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Chess Life — September 2009
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September on uschess.org
Back to School with GM Joel
GM Rogers on Rising Stars
Send GM Joel your inquiries on anything from a specific endgame position to how to approach games against lower rated players. In a special autumn promotion, the best entries this month will win hardcover copies of The Art of Learning! Send your questions to
[email protected]
Don’t miss GM Ian Rogers’ wrap-up of the NH tournament in Amsterdam, which features Rising Stars versus Experience. Among the five rising stars are U.S. Champion Hikaru Nakamura and ItalianAmerican Fabiano Caruana (pictured below).
Labor Day Madness Labor Day is a huge weekend for chess events with World Chess Live Grand Prix events in over a dozen states. Some of the largest include the New York State Championship in Albany, the Southern California Open in San Diego and the Southwest Open in Fort Worth, Texas. The weekend of September 5-7th will also feature two major events in Tulsa, Oklahoma—the 1st Women’s Open and the U.S. Senior Open. The winner of the Senior gets a ticket into the 2010 U.S. Championship set for spring 2010 in St. Louis.
Photo Essay FM Mike Klein (above, kneeling) just completed an eight-month aroundthe-world adventure, traveling to 25 countries along the way. While he failed to complete the great American novel, he did play chess along the way. Watch for his photo essay this month, where he came only 100 meters from challenging the Dalai Lama to a game.
Chess Life now available via pdf viewer Read Chess Life on the web with our new online pdf viewer. Flip pages ‘virtually’ and click on hyperlinks for easy access
Cover Story
Freddie’s
SWANSONG As Fred Gruenberg says goodbye to the tournament he made one of the most player-friendly ones on the circuit, the initial international flavor of this year’s event ends with a local feel as two southern Californians finish on top. By Irina Krush | Photos by Chris Bird
T
he 2009 National Open (June 4th7th) assembled an impressive array of strong players, including 17 grandmasters and 13 international masters. Despite its name, the National Open had a very international feel to it, at least in terms of the battle for first place; this year, the top four seeds were all visitors from abroad: Frenchman Laurent Fressinet (2715), Armenian Gabriel Sargissian (2773), the Russian Evgeny Bareev (2556), and Loek Van Wely (2728), from the Netherlands. At some point in their careers, Bareev and Van Wely were 2700+ FIDE-rated players and regularly faced off against the best in the world, so their participation in the National Open was something of a treat. The National Open draws people for a number of reasons beyond the obvious one. Fortuitously cushioned between the big money Chicago and World Opens, it makes a sensible stop for foreign GMs on their summer chess tour of the U.S. Others are lured by the proximity to the World Series of Poker events held nearby at the Rio (Fressinet’s wife, IM Almira Skripchenko, won $78,664 in a No-Limit Hold’Em event 11 days after the National Open ended, which, coupled with Laurent’s winnings at the tournament, meant the pair left Vegas with an enviable total of $78,695 in prize money.) One person is probably there because they won the previous year’s raffle grand prize of round trip air-
fare and free entry. But I think that a lot of people come because of the way the National Open has positioned itself as more than just your regular chess tournament. In fact, the tournament is the centerpiece of an entire chess festival, replete with grandmaster simuls, lectures, and even an instructional camp. There’s a popular game/10 rapid championship the eve of the tournament, and blitz and bughouse events at its conclusion. Scholastic chess, too, features prominently, as Susan Polgar runs her World Open for Girls and Boys parallel to the National Open, and hosts a myriad other events during the festival. Another standout feature of the National Open has been the presence of legendary guest stars, who are enticed with promises of rounds starting on time and quiet in the playing room. No, wait, I’m mixing up my notes ... Freddie did say that those are high priorities for the organization, but what seals the deal is likely the business-class tickets and generous appearance fees the players receive. Over the years, the National Open has played host to Sammy Reshevsky, Viktor Korchnoi, Gata Kamsky, and the Polgar sisters, among others. I wondered how the National Open could afford its munificence. The answer is: it’s not run for profit. Everything that the tournament takes in is given back to the players in some form. That’s not a business model that would appeal to
everyone, but it does make possible “The Chess Vacation of the Year”! Now maybe you’d like to know who won the tournament; despite my silence thus far, it’s actually not a state secret, and will eventually be revealed. Going into the final round, there were no less than twelve players tied at 4-1, so theoretically there could have been a long list of winners to transcribe here. When the dust cleared, though, only two of the six pairings saw a decisive result, and two southern Californians, GM Varuzhan Akobian and IM Enrico Sevillano, topped the field, collecting $4,641 each. Ironically, Varuzh could be heard grumbling about the small amount of money he’d won; of course, the competition for this prize had been fierce, and one could only wish the chess pie were a bit larger. But we should probably reserve the bulk of our sympathy for the people half a point below him—they took home ten times less. Varuzhan has been a member of the U.S. Olympiad team for the last two Olympiads, and, as one of the top players in the U.S., his position at the top of the crosstable was not a big surprise. But Enrico overcame his underdog status against a much higher-rated opponent, with the black pieces to boot. He is such a friendly and affable person that it was very pleasing to see him enjoy this success. Let’s take a look at their critical last round wins:
to e-mail and web addresses! The USCF is pleased to offer this enhancement to your membership. There is even an “advertisers” tab that you can click on to go directly to their ads and a thumbnail option so you can see all pages at a glance. You can also download the pdf file directly from within the viewer, as well as adjust the text size.
Go to uschess.org and click on “Chess Life Magazine” on the left, then “Online viewer.” You will need your username and password.
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Chess Life — September 2009
3
September Chess Life Columns 18 | NATIONAL OPEN 12 LOOKS AT BOOKS 1. d4 Pawn Families By GM Andy Soltis
13 WHAT’S THE BEST MOVE? The King Hunt By GM Larry Evans
Freddie’s Swansong By IM Irina Krush
As Fred Gruenberg says goodbye to the tournament he madeone of the most player-friendly ones on the circuit, the initial international flavor of this year’s event ends with a local feel as two southern Californians finish on top.
14 CHESS TO ENJOY The Language of Chess By GM Andy Soltis
16 SOLITAIRE CHESS Warfare on all Fronts By Bruce Pandolfini
38 BACK TO BASICS An (Adrenaline Pumping) Ordinary Game By GM Lev Alburt
40 ENDGAME LAB 2009 U.S. Championship, Part I By GM Pal Benko
Departments 3
PREVIEW
6
COUNTERPLAY
8
FIRST MOVES
10 USCF AFFAIRS 44 TOURNAMENT LIFE 62 CLASSIFIEDS 63 SOLUTIONS
26 | REMEMBRANCE
Snapshots from a life: Nigel Eddis (1936-2009) By Larry Parr
33 | INSTRUCTION
The Purposeful Rook By Carey Theil
A guide for the class player on how to activate your rooks—with meaning!
On The Cover With the promotional efforts of Fred Gruenberg, the National Open has grown into one of the premier destination chess events in the USCF. After 25 years, Freddie has stepped down. Cover design Frankie Butler, photos by Chris Bird
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Chess Life — September 2009
36 | INSTRUCTION
Middlegame Zugzwang and a Previously Unknown Bobby Fischer Game By GM Larry Kaufman
Zugzwang is commonly known as an endgame phenomenon. Middlegame examples are rare, as are unknown Fischer games ...
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Counterplay Chess Life invited tournament director Tim Just, a 2009 recipient of the USCF award for “Outstanding Career Achievement,” to give some advice to new or inexperienced tournament players. Rulebook Tactics There are a number of things you can do as a player that increase your chances of essaying an enjoyable game by simply being aware of some basic rulebook strategies. 1. Stop the clock and get a tournament director (TD). Whatever your concern is about a rules violation it is best, in most cases, to first stop your clock. This way your clock is not running towards a flag fall while you get help from the TD. Make sure to let your opponent know why you are stopping the clock. 2. Make it a habit, even if you lose, to make sure your score is marked up properly. Why? Well, if the TDs can’t find out
the results of your game they may or may not end up crediting you with the correct results for pairing and prize purposes. 3. Make sure you know how the clock is set, even if it is not your clock. For example, assuming the delay is set properly on a delay clock can lead to some unpleasant situations later in the game. 4. After you arrive at your board, check to make sure your opponent is the same one you saw listed on the pairing sheet. Playing the incorrect opponent (not uncommon) leads to some challenges for the TD that may not always be dealt with in your favor. Playing the wrong opponent can affect your pairings in future rounds. 5. If you are waiting for an opponent that has not arrived and the player next to you, or near you is doing the same thing, check it out. The two of you just might be playing each other and one of you acci-
dently is seated at the wrong board. 6. Make sure you are playing the right color. Double check it. The TD can’t always fix this kind of situation to your satisfaction. 7. TDs are not cops. Rarely do they interject themselves into your game, even when they observe a rules violation. You have to make the claim that the rule was violated. 8. Ask a TD what your rights are if they rule against you. 9. Perpetual check is not a rule. Having the same position three times (it does not even have to be three times in a row!) is the rule. To make this claim properly it is one of the few times you get to write your move down first. Write the move first then make the claim and stop the clock. 10. Get a TD if your opponent disputes one of your claims (remember to stop that clock). 11. If either player makes a claim of a draw of any kind it is the same as offering a draw to the opponent. 12. Keep an accurate scoresheet so that you can offer it as evidence of any claim you are making. An incomplete scoresheet (check marks don’t count towards an accurate scoresheet) is usually worthless in a disputed claim. 13. Start your clock at the beginning of the round, even if your opponent is not there! If your opponent does come late, failing to start their clock until they arrive may delay the start of the next round for everyone else. 14. The standard penalty, unless stated otherwise, is to add two minutes to the time of the player that makes a valid rules violation claim. If Chess Life publishes your letter, you will be sent a copy of Test, Evaluate and Improve Your Chess (see ad to the left). This will begin with the October issue.
Chess Life welcomes letters from its readers. Letters are subject to editing for content and length. Send your letters to
[email protected], and include your full name and a telephone number.
Contributors IM Irina Krush (“2009 National Open,” p. 18) is a two-time U.S. women’s champion and a frequent contributor to both Chess Life and Chess Life Online.
Carey Theil (“Instruction,” p. 33) is a national master who lives in Somerville, Massachusetts with his wife, Christine, a greyhound, and four cats. He works for a national non-profit animal protection organization.
Larry Parr (“Remembrance,” p. 26) was Chess Life editor from 1984 to 1988. Parr currently lives with his family in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where he also works. Along with Dato’ Tan Chin Nam, he co-authored the memoir, Never Say I Assume! (MPH, 2006).
GM Larry Kaufman (“Instruction,” p. 35) is the U.S. senior champion, world senior champion, and member of the Rybka development team. He is the author of The Chess Advantage in Black and White.
