Harrisburg Chess

Camp Curtin YMCA Chess Program

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The Camp Curtin branch YMCA in Harrisburg runs a kids chess program, where members are able to play games Monday through Saturday from 4PM – 7PM. On Thursdays, from 5PM-6:30PM, Calvin Brown offers instruction to the kids. The program is sponsored by Rev. James Lyles, and is for children of all ages. For more information, call (717) 234-7058 ext. 20.

Monthly Tournament

Most months, the club hosts a chess tournament that is open to anyone and completely free to enter. The event features an open section for both rated and unrated players, as well as a student section. This is a great opportunity for new players to experience a real chess tournament without having to be a member of the US Chess Federation.

Students compete for trophies, while players in the open section compete for cash prizes. Recently, the players with the best results in each section who have never been a USCF member, received a 1-year USCF Membership Award. The event has been a great success, and each month we see the return of dedicated players, as well as new faces.

“We at the Camp Curtin Branch YMCA believe that chess can make a youth a better person just by gaining knowledge in this game. This game teaches one how to think ahead and I think that is what youth of today need to do, think of their future.” – Rev. Lyles.



The purpose of the event is:

  1. to get students and adults involved with chess for a lifetime of enjoyment
  2. to get students and adults involved with the United States Chess Federation
  3. to have one free rated student tournament in 2010
  4. to have about 10 free non-rated chess tournaments each year


Directions to YMCA Tournament The next event is on June 26th, 2010 at 2135 N. 6th Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110. We hope to see you there!







This event is made possible by its sponsors: Gary Waters, Odell Greene, Calvin Brown, Brian Sheinfeld (tournament director), Crown Trophy Camp Hill, Jack Clauser’s Save 2 Agency for life insurance and annuity investments

YMCA Kids Club and Tournament

YMCA Tournament picture

The kids chess club at the Camp Curtin branch YMCA in Harrisburg offers games and instruction 6 days a week. They also host a FREE monthly chess tournament. More about the kids program and event...

Family Chess Night

Family Chess Night picture

Kids receive free instruction at the Fredrickson Library's Chess Night in Camp Hill. Learn more...

Chess Lessons

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Chess Expert Michael Mazock is available for personal chess training and instruction. Rates are $25 an hour, or $40 for a two hour session.

(717) 422-8321 or
mmazock@comcast.net