Registrations now open for 2026 season.

Welcome to the Steinitz Chess Club

Join us in celebrating the rich legacy and vibrant future of chess. Discover our club’s commitment to nurturing talent and promoting the love of chess in our community.

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Recent events

Steinitz Chess Club’s story began in Bonteheuwel — and it’s only fitting that our Club’s president organised a development tournament right there, in the heart of the Cape Flats. We’re more than a club of champions; we’re a community rooted in passion for growing the game from the ground up.

  • Furqaan Bowman - 1st in the U15-U19 section.
  • Club members Andrew & Matthew Talmarkes as well as Declan Platen and Amina Ebrahim were key contributors to the success of this initiative.
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Member game of the month

Donovan Allies delivered a commanding performance in this Benoni Defense encounter, showcasing both strategic understanding and precise endgame execution. From the outset, he neutralized White’s initiative with calm development and then gradually seized the momentum through sharp tactical awareness and excellent piece coordination. His ability to transition smoothly from middlegame pressure to a cleanly converted endgame win highlights his composure and technical maturity. This game stands as a fine example of patient counterplay and accurate calculation — a model victory for the Steinitz Club archives.

  • ♜ Dynamic Counterplay: Timely breaks with …f5 and …c4 demonstrated deep positional awareness, turning defense into offense.
  • ⚔️ Tactical Precision: The sequence around moves 23–27 displayed sharp calculation, with Donovan converting pressure into tangible material gains.
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The Top Reasons to Choose Steinitz as your Chess Club

At the Steinitz Chess Club, our core values are the foundation of everything we do. We believe in fostering a spirit of inclusivity, where everyone, regardless of background, can find a place to learn and grow. Our commitment to excellence drives us to continually improve and challenge ourselves, both on and off the chessboard. We value integrity, ensuring that all our interactions are characterized by honesty and respect. Lastly, we promote community engagement, striving to make a positive impact in the lives of those around us through the game of chess.

  • A legacy of 50 years of chess excellence
  • Our club has produced junior, adult and senior SA champions
  • Many of our players and coaches have competed internationally
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What’s Included in Your Club Membership

Our annual club membership gives you access to the following benefits:

  • A social community of chess enthusiasts
  • Guidance from some of the most experienced chess coaches in the country
  • Regular OTB practice with accomplished tournament players
  • The ability to play in the annual Cape Town club league
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What people Are Saying About Steinitz Chess Club

We are proud of our achievements and the people who have supported us.

…Steinitz Chess Club - the most successful chess club in South Africa.
Dr Lyndon Bouah

Dr Lyndon Bouah

Chief Director for Sport and Recreation - Western Cape

In essence, the Steinitz Chess Club exemplifies chess excellence and inclusivity.
Shaheed Tobias

Shaheed Tobias

Cape Town Chess Federation Technical Portfolio

…Steinitz chess club undoubtedly the most professional club in the country…
Reuben Salimu

Reuben Salimu

Former Chess Development Officer - Western Cape