of the season and the winners of our internal tournament series. Danny kicked things - [Welcome to the 2025/26 Season](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/08/24/welcome-to-the-2025-26-season/) - Hello everyone, It’s a real honour to be writing this as the new Chairman of Hammersmith Chess Club. I’ve been part of the club for 10 years, and I know how much hard work, friendship, and good humour go into making it what it is. First of all, I want to pay tribute to my - [Captain's Log: What a season for Hammersmith Juniors](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/08/17/captains-log-what-a-season-for-hammersmith-juniors/) - Captain’s Log — #1 As we gear up for the new season, this is the first in a series of “Captain’s Logs” we’ll be publishing throughout the year. First up, Frank Valle, Captain of our Junior Team in the London League (Division 4). — Gaston Franco, Club Captain WHAT A SEASON FOR HAMMERSMITH JUNIORS! From - [Diary Date. Notice of an Extraordinary General Meeting](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/08/15/diary-date-notice-of-an-extraordinary-general-meeting/) - Continuing our journey to become a charity, we’re holding an Extraordinary General Meeting at 19:30, Monday 15th September at the MSC. Papers — including the draft constitution — will be shared ahead of time. Adam has promised to wrap things up by 20:00 sharp, so normal Monday night chess can resume without delay! - [Hammersmith Chess Club – ECF Club of the Year 2025](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/08/10/hammersmith-chess-club-ecf-club-of-the-year-2025/) - The rumours are true – Hammersmith Chess Club has been awarded the prestigious title Club of the Year by the English Chess Federation for 2025. This recognition is richly deserved and reflects the hard work, dedication, and spirit of everyone involved with our club – from Committee members and Captains to Volunteers and players of - [Hammer Is Going to Marseille… For Friendship and Chess!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/08/07/hammer-is-going-to-marseille-for-friendship-and-chess/) - Hot off the press – Hammersmith Chess Club is heading to Marseille! From Friday 17th to Sunday 19th October 2025, we’ll be visiting the brilliant club of Marseille Échecs for a long weekend of chess, friendship, food, and fun. This promises to be an amazing trip — Marseille Échecs has over 1,000 members and is - [Hammer Newsletter August 2025](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/08/02/hammer-newsletter-august-2025/) - 🕰️ The New Season Beckons Hammers, the new season kicks off on 1st September, so please take this as a gentle reminder to: renew your ECF membership; pay your Hammer membership fees this month. It’s going to be an amazing year of chess at the club, with a packed calendar of events already taking shape. - [A Final View from The Hammer Chair](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/06/21/a-final-view-from-the-hammer-chair/) - “And now the end is near, And so I face the final curtain, My friends I’ll say it clear, I’ll state my case of which I am certain” – Paul Anka/Frank Sinatra Hammers, This is my final article as Chair of Hammersmith Chess Club, as I will be stepping down from the post at the - [Important Announcement - 2025 AGM](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/06/09/important-announcement-2025-agm/) - Dear Members, the club's Annual General Meeting (AGM) is approaching - this year it will be held on Monday 7th July at 7:30pm at the Mindsports Centre. The Committee gives notice that the following members will stand for re-election: President - Adam Cranston (currently Secretary) Treasurer - Christof Brixel Club Captain - Gastón Franco (currently - [Watch us at the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Team Championships!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/05/31/watch-us-at-the-fide-world-rapid-and-blitz-team-championships/) - Hammersmith Chess Clubs plays at the 2025 FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Team Championships at the Novotel - [Chess Therapy with GM Jonathan Rowson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/04/30/chess-therapy-with-gm-jonathan-rowson/) - Introducing: A lecture and workshop for club members by Scotland's strongest ever player, Grandmaster Jonathan Rowson. Jonathan is a three-time British Chess Champion and author of the critically acclaimed books, The Seven Deadly Chess Sins (2001) Chess for Zebras (2005) and The Moves that Matter (2019). On Monday 5th May, Jonathan will introduce the idea - [Fabulous four Hammers in Jersey 2025](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/04/25/fabulous-four-hammers-in-jersey-2025/) - Report by Christof Brixel on the recent Jersey International Chess Festival - where 4 Hammers participated - [New Hammer Beginners' Course - About to Begin!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/04/23/new-hammer-beginners-course-about-to-begin/) - Following the popularity of our initial series of beginners' classes, we are very happy to announce our next series of classes, to begin on Thursday 1st May. Or second series of classes will take place at 5:30pm each Thursday over 8 weeks. Each week will feature an hour long group lesson on a different topic, - [Upcoming match: Hammersmith 1 vs Wood Green](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/04/17/upcoming-match-hammersmith-1-vs-wood-green/) - 1st team captain Jim Stevenson would like to invite all members to watch our upcoming match against Wood Green, including live commentary by some of our top players! - [Mating attacks, a trapped Queen, and two very long endgames](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/02/23/mating-attacks-a-trapped-queen-and-two-very-long-endgames/) - Match reports on two important fixtures in the Central London Chess League Division 2, against home club Pimlico and the undefeated leaders Streatham - [Introducing: Hammer Beginners/Improvers Classes!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/) - Following on from the success of Junior Hour and Women and Girls Hour, Hammersmith Chess Club is proud to introduce its next offering, aimed at another sizeable but often-neglected demographic: chess beginners! Commencing on 9th January, our first official Beginners & Improvers Course will take place at 5:30pm each Thursday over 8 weeks. Each week - [December 16th – Exclusive GM Lecture & Book Signing with Daniel King!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/03/december-16th-exclusive-gm-lecture-book-signing-with-daniel-king/) - Hammersmith Chess Club is thrilled to host Grandmaster Daniel King once again for an exclusive book signing and puzzle-filled lecture for his new book launch! This is a unique chance to gain invaluable insights and get a copy of his new book signed! GM Daniel King will share his expertise through puzzles, exercises, and chess - [Hammersmith Sharks terrify the Global Chess League!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/10/06/hammersmith-sharks-terrify-the-global-chess-league/) - Hammersmith won the UK Team Open tournament, a part of the Global Chess League Season 2 with Magnus Carlsen, Hikaru Nakamura, and many other top GMs in London - [Kicking off the 2024/25 League Season!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/09/25/kicking-off-the-2024-25-league-season/) - The 2024/25 League Season has officially started this month and Hammersmith is once again presenting 16 teams on 4 different leagues. We expect to play 184 matches throughout the season, meaning a total of 1,100 games (!) for our members, with opportunities for players of all levels from beginner to master. As usual, we have - [Major Announcements from your Hammer Committee](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/09/03/major-annoucements-from-your-hammer-committee/) - A major change in Junior Hour for 2024/2025, and the launch of a brand-new chess initiative for Women and Girls at Hammersmith Chess Club. Both these initiatives will start officially on Monday 9th September 2024. As some of you may already know, Luna Eastham and Luke Lau are both standing down from their positions as - [A Hammersmith Day in Jail](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/08/30/a-hammersmith-day-in-jail/) - On the 8th of August three members of Hammersmith Chess Club, John White, Adam Cranston and myself, Frank Valle, donated some of our time to play 16 inmates from Wormwood Scrubs prison. We were joined by a South African medical student called Cheshni who shares our passion for chess. This was organised and led - [A Word from the Chair](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/08/15/a-word-from-the-chair/) - Hammers these long summer days are great but they will soon come to an end. That loss is compensated for in part by one of the few comforts - that the new chess season looms ever closer. The new Hammer year starts on the 1st of September and hence my missive. It is time to - [And the (Hammersmith) Oscar goes to...](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/07/23/and-the-hammersmith-oscar-goes-to/) - Hammersmith Chess Club hosted their Awards Night for the 2023/24 Season joined by GM Daniel King, who presented the best game prize and showed interesting positions from the 10 nominated games. Tournament winners and best players of the Season were also given prizes. With his usual captivating style, Danny gave a highly entertaining lecture as - [The King is Returning for the 2024 Hammer Awards](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/07/17/the-king-is-returning-for-the-2024-hammer-awards/) - The King (Grandmaster Daniel King) is returning to the MindSports centre to grace our club once again to deliver a lecture from 7:30pm on the greatest Hammersmith Club Members games of the year. Monday 22nd of July, starting 7:30pm is the Hammersmith Chess Awards Night, where GM Daniel King is going to be giving lecture - [Hammers become the third fool in Paris](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/07/07/hammers-become-the-third-fool-in-paris/) - Alekhine once said: "Deux Fous gagnent toujours mais trois: jamais." - Hammer Ben gives a recap below of Hammersmith’s tour to Paris, and while we may have been made the fools over the board, we won the unexpected prize of amazing friends and magical moments. **Light Jazz and Heavy Losses: Hammers Paris Chess Trip 2024** - [Important Announcement – 2024 AGM](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/05/15/important-announcement-2024-agm/) - Dear Members, the club's Annual General Meeting (AGM) is approaching - this year it will be held on Monday 24th June at 7:30pm at the Mindsports Centre. The Committee gives notice that the following members will stand for re-election: President - John White Secretary - Adam Cranston Webmaster - Gastón Franco Club Captain - Robin - [Introducing: Thursday Club Nights](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/04/21/introducing-thursday-club-nights/) - Hammersmith Chess Club has hosted its club night on Mondays for as long as I can remember. Featuring a variety of activities including lectures, tournaments, and simultaneous exhibitions, as well as special events hosted by top GMs, these club nights have proven increasingly popular, indicative of the constant progress and prosperity of the club. As - [Hammersmith Goes Kibitzing… 23rd April 2024 at 6:45pm](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/04/19/hammersmith-goes-kibitzing-23rd-april-2024-at-645pm/) - Join us for a night of live commentary next Tuesday 23rd at 6:45pm as our First team plays Wood Green. Come to the Mindsports Centre and share your moves and ideas and see for yourself how a GM makes decisions in real time! First Some Definitions... Chess Kibitzer An onlooker of a chess game. One - [League Season Update - April 2024](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/04/13/league-season-update-april-2024/) - The 2023/24 Season is reaching its crucial stage, and many of our teams have been doing well and fighting for the top stop at their respective League Table. With 15 different teams across 4 Leagues and 12 Divisions, there is still a lot to play for! We bring an update on how we've been doing - [Champions of Middlesex Chess League Division 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/04/03/champions-of-middlesex-chess-league-division-2/) - We are Champions!! Yesterday the team travelled to Muswell Hill to play our 4th away match of the season. It was an important match as we had the knowledge that a win would make us champions with 3 matches to spare. There were unfortunately also many issues with team selection, as we were short of - [Hammersmith Chess Club summoned to UK Parliament](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/03/28/hammersmith-chess-summoned-to-uk-parliament/) - Hammersmith Chess Club often leads the way in the London chess community, bringing together various chess players from all over Europe (from various mainland clubs to Cork, Ireland) - This time however, our travels took us closer to home, as we were invited by UK Parliamentary Chess Club for an exhibition match along with a - [100 league games for Hammersmith Chess Club](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/03/21/100-league-games-for-hammersmith-chess-club/) - My memory fails me when it comes to my opening lines, but I clearly remember the day, the circumstances and the game highlights (a lowlight) of my first league game for the club. It was the 1 April 2019, and I remember it because it was my exciting first day of retirement. Before that, I - [A Word from the Chair – Halfway through the Season – Time to Reflect and Plan Ahead](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/03/11/a-word-from-the-chair-halfway-through-the-season-time-to-reflect-and-plan-ahead/) - Hammers, the season of 2023-24 is racing ahead with a mass of activity and an avalanche of good news and new initiatives. First, I want to thank all on the Hammer Committee for their hard work – all of them volunteers who help ensure this club stays solvent, relevant, entertaining, and providing value - [All aboard the Hammer Express - Next stop: PARIS (28th - 30th June)](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/03/07/all-aboard-the-hammer-express-next-stop-paris-28th-30th-june/) - Come one, come all. After a plethora of trips to Amsterdam, Cork, Wroclaw, Ostend to name a few, Hammers will again rally together to build bridges, lasting friendships, and amazing memories. In June we travel to our noisy neighbours, as we visit Paris, France. (Sign-up form at the end of the article) Paris has a - [Hammersmith 1 is back to work!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/01/11/hammersmith-1-is-back-to-work/) - After the holiday period, our First team had their return to league matches with a crushing and undefeated win against a very strong Athenaeum. 5 wins and 3 draws with many interesting positions to analyze! Happy New Year to all our members and readers! We present you with our top team's first London League match - [Happy Holidays from Hammersmith Chess Club!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2023/12/15/happy-holidays-from-hammersmith-chess-club/) - 2023 is somehow already coming to an end, and a lot has changed in the world of chess: we have had World Championship matches (with Ding Liren becoming the new Champion after Carlsen's withdrawal, and Ju Wenjun extending her reign by defeating Lei Tingjie), the always interesting World Cup (won by Magnus Carlsen for the - [September 2023 in Hammersmith: kicking off the 2023/24 Season!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2023/08/30/september-2023-in-hammersmith-kicking-off-the-2023-24-season/) - We'd like to share our plans for this month - with some of the specifics to be announced later on via our WhatsApp chats. Read on for details: A new season begins! Hammersmith will soon be battling again in the different Leagues we play in, and there could be no better warm up than taking - [The Visit of KOSK to Hammersmith Chess Club in September 2023](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2023/08/03/the-visit-of-kosk-to-hammersmith-chess-club-in-september-2023/) - Hammers, we are delighted to announce the visit of royalty to our noble but humble chess club. The Royal Chess Club of Ostend will be visiting us from Friday the 8th of September to Sunday the 10th September. To take part in a weekend of chess and camaraderie that will live long in the memory. - [End of 2022/23 League Season Update](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2023/07/08/end-of-2022-23-league-season-update/) - Another Chess League Season went by and Hammersmith has participated with 17 teams across all the different leagues and divisions, which meant close to 1,000 competitive and rated games of chess for our members! Our top team in the London League finished in clear second place, very close from taking the title from Wood Green - [Zwischenzug! - Club Event with WIM Natasha Regan and NI Matt Ball](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2023/06/25/zwischenzug-club-event-with-wim-natasha-regan-and-ni-matt-ball/) - On Monday 10th of July starting at 7:30pm, to celebrate the release of their new Chessable Course, we have a special evening planned for members - read more below. The zwischenzug, also known as an intermezzo, or an intermediate move, regularly catches out club players but gets little attention in books and courses. Finding it - [The Chess River Valley Walk – 30th July 2023](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2023/06/25/the-chess-river-valley-walk-30th-july-2023/) - The summer period in the chess calendar is a strange time of year – the British Championship takes centre whilst club league chess goes into sleep mode. In other words, chess kind of takes a holiday. So, in holiday mode the Hammers will be taking on the challenge of the Chess River Valley walk – - [Important Announcement - 2023 AGM](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2023/05/24/important-announcement-2023-agm/) - Dear Members, the club's Annual General Meeting (AGM) is approaching - this year it will be held on Monday 3rd July at the Mindsports Centre. The observant among you will note that this is a month later than usual. This is due to the chess season being pushed back by a number of match postponements - [Strong finish for Hammersmith in London League Division 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2023/05/20/strong-finish-for-hammersmith-in-london-league-division-1/) - Hammersmith won a very exciting match against strong opposition, and we present you with some of the games, including analysis from our First team players. As the League season is coming to an end, our last match for the First team in Division 1 was against none other than Cavendish Chess Club, a real powerhouse - [Free Bridge Taster Session - 16th May](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2023/04/28/hammersmith-bridge-taster-session/) - Now we share a home with other Mindsports, especially bridge players, a number of members and spouses / partners have mentioned they would really like to try bridge. So we have organised something for you. We think it’s going to be really special. You may not know it but fellow London Mindsports club, the YC - [Hammer supporting chess in the community](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2023/04/10/hammersmith-chess-supporting-community-chess-initiatives-london-prisons/) - In October 2019, Hammersmith (along with our arch-rivals Battersea), combined forces to head into Wandsworth Prison for a day of training and rapid matches which turned out to be an amazing experience for those both inside and outside of the prison. (Link attached below) https://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/12/21/the-big-house-chess-match/ We have been contacted once again (by Peter Sullivan) to - [County Chess: Middlesex Seniors (18+) vs Middlesex Juniors (u18) - 6th May 2023](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2023/04/04/county-chess-middlesex-seniors-18-vs-middlesex-juniors-u18-6th-may-2023/) - Hammersmith is an affiliated club of Middlesex County Chess Team, with many of our players playing for the various rating divisions to fight it out for the number one county in the country. See more about Middlesex here: https://middlesexchess.blogspot.com/ To commemorate the King’s Coronation and celebrate Middlesex Chess, they are organising a Seniors vs Juniors - [Mid-Season Update on the Hammer Internal Tournaments (2022/23)](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2023/02/21/mid-season-update-on-the-hammer-internal-tournaments-2022-23/) - Time is running so fast and February 2023 is almost over. League chess season is at its peak now and many hammers are defending our club colours week-in week-out and achieving very good results. Meanwhile, the club continues to offer its members year-long opportunities to play ECF-graded internal tournaments. As a reminder, this year we - [League Season Update - January 2023](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2023/01/17/league-season-update-january-2023/) - Happy New Year to all our members and friends! As the 2022-23 season reaches its halfway point, we would like to share an update on how our teams have been doing so far. As of the 15th of January, our 17 teams have played in 72 matches, which means over 400 games of chess for - [Heavens Evans - it must be Oostende!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/12/31/heavens-evans-it-must-be-oostende/) - It had been a long time coming. Following highly successful excursions to Amsterdam, Cork and Wroclaw in recent years, the small matter of a global pandemic had put a hold on the annual Hammer trip abroad for the last 2 years. But the Hammer spirit is restless. The urge to travel beyond this sceptred isle, - [The Reykjavik Open 2023](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/12/28/the-reykjavik-open-2023/) - The historic Reykjavik Open will be taking place in Iceland from the 29th March to the 4th April next year in the Harpa conference hall and we’re aiming to get together a ragtag group of Hammers to go take Iceland by storm! The current schedule for the tournament is as follows: Wednesday March 29th 15:00 - [Upcoming Events: International Master Malcolm Pein & MindSports Christmas Party](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/11/27/upcoming-events-international-master-malcolm-pein-mindsports-christmas-party/) - All I want for Christmas is y…. wait no…how about Malcolm Pein & a Christmas Party!? IM Malcolm Pein Talk We are pleased to announce the legendary International Master Malcolm Pein will be visiting the MindSports Centre on Monday 28th November. Having earned the IM title in 1986, Pein has been an influence in British - [Lula's Olympiad experience - Monday 3rd October](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/09/24/lulas-olympiad-experience-monday-3rd-october/) - On Monday 3rd October we're delighted to welcome club member Tallulah Roberts - Lula - to the Mindsports Centre. Lula only started playing chess during lockdown in December 2020 and began her journey as a streamer in February 2021. Since then she has become a successful streamer for Chess.com and played top board for the - [Return of the Sledgehammer and  Rockhammer Tournaments for 2022/23](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/09/11/return-of-the-sledgehammer-and-rockhammer-tournaments-for-2022-23/) - Return of the Sledgehammer and Rockhammer Tournaments for 2022/23 Hammersmith Chess Club will continue offering year-long ECF-graded internal tournaments to its members. We would like those tournaments to be as flexible as possible. Therefore members are still encouraged to contact other club members and organise their own OTB games. This will encourage members to meet - [Get your Hammer Chess official T-shirt for the new season!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/09/04/get-your-hammer-chess-official-t-shirt-for-the-new-season/) - Dear Hammers, The new season is approaching fast, it is back-to-school time. No doubt you are full of confidence after your summer training. One way to improve is to work hard on your chess. Another way for easy, additional Elo boost is the AMAZING HAMMER MERCH (results may vary). Let’s strike fear in the hearts - [Opening of the Month: A new initiative for the new season!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/09/02/opening-of-the-month-a-new-initiative-for-the-new-season/) - Here at Hammer HQ we're excited to announce a new initiative: Opening of the Month! Each month of the chess season will be devoted to a separate opening: with that month including lectures, themed tournaments, and high level analysis of members' games played in that opening. September's opening of choice will be the Sicilian Defense! - [World Champion Candidate Michael Adams is coming to town](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/08/22/5940/) - On Monday the 26th September, we are blessed to welcome Michael Adams to the Mindsports Centre. Nicknamed ‘The Spider’. He weaves a web around his opponents and likes them to beat themselves. Having reached the dizzying heights of #4 in the world, he achieved strong performances as a World Championship Candidate, reaching the semifinals in - [Hammer Getting It Done in The Community](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/08/14/hammer-getting-it-done-in-the-community/) - As you know Hammer are very active on social media and updating our website. Indeed, the enquiries about our club that we take because of that activity are truly stunning in number. We are blessed to have Benji and previously Andy as our web and social master. However, there is a section of the population - [A View from The Hammer Chair - July 2022](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/07/26/a-view-from-the-hammer-chair-july-2022/) - First, I would like to thank the club for this opportunity to serve and continue the evolution of our amazing chess club. I must also thank Club Captain Ben and in particular our Chairman Bajrush for their service. Both have played vital roles in helping the club get to where we are today. I wish - [AGM Report, LCL Congress, Summer at Hammer and beyond!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/07/16/agm-report-lcl-congress-summer-at-hammer-and-beyond/) - A short update on everything happening at the club, and what's in store for the future! The AGM Last Monday our Annual General Meeting was held at the Mindsports Centre. There was a good turnout and some lively discussion - a full version of the minutes can be found here. A summary of the key - [Hammratty 2022 – A Personal Reflection from Lord Clueless](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/07/06/hammratty-2022-a-personal-reflection-from-lord-clueless/) - A while ago, being the opportunistic plagiarist I am, I used a line from the superb speech given by Al Pacino in the movie “Any Given Sunday” in a piece about the Bunratty tournament. The line was my interpretation of the fact that sometimes life gets in the way of what you really want to - [The Hammer Christmas Chess Soiree - Ostend - 2nd December 2022 to the 4th of December 2022.](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/06/14/the-hammer-christmas-chess-soiree-ostend-2nd-december-2022-to-the-4th-of-december-2022/) - The Hammer Christmas Chess Soiree- Ostend - 2nd December 2022 to the 4th of December 2022. Covid has affected every part of our lives these past two- and a bit years. We have lost loved ones, had to cancel holidays, curtail our social lives and in our chess world, we endured no over-the-board chess for - [The UK’s Strongest ever fully blind chess player is coming to Hammersmith](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/06/13/the-uks-strongest-ever-fully-blind-chess-player-is-coming-to-hammersmith/) - By Christopher Skulte We are very very very excited (yes 3 very’s!) to announce that the 2015 IBCA Olympiad silver-medallist Chris Ross will be coming to Hammersmith Chess Club on the 20th June 2022 (start time 7:30pm). It’s not every day that you will have a chance to listen and ask questions to - [The Hastings Challenge(rs) on the 18th June 2022– time is running out !!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/06/09/the-hastings-challengers-on-the-18th-june-2022-time-is-running-out/) - It is time to do Battle (geddit??!!!) again Hammers the gauntlet has been thrown down – honour must be satisfied – the esteemed and noble Chess Club of Hastings (aged 140) has challenged the brash (but very nice) new kids on the block Hammersmith (aged 60). This will be a mighty clash over 14 boards - [Hammratty is Born – Chess Congress in Hammersmith June 2022](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/04/05/hammratty-is-born-chess-congress-in-hammersmith-june-2022/) - EDIT: all info there : https://hammerchess.co.uk/congress-hammratty/ On the 4th and 5th June 2022 Hammersmith Chess Club will run its first Chess Congress to celebrate our Diamond Jubilee. In homage to a trip made by several Hammers to the legendary Bunratty tournament in 2020 this congress will be known as Hammratty. The event will be - [Important Announcement - 2022 AGM](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/05/11/important-announcement-2022-agm/) - Dear Members, the club's Annual General Meeting (AGM) is approaching - this year it will be held on Monday 4th July at the Mindsports Centre. The observant among you will note that this is a month later than usual. This is due to the chess season being pushed back by the Covid-19 wave in January. - [Fast Track your Chess with First Team Training - Monday 9th of May](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/05/04/fast-track-your-chess-with-first-team-training-monday-9th-of-may/) - Next Monday (9th May), on top of the usual casual chess, several first team players (2000 – 2400 FIDE) are donating their time to work with club members to help them improve their chess. We will be spread out over 3-4 tables from 730pm – 900pm (and maybe longer) to: Go through your games - [Hammer bossing it in Middlesex](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/04/15/hammer-bossing-it-in-the-middlesex-league/) - At the midpoint of the Season, Hammersmith’s second team went to visit Albany with a lot at stake in Division 2 of the Middlesex League: the lead was shared by Hendon, Ealing and Hammersmith all with 6 points, followed closely by Metropolitan and Albany with 5, so it was anyone’s game with a lot of - [2022 Rumbles on and Hammer just keeps rolling along](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/03/26/2022-rumbles-on-and-hammer-just-keeps-rolling-along/) - This has been an amazing year in Hammer history. Some of the highlights We moved into our new home the Mind Sports Centre We are 60 years old this year – our Diamond Jubilee We now have over 180 club members – will we reach 200 before the end of May? We have won the - [A Huntswoman Bosses it At the Home of Hammer](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/03/20/a-huntswoman-bosses-it-at-the-home-of-hammer/) - Hammer kicked off the awareness of Women’s International Day a day early with a tremendous lecture from IM Harriet Hunt. Her theme very appropriately was the history of women in Chess. Harriet is a 5 times British Women’s Chess Champion who has represented England all over the world. As she remarked her chess career took - [Top of the table clash in the Thames Valley Chess League](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/03/09/top-of-the-table-clash-in-the-thames-valley-chess-league/) - Monday 31st of January at the Anvil (Hammersmith’s home – The London Mindsports Centre) brought together a top of the table clash between the might of Hammersmith’s Division 1 team against a very strong away team from Richmond & Twickenham. With a reasonably priced bar and food menu, we welcome all teams to come down - [International Women’s Day 2022](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/02/24/international-womens-day-2022/) - International Women’s Day 2022 The UN has designated the 8th of March 2022 as International Women’s Day. The theme of this celebration will focus on: “Women in leadership. Achieving an equal future in a Covid-19 world”. Some startling facts accompany this Women aged under 30 consist of less than 1% of parliamentarians worldwide. Only 22 - [The Hammer Chess Congress 2022 – “Hammratty”](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/02/20/the-hammer-chess-congress-2022-hammratty/) - This year is a hugely significant year in the history of Hammersmith Chess Club. It is our diamond jubilee – we are 60 years old. The club has had many highs and lows but we are still here – with a membership past the 150 mark you could say we are enjoying our golden era. - [Blitz, simuls, training, lectures: an action packed Hammer spring schedule](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/02/19/blitz-simuls-training-lectures-an-action-packed-hammer-spring-schedule/) - With the majority of Monday home matches behind us, we've been very busy here at Hammer HQ - putting together a varied programme of events for the coming weeks. As always, everything that has been organised can be found in our club calendar. Here's a taste of what's coming up. Monday 21st February: Handicap Blitz - [A King Hammer gives a Night to Remember](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2022/01/05/a-king-hammer-gives-a-night-to-remember/) - Mother Hammer had an early Epiphany present, from a very wise man, in the form of GM Daniel King who brought a heavily laden basket of chess gifts and knowledge to the Anvil this past Monday. To those Hammers who missed the evening you missed a treat. Here is the lowdown. I always say nice - [The Danny King Slightly Late Christmas Cracker](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/12/24/the-danny-king-slightly-late-christmas-cracker/) - Yes, once again Hammer productions bring you the best of chess. All round top guy, ace chess commentator and most importantly a Hammer, GM Daniel King, welcomes in the New Year on 3rd January with a chess talk at the Anvil aka the Mindsports Centre. Those of you who have experienced a D.King lecture know - [Christmas Party with GM Maxime Lagarde](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/12/09/christmas-party-with-gm-maxime-lagarde/) - As the Christmas season approaches, we look back and reflect on a fantastic year for Hammersmith Chess Club. The club has grown to 160 members, the junior club is thriving, and our 16 teams have been competing well across four leagues. On Monday 13th we are planning a very special night, in the presence of - [Hammer Evolution – The Next Step](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/11/15/hammer-evolution-the-next-step/) - Hammer Evolution – The Next Step This club has made enormous strides in the field of diversity and opportunity in the last six years. The appointment of a Diversity Officer as a full Committee member was an indication of your committee’s intent to ensure that the club was welcoming to chess players of all backgrounds. - [The Hackney Manor Challenge](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/11/11/the-hackney-manor-challenge/) - Yes, the latest mega match saw the Hammer Heroes take on those East End mobsters, Hackney, on holy ground – “The Anvil”- aka as the Mind Sports Centre. A battle spread over 31 boards with no quarter given, in a quest for ideological supremacy – a truly West vs East encounter. Putting aside all the - [The Rise of Zain – a star is born, and he is a true Hammer](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/10/16/the-rise-of-zain-a-star-is-born-and-he-is-a-true-hammer/) - Once, in a while, something occurs that makes you stop and think – increasingly if like me you are past the 60-age barrier. Most of the time it is a Victor Meldrew moment – the “I don’t believe it” variety accompanied by a weary and exasperated expression. However, occasionally a different sort comes along, and - [El Chessico – A Norse Saga In Two Acts](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/10/16/el-chessico-a-norse-saga-in-two-acts/) - Hammers it seems we are returning to a semblance of normality, Hammer is back with club nights, Wimbledon happened, The Euros went ahead and most importantly the OTB version of El Chessico returned. Yes, the greatest club challenge chess match in the whole of the UK grabbed centre stage this October. Those best of - [The Rumble in the Jungle – The Hackney Manor Challenge](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/10/16/the-rumble-in-the-jungle-the-hackney-manor-challenge/) - The Rumble in the Jungle – The Hackney Manor Challenge Yes, the news has spread of our triumph in El Chessico and those East End hard nuts, the Hackney Manor, want a piece of the action. Those American-Cockney-East End mobsters have thrown down the gauntlet, or in their case, the knuckleduster, and challenged Hammer to - [The MindSports Centre - The Time is Now](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/12/23/the-mindsports-centre-the-time-is-now/) - John White - PR Officer of Hammersmith Chess Club and Member of the London League Chess Committee: The world has changed forever in the last six months. Every aspect of our lives has been affected and the consequences will be profound. If there is one positive to come out of this earthquake, it is the - [Special Rockhammer Rapidplay Tournament evening Monday 4th October](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/09/25/special-rockhammer-rapidplay-tournament-evening-monday-4th-october/) - JESHOOTS-com | Pixabay On Monday 4th October we are organising a special Rockhammer evening: There will be Three rounds (7:15pm, 8:15pm, 9:15pm), or fewer if anyone wants to arrive late or leave early 25+10 time control Entrants must be ECF-registered Pairings done on the night All games will count towards your ECF rapid grading and - [Hammers: Time to Get Involved](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/09/20/hammers-time-to-get-involved/) - As definitely one of the older members of the Hammer crew, that label is simultaneously scary to me as well as a source of pride. Why, may you ask? The former because it’s not the age thing for me - it is just the mileage. The latter because it tells me how far this - [El Chessico 2021 Style -Bring It On](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/09/20/el-chessico-2021-style-bring-it-on/) - Yes, those noisy neighbours are back for more. The gauntlet has been thrown down and the challenge has been accepted. The lovable frenemies of South Chelsea – Battersea (pronounced “Batt-taze- eeahhh”) are desperate to get their mittens on that fabled chess trophy….. El Chessico. For Hammer the trophy is important but the bragging rights are - [A Knight with Nosher (aka GM Nigel Short)](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/09/20/a-knight-with-nosher-aka-gm-nigel-short/) - Hammer played host to chess royalty this past Monday - Grandmaster Nigel "Nosher" Short and FIDE vice-president was our guest speaker. The man who crushed Anatoly Karpov playing brilliant chess to challenge Gary Kasparov for the World Chess Championship. The first Briton to challenge for the world title in over a century. The 1993 match - [Hammer’s Junior Hour is back](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/09/16/hammers-junior-hour-is-back/) - This week, Hammersmith Chess Club hosted not only Nigel Short, England’s most famous former chess prodigy, but also some of its own future prodigies when Junior Hour kicked off. The first evening was more of an introduction to the venue, to some of the participants, and to how we plan to conduct Junior Hour on - [This Monday: lecture by GM Nigel Short](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/09/12/this-monday-lecture-by-gm-nigel-short/) - Hi all, Unfortunately, Grandmaster Simon Williams is sick and can't make it on Monday. Though we have an exciting announcement that filling in for him will be English GM Nigel Short - who was one of the most successful chess players of the 1980s and 1990s and was still in the top 100 well into - [A New Hammer is Born – Bringing Chess into the 21 st Century](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/09/05/a-new-hammer-is-born-bringing-chess-into-the-21-st-century/) - I joined Hammersmith Chess Club some seven years ago – at the time we met at the Lytton Community Hall in West Kensington. The first night I attended there were four people playing chess – all white, aged 70 plus and it was grim. I almost decided there and then this was not the club - [Announcements: Blitz Tournament, Summer Club, and our New Venue!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/07/27/announcements-blitz-tournament-summer-club-and-our-new-venue/) - A few exciting announcements to bring you today! Summer Club at the Prince of Wales We mentioned three weeks ago that we'd be starting up again over-the-board at the Prince of Wales Townhouse. Our first night was a roaring success, with 26 players entering the tournament. https://twitter.com/hammer_chess/status/1417263471692029961?s=20 This week we hosted a bughouse tournament, which - [OTB Hammer Tournaments Are Back!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/07/22/otb-hammer-tournaments-are-back/) - During the Lockdown and social distancing period, the online format for the Hammersmith Internal Tournaments was very popular and many players were able to compete and enjoy a good game of chess. Now that the social distancing rules are being progressively lifted, Hammers will be able to play OTB internal tournament games again, and this - [The Return of OTB Chess at Hammer!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/07/15/the-return-of-otb-chess-at-hammer/) - Over the last 16 months, the global pandemic has played havoc with our lives. Some have been affected more than others, but one thing is the same for all of us: over-the-board chess has been off the menu. To some extent we are lucky that chess can be played online, but there's no doubting it - [Chess Champions of the 4 Nations!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/05/24/chess-champions-of-the-4-nations/) - Is there anything Hammersmith Can't do?!? By Christopher Skulte Hammersmith has long been a bedrock of fame, be it Hammersmith Bridge that was first designed by William Tierney Clark, opening in 1827 as the first suspension bridge crossing the River Thames, or The Dove (pub), which boasts the Guinness Book of Records as the smallest - [25th May 2021 @ 7.30pm - An Online Chat with GM Daniel King](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/05/09/25th-may-2021-7-30pm-an-online-chat-with-gm-daniel-king/) - Hammers, a real treat - Grandmaster Daniel King, totally all-round superb chap, Hammer member, and chess media star, will be Zooming exclusively with the Hammer posse. From 7.30pm on Tuesday the 25th May on the Hammer Zoom account, he will be presenting on the Kings Gambit (a reference to his DVD from last year) - - [Important Announcement - 2021 AGM](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/04/27/important-announcement-2021-agm/) - Dear Members, the club's Annual General Meeting (AGM) is approaching - this year it will be held on Monday 7th June, and with due consideration to the pandemic, will be a Zoom meeting. The Committee gives notice that the following members will stand for re-election: Chairman - Bajrush Kelmendi Treasurer - Matteo Bezzini Secretary - - [Hammer Q&A with... The Queen of Katwe!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/03/24/hammer-qa-with-the-queen-of-katwe/) - Hammers, It is an honour to welcome Phiona Mutesi, Woman Candidate Master, also known to the world as the Queen of Katwe, for a meet and greet on Saturday, 27 March, at 19:00 GMT, followed by a Q&A session. The stirring life story of Phiona has inspired the Disney movie “The Queen of Katwe”, released - [A Workshop with WIM Camelia Ciobanu](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/03/18/a-workshop-with-wim-camelia-ciobanu/) - Hammers, We are excited to inform you that WIM Camelia Ciobanu will be running a workshop for Hammersmith Chess Club members on Tuesday, 23 March, from 18:00 GMT. Camelia was awarded the first National Champion title at the age of ten. She has won multiple competitions both in Romania and abroad. Since she moved to - [Hammer Firsts Get The Triple XXX Treatment](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/02/01/hammer-firsts-get-the-triple-xxx-treatment/) - A triple dose this week - Hammer Firsts taking on the might of Wimbledon, Athenaeum and Charlton in that order. The first match was against Wimbledon - always strong and a local rivalry not only in the LL but also the Thames Valley league. The second match was against Athenaeum - a club with a - [Hammer Firsts Getting it Done in the LL Online](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/01/12/hammer-firsts-getting-it-done-in-the-ll-online/) - A double-dose this week - A pre-Christmas fixture report and one from the resumption of the league last week. After a slow start, Hammer are starting to get into their stride so a battle against league leaders Hackney, and one against one of the struggling teams - Imperial - would give a true indication of - [A Big 'Thank You' & Membership Update](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/01/08/a-big-thank-you-membership-update/) - I want to start with a bit of history - the year is 1816. It was the year without a Summer, massive crop failure, hunger, riots and rampant disease - all caused by a massive volcanic eruption on the island of Sumbawa in Indonesia that happened the previous year. It was a very, very dark - [Socially Responsible Chess](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2021/01/05/socially-responsible-chess/) - *Note: this article was written while London was in Tier 2* We live in a time where not since the Great Wars has chess been affected so, life is precious, though losing the things we love that make us human has been just as damaging to many. With the release of Queens Gambit on Netflix, - [Christmas Blitz Tournament](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/12/28/christmas-blitz-tournament/) - The Club called, and many came, members and friends, to celebrate Christmas and the end of the calendar year with an online Blitz tournament. Well, not just any Blitz, but one with simultaneous chats and video links on the club’s Zoom channel. So, it resembled as much a party of good old times. 