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Chess Life — September 2009
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Chess Life — September 2009
7
First Moves
SuperNational IV’s
S UPERSCHOLARSHIPS from the University of Texas at Dallas
The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) awarded three separate full-tuition-andfees, four-year scholarships to the top performers at the SuperNationals IV chess competition held April 3-5 in Nashville. Scholarship recipients are GM-elect Robert Hess of New York City, winner of the K-12 high school section; Ryan Moon of Duluth, Georgia, winner of the K-9 junior high school section; and Daniel Gurevich of Marietta, Georgia, winner of the elementary section. The Chess Life SuperNationals IV tournament report
appeared in the June 2009 issue. Each of the three Academic Distinction Scholarships has a cash value of about $80,000 for non-Texas residents. The winners must meet the University’s rigorous requirements at matriculation. “As a graduating college senior, I am pleased to say that this scholarship has allowed me to fully pursue my academic goals while also enabling me to continue playing top-level chess,” said IM John Bartholomew, a senior business administration major and member of
the university’s chess team. He was awarded an Academic Distinction Scholarship at the 2001 SuperNationals, where he took first place in the K-9 junior high section. “This tournament is a valuable contribution to the creation of a better future for society,” said Curt Eley, vice president for enrollment management, who gave the opening address at the event. “It was heartwarming to see so many bright, focused, hard-working young minds engaged in clean, thoughtful fun.”
GM Robert Hess GM Hess has been well represented on these pages these last few months, and not just for winning the UTD scholarship. His spring 2009 streak began with the SPICE Spring Invitational (March 16-22, Lubbock, Texas), where he scored his second grandmaster norm. A week later in Nashville, Robert swept the high school nationals 7-0, leading his team, Stuyvesant to a national title. A couple days after that, Robert was off to Foxwoods where he defeated GMs Ehlvest and Nakamura on his way to norm number three. He then had an exciting run at the 2009 U.S. Championship (May 7-17, St. Louis), giving Nakamura a challenge for the championship.
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Chess Life — September 2009
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Ryan Joseph Moon Ryan Joseph Moon, the winner of the K-9 section at SuperNationals IV, started playing chess at around the age of eight. He entered the primary section of a scholastic tournament and came out with a provisional rating of 867. From there it has been a steady climb until now where his rating sits just a handful of points below the master level. He has now finished first or tied for first in five national championships. Joseph (he usually goes by his middle name) has had several coaches over the six years or so that he has been active in tournament competition. His first coach was his father, Henry, at that time a professor in Emory University’s Goizueta Business School. Henry mentions that “Joseph at an early age had to battle nervousness at the board, and chess taught him, through many hard fought wins and losses, to keep his cool.” It wasn’t long before Henry decided that he needed to find someone stronger than himself to coach his precocious son, and they connected with Colombian IM Carlos Perdomo, who was then living in the Atlanta area. After Carlos they moved on to GM Semion “Sam” Palatnik, and
now it is GM John Fedorowicz who is in charge of Joseph’s chess instruction. Joseph has not yet beaten any grandmasters in tournament competition, but he does have wins over international masters Ron Burnett, Emory Tate, and Oladapo Adu to his credit. “I think that winning the chess scholarship to UTD was a great accom- plishment for me,” Joseph says. “I feel like I can always look back and be proud of myself for winning the SuperNationals. The competition was brutal, with all the best ninth graders in that section. I knew I was going to have to work hard in order to win, and I did. ‘A man who is prepared has already won half the battle.’ During the matches I always kept my cool, and tried not to get nervous.” “What is funny is that I didn’t even know that there was a K-8 section at the SuperNationals. I had thought that the only section I could play in was the K-9. I actually didn’t know about the scholarships until I think it was the sixth round when I was playing Christian Tanaka. A friend of mine had said to me that I must be excited to be so close to that scholarship, and I clearly didn’t know what he was talking about.” ~Scott Parker
MOON AND GUREVICH BY ROMAN GRIGORIEV; HESS BY ETSY DYNAKO
Daniel Gurevich The winner of the K-6 section scholarship was Georgia fifthgrader Daniel Gurevich. Daniel learned to play chess before he turned five. When asked who taught him, Daniel replies “No one, I learned on my own.” At his friend’s house Daniel discovered a computer program LEGO Chess which taught him the basics. Soon Daniel started frequenting the local chess club. By the fall of his kindergarten year he started to play in tournaments. At about the same time Daniel met his first coach, a local FM, Michael Elkin, who remains Daniel’s over-the-board coach. By age 7 Daniel won two national championships: the first grade section at the 2004 nationals in Orlando, Florida and the K-1 section of SuperNationals III in Nashville, Tennessee in 2005. An active tournament player, Daniel reached his goal of raising his USCF rating to 2100 before his 11th birthday. In the past year he started to play in major adult tournaments. He has not yet been paired with a grandmaster, but three draws against international masters, including Jay Bonin in July 2009, led me to believe that the wins are not far away, either. Daniel’s win at SuperNationals IV gave Daniel his third national
scholastic title in four appearances; a remarkable achievement. This win is special: despite the fact that he was only in fifth grade, Daniel overcame a strong field of experts, including several top10 sixth-graders. Professor Tim Redman, founder of the UT Dallas chess team, who presented the scholarship, was impressed with Daniel’s SAT score which is already high enough to be admitted. Having considered early admission, Daniel decided to wait and concentrate on his dream of becoming a grandmaster before college. Besides FM Elkin, Daniel credits two other coaches with his recent successes. The Gurevich family hosted IM Kirill Kuderinov, who coached Daniel from October 2008 until Kirill’s return to his native Kazakhstan in May 2009. Since September 2008 Daniel has also been taking lessons from GM Artur Jussupow (Yusupov in USCF listings. ~ed). “The last win is the most important,” Daniel says. “The reason I played in this year’s SuperNationals was the opportunity to win the UTD scholarship, and the strong competition in the K-6 section it attracted. It is still hard to tell which is more important: winning the title or the scholarship. Each is a big honor.” ~Scott Parker
“...A valuable contribution to the creation of a better future for society” —CUR T ELEY
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Chess Life — September 2009
9
USCF Affairs September 2009 Executive Board Election The results of the 2009 executive board election were determined on July 23. 11.1% of the eligible voters cast ballots. The four candidates who were elected to four-year terms on the executive board are Jim Berry, Bill Goichberg, Ruth Haring and Mike Atkins. Berry and Goichberg were incumbents, Haring and Atkins took office at the conclusion of the 2009 delegates’ meeting, replacing Randy Hough, who chose not to run for another term, and Joel Channing, who had resigned.
Jim Berry: New board president
Bill Goichberg: New board member at large
Ruth Haring: New board vice president
New board member Michael Atkins tells Chess Life:
Michael Atkins: New board member at large
Totals in Order of Rank
“I’d like to thank all the people who voted in the recent elections for USCF executive board. No matter who you voted for, you took part in the process and expressed your opinions and desires for how you want your chess federation to proceed in the future. While 11% sounds small, it tends to be that proportion for NFP [not-for-profit] hobby organization's elections. Lets do better than that next time. If we can accomplish all that with only 11% involvement, imagine what 22% would look like! Imagine all the new chess sponsors and new tournaments, programs and progress that 22% involvement could mean and imagine what 100,000 members would look like. It wouldn't be that hard, doubling or tripling our retention/renewal rates would be a way to start. I look forward to moving on from the current quagmire and getting back to chess.”
Jim Berry: Bill Goichberg: Ruth Haring: Michael Atkins: Mikhail Korenman: Mike Nietman: Eric Hecht: Blas Lugo: Sam Sloan: Brian Lafferty: Brian Mottershead:
3,030 3,014 2,952 2,672 822 732 717 657 588 576 435
There were also 123 write-in ballots. A total of 4,379 ballots were received.
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
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Chess Life — September 2009
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.
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2009
NATIONAL SCHOLASTIC K-12 CHAMPIONSHIP December 11-13, 2009 HILTON ANATOLE DALLAS 2201 STEMMONS FREEWAY • DALLAS, TX 75207 Reservations: 1-800-HILTONS
OR
214-748-1200
Opening Ceremony
12/11 Friday: 12:30pm
SIDE EVENTS
Rounds
Friday: 1pm, 6pm Saturday: 10am, 2pm, 6pm Sunday: 9am, 1pm
Bughouse:
Awards Ceremonies
Sunday: 4:30pm (K-1) & 5pm (Approx.)
Blitz:
Special round times for K- 1 sections
Friday: 1:30pm, 5:30pm Saturday: 9:30am, 2:30pm, 5:30pm Sunday: 9:30am, 1:30pm
On-site registration
12/10: 9am-10pm 12/11: 8am-Noon Players registering after 10am Friday will not be paired for round 1, will receive a 1/2 point bye, and will begin play round 2.
Thursday: 11am On-site entry only Thursday, 9am until 10 am $25 per team.
Thursday: 5pm On-site entry until 4pm • Entry in advance $15 by 11/29 • $20 after 11/29 or 0n-site • Register at https://secure.uschess.org/webstore/tourna ment.php
Simul:
TBA
Team Rooms are limited! contact Cheryle Bruce
[email protected] • 931-787-1234 ext.147
7SS, G/90, 13 sections: Play only in your grade. December Rating Supplement will be used. Team Score = total of top three (minimum two) finishers from each school per grade. First place individual and team will be National Champion for their grade.
Awards:
Trophies to top 10 individuals & top five teams in each grade (minimum). Many other class prizes. Every player receives a commemorative item!
Blitz:
Trophies in K-6 and K-12 sections, individual and team.
Bughouse:
Trophies to be announced.
Name____________________________________USCF ID #_____________________________Rating____________________________________ Address______________________________________________City________________________________State____________Zip_____________ e-mail Address__________________________________________________________________________________________________________ School____________________________________________________________________Grade _________________________________________ Bye Requested: Rd. 1 ❑ 2 ❑ 3 ❑ 4 ❑ 5 ❑ 6 ❑ 1/2-pt bye available if requested in advance (except rd. 7) USCF Membership Dues: Please go to www.uschess.org for appropriate membership category and rates. Entry Fees: $50/participant postmarked by 11/12, $70/participant postmarked by 11/29, $85 after 11/29 or $90 on site. (Add $5 for phone entry.) Blitz entry: $15 until 11/29 or $20 after 11/29 or on-site. Amount Enclosed: Entry Fee $____________ Blitz $____________ USCF Dues $___________ Total Enclosed $______________________________ In advance: Make checks payable to: U.S. Chess Federation (USCF). On site: Make payments in Cash, by Money Order, or Credit Card. ❑ MASTER CARD ❑ DISCOVER ❑ AMEX ❑ VISA V-Code (last 3 digits on the signature line) _______________________________________________________ Number __________________________________ EXP. ____ /____ SIGNATURE: _______________________________________________________ Registration information: USCF membership is required and must be current. You may pay USCF membership with your entry. Adult: Please check our website (uschess.org) for Adult and Young Adult options. Advance entries must include player’s name and all fees to be accepted. Roster changes are considered new entries and will be charged according to date received. List name, address, phone, section, grade, school (even if no team), coach’s name, e-mail, birth date, USCF ID #, USCF expiration (enclose USCF dues if necessary) and rating. Players must be eligible to play in accordance with USCF Scholastic Regulations. Please bring clocks. Ent: “K-12 Champ.,” c/o USCF, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557-3967. For more info or to register online: www.uschess.org. Please make all checks payable to USCF.
