About Us
Rochester Chess. Since 1989.
Now Chess Gorilla.
Chess Gorilla didn't start with a logo or a brand strategy. It started with a love of chess, a community, and over half a century of history in Rochester, New York.
The Foundation: Ron Lohrman & Rochester Chess Center
In 1967, Ronald Lohrman won the US Amateur Chess Championship — and appeared on the cover of Chess Life. That achievement wasn't just a personal milestone. It was the beginning of a chess institution.
Ron went on to found the Rochester Chess Center in 1989, which he ran for over 30 years as a cornerstone of the local chess community. Under his leadership, Rochester became a genuine chess city — home to serious players, dedicated students, and a culture of competitive excellence.
The annual Marchand Tournament, held at the Rochester Chess Center, drew some of the strongest players in the country. Titled players Bryan Smith, Alexander Fishbein, Giorgi Kacheishvili, Sergei Kudrin, Gata Kamsky and Alex Lenderman have all played in it at different times in its history. It was the kind of event that put Rochester on the chess map — and kept it there.
Community, Education & the Next Generation
Ron believed chess belonged in schools and communities, not just tournament halls. The Rochester Chess Center ran after-school programs, school holiday camps, and full-day summer chess camps for kids — building the next generation of players one move at a time. GM Alex Dunne ran the advanced camp one year, bringing elite-level instruction directly to Rochester's young players.
The Community Chess Club of Rochester met every Wednesday — open to all, welcoming to everyone. Saturday tournaments for kids and adults kept the competitive spirit alive week after week.
Chess Gorilla: The Next Chapter
When Ron passed, his son Shelby Lohrman carried the torch forward. Rather than simply continuing the Rochester Chess Center — which had operated as a sole proprietorship — Shelby formed Chess Gorilla, LLC, building on the foundation his father had laid while taking it in a new direction.
Shelby brought deep industry experience to the role. He had worked with American Chess Equipment and later with Wood Expressions out in California, developing a strong background in chess equipment, wholesale supply, and product development.
What We Do
Chess Gorilla is both a retailer and a wholesaler of premium chess equipment and books. We've designed and sourced several original products, including:
- The Quiver Bag — a purpose-built chess carry solution
- Chess bags and tournament accessories
- A folding magnetic chess set
- The Silverback Chess Clock
We have print capabilities and work with clubs, schools, and tournament organizers to supply what they need at scale.
We're the official bookseller at several major tournaments, including the Las Vegas International Chess Festival, held annually — bringing the best chess equipment directly to players where they compete.
And back in Rochester, the mission continues: chess camps, community events, and Saturday tournaments keep the game alive for the next generation, just as Ron intended.
The Gorilla in the Room
Why Chess Gorilla? Because chess is a game of power, intelligence, and strategy — and so is building something that lasts. We're bold about what we sell, serious about the game, and proud of where we come from.
Whether you're a tournament player, a coach, a school program, or someone just falling in love with chess — we're here for all of it.
Rochester chess. Since 1967. Now Chess Gorilla.