MSJE 2026 Lidong Monday Night Marathon

MSJE 2026 Lidong Monday Night Marathon is a USCF-rated tournament for all members of MSJE Chess community.

Lidong 立冬, also known as Beginning of Winter, is the 19th of the 24 solar terms in the Chinese lunar calendar. 

Xiaoxue 小雪, also known as Minor Snow, is the 20th of the 24 solar terms in the Chinese lunar calendar. 

Daxue 大雪, also known as Major Snow, is the 21st of the 24 solar terms in the Chinese lunar calendar. 

Date: Monday, Nov 2, 2026 - Monday, Dec 7, 2026   

Rating: USCF Dual-Rated

Eligibility: The tournament is open to MSJE students, parents, and alumni. Players must have current US Chess Federation membership. Expiration date of their US Chess membership must be later than the last day of the tournament.

Capacity: 50

Tournament Format: Swiss System in 1 section, with a major variation of pairing used to pair players of similar rating earlier in the rounds. Before the first round, the director mentally adds 4 points for players rated 800+ and adds 2 points for players rated 400 - 799, for pairing purposes only. The director divides the players accordingly and pairs normally. 

We may update event details, like sections and round times, as the tournament date approaches to ensure the best possible experience for all players.

Total Rounds: 5

Time Control: G/25;d5  

Round Times:  6:40pm on the following Mondays: 11/2/2026, 11/9/2026, 11/16/2026, 11/30/2026, 12/7/2026. 

Parental Guidelines:

• Non-playing parents are kindly asked to drop off and pick up their children. Only players and tournament staffs are allowed to remain inside MUR while games are in progress. Thank you for your understanding.

Tournament Rules:

• All US Chess tournament rules apply.
• The tournament director's decisions are final.
• Notation is required, per MSJE Chess Head Coach's policy.

Bye Request:

• Maximum two half-point byes are available upon request. Please submit the request of half-point bye by 7pm Sunday before the Monday round.

Equipment:

• Chess sets will be provided.
• Please bring own notation sheets and pencils.

Go Mustangs!