Looks at Books
1. d4 Pawn Families Putting the four most important pawn structures arising from 1. d4 under a microscope By GM Andy Soltis
doubled pawns, isolated d-pawns, hanging c- and d-pawns, and “pawn majority in the center.” Each of the book’s four chapters begins with a short introduction of what the author calls the “essential” pawn structures of the family. This is followed by heavily-annotated illustrative games, which account for more than 90 percent of the book. The games come almost exclusively from the NimzoIndian, Queen’s Gambit Accepted, Declined and Slav Defense. When Sokolov is teaching, rather than analyzing 10 moves ahead, he has a lot of good points to make. For example:
Making a point GM Alexey Vyzmanavin (FIDE 2490) GM Alexander Beliavsky (FIDE 2600) Lvov 1984
I have a theory—totally unscientific—that every new generation of chess authors aims for a stronger audience. They imagine their readers to be at least 100 rating points better than the previous generation of readers. They write for players who are assumed to be more sophisticated than the ones who grew up reading Ludek Pachman and Max Euwe, not to mention from Eugene Znosko-Borovsky and Fred Reinfeld. That seems to be Ivan Sokolov’s audience in Winning Chess Middlegames. He takes an idea used by Hans Kmoch two generations ago, expands on it and writes for more advanced readers. Kmoch’s idea, in the final section of Pawn Power in Chess, was to analyze a specific family of pawn structures, the Benonis. (I pilfered Kmoch’s idea myself and applied it to several families in Pawn Structure Chess.) Sokolov’s puts under a microscope the four most important families that arise from 1. d4 openings. These are:
12
Chess Life — September 2009
r+l q rk+ pp+ +p pp +n p n + + p p + +P P + + P PL P + + +N PP P R LQ+R K After 9. ... 0-0
Here White played 10. e4!. Sokolov explains that this temporary sac is a common idea in this structure. White will regain the pawn, after 10. ... cxd4 11. cxd4 exd4 12. Bb2 and eventually Nxd4. Then the pawn structure favors him. His queen bishop has become active and Black’s d6-pawn is weak. In this game, Black replied 10. ... b6. What happened next, 11. d5 Na5?!, was also very instructive. Sokolov calls that central pawn skeleton, plus the knight on a5, “Structure 1.7,” and shows how bad it can be for Black.
Black must either win the c4-pawn or force White into gyrations to defend it, he writes. Otherwise, Black will be badly outgunned on the kingside, as in this game which White won by advancing with Ng3-f5, Qg4 and an elaborate pawn storm. There are some valuable insights sprinkled throughout the book. Sokolov cites the case of a player liquidating an isolani, such as when White gets rid of an isolated d-pawn with d4-d5. The resulting pawn structure is more or less symmetrical and may seem that the opponent with the black pieces can equalize with a few good moves. “Well, more often than not, for the defending side, those ‘few good moves’ are nowhere to be found,” Sokolov points out. But I suspect most readers will have two problems with this book. The first is that the move analysis overwhelms the words. To get from one move of a game to the next you often have to wade through half a page of subvariations. The second problem is that many of Sokolov’s 33 “essential” structures are esoteric. For example, consider one with white pawns at d6, e5, f4, g2 and h2 and black pawns at d7, e6, f5, g7 and h7. If Black is castled kingside and he has a knight at e8, this is “Structure 1.8.” It occurred in Bronstein-Simagin, Moscow 1961; one of those spectacular games from the golden era of Soviet chess. I’m glad to see this virtually unknown gem being revived and given the attention it deserves. But how often does “Structure 1.8” actually occur? Maybe once in every other blue moon. The bottom line is: If you like heavilyanalyzed games, this is one of the best collections to be published in recent years. But if you get more from the words rather than from the move analysis in annotations, this is not the book for you.
.
Winning Chess Middlegames by Ivan Sokolov, New In Chess 260 pages, $29.95 from uscfsales.com (catalog number B0071NIC).
uschess.org
What’s The Best Move?
The King Hunt By GM Larry Evans
Brute Force Sometimes we forget that the object of chess is to kill the enemy king. But David Hooper and Bernard Cafferty, two lions of British chess, remind us of this fact in their 1977 book Play For Mate. Their book illustrates 290 positions from actual master play with numerous mating patterns as well as a wide range of missed opportunities. Our challenge is to find the fastest win via brute force. Solutions to this month’s quiz positions are on page 63. Readers are invited to send their positions in for possible consideration in this column. Send to
[email protected] or mail to Chess Life, c/o What’s The Best Move, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.
1. White moves
+ + rr+ pp+n+p pk + p l p + +N pP+Q q+ +P+ + + P L + P P K P P R + + R
r+l+ rk+ p + +p pp p Qp+ + + + P +N P + + + + + + + P+ +q PP P + +R+R K
(a) Rxg7+ (b) Nxf6+ (c) Rg6
(a) Ng3 (b) Nf6+ (c) Rd4
3. Black moves
4. Black moves
k+r+r+ + pp+ + +p q + + + + +R+N p l + + + +P+ +P+ +Q+R+P P + + + +K (a) Qf2 (b) Qa6 (c) Rxc2
uschess.org
2. White moves
+
+
+
+
+ + + + p+ + + + +p+L k p + +P p p + + lP+P P + qP K +Q+ + + (a) Kd6 (b) g4 (c) Qg3+
Chess Life — September 2009
13
Chess to Enjoy
The Language of Chess
By GM Andy Soltis
French was once the language of diplomacy. German was the language of science. But how did English end up as the language of chess?
Several years ago there was a movement to encourage chess authors to write in Esperanto. After all, the argument went, doesn’t a universal game deserve a universal language? The Esperanto idea died. But we still ended up with a common language. It’s called English. You’ll find the evidence all over, beginning with the Internet. Sites written entirely in English include the personal pages of Russia’s Vladimir Kramnik, Hungary’s Peter Leko and the national federations like Bangladesh and Fiji. If a chess site is bilingual, the second language is almost certain to be English. That’s the case with the sites of Etienne Bacrot of France and the 2008 Olympiad in Dresden, Germany, or of the federations of Turkey, Armenia, Austria, Ukraine and Estonia. In the world of print, New In Chess magazine is written by a United Nations of masters, edited by Dutchmen—and published in English. The reason is simple. If you want the largest audience, there is one language that stands out. Even former World Women’s Champion Xie Jun of China wrote her chess biography in English. FIDE has five official languages. But at most international tournaments, the arbiter and the players on the appeals committee conduct their business in only one, English. GMs like Viktor Korchnoi have been known to resign in English even when playing a fellow Russian. And when Sergey Karjakin of Ukraine was an up-and-coming player he was invited to training sessions conducted by leading GMs at an elite club in France in their common language. “If you want to raise your class of play, study English!” said his father, Alexander Karjakin. What is also remarkable is that the
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Chess Life — September 2009
language being spoken is not the Queen’s English but American English: Grandmasters say they missed a “cheapo.” They played a “lemon” instead. They say their position was “busted” after their opponent replied with a “desperado.” Hungary’s Andras Adorjan, who learned English while watching U.S. movies, has a mantra based on the most American of Americanisms, “Black is OK.” Magnus Carlsen, who began studying English by age eight, uses it too. I’m OK, you’re not OK IM Magnus Carlsen (FIDE 2552) IM Chakkravarthy Deepan (FIDE 2331) Dubai 2004
r+ +k+ r pp+ lp pp +p+l+ + + + q L + pN+ + + + + + P PP+ PP P R +Q R K After 11. ... Be7
After he played 12. f4! Carlsen wrote in New In Chess, “Now White is very much okay.” Black was decidedly not OK following 12. ... Qd5 13. Bxe7 Kxe7 14. f5! Qxf5 15. Qxd4 and he resigned soon after 15. ... Qd5? 16. Qb4+ c5 17. Nxc5. The shift towards English in general and the American brand in particular is quite a change. For much of the last 150 years the language of master chess was German. When masters from foreign countries
got together to chat, the conversation usually started with “Sprechen sie Deutsch?” At the first great international tournament in America, New York 1889, the common language was German— which was spoken by Kentucky’s Jackson Showalter, Russia’s Mikhail Chigorin and Britain’s Amos Burn, among others. For decades the best magazines, like the Wiener Schachzeitung and Deutche Schachzeitung, were written in German. So were the better books, like Richard Reti’s Modern Ideas in Chess, Edward Lasker’s Chess Strategy and Emanuel Lasker’s book of the St. Petersburg 1909 tournament. Often it took years before a great book was translated into English. In contrast, English-language books didn’t seem worthy of appearing in another language. As Emanuel Lasker put it, “The literature of chess in the English language is enormous in size but insignificant in value.” As late as the 1930s strong players like Reuben Fine of the United States learned German in order to read Siegbert Tarrasch in the original. The rest of the world adopted words like “blitz,” “Zugzwang,” “sitzfleisch” and “zeitnot” (time pressure). The books that were written in English used the vocabulary and syntax of British annotators: Attacks didn’t start, they “commenced.” Bad moves were “rather inferior” and “quite contrary to principle.” And if you surprised someone with a move you “caught him out.” Wordiness was the order of the day: Injudicious James Mason Mikhail Chigorin London 1883 (see diagram top of next column)
uschess.org
Meet Me in St. Louis When Hikaru Nakamura won the 2009 U.S. Championship he raised his “batting average” to .678. That’s his winning percentage in five championships. He had the tenth best average—out of the more than 260 players in 53 championship tournaments—before this year, according to statistics compiled by Edward Gonsalves. Now Nakamura is in a tie with Yury Shulman for eighth place, well below first-place Bobby Fischer’s .822. In each of the following positions from the St. Louis tournament you are asked to find the fastest winning line of play. For solutions see page 63.
Problem I
Problem II
Problem III
GM Jaan Ehlvest IM Michael Brooks
GM Boris Gulko FM Douglas Eckert
Charles Lawton GM Melikset Khachiyan
r
+k+ + + + P + + +P K + p + + +p +R+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
After 14. Nf3
When Black chose 14. ... Nxf4, his opponent wrote in the tournament book in a manner no American would: “Injudicious, as it not only renders the escape of the King’s Pawn from its present predicament highly improbable, but exposes it to immediate attack in opening the file on which it stands to the operations of White’s Queen and Rooks.” But in the last half of the 20th century the American idiom began to take over. This happened almost undetected because it’s often hard to recognize an Americanism. For example, when an annotator writes that Black shifted his pieces “back and forth” while White acted “right away” and “got away with” something just before the “showdown” he is speaking pure American. Even some chess jargon is American. For example, a “pawn grab” seems to date from 1950s America.
uschess.org
+Q+ + + K + k +N+ + + + + +r+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + q
White to play
White to play
Black to play
Problem IV
Problem V
Problem VI
GM Joel Benjamin GM Gata Kamsky
GM Alexander Shabalov FM Douglas Eckert
Charles Lawton GM Boris Gulko
+
R
lk+ + + + p + +p+p+ + +q p + +r+ + + + p +N+P + +Q PP K + + + + Black to play
r+l qn rk+ pp+ + pp l +p+n+ + +p+p+ + + L + +N+L PN+ P PP+Q PP P R + +R K
+
r+l r +k+ pp+ pp+p + + +p+ + Pn+ + + P L + q + +L+ + Q PP P + R +R K
r+ + +k+ +r q +p pp + +p+ + +l n P + N+p+ P + +P+ + P R+ +Q+ P K RL+ +
r q + r k + + lp pp p+ p +P+ +p+Q+L+P +n+P+ + P + L + PP+ + + +K+R+ +R White to play
Bobby Fischer was appalled when a British edition of My 60 Memorable Games made him sound like he lived on the other side of the pond. That revised version had him using words like “whilst”—which no one who grew up on Union Street in Brooklyn ever employs. Fischer was even upset that the Brits spelled his word “jell” as “gel.” He claimed it made him sound “idiotic.” Yet British English still survives in chess books—in the translations of Russian authors. That’s where you’ll find Soviet-era grandmasters strangely addressing one another as “Old Chap.” That’s where a booked-up player is a “swot.” In his Great Predecessors books, you’ll see Garry Kasparov praising certain moves as “nervy.” That’s a Britishism for “bold” and it carries a positive connotation. But what Kasparov apparently meant— when he wrote in Russian—was something quite different. He indicated the moves were “nervous,” meaning the product of nervousness. Nervous or nervy? Alexander Alekhine Max Euwe World Championship (7), 1935 (see diagram top of next column)
Black to play
r+ q r k pl p +p+p pn+p p + + + + + + P L Q P P + + P + PL P R + K +R After 17. Bf4
The book has Kasparov calling the rest of this game “nervy”—but it wasn’t praise. He showed how it was filled with mistakes. Instead of 17. ... f5! which holds White to a minor edge, Black played 17. ... e5?. After 18. Bg3 f5 19. dxe5 Rg8 it was White’s turn to err. He played 20. Bf3?, instead of entering a favorable endgame with 20. Qxd8!. Black should have equalized after 20. ... Qd3! 21. Be2 Qc2!. But he went into a lost endgame with 21. ... Qe4? 22. Qxe4 fxe4 23. Bh4. “Nervy?” No, nervous. In any case, English is triumphant. If you need further proof, look at the way the Russians are adopting phonetic versions of English words. On various chess sites you’ll encounter the Cyrillic versions of words like “nok-aut,” “tai-brake and “pleioff.” And, of course, “chiter.”
