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Event Rules & Regulations

 

1. For all rated events, USCF official rules will be in effect.

 

2. All phones or other smart devices must be turned off and stored for the duration of the event. Devices should not be stored in your pocket or body. A person found to have a device in the bathroom or outside of the playing room while their game is in play may face forfeiture. Headphones may not be worn during play.

 

3. No talking, or analysis in the playing room.

 

4. Both players must use only one hand to make moves, including castling and captures, and must press the clock with that same hand.

 

5. Touch move rule is in effect. If a player touches a piece they must move it (or capture if it is an enemy piece) unless otherwise illegal. A player may say “I adjust” or “j’adoube” prior to touching a piece in order to touch it without being obligated to move it.

6. A player who knocks over a piece is required to replace it before pressing the clock. The opponent may press the clock before moving to enforce this.

7. Whichever player’s flag falls first, loses the game on time. To claim a win on time, stop both clocks--your flag must still be standing and you must have mating material.

8. Proper timing of draw offer. A proposal of draw offer should be made after move and before pressing the clock. (Make the offer of draw while your clock is running) The opponent may accept or reject it. Do not make draw offer while opponent’s clock is running.

 

9. A draw may be claimed after triple occurrence of a position, insufficient mating material, a stalemated king, or by agreement. To claim a draw by triple occurrence the player on move should write their intended move down and pause the clock to make the claim before playing the move that would result in a triple occurrence of the position.

 

10. If there is a dispute, or if a player wishes to make a claim of any kind, the player should stop both clocks, advise your opponent of your claim, and summon a director. When in doubt, ask the tournament director. Note that if you let the clock run and your flag falls, you lose on time. In some events the TD may also be playing. If necessary you may interrupt the TD for assistance or to seek a ruling.

 

11. Pawn promotion. It is improper to press the clock while the pawn is still on the board. As soon as the new piece is placed on board, press the clock.

 

12. Both players are responsible for reporting the results of the game on the wall chart (pairing sheet). Failure to report your result may lead to a double forfeit.

 

13. All players are to conduct themselves in an orderly fashion, and to compete in a spirit of good sportsmanship; any player who does not will be asked to leave and possibly face suspension from future events.

Red Bandit Chess
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