Behind The Walls Prison Chess Tournament

In cooperation with the Horizon Prison Initiative.  Residents in the London Correctional chess program are eager to test their skills against the outside world! Players must be 18 or older.

Dates: Oct 19th, Nov 2nd & Dec 14th, 2025, enter any or all at least 2-weeks in advance.

1 Open Section.  4 rounds G/30, d5, no byes.  Pairings at TD’s discretion depending on number of entries and maximizing inmate games vs outside opponents.  Sets provided, please bring clocks.                                                           

Entry Fee: Free!  No prizes.

Schedule: Check in at main entrance promptly at 9 am, photo id required.  Finish approximately 4pm.  All players must enter and exit together as a group, no early departures.

Registration: Submit required volunteer paperwork ASAP, absolute deadline is 15 days prior to the first date you wish to play (Oct 4th for Oct 19th; Oct 17th for Nov 2nd; Nov 29th for Dec 14th).  Email to Click here to show mail address, include your US Chess membership name and id number, and which date(s) you intend to play; if in doubt, list potential dates and confirm/cancel later.

Important Notes:

Institution does not allow smoking.

Must wear long pants (no shorts; ladies, no skirts), shirts/tops with no “controversial” graphics (e.g. political, religious, racist, violent, etc.), closed toe shoes with backs (no crocs, sandals, flip flops, etc.), no bare midriffs.  Suggest not wearing blue shirts/tops.

Do NOT bring: paper, score books/sheets, sets, pens/pencils, cell phones, smart watches or other electronic devices (except clocks); medical devices allowed with advance notice to organizer.

DO bring clocks, BYO food, subject to search/inspection (clear containers/prepackaged food is ideal); fridge & microwave available.

Questions/more info, contact Grant Neilley Click here to show mail address (preferred) or 614-314-1102.