23rd BCC Open – Tournament Regulations

Dates

The tournament is scheduled for Saturday 11 – Sunday 19 April 2026, using a classical time control, with one game played per day.

Venue

The tournament takes place at the Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, Thailand;

Tournament Regulations

  1. This is an individual tournament, open to all players with FIDE ID number. If you do not have FIDE ID, please contact your country’s FIDE Rating Officer;
  2. There are two groups of play: Masters for players with a FIDE rating over 1800, and Challenger for players rated below 2000 or unrated (ratings based on April 2026 FIDE rating list). When registering, players must indicate in which group they wish to play. Players rated below 1800 may participate in the Masters at the Organiser’s discretion, subject to higher entry fee. Unrated players are not eligible for the Masters;
  3. FIDE (International Chess Federation) Law of Chess, rules and regulations apply. Results will be sent for FIDE rating calculations and are eligible for FIDE title norms;
  4. Both groups will be played using a nine-round Swiss System. For the pairings, a Swiss Manager program will be used;
  5. Time control: 90 minutes for 40 moves + 30 min for the rest of the game.
    There is a 30-second increment per move starting from the move one;
  6. Starting time will be according to the published schedule and the clock prominently displayed in the Playing Hall. The Chief Arbiter will make an announcement five minutes before the start of the games and at the starting time;
  7. Default time is one hour. Players unable to attend any round must inform the Arbiters’ desk in writing before the end of the previous round. Failure to do so may result in not being paired for subsequent rounds;
  8. Byes: Players may elect to take a bye for one round during rounds 2–7 only, with a half point awarded. The official form must be completed and submitted to the arbiter table with the score sheets by the end of the previous round;
  9. Dress code: Officials and players should be smartly attired at all times while in the playing hall. Please note, air conditioning is usually very effective in the playing hall;
  10. Players who have completed their games are considered to be spectators. There is to be no analysis in the playing hall after the conclusion of a game. An analysis room is available; 
  11. Spectators should not disturb players in the playing area. Spectators or players who disturb the playing environment will receive only one warning. A second violation will result in expulsion from the event. 

23rd BCC Open: Schedule for Masters & Challenger

23rd BCC Open Blitz Championship

The BCC Blitz takes place over two evenings, the first is split into 8 groups round-robin with a maximum of 14 players each. The top two from each group will qualify for the finals, a 16-player round-robin match:

  • Entry fee is 500 baht (Grandmasters free);
  • Maximum 112 players;
  • Registration for BCC Blitz opens on Monday, April 13 at 14:00.

23rd BCC Open: Blitz Schedule

Prizes

The total prize fund for the tournament will be decided after all entries have been received,
and published after the start of the tournament.

  • Masters: 1st prize 100,000 baht, with additional prizes for 2-10 ranks,
    5 best players from the Thailand Chess Association;
  • Challenger: 1st prize 30,000 baht, with additional prizes for 2-5 ranks; 
  • Certificates for Best Lady and 3 Best Juniors in both categories; 
  • BCC Blitz: 1st prize 20,000 baht, with additional prizes for 2nd and 3rd places (subject to number of entries);

Please note: All prizes are in Thai baht. Under Thai law, 5% tax is deducted from prize money. Winners are entitled to only one prize in any section (the higher value).

Registration

Players can register for the BCC Masters or BCC Challenger by completing the registration form at www.BangkokChess.com. All players must have FIDE ID. Registration is fully confirmed only after players have signed in at the Registration Desk at the venue and paid their entry fees (before 12:00 noon on Saturday, April 11).

Registration for BCC Blitz is in person at the venue, from Monday, April 13 at 14:00.

Entry Fees

  • Masters: 6,000 baht (Early Bird 5,000 baht until March 15),
    Under 1800 ELO: 8,000 baht (Early Bird 7,000 baht until March 15),
    TCA members: 1,500 baht discount;
  • Challenger: 4,000 baht (Early Bird 3,000 baht until March 15),
    TCA members: 3,000 baht (Early Bird 2,500 baht until March 15).

Please note:

  • All tournament fees must be paid before the start of the first round; 
  • Payments made after March 15 are not eligible for the Early Bird rate;
  • The first 350 registrants who have paid their entry fee are guaranteed participation.

Payment options

For online payments and bank transfers, please include the name and FIDE ID of the player/s on whose behalf the payment is made.

  • Online payment: all major credit cards are accepted. Online payments close March 31;
  • Bank transfer: for local payments in Thailand:
    Bangkok Chess Club Association, Kasikorn Bank account number: 126-8-31852-2;
  • Cash payment (Thai baht only) and late registrations (subject to availability) can be made at the venue up to 12:00 (noon) on the day of the start of the tournament.

