The BCC Summer Open, aka BCF Summer Open, has been a one-day event since 2006. Interesting that this year's tournament drew twice as many players as last year: 28 vs. 14. In 2006 the event drew 13 players. The last time it was a two-day event - 2005 - it drew only 11 players. One-day tournaments are becoming more and more popular, especially with those who don't have the time to "waste" a whole weekend playing chess - not to mention the travel expense to and from the tournament. It's a sign of the times.
George Mirijanian | Homepage | 07.15.08 - 9:57 am | #

I don't see how the title of the tournament makes it different from any other Saturday four rounder at the BCC.
Ben Goldberg | 07.15.08 - 6:30 pm | #

You're right, Ben. The title of the tournament doesn't make it different from any other Saturday four-rounder at the BCC. Here's how those Saturday four-rounders at the club have fared since early May:
14 players (2 sections): May 3
17 players: May 17
25 players: May 31
13 players: June 14
21 players: June 21
31 players (2 sections): June 28
28 players: July 12
What is needed to boost attendance at these Saturday four-rounders? Do you know?
George Mirijanian | Homepage | 07.15.08 - 8:10 pm | #

Actually, the 2006 summer open was held on Aug 5 and 6, drawing 13 players. There was also a separate one-day swiss on Aug 5 which drew 11. Other two day tournaments at the BCC haven't attracted many players either. The BCC one-day weekend tournaments have been ranging from about 25 to 35 - with quads and $10 Opens being most popular.
robert oresick | 07.15.08 - 11:46 pm | #

Thanks, Bob. I thought I was suffering some early onset Alzheimers, there. And George, your attendance list (assuming it's right) indicates a rising trend in attendance, so the answer to your question seems to be "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
Paul MacIntyre | 07.16.08 - 12:05 pm | #