Novice chess players can advance their skills and learn game strategies in a class that meets at 6:15 p.m. Mondays at the Simi Valley YMCA, 3200 Cochran St.

Instruction is provided by John Williams, YMCA chess club director.

Advanced chess players are encouraged to attend club meetings to compete with other players in friendly games.

The club will hold a five-round tournament open to all members of the U.S. Chess Federation on Feb. 2. The entry fee is $10.

An unrated tournament will run for non-federation members for a $5 entry fee.

Winners of both tournaments will receive prizes.

For more information, call Williams at (805) 529-1816 or e-mail leventhfish@hotmail.com.