Chess Life - May 2009

uschess.org May 2009

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Chess Life Editorial Staff Chess Life Editor & Director of Publications

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Chess Life — May 2009

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Contributors Al Lawrence (“USCF History,” p. 10) served as both USCF and World Chess Hall of Fame executive director. His latest book, with Lev Alburt, is Chess Training Pocket Book II. Howard Goldowsky (“Looks at Books,” p. 16) is the author of Engaging Pieces: Interviews and Prose for the Chess Fan.

GM Ian Rogers (“Who Dares Wins,” p. 18) is a frequent contributor to Chess Life and other international chess publications.

Jonathan Hilton (“USAT East,” p. 28) is a home schooled student and a frequent contributor to Chess Life Online. He has written extensively about the late GM Aleksander Wojtkiewicz and is currently co authoring Wojo’s Weapons, a white reper

toire book, with IM Dean Ippolito for Mongoose Press. He will be studying business and Latin American studies at University of Cincinnati this fall. IM Greg Shahade (“U.S. Championship Preview,” p. 38) founded the U.S. Chess League and is a former USCF EB member.

FM Alex Dunne (“Where Do Chessplayers Go When They Die,” p. 40) is a chess journalist and the correspondence chess director for the USCF. His monthly column, “The Check is in the Mail,” appears on uschess.org. Dr. Alexey Root, WIM (“Chess Educator of the Year,” p. 42) is the author of Read, Write, Checkmate: Enrich Literacy with Chess Activities, 2009, published by Libraries Unlimited, www.lu.com.

May on uschess.org LIVE! From St. Louis: The U.S. Championship

KAMSKY, NAKAMURA BY CATHY ROGERS; ONISCHUK BY BETSY DYNAKO; SHULMAN BY LEWIS TOBY

GATA KAMSKY

HIKARU NAKAMURA

ALEXANDER ONISCHUK

YURY SHULMAN

JENNIFER SHAHADE

The strongest U.S. championship in years is set for May 7-17 at the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis. 24 players including Gata Kamsky, Hikaru Nakamura, Alexander Onischuk and defending champion Yury Shulman will battle for a prize fund of over $135,000. Look for blogs, videos and the twitter feed from Saint Louis on uschesschamps.com and uschess.org. CLO editor Jennifer Shahade, a commentator for the 2009 Championship will also weigh in from the scene.

Fantasy Chess is Back!

Guess the winner in head to head match ups like Kamsky vs. Nakamura. Grand prize: a Personal Chess Manager from MonRoi.com. Also up for grabs: Garry Kasparov’s latest book signed by him to “a good guesser” and a chess board signed by the participants.

The Chicago Open

Keep your chess news fix alive after the U.S. Championship with a Midwest fixture: The Chicago Open, held from May 22 25 and featuring a $100,000 prize fund.

uschess.org

Amateur Fun

Memorial Day weekend is also a chance for amateurs to shine. Find out who’s on top in the Amateur West Championships in Tucson, Arizona and the Amateur East in Somerset, New Jersey, both May 23 25. Chess Life — May 2009

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May Chess Life Columns 12 CHESS TO ENJOY Cool Mate Luke By GM Andy Soltis

14 SOLITAIRE CHESS Capasizing Capablanca By Bruce Pandolfini

16 LOOKS AT BOOKS Metaphilosophy or The Philosophy of Mate By Howard Goldowsky

17 WHAT’S THE BEST MOVE? 38th Chess Olympiad By GM Larry Evans

52 BACK TO BASICS Shock And Awe Out Of The Blue Sky By GM Lev Alburt

54 ENDGAME LAB The Berlin Defense and the Endgame, Part II By GM Pal Benko

Departments

18 | COVER STORY

Who Dares Wins? By GM Ian Rogers

GM Gata Kamsky falls just shy of being the first American to compete for the world championship since 1972.

28 | USAT EVENTS 3

PREVIEW

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COUNTERPLAY

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FIRST MOVES

10 USCF HISTORY 11 USCF AFFAIRS 58 TOURNAMENT LIFE 78 CLASSIFIEDS 79 SOLUTIONS

Teeming Chess: The 2009 U.S. Amateur Team Events By Jonathan Hilton, Harvey Lerman, FM Alex Betaneli, & John Hillery

Reports from across the country about the USCF’s premier amateur events.

38 | U.S. CHAMPIONSHIP

Chess Life’s U.S. Championship Preview By IM Greg Shahade

Handicapping a field that included world championship candidate Gata Kamsky, defending champion Yury Shulman, and former champions Hikaru Nakamura, Alexander Onischuk, and Alexander Shabalov.

40 | PROFILE

Where Do Chessplayers Go When They Die? By FM Alex Dunne

White to play 1. Na3 and win.

On The Cover

Kamsky lost to Topalov, but for a brief moment American chess fans were able to entertain the thought of one of our players competing for the classical world championship for the first time in decades. Cover art: Shirley Szymanek, dog4design.co.uk Art direction: Frankie Butler

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Chess Life — May 2009

42 | CHESS EDUCATION

From Rodman to Research: Chess Educator 2009 By Dr. Alexey Root, WIM

45 | CJA/CRAMER AWARDS

2009 Chess Journalists of America Awards Announcement By Jonathan Hilton

46 | 2009 ELECTION Includes Call For ADMs.

USCF Executive Board Candidate Statements uschess.org

1 1 0 TH A N N U A L U N I T E D S TAT E S O P E N AUGUST 1 – 9, 2009

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA INDIANAPOLIS MARRIOTT EAST 7202 East 21st St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46219 317-352-1231

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PRIZE FUND $40,000 Guaranteed: A one section tournament with Class prizes.

MANY SIDE EVENTS including U.S. Blitz Championship on August 8 and the USCF delegates meeting. See page 65 of this issue for a detailed listing.

WORKSHOPS USCF awards luncheon on August 8 at noon. See Tournament Life Nationals on page 59 for complete information.

Counterplay The abuse of time delay when using digital clocks? All clocks should advance at least one second per move! “Time stands still for no man” is irrel evant when this feature is in use! Many years ago, we played chess with mechan ical clocks. Each player was allotted the same amount of time. If your time ran out, you lost the game period. Now, a player can run his clock down to seconds left, but if he makes his move quickly enough his clock doesn’t advance at all. The first player who has properly paced himself and used his time wisely is confronted with a circumstance whereby both play ers end up thinking on his time. If the second player who is in time trouble con tinues to move rapidly his clock will not advance at all! In effect, time stands still! Therefore, in order to try to win, it is quite common for the first player to pick up his pace of play in order to hope to cause the second player to pause for a moment and think! Why this rule was put into play I will never know. It simply makes no sense that the player who has conducted his game properly should be penalized and his opponent rewarded by having three to five seconds to reflect before his clock begins to advance again. Simply put, cor rect play gets tossed out the window and a wild scramble ensues? Why is this good for chess? Therefore, I believe it would only be fair to require that at least one second come off of the clock for each move exe cuted! The “delay crowd” wants five seconds, the rest of us want one back. Think about it. It’s only fair. Furthermore, the clock was introduced in order to prevent play ers from sitting and not moving. It simply doesn’t make sense that a

player in severe time trouble can execute numerous moves without his clock advancing at all. Hence, a motion will be made at the next USCF delegates’ meeting to change the rule accordingly: “The advance of at least one second per move will occur for all clocks using time delay.” Don’t worry, the clock manufacturers will gladly sell you a new clock with that feature (if they don’t already have it built in now). Leland Fuerstman Charlotte, North Carolina

Chess Life asked Tim Just, the editor of the fifth edition of the Official Rules of Chess and a member of the rules commit tee, to respond:

With the advent of faster time controls came the dawning of time delay. Time delay put the outcome of the game back into the hands of the players instead of at the mercy of the clock. Currently the amount of time each player is given to conduct their game is the same, including that three five seconds of delay per move. Each player has the same opportunity to use their time as they see fit, including how they choose to use that three five second delay per move. Before time delay there were time scrambles. Since time delay, there are still time scrambles. Tournaments that don’t use delay at all are still ratable by USCF. So, if someone is not a TD or an organizer they can sim ply sponsor such events. Manufacturing new clocks is not much of a concern; how ever, selling them may prove to be an entirely different issue. Given all the hid den features that some of the current clocks possess it might be that the one sec ond procedure described here might already be available. Forcing all clocks to advance at least one

second is a major change to the rules and presenting it to the delegates is the right road to take. Typically major rules changes presented to the delegates end up being referred to the rules committee so that the committee can study all the issues involved and report back to the delegates next year at their annual meeting. Delegates, sea soned tournament directors, organizers, and players all regularly make use of the USCF forums. Perhaps posting this pro posed motion on the forums for comments and debate might prove to be a helpful practice run before it travels to the meet ing in Indianapolis. ~Tim Just Chess Life welcomes letters from its readers. Letters are subject to editing for content and length. Send your let ters to [email protected], and include your full name and a tele phone number.

USCF ISSUES FORUM A forum for discussion of USCF issues, open to all members age 16 or over. Candidates for the executive board (ballot in June issue) are among the participants. Registe er at www.usschess.org/forums

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Chess Life — May 2009

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First Moves

Frank Skoff, 1916-2009

USCF president when Fischer became world champion

FRANK JOSEPH SKOFF, who was USCF president when Bobby Fischer became world champion, died March 3. He was 92. Frank was born in Joliet, Illinois, on October 14, 1916. He attended De La Salle, which was taken over by Carmelites and renamed Joliet Catholic High School his senior year. He graduated in 1934 and went to college, eventually obtaining an M.A. in English with a thesis on George Bernard Shaw. Frank taught high school English for a time in Joliet and then moved to Chicago where he continued teaching at Lakeview High School on the north side. Discouraged by the increas ingly disciplinary nature of his job, he took early retirement. Frank was a lifelong expert, but he achieved renown for his chess organizing abilities. He founded Gompers Park Chess Club, the second strongest club in Chicago. He was one of a group of people, including Jim and Helen Warren, Eva 8

Chess Life — May 2009

Aronson, and Jim Brotsos who restab lished the Illinois Chess Association (ICA), serving as president of the ICA after Brot sos. Frank was the chief organizer of the 1963 U.S. Open in Chicago, which drew a record turnout (for the time) of 263 players. Profits from that event were used to establish the Chicago Chess Founda tion (CCF), which he served as president. Both the ICA and the CCF sponsored major tournaments in Chicago over Labor Day (the Illinois Open) and in the Spring (the Greater Chicago Open). Frank also edited the Illinois Chess Bulletin for many years and wrote a regular column, “Frankly Skoffing,” which had as its sig nature cartoon by Ed Peterman Frank’s trademark cigar (he loved his cigars) smol dering in an ashtray and a bishop (“skoff” apparently meaning bishop in the lan guage of Frank’s ancestors). Frank was captain of the U.S. Stu dent Team for four consecutive years, 1967 1970. GM Andy Soltis recalls: “His main task was to keep the players out of trouble, like in 1967 when Larry Gilden lost his passport and freaked out. He had to deal with a menagerie of clashing per sonalities that year Gilden, Bernie Zuckerman, Bill Martz, Larry Kaufman, Dick Verber and me. After the first few days hardly any members of our team were talking to one another. Somehow Frank got us to analyze together. ... The high point was 1970 ... [in] Haifa, Israel. The board order was Ken Rogoff, me, Mike Senkiewicz, Verber, Marc Yoffie and Jim Tarjan. ... [It was] only the second time the U.S. won the gold medal in the Student Olympiad. ... It always seemed to me that Frank was underestimated.” Frank was one of the three principal members of the U.S. delegation that accompanied Fischer to Iceland in the summer of 1972 (GM Bill Lombardy and former USCF President Fred Cramer were the other two). Frank was a fairly introverted, scholarly individual, and Fred, much more assertive, became the unofficial spokesperson at the frequent news conferences. Frank succeeded Leroy Dubeck as USCF president in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, in August of 1972. The Dubeck board and Executive Director Ed Edmondson had worked mightily to get Fischer into the candi dates’ tournament and through the legendary matches against Taimanov,

Larsen, and Petrosian. Frank was president when Fischer defeated Spassky, and he presided over the Fischer boom and the expensive attempts to win the match conditions required by Fischer to play GM Anatoly Karpov. The efforts failed, Karpov won by default, and the Fischer bust followed after Frank’s term ended in 1975. The two most contentious issues during Frank’s term were the attempt to ban proxies at the delegates’ meeting and the attempt to ban smoking in USCF tourna ments. Leroy Dubeck recalls that when the smoking motion came up, Frank, chairing the meeting, took out one of his beloved stogies, slowly and methodically lit it, and puffed on it a few times before saying “Over my dead body.” Both bans passed in 1975 in Lincoln. Frank and I became friends in 1966. I had just gotten my driver’s license and could drive up to Gompers Park on Fri days. Afterwards, he, Pete Wolf, a CCF officer, I, and whoever wished to join us would repair to a local deli for sandwiches, coffee, and long conversations about lit erature, education, world affairs, politics, you name it. Frank was a brilliant conver sationalist with an encyclopedic knowledge of the life and works of Shaw. He also was an avid chess book collector and a knowledgeable chess historian. I traveled to Chicago several times a year during the period 1998 2004 and would occasion ally take him to lunch. His conversational abilities were as polished as ever. I once asked him to what he attributed his longevity. “Clean living,” he replied with his ready and infectious laugh. Ray Kuzanek was Frank’s closest chess friend during the last years of his life, and he delivered the eulogy at Frank’s March 6 service. Ray recalled: “Late in life, Frank still had the capacity to appreciate listening to details of the presentations of Russian chess historians Isaak Linder and Yuri Averbakh at the 2007 Confer ence of Chess Historians in Kornik, Poland. [He] enjoyed photos of Paul Mor phy’s home in New Orleans, and was eager to learn about computers. In 2008, after intently viewing the movie The Last Samurai, Frank posed the question: ‘What would you say was the theme of that story?’ Always the English teacher!” Frank was interred at St. Joseph’s Ceme tery in Joliet.

Tim Redman served twice as USCF president. uschess.org

PHOTO: ARCHIVAL

By Dr. Tim Redman

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Chess Life — May 2009

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USCF History

The Turn-Around USCF’S 5TH DECADE: 1979-1988 By Al Lawrence

s new leadership took over in our fifth decade, a wolf seemed to be at every USCF door. Disgruntled members had resented being ignored while USCF focused, single beam, on Bobby Fischer. Finances were bleak after the burst of the Bobby bubble. Income from life membership payments had been spent, leaving USCF with the ongoing obligation of serving these thousands of mem bers. The U.S. government suddenly dunned USCF six figures for unpaid import taxes. All six senior staffers resigned. But master players don’t panic. Somehow, over the next ten years, a series of leaders, each one build ing on the achievements of his predecessor, rebuilt our organization. New president Gary Sperling, a New York City attorney, provided steady direction. He began the turnaround by developing fair, open policies and handling legal work pro bono (and he saved us from the huge import tax bill). Treasurer George Cunning ham of Maine recruited and trained staff. In 1979 the two convinced Dr. Gerry Dullea to take on the executive director position, and USCF operations remained in skill ful hands for the decade. His vision was to build the organization not on a single chess personality, but on solid services to members. Chicagoan Tim Redman, elected president in 1981, pushed staff to improve and expand book and equipment services. By 1983 this income alone topped one million dollars and steadily increased, helping to pay the bills. In 1984 Steve Doyle became the youngest ever USCF president. A financial expert and driving force, he reigned over the three most financially successful years USCF has ever enjoyed. USCF paid off the mortgage on its building with a six foot check and accumulated more than one million dollars in reserves to offset the obligation to life members. Even a partial list of organizational accomplishments during this decade impresses. USCF computerized, re established the round robin U.S. Championship, formalized invitational criteria with the advice of top players, acquired the national scholastic and collegiate championships, started School Mates magazine, re established the National Open, navigated the promising but tricky era of the first commercial chess computers, overhauled tournament director standards and exams, revised the rule book, and opened the original U.S. Chess Hall of Fame. In master chess, the decade began with Lev Alburt defecting from the USSR to the U.S. at the height of the cold war. During our fifth decade, he was the clear winner of two U.S. championships and a U.S. Open, and the winner of the very first U.S. Game 60 Championship, with Michael Wilder, in 1988. Young native born players captured more than their share of titles: Larry Christiansen took two U.S. Champi onships and three U.S. Opens; Nick deFirmian won the U.S. Championship and the U.S. Open. Joel Benjamin won the U.S. Championship, the U.S. Open, the National Open, two U.S. Masters, and a slew of junior and scholastic events. Their accom plishments later carried all four grandmasters into the U.S. Chess Hall of Fame. Rea Hayes won the first U.S. Senior in 1981. In 1982 Leonid Bass won the first U.S. Masters one of the many lasting contributions of Chicagoan Helen Warren. Alex Sherzer won the first U.S. Cadet Championship in 1986. Four editors carried on after Burt Hochberg departed in 1979, having built Chess Life into a magazine of worldwide importance: Fairfield Hoban, Frank Elley, Larry Parr, and Don Maddox. In 1987, Chicagoan Harold Winston, who had organized the first Midwest Amateur Team Championship, was elected president. Al Lawrence took over as executive direc tor in 1988, signing up new corporate sponsors. As the decade ended, USCF, with nearly 54,000 members, stood once again on a solid foundation.

A

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GM Lev Alburt on a 1986 cover of Chess Life

Turnaround Trivia • The first full-color Chess Life cover appeared on the January 1982 issue, showing Sammy Reshevsky—21 years after the magazine’s first cover, on which Sammy appeared with Fischer. Forgetting his eyeglasses, managing editor Frank Elley drove to Spring Valley, New York, to photograph Reshevsky at 70. Frank was surprised when the developed photos showed Sammy with a “Sabbath stubble.” • Steve Doyle was the youngest-ever USCF president, elected in 1984, at the age of 25. • In the 1988 American Open, GM Bent Larsen became the first grandmaster to lose to a computer, Deep Thought, in a major tournament.

Tell Al Lawrence what he left out or got wrong! In his wrap up article, he’ll acknowledge the best suggestions. E mail [email protected] 10

Chess Life — May 2009

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USCF Affairs May Volunteer of the Month: L. Gordon Brooks

PHOTO: COURTESY OF SUBJECT

The great Piatigorsky Cup tour naments in 1963 and 1966 were the strongest grandmaster events ever in the U.S. And they had last ing effects on chess in southern California, some of which could not have been anticipated. Case in point: in 1969 L. Gordon Brooks came to Los Angeles, hop ing to observe the third cup. He was disappointed to learn that the series had concluded, but found the climate congenial, and decided to stay. He began a 35 year career at the classic Los Angeles Central Library (where he interacted with thousands of patrons including Bobby Fischer, who was not researching chess say no more), and began to immerse himself in the local chess scene as player and volunteer. Gordon held several offices, including president, for the Santa Monica Bay Chess Club, whose The USCF Volunteer of the Month is named membership and influence peaked by a different member of the executive during the seventies. Its Ameri board each month. This month, Randy Hough named our honoree. can Open over Thanksgiving weekend often drew over 400 play ers and attracted such top level grandmasters as Walter Browne and Larry Evans. Working with the legendary patron and hostess Lina Grumette on the board of her Chess Set Educational Trust, Gordon helped organize the U.S. Champi onship in Pasadena in 1978, several “futurity” tournaments for players to earn FIDE ratings in the early years of its rating system, and the continuing Memo rial Day Classic tournament. Gordon has always displayed an even temper and willingness to listen to oth ers, sometimes under trying circumstances. These qualities proved useful again when southern California was recognized as a state unto itself by USCF in 1978, and the Southern California Chess Federation, whose board members included some large egos, was formed. The Educational Trust continued for a few years after Lina’s passing in 1988, helping fund training and trips to the nationals for scholastic players. Gordon then stepped up to fill the void, spearheading the creation of a new fund for these pur poses, which has the large (by southern California standards) sum of over $10,000 at its disposal. After moving from The Westside of Los Angeles to Pasadena in the mid ‘80s, Gor don became active in the Arcadia and Pasadena clubs, serving the latter in the indispensable role of tournament director for several years. Though slowed down a bit by health problems, he continues to be active, most recently finding a new site for the Pasadena club when the city imposed an intolerable rent increase. After 40 years, that flame of volunteerism still burns bright. ~Randy Hough The USCF Mission

USCF is a not-for-profit membership organization devoted to extending the role of chess in American society. USCF promotes the study and knowledge of the game of chess, for its own sake as an art and enjoyment, but also as a means for the improvement of society. It informs, educates, and fosters the development of players (professional and amateur) and potential players. It encourages the development of a network of institutions devoted to enhancing the growth of chess, from local clubs to state and regional associations, and it promotes chess in American society. To these ends, USCF offers

uschess.org

USCF Financial Update

The USCF fiscal year runs from June 1st to May 31st each year. Historically, the USCF has a poor first quarter (the sum mer months) and spends the last three quarters making up for it. It is a similar story this year; however, we experienced a couple of anomolous, non recurring, unbudgeted or under budgeted items. There are three such items that stand out this year. On the negative side, there are significant expenditures beyond the budget related to the USCF’s legal defense due to the $25 million lawsuit (now reduced to $10 million) filed by Susan Pol gar (see http://www.uschess.org/legal updates/Site/Index.html for details.) The economy has also had somewhat of an impact, seemingly hurting adult dues revenues. On the positive side, we received substantial bequests this year (see http://main.uschess.org/content/view/9 015/508/ for additional details). Despite a sagging economy, tournament atten dance and ratings fees are holding strong. As an example, the recent SuperNation als IV had 5,247 attendees, just 73 short of the 2005 world record for a chess tour nament of any kind. As of the end of March, with two months remaining in the fiscal year, the USCF is now showing a profit of a little over $160,000. I would expect this to drop some over the last two months as final expenses from the SuperNationals come in and the scholastic season winds down. In the end, I would expect the audited financials to show a modest profit; however, due to several factors including our payment to significantly reduce the mortgage on the USCF head quarters, we will be low on cash reserves going into the lean summer months. We are already budgeting for the neces sary measures and we do have sufficient credit in place to ensure uninterrupted services for our members. To view the most up to date financial reports please log in to uschess.org and go to http://main.uschess.org/component/opti on,com uscf dirlist/Itemid,413/. ~Bill Hall, USCF Executive Director

a monthly magazine, as well as targeted publications to its members and others. It supervises the organization of the U.S. Chess Championship, an open tournament held every summer, and other national events. It offers a wide range of books and services to its members and others at prices consistent with the benefits of its members. USCF serves as the governing body for chess in the United States and as a participant in international chess organizations and projects. It is structured to ensure effective democratic procedures in accord with its bylaws and laws of the state of Illinois. Chess Life — May 2009

11

Chess to Enjoy

Cool Mate Luke

No one uses simple words the way chess players do. No wonder the world can’t understand us. By GM Andy Soltis

One of the reasons for the social gap that separates chessplayers from the rest of humanity is a failure to communicate. We set ourselves apart with our own lan guage, Chess speak. Chess speak isn’t just a lot of techni cal terms, like “Zugzwang” or “fianchetto.” No, it’s the words we share with the rest of the world that are the real problem. We chessplayers just use those words in our own unique way. Take the case of “dynamic.” We say Garry Kasparov played “dynamic” chess but Anatoly Karpov didn’t. Magnus Carlsen seems to be “dynamic” but maybe Vladimir Kramnik isn’t. If you open a dictionary, it says “dynamic” is “related to energy or physi cal force in motion.” Not much help. A thesaurus might offer “energetic” or “vig orous.” But that’s not quite it. No, in Chess speak the word “dynamic” usually means something specific the emphasizing of piece play over pawn moves. Dynamic GM Viktor Korchnoi GM Jeroen Piket Sarajevo 1998

rnlqkl r p + +ppp +p+pn + +p+ + L +QP + + + N + + PP +PPPP R + KLNR

After 6. ... b5

Black saw 7. Bxf6 Qxf6? was not good

12

Chess Life — May 2009

in view of 8. Nxb5! cxb5 9. Qxc8+. But he said he allowed 7. Bxf6 because he liked the “dynamic nature” of the position after 7. ... gxf6. Translation: He wants to play ... Rg8. His kingside pawns are weak and would be weaker if they moved further. But Black is more interested in moving his pieces than his pawns. Then there’s the word “theoretical.” You might assume this means what it does in dictionaries “hypothetical” or “speculative.” But if it did mean that, we wouldn’t be talking Chess speak, would we? No, “theoretical” is a synonym for “book.” A “theoretical opening” is one you can’t play based on general principles. You have to know the book analysis. A “theoretical endgame” is one you can play simply by repeating moves you can find in an endgame book.

+

+k+ + R + + + + K + + + + P + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +r+

Black to play

If you had to think this one out, few amateurs would hit on 1. ... Re1!, Black draws. You’re supposed to know 1. ... Re1! by memorizing the book. But add a piece or a pawn to each side and it’s no longer “theoretical.” It magi cally becomes a “practical” endgame. You can play a “practical endgame” from mem

ory. You actually have to think. Chessplayers use “practical” in other ways that no other humans do. “This idea might work in a practical game,” an annotator writes. He seems to mean a real game. But later in his notes he may add, “White has no real winning chances, only practical ones.” Do annotators ever explain what they mean? Practically never. A new page of Chess speak was opened four years ago when Garry Kasparov said he was giving up “professional chess.” This sounded like he had given up earn ing money from chess. Or maybe he had stopped playing in grandmaster events. No, it means he no longer considers chess his day job, even when he plays pro opponents, as in this game. Bogo-Indian Defense (E11) GM Garry Kasparov GM Viktor Korchnoi Lichtof 2006

1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 Bb4+ 4. Bd2 a5 5. Nc3 b6 6. e3 Bb7 7. Bd3 0-0 8. 0-0 d5 9. cxd5 exd5 10. a3 Bd6 11. Ne5 c5 12. f4 Nc6 13. Nb5 cxd4 14. exd4 Ne7 15. f5! Ne4 16. Bxe4 dxe4 17. f6 Bxe5 18. dxe5 Ng6 19. fxg7 Kxg7 20. Nd6 Ba6

r+ q r + + + +pkp lp N +n+ p + P + + +p+ + P + + + P L +PP R +Q+RK

After 20. ... Ba6

uschess.org

More from Dresden More posers from the Dresden Olympiad this month. But you’ll find them a bit more challenging than the first set that appeared here last month. You are asked to find the fastest winning line of play. Usually this will mean the forced win of deci sive amount of material, such as a rook or minor piece. An extra hint this month: Watch out for pins and pawn promotions. Solutions on page 79.

Problem I

Problem II

+

+

GM Igor Khenkin GM Sergey Karjakin

+

+k+ p + +pp Ppp+ +qp +r+ + +n + Pl+ P + P R L + +QR P + + + K

uschess.org

r

k p p + pp p + + + + p RPq + + + + + L + +P PP + QPK + +l+ +

k

rl+ +  nr + q +p+L+p+ + + p +p pP+P+ P + + N +Q P R PP+ + +R+ K +

White to play

White to play

GM Jiri Stocek CM William Bermudez Adams

GM David Baramidze GM Ibrahim Khamrakulov

GM Francisco Vallejo-Pons GM Michael Prusikin

Problem IV

White to play

There are other Chess speak terms, like “dubious,” that we use in a dubious manner. But the most confusing word of Chess speak is “classical.” You hear masters say you need to study the “classical” games of Jose Capablanca or Akiba Rubinstein. They mean a style of “simple” positional play. Then they advise you to build a “clas sical” center. This means something different an “ideal” center composed of pawns at e4 and d4. That center may, or may not, be possi ble in a “classical defense” meaning a “traditional” one, like the Ruy Lopez “Clas sical Defense,” 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Bc5. But then Vladimir Kramnik confused us further. He “created a title for himself world champion in classical chess,” Kas parov said in 2005. “What does it mean: classical chess?” he demanded. After all, Kasparov, Kram nik and Anatoly Karpov used “classical chess” to mean something else a few years before. They said they preferred to play classical chess, rather than the other kind whatever that was. The explanation is that in Kramnik’s dialect of Chess speak, “classical” means deciding the world championship in a match. In the Kasparov dialect, “classical” means playing with the time control of 40

+

GM Maxime Vachier Lagrave GM Jose Dominguez

Black to play

+r+r+k+ pn+ +p+p pP+ +p+ + + + + + p + P q +NQ P P+ + P + + RR+ K

21. Bh6+! Kg8 22. Rf5 Qh4? 23. Bg5!, Black resigned.

Problem III

GM Dragan Solak IM Sam Collins

Problem V

+

+ + + +k+ +p p + P + + + p + p+P+P+ + P + + + P + + + + +K+ + +

White to play

moves in two hours. By their definitions, their mentor, Mikhail Botvinnik, became world cham pion in an un classical tournament that used an un classical time limit. How clas sical less of him? What is remarkable is how Chess speakers expect that everyone knows exactly what they mean, even when no one agrees on what a word means. That’s the case with “initiative.” We constantly talk of seizing the initia tive or maintaining it. It is “the soul of the game,” wrote Savielly Tartakower. But what exactly is an initiative? Byrne J. Horton, a college economist who wrote the first English language dic tionary of chess, used a definition that librarians might like, but not chessplay ers: An initiative is “the right or power to begin action.” A better try appeared in The Oxford Companion to Chess by David Hooper and Ken Whyld. They defined it as “the power to make threats.” But that’s much too broad. For example, after 1. e4 e5 2. Bc4 Black can play 2. ... Qg5 and make a one move threat of 3. ... Qxg2. (see diagram top of next column)

But this is hardly what we consider an initiative. White can ignore the threat with 3. Nf3 and then 3. ... Qxg2 4. Rg1 Qh3 5. Bxf7+ Kxf7? 6. Ng5+. It gets more confusing because Hooper and Whyld defined “attack” as “an active

Problem VI

l + q + +p+ + pk p+p+ + + + + rp+l + + + + PPQ P PL L + P + +K+ + +R

White to play

rnl+klnr pppp+ppp + + + + + + p q +L+P+ + + + + + PPPP PPP RNLQK NR

After 2. ... Qg5

threat” and then defined “threat” as “a move that creates the possibility of an advantageous capture or maneuver.” So in their dialect of Chess speak, 2. ... Qg5 can be called an “initiative,” an “attack” and a “threat” all wrapped up in one bad move. Actually Chess speak only sounds con fusing. It’s very simple when you use it to define things this way: An attack is a classical, dynamic advan tage that can be used in practical games and even theoretical endgames as long as it’s not a dubious initiative. Have I made myself clear?

.

USCF members can download the .pdf ver sion of this issue at uschess.org > Chess Life Magazine > Downloadable Files as well as a .pgn file of all of the games from this issue. Chess Life — May 2009

13

Solitaire Chess

Capasizing Capablanca

Although the Cuban champion Jose Capablanca seemingly owned the American champion Frank Marshall, in this month’s game, Marshall out-Capa’d Capa. By Bruce Pandolfini

More than fifty known games were played between U.S. champion Frank Marshall and the immortal Jose Raúl Capablanca. The bulk of the victories went to “Capa,” including some very famous ones. But Marshall did win a few, one of which is the following game played in Scranton, Pennsylvania in 1909 dur ing their historic match (won by Capa, 8 1). Indeed, with the white pieces, Mar shall wound up looking much more like Capablanca than his esteemed Cuban rival did. The American chose a queenside campaign, implemented it, and his oppo nent seemed helpless to stop it. Queen’s Gambit Declined (D55) Frank Marshall Jose Raúl Capablanca Scranton, Pennsylvania (1909) 1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. Bg5 Be7 5. e3 Ne4

rnlqk+ r ppp lppp + +p+ + + +p+ L +PPn+ + + N P + PP + PPP R +QKLNR

Your starting position

Now make sure you have the above position set up on your chessboard. As you play through the remaining moves in this game, use a piece of paper to cover the article, exposing White’s next move only after trying to guess it. If you guess correctly, give yourself the par score. Sometimes points are also rewarded for 14

Chess Life — May 2009

second best moves, and there may be bonus points or deductions for other moves and variations. Note that ** means that the note to Black’s move is over and White’s move is on the next line.** 6.

Bxe7

11.

…

12.

a4

12.

…

13.

Qa3

13.

…

Nxc3

Guards c5. The alternative was 13. ... Be6 or 13. ... Bg4, and if 14. dxc5, then 14. ... Rfc8. This may have been better as the move played gives Marshall more or less what he’s aiming for, heavy pres sure on the b pawn.**

Nd7

14.

a5

14.

…

15.

0-0

Par Score: 5

This is preferable to 6. Nxe4 (4 points part credit) 6. ... dxe4 7. Bxe7 Qxe7. The pawn at e4 inhibits Nf3 and can easily be defended by ... f7 f5. 6.

…

Qxe7

The capture 6. ... Nxc3 can be answered by 7. Bxd8 Nxd1 8. Bxc7. Black recovers his pawn, 8. ... Nxb2, but the two bish ops give White the edge. Accept 1 bonus point if you so evaluated.** 7.

Bd3

Par Score: 5

White attacks the knight to induce the exchange at c3. Another way was 7. cxd5 (accept full credit) 7. ... Nxc3, but not 7. ... exd5? 8. Nxd5 (1 bonus point). 7.

…

8.

bxc3

8.

…

9.

Nf3

9.

…

Par Score: 4

In the 11th game of the match Capa blanca switched to 8. ... dxc4 9. Bxc4 b6.** Par Score: 4 0-0

The idea 9. ... dxc4 10. Bxc4 b6 does n’t quite work due to 11. Bb5 Bb7 (11. ... a6 12. Bc6) 12. Ne5 (1 bonus point).** 10.

cxd5

10.

…

11.

Qb3

Par Score: 5 exd5 Par Score: 5

Accept full credit also for 11. 0 0.

Marshall attacks d5 and pressures b7.

Nf6 Par Score: 5

Again 12. 0 0 receives full credit. Mar shall anticipates ... b7 b6 and wants to be ready to attack the b pawn with a4 a5. c5

Trying to make use of his queenside pawn majority, but at c5 the pawn becomes a target. 12. ... c6 was less com mitting.** Par Score: 5

Deduct 2 points for 13. 0 0?, overlook ing 13. ... c4, forking queen and bishop. The text sidesteps the threat and pins the c5 pawn. b6

Par Score: 5

White threatens 15. axb6, winning a pawn. Add 1 bonus point if you saw that 14. ... bxa5 15. Qxc5 Qxc5 16. dxc5 wins a pawn, since White also picks up the a5 pawn. Add 1 bonus point if you realized that. Bb7

There doesn’t seem to be a better place ment for the bishop. If 14. ... Be6, then 15. axb6 axb6 16. Qxa8 Rxa8 17. Rxa8+ favors White (1 bonus point).** Par Score: 5

Marshall has postponed castling so long because there were other useful moves to play. Now he needs his king uschess.org

Problem I

Problem II

Fork

ABCs of Chess These problems are all related to key positions in this month’s game. In each case, Black is to move. The answers can be found in Solutions on page 79.

May Exercise: Let’s play with an empty board and a lone defending king. Drawing from a stockpile of all six attacking units, and never using more than two friendly units in combination with the attacking king at a time, go around the board, seeing how many different solutions there are to mating the lone king on each square. You may be astonished by some of the mating teams. King, queen, and dark square bishop, for instance, can’t deliver mate when the lone king sits on a particular square. After discovering that para doxical niche, find its sister square. Good things apparently do come in pairs.

r+r+ +k+ + + +p+p q+ + +p+ + + + + + + + + + n +N+ +Q+ PPP + R R K Problem IV

+

taking at d7.

15.

…

19.

…

16.

Rfb1

20.

dxc5

16.

…

20.

…

21.

Qxc5

21.

…

Par Score: 5 Nd7

This is played partly to discourage Nf3 e5 and partly to lend added protection to b6 and c5.** 17.

Bf5!

Par Score: 6

Afterwards, Capablanca admitted he overlooked the possibility of this move. 17.

…

Rfc8

Compounding the error of his previ ous move. If 17. ... Bc6 18. Bxd7 Bxd7 19. axb6 axb6 20. Qxa8 (1 bonus point). Open ing the c file, 17. ... cxd4 18. cxd4, doesn’t bring relief either. A sample continua tion is 18. ... Nf6 19. Rc1 Qd8 20. Ne5 Re8 21. a6 Bc8 22. Nc6 Qc7 23. Bxc8 Raxc8 24. Ne7+ Qxe7 25. Rxc8 Qxa3 26. Rxe8+, winning the Exchange. Probably best was the retraction of his last move, 17. ... Nf6, though after 18. dxc5 bxc5 (not 18. ... Qxc5? 19. Qxc5 bxc5 20. Rxb7) 19. Rb5 c4, White clearly has the advantage.** 18.

Bxd7

18.

…

19.

a6

Par Score: 5 Qxd7 Par Score: 5

Marshall wins the c5 pawn, since the bishop must block out the c8 rook. Add 1 bonus point if you had it in mind when uschess.org

rr + +k+ + +p+pp q+ +pn p + + + + p+PP + + + + + + PL Q PPP R R + K

Problem VI

+k+ pp + + + + + + Q + +qL + + + n + + + + +PP + + + K +

+

Promotion

+

+

Bc6 Par Score: 5 bxc5 Par Score: 5

Rab8

The best chance of resisting was 21. ... f6, stopping Ne5. However, Capablanca concluded that his game was lost in the long run and decided to play for a trap.** Rxb8

Par Score: 5

White draws off a defender of the c6 bishop. 22.

…

23.

Ne5

23.

…

24.

f4

Rxb8 Par Score: 5 Qf5 Par Score: 5

Deduct 5 points for 24. Qxc6, allowing a back row mate, 25. ... Rb1+ etc. The text guards the knight and makes an outlet for the king. 24.

…

Rb6

r+ + +k+ + + +ppp +p+p+ + + + + + +qPnQ + pRL + + P+ + PPP + + + K

+

Not only has White won a pawn, but now his knight has access to the dark squares e5 and d4.

22.

r + +k+ pq+ +ppp +N+ + + + Q + + + + + + + P + + + + PPP R + + K

Fork

+ + + + + pk +q+p+ p + +p+p+ + P Qn+ + L PP+ + + +PP + + + K +

Mating net

Problem V

En prise

rook to add to the pressure on the b file. Qc7

Problem III

Interference

If 24. ... Be8, then 25. Qxa7 Rb1+ 26. Rxb1 Qxb1+ 27. Kf2 Qc2+ 28. Kg3 Qxc3

29. Qb6, and White is ready to push his a pawn. After 24. ... Rb1+ 25. Rxb1 Qxb1+ 26. Kf2 Qc2+ 27. Kg3, there are no more checks and his bishop is lost, 27. ... Be8 28. Qe7; or 27. ... f6 28. Qxc6 fxe5 29. Qe8 mate. Attacking the knight by 24. ... f6 runs into the complicated refutation 25. g4, after which Nxc6 can be played with out having to fear perpetual check: 25. ... Qe4 26. Nxc6 Rb2 Qxd5+!; or 25. ... Qc2 26. Nxc6 Rb2 27. Qxd5+ Kf8 28. Qd8+ Kf7 29. Qe7+ Kg6 30. Qe8+ Kh6 31. Qh5 mate. These lines were given by Mar shall.** 25.

Qxb6!

25.

…

Par Score: 6

Deduct 3 points for 25. Nxc6?, letting the win slip away: 25. ... Rb1+ 26. Rxb1 Qxb1+, with perpetual check along the b1 g6 diagonal. Black resigned

The queen sac settles matters, since 25. ... axb6 26. Nxc6 Qe6 27. a7 wins (1 bonus point).

.

Total your score to determine your approximate rating below: Total Score 95+ 81-94 66-80 51-65 36-50 21-35 06-20 0-05

Rating

2400+ 2200-2399 2000-2199 1800-1999 1600-1799 1400-1599 1200-1399 under 1200

Chess Life — May 2009

15

Looks at Books

Metaphilosophy — OR —

The Philosophy of Mate A study in the subjective methods of chess players By Howard Goldowsky PHILOSOPHY LOOKS AT CHESS (Open Court, 2008) is a collection of twelve essays each written by a professional philosopher and col lectively edited by Benjamin Hale that explore chess through a lens of philosophi cal thought. The book’s format is modeled after, but not included in, Open Court’s Pop ular Culture and Philosophy series, which covers a variety of trendy topics such as Bruce Springsteen, iPods, and, to chess players’ envy, even poker. So it was no sur prise to read midway through the poignant and sobering essay, “The Reviled Art,” about the disdain for chess in American culture, written by International Master and Profes sor Stuart Rachels, that when comparing the profit potential of Philosophy Looks at Chess to books about other cultural topics, “[ ... the publishers] thought it would not sell.” Most of the essays in the book vaunt a tech nical approach targeting chess and philosophy cognoscenti, with some even retreating into that dense academic style appreciated only by philosophers. Chess is so complex that, like the human mind, even today’s best computer algorithms running on the fastest hardware surrender, at a finite depth after a fixed amount of time, to the endless variations. Unless there is a forced win, this complexity results in both humans and computers making subjective decisions every move. It is this subjectivity that ultimately links philosophy a mainstay of rhetoric and debate with strategy and, to some extent, tactics. So, despite four excep tions Bernd Graefrath’s unique essay about how retrograde chess analysis relates to epistemology, Ahti Veikko Pietarinen’s histor ical survey of major philosophers who have used chess in their work, Deborah Vossen’s debate whether or not chess can be defined as a game, and Rachels’ piece mentioned above Philosophy Looks at Chess is a study in the subjective methods of chess players; besides these exceptions, every essay touches this idea of subjectivity, some with more distinction and some, unfortunately, with more excessive verbiage than others. In every non forcing chess position there is a degree of uncertainty about the relative 16

Chess Life — May 2009

value of the pieces, as well as an uncertainty about the importance of each positional parameter. Sometimes two or more positional parameters conflict. In “Casuistry and Chess,” Peter Morriss explores this idea by compar ing the process of choosing a chess move to that of making a moral decision, and he relates casuistic (the inappropriate applica tion of general principles) and non casuistic protocols from ethics theory to the evaluation of chess positions. Like making a moral deci sion, deciding on a chess move requires one

Philosophy Looks at Chess (2008) edited by Benjamin Hale. 288 pp., Open Court. List Price: $19.95.

to lean towards general principles, but make a final evaluation on a case by case basis. In the second part of John Hartmann’s essay, “Garry Kasparov Is a Cyborg,” which dis cusses the fuzzy boundary between computer aided human play and pure com puter play, Hartmann builds on Morriss’ work by summarizing the related rule inde pendence vs. rule based move selection debate perpetuated by John Watson and Jacob Aagaard. This summary is practically a summary for the whole book. (The rest of

the computer related essays include Evan Selinger’s “Chess Playing Computers and Embodied Grandmasters,” which tackles the general question of what it means for humans to have subjective chess knowledge; Andy Miah’s “A Deep Blue Grasshopper,” which argues that chess play by computers does not demonstrate a form of artificial intelligence; and Tama Coutts’ “Playing Chess in the Chi nese Room,” which argues that it does.) Even in “Hip Hop Tactics,” a piece that purveys Tommy Curry’s views about the role African culture plays in formulating the moves of African American chess players, an argu ment is made that players choose moves through an elaborate internal narrative, and that the African American player’s narrative is determined to some extent at least by African culture. Curry quotes liberally from strong players like Jonathan Rowson, Mau rice Ashley, Rashid Ziatdinov, and Jeremy Silman, all known for their work on the sub jective side of the chess thought process. Finally, as an ironic testament to the naïveté toward chess in American culture, even the editor committed or allowed a num ber of factual errors. He incorrectly identified Rachels as the youngest American master ever; he called the Expert class the “Excep tional category”; and he allowed one contributor to label a writer notorious for errors in his opening books “a renowned opening specialist.” But perhaps Hale’s most hilarious remark appears in the Introduction, where he writes, sarcastically or not, “Often we catch only momentary snippets of philo sophical insight from chess players as they shuffle away from the game table, granting throngs of sportscasters brief interviews between sleep and study (italics added).” Rachels, in his essay, counters closer to the truth: “When chess players call chess a sport, this strikes me not only as false, but as pathetic. It’s pathetic in the same way it’s pathetic to ask someone out on a date who said no the last three times you asked. Amer ican culture has rejected chess.”

.

Chapter titles have been abbreviated due to space considerations. ~ed.

uschess.org

What’s The Best Move?

38th Chess Olympiad By GM Larry Evans Dresden statistics Last November the U.S. men’s squad captured third behind Arme nia and Israel (ahead of Ukraine, Russia, China) in a strong field of 156 teams at the 38th biennial Olympiad hosted by Dresden, Ger many. There were 1,270 players (722 men, 548 women), 110 arbiters, trainers and officials. For the first time all games could be followed live via sensory boards by more than 52 million fans worldwide over the Inter net. For more on the Olympiad, see the February 2008 Chess Life or the November Chess Life Online archives at uschess.org. Solutions to this month’s quiz positions are on page 79. Readers are invited to send their posi tions in for possible consideration in this column. Send to whatsthebest [email protected] or mail to Chess Life, c/o What’s The Best Move, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.

uschess.org

1. White moves

+

+

+k+ + + + +p +R+p+p+ Pp+ + + + + + + P +r+ + + + PPP + + +K+

(a) Rb6 (b) Rxe6 (c) a4

3. White moves

+ r + k +R+ + +p + + + + p pL+ P +P+ KP+ + + + + l+ + + + + + + +

(a) Rb2 (b) Ra7 (c) g6

2. White moves

+

+

 k+ l p + +p+p q + +p+ + +Qn + Q+pR P + + + + P P+ r + P R + + K

(a) Kh1 (b) Qxe5 (c) Rd1

4. White moves

+

+

+

+

+

+

+

+

+

+

+

+

R

+

+ + + + +l+ + + + k + +r+ + + + +K+

(a) Rd8 (b) Rf8 (c) Kg1

Chess Life — May 2009

17

Cover Story

Who Dares Wins Topalov defeats Kamsky to secure a world title challenge against the winner of Kramnik/Anand, dashing the American’s— and America’s—hopes

By GM Ian Rogers

n paper, Veselin Topalov was more than a hot favorite to defeat Gata Kamsky and secure a sec ond world title challenge he was an absolute certainty. Topalov, 33, sat atop the world rank ings while Kamsky was ranked only

O 18

Chess Life — May 2009

17th and his last “hit out” was a mod est 50% score at the Wijk aan Zee tournament. In eight games dating back to 1994 Kamsky, 34, had never beaten Topalov and had lost four times. The match was being played in Topalov’s backyard, the Bulgarian capital Sofia, a

venue which the American had fought strenuously to avoid. The bookmakers had installed Topalov as a three to one favorite to become Viswanathan Anand’s challenger and few grandmaster judges gave Kamsky, with only his legendary resilience to uschess.org

compensate for his sub elite openings, a chance in the best of eight match held February 16 28 in Sofia, Bulgaria. Yet, despite all the odds, the chess world was treated to a classic candidates final, with the result uncertain until the final time scramble. uschess.org

Going into the seventh game, Topalov led Kamsky by a point, 3½ 2½, and was determined to play for a win with white without taking risks. However after being out prepared in the opening not for the first time in the match Topalov threw caution to the winds, sacrificing

pawns and creating threats. The New Yorker found three excellent defensive moves late in the game but eventually the strain proved too great. Kamsky missed one clear win and then a saving queen sacrifice to lose a rook, the game and the match. Chess Life — May 2009

19

Cover Story

AGE 34

French Defense, Tarrasch Variation (C07) GM Veselin Topalov (FIDE 2796) GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2725) Sofia Candidates Final (7), 02.26.2009

WORLD RANKING 17

1. e4 e6

Gata Kamsky

JANUARY 2009 ELO 2725 REPRESENTING USA MANAGER Emil Sutovsky (Israel) SECONDS Evgeny Najer (Russia) and Andrei Volokitin (Ukraine) WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP EXPERIENCE Semi-finalist in 1994 PCA World Championship; Challenger for FIDE world title in 1996, losing 7½10½ to Anatoly Karpov QUOTE “The more chess, the better.”

Again a French Defense from Kamsky game 5 was not a one off.

2. d4 d5 3. Nd2 c5 4. exd5 Qxd5 5. Ngf3 cxd4 6. Bc4 Qd6 7. 0-0 Nf6 8. Re1!?

Well known, but the immediate 8. Nb3 is far more usual. 8. ... Be7 9. Nb3 Nc6 10. Nbxd4 Nxd4 11. Nxd4

11. Qxd4 would be a de facto draw offer but Topalov is keen to press with the white pieces rather than leave everything hanging on the eighth game. 11. ... 0-0 12. c3 Bd7 13. Qf3 Qb6!?

A new idea, aiming to keep pressure on the white b pawn. 14. Bb3 a5 15. Be3 Bc5

1974: 1982: 1987: 1988: 1989:

1990: 1991: 1993: 1994 1995: 1996: 1999: 2004: 2006: 2007:

20

Born June 2 in Novokuznetsk, Russia

Learns chess. “I made him play,” says his father Rustam later. “Any child can become a world champion.” Wins Soviet Junior Championship (U/18)

Competes in World U/16 Championship in Timisoara, Romania. Gata’s father Rustam discusses defection plans with U.S. representatives.

Announces defection from USSR during the New York Open and moves to Brooklyn with his father. Investment banker pays $35,000 p.a. stipend for the Kamskys. Garry Kasparov says after beating Kamsky, “He has no potential to be world champion.” Earns the grandmaster title.

Wins the U.S. Championship.

Becomes a world championship candidate under both FIDE and PCA systems.

Beats Van der Sterren, Anand and Salov to qualify for FIDE world title match. One of his seconds comments, “I find it amazing that someone who hates chess so much plays so well.” Loses FIDE world title match 7½ 10½ to Anatoly Karpov. Retires from tournament chess to attend university.

Briefly takes a break from law studies to compete in Las Vegas FIDE World Championship Knockout Tournament. Loses to even tual winner, Alexander Khalifman. Returns to chess with new attitude and enthusiasm, competing in New York Masters. Returns to the elite with a second place in the Mtel Masters super tournament, behind Veselin Topalov but ahead of Viswanathan Anand.

Wins FIDE World Cup in Khanty Mansiysk to qualify for world title candidates final versus Topalov.

Chess Life — May 2009

r+ + r k+ +p+l+p pp q +p  n + p   l + + +  N + + +L P  LQ+ P P + P P P R +   R  K

After 15. ... Bc5

16. Rad1!?

Continuing with aggressive intent. Only now did Kamsky begin to think seri ously; grabbing the b pawn in home analysis is one thing but going pawn grabbing over the board, when one mis step will see you eliminated from the world championship cycle is quite another. 16. ... a4 17. Bc2 Qxb2 18. Bg5 Nd5

r+ + r k+ +p+l+p pp + +p+ + +  ln+  L p+  N + + +  P +Q+ P qL+ P P P + +R R  K

After 18. ... Nd5

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PHOTO: CATHY ROGERS

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS AND LOWLIGHTS

19. c4! Bxd4

Kamsky must already play with extreme care; 19. ... Nb6 and 19. ... Nb4 would leave Black's king in trouble after 20. Bxh7+! Kxh7 21. Bf6!! gxf6 22. Qh3+ Kg7 23. Qg4+ Kh7 24. Re3 with check mate to follow. 20. Qd3 f5! 21. Qxd4 Qxc2!

Brave play. This capture, which would have been impossible after 20. ... g6?!, is far stronger than 21. ... Qxd4 22. Rxd4 when the endgame is very depressing for Black despite his extra pawn, e.g. 22. ... Nb4?! 23. Rxd7 Nxc2 24. Rc1! Nb4 25. Rb1 when White’s rooks will double on the seventh rank and wreak havoc and destruction. 22. cxd5 Qxa2 23. Qb6

23. Qb4 may be more precise because then 23. ... a3 loses the queen after 24. Rd2. 23. ... a3!

23. ... exd5? 24. Qxb7 would simply lose a bishop. 24. Be7! Rfe8 25. Qd6

r+ +r+k+ +p+l L  pp +  Qp+ + + +P+p+ + + + + p + + +  q+ +  PP P + +R R  K

After 25. Qd6

25. ... Ba4!?

After using up 30 of his 40 remaining minutes on a single move, Kamsky decided to allow Topalov to force a draw but the Bulgarian refused to capture Kamsky’s advanced pawn and gambled on blitzing Kamsky in a position which was fiercely complicated but objectively good for Black. “I counted on my opponent’s time trouble,” said Topalov, “and in a way my decision was justified.” 25. ... Bc8 26. Qc7 would be very messy so Kamsky spent most of his time choos ing between the text move and 25. ... Kf7! with the idea 26. Qxd7? Rxe7 27. dxe6+ Qxe6!! when Black wins. “I was afraid [to play 25. ... Kf7!],” was Kam sky’s frank admission. “I didn't trust myself. With the two rooks and bishop and queen [near my king] and my queen afar. I thought it can't be good! But of course it was good; I should have just trusted my instincts.” uschess.org

26. Qxe6+ Kh8 27. Ra1 Qc4

r+ +r+  k +p+  L  pp + +Q+ + + +P+p+ l+q+ + +  p + + + + +  PP P  R +  R  K

After 27. ... Qc4

28. Rec1!?

The gambler's spirit! Topalov could force an immediate draw with 28. Rxa3 Bb3 29. Rxa8 Rxa8 30. Qxf5 Qxd5 but with Kamsky down to seven minutes for 13 moves, Topalov, after a 12 minute think, decides to keep the game as ran dom as possible. 28. ... Bc2! 29. Qd7

29. Qe3 was best, to win the a pawn and hold the balance, because Black has no time for 29. ... a2? 30. d6!. 29. ... a2! 30. d6

Another very fast move by Topalov by now the game was spinning out of White’s control. 30. ... b5!

Suddenly Kamsky has gained the upper hand, but he still has to make 10 moves to reach the time control and there remains plenty to calculate. 31. Qb7

31. Qc7 would make life far too easy for Black after 31. ... Qxc7 32. dxc7 Bb3 33. Bd8 Raxd8 34. cxd8=Q Rxd8. 31. ... Reb8?

The obvious move but 31. ... b4! 32. d7 Reb8! would have been winning; Black's pawns are just too strong. 32. Qc7! Rc8?

Fatal, but now the exchange of queens is no longer possible because dxc7 attacks a rook. With little time left Kamsky saw, but could not bring himself to commit to

Wang Yue

Prize money Topalov and Kamsky shared a $250,000 prize fund equally but this was far less than they might have hoped and expected after the FIDE President Kirsan Iljumzhinov in June 2008 personally guaranteed a $750,000 prize fund for the match. At a press conference at the Dres den Olympiad, Iljumzhinov frankly admitted that the press release was a lie and that he never intended to pay out any money. His motivation, he said, was to help Kamsky’s then manager Alexander Chernenko find a sponsor to host the match in Ukraine in November 2008. The wasted months waiting for Iljumzhinov or Chernenko to fulfill their promises caused the match to be delayed until February 2009. ~`I.R. the saving queen sacrifice 32. ... Bd3!! 33. Rxc4 bxc4 when it is White who must find the narrow path to the draw after 34. h4 (34. Qxb8+! is also good enough [just!], e.g. 34. ... Rxb8 35. h4 Rb1+ 36. Kh2 Rxa1 37. d7 Rh1+ 38. Kg3! h5 39. d8=Q+ Kh7 40. Bf6!! and White will secure a perpetual check.) 34. ... Rb1+ 35. Kh2 Rxa1 36. d7 Rh1+ 37. Kg3! Rg8 38. d8=Q a1=Q 39. Qcb8! when Black must force a draw beginning with 39. ... f4+. “I saw this 32. ... Bd3!! idea and I realized I should play it but I just lost it,” said Kamsky. “I stopped trusting myself and panicked.” 33. Qxc4

Topalov, understanding that his posi tion was now winning, ceased his blitzing and began to double check all his deci sions. 33. ... Rxc4 34. d7 Bb1 35. Rd1 Kg8 36. d8=Q+ Rxd8 37. Bxd8 Bc2 38. Rdc1 b4 39. Rxa2 b3 40. Ra8 Kf7 41. Rb8

After the time control was reached Kamsky spent 20 minutes staring at the ruins of a once great position before play ing a few perfunctory moves and offering his hand. 41. ... Ke6 42. Re1+ Kd5 43. Be7 Ra4 44. Bf8 Ra7 45. h4, Black resigned.

“Topalov was clearly better—his openings with black were very strong. Kamsky had chances but because Topalov is so good Kamsky had to think for a long time.” Chess Life — May 2009

21

Cover Story

Aronian

asking for trouble.

“It was an exciting match right up to the end. Kamsky’s preparation in game three was great. But what is it they say about the good player always being lucky?” As Kamsky resigned the Sofia crowd both inside and outside the playing arena match, burst into spirited applause. So in the end the favorite Topalov earned the right to challenge Viswanathan Anand for the world title at the end of 2009 after a 4½ 2½ victory in the best of eight contest. The final margin was flatter ing for the victor, as even Topalov admitted. “It was not easy for me,” said a relieved Topalov at the post match press conference. “I have never won such a long match before. Gata played quite well and there was fighting in all games. The result was finally decided by his time trouble.” Kamsky pinpointed his lack of self confidence, leading to time trouble as a key factor. “I made some serious mis takes while Veselin made fewer mistakes,” was his assessment of the consequences of his clock problems. Topalov agreed: “This is sport when you make a mistake it is not the fault of your opponent. Gata missed his chance in the first game he should have contin ued (with 28. ... Kg8, rather than allow a draw.) In the second he lost because he spent too much time in the opening. Then in the next two games I was in trouble (after the opening).” The key moment that Topalov was thinking of in the first game came in the diagrammed position: Decisions, decisions GM Veselin Topalov (FIDE 2796) GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2725) Sofia Candidates Final (1), 02.17.2009

r+ + +  k p +   q +p p + +n  Q + + + +R +  pN+ + + + + +P P+ + +P+ + + +  K

After 28. Rh5

Topalov had sacrificed a pawn immedi ately after the opening but his attack has been neutralized and Kamsky must now 22

Chess Life — May 2009

make a big decision. 28. ... Rg8

Kamsky considered playing for a win with 28. ... Kg8!? 29. Nf6+ Qxf6 30. Qxh7+ Kf8 31. Rh6 Rc8! but after 32. Rxg6 Rc1+ 33. Kh2 Qe5+ 34. Rg3 Rc3 he misjudged the rook endgame which arises after 35. Qg8+ Ke7 36. Qg5+ Qxg5 37. Rxg5. Kam sky thought that White’s h pawn would be very dangerous but in fact after 37. ... Ke6! it is White who must be careful. Probably White can hold after 38. Rg8! so Kamsky’s move, which allows a relieved Topalov to force an immediate draw, was a reasonable decision given that the above analysis shows that Black only has min imal winning chances after 28. ... Kg8.