.
Chess Life — September 2009
15
Solitaire Chess
Warfare on all Fronts
By Bruce Pandolfini
In the Benoni Defense (1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5) Black often winds up surrendering the center to White’s pawns, hoping for counterplay against the center and on the queenside. But when it fails, beware the kingside assault ...
The attack against the center and queenside in the Benoni Defense is often fueled by a timely advance of the b-pawn, even leading to sacrificing it for pressure against e4 and along the b-file toward b2. This combined effort may at times be quite effective, but when it fails, the resulting kingside assault may become irresistible. We see something like that happening in the game:
Modern Benoni, Taimanov Variation (A67) Reynaldo Vera (FIDE 2547) Viktor Moskalenko (FIDE 2469) Badalona 1999 Easily stifling Black’s counteractivity, White’s double barreled action against Black’s resulting weaknesses proved too much to cope with. What would become an exciting game began: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 c5 4. d5 exd5 5. cxd5 d6 6. e4 g6 7. f4 Bg7 8. Bb5+ Nfd7 9. Be2 0-0 10. Nf3 Na6 11. 0-0 Nc7 12. Kh1 Re8 13. f5 b5
r+l qr+k+ p nn+p lp + p +p+ +p pP+P+ + +P+ + + N +N+ P P +L+P P R LQ+R+K 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
16
Chess Life — September 2009
only after trying to guess it. If you guess correctly, give yourself the par score. Sometimes points are also rewarded for 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.** 14.
fxg6
Par Score: 5
Black’s last move proposed an exchange of the b5-pawn for the e4-pawn, which is the main theme in Black’s scheme. White is going to grapple with this move, and he does so by getting in some useful moves. The trade at g6 opens the f-file and slightly weakens Black’s castled position. 14.
…
15.
Bg5
hxg6 Par Score: 6
Here White develops a new piece with an attack on the queen, forcing interposition on f6. On 15. ... Bf6 White takes and Black’s king loses a key defender (1 bonus point). If 15. ... Nf6, White follows with 16. e5 dxe5 17. d6, creating havoc (1 bonus point). A sample line is 17. ... e4 18. dxc7 Qxd1 19. Raxd1 exf3 20. Bxf3 Bg4 21. Bxa8 Bxd1 22. Rxd1 Rxa8 23. Rd8+. 15.
…
f6
Black attacks the bishop, but White has achieved his objective: weakening e6. 16.
Bf4
Par Score: 4
The bishop withdraws and in turn attacks d6.
17.
…
18.
Bxb5
18.
…
Nxb5 Par Score: 4 Rxe4
The pawn trade (b5 for e4) has at last taken place. The position has opened up and White with his lead in development has a slight edge. 19.
Qd2
Par Score: 5
Deduct 2 points if you overlooked the attack on the bishop. The queen move guards the bishop and prepares to place the queen-rook on the open e-file. 19.
…
Bg4
You can also make an argument for 19. ... f5, but Black didn’t want to lock his c8-bishop in behind the pawns. 20.
Bd3
Par Score: 5
The bishop no longer serves any function at b5 and returns to attack the rook, at the same time lining up against g6. 20.
…
21.
Rae1
Rb4 Par Score: 5
As programmed, White brings his last piece in to play on the open e-file. 21.
…
Rab8
Black doubles on the b-file attacking b2. 22.
b3
Par Score: 5
One little pawn move and both black rooks are neutralized. 22.
…
R4b7
So that the queen can guard d6 while the knight keeps watch over e6 and g6.
Figuring there’s nothing more to be accomplished on the b-file, Black withdraws his rook from the fourth rank to defend the seventh rank.
17.
23.
16.
…
Nxb5
Nf8
Par Score: 5
Qe3
Par Score: 6
uschess.org
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 63. September Exercise: Get into the habit of trying to summarize what you’ve experienced and/or learned from a game, task, or study session, recording your thought nuggets in a book or word file. Aim to take away at least three memorable ideas from every example in which you’ve invested time, and seldom let a session go by without noting at least one thought. Over time the burgeoning register will show the sweep and reach of your development. It will map places you’ve been, and benchmarks passed, while, if you stay focused, point the way to where your great journey is likely to go.
This is a good building move, by which the queen anticipates activity along the third rank. 23.
…
Bxf3
Black prepares the advance of his fpawn. If he plays 23. ... f5 immediately, he has to contend with 24. Ng5 (1 bonus point), so the knight gets removed. 24.
Qxf3
Par Score: 5
With this capture White sets up his next move. Receive only 3 points part credit for 24. Rxf3. 24.
…
f5
Black blocks the diagonal of the d3bishop and opens the diagonal for the g7-bishop. 25.
Qg3
Par Score: 5
And now White twice attacks d6 and pressures g6. Accept 1 bonus point if you had this in mind when playing Qxf3. 25.
…
26.
Re6!
Rd7 Par Score: 6
The pressure against the pressured points continues. If 26. ... Nxe6, then 27. dxe6 Rdb7 28. Bxd6 Ra8 29. Qxg6! Qxd6 30. Bxf5, threatening mainly 31. Be4 and 32. Qh7 mate (3 bonus points). And if 26. ... Rb6, then 27. Rxg6! Nxg6 28. Qxg6 Rf7 (28. ... Qf6 29. Qe8+) 29. Bxf5 should win (2 bonus points). 26.
…
uschess.org
Rb4
Problem I
Problem II
Problem III
Promotion
Getting out of check
Back row
+
rk+ + + + l + + + + L + + + P + + + + +p+ + + R + R K +
r
+
+
+ + r k +R+ + +P + + +p+ + + + + + + l + + + + q Q + +L+ + + + K
+
k pp + + + + + + + + + + lP q + + +Q+P + R RL+ + + + K +
r
+
Problem IV
Problem V
Problem VI
Unpin
Driving off
Back row
+
k + + +q+ + + R + + + + + + r+ + L P + + + P + + + + + + +K+ +
+
+ +k+ +q+ l + Lp+ + + + +p+ r + + + + +P+ Q + + + P + + +R+K
27.
Bc4
Par Score: 5
White avoids both 27. Rxd6? Rxf4!, as well as 27. Bxd6? Rg4!. Deduct 2 points if you decided to take on d6. 27.
…
Rxc4
If 27. ... Rb6 to defend the d-pawn, White doubles 28. Rfe1 (1 bonus point), looking to invade at e7 or e8. 28.
bxc4
28.
…
29.
dxe6
29.
…
Par Score: 4 Nxe6 Par Score: 4 Rb7
Add 1 bonus point if you saw that 29. ... Re7 is met by 30. Bg5. 30.
Qxg6
Par Score: 5
Playing to expose the king, although 30. Bxd6 (full credit) looks simpler: if 30. ... Rb6, then 31. e7. 30.
…
31.
Qe8+
Qf6 Par Score: 5
Accept only 4 points part credit for 31. Qxf6 Bxf6 32. Bxd6 Be7 33. Bxe7 Rxe7 34. Re1, though it should be a technical win. But with queens on the board, White has better. 31.
…
q + +k+ +r+ +p l +Q L + + + p + + + + + + + + + + + + +P P + + +R+K
+
Black goes back to a familiar rank, again hoping to save the day.
r
+
On 31. ... Qf8 White can return 31. Qg6; or try 32. Qc6 Qb8 33. Qd5 (33. Bxd6 Rb1) 33. ... Rb1 34. e7+ Kh8 (34. ... Kh7 35. Qxf5+) 35. Bc1 Qe8 (to stop 36. Qf7; but not 35. ... Bb2? 36. Bxb2+) 36. Qxf5 and Black can hardly hold out. If 36. ... Rxc1 37. Qh3+ Kg8 38. Qe6+ Kh7 39. Rxc1. 32.
Bxd6
32.
…
33.
Qh5+
Par Score: 5 Rb6 Par Score: 5
On 33. ... Qh6, there follows 34. Qxh6+, with 35. e7 coming up (1 bonus point). If 33. ... Bh6, or 33. ... Kg8, then 34. e7 directly. Add 1 bonus point more if you saw the decisive advance. 33.
…
Black resigned
.