24 participants, - [Christmas Gifts from Chess & "The Queen's Gambit"](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/12/21/christmas-gifts-from-chess-the-queens-gambit/) - Recently, Hammersmith Chess Club was contacted by a national radio station. The reporter wanted to speak with female chess players who could share their opinion on the latest Netflix mini-series, "The Queen's Gambit". The interview fell through, but with the festive season just around the corner, here are some thoughts to ponder over. Maybe we - [Hammer Firsts vs. Cavendish: Round 6 - The LL Online Open Division](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/12/07/hammer-firsts-vs-cavendish-round-6-the-ll-online-open-division/) - Yep, in this holiday season the games come thick and fast. The next Hammer challenge was Cavendish - one of the strongest clubs in London and armed with a huge history. I have to say, the last time our clubs clashed in anger was a Division 2 match in May 2019. The result a stunning - [Hammer Firsts vs. Metro-giants Round 5 - the LL Online Open Division](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/12/03/hammer-firsts-vs-metro-giants-round-5-the-ll-online-open-division/) - The latest encounter in the LL Online Open Division saw Hammer go head-to-head with Metropolitan. There are no easy games in this League. The Hammer team comprised of no holds barred fighters - in board order: Ryszard, Carsten, Jeremy and Chris (Krasen). Like last week, before I go to the match report were you able - [Hammer Firsts Vs Kings Head Bangers Round 4 – The LL Online](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/11/24/hammer-firsts-vs-kings-head-bangers-round-4-the-ll-online/) - Lord Clueless with more dispatches from the battle front of LL cyber chess world. Hammer Firsts went again last week with local rivals Kings Head in the firing line. There are no easy matches in this League. Another tough at the office. The team featured three Hammer stalwarts. Chris Skulte on Board 1, Christof on - [Christmas Comes Early at Hammer – The Dutch Match](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/11/19/christmas-comes-early-at-hammer-the-dutch-match/) - The gauntlet has been thrown down by our good friends at Espion in Amsterdam. They want to take us on in an arena tournament on the 17th December 2020. The details are being worked out but I need 20 Hammers, maximum, willing to defend our honour. Games will probably be 10 mins plus 5 second - [Hammer Firsts v. Petts Wood and Orpington: LL Online Round 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/11/14/hammer-firsts-v-petts-wood-and-orpington-ll-online-round-3/) - Lord Clueless with the third instalment of dispatches from the virtual battlefront. Hammer Firsts were again in action Wednesday last week against the force that is/was Petts Wood and Orpington (PWO). Previous PWO line-ups had shown a couple of players above 200-grade on the top boards with two very decent 150 plus players on boards - [Chess amid Covid-19: The stories no one tells: Part 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/11/04/chess-amid-covid-19-the-stories-no-one-tells-part-1/) - "Proudly serving the capital since 1886" and faced with a worrisome pandemic, the London Chess League Committee has developed a separate online competition which kicked off on Wednesday 21 October, on Tornelo. I had the chance to first meet some of my potential rivals on Tuesday 20 October, on Zoom, when FIDE Arbiter and Organiser - [Hammer Firsts vs London Terminators - Round 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/11/02/hammer-firsts-vs-london-terminators-round-2/) - Hammer Firsts went again last week against the mercenary lineup of the London Terminators. Lord Clueless presents his second report. A different lineup for the Hammer crew this week, with debuts in this league for Ryszard, Carsten and Jeremy. How would they fare? Last weeks hidden film was "Wargames" - this week a historical chess - [London League Online - Adventures in Div 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/10/28/london-league-online-adventures-in-div-2/) - As well as our first team in the Open section of the online London League, Hammer has entered two teams into the U1825 average-grade-limited division. Round 1 pitted our two teams, Hammer Hodgson and Hammer Hedger, against each other; the Hodgsons prevailing, 3-1. Twitter legend Andrew Cuff takes us through his top board clash with - [Hammer Firsts Enter the London Chess League Cyberworld](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/10/26/hammer-firsts-enter-the-london-chess-league-cyberworld/) - Yes, Lord Clueless, chief chess correspondent for "The Woodpusher's Gazette" is back! Over the next few months I will be chronicling the weekly adventures of Hammer Firsts in the inaugural Online London League competition. We are playing in the Open Division. Lord Clueless will be slipping in quotes from a particular movie in each of - [Junior Hour, Late Starters and the London System](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/10/14/junior-hour-late-starters-and-the-london-system/) - One of the ongoing features of Hammersmith Chess Club in the time of Corona is the Junior Hour. Online, that is! With the start of the new season, the online Junior Hour is open to Club Members including those who are so-called 'late starters', or to put another way 'adult improvers'. Each Tuesday, the participants - [Hammersmith Chess Club - 2020/21 Season](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/09/16/hammersmith-chess-club-2020-21-season/) - With Hammer’s Summer School having just drawn to a close, it’s time for a long overdue update about the upcoming season at Planet Hammer. Sadly coronavirus is still very much a pandemic, affecting the lives of billions worldwide. With the government’s new “rule of six” coming into force this week, and winter fast approaching, it - [Hammer goes 960!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/07/12/hammer-goes-960/) - Diversity is in the DNA of the Hammersmith Chess club, and what in chess can be more diverse than Chess960, also known as Fischer Random chess? Don’t think this is not chess. Even the FIDE has organised its first formal World Championship in Chess960 last year, and this is the only title not currently owned - [Hammer Summer Online School](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/08/04/hammer-summer-online-school/) - This year, Hammersmith Chess Club is organising a Summer Online School, for recovery from other exhausting holiday activities, for those rainy days, but mainly for a systematic improvement in the understanding of chess. Because we all want to be better and better when over-the-board chess resumes, or for any of the club’s online tournaments. The - [Sledgehammer & Rockhammer 2019 - The Results!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/07/06/sledgehammer-rockhammer-2019-the-results/) - In 2019, Hammersmith introduced two new internal tournaments, with a handicap scoring system, allowing players from all levels to compete and have fun playing ECF graded over-the-board games. At least, that was the original idea until COVID-19 struck the world, and it became challenging to play OTB chess. At that point the tournament rules were - [The Corona Diaries](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/06/17/the-corona-diaries/) - Hammersmith's Junior Hour tutor, YouTube star, and 2020 Club Personality of the Year, Christof, shares some selected highlights from his diaries over the last four months. My Corona Diaries On 25th of February, Corona shows up for the first time in my diary notes. There are worrying reports about increasing numbers of infections and deaths - [John Harold Woolley, 1946-2020](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/06/09/john-harold-wooley-1946-2020/) - Hammers - as many of you will already be aware, we sadly lost one of our own recently when long-standing player and stalwart John Woolley passed away. He will be greatly missed in the world of London Chess, having been an active player on the circuit at various clubs for many years. Fellow Hammer and - [The Hammer Relay Marathon](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/06/07/the-hammer-relay-marathon/) - Més que un chess club Being a member of Hammersmith Chess Club is not only about playing chess - there is much more to it. We have many groups of interest ranging from culinary ideas, lifestyles, philosophical discussions and much more. One of those groups is for keen runners. Hammer's runners share a WhatsApp group - [Jonnydangerous faces off against the Ginger GM](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/05/26/jonnydangerous-faces-off-against-the-ginger-gm/) - Before talking through my battle with "Ginger GM" Simon Williams, I will start by discussing my background in chess. I do this to outline how an ex-130 rated player (currently 106) might think as they work through a game in a highly uncomfortable position they have never seen before, against much higher-rated opposition. Lots of - [El Chessico - The 2020 Matrix Version](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/05/12/el-chessico-the-2020-matrix-version/) - Hammers, I must first apologise for the delay in this report - Covid-19 appears to have affected the creative bent of Lord Clueless. Am I alone or does everything seem to require so much more effort? Plus, there is so much you can report on when the match is live and OTB - online reporting - [Hammers on Youtube - The Launch!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/04/30/hammers-on-youtube-the-launch/) - We are excited to let you know that Hammersmith Chess Club now has a YouTube channel. You can find it in the navigation menu at the top of this page, as well as via the following link: Hammers on YouTube. We have already uploaded 7 videos, due to the outstanding support, great effort and ingenious - [Important Announcement - 2020 AGM](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/04/25/important-announcement-2020-agm/) - Dear Members, the club's Annual General Meeting (AGM) is approaching - this year it will be held on Monday 1st June, and with due consideration to the Covid-19 situation, will be a Zoom meeting. The Committee gives notice that the following Committee members will stand for re-election: Chairman - Bajrush Kelmendi Treasurer - Matteo Bezzini - [The Biggest Match in Club Chess](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/04/13/the-biggest-match-in-club-chess/) - The wait is over - the big day is finally upon us: El Chessico III is happening this evening! This evening will see the 3rd instalment of the Biggest Match in Club Chess, as London's two greatest clubs face off yet again over a record 38 boards! From humble beginnings in 2016, when a mere - [All v All Blitz - a poem](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/04/09/all-v-all-blitz-a-poem/) - In these strange times we'd like to share a chess-themed poem, by our very own wordsmith, Anderson Armstrong - please enjoy. All v All Blitz September in Battersea, Workers' club Tuesday, All-v-all chess, Five minutes each contest, Any age, Any gender, Parents came, Children tender, Though some parents misbehaving, With their fixture rearranging, Each assigned - [The Covid-19 Chess Diaries Pt.II - My Son, Chess, and Me](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/04/08/the-covid-19-chess-diaries-pt-ii-my-son-chess-and-me/) - A Diary from the Lockdown Vault 13th March - We were a bit worried when the school started to warn us that it may close any day, given the situation. They even sent helpful guides of how to login to Microsoft Teams - not very useful for me, a tech phobe, but Kumar seemed fine - [Hammer Online - Code of Conduct](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/04/04/hammer-online-code-of-conduct/) - Hammers - with the blossoming of our online presence, we must also acknowledge that the virtual game presents different challenges compared to the face-to-face game. Words and actions can be made with less though for your opponents - or interpreted differently; distractions are much easier to come by; and the opportunity for computer or book - [Hammer Online - Upcoming Events](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/04/03/hammer-online-upcoming-events/) - Hammers - chess continues to flourish at Hammersmith, even during these troubled times! Our online activities have expanded and we are seeing a huge take-up for the games, training and other events - it's been a fantastic response! Please ensure you join our WhatsApp group to stay up to date on the latest details - - [Chess After Brexit](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/04/01/chess-after-brexit/) - Breaking News: Hammersmith Chess Club issues invites for newly-created Yellowhammer Cup this evening Brexit is back in the news, and how! We learned about a revolutionary new idea from the ECF, which was initiated after a meeting between PM Boris Johnson and Nigel Short, Vice President of FIDE and outspoken Brexit opponent - though he - [The Covid-19 Chess Diaries - Lord Clueless Reflects](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/03/26/the-covid-19-chess-diaries-lord-clueless-reflects/) - When you reach 60 years of age, things start to stop working properly (not that!!), so you have to work harder to keep them going. The body starts to get lazy and sometimes painful - knees in particular - the powers of recovery take longer to kick in, and what was effortless previously, requires serious - [Hammer Online - Save the Dates!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/03/25/hammer-online-save-the-dates/) - Hammers - as we continue to break ground with how our club operates in these strange times, here's a quick summary and reminder of some fantastic events that are coming up. Be sure to keep an eye out for further details on the HammerTime WhatsApp group - and if you're not yet part of the - [Hammer goes Online](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/03/19/hammer-goes-online/) - With the world going into lockdown, and the club closing its doors to over-the-board play, chess is very much alive at Planet Hammer. We are moving all of our activities online, and that began with a simultaneous exhibition yesterday, from our German superstar, the one and only, Christof Brixel... Covid-19 Simul Series - Part 1 - [Coronavirus Update - Please Read](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/03/16/coronavirus-update-please-read/) - Dear members, As the UK Government has now formally moved to the 'Delay' phase of the Coronavirus Pandemic, we would like to share the following update from Hammersmith Chess Club: We regret to inform members that all face-to-face chess activity at Hammersmith Chess Club is suspended as of Monday 16th March. Teams will no longer - [Lord Clueless goes Hammering in Bunratty](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/03/11/lord-clueless-goes-hammering-in-bunratty/) - Sometimes you take a while to get round to doing stuff you want to do - life just gets in the way. That's just life. It has always been a desire of mine to enter a chess tournament and get a real idea of my chess abilities. I think you can be lucky in one-off - [Coronavirus Update from Hammersmith Chess Club](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/03/06/coronavirus-update-from-hammersmith-chess-club/) - Dear Members, As the spread of the Coronavirus continues to make headline news around the world, we wanted to confirm the position at Hammersmith Chess Club, and request that you follow some simple steps to keep yourselves and other members safe. The Club remains open, and club nights will continue as planned until further notice. - [Sledgehammer & Rockhammer Tournament Updates](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/03/04/sledgehammer-rockhammer-tournament-updates/) - Hammers! After the launch of our internal Long and Rapid-play tournaments at the start of the season - respectively named the Sledgehammer and Rockhammer tournaments - it's time to provide an update on the standings - who are the runners & riders?? The Sledgehammer Our long-play competition remains popular, with over 50 games having been - [The Lubeck Weekend](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/02/20/the-lubeck-weekend/) - "We're all going on a... Summer Chess Weekend, no more work just chess and beer for a day or two....." The Lubeck Heist Awaits: 5-7th June 2020 Yes, in times like now, these comforting, plagiarized lyrics, from the great Sir Cliff, provide some relief to the daily flood of bad news. In my mind - - [Cyclonic Win for Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/02/18/cyclonic-win-for-hammersmith-hedger/) - Our Hedger team visited Greater London Chess Club at their home in Little Russel Street near Holborn earlier this month, for our second game in 2020. As usual our friends at GLCC welcomed us very warmly and made us feel at home, maybe too much! It all started on board 2, where Nick Rutherford (aka - [Hammer Hodgson Update](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/02/17/hammer-hodgson-update/) - On Friday 31st Jan, Hammer Hodgson took on Morley College in London League Division 5. Although we managed to retain our *unbeaten* run, our perfect record of wins was ended as we barely escaped with a 2-2 draw. Reminiscent of those football matches where one team gets a player sent off in the first 5 - [Lightning Strikes Twice in London Division 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/02/11/lightning-strikes-twice-in-london-division-4/) - Quick on the heels of our victory over their 4th team, we visited Metropolitan's home venue to take on their big brother in the form of Metropolitan 3. The grades were higher but the result was the same: a 6-2 WIN for Hammer. Full scorecard below; a clean sweep of the top 4 boards, with - [From Zero to Hero...](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/02/08/from-zero-to-hero/) - 24 hours in the Chess World of Lord Clueless "Always look on the bright side of life, always look on the bright side of life..." In the week that has seen the passing of the comic genius that was Python Terry Jones, the words from the song finale at the end of "Life of Brian" - [The new ECF grades are OUT!!!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/02/04/the-new-ecf-grades-are-out/) - Chess at Hammersmith is a team game. Nonetheless, every player has their own grade based on their own games, and it would be wrong not to take some pride in these as well. These grades are currently updated by the ECF every six months, with the latest coming out last week on January 29th, and - [Removing the Monkey in London League Division 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/01/27/removing-the-monkey-in-london-league-division-4/) - Hammer 2 were recently back in action as we defeated Metropolitan 4 by a score of 6-2 in the fourth tier of the London League. The Hammer crew had been forced to wait almost 3 months for the encounter, a cruel twist of the fixture calendar meaning no games since October. The score looks comfortable - [As Promised – A Hammer goes Close](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2020/01/07/as-promised-a-hammer-goes-close/) - As promised in my report on our annual GM Keith Arkell simultaneous – I bring you the game from ultra-new Hammer, Vasil Velichkov, and GM Keith – this was the second of the draws from that superb evening. Vasil played a massively impressive game – a Nimzo-Indian variation – that had Keith deep in thought - [The Twelve Reports of Christmas – Part 8: London Minor](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/12/30/the-twelve-reports-of-christmas-part-8-london-minor/) - Hammersmith 6 is a team for developing players and future superstars. With a grading restriction of - [The Twelve Reports of Christmas – Part 7: Middlesex Second Team](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/12/28/the-twelve-reports-of-christmas-part-7-middlesex-second-team/) - As 2020 draws near, the Hammersmith 2nd team in the Middlesex League should look back positively at 2019 following a positive start to the 19/20 season. The Middlesex 2nd Division brings forward teams with a wide breadth of opposing strength. This can range from players with 200+ ECF grade to those of below 100. It - [The Twelve Reports of Christmas – Part 6: London League Second Team](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/12/27/the-twelve-reports-of-christmas-part-6-london-league-second-team/) - As captain of our second team in London Division 4, it feels slightly odd writing a mid-season review so early in our season. A strange quirk of the fixture-list has meant we’ve only played two matches so far, with the latest being a full two months’ ago! So, consider our progress thus far a mere - [The Twelve Reports of Christmas – Part 4: London League First Team](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/12/24/the-twelve-reports-of-christmas-part-4-london-league-first-team/) - As the start of our much anticipated debut season in London League Division 1 drew ever near, I was faced with the typical captain’s conundrum. How could I strengthen the team in order to give us that essential bit of extra clout at the top without alienating my team mates, or worse still, infringing Hammer’s - [The Twelve Reports of Christmas – Part 5: Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/12/25/the-twelve-reports-of-christmas-part-5-hodgson/) - Hammersmith’s 'Hodgson' team is named in honour of the late George Hodgson. George was father to current Hammer - Jeremy Hodgson, as well as the legendary attacking Grandmaster Julian Hodgson, who was a member of the club in the 70s. The team plays in the London League 'Major' division. We provide competitive club chess against - [Hammersmith Chess Club: A New Frontier](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/12/10/hammersmith-chess-club-a-new-frontier/) - Five years ago, Hammersmith chess club was facing down the shotgun barrel of certain extinction. Yet another chess club set to join the annals of history and those many chess clubs who have passed away in the last quarter of century. A website that was woeful, no social media, an ageing membership and a financial - [The Twelve Reports of Christmas – Part 3: London League Third Team](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/12/23/the-twelve-reports-of-christmas-part-3-london-league-third-team/) - Hammersmith's third team in the London League play in Division Four, aiming to provide competitive games to a large and rotating squad and to have fun at the same time. Our opponents usually range from 90-150ECF, and new members are most welcome to put their names forward. So far this season, sixteen different players have - [The Big House Chess Match](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/12/21/the-big-house-chess-match/) - In a joint initiative from both Battersea and Hammersmith chess clubs, a match was organised on Saturday 5th October inside HM Prison Wandsworth, one of the UK’s largest prisons, against the prisoners. This is a great way for us chess players to support and give back to our community. After all, isn't chess all about - [The Twelve Reports of Christmas - Part 2: Central London Juniors](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/12/19/the-twelve-reports-of-christmas-part-2-central-london-juniors/) - Five years ago, Hammersmith Chess Club had 23 members. We now have 108 members, including 23 juniors. I'm delighted to announce the first ever report from our first ever junior team, expertly captained by chess-mum extraordinaire - Ekaterina MacLeod. New to the club and Central London League, Hammersmith Junior Team has shown real gut and - [The Twelve Reports of Christmas - Part 1: Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/12/17/the-twelve-reports-of-christmas-part-1-hedger/) - The eagle-eyed among you may have noticed fewer match reports on the website this season compared to last... it's time for that to change! Captains have been busy writing bumper reports for the festive season. With 13 teams, we're in for a treat! (I'm pessimistically expecting only 12 reports) So sit down beside the fireplace, - [GM Keith "Hammer" Arkell](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/12/12/gm-keith-hammer-arkell/) - Plagiarism has a long ignoble history in chess, stretching from hundreds of years ago to the modern day. So, I feel no shame in utilising the timeless genius of Jane Austen and paraphrase her with the following quote: “I rejoice in the superiority of our connections” Hammer is fortunate to have Grandmaster Keith Arkell as - [Hammer 2020 – the Lubeck Heist](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/11/29/hammer-2020-the-lubeck-heist/) - There is a tradition in British advertising that up to the 25th December the consumer is bombarded with a stream of potential gifts for Christmas. Come Boxing Day the theme changes and suddenly sale information and next year’s summer holiday adverts take over. For the next two weeks you cannot avoid the inevitable deluge of - [A Hammer in Bavaria](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/11/25/a-hammer-in-bavaria/) - I'm sure everyone remembers Christof's debut article for Hammer - an account from the East Devon Congress - his first over the board chess tournament for nearly half a century! Since then Christof has established himself as a Hammer legend - junior coach, Sledgehammer leader, and general top guy. At the end of October he - [It Must Be Christmas](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/11/21/it-must-be-christmas/) - I start with a disappointing announcement that El Chessico is being delayed and will not take place on the 4th December. Due to various factors, Aldo and I have taken the decision to postpone the match until the New Year. Christmas fortunately is not postponed. It will still take part on a Wednesday night and - [Puzzle of the Week #31](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/11/13/puzzle-of-the-week-31/) - Our last puzzle was from a sub-genre in the field of chess compositions. It is a help mate, that means Black does not always make the perfect move but assists in the mating sequence. The correct sequence was: 19.Nxe6! Qxe6 20.Rxd5+ Qxd5 21.Nxd5 Rag8 22.Rd1 Nf8 23.Nb6+ Kc7 24.Na8+! Kb8 25.Qe8+ Bd8 26.Rxd8# with all - [The French Simultaneous - Exclusive to Hammer Members](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/10/22/the-french-simultaneous-exclusive-to-hammer-members/) - Do you have what it takes to take on the full T Bone, served with french onions, cooked rare and with a rich Bearnaise sauce in full mortal chess combat? If the answer is yes then read on…. Thomas, full blown Hammer hero, French to the core, a man with a mere 201 ECF rating - [El Chessico – 2019 Edition](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/10/16/el-chessico-2019-edition/) - As all our members know, both the new and old, the greatest rivalry our club has is with Battersea Chess Club – affectionally or disrespectfully know as the "Noisy Neighbours". In the past three years we have held three challenge matches - Hammersmith has emerged victorious on each occasion. This has given us severe bragging - [The Rockhammer is born!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/10/14/the-rockhammer-is-born/) - Last summer we launched the Sledgehammer internal tournament to create plenty of opportunities for Hammers to play internal graded slow games. We also have regular rounds of internal blitz tournaments counting towards a blitz title over the year. Something needed to be done in internal rapidplay land, and therefore we have decided to create Sledgehammer's - [And we're off!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/10/12/and-were-off/) - The chess season is well and truly underway! We have three reports for you, courtesy of PR Officer John White. Round One of the Hammer Blitz Tourney Cycle Yes the opening round of our blitz cycle took place this past Monday at the Anvil. This is one of the most awaited events of the club - [Diversity at Hammersmith - a Homage](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/09/28/diversity-at-hammersmith-a-homage/) - Hammersmith has strength in diversity, and we draw our members from well over 20 countries, reflecting the rich, multicultural city in which we're based. One of our new members, Christof, has not only brought some superb chess to our club, but also a love of diversity. He's penned a wonderful homage to our multinational membership, - [Tooling Up for an Assault on London Div 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/09/20/tooling-up-for-an-assault-on-london-div-1/) - It only seems like yesterday that we won promotion to the top flight of the London League for the first time in our club's history - we now take our place alongside the great teams of the city in Division 1 for the 2019-20 season. However, Hammersmith Chess Club does not stand still! We could - [New Horizons - Hammer Junior Hour Starts @ 6pm, 30th September!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/09/17/new-horizons-hammer-junior-hour-starts-6pm-30th-september/) - First, a quick bit of history - when Hammersmith Chess Club was inaugurated in 1962, a thriving junior section was seen as key to the new club's success. This was duly implemented and paid huge dividends - a certain 4-time British Champion GM Julian Hodgson began his chess journey at Hammersmith. However, over time the - [The New Season Awaits...](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/09/08/the-new-season-awaits/) - Hammers - it's almost time! The opening fixture of the new season awaits us this coming week, as our new Central London League team takes on the mighty Streatham & Brixton. Brace yourselves - there's an awful lot of chess coming up over the next few weeks & months! With the exception of our three - [Return to Lytton Hall & Membership Fees](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/08/30/return-to-lytton-hall-membership-fees/) - Hammers, Our return to Lytton Hall is nigh - 16th September - and the start of the 2019-20 chess league season follows shortly afterwards - an exciting nine months await. Fixtures will shortly be added to our Calendar. This is going to be one of the most momentous seasons in the 57 years of Hammersmith - [The Epsom Double-Header](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/08/14/the-epsom-double-header/) - A couple of months ago Andy, aka Spider, brought to my attention the activity of the resurrected Epsom Chess Club, under the dynamic leadership of Marcus and Ravi they were making all the moves in all the right directions. They were a club setting out to do things the right way. An email conversation took - [Bunratty & Dunkirk in 2020!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/08/06/bunratty-dunkirk-in-2020/) - The Bunratty Chess Challenge 2020 My fellow Hammers, I am putting this out early. As you know, the club has purchased as a thank-you gift to our retired secretary Mike Mackenzie, a week in Ireland and participation in the Bunratty Chess festival. I am writing this piece to implore all of you (I am an - [The Hammer Crew Does Wroclaw - a Classic Tale of a Silesian Vendetta](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/08/03/the-hammer-crew-does-wroclaw-a-classic-tale-of-a-silesian-vendetta/) - [Authors note - any resemblance to real people or actual events in this report is purely coincidental] Yes, with the regular chess season done and dusted, Hammer took to the road again. The 2019 road trip destination was the beautiful Polish town of Wroclaw, in Silesia. This is one of the highlights of the year, - [Puzzle of the Week #030](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/07/24/puzzle-of-the-week-030/) - Our last puzzle generated a record number of comments and debate - ranging from "impossible" right through to GM Jon Speelman immediately identifying the match, year, and opponents, whilst sportingly not posting the spoiler! Props go to Adam Cranston this time - correctly figuring out this fiendishly tricky puzzle with the extremely non-intuitive 1.Kc8!! Line - [The Epsom Challenge & Summer Updates!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/06/22/the-epsom-challenge-summer-updates/) - Hammers - with all regular league fixtures now complete, and the Summer Chess League well under way, attention once again turns to our Summer activities. We're delighted to announce some additional events at the Albion this year, with no fewer than THREE training lectures being added to the programme. First up on 1st July will - [Puzzle of the Week #029](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/07/03/puzzle-of-the-week-029/) - 'Weekly' puzzle? No problem - here we go again... Our last instalment was way back in March(!!). Yes, we have been slack - apologies!!! Adam Cranston takes the plaudits there, picking the correct line to follow (Rg3!!), after 2. hxg3, Qe4, mate becomes unavoidable. To our next puzzle - White to move and save him/herself: - [Introducing... The Sledgehammer](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/06/14/introducing-the-sledgehammer/) - Hammers, We are pleased to announce the start of our brand new, Hammersmith Chess Club, season-long, internal long-play competition.... the Sledgehammer Tournament! This is a quick-start guide for you to understand how it works, how to register, and start playing! Send an email to sledgehammer@clubmember.org to register. We will send you an updated contact list - [Summer at Planet Hammer!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/06/10/summer-at-planet-hammer/) - Summer is finally here! At Hammer this means two things - The Summer Chess League and the Hammersmith Summer Programme. Summer Chess League The Summer Chess League is a joint venture between us and Battersea Chess Club. It's now into its third year, and promises to be bigger and better than ever before! It will - [Hammer and the Holy Grail pt. II](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/06/01/hammer-and-the-holy-grail-pt-ii/) - 29.05.19 – London League Division 2: Hammersmith vs. Dulwich Act 2 Had Hammer found the secret code? And if so, would it help or hinder them? Or had Met's omertà code held firm? Were many individuals really as ignorant as they professed? Most importantly, does the reader care? To add further intrigue, the Dulwich captain - [Hammer and the Holy Grail pt. I](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/05/31/hammer-and-the-holy-grail-pt-i/) - 29.05.19 - London League Division 2: Hammersmith vs. Dulwich Taking the liberty of mis-quoting a verse from one of my favourite old hippy songs: "Following our fortune now the holy grail is found, And the holy bread of div one it is given all around, Farewell sorrow, praise god the open door, We ain't got - [A Night with the King](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/05/29/a-night-with-the-king/) - Clueless must first of all offer a fulsome apology for the tardiness in the late publishing of this article - simply work, family and chess commitments proved insurmountable barriers. At the tale-end of April, Hammer members enjoyed the wit and wisdom of a chess talk from GM Danny King - author, media star, damn good - [June 3rd - AGM & Final Blitz Night of the Season!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/05/24/june-3rd-agm-final-blitz-night-of-the-season/) - Hammers - your attention please! Monday 3rd June sees our Annual General Meeting, where we will discuss all things club-related, as well as vote on Officers and a number of proposals from the Committee. Full details of all that can be found here, and the minutes from last year's AGM are available on the noticeboard - [Special Offer - DGT Centaur Chess Computer!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/05/22/special-offer-dgt-centaur-chess-computer/) - Here at Hammer, we've been sponsored by London's premier supplier of chess equipment - Chess & Bridge shop - since 2016. As part of our successful relationship, they also provide Hammers with details of special offers from time-to-time, and this one is particularly brilliant.... The New DGT Centaur Chess Computer - Pre-Order and Save £26! - [One of the Best](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/05/17/one-of-the-best/) - 2019 marks another successful year at Hammersmith, as we celebrate a first Division 1 League title in the Thames Valley, and a likely couple of promotions in other leagues to follow. It also marks the 54th Season with the Club for our esteemed Club Secretary, Mike Mackenzie. Many of you will know Mike as the - [The Champions!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/05/11/the-champions/) - Yes, my fellow Hammerites, your eyes do not deceive you - Hammer has won its first Division 1 title in its 57th year. It has been a long wait, but boy is it worth it! Cue "We are the Champions" by Queen, copious amounts of fizz and congratulations all round! Under the superb captaincy of - [Charity Begins at... Lyric Square, this weekend!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/05/09/charity-begins-at-lyric-square-this-weekend/) - The 3rd Annual Hammersmith MIND Charity Day - Saturday 11th May 2019 As the football (and chess!) seasons draw to an exciting end, it's time again for the annual Hammersmith Chess Club charity jamboree in Lyric Square - where HCC takes chess to the public, in association with Hammersmith & Fulham MIND, to raise awareness - [No-Holds-Bared](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/05/05/no-holds-bared/) - 30.04.19 - Thames Valley Division 3: Hammersmith vs. Ealing Another no-holds-bared encounter in the Valley - read on... Welcome to two newcomers - Jack Esiri, and John McDonagh. Jack, a junior, comes here from Richmond Juniors and has a solid ECF A grading. John plays like a veteran and I rate him e115, especially when - [Hammer B v Kingston B](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/04/30/hammer-b-v-kingston-b/) - 23.04.19: Thames Valley League Division 3 - Hammer v Kingston This match was Kingston's return grudge match, and for a while I thought we could win it. It was truly no-holds-barred contest, and both protagonists walked off the field wounded, but still alive, with thumbs up from noble Caissa, and standing spectators! No draws in - [May is Women's Chess Month at Hammersmith](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/04/27/may-is-womens-chess-month-at-hammersmith/) - Yes, starting 7th May 2019, Hammersmith Chess Club will be running events tailored for women, aimed at beginners and intermediate players, seeking to encourage woman to participate in the game we all love! The initiative is a first for Hammersmith and is a demonstration of our drive to become the club of choice for women - [Important Announcement to Hammersmith Chess Club Members - Club AGM](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/04/22/important-announcement-to-hammersmith-chess-club-members-club-agm/) - Dear Members, the Club's Annual General Meeting (AGM) is rapidly approaching - this year it will be on Monday 3rd June at Lytton Hall. As is usual, the Club's Committee recently met to discuss the usual club business and agree Motions for debate and voting on at the Meeting in June. The following 2 Motions have - [April Updates from Planet Hammer](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/04/13/april-updates-from-planet-hammer/) - Welcome dear readers - it's been a while! Please read on for a slew of match updates, and the conclusion of this Season's Hammersmith League! The North London Trilogy - March 2019 - Disaster and Foundation This is a painful report that has been delayed by your correspondent as it was truly a case of - [Heaven & Hell in London Division 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/04/07/heaven-hell-in-london-division-4/) - Emerging from a truly - and I'll have to watch my language here - "disappointing" defeat against Kings Head in round 9, Hammer 2 had a great opportunity to put things right again as we faced up to a quick fire double-header against Wanstead & Woodford and then Metropolitan 4. Fortunately all is well with - [Eventful at Hammersmith](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/03/30/eventful-at-hammersmith/) - Hammers - an update on some upcoming events & a match report from one of our Reporters of the Year! Read on... The Grandmaster Danny King Evening -29th April 2019 Yes, the next blockbuster event, brought to you by 21st Century Hammer Chess Productions is an evening with GM Danny King - chess player, media - [The Future of Club Nights](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/03/23/the-future-of-club-nights/) - Attention Hammers - we need your input! As the club continues to grow, we will be hiring Lytton Hall on Monday AND Tuesday evenings next season. This is being done to ensure we can dedicate one evening to home matches - allowing players a quiet, calm atmosphere in which to play their games; and one - [R-Ealing from a Hammer Blow](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/03/20/r-ealing-from-a-hammer-blow/) - Yes, stretching the fabric of acceptable punnage, we present here a recent match report from debut-correspondent, Kostis. Enjoy! 18.03.19 - Middlesex League: Hammersmith vs. Ealing With four games to go in the Middlesex League and being at the top of the scoreboard, two points ahead of Willesden & Brent, the Hammers arrived at the Actonians - [A Blue Monday](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/03/17/a-blue-monday/) - First up, a couple of reminders for you - Monday 18th (tomorrow!) marks the first of our FREE beginner lessons at the club, starting at 6pm. ECF registered trainer and Hammer legend, Tony Niccoli, will be hosting the session. It is 100% totally FREE, generously supported by the Chelsea FC Foundation, and is aimed at - [East Devon 44th Congress - or my chess rebirth after 44 years](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/03/13/east-devon-44th-congress-or-my-chess-rebirth-after-44-years/) - Christof B., new Hammer member, gives an account of his first over the board chess tournament for nearly half a century. This is a fascinating article with a great outcome. In his own words, read Christof's modern chess odyssey. With the Brexit date decided a year ago (I mean my personal Brexit, my last working - [A Hat-trick of Reports](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/03/10/a-hat-trick-of-reports/) - Can Hammer 1 continue their quest for an unlikely promotion to the top table of London League Chess?? And will the Middlesex and TV teams manage to turn their seasons around?? Read on to find out... London League Division 2 Middlesex Division 2 Thames Valley Division 2 27.02.19 - London League Division 2: Hammersmith vs. - [Hammersmith Chess Club in the Community](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/03/08/hammersmith-chess-club-in-the-community/) - One of the major drivers in the success and transformation of Hammersmith Chess Club has been its willingness to engage with the Hammersmith community and use chess to promote something positive in Hammersmith - it is enshrined in our constitution. With that in MIND (subtle pun), the club is pleased to announce one new and - [Puzzle of the Week #028](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/03/06/puzzle-of-the-week-028/) - It was back in January that we presented our last puzzle. As is the way, Charlie was in there first, but he didn't get the right solution this time. Plaudits go to Jon S, with the following line: 1...Bxe3! (Bxc3??, Nxd5 Kxd5, gxh4= as black has the wrong bishop) 2. Kxe3, g4! 3. gxh4, gxh3 - [The Hammer Blitz!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/02/26/the-hammer-blitz/) - A couple of thronking reports from the London League follow, but first up a reminder of Round II of our club Blitz Tourney! 4th March - Blitz Tourney, Round II Yes, it only seems like yesterday that we had our inaugural Christmas round of the Blitz tournament, but Round II is already now upon us. - [Livin' on a Prayer](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/02/19/livin-on-a-prayer/) - A bumper update awaits - with the latest from across the club this week, including: A mid-season update on our Sister club the Celtic Tigers, a match report from the Middlesex League against our West London rivals.... West London, and the latest round of the Hammersmith RapidPlay League! Celtic Tigers: Half way there, and livin' - [The Hammer of Love](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/02/17/the-hammer-of-love/) - Hammersmith's 2017 Reporter of the Year, and Thames Valley captain, Robin Lee, takes us through last week's away trip to the outer-reaches of West London, followed by the latest dispatches from the Middlesex 2 battle front, courtesy of 2018's Reporter of the Year, John White. All rounded off with some details of this year's Czech - [Solid as a Hammer](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/02/14/solid-as-a-hammer/) - The combined might of Hammer has been experiencing something of a collective Purple Patch this last couple of weeks. Read on to find out about some more cracking results: London 2 vs. Kings Head London 4 vs. UCL Week 3 of the Hammersmith Rapid League 06.02.10 - London League 2: King's Head vs. Hammersmith Although on - [The Best of Frenemies](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/02/09/the-best-of-frenemies/) - 05.02.19 - London League 4: Battersea vs. Hammersmith The sixth round of action within London Division 4 pitted Hammer 2 against old frenemies Battersea. You know the drill: call them out on Twitter for anything, but still enjoy supping their cheap beer. Well it wasn't to be this time. After a fiercely contested battle, we - [The Hammer-Celtic Tigers Raffle](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/01/02/the-hammer-celtic-tigers-raffle/) - Amazing Prizes to be Won! Yes, another first for Hammer members and a great way to help raise monies for the club, and our 4NCL affiliated sister club, the Celtic Tigers, and possibly bag yourself a top chess prize.... presenting, the Hammer & Celtic Tigers Raffle! There are plenty of prizes available - a positive - [The Hammersmith League 2019 - Round II](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/02/06/the-hammersmith-league-2019-round-ii/) - Round II happened at Mother Anvil this past Tuesday. There were big questions in the air. Could Hammer get back on track against the Crazy Gang?? Could the Lions overcome our frenemies at Battersea?? Would the Tigers have their wings clipped by the Hackney Posse?? The answers would be forthcoming... In contrast to Round I, - [A Theresa May of a Fortnight](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/02/03/a-theresa-may-of-a-fortnight/) - Read on for a January update from the Middlesex Division 2 team, followed by a super writeup on our top team in London Division 2, with bonus games to play through - very worth your while. We also have the February pairings for our Rapidplay competition, and a few friendly reminders of some upcoming events! - [When Will I, Will I Be Famous?](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/02/01/when-will-i-will-i-be-famous/) - We can answer that! Yes, in some very exciting news Hammersmith Chess Club has been contacted by a production company who are working with Channel 5 in the UK, and are seeking some willing participants to take part in filming for a documentary focused on bridging the generational divide. Interested? Then read on... The show - [Puzzle of the Week #027](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/01/30/puzzle-of-the-week-027/) - Plus Bonus Match Report from London 4! Our last Puzzle was almost a month ago, but fear not - props to Kostis for spotting the correct line: 1.Bb5!! (threatens Ne5# and Be8+, Kf8 Bg6#), Nc6 2.Ne5+, Nxe5 3.Be8+, Kf8 4.Bg6 Down to business this week - Black to move and win. Answers in the comments - [The Chess-Up in a Brewery](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/01/28/the-chess-up-in-a-brewery/) - Yes, Hammer and our frenemies Battersea renewed their rivalry by boldly taking our brilliant sport to places it has never been before. Saturday saw the inaugural event of a Chess-Up in a Brewery. Some said it couldn't be arranged, and it was a tough ask for members who had committed to a dry January, and - [Match Reports, Swashbuckling Chess & ECF Grades](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/01/24/match-reports-swashbuckling-chess-ecf-grades/) - Read on for a draw snatched from the jaws of defeat, some truly swashbuckling chess, a classic writeup from our Reporter of the Year, and details of the January 2019 ECF grades! 15.01.19 - London League 4: DHSS v Hammersmith Hammer 2 were forced to walk on a knife edge to secure the 4-4 DRAW - [Saturday 26th - Sambrook's! & Much more](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/01/22/saturday-26th-sambrooks-much-more/) - El Chess Up in a Brewery - it's on! This Saturday 26th, Hammersmith will be taking on local upstarts Battersea, in a Rapidplay tournament at the home of Wandle, Sambrook's Brewery! Starting at 1pm sharp, and running all afternoon (until roughly 5pm), we'll be in the taproom at their Brewery on Yelverton Road, SW11 3QG - [Hammer Goes Global!