Prague Remembers a Giant: The Inaugural Vlastimil Hort Memorial Rapid Chess Tournament

In a world increasingly fixated on the next big thing, some legends simply refuse to fade into the annals of history. Grandmaster Vlastimil Hort, a figure whose very name evokes tales of tactical brilliance and a warm, engaging personality, is one such individual. On a crisp Sunday in late September 2025, the heart of Prague bore witness to a testament to his enduring legacy: the first Vlastimil Hort Memorial Rapid Chess Tournament.

Organized by the Czech Inn Hotel Group and hosted at the elegant Hotel Don Giovanni – a venue reportedly dear to Hort himself – this event was more than just a chess competition. It was a pilgrimage, a collective nod of respect, and a vibrant celebration of a life dedicated to the royal game. The sentiment was palpable, perhaps best articulated by Hort’s wife, Brigitte Hort, who, alongside their son Daniel, graced the opening ceremony. Her moving words, recalling “37 wonderful years” with Vlastimil, underscored the deeply personal connection many felt to the late Grandmaster.

A Fusion of Remembrance and Rivalry

The playing hall, bustling with 95 eager participants, was a microcosm of the chess world’s respect. Here, young prodigies and seasoned veterans alike gathered, each move a silent tribute to Hort’s spirit. The format – 7 rounds of rapid chess with 2×15 minutes plus 10 seconds per move – ensured a dynamic and engaging contest, a fitting mirror to the energetic style Hort himself often displayed.

While the atmosphere was undeniably reverent, the competitive fire inherent to chess was far from extinguished. The pursuit of victory remained as sharp as ever, proving that even in memorial, the game demands its due. After a day of intense mental duels, FM Gustav Brejník emerged as the inaugural champion, securing 6.5 points and etching his name into this nascent tradition. He was closely followed by IM Pavel Čech with 6 points, and Pavel Postupa, who rounded out the top three with 5.5 points.

The award ceremony, featuring the triumphant FM Gustav Brejník (center) alongside other top players and Brigitte Hort. A portrait of Vlastimil Hort oversees the proceedings, perhaps with a subtle, approving nod.

Honoring Excellence Across Generations

The tournament also thoughtfully acknowledged excellence across various categories, ensuring a broad recognition of talent that would surely have pleased Hort, a man known for his approachability and engagement with players of all levels. IM Josef Přibyl claimed victory in the over-70s category, proving that age is merely a number when it comes to strategic prowess. Miroslav Muroň dominated the over-60s, while WIM Olena Žemličková showcased top-tier female talent. The future of chess was also represented, with Boris Pogorelsky taking home the prize for the under-15s category.

Adding another layer of warmth to the proceedings, Brigitte Hort herself participated in the award ceremony, personally presenting the cash prizes. A special touch was the distribution of over thirty copies of Vlastimil Hort`s book, My Chess Stories, to deserving players – a delightful way to keep his voice and wisdom alive, one story at a time. One can almost imagine Hort chuckling from above, pleased that his tales continue to inspire (and perhaps distract) his fellow players.

Vlastimil Hort: A Legacy Beyond the Board

To understand the depth of this tribute, one must recall the sheer magnitude of Vlastimil Hort’s contributions to chess. Born in Czechoslovakia, he rose to become a global force, peaking at an astounding world ranking of 6 in 1977. His career was a tapestry woven with countless victories and significant moments:

• A formidable six-time Czechoslovakian Champion between 1969 and 1977, a period of dominance almost unmatched.
• Later, a three-time German Champion, reflecting his later career and continued excellence in another strong chess nation.
• A memorable victory over Lev Polugayevsky in the iconic 1970 “Rest of the World” vs. USSR match, showcasing his ability to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Soviet chess machine.
• Consistent performances in numerous Chess Olympiads, earning a team silver with Czechoslovakia in 1982 and individual accolades – a true team player and individual star.
• A captivating storyteller, whose personal anecdotes and insights enriched the chess world far beyond the moves on the board. He proved that a Grandmaster could be both profound and utterly human.

His impressive Elo rating of 2620 in 1978 was a testament to his consistent elite-level play over decades. Hort was not just a Grandmaster; he was an ambassador of the game, a mentor, and a beloved personality whose influence resonated deeply within the chess community.

A New Tradition for Prague`s Chess Scene

The resounding success of the inaugural Vlastimil Hort Memorial leaves no doubt: his memory is not just preserved; it`s celebrated with passion and purpose. Jaroslav Svoboda, owner of Czech Inn Hotels, articulated the collective aspiration succinctly: “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.”

This commitment transforms a single event into a lasting legacy, ensuring that future generations of chess enthusiasts will continue to gather, compete, and remember the Grandmaster who, with every brilliant move and engaging tale, enriched the world of chess. Prague, a city steeped in history, now adds another vibrant chapter to its rich cultural tapestry, thanks to the enduring spirit of Vlastimil Hort. It seems some chess masters, even after their final move, continue to play on through the traditions they inspire.

Final Standings (Top 10)