View this issue of Chess Life via on our new online pdf viewer. Go to uschess.org and click on the “Chess Life Magazine” link on the left side of our home page. Total your score to determine your approximate rating below: Total Score
Rating
95+ 81-94 66-80 51-65 36-50 21-35 06-20 0-05
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Kh7
Chess Life — September 2009
17
Cover Story
Freddie’s
SWANSONG As Fred Gruenberg says goodbye to the tournament he made one of the most player-friendly ones on the circuit, the initial international flavor of this year’s event ends with a local feel as two southern Californians finish on top. By IM Irina Krush | Photos by Chris Bird
18
Chess Life — September 2009
uschess.org
T
he 2009 National Open (June 4th7th) assembled an impressive array of strong players, including 17 grandmasters and 13 international masters. Despite its name, the National Open had a very international feel to it, at least in terms of the battle for first place; this year, the top four seeds were all visitors from abroad: Frenchman Laurent Fressinet (2715), Armenian Gabriel Sargissian (2773), the Russian Evgeny Bareev (2556), and Loek Van Wely (2728), from the Netherlands. At some point in their careers, Bareev and Van Wely were 2700+ FIDE-rated players and regularly faced off against the best in the world, so their participation in the National Open was something of a treat. The National Open draws people for a number of reasons beyond the obvious one. Fortuitously cushioned between the big money Chicago and World Opens, it makes a sensible stop for foreign GMs on their summer chess tour of the U.S. Others are lured by the proximity to the World Series of Poker events held nearby at the Rio (Fressinet’s wife, IM Almira Skripchenko, won $78,664 in a No-Limit Hold’Em event 11 days after the National Open ended, which, coupled with Laurent’s winnings at the tournament, meant the pair left Vegas with an enviable total of $78,695 in prize money.) One person is probably there because they won the previous year’s raffle grand prize of round trip air-
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fare and free entry. But I think that a lot of people come because of the way the National Open has positioned itself as more than just your regular chess tournament. In fact, the tournament is the centerpiece of an entire chess festival, replete with grandmaster simuls, lectures, and even an instructional camp. There’s a popular game/10 rapid championship the eve of the tournament, and blitz and bughouse events at its conclusion. Scholastic chess, too, features prominently, as Susan Polgar runs her World Open for Girls and Boys parallel to the National Open, and hosts a myriad other events during the festival. Another standout feature of the National Open has been the presence of legendary guest stars, who are enticed with promises of rounds starting on time and quiet in the playing room. No, wait, I’m mixing up my notes ... Freddie did say that those are high priorities for the organization, but what seals the deal is likely the business-class tickets and generous appearance fees the players receive. Over the years, the National Open has played host to Sammy Reshevsky, Viktor Korchnoi, Gata Kamsky, and the Polgar sisters, among others. I wondered how the National Open could afford its munificence. The answer is: it’s not run for profit. Everything that the tournament takes in is given back to the players in some form. That’s not a business model that would appeal to
everyone, but it does make possible “The Chess Vacation of the Year”! Now maybe you’d like to know who won the tournament; despite my silence thus far, it’s actually not a state secret, and will eventually be revealed. Going into the final round, there were no less than twelve players tied at 4-1, so theoretically there could have been a long list of winners to transcribe here. When the dust cleared, though, only two of the six pairings saw a decisive result, and two southern Californians, GM Varuzhan Akobian and IM Enrico Sevillano, topped the field, collecting $4,641 each. Ironically, Varuzh could be heard grumbling about the small amount of money he’d won; of course, the competition for this prize had been fierce, and one could only wish the chess pie were a bit larger. But we should probably reserve the bulk of our sympathy for the people half a point below him—they took home ten times less. Varuzhan has been a member of the U.S. Olympiad team for the last two Olympiads, and, as one of the top players in the U.S., his position at the top of the crosstable was not a big surprise. But Enrico overcame his underdog status against a much higher-rated opponent, with the black pieces to boot. He is such a friendly and affable person that it was very pleasing to see him enjoy this success. Let’s take a look at their critical last round wins:
Chess Life — September 2009
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Cover Story Coveted cup: The Edmondson Cup is named for the late Ed Edmondson, a former executive director of the U.S. Chess Federation.
Modern Benoni, Taimanov Variation (A67) GM Evgeny Bareev (2556) IM Enrico Sevillano (2556) National Open (6), 06.07.2009 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 c5
Offering a Benoni. A daring move, it seemed to me ... the Benoni isn't the most solid of openings, and is barely seen at the top level these days, but Enrico wanted a sharp struggle from the opening and didn’t mind the risk. 4. d5 exd5 5. cxd5 d6 6. e4 g6 7. f4 Bg7 8. Bb5+
Bareev plays the Taimanov system, his pet line against the Benoni and also the one considered the most dangerous for Black. 8. ... Nfd7
An awkward retreat, but one that Black is forced to make unless he wants to deal with e5 on the next move. 9. a4
We’ve reached one of the branches for Black in this variation. He can proceed with castling, or throw in a check on h4 which weakens White’s kingside a bit but also costs Black a tempo. 9. ... Qh4+
9. ... 0–0 10. Nf3 Na6 11. 0–0 Nb4 (11. ... Nc7 12. Bd3 a6 13. Re1 Re8 14. Be3 Rb8 15. Bf2 b5 16. axb5 axb5 17. e5 dxe5 18. d6 Ne6 19. fxe5 Krush, I Akopian, R/Miami, USA 2007) 12. Re1 a6 13. Bc4?! (Better is 13. Bf1) 13. ... Nb6! 14. Be2 Bg4! 15. h3 Bxf3 16. Bxf3 c4 17. Be2 Rc8 18. Be3 Re8 19. Bf2 Nd7 20. Rc1 Qa5 21. Bf1 Nf6 22. Qf3 Nd7 23. Qd1 ½–½ Krush, I - Nabaty, T/Ashdod, ISR 2006; 9. ... a6 10. Bd3 Qh4+ 11. g3 Qd8 12. Nf3 0-0 13. 0-0 Nf6 14. Kg2 Bg4 15. h3 Bxf3+ 16. Qxf3 Nbd7 17. Bd2 Re8 18. Rae1 Rc8 19. b3 Nb6 20. e5 and White stood better in Krush, I - Goletiani, R/Chicago, USA 2006. 10. g3 Qe7 11. Nf3 0-0
Taking the pawn with 11. ... Bxc3+ 12. bxc3 Qxe4+ 13. Kf2 is considered dangerous for Black. 12. 0-0 Na6 13. Re1 Nb4
It’s only move 13, but we’ve reached the turning point of the game. When I caught up with Enrico after the round and asked him where White had lost the game, he told me that he actually wasn't sure. Well, that made me curious, since I know the White side of the Benoni doesn't just lose by force; plus, Bareev's pet line against the Benoni happens to be my pet line, too! So I was extra motivated to figure out where
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White had gone wrong. 14. Be3
I think this move is already the beginning of White’s downfall. The one key thing about this line is that White should always be on the lookout for Black’s attempt to disentangle with the ... Nf6, ... Bg4 maneuver. And in the next few moves, Black is allowed to carry out that plan with no hindrance whatsoever. (I’d actually reached this exact position a few years ago, and opted for the most direct plan: the e5 breakthrough, based on my memory of a quick Tal victory against Velimirovic in 1982. But my opponent defended better than Velimirovic, and I was left unconvinced by the whole approach. Today I'd go for the prophylactic retreat 14. Bf1. The bishop has exhausted his usefulness on b5, and it’s time to bring him back to support the kingside, particularly the h3-square. The little pawn move h2-h3 often figures into White’s plans. Unclear is 14. e5 dxe5 15. d6 Qe6 16. fxe5 a6 17. Bf1 Nxe5 18. Nxe5 Bxe5 19. Rxe5 Qxe5 20. d7 Bxd7 21. Qxd7 Krush, I - Smetankin, S/Chicago, USA 2006. 14. ... Nf6 15. Bd2
This really passive retreat is what truly hands the initiative over to Black. White had to cease the maneuvering and allow for some concrete variations to occur on the board. I could understand why that would be difficult psychologically—relinquishing some control, and getting into move-by-move combat, rather than White squeezing Black off the board at his leisure. Still, it had to be done. The critical try for White, and really quite consistent since Black has just given up control of the e5-square, is 15. e5 Ng4 16. Ne4!? Nxe3 17. Rxe3 and for example, if 17. ... dxe5 18. d6 Qd8 19. Nxe5 White has some very impressive ponies in the center; even 15. Kg2 looks preferable to 15. Bd2, since Black isn't really threatening the e4-pawn, i.e., 15. ... Nxe4 16. Bxc5 dxc5 17. Nxe4. 15. ... Bg4
Of course, the first chance he gets, Black develops the bishop to g4. 16. Kg2 a6 17. Bf1
In light of what follows, the bishop was probably better off on c4. 17. ... Qd7!
A multifunctional move, threatening ... Bh3+, indirectly targeting the d5-pawn, thus making it harder for White to push through e5 in the future, and supporting a potential ... b5. 18. Qb3 Bh3+ 19. Kh1 Bxf1 20. Rxf1
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Black traded off the light-squared bishops, thus leaving White with light-squared weaknesses all over the board. White can only dream of pushing e4-e5 now, which is supposed to be his main plan in these positions! 20. ... b5 21. axb5 axb5 22. Rad1 Qb7
This is very natural, but Black can also consider the more ambitious 22. ... Nd3, since after 23. Nxb5 (23. Qxb5 Qxb5 24. Nxb5 Nxe4 is good for Black) 23. ... c4! 24. Qxc4 Nxb2 25. Qc6 Qxc6 26. dxc6 Nxd1 27. Rxd1 Nxe4 and Black should be able to convert the extra Exchange. 23. Bc1 Rad8
As before, Black puts indirect pressure on d5 so as to make e4-e5 unplayable.
iting the danger from the Nf2. 35. fxe5 Qxd5
Black plays very naturally, but White unexpectedly sneaks back into the game. 36. Bxb4 Bd4 37. Bxc5
White lets slip a good opportunity: 37. Qd1! (exploiting the pin on the d-file) 37. ... Rd7 38. Bxc5 Bxe3 (38. ... Qxc5 39. Rd3 Bxf2 40. Rxd7 is not so bad for White; 38. ... Bxc5 39. Rd3 Qa2 40. Rxd7 Qxf2+ 41. Kh3) 39. Qxd5 Rxd5 40. Bxe3. The computer slightly prefers this position for Black, but I have no idea why. It actually looks easier for White to play. 37. ... Bxc5 38. Ne4 Re6 39. Rc3 Kg7 40. Neg5 Re7 41. Qc2 Rxe5 42. Rd3 Be7!, White resigned.
24. Rfe1 Rfe8
White can’t execute e4-e5, and is left without a plan. 25. Kg2 Nd3!
+ rr+k+ +q+ +p lp + p np+ +p pP+ + + +P P + +Q Nn+N P P + +K P + LR R + After 25. ... Nd3
Semi-Slav Defense (D46) GM Varuzhan Akobian (2684) GM Laurent Fressinet (2715) National Open (6), 06.07.2009 1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 c6 4. e3 Nf6 5. Nf3 Nbd7 6. Qc2 Bd6 7. Bd3
Apparently, this is Varuzh’s new weapon against the Meran, which he first unveiled at the U.S. Championship in May. Prior to that, he'd been employing the system with Bg5 (1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. Nc3 e6 5. Bg5). The change has already paid some dividends, as it gave him a victory against Julio Becerra-Rivero in St. Louis, and now this game. Both won in fine positional style, by the way!
26. Rxd3
7. ... 0-0 8. 0-0 dxc4 9. Bxc4 b5
26. Re2 Nxc1 27. Rxc1 b4 hardly looks playable for White.
The flexible move, 9. ... a6, not committing to ... b5 yet, seems to be the choice of the top grandmasters. It’s also what Shulman went for against Varuzh in St. Louis.
26. ... c4 27. Qd1 cxd3 28. Qxd3 b4 29. Nd1
The rest of the game saw Black convert his advantage, though not without giving his opponent some chances. 29. ... Rc8 30. Bd2 Nd7 31. Re3 Nc5 32. Qe2 Re7 33. Nf2 Bxb2 34. e5
White finally implements his only source of counterplay, and it gets tricky here. The materialistic computer wants to push the b-pawn, but it underestimates the power of White’s threats on the kingside. Enrico makes some very human decisions. 34. ... dxe5
34. ... b3 35. Ng4 and now for example, the computer wants to queen the b-pawn as quickly as possible: 35. ... Bxe5 36. fxe5 b2 only to discover that life is not so simple after 37. exd6 i.e., 37. ... Rxe3 38. Nf6+ Kg7 39. Qxe3 b1=Q 40. Qh6+ Kxf6 41. Bc3+ Kf5 42. Qf4 mate; 34. ... f5!? might be a worthy try for Black, lim-
10. Be2 Bb7 11. Rd1
Now Black is forced to determine the position of his queen, since White threatens e4 to which Black needs to be able to respond with ... e5. Julio chose 11. ... Qc7. 11. ... Qb8 12. e4 e5 13. dxe5 Nxe5 14. Nd4
After the game, Varuzh expressed puzzlement over Fressinet going into a “bad line.” I'm assuming he was happy with his position by this point. 14. ... Ng6
14. ... Neg4 15. g3 (15. h3 allows a dangerous piece sac: 15. ... Bh2+ 16. Kf1 Nxf2 17. Kxf2 b4 18. Na4 c5 19. Nxc5 Rc8 20. Bf3 and now for example Black has 20. ... Nd7) 15. ... b4 16. Bxg4 Nxg4 17. Na4 seems to give White a better game, as his knights have nice squares.