Refund Policy

Entry fees are fully refundable until March 15 (minus bank transfer expenses). After March 15 entry fees are non-refundable.

Due to the uncertain situation in the Middle East, if you have a flight booked and the airline cancels the flight after March 15, you have the following options (we would need to see your ticket details and airline cancellation notice):

  • Roll over your entry fee to next year’s BCC Open; or
  • Request a refund of 80% of your entry fees (payable after tournament end).

Conditions for Titled Players

Entry fees are waived for Grandmasters, WGMs, IMs, WIMs and 2500+ rated players (according to the official FIDE April 2026 rating list).

Complimentary accommodation will be provided for 15 Grandmasters (room and breakfast in twin sharing with another GM for 9 nights). Complimentary room reservation will be confirmed after organiser has received online reservation and deposit transfer of 3,000 baht (~80 Euros). Deposits will be returned after checking in at the venue.

Accommodation

Players are required to budget for their own board and lodgings, as well as transportation needs.

Garden rooms look outward from the resort. Lagoon View rooms are second floor, looking inwards towards Sheraton’s signature lagoon/swimming pool. Lagoon Access are ground floor with direct private access to swim in the lagoon and pools.

Special room rates have been negotiated at the Sheraton Hua Hin:

  • Garden Room only: 3,199 baht*;
  • Garden Room including Breakfast: 3,499 baht*;
  • Lagoon View: 4,999 baht including Breakfast*;
  • Lagoon Access: 5,999 baht including Breakfast*
  • Online room reservations

* Rates are nett/room/night for single or double occupancy, inclusive of service charge, VAT and complimentary in-room internet. Additional bed (at extra charge) can be provided in case of family occupancy. These room rates are valid for booking by 30 March, and are subject to availability.


Arrival

In order to be paired for the first round, all players must sign in to the tournament in person at the tournament registration desk, on April 10 afternoon or April 11 before noon.

Photography

Official photographers will be on site for the duration of the tournament. Photography by spectators is allowed before the start of the first round only. Once the games have started, spectators may not bring cameras or any electronic devices into the playing hall. 

By accepting the Terms and Conditions of participation in the BCC Open, you or the parent/legal guardian confirms his/her acceptance that you, his/her child may be pictured/photographed and that such material can be used by the BCC for promotion or marketing of the BCC Open, and other events. You, the parent/legal guardian gives his/her permission to make photos/videos with you, his/her child during the BCC Open.

Copyright and all exclusive rights of all photography and videos appearing on web sites or brochures belong to the BCC, and can be used at their own discretion independently. No other reproduction may be made without prior permission. 

A photo gallery will be made available online for free use.

Arbiters

Chief Arbiter: IA Maung Maung Lwin 

In the event of dispute, the Chief Arbiter’s decision is final.

Fair Play

In the interests of Fair Play, no electronic devices may be brought into the tournament hall – including Bluetooth devices, cameras, mobile phones, smart watches and smart glasses. The Organiser will provide a deposit point outside the playing hall (at depositor’s own risk), with a fee of 20 baht.

Handheld scanners and signal scanners will be in use in the playing halls and other areas with player access. Violations will result in loss of game and possible exclusion from the tournament.

Other Information

  • Tournament results and pairings will be updated daily at www.chess-results.com
  • Approximate exchange rate: US $1 = 32 baht; €1 = 38 baht; £1 = 43 baht
    Rates vary, for up-to-date exchange rates, visit www.superrich1965.com

FAQs

There are several reliable and cost-effective options  available. Both minivans and trains provide efficient service, with equitable pricing for all passengers. This guide outlines the key details for each mode of transport, including schedules, fares, and practical advice.

Travel by Minivan: Frequent and Convenient Service

Minivans depart regularly—every 30 to 45 minutes—from Ekkamai Bus Terminal. Access the terminal easily by taking the BTS Skytrain to Ekkamai Station, as the bus terminal is directly opposite. Tickets are priced fairly, with no surcharges for international travelers. There are also minibuses to Hua Hin from the Chatuchak Minibus Station opposite Morchit 2 Bus Station.

The approximate travel time to Hua Hin is 3 hours and 15 minutes (one-way fare: 210 THB). Operations commence in the early morning and continue until approximately 8:00 PM daily.

You can ask the driver to drop you at the Sheraton Hua Hin.

For the return journey to Bangkok, proceed to the Minivan Station on Hua Hin Soi 51. Booking agents along Naresdamri Road (opposite the Hilton Hotel) can secure return tickets at equivalent rates, often including hotel pickup. Note that the final departure is around 9:00 PM.

