On a crisp Sunday, September 28, 2025, Prague, a city synonymous with history and culture, added another layer to its rich tapestry: the very first Rapid Memorial Tournament in honor of Grandmaster Vlastimil Hort. More than just a competition, this event at the stately Hotel Don Giovanni blossomed into a heartfelt tribute, celebrating a man whose impact on Czechoslovakian and international chess remains indelible.
A Setting Steeped in Memory
The choice of Hotel Don Giovanni was no mere coincidence; it was one of Vlastimil Hort`s cherished havens in Prague. This personal touch resonated deeply throughout the day, transforming the playing hall into a space where strategic battles unfolded against a backdrop of fond remembrance. The Czech Inn Hotel Group, the orchestrators of this splendid affair, ensured that every detail echoed the reverence felt for the Grandmaster.
The solemnity of the occasion was profoundly underscored by the presence of Hort`s beloved wife, Brigitte Hort, and his son, Daniel. Brigitte, in an opening address that moved many, spoke of “37 wonderful years” shared with Vlastimil, her voice imbued with both sorrow and profound gratitude for the immense turnout. It was a poignant reminder that even in loss, a shared passion can forge powerful bonds.
A Legacy on the Board: The Rapid Tournament Unfolds
Ninety-five chess players, from promising juniors to seasoned veterans, converged for seven rounds of rapid chess – a format demanding both sharp intellect and swift decision-making, with each player allotted 15 minutes plus a 10-second increment per move. The air, thick with anticipation and concentration, occasionally lightened with the gentle clack of pieces, a familiar symphony for any chess enthusiast. It was, one might say, the sound of living memory.
The competitive spirit was palpable, yet it was intertwined with a collective appreciation for the man whose name graced the event. As the dust settled, FM Gustav Brejník emerged as the inaugural champion, securing 6.5 points with a display of calm precision. Close behind him, IM Pavel Čech claimed second place with 6 points, followed by Pavel Postupa in third, accumulating 5.5 points. These were battles fought not just for victory, but also as a testament to the enduring appeal and intellectual rigor of chess.
Celebrating Every Generation
Vlastimil Hort`s legacy transcended age and experience, a fact beautifully mirrored in the diverse categories recognized. Brigitte Hort herself presented prizes to the best performers in various demographics, highlighting the breadth of talent present. IM Josef Přibyl masterfully captured the over-70s category, proving that wisdom on the board only deepens with time. Miroslav Muroň dominated the over-60s, while WIM Olena Žemličková shone brightest as the best female player, embodying grace under pressure. The future of chess was also robustly represented, with Boris Pogorelsky taking home the prize in the under-15s category, a testament to the game`s magnetic draw for young minds. Many participants also received a copy of Hort`s insightful book, My Chess Stories, ensuring his narrative voice continues to inspire.
An Annual Tradition Beckons
The resounding success of this first memorial tournament sends a clear message: Vlastimil Hort is far from forgotten. His memory is vibrant, cherished, and actively honored by a robust chess community. Jaroslav Svoboda, owner of Czech Inn Hotels, articulated the collective sentiment:
“We will hold the tournament every year on the last Sunday in September… Vlastimil would be proud of us.”
This commitment transforms a singular event into a burgeoning tradition, promising that the Grandmaster`s spirit will continue to inspire generations of chess players in Prague and beyond. The inaugural Vlastimil Hort Memorial Tournament was not merely a date on the chess calendar; it was a powerful reaffirmation of a legend`s enduring influence, a gathering of minds united by a shared passion, and a promise that the king`s game, much like Hort`s legacy, will forever thrive.
Rupert Hartwell