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/01/16/hammer-goes-global/) - A couple of recent match reports follow, but first up some exciting news from chess-site.com: Hammer Joins the Global Elite of Chess Clubs In a sign of our increasing reach, and a digital 'pat on the back' for our ongoing efforts to improve the club, I'm pleased to report that Hammersmith has been added to - [A Bumper Week](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/01/12/a-bumper-week/) - It's only the 12th of January, but already we have loads of things to update you all on - read on for a taste of what's coming up, featuring foreign travel, breweries, more competitions, and a couple of GM's paying us a visit in the next few months... Poland trip In case it's escaped your - [Chess-Up in a Brewery!!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/01/10/chess-up-in-a-brewery/) - The Hammer vs Battersea Sambrook's Club Challenge! The world's first "Chess-Up in a Brewery"! There are three absolute truths in our corner of the chess world in early 2019: The Noisy Neighbours, Battersea, are still smarting from the El Chessico encounter two months ago, and are thirsting for revenge. The indisputable thirst that chess players - [Hammer Goes East! Poland Beckons in 2019](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2019/01/06/hammer-goes-east-poland-beckons-in-2019/) - 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 - [2018-19 Rapidplay: Round III](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/12/27/2018-19-rapidplay-round-iii/) - Festive greetings to you all! And thanks to everyone for getting your games played in time for Round II of the Rapidplay Competition. Congratulations go to Andy on this occasion, who scored the only upset of the round! With only four players left on 2/2, round three pits the leaders against each other. Four players - [A Hammer's Tale at the London Chess Classic](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/12/20/a-hammers-tale-at-the-london-chess-classic/) - Ryszard, aka "Breslau", took part in the Weekend Open this year at Olympia. Here, in his own words, is the tale of his journey. Spoiler alert - he got joint-first place and should have won - he deserved it!! The first round was on Friday evening. I got to Olympia early straight after work and - [A Middlesex Mullering](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/12/17/a-middlesex-mullering/) - Christmas Bust-Up at The Anvil - The Muswell Hill Gang ran out of the Wild West of London The Muswell Hill gang mounted a daring raid on Mother Anvil last week, and were met with Fire and Hammer. Yes, the Middlesex Division 2 circus was back on the road last night with a round 3 - [The Action Keeps Coming](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/12/12/the-action-keeps-coming/) - Hammer Major in London Division 5 Question: Are Hammer suffering from an Arsenal, Wenger-variation, December fall-off in form? It has been a tough month so far - particularly this last week. So, could the Major team reverse the trend? A good result last week for the Hammer squad in Division 5, with a 2.5-1.5 win - [The Christmas Blitz!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/12/07/the-christmas-blitz/) - The Big Hammer Question This Weekend - What is the most important date in December? Yes, the intellectual bar has been set pretty high, but for true Hammers the answer is the 17th December. Why, you may ask? It is the last club evening of another momentous year for Hammer Chess. The Hammer Blitz tourney - [Dispatches from the Battlefront - Middlesex Division 2 Sector](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/12/05/dispatches-from-the-battlefront-middlesex-division-2-sector/) - Unquestionably, in my mind, the greatest musical genius to come out of 8 Mile Detroit is one Marshall Mathers, aka Eminem - in 2002 he released the album "The Eminem Show", his fourth studio album. One of the tracks was "Without Me" and in homage I start this report with a verse from that song - [Puzzle of the Week #026](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/12/04/puzzle-of-the-week-026/) - We're back - and straight to business. Paul "Dead Eye" Kennelly takes the plaudits for last time with the following sequence: 1. Bg4+ Kd6 2.Bxe5+ Kxe5 3. Qb2+ Kd6 4. Qh2 Kc5 5. Qc7 and mate. An interesting game from the 2016 Baku Olympiad, Indij v Cruz. On to this week's offering, where White has - [Good Times in Middlesex](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/11/29/good-times-in-middlesex/) - As the World Championship concluded with a result, finally... we bring you some recent games from Hammer members to enjoy. First up, a gruelling game from Brian which swings up and down, ultimately ending in a fair draw: This was from a game in Middlesex Division 3, against Ealing, on Tuesday night. The match ended - [Reality Check](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/11/28/reality-check/) - 22.11.18 - London League Division 2: Hammersmith v Imperial College Our LL First Team suffered its first setback of the season at Imperial College last Thursday evening. There's no denying that it was a disappointing result, and something of a Reality Check regarding our prospects for the season. Nonetheless it was always going to be - [Hot off the Press!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/11/27/hot-off-the-press/) - 26.11.18: Thames Valley Division 1 - Wimbledon v Hammersmith A fabulous result from last night - too good not to share immediately! In the top tier of the Thames Valley setup, the mighty Hammer took on stalwarts and long-time "team to beat", Wimbledon A in a highly-charged match down in SW19. Putting down a marker as - [Christmas in the Middlesex League](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/11/23/christmas-in-the-middlesex-league/) - 19.11.18 - Middlesex Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs. Metropolitan On Monday the season got underway for the second team in the Middlesex League. This year we're competing in division 2, having been promoted from a very competitive division 3 last season. Our first opponents at the Anvil were Metropolitan, an established club from the city - [Momentous Times](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/11/15/momentous-times/) - First up, a very exciting update on the recent British Bangla Rapidplay tournament, followed by some truly momentous news from the Thames Valley Division. This report is definitely worth a full read! Please enjoy... A Chairman's Performance A trio of Hammers took part in the recent BBCA Rapidplay on 11th November, and the results were - [El Chessico Book II - The Fall of Troy](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/11/13/el-chessico-book-ii-the-fall-of-troy/) - A Modern Reversal of Fortune (with Apologies to Battersea) Like all good ripping yarns there is a huge amount of author's license in this sorry, but heroic, tale. The tale began when the warlike kingdom of Batter, lead by their Great King Aldo Menelaus and arch-conspirator General Leon Agamemnon, challenged the peaceful but drunken kingdom - [London Division 2: Hammer v Hackney](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/11/11/london-division-2-hammer-v-hackney/) - 07.11.18 - London League Division 2: Hammersmith v Hackney Our second match of the season, versus Hackney 2 last Wednesday evening at the Citadines, ended in a convincing 7-3 victory. However, as is often the case, the win was not quite as comfortable as the final scoreline suggest. On paper, a comfortable grading advantage of - [The World Chess Championship](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/11/08/the-world-chess-championship/) - Carlsen vs Caruana: 9th-29th November 2018 Can't get a ticket, or visiting central London? Why not watch the LIVE online coverage for FREE with other chess fans and enthusiasts at Chess & Bridge shop! Yes, our website sponsors will be showing the official LIVE stream throughout the event at their central London store on Baker - [El Chessico - Pt. II - Tuesday 6th November](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/11/05/el-chessico-pt-ii-tuesday-6th-november/) - Roll up, Roll up! The big day is almost upon us... Forget about Christmas - El Chessico pt. II is the only thing people are talking about this month, and it all kicks off tomorrow evening. Three years of rivalry, grudges, scores-to-be-settled, oh and some friendship in there too - we're putting it all on the - [October Updates from the Hammer-House!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/10/31/october-updates-from-the-hammer-house/) - As our first full month of the 2018-19 season draws to a close, we've re-capped all our October results and activities for you to review. It's been an amazing start so far ,with 8 Wins, 1 Draw, and 3 Losses, plus our Hammer Derby in London Division 4. Enjoy! Match Results 1st October - London Div - [Back With a Bang in London Division 2!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/10/30/back-with-a-bang-in-london-division-2/) - 24.10.18 - London Division 2: Hammersmith vs. East Ham Hammersmith's keenly anticipated London League Division 2 odyssey got off to an encouraging start with a comfortable 7.5-2.5 win over East Ham. Every member of the team looked focused and played with great determination to squeeze the maximum from every move. In the end our greater - [A Hat-trick of Wins](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/10/29/a-hat-trick-of-wins/) - October has been a rip-roaring start to the Season at Hammersmith. We follow with a bunch of write-ups, reporting some fantastic results for the club - read on! 24.10.18 - London Division 5: Lewisham v Hammersmith Despite being out graded on 3 of the 4 boards, Hammer managed a brilliant 2.5-1.5 win: Dipender was the - [Puzzle of the Week #025](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/10/25/puzzle-of-the-week-025/) - A delectable puzzle for us last time, courtesy of Oxford student Hou Yifan vs. Jackson, Isle of Man 2016. Our very own Mr Dipenderble was straight in there with the correct solution, so congratulations to him! To this week's puzzle, and it is a tough cookie. White to move, answers in the comments please... - [British Bangla RapidPlay & Other Updates](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/10/23/british-bangla-rapidplay-other-updates/) - The Annual British Bangla Chess Association FIDE Rapidplay is coming up - and as always there are some serious cash prizes up for grabs, with a side dish of Biryani! It's been a great tournament the last few years, and the BBCA are terrific hosts & very welcoming - and terrific competitors too, as we - [Rock the Citadines](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/10/18/rock-the-citadines/) - 10.10.18 - London Division 4: Hammersmith 2 v Lewisham Hammersmith Deux's second match in London Division 4 pitched us against Lewisham, an opportunity to try and score a repeat of our most impressive performance from last season as we took down the big dogs from Sarf-East London. Once again, they wheeled out their big hitters - [Rapidplay - Round One, plus... Simul Evening!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/10/17/rapidplay-round-one-plus-simul-evening/) - The 2018-19 Hammersmith Internal Rapidplay Tournament has begun! 20 brave souls have thrown their hats into the ring for the opportunity to win this prestigious annual event. As with last year there are 4 sections, so plenty of opportunity for everyone to bag some glory, regardless of playing strength. We'll be running updates every month - [The Hammer 2019 Christmas Party - 6th December 2018](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/10/13/the-hammer-2019-christmas-party-6th-december-2018/) - Yes, the dread C-word has entered the Hammer lexicon and orbit. For once, I am not talking about chess, but the one associated with mulled wine, over-indulgence and presents. In the immortal words of Noddy Holder.... it's Christmas!!! The restaurant and bar area has been booked - and all Hammer members are invited, as are - [Hammer vs Hammer in London Division 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/10/10/hammer-vs-hammer-in-london-division-4/) - Some things just shouldn't happen. Like ketchup on a good steak, or denim on denim. Another of those things is Hammer turning on Hammer in an unholy match-up. Still, rules are rules and our two sides in London League Division 4 were pitted against each other to kickoff the 2018-19 season. It was a well - [Hammer Internal Rapidplay Tournament 2018-19](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/10/08/hammer-internal-rapidplay-tournament-2018-19/) - Register by 13th October to Guarantee Your Place! The Hammer Internal Rapidplay Tournament is back! Last year's tournament was a great success, and we hope to build on it this season. With a score of 7.5/8, our chairman Bajrush was last year's clear winner in the Open section, and he took home the trophy. Grading - [El Chessico - la segunda parte, 6th November](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/10/05/el-chessico-la-segunda-parte-6th-november/) - The gauntlet has been thrown down, and Hammer have answered. Just over two years ago the noisy neighbours - Battersea Chess Club - challenged Hammer to a mass-board match. The first "El Chessico" match was on, and the ranks of Hammer were mustered. Naturally, Hammer won the first match played in SW11 and drew the - [Hammersmith Chess Club & Diversity](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/10/03/hammersmith-chess-club-diversity/) - We need your help! The world of English chess has long been a bastion of predominantly white men, mostly above a certain age... and Hammersmith Chess Club is no different. Recognising this fact is the easy part - doing something about it is the challenge. At our recent Committee meeting, the club made a firm commitment - [Puzzle of the Week #024](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/10/02/puzzle-of-the-week-024/) - Welcome back, and we're straight down to business again. Last week's puzzle generated a load of interest- quite a thronker, it's fair to say. But it's big Jim "loco" Stevenson who takes the plaudits this time, with the following sequence: ... Rf1+! Rxf1, Rxd1+ Kxd1, Kxf1 - and the pawn ending is won for black, - [Cappelle la Grande, via Kings Head](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/09/29/cappelle-la-grande-via-kings-head/) - The small town of Cappelle-la-Grande, located in the far North-East corner of Normandy, is home to a surprisingly large & popular annual chess tournament, The Cappelle International Open. It's no small feat, with up to 750 players getting their game on in the cultured surroundings of the Palais des Arts. With such a strong connection - [First Blood](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/09/26/first-blood/) - No, we're not talking about legendary lone warrior John Rambo - it is of course our opening fixture of the 2018/19 season. Read on for a plot almost as thrilling... 24.09.18 - Middlesex Division 3: Hammer 4 vs. Hammer 3 Sparks were set to fly in our opening match-up as Hammer were pitted against Hammer, - [Puzzle of the Week #023](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/09/21/puzzle-of-the-week-023/) - It's been a couple of weeks, so here we go again! Dipender takes the prize for last week's puzzle, with his second bite at the cherry - well done Dipender! Taken from a match in 1976, the finish was produced by 15yr old prodigy, Maia Chiburdanidze, on her way to becoming world champion. To this - [2018-19 Fixtures are OUT!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/09/19/2018-19-fixtures-are-out/) - With 11 teams to cater for this season, it has been no mean feat, but we have now finalised our fixtures for the coming season! You can check out all the details on our calendar: http://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/ It all kicks off on September 24th at the home of chess (aka Lytton Hall), with our two teams - [The Return to Lytton Hall](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/09/12/the-return-to-lytton-hall/) - It's been a fabulous Summer - amazing weather, a packed calendar of Summer League chess, plus our own Summer Programme (tip of the hat to Mr Cranston for organising such a feast of activities!), but all good things must come to an end. As of this coming Monday 17th September, we say farewell to our Summer - [Coffee House Chess with IM Mike Basman - 4th Sep!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/09/03/coffee-house-chess-with-im-mike-basman-4th-sep/) - A last-minute shout for an interesting evening of chess kicking off tomorrow at Battersea Chess Club! IM Mike Basman is hosting an evening discussing openings - four maverick ways to start your game as follows: King's Gambit Accepted: Basman Gambit (1.e4 e5 2.f4 exf4 3. Qe2) Sicilan Defence: Paulsen-Basman Defence (1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 e6 3.d4 - [The Cork Chess Congress, and FIDE World Championship Visit](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/08/28/the-cork-chess-congress-and-fide-world-championship-visit/) - Hammerites! We're pleased to share details of some upcoming events which may be of interest to you all - keep on reading... 2018 Cork Congress Our good friends over in Cork have announced details of their 2018 Congress. It's a fantastic annual tournament, split into grade-limited sections, with an amazing €3,000 in prize money! Got - [The Last Night of the Summer League](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/08/18/the-last-night-of-the-summer-league/) - A special Prize-Giving night for the Summer League will be held on Tuesday the 28th August at Battersea Chess Club - and you are all invited! Various trophies will be presented to the winning teams, but more importantly - the ceremony will be followed by a mass (free) blitz tourney! It's going to be epic!! - [Puzzle of the Week #022](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/08/16/puzzle-of-the-week-022/) - Our last puzzle proved a bit of a thronker, with only one real solution proffered by the mighty Hammer faithful. It's Adam "Pickle" Cranson who takes the plaudits - congratulations! - with the following line: Nc6! Qc7 2. Re7!! - Winning the Queen for Rook & Bishop, with an easily won position. This was from a game - [The Hammer Summer Chess Pub Crawl 2018](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/08/05/the-hammer-summer-chess-pub-crawl-2018/) - The Summer of 2018 keeps on giving - just like your favourite chess club in West London. Are you tired of heat, sunshine, chess and beer? Then Hammer has the perfect antidote... more of the same. Yes, Hammer is a devotee of the hedonistic Creed - if it doesn't kill you it must be good. - [Hammer Needs Your Help - Sunday 12th August](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/07/31/hammer-needs-your-help-sunday-12th-august/) - My fellow Hammerites, one of the mantras I have adopted in my business and personal life is if someone does me a kindness, I will never forget, and in the future, I will repay that kindness in some way. A much nicer version of Don Corleone from The Godfather films!!! One of those situations has - [Puzzle of the Week #021](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/07/29/puzzle-of-the-week-021/) - Straight down to business this week - last week's puzzle generated a lot of responses (not all of them from Charlie!). It wasn't until our very own Irish Ace - Paul "Dead Eye" Kennelly - got in on the act, that order was restored and the correct solution proffered. Yes, the not-immediately-obvious 1.Rd7! was correct! Black resigned - [The Dutch & The Irish Weekender](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/07/24/the-dutch-the-irish-weekender/) - Question: What connects Amsterdam, Cork, and Hammersmith? Stumped? Then read on... The Irish tricolour, the national flag of Ireland, comprises of three colours - green, white and orange. A flag which carries huge symbolism. The colour Green represents the Catholic and Republican population, and Orange that of the Protestant community. Orange is a colour long - [Thomas Bonn 1-0 IM Gavin Wall](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/07/22/thomas-bonn-1-0-im-gavin-wall/) - A Sunday evening treat for you all - Hammer's own Thomas "T-Bone" Bonn, gives us his recent defeat of IM Gavin Wall in a Summer League game from the last round: Definitely one of the results of the round. The IM was playing for Battersea in the open division as we saw a heavyweight clash - [Puzzle of the Week #020](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/07/18/puzzle-of-the-week-020/) - Our previous puzzle appears to have been a bit of a tricky one, with only one solution submitted, although that was the correct one (and correctly described as "delicious"). Congratulations goes to Marios! It was a great study from a brilliant woman, Judit Polar - generally considered the strongest female player of all time. Taken - [The Fellowship of the Hammer - Corking in C-Orc-dor](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/07/14/the-fellowship-of-the-hammer-corking-in-c-orc-dor/) - [Official Warning - This report contains graphic passages on alcohol abuse and requires a knowledge of J.R.R. Tolkein's masterpiece - The Lord of The Rings] Yes, the official chess season was done and dusted and that could only mean one thing - the Hammer Crew were once again off on their foreign quest in search - [Summer League - Round One](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/06/28/summer-league-round-one/) - Making his Captaincy debut, Charlie takes us through his Team's Round I Results from this week! The Summer League Round I shone upon us on 26th June. With temperatures at highs of 28 degrees, there was a warm air of certainty around the Labour Club, and after such an inspirational weekend of drinking, frolics, quiz - [Summer Chess League - Launch Night - June 19th](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/06/15/summer-chess-league-launch-night-june-19th/) - Ladies & Gents, the Summer League is almost upon us! It all kicks off next Tuesday evening from 7pm at Battersea's home venue - The Battersea Labour Club, down on Falcon Road, a mere 5 minute stroll from Clapham Junction station. Remember, the Summer League is a bit different from the usual staid and sometimes - [Puzzle of the Week #019](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/06/10/puzzle-of-the-week-019/) - So last week's offering was a bit of a thronker-of-an-endgame study, with White in a seemingly precarious position. Black was threatening promotion, and despite being a Rook to the good, White appears to have very few options - how to force the draw. Cometh the hour, cometh the man... and our local Twitter celeb and - [The 2018 Summer Programme](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/06/08/the-2018-summer-programme/) - Get excited! Our Summer Programme is back for 2018, bigger & better than ever! We will be upstairs at The Albion every Monday night this Summer, putting on a host of different activities: Training Sessions The club's top players will be hosting a total of SIX training sessions throughout the Summer. Specific details will be - [Stop the Press!! Hold the Front Page!!!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/06/06/stop-the-press-hold-the-front-page/) - The Hammersmith Blitz Champion 2017-18 After the shortest AGM in Hammer history, the hammerites got down to the fun part of the evening - the final leg of our three-tourney-cycle to determine the Handicap Blitz Champion of the Club for the 2017-18 season. Twenty-three of the best of our club entered this final round with - [Puzzle of the Week #018... plus FREE GM Simul!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/06/01/puzzle-of-the-week-018-plus-free-gm-simul/) - It has officially been one month since our previous Puzzle of the "Week", so without further ado, the winner from our previous Puzzle is.... Charlie (aka. Sorted) & Adam (aka. Pickle), both of whom were correct, albeit with ever-so-slightly different styles of responding! Honours shared this time - congrats to both excellent solutions. 1...Nxd5 2. - [London Div 3 - Season Finale: The Push for Promotion](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/05/31/london-div-3-season-finale-the-push-for-promotion/) - Starship Hammer 1 has locked into orbit around the familiar neutral planet of Citadines for the next week for the two final matches of the mission. The season-long goal to boldly go to Division 2 of the London League has been achieved, thanks to the outcome of the Albany-Kings Head clash, with victory for the - [AGM - Monday 4th June](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/05/30/agm-monday-4th-june/) - Ladies & Gents - we are rapidly approaching the date for our Annual General Meeting (AGM). It will be held this coming Monday 4th June, at Lytton Hall, starting 7.30pm sharp! As usual, it will be an informative and fun occasion as the Committee presents details of our club’s ongoing progress this season, and plans for - [London League 5 vs Cavendish](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/05/28/london-league-5-vs-cavendish/) - 24.05.18 - London League 5: Cavendish v Hammersmith Welcome to our new campaigner, Aditya - or Adi - who debuts this time out. As we settled in with White on top board, I had high hopes for our last match this season. An hour passed and then, on board 3, John Ryan got up and - [The Hammersmith League Finale](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/05/23/the-hammersmith-league-finale/) - The inaugural Hammersmith League came to a dramatic conclusion last Monday at the Anvil - with three teams in with a shout for the title. In pole position the SW Juniors, followed closely by the Hammerheads and the Circus. Battersea were playing for pride and honour. That doyen of football analysts, Alan Hansen in 1995, - [The Good Ship Hammer](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/05/21/the-good-ship-hammer/) - 16.05.18 - London League Div 4: FINAL MATCH v. Kings Head We ended our season in London Division 4 last Wednesday with a solid 6-2 win against Kings Head. That safely rounds off our 2017/18 campaign with a solid 7.5/12 points, and with several matches still to play it looks good enough to secure us a - [Hammersmith Dips its Toe Into the National League (of Karaoke)](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/05/18/hammersmith-dips-its-toe-into-the-national-league-of-karaoke/) - A Guest Post, from Hammer's Chris Skulte Skulte, Carsten, Jim and new Hammer members Rauno and Ryszard currently play for the Celtic Tigers (Hammersmith's sister club) in the national league (aka. 4NCL). Celtic tigers needed one win from three remaining games for promotion into Division 1. They are also expanding to two teams next year, - [Midweek Roundup - London & Middlesex Leagues](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/05/16/midweek-roundup-london-middlesex-leagues/) - Middlesex League - Final Game & Season Roundup! The Middlesex League season has drawn to a close with the last match of the season for Hammer 2 in division three. We descended on Kings Head's pub venue with the enviable mindset of knowing we were already promoted. It was a chance for some of Hammer's - [An Urgent Call to Arms!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/05/14/an-urgent-call-to-arms/) - Hammerites!! With only days to go, we need your help this weekend. Hammersmith Chess Club is again teaming up with our friends at Hammersmith MIND, the local branch of a national mental health charity, for a day of chess & fundraising in Hammersmith town centre. On Saturday 19th May, we take chess to the streets - [A Greek Tragedy in W1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/05/10/a-greek-tragedy-in-w1/) - Επεισόδιο Εννέα There is an old adage that states every good run comes to the end. This is the best that can be said of a tragic cold Monday night in Fitzrovia. In scenes reminiscent of Medea and Oedipus Rex the Hammer 1 juggernaut came off the rails at the hands of Albany, crashing to - [RapidPlay - Round VIII - The Grand Finale!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/05/08/rapidplay-round-viii-the-grand-finale/) - It was back on September 6th 2017 when we first announced our new, season-long RapidPlay competition. Over 7 gruelling rounds since, we've edged ever closer to discovering our first Champion in the inaugural Hammersmith RapidPlay Championship! Round 7 - played across the month of April - didn't turn up too many surprises, with most results - [London 4 Update](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/05/06/london-4-update/) - I bring tidings of two quick-fire results within London Division 4; a narrow 3-5 loss to table-topping Newham, and a comprehensive 6.5-1.5 win against strugglers Metropolitan 4. First up was Newham in a matchup that gave us the chance to nestle in amongst the league leaders, but in truth with those around us having games - [Puzzle of the Week #017](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/05/01/puzzle-of-the-week-017/) - You're an untitled player with black against a famous GM, and appear to be in some trouble against the active white Rook and advanced d-pawn. Find something clever to get out of trouble! Black to move... Answers in the comments please - first with the right moves takes the biscuit! - [Volunteers Needed!! & The Return of Summer Chess](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/04/28/volunteers-needed-the-return-of-summer-chess/) - Calling all Hammers!! - we need your help on Saturday 19th May as we take chess back to the streets of Hammersmith & help our local branch of MIND raise money for a good cause! As you may have read this week - we are returning to Lyric Square, W6 next month for a day - [Hammer & MIND Takeover Lyric Square - Saturday 19th May 2018](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/04/25/hammer-mind-takeover-lyric-square-saturday-19th-may-2018/) - Calling all Volunteers! SAVE THE DATE - The importance of 19th May 2018 cannot be stressed enough - not only are Harry & Megan tying the knot with the FA Cup final kicking off later in the day, but the BIG news is that Hammer will be bringing chess to the streets of Hammersmith again - [The "El Chessico" - 2018 Variation](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/04/22/the-el-chessico-2018-variation/) - Yes, welcome to the latest instalment of the Starship Hammer 1 and her one year mission to boldly-go to Division 2 of the London League. Partie sept et huit - Starship Hammer has gone into prolonged orbit around the binary planetary system Battersea Chessicus (BC2/3) - the mission, to meet with the noisy neighbours/strange inhabitants - [Puzzle of the Week #016, & Bonus Match Report!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/04/18/puzzle-of-the-week-016-bonus-match-report/) - Admittedly, it has been slightly longer than a week since our last round, but who's counting! Without further ado - our congratulations goes to Jim "Loco" Stevenson with the first correct answer in our last Puzzle. It was a lovely little thinker, with the solution as follows: 1... Nc5+ 2. dxc5, O-O-O+ (leaving the Black - [Blitz, Bury & The Hammer League](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/04/14/blitz-bury-the-hammer-league/) - The Hammer train never stops, and none more so than this week. We've got a great set of updates for you to read through - it's a long one, so make sure you read all the way to the bottom! Thames Valley Cup v Richmond - Semi-Final Result Hammersmith League - Round II Hammer Blitz - [The Return of the Hammersmith League](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/04/08/the-return-of-the-hammersmith-league-2/) - Welcome back chess-fans - read on for details of the triumphant return of the Hammersmith League from it's long hiatus, and a blistering write up of a make-or-break game in Middlesex Division 3... The Hammersmith League "A Brief History of How, Why and Round One" The fifty-six year old history of Hammersmith Chess Club is - [RapidPlay - Round VII](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/04/04/rapidplay-round-vii/) - We are definitely approaching the business end of the competition now, with even matchups every week and games generally going to form. There's still plenty of jostling for position & honours to be done though! All but one of the Round VI games were won with the black pieces - highly unusual! There were sadly - [Eggcellent Chess](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/04/02/eggcellent-chess/) - April Fools' - he wasn't really dead! (Happy Easter!) With that out of the way, let's get down to some chess updates. March ended with some mixed results for our teams - match reports follow. We're also really excited to be able to share a very interesting evening at Battersea Chess Club coming up tomorrow - [The AGM - Constitutional Edition!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/03/29/the-agm-constitutional-edition/) - Ladies & Gents - our Annual General Meeting (AGM) is on Monday 4th June this year, at our home venue, Lytton Hall (aka, "The Anvil"). As usual, it will be an informative and fun occasion as the Committee presents details of our club's ongoing progress this season, and plans for the future, plus all the - [March Madness!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/03/25/march-madness/) - As we approach the business end of the season, there have been some really spectacular results this month, not least when our London 4 team beat runaway favourites in that Division, BBCA! The excitement continues this week, with another table-topping win for one of Hammer's sides. Read on.... London Division 4 vs. Greater London London - [Puzzle of the Week #015](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/03/20/puzzle-of-the-week-015/) - After a brief hiatus last week, we are back with a bang - down to business. As the only response to last week's puzzle, Paul "Dead-Eye" Kennelly takes the plaudits this time - congratulations Paul! It was taken from Kolb-Schroeder, Nuremberg in 1895. Snipped from the wonderful Van Perlo's Endgame Tactics. On to this week's - [Back from the Dead in London 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/03/13/back-from-the-dead-in-london-4/) - 07.07.18 - It seemed Osiris himself, the Egyptian God of the Afterlife, was watching over us as we came back from the brink against BBCA to score a cracking 4.5-3.5 win on Wednesday night. BBCA raced into an early lead before the Hammer fightback took hold and wins for Tommaso, Blair, Matteo and Ken secured - [The Good, the Bad and the Hammer](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/03/06/the-good-the-bad-and-the-hammer/) - GM Lectures, Blitz Tourney, Rapidplay, and many, many games of chess - it has been a busy few weeks on Planet Hammer. We have a few results to update you on, so please read on... 28.02.18 - London League 5: Brixton v Hammersmith In a scene redolent of countless westerns, there was an ambush last night where - [A Night at the Speelman](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/03/03/a-night-at-the-speelman/) - 26.02.18 - The hallowed hall of The Anvil last night hosted chess royalty in the form of GM Jon Speelman. A special evening where over thirty Hammerites and guests listened, enthralled and captivated, to the wit and wisdom of a top man and a world-class Chess Grandmaster. The "Beast from the East" may have hit - [Rapidplay - Round VI](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/03/01/rapidplay-round-vi/) - Pinch, Punch, First of the Month - it can only mean one thing!! Yes, the next round of our excellent Rapidplay Tournament is upon us. Round V saw things go mostly to form. Our top pairing saw the game finish in a draw, leaving both players still unbeaten... amazing!! Can anyone topple Bajrush this season?? - [Puzzle of the Week #014](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/02/27/puzzle-of-the-week-014/) - With a record number of responses last week, it's fair to say that our previous Puzzle of the Week was a proper thinker (or should that be thronker!). Gokhan was first on the board with the correct (partial) sequence, but it was Bajrush who came in later with the full set of moves. Honours even this - [The Return of the Hammersmith League](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/02/25/the-return-of-the-hammersmith-league/) - Absence makes the heart grow fonder, and none more so than in chess! After a break of a few years, we are delighted to report that the Hammersmith League is making a comeback! The League in its original form was always a local, casual arrangement between a handful of clubs in West and South-West London, providing - [Puzzle of the Week #013](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/02/20/puzzle-of-the-week-013/) - Unlucky for some, we are back for our thirteenth installment with another puzzle. But first, to last weeks. It was another superb response from Hammerites with no fewer than 10 attempts - many of them not from Charlie! The first correct reply was from Mohammad - well done to you sir! An honourable mention must also - [A Whole Lotta Hammer](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/02/16/a-whole-lotta-hammer/) - "Not a Whole Lotta Love from Hammer 1 on Valentine's Eve" Welcome to the next rollicking installment of the Starship Hammer 1's 2018 odyssey and it's one-season mission to boldly go to Division Two of the London League. Captain Clueless Log - Star Date 13/02/2018 - Hammer 1's crew have beamed down to the planet - [Puzzle of the Week #012](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/02/14/puzzle-of-the-week-012/) - To say last week's puzzle was popular would be something of an understatement - no fewer than 14 responses (albeit most of them from Charlie!!). In the end, it was Charlie who got there first (on his 11th attempt), but credit to Adam too. Well done to you both and we're loving the enthusiasm! The full solution - [The Hammer Train Rolls On!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/02/10/the-hammer-train-rolls-on/) - Lots more fantastic write-ups coming your way today with plenty of interesting games to play through, after four big matches in the various leagues this week. We also have some great info about playing in the 4NCL - UK & Ireland's top chess league - make sure you read to the bottom of the update! - [Puzzle of the Week #011](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/02/09/puzzle-of-the-week-011/) - Happy Friday - we're back once again with another Puzzle just in time for the weekend. Last week's was a reasonably straightforward mating puzzle, albeit not necessarily entirely intuitive. Panos was the first to respond with the correct answer - effectively a Queen sacrifice to force the mating sequence. Well done Panos! This week sees us - [Blitz Tourney - Round II](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/02/06/blitz-tourney-round-ii/) - The Second Leg of the Hammer Blitz Tournament Cycle - 12th February 2018 Chess in every format is coming thick and fast to Hammerites at the moment. On the 12th February, at The Anvil,Round II of the tri-tourney cycle to decide the 2017-18 Hammer Blitz Champion takes place. Before I fill in the juicy details - [Rapidplay - Half Time Roundup!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/02/05/rapidplay-half-time-roundup/) - Thanks to everyone for completing your Round IV matches in our Rapidplay Tournament in timely fashion. Full set of results from the round are presented below. Bajrush takes the plaudits in the battle at the top against Tony, but Marios' win against gifted youngster Nadhmi ensures the pressure remains! Our two 100% records clash in - [Nothing but Victory](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/02/03/nothing-but-victory/) - A short & sweet intro today - read on for details of 3 truly fabulous victories this week, including a 17-move checkmate. Lovely stuff! Middlesex League 3 vs. Kings Head - 29.01.18 Promotion to Division 2 is looking like a very real prospect, after Hammer 2 picked up a wonderful 5.5-2.5 win against an extraordinarily - [Puzzle of the Week #010](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/01/31/puzzle-of-the-week-010/) - Welcome back chess fans - and what a response we had to our last Puzzle! Everyone got the winning combo, but it was John White with the fastest response who takes the plaudits - well done John! This week we have a classic mating puzzle. Black is clearly in the ascendency, but what is the - [A January Corker!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/01/28/a-january-corker/) - As world leaders prepare to depart from Davos, here at Hammer we're always looking for our next excursion! After the huge success of our visit to Amsterdam last Summer, plans are being laid for a trip across the Irish Sea to visit Cork! Read on to find out more, along with the usual goings on - [January - Week II](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/01/23/january-week-ii/) - The frantic pace of chess in January continued last week, with no fewer than three games, plus a further three this week, and then FOUR the week after! Luckily, Hammer are well prepared and our captains have been doing a fantastic job rallying the troops! Stay tuned for the following updates: London 5 "grudge match" - [Puzzle of the Week #009](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/01/17/puzzle-of-the-week-009/) - Welcome back chess fans - it's been a while since our last Puzzle #008, way back in December. Pleased to say we have a winner from that round in the form of Carsten, our Great Dane. Congratulations Mr Pedersen! This week's puzzle comes courtesy of Carsten, and it's straight out of a London 4 match - [New Year, More Chess](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/01/14/new-year-more-chess/) - The 2018 London Chess season kicked off again this week after our Winter break. Read on for the latest updates across Planet Hammer: Thames Valley v Ealing London 4 v Wanstead & Woodford London 6 v Hackney GM Jon Speelman visits Hammersmith WhatsApp Rapidplay Round IV pairings for January Thames Valley: The Magnificent Seven - - [A Charming Draw](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/11/20/a-charming-draw/) - No Bruce Springsteen this week, but the Glory Days are very much here as we travel headlong towards The Promised Land. Read on! Middlesex League 3: Hammersmith v Hendon - 13.11.17 On Monday Hammer's 2nd team were back at Lytton Hall to face Hendon 5 - a junior team often known as Hendon Barnet Knights. - [An Evening with GM Jon Speelman](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/01/06/an-evening-with-gm-jon-speelman/) - Hammersmith Chess Productions are proud to present... On the night of the 26th February in the hallowed halls of the Anvil, Hammersmith Chess Club will host one of the most original and finest grandmasters this country has ever produced. GM Jon Speelman is not only a world championship semi-finalist, he is a great analyst, journalist, - [Hammer New Year!!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2018/01/03/hammer-new-year/) - Welcome to 2018!! Christmas may just be over, but the chess calendar does not have a holiday with the small matter of FOURTEEN games coming up in January! It's going to be busy... On top of that, we have the latest round of our RapidPlay tournament to think about too. Round 4 pairings are now - [The 8 Teams of Christmas... pt VI](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/12/22/the-8-teams-of-christmas-pt-vi/) - "On the sixth day of Christmas, HammerChess gave to me..." "... Thames Valley, by Bajrush Kelmendi" I'm delighted to report that our Thames Valley team has finished the year with a 100% record! Our season began with a win in the TV Cup against Uxbridge, with a strong 4.5-1.5 victory. Win aside, the match was - [The Last Hammer Hurrah of 2017](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/12/20/the-last-hammer-hurrah-of-2017/) - Yes, the calendar year of activity finished at The Anvil on Monday night and we went out with a moderately-sized bang, and definitely not a whimper. Our Christmas finale was the first leg in the Handicapped Blitz trilogy of tournaments this season. Named after our late Chairman, the Tourney has always provided the perfect Christmas - [The 8 Teams of Christmas... pt V](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/12/19/the-8-teams-of-christmas-pt-v/) - "On the fifth day of Christmas, HammerChess gave to me..." ... Middlesex League 3, by Adam Cranston It has been a pleasure to captain Hammer's brand new team this year in the Middlesex League. With several new faces at the club, demand for places has never been higher. Indeed, over the first six matches no - [Christmas Blitz & GM Keith Arkell](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/12/17/christmas-blitz-gm-keith-arkell/) - Hammerites, you can read a beautiful write-up of our Simultaneous against GM Keith Arkell below, but first a quick reminder of our annual Blitz Tournament tomorrow evening. Christmas Blitz Tournament The John R White Blitz Tournament is in its third year and we're kicking things off at the Anvil (aka Lytton Hall) tomorrow night from - [The 8 Teams of Christmas... pt IV](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/12/14/the-8-teams-of-christmas-pt-iv/) - "On the fourth day of Christmas, HammerChess gave to me..." ... London League 5, by Robin Lee December brings us Yuletide and groaning sideboards of food and liquids, also (groan) a recap of London League 5 matches. In summary, we have Lost 1 and Drawn 2 - not exactly championship form. Our leaders so far - [The 8 Teams of Christmas... pt III](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/12/12/the-8-teams-of-christmas-pt-iii/) - "On the third day of Christmas, HammerChess gave to me..." ... London League 6 (Hedger), by Mike Mackenzie With more than five seasons past piloting London League Division 6, I have seen many improvement in its organization, and none more so than this year. With our growing membership we have once again entered two teams - [Puzzle of the Week #008](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/12/10/puzzle-of-the-week-008-2/) - Absence makes the heart grow fonder, and none more so than when it comes to chess puzzles! It was way back in June that we last saw a puzzle, and word on the street is that people have been clamouring for the next one! The first correct answer for puzzle #007 was from Paul "Dead - [The 8 Teams of Christmas... pt II](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/12/08/the-8-teams-of-christmas-pt-ii/) - "On the second day of Christmas, HammerChess gave to me..." ...London League 3, by John White It seems strange giving a report on the team with only three matches played - the London League fixture list is heavily weighted towards after Christmas, with eight games to come in the New Year. That said, if your - [The 8 Teams of Christmas... pt I](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/12/05/the-8-teams-of-christmas-pt-i/) - Crack open the mulled wine & get your tinsel ready - here at Hammer we're putting a festive spin on our mid-term Team Captain's reports as we present... The 8 Teams of Christmas (c)!!! With most of our League Games now done until the new year, every few days we'll be hearing from one of our - [A Classic Week](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/12/02/a-classic-week/) - London League 6: Battersea v Hammersmith - 28/11/17 Tuesday night saw us travel to Clapham Junction to take on Battersea in a tricky Division 6 fixture. Following a bit of inevitable ribbing on Twitter (@hammer_chess), I'm afraid it was us left to lick our wounds following a disappointing 1.5-2.5 defeat. Rich was unavailable to captain - [Ehr for Congress!