About Us
Welcome to North Cardiff Chess Club!
Established in 1952, North Cardiff Chess Club is a vibrant and inclusive community of chess enthusiasts located in the heart of North Cardiff. We are passionate about the game of chess and dedicated to promoting its growth and enjoyment among players of all ages and skill levels.
At North Cardiff Chess Club, we believe that chess is more than just a game. It is an art, a science, and a sport that fosters critical thinking, strategic planning, and mental agility. Our club serves as a platform for individuals to enhance their chess skills, engage in friendly competition, and form lasting friendships within the chess community.Whether you are a beginner, an intermediate player, or a seasoned chess veteran, you will find a welcoming environment at our club. We offer a range of activities and opportunities designed to cater to all levels of play.
Our club members participate in regular tournaments, friendly matches, and chess coaching sessions, all aimed at improving chess skills and promoting a love for the game.One of the core values of North Cardiff Chess Club is inclusivity. We strongly believe that chess should be accessible to everyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. We welcome players of all genders and age groups, from juniors to seniors, and provide a supportive and encouraging atmosphere for everyone to learn and grow.Our club is home to a diverse and passionate community of chess enthusiasts. Whether you are looking to improve your rating, seek friendly competition, or simply enjoy a game with fellow chess lovers, North Cardiff Chess Club offers a place where you can connect with like-minded individuals who share your love for the game.
Join us at North Cardiff Chess Club and embark on an exciting chess journey. Discover new strategies, sharpen your skills, and immerse yourself in the intellectual thrill of the game. We invite you to become a part of our chess family and experience the camaraderie and joy that chess brings.
For more information about North Cardiff Chess Club, our activities, and how to become a member, please visit our website or contact us directly. We look forward to welcoming you to our club and sharing the joy of chess with you.
Prominent members
Tim Kett
Tim has been the most successful player in Welsh chess over recent years. He won the Welsh Championship four times during the 2010s and has represented Wales in the last eight Olympiads and five European Team Championships, securing his Fide Master title in the 2022 Olympiad. Tim was, for many years, the main coach of Welsh juniors until retiring in 2019. He is predominantly a 1 e4 player whose love of the game and attacking powers are undimmed, as many recent crushing wins with the King's Gambit testify!
Pete Heaven
Pete was one of the most successful Welsh juniors in the 1970s, winning multiple Welsh junior titles. His best result was finishing equal 5th in the World Under 17 Championships, alongside and ahead of many future Grandmasters. This may still be the best individual performance at any level in Welsh chess. Pete currently coaches chess online. He has always been exclusively a 1 e4 player. His best game was a dynamic yet non-sacrificial use of the initiative when playing board one for Wales in the Glorney Cup.
Ellison Smith
Joined NC chess club in 2014 with my father and brother. Played for North Cardiff Panthers as they moved up from division 4 to division 1. I have won numerous Welsh junior championships and I am the current under 18 Welsh champion. I have represented Welsh junior teams all around the UK and have been top Welsh scorer in Glorney Gilbert International tournament on a couple of occasions.
Alun Smith
Joined NC chess club with 2 young sons in 2014 after a 20 year chess break. Quickly fell in love with chess again and took captaincy of North Cardiff Panthers in division 4. As boys improved with age and I found my feet again, we gradually took Panthers to division 1. Have had some minor tournament successes with wins in British and Welsh championships. Have really enjoyed running the junior chess club for many years which has supplied half the Welsh junior squads in recent years.