Welcome to the "REAL" Red River Shootout (RRSO).  As all serious chess players know, this is the annual team match between the most fanatical chess players in Oklahoma and Texas.

      Since the first match (April 27, 2003), 790 tough chess games have been contested by a total of 351 players in 22 matches and other RRSO events. The stakes are high for both teams and Texas is poised to return to glory in RRSO XXII. Oklahoma has the title as well as possession of the Frank Kim Berry RRSO Trophy. Texas has custody of the "original" Famous Traveling Trophy. Finally, Oklahoma's perennial homefield advantage has enabled it to take a 12 to 10 series lead. In case of ties, the defending champion retains the trophy and bragging rights for another year. There have been three ties in the series enabling Oklahoma to keep bragging for another year.

      Note: RRSO XVIII was canceled through no fault of the players. ALL RECIEVE CREDIT for one RRSO in 2020 if they were scheduled for RRSO XVIII and/or they played in RRSO XVIIISS. "SS" stands for one-half in Roman Numerals.

      Our organizers and alumini have their sights set on RRSO XXV (Spring 2027). That's when this epic event is scheduled to achieve US Chess Heritage status for being played 25 straight years. Keeping the streak alive has presented unique challenges, especially during the Pandemic. Jim Berry and Tom Crane resisted a great deal of pressure to cancel the event until the last possible moment. Unfortunately, on March 17, 2020, RRSO XVIII had to be canceled. It was a painful decision, but there were absolutely no facilities available. Heritage requirement rules are firm at US Chess, however their officials suggested an alternative. Chief Jim Hollingsworth took their advice and reached out to Patricia Smith at Internet Chess Club (ICC). Thanks to her and ICC Manager Bill Scott, an online tournament, RRSO XVIIISS was conducted on the same date as RRSO XVIII was orginally scheduled.

      Today the streak continues thanks to Tom Crane, Rebecca Rutledge, Jim Berry, Phill Stegall, Nicole Niemi, Chris Wood, Bruce Wells, and all the RRSO players.

     RRSO XXII recruiting season begins on 15 January 2024. We don't advertise in Chess Life because of seating limitations. However, we do advertise on the Oklahoma Chess Association website, on the Tarrant County Chess Club website, on this website, and by word-of-mouth. The best way to get on a match section roster is to contact your Team Captain in early January and say: "Hey Captain! I am in!"

     Good luck Everyone!