Chess Life — September 2009
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Cover Story 15. g3 Re8 16. Bg5 Be5
Since it becomes clear within a few moves that Black’s play was a strategic failure, now is the time to search for improvements. 16. ... b4!? 17. Bxf6 gxf6— Black often accepts this pawn structure in this line, so it's not yet the total positional capitulation it seems: 18. Na4 c5— another thematic move; obviously Black desperately needs to create counterplay: 19. Nxc5 Rc8 20. Ndb3 a5!? (on 20. ... Bxc5 21. Nxc5 Qe5, White has the amazing unpinning resource: 22. Qb3! and whatever takes on c5, White gets back the piece with Rd7) 21. Bg4 a4 (21. ... Rc6 22. Bd7) 22. Bxc8 axb3 23. axb3 Rxa1 24. Nxb7 Qc7!! 25. Qe2 Rxd1+ 26. Qxd1 Bf8 27. Qd7 Qc2 with counterplay for Black. OK, I’m not claiming that 16. ... b4 is so amazing for Black. I’m just trying to give Var and Sargissian something to work on in their next training session. 17. Nf5 Re6
Freddie This year marked the 25th anniversary of the National Open’s calling Vegas home, and the final time that Freddie Gruenberg, the man behind it for all these years, would be involved in its organization. Freddie is 75 years old now and feels that his other businesses need him more than the National Open does at this point. He’s confident about leaving the tournament in the hands of Al Losoff and Bill Snead, both of whom have been running it with him almost from the beginning. I got a chance to talk to Freddie on the phone one evening, picking up some National Open history along the way, and discovered what sort of ethos shaped the National Open into what it is. One of the questions I asked Freddie was about his experience as a chess organizer, i.e., did he ever get tired of the grumblings and complaints of chess players over the smallest little things? To which Freddie related the following story: in 1984, many time U.S. Champion Walter Browne asked if they could switch his room to one that was closer to the playing hall so that he could get an additional three minutes sleep in the morning. They moved him closer. Then he asked if they could put a carpet on the stairs leading to the stage, because the stairs were squeaky.
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Chess Life — September 2009
A carpet appeared. Then it turned out that Walter’s table also squeaked, so a carpet appeared underneath it, too. Finally, Walter asked if he could have an extra light by his board; the reply? “Absolutely.” This anecdote conveys a simple truth: the National Open is a tournament for the players. The ones at the top of the chess food chain receive special perks, like free entry and hotel room, but as Freddie says, “every single player is important to us.” One of my favorite National Open traditions was born out of this philosophy: years ago, people who scored 3½ to 4½ points and didn’t win a prize complained about leaving empty-handed, so the National Open found a way to reward them, too. For the past decade, anyone who earns a plus score in any section receives a $50 gift certificate for the well-stocked bookstore. Freddie made it clear that complaints were viewed as an opportunity to create a better experience for the players. In fact, the National Open values complaints so much that for next year they’re planning a “Walter Browne” prize for “Most Outrageous Complaints.” I know; it’s unfair. Grandmasters have the edge in this contest, too. ~Irina Krush
This move strikes me as a little too “defensive.” Apparently, the sole idea of it is to bolster the Nf6, so that the bishop can retreat without worries after f4. But in that case, why did the bishop go to e5, anyway? Perhaps Black should take his chances with a sharp continuation like 17. ... b4 18. Na4 (18. Bxf6 Bxf6 19. Na4 Bc8 20. Nd6 Rd8) 18. ... Nxe4 19. Qxe4 Bxb2. Objectively, it should be good for White, but at least it changes the momentum; 17. ... Bxc3 is another attempt to make things messy: 18. Qxc3 b4 19. Qxb4 Nxe4. 18. f4 Bc7
18. ... Bxc3 19. Qxc3 b4; 18. ... Nxf4!? 19. gxf4 Bxf4 20. Bxf4 Qxf4. 19. Bf3
At long last the time has come when White no longer has to worry about the e4-pawn. 19. ... Bb6+ 20. Kg2 b4 21. Bxf6
I guess Var saw no reason to go for 21. e5 bxc3 22. exf6 cxb2 23. Qxb2 c5. 21. ... Rxf6 22. Na4 c5 23. Rf1
Preparing e5. 23. ... Qe8
It doesn't look like Black gets enough for the piece after 23. ... Nxf4+ 24. gxf4 Qxf4 25. Ne7+ Kh8 26. Nd5 Rg6+ 27. Kh1 Qe5 28. Rad1. 24. Rad1 Bc6 25. b3 Rd8 26. Rxd8 Qxd8 27. e5
A simple positional move—White realizes the potential of the four-on-three majority on the kingside. 27. Nxc5 Bb5 28. Rd1 Qc7 doesn’t look like anything White wants to be involved in. uschess.org
27. ... Bxf3+ 28. Rxf3 Re6 29. Qe4
Black has a big edge after 29. Nxc5?? Rc6. 29. ... Qe8 30. Qd5 Ne7 31. Nxe7+ Qxe7 32. Nb2! g6 33. Nc4
+
+
+k+ p + qp+p l +r+p+ + pQ P + pN+ P + +P+ +R P P+ + +K P + + + + After 33. Nc4
This is one of those cases when the knight dominates the bishop. White has a space advantage, plus he will control the only open file on the board. All these positional pluses mean that victory is very close ... 33. ... Bc7 34. Qa8+ Qe8 35. Qxe8+
35. Qxa7? Qc6 and Black gets counterplay. 35. ... Rxe8 36. Rd3 Re6
Trading down into the minor piece endgame was a valid option. White maintains his huge advantage there, but he still needs to play accurately. 36. ... Rd8 37. Rxd8+ Bxd8 38. Kf3 f5 and this move is forced, to prevent the king going to d5. Now White faces a big decision about whether to take on f6 with en passant, or leave the pawn structure as is, for example going Ke3-d3-Ne3-Kc4. I won’t go into long variations here, but this looks like a good position to play out if you're trying to improve your endgame technique. 37. Rd7 Rc6 38. Kf3 Kf8 39. Ke4 Ke8 40. Rd2 h5 41. h3 f6, Black resigned.
MonRoi says that the game ended here. I guess Fressinet got tired of playing his role in this positional catastrophe. The game could have continued 42. Kd5 Kd7 43. Re2 Ra6 44. Kxc5. As for myself, I didn’t quite manage to repeat my successful outing at the 2007 National Open, where I scored 4½/6 and tied for top Under 2500, but I can’t complain. I came to this year’s event riding an emotional high and a physical low, but being a little constricted by space here won’t be able to regale you with the tales that led to this particular combination (which apparently results in a score of four from six). I will, however, relate one anecdote of how providence smiled down upon me.
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altered circumstances, the result was equally happy for Black.
Friday, the first day of the tournament, was a really tough day, as I was at the nadir of my physical strength. I was having a hard time fighting against the salmon I had ordered for lunch, and I prayed that I would get paired down for the evening round, so that I’d have a chance to sleep and recover some strength before facing someone stronger the next day. Well, it turned out that I just made the cut, and was the last person to be paired down, to an unknown unrated player. Within a minute of meeting my opponent (who seemed like a nice guy), I started developing the feeling that he was not quite like the other guys I was used to facing. He was a different breed ... he was new to chess. It was very likely that this was his first chess tournament. I felt this very keenly before he even played 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 d5?!, at which point I had to stop myself from laughing as I saw Alex Lenderman grinning widely at me from his board across the table. What gave it away? It was everything, the way he moved the pieces, the way he pressed the clock, the whole demeanor at the board, and to be honest, he simply didn’t have the word chess etched onto his face that I am used to seeing. I realized it’s hard to fake being a seasoned chess player. It’s hard to fake the latent intensity, the look of a person who’s spent thousands of hours on the mental and psychological battleground of the 64 squares and is ready to add six more hours to that, if that’s what it takes. It’s hard to emit the sound of a mind calculating variations when it’s not. And, yes, it’s definitely a low frequency sound, but chess players are like elephants in this regard. My most interesting game from the tournament was against Alisa Melekhina, who’ll be my teammate at the Women’s World Team Championship in China by the time you’re reading this. It’s far from a perfect game, but there are some beautiful lines lurking in there. Enjoy!
I have to say, this move seemed rather indulgent to me. It’s useful if White insists on carrying out the Bh6 plan, but the course of the game shows that Bh6 only led to problems. Instead, 12. f4 looks like a reasonable try. During the game, I calculated 12. Bh6 Bxh6 13. Qxh6 Nd4! forcing the retreat of White’s queen to d2, since the exchange on d4 is very favorable to Black. 14. Qd2 Bxh3! (that’s what the king came to h2 to prevent) 15. Nxd4 Bxg2 16. Nc6 Qd7. I got up to here, and decided it was good for Black, though it’s actually pretty balanced after 17. Nxe7+ Qxe7 18. Kxg2 d5. We’re on move 18 of an obscure Closed Sicilian ... but this entire line had already been mentioned in annotations I later stumbled across in ChessBase!
Closed Sicilian (B26) WIM Alisa Melekhina (2315) IM Irina Krush (2482) National Open (5), 06.07.2009
16. Ne3
1. e4 c5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. g3 g6 4. Bg2 Bg7 5. d3 d6 6. Be3 Nf6
I chose this solid setup, instead of ... e7e6, ... Nge7 for instance, under the influence of Kasparov’s convincing victory over Fedorov in Wijk aan Zee 2001. I didn't even realize that that game had never been a ‘proper’ Closed Sicilian, since Fedorov dispensed with Nc3 altogether. I just tried to carry out what I remembered of Kasparov’s ideas, and despite the
7. h3 Rb8 8. Nge2 0-0
I wanted to proceed with 8. ... b5 but changed my mind after noticing 9. d4! cxd4 10. Nxd4 Nxd4 11. Bxd4 b4 12. Nd5; this wasn't the sort of game I was looking for. 9. Qd2 b5 10. 0-0 b4 11. Nd1
11. Nd5 e6 12. Nxf6+ Bxf6 and Black has a comfortable game. 11. ... a5 12. Kh2
12. ... Ba6 13. Bh6 Bxh6 14. Qxh6 c4
A replication of Kasparov’s play: advance the queenside pawns, put the bishop on a6, and break against the pivotal point in White’s pawn chain while their queen is dawdling on the kingside. 15. dxc4 Ne5
There was a big choice between this move and the bishop recapture, which would have went 15. ... Bxc4 16. Qd2 Qc7 17. Ne3 Bxe2 18. Qxe2. Basically it came down to whether Black wanted to trade his bishop for White’s knight, or trade a pair of knights. I think I chose right, but my doubts tormented me at the time.