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/11/29/ehr-for-congress/) - Here at Hammer we don't really "do" politics. However, when it comes to the political aspirations of one of our upstanding, former members, we are happy to oblige! Former Hammerite & West-Londoner, ex-Chief Executive of the ECF, long-time US Navy serviceman, and - most importantly - fine example of a human being, our very own - [A Position of GO](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/11/27/a-position-of-go/) - London League 5: Pimlico v Hammersmith - 23.11.17 Welcome to returning veterans David Lambert and John Ryan, who debut this match on division 5. John was the first to finish on board 4, dealing an inexperienced opponent a sharp object lesson in chess, quickly going a piece up, then mopping up pawns in rapid style. - [Live Long and Prosper](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/11/26/live-long-and-prosper/) - London League 3: DHSS v Hammersmith - 21.11.17 Welcome to the latest adventures of the Starship Hammer 1 and its one season mission to explore strange new and old chess clubs, and boldly go to Division Two of the London League. Captain Clueless Log - Star Date 21/11/2017 - Hammer 1's crew have beamed down - [Experiences of a Chess Parent!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/11/23/experiences-of-a-chess-parent/) - Rainy Saturday Afternoon. Room full of chess players - most of whom are over 60! Miles from home. Yup, it's another round of weekend slow-play adult chess again. Not for me, thankfully (I barely know how to set up a chess board, let alone attempt the game!), but for my little 10 year old chess - [Born to Run](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/11/11/born-to-run/) - Another bumper week of chess has just flown by - four big games, and a whole bunch of important reminders and updates for your perusal. There's plenty of things coming up the next few weeks too - including the return of our training programme - so please read on! Middlesex League Division 2: Hammersmith v - [Updates from Planet Hammer](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/11/06/updates-from-planet-hammer/) - With a mere three games of chess this week just gone, it has been somewhat quieter than usual on Planet Hammer. However, we've got some exciting events in the pipeline - read on to find out more. Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 2 v Harrow 2 - 30.10.17 "Harrow Humbled" - Less than two weeks after - [RapidPlay Round 2 Pairings Announced!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/11/01/rapidplay-round-2-pairings-announced/) - 01.11.17 - STOP PRESS!! After a brilliant opening round of our new RapidPlay tournament, the Lytton Hall supercomputer has crunched the numbers and produced the fixture list for Round 2 as follows: It's now down to you to arrange the game with your opponent. All games must be completed in November, and the results passed to - [#HammerTime Hits the Skids](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/10/29/hammertime-hits-the-skids/) - Regular readers will know that we've had a flying start to the new season. Win after win, and a long period during which we could rightly have been dubbed "The Invincibles". However, as the great Axl Rose once sang, "nothing lasts forever" - and indeed, to further prolong the tenuous reference, it can fairly be - [Rapidplay Round 1 Roundup!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/10/25/rapidplay-round-1-roundup/) - 23.10.17 - The Hammer Rapidplay Tournament is off to a flying start! 22 players descended on Lytton Hall this Monday to take part in the first round. Two are still to play next week, with a handful taking first round byes. As is often the case with open Swiss tournaments, the first round threw up - [Planet Hammer](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/10/22/planet-hammer/) - It's been another busy week of chess (and a few other things!) on planet Hammer this last 7 days. Five games of chess, one IM getting a Hammering, and several other things coming up in the next few days. Read on to hear more! Rapidplay Round 1 - Monday 23rd October It can't have escaped - [Ave, imperator, morituri te salutant!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/10/15/ave-imperator-morituri-te-salutant/) - "Hail mighty Caesar! Those who are about to die salute you!" * London League 5: Hammersmith vs Kings Head - 11.10.17 Hammersmith obtained a creditable draw against King's Head in Division 5, but read on for why chess can be so cruel. An auspicious start to the new season saw fine wins by junior Nadhmi - [Chess on Fire](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/10/13/chess-on-fire/) - It's been an absolutely BLISTERING start to the new season for everyone at Hammer! New Equipment, New Tournament, and six days into the new season I can proudly report that we are UNBEATEN, having won 4 and drawn 3 of our opening games - a fantastic start! Without further ado, a full roundup of this week's - [The B of the Bang](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/10/06/the-b-of-the-bang/) - After what seems like an age, the new chess season is finally upon us - and it started with a Bang! Monday 2nd October saw the opening game of the 2017-18 season, with the two Hammer teams battling it out in Lytton Hall for bragging rights in the Hammersmith Derby - more on that later. - [Mental Health & Annual Awards](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/09/26/mental-health-annual-awards/) - As many of you will know, Hammersmith Chess Club is a proud supporter and champion of our local branch of Mental Health Charity, MIND, having taken part in a wonderful day of fund-raising with them earlier this year, in Lyric Square in the heart of Hammersmith. These wonderful people work to improve and support the Mental - [Blitz... Correction](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/09/23/blitz-correction/) - A small update about our activities at the Club this coming Monday 25 Sep - owing to unforeseen circumstances, the John R. White Handicap Blitz Tournament will not actually start that night, however we will still be open as usual for a Club night of casual chess, tea and biscuits, plus our Annual Awards Ceremony and prize - [Blitz, Subs, Awards](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/09/21/blitz-subs-awards/) - No, it's not a WWII word-association game, but rather a neat summary of what we have in store this coming Club Night on Monday 25th. First up, we'll be presenting our Annual Awards to those most deserving players - one from each of the 7 teams, plus a couple of special individual awards including the - [Return of the Mac](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/09/19/return-of-the-mac/) - Chess made a triumphant return to the rarefied surroundings of Lytton Hall last night, as we began to finalise our preparations for the rapidly-approaching new season of chess! It was a welcome return to our spiritual home after a successful stint in the Albion this Summer, and we saw a huge turnout of around 25 people - [Blitz Roundup & Reminders!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/09/14/blitz-roundup-reminders/) - Monday was the Club's final night in The Albion, and we rounded off proceedings with a handicap blitz tournament. As the last throws of Summer fizzled out this week, nine brave players showed up to battle it out for glory, graded from 210 down to 83 - a great spread! The rounds unfolded as follows: - [Handicap Blitz Tourney - Monday 11th Sep](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/09/10/handicap-blitz-tourney-monday-11th-sep/) - This coming Monday night, 11th September, the Summer programme concludes with everyone's favourite event - a handicap blitz tournament! The format will be familiar to those who played in last year's blitz competition: 6-round Swiss system 5 mins per person +/- 1 minutes per 20 grading points (up to 8v2 maximum handicap) Start time 8.30pm, - [Reflections on the Summer League Season One](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/09/08/reflections-on-the-summer-league-season-one/) - To be read in a Morgan Freeman voice, as in the Shawshank Redemption As the sun sets on the first season of the Summer League (SL) I think a John Arlott-esque moment is called for and hence I shall share my thoughts with you, my fellow Hammerites, on this inaugural season. The whole concept grew - [NEW!!: Club Rapidplay Tournament](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/09/06/new-club-rapidplay-tournament/) - After a successful trial earlier in the year, Hammersmith Chess Club will be running a Rapidplay Tournament over the course of the 2017-18 season. Bear with us - you're in for a lengthy post! The tournament will be run over 8 matches, with pairings decided via a Swiss system. The controllers will be Adam Cranston (Middlesex - [Caro-Kann: Monday 4th September](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/09/02/caro-kaan-monday-4th-september/) - Save the date: this coming Monday our resident Italian gent, Matteo, is hosting an evening dedicated to the Caro-Kann, at The Albion. This will be one of our final nights at the Albion before moving back to Lytton Hall when the season proper begins later this month, and it is set to be a cracker. - [2017-18 Fixtures - They're OUT!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/09/04/2017-18-fixtures-theyre-out/) - Dust off the diaries folks, & get your midweek excuses ready... we now have confirmed fixtures for most of our teams for the upcoming season. Full details are on our Calendar page, and further information is available on the London League website (Middlesex and Thames Valley League fixtures are mostly TBC at present). It's going to - [There Ain't No Cure for the Summer League Blues](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/09/01/there-aint-no-cure-for-the-summer-league-blues/) - This bulletin comes with a Hammer health warning. Yes, my fellow Hammerites, just like the late and great Eddie Cochran, there seems to be no end to the Summer Chess Blues for our gallant boys. Our Summer teams both suffered narrow 3.5-2.5 point defeats in the penultimate round of the Summer Chess League this week. - [Puzzle of the Week #008](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/08/30/puzzle-of-the-week-008/) - It's been a while - once again - but we're back for another installment. Our previous puzzle back in June was an interesting one. With Black to move, there doesn't appear to be anything decisive.... Dig a little deeper though, and you can see a neat combination that allows Black to pickup the White Knight hanging - [Game of the Week: Harry Needs a Push](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/08/26/game-of-the-week-harry-needs-a-push/) - Week 4 of the Summer Chess League saw our two Hammersmith teams facing something of a tough time. Full results and all the games are available on the Summer Chess Website: http://www.summerchessleague.org.uk/week-3-games-all-the-matches-move-by-move-2/ It's well worth a look at some of these tussles - great opportunity to click through & learn, particularly from some of the stronger - [Tourneys & Training](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/08/22/tourneys-training/) - Last week, the club descended on The Albion for a night of rapid play. The competition was hugely varied - members, non-members, graded, un-graded, and from serious club players to beginners, all showed up to play. Everyone was to play two games to be submitted to the July 2018 grading list. The lineup looked like - [Training Night @ The Albion: 21st August](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/08/19/training-night-the-albion-21st-august/) - Looking at the last ECF grading list, the Hammer star turn has undoubtedly been Chris Moore, who has improved his grade over 2 years from 88 to 121, which means the Chris of 2017 would score 80% against the Chris of 2015 - if you believe the grading system! This is particularly interesting as Chris - [North v South](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/08/14/north-v-south/) - The Southern Counties Chess Union (SCCU - catchy!) celebrates 125 years of existence this year. It was the first of what was to become five regional chess unions in England, which later gave birth to today's English Chess Federation. To mark the historic milestone they're hosting a huge chess shindig up at Swiss Cottage next - [Stop Press! Graded Rapid-play Tourney!!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/08/11/stop-press-graded-rapid-play-tourney/) - Brace yourselves for a frantic evening of chess! This coming Monday 14th August we'll be hosting a pre-season Graded Rapid-play night. Following hot on the heels of last season's hugely successful Rapid-play evening, this is another opportunity for everyone in the club to obtain a quick-play grade. Details as follows: Where: The Albion pub (upstairs - [Down & Out in Kensington!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/08/03/down-out-in-kensington/) - 01.08.2017 - Yes, the Hammer posse took to the mean streets of Kensington to bring chess to the good citizens of the Royal Borough. The vehicle to deliver our brilliant game was a pub crawl. Not a curious choice considering the partiality of many Hammerites to the odd tipple! The idea, originally, was to play - [CORRECTION: Castling… at the Elephant?](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/07/30/correction-castling-at-the-elephant/) - Bit of a gremlin in the machine earlier... a clarification on the plan for tomorrow nights pub-based chess festivities: We start off at the Elephant & Castle pub, in Kensington (Holland Street, W8 4LT), and continue from there!! We won't be visiting Elephant & Castle in South London after all... 1. The Elephant and Castle - [Castling... at the Elephant?](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/07/30/castling-at-the-elephant/) - From Hammersmith, to Amsterdam, and now... to Elephant & Castle!! (that's in Saaaf London, for the un-initiated!) Yes that's right, tomorrow night sees Hammersmith hitting up the burgeoning casual chess scene in the Zone 1 landmark destination South of the River. Our top members John and Adam will be leading the charge - we're taking - [Mr. Dipenderble](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/07/20/mr-dipenderble/) - A couple of weeks ago we hosted our first ever team rapidplay night at the Albion. The teams were as follows: Reti Rovers - Carsten, Ken, Ljubomir Capablanca Crushers - Marios, Kaan, Nadim Lasker Legends - Thomas, Pavel, Nick Alekhine Athletic - Jay, Dipender Each player played one 15-minute rapidplay game against a player from each other team. It - [C4, D4, or E4... that is the Question?](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/07/15/c4-d4-or-e4-that-is-the-question/) - I thought it was about time to get Shakespeare on the Hammer website. At club level chess, I am currently rated ECF 150 (roll on July) - you do wonder what is the best opening move. Taking the White side first. I am a confirmed e4 player as White - it feels more natural, I - [A Ginger (GM) Analysis](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/07/11/a-ginger-gm-analysis/) - A couple of interesting media-related links to share with you this week, first up: Simon "Ginger GM" Williams gives us his analysis of the Game of the Week from the last round of the Summer League https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2U7CFLa6K1I&feature=youtu.be After every set of fixtures, the team captains from all the clubs involved have a chess-based conclave to - [And the 3rd Best British Chess Club Website is...](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/07/06/and-the-3rd-best-british-chess-club-website-is/) - ... that's right folks, a mere 18 months after we re-launched our website in January 2016, we have been officially recognised as one of the finest Chess Club websites in Britain by the wise folks at ChessJournal. You can read their full article here: https://thechessjournalblog.wordpress.com/2017/05/20/the-top-5-british-chess-club-websites/ We are naturally delighted to have placed in the top - [Hammer in the 21st Century](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/07/04/hammer-in-the-21st-century/) - Ladies & gents, an exciting new era in team-management beckons! Our Summer League captains, Marios and Ken, are trialling a new way of managing teams & we want all Hammersmith players onboard. The simple solution is a brilliant app called Teamer. It's a standard download on your smartphone and will allow much simpler, more dynamic - ["Just Hammered" by name...](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/07/02/just-hammered-by-name/) - 27.06.17 - Summer Chess League - Battersea Volts v. Just Hammered Downpour, suspended railway services and poor performances over the board sets the background for a baptism of fire rather than a captain's debut! Stranded in Shepherd's Bush railway station waiting for a train to Clapham among countless souls, I got to experience a bit - [3rd July - Team Rapidplay](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/07/01/3rd-july-team-rapidplay/) - Our Hammersmith Summer of Chess continues this coming Monday 3rd July with a team Rapidplay tournament at The Albion. The tournament will kick off just after 7.30pm, lasting until around 10pm, with each player assigned to one of four teams. Everybody will get to play three games against similarly-rated opponents on each of the other - [Training @ The Albion: Part 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/06/29/training-the-albion-part-1/) - 26.06.17 - The Albion Public House - Yes, the first training night of the Summer Program was delivered this Monday just gone by Clueless (aka. John White) - not a nickname to fill you with confidence - at our temporary Summer residence, The Albion. The theme of my training session was to look at the following - [Summer League: Gameweek 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/06/28/summer-league-gameweek-2/) - 27.06.17 - Totally Hammered vs Streatwise, Summer Chess League Looking back, the torrential rain downpour that arrived last night was definitely an ominous warning that something was going to happen... and so it was in the match where, aside from some brief chinks of sunshine from Pavel and Chris - who both drew - the - [Monday Nights @ The Albion](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/06/25/monday-nights-the-albion/) - After the excitement of the Summer League Launch in recent weeks, our Summer events program proper kicks off at the Albion tomorrow night. We have the unflappable John White leading the session, taking us through an adjourned position from a game he played a couple of years ago. Although a pawn up, it was a - [Heatwave Chess](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/06/22/heatwave-chess/) - 19.06.17 - Middlesex League - Kings Head v Hammersmith On one of the hottest days of the year, Hammer embarked on the Carpenters Arms to play our final game of the Autumn/Winter/Spring season. It was the twelfth fixture in our Middlesex Division 3 campaign, a league we had already won with two matches to spare... - [Summer Chess League - Gameweek 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/06/21/summer-chess-league-gameweek-1/) - 20.06.17 - Remember the date 20th June 2017. The first night of the inaugural season of the Summer League. Six teams consisting of six players each gathered at the home of Battersea Chess Club to engage in mental combat. To remind you, the six teams are: Battersea Amps, Battersea Volts, East London Knights, Streatwise, Totally Hammered and - [Puzzle of the Week #007](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/06/20/puzzle-of-the-week-007/) - Just when you thought we'd forgotten about you... WHAM!! Another puzzle of the week gets posted to help you melt away these balmy, crazy hot Summer evenings!! Grab yourselves a beer, a cool lemonade, or my favourite - a Gin & Tonic - and settle in for another tough puzzle.... But first - the winner - [#HammerGoesDutch - Chess on Tour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/06/15/hammergoesdutch-chess-on-tour/) - Hammers (From and) To Amsterdam 09-11 June 2017: Yep, the Hammer boys went Dutch and descended like a plague of locusts on the fair city of Amsterdam this weekend just gone. The Hammer crew needed chess satisfaction, and unlike Mick and the Stones, we got a serious overdose of it! Twelve brave souls and a - [The AGM & Season Finale](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/06/12/the-agm-season-finale/) - 05.06.17 - @Valhallah - The last hurrah of the 2016/17 season at Hammersmith Chess Club took place on the 5th June 2017 in Valhalla, aka Lytton Hall for mere mortals. Just an anecdote before we start, but pertinent to the tale of the evening. A close friend of mine attended the AGM of Fullers Brewery - [Summer in the City](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/06/07/summer-in-the-city/) - As the regular chess season draws to a close and the AGM becomes a hazy memory, don't panic!! - there's plenty of chess action still to come. We are very, very excited to announce the launch of our first full Summer programme. It's a jam-packed agenda of games, events, and even a pub crawl! Read on - [Hammersmith Chess Club AGM - Reminder](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/06/02/hammersmith-chess-club-agm-reminder-2/) - Ladies & Gents - a final reminder that the Annual General Meeting of Hammersmith Chess Club takes place on Monday 5th June from 7pm, at our home venue, Lytton Hall. Please make every effort to attend! It's always an informative and fun occasion as we hear from our Committee members on the progress of the - [An Englishman in Division 5](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/05/29/an-englishman-in-division-5/) - 25.05.17 - London League 5: Hammersmith v Hackney We had three significant wins this time around, and one bad luck loss, plus an unusually large number of games involving the English! Chris Moore on Board 3 with the black pieces played a Scandinavian Defence, but soon got into difficulty and had to sacrifice a bishop - [TV Double Header v Wimbledon](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/05/22/tv-double-header-v-wimbledon/) - 15.05.17 - Thames Valley League: Wimbledon B v Hammersmith Wimbledon's venue at the Trinity Club was the stage to host Hammer's TV team in a double header last week. First up was a match on 15th May, where Hammersmith faced the Wimbledon B team. This was a crucial match for both teams in their quest - [Campioni, Campioni!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/05/20/campioni-campioni/) - 16.05.17 - Middlesex League: Hendon 5 v Hammersmith Having already won the league, Hammer went into their penultimate fixture full of confidence. This was a slightly unusual match; we were up against Hendon Barnet Knights, a junior team with no player over the age of 12! Despite this, they are one of the strongest teams - [London League Round-up - L5 & L3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/05/15/london-league-round-up-l5-l3/) - 09.05.17 - London League 3: Kings Head v Hammersmith "Not with a Bang and not with a Whimper... but with a..." Our last match of the season saw Hammer 1 take on Kings Head. Although our objective of retaining Division 3 status had already been achieved, Hammer 1 were playing for pride! This game - [Honours Even in London 5](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/05/07/honours-even-in-london-5/) - 04.05.17 - London League 5: Streatham & Brixton v Hammersmith We were expecting a battle royale to make amends for our prior 3-1 defeat... ("An Evening of Roosters & Foxes" - a great writeup from back in January!) Board 4 saw Chris Moore attacking on the Queenside from the English Opening. But Black prevailed and - [Puzzle of the Week #006](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/05/06/puzzle-of-the-week-006/) - Okay, okay... it's been slightly longer than a week, but we have been extra busy in the meantime raising loads of money for charity! First things first, our winner from last time... Well, it was a difficult puzzle that's for sure. After several people had a crack at it, I can confirm that the winner - [Chess Bosses Lyric Square, W6](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/05/03/chess-bosses-lyric-square-w6/) - 29.04.17 - This time last year our Club submitted an article to the English Chess Federation about the initiatives we were implementing in an effort to revive the Club and recruit more members (link here). It represented an attempt to share our experiences of how we had turned around the slow decline in our Club's - [April Updates](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/04/27/april-updates/) - Several updates for you today... Firstly - you will hopefully all be well aware that we are going to be in Lyric Square, Hammersmith town centre this coming Saturday 29th, from 10.30am to 4pm, playing chess and having lots of fun in aid of a fantastic cause - supporting Hammersmith & Fulham MIND, a mental - [Shootout at the Wheatsheaf Corral!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/04/25/shootout-at-the-wheatsheaf-corral/) - 24.04.17 - London League 3: Albany v Hammersmith A seismic evening of London League 3 chess took place last night in London W1. A critical relegation fixture in Division 3. Hammer were pitted against the might of Albany, who are gunning for promotion to Division 2. As I said in my last dispatch, this is - [Hammersmith Chess Club: Notice of AGM](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/04/24/hammersmith-chess-club-notice-of-agm-2/) - Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Hammersmith Chess Club Date: Monday 5th June 2017 Time: From 7pm Location: Lytton Hall (home venue) Ladies & Gents - our Annual General Meeting is on 5th June this year, at our home venue. As usual, it will be an informative and fun occasion as the Committee present details of our - [A Tough Night at the Office](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/04/22/a-tough-night-at-the-office/) - 20.04.17 - London League 4: Hammersmith v Streatham Our penultimate match in Division 4 saw our battle-wearied troops face the top-of-the table Streatham. It always looked a tough match on paper (they've been known to have a 130 on Board 8!) and such was the case in practice. We lost the match 1.5 - 5.5, - [Puzzle of the Week #005](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/04/20/puzzle-of-the-week-005/) - Slightly later than planned (apologies - Bank Holiday weekend, and on-going preparations for the Charity Event on 29th April - volunteers still required!!), we return to Puzzle of the Week! After some light heckling on the apparent easiness of last week's effort, I can confirm that first prize goes to Paul "can you keep the noise - [Golden Lane is Not Paved with Gold!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/04/16/golden-lane-is-not-paved-with-gold/) - 11.04.17 - London League 3: Metropolitan 2 v Hammer 1 April in the chess season always brings with it a congestion problem. This phenomenon is usually associated with our national sport where there are many trophies, competitions, and vital points to acquire. In other words, the business end of the season. The challenge is also - [Chess in Flyover Town](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/04/13/chess-in-flyover-town/) - 10.04.17 - Thames Valley League: Hounslow v Hammersmith The weary warriors of Hammer TV schlepped over to very West London on Monday night for a critical relegation fixture in Division 1 of the Thames Valley League. We were missing our WOSF of a skipper, Bajrush, who had the poor excuse of needing a holiday!! Cannot - [Puzzle of the Week #004](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/04/10/puzzle-of-the-week-004/) - Another Monday, another puzzle of the week. But first, to last week's winner. It was a really nice puzzle from Carsten, and indeed, one which he saw live - or more precisely, the post-mortem just after the game had finished, whith White still looking shell shocked! Mortensen - Karlsson, Esbjerg, 1998: 20... Rxf3 (so White - [The Anatomy of a GM Ward Defeat](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/04/09/the-anatomy-of-a-gm-ward-defeat/) - Following hot on the heels of our recent Simultaneous against GM Chris Ward, our only victor of the evening - Marios - has produced a fantastic writeup of the game - check it out here. It's thrilling stuff and a terrific performance from Marios - he's rapidly rising to become one of our top players - [29th April - A Call To Arms!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/04/07/29th-april-a-call-to-arms/) - Hammersmith Chess Club - we need your help! We are super excited to be hosting the latest round of the ECF's "Chess Master @ The Local" initiative on Saturday 29th April, at Lyric Square in Hammersmith Town Centre. It's a fantastic enterprise designed to raise the profile of the game and engage the local community - [The Anatomy of a GM Ward Simultaneous](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/04/06/the-anatomy-of-a-gm-ward-simultaneous/) - 04.04.17 - The might of Hammer and friends took on the challenge of GM Chris Ward this past Tuesday in the hallowed halls of Valhalla... aka Lytton Hall! Twenty souls turned out to take on the former British Champion in a battle to the death. Maybe the quality on our part was patchy - but - [A Busy Gameweek - Middlesex & London 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/04/05/a-busy-gameweek-middlesex-london-4/) - A clutch of games for you this week - coming thick and fast as the finish line comes into sight. Read on! 30.03.17 - London League 4: Hammersmith v Battersea It was a case of revisiting old rivalries as we faced Battersea in Division 4. On the one hand they're a great partner club - - [Puzzle of the Week #003](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/04/03/puzzle-of-the-week-003/) - You are a clever bunch! It didn't take long for the double-header from last week to be solved, despite the apparent "fiendishness" of the second one. Props to the following individuals: Adam Cranston - puzzle 2 John White - puzzle 1 For the first puzzle, as Black is threatening mate in one, White has to - [Chess Master At the Local - 29th April](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/04/02/chess-master-at-the-local-29th-april/) - We are very excited to announce that Hammersmith will be hosting the next round of the ECF's "Chess Master at the Local" initiative on Saturday 29th April, centred around Lyric Square in Hammersmith town centre. The initiative sees a top chess professional - we have secured the services of GM Jon Speelman for the day - [Return of the Grudge Match (vs. Battersea)](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/03/30/return-of-the-grudge-match-vs-battersea/) - 28.03.17 - London League 5: Hammersmith v Battersea In our return match versus Battersea, we outpointed them with a delta of 17 points! But first let me say that Kaan Corbaci debut'd this match and had a shocker of a win defending with the black pieces against a straight-forward Guico Piano, his opponent fell for - [A Season of Two Halves](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/03/29/a-season-of-two-halves/) - 23.03.17 - London League 4: Hammersmith v Lewisham You've probably heard the cliché "a game of two halves", well I think we need a new cliché for our loyal band of warriors in Division 4 as we look set to embark upon our "season of two halves"! As luck would have it, our first few - [Puzzle of the Week #002](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/03/27/puzzle-of-the-week-002/) - The results are in - they've been checked, double-checked, scrutinized to death, and independently verified. We can now proudly announce that the Winner of our first Puzzle of the Week is.... Matteo Bezzini Well done Matteo!! Full puzzle and solution below. It was a great puzzle to start with, and easy to overlook Black's pawn - [Bishop Training - Monday 27th](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/03/24/bishop-training-monday-27th/) - Ladies & Gents - owing to a fixture change next week, we now have a free night at the club on Monday 27th March. One of our top players, Marios, has kindly volunteered to run a training session on opposite-coloured Bishops, starting from about 7.30pm. It'll be useful to players of any strength, but in - [GM Chris Ward Simul - Last Chance!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/03/23/gm-chris-ward-simul-last-chance/) - Dear members, we still have some spaces available for the Simultaneous against GM Chris Ward next month at the bargain price of £3 per entry. Full details below: Date: Tuesday 4th April Time: 7pm start Venue: Lytton Hall (our home venue) Boards: 25 Entry: £3 per board Contact: John White to confirm your spot If - [Puzzle of the Week #001](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/03/21/puzzle-of-the-week-001/) - Ladies & Gents, fire up those chess computers and dust off those practice boards - we're launching a Puzzle of the Week! This is strictly for fun only - no prizes for getting it right, other than a swelling of pride in your performance and the unyielding respect from your fellow Hammerites. To get things - [SW London Junior Chess Challenge](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/03/17/sw-london-junior-chess-challenge/) - The might of Hammer took on the very different challenge of SW London Juniors in a double-header this month. The format of the match agreed was two nights of chess - one at the home of the Juniors, and one at the home of Hammer - Valhalla, as we like to call it. Played over - [A Fast & Furious Night At Golden Lane](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/03/16/a-fast-furious-night-at-golden-lane/) - 14.03.17 - London League 3: Hammersmith v Hackney Hammer 1 rolled into the Barbican last night determined to continue the drive to consolidate their Division 3 status. In the way were Hackney 3, also caught up in their own relegation struggle. This was a true six-point game, to quote the football parlance. On paper Hammer - [Royal Bloodshed!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/03/15/royal-bloodshed/) - 14.03.17 - London League 5: Hammersmith v Kings Head We were up against it last night, facing Kings Head - top of the League and the clear favourites to win the game, but nothing was certain. No quarter was given and Hammersmith did not succumb without a struggle. On Board 1, Brian Dodgeon with the - [An Early Bath at Morley College](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/03/11/an-early-bath-at-morley-college/) - 10.03.17 - London League 4: Morley College v Hammersmith What a difference a year makes. It was only 12 months ago we made the trip to Morley College for the final game of the season, rooted to the bottom of the league and desperately in need of a win to avoid picking up the League's - [A Brief History of Hammersmith Chess Club](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/03/18/a-brief-history-of-hammersmith-chess-club/) - Hammersmith Chess Club has been around for a while - since 1962 to be precise. That might seem like the fairly recent past to some of you - perhaps even living memory for many of our members - however for those of us born after 1980 that is, quite frankly, a different era. Up there - [Hammer v GM Chris Ward - pt. deux!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/03/09/hammer-v-gm-chris-ward-pt-deux/) - Ladies & Gentlemen, we have a very exciting announcement - Hammersmith Chess Club will be hosting GM Chris Ward next month for a Simultaneous across 25 boards!! Details below: Date: Tuesday 4th April Time: 7pm start Venue: Lytton Hall (our home venue) Boards: 25 Entry: £3 per board Contact: John White to confirm your spot Please - [London 3 - A Fight for Survival](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/03/08/london-3-a-fight-for-survival/) - When an animal is cornered, even one as cultured and sophisticated as Hammer 1, they will fight tooth and nail for survival. Tonight, when the chips were down and Hammer 1 were facing the prospect of relegation, the fighting nature endemic in all Hammer chess players came to the party. The mantra was: we may - [The Muswell Massacre](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/03/07/the-muswell-massacre/) - 06.03.17 - Middlesex League: Hammersmith v Muswell Hill 2 With seven wins from eight games and four to play, Hammersmith are still going strong at the top of the Middlesex League. Last night's victims were Muswell Hill 2, who put up some resistance on the top boards but ultimately went down 7-1. As has unfortunately - [A Very Good Week](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/03/04/a-very-good-week/) - This last 7 days has been a week of sweet, sweet victories for Hammersmith Chess Club, perhaps historically so! With fully 4 of our 7 teams in team in action this week, plus a 15-board thriller of double-headed RapidPlay action against South West London Juniors, I'm delighted to report that Hammersmith won every single game - - [From the Archives, part VIII](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/03/02/from-the-archives-part-viii/) - Another treat for you all this evening, with a detailed analysis of an interesting game from his back catalogue from another one of our newer members, Josue. Back in 2011 he faced a much stronger opponent, graded some 20 points higher than him. It's a brutal, hard-fought game lasting well over 50 moves with some great - [Marching on in Middlesex](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/02/28/marching-on-in-middlesex/) - 27.02.17 - Middlesex League: Hammersmith v Harrow The Middlesex League team notched up another fine win last night with a dominant display against Harrow. Despite being our biggest rivals in the league on paper, Harrow have been struggling to match their home strength at their away fixtures. Last night was no exception - the visitors - [From the Archives, part VII](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/02/26/from-the-archives-part-vii/) - It's often said that it's a small world, however that seems to hold particularly true in the upper-echelons of London chess where our newest member, Marios, recognised a recent opponent of Sheikh's in their last Thames Valley game. It turns out that Marios had played - and beaten - the 185-rated Timothy Seymour in the - [A Very Bad Night at the Surbiton Office](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/02/24/a-very-bad-night-at-the-surbiton-office/) - 22.02.17 - Thames Valley League: Surbiton A v Hammersmith Last night storm Doris blew in - in the form of Surbiton A - and hit Hammer TV with all its might. It was an awesome demonstration of power. In chess terms it was seismic: Fischer v Taimanov or Larsen comes to mind. It was dark... - [Hammer TV Rise to the Occasion!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/02/23/hammer-tv-rise-to-the-occasion/) - 13.02.17 - Thames Valley League: Hammersmith v Richmond Remember the date - 13th February Remember the place - Lytton Hall Remember the opponents - Richmond A Savour the result: 4.5-2.5 in favour of Hammer TV with one game adjourned. Earlier in the season in the away leg against our esteemed opponents, we were trounced 7-1. - [A Fighting Chance](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/02/21/a-fighting-chance/) - 20.02.17 - London League 4: Hammersmith v Wanstead Well done to everybody who fought hard for Hammersmith last night! The story was that we were up against a very strong side who outgraded us by an average of 21 points per board. We defaulted one board so were 1-0 down initially, but nevertheless we started - [The "Bajrush" System vs. The London System](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/02/13/the-bajrush-system-vs-the-london-system/) - A rare treat for you here as our Chairman and "Wiley Old Silver Fox", Bajrush (183 ECF), provides his analysis of a recent match in which he faced the London System opening. Having recently attended a training session at the club focused on the London, could Bajrush use the practical knowledge he picked up to - [A "Drawn" Out Battle](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/02/10/a-drawn-out-battle/) - 09.02.17 - London League 4: Hammersmith v Wanstead Last night's match against Wanstead ended as... another 4-4 DRAW. A scoreline that absolutely reflects just how tight the match was from start to finish. Draws are becoming somewhat of our trademark this season! John Woolley would be proud. Down to the individual games and it's some - [Central London Chess Congress: 21-23 April](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/02/09/central-london-chess-congress-21-23-april/) - Chess fans, just a short update: The Central London Chess Congress has been confirmed for 2017! The event will be held from Friday 21st April, to Sunday 23rd April, over at Imperial College: Imperial College Union (1st Floor, Union Dining Hall), Beit Quadrangle, Prince Consort Road, London SW7 2BB It's a 5-round Swiss setup, with - [Mad Blitz Part 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/02/07/mad-blitz-part-3/) - On Monday 6th February 2017 at 7.30pm, seventeen souls - the great & the good - gathered in the hallowed surroundings of Lytton Hall for the third round of our blitz cycle. This time the ranks were reinforced by three potential new members: Kaan, Alex and Marios. With the addition of James to lower the - [Rapid Play vs The Juniors: Players Needed!!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/02/05/rapid-play-vs-the-juniors-players-needed/) - Dear members, we have a number of exciting rapid play games against our local junior clubs coming up and we need volunteers to play! For those of you not familiar with the format, it's two games against the same opponent each evening, one as White and one as Black. Time control is 20 minutes with - [Blitz Tourney... Round 3!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/02/02/blitz-tourney-round-3/) - Roll up, roll up!! The third round of our blitz competition takes place this Monday 6th February in the hallowed surroundings of Lytton Hall. Starting at 7.30pm, entry is FREE if you've entered either of the previous rounds, else it's only £1 to enter (and we'll treat you to a cuppa & some biscuits!). Casual - [An East End Bust Up!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/02/01/an-east-end-bust-up/) - 31.01.17 - London League 3: East Ham v Hammersmith Hammer 1's second game of 2017 in London 3 was a bit of a soap opera... Drama, failure, joy, misery and dogged determination in the face of adversity all played their part in the evening's entertainment. A perfect mirror of Hammer 1's journey through the division - [Buddy Up!!!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/01/31/buddy-up/) - To tie in with the new ECF grades released today, Hammersmith Chess Club is proud to launch an equally new (and sparkly) scheme to support our members. With any luck we should see collective grades receive a boost too! We introduce our HCC Buddy Programme... To complement our wide range of in-house training sessions, another - [An Evening of Roosters and Foxes](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/01/27/an-evening-of-roosters-and-foxes/) - 26.01.17 - London League 5: Hammersmith v Streatham & Brixton Welcome to John Woolley and Rich Wingfield to Division 5, both of whom made their debut for this match. John needs no introduction being the former Thames Valley captain for Hammersmith for many years. Rich is our newest captain for our League 6 Team 1. - [All Good Things Come to an End](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/01/25/1467/) - 24.01.17 - London League 4: GLCC v Hammersmith All good things must come to an end, and it looks like our unbeaten run in League 4 is no different. We trail our GLCC match 3-4 behind with a single game adjourned. Orial's the man tasked to take his game away and come back for seconds, - [A Desperate Evening](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/01/20/a-desperate-evening/) - 19.01.17 - London League 5: Pimlico v Hammersmith I goofed! Bringing people 30 minutes late to this match - my apologies to all! Not the ideal start by any means but never-the-less, we had a couple of bright spots last night. Chris won in short order, as is almost routine for him. With the White - [Save the Dates - FREE Training](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/01/19/save-the-dates-free-training/) - Dear Members, as part of our training programme this season we have massively upped our game with the addition of Tony Niccoli to the roster. Tony is an ECF-registered trainer, and a top English player (198 standard/203 rapid), and he'll be taking two more training evenings - in March and April. Ahead of that we're - [Good News From the Battlefield!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/01/18/good-news-from-the-battlefield/) - Another double-header of updates for you this evening - we are a busy lot! 16.01.17 - Thames Valley League - Kingston v Hammersmith: Good News at Last! At 10.25pm on the 16th January 2017 hostilities were ceased and a temporary truce declared. Seven games decided and one sent off to the adjudication office. The score - [Chess Mirrors Rugby!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/01/13/chess-mirrors-rugby/) - A double-header of match reports for you this evening, chess fans! Read on... 12.01.17 - London League 5: Battersea v Hammersmith In round 5 of Division 5, Battersea were at home to Hammersmith, where a prognostication of a close match couldn't have been more wrong. It was a depressing night that started off with snow - [Hammered in the Thames Valley!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/01/12/hammered-in-the-thames-valley/) - 09.01.17 - Thames Valley League: Hammersmith v Wimbledon 2 The first Thames Valley dispatch of the New Year was meant to bring good news to all Hammer Chess folk. Things were looking up - we were fielding our strongest team of the season (in any league) - the inclusion of Tony, Carsten, Pavel and Jeremy, - [Happy New Chess Year!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2017/01/06/happy-new-chess-year/) - 05.01.17 - Middlesex League: Harrow 1 v Hammersmith A very Happy New Year to you all - welcome to 2017! It couldn't have been a tougher start to the year for Hammer in the Middlesex League. We were up against league favourites Harrow 1 away from home. Losing our board one and in-form Carsten through - [A Tale of Christmas Chess... the Finale](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/12/20/a-tale-of-christmas-chess-the-finale/) - 19.12.16 - Hammersmith Chess Club Blitz Tourney The last hurrah of 2016 Hammer Chess took place last night at Lytton Hall. Twenty-one souls turned up to enjoy a night of fighting, no quarter given, 10-minute blitz chess! The cream of Hammer Chess: Tony, Carsten, Bajrush, Paul, Sheikh amongst many other Hammer stalwarts turned up to - [A Tale of Christmas Chess, pt 2...](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/12/15/a-tale-of-christmas-chess-pt-2/) - The most daring raid since Kramnik stormed Castle Kasparov at the Riverside Studios, took place on Monday in West London. A heroic bunch of Hammer's finest took on the "street" chess players in Cafe Néro just off Kensington High Street. The Hammer crew consisted of Paul "dead-eyed" Kennelly, Tony "the surgeon" Niccoli, Phil "no way" - [Hammer Chess Goes Dutch!