Last year the tournament attracted 310 chess players, but the interest was so great this year that the limit of 400 participants was reached a month and a half in advance. Organizer Geert Bailleul of the Koninklijke Brugse Schaakkring confirms that even a reserve list was laid.
The participants range from experienced grandmasters to enthusiastic enthusiasts, from all corners of the world, from China to Canada. In addition to the strong organization, the location also plays an important role: Bruges remains an extra asset for the many foreign chess players with its historic charm and summer atmosphere.
Anyone who wants to follow the parties of some top players can do that online. The tournament runs until Friday.