16. b3 Neg4 wins the queen. 16. ... Nxc4
16. ... Bxc4 was again possible. 17. Rfe1!? (see diagram top of next page)
This move took me by surprise—after all, the b2-pawn is hanging. I was expecting 17. Nxc4 Bxc4 18. Qd2 Qb6 (tying down the rook to f2, so that White can’t unpin immediately) 19. Kg1 and Black
Chess Life — September 2009
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Cover Story
r
q
k+ r + + pp+p l+ p np Q p + + + pn+P+ + + + N PP P PP+N PL K R + R + After 17. Rfe1
since it’s Black who's had the better position ever since the c5-c4 break. What I’m trying to say is: when you're worse, you should defend, not attack—unless your position is so hopeless that there is nothing to lose. But I don’t think that’s the case here. [I still thought White would trade knights: 18. Nxc4 Bxc4 19. Kg1 and sure, Black is better, but White can hang in there. 18. ... Rfc8
Indirectly threatening the c2-pawn.
r
+
+k+ + + pp+p l+ + np Q p + p N p + + + + + +R PP +q+ PL K + + + + After 26. Rf3
19. Rac1 Nxe3 20. Rxe3
has various ways to maintain a better game, such as: 19. ... Rfc8 20. Rfd1 Bxe2 (20. ... Nh5!? 21. Nf4 Nxf4 22. Qxf4 Rc5 is very good for Black) 21. Qxe2 Qc5 22. Rd2 a4 or 19. ... Bxe2 20. Qxe2 Qd4 21. Rab1 Rfc8 22. Rfd1 Qc4. I faced another difficult decision. Should I call the ‘bluff’ with the materialistic ... Nxb2, or make a less ambitious move that preserves Black’s advantage with no risk? Also, I couldn’t even evaluate how much of a bluff Rfe1 was. My intuition told me that taking the pawn was a valid option, in objective terms. But one thing was indisputible: if I took the pawn, the nature of the game would change completely, and I’d be on the defensive, entering complications whose consequences I knew I wouldn’t be able to calculate. I made the safer move, and with hindsight, I still don’t regret it. 17. ... Qb6
A very simple move that takes control of the key d4-square, while threatening White with an exchange on e3 (a positional catastrophe). 17. ... Nxb2 18. Nd4— the point. With Rfe1, White unpinned and now the knight can come to a very powerful position in the center, threatening not only the Nc6 fork, but also a knight sacrifice on f5. Black would again have to make a major decision about how to deal with Nc6; 18. ... Rc8, 18. ... Rb6, 18. ... Bb7—all these moves have their particularities. I won’t shower you with variations, although it’s impossible to make sense of this position without them. Let me just say that after ... Rc8 or ... Bb7, White develops their attack with a combination of e5! (opening up lines) and Nef5, while after ... Rb6 White can go in another direction, Nd5, which is what I feared during the game. 18. Ng1
Another big surprise. This move basically indicates a “burning the bridges” attitude towards the position (incidentally, that was the spirit of Fedorov’s play, too). White surrenders the center/queenside in hopes of a decisive attack on the kingside. But such an approach simply has no justification, 24
Chess Life — September 2009
Objectively, 20. Qxe3 Qxe3 21. Rxe3 is still the best continuation, but White didn’t play 18. Ng1 to trade queens and suffer in a clearly worse endgame. 20. ... Qd4
Black’s queen uses the abandoned center to do some pawn shopping. 21. Nf3 Qxb2 22. Rb3 Qxa2 23. Ng5
White brought the knight into position, and threatens things like e5 or Rf3, or a combination of the two. Black can handle the position in different ways, but in my subsequent moves, I just opt for the most direct, principled approach. 23. ... Rxc2 24. Rxc2 Qxc2
24. ... Qxb3 25. Rc7 Re8 26. e5 dxe5 27. Bc6 Rc8 28. Rxe7 Bc4! Because of this move, 24. ... Qxb3 was a worthy alternative to what I played. 25. e5!
I only noticed this move on Alisa’s time, and reproached myself for not noticing it when I should have: on my think at move 23. It doesn’t change the evaluation of the position (that Black is winning) but it does create maximum chances for White. Instead, I spent my time calculating 25. Rf3 and was very pleased when I found the antidote: 25. ... Rb5! with the point that on 26. Rxf6 Black responds with a counter sac on g5—26. ... Rxg5 27. Qxg5 exf6 28. Qxf6 Qc5 giving the edge to Black. 25. ... dxe5
defend against Rxf6? 26. ... Rb7?
A complete miscalculation. The convincing refutation of White’s play would have been 26. ... Qc6!, a move that didn’t even occur to me during the game, probably because it’s so unnatural to place one’s pieces in line with a potential discovered attack. The main point is that on Rxf6 I can take back with the queen, and cover the h8 and f7 squares. 27. Rxf6 exf6 28. Qxh7+
I had looked at the immediate Bxb7, and not appreciated what a different it makes when White eliminates the h7-pawn first. Right, pretty pathetic calculation. 28. ... Kf8 29. Bxb7 Qxf2+ 30. Bg2
Now the problem is that on 30. ... fxg5, White goes 31. Qh8+ Ke7 32. Qxe5+ and there is no way to escape from the checks. The only way to continue the game was: 30. ... Bc4 31. Qh8+ Ke7 32. Qc8
We were completely on the same page about this natural move, but it turns out to be a mistake. 32. Ne4 Qb6! a nice square for the queen, guarding the f6pawn and the queenside; 32. Nh7! a find of the computer; the idea is to use the f8 and f6 squares for counterplay, i.e., 32. ... Bd5 33. Qf8+ Kd7 34. Nxf6+ Qxf6 35. Bxd5 Qf2+ 36. Bg2 b3 37. Qa8 b2 38. Qd5+ Ke8 39. Qxe5+ which is equal. 32. ... fxg5
Forced if Black hopes to keep an advantage, otherwise the queen and knight drum up too much counterplay.
25. ... Qxb3 is the first step in a forced line: 26. exf6 exf6 27. Qxh7+ Kf8 28. Qh8+ Ke7 29. Qxb8 fxg5 30. Qa7+ Ke6 31. Qxa6 but it ends well for White (meaning that she not going to lose).
I thought that Black had reasonable winning chances here.
26. Rf3
34. Qd5?!
(see diagram top of next column)
Here it is, the critical position of (this part of) the game. So far, Black has consistently taken the material that White offered, and White’s down to the final (but powerful!) threat. How should Black
33. Qxc4 Qb6
34. Bd5 was probably a better defensive try. 34. ... Kf6 35. Qf3+ Kg7 36. Qd5 Qd4
36. ... a4! should have won the game: 37. Qxe5+ Qf6 38. Qb5 (38. Qxf6+ Kxf6 is winning for Black.) 38. ... a3! I missed this move, calculating only 38. ... b3 39. uschess.org
Qxa4 b2 40. Qc2, when White stops the pawn from queening. Black is easily winning after 39. Qxb4 a2. 37. Qxa5 b3 38. Qe1 b2
Qd7+! 46. Kg3 Qd6+ 47. Kh3 f2 48. Qg5+ (48. Kg2 e3) 48. ... Kg7 49. Kg2. I got to this point, and concluded that it was a dead end, but ... 49. ... e3!!
+
38. ... f5!?. 39. Be4 f5 40. Bb1 e4 41. Kg2
I had a long think after the time control, and decided to place my king a little further away from White’s queen. 41. ... Kh6 42. Qa5
An active move, which looked very suspect to me. I thought White should wait with something like 42. Kf1. Now I started calculating a win. 42. ... f4
After this, the play is forced for a few moves. White has to respond to this pawn advance by creating breathing room for the king, which is what Alisa does. 42. ... e3 was a candidate, but White has 43. Qa3! 43. gxf4 gxf4 44. h4 f3+ 45. Kh3
Here I spent a really huge chunk of time. Yes, the win exists, but it’s very well hidden ... 45. ... Qf6
The first move to check out, of course, is 45. ... Qg1 but White has 46. Qd2+ Kh5 (46. ... e3 47. Qxb2 is equal; 46. ... g5 47. Bxe4 Qh1+ 48. Kg3 Qxh4+ 49. Kxf3 Qxe4+ 50. Kxe4 b1=Q+ 51. Kf3 is even) 47. Qd5+ is equal because on 47. ... g5 White has 48. Qf7+; 45. ... Qe3 also came up for examination, but I didn't see anything after 46. Qd8 f2+ 47. Kg2; White always has defenses based on perpetual check. Finally, let’s look at Black’s beautiful, study-like path to victory: 45. ...
+
+
+
+
+
+
k + q +p+ + + + Q + + + P + + p + p + pK+ +L+ + + Analysis after 49. ... e3
50. Qxe3 Qh2+!! 51. Kxh2 f1=N+ Wow, how often is it that the best pawn promotion is to a knight? 52. Kg2 Nxe3+ 53. Kf3 Nc4 54. Kg4 Nd2 55. Bd3 Kh6! A final bit of accuracy, ensuring that White won’t be able to swap the last pair of pawns. Incredible what beauty lurks in the depths of a position. 46. Qd2+??
We both missed that White has an immediate draw with 46. Bxe4! Qe6+ 47. Kg3 Qxe4. This looks completely losing for White, but they’re saved by the resource 48. Qc3! which equalizes, winning the b2-pawn with the threat of mate on h8, and the f3-pawn isn’t going anywhere. 46. ... g5??
I have no idea what sort of mental block prevented me from playing the winning 46. ... Kh5. After all, 47. Bxe4 Qxh4 is mate, and 47. Qa5+ g5 (47. ... Qf5+ should win, also) is winning. Instead I calculated 47. Bxe4 Qe6+ 48. Kg3 Qxe4 49. Qg5 and I’m the one that’s mated. That
scared me off 46. ... Kh5. Another example of my calculating prowess here. 47. hxg5+
This simple capture liquidates to an immediate draw. Alisa spent a long time here, and I started calculating a fantastical variation that started with 47. Bxe4 Qe6+ 48. Kg3 (48. Kh2 Qxe4 49. Qxg5+ Kh7 and amazingly, White has no more checks on an open board.) 48. ... Qxe4 49. hxg5+ Kh5 50. Qxb2 and here I was wondering: is it a win? is it a draw? (50. Qh2+? forcing the king to g5 isn’t a good idea, since it gives Black the Qf4 check later: 50. ... Kxg5 51. Qxb2 Qf4+ 52. Kf2 Qh2+) 50. ... Qg4+ 51. Kh2 Qh4+ 52. Kg1 Qe1+ 53. Kh2.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+ + + + Pk + + + + + + +p+ Q + + K + + q + Analysis after 53. Kh2
53. ... Qe2+! Ultimately, Black wins by forcing a queen trade, with just a single pair of pawns left! It would have been so nice to win this way ... 47. ... Qxg5 48. Qxb2
I had forgotten that White could take that pawn.
.
48. ... Qh5+ 49. Kg3 Qg5+ 50. Kh3 Qh5+ 51. Kg3, Draw agreed.
2009 National Open At A Glance
The champs: Varuzhan Akobian (l) and Enrico Sevillano
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Date: June 5-7, 2009 Location: South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa, Las Vegas, Nevada Top Finishers: Open, 1st-2nd: Varuzhan Akobian, Enrico Sevillano, 5. Under 2200, 1st: Ilya Krasik, 5½. Under 2000, 1st: Ariel Gerardo Cisneros, 6. Under 1800, 1st-2nd: Payam AfkhamEbrahimi, Michael Taylor, 5½. Under 1600, 1st: Curtis Ian Liang, 6. Under 1400, 1st: Martez Hall, 6. Under 1200, 1st: Thomas Nelson, 6. Unrated, 1st-2nd: Isaac Drum, Cristina Santos, 5. Chief Tournament Director: Bill Snead.