10. Qh5 c6 11. Bg5 f6 12. Rae1 Ne6 13. Bd3 0-0 14. Bd2 d5 15. f4

“I should probably just exchange the pieces and make a draw but I wanted to play,” said Kamsky. “Overambitious and impractical” was Kamsky’s manager Sutovsky's blunt assessment after the game, though he added, “One of the qual ities of really super players is self confidence. So, the very idea of refuting Topalov’s opening concept over the board, although a bit naïve deserves certain respect.” 15. ... Qc5+ 16. Kh1

Again White could play safe with 16. Be3 d4 17. Qxc5 Nxc5 18. Bxg6 dxe3 19. Be4 but this was certainly not White’s idea when playing 15. f4. 16. ... d4 17. Bf5

Another ambitious move criticized by Kamsky after the game since it was based on a tactical oversight but in any case 17. Qxc5 Nxc5 18. Bc4+ Kh8 19. Ne2 would only leave White grovelling for a draw. 17. ... Rf7

29. Nf6 Rg7 30. Nxh7! Rxh7 31. Qxg6 Qe3+ 32. Kf1 Qc1+ 33. Kf2 Qd2+ 34. Kg3 Qe3+ 35. Kh2 Qf4+ 36. Kg1 Qc1+, Draw agreed.

Topalov could have played the queen sacrifice 17. ... Nexf4 18. Rxf4 dxc3!! since 19. Be6+ Bxe6 20. Qxc5 cxd2 21. Rd1 Nxf4 22. Rxd2 Bd5 leaves Black with too many pieces for the queen. However White could defend with 19. Be3 and, besides, Topalov prefers to avoid forcing lines until Kamsky is seriously short of time.

Ruy Lopez, Berlin Defense (C65) GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2725) GM Veselin Topalov (FIDE 2796) Sofia Candidates Final (2), 02.18.2009

18. Ne4 Qd5 19. Bxg6?!

After his solid draw with black in the first game, Kamsky was ready to rumble in the second, only to find himself fight ing both an unfamiliar opening and an opponent apparently content with a draw but more than willing to pounce if the opportunity arose.

1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nf6 4. 0-0 Bc5!?

An old favorite of Boris Spassky, only sporadically seen in modern times; the close relation with 3. ... a6 and 4. Ba4 inserted has attracted far more modern attention.

5. Nxe5

A move which already cost Kamsky considerable time; 5. c3 is the other main line. 5. ... Nxe4 6. Qe2 Nxe5 7. d4 Qe7!? 8. dxc5

Gambits a pawn and keeping the game alive. When not averse to a quick draw, Spassky's opponents preferred 8. Qxe4 Ng6 9. Qxe7+ Bxe7 with dead equality. 8. ... Nxc5 9. Nc3 Ng6

9. ... c6?! 10. Re1 f6 11. f4 would be

Finally the clock takes its toll. After 19. Ng3! White would have ample com pensation for the pawn. Kamsky thinks he is exchanging into a favorable endgame but he had missed Black’s 21st move. 19. ... hxg6 20. Qxd5 cxd5 21. Nd6

r+l+ +k+ pp+ +r  p +  Nn pp+ + +p+ + +  p P  + + + + + P PP L +P P + +  RR+K

After 21. Nd6

21. ... Rc7!!

A terrific idea, which Topalov took 12 minutes, time enough for Kamsky to real uschess.org

ize that 21. ... Re7 was not forced as he had originally calculated. 22. c4?

Veselin Topalov

Panic. Kamsky had to accept the offer and hope for the best after 22. Nxc8 Raxc8 23. Rxe6 Rxc2 24. Bb4 Rxb2 25. a3. Objectively this position may be ten able but given Kamsky’s time trouble his survival chances were bleak. For exam ple, Black can try 25. ... d3! when 26. h3?! would lose spectacularly to 26. ... Rxb4!! 27. axb4 d2!.

AGE 34 WORLD RANKING 1 JANUARY 2009 ELO 2796 REPRESENTING Bulgaria MANAGER Silvio Danailov (Bulgaria) SECONDS Ivan Cheparinov (Bulgaria), Paco Vallejo (Spain), Erwin L’Ami (Ned.)

22. ... dxc3 e.p. 23. Bxc3 d4 24. Bb4 Bd7 25. Rf2

With a pawn down, less than a minute on the clock and a bad position to boot, White’s chances are negligible and Topalov plays the last part of the game with great precision.

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP EXPERIENCE Semi-finalist FIDE Knockout tournament; 2004 winner FIDE World Championship tournament

25. ... a5! 26. Ba3 b5 27. b3 b4 28. Bb2

Ra6! 29. Ne4 Rac6 30. Kg1 Rc2 31. g3 d3 32. Rd1 f5 and Black won on time. With a day to recover, Kamsky recov ered his composure with a great piece of opening preparation, drawing with ease with black. Gruenfeld Defense (D81) GM Veselin Topalov (FIDE 2796) GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2725) Sofia Candidates Final (3), 02.20.2009 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 d5 4. Qb3

Having seen his beloved Exchange Vari ation neutered in the first game, Topalov springs a surprise by trying an old Russ ian line, recently revived. 4. ... dxc4 5. Qxc4 Bg7 6. e4 0-0 7. Be2

The modern preference, delaying Nf3.

2005 QUOTE “Anand is my only rival.”

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS AND LOWLIGHTS 1975:

Born March 15 in Ruse, Bulgaria.

1994:

Came to worldwide attention with victory over World Champion Garry Kasparov at the Moscow Olympiad.

1992:

1996: 2004: 2005: 2005:

7. ... a6!?

A surprise in return for Topalov. Kam sky alongside other Gruenfeld experts such as Svidler and Dominguez, had in the past preferred 7. ... Nfd7 but Carlsen had dealt the ... Nfd7 b6 plan a heavy blow in the Wijk aan Zee tournament just a fortnight earlier.

PHOTO: CATHY ROGERS

8. Bf4 b5! 9. Qxc7 Qxc7 10. Bxc7 b4 11. Na4 Nc6

All according to plan for Kamsky. Of course 11. ... Nxe4 12. Nb6 would be dis astrous for Black.

2006: 2008: 2009:

Moved to Spain as a 17 year old grandmaster, securing a world top 20 ranking within 18 months. Most successful tournament player in the world, but subsequently his progress stalled. Hot favorite to win the FIDE Knockout World Championship but after five crushing match wins, fell to eventual winner Kasimdzhanov in a semi final rapid playoff.

Top three finishes in all European super tournaments, including first place in Linares, Spain and Sofia, Bulgaria. Wins FIDE World Championship tournament in San Luis, Argentina, with a wide margin after an amazing 6½/7 first half. Some of Topalov’s rivals allege the Topalov was receiving advice during games, most publicly Alexander Morozevich’s second Barsov. Since then Morozevich has conducted an informal boycott of Topalov, competing only once in a serious tournament alongside Topalov. Loses controversial world title match to Vladimir Kramnik on a rapid tiebreaker. During and after the match Topalov alleges that Kramnik was cheating. Wins Grand Slam final in Bilbao and Nanjing Pearl Spring tournament to overtake Anand as world number one and passes 2800 rating level for the second time.

Defeats Gata Kamsky to qualify for world title match versus Viswanathan Anand.

12. d5 Nd4 13. Bd3 (See diagram top of next page)

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Chess Life — May 2009

23

Cover Story

Topalov

“The level [of play] I showed was not really good. I am not completely satisfied.”

r+l+  rk+ +  L  pp lp p+ +  np+ + +P+ + N p  nP+ + + +L+ + P P +  PP P R +   K  NR

r+  qr lk+ +l p +p pp p+n p  n + +p+  p + +  PP+ + +L P +N+P P P  N  PP+ R   LQ R  K

After 13. Bd3

After 11. ... Bf8

13. ... Bd7! 14. Nb6 Bb5! 15. Be5!

12. Ng5!?

By far the safest move. 15. Nxa8?! Bxd3 16. Rd1 Nc2+ 17. Kd2 Bxe4 18. f3 Bh6+ 19. Ke2 Bxd5 would be terrific for Black despite his Exchange deficit; White's pieces are horribly scattered. 15. ... Nxe4!

All according to preparation for Kam sky. Had Black been desperate for a win he could have tried 15. ... Bxd3!? 16. Bxd4 Rab8 intending to meet 17. f3 with 17. ... Bb5 when the knight on b6 is in trouble. The critical line appears to be 17. e5 Rxb6! 18. Bxb6 (18. exf6 Rxf6!) 18. ... Nxd5 19. Bd4 Nf4 when Black has a sur prising amount of compensation for the Exchange, albeit probably not enough for an advantage. 16. Bxg7 Kxg7 17. Bxe4 Rab8

The final point behind Kamsky’s prepa ration. The knight is trapped and the game was drawn 20 moves later.

The previous game may have given Kamsky heart but what followed was a shock, most visibly for Topalov. Not only did Kamsky score his first career victory over Topalov but he did it via a positional master class which made the highest rated player look planless and desperate. Closed Ruy Lopez (C92) GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2725) GM Veselin Topalov (FIDE 2796) Sofia Candidates Final (4), 02.21.2009 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6

No sidelines for Topalov today.

4. Ba4 Nf6 5. 0-0 Be7 6. Re1 b5 7. Bb3 d6 8. c3 0-0 9. h3 Bb7 10. d4 Re8 11. Nbd2 Bf8 24

Chess Life — May 2009

The first real surprise; an idea sug gested to Kamsky by his second GM Andrei Volokitin. Rather than enter any fashionable variations, Kamsky heads for a position that has not been thought to be dangerous for many years.

12. ... Re7 13. d5 Nb8

The modern preference, although GM Anatoly Karpov’s choice of 13. ... Na5 has never been refuted. 14. Nf1 Nbd7 15. Ng3 g6 16. Bc2

The first new move and an eminently logical one. In the original 1979 game in this line Oleg Romanishin had used 16. Be3 to beat Alexander Beliavsky. 16. ... h6 17. Nf3 Nb6

r+  q  lk+ +l p  rp+ p n  p  np p +p+P p + + +P+ + +  P +N NP P PL+  PP+ R   LQ R  K

After 17. ... Nb6

18. h4!

The start of a very annoying plan. Kam sky knows that Black wants to play ... c7 c6 and later ... d6 d5 so he makes sure that he will have a weakness to attack on g6 if Black manages to exe cute his plan. 18. ... Qd7 19. Nh2 Bg7 20. h5 Rf8 21. Nhf1 c6 22. dxc6 Qxc6 23. Ne3 Kh7

Quietly accepting his fate. The advance 23. ... d5 allows 24. hxg6 fxg6 25. exd5 Nbxd5 26. Nxd5 Nxd5 27. Be4 when White controls some key squares. 24. Qf3 Bc8 25. Rd1 Be6

+ + r  + + +  rp lk p nq pl np p +p+  p +P + +P+ + +  P  NQ N P PL+ P P+ R   LR+  K

After 25. ... Be6

26. b3!

Without this long term pawn sacri fice, White would struggle to make progress but now Topalov must grab the pawn since allowing 27. Ba3 would lead to similar positions to the game without the material solace. “It's a very logical move, said Kamsky. “My queenside pieces weren’t playing but after 27. Bd2 I defi nitely had compensation for the pawn.” 26. ... Qxc3 27. Bd2 Qc7 28. Ba5 Qb8 29. Rd2! Nc8

29. ... Rd7 30. Rad1 Rc8 keeps some activity but Black is still suffering after 31. Bb4 Rc6 32. Nd5!. 30. Rad1 b4?

Topalov’s first bid for counterplay and a serious mistake. The threat to trap White’s bishop is easily parried and Black’s queenside pawns soon become chronically weak. “I had some idea but I missed one variation then I sort of blun dered a pawn.” 31. Qe2! Kh8 32. Bd3 Na7 33. Rc1! Nb5 34. Bxb5 axb5 35. Bxb4 Rd7 36. Rc6 Rfd8 37. Qd1 Bf8 38. Qc2! Kh7 39. Ba5 Re8 40. hxg6+ fxg6

The time control has been safely reached but Kamsky continued playing quickly he had already calculated that the d pawn can safely be captured. 41. Bc7 Qb7

+ +r l + +q Lr+ +k +R pl np p +p+  p + + +P+ + +P+  N  N P+Q R P P+ + + +  K

After 41. ... Qb7

uschess.org

For Kamsky, a lack of self confidence—and the resulting time trouble—ultimately doomed his world championship hopes.

42. Bxd6! Bf7

13 minutes were spent on this move part bluff, part despair. 43. Bb4

Played after half an hour’s cogitation. “I thought that 43. Bxf8!! Rxd2 44. Qc1!! was winning,” said Kamsky “and it is winning. I just didn’t see that after 44. ... Rxf8 45. Rxf6 Qd7 I have 46. Ngf1! Rd6 47. Nf5!, winning.” 43. ... Bxb4 44. Rxd7 Qxd7

44. ... Nxd7 45. Rc7 is even worse.

PHOTO: CATHY ROGERS

45. Rxf6 Re6 46. Nd5 Bf8 47. Rf3! Kg7 48. Rc3 Ra6 49. Rc7 Qd6 50. Qe2!

The dual threats of 51. Qxb5 and 51. Qg4 ensure that Black cannot maintain his position. 50. ... Kg8 51. Qxb5 Rxa2 52. Qb7 Ra1+ 53. Kh2 Bxd5

Here a despondent GM Ivan Chepari nov, Topalov’s trusty second, wandered uschess.org

into the National Palace of Culture (NDK) building, tired of watching the game online and hoping to provide some sup port for his charge after his inevitable defeat. In the event, he had to wait much longer than expected for Topalov to stop fighting. 54. exd5!

Far more precise than taking back with the queen, although that must inevitably win in the long run. “I would have a chance to find 43. Bxf8!! and 44. Qc1!! but I would never take back with the e pawn

Anand

myself,” admitted Sutovsky. “The guy sees everything.” 54. ... Qf6 55. Qc8 Qh4+

55. ... Qxf2 loses the rook on a1 after two checks. 56. Qh3 Qxh3+ 57. Kxh3 Rd1 58. Ne4 Ba3 59. Ra7 Bb4 60. Rb7 Ba3 61. f3 Kf8 62. Rb5 h5 63. Kg3 Rc1 64. Rb8+

64. d6 or first 64. b4 would have been much faster but Kamsky has seen a clear path to victory and is content to follow it. “Of course the ending is winning for

“Kamsky lost many games in the middlegame. It’s funny— we expected it to be ‘Topy’s’ preparation against Kamsky’s nerves but it turned out to be the other way around.” Chess Life — May 2009

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Cover Story

Sofia

For the capital of a chess loving nation, the Bulgarian capital of 1½ million people has not hosted many major chess events; Bulgaria’s Black Sea resorts of Varna and Plovdiv have hosted an Olympiad and Euro pean Team Championship, respec tively, but until the Mtel super tour naments began in 2005, Sofia was hardly featured on the international chess map. The Candidates Final, with sponsorship from the State Agency for Youth and Sport and the prime minister of Bulgaria head ing the organizing committee, may herald change. With its spectacular Orthodox churches and many parks some times occupied by chessplayers Sofia is an underrated tourist desti nation but Sofia in February is not the perfect time for a visit. The Topalov Kamsky match was held in a city covered in heavy snow and with temperatures regularly below 14 degrees Fahrenheit. The tournament venue, the National Palace of Culture (NDK) just meters away from the Sofia Hilton where Kamsky was housed is a massive complex of theatres and halls with a distinctly Balkan fla vor. (For example, the no smoking rules appeared to apply only to the upper floors!) The NDK’s 1980s brown décor has seen better days but the small theatre in which the grandmasters competed provided ideal playing conditions, even if the spectator seating of around 160 was full only on weekends. ~I.R. White,” said Kamsky. 64. ... Kf7 65. Rb7+ Kf8 66. Kf2 Rc2+ 67. Kf1 Rc1+ 68. Ke2 Rc2+ 69. Kd3 Rxg2 70. Ra7 Be7 71. d6 Bd8 72. Nc5

72. Ra8 Ke8 73. Nf6+ Kf7 74. Rxd8! Kxf6 75. Re8! was again a faster route to victory. 72. ... Ke8 73. Rh7, Black resigned.

“I played very badly,” was Topalov’s blunt assessment of the game.

Both players appeared exhausted after this marathon battle, but Topalov was probably the most relieved to have a rest day before the fifth game. After relaxing at the exclusive Tabiet restaurant away from his seconds on the night before the fifth game, Topalov seemed refreshed while Kamsky, despite frantic preparation for a big opening sur 26

Chess Life — May 2009

prise his first ever French Defense was not seen at his best.

shot and could do nothing with his sec ond last game with the white pieces.

Blundering GM Veselin Topalov (FIDE 2796) GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2725) Sofia Candidates Final (5), 02.23.2009

Caro-Kann, Advance Variation (B12) GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2725) GM Veselin Topalov (FIDE 2796) Sofia Candidates Final (6), 02.24.2009

+

+

k+ r +  r +p p +n q +  p p + + +P  +  pR+ + +P+N+Q P P+  R  PK+ + + + +

After 34. Nd3

Topalov has maintained pressure since the opening but after 34. ... Re7 Black would have reasonable chances of hold ing the game. However Kamsky, anxious to avoid any time trouble in this game, plays a couple of quick moves and plum mets to defeat. 34. ... Rd8?! 35. Rc2 Nb4??

“I just relaxed for a minute and blun dered everything,” bemoaned Kamsky after the game. “I completely forgot about 37. Rxd4! for some reason.” 36. Nxb4

Kamsky’s head in hands, thought for two minutes before recapturing, realizing that his intended 36. ... axb4 37. Rxd4 Rxc2 38. Rxd6 Rxd6 loses to 39. Qa8+ Kh7 40. Qe4+. 36. ... axb4 37. Rxd4 Qf8?!

Played after 10 painful minutes work ing out that the rook endgame after 37. ... Qxd4 38. Rxc7 Qd5 39. Rb7 will be hopelessly lost. “37. ... Qf8 was also a big mistake,” said Topalov, “but I think objec tively the position was already lost.” However Kamsky's choice only makes matters worse. 38. Rxd8! Qxd8 39. Rxc7 Qxc7 40. Qa8+ Kh7 41. Qe4+ Kg8 42. Qxb4

These endgames are usually winning even with only one queenside pawn, so Kamsky would not have been criticized for resigning immediately. 42. ... Qc6+ 43. Kg1 Qc1+ 44. Kh2 Qc2 45. Qe1 Kf8 46. a3 Qb2 47. Qb4+ Kg8 48. Kg2 Qe5 49. Qg4 Qb2 50. Qc8+ Kh7 51. Qc4 Qxa3 52. Qxf7 Qb4 53. Qc4 Qb7+ 54. Kg1 Qf3 55. g4, Black resigned.

The next game, viewed as a good chance to bounce back was all Topalov after Kamsky missed another tactical

1. e4 c6 2. d4 d5 3. e5 Bf5 4. Nf3 e6 5. Be2 c5 6. Be3 cxd4 7. Nxd4 Ne7 8. Nd2 Nbc6 9. N2f3 Bg4

Kamsky himself had played 9. ... a6 against GM Peter Svidler and achieved a fairly comfortable draw. 10. 0-0 Bxf3 11. Nxf3

r+  qk l  r pp+   np pp +n+p+ + + +p P + + + + + + +  LN+ P PP+L PP P R +Q+R  K

After 11. Nxf3

11. ... g6

A rather unexpected novelty in a posi tion where previously Black had always moved his e7 knight to g6 or f5. The new weakening on the dark squares will only be important if White can open up the position, a task Kamsky now undertakes. 12. c4! Bg7 13. cxd5 Nxd5 14. Bc5 Bf8

r+  qk l  r pp+ +p+p  +n+p+p+ +  Ln P + + + + + + + +N+ P P +L PP P R +Q+R  K

After 14. ... Bf8

15. Qc1?

A miscalculation by Kamsky which allows Black instant equality. After 15. Rc1! Black still has some problems to solve after 15. ... Bxc5 16. Rxc5 0 0 17. Qd2 Kg7 18. h4 h6 19. Rfc1, although whether White can increase the pressure is uncertain. 15. ... Rc8! 16. Bxf8 Nd4!

Oops!

17. Qd1 Nxe2+ 18. Qxe2 Kxf8 uschess.org

The mass exchanges have led to a dead equal position and the game was drawn on move 43.

Then came the seesawing, tragic, final game given above which ended the match. With the match decided by a few hasty moves in time trouble, it would be easy to write off Topalov’s victory as lucky. Yet Kamsky’s mistakes tended to over shadow some great practical chess from Topalov: the piece sacrifice from nowhere in game two, the slow increase of pressure in games five and six, and the incredible risk taking in the final game. For once Topalov was unable to domi nate in the openings yet he lost only one game from the seven. The Bulgarian found another path to victory; setting practical problems for his opponent until Kamsky cracked. “He is a great tacti cian,” admitted Kamsky. “He was able to come up with moves that kept surprising me. He really deserved to win this match.” Whether Topalov’s strategy will work against Anand himself the archetypal practical player is a question which chess pundits will be discussing until the title match begins. Meanwhile Kamsky, while admitting he may not be the player he was when he unsuccessfully challenged for Anatoly Karpov’s FIDE world title in 1996, scotched suggestions that he might retire (again). “I have still got some chances [to play for the world title]. [Though] maybe I am not as ambitious as I should be ... When you get older it’s really hard to study; there are many other things in my life.”

Qualification Quarrels

The world body FIDE had decided in 2006 that the winner of the 2007 World Cup in Khanty Mansiysk would qualify to play the world champion in a title match but in mid 2007 the rules were altered and it was announced that the World Cup winner would have to play against Topalov before challenging for the world title. Why such a late change to the world championship system? In essence, the answer is a tribute to the negotiating skills of Topalov’s man ager IM Silvio Danailov. In 2006 when the contracts for the Kramnik Topalov match in Elista were being negotiated, Danailov made sure that a clause was included to exclude the loser which at that time looked likely to be Kramnik from the next world championship cycle. uschess.org

High Anxiety “We don’t want a scandal like in Elista” was the mantra which was repeated end lessly by the organizers of the match, the Bulgarian Chess Federation and even by spectators paying their 10 Lev to come to the NDK to watch the match. That Topalov was robbed in his 2006 world title match by Vladimir Kramnik and the Russian security agency, the FSB, is a national myth apparently believed throughout Sofia, despite the rest of the world’s view that all the scan dals in Elista were created by the Bulgarian side. So to avoid their national hero being robbed again, security meas ures at the Sofia match were extra ordinary, including metal detectors for both players and spectators and a total ban on press photographers after the first five minutes of the game. In fact in Sofia 2009 a determination existed on both sides to ensure that no cheating of any sort was possible. After three solid days of negotiations in Novem ber at the Dresden Olympiad, the two players and their managers signed an enormously detailed match agreement. However upon arrival the Kamsky team realized that enforcing many of the details would require constant argument with the match organizing committee. Topalov’s manager, Silvio Danailov, also began a psychological war, with a bogus claim that Kamsky (who has an Israeli manager, Emil Sutovsky) had sent a Mossad agent to inspect the playing venue. In fact the Kamsky team did bring a technical expert, a Russian, who ensured that the mobile phone jammer in the playing hall installed only midway through the first game was operational

When his player lost in Elista, Danailov spared no effort to ensure that Topalov would not have to wait years for his next challenge and, though he failed to have Topalov added to the 2007 World Championship tournament in Mexico City, Danailov did succeed in having Topalov included as an extra obstacle for the World Cup winner. Topalov rationalized: “This was a priv ilege but also compensation [to me] for the changes FIDE made to the cycle.” The unorthodox nature of this agree ment in part explains why it was so difficult to find a neutral sponsor for the match. As Kamsky’s manager Sutovsky explained, “In some ways the match was only of interest to the Bulgarians. It was an artificial match Gata (or eventually, any winner of World Cup

and checked Team Kamsky’s hotel room for listening devices. “We don’t want conflict we want to concentrate on chess,” explained Sutovsky. “That’s why I have to be absolutely sure, that Gata is focused on the game itself. I have nothing personally against Topalov (whom I greatly respect as a chess player) but it is a reality of today’s world that you have to take pre cautions. Five years ago, a computer could help you a lot. Today, the use of a computer just wins. It’s today’s reality. I am ready to risk sounding paranoid, but really I’m not.” Sutovsky went on to say that the secu rity matters should be separated from the overall match organization: “The hotel and the playing hall were great and all security measures are just minor. [However it is true that] most of the minor things in the contract were not realized [at first]. We arrived on the 12th, had the inspection on the 14th. The playing area was not ready on the 15th, not even on the 16th [the day of the opening ceremony] but only on the morning of the 17th.” Ultimately, it is to the credit of the organizers and the two teams that the match took place without incident. There is no doubt that, in today’s paranoid times, playing in Bulgaria was an advan tage for Topalov, who could be more relaxed about potential espionage threats. However there is no doubt that the Sofia match was decided entirely over the board, a fact for which many will breathe a sigh of relief.

.

See additional match reports on Chess Life Online at uschess.org, February archives.

2007) should have qualified directly to play Anand by winning the World Cup but then Topalov was added to the cycle. “So we could go to war a legal war or renegotiate and play; a difficult choice. If we took the legal route, some would say that we were doing it because we were scared about the outcome not true at all. So I advised Gata to agree to Sofia.” Kamsky’s decision to play in Sofia had one huge positive spin off for the American; one not entirely unexpected. In March FIDE changed the rules for the 2010 11 world championship cycle and announced a new eight player candi dates tournament to find a world title challenger. Only two players were pre qualified for the new tournament the loser of the Anand Topalov title match and ... Kamsky! ~`I.R. Chess Life — May 2009

27

USAT Events

Teeming Chess: The 2009 U.S. Amateur Team Events

The USCF’s premier amateur event continues to attract players across the country

USAT EAST: An Atypical Atmosphere

A first-time participant discovers the “hype” is deserved By Jonathan Hilton

fter attending the U.S. Amateur Team East for the first time this year, my perspective on the royal game has been altered. Nearly a year of traveling the country in pursuit of tour nament play has, gradually, developed in me a certain mind frame that of the intense chess competitor, or perhaps even the rambling chess warrior. Like most other players, the focus of my typical chess tournament experience is on myself: my games, my performance, my rating. Yet Steve Doyle’s yearly team event in Parsippany, New Jersey encourages “com petitors” like me to expand our mindsets and embrace a bustling atmosphere of community, friendship, and openness. I had initially noticed something strange was afoot when, in the freezing parking lot of the Parsippany Hilton, I noted a group of what appeared to be young chess play ers I couldn’t know for sure, but I felt intuitively that they were who had for saken their traditional pre tournament blitz to play with a Frisbee outdoors. I was lugging my bags to the door when a green disk gently landed at my feet. Unsure of myself, I paused and, feeling my pre

A

28

Chess Life — May 2009

game nerves receding as I lost my “guard,” I stooped over to pick up the Frisbee and toss it back. Had I been attending a scholastic tour nament, I wouldn’t have given the incident a second thought. As I entered the hotel building, however, I knew this was no scholastic event. Few “opens” can boast even half as many titled players as the U.S. Amateur Team East (USATE), and when I saw grandmasters like Nick deFir mian, Joel Benjamin, John Fedorowicz, and Giorgi Kacheishvili around me, I felt the inescapable sensation that I had sud denly stepped into The Twilight Zone. The cluttered hallways, the “chess moms” and “chess dads” congregating in the lobby area, and the myriads of small chil dren moving underfoot screamed of a “SuperNationals style” event. The grand masters, the presence of chess veterans like IM Jay Bonin, and the decorum of the sizable tournament hall which, this year, held 1,203 players embodied the essence of a strong open. “What kind of tourna ment is this?” I thought, bewildered. The answer, of course, was a tourna ment unlike any other. This was a

tournament that would bring even the most reticent players out of their shells; those who would normally be undergoing solemn pre game routines at the start of a round could be found chatting with their opponents and teammates as if at a family reunion. Anticipation or anxiety before matches was replaced with festiv ities each round and with charismatic organizer Steve Doyle at the microphone, there was always spirited entertainment. There was ceremony as well before the start of round one, members from all 283 teams in attendance said the Pledge of Allegiance together as a flag ceremony was performed by cadets from West Point.

Youth Versus “Experience”

The fusing of the lively “scholastic” atmosphere with that of a “heritage event” yielded explosive results over the chess board. So called youth versus experience matchups were frequent, and their essence was best captured when a team from Hunter College High School in New York faced the posse of reigning World Senior Champion GM Larry Kaufman. Kaufman’s uschess.org

PHOTO: ROBERT ORESICK

For 39 years, the USAT East has been celebrating chess.

team, named “UR Outrated: Give Up” based on its average team rating of 2199, just shy of the 2200 limit, was “diversified.” The two experienced, titled players, Larry Kauf man and his son IM Ray Kaufman, took boards one and two while their younger counterparts David Schoch and Douglas Stanley took boards three and four. Mean while, “Hunter Chess High School” was composed of junior player and master Michael Thaler, freshman FM Alec Getz, seventh grade student CM Aleksandr Ostrovskiy, and freshman expert Aaron Landesman. “Hunter is a school for the gifted or lucky,” remarked Getz. Both teams finished with 5 1 records and had dreams of winning “the whole thing.” Larry Kaufman’s team was a top seed, and an improving Ray Kaufman had recently earned his IM title while playing in Europe. The players from Hunter had an average team rating of 2159 but were clearly underrated, as they have bene fited from playing at the Marshall Chess Club. “We all know each other well,” said Getz, “and we’re all improving fast.” The two teams faced each behind the rope partition in a critical fourth round match. First board Thaler got a sizable edge against the senior world champion in an Exchange Ruy Lopez, and with the bottom two boards appearing to favor Hunter, Getz found a creative plan to hold a draw with the black pieces: uschess.org

Queen’s Gambit Declined (D37) IM Raymond Kaufman (2314) FM Alec Getz (2277) U.S. Amateur Team East (4), 02.15.2009 Notes by Getz 1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Be7 4. Nf3 Nf6 5. Bf4 0-0 6. e3 Nbd7 7. cxd5 Nxd5 8. Nxd5 exd5 9. Bd3 Bb4+ 10. Kf1!

r+l q  rk+  pp pn+p pp + + + + + +p+ + l   P  L + + +L PN+ P P +  PP P  R +Q+K+R

After 10. Kf1

I was surprised by this move, but after a minute I started to feel uncomfortable with my position. White loses castling rights, but the king is not in danger since White controls the center. The rook might prove more useful on h1 than f1, but more importantly, White wants to keep his knight on f3, where it can jump to e5 or g5. Retreating to d2 would not be as active. Black's bishop is aiming at air

Chess 960 Another side event at the U.S. Amateur Team East is the “Chess 960” championship, a newer and less established tournament held on Sunday at 8:00 a.m. Excalibur donated several clocks as prizes, and as the event was sparsely attended, there were enough for each participant to receive one. Writes tournament winner Adithya Bala subramanian, “The entry fee was $10, and we were getting $40 clocks, so it was a win win situation.” Balasubramanian, who finished with 2½/3 after ceding a wild, dou ble flag fall draw to Scott Low, was played in his first ever Chess 960 event. “I ended up using a lot of my time trying to figure out how to castle.” Clearly, the different starting order of the pieces along the back rank didn’t faze Balasubramanian too much after finishing his game with Low, he replayed the entire game from memory so that it could be written down! Expect the Chess 960 event to grow in future years. ~JH

Chess Life — May 2009

29

USAT Events

The “Other” Championship As the U.S. Amateur Team East (USATE) grows, so does its premier side event: the Sunday night “bug house” tournament, which started at 11:00 p.m. after most of the fourth round battles had ended. “This year was a lot more competitive than pre vious years,” observed Japanese American talent Shinsaku Uesugi. “There were more teams, and the teams were stronger more FMs and IMs chose to play this year than ever before.” Uesugi, who paired up with fellow bughouse guru Jason McKin ney to win last year’s USATE bughouse championship, formed the team “Asian Domination” with multi time National Open Bughouse Champion Nephtali Diaz to once again take the top prize. The two had strong team chemistry and “the quickest hands I’ve ever seen,” according to WFM Abby Marshall, who partnered with IM Alex Lender man for the event. She jokingly added that the pair should have been called “World Domination,” and that their chances against them would have been better had the Game/5 time control been doubled. Uesugi cites his team’s match against FM Daniel Yeager and Scott Low as their toughest. Despite the opposing team’s strong resistance, Uesugi remarks, “we stayed in con trol.” “Asian Domination” also defeated a powerful duo of FM Marc Arnold and IM Robert Hess. Despite being out rated, Uesugi was not intimidated last year, he and his partner McKinney had taken down GM Hikaru Nakamura and Danny Rohde. Ultimately, after two exhaust ing hours of bughouse, Diaz and Uesugi were declared the 2009 USATE bughouse champions with a perfect 6 0 score. And, in another one of USATE’s many paradoxes, they split the $170 first place prize. What a strange twist it is that, while the main USATE event is played for honor, fun, fame, and bragging rights, the USATE bughouse cham pionship is the only part of the event with a cash prize! ~JH If you would like to watch Uesugi and Diaz in action, all six of their games from the 2009 USATE Bughouse Championship are available on YouTube from the user “Bughouse MASTER.” 30

Chess Life — May 2009

and is a target in light of White's Qd1 b3 or a2 a3 and b2 b4 with a “minority attack.” Black needs to find a good defense or he will succumb to an attack or be squeezed off the board. Perhaps Kaufman had seen the game Korchnoi Portisch, played last year in Corus, where “Viktor the Terrible” squeezed his oppo nent off the board. Portisch in that game played 10. ... Nf6 to secure d5, but when Korchnoi stuck his knight on e5 it was stuffy for Black.

make the time control at move 40. In the end, it was Kaufman who made the fabled “second to last blunder.”

10. ... Bd6!!

This move is only sixth in popularity, but it scores well and is recommended in some books.

If this move looks ridiculous at first sight, it should. Isn’t Black just giving himself doubled pawns? Yes, but after Black plays ... Nf6, it will be difficult for White to win either of the d pawns. Also, Black can now challenge White’s control of the c file rather than allowing White to start a “minority attack.” One might also think White is playing a “pawn up,” but this is not the case, as both d pawns pull their weight. The d6 pawn forever secures e5 and c5, and the d5 pawn gives Black a stronghold on e4 and c4. If White wants to make progress with e3 e4, he will allow Black to "undou ble" his pawns yet another reason Black is not playing “down a pawn.” 11. Bxd6 cxd6 12. g3 Nf6 13. Kg2 Qb6 14. Qb3 Bd7 15. Rac1

After 15. Qxb6 axb6, Black has two sets of doubled isolated pawns but yet still has the initiative. His a8 rook targets White’s a pawn, and White will have to eventually play a2 a3. Then Black can play ... b6 b5 b4, prying open the queenside. 15. ... Rfc8 16. Rhe1 Qxb3 17. axb3 Rxc1 18. Rxc1 Rc8 19. Rxc8+

If White probes for weaknesses with 19. Ra1 a6 20. Ra5 (with the idea of b3 b4 b5), Black has time to bring his king to the center. 19. ... Bxc8 20. Nd2 Kf8 21. f3 h6 22. b4 Ke7 23. Nb1 Kd8 24. Nc3 Bd7 25. e4

White at last goes for this breakthrough.

25. ... dxe4 26. fxe4 a6 27. Kf3 Bc6 28. h3

If 28. d5 Be8, Black’s knight will come to e5 via d7. 28. ... Ke7 29. Ke3 d5

This seemed the simplest way to draw, as after White’s next move it is hard for him to make further progress. 30. e5 Ne8 31. Be2 f6 32. Kf4 g6 33. h4 Nc7 34. exf6+ Kxf6 35. Bf3, Draw agreed.

White finally concedes the draw, as he can never break through or win the d5 pawn. In the matchup between Thaler and GM Kaufman, however, the former had started to lose control. The game went into a tailspin with both players scrambling to

Ruy Lopez, Exchange Variation (C68) Michael Thaler (2298) GM Larry Kaufman (2452) U.S. Amateur Team East (4), 02.15.2009 Notes by Kaufman 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Bxc6 dxc6 5. 0-0 Qf6

6. d4

Roughly equal is 6. d3 Bg4.

6. ... exd4 7. Bg5 Qd6 8. Nxd4

Taking with the queen would please Black, because the bishop pair tends to gain in value with a queen trade. 8. ... Be7

Black doesn't really want to exchange bishops when he has the bishop pair, but otherwise his development is diffi cult. 8. ... Bd7 is the move to go all out for the win, but it carries some risk. 9. Be3

Trading bishops is more common here, because it leaves White with a healthy kingside pawn majority versus Black’s crippled queenside one, while Black no longer enjoys the bishop pair as com pensation. But Black’s development is then simple, and his remaining bishop and knight are a tad better than White’s two knights, so White’s edge is quite small. 9. ... c5?!

I wanted to trade queens to aid my bishop pair, but I fall a bit too far behind in development. 9. ... Nf6 is correct with about equal chances. Then 10. f3 (to stop ... Ng4) 10. ... 0 0 is about equal. 10. Nb3 Qxd1 11. Rxd1 b6 12. Nc3 Nf6 13. e5

13. Bf4 Bd8 14. h3 0 0 15. a4 would give White a serious initiative. 13. ... Nd7 14. Nd5 Bd8 15. Bg5 c6 16. Bxd8 cxd5 17. Bc7 Bb7 18. Re1

Better and equal was 18. f4.

18. ... Rc8

18. ... Ke7 was probably better.

19. Bd6 Nf8 20. f4 Kd7?!

Black is fine after 20. ... Ng6 21. g3 Ne7.

21. Rad1

Stronger is 21. f5!. uschess.org

21. ... g6

+r+  n  r +l+k+p+p p p  L +p+ +  pp P + + +  P + +N+ + + P PP+ +P P + +R R  K

After 21. ... g6

22. c4?

Needlessly giving Black a protected passed pawn and a powerful bishop. Bet ter was 22. Rf1 aiming for f4 f5. 22. ... d4 23. Nd2 Ne6

Black has a serious advantage now.

24. b4 cxb4 25. Bxb4 Nxf4 26. Rf1

The lesser evil was 26. Nf3.

26. ... g5 27. h4 Ke8!

I was proud of this move, because usu ally you don't move the king to the edge in the endgame. 28. hxg5 Nxg2

28. ... Ne6 was the safer route to main tain the advantage. 29. e6! fxe6 30. Rf6 Ne3 31. Rxe6+ Kd8 32. Rb1 Rg8 33. Be7+?!

This should lose. 33. Kf2 offers some hope for a draw. 33. ... Kd7 34. Rexb6 Bc6 35. Bf6 Ng4??

The move 35. ... Rcf8! wins, whereas my move should draw. 36. Bxd4

The patient 36. Rf1! should hold.

36. ... Rxg5 37. Kf1?

37. Rb8 gives drawing chances, as there is no great discovered check. 37. ... Re8!

This clearly wins.

38. Rxc6

The mating threats forced this, but in such an open position a bishop is no match for a rook. 38. ... Kxc6 39. Rb6+ Kc7 40. Kg2 Ne3+ 41. Kf2 Nc2, White resigned.

Disaster also struck Hunter on boards three and four, and when the score sheet was signed, Larry Kaufman’s team had prevailed 3½ ½. Hunter rebounded to uschess.org

win its next two matches, handily taking the “Best High School Team” award, while “UR Outrated: Give Up” moved on to play for the overall championship.

A “Balanced” Team Prevails

After five rounds, it appeared likely that the team of the world senior cham pion would go on to become the world amateur team champions. Going into the sixth round with five convincing wins under their belts, they were paired with “Palin Gambit: I Can See Checkmate from My House,” a group formed by expert and team anchor Alan Price. This team had, over the course of five rounds, appeared to barely scrape together each win as top board Paul Mac Intyre described it, “We never swept anyone.” Mac Intyre himself had started with an inauspicious 0 3 score after he suffered a 400 point upset in the first round. Yet somehow, “Palin Gambit” kept winning. As Mac Intyre explained, “Alan Price firmly believes in having a ‘balanced’ team one with four players whose rat ings are as close to one another as possible.” The idea is to have the ability to win against any lineup, even if it means only the narrowest margins of victory are possible. The strategy appears to be a winning one, as Price has now assembled, over the course of a little more than a decade, two winning USATE teams. His last winning team, “Light Blue,” edged out the team of Anatoly Karpov for the USATE title in 1998. The showdown between “UR Outrated: Give Up” and “Palin Gambit” gave the latter a rating edge on the bottom two boards. Third board Libardo “Ng5” Rueda, formerly the junior champion of Colum bia two decades ago, defeated David Schoch efficiently. “Rueda relies on about three opening books and raw talent,” comments Mac Intyre. “His attacking style made him a powerhouse for the team.” Rueda has recently returned to chess after a long hiatus and, with only a 2189 rating, is clearly improving as he regains his old form. His individual per formance was just shy of perfect at 5½/6! Meanwhile, “Palin Gambit” fourth board Alan “Chaos Theory” Price had stirred up complications against the dynamic Douglas Stanley. Both had perfect individual scores going into the game, but for Price, this was a “must win” situation. His teammate Brian “Mercy Killer” Hulse had gone down in flames on board two to IM Ray Kaufman, leveling the match to 1 1, and with Mac Intyre facing the strong GM Kaufman the match situation necessitated a win. With the score now at 2 1, it was up to Mac Intyre to clinch the match. Writes Mac Intyre, “Before the round, I had insisted that Alan take me out to the car

“Stimulating” the Growth of College Chess The best performing collegiate team this year was “Queenside Stim ulus Package,” a group of four students from the University of Vir ginia (UVA). Top board FM Ruixin Yang, a triple major in computer engineering, computer science, and economics, is now in his fourth year of studies at UVA. “Like many stu dents, I haven’t been able to play much during my college years,” he remarked. Since starting as a full time student in the fall of 2005, he has only played in a total of six rated events including the U.S. Amateur Team East (USATE). Sponsorship from UVA paid for his team’s trip to Parsippany, enabling them to com pete to their fullest potential. “Not having to worry about the financial end of the event was great,” Yang says, “and an event like USATE pro vides a great way for chess players in college to get back into the game, since being on a team motivates you to knock the rust off quickly.” Yang advises college students to inquire about the possibility of obtaining chess related travel funds from their schools. “Many colleges have a stu dent activities committee,” he says, “and these committees tend to be open as to how to spend money. Ask for a form to fill out and see what they say.” Other members of “Queenside Stimulus Package” included college sophomore Atul Kannan, senior Carl Barth, and freshman Paul Casi. Casi, the team’s 1399 rated anchor, scored some impressive upset draws and proved to be a “surprise weapon” of sorts. His round five draw against William Michael, who out rated him by 360 points, helped the students defeat the team led by GM Arthur Bisguier by a margin of 2½ 1½. “I know that University of Virginia has sent teams to USATE before,” Yang comments, “but this was our strongest year ever. Our chess club has only about ten people, but we were able to field a good team from that.” Several of UVA’s chess club members are graduates of nearby Thomas Jefferson High School, which has a thriving extracurricular chess program and routinely takes home trophies in national scholas tic events. ~JH

Chess Life — May 2009

31

USAT Events to fish out the excellent opening repertoire book The Chess Advantage in Black and White by GM Kaufman himself. As I leafed through it for ideas of what to play, I bounced ideas off Alan, and finally con cluded that the Giuoco Piano would be the best approach for me to take with white.” A serious misstep in the opening left Kaufman with an abysmal position, and after just 33 moves, he conceded the match by offering a draw. “I never thought I would ever win a USATE event in my life,” says Mac Intyre. Of his team’s reaction, he says, “We were simply thunderstruck.” When they went to nearby Chevy’s restau rant to celebrate, IM Yury Lapshun approached them with a group of young students and made a display of asking the team members for their autographs. Soon afterwards, their names were to be engraved on the giant plaque of past USATE winners. “Palin Gambit” had made history.

A Take-Home Message

After all the festivities had ended and I was safely on a plane flight headed home to Ohio, I was still trying to piece together all that I had seen. As a devoted chess enthusiast, I have always loved the game passionately. Never before, how ever, had I imagined it possible that so many people could have so much fun playing it. Take, for example, the rapture induced by the “Best Team Name” com petition. Of all the bragging rights a team can garner at USATE, perhaps none is more coveted than that of hav ing the best named team. Before the start of round four, organizer Steve Doyle read aloud from a select list of names. The one evoking the strongest reaction from the tournament hall would be declared the winner. Although each of the names in contention was met with mild applause, the crowd erupted into cheers and laughter at “I Can See Russians from My Board,” which became an instant classic and the over all “Best Team Name” victor. As usual, political puns were found in abundance: “Blago Defense: Never Resign,” “Biden My Time for a Barrack Rank Mate,” “Reti for Change,” and “Chess We Can,” were just a few. This year, however, politics took a back seat to the economy. Fan favorites included “GM Team Needs a Bailout” and “New York Stock Exchange Sac.” At least a dozen names targeted fraudster Bernard Madoff, from the straight shooting “Mad off with Your Pieces” to the sophisticated “Bernie Made Off with My Check.” Par odies of movies, such as “Harold & Kumar Take Your White Castle,” were scarcer this year than in past years, 32

Chess Life — May 2009

though some, such as “Scumdog Bil lionaire Bernie,” combined economic or political allusions with cinematic ones. Less common but still packing a punch were those names reflecting recent developments in top level chess, such as “Magnus Cum Laude” and “Vendi, Vidi, Vishy.” Some teams even paid homage to USATE itself “Rules According to Doyle” was one. Finally, it would be a travesty not to note that the theme this year was “The 60s,” and thus the “Best Gimmick” award went to the “Parsip pany Chess Club Band,” whose song parodied the famous Beatles’ “Sergeant Pepper” tune. Another example of the spirit of fun I found at USATE was the willingness of parents to enter the fray. One group of brave “chess moms” and “chess dads” was the “Slowskys,” led by the fearless, amiable, and dashing Richard Yeager. With an established rating well above 1400, the father of reigning Denker champion FM Daniel Yeager bravely put himself up as the “team sacrifice” on board one, losing his first four games but coming back to win the last two. On boards two and three were William Moore and Tom Douris, respec tively, and serving as the team anchor was Timothy Low, father of Denker co champion Scott Low. Rounding out the team was Masako Uesugi, mother of the strong master Shinsaku Uesugi. The devotion of many people is neces sary to promote, organize, and host such an incredible event. Excalibur Electronics donates the numerous chess clock prizes, and volunteers such as Bill Townsend work tirelessly to con tribute to the event using their time, talent, and skills. Townsend is renowned for his dedication to ensuring the car bon copy game scores are all entered into the computer database, a feat which can take months to complete. The play ers of USATE are particularly grateful to the many men and women who serve on the tournament’s staff: Steve Doyle, Carol Jarecki, Sophia Rohde, Mike Somers, Hal Sprechman, Steve Immitt, Roger Inglis, Larry Constance, Aaron Kiedes, Joe Ippolito, Walt Heerschapp, Judy Heerschapp, Noreen Davisson, Mark Doyle, and Bernadette Doyle. Spe cial recognition this year also goes to the “R yatt Squad,” which celebrated 35 years of uninterrupted USATE atten dance this year. Having attended this event which I would describe as a sort of “chess revival” will undoubtedly influence my outlook on chess in the months and years to come. Already, I have felt the three word “take home message” of USATE sink in: chess is fun! I feel more in tune with my inner ability to revel in the friend ship and camaraderie of my fellow chess

players. Not a bad result for a single three day weekend. Finally, I would like to leave you with the following impression of the exciting, high level chess that occurs when the top boards of the top teams are in top form. GM Pascal Charbonneau, playing for the 13th seeded team “Quantum of Soltis” which was in contention for the title throughout the tournament cre ated this round three masterpiece: Sicilian Defense, Kan Variation (B43) GM Pascal Charbonneau (2552) Arthur Feuerstein (2200) U.S. Amateur Team East (3), 02.15.2009 Notes by Charbonneau

After the game, during analysis, I found out that my opponent had drawn against Bobby Fischer on five occasions, before finally losing one at the breakthrough U.S. Championship Fischer won at the age of 14. 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 a6 5. Nc3 b5 6. Bd3 Bb7 7. 0-0 b4!?

A risky move. Black usually waits for White to play a2 a4 to make this push. The problem is that Black is still several moves away from castling, and White can easily open some lines with c2 c3 or a2 a3. 8. Na4

Playable is 8. Nce2 but the text is more aggressive, keeping an eye on the b6 square, and leaving the e file open for the rook or queen. 8. ... Qa5 9. c3 Nf6 10. Re1 bxc3

This would be OK if Black could develop normally afterwards, but tactically there is a flaw. Better was 10. ... Nc6 when I was considering the sneaky 11. a3!? bxc3 (11. ... bxa3 12. b4! is the point) 12. Nxc6 Bxc6 (12. ... cxb2 13. Nxa5 bxa1=Q 14. Nxb7 is good for White) 13. Nxc3 with a preferable position for White but nothing extraordinary. 11. Nxc3 d6 12. Qb3! Qc7 13. Bg5 Nbd7

r+ +k l  r +l qn+p pp p+  pp n + + + +  L +  NP+ + +Q NL+ + P P + P P P R +   R  K

After 13. ... Nbd7

14. Bxf6 uschess.org

Tempting was 14. Nxe6 but I could not quite make it work after 14. ... fxe6 15. Qxe6+ Be7 16. Nd5 Bxd5 17. exd5 Nc5.

The knight threatens to fork from either b6 or c7, and so cannot be ignored.

14. ... Nxf6?!

16. ... Bxd5

14. ... gxf6 may not look fun, but it was necessary. However, in this Rauzer structure with the c file open, the black king will never feel comfortable on either side of the board; 14. ... Nc5? 15. Qc4 gxf6 16. b4 wins.

15. Rac1 Qd7 16. Nd5!

No better is 16. ... Rc8 17. Nb6 Rxc1 18. Rxc1 Qd8 19. Bxa6 Bxa6 20. Qa4+ Nd7 21. Nxd7 Qxd7 22. Qxa6. 17. exd5 e5 18. Bf5 Qa7 19. Nc6

The queen has nowhere to go.

19. ... Qc7 20. Nxe5 Qxc1 21. Rxc1

I contemplated 21. Qa4+, which is both prettier and more convincing, but some how I made the other move. 21. ... Ke7 (21. ... Kd8 22. Nxf7+ Kc7 23. Rxc1+) 22. Nc6 mate. 21. ... dxe5 22. Qa4+ Kd8 23. Qc6, Black resigned.

And my opponent and I went on to ana lyze, in the amicable spirit of the USATE.

“MyGirl” Does It At The USAT South Chess with a southern drawl By Harvey Lerman

il Luna, captain of last year’s U.S. Amateur Team South (USATS) win ners that also won the national playoff, put together another team for this year’s USATS in Orlando by combining three players from Miami and then search ing the list of rated Florida players to choose one from central Florida to give his team a 2193 rating. The team was named “My girl is pissed!,” reflecting the fact that many wives and girlfriends were “a little” upset to be left alone on Valentines Day! Jeff Haskel, who was on Gil’s winning team last year, meanwhile led a team of four of Florida’s top teenagers. Jeff indi cated his pleasure with being included on this team with those players, saying sar castically, “I would not have to face them over the board!” This team formed by Toby Boas, who recently won the National Grade 12 championship, was second highest rated at 2156. The team eventu ally named themselves “Pawnographers” and explained that it had to be “said with a southern twang.” The third highest rated team in the event was made up mostly of “oldtimers” that play in every USATS, consider it their favorite event, and play in very few, if any other, events. This team rated 2133, was named “No Bailout For You,” reflect ing the fact that as businessmen they normally were more concerned with the economy than playing chess. This team had a fifth player, to allow any player “a rest” if needed. In fact while reviewing the wallcharts before the event to plan his team strategy, Haskel sluffed off the “Nobail” team as no threat as “they were playing at their floors!” Little did he know at the time that this would do his team in!

G

See more “Teams” reporting on Chess Life Online in the February archives at uschess.org!

uschess.org

So the top three teams were:

#1 MYGIRL My girl is pissed! (2193.3)

Bruci Lopez (2485) Ernesto Alvarez (2185) Gilberto Luna II (2069) Makaio W. Krienke (2009)

#2 HASKEL “Pawnographers” (2145.5)

Jeffrey Haskel (2258) Christopher Heung (2123) Toby Boas (2112) Dalton Perrine (2089)

#3 NOBAIL No Bailout For You (2133.5)

John P. Nardandrea (2200) Lawrence A. Storch (2200) Peter Dyson (2071) Jeremy Mandelkern (2063) Charles S. Hall (2040)

These top three teams won their first two matches and then “Haskel” had to face “Nobail.” Maybe Haskel’s strategy backfired as their team lost ½ 3½ to these oldtimers, which would really hurt their tiebreak points. Going into the last round “Mygirl” was alone at 4 0 and would face “Haskel” at 3 1. While “Nobail” who had lost to the leaders in the previ ous round faced the “Tampa Tornadoes” rated 2116, and without their first board, as Nardandrea sat out. But this might have been part of “Nobail’s” strategy as this moved Larry Storch (2200, floor) up to play Corey Acor (2274) and as Storch later pointed out “I normally do well against Corey.” Larry's win against Corey gave “Nobail” the match 2½ 1½. The “Mygirl” “Haskel” match was the last one to finish. Haskel did his job by drawing Bruci as Nardandrea (2200, floor) had done in the previous round, and the

fourth board match, Perinne Krienke, was drawn as well. Boas then was able to beat Luna, leaving everything up to Heung Alvarez. “Haskel” needed a draw to win the match which would leave these top three teams tied for first, but it looked like tiebreaks would favor “Mygirl.” The game was a rook and pawns endgame that was drawn, and “Mygirl” won on tiebreaks. The Scholastic section was won by “Ludwig's Warriors,” named after the team’s coach, Daniel Ludwig, and older brother of 8 year old John Ludwig who was on the team. John was rated only 842 in the year end ratings used for this event, so had to play fourth board, as the “War” team consisted of: WAR Ludwig’s Warriors (1140.5)

Samuel Leavitt (1370) James W. Barrick (1336) Amy Tsai (1014) John G. Ludwig (842)

But John Ludwig has been tutored by his famous older brother and his cur rent rating is over 1200 and many are predicting that he is improving faster than his brother had. Ludwig was the only player in the scholastics to win all five games, as “War” won all five matches. “Terminators,” the highest rated team in the scholastics finished second. TERMIN Terminators (1160.3) Edward Li (1443) Nick Moore (1340) Kevin Hu (1238) Amelia A. Langford (620)

But “Termin” scored the most points (16½), and their top three boards won board prizes. They won all their matches except for the one against “War.” Chess Life — May 2009

33

USAT Events The event was held at the Orlando International Airport Hotel and was organized by the Central Florida Chess Club (CFCC). Harvey Lerman was chief tournament director and the Hollywood Kings Chess Club ran the “book store” where mostly DVDs and equipment is sold. BOARD PRIZE WINNERS

OPEN 1. Bruci Lopez 2. Christopher Heung 3. Alexander Malekan 4. Michael Elgart SCHOLASTIC 1. Edward Li 2. Nick Moore 3. Kevin Hu 4. John Ludwig

4 4 4 5

1 1 1 0

4 1 4½ ½ 4 1 5 0

Here Carl Scarpati takes on the captain of last year’s national team champs:

French Defense (C00) Gilberto Luna (2053) Carl Scarpati (1756) U.S. Amateur Team South (1), 02.14.2009 Notes by Scarpati 1. e4 e6 2. d3

I have never played Gil before, so when he played the King’s Indian Attack I was a bit surprised, as I am more familiar with the more used d4. 2. ... d5 3. Nd2 Nf6 4. Ngf3 c5 5. g3 Nc6 6. Bg2 Be7 7. 0-0 0-0 8. Re1 b6 9. c3 Bb7 10. e5

I thought this move was slightly inferior to the other choices White had; after ... Nd7 I think Black had reached at least equality. 10. ... Nd7 11. d4 Rc8 12. Nb3 a5 13. a4

+r q  rk+ +l+n lp pp pn+p+ +  p   pp P + P+  P + + +N P +N P P +   PL P R   LQ R  K

After 13. a4

At this point I felt like I needed to rearrange my pieces starting with my light square bishop, considering the way the diagonal was locked up. 13. ... Ba6 14. h4 h6

I really didnt understand the meaning

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behind 14. h4; I felt like I was doing OK after this. 15. Bf1? Bxf1 16. Kxf1

I thought the trade of the light square bishops was mistimed since his king was now on an awkward square; for a long time I pondered on moves such as ... c5 c4 or ... f7 f6 but I changed my mind when I saw 16. ... cxd4 and he does not have to take back with the pawn which would have allowed me the nice knight outpost on b4. 16. ... cxd4 17. Nbxd4 Nxd4 18. Nxd4 Nc5 19. Kg2 Qd7 20. Bf4 Rfe8 21. Rh1 f6

This move was most likely wrong but I felt as if I needed to make a break in order to attain some sort of play.

