Clubs across the County League & B&DCL have been asked for their views. It is early days in terms of consultation, but initial ideas are below.

The Bacchus League 

• The aim is to offer graded league conditions matches for players who do not normally get the opportunity to play in league matches, or are new to more competitive chess

• The league will be run under DCCA, but is not part of B&DCL or DCL, so does not jeopardise eligibility to play in existing leagues. So players could play in all without prejudice

• Teams must be from clubs who are B&DCL and/or Dorset County members, but flexible to encourage new clubs teams

• Games will be played under FIDE rules

• The grade limit is 110, but it is hoped many players with a grade much less than this take part

• No match fees in 1^st season

• Teams are typically 4 boards, but can be more if the clubs agree, or could be 3

• The spirit is to organise a team in playing strength order, but there are no penalties if this convention is not followed

• Clocks to be used – time control is 30 moves in an hour each and 15 minutes each to finish

• Results to be sent to the County Grader for grading (and so clubs may incur a fee if that player is not an ECF member)

• Aim to have about 6 matches in total, so if 4 teams entered it would be a double round, 3 teams then 4 matches

• Although taking part is considered the priority, results will be published on the website and a league table produced

• Given taking part is key, every team participating will receive a prize, but no “champions” per se

28 April ‘18