American Open Senior Classic

Presented by KINGS FOR CURE

Join the inaugural American Open Senior Classic early in Thanksgiving week!

Experience high-quality classical games, premium hospitality, and a welcoming community.

Monday, November 23 – Tuesday, November 24, 2026

Hyatt Regency Orange County, Garden Grove, CA (Official side event of the 61st American Open)

Eligibility: Ages 50+ (Born in 1976 or earlier). Valid US Chess membership required.

Movember Impact: In recognition of Movember—the global movement of men’s mental health and cancer awareness—100% of Kings for Cure’s net tournament proceeds will fund vital healthcare services at Garfield Health Center for underserved men in Southern California.

Schedule & Structure

Format: 4-Round Swiss (US Chess Regular Rated)
Time Control: G/90; inc/30
Byes: Max 1 half-point byes (Round 4 byes must be requested before Round 2 begins)

Round	Day	Time	Social Intermissions & Gourmet Refreshments
Round 1	Monday, Nov 23	11:00 AM
Intermission	Monday, Nov 23	—	3:00 PM • Welcome Mixer (Refreshments 3:00–3:30 PM)
Round 2	Monday, Nov 23	5:00 PM
Round 3	Tuesday, Nov 24	9:00 AM
Intermission	Tuesday, Nov 24	—	1:00 PM • Senior VIP Raffle (Refreshments 1:00–1:30 PM)
Round 4	Tuesday, Nov 24	1:30 PM

Prizes

(Based on 25 paid entries)

Overall Cash: 1st: $500 | 2nd: $250 | 3rd: $125
Category Plaques: Best U1800 | Best U1400 | Top Senior (65+)

Entry Fees

Early Bird: $120 (Until Nov 15)
Regular: $150 (Nov 16–22; registration closes Nov 22)
GMs & IMs: Free entry ($120 deducted from prize winnings)

Included Premium Perks

Gourmet Refreshments: Complimentary catered refreshments served during tournament intermissions.
Free Parking: 100% hotel self-parking validation included (covers Mon overnight guests & Mon–Tue daily commuters).
VIP Player Raffle: Entry includes 1 free ticket into an exclusive Senior Player Raffle.

Movember Charity Raffle

In addition to tournament proceeds, we are hosting a public Movember fundraiser raffle through Saturday, Nov 28. 100% of ticket sales directly expand our men’s wellness fund at Garfield Health Center. Stay tuned for prize announcements!

Tickets: Sold on-site or online at [link] ($5 each or $20 for 5).
Support from Anywhere: Open to all ages, parents, and spectators! Winners will be notified via text/email on Saturday, Nov 28. Presence is not required to win.