17. Rfd1? b5! 18. Qc2 b4!

A remarkable position; White is helpless against Black’s knight, bishop and pawn, despite having a fully developed position.

r+  q r k+ p +   pp lp + + +p+ n   P + + pl  P + + +  N  L + P+Q+N PP P +  RR+  K

After 18. ... b4

22. g4?

19. Na4 b3 20. Qb2 bxa2 21. Rxc4

22. ... fxe5 23. Bxe5 Bd6 24. Nf3 Bxe5 25. Nxe5 Qd6 26. Re1 Rcd8 27. Qc2 Ne4 28. Nd3 Rf8

21. ... Nxc4 22. Qxa2 Nxe3 23. fxe3 Qa5 24. Qc2 Bh6 25. Kf2 Rab8 26. d5 Rb4 27. Ra1 Rfb8 28. Nd4 Qa6

Perhaps a little too aggressive.

+

r 

rk+  + + +  p p   qp+  p p +p+ +  P+ +n+P P +  PN+ + PQ+   PK+ R +   R +

After 28. ... Rf8

Black should have had a better game here, but White just threw the game away ... I dont know whether it was the time pressure or if he just missed it, but after that it was pretty much straightforward. 29. f3?? Qg3+! 30. Kh1 Qxf3+ 31. Kg1 Qg3+ 32. Kh1 Nf2+, White resigned.

And now the National K 12 champ takes it to Luna also:

Otherwise, White has no play.

I didn't like the lines after 28. ... Rb2 29. Nxb2 Qxa1 30. Nd3 when White’s advanced pawns will be annoying. 29. Nc6 Rc4

Losing immediately, but White’s posi tion was already desperate. 30. Qa2 Rb7 31. Na5 Qf6+ 32. Ke2 Re4 33. Nc4 Rb4 34. Nab2 Rxe3+ 35. Kd1 Qd4+ 36. Kc1 Rc3+, White resigned.

Chess Life seems to have run an inordi nate number of Luna losses these last two years despite his success; we invited him to submit a win in the interest of fair ness! ~ed. Ruy Lopez, Schliemann/Jaenisch Defense (C63) Gilberto Luna (2053) Charles Greene (2092) U.S. Amateur Team South (3), 02.14.2009 Notes by Luna

Alekhine’s Defense, Four Pawns Attack (B03) Gilberto Luna (2053) Toby Boas (2156) U.S. Amateur Team South (5), 02.15.2009 Notes by Boas

I had played Greene last year and remembered that he played the Schlie mann, so this was no surprise to me.

1. e4 Nf6 2. e5 Nd5 3. d4 d6 4. c4 Nb6 5. exd6 cxd6 6. Nc3 g6 7. Be3 Bg7 8. Rc1 0-0 9. Be2 d5 10. c5 Nc4 11. Bxc4 dxc4 12. Nge2 Bf5 13. 0-0 Nc6 14. b3 Bd3 15. bxc4 Bxc4 16. Qa4 Na5

4. ... Nf6 5. 0-0 Bc5 6. exf5 0-0 7. Be3 Nd4 8. c3 Nxf3+

Setting up a tactical threat which White underestimates.

1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 f5

4. d3

I know that I can play 4. Qe2 or 4. exf5 but I prefer 4. d3. Also interesting is 8. ... Nxb5 9. Bxc5 d6 10. Qb3+. 9. Qxf3 uschess.org

All book up to this point however my opponent took a very long time figuring things out. 9. ... Qe7

I didnt like this move. Better is 9. ... Be7.

10. Bc4+

Here I gain an important tempo. If 9. ... Be7 then on 10. Bc4+ he can play 10. ... d5. 10. ... Kh8 11. Nd2 c6 12. Bxc5

I thought for a while before this move and wasn’t sure exactly how to follow up. However I knew that with the queen on c5 I would gain a tempo and some space at some point. 12. ... Qxc5 13. Rae1 d5 14. Bb3 e4

This move was interesting. I did not consider it. Better was 14. ... Re8, but true to his style my opponent wanted to open up lines.

15. dxe4 dxe4 16. Nxe4 Nxe4 17. Qxe4 Bxf5 18. Qe5

This move is important. I cannot give him time to activate the other rook. 18. Qe7 is probably a little better, but I wanted to maintain pressure along the a1 h8 diagonal and following up with the idea of h4 h5 h6. 18. ... Qb6

Maintaining pressure on f2, which is the only weak point in my position. 19. Re3

Here I must block the queen from the key f2 square and I must be able to use my other rook. Also d3 was a soft spot in my position. 19. ... a5

The idea behind this move is to play ... a5 a4 and ... Ra8 Ra5. It also takes the bishop from the b3 g8 diagonal and puts

pressure on b2. Interesting was 19. ... Bg6 20. Rfe1 a5 21. c4 a4 22. Bd1. 20. h4

This is the best move. I am now threat ening h4 h5 h6. 20. ... Bg6

Now if 21. h5 then 21. ... Rf5. He is also threatening ... a5 a4 with tempo to play Ra5. 21. Be6

This is a key move. Now ... a4 threaten ing the bishop with tempo and ... Rf5 are no longer threats. Nor is ... Rae8 or Rfe8. 21. ... a4 22. h5 Ra5 23. Rf3!

I am sure he missed this idea.

23. ... Rg8

The alternatives 23. ... Rd8, 23. ... Re8 and 23. ... Rfa8 are met by 24. Qf4. 24. Qd6, Black resigned.

“Jimmy Runs Deep” Dominates North

Wisconsin’s second hosting shows a positive trend By FM Alex Betaneli

isconsin hosted the north leg of the United States Amateur Team Championships for the second straight year. As the weather was nicer this time around, more teams from other states made an appearance. Although it is just a five round tournament, five fight ing games per player still add up to a lot of chess. The happy winners from Indiana appeared truly exhausted on Sunday night, but how deceiving are appearances! Upon the conclusion of the last round, an intense blitz game was played in order to test the prize in action (first place team received the slick Duel Timer digital wooden clocks). The clock passed the stern test and the winners were pleased indeed. “Jimmy Runs Deep” (Jim Dean, Gar rett Smith, Drew Hollinberger, Danny Gater) demonstrated how team events are often won: there is no need to crush the opponents, just score more than two points and move onto the next match. The team from Indiana did just that to the second place finishers “Vaja Interna tional House of Pancakes” (Erik Santarius, Ashish Vaja, Joe Richards, Jake Kohlenberg) and to the third place “Chicago Industrial Chess League” (Anastasya Antipova, Fred Allsbrook, Yuri Fridman, Suman Kalavagunta, Tom Friske). “Green Bay Team” (Kelly Bor man, Josiah Stein, Luke Ludwig, Tim Bogenschutz) captured the u1900 prize,

W

uschess.org

while the team of juniors (“Team Pan”: Hongkai Pan, Neil Strugnell, Suhas Kodali, and Tim Broman) played well above their expected rating average and won the u1600 prize. The junior prize went to “WePawns of Mass Destruction” (John Veech, Andrew Gorectke, Troy Zimmermann, Thomas Schneider) and the u1300 prize was awarded to the “University of Chicago B” (Mike Mei, Jason Cigan, Ken Yuan, Allison Hegel). The Midwest Blitz Championship was held on Saturday evening and was accompanied by juice and dessert for everyone. Kevin Fyr, Leslie Kistler, Erik Santarius and Alexander Velikanov fin ished with eight out of 10 points to tie for first place. The “best game” prize received a num ber of submissions. One game truly stood out: both the winner and the loser submitted their own annotations! Considering that the game played a decisive role in the match, it was an easy pick. Jim Dean’s team ran into a determined “University of Chicago A” (Jeremy Kane, Sam Devenport, Marcel Knudsen, Ngai Seng Kenny Yeng) and won by the score of 2½ 1½. Here is the critical game with annotations. It was played in round two of the 2 day sched ule, so time control was Game/60 instead of 30/90 followed by SD/60: (see game top of next column)

Queen’s Gambit Declined (D53) Jeremy Kane (2184) Jim Dean (2219) U.S. Amateur Team North (2), 02.14.09 Notes by Dean, Kane, Betaneli] 1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Be7 4. Nf3 Nf6 5. Bg5 h6 6. Bh4 dxc4

JK: I have seen this move before. JD: I first came across this variation while watching a live GM game between Sha balov and Kaidanov. Later I learned more about it from GM Goldin. 7. e3 c5 8. Bxc4 cxd4 9. exd4 0-0 10. 0-0 Nc6 11. Re1 Nh5

JK: This is reminiscent of the world championship game from 1981 (Korchnoi Karpov). Karpov won it with black, demonstrating how to play against the iso lated central pawn. The difference is that Re1 instead of Rc1 was played here. This might provide White with more attacking possibilities. 12. Bxe7 Nxe7 13. Ne5 Nf6 14. Qd3 Bd7 15. Rad1 Bc6 (see diagram top of next page)

JK: I was surpised that Jim allowed the sacrifice on f7, but I passed it up hoping for more. JD: I have had this posi tion before, so I played quickly. Given this was Game/60, it was quite helpful to Chess Life — May 2009

35

USAT Events

r+  q  rk+ pp+   np p +l+p n  p + +  N + +L P + + +  NQ+ + P P +  PP P + +R R  K

After 15. ... Bc6

JD: I became worried after Jeremy tossed out this move. I felt my position was solid, but there was no concrete plan yet for handling the pawn advances on the kingside. 19. ... Rfd8 20. g4

JK: I went all out for the black king. The threat is g4 g5 hitting the knight and allowing the queen to enter on h7. On the other hand, the bishop on d5 is granted full access to the white king. 20. ... Rac8 21. g5

get an early time advantage. 16. Bb3

AB: It is indeed difficult to evaluate the consequences of the sacrifice and comput ers are of no particular help: 16. Nxf7 Rxf7 (16. ... Kxf7? 17. Bxe6+ Ke8 leads to deci sive advantage for White) 17. Bxe6 Ned5 and now, for example: (17. ... Be8 18. d5 Qd6 19. Ne4 and White is in charge) 18. Re5 Nf4 19. Bxf7+ Kxf7 20. Qg3 N4d5 21. Rde1 leads to a complicated battle where it is somewhat easier to play for White, but all three outcomes are possible; JD: I once was outplayed by FM Andrew Boekhoff after 16. Nxf7 Rxf7 17. Bxe6 Ned5 18. Bxf7+ Kxf7 but I feel that result ing position is dynamically balanced. 16. ... Ned5 17. Nxd5 Bxd5 18. Bc2 Qe7

JD: This was my first significant think of the game. Naturally, I was concerned about Ng4. I felt a little weird about 18. ... Qe7 as I always teach my students not to put their queen on the same file as the opposing rook. Nevertheless, there is not much for the queen to fear in this spe cific position. 19. f4

JD: I was actually more concerned with 21. Bb1 as I had not yet decided how to play if the Exchange sacrificed was not allowed. 21. ... Rxc2

JD: I was not confident that my sacrifice was sound, but I very much liked the idea of changing the momentum of the game and getting to attack instead of defending. 22. Qxc2

Even worse is 22. gxf6? Rg2+.

22. ... Nh5

JK: I picked up the Exchange, but Black gained serious chances to bother my king. It’s especially difficult to face time pressure here. JD: I think this is the strongest move as it allows Black to put pressure on f4 while attacking g5. 23. Qd2 f6

JD: White might be objectively OK here, but it is tough to play this position in time trouble. 24. Ng6 Qf7 25. f5 fxg5 26. Qb4?

JK: Here I came up with the unfortu nate plan of trying to force the trade of

queens, but letting my queen wander away from the kingside was a fatal mis take. JD: This was a mistake clearly brought on by time pressure, but it is dif ficult to come up with a constructive plan immediately. AB: It’s too bad that time trouble influences an otherwise high cal iber game. A line of 26. Re5 exf5 27. Ne7+ Kh7 leads to “unbalanced equality.” 26. ... Kh7

AB: A good move, especially consider ing your opponent’s time pressure. 27. Qe7 Qxf5 28. Ne5 Nf4 29. Re3 Qc2, White resigned.

The scholastic section was a one day event on Saturday and saw “University School of Milwaukee” (James Bowen, Sap tarshi Ghose, Alex Yerukhimov, Ishan Sinha) take the top honors. Best high school prize went to “P0N3YZ” (Vince Paasch, Eli Baumann, Marshall Sumwalt, Thomas Lyneis), best middle school was “Chocolate Banana ROOK ies” (Aaron Jing, Mihir Kansara, Andrew McNeel, Noah Zamzow Schmidt), and the “Knights of Muskego” (Gregory Reese Jr., Evan Seghers, Reid Seghers, Kolton Otter bacher) was the top elementary school team. The tournament was co sponsored by Vaja International Chess Academy, Wis consin Chess Academy, and Wisconsin Scholastic Chess Association. National tournament director (NTD) Glenn Pan ner was the chief TD and Mike Nietman helped to run the scholastic section smoothly. Please visit www.wichessacad emy.com for complete results. See more “Teams” reporting on Chess Life Online in the February archives at uschess.org!

AMATEUR TEAM WEST: What Goes Around ... In California, American Chess Academy teams dominate By John Hillery

our teams tied with 5 1 in the 26th Annual U.S. Amateur Team West (USATW), held at the Warner Cen ter Marriott in Woodland Hills, California, from February 14 16. First on tiebreak were the “ACA Beasts!,” with John Daniel Bryant, Michael Yee, Vincent Huang and Santy Wong. Second went to “Yellow is Mellow” (Joel Banawa, Cau Duong Le, Takashi Kurosaki, Jonathan Soo Hoo and Stewart Yanez), and third to “OC Chess Club” (Alexandre Kretchetov, Takashi Iwamoto, Krishna Kaliannan and Michael Brown). “ACA Chess Club” (Enrico Sevillano, Andranik Matikozyan,

F

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Chess Life — May 2009

Robert Feldstein and Michael Ambart soumian) had to be content with the honor, though both Sevillano and Matikozyan (6 0!) took home board prizes. And the relevance of the headline? Well, two years ago, the “Beasts” or at least 3/4 of them, under a different name also tied with Orange County CC, and seemed about to win on tiebreak; until victory was snatched from the jaws ... er, let’s not go there. Anyway, they were aced out on a recalculation. This time, we checked the calculations three times, and the “Beasts” got to roar with victory. American Chess Academy deserves spe

cial mention, as in addition to first their teams won top junior (“ACA The Dark Knights”) and top U1800 (“ACA Youth”). Forty six teams competed in the main event, down a bit from last year but still pretty good. The Sunday “Scholastic Ama teur Team” drew 33 teams, with first place on tiebreak going to “BEYOND chal lenge,” one of 9(!) teams from Ben Deng’s “Beyond Chess.” And even the losers can be winners at the USATW. The best team name prize went to “Voyage to the Bottom of the Pair ings,” a team we put together from feathers and tails on Saturday morning. uschess.org

Second went to “Houston, We Have a Mate in Two Problem,” with CLO problem columnist Gary Ware. John Hillery directed for the SCCF, with assistance from Anthony Ong and Elliot Landaw. In addition to taking the board two prize (with the tournament’s only 6 0!), IM Andranik Matikozyan received the best game prize for this sacrificial attack against junior star Derek Tan. Ruy Lopez (C77) IM Andranik Matikozyan (2515) Derek Tan (2172) U.S. Amateur Team West (3), 02.15.09 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 Nf6 5. Qe2

The Wormald Attack, a rare sideline. It’s not especially dangerous, but Black must be careful not to open the center too early or too late. 5. ... b5 6. Bb3 Bc5 7. c3 Qe7 8. d3 d6 9. Nbd2 Be6 10. h3 h6 11. Bc2 Bb6 12. Nf1 Nb8

This repositioning maneuver would make sense if the center were locked up, but as the game goes it proves a trouble some loss of time.

13. a4 c6 14. Ng3 Qc7 15. d4 Bc4

Now Black cannot play 15. ... Nbd7?, as 16. axb5 cxb5 17. d5 wins a piece. 16. Bd3 Bxd3 17. Qxd3

With the exchange of light squared bish ops, the f5 square beckons a white knight. 17. ... Nbd7

After 17. ... g6 18. axb5 cxb5 19. 0 0 Nbd7 20. Be3, Black still can’t castle, and White will prepare for a breakthrough with f2 f4. Black should try for counter play in the center with 17. ... 0 0!? 18. axb5 cxb5 19. Nf5 exd4 20. N3xd4 d5 21. exd5 Re8+. 18. Nf5 0-0

r+ +  rk+ +  qn+p p p lp p  n  p +p+  pN+ P+  PP+ + +  PQ+N+P P +   PP+  R  L  K +R

After 18. ... 0-0

The idea is not hard to find, but White had to calculate that his opponent would lack the time to strike back in the center. 19. ... gxh6 20. Qe3 Ne8 21. Qxh6 Ndf6 22. Ng5

Now White needs just one more piece in the attack ... 22. ... d5

A nice finish after 22. ... exd4 would be 23. Rd1 dxc3 24. Rxd6 cxb2 25. 0 0, winning the queen for a start. 23. h4! dxe4 24. Rh3 Qd7

Even worse is 24. ... exd4 25. Rg3 Qxg3 26. Ne7 mate. 25. Ne6! Nh7

There is no defense: 25. ... fxe6 26. Rg3+ Kf7 27. Qg6 mate, or 25. ... Ng4 26. Qg5+ Kh8 27. Qh5+ Kg8 28. Qxg4+ Kh8 29. Qh5+ Kg8 30. Rg3+.

.

26. Rg3+ Kh8 27. Rg7 Nef6 28. Rxh7+, Black resigned.

See more “Teams” reporting on Chess Life Online in the February archives at uschess.org!

USAT West Prize Winners

Western Angels

Sadly, team costumes have fallen out of favor, but this year “Bobby’s Angels” (Jennifer Acon, Colette McGruder, Beverly Woolsey and Constance McClendon) proved an exception.

PHOTO JOHN HILLERY

19. Bxh6!

1st:

ACA Beasts! (John Daniel Bryant, Michael Yee, Vincent Huang and Santy Wong)

2nd:

Yellow is Mellow (Joel Banawa, Cau Duong Le, Takashi Kurosaki, Jonathan Soo Hoo and Stewart Yanez)

3rd:

OC Chess Club (Alexandre Kretchetov, Takashi Iwamoto, Krishna Kaliannan and Michael Brown)

4th:

ACA Chess Club (Enrico Sevillano, Andranik Matikozyan, Robert Feldstein and Michael Ambartsoumian)

U2100:

Temple City High Rams (Tianye He, Robert Xue, Terrence Sun, Jim Cheng Lee)

U2000:

The Thompson Guide (Lawrence Stevens, Francisco Alonso, Tim Thompson, Ron Morris)

U1800:

ACA Youth (Samuel Sevian, Paul Richter, David Minasyan, Daniel Mousseri)

U1600:

Knights of Barook Opawma (Jay Stallings, Cheston Gunawan, Jackson Stallings, Thomas Emery Hart)

U1400:

Voyage to the Bottom of the Pairings (Allan Karman, Daniel Giordani, Patrick Dailey, Debra Rothman)

Board Prizes

Team Names

College:

Board 1:

IM Enrico Sevillano

Board 2:

IM Andranik Matikozyan

1st Place: Voyage to the Bottom of the Pairings

Unrated Trojan Horse Surprise/USC (Riddhi Shah, Martin Diekhoff, Oswal Mehul Prakash, Junda Chen, Morgan Jones)

Junior:

ACA—The Dark Knights (Daniel Naroditsky, Christian Tanaka, Jared Tan, Eric Zhang)

Industrial:

Northrop Grumman Advantage in Space (Phillip Jacobson, Robert Potts, Larry Miller, Sepehr Ebrahimi, David Anthopoulos)

Board 3:

John Williams

Board 4:

Jonathan Soo Hoo

Alternate: John Anderson

uschess.org

2nd Place: Houston, We Have a Mate in Two Problem

Chess Life — May 2009

37

U.S. Championship

Chess Life’s U.S. Championship Preview GM Yury Shulman will be defending his 2008 U.S. Championship crown in St. Louis, but with a world championship contender gunning for him, how realistic are his repeat chances? IM Greg Shahade assesses the field for Chess Life.

(55% chance that one of these three wins the event)

GM HIKARU NAKAMURA

I give him the number one spot mainly for his fighting spirit and tenacity. His average result may be below Kamsky’s but I think he wins the event a bit more often. Another factor towards ranking him #1 is that I'd give him the edge over everyone if it goes to tiebreaker.

Chance of winning: 20%

GM GATA KAMSKY

(Very good winning chances. Give this group about a 26% chance to win)

GM Yury Shulman: The defending champion is surely

the class of this group. He plays fighting and uncompromis ing chess and it would surprise no one to see a repeat winner. (12%)

GM Alexander Shabalov: This three time champion

is highly ranked for similar reasons that I ranked Nakamura above Kamsky. He could have a disastrous tournament, but his tendency towards taking risks plays out well when the goal is first place. Winning the tourna ment or a 50%/minus score are both possible. (8%)

GM Varuzhan Akobian: Because of his relative youth, strength and activity level, his chances should be reasonable, although I suspect the top three still outclass him a little bit. (6%)

One of the top players in the world, coming off a world championship match loss to Topalov. His chances to win are great, but I ranked him slightly below Nakamura due to Hikaru’s tendencies towards uncompromising chess. Also can he bring his “A” game to this event after recently playing for the world championship?

POSSIBLE SURPRISES

Chance of winning: 19%

is still very strong, but he’ll have a tough time these days against the top guys.

GM ALEXANDER ONISCHUK

I have him only slightly behind Nakamura and Kamsky. Onischuk is an extremely solid and classical player, and recently won the powerful Moscow Open.

Chance of winning: 16%

38

TOP CONTENDERS

Chess Life — May 2009

These are mostly very strong players who in their prime would have been top contenders but now are behind a few guys at the top. They all are capable of big performances if the cards break right (18%)

GM Larry Christiansen: Relatively out of practice,

but his fighting spirit may give him better chances than most. Just a few years ago he had a very good U.S. championship performance in a similar situation. Also won Linares in 1981!

GM Jaan Ehlvest: This former #6 player in the world

GM Gregory Kaidanov: Despite being a dominant force

in the ’90s, he somehow has never won a U.S. champi onship. Given that he’s relatively inactive now, it seems like a bit of a gamble to predict this will be the first.

GM Joel Benjamin: Also relatively inactive, except

when it comes to answering e mails at Chess Life Online. Benjamin mentioned in an article a few years ago that he’s on a “no draw” kick and this obviously helps when it comes to winning events.

GM Julio Becerra: He’s dominated the U.S. Chess League for four seasons now. Unfortunately I’ve never seen him perform especially well in such a strong field, but his many fans from Miami will be hoping he can do it. uschess.org

PHOTOS BY CATHY ROGERS

THE FAVORITES

GM Ildar Ibragimov: Very inactive and it has shown in his recent results. Ildar is a very creative player, so he always has a chance. However, in the few events he has played in the past few years his rating has dropped about 50 points.

VERY UNLIKELY But not impossible! 2%

GM Josh Friedel: Friedel earned his GM title at the 2008 U.S. Championship, but he still has to prove himself a bit before he’s considered to be on the same level as some of the longtime American greats. A plus score would be a solid result still. He’s completely uncompromising so I’d give him the highest chance in this group. GM Boris Gulko: He’s famous for his plus score against

Kasparov, but although he’s still extremely solid and strong, it’s hard to compete on equal footing with the youths when you are over 60 years old.

GM Melikset Khachiyan: This friendly Californian GM is very good at drawing strong GMs (he drew eight of nine games in the 2007 championship) but I don’t know if he has it in him to beat enough of them to win an event like this. You can’t win the U.S. championship by drawing everyone. IM Robert Hess: Hess has almost no realistic chance

of winning the event, but does have a chance to earn a third GM norm. Coming off of a SuperNationals victory.

Tyler Hughes: A dream event for the 2008 U.S. junior champion. I expect that the Colorado youngster will learn a lot from the experience, but given that all of his opponents will be higher rated, expectations won’t be too high. Charles Lawton: The only player from St. Louis and a bit of a stretch invite by the sponsors, but they are putting on a huge show and if they are set on inviting one or two local players, it’s a mistake to chastise them too greatly. Unfortunately for Charles everyone will be gunning for him, and I’d expect he’d be very happy with a 3/9 score.

OTHER CONTENDERS U.S. State Champion of Champions

This is an Internet event in which a final spot will be given out. The four players remaining at press time of this article are IM Sam Shankland, John Bryant, Mackenzie Molner and FM Ron Simpson. Only Shankland, the 2008 world U18 bronze medalist, has a chance to make waves in the championship. As Chess Life went to press, Shankland won. ~ed.

WILD CARDS

Robson too, but Ray is obviously very talented and his fans shouldn’t be too satisfied unless he achieves it. Hopefully he can earn his first GM norm in the process.

The sponsors of the U.S. championship, the St. Louis Chess Center, had the right to choose six wild cards for the championship. They chose a mixture of former champs, young rising stars and local heroes. Those six wild cards are:

NO REALISTIC CHANCE

GM Alex Shabalov, GM Josh Friedel, IM Robert Hess, IM Ray Robson, IM Michael Brooks and Charles Lawton.

IM Ray Robson: A plus score would be quite solid for

IM Enrico Sevillano: A very strong player, but he is

facing players rated 150 points above him. Many will consider an even score a success and a GM norm is likely the main goal.

IM Irina Krush: Irina is in a similar boat as Sevillano although she does have more experience in such high profile events. Let’s hope that her Samford fellowship will help her to put forward an impressive performance.

IM Anna Zatonskih: This event should be great practice for Zatonskih, as she should face mostly GMs. I’m sure that many chess fans would love to see a rematch of Zatonskih vs. Krush at some point in this event.

IM Michael Brooks: A local IM who doesn’t play much

anymore. About 20 years ago there were times in which he was rated above 2600. With the passing of time this rating has dropped to the low 2400’s, and so his home town fans will be hoping he can rekindle his old magic for one to two GM scalps.

I’d like to just briefly mention a few worthy players who also deserved consideration:

IM Alex Lenderman: A young New York player

who has recently risen above 2600, is a former world youth champion, was the 2008 U.S. Chess League MVP, and won the 2008 World Chess Live Grand Prix.

IM Sam Shankland: As Chess Life went to press, Sam won the State Champion of Champions event on ICC and has secured a spot in the championship. ~ed.

GM Larry Kaufman: The 2008 world senior champion. Daniel Ludwig: A very strong young player from

Florida. He earned his first GM norm in Hungary and should be making waves shortly.

FM Daniel Naroditsky: It may have been premature to invite the 2007 world under 12 champion this year, however he’s been making good progress lately and should be considered in the near future.

Look for daily U.S. Championship updates and the official twitter feed on uschess.org and uschesschamps.com. Also join in on the fun by entering the 2009 Fantasy Chess Competition where you pick the winner in head to head match ups like Kamsky vs. Nakamura. uschess.org

Chess Life — May 2009

39

Profile

Where Do Chessplayers Go When They Die? REMEMBERING A PLAYER WHO THOUGHT WOMAN PLAYERS SHOULD SIT ON SUITCASES—AND WHO ENJOYED SUCCESS WITH 1. Na3

By FM Alex Dunne

re chess players different from other people? Yes, they play chess. Of course there are dif ferences, too. Not all chess players are alike. But there are some common threads that run through chess players. At some time in their chess career chess players share a dream the dream of all chess players, to become a master. This dream may be a daydream or it may be a recurring dream, driving the player persistently both night and day. Besides having the dream, chess players study chess. They subscribe to Chess Life and other magazines. They buy, and some times read, chess books. Their library may have half a dozen books. Some have considerably more: books on openings, books on middlegames, books on endgames; tournament books, problem books, strat egy and tactics. And they play chess and keep records of their games. Some of them have scores of games they played five, 10, 30 or more years ago. This is the average tournament chess player. Sometimes they keep their games in scorebooks. Some on individual tournament scoresheets, some keep their games on their computer. Many of the old timers still use descrip tive notation; almost all of the younger ones use algebraic. All of us chessplayers have something of this in common. We have our every day life and we have our chess life, and the two intersect and intertwine. And though all of us are individuals, we are all also chess players. And we all have stories that make us the same and make us different. This article is about one chess player, a New Jersey player of 25 to 50 years ago, but it

A

40

Chess Life — May 2009

is also about all chess players. This chess player had a name, and flaws, and a drive, and a rating, and dreams. I first became acquainted with this player, Bob by first name, a few years ago when he came to stay at my house. He is still here at my house, under my desk by my downstairs computer. For this chess player is no longer alive. He had died maybe 20 years ago. I received a telephone call from an acquaintance of his who asked if I would be interested in his memorabilia. A few days later six boxes of Bob’s earthly remains came through Federal Express: photographs, chess magazines, letters, many of his games, games of other play ers, thoughts about other chess players of the time, correspondence games, thoughts on chess rules, all the paraphernalia that make up the mind of a chess player. Bob had a rating. Like everybody’s rat ing it went up and down. In Bob’s case it went all the way up to a master’s rating: 2200+. But then it went down again to expert, and for the rest of his life Bob tried, in vain, to regain that master’s rat ing. Sometimes it bothered Bob that he could not seem to regain those ELO points, and he sometimes argued with the USCF to boost his rating a few points or rate the games in a different order, but Bob would never again cross that 2200 threshold. There are some who understand that those rating points above 2199 are the hardest to gain. There is a mystique about that border that is more than just mathematics. Those who cross over into that rare area know they have achieved something special. Bob’s stomping ground was New Jersey

of the ‘50s and ‘60s, a rich era in the history of chess in the United States. It was the battle ground of some famous (for the time) chessplayers: Tony Santasiere, Weaver Adams, Jimmy Sherwin, names that old timers recognize right away. And players that almost everyone else recog nizes, such as William Lombardy, Robert Byrne, and yes, Bobby Fischer. They played in those New Jersey tournaments. And Bob Durkin played. Bob played a lot in those tournaments. And now I had his games. Like many chess players, Bob had some strong opinions about chess. He had opinions about the colors of the chessboard, the size of the chess pieces, the ratio of the measurement of the squares to the base of the king. He had opinions about women in chess that “since women are shorter than men, they should sit high at the table so they are not looking through the pieces.” Bob sug gested they should sit on a suitcase. Not all of Bob’s thoughts were 100% sound. Bob suggested that when you have to choose for colors, if your opponent is right handed (usually so) you should put the black pawn in your left hand. When you put your hands out for your opponent to choose, he will choose your left hand with his right hand. He had opinions about certain openings, and perhaps one opening is Bob’s claim to fame. Bob championed 1. Na3, or in the descriptive notation of the day, 1. N QR3. And to this day this opening is known as the Durkin Attack (some call it the Sodium Opening, in algebraic Na3). At first Bob did not want his name associated with 1. N QR3. He had played it half in jest, half in uschess.org

protest against opponents who were bet ter booked than he was. And he won. Around the chess clubs of New Jersey he soon became known as Bob “N QR3” Durkin. And yet he repudiated his open ing. He stopped playing it, claiming it was just an aberration. But he soon discovered he wasn’t doing as well as he had been, and so once again he began opening 1. N QR3. Then he began to write pamphlets about his opening, and once again “N QR3” became his middle name, only this time he adopted it properly. He signed his letters Bob “N QR3” Durkin. Bob played a lot of N QR3’s. But even with his own opening he did not regain his master’s rating, but he didn’t stop trying. And so his tournaments continued. Bob had a non chess life, too. His per sonal correspondence searched for a mate. Bob courted a number of women by correspondence, but apparently he never found one he liked, or probably more likely, never liked him. Bob’s letters showed him a man of his time. He had the faults, weaknesses, prejudices, and odd opinions, as all of us do. But he loved chess. And he played the game. Bob asked the age old philosophical questions. In one of his journals he mused, “What I have gotten out of chess is more than I have put into it in terms of intangibles like satisfaction, fame in the chess world and out of it self confidence and many qualities which chess encour ages, such as a great feeling of worth, ego satisfaction, a sense of purpose in life, great fun at tournaments, a feeling of accomplishment, and finally my own name shall probably be known as long as the game is played. It shall certainly be known should anyone dare to play my opening.” And in the same journal, many more pages back, a cloud of despair loomed overhead. As he was grousing about not having his games published often enough, he wrote, “This is a h of a note. How can I enjoy fame 6 feet under?” Students of the game might want to see Bob’s handling of 1. Na3. Fifty Durkin attacks (and one played against him!) will be included in this issue’s .pgn file at uschess.org. Chess is immortal, but chess players are not. Bob died. When? I do not know, but Bob disappeared from the January 1986 rating list as we all must eventually do. But there is a touch of immortality to chess players, too. For we can record our

games, save our games, publish our games. And other chess players can play them over, and for a time, we, too, are immortal. Not perfect. Not great. But remembered. Durkin’s Attack Robert “N QR3” Durkin Weaver Adams Independent Chess Club 1959 1. Na3

Durkin was fearless. He would play his 1. N QR3 against anyone; Weaver Adams was a leading master of the time, the author of several books, including White to Play and Win. 1. ... d5 2. f4 Bg4 3. h3 Bh5 4. g4

r n  qk ln r pp  p  pp pp + + + + + +p+ +l + +  PP+ N + + +P  P PP PP+ + R   LQ KL NR

After 4. g4

Provocative! The bishop of course can not be captured by pawn avalanche as 4. ... Bg6 5. f5 e6 threatens ... Qh4 mate. 4. ... Bg6 5. Nf3

Entirely too greedy is 5. f5 e6 6. h4?! Be7 7. Nf3 exf5 8. h5 fxg4 9. hxg6 gxf3 and White doesn’t have time for 10. Rxh7 because of the familiar mating procedure with 10. ... Bh4+. 5. ... h5

Adams knew how to play provocative chess, too. More in tune with modern sensibilities would be 5. ... e6. 6. g5

White’s opening has given White a cramp on Black's kingside, but Black’s position is sound. Chances are even. 6. ... Be4 7. Bg2 e5!

Black’s aggressive line leads to an equal game.

8. d3 Bxf3 9. exf3 exf4 10. Bxf4 Bd6

But now might have been a good time to fight knights against bishops with 10. ... Bxa3 when the pawn structure favors knights. Adams is understandably reluc tant to give up his attacking bishop and keeps the chances about even. 11. Qd2 Ne7 12. Nb5 Bxf4 13. Qxf4 Na6 14. 0-0

As White has more space on the king side, his king is relatively safe, for now, but 14. 0 0 0 would give White the bet ter chances. 14. ... 0-0 15. Rae1 c6 16. Nc3 Ng6 17. Qd2 Qb6+ 18. d4 Rae8 19. f4 Rxe1 20. Rxe1 Nh4 21. Nd1 f6 22. Qe3

Both sides have conducted the game well, but White missteps slightly here. He should have kept his queenside safe with 22. c3. Now Black gets a small edge. 22. ... fxg5 23. fxg5 Nf5 24. Qe6+ Kh7 25. c3 Qd8 26. g6+ Kh6 27. Ne3

+  q r  + p+ +  p p n+p+Q+P k + +p+n+p +  P + + +  P  N +P P P + +L+ + +  R  K

After 27. Ne3

27. ... Nxe3?

And now it is Black’s turn to misstep. With 27....Nh4 Black keeps his small edge. 28. Qxe3+ Kxg6 29. Qd3+ Kh6

An inspired attacker, Adams is not so comfortable on defense, and his king now gets buffeted about. Salvation might have been found in 29. ... Kf7, but now Durkin gets to show his attacking prowess. 30. Re6+ Rf6 31. Qe3+ Kg6 32. Re7 Qb8 33. Bf1!

The last reserve is brought in. Black is doomed.

.

33. ... Rxf1+ 34. Kxf1 Qf8+ 35. Ke2 Nb8 36. Re8 Qf5 37. Rxb8, Black resigned.

“Chess is always the master of us all.” —ALEXANDER ALEKHINE uschess.org

Chess Life — May 2009

41

Dr. Stephen Lipschultz named 2009 Chess Educator of the Year 42

Chess Life — May 2009

uschess.org

Chess Education

What do Dennis Rodman and a Brownsville fifth grader have in common? They both motivated Chess Educator of the Year Dr. Stephen Lipschultz. By Dr. Alexey Root, WIM

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUBJECT

From Rodman to Research: Chess Educator 2009 IN 1994, DR. LIPSCHULTZ LAUNCHED a chess club at his son’s Chicago area ele mentary school. With a background in developing software for medical education, Lipschultz saw a need for chess software that could both manage the after school club and instruct its students. At the same time, he had to make thinking cool. His son’s friends idolized Chicago Bulls player Dennis Rodman. But Lipschultz, though appreciative of Rodman’s basket ball prowess, did not consider Rodman an appropriate role model. Since society does not provide many thinkers as role models, students need motivation to be thinkers. Lipschultz explained his software design: “Think Like A King was designed to be about more than learning chess. Our goal is not to create a new generation of highly competitive grandmasters, but to make it easy for schools to use chess as a vehicle to teach critical thinking uschess.org

skills. This is hardly a new concept. But with our software, the opportunity for chess to become a mainstream activity in any school becomes a reality, attracting scores of new kids and creating new role models and paradigms for success in life. Our software’s success to date clearly validates this design theory.” Lipschultz’s Think Like A King School Chess Software (TLAK) makes thinking a school sport. His software has grown over the last 15 years. Early versions of TLAK rated games, ran tournaments, and pro vided chess instruction. Then David MacEnulty contributed curriculum, which Lipschultz programmed for MacIntosh computers. Later, programmers adapted the software to Windows. GM Miron Sher wrote advanced chess curriculum. TLAK became the official scholastic software of the USCF. As of 2009, TLAK helps run chess programs in over 1,600 schools in

the United States, as well as 20 countries overseas. Other features, such as think ing tags, have become part of the TLAK system. Thinking tags, modeled after karate belts, make thinkers visible. Students earn tags by completing chess workouts: lessons and puzzles such as pins, forks, endgames, and so forth. The workouts can be printed, or completed on the com puter. A student earns a white tag first; the black tag is for the highest level. Tags are dog tag style tokens for display on back packs or elsewhere. Lipschultz recalled, “A fifth grader from Brownsville, Texas recog nized Think Like A King on the computer monitors in our display booth, and came running up to show me that he’d already earned his Red Belt he’d even taken the tokens and made a necklace out of them. His face was absolutely glowing with pride at this learning achievement, which was Chess Life — May 2009

43

Chess Education just a great thing to see.” Dr. Lipschultz received his award from Dr. Abby Kratz, associate provost of The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD). UTD Chess Program Director James Stallings also spoke at this evening award cere mony on February 24, 2009. About 45 people attended, including Steve’s wife Leslie Lipschultz. A former school board president and legislative aide, she pro vides marketing and K 12 education expertise for TLAK. Previous Chess Educator of the Year award winners are: Susan Polgar (2004), Sunil Weeramantry (2005), Erik Anderson (2006), David MacEnulty (2007), and Beatriz Marinello (2008). Dr. Lipschultz said, “I’m honored to receive this recog nition, and enormously flattered to be included with this group of talented and committed individuals who have each done so much for chess education. Hav ing not played chess competitively beyond high school, nor been directly involved in teaching scholastic chess outside of our own children’s school club, I was hon estly surprised to learn I’d been selected for this award. In reflecting on its mean ing and how I would describe my contribution to chess education, I believe it is an acknowledgement of my vision to help make chess more broadly accessible to children everywhere so they are empow ered by the educational benefits of the game. The power of Think Like A King lies in its ability to amplify the talents of the limited supply of qualified chess instructors so that even non chess play ers can still run successful chess programs by mentoring and engaging stu dents. While our software can never replace the hundreds of dedicated chess teachers already out there, it does mean that so many more children will be able to become involved with chess than might otherwise be possible.” . Research Seminar and ChessFest

Chess in Education at the 2008 U.S. Open

The USCF Chess in Education work shop, held August 7 alongside the 2008 U.S. Open, attracted 13 paid participants and a handful of fee waived participants from the sponsoring organizations, USCF, U.S. Chess Trust, The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD), The University of Texas at Brownsville and Texas Southmost Col lege (UTB/TSC), and Texas Tech University (TTU). Participant Mike Good friend (Richardson Inter Scholastic Chess Association) said the workshop was “a very rich program for $15.” Participant fees defrayed a portion of the hotel expenses. Sponsors covered remaining costs and provided logistical, technical, and publicity assistance to co organiz ers Dr. Alexey Root and Dr. Tim Redman. Presenters donated their time. Workshop presentations highlighted different strategies for implementing chess in schools. Presentations by Root (UTD) and Michael Bowden (Lewisville I.S.D.) emphasized chess instruction, during the school day, tied to state curricular standards. Bowden’s ele mentary school students play only non rated, intra and inter school matches. In contrast, Keynote Speaker Russell Harwood (UTB/TSC) stated that chess in Brownsville I.S.D. (BISD) is extracurricular. That is, chess is taught before or after school. Har wood’s Power Point showcased chess titles won by BISD students. The pub licity from those USCF rated championships, combined with par ent advocacy, has led to financial support from BISD. For example, a coach or sponsor working with 18 or fewer chess students at a BISD school

Earlier on February 24, representatives from five school dis tricts in North Texas attended a seminar to learn how their districts could participate in a study of the effectiveness of chess. Dr. Stephen Lipschultz explained the proposed research, “Think Like A King is partnering with The University of Texas at Dallas to apply for U.S. Department of Education funding to establish the first ever large scale multi year research effort to, hopefully, fully validate and define the precise role of chess in education. In order to be really meaningful, this kind of study must involve large numbers of schools and students using a consistent approach to teaching that can also validate that kids learn what they are supposed to. As a tool that can be easily implemented and scaled throughout entire regions, TLAK is uniquely capable of doing just this. With the team of experts in chess education and research that we’ve assembled for this project, we’re hopeful that we can accumu late the data that will finally propel chess fully into the mainstream of the U.S. educational system.” Other seminar 44

Chess Life — May 2009

earns $1,000 stipend per year. Schools with more than 18 chess students may have two coaches/sponsors. Presenter Roz Katz told how, in 1993, 3,500 chess players “nagged” the New Jersey State Legislature into passing chess legislation. Participant Stephen Shutt (USCF Scholastic Council) noted that this legislative approval conferred legitimacy to future chess initiatives. Presenter Jerry Nash (USCF) stressed coordinating the education, civic, busi ness, political, and chess communities. Presenter Redman (UTD) advised educa tors to consider the syntax of chess. Although “e4” is a helpful shorthand, forming a complete sentence encour ages students’ linguistic growth. For e4, a sentence might be, “The pawn, in front of the king, moves two squares forward.” As she left, participant Julie Blasingame (K 6 art teacher and chess sponsor) said, “I personally wish thatthe workshop would have lasted longer.” Fortunately, workshop ideas are permanently avail able. The August 7, 2008 presentations by Bowden and Katz, and the presenta tion by Dr. Lipschultz on February 24, 2009, are on the USCF Chess in Educa tion website www.thechessacademy.org/ USCF Chess Education Committee.htm. Jerry Nash welcomes inquiries; e mail [email protected]. Russell Harwood can be reached via the UTB/TSC chess website www.chess. utb.edu/. Work shop related books include Root’s Science, Math, Checkmate: 32 Chess Activities for Inquiry and Problem Solving, Redman’s Chess and Education: Selected Essays from the Koltanowski Confer ence, and Katz’s Play Better Chess.

presenters described the current state of chess research, how chess and curriculum can be connected, and proce dures for conducting research in schools. The next day, February 25, ChessFest combined feats of brain and brawn in the lobby of the McDermott Library. UTD’s GM Alejandro Ramirez played blindfolded, calling out his moves to teammate WFM Karina Vazirova, who lifted the knee high pieces on UTD’s new “Chess Grande” set. During the hour long exhibition, Alejandro faced six different opponents. Those oppo nents lifted their own pieces, and took advice from spectators. Alejandro won all his games, garnering a round of applause for each victory. Next, UTD’s IM John Bartholomew lectured on his toric and instructive endgames while teammate USCF master Nelson Lopez lifted chessmen to display John’s moves to the crowd. Spectators especially seemed to like the Fernando Saavedra problem: white king (b6) and white pawn (c6) versus black king (a1) and rook (d5). White to play and win. See answer on page 79.

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uschess.org

CJA/Cramer Awards

2009 Chess Journalists of America Awards Announcement By Jonathan Hilton

Jerry Hanken, President of the Chess Journalists of America (CJA), and Jonathan Hilton, Chairman of the CJA awards committee, announce their annual call for entries to the 2009 awards program. All winners will be recognized in Chess Life and The Chess Journalist and will receive certificates. Please note that submission rules have changed from past years. The chief judge’s storage space for print entries is limited this year, so he would like to encourage CJA members to submit their entries via e mail. E mail entry is now available for every category and is preferred when pos sible. To submit an e mail entry, simply e mail a filled out cover sheet to cja [email protected] and write “Awards Entry” in the subject line. Attach the actual entry as a .pdf or .doc file or include a web link to it in the body of the e mail. Then, mail a check for the appropriate amount to the address below. If you must submit a print entry, mail five copies of the entry (photocopies are acceptable) to the aforementioned address; then, e mail a copy of the cover sheet to cja entries2009@chessjournal ism.org. By submitting an entry to the awards, you are giving the CJA the right to display the entry on it’s website. Eligibility: Entries must be for work pub lished between 6/1/08 and 5/31/09. Submitted articles may be entered within multiple categories. Fees: All entries, except category 18, require an entry fee of $15 for the first entry (includes one year of membership in the CJA) and $8 for each additional entry. Life members free first entry, $8 for each additional entry. Cover Sheets: One cover sheet must be stapled to each copy of print entries (orig inals and copies). Sheets are available at http://chessjournalism.org or by mail upon request. Entry Deadline: Entries should be post marked by 6/1/09 or submitted by e mail by 6/3/09. Address: Mail checks (or print entries) to Chief Judge Jonathan Hilton, 2590 Jupiter Drive, Fairfield, OH 45014. Make checks payable to Chess Journalists of America. Judges: Volunteer judges needed. CJA uschess.org

members or others interested in chess journalism should contact Jonathan Hilton at cja [email protected] for information.

CJA Award Categories

1. Chess Journalist of the Year: Awarded to the person who has con tributed the most to chess journalism in the past year. Only work from the past year will be considered. CJA members vote by mail ballot to select the winner; please provide résumé for CJA website. 2. Best Chess Column: Submit three columns from the past year. 3. Best State Magazine: Submit two issues from the past year. 4. Most Notable Achievement in Correspondence Chess: For journalistic work of any type regarding correspondence chess. 5. Best Chess Art: Send a magazine cover, Internet display, cartoon, etc. 6. Best Photograph: A single photograph portraying some aspect of chess. 7. Best Tournament Report: A story of one tournament occurring in the past year. 8. Best Newspaper Column: Send three columns from the past year. Special award given to best column of local inter est; please mark the appropriate box on the cover sheet if the entry is eligible for this award. 9. Best Chess Website: Open to news sites, “blogs”, state websites, and so on. Special award given to the best example of each type of website. 10. Best Historical Article: For articles describing an aspect of chess history, especially those tying chess history to social or cultural events from the past. 11. Best Interview: Shows skill in elic iting instructive, revealing responses. 12. Best Editorial: Clear stand on a chess issue. 13. Best Review: For reviews of books, software, etc. 14. Best Analysis: For openings, mid dlegames, endgames, games, or groups of games analyzed deeply. 15. Best Instructive Lesson: For written

lessons. (Should be a lesson, not just an annotated game.) 16. Best Humorous Contribution: Open to chess jokes, satire, irony, parody, etc. Judges decide appropriateness. 17. Special Recognition Award: For entries that do not fit comfortably into any other category. 18. Excellence in Chess Writing, Mainstream Media: Entries ineligible for other categories. Awarded to chess writing in a mainstream publication (defined as a mag azine listed in the Readers’ Guide to Periodical Literature). Regular chess fea tures ineligible. No fees are applicable for this category.

Cramer Awards

This year’s Cramer awards for excel lence in chess journalism will be: Best Book and induction of one or two journalists to the Gallery of Distinguished Chess Journalists. Recommen dations and copies of best book nomina tions should be sent to: Don Schultz, 3201 South Ocean Dr. #703, Highland Beach, FL 33487 and Dr. Frank Brady, Apt. 7E1, 175 West 72nd St., New York, NY 10023. The best book award is open to all books published between April 1, 2008 and May 31, 2009. The author of the best book will receive an engraved Obelisk marble pyramid tro phy and recognition in Chess Life. An engraved plaque bearing the names of members of the Gallery of Distinguished Chess Journalists is on display at the Marshall Chess Club in New York, New York, The Mechanics Institute in San Francisco, California and USCF head quarters in Crossville, Tennessee. Current members are: Hermann Helms, Burt Hochberg, Dr. Frank Brady, GM Larry Evans, IM Al Horowitz, Harold Dondis, GM Andy Soltis, Fred Reinfeld, GM Robert Byrne, Irving Chernev, Lubosh Kavalek, George Koltanowski, Alex Dunne, Yasser Seirawan, Glenn Petersen and Bruce Pandolfini.

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For more about the CJA, see www.chessjournalism.org. For more about the Cramer awards, see www.chessdon.com/cramer awards.htm. Chess Life — May 2009

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USCF Executive Board Candidate Statements Eric Hecht

Michael Atkins

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Chess Life — May 2009

I am a candidate as a director for the USCF for no other reason than I believe all members of an organization should have an opportunity to make a contribution. I have been a member of the USCF since 1999 when I first started to play Tournament chess. During that time I have had little interaction with the organization. One might ask, how can you want to be a director of an organization when you have had so little interaction with those that run the organization? Actually, it is for this reason that I am running. The USCF appears to not reach out to its members in such a way, that they reached me; a member for almost ten years!! This is not a passing shot at those who run the organization, because perhaps they do not view it as their responsibility to reach out and touch their members. And again, this is exactly the point. The USCF should be touching its members. It should be sponsoring events, championships, etc. Some of this responsibility appears to have been relegated to the private sector. Some efforts made by the private sector have outshone the USCF. Other efforts are run by those who govern the USCF, but are not done under the banner of the USCF. Maybe this is inefficient, or a conflict of interest, or maybe not. It does beg the question however as to whether the current directors and management of the USCF are motivated to help the USCF succeed, or whether they are content to see their efforts in the private sector succeed. My view is that those who are fully engaged in the business of chess should probably not be running the largest non profit chess organization in the U.S.

I don’t think I am the most qualified, or the least qualified candidate. I have a background in finance, and I have served as a director for both private as well as public companies. I am a governor of the Marshall Chess Club. I have worked for several large banks during my career as a financial analyst, and I have been a private investor for the last several years. I have a strong interest in chess, education, kids, and charitable giving. My intentions are pure. I am dispassionate about winning or losing this election. I am willing and ready to serve, or not depending upon what the members of the USCF want. For sure, I believe the USCF members should want and expect, that the USCF be a well run organization that is financially secure. In addition, the members should feel secure that those running the organization are not conflicted. Finally, the members should feel that their organization is working for them, promoting chess education, and chess activities. As a financial analyst, I do hope I could make a strong contribution to the financial integrity of the organization.

I am 52 years old and have been involved with chess since the Fischer boom started in 1972. I became President and Team Captain of my High School team in Baltimore and became a TD so that we could have tournaments. I went on to become an officer and club champion (1976) at Towson Chess Club. I've been helping Arlington Chess Club in Virginia by doing its website and running its tournaments since 1996, about the time I got involved with Virginia Chess Federation. The VCF has allowed me to serve as President for 4 years and VP for Tournaments for the other years. I've worked at various National events and CCA events over the years, while becoming an NTD, all the time developing what I hope is the ability to work with almost anyone in getting the job done. Part of my "real-life" job as counselor and mental health therapist is to listen to people and help them deal with issues and reach their goals. That ability to listen, to cut to the core of an issue, and to establish a tone of civility is part of what I hope to bring to the USCF Executive Board. The Board has been contentious and litigious for way too long. I bring no personal agenda to the Board other than to do my best for the USCF and help the Board effectively guide the Executive Director in reaching our collective goals. I think the Board has often gotten too involved in the day to day management of the USCF. Its best function is to set policy and goals, and both help the Executive Director meet those goals and hold him so accountable.

You hear every election that the USCF should be run as a business. While that is true, we should keep in mind that this is a small national Not For Profit whose agenda should be to support and encourage chess in the United States. Getting control of expenses, increasing revenue and bringing in new supporters and investors will help that task. I view every one of the hundreds of tournaments I have organized as a little business. Having planned tournaments with the long-run in mind, I increased prize funds when the turnout was good because that's what I would want as a player. Treating people right, providing a good environment where the rounds start on time, all of this is part of making players want to come back to tournaments. This philosophy applies to the USCF as well. The USCF exists to serve its members, not the other way around. We need to create a USCF in which people want to renew their membership, where the modal age of members is not 10 years old but remains consistently high throughout the age spectrum. I'll help create a USCF which is more responsive to the needs of its members. Thank you.

Thank you for your consideration.

Please visit my web page at: www.members.cox.net/arlingtonchessclub/uscf_eb.htm

uschess.org

Opinions expressed are solely those of the candidates.

IM Blas Lugo

I learned chess in Havana, Cuba when I was 13 years old. Since then I have devoted my life to this wonderful game. I became an International Master at 23, and I achieved my first Grandmaster norm in 1996 at the NY Open. I have been an active chess player as well as an organizer and trainer for the last 25 years. In 1996 I founded the Miami International Chess Academy where I have taught countless players of all ages. For the last several years I have been organizing the Miami International Open and many other important

Mike Nietman

uschess.org

events. I have much proven success in multiple facets of chess. I am absolutely positive that I can help our chess federation in many ways if I am given the opportunity to serve. If elected to the USCF Executive Board, I plan to bring harmony and new energy to our organization. I would concentrate my efforts in raising memberships, securing much needed sponsorship, and finding effective ways to cut expenses to make this federation stronger. I have immeasurable experience and success in these areas, and I can help make the same happen for the USCF. This is an absolutely important election because the USCF needs a new course of direction immediately. You, the members, can make this happen! We, as an organization, cannot afford to continue throwing away money frivolously, especially in this very difficult economy. We, as a members’ organization, must be fiscally responsible. The current financial state of the USCF is extremely fragile! According to the Federation’s statistics, the USCF lost approximately 1,500 members between February 2008 and February 2009. The USCF also lost $419,968 in the first 7 months of this fiscal year (this information was provided by USCF Chief Financial Officer Joe Nanna). Instead of investing money wisely in areas that can help the USCF grow, hundreds of thousands of dollars were wasted on unnecessary lawsuits in the past two years. I am not interested in chess politicking. I am not

interested in political power. I am only interested in making the USCF stronger and better. If elected, one of my first motions will be to stop wasting what is left of members’ valuable resources on legal fees by ending all lawsuits immediately. Money saved could be redirected to better adult, scholastic, collegiate, correspondence, and military chess.

With scholastic members being a large percentage of our membership and revenue, issues dealing with scholastic chess were and are extremely important for the EB. I’d like to clear up a long running misconception that I’ve heard from several different sources about what the Scholastic Council is and what role it plays. The Executive Board appoints about two dozen committees with areas of expertise ranging from finance to postal chess to international affairs to senior chess. The model then is to have the committees discuss issues pertaining to their area of expertise and advise the Executive Board so they may make the most informed decisions possible. An EB liaison is assigned to each committee who communicates with the committee chair. In 2000 the Scholastic Committee chair was extremely busy dealing with multiple scholastic questions and issues from the EB, the office and the scholastic community, that he and other senior committee members asked the EB to create a Scholastic Council that could respond more quickly to the needs of everyone. The EB agreed and voted to create a five person Scholastic Council. Council members must be scholastic committee members and are voted on annually for alternating two year terms. In essence I view the Council as the Chair of the Scholastic Committee just as every other committee has a chair. Optimally this allows for discussions amongst a small, responsive leadership group to give quick answers to the EB, the office and the scholastic community.

As co-chair of the Council for the past four years one of my frustrations with the EB has been in the area of communication. We haven’t been alerted to important scholastic discussions in a timely enough manner in order to have meaningful exchanges before developing recommendations. Agendas have come out less than a week before the meetings. Agendas should be available at least a month before an EB meeting. If an important item comes up after the publishing of the agenda, it can always be added. To further publicize our meetings, the agenda should be sent out electronically to all committee chairs. Once approved minutes should follow after the meeting. Another economic area in which scholastic chess could significantly impact the USCF is with sponsorships. USCF has had sponsors for some programs and events such as the Grand Prix, Junior Grand Prix and National Elementary. But we could do better! So one must ask “Why don’t we get more sponsorships?” At every Delegates Meeting I’ve attended it has been asked “Where are the sponsorships?” We should be getting corporate sponsorships especially for our youth tournaments and programs. Fact is that we have had some inquiries. However, when these companies do their due diligence and research what the USCF is about they invariably come across our current state of lawsuits and politics and that negates their interest immediately! We need to clean up our act to secure these corporate donations. If you agree, please lend me your support in this election!

Specifically, if elected, here are my pledges to USCF members: • I will work hard to restore and maintain a sound and balanced budget every year that I am on the board • I will work hard to protect members’ assets • I will work hard to find ways to cut unnecessary expenditures • I will work hard to develop a strong support system for adult, scholastic, collegiate, correspondence, Internet and military chess • I will work hard to find ways to raise the membership level • I will work hard to bring in new sponsors for the USCF • I will work hard to promote full transparency in all USCF dealings.

