11 players were admitted to the 44^th Ballarat Chess Club championship for a 11 round all-play-all event. An exciting tournament is in store. Defending champion Patrick Cook is the top seed.

Among the entries are 3 former club champions : Kevin Perrin and Patrick Cook with 7 titles apiece, and Peter Miitel with 2 titles. Peter is the son of 1966 champion and long time former President Andy Miitel.

Kevin Perrin is making his 44^th consecutive appearance in the event, while Patrick Cook is making his 25^th appearance in total. Veteran Boris Skontra, 73 years old, last played in the championship way back in 1966!, the first of the modern era.

A separate double round robin Reserves tournament of four juniors will be held concurrently with the Championship tournament.