Full room at Arkose bar – chess boards lined up while the instructor briefs the climb-and-play crowd.

Arkose Chevaleret

On June 5, 2025, ChessMates International partnered with Arkose Chevaleret to organize an original event combining bouldering and rapid chess. This new hybrid format brought together 34 participants eager to test both their agility and their strategic skills.

A balanced 50/50 format

Each participant could earn :

up to 15 points in bouldering,
up to 5 points in chess, based on 5 rapid games worth 1 point per win, with the total then multiplied by 3.

The final score, out of 30 points, gave equal weight to physical performance and tactical ability.

Winners standing on bouldering volumes with trophies after the Arkose × ChessMates event.

Final standings

1. Lucas Chartier – 23 pts
2. Wilfried Raffi – 22 pts
3. François Saulnier – 20 pts

(third place was decided by drawing lots among six tied participants)

4. Dmitry Akulov – 20 pts

5. Rémi Boutonnier – 20 pts

6. Valentin Descamps – 20 pts

7. Pierre Lebrethon – 20 pts

8. Marius Méchain – 20 pts

9. Noah Bayard – 18,5 pts

10. Nils Falcoz – 18,5 pts

A sporty and friendly atmosphere

The event took place in a dynamic and relaxed setting. After the bouldering rounds, the chess tables were set up in the center of Arkose’s bar area. Participants moved between physical effort and mental focus throughout the event. The originality of the concept and the quality of the venue were especially appreciated.

Acknowledgements

Many thanks to Arkose Chevaleret for providing the venue and for their logistical support.