Chess Life — May 2009

47

USCF Executive Board Candidate Statements Bill Goichberg

Jim Berry

It has been my privilege to serve as USCF President since August 2005. The Executive Board will select a new President this August, as there is a four year term limit. USCF has seen many changes since 2005. Our website now has interesting chess news and games, not just ratings and technical info. Chess Life has been modernized and upgraded, and a scholastic magazine again offered (Chess Life for Kids, better than the old School Mates.) Adult dues have been lowered, new national events initiated, tournament memberships restored to encourage rated activity after a 15 year lapse, and low cost insurance offered to chess clubs. We are fortunate to have outstanding sponsors including the Saint Louis Chess Club (U.S. Championship, U.S. Women’s), Kasparov Chess Foundation (Olympiads), and World Chess Live (Grand Prix, Junior Grand Prix, College Tournament of Champions). And we are the only nation to have both our overall and women’s Olympiad teams win medals in Dresden! For many years, USCF’s most persistent problem was declining Adult membership. Beginning with 1995 when dues rose from $30 to $40, we lost at least 400 Adult members each year, an average of over 1,000 per year, for 11 consecutive years. Senior membership also declined steadily. This type of deterioration tends to be a vicious spiral, as fewer members means fewer clubs and tournaments, which in turn hurts membership, etc. This trend was not unique to USCF, as similar organizations such as the American Contract Bridge League and Chess Federation of Canada also had large declines, the latter being even more severe than USCF

and resulting in elimination of their printed magazine. During the past three years, this destructive deterioration was finally halted, as our age 20 & older member total increased slightly. Under 20 numbers were not as good, as overall membership declined by 1,481, but this was still much better than the previous three years, in which we lost 13,145 members. Financial losses were also once a persistent USCF problem, especially in fiscal 1997-2003 when money was lost each year and the Federation almost went bankrupt. 2004 and 2005 had surpluses, but since then, breaking even has been difficult as expected relocation savings did not materialize, though Executive Director Bill Hall has held expenses down. We are paying off an extra $100,000 of our mortgage this year. A new membership structure including online-only magazine options is off to a good start, but will be of far more benefit in fiscal 2010. The 2006-2009 fiscal period should end at roughly breakeven, with unusual negative and positive events approximately balancing each other out: Negative: 1) High legal fees due to improper behavior by two board members and USCF being sued by a board member (see www.uschess.org/legalupdates), 2) Auditing fees and funding issues regarding past handling of the 1999-2002 employee profit sharing plan, 3) 2006 began with over $100,000 in unrealistic accounts receivable which had to be written off. Positive: the $350,000 bequest from Phil LeCornu. For further comment, please see my campaign website, www.checkmate.us.

As members of the USCF in 2009, you and I are faced with many problems and challenges. Exciting and crucial times are ahead. Together, we can promote chess to the next level in the United States. I love the game, but enjoy the people at tournaments even more.

meals, hotels, nada ... chess is my passion. The new dues structure recommended by the USCF Executive Board and voted in by the USCF delegates in Dallas in 2008 should result in a $150,000 savings in the 2010 fiscal year. Taking all income and expenses into account, our USCF will show a healthy surplus in 2009 and for the two years I have served on the USCF board. We are also in a position to retire our Crossville, TN headquarters building mortgage in the near future, in fact, the EB has voted to pay at least $100,000 towards the mortgage. The 2007 and 2008 U.S. Championships held in Oklahoma were very successful and exciting ... but the 2009 U.S. Championships held in St. Louis, MO, will be even better. If you plan to visit the championships, will you take the time to introduce yourself to me? Your USCF Executive Board needs financial expertise and financial professionalism as well as an abiding love of chess. Our USCF will have all of the above when you vote for Jim Berry for re-election. THANK YOU.

Here is what I bring to the table: • • • • • •

Vice President of USCF from 2007 to present Rated 1906 USCF and 2054 FIDE Played 1,400 USCF rated games since 1962 Played in 7 recent U.S. Opens Played in 247 USCF tournaments Directed 87 tournaments as a Senior Tournament Director • Chief TD of 2007 and 2008 United States Women’s Chess Championships • Chief TD of 2008 United States Chess Championship I have served for the last 10 years on the Board of Directors of the Stillwater National Bank, a $2.9 billion dollar bank. (NASDAQ: OKSB) No toxic assets here. We are one of the “good” banks. I have insisted that the USCF executive board set the budget with care and include a small profit and an emergency fund. All financial moves must be calculated ... like in a chess game. All expenses incurred while serving on the Executive Board by Jim Berry have and will be paid out of my own pocket. I will not bill the USCF for any transportation,

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Chess Life — May 2009

I have known USCF VP Jim Berry for 20 years and have the greatest respect for his contributions to chess as a player, organizer, and tournament director. His experience serving on the Board of Directors of the Stillwater National Bank (NASDAQ: OKSB) and his many years of service to chess in Oklahoma combined with his easy going manner and team spirit make Jim Berry an ideal candidate for re-election to the USCF Executive Board. —IM John Donaldson (2008 USA Olympiad Team Captain)

uschess.org

Opinions expressed are solely those of the candidates.

Brian Mottershead

Brian Lafferty

The most important issue facing the new Executive Board next August will be how to proceed with the lawsuits that embroil the USCF and two of the EB members who were elected in 2007; namely, Susan Polgar and Paul Truong (a married couple). In September 2007, while working as a volunteer System Administrator for the USCF on its web site, I uncovered technical evidence that Paul Truong had authored thousands of vulgar, obscene, Usenet posts, impersonating various chess personalities, and viciously attacking the USCF and numerous USCF officials, employees, and volunteers. These posts, commonly referred to as “Fake Sam Sloan” posts, continued after Truong became an Executive Board member in August 2007. I put my findings into a confidential report (the “Mottershead Report”) to the Executive Board, which was soon leaked on the Internet, though I was not the person who leaked it. Truong’s “Fake Sam Sloan” activity has led, ultimately, to five lawsuits for the USCF. First, the USCF found itself as a co-defendant with Truong in two lawsuits by people he impersonated: one brought by the “real” Sam Sloan and a second by another person. The USCF is now out of these cases. A third case arose when the USCF filed suit against “John Does,” trying to discover how confidential e-mails between the USCF and its lawyers had been leaked and came to be posted on her blog by Polgar. After obtaining information through subpoenas, the USCF eventually alleged that a confederate of Polgar’s had hacked into an EB member’s e-mail

• Proven ability to work in unison with staff, volunteers and board of directors. My Background By training I am an attorney, having practiced as a litigator in New York City. I also served the City of New York as an administrative law judge appointed by Mayors Koch, Dinkins and Guiliani. Since 1996 I have been an educator. I’ve taught middle and high school and have increasingly been working with children at risk. I became involved in scholastic chess when my then third grade daughter showed an interest in chess. We started a successful chess club at her school and not only were the kids hooked by the game—so was I. I have served as a board member of the Massachusetts Chess Association and continue to serve that organization as the coordinator for several programs. The USCF needs a new direction in leadership. We need:

My name is Brian Lafferty and I’m running for the USCF Executive Board. • More than 20 years experience as an Attorney, Judge, Teacher, AntiViolence Educator and Grant Writer • Ability to direct complex projects from concept to operational status. • Goal-oriented individual with strong leadership capabilities. • Organized, highly motivated, and collaborative problem solver.

uschess.org

• Transparency in all USCF dealings. • Fiscal responsibility and accountability. • Ethical behavior. In my view there are several attributes which I have that make for effective management: 1. The ability to actively listen; 2. The desire and ability to set reasonable goals in concert with others; 3. The ability to work toward goals through a consensus approach; 4. The ability to admit mistakes and seek solutions.

account over 100 times; that she received the stolen e-mails; and that she published them on her website, seeking to embarrass the other members of the Executive Board, knowing that they were stolen. The Secret Service is also investigating this affair as a criminal matter. The fourth case was brought by Susan Polgar after she was subpoenaed in the e-mail-hacking case. She seeks $25 million in damages for unspecified “defamation” and other claims. The last case was filed by the USCF to have a judge order the removal of Polgar and Truong from the Executive Board for misconduct and failure to fulfill their duties to the USCF as Executive Board members. I believe that it is incumbent on all candidates in this election to make their position on these lawsuits clear, especially those candidates who are apparently being sponsored or supported by Susan Polgar and Paul Truong. My position is that the USCF must defend itself vigorously in the $25 million lawsuit against it filed by Susan Polgar. My view is that this lawsuit (in which I am also one of the defendants) is without merit and that it was filed to keep the USCF and the Executive Board from holding Polgar and Truong accountable for their misconduct. I also believe that the USCF must proceed with the lawsuit to have Polgar and Truong removed from its Executive Board by a judge. For more information on this and other issues, please visit my blog at http://micaissa.blogspot.com.

How Has A Lack of Transparency Hurt the USCF? The USCF and several USCF members (myself included) are presently mired in several lawsuits involving two recently elected board members, Paul Truong and Susan Polgar. During the last USCF election campaign these two board members hid their marriage to each other. Mr. Truong repeatedly failed to provide verifiable data regarding his employment background. That background as represented to the membership turned out to be false and fraudulent. Not only was Mr. Truong not the business maestro he claimed to be, he was filing for personal bankruptcy during the election campaign. Both Mr. Truong and Ms. Polgar kept this filing secret, all the while touting his business acumen and ability to financially save the USCF. There is presently a criminal bankruptcy fraud investigation of Mr. Truong ongoing by the U.S. Attorney in Brooklyn, NY where Truong’s bankruptcy petition was filed. Ms. Polgar clearly appears to be under investigation by the U.S. Secret Service Electronic Crimes Task Force for involvement leading up to the breaking into the e-mail account of a board member and stealing privileged e-mails between the USCF and its attorney. Ms. Polgar’s web developer, Gregory Alexander, has been identified as her alleged accomplice. Mr. Alexander’s home was searched on February 4, 2009 by the U.S. Secret Service under a search warrant issued by a federal judge. We deserve better. I pledge to do better. Chess Life — May 2009

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USCF Executive Board Candidate Statements Sam Sloan

Mikhail Korenman

I AM A MAN WITH A PLAN. I have a specific plan on how to fulfill our mission to promote chess and to bring more players into our game, plus more money into our Federation so that we can promote chess. My plan involves big promotions of scholastic chess, an area that is being completely ignored by the current board. My plan will help all members, because it will provide chess teaching jobs for the adult members to teach chess to all the kids that my plan will bring in. I will restore Chess Life to ALL adult members and Chess Life for Kids to ALL scholastic members. I will guarantee that all Life Members receive a printed copy of Chess Life magazine for the rest of their lives, and not the online Chess Life that life members are now told that they may be receiving soon. To do this, I will cut expenses to the bone and exterminate the sacred cows that have been milking this Federation for years. I will restore the printed Chess Life to its former size. I will institute the novel concept of honest accounting and do away with the Old Shell Game Accounting System that has been hiding the horrific financial losses of the last few years. I will restore the Federation to profitability and a financial surplus. In short, I will reverse the bad decisions that have been made over the past four years. Say goodbye and wish farewell to the corrupt old guard. Throw the bums out!

Regular members who joined or renewed after September 24, 2008 may be wondering why they have not received Chess Life magazine in the mail. The shocking answer is the current board voted unanimously to stop sending Chess Life in the mail to regular members and to stop sending Chess Life for Kids in the mail to regular scholastic members. In tiny print in footnote 8 on page 7 of the March Chess Life, the following statement is made: “Premium benefits for life and sustaining members are only guaranteed through 2010.” I consider this to be an outrage. The current board claims that it is “saving money” by no longer sending Chess Life to regular members. What they overlook is that once the regular members realize that they are no longer entitled to receive Chess Life, they will not renew and membership will plummet. I was on the board for one year. That was the only year since 1995 that the USCF did not show a loss in real money. That was the only year since 1996 that there has been an increase in membership. I am not taking credit for these things but I am pointing out that there is no reason why the USCF has to lose money every year. This year, the USCF was fortunate to receive a bequest of $350,000. The money is now almost all gone, completely wasted in just one year. Elect me and throw the bums out.

“Scholastic chess program, organized by Mikhail, involve a lot of kids in Kansas and now in Illinois.” • IM Anna Zatonskih, 2008 U.S. Women’s Champion: “Mikhail Korenman is an excellent organizer and dedicated chess enthusiast. He does a lot for popularity of chess in the U.S.” • Wes Fisk, Lindsborg, KS, City Council: “Mikhail has worked tirelessly on the behalf of chess and chessplayers. He is a visionary, who thinks outside the box.”

Dr. Korenman’s Statement for the USCF I am currently living in Chicago and coaching chess in local area elementary and secondary schools. Some of my strong chess credentials include: • Extensive experience working in non-profit organizations. • Excellent success in grant writing. • Organized many successful major chess events, including the U.S. Junior Open and Invitational, the Pan-American, the Final Four, and numerous world class FIDE tournaments and matches. • Initiated the internationally acclaimed “Chess for Peace” program with Gorbachev, Karpov, Onischuk, Shulman, Polgar, Krush, Zatonskih, etc., that was featured in National Geographic, The NY Times, NPR, NBC, PBS, and countless print and TV media across the U.S. and around the world. • Served on the USCF Scholastic Council. • Current member of the Scholastic Committee. • FIDE International Organizer.

Support for the election was also received by U.S. Champions Onischuk, Shulman, Zatonskih, Goletiani; Grandmasters Akobian, Kaidanov, Ehlvest, Ibragimov, Stripunsky, Khachiyan, Perelshteyn, Goldin, International Masters Donaldson, Schneider.

Support for Dr. Korenman’s Candidacy • GM Anatoly Karpov, 7-time World Champion: “I am very impressed with the tremendous progress and development of the chess programs by Mikhail Korenman over the years. He has done so much for chess.” • IM John Donaldson, Captain - U.S. Olympiad Teams: “I believe Mikhail has the leadership ability, energy, and vision to help the USCF out of its current problems.” • GM Alexander Onischuk, 2007 U.S. Champion: “Dr. Korenman understands professional, amateur, and scholastic chess. He’ll be a big asset for the USCF EB.” • GM Yury Shulman, 2008 U.S. Champion:

50

Chess Life — May 2009

National media on Dr. Korenman’s chess achievements: • “I am grateful for your hard work to promote peace.” – Letter from former U.S. President Jimmy Carter • “In recent years Lindsborg has witnessed a minor revolution in self-identity, and one man is largely responsible for the shift: Mikhail Korenman has made this town crazy for the game of chess.” – National Geographic magazine • “Mr. Korenman’s enthusiasm, imagination and web of contacts have been crucial to the burgeoning appeal of chess here.” – The New York Times • “In the United States, Korenman has built an impressive résumé as competitor, teacher and tournament organizer.” – The Star

Additional Chess Awards: • 2006 USCF Special Service Award • 2005 Rotary International Service Award • 2005 Community Service Award (Lindsborg) • 2005 FIDE International Organizer • 2004 USCF Chess Organizer of the Year With my experience in multiple facets of scholastic, college, adult, professional, and women’s chess, I can help make the USCF a much stronger organization. • Vice-President, Illinois Chess Association • President, International School of Chess uschess.org

Opinions expressed are solely those of the candidates.

Ruth Haring

sent the members of the USCF. I am a club player and a current active tournament competitor. I also have family members who play and enjoy tournament chess. I understand chess from the viewpoints of both the avid player and the chess professional. I believe it is important to understand and improve the service we provide to the membership that pays the dues which are the bread and butter of the USCF budget. As a board candidate, I am primarily interested in: 1) Promoting chess

My name is Ruth Haring and I am running for USCF Executive Board for two reasons: 1) I love chess and want to see it grow. I want to see more people play, more events, greater recognition of our sport amongst the general public, and better media coverage. I believe in starting a program to develop IMs and GMs, and that it is necessary to develop funding sources and corporate sponsorships to achieve these goals. 2) I believe that the Executive Board should repre-

1) Bring in new membership 2) Develop excellence (grow the population of International Masters and Grandmasters) 3) Opportunity development, promotion and showcasing of premiere events 4) Expanding media coverage. Huge strides have been made with Internet reporting. The USCF should expand into partnerships with outside companies and individuals to increase coverage. 2) Fund Raising 1) The USCF should have a fundraising plan which will grow the organization and ensure the future. 2) This plan should include membership dues, Benefactor memberships, gifts and endowments. 3) We should ensure that the fund raising program

is managed like a business, and includes applications for funding from corporate entities, Local and State governments, and private foundations. As an executive board member who sets policy for the organization, my experiences as a chess player, advocate, and professional manager have prepared me for the duties and responsibility of being an executive board member. I have played tournament chess since 1969, represented the USA in five Women’s Olympiads and an Interzonal, published articles on chess and taught my children to play chess. I will be a thoughtful and effective advocate for the organization. With my 20 plus years experience in management and consulting, I am well equipped to be part of the executive team which monitors, approves, evaluates, and troubleshoots the organization’s operations. The executive board should not concern itself with the day-to-day management of the organization. That is the Executive Director’s job. The executive board will take recommendations from the Executive Director, staff, delegates, and membership and make independent decisions. I have experience making thoughtful decisions which are in line with the organizational mission, on behalf of and in the best interests of an organization. I have no conflict of interest and and my income is from non-chess sources. I am eager to channel my energy and efforts into helping USCF reach the next level. I am looking forward to serving on the USCF Executive Board and hope you will give me your support. For more information, visit my website at www.RuthHaring.com

USCF EXECUTIVE BOARD ELECTION

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Chess Life — May 2009

51

Back to Basics

Shock And Awe Out Of The Blue Sky

Sometimes even apparently dull positions contain hidden tactical surprises. Be alert and if opportunity knocks, be ready to open the door! By GM Lev Alburt

The winner of this month’s “Game Annotation” award, Shannon Fox marked his letter to me “When opportunity knocks.” When his opportunity did knock, Shannon was ready. (My future comments will be italics). Writes Shannon:

I’ve read several of your books and my favorite is Chess Openings for Black Explained. I’ve used that book to help me with ideas and to build confidence when playing against the most popular opening lines as Black. In the following game I played a quad at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs on December 20th, 2008 utilizing some of the book’s positional ideas. My opponent is Tony Telinbacco, rated 1825, whom I pre viously played in the same venue earlier this fall. In that match, Tony played a sound, conservative first game, winning a pawn in the middlegame and then grinding me through a long endgame which he eventually won. In our second game, I had a fairly good idea of what to expect from Tony so I decided to stick with lines I’m familiar with and try to avoid the mistakes from our prior match. Queen’s Indian Defense (A47) Tony Telinbacco (1825) Shannon Fox (1687) U.S. Air Force Academy Quads #5 (2), 12.20.2008 1. d4 Nf6 2. Nf3 b6

In the above noted repertoire book, the authors suggest 2. ... e6, ready to meet 3. c4 with 3. ... Bb4+, the Bogo Indian. But 2. ... b6 is, of course, as good as 2. ... e6. 3. Nbd2 Bb7

I’m not playing in normal move order here for the Nimzo Indian but it seems to be OK. 4. e3 e6 5. Bd3 (see diagram top of next column) 52

Chess Life — May 2009

rn qkl r plpp+ppp p +pn + + + + + + P + + + +LPN+ PPPN PPP R LQK +R

After 5. Bd3

5. ... Be7

I’d prefer 5. ... c5, limiting White’s options. 6. 0-0 d6

Instead of ... d7 d6, I quite often play ... c7 c5 and put pressure on White’s center. With ... d6 I’m a bit passive but it does allow for the logical development of the knight from b8 to d7 with additional support for ... e6 e5. As in the note above, I’d prefer 6. ... c5. I think that after 6. ... d6 7. e4 White is a little better. 7. b3 0-0 8. Bb2 Nbd7

r+ q rk+ plpnlppp p ppn + + + + + + P + + +P+LPN+ PLPN PPP R +Q+RK

After 8. ... Nbd7

9. e4 c5

Fritz prefers ... d6 d5 for Black instead of ... c7 c5. My idea, of course, is to chal

lenge the center while keeping a potential line open for the light square bishop. The time control in this quad was Game/60 with a five second delay and as a result, I was keeping my opening moves in the one to three minutes range, so I didn’t look for long at the alternate d5 move before I chose c5. 10. e5 dxe5 11. dxe5 Nd5

r+ q rk+ pl+nlppp p +p+ + + pnP + + + + + +P+L+N+ PLPN PPP R +Q+RK

After 11. ... Nd5

I was surprised at e4 e5 by White because it strengthened Black’s light square bishop and it seemed a bit pre mature to lose the tension in the center. The black and white light square bish ops neutralize each other, while White’s space advantage gives him the overall edge. 12. Be4 Qc7

I spent a fair amount of time before playing ... Qc7 to ensure that the knight on d5 had an active square to eventually reach if White booted it with 13. c4 Nf4 and possibly on to ... Ng6. The positional consequence that I did not give enough consideration to was allowing White to exchange off Black’s good bishop, which left Black with a less active bishop on e7. This is the type of mistake that I often make when playing higher rated players. I end up with equal material but bad pieces with not much initiative. That’s why I didn’t like allowing White to play e5 to begin with. uschess.org

13. Qe2 Nf4 14. Qe3 Ng6 15. Bxb7 Qxb7 16. Rad1 b5

With 16. ... b5, I’m looking for more space on the queenside to allow the black knight to move to b6 and possibly d5. 17. Ne4 Rfd8

r+ r +k+ pq+nlppp + +p+n+ +pp P + + +N+ + +P+ QN+ PLP+ PPP + +R+RK

After 17. ... Rfd8

+

r

+k+ + + lppp pq+p+ + + p P + +Q+ n + +P+ +N+ PL + PPP + + +RK

After 24. Qc4

24. ... Nd5

Better is 24. ... Nd3, followed by 25. ... b5 and then ... c4. Black’s knight is even better placed on d3 (compared to d5). If 25. Nd4, then 25. ... Qe4. 25. Nd4 Qa8

As the knight can’t be maintained there, I’d prefer to double the white rooks on the d file, tying up Black’s forces. In particu lar, the c5 pawn needs protection.

I spent additional time to come up with ... Qa8. I want to keep the queen on the a8 h1 diagonal with the g2 target plus, I gain a bit more initiative because White needs to consider the threat to the pawn on a2.

18. ... Qc6 19. c4 bxc4

26. Nc2

18. Nd6

I’m a bit concerned about Black’s pawn on c5 with no (pawn) support, but I have a lot of piece protection for c5. 20. Nxc4 Nb6

I finally get my knight to b6 and the position is about equal with maybe a slight advantage for White. Considering I’m a 200 rating point underdog I’m feel ing a bit more confident at this point in the game. Black’s pieces are on fairly active squares and I want to continue with my idea of getting the knight to d5. 21. Nxb6 axb6

White quickly exchanges off the knight and prevents the nice post on d5. I’d do almost anything to prevent Black’s ... axb6 recapture! Stronger, for instance, is, 21. Rc1 with a small edge for White. 22. Rxd8+ Rxd8

Exchanging the rooks seems to favor Black slightly; I’m starting to feel better about my position. I think White will try to post his knight on d6 which will be tough to boot and dangerous to exchange with Black’s bishop on e7. I’m looking for a way to continue to push my queen side pawns and get additional play on that side of the board. 23. Qe2 Nf4

White makes an inferior queen move giving me a tempo and now I get the knight to f4 and on to d5! 24. Qc4 uschess.org

q+ r +k+ + + lppp p +p+ + + pnP + +Q+ + + +P+ + + PLN+ PPP + + +RK

After 26. Nc2

26. ... Qb7

Oops, I realize that I need the rook on a8, so it turns out that I wasted a move and should have played ... Qb7 a move earlier. I’m not overly concerned though, because White does not have much coun terplay at this point. I guess at this moment Shannon wasn’t employing Fritz for help. The move 26. ... Qxa2 simply wins a pawn (if 27. Ba3, then 27. ... b5, giving the black queen breathing room). 27. a4 Rb8 28. Na3 Rd8

I didn’t see White playing Na3, stopping my attack with the hopeful ... b6 b5 pawn push, so I moved the rook back to the d file again, looking for an active square and possibly to break into White’s position. 29. Rd1 Rd7 (see diagram top of next column)

+ + +k+ +q+rlppp p +p+ + + pnP + P+Q+ + + NP+ + + L + PPP + +R+ K

After 29. ... Rd7

29. ... Rd7 is a superb move which sets up many threats, and many traps for example, 30. ... Ne3 or 30. ... Nf4. To sur vive, White should play defense and concede the d file such as 30. Re1. 30. Qd3

When White played Qd3 I thought that he had made a strong/logical move and proved that my rook in fact had been badly placed on d7 with his queen/rook battery. Then I noticed the discovered attack with my knight jumping to f4 and the mate threat on g2. I had plenty of time on my clock so I re examined the position double checking that I wasn’t sacrificing my rook for nothing. Yep, the rook was correctly placed on the seventh rank. 30. ... Nf4!, White resigned.

If White tries Qf1 he ends up losing both his queen and rook. Looking back at this game, it reaffirms that if you have a tactical threat, then hold on to it and make your opponent deal with it; don’t undo a strong tactical position willingly. In this case, not moving the black queen from the a8 h1 diagonal allowed me to open the door when opportunity knocked! Let’s give also a well deserved credit to the subtle 29. ... Rd7, and hurrah for our aces!

.

Send in your games!

If you are unrated or were rated 1799 or below on your Chess Life label, then GM Lev Alburt invites you to send your instructive games with notes to: Back to Basics, c/o Chess Life PO Box 3967 Crossville, TN 38557 3967

Or e mail your material to [email protected] GM Alburt will select the “most instructive” game and Chess Life will award an autographed copy of Lev’s newest book, Chess Training Pocket Book II (by Lev Alburt and Al Lawrence) to the person submitting the most instructive game and anno tations.

Chess Life — May 2009

53

Endgame Lab

The Berlin Defense and the Endgame, Part II Last month we looked at how the Berlin Defense manifested itself in endgames at the Elista Grand Prix event. This month, we continue the theme using games from the Corus tournament in Wijk aan Zee. By GM Pal Benko

This month I continue my article on the Berlin Defense variation of the Ruy Lopez, an opening that quickly turns into an endgame. To illustrate this, we’ll look at games played at the traditional Corus chess tournament Wijk aan Zee 2009. 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nf6 4. 0-0 Nxe4 5. d4 Nd6 6. Bxc6 dxc6 7. dxe5 Nf5 8. Qxd8+ Kxd8 9. Nc3

r+lk l r ppp +ppp +p+ + + + + Pn+ + + + + + N +N+ PPP+ PPP R L +RK

After 9. Nc3

Starts attacking instantly but it is not as dangerous as it seems. 16. ... fxe6 15. Ng5 Nd5 16. Nxe6 Nxf4 17. Nxf4 Bd6 18. Ne6 Kf7 19. Ng5+ Kg6 20. Nce4 Be5 21. Nf3 Bxb2 22. Rd7

+r+ + r plpR+ pp pp+ +k+ + + + + + +N+P+ + + +N+P PlP+ P + R + + K

After 22. Rd7

22. ... Bf6

These are the main line moves in the Berlin Defense and is the starting position for the next five games. There are other alternatives, like 4. Qe2 a6 or 6. dxe5 Nxb5 7. a4 Nxe5 which was played twice at Corus, but somehow Black won both of those games. Magnus GM Daniel Stellwagen (FIDE 2612) GM Magnus Carlsen (FIDE 2776) Corus, Wijk aan Zee, 2009 See position after 9. Nc3

9. ... Ke8 10. h3

The most frequent continuation.

10. ... b6

While this prepares the long diagonal for the bishop, it takes too much time, so I would not expect many followers. 11. Rd1

First 11. Bf4 then Rad1 looks better.

54

11. ... Bb7 12. Bf4 Rc8 13. g4 Ne7 14. e6

Chess Life — May 2009

A heroic attempt but objectively 22. ... Bxa1 23. Nh4+ Kh6 24. Nf5+ Kg6 25. Nh4+, acquiescing in perpetual check, is more reasonable. 23. Nxf6 Kxf6 24. g5+ Kg6 25. Re1 Rhe8 26. Ne5+ Kxg5 27. Rxg7+ Kf6 28. Rf7+ Ke6 29. Rxh7 Rg8+ 30. Ng4+ Kd5 31. Ree7 c5 32. Rxc7 Rxc7 33. Rxc7 Bc8 34. Rxa7

This only draws; 34. f3 could have been played with some winning hopes. 34. ... Bxg4 35. hxg4 Rxg4+ 36. Kf1, Draw agreed.

Easy draw GM Leinier Dominguez Perez (FIDE 2717) GM Yue Wang (FIDE 2739) Corus, Wijk aan Zee, 2009 See position after 9. Nc3

9. ... Ke8 10. h3 h5!? 11. Bf4

For 11. Bg5 see the April column.

11. ... Be7 12. Rad1 Nh4!?

Simplifying with the knight’s fifth move. 13. Nxh4 Bxh4 14. Ne2 Bd7 15. e6 Bxe6 16. Nd4 Bf6 17. Nxe6 fxe6 18. Bxc7 Rc8

Black’s isolated pawn is not much of an issue due to the limited material. 19. Bf4 Ke7 20. Be3 b6 21. b3 Rhd8 22. g4 hxg4 23. hxg4 Bc3 24. Bg5+ Bf6 25. Be3 Bc3 26. Rxd8 Rxd8 27. Kg2 Bd2 28. Rd1

The pawn ending is only a draw, but 28. Kf3 Bxe3 29. Kxe3 does not promise much either. 28. ... Bxe3 29. Rxd8 Kxd8 30. fxe3 Ke7 31. Kf3 Kf6 32. Kf4 e5+ 33. Kf3 Kg5 34. Kg3 a5 35. c3 b5, Draw agreed.

Changing chances IM Ali Bitalzadeh (FIDE 2400) IM Dronavalli Harika (FIDE 2473) Corus, Wijk aan Zee, 2009 See position after 9. Nc3

9. ... Ke8 10. h3 h6

A careful move not afraid of g2 g4.

11. Rd1 Be6 12. g4 Ne7 13. Nd4 Rd8 14. f4 Bc4 15. b3 Ba6 16. Ne4

It appears that 16. Be3 Nd5 17. Nxd5 cxd5 18. a4 is better. 16. ... b6 17. Bb2 c5 18. Nf5 Nxf5 19. gxf5 Rxd1+ 20. Rxd1 Bc8 21. f6 Bb7

A mistake would be 21. ... Bxh3? since 22. e6! Rg8 23. Rd8+ Kxd8 24. exf7 wins. 22. fxg7 Bxg7 23. Ng3 Bf8 24. Kh2 Rg8 25. c4 Be7 26. Rd2 Bh4 27. Nh5 Bc8

Now Black could have taken the initia tive with 27. ... Kf8!? and even after 28. Bc1 Ke7 (threatening with ... Bf3) 29. Nf6 Bxf6 30. exf6+ Kxf6 31. Bb2+ White fights for a draw. 28. Nf6+ Bxf6 29. exf6 Bd7 30. Re2+ Kd8, Draw agreed.

The next two games show Black’s king visiting the queenside. uschess.org

Benko’s Bafflers Most of the time these studies resemble positions that could actu ally occur over the board. You must simply reach a theoretically won position for White. Solutions can be found on page 79. Please e mail submissions for Benko’s Bafflers to: pbenko@ uschess.org Pawn win!? GM Alexander Motylev (FIDE 2676) GM Andrei Volokitin (FIDE 2671) Corus, Wijk aan Zee, 2009 See position after 9. Nc3

9. ... Bd7 10. h3 h6 11. b3 Kc8 12. Bb2 Ne7 13. Rfe1 c5 14. Rad1 b6 15. Nd2 Be6 16. Nde4 c4

Black gets rid of his doubled pawns while White’s kingside pawn advance has not materialized. 17. Kh2 cxb3 18. cxb3 Ng6 19. Nb5 Bd7 20. Nec3 Bc5!

After so many aimless white knight moves, now it is Black who has the edge. 21. Ba3 Bxa3 22. Nxa3 Re8 23. Nc4 b5 24. Na5

r+k+r+ + p pl+pp + + +np Np+ P + + + + + +PN + +P P+ + PPK + +RR +

After 24. Na5

24. ... Rxe5?

Why not 24. ... Nxe5! when 25. Rd5 allows 25. ... Nf3+. 25. Rxe5 Nxe5 26. Rd5, Draw agreed.

Thus White regained the pawn and could have continued fighting, but instead agreed to the draw. Finally, let’s see the most thrilling and complicated game with this theme. Exchange sacrifices GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2725) GM Levon Aronian (FIDE 2750) Corus, Wijk aan Zee, 2009 uschess.org

Problem I

David Gurgenidze Georgia

+

+

+

K

+

+

+

+

+

+

+

+

p

+

+

+

+

P

+

+

+

+

+

+

+ + + + kn+ + +

White to play and win See position after 9. Nc3

9. ... h6 10. b3 a5 11. a4 Be6 12. Ne2 Bd5 13. Rd1 Kc8 14. Ne1 g5 15. Bb2 Bg7 16. Nd3 b6 17. f3 Kb7 18. Kf2 Be6

With a balanced position, White plays the usual kingside pawn advance. 19. g4! Ne7 20. Ng3 Rhd8 21. h3 c5 22. f4 c4! 23. bxc4 Bxc4 24. f5 Nc6 25. e6 Bf8

r+ r l + +kp +p+ pn+P+ p p + +Pp P+l+ +P+ + +N+ NP LP+ K + R +R+ +

After 25. ... Bf8

26. exf7?!

White’s main achievement is the defended passed pawn, but at the cost of weakened queenside pawns. An open position favors the bishop pair. There fore 26. Bf6!? Bxd3 (26. ... Rd6 27. Nb2!) 27. cxd3 (27. Bxd8?! Bxc2!) 27. ... Rd5 28. exf7 Rd7 29. Ne4 may have given control to White. 26. ... Bxf7 27. Ne4 Bc4 28. Bf6 Re8 29. Kf3 Ka7! 30. Ndf2 Ba6 31. h4 gxh4 32. Bxh4 Bb7 33. Kf4 Nb4 34. c4 Na6 35. Nc3 Bc6

This time Black could have won an Exchange with 35. ... Bd6+, but after 36. Rxd6 cxd6 37. Nb5+ it would not have meant much. 36. Nfe4 Nc5 37. Nf6 Re7 38. Nh5?

This knight should be placed on d5 instead of moving away from the action. 38. ... Rf7 39. Nb5+ Kb7 40. Ra2 Re8 41. Nf6 Ree7 42. Nd4?!

The threat was 42. ... Bg7.

Problem II

Marcin Banaszek Germany

k

+ + + + + + +K+ P + + + +Nq + + + + + + + + + R + + + + + + +

White to play and win

42. ... Bxa4 43. Rxa4

+ + l + +kp rr+ p + N p p n +P+ R+PN KPL + + + + + + + + + +R+ +

After 43. Rxa4

43. ... Bg7?!

A surprise! It was better to accept the Exchange 43. ... Nxa4 44. Ne6 Nb2 45. Rd4 and give it back via 45. ... a4!. 44. Nh5?

The knight moves to the rim again. More counterplay could have been created with 44. Ne6! and if 44. ... Nxa4 (Better is 44. ... Nxe6! 45. fxe6 Rxe6 46. Kf5 Rexf6+, sacrificing the Exchange for excel lent compensation) then 45. Nd8+ Ka6 46. Nd5! with a lot of complications. 44. ... Re4+ 45. Kf3 Bxd4 46. Ra3 Rxf5+

This maintains the theme, but the sim ple 46. ... Bh8 was good. 47. gxf5 Rxh4 48. Ng3 a4 49. Ra2 Be5 50. Rd5 Bd6 51. Rxd6

Desperation. White could have played 51. Rxc5 Bxc5 52. Ne4 but this only offered limited chances for a draw. 51. ... cxd6 52. f6 Ne6 53. Rxa4

More resistance is given by 53. Ne4.

53. ... Rf4+ 54. Ke3 Rxf6 55. Ra1 Ng5

55. Ne4 Nc5! is also easy for Black, who won in 80 moves. As you can now see, there is no clear way for White to achieve any significant advantage, so endgame lovers: use the Berlin!

.

Chess Life — May 2009

55

2009 WORLD CHESS LIVE GRAND PRIX SUMMARY World Chess Live sponsors over $25,000 at the 2009 Grand Prix!

Welcome, Welcome to World Chess Live (WCL), a new familyfriendly service with special benefits for USCF members. Once again, WCL is pleased to sponsor USCF’s 2009 Grand Prix (GP) and 2009 Junior Grand Prix (JGP). We’re providing prize funds of $25,080 and $10,200 (cash, merchandise, and memberships), and will also be running online grand prize satellite events throughout the year. As we finish up the first quarter of 2009, we note that over 50 WCL GP events have been rated through the end of March, offering up over 1,200 Grand Prix Points. Depending on the degree of enhancement, that represents a minimum of $60,000 in prizes offered by organizers throughout the United States, and online by World Chess Live. Add to that the $25,000 in cash and

Members!

merchandise from WCL sponsorship and it makes for another banner year for the Grand Prix program. At first blush, it doesn’t look as if much has changed from last month. GMs Alex Lenderman and Sergey Kudrin are still numbers one and two in the standings —just the way they finished in 2008. But look a little closer and you’ll see that IM Emory Tate has leapfrogged from 14th place to seventh. Has it really been 26 years since Emory won the first of his five U.S. Armed Forces Championships? Representing the Air Force, he won in 1983, 1984, 1987, 1988, and again in 1989. It’s a record that may never be equaled. The footloose Mr. Tate (he’s liable to show up anywhere) was awarded the international master title just

three years ago—long past due. Faithful readers of Chess Life know Emory can trade combinations with the best of the best, and we hope the WCL Grand Prix will afford him enough opportunities to earn the grandmaster norms he needs for his next international title. We would be remiss during this, our 70th year, if we did not note the leader in the senior category. Klaus Pohl, 72, of Greenville, South Carolina, leads with 9 GP points, and we hope local organizers will provide Klaus with many more opportunities to add to his total. Spanning three decades (1980 through 2006), Klaus Pohl has won or shared the title of South Carolina state champion, 12 TIMES! ~Glenn Petersen

2009 WORLD CHESS LIVE GRAND PRIX STANDINGS The following point totals reflect all rated event information as of March 20 for the 2009 World Chess Live Grand Prix. All Grand Prix updates are unofficial and subject to change during the year or until year-end tabulation is complete.

OVERALL STANDINGS

IM Emory Tate leapfrogs to seventh place in the Grand Prix standings. This active over-the-board tournament player is liable to show up in a tournament near you!

JUNIOR CATEGORIES

NAME 1 IM Alex Lenderman 2 GM Sergey Kudrin 3 GM Alejandro Ramirez 4 Conrad Holt 5 GM Alexander Ivanov 6 IM Jay Bonin

STATE NY CT TX KS MA NY

PTS. 84.83 42.76 42.00 38.50 38.00 34.00

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

CA CA NY CA NY PA AZ FL

32.00 31.00 28.16 26.66 26.11 24.77 22.66 22.00

IM Enrico Sevillano GM Melikset Khachiyan GM Michael Rohde FM Daniel Naroditsky GM Giorgi Kacheishvili GM Alexander Shabalov David Adelberg Marc Esserman

NAME STATE Players born between 1986 and 1988 inclusive: 1 GM Alejandro Ramirez TX 2 Denys Shmelov MA 3 Leif Pressman NY Players born between 1989 and 1991 inclusive: 1 IM Alex Lenderman NY 2-3 Matt Parry NY 2-3 IM Salvijus Bercys NY

SC NY MA

42.00 16.50 12.00 84.83 10.00 10.00

Players born between 1992 and 1993 inclusive: 1 Conrad Holt KS 38.50 2 Steven Zierk CA 12.66 3 Michael Auger IL 8.00

SENIOR CATEGORY Players born 1944 and before: 1 Klaus Pohl 2 FM Asa Hoffmann 3 John Curdo

PTS.

9.00 4.50 2.77

Players born between 1994 and 1995 inclusive: 1 FM Daniel Naroditsky CA 2 Richard Ding AZ 3 Deepak Aaron NY

26.66 10.00 2.77

Players born 1996 and after: 1 David Adelberg 2 FM Darwin Yang 3 Lucas Van Beuzekom

22.66 10.00 4.00

AZ TX FL

CATEGORIES AND PRIZES $10,000 IN CASH PRIZES!

FIRST PRIZE: $5,000 ! 2nd: $2,500 5th: $500

3rd: $1,000 6th: $250

4th: $750

PHOTO: CHRIS BIRD

$4,900 IN MERCHANDISE PRIZES! 7th: $250 10th: $175 13th: $100 16th-25th: $200

8th: $225 9th: $200 11th: $150 12th: $125 14th: $75 15th: $50 26th-50th: $250

Top 40 non titled players: 1 year WCL membership worth $50. (FIDE titled players are always free on WCL)

SENIOR CATEGORY: MERCHADISE PRIZES

$10,200 IN JUNIOR GRAND PRIX PRIZES!

1944 / before 1st: $300

FIRST PRIZE: $1,000 !

2nd: $200

3rd: $100

JUNIOR CATEGORIES: MERCHANDISE PRIZES (according to date of birth)

1986-88 1989-91 1992-93 1994-95 1996/after

1st: $250 1st: $250 1st: $250 1st: $250 1st: $250

2nd: $150 2nd: $150 2nd: $150 2nd: $150 2nd: $150

3rd: $100 3rd: $100 3rd: $100 3rd: $100 3rd: $100

2nd: $500 5th: $100

3rd: $250 6th: $100

4th: $150

The first place JGP winner will also receive U.S. Open entry and a trophy from the USCF. 1st 10th place winners will receive 2 year WCL junior and USCF Young Adult memberships; 11th 20th place winners will receive 1 year WCL junior and USCF Young Adult memberships. Each state JGP winner will receive 1 year WCL jun ior and USCF Young Adult memberships and a special prize valued at $60.

For all of the above junior categories: 1st place is also awarded a 3 year WCL junior membership ($75 value); 2nd 5th places are awarded a 2 year WCL junior membership ($50 value); 6th 10th places awarded 1 year WCL junior memberships ($25 value). Addi tionally, all GP/JGP place prize winners will receive a special prize valued at $60.

www.worldchesslive.com

Real chess. Real people. Real fun!

World Chess Live, a new family-friendly online chess service, is sponsor of the 2009 World Chess Live Junior Grand Prix (JGP). Official standings for events received and processed by April 8, 2009 are unofficial and subject to change during the year or until year-end tabulation is complete. There are currently 3,689 players with JGP points. 120 JGP events resulted in points earned. Top prize includes $1,000 cash, trophy and free entry to the 2009 U.S. Open. Other prizes awarded to the top 20 finishers and the top individual in each state.

2009 World Chess Live

Junior Grand Prix Top Overall Standings

Name SREENIVASAN, RAMANUJA WINTER, CURTIS A CHEN, JEREMY CAO, MINDI TROFF, KAYDEN WILLIAM DING, JEFFREY FU, JASON ESPERICUETA, ELIAS RICHMAN, JONATHAN TYLER HARDER, BRENNAN J MEI, BRIAN RUNDELL, MIRIAM J HANSEL, PETER WILLIAM HILTON, JONATHAN L SHIN, PHILIP LAU, MICHAEL STEINBERG, MAX BAUMANN, ELI SHCHERBAKOV, EUGENE BROMAN, TIMOTHY ROBERT

State MD MD NJ IL UT WA TN TX NY WI IL WA MN OH NY CA-S NY WI NJ WI

Pts. 90 90 80 75 70 70 70 65 65 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 55 55 55

Name DOMMALAPATI, ABHINAY XU, DANIEL WENKAI NGUYEN, QUANG MINH FISHER, WILLIAM WALDRON, CARL DELLOMARGIO, ANGELO RODRIGUEZ, ALEJANDRO INGRAM, JORDAN FLEISCHMAN, ADAM J GILLETT, ABBEY WYNN VASIREDDI, NEAL SHANG, ALEX TALLO, EMILY GULAMALI, FARIS MACNEAL, JACOB DOUGLAS TATSUDA, JEFF MINGIONE, CALVIN WALTER BERGER, ANDREW D WILSON, TOMYRA SERAN, BEN

State VA VA AZ PA MI PA FL MI WI OH NJ WA IN WA PA MN PA NY PA WA

Pts. 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 50 50 50 50 50

Prepare to make your best move since joining the USCF... Don’t miss one of this year’s top benefits of USCF membership. Claim your six-month free trial now at World Chess Live, the only online chess service offering: • Weekly USCF quick-rated tournaments • Chances to earn both Grand Prix and Junior Grand Prix points • Many other tournament prizes • Free videos from top instructors • A welcoming atmosphere for players of all levels

For details, go to www.worldchesslive.com/uscf uschess.org

Chess Life — May 2009

57

Tournament Life

USCF National Events

SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING MAY 1-14

See TLA in this issue for details: 2009 U.S. Amateur - West May 23 25 • Tucson, Arizona 66th Annual U.S. Amateur - East May 23 25 • Somerset, New Jersey 2009 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) June 4 • Las Vegas, Nevada 2009 National Open Chess Festival June 4 7 • Las Vegas, Nevada 2009 U.S. Game/15 Championship (QC) June 13 • Joliet, Illinois 2009 U.S. Junior Open July 10 12 • Waukesha, Wisconsin 2009 U.S. Class Championships July 17 19 or 18 19 • Boca Raton, Florida 2009 World Chess Live Tournament of College Champions August 1 4 • Indianapolis, Indiana 110th U.S. Open August 1 9 • Indianapolis, Indiana 2009 U.S. Game/60 Championship August 22 • Skokie, Illinois 2009 U.S. Game/30 Championship August 23 • Skokie, Illinois 1st U.S. Women’s Open (NEW) September 5 7 • Tulsa, Oklahoma 2009 U.S. Senior Open September 5 7 • Tulsa, Oklahoma 2009 National Youth Action November 20 22 • Oak Brook, Illinois

Future Events (Watch for details)

2009 U.S. Championship May 7 17 • St. Louis, Missouri 2009 U.S. Cadet July 6 10 • Crossville, Tennessee 2009 U.S. Junior Closed July 12 17 • Waukesha, Wisconsin 2009 GM Susan Polgar National Invitational Tournament for Girls July 26 31 • Lubbock, Texas 2009 Denker Tournament of State High School Champions August 1 4 • Indianapolis, Indiana 2009 U.S. Women’s Championship October 2 12 • St. Louis, Missouri 2009 National Scholastic (K-12) December 11 13 • Dallas, Texas 2009 Pan Am Intercollegiate December 27 30 • South Padre Island, Texas

2010 National Junior High Championship April 9 11 • Minneapolis, Minnesota 2010 Senior High Championship April 16 18 • Columbus, Ohio 2010 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 7 9 • Atlanta, Georgia 2010 National Scholastic (K-12) Championship Dec. 10 12 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida 2011 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 6 8 • Dallas, Texas

Noote: Organizers previously awarded options for USCF National Events must still submit proposals (including sample budgets) for their events. Bids on the following tournaments are past deadline and will be considered immediately:

Overdue Bids

2009 2009 2009 2010

U.S. Amateur (South, North) U.S. Masters Collegiate Final Four U.S. Open* (awarded, TBA)

2010 U.S. Masters 2010 U.S. Amateur Team (East, North, South, West) 2010 U.S. Class Championship 2010 U.S. Amateur (East, North, South, West) 2010 U.S. Game/60 2010 U.S. Game/30 2010 U.S. Game/10 (QC) 2010 U.S. Game/15 (QC) 2010 U.S. Junior Chess Congress 2010 U.S. Junior Closed 2010 U.S. Senior Open 2010 National Youth Action 2011 U.S. Open*

Please contact the National Office if you are interested in bidding for a National Event. The USCF recommends that bids be submitted according to the following schedule. However, bids may be consid ered prior to these dates.

Bidding Deadlines

*USCF reserves the right to decline all bids and organize the event itself.

Junior Tournament Memberships (JTMs) Available

USCF’s Tournament Membership (TM) program, which allows players the option of joining for only one event at a greatly reduced rate, has been modified. Junior TMs for age 24 or below may be purchased from affiliates and are now available to them for $7 online with rating report submis sions. They include one issue of Chess Life or Chess Life for Kids, and $5 of this fee may be applied to a full membership within 60 days. JTMs not valid for National events. Many scholastic tournaments exist that are not USCF rated, and the USCF is concerned that the reason is that organizers fear losing players unwilling or unable to pay entry fee plus dues. The availability of a $7 option should cause some of these events to switch to being USCF rated, pro moting membership. The idea behind the TMs is not to sign up a lot of them, but rather to cause more USCF rated tournaments to be held. More details on uschess.org. Rating supplements will be updated EACH MONTH on the USCF website, and each monthly rating supplement will be used for all tournaments beginning in that month, unless otherwise announced in Chess Life. The USCF website at www.uschess.org also frequently lists unofficial ratings.The purpose of unofficial ratings is to inform you of your progress; however, most tourna- ments do not use them for pairing or prize purposes. If you would otherwise be unrated, organizers may use your unofficial rating at their discretion, even without advance publicity of such a policy. Chess Life — May 2009

ATTENTION AFFILIATES The United States Chess Federation has partnered with R.V. Nuccio & Associates Insurance Brokers, Inc. to provide USCF affiliates with affordable annual liability and short term event insurance. The liability coverage is available for approximately $265 per year for a $1,000,000 limit of insurance. Also available is contents property and bonding insurance. For more information, please go to www.rvnuccio.com/chess-federation. html. For event insurance, please go to www.rvnuccio.com.

Bids due by June 15, 2009:

Tournament memberships not valid for National events

58

The TLA pages “Information for Organizers, TDs, and Affiliates” and “Information for Players” can now be found online at main.uschess.org/ go/tlainfo.

TheTournament Announcements on the following pages are provided for the convenience of USCF members and for informational purposes only. Unless expressly indicated otherwise, neither the U.S. Chess Federation nor Chess Life warrants the accuracy of anything contained in these Tournament Announcements. Those interested in additional information about or having questions concerning any of these tournaments are directed to contact the organizer listed. Chess Life will exercise all due diligence in providing accurate typesetting of non-camera-ready copy but assumes no responsibility for errors made in such work. SUBMISSIONS: If possible e-mail your tla to: [email protected] (Joan DuBois). For tla deadline schedule, formatting help and Grand Prix information see April 2009 pg. 50-51 or check www. uschess.org/tla/grprixstdarc.php and click on a WCL GP Summary. Payment can be done online through the TD/Affiliate area or sent to: U.S. Chess, TLA Dept., PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.

Nationals

All tournaments listed in Tournament Life are USCF rated. USCF MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EVENTS. If not a member, add dues to advance en try fee or pay them with entry at site. May 23-25, Arizona 2009 U.S. Amateur West Championship Holiday Inn Palo Verde, 4550 S Palo Verde Rd.,Tucson, AZ 85714, 520-746-1161. SECTIONS: Championship (U2200), Reserve (U1600), Booster (U1200) & Scholastic (must be K-8 and U1000). Scholastic section is 3 separate 1-day tournaments. SCHEDULE: (Championship, Reserve, and Booster) 6/SS, 40/2, 25/1. Reg: By mail or 5/23, 8:30 - 9:30 AM. Rds: 10-4, 10-4, 9-3. (Scholastic) 4/SS, G/40. Reg: By mail or 8:30 - 9:30 AM each day. Rds: Round 1 at 10 AM then as available for Rounds 2-4. PRIZES: (Championship) Chronos clock + plaque to Top 3; Digital clock + plaque to Top 1900-1999, 1800-1899, 17001799, 1600-1699, and U1600; Plaque to top Senior 50+, Junior U19 and Junior U13. (Reserve) Chronos clock + plaque to 1st; Digital clock + plaque to 2nd, 3rd, Top 1300-1399, 1200-1299, and U1200; Plaque to top Senior 50+ and Junior U13. (Booster) Chronos clock + trophy to 1st; Trophy to 2nd - 5th, Top Unrated and Junior U10. (Scholastic, each day) Digital clock + trophy to 1st; Trophy to 2nd - 5th, Top U800, U600, and Unrated. 1-yr USCF membership for perfect scores that don’t win the clock. SPECIAL PRIZES:Top 2 Family Pairs in the non-scholastic sections. Biggest Upset of each round in the non-Scholastic sections. Chronos clock to Scholastic player with the highest combined score over the three 1-day tournaments. EF: (Championship & Reserve) $55 if by 5/20, $65 if after 5/20. (Booster) $40 if by 5/20, $50 if after 5/20. (Scholastic) $15 for each tournament or $40 for all three days if by 5/20, additional $5 if after 5/20. ALL: Half-point byes allowed for all rounds but must be requested prior to start of Round 2. HR: (if by 5/8): $64 (single) or $72 (suite), mention “SACA”. ENT: Make checks payable to SACA, entry form available at www.sazchess.org. Info: Karen Pennock, 520-975-3946, e-mail: [email protected], web: www.sazchess.org. NC. NS. W. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! May 23-25, New Jersey 66th Annual U.S. Amateur Championship East Somerset Ramada Inn, 60 Cottontail Lane, Somerset, Exit 12 off I-287 at Weston Canal Road. (732) 560-9880 Fax (732) 356-7455. In 3 Sections: Championship (U2200), Reserved (U1800), Booster (U1400) with two and three day schedules. Three Day Schedule: 6-SS, 50/2, SD1. Registration: Saturday 5/23, 9:30-10:45 am. Rounds 12-6, 11-5, 9-3. Two Day Schedule: First three games G/60, round four merges with 3-day schedule. Registration: Sunday 5/24, 8:30-9:30 am. Rounds 10-12:15-2:30. Championship:Trophies to top five, top

uschess.org

Under 2000, Under 1900, Under 1800, Senior 55/over, Under 16, Under 13. Reserve: Trophies to top five, top Under 1600, Under 1500, Under 1400, Senior 55/over, Under 16, Under 13. Booster:Trophies to top five, top Under 1200, Under 1100, Under 1000, Under 900, Under 800, Senior 55/over, Under 16, Under 13. All sections: EF: $40 if postmarked by 5/20, $39 if by PayPal at EntryFeesRus.com. Pay $45 at playing site. Two half-point byes allowed in rounds 1-5 if requested before first round. Scholastic U1300 K-8 tournament will be held. April Rating supplement to be used. Hotel rates $79 with free breakfast, if by 5/10. Mention U.S. Amateur Chess to get rate. Call Ken if you have a problem. Entries: Make checks payable to NJSCF. Indicate clearly the section and playing schedule desired. Mail advanced entries to: KenThomas 115 West Moore Street Hackettstown NJ 07840. Information: 908-763-6468 or [email protected] NC W NS nor using any tobacco products. No ear covering allowed. No computers may be used by players or parents when games are in progress.

June 4, Nevada World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 50 2009 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) 6SS, G/10. South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89183. $$b/100 7,000 ($$Gtd 4,500). 2000-1000-700, U2300 600, U2100 550, U1900 500, U1700 450, U1500 400, U1300 350, U1100 300, unrated 150. EF: $79 by 5/19, $89 by 6/3, $100 on site. Late Registration 4-6:30 p.m. Rds: 7-7:30-8-8:30-9-9:30. Higher of regular or quick rating used. Bring clocks. 1/2 point bye available in any round (limit 4), must be requested with entry. HR: $65 (not $75) single or double ($95 Friday and Saturday nights). 1-866-7917626 or (702) 796-7111. ENT: Las Vegas International Chess Festival, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925 or www.VegasChessFestival.com. NS NC W.

A Heritage Event! June 5-7 or 6-7, Nevada World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced) 2009 National Open 6-SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2 day option rds 1-3 G/60). South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89183. $100,000 Prize Fund based on 850 paid entries ($70,000 guaranteed). Championship. $$: 80004000-2000-1000-600-400-400-400-400-400-200-200-200-200-200, under 2500 2000, under 2400 1600, under 2300 1200, Unrated 600-400-200. $2,000 EXTRA for perfect score.The winner of the Championship section also receives a replica of the Edmondson Cup. Under 2200. $$: 5000-2500-1300-600-350-250-250250-250-250-100-100-100-100-100. Under 2000. $$: 5000-2500-1300-600350-250-250-250-250-250-100-100-100-100-100. Under 1800. $$: 5000-25001300-600-350-250-250-250-250-250-100-100-100-100-100. Under 1600. $$: 5000-2500-1300-600-350-250-250-250-250-250-100-100-100-100-100. Under 1400. $$: 2500-1500-1000-500-250-150-150-150-150-150-100-100-100-100100. Under 1200. $$: 1500-1000-500-250-150-100-100-100-100-100-100-100100-100-100. Plus score bonus ($16,000) in addition to any other prizes, every player who finishes with 3-1/2 points or better wins a $50 gift certificate. Plus score certificates will be given on site only. EF: $159 by 1/19, $179 by 5/19, $199 by 6/3, $220 on site. $41 less for unrated players, $99 more for players rated under 2100 in the Championship Section. This is an open tournament you may play in any section at or above your rating level; unrated players may play only in Championship Section. Provisionally rated players may not win more than 3rd prize in any section except Championship. CCA minimum ratings or other ratings may be used if higher than USCF June Supplement. Reg: 4-11 p.m. Thursday, 8-9:30 a.m. Friday. Rds: 11-6, 11-6, 10-5. 2-day schedule: Reg: 8-9 a.m. Saturday. Rds: 10-12:30-3-6: merge with 3-day in round 4. Half point byes available in any round, but round 5 or 6 byes must be requested before the start of round 2. Chess sets and boards provided for tournament play only, not for skittles. Please bring chess clocks! The LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL features the National Open, the U.S Game/10 Championship and the Susan Polgar World Chess Championship for Girls and Boys. Many free extras and surprises! Free parking. Free raffle with great prizes. Free lectures by GM Susan Polgar and others. Free analysis of your games by GM Arthur Bisguier. Susan Polgar International Chess Camp all dayThursday. Grandmaster SimulThursday afternoon. US. Game/10Thursday night. Scholastic Tournament Friday. LOW room rates! HR: $65 (not $75) single or double ($95 Friday and Saturday nights). 1-866-791-7626 or (702) 796-7111. Don’t be shut out; make your reservations early and be sure to ask for the chess rates; South Point sells out most weekends. Cutoff for special hotel rate is May 19th. Rates may be as high as $150 a night after May 19th. RESERVE NOW! Credit card or one night room deposit will be required to hold reservation, may be canceled 72 hours in advance for nominal fee. Tournament Registration: National Open, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0125, on line at www.VegasChess Festival.com or by fax at (702) 933-9112. NS. W. FIDE. WCL JGP.

