ASHWAUBENON (WLUK) -- It was time again for daring gambits and clever maneuvers down to the bitter checkmate.

The 46th Annual Green Bay Open chess championship tournament kicked off Saturday at the Radisson Hotel.

It's run every year since 1977, except for 2020 in the thick of the pandemic.

This year drew just over 100 attendants, according Green Bay Chess Association President Luke Kudwig and organizer of this weekend's event.

Ludwig says it's always a special time for those who play.

“Oh the kids love it,” said Luke Ludwig, President of Green Bay Chess Association. “The kids love playing in -- love competing in -- finding other people that enjoy the hobby.”

The top prize is $500 with total cash prizes at over $2,600.

There are also trophies for the top winners and junior players by age group.

The tournament concludes on Sunday.