Side Events Conference Master Classes
Side event · WSTC 2026 American Continental Stage
August 13, 2026 DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari

Smart Moves «Girls who lead»

A special celebration of girls in chess: a dedicated blitz tournament and a masterclass with WIM María Elena Rodríguez of the Costa Rican Women's National Team — created for girls who love the game and want to lead.

Open to spectators and guests ← All activities
13.08 Girls aged 16 and under DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari
About the event

Talent, confidence and community

Smart Moves: Girls Who Lead brings together two inspiring activities designed to celebrate girls in chess: a dedicated blitz tournament and a special masterclass. It is organized by the International School Chess Federation and the Confederation of Chess for Americas within the framework of the FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship American Continental Stage 2026.

Participants begin the day with the blitz tournament — competing, challenging themselves and connecting with young players from across the region. The tournament is followed by a masterclass with WIM María Elena Rodríguez, member of the Costa Rican Women's National Team, who will share her chess journey and lessons about confidence, perseverance and achieving goals on and off the board.

More than a competition, it is an opportunity to inspire the next generation of female chess players, create meaningful connections, and build a space where girls grow, learn and feel empowered through chess.

WIM María Elena Rodríguez smiling behind a chessboard at an international tournament
Masterclass leader

WIM María Elena Rodríguez

Woman International Master · Costa Rican Women's National Team

Her masterclass shares a real journey in chess — confidence, perseverance and goals on and off the board.

Format

7-round Swiss blitz tournament

Time control

3' + 2"

Eligibility

Girls aged 16 and under · 25–30 places

Masterclass

WIM María Elena Rodríguez · Costa Rican Women's National Team

August 13 · DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari

FIDE — International Chess Federation ISCF — International School Chess Federation Freedom Holding Corp. Chess in Education 2026 CCA — Confederation of Chess for Americas FCA — Federación Costarricense de Ajedrez ICODER — Instituto Costarricense del Deporte y la Recreación