JJC Chess Club, 536 Springwood Drive, Joliet, IL 60431. No phone or credit card entries, bring chess sets and clocks, none provided. Bring USCF id card to tournament. NTD: G.Panner. E-mail questions only: [email protected].

July 10-12, Wisconsin 2009 U.S. Junior Open Championship Three sections based on age: Under 21, Under 15, Under 11. 5SS, G/90. Milwaukee Marriott West, W231N1600 Corporate CT, Waukesha, WI 53186. Chess Rate of $85.99 is valid until July 1st. Reserve early. (262)-574-0888. U21: $300+entry to 2010 Junior Closed-$150. Individual trophies: 1st overall, best player for ages 17-18, 15-16, under 15. Team trophies: top three high schools, top club. U15: Individual trophies: top 3 overall, best player for ages 11-13, under 11.Team trophies: top three middle schools, top club. U11: Individual trophies: top 3 overall, best player for ages 9, 8, 7, 6&under. Team trophies: top three elementary schools, top club. All participants receive commemorative medals. EF: $35 ($30 per player if 4 or more pre-register together) advance; $50 after July 10th. Cash only at site. Schedule: Opening ceremony: Friday at 2:45pm. Rounds: Friday 3:00pm, Saturday 10:00am and 2:00pm, Sunday 10:00am and 2:00pm. Closing ceremony: Sunday 5:30pm. Side Events: ($20/event) BLITZ: Friday at 7:00pm. BUGHOUSE: Saturday at 7:00pm. SIMUL: Friday at 7:00pm and Saturday at 7:00pm. PARENTS AND COACHES TOURNEY: 3SS G/30 (not rated) Saturday 10:30am, 2:15pm, 3:30pm. Info/questions: ashish@vaja chess.com or 414-234-1005, [email protected] or 608-334-2574. Make Checks Payable to and Send Entries to: VICA, 6822 North Crestwood Dr., Glendale WI 53209 or online registration at www.wscachess.org. WCL JGP.

July 17-19 or 18-19, Florida World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20 2009 U.S. Class Championships 5SS, G/120 (2-Day Option, Rd 1, G/60), $10,500 b/200 paid entries, 60% Guaranteed. Junior entries, all Class E, and Unrated Section count as 2/3. Free entry for GMs and IMs, deducted from winnings. Marriott Boca Raton, 5150 Town Circle, Boca Raton, FL 33486, www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ pbibrboca-raton-marriott-at-boca-center/. Free parking! HR $109, 1-888-888-3780 Group Code: USCUSCA. 8 Sections, Rated players may play up one class only. MASTER (2200/up), FIDE Rated, $1,000-500-300 (U2400: 400-200-100), EXPERT (2000-2199), $800-400-200, CLASS A (1800-1999), $800-400-200, CLASS B (1600-1799), $800-400-200, CLASS C (1400-1599), $800-400-200, CLASS D (1200-1399), $800-400-200, CLASS E (U1200), $300-200-100, Unrated, $300-100. National Class Champion title and plaques to each Class winner. Tie-breaks: MSCO. EF: $75 postmarked or on line by 7/10, $85 after. Special EF: $45 by 7/10 ($55 after) for all players in Class E, Unrated Section, and Junior U18 in Class C or D. No checks on site. 3-Day Schedule: Registration Fri (7/17) 5-7pm. Rds. Fri 8pm, Sat 1pm & 6:30pm, Sun 9:30am & 2:30pm. 2-Day Schedule: Registration Sat (7/18) 8-9am. Rds. Sat 10am, 1pm (merges with 3-Day Schedule) & 6:30pm, Sun 9:30am & 2:30pm. Byes for all rounds, must commit before end of Rd 2. SIDE EVENTS: 5-min BLITZ, Sat after Rd 3, 2 sections, entries will be split in Upper and Lower, $10 EF on site, 75% returned in prizes; SCHOLASTIC TOURNAMENT, 5SS, G/30, One day only, Sat 7/18, $20 by 7/10, $25 after. Sections: K-3, K-6, K-9, K-12. Prizes: Trophies to top 7 in each division. All scholastic players in this side event will receive a commemorative medal. ENTRIES: Mail to USCF, ATTN: 2009 US Class, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville,TN 38557. Enter online: https://secure.uschess.org/webstore/tourn aments.php. Tournament website link at uschess.org. Info: flguadalupe@ aol.com, (713) 530-7820. WCL JGP.

Aug. 1-4, Indiana World Chess Live Tournament of College Champions 6SS, 40/2, SD/1, Indianapolis Marriott East (see U.S. Open). Sponsored by World Chess Live, open to all undergraduate or graduate college students. NO EF, $5000 GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND! In 3 sections. Championship, open to all rated 2100 or over, plus one under 2100 player per college if designated as an official representative. $$G 1000-500-300-200, U2200 $300-150, US Individual Collegiate Champion trophy to top US college player. Under 2100, open to all under 2100 or unrated. $$G $400-200-150-100, U1900 $280-140. Under 1700, open to all under 1700 or unrated. $$G $320-160-120-80, 1300-1499 $200100, U1300 $200-100. Reg. ends Sat 5:30 pm, rds. Sat. 7 pm, Sun/Mon 11 am & 7 pm, Tue 11 am. 2009 WCL Tournament of College Champions certification form located at: http://main.uschess.org/images/stories/scholastic_chess_ resources/2009_entryform_toc_certification_form.pdf. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! Aug. 1-9, 4-9 or 6-9, Indiana World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 300 110th annual U.S. Open CELEBRATE USCF’S 70TH ANNIVERSARY BY PARTICIPATING IN THIS TRADI-

June 13, Illinois 2009 U.S. Game/15 Championship (QC) 6SS, G/15. Joliet Jr. College, Bldg J, 1215 Houbolt Rd., Joliet, IL 60431 (Park in J lot) $1,600 b/80 paid entries, $200-100, A,B,C,D,E/F each 130-80-50, unrated $25 book prize, based on 4 per class. EF: $30 if by June 9th, $40 at site (over 60 $5 discount EF), one half pt bye max. Reg.: 9:50am-10:50am. Rds.: 11:00-11:45-12:30-2:15-3:00-3:45. Checks Payable to: Dennis R. Doyle, c/o

DROPPING OUT? Have to miss a round? It is very important that you

NOTIFY THE DIRECTOR before pairings are made, so no one is deprived of a game! If you forfeit without notice, you may be FINED up to the amount of the entry fee! uschess.org

USCF EXECUTIVE BOARD ELECTION All age 16/over may vote. Ballot will be in June Chess Life. To view or participate in discussion of election issues, register for the USCF Issues Forum at www.uschess.org/ forums

TIONAL EVENT! New features this year include 4-day option requiring only 3 nights hotel stay for most players, and later start for 6-day option so most will need only 5 nights hotel stay. 9SS, 40/2, SD/1 (4 day option, Rds. 1-6, G/60). Indianapolis Marriott East, 7202 East 21st St, Indianapolis IN 46219. Luxurious hotel with great lighting in tournament room! Phone: 317-352-1231. HR: $99 single/quad. $50,000 in prizes based on 500 paid entries, else proportional, except $40,000 (80% of each prize) minimum guarantee. A one section tournament with Class prizes. Top 5 US players qualify for 2010 US Championship. Many side events, including US Blitz Championship 8/8. USCF Delegates meeting 8/8-9, workshops 8/5-7, USCF Awards Luncheon 8/8 noon, GM lectures & simuls to be announced. Choice of three schedules: Traditional: 40/2, SD/1. One round daily at 7 pm, except rd. 9, 8/9 at 3pm. 6-Day Option: 8/4 7 pm, 8/5-7 12 noon & 7 pm, 8/8 7 pm, 8/9 at 3pm. 4-Day Option: 8/6 2 pm, 5 pm & 8 pm; 8/7 10 am, 1 pm, 3:30 pm & 7 pm, 8/8 7 pm, 8/9 3pm. All schedules merge after Round 6 & compete for same prizes. Projected prizes: Top Places: $8000-4000-2000-1500-1000-800-600-500, clear winner $200 bonus. If tie for first, top two on tiebreak play speed game (white 5 minutes, black 3 minutes and gets draw odds, 5 second delay) for bonus and title. Class Prizes: Top Master (2200-2399): $2500-1200-800-500. Top Expert (2000-2199): $2500-1200-800-500. Top Class A (1800-1999): $2500-1200800-500. Top Class B (1600-1799): $2500-1200-800-500. Top Class C (1400-1599): $2000-1000-600-400. Top Class D (1200-1399): $1500-700-500300. Top Class E or below (under 1200): $1500-700-500-300. Top Unrated: $800-400-200. Half Point Byes: must commit before round 4; up to 3 byes allowed for 2000/up, 2 byes for 1400-1999, one bye for Under 1400/Unr. Zero point byes are always available in any round. Entry Fee: Online, $135 by 5/15, $155 by 7/29. By mail, $137 postmarked by 5/15, $157 postmarked by 7/23. By phone, $140 by 5/15, $160 by 7/29. At site, all $180. GMs free. August official ratings used; unofficial ratings used if otherwise unrated. CCA ratings used if above USCF. Foreign player ratings: usually 100 points added to FIDE or FQE, 200+ added to most foreign national ratings, no points added to CFC. Highest of multiple ratings generally used. Ent: USCF, ATTN: 2009 US Open, PO. Box 3967, Crossville,TN 38557. Online entry: https://secure.uschess. org/webstore/tournaments.php. Phone entry: 800-903-8723. Tournament website: main.uschess.org/tournaments/2009/usopen/. FIDE rated, no cell phones. Bring a clock - none supplied. Sets/boards supplied for tournament but not for skittles. WCL JGP. Note: Golf Tournament, morning of Aug. 6th. skittles Open to all US Open Chess Players, side event chess players, and delegates. Contact Michael Wojcio at [email protected] for more details.

Aug. 22, Illinois World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 2009 U.S. Game/60 Championship 4R-SS G/60 - $5000 b/150 fully paid entries. Holiday Inn Chicago - North Shore. 5300 W Touhy Ave, Skokie, IL 60077 (see tournament website for directions). Free Parking. In 6 sections: M/X: $500-300-200-100Top U2400, U2300, U2200 each $150, Class A: $350-250-150-75, Class B: $350-250-150-75, Class C: $300-200-100-50, Class D: $300-200-100-50, Class E/F/U: $200-10050-25, Unrated Prize - Book Prize Only. Unrated must play in M/X or Class E/F/U sections. Trophies for 1st - 3rd place, scholastic players with non-cash prize entry fee. $10 extra to play 1 class up. Entry Fee: $80 adult, $40 scholastic (K-12), $20 anyone but not eligible for cash prizes thru 6pm 8/21. Onsite $100 adults, $60 scholastic (K-12), $20 anyone but not eligible for cash prizes. $5 refund at tournament with proof of ICA membership (Scholastic entries count as 1/2 entry, No-cash prize entry does not count towards based on) - non-cash

USCF Membership Rates Premium (P) and Regular (R) (U.S., CANADA, MEXICO) Type Adult P Adult P ** Adult R Adult R ** Senior (65+) ** Young Adult P (U25)* Youth P (U16)* Scholastic P (U13)* Young Adult R (U25)* Youth R (U16)* Scholastic R (U13)*

1 yr $49 $42 $36 $29 $36 $32 $27 $23 $24 $20 $16

2yr $85 $78 $59 $52 $65 $59 $49 $42 $43 $36 $28

3yr $120 $113 $81 $74 $93 $85 $70 $60 $61 $51 $39

Premium membership provides a printed copy of Chess Life (monthly) or Chess Life for Kids (bimonthly) plus all other benefits of regular membership. Regular membership provides online only access to Chess Life and Chess Life for Kids; TLA Bulletin will be mailed to adults bimonthly and to scholas tic members three times per year. Youth provides bimonthly Chess Life, Scholastic bimonthly Chess Life for Kids, others listed above monthly Chess Life. See www.us chess.org for other membership categories. Dues are not refundable and may be changed without notice. *Ages at expiration

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Chess Life — May 2009

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SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING MAY 1-14

Tournament Life prize entry fee not eligible for any discounts. SPECIAL COMBINED ENTRY FEES: Discounted Entry fees available for registering for the US G/60 & US G/30 ($5 off each tournament) - non-cash prize entry fee not eligible for any discounts. SPECIAL OFFER FOR ILLINOIS OPEN STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS: Enter either the US G/60 or US G/30 and receive a $5 rebate for your early registration to the 2009 Illinois Open State Championships. For more information visit www.chessforlife.com. Mail payments (made payable to) and registration information to: North American Chess Association, 2516 North Waukegan Road Suite 342, Glenview, IL 60025. Byes: One 1/2 pt bye allowed. Rd 4 bye must commit by start of Rd 2. Re-enter with 1/2pt bye in Rd 1 for $50. August Supplement used. Schedule: Reg: 8:15am - 9:15am, Rds 10, 12:30, 3, 5:30. Hotel rates: $99+tax, 847-679-8900. Mention North American Chess Association rate. Reserve by 8/7 or as available only. Car rental: Hertz, 800-654-3131, Hertz CDP#178693. BRING BOARDS, SETS, CLOCKS - NONE PROVIDED. USCF membership required. USCF single tournament membership available ($12 for adults, $7 for scholastic). NS,NC,W. Information: Sevan A. Muradian 888.80.CHESS or [email protected]. For further information, online registration and payment please visit www.nachess.org/g60. Checkmate Chess Supply Co will be bookseller onsite. Support local Illinois Organizers.

Aug. 23, Illinois World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2009 U.S. Game/30 Championship 5R-SS G/30 - $2500 b/150 fully paid entries. Holiday Inn Chicago - North Shore. 5300 WTouhy Ave, Skokie, IL 60077 (see tournament website for directions). Free Parking. In 6 sections: M/X: $250-150-100-50 Top U2400, U2300, U2200 each $75, Class A: $175-125-75-40, Class B: $175-125-75-40, Class C: $150-100-50-25, Class D: $$150-100-50-25, Class E/F/U: $100-50-25-25, Unrated Prize - Book Prize Only. Unrated must play in M/X or Class E/F/U sections. Trophies for 1st - 3rd place, scholastic players with non-cash prize entry fee. $10 extra to play 1 class up. Entry Fee: $60 adult, $40 scholastic (K-12), $20 anyone but not eligible for cash prizes thru 6pm 8/22. Onsite $80 adults, $60 scholastic (K-12), $20 anyone but not eligible for cash prizes. $5 refund at tournament with proof of ICA membership (Scholastic entries count as 1/2 entry, No-cash prize entry does not count towards based on) - non-cash prize entry fee not eligible for any discounts. SPECIAL COMBINED ENTRY FEES: Discounted Entry fees available for registering for the US G/60 & US G/30 ($5 off each tournament) - non-cash prize entry fee not eligible for any discounts. SPECIAL OFFER FOR ILLINOIS OPEN STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS: Enter either the US G/60 or US G/30 and receive a $5 rebate for your early registration to the 2009 Illinois Open State Championships. For more information visit www.chessforlife.com. Mail payments (made payable to) and registration information to: North American Chess Association, 2516 North Waukegan Road Suite 342, Glenview, IL 60025. Byes: One 1/2 pt bye allowed. Rd 4 bye must commit by start of Rd 2. Re-enter with 1/2pt bye in Rd 1 for $50. August Supplement used. Schedule: Reg: 8:15am - 9:15am, Rds: 10, 12:30, 3, 5:30. Hotel rates: $99+tax, 847-679-8900. Mention North American Chess Association rate. Reserve by 8/7 or as available only. Car rental: Hertz, 800-654-3131, Hertz CDP#178693. BRING BOARDS, SETS, CLOCKS - NONE PROVIDED. USCF membership required. USCF single tournament membership available ($12 for adults, $7 for scholastic). NS,NC,W. Information: Sevan A. Muradian

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888.80.CHESS or [email protected]. For further information, online registration and payment please visit www.nachess.org/g30. Checkmate Chess Supply Co will be bookseller onsite. Support local Illinois Organizers. Sept. 5-7, Oklahoma

1st U.S. Women’s Open $$1600 Gtd. plus class prizes based on entries. G/90(+30). 6-SS. Tulsa Best WesternTrade Winds Central, 3141 E. Skelly Dr.,Tulsa, OK 74105. (918)749-5561. Prizes: $1600 (Gtd): 1st- $800 + trophy + probable invitation to 2010 U.S. Women’s Championship; 2nd - $500, 3rd - $300, class prizes as entries permit. Eligibility: Open to all female USCF members. EF: $80 if rec’d by 8/30; $90 at site. Reg.: 9:00-10:15am. Rds.: 10:30-3, 9-2, 9-2.Tiebreaks after round 6 if necessary. Byes: One 1/2-point bye available if req. by rd 3. HR: $55, (800) 685-4564. Free wireless. www.tradewindstulsa.com. Side Events: Sat: Blitz Fischer-Random Pizza Bash. Sun: River Spirit Casino. Info: [email protected]. Website: www.geocities.com/okiechessfestival Adv Entry: Cks payable to: Frank K. Berry, 402 S. Willis, Stillwater, OK 74074. FIDE rated. NS. W.

Sept. 5-7, Oklahoma 2009 U.S. Senior Open $$4000 Gtd. G/90(+30). 6-SS. Tulsa Best Western Trade Winds Central, 3141 E. Skelly Dr.,Tulsa, OK 74105. (918)749-5561. Eligibility: Open to all USCF members born before Sept. 5, 1959. Prizes: $4000 (Gtd): 1st-$1200 (+trophy+ probable invitation into 2010 U.S. Championship, if eligible.) 2nd-$700, 3rd-$400, 4th-$300. U2100: $200-100, U1900: $200-100, U1700 $200-100, U1500/UNR: $200-100. Trophies: Trophies for 1st, 2nd, and each champion for ages 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74 and over 75. World Senior Entrant: Top finisher born on or before January 1, 1949 receives: 1) official USCF entrant in the World Senior Championship, and 2) a $500.00 USCF stipend toward expenses there (Condino, Italy from Oct 27 to Nov 8) which includes room and board by host country. EF: $90 if rec’d by 8/30; $105 at site. Reg.: 9:00-10:15am. Rds.: 10:303, 9-2, 9-2. Tiebreaks after round 6 if necessary. Byes: One 1/2-point bye available if req. by rd 3. HR: $55, (800) 685-4564. Free wireless. www.tradewindstulsa.com. Side Events: Sat: Blitz Fischer-Random Pizza Bash. Sun: River Spirit Casino. Info: [email protected]. Website: www.geocities.com/okiechessfestival. Adv Entry: Cks payable to: Frank K. Berry, 402 S. Willis, Stillwater, OK 74074. FIDE rated. NS.W.

Nov. 20-22, Illinois 2009 National Youth Action 9SS, G/30, DoubleTree hotel, 1909 Spring Road,Oak Brook, Illinois, 60523,Tel: 1-630-472-6000 (1.800.222.TREE); $89 single/double/triple/quad. Four Sections – K-3, K-6, K-9, K-12. Entry Fee: $40 by 10/25/09 USPS (or $40 on-line by 10/25, 6 pm); $60 by 11/13/09 USPS (or $60 on-line 10/25/09, after 6 pm - 11/13/09, 6 pm); $75 USPS 11/13 –11/17 (or $75 on-line 11/13/09, 6:01 pm – 11/19, 6 pm); $75 by 11/20/09 6 PM on site (on-site entries after 11/20/09 6 PM can not be guaranteed pairing for round 1, instead they may receive ½ point bye round 1). Checks payable only to Chess Central. Awards: Individual: 1st –20th Place in each section (K-3, K-6, K-9, K-12). Class Awards: 1st-3rd Place, K-3: U800, U600, U400, Unr. K-6: U1000, U800, U600, Unr. K-9: U1200, U1000, U800, Unr. K-12: U1400, U1200, U1000, Unr. Teams: 1st-10th

Place in each section. Special Sportsmanship trophy! Schedule: Opening Ceremony Sat., Nov 21 at 9:30 am. Rds. 1-5 Sat., 10 am, 12 noon, 2 pm, 3:30 pm & 5 pm. Rds. 6-9 Sun., 10 am, 12 noon, 2 pm & 3:30 pm. Side Events: Bughouse Tournament – Fri, Nov 20, 6:30 pm. EF $20 per team ($10 for individuals and we help you create a team). On site registration only. Registration closes at 5 pm, Fri, Nov 20. One section only, K-12. Bughouse Awards: 1st-10th Place. Blitz Tournament – Sat, Nov 21, K-6 & K-12, 6:30 pm, EF $15 USPS/on-line by 10/25, 6 pm, $20 USPS from10/26 – 11/17; $20 on-line 10/26, 6:01 pm 11/19, 6pm; $25 on site. Registration closes at 5 pm, Sat, Nov 21. Blitz Awards: Individual: 1st-20th in each section. Team: 1st-10th in each section. Awards Ceremony for Blitz and Bughouse: Sun, 9 am. NYA Awards Ceremony: Sun, Nov 22, 5:30-7 pm. Club Teams allowed! Master simuls and analysis scheduled. Hotel Info: DoubleTree hotel, Oakbrook, Il (hotel registration code: NYA) www.doubletreeoakbrook.com, or doubletree.hilton.com/en/dt/ groups/personalized/CHIOADT-NYA-20091120/index.jhtml (630) 472-6020 or 630 472-6000 (1.800.222.TREE), HR single/double/triple/quad $89. Enter on line (except Bughouse) at nya2009.com. Checks payable only to Chess Central (no checks to USCF or Mike Zacate): Mail registrations with namecontact info-grade-birthday-team/school-uscf ID & exp.-address-city-zip-e-mail address-coach name & contact info to Mike Zacate (Please, no checks payable to Mike or USCF), 9401 Birch, Mokena, IL 60448. Updated info/Hotels/On-Line Entries: nya2009.com. $10 service charge for on-site section/roster changes, and all refunds. Bookdealers scheduled.

Grand Prix May 15-17 or 16-17, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced) 17th annual New York State Open 5SS, 30/90, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/60), Howard Johnson Tiki Resort, 2 Canada St, Lake George, NY 12845. $$G 3000. In 2 sections. Open: $500-300200, U2100 $230-120, U1900 $220-110. Under 1700: $400-230-120, U1500 $200-100, U1300 $180-90, trophies to top U1100, U900, Unr, no unrated may win over $200. All: 1 year NYSCA membership to NY residents who are not members. EF: 3-day $78, 2-day $77 mailed by 5/8, $79 online at chesstour.com b y 5/13, $85 phoned by 5/13 to 406-896-2038 (payment only, no questions), $90 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED if paying 1 year USCF dues. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Re-entry $40, not available in Open Section. GMs free, $60 deducted from prize. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 12-6, Sun 9-2:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 11:30 am, rds Sat 12-3-6, Sun 9-2:15. Half point byes OK all, must commit before rd 2; limit 2 byes (limit 1 bye towards U1900 or U1300 prizes). HR: 59-59-70 (2 double beds), 65-65-76 (2 queen beds), 518-6685744, reserve by 5/5 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

uschess.org

May 16, Connecticut World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2nd Saturday Open CH Booth Library, 25 Main St., Newtown, CT 06470, 100 yds. south of Flagpole on Rte.25. In 2 sections: Open: 3SS, G/60, Prizes: 1st $300 Gtd. Rds.: 10:15 and as available. Under 1600/Unr.: 4SS, G/45, Prizes: $100-50 Gtd. Unrated may not win more than $50. Rds.: 10:15-11:45-1:30-3. EF: Both Sections: $25, $5 less if rec’d by 5/12. Reg.: 9:30-10. Ent: Glenn Budzinski, 1 Black Cherry Lane, Sandy Hook, CT 06482. Questions only: [email protected]. May be limited to first 50 players. NS, NC, W.

May 16, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) H. Mc Carthy Gipson Grand Prix 2009 A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the victims of flight #3407. 4SS System, Game 45, Main Place Mall, 390 Main St. Buffalo, NY 14201. EF: 50, $45 if postmarked by May 8th. Reg.: Sat. closes at 9:15am. Rds.: Rds. at 9:45am, 11:30am, 1:15pm, 3pm. One 1/2 point bye available at registration. H. Mc Carthy Open: $$GTD: $200-150-120. ENT: Archangel 8 Chess Academy, 60F Guilford Lane, Buffalo, NY. INFO: Mc Duffie [email protected]. HR: [email protected] 716-837-3344 Boulevard Inn & Suites. www.buffalo nians.com. NS LS NC W.

May 16, Virginia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2009 Walter Muir Memorial ROUNDS: 3-Round Swiss System Game/90. SITE: St. John’s Lutheran Church, 4608 Brambleton Ave. SW Roanoke, Va. 24018. GUARANTEED PRIZES:Top Section: $125-$100-$75. Additional Sections: If Octagonals, Each is guaranteed $125-$100, If Hexagonals, Each is guaranteed $100-$75, If Quads, Each is guaranteed $100. ENTRY FEE: If received by May 15, $30.00. At site, $40.00. REGISTRATION: 6-9 pm on 5/15; 8-9:30 am on 5/16. ROUNDS: 10-2-6. BYES: One only per tournament; must request before 1st round begins. ADVANCE ENTRIES: Roanoke Valley Chess Club, P.O. Box 14143, Roanoke, Va. 24038. PHONE: (540) 344-4446. E-MAIL: [email protected]. WEB PAGE: roanokechess.com. NO SMOKING. NO COMPUTERS.

A Heritage Event! May 16-17, California Northern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 29th Annual San Joaquin Championship 5SS, Rds 1-3 G/90; Rds 4-5 G/120, St Agnes Medical Center, West Wing, Education Room B, 1303 E Herndon Ave., Fresno, CA 93710. EF: $35 if rec’d by May 13; $45 at the door. Entry fee returned after Rd 5 GM IM SM. $$GTD: $400200-100-100. Trophies 1st overall and Classes A B C D, Under 1200 & Unrated. Accelerated pairings rd 1. 1/2 bye point any round. Must be requested before Rd 2. ENT: Fresno Chess Club, c/o Vaness French, 4085 N Peach Ave., Apt 166, Fresno, CA 93727-8415. INFO: Vaness French 559-292-1468 & [email protected]. DIR: Email for site directions. NS NC W. WCL JGP.

May 16-17, District of Columbia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 D.C. Class Championships 4-SS, U.S. Chess Center, 1501 M St., NW, Washington, DC 20005, 202/857-4922.

uschess.org

Free parking at site. Players may play only in their own section (May ratings used) except K-12 may play up one section. All: Reg: 10 – 11. Irrevocable byes only if requested before play begins. Master/Expert – Class D Sections TC: 30/90, SD/1, Rds.: 11:30 – 5, 11 – 4:30. Trophies to top 4 school teams (top 4 players make a team) Master/Expert prizes guaranteed. Class prizes b/16 per section. EF: $42 if mailed by 5/9, $50 at site. Sections: Master/Expert: $$G 400 – 225 – 125; Class A: $$300 – 200 – 100; Class B: $$300 – 200 – 100; Class C: $$300 – 200 – 100, Class D: $300 – 200 – 100. Classes E – G/Under: TC: G/45. Rds.: 11:15 – 1 – 3 – 5. Trophy prizes. EF: $15 if mailed by 5/9, $20 at site. Unrated EF: $20 but ineligible for cash prizes. Unrateds may use unpublished ratings at organizer’s discretion. Ent: US Chess Center. Mail to address above. www.chessctr.org. WCL JGP for Master/Expert – Class D sections.

May 17, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced) Grandmaster Challenge (QC) 6-SS G/25 (G/20, D/5), Marshall CC, 23 W 10th St, NYC: 212-477-3716, limited to first 64 entries. EF: $35 over 55/under 18, $45 others, $10 less to Marshall members (free buffet for participants.) GMs free, $25 deducted from prize. Reg.: ends 11:45 am. Prizes: G$$350-250-150-100-75-50, $100 U2400, $100 U2200, $75 U2000, $50 U1800, top over 55$=age, top under 18 $=3x age, top scoring female ($=# of players.) Rds.: 12-1:15-2:30-4:00-5:15-6:30. Byes: limit 2, request before Round 3. Quick rated; regular ratings used for pairing and prize purposes. Additional class prize $500 2800+, $250 2700+

May 19, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) St. John’s Masters at the Marshall Chess Club 4SS, G/30.ThirdTues. of every month. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open to players rated over 2100 (plus all players scoring 2.5 or more at any CCNY at MCCThursday 4 Rated GamesTonight! since the prior month’s SJM) EF: $40, members $30, GMs $10 (returned on completion of tournament). For each event, money added to prize fund by the sponsors, St. John’s University, and other generous patrons.Top three prizes guaranteed. $$G 300-200-100.Top U2400 and Top U2300 prizes. Special prize for biggest upset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:159:30-10:45pm. One bye available, rds 1 and 4 only; declare at registration.

An American Classic! May 22-25, 23-25 or 24-25, Illinois World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced) 18th annual Chicago Open 7SS, 40/2, SD/1 (3-day option, rds 1-2 G/75; 2-day option, rds. 1-4 G/45). Under 900 section plays separate 2-day schedule only, G/45. Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel, 601 North Milwaukee Ave, Wheeling IL 60090 (from Chicago, I294 north to US-45 north; from Milwaukee, I-94 east to Lake Cook Rd to US-45 south.) Free parking. $100,000 guaranteed prize fund. In 8 sections. Open: $8000-4000-2000-1200-800-600-500-400-400-400, clear winner bonus $200, top Under 2500 $2000-1000. If tie for first, top 2 on tiebreak play speed game (White 5 minutes, Black 3 minutes & gets draw odds, with 5 second delay) for title & bonus prize. Under 2300, Under 2100, Under 1900, Under 1700: each $6000-3000-1500-1000-700-500-400-300-300-300. U2300 Section is FIDE rated. Under 1500: $5000-2500-1200-1000-700-500-400-300-300-300. Under

1300: $3000-1500-1000-800-600-500-400-300-300-300, top U1100 $800-400. Under 1100 play for both U1300 section prizes & U1100 class prizes; receive larger if winning both. Under 900: $200-120-80, trophies to top 10. Prize limits: 1) Players with under 26 lifetime games rated through 5/09 list may not win over $1500 U1300 or $2500 U1500. Games rated too late for 5/09 list not counted. 2) If more than 30 points over section maximum on any list 5/08-4/09, prize limit $1500. 3) Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) cannot win over $100 in U900, $600 U1300, $1000 U1500, $1300 U1700, $1600 U1900 or $2000 U2100. 4) Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Mailed EF: 4-day $199, 3-day $198, 2-day $197 mailed by 3/16; 4-day $219, 3-day $218, 2-day $217 mailed by 5/13; all $250 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Online EF at chesstour.com: $200 by 3/16, $220 by 5/19, $250 after 5/20 until 2 hours before rd 1. Phone EF at 406-896-2038: $205 by 3/16, $225 by 5/19 (entry only, no questions). No phone entry after 5/19. GMs free; $150 deducted from prize. WGMs $100; another $100 deducted from prize. EF $70 less to all in Under 1300 Section and to seniors over 65 in Under 1500 & above sections. Under 900 EF: $24 if mailed by 5/13, $25 online at chesstour.com by 5/19, $30 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 5/19 (entry only, no questions), $40 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. All: FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED in U900 or U1300 Sections. ICA membership ($15, scholastic $10) required for rated Illinois residents. Special 1 yr adult USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Re-entry: $100, no re-entry from Open to Open. $20 fee for switching section after 5/19. 4day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, Rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 12 & 7, Sun 12 & 7, Mon 10 & 4:30. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 11 am, Rds. Sat 12, 3:30 & 7, Sun 12 & 7, Mon 10 & 4:30. 2-day schedule (U1300 & up): Reg. ends Sun 9 am, Rds. Sun 10-12:30-2:30-4:30-7, Mon 10 & 4:30. Above schedules merge & compete for same prizes. Under 900 schedule: Reg. ends Sun 9 am, Rds. Sun 10-12:30-2:30-4:30, Mon. 10-12:30-2:30. Byes: OK all, limit 4 (limit 2 in last 4 rds), must commit before rd 3 having under 2 pts. Hotel rates: $94-94-94-94, 800-937-8461, 847-777-6500, reserve by 5/9 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings: Usually 100 points added to FIDE, 100 to FQE, 200/more to most other foreign, no pts added to CFC or Jamaica. Most foreign ratings other than CFC, FQE or Jamaica not accepted for U2000 or below. Highest of multiple ratings usually used. Players who fail to disclose foreign or FIDE ratings may be expelled. US player ratings: May official ratings used; FIDE ratings not used. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Special rules: 1) Players must submit to a search for electronic devices if requested by Director. In round 4 or after, players with scores over 80% in U1300/up and their opponents may not use headphones, earphones, cellphones, or go to a different floor of the hotel without Director permission. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658, chesstour.com. You may request “lowest possible section” if May rating unknown. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

A State Championship Event! May 22-25 or 23-25, Texas World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 Texas State and Amateur Championship 7SS, Marriott San Antonio Riverwalk, 889 East Market Street, San Antonio, TX

Chess Life — May 2009

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SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING MAY 1-14

Tournament Life 78205, United States. $$8350 b/175, full entries 75% Guaranteed, 2 Sections and scholastic side events: Championship (Open to players with USCF or Fide ratings of 2000 or greater and last year’s Amateur Champion. This section is Fide rated but uses USCF rules.) Rds.: 1-3 G/90 with 30 sec increment, rds 4-7 G/120 with 30 sec increment: $$1000-500-250, U2400 $500, X $700300. Amateur: U2000 & unrated. Rds 1-7 30/90 Sd/1, rd 1 of 3 day is G/120 (deduct 5 min. for delay). $$800-400-200. B $$600-300-150, C 500-250-125, U1400 $500-250-125, U1200 $400, U1000 $300 Unrated $200. Both: TCA membership required. Other States accepted. EF: $74 if received by 5/15, $85 at site. $65 Junior(U19) if received by 5/15 else $77 (juniors count as 90% toward base), Senior(over 65)/Handicapped/additional family participant $45 if receive by 5/15 else $60 (Senior/Handicap/ Additional family participant counts 60% toward base). Add $5 for CC phone entries; pre-reg requires prepaymt. After 5/20/09 all registration and changes on site only; all changes including withdrawals, $10 after 5/20/09. 4 day: Reg Friday 5/22, 6:15pm-7:15. Rds Fri: 7:45, Sat: 2:30pm-8:00, Sun: 10am-4:00, Mon: 9am-2:30. 3 day: Reg Sat 5/23 9-9:30 am, Rd 1 at 10 am then merge with 4 day. Foreign Unrated must play in Championship section. Registrations that do not indicate 4 or 3 day schedule will be put in the 3 day. HR: $105/105/105/105. 800-228-9290 reserve by 5/1 (or rate may go up) and ask for SA Chess Tournament rate. Note that this hotel has no free parking. Up to two 1/2 pt byes available if requested before rd 2, but byes for both rd 6 AND 7 is not permitted. K-12 Scholastic on Saturday, 5/23. 5-SS, Rds 1-3 G/30, rds 4-5 G/45, EF: $28 by 5/15, $40 after; CC phone entries add $5. Pre-reg. requires pre-paymt. After 5/20/09 all registration and changes on site only; all changes $10 after 5/20/09. No refunds after 5/21/09, $10 handling fee for refunds before 5/21/09. Entries do not count toward base in Championship and Amateur. Registration: 8:15-8:45 am, Rd 1 at 9:30 am, rest ASAP with small lunch break. Sections: K-12 Championship and K-12 U750. Prizes:Trophies toTop 12 individuals, 5 teams in each section. K-12 U750 also top 3 unrateds. Medals to plus scores who do not win a trophy. Ent: Dallas Chess Club, c/o Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley,TX 76036. Info: Barb Swafford, 214-632-9000, [email protected]. www.dallaschess.com. NS. NC. W. FIDE. WCL JGP.

May 23-24, Missouri World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 Show Me Classic 5SS, G/90, two sections - Open and U1600. Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108. EF: $50, $40 for annual members of the club. MCA Membership Req’d from $5. OSA. PF: Guaranteed first, b/40 2nd-5th. Each section $300-200-150-100-50. Reg: 10-10:50, Rds: Sat 11, 2:15, 5:30, Sun 12, 3:15. One 1/2 point bye if declared before round 1. Ent: 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108 314-361-CHESS, [email protected]. WCL JGP.

May 23-24 or 24, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) New York May Open! 4-SS, 30/90, SD/1, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W 10 St, bet. 5th-6th Ave, NYC: 845-569-9969. $$ 1,200 b/60 paid entries, minimum half each prize Gtd. May be limited to 1st 62 entries! 2 sections, Open. $$ 400-200-100,

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Chess Life — May 2009

U2200/unr. $100. FIDE. Under 2000. $$ 200-100, U1800 $100, $100 unr. prize limit. Both, EF: $45, Club membs $30, GMs free ($25 from prize), specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 5/21. 2 options: 2-Day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day; 1-day (rds 1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun., merge rd 3. 2 byes max, commit by rd 2. Reg. ends 15 min. before game. Re-entry $20, counts half. Foreign unr. must enter Open. CCA Ratings may be used. EF $10 extra by phone! WCL JGP.

An American Classic! May 23-25, California Southern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 2009 Lina Grumette Memorial Day Classic 6-SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day schedule rds 1-3 G/60, then merges). LAX Hilton, 5711 W Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045. $$10,000 b/200, 50% of each prize guaranteed. In four sections: Open: $$T+1800-750-400-300-200, U2400 400, U2200 700-300-200. Premier (under 2000): $$750-300-200-100. Amateur (Under 1800): $$750-300-200-100. Reserve (Under 1600/unrated): $$750-300200-100. U1400 400-200, U1200 150, Unr 150. (Unrated may win Unrated prize only.) Best game prize $25, all sections eligible. All: half-point byes available, limit 2, rds 5-6 must be requested with entry & cannot be revoked. SCCF membership req. ($18, jr. $10), OSA. No checks or credit cards at door Reg.: 3-day 9-10 a.m. 5-23, 2-day 8:30-9:30 a.m. 5-24. Rds.: 3-day: 10:30-5 Sat-Sun, 10-4:30 Mon. 2-day: 10-12:15-2:30 Sun., then merges. EF: $83 if received by 5-22, $95 door, U1400/unrated $67 by 5-22, $80 door. On-line entry: www.westernchess.com. Ent: SCCF, c/o John Hillery, 835 N. Wilton Pl. #1, Los Angeles CA 90038. HR: $109 (310) 410-4000, use group code LGM. Parking $10/day. Inf: [email protected]. NS, W, F. State Championship Qualifier. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! A State Championship Event! May 23-25, Massachusetts World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 78th Massachusetts Open 6SS, 40/2, SD/1, Holiday Inn Boxborough, 242 Adams Place, Boxborough, MA 01719. $$3,125 guaranteed. In 4 sections: Open: $500-250-100, U2250 125, top under age 23 $200. U2000: $300-125-75, top under age 23 $175. U1800: $300-125-75, top under age 23 $150. U1600: $250-125-75, U1400 75, top under age 23 $100. State championship title to highest scoring MA resident or student in each section. Unrated may play in any section but may not win 1st or 2nd prize or title except in Open section. Most interesting game prizes: Open $300, U2000 $200, U1800 $150, U1600 $100; all include signed copy of “The Art of Bisguier: Selected Games 1961-2003 Vols. 1 and 2” by GM Arthur Bisguier. EF: $55 postmarked by 5/19 or online (PayPal) at www.MassChess.org by 5/21; $65 at site. Special EF: Under age 23, $20 in advance or on site. Reg.: Sat 8:30-9:30. Rds.: Sat. 10:30-5, Sun. 10-4:30, Mon. 9:30-4. Bye: all, limit 2, rds. 5-6 must commit before round 2. MACA memb. req’d ($12, under 18 $6), OSA. HR: see web site (www.MassChess.org) for details. Ent: payable to MACA, mail to Ken Ballou, 27 Fenway Drive, Framingham, MA 01701-4012 or online at www.MassChess.org. Info: George Mirijanian, 978-345-5011, [email protected], www.MassChess.org. NS. NC. W. A state championship. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! May 23-25, Oklahoma World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 50 27th North American FIDE Open 7-SS, G/90+30 sec, Quality Inn- 2515 W. 6th Ave (Hwy-51) Stillwater, OK 1405-372-0800. HR: 70-70-70. One section open to all. EF: $50 if postmarked and paid by cash or ck before May 20, $60 at door. Reg.: Sat Noon-12:45; Rds.: Sat 1, 5:30, Sun 9-1-5, Mon 9-1. $$G 5,700 will not be lowered. $$G, $800, $700, $600, $500. $$G $600 each class($300-200-100) Ex,A,B,C,D & below. Unr. competes in D & below. $50-$50 upset, 2 half pt byes rds 1-7, $10 OCF required from all players. Free Parking. Ent: Frank Berry, 402 S. Willis, Stillwater, OK 74074. 1-405-372-5758. [email protected] om NC, CMV, LS, W, FIDE. WCL JGP.

May 23-25, Washington World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 50 Washington Open Chess Tournament in Spokane! Red Lion River Inn, 700 N Division Street, Spokane, WA 99202. This location is 100 yards from the Spokane club’s normal tourney site at the Schoenberg Center at Gonzaga University. Hotel reservations: (509) 326-5577, or toll free (800) Red-Lion. Ask for $99 chess rate. (Some Red Lion customers may qualify for a lower online rate. Washington Chess Federation. WA Open Sections/Entry Fees (by April 15/May15 on site) OPEN: EF $79 / $89 / $99, PREMIER (U2000): EF $69/$79/$89, RESERVE (U1700): EF $59 / $69 / $79, BOOSTER (U1400): EF $49/$59/$69. Free entry to GM’s, IM’s, WGM’s. $25 entry option for juniors under age 21 playing for medal only. Three medals awarded per section. $8,000 Prizes Guaranteed by the Gary Younker Foundation! Hosted by the Spokane Chess Club. Prizes: Open: $1,000-$600$400-$300-$200, Premier: $400-$300-$250-$200-$150, Reserve: $350-$250$200-$150-$100, Booster: $300-$150-$100-$100-$100, U2150: $400-$250$150-$100, U1850: $250-$150-$100-$100, U1550: $200-$100-$100-$100, U1100: $120-$80-$120*,$80*. (*) Prizes for unrated players. $100 Martha Jane Miller Memorial Prize for top woman in open section. All prizes will be mailed after the event. Entries/Information: Dan Mathews, WCF Tournament Coordinator, 730 Olympic Ave., Edmonds, WA 98020. Cell Phone (425) 218-7529. [email protected]. Make checks payable to: Washington Chess Federation (WCF). Online registration available at www.nwchess.com. Registration/Byes: Saturday 8:15-9:15AM for 3-day, or 3:30-4:15 PM if entering with one half-point bye. Sunday 8:15-9:00 AM for 2-day, or 9:00-9:30 AM if entering 3-day event with two half-point byes. Two half-point byes available, which must be requested in advance, or at site before the announced cutoff time. Format/Ratings: Four sections six round Swiss system, USCF rated.The Open Section is also FIDE rated. USCF May supplement ratings will be used. Un-rated players may play in open or booster section only, and are eligible for top five prizes in open and the two unrated prizes in booster section. Time Controls: 3-day schedule: 40/2 Hrs., SD/1 Hr. 2-day schedule: Rounds 1-3: Game/60 minutes. (Rounds 4-6 same as 3-day schedule.) Both schedules: Digital clocks preferred. 5-second time delay used from start of game. Rounds: 3-day schedule: Saturday: 10:00AM, 5:00PM, Sunday: 10:00AM, 5:00PM, Monday: 9:00AM, 3:30PM. 2-day schedule: Sunday: 9:30AM, 11:45AM, 2:30PM, then join 3-day schedule for rest of tourney. WCF annual meeting: 3:30 PM Sunday, May 24. WCL JGP for time control slower than G/30.

uschess.org

A Heritage Event! May 29-31 or 30-31, Georgia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 40th Annual Southern Congress 5-SS, G/2 hours (2-day option, Rd. 1 G/90). Atlanta Chess Center, 3155A East Ponce de Leon Avenue, Scottdale, Georgia 30079. $2,600 b/89, 50% GTD. In 4 sections: Open: $300-200 (GTD); u2200: $200-100; u2000: $200-100. Under 1800: $300-200, u1600: $200-100. Under 1400: $300-200; u1200: $100, u1000: $100. Unrated: (not part of base) EF: $18 in advance, $25 at site. Trophies to top 7. All: EF: $42 if received by 5/27; $46 at site. Re-entry: $25. Bye: all rounds (limit 2), must commit before 1st round. 3-day schedule: Reg.: ends 7 p.m. Rounds: 7:45, 2-7, 10-3. 2-day schedule: Reg.: ends 10 a.m. Rounds: 1st at 10:30 a.m., then merges with 3-day. Hotel/Info: atlantachess@yahoo. com or (404)-377-4400. Enter: Same as above. www.atlantachessclub.com. WCL JGP.

May 30, Tennessee World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Rutherford County Open 5-SS, rd.1 G/30, rd.2 G/60, Rds.3, 4, 5 G/75. Grace Lutheran Church, 811 E. Clark Blvd., Murfreesboro, TN. EF: $25 by 5/28, $30 at site. $$ (1160, top 2 G, class prizes b/6 entries per class, else proportional): $200-120, X, A, B, C, D, E/below, Unr. each $120. Reg.: 8:00-8:45am. Rds.: 9:00-10:00-12:30-3:00-5:30. Ent: Rutherford County Chess Club, P.O. Box 1593, Murfreesboro, TN 37133. rccc.us/ (with map to site), [email protected] 615-895-7989 NS. NC. W.WCL JGP, Rounds 3-5.

May 30-31, Texas World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) DFW Fide Open III 5SS, G/90 with 30 second increment. Dallas Chess Club, 212 S Cottonwood Dr. #A, Richardson, TX 75080. One Section $$550G. Open: This section is FIDE rated but uses USCF Rules. $400-$100-$50. EF: $50, Juniors(U19)/Senior/Hcap $30, plus $5 non-DCC membership fee if applicable. Registration: 9:45 -10:15 am. Rds.: Sat 10:45 - 3:10 - 7:16, Sun 10:45-3:10. One Bye allowed if requested before rd 2, withdrawals are not eligible for prizes. Ent: Dallas Chess Club, see address above. Info: 214-632-9000, [email protected] NS. NC. FIDE. WCL JGP.

June 4, Nevada World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 50 2009 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) See Nationals.

June 4, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight! 4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 West 10 St, bet. 5-6 Ave, NYC: 212-477-3716. EF: $35, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$560 b/32 paid entries (may be limited to 1st 36 to enter), top 2 Gtd: $$ 200-110-50, Top U2200/unr $105, U2000 $95. Limit 2 byes (1 bye for U2000), commit by 8:15. Reentry $15. CCA ratings may be used. Class pairings OK rd. 4. Reg ends 10 min before game. Rds 78:15-9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible!

June 4-7, 5-7, Florida World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 Orlando After Memorial Open and Scholastic 5SS, G/120, (Sat. Rd. 1 G/60). Hilton Altamonte Springs, 350 S. North Lake Blvd., Altamonte Springs. $$6025 b/150 (Scholastic=1/2 entry). 66% GUARANTEED! 3 Sect: Open: $1100-700-500, U2300 & U2000 $400 ea. U1800: $900-600-400, U1600 & U1400 $300 ea. Unrs limited to $100 unless Place Prize in Open. EF: $59. Scholastic U1400: EF: $30. $200-100-50, U1200, U1000 & U800 $25 ea. Unrs limited to $50. Trophy to top in each age “7&under” thru 14 with at least 2 players. EF: Add $16, $10 for Scholastic, after May 23. Ent. must indicate Fri. or Sat. for Rd. 1. Scholastic (Sat & Sun only) Reg: ends 1/2 hr. before 1st Rd. Rd. 1 8pm Fri (or 10am Sat). Re-entry $40. Rds: 2-5 Sat. 1 & 6, Sun. 9 & 2. 1/2 pt. byes(max 2) if req’d before rd. 2. HR: $94 (by May 23). 800-678-4380, Ent: CFCC, c/o Harvey Lerman, 921 N. Thistle Ln., Maitland, FL 32751. Or online 2009aftermemorial.eventbrite.com; Info: 407-629-6946 or www.centralfl chess.org. WCL JGP.

June 5-7, Michigan World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2009 Universal Spring Swiss 6-SS. 2 Sections (Open & Reserve). 2- or 3-Day Schedule. All The King’s Men Chess Supplies and Brain Games, Parkview Square Strip Mall (Around Back), 27170 Dequindre Rd., Warren, MI 48092 (11 Mile & Dequindre Rds.). USCF and MCA memberships required (can be purchased on site). EF by Tues., 6/2 (Add $10 after): OPEN: 3-DAY: $63 ($53 for Oage 64, Uage 16, or UNR). 2-DAY: $62 ($52 for Oage 64, Uage 16, or UNR). IMs and GMs FREE (EF deducted from prize). No Re-Entries allowed in Open Section. RESERVE (U1600): 3-DAY: $53 ($43 for Oage 64, Uage 16, or UNR). 2-DAY: $52 ($42 for Oage 64, Uage 16, or UNR). Re-Entries from 3-Day to 2-Day: $40. Schedules merge after Rd 2. Up to TWO 1/2-pt. byes allowed-must be requested prior to start of RD 4. TL: 3-Day: Rds. 1-3, G-90; Rds. 4-6, G-120. 2-Day: Rds. 1-2, G-45; Rd. 3, G90; Rds. 4-6, G-120. REG.: 3-Day: Fri, 4:00-6:30pm. 2-Day: Sat, 10-11am. RDS: 3-Day: Fri, 7pm. Sat, 11, 3:30, 7. Sun, 11, 3:30. Headphones cannot be used if opponent objects for any reason. Must be willing to present same to TD for exam at any time. Failure to do so will result in removal from tournament without refund. Cell phones must be turned off or in silent mode while in the tournament room. $$2500 Overall. 60% Guaranteed. OPEN, $1,350 (b/30, b/min. 6 per prize section): 1st $500; 2nd $250;TOP 1900-2100, 16001899, U1600/UNR: $200 each. RESERVE (U1600), $1,150 (b/30, b/min. 6 per prize section): 1st $400; 2nd $225; TOP 1300-1599, 1000-1299, U1000/UNR: $175 each. UNR eligible ONLY for Unrated or Overall prizes. $50 Gift Certificate for Biggest Upset of tournament! Info & ENT: Dr. Ed Mandell, address above, (586) 558-4790. Toll-Free: (866) 538-7890; Fax: (586) 558-2046. Call for reasonable lodging within 1/2-3/4 mile. Email: [email protected], Web: www.allthekingsmenchess.com. WCL JGP times slower than G/60.

A Heritage Event! An American Classic! June 5-7 or 6-7, Nevada World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced) 2009 National Open See Nationals.

uschess.org

June 6, District of Columbia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 20th Annual DC Action Championship

June 13, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced) 8th Annual New Yorker June Open!

6-SS, G/30. US Chess Center, 1501 M St. NW. Washington, DC 20005 EF: $32 if by 5/29, $40 at site. $$G400-250-100, U2200 $100, U2000 $80, U1800 $80, U1600 $80, U1400 $80, (Class prizes b/50, 4/class). Reg.: 10-11. Rds.: 11:301-3-4:30-6-8. Ent: DCCL, address above. Info: 202/857-4922. NS, NC, W. www.chessctr.org.

5-SS, G/50, beautifully renovated, well-lighted 3rd Floor, New Yorker Hotel, 481 Eighth Ave at 34th St, across from Penn Station, New York. $$2,200 Guaranteed prizes! 2 sections. Open, $$ 500-250-100, U2400/unr $160, U2200 $150, U2000 $140. Under 1800: $400-200-100, top U1600 $105, U1400 $95, $100 limit to Unr. EF: $56 postmarked by 6/5, $54 on-line thru 6/10 at www.chesscenter.cc, $60 by phone thru 6/10, $65 at site, $20 less to unrated players (only players with 3 games or less are unrated), $20 less to rated players in NY Junior Championship 6/14, GMs free ($30 from prize). Reentry $30; $10 charge for refunds. Questions, [email protected] or 845-569-9969 (credit card phone entries: 406-896-2191, 24 hours, no questions). After 6/10, enter at site. On-site reg ends 10:30 am. Rds. 11-1:30-3:30-5:307:30 pm. Limit 2 byes, commit by 1:30. CCA ratings may be used. Ent: Chess Center of NY, PO Box 4615, New Windsor, NY 12553. Bring sets, clocks, boards— none supplied! W.

June 6, North Carolina World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) Orchard Lake Grand Prix 4SS, Rd1&2 G/61 Rd 3&4 G/90. Orchard Lake Campground, Saluda, NC. EF: $26.50, Special U1200 EF: $16.50 (incl $6.50 cmpgrnd fee). $$GTD: $200-10030-30-30-30-20-20-20-20. Rds.: 9:00-11:30-2:00-5:35. Accel pairings. ENT: Kevin Hyde, 705 Old Mtn Page Rd, Saluda NC 28773. 828-749-1625 [email protected]. HR: 828-749-390. www.orchardlakecampground.com. www.nc chess.org. NCGP. WCL JGP.

June 6, Tennessee World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Rea Hayes Open Chess Tournament 4SS, G60, T/D5. Bethel Bible Village, 3001 Hamill Rd., Hixson, TN. $1,000 Unconditionally Guaranteed. Open: $200-150.Top Expert $100,Top A $100,Top U1800 $75. Amateur: $150-100. Top D $50, Top E $50, Top U1000 $25, Top Unrated $25. EF: Open $25 and Amateur $20 if mailed by 6/01. $30 and $25 respectively at site. Rds.: 9:00, 11:15, 2:15, 4:30 ET. Ent.: Go to www.chatta noogachess.org or contact Malcolm Estrada, P. O. Box 1102, Chattanooga, TN 37401, 423-280-9526.

A State Championship Event! June 6-7, Kentucky World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 40 The Kentucky Open 5rd SS, g/90. Location University of Louisville Shelby Campus, Founders Union Building, 8003 Shelbyville Road, Louisville, KY 40222. EF: $40 if received by 6/3, $45 after/on site. Current KCA membership required for all KY residents Regular $8, Youth and Senior $4. Reg.: 8:30 - 9:30. Rds.: Sat, 10, 2, 5:30. Sun, 9, 2. Half point bye 1-4, must request before rd 2, withdrawals are not eligible for prizes. Prizes: $5100 b/120 paid entries. 3 sections Open, U1800, U1400. Open prizes 1st 1000, 2nd 500, 3rd 300, M 200, X 200, A 200. Open 1-3 and M fully guaranteed - remaining prizes 50% guaranteed and must have at least 3 in the rating class to award a prize in that rating class. U1800 1st $500, 2nd 300, B 200, C 200. U1400 1st 500, 2nd 300, D 200, E 200, U1000 200, Unrated 100. Ent: Ky Open, c/o Allen Priest, 7803 Wolf Creek Court, Louisville, KY 40241 or to the KCA P.O. Box. 8035, Louisville, KY 40257. E-mail questions or entries to [email protected] or call 502-228-5054. WCL JGP.

June 6-7, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) Third Annual WNY Masters Championships 2009 5SS System, Game 120, Buffalo State College - Campbell Student Union, 1300 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14222. FIDE rated. EF: 65.00, Cash only onsite, $50.00 if postmarked by May 30, 2009. $$GTD: $300-225-150. Reg.: Sat. Jun. 6, Closes at 9 a.m. Rds.: Sat. at 9:30 a.m. 1:30 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. Sun. at 10 a.m. & 3 p.m. One half point byes available, if requested at registration, except Rd 5. ENT: Archangel 8 Chess Academy “Mayors Cup”, 60F Guilford Lane, Buffalo, NY 14221 www.buffalonians.com. INFO: Mc Duffie [email protected]. HR: [email protected] 716 837-3344, Boulevard Inn & Suites. NS LS NC W. WCL JGP.

June 13, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) Jenifer Woods Memorial Grand Prix 4SS RDS. 1 & 2 G/60, RDS. 3 & 4 G/90 @RCC (GTD) $150-90-60 class $80. Reg.: 8:30-9:15. RDS.: 9:30-12-2:15-5:30 EF: $30 Adv Ent/Info: Rochester Chess Center, 221 Norris Drive, Rochester, NY 14610. (585)442-2430.

