The Chess club was founded in 1992 by Geoff Whetton. Originally this was for people to simply play social chess, but we entered the Leicestershire League the following year. The club thrived, but unfortunately the standard of play wasn’t high enough to make much of an impact on the league.
In 1997 Ashby Chess club joined with Coalville Academy Chess Club in a mutually beneficial amalgamation. Coalville had some strong members, but dwindling numbers, whilst Ashby had a rising membership.
An unsettled period followed as we tried various venues, until we moved to our present location at the Ivanhoe Social Club. We consequently changed our name to “Ashby Ivanhoe Chess Club”.
League success came a few years later as we won the Division 3 and 4 titles in 2008, and again in 2010.
In 2010 the club decided to advertise for new members and improve facilities in hopes that Ashby Ivanhoe Chess club would step up a level. An extensive library of chess books was created, equipment modernised, an advertising campaign for new members launched and (more recently) a Chess School for juniors was opened.
In 2014 Ashby Chess club competed in the LRCA top tier for the first time in its history, and now field five teams, more than any other club in the league.
Despite our recent competitive success, we are proud of Ashby Ivanhoe Chess club’s traditional reputation as a friendly and welcoming chess club and are determined to maintain this. People of all ages and playing abilities are welcome, and help is always on hand to improve your game.