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The Freestyle Chess tournament at Triggerfish Market, hosted by Helderberg Chess Club on 19 October, brought a fresh dose of creativity and laughter to the board. Inspired by Magnus Carlsen and other world champions who’ll soon bring this format to Cape Town, players got a taste of what it’s like to think completely outside the…

On Saturday, 18th October, the halls of Hendrik Louw Primary School buzzed with concentration, excitement, and quiet determination as young minds from schools across the Helderberg gathered for the annual Grant East Chess Tournament. The event, named in honour of Mr. Grant East — a much-loved teacher and lifelong promoter of school chess in the…

Dennis was first through the door this week and immediately declared Triggerfish “the best idea ever” — because arriving just before 6pm means happy hour still counts. 🍻 Clive wasn’t far behind, ready for a duel, and after a spirited battle, he emerged victorious and looking rather smug about it. Then came Charlie — the…

What an incredible evening of fast-paced chess and great vibes! We gathered in the Fountain Courtyard under the fairy lights for our first ever ClashOTB Blitz Chess Battle at The Smokey Brisket. This wasn’t your usual chess social night — it was a ClashOTB test event, designed to see how well the new system performs…

Our very first Triggerfish Tuesday came with more plot twists than a Sicilian Defense. Tian was off in Joburg doing who-knows-what (probably pretending not to miss us), and Clive claimed he couldn’t come because he’d had champagne — apparently, that doesn’t mix with beer or chess. 🥂 Even Naomi had an excuse: she chose Magic…

Friday, 10 October was one for the books! Our one-day Holiday Chess Club returned — this time at the Somerset West Library — and what a fantastic turnout we had. Close to 30 eager chess enthusiasts joined us for a morning filled with fun, learning, and a touch of friendly competition. 🎨 Morning Session –…

This past Wednesday began with shocking news: The Warren will no longer be hosting boardgame nights on Wednesdays! 😱 Naomi immediately went into panic mode — phone in hand, furiously WhatsApping everyone within a 20 km radius to brainstorm backup plans. Sure, we could go back to Tuesdays (now with a R35pp entry fee) and…

Sunday’s Friendly Rapid Chess Mini-Tournament at Triggerfish Market was another success, blending chess, community, and the vibrant atmosphere of the market. Between the live music, food stalls, and chatter, the click of clocks and the tension over the boards added a new kind of rhythm to the day. The morning started with the Beginners section…

Naomi pranced into The Warren like a conquering hero, clutching two gleaming trophies from the weekend’s A- and B-team victories. They’re now on display for everyone to admire… though the rainy weather meant fewer admirers than Naomi would’ve liked. (Bring sunglasses next week, people.) Still, she got her proud moment, pinning a medal on Clive—who…

The 2025 Cape Town Chess Senior League concluded in style at Northlink College Tygerberg Campus, where Helderberg Chess Club’s A and B teams both secured promotion after dominant performances in Round 11. A Team – Champions of the C Division Helderberg A went into their clash against Elsies River B determined to finish strong. Early…