Twelve years ago, the Hammersmith Chess Club in London was down to fewer than 20 members and facing an uncertain future. Today, thanks to committed volunteers, a welcoming culture, and the broader boom in chess, it’s the largest chess club in London, and was recently named ECF Chess Club of the Year.
I’m joined by Hammersmith Club Captain Gaston Franco to discuss the club’s remarkable turnaround and what other communities can learn from it. We cover topics like financial sustainability, league play, and gender dynamics, as well as the importance of creating an inclusive, welcoming environment.
We also explore Gaston’s own chess journey, which highlights one of the game’s great strengths: its ability to provide instant community, especially when moving alone to a new country.
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0:00- Thanks to our sponsor, Chessable.com! Check out GM Ganguly’s new course here:
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2:00- Gaston Franco, the club captain of the Hammersmith Chess Club, joins me
Mentioned:
Watch Charlyze van Zyl’s tour of the Hammersmith Chess Club here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxR6mFl9d4E&t=1s
John White, club chairman
6:00 The Transformation of Hammersmith Chess Club
12:00- Common Club Activities and Structure, How they Appeal to Women and Junior Players
17:00- League Participation and Competitive Play
20:44 Membership Fees and Financial Sustainability
29:47 Sponsorship and Community Support
31:00- How the Club Fielded a team in the FIDE World Team Championship
33:13 Role of Grandmasters in the Club
Mentioned: GM Daniel King
34:28 League Matches and Club Activities
36:55 Chess Outreach and Community Engagement
39:10 Post-Pandemic Chess Boom
41:04 Challenges and Sustainability of Chess Clubs
43:18 Advice for Fledgling Chess Clubs
45:55 Guest Visits and Club Membership
47:24 Gaston’s Chess Journey from Buenos Aires to London
49:29 Comparing Chess Scenes: Argentina vs. London
51:52 The Future of Chess in Argentina
52:43 Community Events and Upcoming Tournaments
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