Your Move: Play a Chess Grandmaster

Match wits with Egyptian chess grandmaster Samy Shoker.


Whether you're a chess expert or a newbie just beginning to delve into the tactics of the game, this is your chance to step up to the board and experience a face-off with one of the world's top players in a simultaneous exhibition.

Before the board is set and Shoker competes against Club players, he will be available to answer questions, sign autographs and pose for photos with Members.

Shoker—who earned his international master title in 2006 and became a grandmaster in 2014, when he was only 25—continues to feature in chess tournaments across the globe.

Attributing his own personal growth to the game of kings, Shoker has often said chess "saved [his] life" by allowing him to forge connections with people from various cultures and backgrounds.

Spots are limited, so sign up today to put your skills to the test.

How Do You Become a Chess Grandmaster?

  • Be a member of the World Chess Federation (FIDE).
  • Accumulate a minimum of 2,500 Elo points by regularly participating in and winning FIDE-sanctioned tournaments.
  • Earn three grandmaster “norms” by showing exceptional performance in international tournaments.

Other events you may also like...

Jul 16

Summer Happy Hour

Muromachi Bar & Lounge | Price: see details

Aug 25

51 East Brunch

51 East | Price: see details

Sep 12

Squash Night

Squash Courts | Free

Oct 28

Coffee Connections

Toko Shinoda and Yukiko Maki classrooms | Price: see details