Oakridge Park Chess Simul: Lucas Yao Takes on 20 Players at Once

If you’ve ever wanted to test your skills against a FIDE Master, you’ll get your chance this Monday. Oakridge Park has teamed up with Vancity Chess to host a special chess simul on September 14.

A simul, short for simultaneous exhibition, is when one player challenges multiple opponents at the same time. For this match, 12-year-old Lucas Yao will walk from board to board and take on 20 players at once. Lucas holds the title of FIDE Master, an honour the International Chess Federation awards to top competitive players.

You don’t need tournament experience to drop by, either. Once Lucas finishes his games, the event opens into a free community play session. You can play a casual match, ask Lucas about your strategy, and pick up tips from other local players.

The night also marks the official launch of a new weekly Chess Club at Oakridge Park. You can even pick up a custom Oakridge Park chess set while you’re there.

Spectating is free. A player spot to face Lucas costs $20. The event runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the North Atrium at Oakridge Park Shopping Centre.