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/12/12/hammer-chess-goes-dutch/) - In conjunction with 20th Century Chess Productions and presented in Panavision.... Hammer Chess Events Department is proud to announce a weekend of chess and fun in Amsterdam next year! We have been invited by De Pion Chess Club to visit over the weekend of June 9-11th. A Tournament and Match will be organised as well - [A Tale of Christmas Chess...](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/12/10/a-tale-of-christmas-chess/) - 08.12.16 - London League 3 - Wimbledon v Hammersmith The last LL3 match before Christmas took place at the hallowed hall of Golden Lane. Our opponents were Wimbledon 2 and they were not in a giving mood. The narrative of the night strikes a familiar theme to those who have read the chronicles of LL3 - [Blitz Tourney Round TWO!.. & London 5](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/12/07/blitz-tourney-round-two-london-5/) - Ladies & Gentlemen, SAVE THE DATE - the second round of our club Blitz tournament takes place on Monday 19th December at our home venue. For those of you with a sharp memory, you'll recall that the first round in September saw a whopping 17 members show up, with points awarded depending on overall finishing - [Metro Land](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/12/04/metro-land/) - 01.12.16 - London League 4: Metropolitan 3 v Hammersmith It's normally a tough selling job finding cause for celebration in a drawn match, but that was certainly the case when we tied the score at 4 points a piece against Metropolitan 3. We'd salvaged a draw against their 4th team in our last match-up so - [A (Muswell) Hill to Climb](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/12/02/a-muswell-hill-to-climb/) - 01.12.16 - Middlesex League - Muswell Hill v Hammersmith After notching up three fine wins in the first three games of the season, the Middlesex League team were on cloud nine. However, as with most things up on that ninth cloud, we were eventually going to come crashing back down. Twenty minutes walk from the - [The Sicilian Masters](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/11/29/the-sicilian-masters/) - 28.11.16 - London League 5: Hackney v Hammersmith This was a night for the Sicilian Masters, and the c3 anti-Sicilian paid off in shovels and spades for Brian on top board. With the White pieces, he posted a commanding Rook on d5 that became totally surrounded by the enemy. His opponent was yet to prevail, - [The Richmond Mission - Impossible...?](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/11/28/the-richmond-mission-impossible/) - 24.11.16 - Thames Valley League: Richmond & Twickenham v Hammersmith This past Thursday saw your TV Hammer (a cooler version of MC) take the journey down to Teddington, to take on a strong Richmond team in Division 1 of the Thames Valley League. Not only a tough task at the best of times, but with - [Training Evening with Tony Niccoli](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/11/23/training-evening-with-tony-niccoli/) - 21.11.16 - A first for Hammer, and one more step on the road to creating a vibrant, learning culture at our Chess Club, as ECF trainer Tony Niccoli gave us an evening of his finest teaching! It was a brilliant training session last night for 12 members of the Club. The clarity and format of the - [An Ealing Comedy... or Victory?](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/11/22/an-ealing-comedy-or-victory/) - 21.11.16 - Middlesex League: Ealing v Hammersmith On a wet and dark November evening, what could be more enjoyable than playing in our third (and first away) Middlesex League match? Our hosts Ealing 2 were as friendly as ever. Their venue is one of the nicest to play in, with large tables, big comfortable chairs - [On The Scoreboard... At Last!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/11/18/on-the-scoreboard-at-last/) - 17.11.16 - London League 3: Hammersmith v Mushrooms 2 Stop the press!! Hold the front page!! The internet may crash!!!!.... Hammer 1 finally got a half-point and are on their way in London 3! For those of you who know their American Football, Hammer 1 were starting to look like the 2016 Cleveland Browns of - [Monday 21st - ECF Trainer Tony Niccoli](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/11/18/monday-21st-ecf-trainer-tony-niccoli/) - Ladies & Gents - a reminder that ECF trainer Tony Niccoli (ECF 198!) will be down at the Club on Monday 21st November to run a FREE session of training, analysis and insight! It's an enormous treat for the club & we're really looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible. Our members have - [Fulham Juniors - Round II](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/11/16/fulham-juniors-round-ii/) - 15.11.16 - Fulham Juniors v Hammersmith (Rapidplay) After the huge success of last year’s event, both clubs decided to go for a double repeat of the same format last night. This time the match was played over 9 boards with the same time control of 20 minutes to start with, plus a 5 second increment - [Tournaments, Simuls, and Chicken Biryani!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/11/14/tournaments-simuls-and-chicken-biryani/) - Ladies & Gents - we've got some exciting news of a few fantastic London-based chess events to share. First up, our friends at Battersea Chess Club have given us the opportunity to be amongst the first to register for a pair of events they will be holding in December. On Tuesday 6th December, they've a - [Middlesex League: A Harrow-ing Win!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/11/15/middlesex-league-a-harrow-ing-win/) - 14.11.16 - Middlesex League: Hammersmith v Harrow 2 As the Christmas season approaches, the Middlesex League is into full flow. Coming off the back of their first 6½ - 1½ win, Hammersmith were full of confidence. The second match of the season saw the club play host to Harrow 2. Despite Hammersmith leaving out several - [London 4: Honours Even at the Lane](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/11/11/london-4-honours-even-at-the-lane/) - 08.11.16 - London League 4: Hammersmith v Metropolitan It was a classic ‘game of two halves’ last night. The first four games to finish landed us with just the half-point to show for our efforts. Then, just when it looked like we were heading for defeat, a fantastic last surge that Donald Trump would have - [Hammersmith vs Fulham Juniors](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/11/08/hammersmith-vs-fulham-juniors/) - Following a highly successful thriller of a match last season (it ended a 6-6 draw - details here), we again face the mighty Fulham Juniors in a one-off match next week at the Brunswick Club - Tuesday 15th November. There are no grading restrictions, so if you are keen to play please contact John White to - [London League Round-Up](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/11/03/london-league-round-up/) - With Hammersmith playing a second team in London 6 this year, it has been a busy week of chess. Both of our League 6 teams were in action this week, along with the League 5 team, fielding 12 boards across the three games - thumbs up to the captains for organising. Write-ups below... 01.11.16 - - [Thames Valley - a Halloween Nightmare?](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/11/01/thames-valley-a-halloween-nightmare/) - 31.10.16 - Thames Valley League: Hammersmith v Surbiton A On a calm Halloween evening the Hammer TV team took on the might of Surbiton A – one of the powerhouses of Division One. On paper Hammer were out-graded by average of 13 points per board! A tough ask on the spookiest night of the year. The - [ECF "Club Focus"... featuring Hammersmith](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/10/31/ecf-club-focus-featuring-hammersmith/) - The astute amongst you may already have noticed that the ECF's most recent Newsletter features Hammersmith Chess Club in the "Club Focus" section. Club Focus is a recent addition to the Newsletter, allowing Clubs who have recently turned their fortunes around to share details of their success story to the wider Chess Club audience. As - [Hammer v Battersea Act III](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/10/28/hammer-v-battersea-act-iii/) - 27.10.16 - London League 3: Hammer vs Battersea Act III -A Bitter Sweet Dance at Golden Lane When friendships are suspended and no quarter given a subsequent bloodbath usually happens. The match exemplified all that is best about London League Chess. The end result a narrow 6-4 loss for your Hammer colleagues, however forensic examination of - [SW London Juniors, and ECF Training at Hammersmith](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/10/23/sw-london-juniors-and-ecf-training-at-hammersmith/) - Chess fans, some exciting news to share! First up, we have arranged another double-header with a local Junior club - South West London Juniors. Based in SW10 (near West Brompton), the SW London club were founded in 2015 but already have a strong base of players and will be putting out 10 boards against us. - [London League 4 - Hammer March On!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/10/21/1224/) - 20.10.16 - London League 4: Hammersmith v Alfil A great win last night against the ever-burgeoning ranks of Jerzy Dybowski’s junior chess academy! Hammersmith triumphed 5.5 vs. 2.5 against Alfil which temporarily takes us top of the league in Division 4. Let’s enjoy it while it lasts!! Alfil are affiliated with Newham and boast a - [Middlesex League Opener](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/10/18/middlesex-league-opener/) - 17.10.16 - Middlesex League: Hammersmith v Ealing 2 Monday 17th October could mean only one thing - the start of this year’s Middlesex League, at least as far as Hammersmith were concerned. Excited expressions were present across the faces of all who attended, as Lytton Hall was to play host to the might of Ealing - [Hammersmith v Fulham Juniors - Save the Dates](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/10/14/hammersmith-v-fulham-juniors-save-the-dates/) - A couple of dates for your diaries - following on from the highly successful game between our clubs last season, (a tightly contested 6-6 draw!), Hammersmith will again be taking on the mighty Fulham Juniors over at their home venue on Haldane Road. This time we're making it a double-header, with games on Tuesday 15th - [So Near But So Far (London 3!)](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/10/12/so-near-but-so-far-london-3/) - 11.10.16 - London League 3: GLCC v Hammersmith 1 Yet again Hammer just missed out on a victory! An exciting and bloodthirsty match was the order of the evening, with no quarter given from either team. The team was out graded from boards 1 to 9 but that didn't faze us. Honours of the evening - [London League 5 Opener](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/10/12/london-league-5-opener/) - 11.10.16 - London League 5: Greater London v Hammersmith Hammersmith's opening game in London League 5 took place against the traditionally-strong side of GLCC, at their home venue up in Holborn. Our new L5 Captain Robin Lee with the write up: It was on balance a very closely contested match across all boards in the - [The Ant & Dec of Chess](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/10/11/the-ant-dec-of-chess/) - Our first Hammer training session was well attended last night with many new faces - welcome to Matt, Orial, Daphne and Adam!! However the evening was dominated by our own version of Ant and Dec - Baj and Car (BajCar) - aka Bajrush and Carsten - who gave us a thoroughly enjoyable evening with great - [Opening Match Reports](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/10/07/match-reports/) - With the games coming thick & fast we have a couple of recent match reports to share from our team captains: 03.10.16 - London League 6 Derby: Hammersmith HEDGER v Hammersmith With our newly-formed additional team in London 6, Hammersmith HEDGER (named for the late, great Ken Hedger), we faced the prospect of a League - [Training Days](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/10/06/training-days/) - A reminder - the first training & theory evening of the new season kicks off on Monday 10th October at our Lytton Hall home venue. This session will be hosted by our Kosovan wizard of a Chairman, Bajrush, and is entitled "The Power of the Pin in the Middle Game" - sounds very interesting!! Attendance - [LL 3 - Tough Start for Hammer 1!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/09/30/ll-3-tough-start-for-hammer-1/) - A Tough Match to Start the London League Season for Hammer 1, by Captain John White Hammersmith went down 3.5 to 6.5 away to Cavendish in our opening match for the newly-promoted team. We really missed the experience of Paul Kennelly and Jeremy Hodgson owing to holiday and other commitments. However, new members Jay Hinolan - [Opening Night!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/09/27/opening-night/) - By our London League 3 Captain, John White Hello fellow members - the most memorable evening since Hillary and Donald decided to get it on, took place last night in the Valhalla of West London Chess. Chess is back at Lytton Hall! Last night Hammersmith Chess Club returned to its home and the prospect of - [Middlesex Fixtures & the Return to Lytton Hall](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/09/13/middlesex-fixtures-the-return-to-lytton-hall/) - We have now confirmed all our upcoming fixtures in the Middlesex League - full details available on our calendar, and on the Middlesex website. Please take a moment to check the fixtures in advance - with Hammersmith entering 7 teams across 6 leagues this season, the fixture list is busier than it has been in - [2016/17 Fixtures, and some updates!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/09/01/201617-fixtures-housekeeping/) - As the new season rapidly approaches, we've got a couple of notices and reminders for you: London League fixtures for the coming season have now been released! All games have been added to the Hammersmith Calendar, and are also available on the London League website. It will be a busy year for Hammersmith with an additional - [Hammersmith Chess Club - Summer Report 2016](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/08/30/hammersmith-chess-club-summer-report-2016/) - This Summer at Hammersmith saw a change from the usual downtime that accompanies the end of the league season and the long wait for the new one to begin. Members were lucky enough to take part in a number of events involving competitive - and in some cases not-so-competitive - chess during July and August. Club - [The Life of a King](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/08/17/the-life-of-a-king/) - It's not often a film about chess comes along - though the recent biog of Bobby Fischer stands out - but here are some details about an upcoming chess-themed cinematic event... The film "Life of a King" is being screened on Tuesday 30th August at Walthamstow Empire cinema. The film stars Cuba Gooding Jnr, and is - [Sue Maroroa vs. Hammersmith!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/08/09/sue-maroroa-vs-hammersmith/) - As regular readers will know, Hammersmith Chess Club had the enormous pleasure of taking on Women's International Master Sue Maroroa in a Simultaneous display across 14 boards on Monday 25th July. It was a sultry evening in the Big Smoke and the atmosphere in the upstairs function room of The Albion pub was no different. - [The Ginger GM](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/08/03/the-ginger-gm/) - Following the success of our Simultaneous game against WIM Sue Maroroa, and hot on the heels of a successful double header across 27 boards, our good friends at Battersea Chess Club have very kindly extended us an invite to a 30 board Simultaneous they will be hosting against GM Simon Williams (aka "The Ginger GM"). - [El Chessico - The Result!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/07/27/el-chessico-the-result/) - Tuesday evening saw the second and deciding leg of our Summer double-header against Battersea Chess Club, dubbed "El Chessico" by those in the know. We had the pleasure of visiting their home venue - Battersea Labour Club - and what a venue it is! A lovely centre near Clapham Junction with ample room, audio visuals, and pints - [July 2016 ECF Grades - Now Out](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/07/24/july-2016-ecf-grades-now-out/) - The bi-annual grading update from the ECF has taken place, and new grades for all registered players can be found here: http://www.ecfgrading.org.uk/new/menu.php Topping the charts for Hammersmith are the following five players, all of whom added at least 9 points to their respective grades: Chris M (+21) !! Brian D (+12) Robin L (+10) John - [El Chessico - First Leg to Hammersmith!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/07/19/el-chessico-first-leg-to-hammersmith/) - In one of the most highly-anticipated games of chess since June, the Titans of Hammersmith Chess Club took on the relative Royalty of London chess, Battersea Chess Club in the first leg of a double header modestly dubbed "El Chessico" (a pop culture reference to an obscure game of football somewhere in Spain) last night. - [Summer Chess Events!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/07/11/summer-chess-events/) - As you settle in to your Summer and the last league games become a distant memory, fear not! We have organised some competitive games and events over the next few weeks to help keep your wood-pushing withdrawal symptoms at bay. Not only will it be an opportunity to flex your chess skills, they also promise to be - [Change of Date: Simul vs Sue Maroroa](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/06/27/change-of-date-simul-vs-sue-maroroa/) - All - please note that due to other commitments we have had to change the date of our Simultaneous game against WIM Sue Maroroa. The event will now take place on Monday July 25th. All other details remain the same - save the date!! Monday 25th July, 7.30pm Albion Pub, Hammersmith Road Contribution – Members: £1, - [Hammersmith vs Battersea](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/06/26/hammersmith-vs-battersea/) - Save the dates!! We have agreed to hold a 12-board double-header against Battersea Chess Club in July, with one game at our Summer venue in The Albion on Monday 18th, followed by a game at Battersea's home venue on Tuesday 26th. It's a great opportunity to get a chess fix during the close season, and should - [Ken Hedger, 1934-2016](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/06/20/ken-hedger-1934-2016/) - It was with great sadness that we learned of the death of Hammersmith player Ken Hedger last week. Ken had been at Hammersmith for a number of years and was a regular at Club Nights and in London League games. Our club Secretary and friend of Ken's, Mike Mackenzie, has written a short tribute: Ken, - [Simultaneous vs. WIM Sue Maroroa](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/06/19/simultaneous-vs-wim-sue-maroroa/) - As Summer approaches and the Chess Leagues take a well-deserved break, we are lining up some exciting events of competitive and fun chess to keep our collective fingers on the chess pulse! The first Event we are pleased to confirm is a Simultaneous display against Women's International Master Sue Maroroa. Sue is a former Hammersmith Player, - [Annual General Magic - The 2016 AGM!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/06/07/annual-general-magic-the-2016-agm/) - The 55th AGM of Hammersmith Chess Club took place last night, 6th June, at our home in Lytton Hall. I think I can safely say it was the most important AGM since The Club was inaugurated back in 1962. The scent of change was in the air and with great respect to our proud history, - [King's Gambit - Sheikh Style!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/06/04/kings-gambit-sheikh-style/) - Our third and final look back at the archives (for the time being), is this truly devastating example of the King's Gambit from Hammersmith's own Sheikh Mabud in 2009. Aggressive, dynamic chess at its finest. Take a look - here. - [Hammersmith Chess Club - May 2016 Report](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/06/01/hammersmith-chess-club-may-2016-report/) - BY CLUB SECRETARY, MIKE MACKENZIE A flurry of activity in May saw the conclusion of most of the leagues we play in, bringing with it a large dollop of success (and a tiny drop of failure) for the Club's teams! Monday 2nd May - Club Night As it was the May Day bank holiday, the - [Hammersmith Chess Club AGM: Reminder](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/05/31/hammersmith-chess-club-agm-reminder/) - Ladies & Gents - a reminder & important note for your diaries: Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Hammersmith Chess Club Date: Monday 6th June 2016 Time: From 7pm Location: Lytton Hall Home Venue The meeting will be used to discuss a number of matters of Club business, updates and the election of Officers - full agenda can be found - [2004 Guernsey Open, Final Round](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/05/30/2004-guernsey-open-final-round/) - Another treat from the archives on this Bank Holiday Monday. Our former Chairman and now Life Member Peter S Morton took on a much stronger opponent in the final round of the Guernsey Open back in 2004. Cast your minds back - Facebook was launched in February of that year, the EU expanded by adding another - [London League 4 - PROMOTED!!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/05/28/london-league-4-promoted/) - The good news keeps on rolling in!!! After an anxious wait of almost two weeks we have finally received confirmation that our London League 4 first team have been promoted as runners-up in the division. London League 3 awaits next year! Huge congratulations go to Captain John White and his team. It's been a very successful - [1975 Club Championship Game](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/05/26/1975-club-championship-game/) - A treat from the archives this evening - Club Secretary Mike Mackenzie managed to dig out this classic from 1975 - the same year we saw the Thriller in Manilla, Thatcher became leader of the Tories, and Aston Villa were even a good club back then, winning the League Cup final! Reigning Club Champion (since - [Theory & Practice Session - May 23rd](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/05/19/theory-practice-session-may-23rd/) - A reminder folks - we hold our next FREE theory & practice session at our club venue on Monday 23rd May, starting from 7.30pm. As usual it is open to anyone who would like to join us - we'll have a session involving some theory, and in-depth game analysis, followed by a bit of putting it - [Thames Valley Div. 2 - CHAMPIONS!!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/05/16/thames-valley-div-2-champions/) - More good news for the club late last week, with Bajrush and his Thames Valley team beating Harrow in their last game of the season, thereby ensuring the team finishes as Champions and securing their promotion to Division 1! Congratulations and thanks to all players who turned out for the team this year - we - [London League 6 - CHAMPIONS!!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/05/13/london-league-6-champions/) - Congratulations to our League 6 Captain Mike Mackenzie, and his team of stalwarts as we celebrate winning the London League 6 Trophy - victory was sealed late last night as Hammersmith beat Cavendish 4-0 to confirm our status as Champions! It's been a great year for Mike & team with Hammersmith leading the table for most - [Upcoming Theory & Practice Sessions](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/05/05/upcoming-theory-practice-sessions/) - We are pleased to announce details of our upcoming Theory & Practice sessions for May! Details as follows: Monday 9th May, from 7pm - following hot on the heels of our previous session, another look at endgame tactics. April's session was really valuable & very well received, particularly the discussions on the Lucena and Philidor positions. This - [Hammersmith Chess Club - April 2016 Report](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/05/01/hammersmith-chess-club-april-2016-report/) - BY CLUB SECRETARY, MIKE MACKENZIE The games came thick & fast in April, with the club playing no fewer than 10 matches as we approach the end of the season. Monday 4th April - Thames Valley League Ealing Juniors v Hammersmith Hammersmith won the match 4-3 with 2 matches remaining. Monday 11th April we are - [Training Night - April 25th](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/04/26/training-night-april-25th/) - Last night at Lytton Hall the club had its latest training session, hosted by club Chairman Bajrush. The session had two parts. In the first part Bajrush presented some common positions featuring rook vs rook and pawn, and posed to us how a win (or draw) could be forced. In the second part of the - [A Newbie's Guide to League Chess in London](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/04/28/a-newbies-guide-to-league-chess-in-london/) - Club membership – Paid. ECF Membership – Sorted. Played some games at your club to prove you know your way round the board – Done. Now what? Now you’re ready to play some London League chess, of course! That’s where it started for me 3 years ago. It's been at times bewildering, exhilarating, and sometimes - [Hammersmith Chess Club: Notice of AGM](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/04/25/hammersmith-chess-club-notice-of-agm/) - Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Hammersmith Chess Club Date: Monday 6th June 2016 Time: From 7pm Location: Lytton Hall Home Venue Ladies & Gentlemen, Members of the Club, our Annual General Meeting will be held on Monday 6th June this year. This is your opportunity as members to engage with, and shape the direction of - [Hammersmith v Fulham Juniors: 6-6 thriller!!!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/04/21/hammersmith-v-fulham-juniors-6-6-thriller/) - Hammersmith had the pleasure of taking on Fulham Juniors this week at their home venue, the Brunswick Club on Haldane Road. The Juniors are a truly thriving club. Under the inspired leadership of club manager Paul, they regularly see over 40 youngsters turn up to events, and have on occasion had over 50 turn up! We - [Upcoming Training: Rook Endgames, and Knights vs Bishops!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/04/20/upcoming-training-rook-endgames-and-knights-vs-bishops/) - Save the date: Monday 25th April, starting 7.45pm at our home venue! This Monday evening our Chairman Bajrush will be leading us through a session on Rook endgames at the training board. Anecdotally this is probably one of the more common endgames you're likely to come across in a face to face game, or online, - [Chess Updates - Free Library Evenings, and Match vs. Fulham Juniors](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/04/11/chess-updates-free-library-evenings-and-match-vs-fulham-juniors/) - Free Chess Evenings at Local Libraries One thing we have been running for a while now is a weekly open-evening of chess at Hammersmith Library (Wednesday's from 6pm) hosted by one or more of our club players. It's totally free and anybody is welcome to drop by for a game and see what you can learn! - [Hammersmith Chess Club - March 2016 Report](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/04/03/hammersmith-chess-club-march-2016-report/) - By Club Secretary, Mike Mackenzie. March was a busy month for the club on all fronts, with eight league games and a couple of events down at the club. Here's a quick recap: Monday 29th February - The club took advantage of a match-free evening at our home venue to host another training session run by - [Internal Club Tournaments - Your Feedback Requested](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/03/31/internal-club-tournaments-your-feedback-requested/) - By John White One of the key ingredients for the success of our club is to have a credible and worthy chess club tournament(s). This is something I have been asked to consult members on. Currently the club has the Christmas Blitz Tournament running and nothing else - it is very popular and is a - [Why do I play better against stronger players?](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/03/01/why-do-i-play-better-against-stronger-players/) - An interesting discussion about how your game changes when playing against opponents of different grades - why is that your game often improves against higher rated players? How can you improve the psychology of your chess match? - [Training & Theory - part 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/03/05/training-theory-part-3/) - Our next training session of 2016 approaches on Monday 14th March, held as usual at our home venue starting 7.30pm. This session will be run by our top-rated club player, Carsten Pedersen. Currently graded at ECF 195, Carsten was the only victor in our recent Simultaneous Match against GM Chris Ward. You can read his fascinating analysis - [Does Playing Chess Make You Sexy?!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/03/14/does-playing-chess-make-you-sexy/) - This question was posed by my partner Karen in the pub the other night as she watched a friend and I push wood around the board. She definitely thought NOT!! Is this typical Anglo-Irish prejudice that is reflected by the rest of the non-playing chess community of these islands? Being good at chess in the - [Blitz Tournament & Training Evenings - Save the Dates!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/03/24/blitz-tournament-training-evenings-save-the-dates/) - Happy Easter everyone! As the chess season continues thick & fast, so do the training evenings at the club - please save the following dates: Monday 4th April - Blitz Tournament Monday 25th April - Training & Theory Monday 9th May - Training & Theory Monday 23rd May - Training & Theory We are pleased - [Training Day - Part Deux](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/02/25/training-day-part-deux/) - A reminder - Monday 29th sees our second evening of theory training at the club. It's another free & open session - non-members are welcome to come along and join in. Our Chairman, Bajrush (Rated ECF 208 for rapid play!) will be taking us through the following topics: Endgame revision with practical sessions Middle game - [The Balkan Bootcamp!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/02/22/the-balkan-bootcamp/) - We held our first training session of the year tonight - and it was a cracking evening to get us started for the year. Our Balkan wizard at the board - chairman Bajrush Kelmendi - led the session with aplomb, taking a good sized group through the following topics: Basic endgame theory King & pawn endings Pawn on pawn - [Training Day](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/02/17/training-day/) - We are today excited to announce some upcoming training sessions to be hosted at our club venue (directions here) in West London. Two of the strongest players at our club, Bajrush Kelmendi and Carsten Pedersen, aided by our training group, will be providing a number of sessions over the next few months to help all - [Chris Ward vs. Carsten Pedersen (0-1): The Analysis](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/02/08/chris-ward-vs-carsten-pederson-0-1-the-analysis/) - As the only victor in the recent Simultaneous against Chris Ward, Hammersmith's Danish wizard Carsten Pedersen has generously provided us with his analysis of that game. The insight is a real treat and makes for a fascinating read. As you might expect from two top players, some of the lines are tricky to follow, though Carsten has - [Oh Captain! My Captain!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/02/15/oh-captain-my-captain/) - A disussion on how captaining a chess team can affect your performance - [Grandmaster Flashy! GM Ward triumphs in 15 board Simul](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/02/03/grandmaster-flashy-gm-ward-triumphs-in-15-board-simul/) - By Events Secretary, John White Am delighted to report that members of Hammersmith Chess club took on the ex-British Champion Grandmaster Chris Ward in a simultaneous match over 15 boards last night - 2nd February 2016. The whole evening took three hours and was a brilliant display of competitive and fighting chess... well, maybe on - [Simultaneous Match vs GM Chris Ward](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/01/28/simultaneous-match-vs-gm-chris-ward-2/) - In what should be a truly captivating evening of Chess, Hammersmith Club players will be taking on Grandmaster (GM) Chris Ward in a 15 board simultaneous game at our Lytton Hall club venue (directions here) on Tuesday 2nd February from 6.30pm. A former British Champion, Chris is currently ranked in the top 30 British players - [New website](http://hammerchess.co.uk/2016/01/27/new-website/) - Hammersmith Chess Club is pleased to announce our new website. We've got a brand new layout and some exciting features which we hope you'll like, including: Integrated twitter feed - new tweets appear automatically on the website Blog style updates - with Newsletter functionality to email all members & subscribers whenever a post is made ## Pages - [Volunteering](http://hammerchess.co.uk/the-committee-and-agm/) - If you can help us build a better Club, and want to support any of the committee roles, we would love to hear from you. There is a lot of work involved in running the club and any time you can give is greatly valued. We are constantly looking for members to help out - [Our Members, Our Trustees, and Our Committee](http://hammerchess.co.uk/our-members-our-trustees-and-our-committee/) - Hammersmith Chess Club is registered as a Charity with an 'Association' model constitution, establishing voting members in addition to our charity trustees. Members are at the heart of our club and form the core of our charity based activities. Our club would not be able to operate without the support of a multitude of - [Our Constitution](http://hammerchess.co.uk/our-constitution/) - HCC Association_CIO 260415 - [Contact & Joining](http://hammerchess.co.uk/joining/) - Thinking of Joining? We’re always open to new members—whether you’re new to chess, returning after a break, or looking for strong competition and a sociable club atmosphere. Please come along to any of our Monday club nights for a free taster session. Hammersmith Chess Club has over 250 members from all backgrounds, ages, and levels. - [Adult Beginners](http://hammerchess.co.uk/adult-beginners/) - Adult Beginners Games and coaching for adults who are relatively inexperienced at chess, looking to play others of a similar level over the board, and improve their chess. Suitable for adults new to chess, up to ~900 chess.com / lichess rapid/daily. If you don’t know how the pieces move, you’re very welcome – please do - [The MindSports Centre](http://hammerchess.co.uk/the-mindsports-centre/) - Our Home, The Mindsports Centre The Mindsports Centre (MSC) is our home base: a bright, welcoming venue designed specifically for games such as chess, bridge and Go. It’s comfortable, quiet, and set up for serious play — but still relaxed and friendly. It is the only purpose-built, custom-designed chess venue in London, and — without - [Diversity Statement](http://hammerchess.co.uk/diversity-statement/) - Hammersmith Chess Club recognises the importance of inclusion and is committed to ensuring that our club reflects the diversity of our local community. Our primary aim is to eliminate discrimination in all aspects of club life. To achieve this, we are committed to: Creating a respectful and welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and accepted, - [Thursday Club Nights](http://hammerchess.co.uk/thursday-club-nights/) - Every Thursday evening, the Mindsports Centre becomes the beating heart of Hammersmith Chess Club. Whether you’re brand new to the club, returning after a break, or already a Hammer, Thursday nights are the friendliest and easiest way to get involved. We run a blend of social chess, rated classical games (Sledgehammer), and rated rapid games - [Club Calendar](http://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/) - Our fixtures and events calendar will appear here. For now, see the Club Matches tab for match details. - [News Archive](http://hammerchess.co.uk/news-archive/) - The Gastón Franco Library (aka The Archives) will appear here soon. - [ECF Club of the Year 2025](http://hammerchess.co.uk/ecf-club-of-the-year-2025/) - Hammersmith Chess Club has been awarded the prestigious title Club of the Year by the English Chess Federation for 2025. This recognition is richly deserved and reflects the hard work, dedication, and spirit of everyone involved with our club – from Committee members and Captains to Volunteers and players of all levels. We are one - [Monday Club Nights](http://hammerchess.co.uk/monday-club-nights/) - Monday Club Nights Every Monday evening, players of all ages, levels and backgrounds descend on the Mindsports Centre for our signature club night. Each week we run something collaborative, competitive or educational — for example: Lectures & TrainingOne of our stronger members presents a game, theme or idea on the demo board. Simultaneous ExhibitionsA single - [Welcome from Adam Cranston](http://hammerchess.co.uk/welcome-from-adam-cranston/) - Welcome to Hammersmith Chess Club We’re a friendly, ambitious, and fast-growing chess club based at the Mindsports Centre in West London. Whether you’re new to chess, returning after a break, or already playing competitively, you’ll find a warm welcome — and plenty of good games. A club for every kind of player At Hammersmith we - [Meet Our Captains](http://hammerchess.co.uk/meet-our-captains/) - [Teams & Captains](http://hammerchess.co.uk/teams-captains/) - As of the 2025-26 season currently underway, Hammersmith Chess Club fields 19 teams in different divisions across the London, Central London, Middlesex, and the Thames Valley competitions. Our First teams involve our club's strongest players and will be facing the toughest competition in the London League (captain: Gastón Franco), Thames Valley League (Carsten Pedersen), Middlesex - [London League Women 2 (Women's Division)](http://hammerchess.co.uk/captains-area/london-women-2/) - < back to captains' area Eligible Players Ineligible Players - [London League Cadets (Minor Division)](http://hammerchess.co.uk/captains-area/london-cadets/) - < back to captains' area Eligible Players Inneligible Players - [London League MacKenzie (Minor Division)](http://hammerchess.co.uk/captains-area/london-mackenzie/) - < back to captains' area Eligible Players Inneligible Players - [Game of the Season Award](http://hammerchess.co.uk/game-of-the-season-award/) - At the end of the 2024/25 Season, we have once again asked GM Daniel King to select the Best Game of the Season at our annual awards night. The winner was 13yo Kai Hanache for his win with the White pieces against Senith Gunarathne played on the first round of the English Championships - watch - [Game Selection 2023/24](http://hammerchess.co.uk/game-selection-2023-24/) - At the end of the 2023/24 Season, we have once again asked GM Daniel King to select the Best Game of the Season. With so many incredible games played by our members, he claimed it was an almost impossible task!  The winner was Marco Gallana for his win with the Black pieces against FM - [Women and Girls Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/) - Women & Girls Hour Mondays at 5pm Mindsports Centre, Ravenscourt Park Our Women & Girls Hour is a space to learn, play, and connect—whether you're brand new to chess or already tournament-ready. 💬 Why We Created It This hour was launched as part of Hammersmith’s commitment to making chess more welcoming and accessible—and it’s already - [Hammersmith Junior Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/hammersmith-junior-hour/) - Junior Hour Mondays at 6pm Mindsports Centre, Ravenscourt Park Whether your child is just learning the rules or already playing competitively, Junior Hour is the perfect place to learn, play, and grow in a safe, friendly setting. 🧠 What to Expect Each session is led by experienced coaches and runs during school term time. Girls - [Member Profiles](http://hammerchess.co.uk/member-profiles/) - Our Members are drawn from the local area around Hammersmith, West London, and in some cases much further afield! As a result, we encompass many different backgrounds, nationalities, cultures and calibers of chess! At the last count, our 200+ members hail from the following nations: Argentina, Austria, Australia, Belgium, Bosnia, China, Croatia, England, Finland, France, Germany, - [Members](http://hammerchess.co.uk/members/) - [Privacy & Safeguarding Policy](http://hammerchess.co.uk/privacy-policy/) - Safeguarding & Child Protection Hammersmith Chess Club seeks to create a safe & welcoming environment for all players, including children and young adults. We operate a Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy in line with that of the English Chess Federation. Full details of that policy can be found here: https://www.englishchess.org.uk/safeguarding-and-the-ecf/ Our Club has an appointed Child - [Roll of Honour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/roll-of-honour/) - The Hammersmith Roll of Honour commemorates those players who performed exceptionally in each season. Please join us in congratulating these well-deserved superstars of the club! 2023-24 Season The “Mike Mackenzie” President’s Award: Adam Cranston Game of the Season: Marco Gallana Players of the Season: First Team Player of the Season: Luke Lau Player of the - [Game Selection 2022-23](http://hammerchess.co.uk/game-selection-2022-23/) - As of July 2023, the 2022/23 League Season has just ended successfully for Hammersmith Chess Club with lots of members taking part in matches against other clubs for one of our 17 teams across 4 different leagues. With so many games being played, we have decided to select our Best Game of the Season! We - [Fair Play Guidelines](http://hammerchess.co.uk/fair-play-guidelines/) - At Hammersmith Chess Club we believe fair play is important, and so is playing chess in the right spirit. We believe the vast majority of players from other clubs feel the same. With the topics of cheating, accusations and unsportsmanship becoming unfortunately more popular in recent times, we would like to share the below guidelines - [Club Constitution](http://hammerchess.co.uk/club-constitution/) - Formally adopted at the 2016 AGM Updated in 2020, 2022 and 2023 Mission Statement “Hammersmith Chess Club aims to be the best and friendliest chess club in West London.” This will be achieved by the adoption of the following principles: A. To provide members of the Hammersmith Chess Club wishing to play chess with a - [Game Selection 2021-22](http://hammerchess.co.uk/game-selection-21-22/) - After an exciting 2021/22 season marked by the return to OTB chess, there were plenty of opportunities for our players to show the progress they've made during the pandemic while studying at home, playing online, or even just learning how to play from scratch! League matches are back and they are a great source of - [Teams & Captains 2021-22](http://hammerchess.co.uk/teams-captains-2021-22/) - As the 2021-22 season just ended marking the return of OTB competition, Hammersmith Chess Club participated with 16 teams in different leagues across the London, Central London, Middlesex, and the Thames Valley competitions, with great success as 5 teams won their respective divisions, including two first teams crowned as Champions! We were delighted to see - [Congress - Hammratty](http://hammerchess.co.uk/congress-hammratty/) - Essential information regarding the Hammersmith Chess Club Congress Registration Form Fact sheet Current list of registered players Results Casual Blitz results - [Celtic Tigers](http://hammerchess.co.uk/celtic-tigers/) - Here at Hammer, we have a strong link with our Sister Club, the Celtic Tigers, who field two teams in the highest league in the UK - the National League (also known as 4NCL - the 4 Nations Chess League). Hammerite Chris Skulte also moonlights as the manager of the Tigers, and Hammerites are positively - [Shop](http://hammerchess.co.uk/shop/) - [Games & Analysis](http://hammerchess.co.uk/games/) - Welcome to the Hammersmith Chess Club Games & Analysis library. Here are some interesting games with full analysis from our members. 04.04.17 - GM Chris Ward (241) vs. Marios Kouis (E150) - A cracker from our recent Simul against GM Ward. Marios was our only victor and he shares a great writeup of that game - [Fixtures & Results](http://hammerchess.co.uk/results/) - League fixtures & results for the Hammersmith teams. [table id=1 /] [table id=2 /] [table id=3 /] [table id=4 /] [table id=5 /] ## Topics - [Media Group](http://hammerchess.co.uk/forums/topic/media-group/) - Hi Andy Will we be able tio store data in this part of the web ## Replies - [](http://hammerchess.co.uk/forums/reply/752/) - Test ## FM Mail Verification - [Email Verification](http://hammerchess.co.uk/fmemailverification/email-verification/) ## FM Preview - [Preview](http://hammerchess.co.uk/form-maker/preview/) ## Team Showcase - [Gastón Franco](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/gaston-franco/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-1-ll/list - [Anastasija Royce](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/anastasija-royce/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-women1-ll/list - [Srishti Sinha](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/srishti-sinha/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-women2-ll/list - [Tomo Knowland](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/tomo-knowland/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-hodgson-ll/list - [Maria-Alexandera Ciocan](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/maria-alexandera-ciocan/) - [Frantisek Zacek](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/frantisek-zacek/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-4-ml/list - [Tom Townsend](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/tom-townsend/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-1-cll/list - [Andrew Cuff](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/andrew-cuff/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-2-cll/list - [John White](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/john-white/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-2-ll/list - [Luna Eastham](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/luna-eastman/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-3-ml/list - [John Abbott](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/john-abbott/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-2-ml/list - [Sarah Ewart](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/sarah-ewart/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-mackenzie-ll/list - [Chris Skulte](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/chris-skulte/) - [Dave Lambert](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/dave-lambert/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-3-ll/list - [Carsten Pedersen](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/carsten-pedersen/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-a-tvl/list - [Nadim Osseiran](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/nadim-osseiran/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-4-ll/list - [Gianmaria Mazzaracchio](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/gianmaria-mazzaracchio/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-hedger-ll/list - [Tom Townsend (acting captain)](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/tom-townsend-acting-captain/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-cadets-ll/list - [Frank Valle](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/frank-valle-2/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-juniors-ll/list - [David Steyn](http://hammerchess.co.uk/team-showcase/david-steyn/) - https://hammerchess.co.uk/calendar/tag/hammer-3-cll/list ## MailPoet page - [Subscription confirmation](http://hammerchess.co.uk/?wysijap=subscriptions) - [wysija_page] ## Events - [Hammer ECF-Rated (3+2) Blitz feat. Lübeck Chess Club](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-32-blitz-feat-lubeck-chess-club/) - 7 rounds of 3+2 blitz. ECF membership not required. Sign up here. We will be welcoming our friends from Lübeck Chess Club of 1873 on a return visit to our club! - [Hammersmith General Meeting](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammersmith-general-meeting/) - This will be Hammersmith's first General Meeting as a charity. Please do join us at the start of the Monday club night for a 20 min update on: charity-related changes introducing new committee members club finances next season's activities and fees - [Training Session: The Morra Gambit](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/training-session-the-morra-gambit/) - We are delighted to welcome our first team player, Rob Taylor, who'll be presenting a training session on the Morra Gambit, and its various trap lines. - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-26/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/X5JR33gHEHXq79FE8 - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 7](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-7-3/) - The final round of our annual series: 9 rounds of blitz chess with a twist! 