Club History
From humble beginnings in 1978 to becoming an active chess club with members of all ages, Eiker Sjakklubb has continually developed while maintaining its friendly and inclusive spirit.
Founded in Hokksund, the club has been a meeting place for chess enthusiasts in the Eiker region for generations. Over the decades, the club has organised local and regional tournaments, trained young players, and represented the region in team competitions such as Østlandsserien.
Every generation has helped shape the club into the welcoming community it is today, and we remain committed to inspiring future generations of chess players.
As we look towards our 50th Anniversary in 2028, we continue to build a modern, welcoming chess club that inspires new generations of players while honouring our proud history.
History
Club History
Discover some of the memorable moments and people who helped shape Eiker Sjakklubb through the decades.
The Early Days of Eiker Sjakklubb
The Early Days of Eiker Sjakklubb
Early Years of the Club
This photograph captures one of the defining moments from the early years of Eiker Sjakklubb. Standing behind the young players is Roar Jelstad, whose dedication to youth chess helped shape an entire generation of players.
From left to right are Anders Aas, Knut Morten Hølen, Trond Henriksen, Øystein Hole, and Sverre Skogen.
Roar Jelstad devoted countless hours to coaching and supporting the club's junior players. Under his guidance, Eiker Sjakklubb produced several Norwegian youth champions and established itself as one of Norway's strongest youth chess clubs. His passion and commitment laid much of the foundation for the club's proud traditions.
Photo and information courtesy of Øystein Brekke.
1980 – Norwegian Primary School Championship
1980 – Norwegian Primary School Championship
Eiker Sjakklubb represented the club proudly at the Norwegian Primary School Championship in Bergen in 1980.
The team consisted of:
Board 1 – Frode Skjemstad
Board 2 – Carl-Axel Sandberg
Board 3 – Kjetil Eide
Board 4 – Øystein Brekke
Watching closely as team leader was Roar Jelstad, whose dedication to the young players was invaluable.
The exact final result has been lost to time, but the memories remain strong. The team travelled to Bergen by train, spending an entire weekend away from home without their parents—an unforgettable adventure for the young players.
1982 – County Championship for 10-Year-Olds
1982 – County Championship for 10-Year-Olds
A memorable achievement from 1982, when Eiker Sjakklubb's young talents competed in the County Championship for 10-year-olds.
Øystein Brekke became County Champion, while Knut Morten Hølen secured the silver medal after the two agreed to a draw after just seven moves in the final round. Ingar completed the podium by winning the bronze medal.
The result highlighted the strength of Eiker's youth programme during the early 1980s.
Honouring Roy Drange Hansen
Honouring Roy Drange Hansen
This photograph celebrates Roy Drange Hansen, long-time Chairman of Eiker Sjakklubb, on the occasion of his 70th birthday.
The photograph was taken by Øystein Brekke, who also delivered a heartfelt speech reflecting on their shared experiences from the 1970s, when they competed together at Norwegian Chess Championships.
Everyone at Eiker Sjakklubb is deeply grateful for Roy's many years of dedication, leadership, and tireless work for the club. His contribution has been invaluable, and his efforts continue to inspire both current and future generations of chess players.