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.
see us in action
Member game of the month
Izaiah Solomon secured a dramatic victory in this King’s Indian Defense, navigating a highly volatile struggle characterized by sharp tactical blows and mutual inaccuracies. After White misplayed the opening with 10. Qd2, Solomon seized the initiative, eventually launching a devastating exchange sacrifice on f3 to shatter White’s kingside. Despite a series of late-game blunders from both sides in time pressure, Solomon remained the more resourceful attacker. He successfully navigated the chaos to promote his h-pawn, entering a simplified minor-piece endgame that forced White’s resignation.
- Exploited the inaccuracies 10. Qd2 and 12. O-O to establish a powerful grip on the dark squares.
- Executed a thematic and powerful exchange sacrifice (20…Rxf3!) to expose the White king.
- Maintained offensive pressure despite missing several knockout blows during the tactical complications.
- Capitalized on White’s final blunder (37. Rxc7??) to promote the h-pawn and secure a winning material advantage.
Recent news
A huge congratulations goes out to all our junior players who competed this past weekend in the team events of the Mzansi Inter-Provincial Youth Chess Championships (MIYCC) in Gqeberha! You represented the club with pride, gaining valuable experience and achieving fantastic results against the best young talent in the country.
- Alex Akemdien dominated the U10 individual event, ending on 6/6
- Izaiah Solomon: Led the way in the team event with an incredible 5.5/6
- Sophia Hagen, Alex Akemdien, and Waynika Caesar: All secured a fantastic 5/6
- Matthew Webster: Delivered a strong performance with 4/6
- Benjamin Dubbeld: Earned a solid 3.5/6
- Callum Lau and MJ Strydom: Contributed vital points with 3/6 and 2.5/6 respectively
Steinitz Festival
Save the date: 20-22 March 2026
- This annual festival is a highlight within the CTCF calendar.
- Fairbairn College has graciously offered to host our club’s marquee event.
- Event details and entry form will be available closer to the time.
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
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
- The ability to play in the annual Cape Town club league
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
Chief Director for Sport and Recreation - Western Cape
In essence, the Steinitz Chess Club exemplifies chess excellence and inclusivity.
Shaheed Tobias
Cape Town Chess Federation Technical Portfolio
…Steinitz chess club undoubtedly the most professional club in the country…
Reuben Salimu
Former Chess Development Officer - Western Cape