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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Member game of the month

Reegan Palmer delivered a controlled and confident victory in the Sicilian Moscow, neutralising early pressure, seizing the initiative with well-timed pawn breaks, and transitioning smoothly into a superior endgame. His king activity and accurate pawn play steadily expanded his advantage, while White’s pieces became increasingly restricted. The final phase showcased clean technique as Reegan converted material and positional gains into a decisive win.

  • Excellent central control with …e5 and …e4 at key moments.
  • Strong simplification choices leading to a favourable minor-piece endgame.
  • Active king play (…Kd6–Ke5) demonstrating sound endgame technique.
  • Consistent pressure that forced structural weaknesses in White’s camp.
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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.

  • Izaiah Solomon: Led the way 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
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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.
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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
  • 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