Three Chess Houses Open Simultaneously in Shymkent, Kazakhstan

Shymkent Expands Public Chess Access with Triple Inauguration

On October 15, the city of Shymkent, Kazakhstan, officially opened three Chess Houses in key public locations: Abay Park, Metallurgists Park, and the pedestrian alley in the 17th microdistrict. The initiative seeks to make chess more accessible to residents by placing dedicated facilities in popular recreational areas.

Strategic Locations and Facility Details

The Chess Houses were deliberately placed in high-traffic public spaces where locals frequently gather. The largest facility, spanning 223 square meters, is located in Abay Park. Two additional pavilions, each covering 81 square meters, were constructed in Metallurgists Park and the 17th microdistrict alley, the latter featuring a summer terrace. The halls are equipped with specialized chess tables, accommodating up to 96 and 48 players simultaneously.

Leaders Highlight Community Impact

The opening ceremony was attended by Timur Turlov, President of FIDE and KazChess, and Gabit Syzdykbekov, Akim of Shymkent. Syzdykbekov emphasized the city’s ongoing commitment to grassroots sports development, noting that the new facilities will allow residents to engage in chess without needing to visit specialized clubs. Turlov highlighted the importance of mass participation in chess, stating that the simultaneous launch of three houses marks a significant step toward fostering a broader chess culture in the region.

Project Backed by Private Sponsorship

The construction was funded by Freedom Holding Corp. through the “Freedom Shapagat” Corporate Fund, which coordinated the project from design to completion. Once fully operational, Freedom Telecom plans to provide internet connectivity to the venues. Chess advocate Shyngys Nurgalimov contributed to the design of the central Chess House, with “Orda-Stroy Capital” LLP serving as the general contractor.

Inaugural Tournament Follows Opening

Immediately after the ribbon-cutting, the SHYMKENT CHESS HOUSE BLITZ Challenger 2026 children’s blitz tournament commenced across the new venues, drawing over a hundred young participants.

Source

This report is based on information published by FIDE — International Chess Federation.

Official source: https://www.fide.com/three-chess-houses-open-simultaneously-in-shymkent-kazakhstan/