A Heritage Event! A State Championship Event! June 13-14, New Hampshire World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 59th New Hampshire Open 4-SS, 40/2, SD/1. Comfort Inn, exit 4 (Queen City Bridge) off I-293, Manchester, NH. 603-668-2600. $$ 2,045 b/65 in 2 day sects., 75%G. 3 sects. Open: $$ 350-225-125, U2100 $125-75. NH Champion title to top scoring NH resident. U1900: $175-120-75, U1750 $120-60. U1600: $175-120-75, U1400 $100, U1200 $75, U1000 $50. All: EF $42 if rcvd. by 6/11, $48 at site. Special EF $26 to players 18/under who are U1200 or Unr, or 65/over. Reg.: 8:30-9:30 a.m. Rds.: 10-4:30, 9:30-4:00. Sunday Swiss (6/14 only): 3-SS, G/60. EF: $25 if rcvd. by 6/11, $31 at site. $$ 80-50-30 (b/8). Sun. Swiss Reg.: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Sun. Rds. 11-1:30-4. NHCA Annual Meeting Sun. at 9:00 a.m. NHCA memb. req. for rated NH residents: $8 adult, $6 junior 18/under. Bye: 1-3 with entry, limit 1. Unrated may play in any sect. but can’t win 1st except in Open. HR: $80-80, reserve early and mention tnmt. Ent: NHCA, c/o Alex Relyea, 49 Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. Info: 603-232-1373 or [email protected]. Cks. payable to NHCA. NS, W. WCL JGP.

June 13-14, Virginia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20 6th Annual George Washington Open 5SS, Rds 1-3 G/2, rds 4-5 30/90 SD/1. $$2,200 (Top 3 G) B/90. Hotel Sierra, 45520 Dulles Plaza, Sterling, VA 20166. www.hotel-sierra.com luxurious single and double suites. 20 Reserved Single Suites available by June 6 at $99. Doubles are great for families! Contact hotel at 703-435-9002 or 1-800.4.SIERRA.

A Heritage Event! June 12-14 or 13-14, Ohio World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 40 51st Gem City Open Tournament 5 Rounds, SS. Time Controls: 40/2, SD/1 (2 day option rds 1 & 2 G/75). Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th Street, Dayton, OH 45402. 3 or 2 day option. Alexander Goldin will be playing in this Heritage Event - how about you? $$5,000 Gtd. 4 sections: OPEN: $1000-$550- $350-$250, FIDE Rated. Under2000: $500-$300-$150, Under1800: $500-$300-$150, Under1600: $500-$300-$150. Unrated prizes limited to 1/3d except in the OPEN w/balance to next player(s) in line. EF: 3-day $67, 2-day $65 if mailed by 6/5. $77 at site 2 or 3 day. Free to GM or IM. No checks at site, MC/Visa okay. DCC Members $5 discount. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 7:30 pm, rds Fri 8:00 pm, Sat 116, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 a.m., rds Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 9-3:15. Byes: two ok - must commit by round 2. Hotel & rates TBD - see www.daytonchessclub.com. Ent: Dayton Chess Club, 18 West 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402 or register Online www.daytonchessclub.com. Look for 1/2 page ad in the May issue! Questions: [email protected] or call 937.461.6283 to lv msg. WCL JGP.

WA RN I N G ! CELL PHONE THE USE OF A

PROHIBITED! IN THE TOURNAMENT ROOM IS AT MOST TOURNAMENTS!

IF YOUR CELL PHONE RINGS IN A ROOM WITH GAMES IN PROGRESS, YOU COULD BE SEVERELY PENALIZED, MAYBE EVEN FORFEITED!

TURN IT OFF!

Chess Life — May 2009

63

SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING MAY 1-14

Tournament Life Be sure to ask for Virginia Chess rates; or book it online at stay.hotelsierra.com/?id=VIR Near Dulles Airport. See tournament website for directions and more information. Open: $580-320-200 (G);Top X/A-Unr/B/C/D each $190, Top U1200 $150, Reg.: Saturday Jun 13: 8:30 am-9:45am. Rounds: Sat 10-2307, Sunday 10-3:30p. One 1/2 pt bye allowed, must commit to byes with entry, none allowed after 1st round starts and are irrevocable after play starts. EF: $50 if rec’d by Jun 7th, $60 at site. Ent: Michael Atkins, PO Box 6138 (yes 6138!), Alexandria, VA 22306. Make checks to: “Virginia Chess”. Email: matkins2@ cox.net, but NO e-mail entries, just information Web: www.vachess.org/nova.htm W, NS, FIDE. WCL JGP.

June 16, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) St. John’s Masters at the Marshall Chess Club 4SS, G/30.ThirdTues. of every month. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open to players rated over 2100 (plus all players scoring 2.5 or more at any CCNY at MCCThursday 4 Rated GamesTonight! since the prior month’s SJM) EF: $40, members $30, GMs $10 (returned on completion of tournament). For each event, money added to prize fund by the sponsors, St. John’s University, and other generous patrons.Top three prizes guaranteed. $$G 300-200-100.Top U2400 and Top U2300 prizes. Special prize for biggest upset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:159:30-10:45pm. One bye available, rds. 1 or 4 only; declare at registration.

June 19-21, Georgia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 80 2009 Castlechess Grand Prix 5-SS, G/120 (2 day schedule, rd 1 G/90). Cox Hall, Emory University, 569 Asbury Cir., Atlanta, GA 30322. $8,675 G! Six sections: Premier (over 1999): $1,500-1000-500; U2400/Unr: $700-400; U2200: $600-375; Class A: $550-325; Class B: $500-$300; Class C: $450-275; Class D: $400-250; U1200: $350-200; U1000: Trophy. Rated players may play one section above current rating, and are eligible for all prizes in the section in which they play. EF: $69 if received by 6/10. $79 later or at site. Free to GM, IM or USCF 2400. Unrated Players: $50; no discount to Unrated in Premier Section. Unrated may enter any section, except need TD’s OK to enter Premier Section. Unrated may not win over $150 in U1200, $ 200 in D, $250 in C, $300 in B or $350 in A. Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. 3 day schedule: Reg.: 6:307:30 pm on 6/13. Rds.: 8; 1:30-6:30; 9-1:30. 2 day schedule: Reg.: 8:30-9:30 am on 6/14. Rd 1 at 10 am, then merges with 3 day schedule. HR: University Inn, 404-634-7327. Half point bye any round. Limit 2. Must commit before rd. 1. No changes. Ent: 5025 Antebellum Drive, Stone Mtn. GA 30087. Make check payable to: Castlechess, Inc. Info: Mark Taylor, 404-200-1134, [email protected], on-line registration at www.castlechess.org NS, NC, W. WCL JGP.

June 19-21 or 20-21, Maryland World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 40 (enhanced) Chesapeake Open 5SS, 40/120, SD/1, U1100 30/90 SD/1 (All Rnd 1 G/120) (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75 U1100 2-day, rnds 1-2 G/60) Charles Commons, 3301 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218. $$Based on score. Last year paid out over $5000. 6 sections: Open FIDE rated: 5.0 = $1500, 4.5 = $700, 4.0 = $350, 3.5 =

64

Chess Life — May 2009

$150 (min $1500 payout, all payouts raised if less than $1500) U1900,U1700: 5.0 = $1200, 4.5 = $600, 4.0 = $300, 3.5 = $100 U1500, U1300: 5.0 = $1000, 4.5 = $500, 4.0 = $250, 3.5 = $100 U1100: 5.0 =$500, 4.5 = $250, 4.0 = $125, 3.5 = $50 Unrated may not win over $100 in U1100, $200 U1300, $300 U1500, $400 U1700, or $500 U1900. EF: $90 by 5/20, $100 by 6/16, and $105 online only by 6/18, $110 at the door. Special EFs: $35 less in U1100, GMs free; $50 deducted from prize, IMs 1/2 off entrance fee, $20 (not $70) deducted from prize. Special HR: $40 single Sat. night, pay with registration. Free room Sat. night for GMs. $20 room Sat. night for IMs. Rooms may not be avail after 5/25. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6pm, rds Fri 7, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10am rds 11-2-6, 9-3:15. U1100 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6pm, rds Fri 7, Sat 11-4, Sun 9-2:00. U1100 2-day schedule: reg ends Sat 10am, rds 11-1:30-4, 9-2:00. Ent: Michael Regan, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd,Towson MD 21204. Detailed rules and more information: www.baltimorechess.org/Chesapeake_Open.html, online entry: chesapeakeopen.eventbrite.com/. WCL JGP.

June 19-23, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced) 2nd NY International 9SS 40/2 SD/60. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open to all players rated 2200 or above (USCF or FIDE) and special invitees. May be limited to the first 50 registrants. EF: $350 in advance, $400 on site. Players with USCF ratings over 2200 with no FIDE rating: $300 advance / $350 at site, Players with USCF ratings over 2200 and FIDE rating U2200: $250 in advance / $300 at site. USA players with FIDE ratings over 2200: $200 in advance, $250 at site. USA IMs, USA WGMs, and Foreign FIDE-rated players: $150 in advance / $200 at site. GMs, foreign IMs, and foreign WGMs $100, returned on completion of tournament; no money deducted from prize fund. Reg.: 6/19 10:30-11:30. Rds.: 12-7 6/19-6/22 and 12 on 6/23. $25 less for Marshall Chess Club Members. $10,000 guaranteed $5000-2500-1500-1000 Plus special brilliancy prize. Award ceremony to follow round 9. Every player will receive a special prize. WCL JGP.

A State Championship Event! June 20, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2009 PA State Game/45 Championship 4SS, G/45. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pitt., 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. 3 Sections, $$ (695G): Championship: EF: $30 by 6/12, $40 later. $200-100, U2000 $75, U1800 $50. Premier: U1600. EF: $25 by 6/12, $35 later. $90-60, U1400 $50, U1200 $40, U1000 $30;Trophies toTop 2,Top 2 U1400,Top 2 U1200, Top 2 U1000. Scholastic: Grades K-12 U900. EF: $15 by 6/12, $25 later. Trophies to Top 7, 1-3 U600. ALL: Teams of 4 to 7 combined from all sections, Trophies 1st-2nd schools, clubs. PSCF $5, OSA. Reg ends Noon. Rds: 12:30-2:154-6. Ent/Info: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223, 412-908-0286, [email protected]. W.

June 25, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced) 22nd Annual Thursday Night Action Championship 4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W. 10 St., bet. 5-6th Ave.,

NYC: 212-477-3716. $$1,500 Guaranteed Prizes!! 2 sections, Open, $$ 500250-140-100, U2400/unr. $160. Under 2200, $$ 150-100, top U2000 $100, $100 prize limit to unr. Both, EF $40, Club membs. $30, GMs free ($25 from prize), specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. Limit 2 byes (commit by 8:15). Re-entry: $20, counts half. CCA Ratings may be used. Reg. ends 15 min. before game. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 6/23. Rds. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible!

June 25-29, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 150 (enhanced) 3rd annual Philadelphia International 9SS, 40/2, SD/1, Sheraton Philadelphia City Center Hotel, 17th & Race Sts., Philadelphia, PA 19103. Special parking rate for players with guest rooms $5/day; may be available for players without guest rooms, through 6/29 only. $$G 10,000: $3000-1500-1000-600-400-300-200, top FIDE 2200-2399 $1000500, top FIDE under 2200 or unrated $1000-500. Minimum prize if completing all games: $500 to foreign GMs, $200 to US GMs, foreign IMs, foreign WGMs, foreign WIMs. IM & GM norms possible; FIDE rated. EF: GMs, IMs, WGMs, WIMs, foreign FIDE rated players $115 mailed by 6/16, $117 online by 6/23, $125 phoned by 6/23 (406-896-2038, payment only, no questions), $150 at tmt. USA FIDE 2100/up rated players: $215 mailed by 6/16, $217 online by 6/23, $225 phoned by 6/23, $250 at tmt. Others: $315 mailed by 6/16, $317 online by 6/23, $325 phoned by 6/23, $350 at tmt. All: No checks at site, credit cards accepted. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entryonline at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Reg. endsThu 10 am, rds Thu through Sun 11-6, Mon 11. Two half point byes available (must commit before rd 2); norm not possible if taking bye. HR: $93-93, 215-448-2000, reserve by 6/5 or rate may increase. Bring sets, boards, clocks if possiblenone supplied. Ent: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: 845-496-9658, www.chesstour.com. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! A State Championship Event! June 27-28, Oklahoma World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 64th Oklahoma Open State Championship GTD $900. 5SS, Rds 1-2 G/90, Rds 3-5 G/120. La Quinta Inn OKC Airport, 800 S. Meridian (I-40 at Meridian), Oklahoma City, 405-942-0040. Reg.: 8:309:30am. Rds.: 10-2-6; 10-3. One 1/2 point bye in Rds 1-4. Must enter before Rd 2 pairings. 3 Sections: Open, Reserve (U1800), Booster (U1400). Plaques & State Championship Titles for Oklahoma resident section champs. $$GTD: Open $300-200-100 & Reserve $150-100-50. Other $$b/entries. EF: $40 if rec’d by 6/24, otherwise $50. Under age 20 additional siblings $10 less. OCA membership included. HR: $71.10 plus tax if reserved by June 6, incl hot bkfst & airport shuttle. No outside food/drinks. OCA Annual Meeting/Election Sun 8:00am. Entries/Contact: Jim Gray, 720 S. Husband, Suite 5, Stillwater, OK 74074, 405-624-1777 or cell (405) 612-0379, [email protected]. Info: www.ochess.org. WCL JGP.

June 28, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced) Grandmaster Challenge (QC)

uschess.org

6-SS G/25 (G/20, D/5), Marshall CC, 23 W 10th St, NYC: 212-477-3716, limited to first 64 entries. EF: $35 over 55/under 18, $45 others, $10 less to Marshall members (free buffet for participants.) GMs free, $25 deducted from prize. Reg. ends 11:45 am. G$$350-250-150-100-75-50, $100 U2400, $100 U2200, $75 U2000, $50 U1800, top over 55$=age, top under 18 $=3x age, top scoring female ($=# of players.) Rds.: 12-1:15-2:30-4:00-5:15-6:30. Byes: limit 2, request before Round 3. Quick rated; regular ratings used for pairing and prize purposes. Additional class prize $500 2800+, $250 2700+.

A Heritage Event! An American Classic! July 1-5, 2-5, 3-5 or June 29-July 5, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 300 (enhanced) 37th Annual World Open 9SS, 40/2, SD/1 (4-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, 3-day option, rds 1-5 G/45), Under 900/Unr Section plays separate 3-day schedule only, G/45. Sheraton City Center Hotel, 17th & Race Sts., Philadelphia 19103. Parking $5 for hotel guests playing in tournament. Downtown location, Franklin Institute, many museums, stores, restaurants within a few blocks. Prizes $250,000 unconditionally guaranteed. Free analysis of your games by GM Sam Palatnik; free lectures by other GMs 9 am 7/3 & 7/4. In 9 sections (Unrated eligible only for Open, Under 2400, or Under 900). Open: $20000-10000-5000-2500-1500-1000-800700-600-500, clear winner bonus $200, top U2500 $2000-1000. If tie for first, top 2 on tiebreak play speed game 7/5, 11 pm (White 5 minutes, Black 3 minutes & gets draw odds, 5 second delay) for title & bonus prize. GM & IM norms possible in 5-day & 7-day schedules. FIDE rated. Under 2400: $14000-70003000-2000-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U2300 $2000-1000. FIDE Under 2200: $14000-7000-3000-2000-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U2100 $20001000. Under 2000: $14000-7000-3000-2000-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U1900 $2000-1000. Under 1800: $14000-7000-3000-2000-1000-900-800-700600-500, top U1700 $2000-1000. Under 1600: $12000-6000-3000-2000-1000900-800-700-600-500, top U1500 $2000-1000. Under 1400: $10000-50002500-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U1300 $1500-800. Under 1200: $5000-2500-1500-1000-800-700-600-500-400-300. Under 900/unrated: $300200-100, trophies to top 10, no unrated may win over $100. Prize limits: 1) Players with under 26 games played as of 7/09 list may not win over $1500 in U1200, $3000 U1400 to U1800. Games rated too late for 7/09 list not counted. 2) Players with official rating more than 30 points over section maximum any month 7/08-6/09 have a prize limit of $2000. 3) Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. EF, if mailed by 2/17: 7-day $307, 5-day $305, 4-day $304, 3-day $303. Mailed by 5/15: 7-day $317, 5-day $315, 4-day $314, 3-day $313. Mailed by 6/18: 7-day $327, 5-day $325, 4-day $324, 3-day $323. At site: All $350; no checks, credit cards OK. Online entry at chesstour.com: $310 by 2/17, $320 by 5/15, $330 by 6/24, $350 after 6/24 until 2 hours before rd 1. Phone entry at 406-896-2038: $315 by 2/17, $325 by 5/15, $335 by 6/24 (entry only, no questions). No phone entries after 6/24. GMs free; $200 EF deducted from prize. WGMs $100; another $100 EF deducted from prize. EF $100 less to all in U1200 Section and seniors over 65 in Under 1400 & above. Under 900/Unrated Section EF: $25 if mailed by 6/17, all $26 online at chesstour.com by 6/24, $30 phoned by 6/24 (entry only, no questions), $40 at site. FREE ENTRYTO UNRATED in U900/Unr Section. No checks at site; credit cards OK. Re-entry: $160, no re-entry from Open to Open. $20 fee for

switching section after 6/30. Special 1 yr adult USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. 5-day schedule: Wed 7 pm, Thur 11 am & 6 pm, Fri 11 am & 6 pm, Sat 11 am & 6 pm, Sun 10 am & 5 pm. 7-day schedule: Mon-Fri each 7 pm, Sat 11 am & 6 pm, Sun 10 am & 5 pm. 4-day schedule: Thurs 11, 2:30 & 6, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 5. 3-day schedule: Fri 11, 1:30, 3:30, 6 & 8:30, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 5. All schedules merge & compete for same prizes. Under 900/Unr schedule: Fri 1:30, 3:45 & 6, Sat 11, 1:30, 3:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 12:30. Half point byes OK all, limit 4 (limit 2 in last 4 rds), must commit before rd 3 and have under 2 pts. Entries, re-entries close 1 hour before your first game. Bring sets, boards, clocks if possible- none supplied. HR: 93-93, 215-4482000, may sell out about 5/31, two night minimum 7/3-4. Backup hotel: Radisson Plaza Warwick, 215-735-6000, $104-104, special chess rates for parking $8/day with guest room at Radisson. Special car rental rates: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings: 100 pts added to FIDE, 100 to FQE, 200 or more to most foreign, no pts added to CFC. Most foreign ratings other than CFC or FQE or Jamaica not accepted for U2000 or below. Highest of multiple ratings used. Players who fail to disclose foreign or FIDE ratings may be expelled. US player ratings: JULY LIST USED; FIDE ratings not used. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Special rules: 1) Players must submit to a search for electronic devices if requested by Director. In round 4 or after, players with scores over 80% and their opponents may not use headphones, earphones, cellphones or go to a different floor of the hotel without Director permission. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. You may request “lowest possible section” if July rating unknown. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! July 3-5, California Southern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 49th Annual Pacific Southwest Open 6-SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day schedule rds 1-3 G/60, then merges). LAX Hilton, 5711 W. Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045. $$8,000 b/200, 50% of each prize guaranteed. 2 sections: Open, $$1400-700-400-300-200, U2200 $600-300-150, U2000 $600-300-150. Amateur, open to U1800/Unr, $$600-300-150, U1600 500250-150, U1400 400-250, U1200 150, Unr. 150. Unr. May win Unrated prize only. All, EF $69 if rec’d by 7-2, $79 at site. SCCF memb. req’d of So. Californians ($18, jrs. U18 $10, includes Rank & File magazine). Reg.: 3-day 9-10 a.m. 7-3, 2-day 8:30-9:30 a.m. 7-4. Rds.: 3-day: 10:30-5 Fri-Sat, 10-4:30 Sun. 2-day: 10-12:152:30 Sat., then merges. Ent: SCCF, c/o John Hillery, 835 N. Wilton Pl. #1, Los Angeles, CA 90038, on line at www.westernchess.com. HR: $109 (310) 410-4000, mention chess with group code APS. Parking $10/day. Inf: [email protected]. NS, W, F. State Championship Qualifier. WCL JGP.

July 4, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15

World Open G/10 Championship (QC) 5SS, G/10, Sheraton Philadelphia Hotel (see World Open). $2200 GUARANTEED PRIZES. In 2 sections: Open: $400-200-100, top U2400/Unr $220, U2200

$200, U2000 $180. Under 1800: $300-150-80, top U1600 $160, U1400 $120, U1200 $90, no unrated may win over $200. EF: $40. Reg: 7-10:15 pm, Rds: 10:30-11:15-11:45-12:15-12:45. Bye: OK rd 1. Quick-rated (will not affect regular ratings); prizes based on higher of regular or quick ratings. Ent: at site only, no checks.

July 5, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15

World Open Blitz Championship (QC) 5SS, G/5 (double round, 10 games), Sheraton Philadelphia Hotel (see World Open). $2200 GUARANTEED PRIZES. In 2 sections: Open: $400-200-100, top U2400/Unr $220, U2200 $200, U2000 $180. Under 1800: $300-150-80, top U1600 $160, U1400 $120, U1200 $90, no unrated may win over $200. EF: $40. Reg: 6-11 pm, Rds: 11:15-12-12:30-1-1:30. Bye: OK rd 1. Quick-rated (will not affect regular ratings); prizes based on higher of regular or quick ratings. Ent: at site only, no checks.

July 9, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight! 4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 West 10 St, bet. 5-6 Ave, NYC: 212-477-3716. EF: $35, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), may be limited to 1st 36 entries. $$ 560 Gtd: $$ 200-110-50, Top U2200/unr $105, U2000 $95. Limit 2 byes (1 bye for U2000), commit by 8:15. Reentry $15. CCA ratings may be used. Class pairings OK rd. 4. Rds 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible. EFs $5 EXTRA IF UNDER 10 MINUTES BEFORE GAME!

A State Championship Event! July 10-12, Kansas World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2009 Kansas Open at Bethany College Library. 2 sections: (7/11 and 7/12) 5SS, G120 (All prizes based on 100 non-scholastic rate entries) Open: all: $$400-200-100. 1999/below: 200-100-50. $25 & plaque to top KS resident, designating person 2009 KS State Champion. Reserve: 1799/below: $$400-200-100. Class C: 200100-50. 1399/below + unrated: 200-100-50. $25 and plaque to top KS resident. EF: $45 if postmarked by 7/03, $65 thereafter. Special $10 discount for advance entry into both Kansas Open + Quick tourney. $10 entry fee for Scholastics, choosing not to compete for cash, entering Reserve section only, competing for three plaques. Reg.: 7/11 8:30-9:30am. Rds.: 7/11: 10-2:307, 7/12: 9-1:30. KANSAS QUICK CHESS CHAMP: at Karpov Chess School, 106 S Main- 1 section: (7/10), 5SS G10 (All prizes based on 50 non-scholastic rate entries) $$300-200-100. Class A, B, & C and below + unrated: 100, 50 each. $25 plus plaque for top KS resident in Quick EF: $25 if postmarked by 7/03, $40 thereafter, $10 entry fee for Scholastics choosing not to compete for cash, but for three plaques. Reg.: 7/10 6-7pm. Rds.: 7:30, 8, 8:30, 9, 9:30. KANSAS BUGHOUSE CHAMP: at Karpov Chess School- 1 section: (7/10) at 4pm, 100% entry fees returned, plaques to top team. EF: $10 per person. See website for details. HR: Dorm rooms at Bethany College available, $35 per room per night, contact Roxie Sjogren at 785-227-3380, Ext 8158 from 8am till 12:30 pm M to F or e-mail at [email protected] Motel rooms at

U.S. OPEN SIDE EVENTS Indianapolis Marriott East, 7202 East 21st St, Indianapolis IN 46219

August 1-2 US Open Weekend Swiss WCL GPP: 6. 5SS, G/60, $1000 guaranteed prizes. $$ 200-100-50, U2200/Unr $160, U1800 $140, U1600 $120, U1400 $100, U1200 $80, Unr $50. World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6. EF $40, free to unrated if paying USCF dues. Reg. 8:30-9:30 am 8/1, rds. Sat. 10-1-3:30, Sun. 10-1. August 2 US Open Scholastic 4SS, G/30, open to K-12 (2008-9 school year). EF $20. In 3 sections: Open, Under 1200/Unr, Under 800/Unr. Trophies to top 5 each section, top U1600, U1400 in Open, U1000, Unr in U1200, U600, Unr in U800. Reg. 9-11:30 am, rds. 12-1:30-3-4:30. August 3 US Open Bughouse 5SS, G/5. EF $20 per team. 80% of EF in cash prizes. Reg. 9-11:30 am, round 1 noon.

uschess.org

August 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 US Open Quads Each is 3RR, G/30. EF $20, 1st prize $50 each quad. Reg. 9-11:30 am, rds. 12-1:30-2:30. August 5 US Open G/15 Championship 5SS, G/15, quick rated, higher of regular or quick rating used. EF $40. 80% of EF returned in cash prizes: 1st 30%, 2nd 15%, U2100 12%, U1800 10%, U1500/Unr 8%, U1200 5%. Reg. 9-11:30 am, rds. 12-1-2-3-4. August 8 US Open Blitz Championship WCL GPP: 15. 7SS, double round (14 games), 1 section. Quick rated, higher of regular or quick rating used. $2000 guaranteed prizes! $$ 400-200-150, Expert $200-100, U2000 $200-100, U1800 $180-90, U1600/Unr $140-70, U1400 $100, U1200 $70. EF $40, free to unrated if paying USCF dues. Reg. 9-11:30 am, 1st round noon.

Chess Life — May 2009

65

Tournament Life

SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING MAY 1-14

www.lindsborg.org/tourism.html. Special: KCA membership required of KS residents to participate; $7 adult, $5 junior, $10 family. Annual meeting of KCA on 7/12 at 8 am Site: Lindsborg, KS. Ent: Laurence Coker, 8013 W 145th St, Overland Park, KS 66223. Checks payable to “Kansas Chess Association” Ph: 913-851-1583. E-mail: [email protected]. Website: www.kansaschess.org. (2009 Kansas Open ad.) WCL JGP for Open section.

July 10-12, Ohio World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 60 (enhanced) 2009 Columbus Open 5-SS, 30/90, SD/60 (2-day schedule, rd. 1 G/90), ALL PRIZES UNCONDITIONALLY GUARANTEED. 3 sections: Open, open to all. G $1200, 800, 500; U2200, $500, 200; Premier, open to 1999/below. $500, 200; U1800, $500, 200; Reserve, open to 1599/below. $500, 200; U1400 $500, 200; All EF: $70 if rec’d by 7/1. $80 at site. $10 less for scholastic players under 1200. Free to Sr. Master/above who complete their schedule. 3-day schedule: Reg. Ends Fri. 6:30 p.m., Rds.: Fri. 7 p.m.; Sat. 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m.; Sun. 9:30 a.m., 3 p.m. 2-day schedule: Reg. Ends Sat. 9:30 a.m. Rd 1 at 10 a.m., then merges with 3-day schedule. Re-entry: $20. Any player who loses Fri. night may re-enter for $20 and loss will not count in tournament standings! One 1/2-pt. Bye available in Rds 1-4 (request required prior to Rd 1). Unrated players may play in any section. $25 upset prize each section. N.S. A/C; HOTELS: HOLIDAY INN AIRPORT, 750 STELZER RD., COLUMBUS, 43219 (WITH EXPANDED PLAYING SPACE). (614) 2376360. ROOM RATE: $89.00 plus tax. Chess rate available through July 1st while rooms last. ENT. C/O Lou Friscoe, 1645 Glenn Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43212. Inquires: (614) 486-6856. Web site: www.centralchessclub.com. WCL JGP.

July 11, Tennessee World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Murfreesboro Grand Prix 5-SS, rd.1 G/30, rd.2 G/60, Rds.3, 4, 5 G/75. Trinity Presbyterian Church, 1020 N. Rutherford Blvd., Murfreesboro, TN. EF: $20 by 7/9, $25 at site. $$ (1000, top 2 G, class prizes b/6 entries per class, else proportional): $200-104, X, A, B, C, D, E/below each $102, Unr. $84. Reg.: 8:00-8:45am. Rds.: 9:00-10:0012:45-3:15-5:45. Ent: Rutherford County Chess Club, P.O. Box 1593, Murfreesboro, TN 37133. rccc.us/ (with map to site), [email protected] 615-8957989 NS. NC. W. WCL JGP for rounds 3-5.

2 byes, commit at entry. NO RE-ENTRY. May be limited to first 60 players. WCL JGP.

July 16-19, 17-19 or 18-19, California Southern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 150 (enhanced) 14th annual Pacific Coast Open 6SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-3 G/50). Renaissance Agoura Hills Hotel, 30100 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills CA 91301 (US-101 to Reyes Adobe Road exit). Adjacent to the Santa Monica Mountains, 26 miles west of Burbank, 12 miles from Malibu, 28 miles from Ventura. Free parking. Prizes $30,000 based on 250 paid entries (re-entries & U1000 count half), minimum $24,000 (80% of each prize) guaranteed. In 7 sections. Open: $3000-1500-700-400, clear or tiebreak win $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr $1800-1000. FIDE. Under 2100: $2000-1000600-400. Under 1900: $2000-1000-600-400. Under 1700: $2000-1000-600-400. Under 1500: $2000-1000-600-400. Under 1300: $1800-900-500-300. Under 1000: $1000-500-300-200. Unrated may enter any section, with prize limit U2100 $900, U1900 $700, U1700 $500, U1500 $400, U1300 $200, U1000 $100; balance goes to next player(s) in line. Top 6 sections EF: 4-day $144, 3-day $143, 2-day $142 mailed by 7/8, all $145 online at chesstour.com by 7/13, $150 phoned by 7/13 (406-896-2038, entry only, no questions), $160 (no checks, credit cards OK) at tmt. Under 1000 Section EF: all $60 less. FREE TO UNRATED in U1000 or U1300 sections if paying 1 year USCF dues with entry. GMs free; $140 deducted from prize. SCCF membership ($18, jrs $10) required for rated Southern CA residents. Re-entry $80; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- $30 online at chesstour.com, $40 if mailed, phoned or paid at site. 4-day schedule: RegThu to 6:30 pm, rds Thu 7 pm, Fri 7 pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 10-4:30. 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 11 am, rds Fri 12-7, Sat 11-6, Sun 10-4:30. 2-day schedule: Reg Sat to 9 am, rds Sat 10-12:45-3:15-6, Sun 10-4:30. All schedules: Bye all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd 2, other sections before rd 4. HR: $87-87, 818707-1220, request chess rate, reserve by 7/2 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Ent: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9648. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

July 11-12, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 July Grand Prix!

July 17-19 or 18-19, Florida World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20 2009 U.S. Class Championships

4SS, 30/90, SD/1; Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $45, Members $25. $$625 Gtd: 250-100-75, U2200/Unrated $100, U2000 $100. Reg. ends 15 min. before game. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2-day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day; 1-day, (rds 1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun; both merge rd 3. Limit

July 17-19 or 18-19, Illinois World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 120 (enhanced) 2nd annual Chicago Class Championships

See Nationals.

GOLD AFFILIATES Jersey Shore High School Chess League PO Box 773, Lincroft, NJ 07738 [email protected]

Cajun Chess 7230 Chadbourne Drive New Orleans, LA 70126 504-208-9596 [email protected] www.cajunchess.com Chess Club and Scholastic Center of St. Louis 4657 Maryland Avenue St. Louis, MO 63108. 314-361-CHESS [email protected] www.stlouischessclub.org Continental Chess Association PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. 845-496-9658 [email protected] www.chesstour.com

New Jersey State Chess Federation c/o Roger Inglis 49-A Mara Rd. Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034 973-263-8696, [email protected] www.njscf.org New York State Chess Association c/o Karl Heck 5426 Wright Street, County Route 67, East Durham, NY 12423, 518-966-8523, [email protected] www.nysca.net

Tri-State Chess 288 Third Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215 1-888-CHESS-35 [email protected], www.TriStateChess.com Unity Chess Club 9375 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 100 Office 136, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 480-949-5464 (KING) [email protected], unitychess.com Western PA Youth Chess Club Attn: Jerry Myers 4101 Windsor Street Pittsburgh, PA 15217 412-422-1770 [email protected] www.youthchess.net

SPICE Box 45080, Lubbock, TX 79409 806-742-7742, [email protected] www.SPICE.ttu.edu

SILVER AFFILIATES Indiana State Chess Association www.indianachess.org

Michigan Chess Association www.michess.org

Sparta Chess Club (NJ) www.spartachessclub.org

Marshall Chess Club (NY) www.marshallchessclub.org

Oklahoma Chess Foundation www.OKchess.org

Renaissance Knights (IL) www.RKnights.org

Orange Crush Chess Club (IN) [email protected]

66

Chess Life — May 2009

July 24-26 or 25-26, Connecticut World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 50 (enhanced) 14th Annual Bradley Open 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Sheraton Hotel, 1 Bradley Airport (visible at airport entrance), Windsor Locks, CT 06096 (I-91 Exit 40 to Rt 20). Free parking. $8000 guaranteed prize fund. In 4 sections. Open: $1000600-400, U2200 $500–250. Under 2000: $800-400-200, top U1800 $500-250. Under 1600: $700-400-200, top U1400 $450-250. Under 1200: $500-250150, top U1000 $200. Unrated may not win over $100 in U1200, $300 U1600, or $500 U2000. EF: 3-day $88, 2-day $87 mailed by 7/16, all $89 online at chesstour.com by 7/22, $95 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 7/22 (entry only, no

GOLD & SILVER AFFILIATES Susan Polgar Foundation 6923 Indiana Avenue, Suite 154, Lubbock, TX 79413, 212-748-9584 [email protected] www.SusanPolgarFoundation.org

North American Chess Association 2516 North Waukegan Road Suite 342,Glenview, IL 60025 888-80-CHESS, [email protected] www.nachess.org

En Passant Chess Club 1301 North Shore Drive San Benito, TX 78586 956-399-9724 [email protected]

5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Under 1000 & Under 700 Sections: 6SS, G/75, 7/18-19 only. Doubletree Hotel Chicago/ Oak Brook, 1909 Spring Rd (near I-88 Cermak Rd exit), Oak Brook, IL 60521. Free parking. No residence requirements. $20,000 guaranteed prizes and trophies. In 9 sections; no unrated in Master, unrated allowed in Under 700 only if age 15 or below. Master (2200/up): $2000-1000-500-300, clear win or 1st on tiebreak $100, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE. Expert (2000-2199/Unr): $1300-700-400-300. Class A (1800-1999/Unr): $1300-700-400-300. Class B (1600-1799/Unr): $1300-700400-300. Class C (1400-1599/Unr): $1200-600-400-200. Class D (1200-1399/Unr): $1000-500-300-200. Class E (Under 1200/Unr): $1000500-300-200. Under 1000: $200-100-60-40, trophies to top 7. Under 700: Trophies to top 7. Rated players may play up one section. Unrated prize limit $80 U1000, $140 E, $200 D, $400 C, $500 B, $600 A. Top 7 sections EF: 3-day $93, 2-day $92 mailed by 7/9, all $95 online at chesstour.com by 7/13, $100 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 7/13 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. U1000 & U700 EF: $27 mailed by 7/9, $28 online at chesstour.com by 7/13, $30 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 7/13 (entry only, no questions), $40 at site. All: ICA memb. ($15, scholastic $10) required for rated Illinois residents. FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED in Class D, E, U1000 or U700 if paying 1 year USCF dues with entry. GMs free, $90 deducted from prize. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- $30 online at chesstour.com, $40 if mailed, phoned or paid at site. Re-entry $60; not available in Master Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 9-3:15. U1000 & U700 schedule: Reg. ends 9:30 am, rds. Sat 10-1:305, Sun 9-12:30-3:15. Bye: all, Master must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $93-93, 800-528-0444, 630-472-6000. reserve by 7/3 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, 845-496-965 8. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

GOLD

Any affiliate that has submitted at least 50 USCF memberships during the current or previous calendar year, or is the recognized State Affiliate, is eligible to become a Gold Affiliate. Gold Affiliates are honored in a spe cial list in larger type in Tournament Life each month, giving the affiliate name, address, phone number, e mail address, and website. Gold Affiliation costs $350 per year, and exist ing affiliates may substract $3 for each month remaining on their regular affiliation, or $20 for each month remaining on their Silver Affil iation. As of August 6, 2007, by paying an annual payment of $500 (instead of $350), Gold Affiliate status may be obtained with no minimum requirement for memberships submitted.

SILVER

Any affiliate that has submitted at least 25 USCF memberships during the current or previous calendar year, or is the recognized State Affiliate, is eligible to become a Silver Affiliate. These affiliates will be recognized in a special list in Tournament Life each month, giving the affiliate name, state, and choice of either phone number, e mail address, or website. Silver Affiliation costs $150 per year, and existing affiliates may subtract $3 for each month remaining on their regular affiliation. As of August 6, 2007, by paying an annual payment of $250.00 (instead of $150), Silver Affiliate status may be obtained with no minimum requirement for memberships submitted.

uschess.org

questions), $100 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. FREE ENTRY T O UNRATED in U1200 if paying 1 year USCF dues with entry. GMs free, $80 deducted from prize. Mailed EF $3 less to CSCA or WMCA members. Re-entry $50; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- $30 online at chesstour.com, $40 mailed, phoned or paid at site. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 116, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. 11-2:30-6, 9-3:15. Bye: all, limit 2; must commit before rd 2. HR: $93-93, 860-627-5311; reserve by 7/10 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

July 31-Aug. 2 or Aug. 1-2, Florida World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 100 (enhanced) 17th Annual Southern Open 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75), Ramada Orlando Celebration Resort, 6375 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy (Rt 192), Kissimmee, FL 34747 (1.5 miles from Disney World). Free parking. $12,000 prize fund unconditionally guaranteed. In 4 sections. Open: $1500-700-500-300, top Under 2300/Unr $800-400. Under 2100: $1000-500300-200, top Under 1900 $700-300. Under 1700: $1000-500-300-200, top Under 1500 $700-300. Under 1300: $600-300-200-100, top Under 1100 $400200. Unrated may not win over $100 in U1300, $300 U1700, or $500 U2100. Top 3 sections EF: 3-day $103, 2-day $102 mailed by 7/23, all $105 online at chesstour.com by 7/28, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 7/28 (entry only, no questions), $120 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site. Under 1300 Section EF: all $40 less. GMs free; $100 deducted from prize. FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED if paid with 1 year USCF dues. All sections: Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. AUGUST OFFICIAL RATINGS USED. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10:30 am, rds. Sat 112:30-6, Sun 9-3:15. All: Half point byes OK all, limit 2, must commit before rd 2. HR: $79-79 plus $5 resort fee, includes breakfast, 877-467-5786, 407-3905800, reserve by 7/17 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess Association, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chess tour.com. WCL JGP.

July 31-Aug. 2 or Aug. 1-2, Vermont World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced) 20th annual Vermont Resort Open 5 SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75), Stratton Mountain Inn, Middle Ridge Rd (take Stratton Mtn Rd from center of Bondville), Stratton Mountain, VT 05155. Bondville is 13 mi SE of Manchester, VT on Rt 30; under 2 hours from Albany NY or Springfield MA. $3000 guaranteed prizes. In 3 sections. Open: $500-300-200, top Under 2100/Unr $230-120. FIDE. Under 1900: $320-160-

uschess.org

100, top Under 1700 $200-100. Under 1500: $300-150-80, top Under 1300 $16080. Unrated may not win over $100 in U1500 or $200 in U1900. EF: 3-day $73, 2-day $72 mailed by 7/23, all $75 online at chesstour.com by 7/29, $80 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 7/29 (entry only, no questions), $85 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED in U1500 Section if paying 1 year USCF dues with entry. GMs free; $60 deducted from prize. Re-entry $40, not available in Open.AUGUST OFFICIAL RATINGS USED. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- $30 online at chesstour.com, $40 by mail, phone or at site. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds Fri 7 pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10:30 am, rds. Sat 11-2:306, Sun 9-3. Half point byes OK all, limit 2; must commit before rd 2. HR: $79-79, 1-800-STRATTON, 802-297-2500, reserve by 7/17 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658, www.chesstour.com. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! Aug. 1-9, 4-9 or 6-9, Indiana World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 300 110th annual U.S. Open See Nationals.

Aug. 7-9 or 8-9, Connecticut World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 50 (enhanced) 15th Annual Northeast Open 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Holiday Inn Select, 700 Main St., Stamford, CT 06901. Free parking. $8000 guaranteed prize fund. In 4 sections. Open: $1000-600-400, U2200 $500–250. Under 2000: $800-400-200, top U1800 $500-250. Under 1600: $700-350-200, top U1400 $400-200. Under 1200: $500-300-150, top U1000 $200-100. Unrated may not win over $100 in U1200, $300 U1600, or $500 U2000. EF: 3-day $88.50, 2-day $87.50 mailed by 7/30, all $89 online at chesstour.com by 8/5, $95 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 8/5 (entry only, no questions), $100 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED in U1200 if paying 1 year USCF dues with entry. GMs free, $80 deducted from prize. Mailed EF $3 less to CSCA members. Re-entry $50; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- $30 online at chesstour.com, $40 mailed, phoned or paid at site. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 93:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. 11-2:30-6, 9-3:15. Bye: all, limit 2; must commit before rd 2. HR: $99-99, 800-408-7640, 203-358-8400; reserve by 7/24 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! Aug. 13-16, 14-16 or 15-16, Massachusetts World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 150 (enhanced) 39th annual Continental Open

6SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-3 G/50). Host Hotel at Cedar Lake, 366 Main St (Rt 20 West), Sturbridge, MA 01566 (I-84 Exit 3, near I-90). Free parking. Experience early 19th century America at Old Sturbridge Village (see www.osv.org). Prizes $30,000 based on 250 paid entries (re-entries & U1000 count half), minimum $24,000 (80% of each prize) guaranteed. In 7 sections. Open: $3000-1500-700-400, clear or tiebreak win $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr $1800-1000. FIDE. Under 2100: $2000-1000-600-400. Under 1900: $2000-1000600-400. Under 1700: $2000-1000-600-400. Under 1500: $2000-1000-600-400. Under 1300: $1800-900-500-300. Under 1000: $1000-500-300-200. Unrated may enter any section, with prize limit U2100 $900, U1900 $700, U1700 $500, U1500 $400, U1300 $200, U1000 $100; balance goes to next player(s) in line. Top 6 sections EF: 4-day $144, 3-day $143, 2-day $142 mailed by 8/6, all $145 online at chesstour.com by 8/11, $150 phoned by 8/11 (406-896-2038, entry only, no questions), $160 (no checks, credit cards OK) at tmt. Under 1000 Section EF: all $60 less. FREE TO UNRATED in U1000 or U1300 sections if paying 1 year USCF dues with entry. GMs free; $140 deducted from prize. MACA membership ($12, under 18 $6) required for rated MA residents, WMCA accepted for western MA residents. Re-entry $80; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- $30 online at chesstour.com, $40 if mailed, phoned or paid at site. 4-day schedule: Reg Thu to 6:30 pm, rds Thu 7 pm, Fri 7 pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 11 am, rds Fri 12-7, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg Sat to 9 am, rds Sat 10-12:45-3:15-6, Sun 9-3:15. All schedules: Bye all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd 2, other sections before rd 4. HR: $84-84, 508347-7393, request chess rate, reserve by 7/30 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Ent: Continental Chess, P O Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9648. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

Aug. 21-23 or 22-23, California Northern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 60 (enhanced) Central California Open 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75), Ramada University Hotel, 324 E. Shaw Ave., Fresno, CA 93710 (CA-99 to CA-41 to Shaw Ave). Cosponsored by Fresno Chess Club. $$ 15,000 based on 150 paid entries (re-entries count half), minimum $10,000 (2/3 of each prize) guaranteed. In 4 sections: Open: $2000-1000-500-300, top U2200 $800-400. FIDE. Under 2000: $1500-700-400200, top U1800 $800-400. Under 1600: $1200-700-400-200, top U1400 $600-300. Under 1200: $1000-500-300-200, top U1000 $400-200. Unrated may enter any section, with prize limits: U1200 $100, U1600 $300, U2000 $500. Balance goes to next player(s) in line. EF: 3-day $113, 2-day $112 mailed by 8/13, all $115 online at chesstour.com by 8/18, $120 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 8/18 (entry only, no questions), $130 at site. Mailed EF $10 less to Fresno Chess Club members. FREE TO UNRATED in U1200 section if paying 1 year USCF dues with entry. GMs free, $100 deducted from prize. All: Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. No checks at site, credit cards OK. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds Fri 7

Chess Life — May 2009

67

Tournament Life

SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING MAY 1-14

pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds Sat 112:30-6, Sun 9-3:15. Byes: OK all; must commit before rd 2. HR: $89-89, 800-241-0756, 559-224-4040, request chess rate, reserve by 8/7 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

Aug. 22, 2009 U.S. Game/60 Championship See Nationals.

Aug. 23, 2009 U.S. Game/30 Championship See Nationals.

A Heritage Event! Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, District of Columbia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 120 (enhanced) 41st annual Atlantic Open 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75), Washington Westin Hotel, 1400 M St NW atThomas Circle, Washington, DC 20005. $$G 20,000 GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND. In 7 sections. Open: $2000-1000-500-300, clear or tiebreak 1st $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr $1200-600. FIDE. Under 2100: $1500-700-400200. Under 1900: $1500-700-400-200. Under 1700: $1500-700-400-200. Under 1500: $1300-700-400-200. Under 1300: $1200-600-300-200. Under 1000: $400-300-200-100. Unrated may not win over $100 in U1000, $200 U1300, $400 U1500, $500 U1700, $600 U1900, or $700 U2100. Top 6 sections EF: 3day $103, 2-day $102 mailed by 8/20, all $104 online at chesstour.com by 8/25, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 8/25 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. Under 1000 EF: All $60 less. All sections: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry $60, not available in Open Section. GMs free, $90 deducted from prize. FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED in U1000 or U1300 Section if paid with 1 year USCF dues. All: Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entryonline at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 10-4:15. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat. 10 am, rds Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 10-4:15. Bye: all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $96-96, 202-429-1700, reserve by 8/7 or rate may increase. Regular rate at this luxury hotel is over $200! Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Parking: $8/day to 2 am or $16/day overnight; garage has limited space. Ent: Continental Chess Association, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! A State Championship Event! Sept. 4-7, 5-7 or 6-7, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 80 (enhanced) 131st annual NY State Championship Out of state welcome. 6SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option except in Open Section, rds 1-3 G/45), Albany Marriott, 189 Wolf Road, Albany 12205 (Thruway Exit 24, I-87 north to Wolf Rd, Exit 4). Luxurious hotel with indoor/outdoor pool, sauna, fitness center, free parking, free airport shuttle, many restaurants in area. $$G

13,000. In 4 sections. Open: $1600-800-400-200, top U2300/Unr $700, U2200 $600, U2100 $500. FIDE. Under 2000: $1200-600-300-200, top U1800 $700350. Under 1600: $1000-500-300-150, top U1400 $600-300. Under 1200: $800-400-200-100, top U1000 $300-150. Unrated may not win over $100 in U1200, $300 in U1600, or $500 in U2000. All: 1 year NYSCA membership to NY residents paying EF who are not members. EF: 4-day $99, 3-day $98, 2-day $97 mailed by 8/27, all $100 online at chesstour.com by 9/2, $105 phoned to 406896-2038 by 9/2 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED in U1200 if paying 1 year USCF dues. All: Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Re-entry $70, all sections but Open. GMs free, $80 deducted from prize. No checks at site, credit cards OK. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11-6, Sun 11-6, Mon 9-3:15. 4-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 6 pm, Sun 11-6, Mon 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sun. 10:30 am, rds Sun 11-1:30-3:30-6, Mon 9-3:15, no 2-day schedule in Open. Bye: all, limit 2, must commit before rd 2. HR: $96-96, 800443-8952, 518-458-8444, reserve by 8/21 or rate may increase. NYSCA meeting 9 am Sun. Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

A State Championship Event! Sept. 5-7 or 6-7, New Jersey World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 50 (enhanced) 2009 New Jersey State Championship Somerset Ramada Inn, 60 Cottontail Lane, Somerset NJ, Exit 12 off I-287 (Weston Canal Road) In 4 Sections: Open, Gold U1900 Silver U1600 & Booster U1300 6SS, TC: 40/2, SD/1, Playing Schedules: 3-day, 9/5-7, 2day, 9/6-7 All prizes guaranteed Open: $500-400-300-200-200-200-200 Top Expert & Class A, $100 each U1900: $500-300-200 Top B $100 U1600: $500-300-200 Top D $100 U1300: $500-300-200 Trophies: Top 3 each section NJ Champion, Exp, A, B, D, E & Unr New players may win first prize only in Open Section Early EF: Open: $71 / lower sections $66 (Former NJ Champs, see below) Entry must be mailed by 9/01 or paid online by 9/04, Open $85 /lower sections $80 at site All Reentrys $45, but can’t be NJ Champ Join at website entryfeesrus.com via PayPal Playing site Reg 3-day: 9/05, 9am-11am Rds. Sat 12-7, Sun 11-6, Mon 9-4 Reg 2-day: 9/06, 9am10:30am, Round 1-3 (G/45) starts 11am then ASAP Both schedules merge in Rd 4 Byes: 2 byes allowed, 1-5 Hotel Rates $79 with free continental Breakfast (732) 560-9880 Mention “NJ Chess” to receive this special hotel rate SPECIAL PRIZES will be awarded by drawing to early online entries NOTICEFormer NJ Champs get early EF of $35 Late EF is $70 Former NJ Champs for multiple yrs get early EF of $1 (ONE DOLLAR). Late EF is $70 No exceptions Only early EF’s get discount Ent: Ken Thomas, 115 West Moore St , Hackettstown, NJ 07840 Make checks payable to NJSCF Info: Ken, acn@goes com or (908) 763-6468 Players and spectators, no ear covering allowed, especially cell phones attached to the ear NS, No NC, W NYC players will be shuttled to/from the Bound Brook Station Call Ken’s cell 908-763-6468 FIDE. WCL JGP.

Regional Alabama B’ham C. C. Meets Mon. nites each wk., 2116 Columbiana Rd. (Columbiana Crossing Shopg. Ctr.) B’ham 35226. All skills & levels welcome! W. N.S. USCF rtd tourns. planned in 09. Mon. Quads by request. Vulcan Open-May; B’ham City C’ships-Aug.; Magic City Open-Nov. SS 4rd G/60 2d Sat.ea. mo. Details & flyers: R.W. Ellis 205-9796068, [email protected].

May 30 (not May 23), Birmingham Challenge 4SS, TC: Rds 1-2 @ G/60 & Rds 3-4 @ G/75. Alta Vista Hotel & Conference Center, 260 Goodwin Crest Dr., Birmingham, AL 35209. Open ($475 b/25): $250/T-150-75; Reserve (U1500; $450 b/25): $225/T-150-75; Late REG.: May 23rd, 8-8:45am. Rds.: 9, 11:15, 2, 5. EF: $35, if mailed by 05/16/2009; $50 at site. ENT: Caesar Lawrence, 882 McAllister Dr., Calera, AL 35040. Checks Payable To: Caesar Lawrence. Info: [email protected] or ACF: www.alabamachess.com.

A State Championship Event! June 20, Alabama Quick Chess Championship (QC) 5SS, G/25 with t/d 3 (G/28), Forest Lake United Methodist Church - Community Center, 1711 4th Avenue, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401. Prizes b/28 for Open & Rsvd combined. OPEN (1500+): $150-100-65. RESERVE (U1500): $100-6545. EF: $25, if Postmarked by June 15, 2009. Onsite Reg: 8am – 9am. $35. Rds.: 9:30-10:45-12:30-1:45-3. Byes: Rds 1-4; request before Rd 2. SCHOLASTIC (U1000):TrophiesTop 3 Individuals. EF: $10 by June 15, 2009; Onsite Reg: $20. ENT: Freedom Chess Academy, PO Box 2356, Tuscaloosa, AL 35403-2356. INFO: Neil Dietsch [email protected] or freedomchess.blogspot.com/ NS, NC, W, OSA, WCL JGP.

July 31-Aug. 2 or Aug. 1-2, 17th Annual Southern Open (FL) See Grand Prix.

Arizona May 23-25, 2009 U.S. Amateur West Championship See Nationals.

California Northern May 16-17, 29th Annual San Joaquin Championship See Grand Prix.

May 16-17, Berkeley Open 4-SS, 90/90; G/60. Hillside School; 1581 Le Roy Ave, Berkeley, California. $$B 80 paid entries (not counting unrated entries ). Three Sections: Open: $320225, U2200 $220-120; A/B Section: A $220-115, B $220-115; Reserve: C $220-115; D/E $220-115, Unr:Trophy First. Reserve players playing in the A/B section compete for the B prizes. All, EF: postmarked by 5/11 $40, $50 at site. Unrateds $20 in the Reserve section or may play up to the Open section for the regular fee. $2 discount to CalChess members or to BCC Members. USCF memb. req’d. May play up for add’l $10 per section. Reg.: Sat 5/16 9:00-9:45 am. RDS.: Sat 10:00-3:30; Sun 10:00-3:30; One 1/2 pt bye available if requested in advance (bye in rds 3 or 4 must be requested before rd 1). 2009 May Ratings List, CCA minimums and Directors discretion will be used to place players as accurately as possible. Please bring clocks and equipment. INFO: (650)-2244938. Email: [email protected]. Ent: Richard Koepcke, P.O. Box 1432, Mountain View, CA 94042. No Phone entries. WCL JGP.

May 23-25, BayAreaChess Memorial Day Festival San Jose, CA. 6SSx30/90 G/60. Expected prize $3360 based on 85 paid entries. 6 sections: (Master, Expert, A, B, C, D/E/Unr); 2 day schedule with 3xG/60 merges in Round 4. EF: $66. BayAreaChess is #1 USCF affiliate in rated games west of Texas! More info at bayareachess.com/events/memo.php. Online entry at: bayareachess.com/my. Email to: [email protected]. WCL JGP.

May 30, CalNorth Open Girls Championships—K-6 Weibel Elementary School, 45135 South Grimmer Boulevard, Fremont, CA. 7 Rated Sections, Info & link to Entry Form at: www.CalNorthYouthChess. org/GirlsChampionships2009/info.html. Open to all scholastic players who are USCF members in Kindergarten through sixth grade. Awards: Trophies to top 5 players in each grade plus all those tied at 5th. Extra trophies may be awarded depending on the entries in the grade. Medals to all who do not receive a trophy.Trophies to the top school team in all sections but Kindergarten. Event T-shirts available. Info: Alan M. Kirshner, Ph.D., [email protected], (510) 659-0358.

June 6, Central Valley Open 2009 5 round swiss,TIME CONTROL G/45. SITE: Doctors Medical Center (cafeteria), 1441 Florida Ave., Modesto, CA 95352. PRIZE FUND: 70% returned in prizes 1st 50% plus trophy 2nd 20% and 1st U 1700 30%. ENTRY FEE: $25.00 if rec’d by June 3rd, $30.00 at site. Cash only at site, please. REGISTRATION: 9 am -

ONCE RATED, ALWAYS RATED You never lose your rating, no matter how long it has been since you last played. If you return to tournament play after a long absence, please tell the director your approximate rating and year of play. If you rejoin USCF after many years without being a member, please provide this information to the TD and to USCF as well. 68

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9:45. ROUNDS: 10am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 4:00pm, 6:00pm. ADVANCE ENTRY: Please, write checks to: DonTiffin, 128 Palm Ave., Modesto, CA 95350. Phone (209 524-2901) E-Mail: [email protected].

sections by rating. EF: $20 if received by 7-2, $25 door. $$ 40-20-10 each section. Reg.: 9:30-10:15 a.m. Rds.: 10:30-1:30-4:30. Ent: SCCF, c/o John Hillery, 835 N. Wilton Pl. #1, Los Angeles, CA 90038, online at www.westernchess.com.

June 27, BayAreaChess

July 16-19, 17-19 or 18-19, 14th annual Pacific Coast Open

San Jose, CA. Swiss in 2 sections u1800, 1800+. 4SSxG/60. EF: Swiss $44. Prizes: $1,000 b/44. BayAreaChess is #1 USCF affiliate in rated games west of Texas! More info at bayareachess.com/events. Online entry at: bayareachess.com/my. Email to: [email protected].

See Grand Prix.

District of Columbia

Colorado

May 16-17, D.C. Class Championships

May 27, May 2009 G/29 Grand Prix Event (QC)

See Grand Prix.

July 4, 6th Pacifica Chess Open

3-SS G/29. University Memorial Center, Alferd Packer Grill (1st floor), CU Campus, Boulder, CO. EF: $3. Prizes 60% of entries, rest after rating fees will go towards G/29 Grand Prix fund. Regis starts at 6:30. Rounds: 7, 8, 9. Entries: Klaus Johnson. Email: [email protected]. Not a USCF GP Event.

June 6, 20th Annual DC Action Championship

5 rounds, G/30. 1125Terra Nova Blvd., Pacifica, CA 94044. Contact: John Galpin, [email protected] or website: atcc.us/Index.htm for additional details.

July 16-19, 17-19 or 18-19, 13th annual Pacific Coast Open (Southern CA) See Grand Prix.

Aug. 21-23 or 22-23, Central California Open See Grand Prix.

California Southern

LA CHESS CLUB * www.LaChessClub.com Fridays: 8 PM-10 PM (Blitz Tournament) Saturdays: 10AM-10 PM (Class& 2 Tournaments) Sundays: 12 PM-6 PM (Tournament) Tuesdays: 7:30 PM-9:30 PM (Intermediate/Advanced Lecture) 11514 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025 * (310) 795-5710 (4 blocks West of 405, Santa Monica& Butler * Second Floor) Private (1:1) Lessons * Group Classes * Tournaments. May 15, 22, 29, LACC Friday Nite Blitz (QC) 5SS, G/5 (10 Games). LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405. EF: $10. Q-rated. Reg.: 7:30-8. Rds.: 8-8:30-9-9:30,10. 2 Free Parking lots SW of S Monica/ Purdue; or underground ($3). Prizes: 1/2 EF. Inf: (310) 795-5710 or www.LaChessClub.com.

