🏆 Your First OTB Chess Tournament: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide
Hey chess friends! Whether you’re a long time online player or brand new to tournaments, I wanted to share everything I wish I had known before going into my first over-the-board (OTB) tournament.
I’m still quite new to competitive chess. I started playing online in my mid 20's, and I've only played two classical tournaments and one rapid so far. Everything is still fresh in my memory, and I know a lot of you are about to play your first event as well, so let’s walk through what to expect, how to prepare, and all the little things you might be curious about.
What Is an OTB Tournament?
OTB stands for over-the-board, which means you’re playing with physical pieces, clocks, and real human opponents. Most of the time, when people say OTB, they’re referring to classical time control tournaments, though rapid and blitz events can be OTB too.
A typical classical time control might be:
- 90 minutes per side
- 30 second increment per move
- +30 extra minutes after move 40
Every tournament is different, so check the time control before signing up!
Finding and Registering for Your First Tournament
There can be different types of tournaments:
Recreational/Club tournaments (not rated)
FIDE-rated tournaments (official international rating)
To play a FIDE-rated event, you’ll need a FIDE ID. The process of obtaining one varies by country, but usually you can get one by emailing your national federation or asking the organizers before your first tournament. I got mine in Montenegro for €10 during a rapid event.
Once you have that, look for tournaments on your federation’s site, ChessResults, or through your local club. Most tournaments charge an entry fee. These can range from very little to A LOT.
If it’s your first time, I suggest starting local and low cost, so the pressure’s off.
What to Bring
Here’s your OTB tournament packing list:
- Pen - You’ll need to record all your moves
- Photo ID - Often required for registration
- Snacks & water - Games can last 4-6 hours
- No phone – keep it off and stored properly (phones making noise can result in penalties or forfeits)
Bonus: Get familiar with chess notation before you go (such as a1, b2, Nf3). Most boards are labeled, but knowing how to write moves down is super important.
Before Your First Game
Arrive early. Give yourself time to find the venue, bathrooms, the analysis room, and your board. Find your board number and opponent on ChessResults, or it might be printed and posted somewhere in the venue. Sit at the board and wait for the round to start. You’ll shake hands just before the game starts; some people also like to chat, some don’t. It’s okay either way!
Understanding Clocks, Moves & Notation
The white player moves first, so the black player starts the clock. After each move, press your clock! Double-check you pressed it, if not, your time will run while your opponent thinks.
Notation tips:
- Write down every move - both yours and your opponent’s
- Mistakes happen - just cross them out and correct them
- Keep track of move 40! Time bonuses kick in after move 40 is completed.
Dress Code & Etiquette
Most tournaments are casual - hoodies, jeans, etc. are fine, but don’t go too casual (wearing a shirt with inappropriate graphics on it). If there’s an issue (illegal move, rule confusion), pause the clock and call the arbiter, don’t argue.
During the Game
Stay focused - venues can be noisy with people moving around. If you need a break, make a move and press your clock before getting up.
Ending the Game
Once the game ends (note the result - win, loss, or draw), sign both notation sheets. Always check that your opponent wrote the correct result before signing. Hand in your sheet to the arbiter, they’ll keep one copy. You can also analyze your game with your opponent afterward if they’re up for it. It’s a great way to learn!:-)
💤 Between Rounds
Rest, eat, hydrate. Avoid playing online chess between rounds, it’ll mess with your rhythm. If you want, prepare for your next opponent or review your games lightly, but don’t cram. Use each game as a learning experience!
After the Tournament
There’s usually a closing ceremony, where winners are announced and prizes are given. Even if you didn’t win anything, completing your first OTB tournament is a huge achievement!
Final Thoughts
Your first tournament can be nerve-racking, but it’s also super exciting. I hope this guide helps you feel more prepared and confident going in. If you want a more detailed look into my experience and these tips, feel free to check out my Youtube video on this topic!
Good luck, and I hope your first OTB tournament will be memorable! 🖤