Travel by Train: Scenic and Scheduled Departures

The railway offers a picturesque alternative, with nine daily trains departing from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (commonly known as Bang Sue Grand Station) in Bangkok. Both Cha-Am and Hua Hin lie along the southern line extending toward the Malaysian border, with a variety of train classes and timings to suit different preferences. Travel durations to Hua Hin typically range from 3 to 4 hours.

The following schedule summarizes key departures (all times are approximate):

  • 07:30 Bangkok → 10:31 Hua Hin (Special Express)
  • 15:10 Bangkok → 18:44 Hua Hin (Rapid)
  • 16:10 Bangkok → 19:45 Hua Hin (Special Express)
  • 16:50 Bangkok → 20:20 Hua Hin (Special Express)
  • 17:30 Bangkok → 20:58 Cha-Am → 21:20 Hua Hin (Rapid)
  • 18:50 Bangkok → 22:29 Hua Hin (Express)
  • 19:50 Bangkok → 23:42 Hua Hin (Express)
  • 20:30 Bangkok → 23:56 Cha-Am → 00:18 Hua Hin (Rapid)
  • 22:50 Bangkok → 02:04 Hua Hin (Special Express)

Fares vary by class and train: Third-class seating, available on select services such as the 15:10 Rapid, costs approximately 64 THB. Second-class tickets are priced at 152 THB, while first-class accommodations are 282 THB. Tickets may be purchased at the station or via the State Railway of Thailand’s online platform.

Taxis

It is also possible to travel to Hua Hin by taxi especially for families and small groups. The fare should be around 1,600 baht one way. You can order at the airport or book at these sites:

Roong Reuang Coach operates a first class coach service to Hua Hin from Suvarnabhumi Airport, at 325 baht per person. It is best to book in advance on their website.

They also have a shuttle bus between Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports.

Many of the minibuses will drop you off by the main entrance to the Sheraton Hua Hin, if you let them know when you board the bus.

We recommend staying at the Sheraton, especially with the great rates negotiated, but it is not mandatory. There are smaller hotels nearby, and some players might like to stay in Hua Hin town nearer the nightlife.

Beaches

With Hua Hin’s super long coastline, beach-hopping is a total breeze! Right in the city center, you’ve got the chill vibes of Hua Hin Beach and Khao Takiab Beach. Head a bit further south, and you’ll stumble upon gems like Khao Kalok, Khao Tao, and Suan Son Beach. Let’s dive in!

Hua Hin Beach

This is the iconic stretch of sand smack in the heart of Hua Hin—think endless fine white sand perfect for a dip, horse rides along the shore, lazy sunbathing, or revving up with water fun like kiteboarding and jet skiing. It’s all lined with fancy resorts, plus their awesome restaurants and bars for that beachy cocktail hour. Pure relaxation!

Khao Takiab Beach

Tucked just south of Hua Hin Beach around Chopstick Hill, this spot’s a hidden delight. The northern end hugs the Giant Standing Buddha, and up on the cliffs, you’ll find cozy restaurants with jaw-dropping sea and city views—ideal for a sunset dinner date. Romantic? You bet!

Khao Kalok Beach

About 30 km south of the city center, this beauty is my personal fave for a quiet escape. I zipped there on a scooter and paired it with a quick jaunt to Phra Nakhon Cave—total win! It’s a long, serene stretch where you can unwind, catch some waves for kitesurfing, or just vibe. My hotel host raved about it, and locals love it too—no crowds here!

Khao Tao Beach

Split into two cozy coves north and south of Wat Tham Khao Tao (about 15 km south of town), this duo is perfect for a half-day adventure. Bundle it with a temple visit, and you’ve got yourself an easy, scenic outing.

Suan Son Beach

Just 10 km south and super peaceful, this one’s a short stroll from Suan Son Pradipat Beach. No wheels? No worries—hop on a train from Hua Hin Station, and you’re there in a flash. Easy peasy!

Night Markets

Hua Hin’s night markets are where the magic happens—think buzzing evenings filled with mouthwatering eats and quirky finds. The daily Hua Hin Night Market is a staple, but save your weekends for the lively Cicada and Tamarind scenes. Get ready to munch and shop till you drop!

Hua Hin Night Market

Right in the city center near the train station (at Hua Hin 72 and Dechanuchit Alley, between the main road and tracks), this daily hotspot is packed with street food stalls dishing up Thai favorites and souvenir spots galore. Bonus: The nearby Chatsila Night Market adds even more flavor!