Connecticut

UCONN Chess Club Tues. & Thurs 7:30PM. Castleman Building, Room 204, 261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. Contact: TOM HARTMAYER. Contact Phone: 860-989-5394. Email: [email protected]. Web Site: www.uconnchess. uconn.edu. No dues required. Casual Play, USCF Rated Events, Blitz Events, League Play, Matches, Club Championships, Sets & Clocks Available, Chess Items for Sale, Classes, Lectures, Simuls, Under Age 18 & Beginners Welcome, Handicap Accessible. As location may change, please check website or call contact phone #. May 16, 2nd Saturday Open See Grand Prix.

June 13, 8th Annual New Yorker June Open (NY) See Grand Prix.

June 13-14 or 14, 14th Annual New York Junior Championship (NY) See New York.

May 16, 23, 30, LACC LA Masters

June 27-28, World Open Girls Championship (PA)

4SS, G/30 LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405. EF: $30 ($20 LACC memb). Reg.: 5:30-6. Rds.: 6, 7, 8, 9. Prizes: 75% EF. 2 Free lots SW of S Monica/Purdue; or underground ($3). Inf: (310) 795-5710 or www.LaChessClub.com.

See Pennsylvania.

May 16, 23, 30, LACC Saturday Open 4SS, G/30 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405. EF: $20 ($15 LACC memb). Reg.: 11:30-12. Rds.: 12, 1, 2, 3. Prizes: 1/2 EF. 2 Free lots SW of S. Monica/ Purdue; or underground ($3). Inf: (310) 795-5710 or www.LaChessClub.com.

May 17, LACC April Scholastics I & II 5SS, G/30 LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405. EF: $25 ($20 LACC memb). Reg.: 1:30-2. Rds.: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Prizes: Trophies, Medals, special prizes (every player wins a prize!). Free parking on streets. Inf: (310) 795-5710 or www.LaChessClub.com.

May 17, 24, 31, LACC Sunday Open 3SS, G/60 LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405. EF: $20 ($15 LACC memb). Reg.: 11:30-12. Rds.: 12, 2, 4. Prizes: 1/2 EF. Free parking on streets. Inf: (310) 795-5710 or www.LaChessClub.com.

May 23-25, 2009 Lina Grumette Memorial Day Classic See Grand Prix.

May 24, MDC Scholastics 5-SS, G/30. LAX Hilton, 5711 W Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045. Open to gr. 12-below. In two sections: Open: Trophies to top 5, top 3 U1200, top 2 Unrated. Grade 6/below U1000: Trophies to top 5, top 3 U700, top 2 Unrated. Reg.: 8:30-9:15. Rds.: 9:30-11-12:15-1:45-3. EF: $16 if received by 5-22, $20 door. Inf: John Hillery, [email protected]. On-line ent: www.western chess.com. Ent: SCCF, c/o John Hillery, 835 N. Wilton Pl. #1, Los Angeles CA 90038.

July 24-26 or 25-26, 14th Annual Bradley Open See Grand Prix.

July 31-Aug. 2 or Aug. 1-2, 20th annual Vermont Resort Open (VT) See Grand Prix.

Aug. 7-9 or 8-9, 15th Annual Northeast Open See Grand Prix.

Delaware May 23, 4th Sat. of the Month Quad Howard Johnson’s Hotel, 1119 S. College Avenue, Newark, DE 19713. Perfect score = FREE next quad!! (Every 10th quad free!) (time controls:40/75, s/d 30): EF: $20. $$GTD: $40. Reg.: 9-9:30. Rds.: 9:45, 1:45, 5:30. ENT: Kevin Pytel 604 N. Walnut St. Newport DE 19804-2624 302-753-6877 [email protected]. INFO: Rick Lathem 302-299-5407. NS W.

May 30, 2009 Delaware Series Challenge Event #4 Bear Library, 101 Governors Place, Bear, DE 19701. In 2 Sections, Open: 5SS, G/29, $$: $50-30. Under 1000: 5SS, G/29, $$: $40-20. ALL: EF: $15. Memb. Req’d: DCA $10($5 jr). OSA. Reg.: starts at 10:05. Rds.: 10:35, 11:40, 1:20, 2:20, 3:20. INFO: David Power, [email protected]. NS NC W.

June 20-21, 2009 Delaware Capital Open Hilton Garden Inn, 1706 N. DuPont Highway, Dover DE 19901. In 2 Sections, Open: 5SS, G/90, $$60% Rtd: 40%-25%-15%. under 2000 10% under 1800 10%. Under 1600: 5SS, G/90, $$60% Rtd: 40%-25%-15%. under 1400- 10% under 1200 - 10%. ALL: EF: $35 before 6/13/09, $40 after. Memb. Req’d: DCA $10($5 under 18). OSA. Reg.: reg 8:45-9:45 am. Rds.: Sat 10, 2, 5:30 Sun 10, 2. Byes: limit 1, must commit by start of round 3. ENT: Kevin Pytel, 604 N. Walnut St.

Newport, DE 19804-2624. INFO: Kevin Pytel ([email protected] 302-7536877) or Dave Power ( [email protected]). HR: ask for chess rate $89 302-674-3784. Please submit copies of all games played to the TD (scoresheets provided). NS NC. WCL JGP.

See Grand Prix.

Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, 41st annual Atlantic Open See Grand Prix.

Florida

South Florida Chess Club Wednesday’s 6:30-10:30pm. Rated G/90 Tournaments and skittles. Most tournaments are 4+ rounds to with a time control slower than G/60, those events would qualify for WCL JGP. www.SouthFloridaChessClub.com. Boca Raton Chess Club Friday nights, Game 90 Tournament, one game a week for 4 weeks. www.bocachess.com, 561-883-2917. WCL JGP.

May 16, 3rd DBCC G/50 Open Schnebly Recreation Center, 1101 N. Atlantic Ave (A1A), Daytona Beach, FL 32118. 4SS, G50, EF: $25. $$ ($250/b12): $100-75. U1600: $50-25. Rds.: 1011:45-2-3:45. ENT: Paul B Tomaino, 575 N. Williamson Bl #116, Daytona Beach, FL 32114. 386-239-9485. INFO: [email protected]. www.daytonabchcc.org. NS NC W.

May 16, CFCC May QuickChess (QC) 7SS, G29 (G25 w/5 sec. delay) NOTE: New Location! Orlando Chess and Games Center, 8751 Commodity Circle Suite 9, Orlando, FL, 32819. EF: $25 CFCC or OCG member $20. Masters free - EF deducted from prize. $$605 b/30: 200100-80, Class B, Class C, Class D/Under $75 ea. Reg.: 9:30 AM. Rds.: 10, 11:15, 1, 2:15, 3:30, 4:45, 6. Info: (407) 629-6946 or (407)-484-4226, www.centralfl chess.org. W, WCL JGP.

May 23, MAY OCG Open Orlando Chess and Games Center, 4 round Swiss, game/90 minutes. EF: $30., members $24. PF-b/30: $175.-$110.- $75. Best U-1600, U-1400, U-1200, $65. each. Reg.: 9:15am-9:45am. RDS.: 10am-1pm-4pm-7pm. Info: call 407-2480818, www.orlandochess.com. WCL JGP.

June 4-7, 5-7, Orlando After Memorial Open and Scholastic See Grand Prix.

June 13, 4th DBCC G/50 Open Schnebly Recreation Center, 1101 N. Atlantic Ave (A1A), Daytona Beach, FL 32118. 4SS, G/50, EF: $25. $$ ($250/b12): $100-75. U1600: $50-25. Rds.: 1011:45-2-3:45. ENT: Paul BTomaino, 575 N Williamson Bl #116, Daytona Beach, FL 32114. 386-239-9485. INFO: [email protected].

June 13, June Swiss Madness (QC) Orlando Chess and Games Center, 7SS G/29, EF: $30., members $24. PF-b/30: $175-$125-$100-$75, Lower Half Crosstable: $75-$50. Reg : 9:15am-9:45am, Rds.: 10-11-12:30-1:30,2:30,3:30-4:30. Info: 407-248-0818, www.orlando chess.com.

June 27, JUNE OCG Open Orlando Chess and Games Center, 4 round Swiss, game/90 minutes. EF: $30., members $24. PF-b/30: $175.-$110.- $75. Best U-1600, U-1400, U-1200, $65. each. Reg.: 9:15am-9:45am. RDS.: 10am-1pm-4pm-7pm. Info: call 407-2480818, www.orlandochess.com. WCL JGP.

July 17-19 or 18-19, 2009 U.S. Class Championships See Nationals.

May 25, MDC Hexes 3-SS, G/90. LAX Hilton, 5711 W Century Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045. Six-player sections by rating. EF: $20 if received by 5-22, $25 door. $$ 40-20-10 each section. Reg.: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Rds.: 10:45-2-5. Ent: SCCF, c/o John Hillery, 835 N. Wilton Pl. #1, Los Angeles CA 90038, online at www.westernchess.com.

May 25, Memorial Day Action Swiss 5-SS, G/30. LAX Hilton, 5711 W Century Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045. $$500 b/40, else proportional: $150-70-40, U2100/Unr $80, U1800 $80, Under 1500 $80. EF: $20 if received by 5-22, $25 at door. Reg.: 9-10 a.m. Rds.: 10:15-11:3012:45-2:30-3:45. Ent: SCCF, c/o John Hillery, 835 N. Wilton Pl. #1, Los Angeles CA 90038, online at www.westernchess.com.

May 30, San Luis Obispo County Open South Bay Community Center, 2180 Palisades Ave, Los Osos, CA 93402. So. California State Qualifier. 4SS,G60 5 sec delay. In 2 Sections: (OPEN: EF $35; $45 at site) (RESERVE U1400/Unrated: EF $25; $30 at site) ALL: Cash only at site. $5 discount to SCCF, SLOCC, Scholastic (Age 12 and Under). Prizes: 80% of entries. Reg.: 9:00-9:30 at site. Rds.: 10:00 - 12:15 - 2:45 - 5:00. One 1/2 pt. bye any round if requested with entry. ENT: Payable to San Luis Obispo Chess Club, c/o B. McCaleb, 234 Via La Paz, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. INFO: Barbara McCaleb, 805-540-0747 bmccaleb@ calpoly.edu. DIR: Hwy 101 to Los Osos Valley Rd; 10 miles West to Palisades Ave.

July 3-5, 49th Annual Pacific Southwest Open See Grand Prix.

July 4, PSW Scholastics 5-SS, G/30. LAX Hilton, 5711 W. Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045. Open to gr. 12-below. In two sections: Open: Trophies to top 5, top 3 U1200, top 2 Unrated. Grade 6/below U1000: Trophies to top 5, top 3 U700, top 2 Unrated. Reg.: 8:30-9:15. Rds.: 9:30-11-12:15-1:45-3. EF: $16 if received by 7-2, $20 door. Inf: John Hillery, [email protected]. On-line ent: www.westernchess.com. Ent: SCCF, c/o John Hillery, 835 N. Wilton Pl. #1, Los Angeles, CA 90038.

July 5, PSW Hexes 3-SS, G/90. LAX Hilton, 5711 W. Century Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045. Six-player

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Tournament Life July 31-Aug. 2 or Aug. 1-2, 17th Annual Southern Open See Grand Prix.

Chess Club Friday Night Blitz (QC)

Georgia May 16, 2009 Atlanta G/45 Championship

SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING MAY 1-14

Indiana

4-SS, G/45. Atlanta Chess Center, 3155A East Ponce de Leon Avenue, Scottdale, Georgia 30079. In 2 sections: Open: EF: $23. ($540 b/35): $150-90-60; u1900, u1700, u1500, u1300 each $60. Under 1100: EF: $16 (not part of base) Trophies to top 7. Registration: 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. sharp. Rounds: 11-1-3-5. Info: [email protected] or (404)-377-4400. Enter: Same as above: www.atlantachessclub.com.

May 29-31 or 30-31, 40th Annual Southern Congress See Grand Prix.

June 19-21, 2009 Castlechess Grand Prix See Grand Prix.

Illinois

North American Chess Association Tournaments for kids and adults of all playing strength. Creators of the electronic scoresheet, eNotate. Monthly FIDE title tournaments (WIM, WGM, IM). Sevan A. Muradian, FIDE Arbiter & International Organizer. www.nachess.org | [email protected] | 888.80. CHESS. May 22-25, 23-25 or 24-25, 18th annual Chicago Open See Grand Prix.

June 13, 2009 U.S. Game/15 Championship (QC) See Nationals.

June 27, Sixth Annual David Mote Memorial Open 4SS, G/75 (1st round G/60). Carpenters Local 16, 211 W. Lawrence Ave., Springfield, IL 62704. Reg.: 9-9:45. Rds.: 10,12:30,3:15,6. EF: $17 by 6/24, $20 at site, $2 less for SCC members. Prizes: $$400 b/30. 140-80, 1600-1999 60, 1200-1599 50, Under 1200 40, Unrated 30. Ent/Info: David Long, 401 S. Illinois St., Springfield 62704. 217-726-2584. Information and directions at springfieldchessclub.110mb.com. WCL JGP Rds 2, 3, 4.

July 17-19 or 18-19, 2nd annual Chicago Class Championships See Grand Prix.

Aug. 22, 2009 U.S. Game/60 Championship See Nationals.

Aug. 23, 2009 U.S. Game/30 Championship See Nationals.

Nov. 20-22, 2009 National Youth Action See Nationals.

2302 West Morris St. at the West Morris St. Free Methodist Church. Entrance is in the back, down the stairs by the office. When: Starts Every Friday except the Fri before the second Sat doors open at 6:00 P.M. tournament starts at 6:30 P.M. Type: 3 Rounds, Game/5, Round Robin Quad, U.S.C.F. Rated. EF: $7.00 if received one week before tournament starting date, $8.00 at the door. Prizes: Based on 4 full Pd. entries per quad, First in each quad: $20.00, Second in each quad: chess merchandise. Send advance entries to: Donald Urquhart, 501 N. East St. #802, Indianapolis, IN 46204-1629. For more info: call Don at (317) 634-6259 or e-mail [email protected].

FREE ENTRY: Quad Quick Chess Tournament (QC) Fri. before the second Sat. of the Month G/15, U.S.C.F. rated. Located at 2302 West Morris St. at the West Morris St. Free Methodist Church in the Ellis Hall Room. Entrance in back, down stairs, by office. Late Ent. 6-6:25pm. Rd 1, 6:30pm. Prizes: First in each quad gets choice of 50% off entry fee for Sat. Monthly a $15.00 value certificate, or chess merchandise. A cash buyback option is available on the certificate, call for details. Second gets the prize not chosen by First EF: Free. Adv. ENT: Donald Urquhart, 501 N. East St. # 802, Indianapolis, IN 46204-1629. Info: call Don at 317-6346259 or e-mail [email protected]. A ORANGE CRUSH EVENT.

Every SECOND Sat. of the Month. OPEN CHESS TOURNAMENT 5 Round, G/61, U.S.C.F. rated. 2302 West Morris St. at the West Morris St. Free Methodist Church in the Ellis Hall Room. Entrance in back, down stairs, by office. Late Ent. 8-9am, Rd 1, 9:30am. Prizes: $465.00 b/o 20 full pd. Ent. 1st $150; 2nd $75; Class A, B, C, (D, E, Unr) $60 each. Prizes increased if entries allow. EF: $25 if rec’d one week before tournament date, $30 at door, $5.00 discount for your birthday month, FIDE Titled Players Free. + Free Snack Bar Adv. ENT: Donald Urquhart, 501 N. East St. # 802, Indianapolis, IN 46204-1629. Info: call Don at 317-634-6259 or e-mail [email protected]. Note: there must be at least 3 entries in a class for that class prize to be awarded. If two adjoining class prizes are vacant, a combo prize will be awarded. News Flash!!! OCCC Has won the bid for 09 US Open. All Sat Monthly’s will offer Orange Points that may be used for FREE ENTRY to US Open in 09. WCL JGP.

May 16, ISCA 428 Tourneys 3SS, game/90, Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, 2930 Waterfront Pkwy., West Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46214. 400 point rating margins/section. EF: $28 rcvd by 5-12, $35 at site. Bottom player in each section if outside the margin plays at half price. $$b/8: Quad 1st $60, if 5-8 players - 1st $80, 2nd $40. Reg.: 9:4510:45. Rds.: 11, 2:30, 6. ENT: ISCA, P.O. Box 114, Logansport, IN 46947. INFO: Gary Fox 574-722-4965 [email protected]. www.indianachess.org.

May 18, Indianapolis Youth Open (QC) 4SS, G/12, Our Lady of Lourdes School Cafeteria, 30 South Downey Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46219. Open to Age 18 and Under. EF: $5 onsite, $4 in advance. Unr: Free. Prizes: Trophies for 1st-3rd. Reg.: Anytime between 3:05pm and 3:55pm. Rds.: 4p, 4:30p, 5p, 5:30p. Clocks and boards provided. ENT: www.ollchessclub.org. INFO: Kieron Mitchell, 317-430-5254. info@ollchess club. org. NS NC.

May 22-25, 23-25 or 24-25, 18th annual Chicago Open (IL) See Grand Prix.

Aug. 1-4, World Chess Live Tournament of College Champions See Nationals.

Aug. 1-9, 4-9 or 6-9, 110th annual U.S. Open See Nationals.

Iowa A State Championship Event! May 23, 2009 Iowa Class Championship G/75 with 5 second delay. Prizes: based on 40, 1st place for each class, $75 plus Trophy. Holiday Inn, 1050 Sixth Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50314. Minimum of 6 players per class (classes may be combined if less than 6 players). Classes: Expert/Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, Class E. Memberships required: USCF and IASCA or OSA. Registration: 8:30-9:15. Rounds: 9:30, 12:30, 3:30, 7:00. Entry: $20 if received by 5-21-09. $30 at site (make check payable to Bill Broich). Contact: Bill Broich Phone 515-205-8062 or E-mail [email protected]. Send entry fees to Bill Broich 7149 Wilshire Blvd., Windsor Heights, Iowa, 50322. WCL JGP.

July 17-19 or 18-19, 2nd annual Chicago Class Championships (IL) See Grand Prix.

Kansas July 10-12, 2009 Kansas Open See Grand Prix.

Kentucky June 6-7, The Kentucky Open See Grand Prix.

Louisiana May 23-24, Louisiana Open 5 SS, Rds: 1-3 G/90, Rds: 4,5 G/110. Reg.: Sat 8:45-9:30 am. ROUNDS: Sat 9:45, 1:15, 5:15, Sunday 10, 3. BYES: 1 bye % pt all rounds but last. EF: $75.00. Rtd 70% 1st 200, 2nd 150, MXA 1st 200, 2d 150, B 1st 200, 2d 150, C 1st 200, 2d 150, D 1st 200, 2d 150, E and below UNR 1 st 200, 2d 150 (UNR $100 max). 3 persons in each class or combined. Checks made payable to: Lafayette Chess Club. Contact: James MacManus (317) 234·1720. WCL JGP.

Maryland

Silver Knights Chess Tournaments We organize USCF-rated tournaments on Saturdays for adults and kids. Free analysis by a National Master at every tournament for the scholastic players. Trophies to top scholastic finishers; 70% of entries returned as prizes in open (adult) sections. To see a list of dates and locations, see our website at www.silverknights chess.com. Phone: 610-446-0818. Email: chess@silver knightschess.com. May 22, June 5, Catonsville Friday Knight Quick #81, #82 (QC) 5SS, G/15, Catonsville Chess Club, Bloomsbury Community Center, 106 Bloomsbury Ave, Catonsville, MD 21228. EF: $5.00 Reg.: 7:30pm. Rds.: 8, 8:30, 9, 9:30, 10. Prizes based on entries with 65% returned in prize fund. Info: Joe Summers [email protected] or 410-788-1009. www.geocities.com/catonsville chess. Dir: 695 to exit 13 West, left at second light, 3 blocks on right.

June 7, Catonsville First Sunday Tornado 4SS, G/61, EF: $20, club members $17, under 17 $15. Rds.: 10:30-1:00-3:155:30. Reg.: 9:45am. Bloomsbury Community Center, Room 118, 106 Bloomsbury Ave., Catonsville, MD 21228. $$b/24 $100-$50 U1800 $40 U1400 $40, more per entries. Bye 1-3. Info: [email protected] 410-788-1009. www.geocities. com/catonsvillechess. Ent: Joe Summers, 1201 Daniels Ave, Baltimore, MD 21207. Include USCF ID. Checks payable to Joe Summers. WCL JGP.

June 19-21 or 20-21, Chesapeake Open See Grand Prix.

June 20-21, 2009 Delaware Capital Open (DE) See Delaware.

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June 27-28, World Open Girls Championship (PA) See Pennsylvania.

USCF EXECUTIVE BOARD ELECTION All age 16/over may vote. Ballot will be in June Chess Life. To view or participate in discussion of election issues, register for the USCF Issues Forum at www.uschess.org/ forums

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uschess.org

urday. RD Times: Sat. 10AM/3:30PM/Sun 10AM/3:30PM. Prizes: 90% of entry fees. For example: $720 based on 16 players. 1st 50% 2nd 30% 3rd 20%. 1st $360 2nd $216 3rd $144. Memb: USCF and KCCA. Ken 816-835-7529/email [email protected].

See Grand Prix.

Mississippi

Massachusetts

June 20, 2009 Annual Southern Mississippi Open & Scholastic Chess Championship

May 15, 22, 29, June 5, 12, 19, 26 Billerica Friday Swiss Club Championship

The Oprah Winfrey Boys & Girls Club of Kosciusko/Attala County, 500 Knox Rd., Kosciusko, MS. Adult: 4SS G/60 EF: $35.00 by 6/13 $50.00 on site. Reg. 8:30 A.M. 1st Rd. 9:30 A.M. Sect. Open, U1500, Prize fund $250.00 ea. sect. 10 entries min. Scholastic: 5SS G/30 EF: $15.00 by 6/13, $20.00 on site. Reg. 9:30 A.M. Prizes Trophies & Medallions. Info: David Newell (662) 289-3953, [email protected]. EF Mail to: The Boys & Girls Club of Kosciusko/Attala County, P.O. Box 187, Kosicusko, MS 39090.

June 13, Emanuel Lasker Open

Missouri

June 20, 2009 CCSCSL Super Team Championship

Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, 41st annual Atlantic Open (DC)

6 Rds. 40/90, SD/30. Billerica COA, 25 Concord Rd, Billerica, MA. EF: $16. Reg.: 7:30pm. Cash prizes minimal b/entries. For info, call Brad Ryan, (978) 369-8533. NS, NC. WCL JGP.

May 16, May Madness Plus Score 4-SS, Game/65; Holyoke Public Library, 355 Maple St., Holyoke, MA 01040. PRIZE FUND: $$ Based on Score! 4.0 points = $100, 3.5 points = $50, 3.0 points = $25, 2.5 points = $10 $$ Based on 30 adv. ent. EF: $30, by 5/11/09; at site: $35. W.M.C.A. MEMBER DISCOUNTS: $2 off. Reg.: 8:30 AM - 9:15 AM. Rds.: 9:30 AM, 11:45 AM, 2:00 PM, 4:15 PM. Adv. ent to: Frank Kolasinski, 119 Brunswick St., Springfield MA 01108 Questions? Call Frank at 413-391-0860 or e-mail: [email protected]. WMCA website: www.WesternMassa chusettsChessAssociation.org. WCJ JGP.

Friday Action Quads - Every Friday Night (QC) 3RR, G/29 QR, Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis MO 63108. EF: $10. Prize fund $36 first in each quad. Club membership req’d. available from $1. Reg.: 6:30 - 6:45. Rounds begin at 7:00. Site entries only. Info: 314-361-CHESS [email protected].

May 23-25, 78th Massachusetts Open

Saint Louis Blitz Series - Every Tuesday night (QC)

See Grand Prix.

5SS, G/5 QR, Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108. EF: $5. Prize fund 100% payout! First overall will take home 75% of all entry fees, and the highest scoring player in the bottom half takes 25%. Club membership req’d. available from $1. Reg.: 6:30 - 7. Rds.: 7, 7:15, 7:30, 7:45, 8. Site entries only. Info: 314-361-CHESS. [email protected].

May 30, WMCA Spring Scholastic Chess Festival 5-SS, G/40. Jabish Brook Middle School Cafeteria, 62 North Washington St., Belchertown, MA. FIVE sections- grades K-3, 4-6, 7-9, 10-12, AND an UNR, Open Section. EF: $10.00 by 5/25/09; $15.00 at site. UNR/Open Section is Free Entry Fee! Trophies to top 3 teams and individuals in each section, PLUS “strength-appropriate” chess books and software (to top 3 individuals in each section)! Free pizza served at lunchtime. Reg.: 8:15 AM-9:20 AM. Rds.: 1st 9:30 AM, 2nd 10:45 AM, Lunch @ 11:45 AM (Free Pizza), Lecture by George Mirijanian from the hit TV show “Chess Chat” @ 12:15 PM; 3rd 1:00 PM, 4th 2:15 PM and 5th 3:30 PM Adv. ent. to: Frank Kolasinski, 119 Brunswick St., Springfield MA 01108 Questions? Call Frank at 413-391-0860 or e-mail: [email protected]. WMCA website: www.WesternMassachusettsChess Association.org.

July 24-26 or 25-26, 14th Annual Bradley Open (CT)

May 23-24, Show Me Classic See Grand Prix.

May 30, The Greater Kansas City Open 4-SS, G/60 Noland Road Baptist Church, 4505 S Noland Rd., Independence, MO 64055. EF: $20 $$ 4-0=$80, 3.5=$40, 3=20, 2.5=10. Reg.: 8:30-9:30. Rounds: 10, 12:15, 2:30, 4:45. NS NC USCF required, MCA required of MO residents. All site fees cash only. Advance entries: Bob Holliman, PO Box 1871, Indep., MO 64055. Phone: 816-836-0568. Top finisher not otherwise seeded is invited to state championship!

3SS, G/75. UMC Memorial Union room N208, 518 Hitt St., Columbia, MO. Directions: From I-70 exit 126, south on Providence, east on Rollins, north on Hitt. Reg.: 9:30-10:15. Rds.: 10:30, 1:15, 4:00. EF: $1, no prizes — just the satisfaction of playing well. Info: Charles Ward, 573-443-6685, czar8196@ tranquility.net. W. 4SS, G/60, Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108. EF: $75 for 3 person team, $60 for 3 person team that are all annual members of club. MCA Membership Req’d from $5. OSA. PF (b/15 teams): $900: Championship Team: $500. $400 1st place team with aggregate rating below 4800. Trophy to top teams in each section. An unrated player will be considered 1100. No alternates. Reg: 9:30-10:20. Rds: 10:30, 12:45, 3:00, 5:00. No 1/2 point byes allowed. Ent: 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108. 314-361CHESS, [email protected].

A State Championship Event! June 27-28, Missouri Class Championship MO Invitational Qualifier. 5SS, G/120; Best Western Inn, 3100 I-70 Dr SE, Columbia, MO 65201; Prizes: b/7 per class: $100-1st, $50-2nd, each: M/X, A, B, C, D, E, U1000/Unr; Missouri State Championship Plaque to winner of each section! M/X winner receives Invitation to the Missouri Invitational. Players play only those in their own Class. (Small sections may be combined. Combined section use prize pairing in last round) Reg.: 8:30-9:30; Round times: Sat-10-2:30-7, Sun-9:30-2. EF: $30 if marked by 6/20, $35 at site. Site entries cash only. Max 1 half bye; MCA required, O.S.A., available on site from $5. Hotel Rate: $69/night, Free breakfast & Free Wi-Fi w/ hotel room 573-474-6161, mention CHESS. Entries/Info: Bob Howe, 4403 Gage Pl., Columbia, MO 65203. (636) 234.7928. WCL JGP.

July 17-19 or 18-19, 2nd annual Chicago Class Championships (IL)

See Grand Prix.

June 3, June Knights

See Grand Prix.

Aug. 7-9 or 8-9, 15th Annual Northeast Open (CT)

Nevada

Michigan

4SS, G/90 Reg. Wednesday, June 3rd, 6:00 - 6:45pm. Rounds (one per week) 7pm 6/3, 10, 17, 24. Check in with TD by 6:45 to be paired each week/round. No advanced entries. EF: $10. Prize fund is 90% payout, with 1st place getting 1/3 of the total prize fund and first A, B, C, D, E and U1000/unrated each take 1/9 of the prize fund. One 1/2 point bye if declared by round 1. Annual club memb. req’d. MCA memb. req’d from $5 OSA. Info: 314-361-CHESS. [email protected]. WCL JGP.

June 5-7, 2009 Universal Spring Swiss

June 6-7, Play for Blood and Money Ken Fee Knockout

See Grand Prix.

Aug. 13-16, 14-16 or 15-16, 39th annual Continental Open See Grand Prix.

See Grand Prix.

Minnesota July 17-19 or 18-19, 2nd annual Chicago Class Championships (IL) See Grand Prix.

The Kansas City Chess Club, 7667 NW Prairie View Rd., Suite 201, Kansas City, MO 64151. Reg: Online @ www.kansascitychessclub.com or Sat. 9:30AM onsite. 8 Rounds Knockout G55 with 5 second time delay. EF: $50 Play 2 games each round. Winners move to next round. Tiebreak #1: One 15 0 Quick Game. Tiebreak #2: 5 0 Blitz Games. All players guaranteed 4 games on Sat-

June 4, 2009 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) See Nationals.

June 5, National Open Scholastic Trophy Tournament 5-SS Game/30. South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89183. Open to players Uage 20. In 3 sections. U1800, U1200, and U800. Unrateds in the U1200 section and all players in the U800 section must be under age 12.Trophies to top 4 in each section, top 1 in each 200 point rating group and unrated. EF $29 by 5/19, $35 by 6/3, $40 on site. REG 9-9:45 a.m. RDS 10-11:15-12:30-1:45-3. HR: $65 (not $75) single or double ($95 Friday and Saturday nights). 1-866-791-7626 or (702) 796-7111. ENT: Las Vegas

ACTIVITY MEANS MEMBERS Free 8-Line Tournament Life Announcements!

Adult Dues Options! >> New Free TLA Categories Added! RUN AN ADDITIONAL TOURNAMENT THIS SUMMER! Each affiliate is entitled to one TLA per month of up to 8 lines and up to 2 issues of Chess Life, for any tournament between July and September 2009, if no TLA for such an event appeared in 2008, and the TLA is e-mailed by the appropriate deadline. The 8 free lines cannot be applied to longer TLAs. SPECIAL CATEGORIES QUALIFY FOR FREE TLAS! Each affiliate is entitled to one TLA per month of up to 8 lines for events in the following categories, if submitted by e-mail. The free lines cannot be applied to longer TLAs: NEW CATEGORY! SENIOR. For age 50 or above, or a higher minimum age.

RBO. Open to Under 1200/Unr or Under 1000/Unr.Tournament name must include “Rated Beginners Open” or “RBO.” BLITZ. Time control of Game/5. TLAs such as “USCFrated Blitz every Friday 7 pm” are accepted. COLLEGIATE. A tournament limited to college students. JUNIOR. For age 20/below (age 20 must be eligible). NON-SCHOLASTIC WITH SCHOLASTIC. A tournament for all ages held concurrent (same location) with a scholastic tournament that in its previous year drew at least 50 players. We encourage organizers of scholastics to hold open or collegiate events on the side.

NEW CATEGORY! UNRATEDS FREE. Any tournament that offers free entry to unrated players. If your prizes are based on entries, say “paid entries.”

SPECIAL RATES FOR CLUB ADS. Up to 5 lines $180 per year, $100 for 6 months for unchanged club ads in the TLA section. Announce meeting dates & times, activities, contact info, etc.

USCF BOOSTER TOURNAMENT. A tournament that offers at least two USCF membership renewal prizes, or a quad that offers at least one per section.

USCF DISCUSSION GROUPS. See www.uschess.org/ forums for four groups: Tournament Organization, Chess Club Organization, Tournament Direction, USCF Issues.

Ages 21-24 dues lower than Adult dues! The membership category once called “Youth” has been renamed “Young Adult,” and eligibility has changed from under 21 to under 25. Annual dues for this category are only $32 with paper Chess Life or $24 with the online version!

One-year membership with Chess Life: If purchased online at uschess.org, now only $42 for Premium Membership, which includes a copy of Chess Life every month. Regular Memberships are available for $29 and give online-only access to Chess Life and a mailed TLA Newsletter (bi-monthly). (Note to affiliates: If you collect a $49 membership, you may submit it online to USCF for $42, in effect creating a $7 commission. If you submit it by mail or phone the affiliate commission is $3.)

CHESS CLUB SPECIAL. A tournament playing only on one or more weekday evenings.

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Chess Life — May 2009

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Tournament Life International Chess Festival, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925 or www.VegasChessFestival.com. NS NC W.

June 5-7 or 6-7, 2009 National Open See Nationals.

SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING MAY 1-14

June 6-7, Susan Polgar World Open Championship for Girls and for Boys 5-SS, G/45. South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89183. In 8 sections separate for girls and boys: under19, under 15, under 11, and under 8 (as of June 7). In each section 1st place receives a MonRoi Personal Chess Manager. $$ 200-150-100-50 in chess prizes for 2nd thru 5th.Trophies for top 10 individuals, top 3 (3-player) school/club teams each section, special medals for next 10 individuals and next 3 school/club teams. Every player receives a special hand-signed certificate from Susan Polgar. Perfect score also wins a digital chess clock. Scholarships to Texas Tech will be awarded based in part on performance in this event. EF $45 by 1/19, $55 by 5/19, $65 by 6/3, $75 on site. Reg 4-8 p.m. Friday, 8:30-9:30 a.m. Saturday. Rds 11-1:30-4, 11-1:30. Breakfast with Susan 9 a.m. Sunday. Opening Ceremony 10 a.m. Saturday, Awards Ceremony 4:30 p.m. Sunday. Blitz Championship 7 p.m. Saturday. Susan Polgar lecture 3:30 p.m. Friday, Puzzle Solving Competition 5 p.m. Friday, Simul 6:15 p.m. Friday. Chess Camp 9:00 a.m.Thursday. Part of the LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL; see the National OpenTLA for otherThursday and Friday side events. HR $65 (not $75) single or double ($95 Fri/Sat). 1-866-791-7626 or (702) 796-7111. REG: Las Vegas International Chess Festival, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 890090125, on line at www.VegasChessFestival.com, or by fax at (702) 933-9112. No telephone entries. NS. W. NC.

July 16-19, 17-19 or 18-19, 13th annual Pacific Coast Open (Southern CA) See Grand Prix.

Aug. 21-23 or 22-23, Central California Open (Northern CA) See Grand Prix.

New Hampshire

Silver Knights Chess Tournaments 2-3 Saturdays per month we run scholastic USCFrated tournaments throughout the Philadelphia area. Tournament locations include Philadelphia, Mt. Laurel (NJ), Bryn Mawr, Horsham, Collegeville, and more. Tournaments are open to grades K-12. Free game analysis by a National or International Master at each tournament. We have players of all skill levels compete in our tournaments, from brand-new kindergarteners up through some of the highest-rated scholastic players in the state. To see a list of dates and locations, see our website at www.silverknightschess.com. Phone: 610-4460818. Email: [email protected]. The Newark Sleepless Knights Chess Club Boylan Recreation Center of Newark, 916 So. Orange Ave. Newark, New Jersey 07103. Meets 1st and 2nd Saturdays of every months from 2-6pm. USCF rated tournaments and free chess lessons available.

May 9, Princeton Day School 650 The Great Road. Plaques to top 3 school teams and top 6 in each section. Medals to all players. Sections: NEAR and FUTURE MASTERS and CLOSED begin 10:30 (must preregister). NEAR MASTERS G/75, 3 rounds (Players K12 over 1400) FUTURE MASTERS: G/60, 3 rounds (Players K-12 over 1200), CLOSED: G/45 (K-12 1000-1200) 4 rds. ALL OTHER SECTIONS. 4 Rds.: 1, 2, 3, 4pm. (times will be accelerated if possible) G/30: OPEN (Players K-12 U-1000), Reserve (K-12 U-800), Novice II (K-8 U-600), Novice I (unrated K-6), K-1 (unrated) NO SCORE K-1 (unrated). PARENTS OF PLAYERS G/30 rated, 3 rounds. Info and Register online: www.pds.org/chess. Inquires to Bonnie Waitzkin. [email protected]. Pre-registration $30 (On-site $40: 11:3012:30).

See Grand Prix.

New Jersey

Geller Quads - First Friday Every Month! New Jersey Children’s Chess School, 862 DeGraw Ave., Forest Hill (Newark), NJ 07104. Open to K-8. 3 RR, G/35. Reg.: 6PM. Rds.: 6:30-7:40-8:40PM. Chess classes in NJCCS meet every Friday 6:30-9PM. Chess camp “Geller Kids” meets July & August, day & overnight. Website: www.kidschesscamp.com. Email: chesscamp@hot mail.com. Phone: 973-483-7927.

Somerset Ramada Inn, 60 Cottontail Lane, Somerset, Exit 12 off I-287 at Weston Canal Road. (732) 560-9880, Fax (732) 356-7455. Trophies Galore. In 4 Sections by rating. Sections: Hot Shots: U1300, Check Mates: U900, Rising Stars: U500 & Chess Bandits: Beginners/Unrated. Also open to U200. Details all sections: 5-SS, G/30, Trophies to Top 10, Others get choice of chess medallions or fun grab bag prizes. Unrated (grade K-4) may play in U500 section. Others may play in the top two Sections. Unrated may not win first prize in rated sections. Registration: Saturday 5/23, 11am-12pm. Rounds: 12:30pm, then ASAP with lunch break after round #2. All sections: EF: $20 if mailed by 5/18 or paid online by 5/22 on website EntryFeesRus.com, $30 at site. Special advanced EF only Combination: Pay $50 to play in both Saturday event and U.S. Amateur (2-day) Sunday and Monday. This special is not available at site. One half-point byes allowed in rounds 1-4 if requested with EF. April Rating supplement used. Mail entries to: Ken Thomas, 115 West Moore Street, Hackettstown NJ 07840-2233. Checks payable to NJSCF. Indicate section desired and your grade level. Information: Call 908-763-6468 or acn@ goes.com. NS NC W.

May 23-25, 66th Annual U.S. Amateur Championship East See Nationals.

May 31, 2009 Westfield Quads 3 RR game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield N.J. Prizes: $50 to first in each section. Entry Fee: $20, $15 Members. Registration: 2-2:15 p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-946-7379. www.west fieldchessclub.com.

May 31, ATKM 4th Sunday G/60 Quads/Swiss For info. and registration, go to www.YourChessSet.com/quads4. For more info. E-mail Stephen at [email protected] or call 856-582-8222.

June 1 - Aug. 31, Hackettstown Summer Holland

May 16, Hamilton Chess Club Quads 3RR 40/80 15/30 15/30. Full K. Ray Dwier Recreation Center, Bldg. 392, Groveville, NJ 08620. Quads open to all EF: $10. $25 per Quad. Reg.: 910:30/am. Rds.: 10:30/am-1:30/pm-4:30/pm NJ State Chess Federation, no dues magazine Subscription per year, OSA NS NC W.

May 17, 2009 Westfield Quads

June 13-14, 59th New Hampshire Open

May 23, U.S. Amateur Championship - East U1300 K-8 Scholastic

3 RR game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield N.J. Prizes: $50 to first in each section. Entry Fee: $20, $15 Members. Registration: 2-2:15 p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-946-7379. www.west fieldchessclub.com.

10-14, Prelims SS or RR, finals RR each class, TC 40/90, additional 40/60 or Sudden Death 60, players choice. Hackettstown Comm. Center, 293 Main St., Hackettstown, NJ 07840. EF: $16 $12 Jrs. Winner of ea class gets double prize, trophy or chess book. Remaining top 40% get trophy or chess book. BOOKS selected from USCF catalog. Reg.: 7-7:30pm, (Rds.: 7:30 each Mon.) ENT: Harold Darst, 111 W. Moore Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07840. (908) 852-5925. WCL JGP.

June 6, ATKM 1st Saturday Kids G/30 Swiss (K-8) For info. and registration, go to YourChessSet.com/KidsSwiss. For more info e-mail Stephen at [email protected] or call 856-582-8222.

June 7, 2009 Westfield Swiss #59 (QC)

May 21, ATKM 3rd Thursday Quads 3 RR G/30 t/d5, Quads are grouped by rating. All the King’s Men Chess Shop, 62 S Broadway, Pitman NJ 08071. Prizes: $25 1st per quad. Unrated cannot win more than $10. EF: $12, $10 ATKMCC members. Unrated (i.e. players with NO rating whatsoever, provisional or otherwise) $7, $5 ATKMCC members. Reg.: 6:15 - 6:45 PM. Rds.: 7-8-9 pm. INFO: Stephen Dick, cs@ATKMchess Sets.com, 856-582-8222. All: Visa/MC/Disc OK w/$1 paid surcharge. Bring a clock!

5 Rd. game/15 full k (QC) Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield,N.J. $500 Guaranteed $125,$85,$50 under 2100,under 1850, under 1600, under 1350 $60 each Entrance fee: $35, $25. Members. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45-3:25-4:05-4:45-5:30 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-946-7379. www.westfieldchessclub.com.

June 13, 8th Annual New Yorker June Open! (NY) See Grand Prix.

Membership Appreciation Program (MAP) Top standings will appear every two months in Chess Life. More frequent MAP standings and details will appear at main.uschess.org/go/MAP.

Overall Affiliaate Standings

Name

State

Count

PAPERCLIP PAIRINGS MICHIGAN CHESS ASSOCIATION CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN PENNSYLVANIA ST CHESS FED MAINE ASSOC OF CHESS COACHES RIDERWOOD CHESS CLUB JERSEY SHORE HS CHESS LEAGUE WESTERN PA YOUTH CHESS CLUB LONG ISLAND CHESS NUTS GATEWAY CHESS LEAGUE Small State Affiliate Standings

TX MI NY PA ME MD NJ PA NY MO

507 261 174 160 152 145 141 130 118 111

Name

State

Count

MAINE ASSOC OF CHESS COACHES METRO CHESS NEW HAMPSHIRE CHESS ASSN NEW MEXICO SCHOL CHESS ORG AIRLINE COMMUNITY SCHOOL WELLS MEMORIAL SCHOOL SIOUX EMPIRE CHESS FOUNDATION MESA CHESS CLUB COASTAL MAINE SCHOLASTIC CHESS NEBRASKA ST CHESS ASSOC Regular Prize es

ME DC NH NM ME NH SD NM ME NE

152 47 24 23 19 18 16 13 12 12

Name

State

Count

CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN JERSEY SHORE HS CHESS LEAGUE PENNSYLVANIA ST CHESS FED MAINE ASSOC OF CHESS COACHES NEW JERSEY ST CHESS FED MINNESOTA ST CHESS ASSN HAMILTON ELEM SCH CHESS CLUB PAPERCLIP PAIRINGS CHESS CENTER OF NEW YORK KENTUCKIANA CHESS ORGANIZATION

NY NJ PA ME NJ MN MI TX NY IN

154 141 77 76 57 56 51 43 37 35

72

Chess Life — May 2009

Sc cholastic c Prizzes

Name

State

Count

PAPERCLIP PAIRINGS MICHIGAN CHESS ASSOCIATION RIDERWOOD CHESS CLUB WESTERN PA YOUTH CHESS CLUB LONG ISLAND CHESS NUTS SILVER KNIGHTS CAJUN CHESS GATEWAY CHESS LEAGUE PENNSYLVANIA ST CHESS FED MAINE ASSOC OF CHESS COACHES Member Standings

TX MI MD PA NY PA LA MO PA ME

464 227 134 123 110 97 88 84 83 76

Name

State

Count

CHRISMER, GARIE L NAVARRO, DANIEL A MCDONALD, THOMAS D MCPHERSON, MARK FLETCHER DIXON, MARK A CLARK, MIKE ELLIOTT, CAROL MAXHEIMER RYAN, BEN J ABRAHAMS, STEVEN BARRETT, DAVID CHRISTOPHER

TX TX TX GA TX MO IA NE NC TX

20 14 13 10 9 9 9 8 8 6

PC CT Gain Standing gs State

Dec08

LA 603 ME 484 MS 277 MN 1020 SD 227

Mar09

711 566 321 1154 254

Pct

17.9 16.9 15.9 13.1 11.9

State

Dec08

NV 810 SC 527 RI 298 TN 1597 MT 76

Mar09

899 574 324 1719 81

Pct

11.0 8.9 8.7 7.6 6.6

uschess.org

June 13, Garden State Scholastic

July 4, World Open G/10 Championship (QC) (PA)

May 16, H. Mc Carthy Gipson Grand Prix 2009

Prevention First, 1405 Route 35, Ocean, NJ 07712. Primary: open to K-3: 4 SS, G/30.Trophies to 1st-5th place; Medals to all others. Scholastic Swiss: open to K-12; 4 SS, G/30. Scholastic Quads: open to K-12 G/60 Quads. Trophies to 1st and 2nd each quad. All EF: $15 if rec’d by 6/6, $20 on site. Reg.: 9-9:45 am. Rds.: 10 and ASAP. Info: Hal Sprechman, 732 259-3881, [email protected]. Ent: Please make checks payable to Character Kings and send to Hal Sprechman, P.O Box 1511, Jackson, NJ 08527. Please indicate section.

See Grand Prix.

See Grand Prix.

July 5, World Open Blitz Championship (QC) (PA)

May 16, Marshall CC Saturday G/60

See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix.

4SS, G/60. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($360 b/24) $120-70-50, 1700-1999/unr $60, U1700 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. Note: Only one bye available, request with entry.

July 31-Aug. 2 or Aug. 1-2, 20th annual Vermont Resort Open (VT)

May 17, Binghamton Monthly Tourney

June 13-14 or 14, 14th Annual New York Junior Championship (NY)

July 24-26 or 25-26, 14th Annual Bradley Open (CT)

See Grand Prix.

See New York.

Aug. 13-16, 14-16 or 15-16, 39th annual Continental Open (MA)

June 14, 2009 Westfield Quads

See Grand Prix.

3 RR game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield N.J. Prizes: $50 to first in each section. Entry Fee: $20, $15 Members. Registration: 2-2:15 p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-946-7379. www.west fieldchessclub.com.

A State Championship Event! Sept. 5, New Jersey U1300 K-8 State Championship

June 18, ATKM 3rd Thursday Quads 3 RR G/30 t/d5, Quads are grouped by rating. All the King’s Men Chess Shop, 62 S Broadway, Pitman NJ 08071. Prizes: $25 1st per quad. Unrated cannot win more than $10. EF: $12, $10 ATKMCC members. Unrated (i.e. players with NO rating whatsoever, provisional or otherwise) $7, $5 ATKMCC members. Reg.: 6:15 - 6:45 PM. Rds.: 7-8-9 pm. INFO: Stephen Dick, cs@ATKMchess Sets.com, 856-582-8222. All: Visa/MC/Disc OK w/$1 paid surcharge. Bring a clock!

June 20-21, 2009 Delaware Capital Open (DE) See Delaware.

June 25-29, 3rd annual Philadelphia International (PA)

Somerset Ramada Inn, 60 Cottontail Lane, Somerset, Exit 12 off I-287 at Weston Canal Road. (732) 560-9880, Fax (732) 356-7455. In three rated & one unrated Section. Hot Shots: U1300, Check Mates: U900 & Rising Stars: U500 & Chess Bandits: Unrated/Beginner event. (note-U200 may play in) All Sections: 5-SS, G/30, G$$ 100 to winner each section plusTrophies toTop 10, Others get choice of chess medallions or grab bag prizes. Registration: Saturday 9/05, 11am-12pm. Rounds: 12:30pm, then ASAP with lunch break after round #2. EF: $25 if mailed by 9/1 or paid online by 9/4 on website EntryFeesRus.com, $35 at site. Early EF: Special Combined EF: Pay $69 for both Saturday K-8 and NJ Open (2-day) Sunday and Monday. Not available at site. Half-point bye allowed in rounds 1-4 if requested with EF. August Rating supplement used. Mail entries to: KenThomas, 115 West Moore Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07840-2233. Checks payable to NJSCF. Indicate section desired and your grade level. Information: Call 908-763-6468 or [email protected]. NS NC W.

See Grand Prix.

Sept. 5-7 or 6-7, 2009 New Jersey State Championship

June 26-28, World Open Senior Amateur (PA)

See Grand Prix.

See Pennsylvania.

New Mexico

June 27-28, World Open Girls Championship (PA)

June 27-28, Albuquerque/Rio Rancho Open

See Pennsylvania.

June 27-28, World Open Under 13 Championship (PA) See Pennsylvania.

June 28, 2009 Westfield Quads 3 RR game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield N.J. Prizes: $50 to first in each section. Entry Fee: $20, $15 Members. Registration: 2-2:15 p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-946-7379. www.west fieldchessclub.com.

5/SS G/90. Meadowlark Lane Senior Center, 4330 Meadowlark Lane SE, Rio Rancho, NM. Co-sponsored by The Meadowlark Chess Group and the New Mexico Chess Organization. W. Prize fund $1,000 b/80. Sections: Open, EF $35, U1800, EF $30; U1400, EF $25; If Rated U1100 & playing in U1400 EF $15. Prize to best U1100. Rds.: 9-1-4:30. 9-1. Reg.: Sat. 8-8:30 A.M. $10 addit. $5 Family discount after one full-price entry. 1/2 pt bye (one max) requested before Rd 1. Ent: must be received by 6/25.checks payable to NMCO, P.O. Box 4215, Albuquerque, NM 87196. Entry form, directions, map & motel info: nmchess.org. WCL JGP.

4 Round SS, Game/60, REG.: 8:45 to 9:00 AM. ENTRY: $35. Cash only at site. (Checks payable to: Cordisco’s Corner Store) ROUNDS: 9:15-11:45-2:15-4:30. PRIZES: 1st $175 -2nd $75 -3rd $30. Trophies 1st - 3rd. Under 1700 1st $40 2nd $20.Trophies 1st - 3rd. Guaranteed. Please bring clocks. Cordisco’s Chess Center, 308 Chenango St., Binghamton, NY 13901. (607) 772-8782. jcordisco@ stny.rr.com.

May 17, Grandmaster Challenge (QC) See Grand Prix.

May 17, P.S. 158 Scholastic Chess Championships X 4-SS, G/30. 1458 YORK AVE. BETWEEN E. 77-78 ST. NYC. 4 SECTIONS. K-1 (grades K-1 only) U1000. PRIMARY (grades 5/below) U1100. UNRATED NOVICE (grades 2-5 only) U500. OPEN (grades 12/below). AWARDS: Trophies to top 15 in each section.Top U300 K-1, U400 Novice, U600 Primary, U800 Open. Special Prizes: Engraved digital chess clocks toTop Player in each section, all 4-0 scores &Top Unrated in Open Section. Engraved plaque to top UNR player in each section. High Scorer trophy to all who score 2 and do not get into top 15. Engraved medals to all others. Team Prizes:Trophies to top 4 teams in each section. Engraved digital chess clock toTopTeam in each section. (Team score created by adding top 4 scores from same school). EARLY EF: $39 if received (postmarked by May 11). LATE EF: $45 Phoned, faxed or online thereafter until May 15, 7pm. Onsite EF: $55. Reg. 9-9:30. Rds: All 10-11:3012:45-2. Late entrants may not be paired for the first round. Mail Entries: and make check payable to Tri-State Chess, 1675 York Ave. #2M, N.Y. N.Y. 10128 Phone: (718) 645-5896 Fax: (718) 535-7896 Online Entry: www.TriState Chess.com.

May 19, St. John’s Masters at the Marshall Chess Club See Grand Prix.

May 21, 4 Rated Games Tonight!

For info. and registration, go to www.YourChessSet.com/quads4. For more info. E-mail Stephen at [email protected] or call 856-582-8222.

New York

4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St, bet 5-6 Ave, NYC: 212477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-10050, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:159:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game.

July 1-5, 2-5, 3-5 or June 29-July 5, 37th Annual World Open (PA)

May 15-17 or 16-17, 17th annual New York State Open See Grand Prix.

May 23, Prove Your Point!

See Grand Prix.

June 28, ATKM 4th Sunday G/60 Quads/Swiss

3-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St, NYC: 212-477-

CHECK OUT USCF’S CORRESPONDENCE CHESS RATED EVENTS

USCF’s 62st ANNUAL 2009 Open Correspondence Chess Golden Knights Championship $1,000 First Prize

(plus title of USCF’s Golden Knights Champion and plaque)

• 2nd place $600 • 3rd place $400 • 4th place $300 • 5th place $200 • 6th thru 10th place $100 each. Entry fee: $25.

The entry deadline is November 30, 2009. These USCF Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all USCF members who reside on the North American continent, islands, or Hawaii, as well as those USCF members with an APO or FPO address. USCF members who reside outside of the North American continent are welcome to participate in e mail events. Your USCF membership must remain current for the duration of the event, and entry fees must be paid in U.S. dollars. Those new to USCF Correspondence Chess, please estimate your strength: Class A: 1800 1999 (very strong); Class B: 1600 1799 (strong); Class C: 1400 1599 (intermediate); Class D: 1399 and below (beginner level). Note: Prize fund based on 300 entries and may be decreased proportion ately per number of entries assigned. Correspondence Chess Matches (two players) • $5 entry fee per person with two, four or sixgame options. Win A Correspondence Chess Trophy • Four-player, double round-robin with class-level pairings. • 1st-place winner receives a trophy. • Entry fee: $10. Victor Palciauskas Prize Tournaments • Seven-player class-level pairings, one game with each of six opponents. • Players must have a USCF CC rating to enter. • 1st-place winner receives $130 cash prize and a certificate signed by Victor Palciauskas. • Entry fee: $25. John W. Collins Memorial Class Tournaments • Four-player, double round-robin with class-level pairings (unrateds welcome). • 1st-place winner receives a John W. Collins certificate. • Entry fee: $7.

uschess.org

USCF’s 6th ANNUAL 2009 E-mail Correspondence Chess Electronic Knights Championship

(Seven player sections, one game with each of six opponents.)

$700 First Prize

(plus title of USCF’s Electronic Knights Champion and plaque)

• 2nd place $400 • 3rd place $300 • 4th thru 10th place $100 each. Entry fee: $25.

The entry deadline is November 30, 2009. These USCF Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all USCF members with e mail access. Your USCF membership must remain current for the duration of the event, and entry fees must be paid in U.S. dollars. Maximum number of tournament entries allowed for the year for each player is ten. Note: Prize fund based on 200 entries and may be decreased propor tionately per number of entries assigned.

E-mail Rated Events (need e-mail access): Lightning Match • Two players with two, four or six-game option. • Entry fee $5 per person. Swift Quads • Four-player, double round-robin format. • 1st-place prize merchandise credit of $30. • Entry fee: $10. Walter Muir E-Quads (webserver chess) • Four-player, double round-robin e-mail format tournament with class-level pairings. • 1st-place receives a certificate. • Entry fee: $7. Express Tournament • Seven-player events, one game with each of six opponents. • Prizes: 1st place $30 merchandise credit, 2nd place $20 credit. • Entry fee: $15. Please circle event(s) selected. NOTE: Except for Lightning Matches, Swift Quads, Walter Muir E-Quads, Electronic Knights & Express Tournaments, players will use post office mail, unless opponents agree to use e-mail.

To Enter: 800•903•USCF (8723), Fax 931•787•1200 or on-line www.uschess.org Name USCF ID# Address City State ZIP Phone E mail Est. Rating Credit card # (VISA, MC, Discover, AMEX) Exp. date If using VISA, need V code

□ Check here if you do not wish to have an opponent who is incarcerated. *Note: This may slow down your assignment.

Make checks payable to U.S. Chess and mail to: Joan DuBois, USCF , PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557 Chess Life — May 2009

73

Tournament Life 3716. EF $20. 3-0 wins $40, 2.5 wins $20, 2 wins $10. Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds. 7:30-8:30-9:30.

May 23-24 or 24, New York May Open! See Grand Prix.

SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING MAY 1-14

May 27-June 24, Marshall CC Under-2000 Wednesday Swiss

48. Class D/E/UR, U1400/UR. EF: $16 by 5/30. $$ (96 b/8) 64, U1200 32. All, EF: $7 more at site. Non-mem $10 more. 2 byes 1-4. Rds.: 7:15 Mons. [email protected]. Reg.: 7-7:15 PM. Ent: Harold Stenzel, 80 Amy Dr., Sayville, NY 11782. WCL JGP.

June 1-July 6, Marshall CC Under-1600 Monday Swiss

5SS, 30/90, SD/60. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1700 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Wednesday. Byes ok, limit 2, request by round 3.

5SS, G/90. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1300 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Monday. Byes ok, limit 2, request by rd. 3. Note: No round June 22nd. WCL JGP.

May 28, 4 Rated Games Tonight!

June 2, Marshall CC New York Experts

4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St, bet 5-6 Ave, NYC: 212477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-10050, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:159:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game.

May 30, Syracuse Monthly Open 4SS, Rds 1 & 2 G/60, Rds. 3 & 4 G/90. Courtyard by Marriot, 6415 Yorktown Circle, E. Syracuse (exit 35 I-90, Carrier Circle, 298 E, left at Holiday Inn). $(b/14): $100-50, Class: $30. Reg.: 8:30-9:15, Rds.: 9:30-12-2:15-5:30. EF: $30. Ent: Joe Ball, 310 Helfer Lane, Mineola, NY 13116.

