Chess fever in Lubbock, Texas is growing quite high. Lubbock International Airport recently added two giant chess sets for all passengers to use (donated by the Susan Polgar Foundation and VisitLubbock.com).
Today, Texas Tech University is starting the construction of our own Chess Park on campus. In the picture above, the Chess Park will be built inside the orange area on the left side. The Chess Park will be located between the Library and the Student Union Building.
In July, Texas Tech University and SPICE will host the Susan Polgar National Invitational for Girls, the most prestigious all-girls national championship in the United States. All qualifiers will receive complimentary accommodation and meals on campus for the duration of the 6-day event, sponsored by Texas Tech and the Susan Polgar Foundation.
In September, Texas Tech University and SPICE will once again host the 2009 SPICE Cup (at least category 16 for A group which will be the highest rated international RR tournament in U.S. history!) A and B groups as well the SPICE Cup Open and other side events.
Many more exciting events are planned at Texas Tech and Lubbock for many years to come.
That’s totally awesome. Now only if the bozos at the USCF could leave you alone so you can help chess in America.
Congratulations!
Nice. I sure wish there was a chess park where I went to university!
I believe the area will officially be named the SPICE Chess Court.
The blueprint I saw includes 5 tables located in area to the left and up in the picture shown here. Four tables will be in pairs of two (in case players want play bughouse) and fifth one will be separated from the rest. The single table is intended for disabled players in wheelchairs so has no chairs.
Players will bring their own chess pieces or check them out from the Student Union Building across from court.
This is a high traffic area since it sits between the main library and the student union building. Trees provide shade for the players.
Regards,
Dr. Karlsson
I not aware of chess tables being located at another university in the US. Perhaps readers would be willing to send in information – even pictures – of permanent chess tables located at other universities. I am sure that Moscow University must have one etc.
Regards,
Dr. Karlsson