Prague, a city steeped in history and culture, recently added another poignant chapter to its story: the inaugural Rapid Memorial Tournament in honor of the legendary Grandmaster Vlastimil Hort. On September 28, 2025, the chess community converged at the stately Hotel Don Giovanni, not just for a sporting contest, but for a heartfelt tribute to one of Czechoslovakia`s and the world`s most charismatic chess personalities.
A Setting Steeped in Memory
The choice of venue, the Hotel Don Giovanni, was no mere coincidence. It was, as many knew, a cherished haunt of Vlastimil Hort himself. This personal connection imbued the event with an intimate, almost familial, atmosphere. The opening ceremony was particularly moving, featuring a speech by Hort`s widow, Brigitte Hort. Her poignant recollection of “37 wonderful years” shared with Vlastimil, delivered with genuine emotion to a large and attentive crowd, underscored the profound personal loss behind the public celebration of his legacy. Her son, Daniel Hort, stood by her side, further emphasizing the family`s deep involvement and appreciation for the turnout.
The Board Awakens: A Rapid Chess Battle
With emotions settling, the focus shifted to the boards. A robust field of 95 chess players, ranging from seasoned veterans to promising juniors, took part in the rapid chess challenge. The format — seven rounds, with each player allotted 15 minutes plus a 10-second increment per move — promised quick thinking and decisive play. It was a fitting style for an event honoring a player renowned for his dynamic approach and tactical brilliance.
The air buzzed with a mix of concentration and camaraderie, a testament to the unifying power of chess. Each move, each capture, felt like a silent conversation with the spirit of the Grandmaster whose memory had brought everyone together.
Champions Crowned, Legacies Honored
As the final pawns advanced and kings were cornered, a clear victor emerged. FM Gustav Brejník, demonstrating exceptional skill and composure, secured the top spot with an impressive 6.5 points. He was closely followed by IM Pavel Čech, who claimed second place with 6 points, and Pavel Postupa, who rounded out the top three with 5.5 points.
Brigitte Hort had the distinct honor of presenting the cash prizes, a touching moment that brought her even closer to the players inspired by her late husband. Beyond the overall winners, specific categories saw their own champions celebrated:
- IM Josef Přibyl excelled in the over-70s category.
- Miroslav Muroň dominated the over-60s.
- WIM Olena Žemličková was recognized as the best female player.
- Youth was served by Boris Pogorelsky, who triumphed in the under-15s category.
In a particularly thoughtful gesture, more than thirty participants also received a copy of Vlastimil Hort`s book, My Chess Stories, ensuring his narratives and insights continue to inspire new generations.
Beyond the Board: An Annual Promise
The success of this inaugural tournament was unequivocal, leaving no doubt that Vlastimil Hort`s name resonates deeply within the chess world. The organizers, the Czech Inn Hotel Group, wasted no time in confirming their commitment to transforming this heartfelt tribute into an annual fixture.
“We will hold the tournament every year on the last Sunday in September. We have no doubt that it will be a success, both at home and abroad. Vlastimil would be proud of us,” declared Jaroslav Svoboda, owner of Czech Inn Hotels.
This promise ensures that the legacy of Vlastimil Hort — a Grandmaster whose career spanned decades, seeing him achieve a best Elo rating of 2620 and a world ranking of 6 in 1977, and distinguishing himself in matches like the 1970 “Rest of the World” vs. USSR where he famously defeated Lev Polugayevsky — will continue to be celebrated, year after year.
Vlastimil Hort: A Grandmaster`s Enduring Checkmate
Vlastimil Hort was more than just a formidable player; he was a storyteller, a personality, and a pillar of the chess community. From becoming an International Master in 1962 and a Grandmaster in 1965, to his six Czechoslovakian Championships and three German titles, his career was a tapestry of remarkable achievements. He represented Czechoslovakia in numerous Olympiads, winning a team silver in 1982 and individual silver in 1972, before later playing for Germany. His participation in Candidates Tournaments and numerous prestigious victories solidified his place among the greats.
The inaugural Vlastimil Hort Rapid Memorial Tournament is not just a competition; it is a living monument. It`s an affirmation that while the grandmaster may have made his final move, his spirit, his stories, and his profound impact on the game continue to inspire every generation of chess players. Prague`s commitment ensures that the memory of this chess giant will never be checked into oblivion.
