Chess, summer and swimming pool in Vallfogona de Balaguer
Chess, great atmosphere and a refreshing swim — a perfect summer combination.
Vallfogona de Balaguer once again hosted the Swimming Pool Rapid Chess Tournament, a special event in the Lleida chess calendar that combines fast-paced chess with a relaxed and summer-friendly environment.
The tournament was played over nine rounds and brought together 68 players from different clubs. Between clocks, tactics, sacrifices and sharp endgames, players enjoyed a competitive yet friendly day of chess.
Manuel Nicolás Domingo representing Balàfia
Club d’Escacs Balàfia was represented by Manuel Nicolás Domingo Díez de la Lastra, who delivered a solid performance across the nine rounds.
He scored 4.5 points out of 9 and finished in 31st place out of 68 players, placing in the upper half of the standings.
In such a fast time-control format, where every second matters, Manuel showed focus, resilience and good time management.
We congratulate him for his performance and for representing the club in this special event.
Well done, Manuel!
Laia Bosch wins the tournament
The tournament was won by Laia Bosch Carrera (Club Escacs Mollerussa) with an outstanding 8/9 score.
Quim Pérez Castells took second place, also with 8 points, while Roger Cortiella Vallès completed the podium with 7 points.
Congratulations to all winners and participants!
More than just a chess tournament
The Swimming Pool Rapid Tournament shows that chess can go beyond traditional venues and become part of summer leisure activities.
After an intense game, few things are better than analysing positions with friends and taking a refreshing swim in Vallfogona de Balaguer.
These initiatives help bring chess closer to new audiences and strengthen the chess community.
Thanks for making it possible
The Club d’Escacs Balàfia would like to thank Club Escacs Vallfogona, the organizers and all collaborators for making this event possible.
Such initiatives help promote chess in the Lleida region and keep the calendar full of creative and engaging events.
📌 More information:
https://escacsbalafia.com/2026/07/escacs-piscina-vallfogona-lleida-balafia-2026/