Cicada Night Market

Five km south of downtown (tuk-tuk or Grab makes it effortless), this trendy weekend wonder (Fridays to Sundays, evenings only) has it all—tasty street eats, cool fashion, souvenirs, and live music to keep the energy high. It’s like a party with shopping!

Tamarind Night Market

Snuggled next to Cicada and open late afternoons to midnight (Thursdays to Sundays), this one’s all about the food—Thai classics mixed with fusion twists, plus chill acoustic tunes. Just a quick 10-minute ride from town. Foodie heaven!

Shopping Malls

Fancy some air-conditioned retail therapy to beat the heat? Hua Hin’s got two big players: Bluport and Market Village. They’re loaded with shops, eats, and everything in between—perfect pit stops!

Bluport Shopping Center

A speedy Grab ride from downtown, this spacious spot feels way more laid-back than the rest. Swing by the food court, grab groceries at the supermarket, or browse the shops without the hustle. Total chill zone!

Market Village Shopping Center

Near Soi 94 (the expat hub), this mall’s a go-to for fashion, beauty goodies, and gadgets, plus a fab food court. And don’t miss the night market out front—street food and live tunes make it extra fun!

Temples

Thailand’s got temples on lock, and Hua Hin’s no exception—these spots are serene, stunning, and full of stories. Top picks? Wat Khao Takiap, Wat Tham Khao Tao, and Wat Huay Mongkol. Oh, and a quirky little shrine too!

Wat Khao Takiap

Perched on Chopstick Hill (7 km south), this one’s all about those epic ocean panoramas. Park, climb a quick staircase, and boom—you’re at the chedi with views that’ll steal your breath.

Wat Tham Khao Tao & Big Buddha

Fifteen km south (super easy Grab hop), this temple complex is a stunner with sea vistas that go on forever. The Big Buddha adds that wow factor—peaceful and photogenic!

Wat Huay Mongkol

Twenty km west of town, it’s a fave for its vibes—pair it with a Pala-U Waterfall trip for an epic day out.

Jao Mae Tub Tim Shrine

This tiny Chinese gem sits right by the main beach in the city center. Scooter over (or walk!), soak in the ocean breeze, and wander—it’s a sweet, low-key spot.

Nightlife Areas

Hua Hin’s nightlife? Think easygoing hangs with bars and bites sprinkled everywhere, but the real clusters are in Soi 94, Soi 80, and Soi Bintabaht—all super central and inviting.

Soi 94

Minutes south of the train station, it’s expat central with bars, eats, and massage spots buzzing till midnight. Foreign-friendly and fun!

Soi 80

Right across from the station, this strip of bars and clubs keeps it mellow—less frenzy, more chill chats over drinks.

Soi Bintabaht

Downtown’s lively alley, steps from the beach and night market. Bars, clubs, and eats line the way—vibrant but not overwhelming. Dive in!

National Parks, Waterfalls, Hiking

Nature lovers, rejoice! Around Hua Hin, you’ve got parks, cascades, and trails galore. South: Phraya Nakhon Cave and Pranburi Forest Park. North: Khao Nang Phanthurat hikes. West: Pa La-U Waterfall. Adventure awaits!

Phraya Nakhon Cave

Fifty km south in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, this limestone wonder glows with natural light and packs historical punch. A must-see!

Pranburi Forest Park

Twenty km south, it’s all peace with a mangrove boardwalk (free entry!) and a secret beach. Stroll through the trees—pure zen.

Pa La-U Waterfall

Seventy km west near the Myanmar border, this beauty’s worth the trek (guided tour or driver recommended—I scootered it, but wow, that highway!). Lush and refreshing.

Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park

Forty km north, hike those dramatic limestone cliffs—it’ll remind you of Vietnam’s Ninh Binh. Epic views, total thrill!

Khao Hin Lek Fai

Just west of town (Grab it to dodge cheeky monkeys if you’re on a scooter), this viewpoint’s a quick win with sweeping sights.

Thai Massages

Hua Hin’s a massage paradise—spots everywhere, prices that won’t break the bank (like 300 baht for an hour of oil magic!). After all the exploring, shopping, and nights out, treat yo’ self. It’s basically non-negotiable!

Hua Hin Artists Village (Baan Sillapin)

Art buffs, head 6 km west for this creative haven—studios, galleries bursting with cool pieces, plus cafés and handmade souvenirs. It’s a delightful detour!

You probably get better rates in Thailand than you will at home. There are currency exchanges at the airports as well as many places in Bangkok and Hua Hin. One of the best exchange bureaus is SuperRich

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