A State Championship Event! May 30-31, New York State Senior Championship Open to all born before 5/30/59. 4-SS, 30/90, SD/60. Marshall Chess Club, 23 West 10th St., NYC 10011. EF: $30 advance, $35 at site. $$500/20: $200-10050, $75 1700-1999, $75 U1700. 2 byes OK, 1 if U1700. Byes must be requested at start of your first round. Reg.: 11-11:45; Rds.: 12-5:30 each day. NYSCA membership required ($13/yr or $36/3 yrs), OSA. Mail advance entries and dues to Marshall CC (checks payable to Marshall CC).Title to top NYS resident. Players must bring proof of age.

A State Championship Event! May 30-31, New York State Women’s Championship Open to all women and girls. 4-SS, 30/90, SD/60. Marshall Chess Club, 23 West 10th St., NYC 10011. EF: $30 advance, $35 at site. $$500/20: $200-100-50, $75 1500-1799, $75 U1500. 2 byes OK, 1 if U1500. Byes must be requested at start of your first round. Reg.: 11-11:45; Rds.: 12-5:30 each day. NYSCA membership required ($13/yr or $36/3 yrs), OSA. Mail advance entries and dues to Marshall CC (checks payable to Marshall CC). Title to top NYS resident. WCL JGP.

May 31, Studio May Quad 3RR Game in 2. Reg.: 9:00 am Rds.: 10-2-6. Studio of Bridge and Games, 1639 Eastern Pkwy., Schenectady, NY 12309-6011.

June 1-22, 27th Nassau Class 40/80, 1st Presbyterian Church, 1st & Main Sts, Mineola. 4-SS. 5 sections. Master-Expert, EF: $36 by 5/30. $$ (256 b/8) 176, U2200 80. Class A, U2000/UR. EF: $31 by 5/30. $$ (216 b/8) 144-72. Class B, U1800/UR. EF: $26 by 5/30. $$ (176 b/8) 112-64. Class C, U1600/UR. EF: $21 by 5/30. $$ (136 b/8) 88-

Open to U2200. 4SS, G/30. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1800 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. One bye available, request at entry.

June 4, 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight! See Grand Prix.

June 5-26, 9th Queens Team Championship 4-SS, G/120, All Saints Lutheran Church, 164-02 Goethals Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11432. Two player teams —- ratings must average under 2000. $$ based on 10 teams (13 last year!):$100-$50 to top two teams, $60 each to top U1700 team, top Board 1, top Board 2. Prizes raised or lowered in proportion to number of paid teams. One 1/2 pt bye allowed. If one player needs a bye, replacement must have same or lower rating and must play on Board # of replaced player. EF: $25 per player, $20 QCC member; teams formed at site. REG.: 7:30-8:00. RDS: 8:15 each Friday. ENT: Ed Frumkin, 445 E 14th St #10D, New York, NY 10009 (212-677-3224—do not call on Thursday or Friday). WCL JGP.

June 6, Chuck’s Birthday Celebration Chess Tournament #2 Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave, Guilderland, NY. 3 round SS, game in 45, 4 sections-open, U1600, U1300, U1000-unrated. Trophies to winners in each section. FREE ENTRY - Please renew or become a member of USCF before the tournament as cannot take memberships at the door. Non members will only play non members. Registration: 10:15AM. Rounds: 11, 12:45, 2:30. Bring a clock as none supplied at the tournament. Coffee and donuts. Info: Charles Eson, [email protected].

June 6, NY June Under 1600! 4-SS, G/50, open to U1600 or unr., Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St, bet 5-6 Ave, NYC: 845-569-9969. EF $40, Club members $25, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. May be limited to 1st 26 entries. $$ (300 b/20 paid): 150-70-30, top U1300 $50, $70 limit to unr. Limit 2 byes, commit by 2:30. Reg. ends 15 min before game. Rds. 12:30-2:30-4:306:30 pm. CCA Ratings may be used. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 6/4. $10 extra to “enter” by phone!

June 6-7 or 7, NY June Under 2300! 4-SS, 30/90, SD/1, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St, bet 56 Ave, NYC: 845-569-9969. EF $40, Club members $25, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-100-50, top U2000 $95, U1800 $85. Reg. ends 15 min. before game. 2 schedules: 2-day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day; 1-day, (rds 1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun; both merge rd 3. Limit 2 byes, commit by rd 2. Re-entry $20, counts half. Class pairings OK rd 4. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 6/4. $10 extra to “enter” by phone! WCL JGP.

June 7, NEW Sunday Sliding Scale Quads! 3-RR, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St, NYC: 212-4773716. EF: Master $35, Expert $30, A $25, U1800 $20. $$ (all EFs returned less $36 per quad). Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds. 7:30-8:30-9:30. NO FREE ENTRIES!! No phone entry!

June 7, The Chess Exchange Monthly Trophy Quads 3-RR, G/30,The Chess Exchange: Chess & Games Club, 288Third Ave., Between Carroll and President, Brooklyn, 718-645-5896. EF: $15 $$: Trophies to top 2 in each quad. Reg.: ends 10 minutes before rd. 1. Rds.: 3-4:15-5:30.

June 7, The Right Move #154 Team and Individual Championship FREE EF. 4SS, G/30. Play starts promptly at 10:00. Players must check in by 9:30A.M. Brandeis H.S., 145 W. 84th St., 10024 (near Columbus Ave, Manhattan, NYC). Open to gr. K-12. Five rated sections: Open, Under 1700, Under 1200, Under 800, Under 600. (May renew or join USCF at tournament). Non-member sections by grades: K-3, 4-6, 7-12. Trophies to top 3 in each section except Open ($50, $30, $20 for 1st-3rd); medal to each player with 2.5 or more points. Team plaque to 1st and 2nd each section, with top 4 scores counting in each section (minimum 3 players on team in section). Non-member sections offer additional prize of USCF membership to players scoring 4 points. To register: use website at www.therightmove.org or email - thechessstop @aol.com or Fax to 718-455-2863 before 6:00 P.M. on Fri. Give full name, school, grade, USCF ID#, exp. date, and section. NO ON-SITE REGISTRATION.

June 11, 4 Rated Games Tonight! 4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St, bet 5-6 Ave, NYC: 212477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-10050, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:159:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game.

June 13, 3rd Farmingdale Chess Club G/15 (QC)

3-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St, NYC: 212-4773716. EF $20. 3-0 wins $40, 2.5 wins $20, 2 wins $10. Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds. 7:30-8:30-9:30.

7SS, G/15. Farmingdale Public Library, 116 Merritts Rd., Farmingdale, NY 11735. Open to all U-2300/unr.: $(b/20): $100-80,Top U-1800, U-1500, U-1300 $65 each. EF: $25. Reg.: 9:15-9:45 AM. No adv. ent. Rds.: 10-10:30-11-11:3012:15-12:45-1:15. 3 byes 1-7. Info: www.farmcc.webs.com. Please do not call the library. NS. W.

June 6-7, Third Annual WNY Masters Championships 2009

June 13, 8th Annual New Yorker June Open!

See Grand Prix.

See Grand Prix.

June 6, Prove Your Point!

June 13, Jenifer Woods Memorial Grand Prix See Grand Prix.

June 13, Marshall CC Saturday 4SS, G/60. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($360 b/24) $120-70-50, 1700-1999/unr $60, U1700 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. One bye available, request with entry.

June 13-14 or 14, 14th Annual New York Junior Championship (Out-Of-State Players Welcome)! 5-SS, G/90, open to all born after 6/1/89 from any state, beautifully renovated, well-lighted 3rd floor, New Yorker Hotel, 481 8th Ave at 34th St., across from Penn Station, NYC. $$ prize fund b/150 total paid entries, minimum half each prize Gtd. 3 sections. Open. $$ 400-200120, top U2000 $110, U1800 $100. Under 1600, $$ 300-150-110, top U1400 $100, $100 limit to Unr. Under 1200, $$ 300-150-110, top U1000 $100, $50 limit to unr, plaques to top 2 each grade, K-4 (OK to win both plaque & trophy). All, trophies to top 5 each section, free entry to all Chess Center tmts. except quads thru 9/1/09 to top 3 each section. 2 playing options: 2-day schedule, reg. ends Sat 9:30 am, rds. Sat 10 am-1:30-4:30 pm, Sun 1:30-4:30 pm. 1-day schedule, reg. ends Sun 8:30 am, rds. Sun 9-10:30 am-12-1:30-4:30 pm (rds. 1-3 of 1-day schedule only are G/30); both merge for rd. 4. Mail entry fee, 2-day $58, 1-day $57 if postmarked by 6/5, all $65 at site, mail checks by 6/5 payable to: Chess Center of NY, PO Box 4615, New Windsor, NY 12553. List name,

USCF ISSUES FORUM A forum for discussion of USCF issues, open to all members age 16 or over. Candidates for the executive board (ballot in June issue) are among the participants. Register at www.uschess.org/ forums

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address, USCF ID, June rating, grade, birthday, section, schedule. Phone entries: $60 thru 6/10. Questions, [email protected] or 845-569-9969 (credit card phone entries: 406-896-2191, entries only, no questions). Online entries, $56 thru 6/10: www.chesscenter.cc (no mail after 6/5, no phone or online entries after 6/10). $10 charge for refunds. All entries $65 at site (specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free). Limit 2 byes, commit before rd. 2. Re-entry: $30, counts half. HR: 212-971-0101. Bring sets, clocks, boards— none supplied! W. WCL JGP.

June 27, Saturday G/60

July 13-Aug. 10, Marshall CC Under-1600 Monday Swiss

4SS, G/60. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($360 b/24) $120-70-50, 1700-1999/unr $60, U1700 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. Note: Only one bye available, request with entry.

5SS, G/90. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1300 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Monday. Byes ok, limit 2, request by rd. 3. WCL JGP.

June 27-28, World Open Girls Championship (PA)

See Grand Prix.

See Pennsylvania.

Sept. 4-7, 5-7 or 6-7, 131st annual NY State Championship

June 14, Marshall CC Sunday Action

June 27-28, World Open Under 13 Championship (PA)

See Grand Prix.

5SS, G/30, Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. ($$ 360 b/24): 120-70-50, U2200/unr $65, U2000 $55. Rds.: 12-1:30-2:454-5:20pm. One bye available, request with entry.

See Pennsylvania.

June 27, 28, 29, 30, July 1, 2, World Open G/60 Quads (PA)

North Carolina

June 14, SAR Academy Chess Championship IV

June 28, Grandmaster Challenge (QC)

4-SS, G/30. 655 W. 254 St., Bronx (RIVERDALE), NY. 4 SECTIONS. K-1 (grades K-1 only) U1000. PRIMARY (grades 4/below) U1100. UNRATED NOVICE (grades 2-5 only) U500. OPEN (grades 12/below). AWARDS: Trophies to top 15 in each section.Top U300 K-1, U400 Novice, U600 Primary, U800 Open. Special Prizes: Engraved digital chess clocks toTop Player in each section, all 4-0 scores & Top Unrated in Open Section. Engraved plaque to top UNR player in each section. High Scorer trophy to all who score 2 and do not get into top 15. Engraved medals to all others. Team Prizes: Trophies to top 4 teams in each section. Engraved digital chess clock to Top Team in each section. (Team score created by adding top 4 scores from same school). EARLY EF: $39 if received (postmarked by June 8). LATE EF: $45 Phoned, faxed or online thereafter until June 12, 7pm. Onsite EF: $55. Reg. 9-9:30. Rds: All 10-11:30-12:45-2. Late entrants may not be paired for the first round. Mail Entries: and make check payable to Tri-State Chess, 1675 York Ave. #2M, N.Y., N.Y. 10128 Phone: (718) 645-5896 Fax: (718) 535-7896 Online Entry: www.TriStateChess.com.

See Pennsylvania.

July 24-26 or 25-26, 14th Annual Bradley Open (CT)

June 6, Orchard Lake Blitz (QC)

See Grand Prix.

8RR, G/5. Orchard Lake Campground, Saluda, NC. Between rounds of Orchard Lake Grand Prix. EF: $2. Plaque to 1st in each section. $10 to random entry. www.ncchess.org.

July 1-5, 2-5, 3-5 or June 29-July 5, 37th Annual World Open (PA)

June 6, Orchard Lake Grand Prix

See Grand Prix.

See Grand Prix.

July 1-29, Marshall CC Under-2000 Wednesday Swiss

June 6, Orchard Lake RBO (U1000)

5SS, 30/90, SD/60. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1700 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Wednesday. Byes ok, limit 2, request by round 3.

5SS, G/30. Orchard Lake Campground, Saluda, NC. EF: $16.50 (incl $6.50 cmpgrnd fee). Prizes: Plaques to top 3. Rds.: 9:00-10:15-11:30-12:45-2:00. ENT: Kevin Hyde, 705 Old Mtn Page Rd., Saluda, NC 28773. 828-749-1625. [email protected]. HR: 828-749-3901 www.orchardlakecampground.com www.ncchess.org.

July 2-30, Marshall CC Thursday Members-Only Swiss 5SS, 30/90, SD/60. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open to members only. EF: $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U2000 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Thursday Byes ok, limit 2, request by round 3.WCL JGP.

Ohio

July 4, Saturday G/60

June 12-14 or 13-14, 51st Gem City Open Tournament June 13, Toledo Jun Swiss

See Grand Prix.

4SS, G/60. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($360 b/24) $12070-50, 1700-1999/unr $60, U1700 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. Note: Only one bye available, request with entry.

June 18, GET READY FOR NEXT THURSDAY!!

July 5, Marshall CC Sunday Action

4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St, bet 5-6 Ave, NYC: 212477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-10050, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:159:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game!

5SS, G/30, Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. ($$ 360 b/24): 120-70-50, U2200/unr $65, U2000 $55. Rds.: 12-1:30-2:454-5:20pm. One bye available, request with entry.

Open, 4SS, Rnd 1 G/75, Rnds 2-4 G/90.The University ofToledo Health Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Café, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, Ohio 43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF: $20 by 6/11 $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360 b/20, $100-50, 1st Class A ,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450. WCL JGP.

July 5, The Chess Exchange Monthly Trophy Quads

June 20, Stakes Chess #18

June 19-23, 2nd NY International

July 7, Marshall CC New York Experts

June 16, St. John’s Masters at the Marshall Chess Club

See Grand Prix.

3-RR, G/30,The Chess Exchange: Chess & Games Club, 288Third Ave., Between Carroll and President, Brooklyn, 718-645-5896. EF: $15 $$: Trophies to top 2 in each quad. Reg.: ends 10 minutes before rd. 1. Rds.: 3-4:15-5:30.

See Grand Prix.

Open to U2200 4SS, G/30. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1800 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. One bye available, request at entry.

June 25-29, 3rd annual Philadelphia International (PA)

July 9, 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight!

See Grand Prix.

See Grand Prix.

June 26-28, World Open Senior Amateur (PA)

July 11-12, July Grand Prix!

See Pennsylvania.

See Grand Prix.

June 25, 22nd Annual Thursday Night Action Championship

uschess.org

See Grand Prix.

Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton. OH 45402. 3 Rounds - G/90, TD/5. Nominal 8 player sections. No byes. 1st - $100, 2nd - $35, Top Finish in lower half $25. EF: $25 adv/$30 after 17 Jun. Reg.: 9:30-10:30. Rds.: 11-3:30-7. Ent: Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402 or email dcc.18w5@sbc global.net.

July 10-12, 2009 Columbus Open See Grand Prix.

July 11, Toledo Jul Swiss Open, 4SS, Rnd 1 G/75, Rnds 2-4 G/90.The University ofToledo Health Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Café, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, Ohio 43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF: $20 by 7/9 $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360 b/20, $100-50, 1st Class

Chess Life — May 2009

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Tournament Life A,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450. WCL JGP.

Oklahoma May 23-25, 27th North American FIDE Open

May 30, 2009 LCCC Scholastic K-12 Championship (9 Trophies)

June 20-21, 2009 Delaware Capital Open (DE) See Delaware.

Sept. 5-7, U.S. Senior Open

5-SS, G/30, EF: $30, $35 CASH ONLY after 5/27/09 AT SITE , Trophy’s to 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, Top U1400, U1200, U1000, U800, U600, Door Prizes For All Players, Free Coffee & Donuts. Rds.: 10-11:30-12:45-2-3:30; Reg.: ends 9:30am, Site: Lehigh Carbon Community College, 4525 Education Park Dr., Schnecksville, PA 18078. (located approx. 5 miles N of Rt. 22 on Rt. 309) Ent: Mail to - “Bruce Davis”, 1208 Linden St., Bethlehem, PA 18018, Ph. 610-6250467, E-mail: [email protected] Info: www.lehighvalleychess.org/.

See Nationals.

May 30, 2009 Lehigh Valley LCCC May Championship – Quads

Pennsylvania

3-RR, G/45, EF: $25, Perfect score winner $75 else $60. Rds.: 11-1-3. Reg.: ends 10:30am, Site: Lehigh Carbon Community College, 4525 Education Park Dr., Schnecksville, PA 18078 (located approx. 5 miles N of Rt. 22 on Rt. 309) Ent: Onsite Cash Only, Info: Contact - Bruce Davis, 610-625-0467, bdavis@lehigh valleychess.org, Info: www.lehighvalleychess.org/.

See Grand Prix.

June 27-28, 64th Oklahoma Open State Championship

SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING MAY 1-14

40/80, SD/30. EF: $20 Perfect score winner $60 else $50. Rds.: 10-2-5. Reg. ends 9:30am. Info: Bradley Crable, 215-844-3881, www.mastermindschess.org.

1st 2nd 3rd: Gold, Silver, & Bronze medals, E.F. $10. Registration: 9-9:45am. Rd.: 10, then ASAP. Buttermilk Falls Building, RT. 209 Seven Bridge Rd. & Buttermilk Falls Rd., (Near Shawnee). Info: Mike Laverty, 570-421-9802. Email: [email protected].

See Grand Prix.

Sept. 5-7, 1st U.S. Women’s Open See Nationals.

Silver Knights Chess Tournaments 2-3 Saturdays per month we run scholastic USCFrated tournaments throughout the Philadelphia area. Tournament locations include Philadelphia, Mt. Laurel (NJ), Bryn Mawr, Horsham, Collegeville, and more. Tournaments are open to grades K-12. Free game analysis by a National or International Master at each tournament. We have players of all skill levels compete in our tournaments, from brand-new kindergarteners up through some of the highest-rated scholastic players in the state. To see a list of dates and locations, see our website at www.silverknightschess.com. Phone: 610-4460818. Email: [email protected]. Every 1st Saturday Lehigh Valley Super Quads 3-RR, St James Church, 11th & Tilghman Sts., Allentown, PA 18102. EF: $10. $30 Perfect Score, else $25 1st. Reg.: 12:30-1:15. Rds.: 1:30-3-4:30. Info: 610821-4320, [email protected], www.lehighvalleychess.org/.

Every 2nd Saturday. Allentown 2nd Saturday Quads

3RR, G/40. St. Luke’s Ev. Luth. Church, 417 N. 7th St., Allentown, PA 18102. Quads open to all. EF: $12. $$24/quad. Reg.: 12-1, Rds.: 1:15-2:45-4:15. No adv. ent. Info: 610-433-6518. Other rated events every week!

May 16, Hazleton Open 4SS, G-61, Full K, Christ Evangelican Luthern Church, 467 Main St., Conyngham, PA 18219. Cash prizes based on ents. Open to all. EF: $15 by May 15, $20.00 at site. Reg.: 9:30. Rds.: 10, 12:15, 2:30, 4:15. Advanced Entries: Hazleton Area Chess Club, Michael Jemo, 567 Forest Hills Dr., Hazleton, PA 18201, 570455-9261. [email protected] JGP.

May 16, Pack 92 Quad Three sections: Open, G/70, Prizes $40 to first in each quad, E.F. $15. Scholastic section: 3 SS, G/30. Prizes trophies to top 3 in each section, Sections K-5, 6-12, E.F. $15. Unrated Section: 3 SS, G/30 sections K-5, 6-12. Prizes

May 30, Silver Knights Team Tournament #2 4SS, G/30. Wayne Elementary School, 651 W. Wayne Avenue, Wayne, PA 19087. Open to 4-player teams from the same school in K-8. EF: $60/team online by 5/27; $100 on-site 9:00-9:30. Rds.: 10-11-12-1. Prizes: trophies to top schools. Free game analysis by NM Adam Weissbarth. See www.silverknightschess.com to register.

A Heritage Event! June 6, 39th Fred Thompson Memorial 4SS, G/75. Pittsburgh Chess Club, 5604 Solway St., Pittsburgh, PA 15217. EF: $28 postmarked by 6/1, $38 thereafter, $3 discount to PCC members. 2 Sections: Open and Reserve (U1600). Prizes $$500 b/30. Open: $120 - 80, U2000 $60, U1800 $40. Reserve: $80 - 50, U1400 $40, U1200/Unr $30. Reg.: 9-9:45. Requests for half-point byes must be made by the start of Round 2. Rds.: 10AM1PM-4:30PM-7:30PM. Info: 412-421-1881, www.pittsburghcc.org. Entries: Pittsburgh Chess Club, Attn: Clyde Kapinos, 5604 Solway St., Pittsburgh, PA 15217. Make checks payable to Pittsburgh Chess Club. NC. W. WCL JGP.

June 20, 2009 PA State Game/45 Championship See Grand Prix.

June 25-29, 3rd annual Philadelphia International See Grand Prix.

June 26-28, World Open Senior Amateur 4SS, 40/2, SD/1, Sheraton Philadelphia Hotel (see World Open). Open to all born before 6/26/59 and rated under 2000 or unrated. Prizes $500 based on 16 entries, else in proportion: $200-100, Under 1750 $120, Under 1500/Unr $80. EF: $40. Reg. 6/26 noon to 5:30 pm, rds. Fri 6, Sat 11-6, Sun 11. One half point bye allowed, must commit before rd 2. HR: See World Open. Ent: at site only, no checks.

June 27-28, World Open Girls Championship 5-SS, G/90, Sheraton Philadelphia Hotel (see World Open). Open to all girls born after 6/28/91. Trophies to top 5, 1st C, D, E, Under 1000, Under 800, Unrated; free entry in all CCA Swiss tournaments 7/15/09-12/31/09 to 1st. EF: $40. Reg. 6/27 9 to 9:30 am, rds. Sat 10-2-6, Sun 10-2. One half point bye allowed, must commit before rd 2. HR: See World Open. Ent: at site only, no checks. WCL JGP.

June 27-28, World Open Under 13 Championship 6-SS, G/65, Sheraton Philadelphia Hotel (see World Open). Open to all born after 6/28/96. Trophies to top 5, 1st C, D, E, Under 1000, Under 800, Unrated; free entry in all CCA Swiss tournaments 7/15/09-12/31/09 to 1st. EF: $40. Reg. 6/27 9 to 10:30 am, rds. Sat. 11-2-5, Sun. 10-1-4. HR: See World Open. Ent: at site only, no checks. WCL JGP.

June 27, 28, 29, 30, July 1, 2, World Open G/60 Quads 3RR, G/60, separate event each day, Sheraton Philadelphia Hotel (see World Open). EF: $20. 1st prize each section: choice of $40, 2 year adult USCF membership with Chess Life, or 3 year Young Adult membership with Chess Life. Reg: 9-9:45 am each day, Rds: 10-12:30-2:30. Ent: at site only, no checks.

July 1-5, 2-5, 3-5 or June 29-July 5, 37th Annual World Open

June 6, Scranton-Carbondale June Quads

See Grand Prix.

3RR, Gm/75, Clarion Hotel, 300 Meadow Ave, Scranton, PA (exit 184 off I-81). EF: $25, $$50 1st ea. sect., $60 for 3-0 score. Scholastic section (K-8): EF $10, & trophy to 1st. Reg.: 8:30-9:45am, Rds.: 10-1-4. Entries/Info: Bernie Sporko, 127 S. Main St., Carbondale, PA 18407. ph: 570-282-2793, cell: 570604-2461 e-mail: [email protected].

July 4, World Open G/10 Championship (QC)

June 6, W.Chester 1st Sat. Quads Our 20th Year! 3RR, 40/80,sd/30. United Methodist Church, 129 S. High St. West Chester, PA. EF: $20; every tenth quad free $$40, $50 for 3-0, $5 for 3rd rd win if not 3-0. Reg.: 9am; Rds.: 9:30,1,4:30. Info: Jim White 484-678-3164.

See Grand Prix.

July 5, World Open Blitz Championship (QC) See Grand Prix.

Aug. 7-9 or 8-9, 15th Annual Northeast Open (CT) See Grand Prix.

Aug. 13-16, 14-16 or 15-16, 39th annual Continental Open (MA) See Grand Prix.

June 14, MasterMinds CC 2nd Sunday Summer Quads

Sept. 4-7, 5-7 or 6-7, 131st annual NY State Championship (NY)

Blair Christian Academy, Philadelphia, Pa., 220 W. Upsal St. Quads: 3RR,

See Grand Prix.

TO ALL WHO HAVE DONATED TO THE U.S. CHESS TRUST! (June 2007 through March 2008) Legacy Donors: Deborah Doll, Nearing, GM Arnold Denker. Future Legacy Donors: Harold B. Dondis, Wil Wakely. Corporate Donors: Aetna, Exxon, IBM, Microsoft, WalMart, X3D, Mobil, WaMu, Nugent & Haussler, PC Partners. Chess Philanthropists ($50,000 or more): Harold B. Dondis, Frank P. Samford III. King Supporters ($10,000 or more): Frank Berry, Mark Fins. Friends of Chess ($5,000 or more): Anonymous, Mitchell Denker, Gerald Hoag, Adam Sufrin, JDG Management, Shane Samole, Nearing Trust. Ben Franklin Donors ($1,000 or more): Anonymous NJ, Joel & Susan Channing, Gary Cooper, John Dozier, Leroy Dubeck, Jim Eade, Leonard Helman, Roger Spero, Sunil Weeramantry (National Scholastic Foundation), Mr. & Mrs. Michael T. Graves, Dr. William Henkin, Karl Irons, Victor Laurie, Harvey Schein, Mark Schein, Adam J. Semler, Randy Slifka, Mariko Zeitlin. Heritage Donors ($500 or more): Richard Allen, Norman Forsythe, Clifford Lester, Rick Lester (Ursula Foster Scholarship), Henry Odell, Harold Winston, Steve Doyle, Ann Marks, Drs. Luann Mostello & Art Milholland, Bill & Vesna Kelleher, Eric Lester, Robert Messenger, Henry Terrie, Selden Trimble, Mosh & Arianne Weinberger, Yuriko Young, Randall & Leilani Sears, Dave Sutherland, Erland Millikan, J. William Cowart, Paul Albert. Associate Donors ($100 or more): Harvey Susswein, John M. Bartkiw, Randy Bauer/Deborah O’Leary, Walter Brown, Bernie Letner, David Kuhns, Jim Berry, Alan/Judy Cohen, Gary Fine, Martin/Joy Goldberg, Roger Gotschall, Jim Gray, Randy Hough, Christopher Lerbs, Myron/Rachel Lieberman, Luke Neyndorff, Glenn Petersen, Larry Weston, Charles/Debrah Unruh, Edward Zatorski, Joe Feagin, Marc Levine, Michael Goodall, Walter Buehl, Jr, GM Susan Polgar/Paul Truong, Dr. Jon E. Quinn, Burton Carpenter, Michael Clark, James Kelley, Jeffrey Davidson, Paul Tomaino, Phyllis Narveson, Brian Bezenek, Robert Emke, Scott Kenyon, Kenneth Rogoff, Hans Morrow, Robert Miller, George Berry, Dr. Ed Epp, Peter Dyson, Harold Blajwas, Denis Strenzwilk, Dr. Benton Wheeler, Donald Stetzer, Fred Gruenberg, Barbara Forbes, Lawrence Goch, James Wheeler, Carol McCloud, Arthur Montgomery, Andrew Marshall, Barbara Falcner, Alexander Blum, Helen Kittsley, Kent Bach, Peter Knopf, Zevi Miller, Dr. Rebecca Meyer, Bruce McMaster, Tim Redman, Robert Goodman, Rick Armagost, John Crawford, David Kerkhove, John Fitch, Jeffrey Quirke, Herbert Drechsler, Neil Levy, Richard Shuford, Roy Eikerenkoetter, Lewis Henry, Robert Pociask, Gail Maury, Dr. R.A. Letourneau, Gilbert Saulter, Roger Hale, Albert Epostein, John Elder, Dr. Joe Wagner, Peter Stasz, Community Health Charities, Dayton Foundation (Ken/Peg Champney), Peter Tamburro, Don Schultz, John/Eleanor Schweinsberg, Todd Luna, Jorge Calderon, L.J. Lyell, Katherine Gasser, Richard Cheshire, Sheila Donoghue. Contributors ($50 or more): Alexander Reis, Anonymous WI, Frank Brady, Harvey Drutowski, Woodrow Harris, Michael James, Michael Nietman, Arlen Overvig, Robert Rasmussen, Thomas Richardson, Joseph Roster, Garret Sauber, Stephen Smith, Hal Sprechman, T. Torricellas, Donald Twombly, Douglas Southon, Robert Strickler, Charles Behler, Peter Scott, Thomas Bagby, Matthew Grinberg, Chess Now Ltd, Peter Spizzirri, Dan Mayers, Joseph Slawinski, Robert Werdan, Robert Rasmussen, Steve Krevinko, Karl Filzer, William McClain, Andrew Nowak, James Lorentz, Robert Carey, Richard Nepolitan, John Brendel, Edmund Breider, Peter Lahde, George Hermes, Ricard Vincent, Arhur Lewis, Allen Kaufman, Imgre Toth, Edward Dowdy, Gordon Gray, Baron Powell, Tony Newhall, Gerald Larson, Donald Farrelly, Kenneth John, David Sachs, Tom Beckman, Captn Gary Black, Peter Hanen, Richard Adams, Michael/Laurie Stein, Thomas/Nancy Simpson, John/Emily Summy, Ken Ballou, Ken Marks, Larry Reifurth. In Memory Of George Krauss: Blaine/Carol Asbrock, Edwary/Loretta Sytnik, Gabriel/Joann Trotta, Wayne Rahe, Robert Lardon, Richard Cheshire, Carberry, Mary Alice Burke, Carol Wirtz, James/Jennifer Roth.

THANK YOU

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Rhode Island

May 16, 2009 Walter Muir Memorial See Grand Prix.

May 16, BK Tournaments for Kids Reg. online: www.rhodeislandchess.org email: [email protected] phone: (401) 359-1602. See CL4K.

Tennessee A State Championship Event! May 15-17, 2009 Tennessee Senior Open 4SS, G/120, Fair Park Senior Center, 1433 Livingston Road, Crossville, TN 38555. Open to Born Before 5/15/1959. EF: $25 if mailed by 5/8, $35 at site. 3-day: Reg. Friday 4:00 - 6:00 PM. Rds. 7, 3, 9-2. 2-day: Reg. Saturday 7:00 - 9:00 AM. Rds. 10 -3, 9-2. All times CDT. Memb. Req’d:TCA $15. $$GTD: $150100. 50-B/C,D/E,B1000,Age 60-69,Age-70 & Older, UNR (UNR eligible for UNR prize only).Trophies to top 3, B1400, Age 70+ (trophies toTennessee residents only). Medals to all participants. ENT: Harry D Sabine, PO Box 381, Crossville, TN 38557. INFO: www.tnchess.org or www.cumberlandcountychess.com or call Susan at 931-261-4024. HR: $80 + tax 931-707-8638 Crossville Comfort Suites, 2581 E 1st St (I-40 at Exit 322), Crossville, TN. NS W.

May 30, Pawn Power Open 6 2 sections: G/60 (4 rds) and G/30 (7 rds), EF: $15 ($10 for MCC members) Trophies to top 3 in each section. Free blitz tournament for all entries after last rd! ($10 for blitz only), unrated g/5, trophy for 1st. Registration 5/30: 8-9:30am. Rounds(G/60): 10-1-3-5. Rounds(G/30): 10-11-1-2-3-4-5. Site: Hampton Inn, 962 South Shady Grove Rd., Memphis,TN 38120. Hotel reservations: (901) 7620056. www.memphischess.com, [email protected].

June 5, 12, 19, 26, Arlington Chess Club Friday Night USCF Rating Ladder 30/90 SD/1. Lyon Village Community House, 1920 N Highland Rd, Arlington, VA. Player with most monthly points - $50 and most total points March - December wins $100. Must Join Club to play ($50 Adult, $40 U18) check web to make sure we are open each week - members.cox.net/arlingtonchessclub/ladder.htm. Ladder has been running for over 45 years, now win money too! Contact: Matt Grinberg for info: [email protected] No advance entries, sign up for ladder weekly by 8pm, games start 8:15pm. Future monthly events will appear a month in advance here. WCL JGP.

June 6, Kingstowne Quad #56/Action-Plus #28 Kingstowne South Center, 6080 Kingstowne Village Pkwy., Alexandria, VA 22315. 2 Events. Quad #56: 3RR G/100. EF: $10 if received by 6/3, $15 at site. Prizes: Medals to 1st and 2nd in each quad: gold to 1st if 3-0 score, else silver; bronze to 2nd. Rds.: 11-3-7. Action-Plus #28: 5SS G/45. EF: $15 if received by 6/3, $20 at site. Prizes $$250/20: $100-60, U1800-U1400-Unr. each $30. Rds.: 11-1-3-5-7. Both: Reg. 10-10:45. Ent (checks payable to): Don W. Millican, 5901B Prince George Dr., Springfield, VA 22152. e-mail (info only): [email protected]. W.

June 13-14, 6th Annual George Washington Open See Grand Prix.

July 1-5, 2-5, 3-5 or June 29-July 5, 37th Annual World Open (PA) See Grand Prix.

May 30, Rutherford County Open

July 18, Kingstowne Quad #57/Action-Plus #29

See Grand Prix.

Kingstowne Thompson Center, 6090 Kingstowne Village Pkwy., Alexandria, VA 22315. 2 Events. Quad #57: 3RR G/100. EF: $10 if received by 7/15, $15 at site. Prizes: Medals to 1st and 2nd in each quad: gold to 1st if 3-0 score, else silver; bronze to 2nd. Rds.: 11-3-7. Action-Plus #29: 5SS G/45. EF: $15 if received by 7/15, $20 at site. Prizes $$250 b/20: $100-60, U1800-U1400-Unr. each $30. Rds.: 11-1-3-5-7. Both: Reg. 10-10:45. Ent (checks payable to): Don W. Millican, 5901B Prince George Dr., Springfield, VA 22152. e-mail (info only): [email protected]. W.

June 6, Rea Hayes Open Chess Tournament See Grand Prix.

June 27, John Hurt Memorial 6 4SS, G/60, EF: $20 (MCC members $15), $200 in prizes guaranteed! 1st $150, top U1600: $50 Site: Hampton Inn, 962 South Shady Grove Rd., Memphis, TN 38120. Hotel reservations: (901) 762-0056. Registration (6/27): 8-9:30am. Rounds: 10-1-3-5. Entries: Memphis Chess Club Inc., PO Box 17864, Memphis, TN 38187-0864. www.memphischess.com, [email protected].

July 11, Murfreesboro Grand Prix

Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, 41st annual Atlantic Open (DC) See Grand Prix.

See Grand Prix.

Washington

Texas

May 23-25, Washington Open Chess Tournament in Spokane! See Grand Prix.

Wisconsin A Heritage Event! May 16-17, Arpad Elo Open 5-SS 30/90,SD/1. Comfort Suites, I-94 and WI-164, Pewaukee, WI. Hotel rates $85/night, must book by May 3rd. phone 262-506-2000 Two sections: Open and Reserve(U1800). EF: $35 Open, $25 reserve, both $5 more at site. Juniors -$3 from entry. At site registration: 9-9:30. Rounds: 10-2:30-7:30; 10-3:30. $$: b/40 Open: 1st $165, 2nd $140, A $95, U1800 $95. Reserve: 1st $90, 2nd $70, C $55, U1400 $55. Advance entries (check payable to WCA) to Ben Corcoran, N68 W24878 Stonegate Ct. #212, Sussex, WI 53089. Questions: 262-506-4203 or email at [email protected]. A Wisconsin Tour event! WCL JGP.

May 22-25, 23-25 or 24-25, 18th annual Chicago Open (IL) See Grand Prix.

July 10-12, 2009 U.S. Junior Open Championship See Nationals.

Wyoming May 30-31, Wyoming Open 5SS, Rd. 1 = G/60. Rds. 2-5 = 35/90, G60. Laramie County Community College, Training Center, Room 120, 1400 East College Drive, Cheyenne, Wyoming. Section: Open (All). EF: $20. $$ b/entries. Reg.: 8:30-9:30 am. Rds.: 9:45-125:30, 9-2:30. Ent: Allan Cunningham, (307)635-3102, e-mail: adcdac@bresnan. net. WCL JGP.

USCF EXECUTIVE BOARD ELECTION All age 16/over may vote. Ballot will be in June Chess Life. To view or participate in discussion of election issues, register for the USCF Issues Forum at www.uschess.org/forums

May 16, Denton Open 4 Denton Public Library-N, 3020 N. Locust, Denton, TX 76209. Prize Fund: $1.050 based on 60 entrants. 3 Sections, Open, Reserve (U1400), Novice (U700)/Open. Prizes: $250 1st, $125 2nd, Class Prizes X,A,B,C & Below $75 @. Reserve 1st $150, 2nd $75, UR Prize $50. Unrated eligible only Open 1st, 2nd prize, Open C & Below class prize, & Reserve UR Prize. Novice section:Trophies top 5. 5 Round Swiss/Time controls-Open. Reserve: R1,2 G/30,R3,4 G/45,R5 G/60. Novice all R G/30. On-site reg: 9-9:45am, R1 all sections 10:00am, rest ASAP, w/45m lunch break a R2, EF: Open/Reserve $25, $20 Yth/Sr,Hdcp, Novice: $15. Register: Active.com or Rob Jones, Denton Chess Club, 1154 Bent Oaks Dr., Denton, TX 76210. Info: 214-212-0185. www.dentonchess.org, [email protected].

May 22-25 or 23-25, Texas State and Amateur Championship See Grand Prix.

May 30-31, DFW Fide Open III See Grand Prix.

Vermont July 31-Aug. 2 or Aug. 1-2, 20th annual Vermont Resort Open See Grand Prix.

Virginia May 15, 22, 29, Arlington Chess Club Friday Night USCF Rating Ladder 30/90 SD/1. Lyon Village Community House, 1920 N Highland Rd, Arlington, VA. Player with most monthly points - $50 and most total points March - December wins $100. Must Join Club to play ($50 Adult, $40 U18) check web to make sure we are open each week - members.cox.net/arlingtonchessclub/ladder.htm. Ladder has been running for over 45 years, now win money too! Contact: Matt Grinberg for info: [email protected] No advance entries, sign up for ladder weekly by 8pm, games start 8:15pm. Future monthly events will appear a month in advance here. WCL JGP.

NO TOURNAMENTS IN YOUR AREA? WHY NOT ORGANIZE ONE? Do you need to go out of town for tournament play? Would you and others in your area like the convenience of an occasional event closer to home? Organize one! It’s not much work to hold a small tournament, and there is little risk if you use a lowcost site and avoid guaranteed prizes. You might even make a profit! Either a based-on Swiss with projected prizes up to $500, a Quad format, or a trophy tournament will virtually guarantee taking in more in fees than you pay out in prizes. The affiliation fee is just $40 a year. You will receive the annual rating supplement and have access to the TD/Affiliate area of our website. Remember, you can both run and play in a small event. Many of them wouldn’t be held if the organizer/TD couldn’t play. WANT TO KNOW MORE? Contact Joan DuBois at [email protected]. We’ll be glad to help you be part of the promotion of American chess!

Tournament Life Abbreviations & Terms All tournaments are non-smoking with no computers allowed unless otherwise advertised by S and/or C (see below for explanations). QC: Quick Chess events. $$Gtd: Guaranteed prizes. $$b/x: Based-on prizes, x = number of entries needed to pay full prize fund. At least 50% of the advertised prize fund of $501 or more must be awarded. Bye: Indicates which rounds players who find it inconvenient to play may take ½-point byes instead. For example, Bye 1-3 means ½-point byes are available in Rounds 1 through 3. C: Computers allowed. CC: Chess club. EF: Entry fee.

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Enhanced Grand Prix points (see previous page). Ent: Where to mail entries. FIDE: Results submitted to FIDE for possible rating. G/: Game in. For instance, G/75 means each side has 75 minutes for the entire game. GPP: Grand Prix Points available. HR: Hotel rates. For example, 60-65-70-75 means $60 single, $65 twin, $70/3 in room, $75/4 in room. JGP: Junior Grand Prix. Memb. req’d: Membership required; cost follows. Usually refers to state affiliate. Open: A section open to all. Often has very strong players, but some eligible for lower sec-

tions can play for the learning experience. OSA: Other states accepted. Refers to state dues. PPHBF: Professional Players Health and Benefits Fund. Quad: 4-player round robin sections; similar strength players. RBO: Rated Beginner’s Open. Rds: Rounds; scheduled game times follow. For example, 11-5, 9-3 means games begin 11 a.m. & 5 p.m. on the first day, 9 a.m. & 3 p.m. on the second day. Reg: Registration at site. RR: Round robin (preceded by number of rounds). S: Smoking allowed. SASE: For more info, send self-addressed

stamped envelope. SD/: Sudden-death time control (time for rest of game follows). For example, 30/90, SD/1 means each player must make 30 moves in 90 minutes, then complete the rest of the game in an hour. Section: A division of a tournament, usually excluding players above a specified rating. Players in a section face only each other, not those in other sections. SS: Swiss-System pairings (preceded by number of rounds). T/Dx: Time delay, x = number of seconds. Unr: Unrated. USEF: Combined entry fee & USCF dues. W: Site is accessible to wheelchairs. WEB:Tournaments that will use a player’s on-line rating.

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For Sale WHOLESALE LIST OF CHESS BOOKS Three pages. Send SASE. Thinkers' Press, 1101 West 4th, Davenport, IOWA 52802. 24 PAGE CHESS CATALOG FREE Previously owned books and DVDs, new, old, and really old. Big savings on everything. Souvenirs, photos, autographs and more. Complete catalog of Thinkers’ Press books and Chess Reports. PDF brochure on running part time chess retail business. Send your name and e-mail address to: [email protected] and get your catalogs pronto. Visit www.chessco.com daily for updated information. www.stores.ebay.com/4yourdeskinc Electronic Chess, PurchaseThe Grandmaster, Brand New, 4 Your Desk Inc., 471 North Broadway, Suite 196, NY 11753, (516) 409-8213, NYS Buyers Must Include Sales Tax. BOOK COMPARING CHESS960 (FRC) AND CHESS1, modifies our understanding of chess principles. Search Amazon.com for “chess960”. Visit www.CastleLong.com. For a FREE copy of Confidential Chess Lessons send name and address to James Schroeder, 3011 E 9th St #15, Vancouver, WA 98661. Attractive Chess Art Portraits, done in chalk pastels, prints or originals available for all world champions, and legends. Very reasonalbly priced. Free Catolog for your selection. Call (937) 313-8379 or E-mail at [email protected] Chessvideo.com is now ChessOndvd.com The World’s Largest DVD ChessStore. Over 200Titles. Get Private Lessons from GrandMasters, Polgar Roman, Kasparov, Shirov. Karpov on Fischer, Foxy Openings, Fischer Spassky. Rematch and more. Retain 70% more than reading a book. ChessOndvd.com, 1-877chessdvd. Deep Tactics 6.0 combo $49, Chess Life & Reviews 33-75 $39, Much more, 928-246-1580 www.stores.ebay.com/toby-chess NEW AND ANTIQUE CHESS SETS The House of Staunton, sole U.S. distributor for Jaques of London, produces unquestionably the finest Staunton Chess sets currently available and offers the world’s largest selection of antique chess sets dating from 1780. PayPal and all Major Credit Cards accepted. For our new products catalog send $5.00 or for a 70 page plus color-illustrated catalog of our new and antique items send $15.00 to:The House of Staunton, Inc.; 362 McCutcheon Lane;Toney, AL 35773. Website: www.houseofstaunton.com; phone: (256) 858-8070; email: [email protected]. LEATHER CHESS BOARDS BY STUMPY: Squares & designs burned on to suede. Can be customized. Prices range according to size & design. Phone: 423-364-1117. Visit WWW.ITALIANGAMBIT.COM A Comprehensive Book for 1. e4 players by Chess Master Jude Acers. ANTIQUARIAN AND OUT OF PRINT CHESS BOOKS For sale. Free catalog. Kramer-books, PO Box 243, Whitehall, PA 18052-0243. TREASURE CHESS: rare, used and new books bought and sold, bargains. 650-856-2346; [email protected]; members.aol.com/chess316 “TWO DEANS OF AMERICAN CHESS AND THE ORIGIN OF CHESS” send $15 and address to Jerry DeGattis, 3955 Coffee Rd. #76 95355 Visit www.thechesslibrary.com NEW BOOK: Bronstein: Fifty Great Short Games—IM Minev. Free tournament crosstable archives. CHESS VISUALIZATION COURSE

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telephone numbers as one, ZIP code is free. Full payment must accompany all advertising. All advertising published in Chess Life is subject to the applicable rate card, available from the Advertising Department. Chess Life reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s order. Only publication of an advertisement constitutes final acceptance. For a copy of these complete set of regulations & a schedule of deadlines, send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: Chess Life Classifieds, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.

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Solutions

Chess to Enjoy Problem I.

1. ... Rb1+ 2. Rf1 Nf4! and 3. ... Nh3 mate or 3. ... Nxe2+. Problem II.

1. Rd5! threatens both 2. Rxd1 and 2. f6! Qxd5 3. fxg7+ Kg8 4. Qxf8 mate. Black resigned after 1. ... Rd8 2. h4! Qe7 3. f6! Qe8 4. f7!. Problem III.

1. c5! and 2. Nc4/3. Nb6 wins the pinned knight. Problem IV.

1. cxb7! dxe3 2. Rxc8! Qa4 3. Rxe8+ Qxe8 4. Rc1 and Rc8 wins. Problem V.

White queens first with 1. b4! axb3 e.p. (or 1. ... Ke6 2. c5 bxc5 3. b5) 2. a4! h5 3. c5! bxc5 4. a5 h4 5. f7 Ke7 6. f8=Q+! Kxf8 7. a6 h3 8. a7 h2 9. a8=Q+. No better is 3. ... h4 4. f7 Ke7 5. f8=Q+ Kxf8 6. cxb6 h3 7. b7 h2 8. b8=Q+. Problem VI.

1. Qc2! (threat of Bxe5) 1. ... Rc5 2. Bxf5+! and now (a) 2. ... Kg8 3. Be6+; (b) 2. ... Rxf5 or 2. ... Qxf5 allow 3. Rxh5+!, and (c) 2. ... Kh6! 3. g4! (threatens 4. Rxh5 mate) 3. ... g6 4. f4! Rxc2 5. Rxh5+ gxh5 6. g5 mate.

What’s The Best Move? 1. C. Adams (2734, England) - Jobava (2664, Georgia)

A. The game was eventually drawn after 1. Rb6? Rxa3 2. Rxb5 Ra2 3. h4 Kf7, etc. B. Black can hold on 1. Rxe6? Rxa3 2. a6 b4. C. In time trouble Adams missed a lovely theme: 1. a4! bxa4 2. a6 Rd7 3. Rc4 Ra7 4. Rxa4. 2. A. Barsov (2513, Uzbekistan) - Flores (2569, Argentina)

A. Black lacks compensation for the queen but White has a lot of work to prove it after 1. Kh1! Rxd4 2. Qdb5. B. The game continued with the plausible 1. Qxe5 Rxd4 2. Qaa5 Rd1+ 3. Kg2 Qxa5 (instead of the horrific blunder 3. ... Rd2+?? 4. Qxd2) 4. Qxa5 Rxa1 should draw. C. Perpetual check ensues on 1. Rd1 Qxd4+ 2. Qxd4 Nf3+ 3. Kf1 Nxh2+ 4. Kg1 Nf3+ 4. Kf1 (but not 4. Kh1?? Rh2 mate). 3. C. Grischuk (2719, Russia) - Ganguly (2603, India)

A. Trying to trap the bishop backfires after 1. Rb2 Bxc4! 2. Bxc4 Rd4+ 3. Kf5 Rxc4. B. Also inadequate is 1. Ra7? Bxc4 2. Bxc4 Rd4+ 3. Kf5 Rxc4. C. Black had to resign after 1. g6! hxg6 2. Kg5 Rxd5+ (if 2. ... Rd6 3. Rb2!) 3. cxd5 Bxd5 4. Rb5 Kg7 5. Rxc5 Be4 6. Rxa5. 4. B. Leko (2747, Hungary) - Ivanchuk (2786, Ukraine)

Rd3 Qe5 10. Ne8 Qh8+ 11. Ke7 Qe5+. 8. ... Kc7 9. Rd4! Kc6 10. Kg7 Qg3+ 11. Kf6 wins because White will complete a “bridge-like” scheme with 12. Nf5.

Solitaire Chess – ABCs of Chess Fork: White loses the Exchange after 1. ... Ne2+, 2. Qxe2 Rxc1 3. Qxa6 Rxe1+ 4. Nxe1 Rxa6 follows. Problem I.

A. Defenders dread this nightmare and White predictably bit the dust after 1. Rd8? Re3! (threatening 2. ... Bh3+ 3. Kg1 Re1 mate) 2. Rg8 Re7! (Philidor centuries ago found this waiting move that drives White’s rook to an inferior square) 3. Rg5 Rh7! 4. Ke1 Rd7! intending 5. ... Rd1 mate. B. The only way to draw is 1. Rf8!! Re3 2. Kg1!! Re1+ 3. Rf1 Re2 4. Rf8. C. A fate that befalls many defenders is 1. Kg1?? Re1 mate.

Interference: Black gains a pawn by 1. ... a3 2. Bc3 Qxc4.

Endgame Lab – Benko’s Bafflers

Problem VI.

Problem I. 1. c6 a5 2. c7 a4 3. c8=Q a3 4. Qc2 4. Qc1? a2 5. Kg7 stalemate. 4. ... a2 5. Kg7 Na3 6. Qc3+ 6. Qb3!? Nc2 is drawn. 6. ... Kb1 7. Qb3+ Ka1 8. Kf6 Nc2 9. Ke5 Nd4 10. Qb6 Nb3 11. Kd5 Kb2 12. Kc4 a1=Q 13. Qxb3+ Kc1 14. Qe3+ Kb1 15. Qd3+ Kb2 16. Qd2+ Ka3 No better is 16. ... Kb1 17. Kb3. 17. Qb4+ Ka2 18. Qb3 mate. Problem II. 1. f7! Qf6+ 2. Nd6 Qc3+ 3. Kd7! After 3. Kb6? Qb3+ 4. Nb5 Qe6+ 5. Rd6 Qe7 6. Ka6 Qb7+ 7. Ka5 Qa8+ 8. Kb4 Qe4+ it is difficult for White to make progress. 3. ... Qh3+ 3. ... Qxd2 4. f8=Q+ Ka7 5. Qf7 wins. 4. Kd8! Black gets a perpetual after 4. Ke7? Qe3+ 5. Kd7 Qa7+ 6. Kd8 Qb6+ 7. Ke8 Qe3+. 4. ... Qh8+ Too easy is 4. ... Qh4+ 5. Ke8. 5. Ke7! 5. Ne8? Qh4+ is equal. 5. ... Qh4+ 6. Ke8! Qa4+ 7. Kf8! Qa3 8. Rd5! There is no rest for White’s king after 8. Rd4? Qc5 9.

Problem II.

Mating net: It’s a straightforward mate: 1. ... Qb1+ 2. Rxb1 Rxb1 mate. Problem III.

En prise: Black wins at least a pawn with 1. ... Qxc3 2. fxg4 Qe1+ 3. Qf1 Qxe3+. Problem IV.

Fork: Black reduces with 1. ... Qxd4+ 2. Qxd4 Ne2+. Problem V.

Promotion: Black resolves things with 1. ... Qxb3, when 2. axb3 Nxc3 is curtains.

ChessFest, page 44 Fernando Saavedra problem

+

+ + + + + + KP+ + + + +r+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + k + + + +

White to play and win.

1. c7 Rd6+ 2. Kb5 Rd5+ 3. Kb4 Rd4+ 4. Kb3 Rd3+ 5. Kc2 Rd4 6. c8=R Not 6. c8=Q Rc4+ 7. Qxc4 stalemate. 6. ... Ra4 To stop white's threat of 7. Ra8 mate. 7. Kb3, and Black either loses his rook or will lose to 8. Rc1 mate.

CHESS LIFE USPS# 102-840 (ISSN 0197-260X). Volume 64 No. 5. PRINTED IN THE USA. Chess Life, formerly Chess Life & Review, is published monthly by the United States Chess Federation, 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557-3967. Chess Life & Review and Chess Life remain the property of USCF. Annual subscription (without membership): $50. Periodical postage paid at Crossville, TN 38557-3967 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chess Life (USCF), PO Box 3967, Crossville, Tennessee 38557-3967. Entire contents ©2009 by the United States Chess Federation. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise without the prior written permission of USCF. Note: Unsolicited materials are submitted at the sender's risk and Chess Life accepts no responsibility for them. Materials will not be returned unless accompanied by appropriate postage and packaging. Address all submissions to Chess Life, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557-3967. The opinions expressed are strictly those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Chess Federation. Send all address changes to: U.S. Chess, Membership Services, PO Box 3967, Crossville, Tennessee 38557-3967. Include your USCF I.D. number and a recent mailing label if possible. This information may be e-mailed to addresschange@ uschess.org. Please give us eight weeks advance notice. PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 41473530 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO EXPRESS MESSENGER INTERNATIONAL P.O. BOX 25058 LONDON BRC, ONTARIO, CANADA N6C 6A8 uschess.org

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C H E S S B A S E 10 10 DON'T MISS A THING

ChessBase se is the personal chess database which has become the standard tandard throughout the world. It is the program of choice for all those who love chess and who also o hope to play successfully in the future. W ith ChessBase ssBase 10 we enter a new era of With chess databases. W With ith our new version, waiting for search results is just ust as much a thing of the past as is the worry aboutt your database being up to date and complete. The he whole chess cosmos is at your fingertips with ChessBase: hessBase: almost 4 million games from the start of the history of chess until the top tournament played p yed just j a few weeks ago g – whatever you would like to know w, it’ ’s all there and only the know, it’s press of a button away y. away. 5,000 new games every week for the whole year 2009! All edited in n top ChessBase quality and ready for a one-click upgrade grade to your Refernce Database

on n your hard disk. That guarantees that with h ChessBase hessBase 10 you are in the heart of things straight away. away wayy. Moreover, Moreoverr, the online database which has been totally tally restructured shows you at a glance alll the games ames of a specific player or the 1000 most recent games ames involving any specific board position. Games, positions, statistics, etc. all appear on your Games, screen reen at speeds which have never been reached ached be be-fore. re. The online database shows the required ed infor infor-mation m ation in less than a second (on ADSL). And nd with the he more than 4 million game g database on your y hard ard disk, you can visit every corner of the world off chess easily and at breakneck speed. Even n our super-functions super uper-functions such as Opening Reference, e, OpenOpening g Report and Dossier come up with the results at lightning ghtning speed. The he ChessBase 10 program packages comee with the latest test ChessBase databases. Big Database 2009 009 and M Mega Database 2009 offer a complete survey ey from the he beginning of tournament chess up to today odayy. And today. they hey also include the free Games Download d Service up p to end of this year year.. Look at the games off your next ext opponent in the player index. Get a perspective erspective off the newest developments with the opening ng index which hich consist of more than 100,000 classification cation positions. ositions. Thanks to the thematic means off access viaa the indexes and the keys, this is as quickk as a flash ash and you have more time for what is essential. ssential.

The Big Database 2009 with h more than 4 million unannotated games is the most ecoeconomical reference work for all subjects relating to chess. But if you want explanations of the games of top playplayers and opening experts in the correct context, the Mega Database 2009 is for you. For this database contains more than 62 000 anan notated games. This makes it the biggest collection of annotated games. In many any ny verbal commentaries, for instance, the ideas of opening pening variations or the correct winning methods in n complicated endgames are explained. There is no better way to learn chess. The Mega Database 2009 iss part of the ChessBase 10 Mega Package.

CB 10 - Mega Package age % 359,90 / US $ 490 ChessBase 10 program, new integrated CB online database, Player Encyclopediaa 2009, ChessBase Mega Database 2009 with mor moree tha than an 4 Mio. games + auto auto-matic update until 31 December mber 2009, Fritz Endgame Turbo T urbo 3 (9 DVDs), ChessBase se CORR 2009, ChessBase Magazine subscription for onee year

CB 10 - Starter Package kage % 154,90 / US $ 210 ChessBase 10 program, new integrated ntegrated CB online data data-base, Player Encyclopedia 2009, 9, ChessBase Big Database 2009 with mor moree than 4 Mio. games g + automatic update until 31 December 2009, Thr Three ree issues of ChessBase Magazine (DVD + print) System requirements: requirements: Minimum: mum: Pentium 1 GHz, indows Vista Vis ista sta or Windows Windows XP 512 MB RAM, W Windows (Service (Ser rvice Pack 2), DVD ROM M drive, W Windows indows Media Player 9. Recommended: PC Intel I Cor Coree 2 Duo, 2.4 GHz, 4 GB RAM, W Windows ind indows dows V Vista ista 64, GeForce8 graphics car card rd (or compatible) with 256 MB RAM or higher higher, r, 100% DirectX DirectX compatible mpatible sound card, card, Windows W indows Media Player 11, DVD D ROM drive.

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