Just be yourself and enjoy it 
It's unusual on this side of the pond for the requirement to bring your own equipment, perhaps you might be wise to contact the tournament organiser to check. There would be nothing worse than turning up to find out you can't play becaus you don't have a clock.
The '5SS, G/90, d10', i've no idea what that means, i'm afraid, never seen anything resembling that over here. Sorry
Thanks gambit man :), I will call the organiser today. I agree, that would stink to show up and not be able to play.
5SS, G/90 d10
Means that there are 5 rounds of Swiss play, at a time control of Sudden Death in 90 minutes, with a 10 second delay before each move.
Given that this is your first tournament, it is good you registered for the U1500 section. Not that you should be intimidated, but you will encounter serious competition even in that section. That said, the time control is reasonably slow so you should take time to think about your moves (there can be a temptation to play too fast) and you will do fine.
You will be expected to record your moves. If you're not used to this, it can be quite distracting at first. If you will be playing casual OTB games with your friends before the tournament, you should record them to get used to it. (This is a good idea anyway, so you can study your casual games.)
You will probably be able to use an opponent's clock. However, if you haven't played OTB with a clock before, this can sometimes be a distraction. Again, if there is a chance to practice with a clock, do so.
Here is a link to some other information: http://chess.about.com/od/tipsforbeginners/a/Playing-In-Your-First-Chess-Tournament.htm
I'm sure if you do an internet search you can find additional information.
Good luck!
...and always remember to press your clock after making your move
with the same hand that you made your move with...
Get good sleep. You'll likely have one game Friday, two Saturday, 2 Sunday.
I've beaten players far better than myself in a tournament game because they did nothing to handle their fatigue. Again, good sleep, and healthy meals are essential.
It's also good to know yourself: I can drink copious amounts of coffee and don't feel a crash. Others should stay away from coffee, and stick to juices, or maybe just water. Anything that increases your performance (and is legal, mind you) is a great thing.
Don't be afraid to leave the board. In fact, it's good to get up and get your blood flowing, several times a game. Maybe go take a look at another position in another game to occasionally refresh your pattern recognition.
Finally: enjoy yourself. I love OTB play so much more than casual coffee house games. There is an air of professionalism at OTB tournament games that I adore.
to the OP.There are things you should be prepared to take and be aware of.
Take note that there are people who play tourneys to make a living and would try dirty tricks to win a game. Here is one type of player you should keep an eye out for.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3dipmAqMj4
to the OP.There are things you should be prepared to take and be aware of.
Take note that there are people who play tourneys to make a living and would try dirty tricks to win a game. Here is one type of player you should keep an eye out for.
lol, no handshake then?
to the OP.There are things you should be prepared to take and be aware of.
Take note that there are people who play tourneys to make a living and would try dirty tricks to win a game. Here is one type of player you should keep an eye out for.
lol, no handshake then?
lol, i was pertaining to the illegal move h6-h8=Q??? move in time scramble which the younger player didnt see and costs him the game. Ive seen alot of "chess huslters" do that.
I just want to let you all know how I did since you were helpful in your advice! I drew my first three games although I should have won my first two. Then, on the second day I won both my games. I ended up tying for second at 3.5/5 and getting some nice prize money. Overall, it was a great tournament, thanks all for advice you gave me!
Good job! Would you care to post the games?
Excellent! Sounds like you enjoyed it, and perhaps it'll be the first of many
My third game I quit recording in frustration after an early blunder but regret that now as I was able to salvage a draw.
Congratulations. It is rare to go without any losses, let alone in your first tournament.
Hello everyone, I have recently entered my first OTB tournament, in the U1500 section, that will take place two weeks from today. I don't have much experience playing OTB so I was looking for tips on preparation for my games and just overall advice on how to handle myself etiquette wise. I'd peg myself at about a 1300 rating if that helps. I also plan on bringing my board and set as it asks for us to bring our own board/set/clock, yet I lack a chess clock and was wondering if it would be necessary to buy one or rely on any provided by opponents. There was something on the site that said 5SS, G/90, d10, I'm assuming this has something to do with time control. However, I am not sure so clarification would be much obliged. All input is appreciated :)