Queens Gambit Launches “Duo Cup” Youth Chess Tournament Series in Pittsburgh
A new partnership with The Urban Academy of Greater Pittsburgh Charter School and Duolingo expands access to chess and builds the next generation of leaders
PITTSBURGH, PA - May 3, 2026 - Queens Gambit Chess Institute, in partnership with The Urban Academy of Greater Pittsburgh Charter School and Duolingo, has officially launched the Duo Cup, a new youth chess tournament series designed to make chess more accessible, engaging, and community-centered for students across Pittsburgh.
The series begins with its first event, The Community Chess Classic, a beginner-friendly tournament bringing together young players from across the region. More than just a competition, the event is designed to build confidence, strengthen critical thinking, and introduce students to leadership through the game of chess.
The Duo Cup reflects a shared commitment between three Pittsburgh-rooted organizations to expand access to chess and create more opportunities for young people to engage with the game in a meaningful way.
“Chess teaches you how to think before you move, how to stay calm under pressure, and how to see what others might miss,” said Ashley Lynn Priore, Founder and CEO of Queens Gambit. “Through the Duo Cup, we’re creating a space where students can build those skills together, regardless of where they’re starting.”
Event Details: The Community Chess Classic
Date: May 2, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: The Urban Academy of Greater Pittsburgh Charter School
Who Can Participate: Students in grades 2–8, all experience levels welcome
Format: 4-round, non-elimination tournament
Structure: Beginner-friendly with instructor and tournament staff support throughout the day
The tournament is intentionally designed to be welcoming to new players while still offering the structure and excitement of competitive play. Students will compete in four rounds of chess, with a focus on sportsmanship, growth, and learning.
No prior tournament experience is required. The Duo Cup prioritizes creating a positive first tournament experience where students can learn, build confidence, and enjoy the game.
Building Toward Something Bigger
The Duo Cup is not a one-time event. It serves as the foundation for a larger series of tournaments and activations that will take place throughout the year across Pittsburgh.
These events will lead into Chess Week in Pittsburgh, a citywide celebration planned for October that will include public tournaments, pop-up chess experiences across neighborhoods, and a 64 Hours of Giving campaign to support expanded access to programming.
Together, these efforts position Pittsburgh as a national leader in using chess as a tool for youth development, leadership, and community engagement.
“This is how movements start,” Priore added. “You create access. You create energy. And then you build something people want to be part of.”
Learn More
The Duo Cup is open to students of all experience levels, with a focus on accessibility, inclusion, and growth through play.
Learn more and register: www.qgchess.org/duocup
Media inquiries: info@qgchess.org
