Over 700 players to compete in Canada’s top chess championships in Surrey this July, marking B.C.’s first time hosting in over a decade.
Surrey Set to Become Canada’s Chess Capital
For the first time in more than a decade, British Columbia will host Canada’s most prestigious chess championships. Over 700 top-tier players are expected to gather at the Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel in Surrey this July for two major national tournaments.
Event Details and Timing
From July 8 to 11, the 2025 Canadian Youth Chess Championship (CYCC) will see more than 500 young players compete across 12 divisions defined by age and gender. Following that, the 2025 Canadian Open will take place from July 12 to 18, welcoming approximately 200 additional players, both adults and juniors.
Organizers and Background
The national events are co-chaired by Victoria Doknjas and Tyler Sanderson, who secured the hosting bid in 2023. According to Doknjas, “It has been over a decade since these national chess championships have been hosted in B.C.” The organizing effort reflects a resurgence in competitive chess activity across Western Canada.
What’s at Stake for Competitors
Youth tournament winners will earn the chance to represent Team Canada at the upcoming World Youth and World Cadet Chess Championships. The Open event will feature internationally acclaimed players, raising the competition stakes significantly.
High-Level Talent Expected
Headlining the Open is chess grandmaster Gergely Szabo, head coach of Team Canada. He’ll be joined by 2022 World U18 Champion and Canadian grandmaster Shawn Rodrigue-Lemieux, as well as U.S. Olympiad veteran James Tarjan. B.C.’s top contenders, including current provincial champion John Doknjas, will also compete.
Community Support and Broader Vision
The tournaments are supported by the Juniors to Masters Chess Academy, the Chess Federation of Canada’s official training provider. Local non-profit Vancity Chess is also promoting the event and working to foster inclusive and diverse engagement in the regional chess scene.
Legacy and Next Moves
Beyond the 10-day competition, the event marks a milestone in building a stronger national chess presence in British Columbia. Organizers hope the spotlight will encourage more youth participation and cement Surrey’s reputation as a hub for high-level chess in Canada.
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