♟ Challenge The Chess Grandmaster at Ground Zero
♟ Challenge a Grandmaster at Ground Zero
Celebrate International Chess Day with a unique experience that only happens once a year.
Ground Zero Venture Café invites players of all ages to take on Grandmaster (GM) Tigran Harutyunyan in a simultaneous chess exhibition.
Last year's event in 2025 brought together 13 players ranging from 7 to 70 years old, creating unforgettable moments of learning, challenge, and inspiration.
The last year's prize winner, Nikolay Petrosov, publicly shared his experience and excitement:
"Chess has always been part of my life, although it had been many years. Thanks to Karen Gyulbudaghyan and Ground Zero Venture Café, I had the opportunity to return to the board and play against Grandmaster Tigran Harutyunyan. After the event, Tigran presented me with the Best Player award and even stayed to play several blitz games with me. It was an unforgettable experience, like turning the clock back 30 years."
Whether you're an experienced player, a young chess enthusiast, or simply curious, this is your opportunity to witness world-class chess up close, meet fellow enthusiasts, and become part of one of Ground Zero's most inspiring community traditions.
♟ Only 12 playing boards are available. Registration is required for players.
Families, children, students, and anyone with an interest are warmly welcome.
Date: Sunday, July 19, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue: Ground Zero Venture Café, 1 Saryan St., Yerevan
Presented by Strategic Value Ventures, Ground Zero Venture Café, and the Chess Academy of Armenia, with the personal leadership and dedication of Arpine Lputyan and Karen Gyulbudaghyan.
One move can change a game. One experience can inspire a lifetime.