10 minutes to be shared between the two players... the stronger you are, the less time you have on the clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/5J6J1g2h3kVh8xRA6 - [London League Intermediate: DHSS Intermediate vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-intermediate-dhss-intermediate-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Minor: Battersea Minor vs Hammersmith Cadets](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-battersea-minor-vs-hammersmith-cadets/) - [London League Division 4: Greater London 2 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-greater-london-2-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [Hammer Celebrates Pride!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-celebrates-pride/) - June is LGBTQ+ Pride month, and with diversity and inclusion at the very heart of Hammersmith Chess Club's ethos, we are very excited to celebrate with a big team tournament! Entrants will be assigned a colour of the rainbow Pride flag and placed on an appropriate board in a team of 8 players. All players - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Metropolitan](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-metropolitan/) - [London League Division 1: Richmond & Twickenham 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-richmond-twickenham-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Hammer ECF-Rated (5+2) Blitz](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-52-blitz-3/) - 9 rounds of 5+2 blitz. ECF membership not required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/T5bGBRwc53vb7jDJ8 - [Blindfold Chess!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/blindfold-chess/) - Practice your board vision with some simple exercises: Follow the moves from your favourite opening, identify hanging pieces in a given position, and try to chase down a Bishop using a Rook! All levels will be able to participate and there will be some extra help available for beginners. No prior training is required but - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Harrow 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-harrow-2/) - [Beginners Take Over!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-take-over/) - A special event for the bank holiday - we'll be running a 5-round unrated rapidplay tournament for beginners and juniors rated - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith 4 vs Mushrooms 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-4-vs-mushrooms-2/) - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-25/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/FRbCp4ZB4ZmGeDEL8 - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Charlton 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-charlton-2-2/) - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 6 (piece odds version)](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-6-3/) - 9 rounds of blitz chess with a twist! One player will begin with a material deficit: 1 point per 150 Elo difference. Enter here: https://forms.gle/WY6SeUCfFecRDaEh7 - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-24/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/6jArgBbnYHcrQTEJ9 - [Simul Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/simul-night-8/) - Four brave Hammers will be taking on challengers in a simultaneous exhibition. They will each play 8 games, with a 60+30 time control. Please enter here: https://forms.gle/v9qbpxxcKzEqnmrA8 - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-3-4/) - 9 rounds of blitz chess with a twist! 10 minutes to be shared between the two players... the stronger you are, the less time you have on the clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/k383FXENXuwzTjh2A - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 5](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-4/) - 9 rounds of blitz chess with a twist! 10 minutes to be shared between the two players... the stronger you are, the less time you have on the clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/gXgEtypScaQen2yu5 - [Adult Beginners’ Session](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/adult-beginners-session-13/) - Games and coaching for adults who are relatively inexperienced at chess, looking to play others of a similar level over the board, and improve their chess. Suitable for adults new to chess, up to ~900 chess.com / lichess rapid/daily. If you don’t know how the pieces move, you’re very welcome - please do let our - [Adult Beginners’ Session](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/adult-beginners-session-14/) - Games and coaching for adults who are relatively inexperienced at chess, looking to play others of a similar level over the board, and improve their chess. Suitable for adults new to chess, up to ~900 chess.com / lichess rapid/daily. If you don’t know how the pieces move, you’re very welcome - please do let our - [Adult Beginners’ Session](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/adult-beginners-session-12/) - Games and coaching for adults who are relatively inexperienced at chess, looking to play others of a similar level over the board, and improve their chess. Suitable for adults new to chess, up to ~900 chess.com / lichess rapid/daily. If you don’t know how the pieces move, you’re very welcome - please do let our - [Adult Beginners’ Session](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/adult-beginners-session-8/) - Games and coaching for adults who are relatively inexperienced at chess, looking to play others of a similar level over the board, and improve their chess. Suitable for adults new to chess, up to ~900 chess.com / lichess rapid/daily. If you don’t know how the pieces move, you’re very welcome - please do let our - [Adult Beginners’ Session](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/adult-beginners-session-9/) - Games and coaching for adults who are relatively inexperienced at chess, looking to play others of a similar level over the board, and improve their chess. Suitable for adults new to chess, up to ~900 chess.com / lichess rapid/daily. If you don’t know how the pieces move, you’re very welcome - please do let our - [Adult Beginners’ Session](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/adult-beginners-session-10/) - Games and coaching for adults who are relatively inexperienced at chess, looking to play others of a similar level over the board, and improve their chess. Suitable for adults new to chess, up to ~900 chess.com / lichess rapid/daily. If you don’t know how the pieces move, you’re very welcome - please do let our - [Adult Beginners’ Session](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/adult-beginners-session-11/) - Games and coaching for adults who are relatively inexperienced at chess, looking to play others of a similar level over the board, and improve their chess. Suitable for adults new to chess, up to ~900 chess.com / lichess rapid/daily. If you don’t know how the pieces move, you’re very welcome - please do let our - [Adult Beginners’ Session](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/adult-beginners-session-4/) - Games and coaching for adults who are relatively inexperienced at chess, looking to play others of a similar level over the board, and improve their chess. Suitable for adults new to chess, up to ~900 chess.com / lichess rapid/daily. If you don’t know how the pieces move, you’re very welcome - please do let our - [Adult Beginners’ Session](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/adult-beginners-session-5/) - Games and coaching for adults who are relatively inexperienced at chess, looking to play others of a similar level over the board, and improve their chess. Suitable for adults new to chess, up to ~900 chess.com / lichess rapid/daily. If you don’t know how the pieces move, you’re very welcome - please do let our - [Adult Beginners’ Session](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/adult-beginners-session-6/) - Games and coaching for adults who are relatively inexperienced at chess, looking to play others of a similar level over the board, and improve their chess. Suitable for adults new to chess, up to ~900 chess.com / lichess rapid/daily. If you don’t know how the pieces move, you’re very welcome - please do let our - [Adult Beginners’ Session](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/adult-beginners-session-7/) - Games and coaching for adults who are relatively inexperienced at chess, looking to play others of a similar level over the board, and improve their chess. Suitable for adults new to chess, up to ~900 chess.com / lichess rapid/daily. If you don’t know how the pieces move, you’re very welcome - please do let our - [Adult Beginners’ Session](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/adult-beginners-session-2/) - Games and coaching for adults who are relatively inexperienced at chess, looking to play others of a similar level over the board, and improve their chess. Suitable for adults new to chess, up to ~900 chess.com / lichess rapid/daily. If you don’t know how the pieces move, you’re very welcome - please do let our - [Adult Beginners’ Session](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/adult-beginners-session-3/) - Games and coaching for adults who are relatively inexperienced at chess, looking to play others of a similar level over the board, and improve their chess. Suitable for adults new to chess, up to ~900 chess.com / lichess rapid/daily. If you don’t know how the pieces move, you’re very welcome - please do let our - [Adult Beginners’ Session](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/adult-beginners-session/) - Games and coaching for adults who are relatively inexperienced at chess, looking to play others of a similar level over the board, and improve their chess. Suitable for adults new to chess, up to ~900 chess.com / lichess rapid/daily. If you don’t know how the pieces move, you’re very welcome - please do let our - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-23/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/NZmg4WTLbK9HyWXJ9 - [Bughouse Tournament](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/bughouse-tournament-3/) - Everyone’s favourite two-player chess variant. Enter here. Rules Partnerships must have an average rating < 1600 ECF Entrants must commit to the full event (finishing ~10pm) Prizes for the winners Tournament Grid - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-84/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-85/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-86/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-87/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-80/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-81/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-82/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-83/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-76/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-77/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-78/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-79/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-72/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-73/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-74/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-75/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-68/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-69/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-70/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-71/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-86/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-87/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-88/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-89/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-82/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-83/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-84/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-85/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-78/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-79/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-80/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-81/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-74/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-75/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-76/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-77/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-70/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-71/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-72/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-73/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-31/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-32/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-33/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-34/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-27/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-28/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-29/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-30/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-23/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-24/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-25/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-26/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-32/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-33/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-34/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-28/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-29/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-30/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-31/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-24/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-25/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-26/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-27/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-23/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-22/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/K3zHphgLEtyehZkG7 - [Beginner session 🧑‍🏫 & social chess 🍻♟️](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginner-session-🧑🏫-social-chess-🍻♟️/) - Jenny Mulholland (Hammersmith's new Beginners' Officer) will be leading a session for beginners in the main hall. Great for any adults (accompanied children welcome too) new to chess or still learning the basics, up to about 800 rating. Informal coaching & opportunity to play folks at a similar level. Parents of juniors are especially welcome. - [Little-known Brilliancies](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/little-known-brilliancies/) - Chess history is cruel, with few players other than those with outstanding tournament accomplishments or theoretical contributions able to leave anything more than mere footnotes. However, if we delve deeply enough into these footnotes, often we can find some hidden gems, obscure perhaps, but no less sparkling or brilliant than their more well-known counterparts. Your - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-21/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/54chPkehJuvVswbP8 - [London League Major: Battersea Dogs vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-battersea-dogs-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [London League Major: Hammersmith Hodgson vs West London Major](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-hammersmith-hodgson-vs-west-london-major/) - [London League Major: Greater London Major vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-greater-london-major-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [London League Major: Battersea Eagles vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-battersea-eagles-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Richmond & Twickenham A vs Hammersmith A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-richmond-twickenham-a-vs-hammersmith-a/) - [Hammersmith hosts GM Jonathan Mestel](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammersmith-hosts-gm-jonathan-mestel/) - Hammers, we’re in for something special. We’re delighted to announce that Jonathan Mestel will be our guest speaker at the club on Monday 2nd March at 7.15pm. Not only is he one of the great figures of English chess, he is also Professor of Applied Mathematics at Imperial College. Expect insight, stories, and probably a - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-hammersmith-1-2/) - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-20/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/cfk3NkRVgkwDzARj6 - [Play for a win with simple moves](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/play-for-a-win-with-simple-moves/) - Gaston Franco shows one of his games as an example of how to find plans in equal positions, put your opponents under pressure and create winning chances - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-19/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/cfk3NkRVgkwDzARj6 - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 4 vs Hackney 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-4-vs-hackney-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Hackney 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-hackney-1-2/) - [London League Major: UCL 2 vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-ucl-2-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hackney 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hackney-2-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [London League Eastman Cup: Hammersmith vs West London](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-eastman-cup-hammersmith-vs-west-london/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hackney 2 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hackney-2-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hackney 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hackney-1-vs-hammersmith-1-2/) - [Simul Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/simul-night-7/) - Four brave Hammers will be taking on challengers in a simultaneous exhibition. They will each play 8 games, with a 60+30 time control. Please enter here: https://forms.gle/1njSHUrKe5fGkqFu8 - [The Hammersmith Blitz Open](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/the-hammersmith-blitz-open/) - An ECF-Rated Blitz tournament open to all (£10 to enter for non-members) in collaboration with chess.com, who are generously providing a substantial prize fund, including a board signed by Magnus Carlsen! Sign up soon to secure your spot: entry form For queries, please email Adam at: adam1234321@gmail.com - [Hammer ECF-Rated (5+2) Blitz](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-52-blitz-2/) - 9 rounds of 5+2 blitz. ECF membership not required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/vDiueyEvcHCkWyNp7 - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 6/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-6-8-2/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/12/20/the-perfect-christmas-gift/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 7/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-7-8-2/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/12/20/the-perfect-christmas-gift/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 8/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-8-8-2/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/12/20/the-perfect-christmas-gift/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 2/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-2-8-2/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/12/20/the-perfect-christmas-gift/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 3/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-3-8-2/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/12/20/the-perfect-christmas-gift/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 4/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-4-8-2/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/12/20/the-perfect-christmas-gift/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 5/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-5-8-2/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/12/20/the-perfect-christmas-gift/ for more details or to sign up. - [Rilton Cup Review](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/rilton-cup-review/) - Tom Villiers takes us through some of the most exciting games he played at the Rilton Cup tournament in Sweden. - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 1/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-1-8-2/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2025/12/20/the-perfect-christmas-gift/ for more details or to sign up. - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-64/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-65/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-66/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-67/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-60/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-61/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-62/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-63/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-58/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-59/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-54/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-55/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-56/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-57/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-69/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-51/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-52/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-53/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-65/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-66/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-67/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-68/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-61/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-62/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-63/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-64/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-57/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-58/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-59/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-60/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-53/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-54/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-55/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-56/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-20/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-21/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-22/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-52/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-16/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-17/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-18/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-19/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-32/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-13/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-14/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-15/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-28/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-29/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-30/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-31/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-12/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-25/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-26/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-27/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-24/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-18/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/K2Nzv3pv9M9J93GC8 - [The Big Hammer Chess Quiz - Christmas Edition](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/the-big-hammer-chess-quiz-christmas-edition/) - A quiz featuring a number of rounds of chess trivia. Teams can be arranged in advance, or allocated on the night. Gastón Franco will be your host. - [Hammer Freestyle 9LX GOAT Fischer Random](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-freestyle-9lx-goat-fischer-random-3/) - A five-round rapid tournament, in which all of the starting positions are randomised! Please enter via this link: https://forms.gle/EUemLxp3Uydvzxet8 - [London League Women's: Wimbledon Women vs Hammersmith Women 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-wimbledon-women-vs-hammersmith-women-2/) - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-17/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/FPcjEF42bKQLHF8E6 - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Hammersmith A vs Kingston A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-hammersmith-a-vs-kingston-a-3/) - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-3-3/) - The third round of our infamous annual blitz tournament series. The stronger you are, the less time you get on your clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/Z3iwHv8HFPFd3guP8 - [London League Eastman Cup: Hammersmith vs Imperial College](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-eastman-cup-hammersmith-vs-imperial-college/) - [London League Division 1: Imperial College 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-imperial-college-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Potters Bar vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-potters-bar-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Potters Bar vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-potters-bar-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [Bughouse Tournament](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/bughouse-tournament-2/) - Everyone's favourite two-player chess variant: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bughouse_chess. Partnerships must have an average rating below 1600 ECF. Enter here: https://forms.gle/pNydzAKCpFegTJyRA Tournament Grid: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1DgwcGW6JkW6UH9hGjXy7CqN6Tm4P50IbBoYl-ttnuz4/ - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-16/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/jugasa8AnMpCjnqHA - [Hammer House of Horrors](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-house-of-horrors/) - Ever lost a game so bad it still haunts you at night? This is for the connoisseurs of catastrophe. The true artists of self-destruction. The players who can take a completely winning position… and dismantle it with ten moves of pure, unfiltered incompetence. An evening dedicated to your worst games — with Halloween prizes for - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-2-2/) - The second round of our infamous annual blitz tournament series. The stronger you are, the less time you get on your clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/Fg8DmuHE6KtDWi4A8 - [ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapidplay](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/ecf-rated-rapidplay/) - 5 rounds - 10+5 time control. You must be a bronze ECF member to play in this event. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/GvoyoX5PFXxqDo6e7 - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-15/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/CnzPTkroeSdxjgmB9 - [Your Games Analysed](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/your-games-analysed-5/) - Hammer legend Gaston Franco will talk us through some games played in the recent Hammersmith vs. Hammersmith derby matches. If you would like your game analysed, please send it to Gaston as soon as possible. Rules - Hammersmith members only - Only one game submission each - The game must be submitted in PGN format - [Central London League Division 2: Railsport vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-railsport-vs-hammersmith-1-3/) - [London League Major: Cavendish Major vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-cavendish-major-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [London League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Hackney 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-hackney-1/) - [London League Women's: Lewisham Women vs Hammersmith Women 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-lewisham-women-vs-hammersmith-women-1/) - [London League Women's: London Women Polgar vs Hammersmith Women 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-london-women-polgar-vs-hammersmith-women-1/) - [London League Women's: Wimbledon Women vs Hammersmith Women 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-wimbledon-women-vs-hammersmith-women-1/) - [London League Women's: Yas Queen! Women vs Hammersmith Women 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-yas-queen-women-vs-hammersmith-women-1/) - [London League Women's: London Women Hou vs Hammersmith Women 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-london-women-hou-vs-hammersmith-women-1/) - [London League Women's: Battersea Women vs Hammersmith Women 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-battersea-women-vs-hammersmith-women-1/) - [London League Women's: London Universities Women vs Hammersmith Women 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-london-universities-women-vs-hammersmith-women-1/) - [London League Women's: Hammersmith Women 2 vs Hammersmith Women 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-hammersmith-women-2-vs-hammersmith-women-1/) - [London League Division 3: Cavendish 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-cavendish-2-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 4 vs Hendon BN](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-4-vs-hendon-bn/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 4 vs Kings Head 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-4-vs-kings-head-3-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hendon 4 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hendon-4-vs-hammersmith-4-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Kings Head 3 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-kings-head-3-vs-hammersmith-4-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 4 vs Ealing 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-4-vs-ealing-2-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 4 vs Hendon 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-4-vs-hendon-4-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 4 vs Potters Bar](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-4-vs-potters-bar/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Ealing 2 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-ealing-2-vs-hammersmith-4-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hendon BN vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hendon-bn-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hendon 4 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hendon-4-vs-hammersmith-3-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Potters Bar](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-potters-bar/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Ealing 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-ealing-2-vs-hammersmith-3-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Kings Head 3 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-kings-head-3-vs-hammersmith-3-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Ealing 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-ealing-2-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hendon BN vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hendon-bn-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-hammersmith-4-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Kings Head 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-kings-head-3-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Hendon BN](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-hendon-bn/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Hackney 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-hackney-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Ealing 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-ealing-1/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 4 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-4-vs-hammersmith-3-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Hendon 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-hendon-4-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Muswell Hill 2 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-muswell-hill-2-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Willesden and Brent vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-willesden-and-brent-vs-hammersmith-2-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Harrow 2 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-harrow-2-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Willesden and Brent](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-willesden-and-brent-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Hendon 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-hendon-2-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Muswell Hill 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-muswell-hill-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Hendon 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-hendon-3-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Harrow 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-harrow-1/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hendon 3 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hendon-3-vs-hammersmith-2-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Kings Head 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-kings-head-2-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Kings Head 2 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-kings-head-2-vs-hammersmith-2-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hendon 2 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hendon-2-vs-hammersmith-2-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Albany](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-albany-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Ealing 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-ealing-1-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Harrow 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-harrow-1-vs-hammersmith-2-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: West London vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-west-london-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hendon 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hendon-1-vs-hammersmith-1-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Kings Head 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-kings-head-1-vs-hammersmith-1-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Metropolitan vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-metropolitan-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Albany vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-albany-vs-hammersmith-1-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Muswell Hill 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-muswell-hill-1-vs-hammersmith-1-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Hendon 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-hendon-1-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Kings Head 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-kings-head-1-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Muswell Hill 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-muswell-hill-1-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs West London](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-west-london/) - [Central London League Division 4: Hackney 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-hackney-2-vs-hammersmith-3-3/) - [Central London League Division 4: Hammersmith 3 vs Hackney 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-hammersmith-3-vs-hackney-2-3/) - [Central London League Division 4: Hammersmith 3 vs Streatham 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-hammersmith-3-vs-streatham-3/) - [Central London League Division 4: Hammersmith 3 vs Wanstead 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-hammersmith-3-vs-wanstead-2-3/) - [Central London League Division 4: Hammersmith 3 vs Kings Head 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-hammersmith-3-vs-kings-head-2-3/) - [Central London League Division 4: Wanstead 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-wanstead-2-vs-hammersmith-3-3/) - [Central London League Division 4: Streatham 3 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-streatham-3-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Central London League Division 4: Hammersmith 3 vs Pimlico 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-hammersmith-3-vs-pimlico-4-3/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Railsport](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-railsport-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 1 vs Battersea 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-1-vs-battersea-1-2/) - [Central London League Division 4: Kings Head 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-kings-head-2-vs-hammersmith-3-3/) - [Central London League Division 4: Pimlico 4 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-pimlico-4-vs-hammersmith-3-3/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 1 vs Battersea Galacticos](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-1-vs-battersea-galacticos/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Battersea 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-battersea-1-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Wanstead 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-wanstead-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Pimlico 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-pimlico-3-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 1 vs Wanstead 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-1-vs-wanstead-1/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 1 vs Railsport](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-1-vs-railsport-3/) - [Central London League Division 2: Battersea 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-battersea-1-vs-hammersmith-2-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Wanstead 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-wanstead-1-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Battersea Galacticos vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-battersea-galacticos-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Wanstead 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-wanstead-1/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 1 vs Pimlico 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-1-vs-pimlico-3-3/) - [Central London League Division 2: Pimlico 3 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-pimlico-3-vs-hammersmith-1-3/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Battersea Galacticos](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-battersea-galacticos/) - [Central London League Division 2: Battersea Galacticos vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-battersea-galacticos-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-1-vs-hammersmith-2-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Pimlico 3 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-pimlico-3-vs-hammersmith-2-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Railsport vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-railsport-vs-hammersmith-2-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Battersea 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-battersea-1-vs-hammersmith-1-2/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Hammersmith A vs Kingston B](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-hammersmith-a-vs-kingston-b/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Hammersmith A vs Maidenhead A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-hammersmith-a-vs-maidenhead-a-3/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Kingston B vs Hammersmith A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-kingston-b-vs-hammersmith-a/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Hammersmith A vs Ealing A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-hammersmith-a-vs-ealing-a-3/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Kingston A vs Hammersmith A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-kingston-a-vs-hammersmith-a-3/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Hammersmith A vs Surbiton A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-hammersmith-a-vs-surbiton-a-3/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Maidenhead A vs Hammersmith A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-maidenhead-a-vs-hammersmith-a-3/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Hammersmith A vs Richmond & Twickenham A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-hammersmith-a-vs-richmond-twickenham-a/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Surbiton A vs Hammersmith A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-surbiton-a-vs-hammersmith-a-3/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Ealing A vs Hammersmith A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-ealing-a-vs-hammersmith-a-3/) - [London League Division 4: Hackney 3 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hackney-3-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [London League Women's: London Women Polgar vs Hammersmith Women 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-london-women-polgar-vs-hammersmith-women-2/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Metropolitan 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-metropolitan-4/) - [London League Division 1: Streatham & Brixton 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-streatham-brixton-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [London League Division 2: Battersea 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-2-battersea-1-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [London League Intermediate: Battersea Falcons vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-intermediate-battersea-falcons-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Minor: London Women Cobra vs Hammersmith Mackenzie](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-london-women-cobra-vs-hammersmith-mackenzie-2/) - [London League Division 2: Athenaeum 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-2-athenaeum-1-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [London League Division 4: Metropolitan 3 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-metropolitan-3-vs-hammersmith-4-2/) - [London League Division 3: Charlton 1 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-charlton-1-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [London League Division 4: BBCA 2 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-bbca-2-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [London League Division 1: Metropolitan 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-metropolitan-1-vs-hammersmith-1-2/) - [London League Women's: Battersea Women vs Hammersmith Women 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-battersea-women-vs-hammersmith-women-2/) - [London League Intermediate: Streatham & Brixton Intermediate vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-intermediate-streatham-brixton-intermediate-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Division 3: Metropolitan 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-metropolitan-2-vs-hammersmith-3-2/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Hackney 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-hackney-3-2/) - [London League Division 2: Wanstead 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-2-wanstead-1-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [London League Intermediate: Battersea Goats vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-intermediate-battersea-goats-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Minor: London Women Cobra vs Hammersmith Cadets](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-london-women-cobra-vs-hammersmith-cadets/) - [London League Division 2: Albany 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-2-albany-1-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Greater London 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-greater-london-2/) - [London League Minor: Hammersmith Mackenzie vs Hammersmith Cadets](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-hammersmith-mackenzie-vs-hammersmith-cadets/) - [London League Division 4: Metropolitan 4 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-metropolitan-4-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [London League Division 1: Cavendish 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-cavendish-1-vs-hammersmith-1-2/) - [London League Intermediate: Morley College Intermediate vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-intermediate-morley-college-intermediate-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Division 3: DHSS 1 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-dhss-1-vs-hammersmith-3-2/) - [London League Women's: Lewisham Women vs Hammersmith Women 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-lewisham-women-vs-hammersmith-women-2/) - [London League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Kings Head 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-kings-head-1/) - [London League Women's: London Universities Women vs Hammersmith Women 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-london-universities-women-vs-hammersmith-women-2/) - [London League Minor: Hammersmith Mackenzie vs Battersea Minor](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-hammersmith-mackenzie-vs-battersea-minor/) - [London League Intermediate: Metropolitan Gnomes vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-intermediate-metropolitan-gnomes-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith 4 vs Ilford 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-4-vs-ilford-1/) - [London League Intermediate: King's College London 2 vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-intermediate-kings-college-london-2-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Division 2: King's College London 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-2-kings-college-london-1-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [London League Major: Imperial College Major vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-imperial-college-major-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Ilford 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-ilford-1/) - [London League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Hackney 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-hackney-2/) - [London League Division 1: Mushrooms 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-mushrooms-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Metropolitan 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-metropolitan-3-2/) - [London League Intermediate: Hammersmith Hedger vs Wimbledon Intermediate](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-intermediate-hammersmith-hedger-vs-wimbledon-intermediate/) - [London League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Lewisham 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-lewisham-2/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Kings Head 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-kings-head-2-2/) - [London League Major: Pimlico Major vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-pimlico-major-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [London League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Wood Green 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-wood-green-1/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith 4 vs Lewisham 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-4-vs-lewisham-3/) - [London League Division 3: Battersea 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-battersea-2-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [London League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs East Ham 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-east-ham-1/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Mushrooms 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-mushrooms-2/) - [London League Division 3: East Ham 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-east-ham-2-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [London League Intermediate: Yas Queen! Intermediate vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-intermediate-yas-queen-intermediate-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Division 4: Kings Head 2 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-kings-head-2-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [London League Minor: Hammersmith Cadets vs London Women Cobra](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-hammersmith-cadets-vs-london-women-cobra/) - [London League Minor: Battersea Minor vs Hammersmith Mackenzie](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-battersea-minor-vs-hammersmith-mackenzie/) - [London League Division 2: Streatham & Brixton 2 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-2-streatham-brixton-2-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Lewisham 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-lewisham-3-2/) - [London League Division 3: BBCA 1 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-bbca-1-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [London League Intermediate: Greater London Intermediate vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-intermediate-greater-london-intermediate-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Lewisham 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-lewisham-1/) - [London League Division 2: Dulwich 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-2-dulwich-1-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [London League Major: Morley College Major vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-morley-college-major-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [London League Division 1: UCL 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-ucl-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [London League Women's: London Women Hou vs Hammersmith Women 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-london-women-hou-vs-hammersmith-women-2/) - [London League Minor: London Women Cobra vs Hammersmith Mackenzie](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-london-women-cobra-vs-hammersmith-mackenzie/) - [London League Minor: Hammersmith Cadets vs Battersea Minor](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-hammersmith-cadets-vs-battersea-minor/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith 4 vs Charlton 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-4-vs-charlton-2/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs BBCA 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-bbca-2/) - [London League Division 3: Wimbledon 1 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-wimbledon-1-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [London League Division 3: Greater London 1 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-greater-london-1-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [London League Minor: Hammersmith Cadets vs Hammersmith Mackenzie](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-hammersmith-cadets-vs-hammersmith-mackenzie/) - [London League Women's: Yas Queen! Women vs Hammersmith Women 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-yas-queen-women-vs-hammersmith-women-2/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-hammersmith-4-2/) - [London League Intermediate: Hammersmith Hedger vs Hackney Intermediate](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-intermediate-hammersmith-hedger-vs-hackney-intermediate/) - [Tricks and Traps in the Opening Game](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/learn-from-tarrasch-2/) - There are countless ways to win a game of chess before it has really got started! Richard Cranston will present a number of these from his book, "50 Tricks and Traps in the Opening Game". - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-1-3/) - The first round of our infamous annual blitz tournament series. The stronger you are, the less time you get on your clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/9Qu1TMXfq5JZAVzy7 - [Grand Swiss Recap](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/grand-swiss-recap/) - Gastón Franco takes us through some of the most exciting games from the Grand Swiss in Uzbekistan, that will have just finished. - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-14/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/mjJ2UyYvHDL2grYs8 - [Hammer ECF-Rated (5+2) Blitz](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-52-blitz/) - 9 rounds of 5+2 blitz. ECF membership not required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/hH1zZTKWfs93mmpd8 - [Awards Night with GM Daniel King](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/awards-night-with-gm-daniel-king-2/) - We are honoured to welcome Grandmaster Daniel King. He will be presenting awards for the 2024/25 season, and announcing and showing our Game of the Season. - [Extraordinary General Meeting](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/extraordinary-general-meeting/) - An Extraordinary General Meeting of members to consider next steps to becoming a charity. - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-53-blitz-7/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/37d3SAJLWJ5k6Tn79 - [Duck Chess Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/variants-night/) - Five rounds of duck chess! Rules and practice: https://support.chess.com/en/articles/8615411-what-is-duck-chess All skill levels are welcome. Please sign up here. See you on Monday! - [Learn from Tarrasch](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/learn-from-tarrasch/) - Siegbert Tarrasch was at his peak #1 or #2 in the world. He is known for his clear, but provocative statements, his principles. Are they still valid after 135 years? YES, they have become integral to the modern chess player's thinking. The 1-hour lecture is mainly addressed to players up to 1800 - because, if - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-28/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-24/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-25/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-26/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-27/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-20/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-21/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-22/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-23/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-16/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-17/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-18/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-19/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-39/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-38/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-34/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-35/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-36/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-37/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-30/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-31/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-32/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-33/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-26/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-27/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-28/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-29/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-18/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-48/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-49/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-50/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-44/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-45/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-46/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-47/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-40/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-41/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-42/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-43/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-36/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-37/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-38/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-39/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-49/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-50/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-51/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-45/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-46/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-47/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-48/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-41/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-42/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-43/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-44/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-37/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-38/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-39/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-40/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-35/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-36/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-13/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership (bronze minimum) required. Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/twgtcDwiAcBNDKRf9 - [The French Revolution: Pawns are the soul of chess](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/philidor-and-la-bourdonnais/) - A quote by François-André Danican Philidor, the best player of the 18th century, who could only play by giving pawn or piece odds to his opponents and influenced his successors: Deschapelles, La Bourdonnais, Saint-Amant... Back then, pawns were only used as fodder to open lines, such as in the King's Gambit. A revolution was needed - [Thematic Tactics: The Fork](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thematic-tactics-the-fork/) - Join Gastón Franco to learn more about this tactical pattern, starting from the basic concept of how it works and gradually increasing in complexity up to how it's used in Grandmaster games! - [Hammer ECF-Rated (15+10) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-1510-rapid/) - 4 rounds of 15+10 rapid. ECF membership (bronze minimum) required. Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/UbuQD7uQeuoBc3qT6 - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 7](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-7-2/) - The seventh and final round of our infamous annual blitz tournament series. The stronger you are, the less time you get on your clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/dHcwmiwyG1vRa9MSA - [Hammer Freestyle 9LX GOAT Fischer Random](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-freestyle-9lx-goat-fischer-random-2/) - A five-round rapid tournament, in which all of the starting positions are randomised! Please enter via this link: https://forms.gle/etT7oCAQ56mvHszr7 - [Meet, greet and play the World Champions!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/meet-greet-and-play-the-world-champions/) - Hammersmith Chess Club are World Champions! https://twitter.com/hammer_chess/status/1933866199227498745 Many members of the team will be at the club! Please come along to congratulate them on their victory and test yourselves against them in a simultaneous exhibition. - [AGM](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/agm-2/) - Please join us for our 2025 AGM - a chance for members to hear about everything going on at the club, and to provide any feedback to the committee. - [Simul Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/simul-night-6/) - Three brave Hammers will be taking on challengers in a simultaneous exhibition. They will each play 8 games, with a 60+30 time control. Please enter here: https://forms.gle/uj5EF6RjKHznaqYH9 - [Hammer ECF-Rated (5+3) Blitz](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-53-blitz-6/) - 7 rounds of 5+3 blitz. ECF membership not required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/QpVXboudfHTrNE6r8 - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-12/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership (bronze minimum) required. Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/wP2sCmm6q2Kt5Yfg6 - [Beginners Course: Week 5/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-course-week-6-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners Course: Week 6/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-course-week-7-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners Course: Week 7/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-course-week-8-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners Course: Week 8/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-course-week-5-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Chess Therapy with GM Jonathan Rowson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/chess-therapy-with-gm-jonathan-rowson-8/) - A workshop for club members by Scotland's strongest ever player, Grandmaster Jonathan Rowson. Jonathan is a three-time British Chess Champion and author of the critically acclaimed books, The Seven Deadly Chess Sins (2001) Chess for Zebras (2005) and The Moves that Matter (2019). Jonathan will offer weekly chess therapy sessions at the Mindsports Centre on - [Chess Therapy with GM Jonathan Rowson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/chess-therapy-with-gm-jonathan-rowson-9/) - A workshop for club members by Scotland's strongest ever player, Grandmaster Jonathan Rowson. Jonathan is a three-time British Chess Champion and author of the critically acclaimed books, The Seven Deadly Chess Sins (2001) Chess for Zebras (2005) and The Moves that Matter (2019). Jonathan will offer weekly chess therapy sessions at the Mindsports Centre on - [Chess Therapy with GM Jonathan Rowson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/chess-therapy-with-gm-jonathan-rowson-4/) - A workshop for club members by Scotland's strongest ever player, Grandmaster Jonathan Rowson. Jonathan is a three-time British Chess Champion and author of the critically acclaimed books, The Seven Deadly Chess Sins (2001) Chess for Zebras (2005) and The Moves that Matter (2019). Jonathan will offer weekly chess therapy sessions at the Mindsports Centre on - [Chess Therapy with GM Jonathan Rowson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/chess-therapy-with-gm-jonathan-rowson-5/) - A workshop for club members by Scotland's strongest ever player, Grandmaster Jonathan Rowson. Jonathan is a three-time British Chess Champion and author of the critically acclaimed books, The Seven Deadly Chess Sins (2001) Chess for Zebras (2005) and The Moves that Matter (2019). Jonathan will offer weekly chess therapy sessions at the Mindsports Centre on - [Chess Therapy with GM Jonathan Rowson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/chess-therapy-with-gm-jonathan-rowson-6/) - A workshop for club members by Scotland's strongest ever player, Grandmaster Jonathan Rowson. Jonathan is a three-time British Chess Champion and author of the critically acclaimed books, The Seven Deadly Chess Sins (2001) Chess for Zebras (2005) and The Moves that Matter (2019). Jonathan will offer weekly chess therapy sessions at the Mindsports Centre on - [Chess Therapy with GM Jonathan Rowson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/chess-therapy-with-gm-jonathan-rowson-7/) - A workshop for club members by Scotland's strongest ever player, Grandmaster Jonathan Rowson. Jonathan is a three-time British Chess Champion and author of the critically acclaimed books, The Seven Deadly Chess Sins (2001) Chess for Zebras (2005) and The Moves that Matter (2019). Jonathan will offer weekly chess therapy sessions at the Mindsports Centre on - [Thematic Tactics: The Discovered Attack](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thematic-tactics-the-discovered-attack/) - Join Gastón Franco to learn more about this tactical pattern, starting from the basic concept of how it works and gradually increasing in complexity up to how it's used in Grandmaster games! - [Chess Therapy with GM Jonathan Rowson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/chess-therapy-with-gm-jonathan-rowson-3/) - A workshop for club members by Scotland's strongest ever player, Grandmaster Jonathan Rowson. Jonathan is a three-time British Chess Champion and author of the critically acclaimed books, The Seven Deadly Chess Sins (2001) Chess for Zebras (2005) and The Moves that Matter (2019). Jonathan will offer weekly chess therapy sessions at the Mindsports Centre on - [Chess Therapy with GM Jonathan Rowson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/chess-therapy-with-gm-jonathan-rowson-2/) - A workshop for club members by Scotland's strongest ever player, Grandmaster Jonathan Rowson. Jonathan is a three-time British Chess Champion and author of the critically acclaimed books, The Seven Deadly Chess Sins (2001) Chess for Zebras (2005) and The Moves that Matter (2019). Jonathan will offer weekly chess therapy sessions at the Mindsports Centre on - [Beginners Course: Week 2/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-course-week-2-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners Course: Week 3/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-course-week-3-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners Course: Week 4/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-course-week-4-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-11/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership (bronze minimum) required. Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/EdX6E68C4oi6cU5r5 - [Chess Therapy with GM Jonathan Rowson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/chess-therapy-with-gm-jonathan-rowson/) - Introducing: A lecture and workshop for club members by Scotland's strongest ever player, Grandmaster Jonathan Rowson. Jonathan is a three-time British Chess Champion and author of the critically acclaimed books, The Seven Deadly Chess Sins (2001) Chess for Zebras (2005) and The Moves that Matter (2019). Jonathan will introduce the idea of chess therapy, ahead - [Special Guest Simultaneous Exhibition](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/special-guest-simultaneous-exhibition/) - We welcome a special guest to play simultaneously against a number of Hammers. - [Beginners Course: Week 1/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-course-week-1-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Bughouse Tournament](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/bughouse-tournament/) - Everyone's favourite two-player chess variant: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bughouse_chess. Partnerships must have an average rating below 1600 ECF. Book prizes for the winners! Enter here: https://forms.gle/rSsSxEForcKGxxWo6 - [GM Ian Rogers - an Australian who redefined chess down under](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/gm-ian-rogers-an-australian-who-redefined-chess-down-under/) - Few players have shaped an entire nation's chess as much as the legendary Australian Grandmaster Ian Rogers. As the country's highest rated player for over 20 years, he played in a whopping 14 Olympiads (12 on top board), and won more than 120 classical tournaments. We're delighted to welcome Hammer legend Chris Skulte, who will - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-summer-term-6/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-summer-term-7/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-summer-term-8/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-summer-term-9/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-summer-term-2/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-summer-term-3/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-summer-term-4/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-summer-term-5/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-summer-term/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-22/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-19/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-20/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-21/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-15/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-16/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-17/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-18/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-4/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-34/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-30/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-31/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-32/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-33/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-26/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-27/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-28/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-29/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-22/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-23/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-24/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-25/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-18/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-19/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-20/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-21/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-14/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-15/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-16/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-17/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-34/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-35/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-30/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-31/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-32/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-33/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-26/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-27/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-28/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-29/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-22/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-23/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-24/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-25/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-18/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-19/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-20/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-21/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-14/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-15/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-16/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-17/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-10/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership (bronze minimum) required. Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/EPnQ3K7wBXiGyAqA9 - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 6](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-6-2/) - The sixth round of our infamous annual blitz tournament series. The stronger you are, the less time you get on your clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/v2WbaAXzUggnfaSg7 - [Simul Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/simul-night-5/) - Three brave Hammers will be taking on challengers in a simultaneous exhibition. They will each play 8 games, with a 60+30 time control. Please enter here: https://forms.gle/twUxBhaaJLn6JSSo6 - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-9/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership (bronze minimum) required. Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/X41ZGzadufVDUuGi9 - [London League Women’s Division: Hammersmith Women vs Battersea Women](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-division-hammersmith-women-vs-battersea-women-2/) - [Hammersmith Women vs Hammersmith Men](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammersmith-women-vs-hammersmith-men/) - An end of season grudge match: a battle of the sexes! This will be a rated standardplay match across as many boards as we can muster! Please get in touch via email if you'd like to take part: Women: Ana (surija@mail.ru) Men: Adam (adam1234321@gmail.com) - [Hammer ECF-Rated (5+3) Blitz](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-53-blitz-5/) - 7 rounds of 5+3 blitz. ECF membership not required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/sxNgyeK3YbkbSYUf9 - [Thematic Tactics: The Pin](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thematic-tactics-the-pin/) - Join Gastón Franco to learn more about this tactical pattern, starting from the basic concept of how it works and gradually increasing in complexity up to how it's used in Grandmaster games! - [Variants Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/variant-night-2/) - Luna Eastham hosts a Chess Variants Night! Try five exciting variants on the classic chess game: Antichess: You must capture when you can, and the first to lose all their pieces wins. Atomic Chess: Captures cause explosions, wiping out surrounding pieces (but not pawns). King of the Hill: Get your King to the center to - [London League Women's Division: Hammersmith Women vs London Universities Women](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-division-hammersmith-women-vs-london-universities-women/) - [London League Women's Division: London Women's 1 vs Hammersmith Women](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-division-london-womens-1-vs-hammersmith-women-2/) - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-8/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership (bronze minimum) required. Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/ymsNM2U8Rx6V91pn6 - [Hand and Heart](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hand-and-heart/) - Love is in the air at Hammersmith this Valentines. Pair up with another club member for a 6 round hand and brain tournament - one player chooses the piece, the other moves it. Pairs should have a combined ECF standard rating of no more than 3500. - [The Big Hammer Chess Quiz - Part 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/the-big-hammer-chess-quiz-2/) - A quiz featuring a number of rounds of chess trivia. Teams can be requested in advance, or allocated on the night. - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 5](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-5-2/) - The fourth round of our infamous annual blitz tournament series. The stronger you are, the less time you get on your clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/C96wMsc6vJ9ncgTG7 - [LCL Eastman Cup Semi Final: Hammersmith v West London](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/lcl-eastman-cup-semi-final-hammersmith-v-west-london/) - [Central London League Division 2: Railsport vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-railsport-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Railsport vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-1-vs-railsport-2/) - [London League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Wimbledon 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-wimbledon-1/) - [Hammer ECF-Rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-7/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership (bronze minimum) required. Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/vn7bMJrun3aP1qdP7 - [Hammer Puzzles Battle](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-puzzles-battle-2/) - Luna Eastham will host a fun team competition full of chess puzzles! Work together to solve puzzles that get harder within each round. You’ll have a set time to finish before swapping answer sheets to mark each other’s answers. Earn points for every correct solution—harder puzzles score more. The team with the most points wins! - [London League Women's Division: Hammersmith Women vs Battersea Women](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-division-hammersmith-women-vs-battersea-women/) - [Mid-season friendly: Hammer Juniors v Ealing CC Juniors](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/mid-season-friendly-hammer-juniors-v-ealing-juniors/) - A friendly match over many boards taking place during junior hour. - [Central London League Division 2: Railsport vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-railsport-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 8/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-8-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 7/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-7-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 6/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-6-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 5/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-5-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 4/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-4-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 3/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-3-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 2/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-2-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Beginners/Improvers Course: Week 1/8](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-improvers-course-week-1-8/) - See https://hammerchess.co.uk/2024/12/23/introducing-hammer-beginners-improvers-classes/ for more details or to sign up. - [Central London League Division 2: Battersea 2 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-battersea-2-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Hammer ECF-rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-6/) - A rare Thursday without matches means we can host a tournament: 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership (bronze minimum) required. Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/7qNnmG8hS9hypMpw5 - [YCBC Christmas Party](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/ycbc-christmas-party/) - Our friends from the Young Chelsea Bridge Club are hosting a Christmas Party! They are providing a buffet supper, drink and quiz, all for just £15. - [The Best and Worst games of Ding and Gukesh](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/the-best-and-worst-games-of-ding-and-gukesh/) - We're catching up to current times with Gastón Franco presenting the games of Ding Liren and Gukesh Dommaraju. - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-10/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-11/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-12/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-13/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-6/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-7/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-8/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-9/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-2/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-3/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-4/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night-5/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-10/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-11/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-12/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-13/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-6/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-7/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-8/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-9/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-2/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-3/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-4/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night-5/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-8/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-9/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-13/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-14/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-21/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-22/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-23/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-17/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-18/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-19/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-20/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-15/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-16/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-10/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-11/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-5/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-6/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-7/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-2/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-3/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-spring-term-4/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-night/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-christmas-handicap-blitz/) - The fourth round of our infamous annual blitz tournament series. The stronger you are, the less time you get on your clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/BYy41MCXSbAuSHWNA - [Chess at the Pub!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-69/) - With the Mindsports Centre unavailable, we will instead be playing chess at the Prince of Wales Townhouse! - [Variant Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/variant-night/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 chess. Each round will feature a different chess variant. - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-12/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Women and Girls Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-8/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Monday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/monday-club-night/) - Come along and play some chess! Mondays typically feature collaborative, competitive or educational activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. These will be added to the calendar once they have been planned. Non-members of all levels and backgrounds are very welcome to come along on a Monday to try out the club before - [Thursday Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-70/) - Come along and play some chess! On Thursdays, we will typically host league matches against other clubs. However, all members are invited to come along to play slow chess in a quiet setting. Whether you wish to play casual chess, or rated games in our internal tournaments, it is recommended to join our WhatsApp group - [Exclusive GM Lecture & Book Signing with Daniel King!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/special-guest-gm-night/) - GM Daniel King will share his expertise through puzzles, exercises, and chess wisdom throughout the evening. He will also be selling signed copies of his books at a special discounted price of just £20 each: King’s Anti-Sicilians for Black (25 copies available) King’s Kalashnikov Sicilian (15 copies available) Pre-order now to secure your copy! - [The Big Hammer Chess Quiz](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/the-big-hammer-chess-quiz/) - A quiz featuring a number of rounds of chess trivia. Teams can be requested in advance, or allocated on the night. - [Your Games Analysed](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/your-games-analysed-4/) - Hammer legend Christof Brixel will show talk us through a fascinating game played by Edoardo De Angelis in the Middlesex League. We expect to have time go through a second game. If you would like your game analysed, please send it to Adam by 16th November. Rules - Hammersmith members only - Only one game - [Hammer Christmas Handicap Blitz](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-3-2/) - The third round of our infamous annual blitz tournament series. The stronger you are, the less time you get on your clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/kyr7L8Jnh3YEzTQr8 - [Hammer ECF-rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-5/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership (bronze minimum) required. Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/E5MmTJgnfezATxna8 - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Hammersmith A vs Wimbledon A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-hammersmith-a-vs-wimbledon-a-2/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Hammersmith A vs Richmond A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-hammersmith-a-vs-richmond-a/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Hammersmith A vs Maidenhead A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-hammersmith-a-vs-maidenhead-a-2/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Hammersmith A vs Ealing A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-hammersmith-a-vs-ealing-a-2/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Hammersmith A vs Kingston A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-hammersmith-a-vs-kingston-a-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 1 vs Battersea 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-1-vs-battersea-2-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 1 vs Pimlico 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-1-vs-pimlico-3-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 1 vs Streatham 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-1-vs-streatham-1/) - [Central London League Division 2: Streatham 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-streatham-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Central London League Division 2: Pimlico 3 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-pimlico-3-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 1 vs Battersea 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-1-vs-battersea-1/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Hammersmith A vs Surbiton A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-hammersmith-a-vs-surbiton-a-2/) - [Central London League Division 4: Hammersmith 3 vs Kings Head 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-hammersmith-3-vs-kings-head-2-2/) - [The Premier League of Chess](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/the-premier-league-of-chess/) - Hammer's six favourite Premier League football teams will battle it out in a chess round robin. Entrants will be assigned to a club and placed on an appropriate board in a team of 5-6 players. Each team will play 5 rapidplay matches - one against each other team. Games will be rated, so it is - [Simul Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/simul-night-4/) - Four brave Hammers will be taking on challengers in a simultaneous exhibition. Gaston will simultaneously play 4 games blindfolded, while Thomas, Cedric and Max will simultaneously play 8 games (fully-sighted), with a 60+30 time control. Please enter here: https://forms.gle/DjKxsmKRyY13nScp6 - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-2-3/) - The second round of our infamous annual blitz tournament series. The stronger you are, the less time you get on your clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/B91jPJq4EnSQ3W7X8 - [Hammer ECF-Rated (5+3) Blitz](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-53-blitz-4/) - 7 rounds of 5+3 blitz. ECF membership not required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/vY2WdpwqVg1K64jw7 - [Your Games Analysed](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/your-games-analysed-3/) - We will be shunning the traditional practice of trying to analyse Grandmaster chess, and instead looking through some games played by you. There will be top Hammers on hand to show the critical moments and discuss typical mistakes, with practical advice on how to do better next time. If you would like a game of - [Hammer ECF-rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-4/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership (bronze minimum) required. Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/woEnJ57EAQno8s4t5 - [London League Women's Division: Wimbledon Women vs Hammersmith Women](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-division-wimbledon-women-vs-hammersmith-women/) - [London League Women's Division: London Universities Women vs Hammersmith Women](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-division-london-universities-women-vs-hammersmith-women/) - [London League Women's Division: Battersea Women vs Hammersmith Women](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-division-battersea-women-vs-hammersmith-women/) - [London League Women's Division: Hammersmith Women vs Lewisham Women](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-division-hammersmith-women-vs-lewisham-women/) - [London League Women's Division: Wimbledon Women vs Hammersmith Women](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-division-wimbledon-women-vs-hammersmith-women-2/) - [London League Division 3: Hackney 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-hackney-2-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [London League Women's Division: Lewisham Women vs Hammersmith Women](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-division-lewisham-women-vs-hammersmith-women/) - [London League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs BBCA 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-bbca-1/) - [London League Division 3: BBCA 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-bbca-1-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [London League Division 4: Charlton 2 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-charlton-2-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [London League Minor Division: Hackney Minor vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-division-hackney-minor-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Division 1: Hackney 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-hackney-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Kingston A vs Hammersmith A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-kingston-a-vs-hammersmith-a-2/) - [London League Minor Division: London Women's Minor vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-division-london-womens-minor-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Women's Division: London Women's 1 vs Hammersmith Women](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-division-london-womens-1-vs-hammersmith-women/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [Central London League Division 2: Battersea 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-battersea-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [London League Division 3: Hammersmith 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-hammersmith-2-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-1-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [London League Minor Division: Hammersmith Hedger vs BBCA Minor](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-division-hammersmith-hedger-vs-bbca-minor/) - [London League Division 1: Lewisham 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-lewisham-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [London League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Charlton 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-charlton-1/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Battersea 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-battersea-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Hendon 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-hendon-3/) - [London League Division 3: Hammersmith 2 vs Hackney 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-hammersmith-2-vs-hackney-2/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs East Ham 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-east-ham-2/) - [London League Minor Division: Battersea Goats vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-division-battersea-goats-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Division 3: Metropolitan 2 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-metropolitan-2-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [London League Major Division: Morley College Major vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-division-morley-college-major-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [London League Minor Division: Battersea Falcons vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-division-battersea-falcons-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs East Ham 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-east-ham-1/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith 4 vs Hackney 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-4-vs-hackney-3/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Lewisham 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-lewisham-3/) - [London League Division 1: Wood Green 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-wood-green-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [London League Major Division: Pimlico Major vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-division-pimlico-major-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [London League Division 4: Battersea 2 Blue Jays vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-battersea-2-blue-jays-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [London League Minor Division: Wimbledon Minor vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-division-wimbledon-minor-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Division 1: Cavendish 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-cavendish-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Charlton 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-charlton-2/) - [London League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Streatham & Brixton 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-streatham-brixton-1/) - [London League Division 3: Lewisham 2 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-lewisham-2-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Kings Head 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-kings-head-2/) - [London League Major Division: Imperial College Major vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-division-imperial-college-major-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [London League Division 4: Lewisham 3 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-lewisham-3-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [London League Division 3: Greater London 2 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-greater-london-2-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [London League Minor Division: Greater London Minor vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-division-greater-london-minor-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Hackney 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-hackney-3/) - [London League Division 3: DHSS 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-dhss-1-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [London League Division 3: Hammersmith 2 vs Charlton 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-hammersmith-2-vs-charlton-1/) - [London League Minor Division: Metropolitan Gnomes vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-division-metropolitan-gnomes-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Division 3: Wimbledon 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-wimbledon-1-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [London League Major Division: Battersea Dogs vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-division-battersea-dogs-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors vs Metropolitan 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-vs-metropolitan-3/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith 4 vs Kings Head 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-4-vs-kings-head-2/) - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith 4 vs East Ham 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-4-vs-east-ham-2/) - [London League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Richmond & Twickenham 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-richmond-twickenham-1/) - [London League Minor Division: DHSS Minor vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-division-dhss-minor-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Major Division: Greater London Major vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-division-greater-london-major-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [London League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Kings Head 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-kings-head-1/) - [London League Division 3: Hammersmith 2 vs Ilford 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-hammersmith-2-vs-ilford-1/) - [London League Minor Division: Hammersmith Hedger vs Streatham & Brixton Minor](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-division-hammersmith-hedger-vs-streatham-brixton-minor/) - [London League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Mushrooms 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-mushrooms-1/) - [London League Major Division: Battersea Eagles vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-division-battersea-eagles-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [London League Major Division: UCL B vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-division-ucl-b-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [London League Minor Division: Morley College Minor vs Hammersmith Hedger](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-minor-division-morley-college-minor-vs-hammersmith-hedger/) - [London League Division 1: Metropolitan 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-metropolitan-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [London League Division 4: Metropolitan 3 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-metropolitan-3-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 4 vs Harrow 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-4-vs-harrow-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Harrow 2 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-harrow-2-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [London League Major Division: Cavendish Major vs Hammersmith Hodgson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-major-division-cavendish-major-vs-hammersmith-hodgson/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Harrow Juniors 2 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-harrow-juniors-2-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Muswell Hill 2 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-muswell-hill-2-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 4 vs Kings Head 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-4-vs-kings-head-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hendon Barnet Knights vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hendon-barnet-knights-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 4 vs Ealing 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-4-vs-ealing-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 4 vs Muswell Hill 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-4-vs-muswell-hill-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Ealing 2 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-ealing-2-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 4 vs Hendon Barnet Knights](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-4-vs-hendon-barnet-knights/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Harrow 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-harrow-2-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hendon 4 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hendon-4-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 4 vs Hendon 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-4-vs-hendon-4/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Kings Head 3 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-kings-head-3-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Kings Head 3 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-kings-head-3-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Harrow Juniors 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-harrow-juniors-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Hendon Barnet Knights](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-hendon-barnet-knights/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Hendon 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-hendon-4/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hendon Barnet Knights vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hendon-barnet-knights-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hendon 4 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hendon-4-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Harrow Juniors 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-harrow-juniors-2-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-hammersmith-4/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Ealing 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-ealing-2-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Kings Head 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-kings-head-3-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Harrow 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-harrow-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Muswell Hill 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-muswell-hill-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Metropolitan](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-metropolitan/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 4 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-4-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Ealing 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-ealing-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 3: Muswell Hill 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-muswell-hill-2-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Metropolitan vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-metropolitan-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Willesden and Brent](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-willesden-and-brent/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hendon 3 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hendon-3-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Harrow Juniors 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-harrow-juniors-1-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Hendon 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-hendon-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Kings Head 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-kings-head-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Kings Head 2 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-kings-head-2-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs West London](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-west-london/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Albany](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-albany/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: West London vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-west-london-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Hendon 2 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-hendon-2-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 2: Willesden and Brent vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-2-willesden-and-brent-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Harrow 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-harrow-1/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Muswell Hill 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-muswell-hill-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Hendon 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-hendon-1/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Kings Head 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-kings-head-1/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Ealing A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-ealing-a/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hackney 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hackney-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hendon 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hendon-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Muswell Hill 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-muswell-hill-1/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Kings Head 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-kings-head-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Ealing A vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-ealing-a-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Hammersmith 1 vs Hackney 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-hammersmith-1-vs-hackney-1/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Albany vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-albany-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Maidenhead A vs Hammersmith A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-maidenhead-a-vs-hammersmith-a-2/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Surbiton A vs Hammersmith A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-surbiton-a-vs-hammersmith-a-2/) - [Middlesex League Division 1: Harrow 1 vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-1-harrow-1-vs-hammersmith-1/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Ealing A vs Hammersmith A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-ealing-a-vs-hammersmith-a-2/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Richmond A vs Hammersmith A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-richmond-a-vs-hammersmith-a/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Wimbledon A vs Hammersmith A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-wimbledon-a-vs-hammersmith-a-2/) - [Central London League Division 4: Hammersmith 3 vs Wanstead 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-hammersmith-3-vs-wanstead-2-2/) - [Central London League Division 4: Streatham 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-streatham-2-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Central London League Division 4: Hammersmith 3 vs Hackney 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-hammersmith-3-vs-hackney-2/) - [Central London League Division 4: Pimlico 4 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-pimlico-4-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Central London League Division 4: Hammersmith 3 vs Streatham 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-hammersmith-3-vs-streatham-2/) - [Central London League Division 4: Kings Head 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-kings-head-2-vs-hammersmith-3-2/) - [Central London League Division 4: Hammersmith 3 vs Pimlico 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-hammersmith-3-vs-pimlico-4/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Battersea 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-battersea-2/) - [Central London League Division 4: Hackney 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-hackney-2-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Central London League Division 4: Wanstead 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-4-wanstead-2-vs-hammersmith-3-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Streatham 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-streatham-1/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Battersea 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-battersea-1/) - [Central London League Division 2: Battersea 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-battersea-1-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Pimlico 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-pimlico-3/) - [Central London League Division 2: Battersea 2 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-battersea-2-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Pimlico 3 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-pimlico-3-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [Central London League Division 2: Hammersmith 2 vs Railsport](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-hammersmith-2-vs-railsport/) - [Central London League Division 2: Streatham 1 vs Hammersmith 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-streatham-1-vs-hammersmith-2/) - [London League Division 3: Lewisham 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-lewisham-2-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [London League Division 3: Metropolitan 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-metropolitan-2-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [London League Division 3: Greater London 2 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-greater-london-2-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [London League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Ilford 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-ilford-1/) - [London League Division 3: DHSS 1 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-dhss-1-vs-hammersmith-3/) - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-1-2/) - The first round of our infamous annual blitz tournament series. The stronger you are, the less time you get on your clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/KK6wjBpfnxWEHESo9 - [Chess Olympiad Recap](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/chess-olympiad-recap/) - Gastón Franco takes us through some of the most exciting games from the Chess Olympiad in Budapest, that will have just finished. - [Hammer Chess Olympiad](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-olympiad/) - Entrants will be assigned a country and placed on an appropriate board in a team of 4-5 players. Each team will play 5 rapidplay matches against other countries. Games will be rated, so it is a requirement to be ECF-registered to take part. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/4vJkQV4HQwmoFeEy5 - [Beginners Training Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-training-hour-9/) - Come along to learn the chess basics. Join our Beginners' WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HiY7W0o66zq7OTORXnCmcA - [Beginners Training Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-training-hour-10/) - Come along to learn the chess basics. Join our Beginners' WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HiY7W0o66zq7OTORXnCmcA - [Beginners Training Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-training-hour-11/) - Come along to learn the chess basics. Join our Beginners' WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HiY7W0o66zq7OTORXnCmcA - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 6](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-6/) - The sixth round of our infamous annual blitz tournament series. The stronger you are, the less time you get on your clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/2nkk7Bq5a2gDDGQLA - [Hammer ECF-Rated Blitz](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-blitz-2/) - ECF-Rated 3+2 blitz. Please sign up here: https://forms.gle/Hwg15vMNapxzzXfb9 - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 7](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-7/) - The seventh and final round of our infamous annual blitz tournament series. The stronger you are, the less time you get on your clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/KK6wjBpfnxWEHESo9 - [15 Board Pre-Season Challenge Match: Hammersmith v Hackney](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/pre-season-challenge-match-hammersmith-v-hackney/) - A pre-season match versus Hackney Chess Club. 75+15 time control. ECF-rated. - [Hammer ECF-Rated (5+3) Blitz](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-53-blitz/) - 7 rounds of 5+3 blitz. ECF membership not required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/tK5dCWWi3K6Ararp8 - [Hammer ECF-rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership (bronze minimum) required. Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/1qDH1ja4S9Bn3ZpT9 - [Lecture: The Isolated Queen's Pawn](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/lecture-the-isolated-queens-pawn/) - Join us for an enlightening chess lecture by Luke Lau, delving deep into the strategic intricacies of the isolated queen's pawn. Learn how to navigate this dynamic pawn structure, harnessing its potential for both attacking flair and positional advantage. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned player, gain invaluable insights into this pivotal aspect of - [Sledgehammer Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/sledgehammer-night/) - Come along and play a rated standardplay game against another Hammer. Contact Adam to secure yourself an opponent. - [Training Session: Being Resourceful](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/training-session-being-resourceful/) - Gaston will be demonstrating some practical calculation techniques: how to be resourceful and make combinations work. - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-68/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-67/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-64/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-65/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-66/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-60/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-61/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-62/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-63/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-57/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-58/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-59/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-53/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-54/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-55/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-56/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-50/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-51/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-52/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-48/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-49/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-46/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-47/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-43/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-44/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-45/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-40/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-41/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-42/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-37/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-38/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-39/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-33/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-34/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-35/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-36/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-29/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-30/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-31/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-32/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-28/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-24/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-25/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-20/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-21/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-22/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-23/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-17/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-19/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-14/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-15/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-16/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-12/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-13/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-2/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-3/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-4/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-5/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-6/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-7/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-9/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-10/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-11/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-12/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-13/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-14/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Women and Girls Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/women-and-girls-hour-autumn-term-15/) - An hour dedicated to women and girls. See details and joining info below: http://hammerchess.co.uk/women-and-girls-hour/ - [Duck Chess Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/duck-chess-night/) - Matt Perchard will be hosting our first variant tournament of the season. This time an indestructible duck will cause havoc on the board, with classical chess strategy very much out the window. See the rules here: https://support.chess.com/en/articles/8615411-what-is-duck-chess - [Special GM Guest Lecture: Blunder like a Grandmaster](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/special-gm-guest-lecture-blunder-like-a-grandmaster/) - We are excited to welcome a special guest back to the club: two-time Norwegian champion, GM Frode Urkedal, will be visiting to give a lecture on the topic: "Blunder like a Grandmaster". - [Hammer ECF-Rated (5+3) Blitz](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-53-blitz-3/) - 7 rounds of 5+3 blitz. ECF membership not required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/ZubK6FxsQELh2M4B9 - [Junior Hour - Autumn Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-autumn-term-4/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Hammer ECF-rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-3/) - 5 rounds of 10+5 rapid. ECF membership (bronze minimum) required. Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/ddVFPuKdufZCmt9Q9 - [Simul Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/simul-night-3/) - Three Hammers will take on 8 players each in a 1 hour clock simul. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/xXnAeKCtY3XrAk649 - [Hammer ECF-Rated (5+3) Blitz](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-53-blitz-2/) - 7 rounds of 5+3 blitz. ECF membership not required. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/y1KLzvjPNPagVBps6 - [Hammer Puzzles Battle](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-puzzles-battle/) - Back for a fourth edition, teams of three will battle it out to solve a series of chess puzzles over three rounds, with prizes for the team who solve the most! Gastón Franco will be your host for the night. Please register here: https://forms.gle/4fZQyKfgbD6EPnHC6 - [The Best and Worst games of Magnus Carlsen](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/the-best-and-worst-games-of-magnus-carlsen/) - We're catching up to current times with Gastón Franco presenting the games of Magnus Carlsen. Considered the GOAT by many, we'll have a look at what makes him able to consistently defeat his top opponents, and stay at the top of the ratings list for so long - as well as a rare blunder against - [Hammer ECF-rated (10+5) Rapid](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-105-rapid-2/) - Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/ChxJNG2Ln8DiJnuz9 - [Awards Night with GM Daniel King](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/awards-night-with-gm-daniel-king/) - We are honoured to welcome Grandmaster Daniel King. He will be presenting awards for the 2023/24 season, and announcing and showing our Game of the Season. - [AGM](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/agm/) - Please join us for our 2024 AGM - a chance for members to hear about everything going on at the club, and to provide any feedback to the committee. - [Bughouse Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/bughouse-night-2/) - Everyone's favourite two-player chess variant. Pairings will be decided on the night. Rules: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bughouse_chess Sign up here: https://forms.gle/JBUzdytwMWb6GeUL6 - [Hammer ECF-rated 5-round rapidplay](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-5-round-rapidplay-3/) - Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/DqFYJsvs4v9nwd476 - [Middlesex League Division 3: Kings Head 3 vs Hammersmith 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-kings-head-3-vs-hammersmith-3-2/) - [Lecture: Endgames in Karpov's world championship matches](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/lecture-endgames-in-karpovs-world-championship-matches/) - The endgame virtuoso Anatoly Karpov played more matches (10), games (241) and endgames in world championship finals than anyone else. Christof Brixel takes us through one example of each endgame type, and touches a little bit of history as well. - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-16/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-17/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-18/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-19/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-20/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-21/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-22/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-23/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-24/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-25/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-26/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-27/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-2/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-3/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-4/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-5/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-6/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-7/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-8/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-9/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-10/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-11/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-12/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-13/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-14/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night-15/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Club Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/club-night/) - Come along and play some chess! Monday and Thursday club nights fulfil slightly different purposes. Mondays mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc. Thursdays typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess - [Beginners Training Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-training-hour-5/) - Come along to learn the chess basics. Join our Beginners' WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HiY7W0o66zq7OTORXnCmcA - [Beginners Training Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-training-hour-6/) - Come along to learn the chess basics. Join our Beginners' WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HiY7W0o66zq7OTORXnCmcA - [Beginners Training Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-training-hour-7/) - Come along to learn the chess basics. Join our Beginners' WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HiY7W0o66zq7OTORXnCmcA - [Beginners Training Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-training-hour-8/) - Come along to learn the chess basics. Join our Beginners' WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HiY7W0o66zq7OTORXnCmcA - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-2/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-3/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-5/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-6/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-8/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-9/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term - Minihammer Finale!](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-10/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-11/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-12/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-7/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-13/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term-14/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Beginners Training Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-training-hour-4/) - Come along to learn the chess basics. Join our Beginners' WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HiY7W0o66zq7OTORXnCmcA - [Beginners Training Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-training-hour-3/) - Come along to learn the chess basics. Join our Beginners' WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HiY7W0o66zq7OTORXnCmcA - [Beginners Training Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-training-hour-2/) - Come along to learn the chess basics. Join our Beginners' WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HiY7W0o66zq7OTORXnCmcA - [Beginners Training Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/beginners-training-hour/) - Come along to learn the chess basics. Join our Beginners' WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HiY7W0o66zq7OTORXnCmcA - [Thursday Club Launch Night: Hammer Beginners Rapidplay](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thursday-club-launch-night-hammer-beginners-rapidplay/) - The launch of Thursday Club nights. Unrated, open to very recent beginners without tournament experience. Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/5HVdx9MpLdWqWjsS6 - [Thursday Club Launch Night: Hammer ECF-Rated 5-Round Rapidplay](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-5-round-rapidplay-2/) - The launch of Thursday Club nights. ECF membership (bronze minimum) required. Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/L4xncrqkv4yRWezn8 - [Junior Hour - Summer Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-summer-term/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [The Best and Worst games of Kramnik and Anand](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/the-best-and-worst-games-of-kramnik-and-anand/) - Gastón Franco presents the best and worst games of the 14th and 15th World Chess Champions, and speaks about the rise of a new generation after the Karpov-Kasparov rivalry - plus how the evolution of engines changed the game of chess forever (yes, including cheating accusations!) - [London League Division 4: Greater London Chess Club 2 vs Hammersmith 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-4-msc-vs-greater-london-chess-club-2-glcc-2/) - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 5](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-5/) - The fifth round of our infamous annual blitz tournament series. The stronger you are, the less time you get on your clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/8rn3N9vtnV17YRxm9 - [Hammer Handicap Blitz - Round 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/7537/) - The fourth round of our infamous annual blitz tournament series. The stronger you are, the less time you get on your clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/RMAn8obT52KrHbd76 - [Hammer Variant tournament (w/Prizes!)](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-varient-tournament-w-prizes/) - Join us for on Monday 1st April, starting 7:30pm a 7 min + 5sec per move, 5 round variant tournament! We will split players interested on the night into groups of 6 based off rating order (i.e. Top 6 in Div 1, 7-12 in Div 2, etc). Each division will play 5 rounds of chess, - [Opening of the Month: Alapin Sicilian](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/opening-of-the-month-alapin-sicilian/) - The Alapin Sicilian is valued for its solid and flexible pawn structure, offering a blend of aggression and strategic depth. Its simplicity makes it an attractive choice for players seeking a reliable yet dynamic response to the Sicilian Defence. Our resident Alapin expert Erasmus Kahane will be describing its intricacies. The lecture will be followed by - [Lecture: Chess Blunders](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/lecture-chess-blunders/) - Tom Villiers will be demonstrating famous chess blunders, and explaining the best ways to avoid making them yourselves. - [Middlesex League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 vs Harrow 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/middlesex-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-vs-harrow-2-2/) - [Hammer ECF-Rated Blitz](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-blitz/) - 7 rounds of 5+3 blitz. Please sign up here: https://forms.gle/ozAFazqKbUGwtFp86 - [The Best and Worst games of Garry Kasparov](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/the-best-and-worst-games-of-garry-kasparov/) - Considered by many to be the best player of all time, the 1980s and 1990s were dominated by a strategic genius renowned for his aggressive playing style. There are few people in the world, letalone the chess community, that have not heard the name Garry Kasparov. His dynamic and imaginative approach revolutionized chess theory and - [Simul Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/simul-night-2/) - Three Hammers will take on 8 players each in a 1 hour clock simul. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/1ax3u3Q2qL3Zn7E3A - [Hammer ECF-rated 5-round rapidplay](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-ecf-rated-5-round-rapidplay/) - Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/XhqkijRQwxyedYJ89 - [Hammer Freestyle 9LX GOAT Fischer Random](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-freestyle-9lx-goat-fischer-random/) - A five-round rapid tournament, in which all of the starting positions are randomised! Please enter via this link: https://forms.gle/MUfvG7c3XzDbvm957 - [Your Games Analysed](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/your-games-analysed-2/) - We will be shunning the traditional practice of trying to analyse Grandmaster chess, and instead looking through some games played by you. Our top Hammers will be on hand to show the critical moments and discuss typical mistakes, with practical advice on how to do better next time. If you would like a game of - [Central London League Division 2: Railsport vs Hammersmith 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/central-london-league-division-2-railsport-vs-hammersmith-1-2/) - [London League Eastman Cup: Hammersmith EC vs Hackney EC](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-eastman-cup-hammersmith-ec-vs-hackney-ec/) - [Junior Hour Special with GM Daniel King](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/special-junior-training-with-gm-daniel-king/) - [Hammer 5-round rated rapidplay](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-5-round-rated-rapidplay/) - Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/9isSWdnb1Kr6PZRz5 - [London League Division 4: Hammersmith Juniors MSC vs Greater London Chess Club 2 GLCC](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-hammersmith-juniors-msc-vs-greater-london-chess-club-2-glcc-2/) - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-3/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-4/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-5/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-6/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-7/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-8/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-9/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-10/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-11/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [Junior Hour - Spring Term](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/junior-hour-spring-term-2/) - An hour dedicated to the development of our junior section. - [London League Women's: Hammersmith W vs Lewisham W](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-womens-hammersmith-w-msc-vs-lewisham-w-smh-3/) - [The Best and Worst Games of Anatoly Karpov](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/the-best-and-worst-games-of-anatoly-karpov/) - Russian GM Anatoly Karpov rose to prominence in the 1970s, becoming the 12th World Chess Champion in 1975 by default, defending and holding the title until 1985. Known for his deep understanding of chess strategy and contributions to chess theory, Karpov has made significant contributions to politics and humanitarian causes, cementing his legacy as a - [Hand & Brain Night](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hand-brain-night/) - Another two-player chess variant. One player announces the name of a piece; their partner moves a piece of that type. Pairings will be decided on the night. - [Hammer Handicap Blitz – Round 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-handicap-blitz-round-3/) - The third round of our infamous annual blitz tournament. The stronger you are, the less time you get on your clock! Enter here: https://forms.gle/YwApKPVHGZVPCpsDA - [Hammer 5-round ECF-rated Rapidplay](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/hammer-5-round-ecf-rated-rapidplay/) - Sign-up here: https://forms.gle/EkPdHctoYsSy6oTK9 - [London League Division 3: Hammersmith 3 SMH vs Ilford 1 SMH](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-hammersmith-3-smh-vs-ilford-1-smh-2/) - [London League Division 3: Hackney 2 SMH vs Hammersmith 2 MSC](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-hackney-2-smh-vs-hammersmith-2-msc-2/) - [London League Division 3: East Ham 2 SMH vs Hammersmith 3 SMH](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-3-east-ham-2-smh-vs-hammersmith-3-smh-2/) - [London League Division 4: Charlton SMH vs Hammersmith 4 MSC](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-4-charlton-smh-vs-hammersmith-4-msc-2/) - [London League Division 1: Mushrooms 1 SMH vs Hammersmith 1 MSC](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/london-league-division-1-mushrooms-1-smh-vs-hammersmith-1-msc-2/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1: Richmond and Twickenham A vs Hammersmith A](http://hammerchess.co.uk/event/thames-valley-league-division-1-richmond-and-twickenham-a-vs-hammersmith-a/) ## Categories - [Uncategorized](http://hammerchess.co.uk/category/uncategorized/) - [Club Updates](http://hammerchess.co.uk/category/club-updates/) - [Games](http://hammerchess.co.uk/category/games/) - [General Chess](http://hammerchess.co.uk/category/general-chess/) - [Team Captains](http://hammerchess.co.uk/category/team-captains/) - [Training & Theory](http://hammerchess.co.uk/category/training-theory/) - [Tournaments](http://hammerchess.co.uk/category/tournaments/) - [Captain's Log](http://hammerchess.co.uk/category/captains-log/) ## Tags - [Middlesex League Division 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/middlesex-league-division-3/) - [Middlesex League Division 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/middlesex-league-division-2/) - [London League Division 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/london-league-division-3/) - [London League Division 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/london-league-division-4/) - [London League Minor](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/london-league-minor/) - [London League Major](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/london-league-major/) - [London League Division 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/london-league-division-1/) - [London League Women's](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/london-league-womens/) - [London League Eastman Cup](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/london-league-eastman-cup/) - [Central London League Division 2](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/central-london-league-division-2/) - [Central London League Division 4](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/central-london-league-division-4/) - [Central London League Division 3](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/central-london-league-division-3/) - [Thames Valley League Division 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/thames-valley-league-division-1/) - [Internal tournament](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/internal-tournament/) - [Lectures and Training](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/lectures-and-training/) - [Middlesex League Division 1](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/middlesex-league-division-1/) - [Andrew Cuff](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/andrew-cuff/) - [Gianmaria Mazzaracchio](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/gianmaria-mazzaracchio/) - [Frantisek Zacek](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/frantisek-zacek/) - [Nadim Osseiran](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/nadim-osseiran/) - [Maria Ciocan](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/maria-ciocan/) - [Jim Stevenson](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/jim-stevenson/) - [Ana Royce](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/ana-royce/) - [Tom Townsend](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/tom-townsend/) - [Frank Valle](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/frank-valle/) - [John Abbott](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/john-abbott/) - [John White](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/john-white/) - [Bajrush Kelmendi](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/bajrush-kelmendi/) - [Nick Groves-Kirkby](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/nick-groves-kirkby/) - [Tomo Knowland](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/tomo-knowland/) - [Luna Eastham](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/luna-eastham/) - [David Lambert](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/david-lambert/) - [hammer-3-ll](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-3-ll/) - [hammer-4-ll](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-4-ll/) - [hammer-juniors-ll](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-juniors-ll/) - [hammer-hedger-ll](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-hedger-ll/) - [hammer-women1-ll](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-women1-ll/) - [hammer-women2-ll](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-women2-ll/) - [hammer-1-ll](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-1-ll/) - [hammer-mackenzie-ll](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-mackenzie-ll/) - [hammer-cadets-ll](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-cadets-ll/) - [hammer-2-ll](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-2-ll/) - [hammer-hodgson-ll](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-hodgson-ll/) - [hammer-a-tvl](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-a-tvl/) - [hammer-1-cll](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-1-cll/) - [hammer-2-cll](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-2-cll/) - [hammer-3-cll](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-3-cll/) - [hammer-1-ml](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-1-ml/) - [hammer-2-ml](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-2-ml/) - [hammer-3-ml](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-3-ml/) - [hammer-4-ml](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-4-ml/) - [hammer-ec](http://hammerchess.co.uk/tag/hammer-ec/) ## Event Categories - [League Matches](http://hammerchess.co.uk/events/category/league-matches/) - [Club Nights](http://hammerchess.co.uk/events/category/club-nights/) - [Junior Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/events/category/junior-hour/) - [Beginners' Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/events/category/beginners-hour/) - [Women and Girls Hour](http://hammerchess.co.uk/events/category/women-and-girls-hour/)