​Checkmate For The Community
The Mayor’s Chess Challenge In Dania Beach And Hollywood

This exciting event is a chance for players of all ages and skill levels to come together for a day of fun, friendly competition and community-building. The 2025 edition of the Mayor’s Chess Challenge will be hosted across two locations in South Florida — Dania Beach and Hollywood — bringing together not only chess enthusiasts but local mayors, elected officials, and community leaders to promote the numerous benefits of Chess.

A Game for Everyone

The Mayor’s Chess Challenge is designed to be inclusive, allowing players from all walks of life — from novices to seasoned grandmasters — to join in on the action. The event highlights the power of Chess as a tool for education and personal development, offering an opportunity for community members to experience the game in a fun, low-pressure environment.

Whether you’ve played before or you’ve never picked up a Chess piece, the event promises to be a welcoming atmosphere where newcomers can learn from more experienced players. Instructors from the Sunrise Center for Excellence in Chess will be on hand to guide and support beginners, helping them to grasp the basics of the game and build their skills throughout the day. For those already familiar with the game, the challenge offers an opportunity to test their abilities against players of varying skill levels and engage in friendly competition.

Chess isn’t just a fun way to pass the time — it has been shown to improve problem-solving skills, increase focus and concentration and enhance memory. Studies have shown that Chess can have a positive impact on academic performance, particularly in subjects like mathematics and reading. Through events like the Mayor’s Chess Challenge, the hope is that more young people and families will be inspired to explore the game, reaping its cognitive benefits along the way.

Bringing the Community Together

The Mayor’s Chess Challenge isn’t just about the game — it’s about building stronger communities. Local mayors and elected officials participate in the event not only to encourage chess playing but to foster unity and involvement in the local community. By bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds, the event aims to create a sense of connection and camaraderie among residents.

The involvement of elected officials and community leaders provides an excellent opportunity for residents to interact with the people who represent them, fostering a sense of engagement and civic pride. As mayors and officials play alongside residents, they also share in the spirit of friendly competition, demonstrating the power of teamwork, strategy, and critical thinking — principles that transcend both politics and chess.

The Mayor’s Chess Challenge will take place at multiple locations, making it accessible to a broad group of South Florida residents.

Dania Beach Chess Challenge

Date: Saturday, March 22nd, 2025

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Contact: (954) 924-3692

Location: CW Thomas Park Community Center 100 Northwest 8th Avenue, Dania Beach, Florida 33004

The Dania Beach event will take place at the CW Thomas Park Community Center, a popular gathering spot in the city. The center’s spacious facility offers the perfect setting for the tournament, with ample room for multiple matches to unfold simultaneously. The morning event will feature friendly, informal matches where residents can mingle, play, and learn, regardless of their skill level.

Hollywood Chess Challenge

Date: Sunday, March 23rd, 2025

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Contact: (954) 967-4241. Extension#: 4241

Location: Driftwood Community Center 3000 North 69th Avenue, Hollywood, Florida 33020

The Hollywood edition of the event will be held at the Driftwood Community Center, another community hub known for hosting local events. Just like the Dania Beach challenge, this event is designed to be a fun, lighthearted occasion where people can enjoy the game and connect with one another.

The Mayor’s Chess Challenge is part of a broader regional series that extends throughout South Florida. These events are designed not just to showcase Chess but also to encourage local involvement and investment in programs that can enrich the community, particularly in terms of youth education and development.

Chess is increasingly being incorporated into local schools as part of after-school programs and enrichment activities. These initiatives aim to provide children with the skills they need to succeed both academically and socially. Through the Mayor’s Chess Challenge, organizers hope to create awareness around these initiatives and inspire more parents and educators to get involved in fostering young talent.

In addition to encouraging intellectual development, the Mayor’s Chess Challenge also promotes diversity, equity and inclusion. Chess is a universal game, enjoyed by people from all backgrounds, cultures and walks of life. The event serves as a reminder that anyone, regardless of their background or experience, can engage with chess and benefit from its many advantages.

So whether you’re an experienced Chess player, a curious beginner, or someone just looking for a fun way to spend a Saturday morning, the Mayor’s Chess Challenge is the perfect opportunity to get involved. You’ll have the chance to play, learn, and connect with people in your community, all while celebrating the timeless game of Chess.

Mark your calendars for March 22nd in Dania Beach and March 23rd in Hollywood, and be part of this exciting and inclusive event. The Mayor’s Chess Challenge is more than just a tournament — it’s a celebration of strategy, community and the power of education.

See you there — checkmate!