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Chess at the Iowa State Fair | Des Moines News
For over forty years, the Iowa State Fair has hosted a beloved speed chess tournament that’s become more than just a game—it’s a vibrant community gathering. Started in 1980 by Ben Munson, who adapted the format to faster-paced play at fans’ request, it now draws players from across the country, including families from as far as San Francisco. Regulars like Joel Reyes and Jim Freerksen cherish the camaraderie and shared love of chess, which for Freerksen even saved him during a tough childhood. Chess, they say, speaks a universal language—connecting people across cultures and backgrounds…
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