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Remembrance
Snapshots from a life NIGEL EDDIS (1936-2009)
LONG-TIME CHESS LIFE PHOTOGRAPHER NIGEL EDDIS died in New York City at age 72 on January 11, 2009, from complications involving a heart ailment. He leaves behind his wife, Anne, a violinist with the New York City Opera Orchestra, and three children, Timothy, Christine and Tatiana Eddis. Nigel also leaves behind a fund of fond memories for those who knew him and an enormous oeuvre of chessic and nonchessic photographs, which millions of newspaper and magazine readers enjoyed over several decades. There are many wonderful stories about Nigel Edward Athelstan Eddis, a 6-foot-6 inch Englishman, who was every whit as imposing as his name suggests. He was born in London on March 2, 1936, the son of Michael Upton and Marcelle Eddis. Michael was a brilliant classicist at Eton before World War I intervened. He served on the Western Front as a lieutenant in the Royal Horse Artillery until being gassed and shell-shocked. Marcelle was a cousin of novelist Daphne du Maurier of Rebecca fame. Nigel attended Westminster, one of the five great public schools of England, while his brother went to Eton. In the 1950s, Nigel fought for Her Majesty’s forces against a communist insurrection in what was then called Malaya and is today known as Malaysia, which is where this writer now lives and works. He was unmolested by the enemy and returned whole in body and mind. His worst or, more accurately, most amusing moment was having to curl up his long person under a short bed in circumstances redolent of Anthony Burgess’ steamy Beds in the East, a tome in that author’s Malayan Trilogy. Nigel later became involved in a second war. Having retired in the early 1990s from full-time photography because of the profession’s physical demands, he went to work for Tiger Information Systems at 130 William Street, a few hundred yards from the ill-fated Twin Towers, or what became known as Ground Zero. At 9 a.m., on September 11, 2001, about 15 minutes after American Airlines Flight 11 plowed into the North Tower, and about three minutes before United Airlines Flight 175 hit the South Tower, my friend arrived at his office to find panicked people rushing to and fro, grabbing belongings in a rush to abandon the building. Flashlight in hand, Nigel headed to the building’s roof to switch off the central air-conditioning unit. Amid a whirlwind of black soot and white powder that had turned a bright morning into dark night, he fulfilled the important mission. His hair and clothes covered with a white powder, he began a five-hour trek uptown, along with tens of thousands of other New Yorkers. Now seems the moment to explain that Nigel and I met shortly following my appointment as Chess Life editor in 1984. Thanks in part to our common background involving the Malay Peninsula, we we got on well right from the start. As an editor, I wanted the 26
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we got on well right from the start. As an editor, I wanted the services of a professional New York photographer who was a superb craftsman; as a friend, I enjoyed his company at the many chess events we covered during the ensuing four years. His loss is devastating to those of us who admired him. The many places that knew him—famous chess clubs, friendly neighborhood restaurants, the great public areas of New York City, the venues of celebrated chess tournaments—shall know him no more.
A PHOTOGRAPHER’S MEMORY Nigel was literate in the older sense of gathering his learning from great books rather than from television documentaries. His Latin was formidable (he once managed a short telephone conversation in that ancient tongue with my classicist mother, which was more than I could ever do); his German was totally fluent (he translated one of Emanuel Lasker’s non-chess works); and his memory for poetry nearly eidetic. He could chatter off entire sections of Milton, and I will never forget an afternoon when I brought to his apartment my personal translation of Virgil’s Aeneid, done in fourth-year high school Latin. I expected to impress my dear friend, and he responded by reciting, without sight of any text, his own off-the-cuff interlinear translation of the great epic poem. “Chess Life photographer Nigel Eddis will do anything for a shot of the action.” Chess Life, July 1987.
His April 1977 cover shot of a feral, young IM Michael Rohde was a candid, totally uncompromising bit of genius.
PICTURE OF A PHOTOGRAPHER For those who did not know Nigel, he could appear a very tall, exceedingly arrogant Englishman with an accent so “veddyveddy-upper-upper” that he made Queen Elizabeth sound like Edward G. Robinson in Little Caesar. As former USCF executive director Al Lawrence wrote recently in a nice snapshot of Nigel, “I remember how he would punctuate a sardonic comment with an oblique glance, backed up with a wide co-conspirator’s grin—and all coming down to you from a great height.” Such was the surface Nigel. The real Nigel was as kind and generous as they come. As a young man, he was very fond of a lady who was mentally drowning in bipolar schizophrenia. Not yet married, he spent over a year attending constantly to her needs, trying to save her. In the end, he failed. She committed suicide. It is a measure of my friend that he never breathed a word to me about this horrendous physical and moral trial. I learned the story from his family. Too, when I had a wrenching affair of the heart a few decades back, he traveled from New York City to my home in Newburgh, the city being also the location back then of USCF headquarters. His attitude: “I’ll hold your hand if necessary, so please buck up, can’t be as bad as all that.” His warm common sense—no, make that the soul of the man himself—was wonderful beyond ready reckoning. Over the years, I ate dinner several dozen times with Nigel at his large apartment on the Upper West Side. These feasts were collaborations. Since we were both Old Malaya hands—my first stint over here being from 1978 to 1982—the menu always fea-
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Remembrance
His portrait of Filipp Frenkel on page 68 of the January 1987 issue rendered mercilessly the man’s lugubrious mien. I said at the time to Nigel, “That’s not a photograph. That’s a statement.” tured Basmati rice, aromatic Indian pickle, crackling papadam, soothing raita and, to be sure, an extravagant serving of two curried chickens with the wings, drumsticks and breasts swimming in buttery ghee. All of which we washed down with copious cuppas of Tiger Beer, a robust Singaporean lager. Conversations during these dinners will correct one misimpression: all was not, thank heaven, boring sweetness and light between us. We had terrific rows over uncontroversial issues such as personal religious convictions and war. Voices raised, hands waved, insults flew. Quoting from Lord Melbourne on Thomas Macaulay, Nigel once shouted, “I wish I was as cocksure of anything as you, Parr, are about everything!” An always happy topic during these sybaritic repasts was Edward VII, the son of Victoria Regina, and as history records, her successor to the British throne. Edward the Eater was the greatest gourmet and sturdiest trencherman not only in the history of the British monarchy but, arguably, in the long histories of all other European royal houses. From Edward, with his expansive girth, it was the shortest of verbal byways into descriptive discussions of those persons, notably wide of body and head, who have sat on USCF governing boards over the decades. Enter the subject of chess politics.
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PHOTOGRAPHIC NEGATIVES Nigel was a founder—along with GMs Larry Evans and Lev Alburt, Robert Cohen and this writer—of the famous or, depending on one’s viewpoint, infamous Friends of the USCF. We published a series of USCF Delegates Newsletters that presented what might be called negative pictures of Federation governance, though usually with a humor that the sad subject warranted. These newsletters are, I am told, highly valued by chess political cognoscenti. To his credit, long-time policy board member Jerry Hanken cheerfully concedes, these days, that an article we wrote on how he lost his pants at an official meeting ended his career in USCF electoral politics. We managed to elect a few members to the board, a fact publicly known, and two members in our secret capacity as their campaign managers, the details of which to this day remain sub rosa. Flushed with these successes, I talked Nigel into running for the policy board in 1992 against Donald Schultz, who later served a term as Federation president. This was one of the few times that I was able to prevail upon my friend to do something against his settled judgment. Our official excuse, shortly after we got swamped in an electoral tsunami, was that Nigel spent most of the time in Brazil during the campaign, arranging to adopt a baby. That baby is today a splendid young lady, who is a cherished part of the Eddis family. Now is the time to admit that Friends chairman, GM Larry Evans, and I figured that Nigel got as many votes as he did precisely because he was unable to do much campaigning. I was with him while he made a handful of phone calls to selected delegates at the beginning of the campaign and, after his return from Brazil, at the very end. These calls were disasters because he practiced conversation sans tergiversation, a practice that is morally praiseworthy but socially disastrous. One delegate, who began a call predisposed toward Nigel, announced he would campaign for Mr. Schultz. The delegate had requested Nigel’s views on a certain Federation political figure, and I heard my friend answer with over-the-top British drollery, “The blighter wants lynching from an honest English oak.” Nearly in tears, I begged Nigel to get into the spirit of a typical, mealy-mouthed American political campaign. His response was unforgettable, and I can paraphrase it fairly closely: “Larry, strange as it may seem to you, I think of myself as a British gentleman. No, really—I do. And I will not tailor my tongue to the views of a woolly-headed Federation delegate.” Nigel, alas, was not political candidate material. Instead, along with Catherine Jaeg of France, he was one of the two best chess photographers ever to snap a shutter.
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IM John Donaldson described this Eddis effort as “Classic Larsen!”
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Remembrance PHOTOGRAPHIC MEMORIES Nigel Eddis contributed photographs to Chess Life from the early 1970s until the first years of the new century. His work was nearly always technically perfect, and his compositions, though simple and mainstream, were subtle. He had a gift for drawing out the essential character or lack thereof of his subjects. People never said that an Eddis photograph looked like, say, Mikhail Tal. They said it was Tal or whoever. My friend provided Chess Life readers many photographic memories. His April 1977 cover shot of a feral, young IM Michael Rohde was a candid, totally uncompromising bit of genius that IM Mark Ginsburg in his web blog stated “deserved some kind of journalism prize.” The photo portrait of GM Arnold Denker in the November 1985 issue (see page 24) is as elegant and energetic as was the man himself. Nigel produced an image of Hungarian WGM Maria Ivanka on page 23 of the October 1986 issue that was a deep study in desirable, intelligent, strong femininity. His portrait of Filipp Frenkel on page 68 of the January 1987 issue rendered mercilessly the man’s lugubrious mien. I said at the time to Nigel, “That’s not a photograph. That’s a statement.” The outstanding Eddis achievement during my time as Chess Life editor was his photo portrait of Danish GM Bent Larsen on page 23 of the July 1986 issue. It may be the slickest, yet subtlest and most bouncingly vibrant study ever to appear in a chess publication. IM John Donaldson described this Eddis effort as “Classic Larsen!” For true enough: the photograph did not merely look like Larsen; it was Larsen. Any discussion of chess photography at the peak of the profession must deal with the styles and merits of both Nigel Eddis and, as already mentioned, Catherine Jaeg, whose best efforts were published in Black & White Passion (1990). Ms. Jaeg’s work often shows the drama of telling moments at a chess event by employing strikingly original angles that produce equally novel compositions, while Nigel’s creations sought to extract, as if by force at times, the essence of a player’s person or mood. A less talented photographer than Jaeg, which is to say nearly everyone aside from Nigel who ever contributed photos to a chess magazine, might render static, staid clichés of trophy and cash presentations. A less talented photographer than Nigel would render cardboard faces—all alike, save in their surface physiognomy.
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Ivanka: ... a deep study in desirable, intelligent, strong femininity.
Arnold Denker: ... as elegant and energetic as was the man himself.
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... [would he] consider getting into a single-engine aircraft, flying over the area, leaning out an open window of said aircraft, while it tipped at a suitably alarming angle ... A P I C T U R E O F L O YA L T Y How does a chess magazine, the precincts of which make the chill penury of a Dickensian poor house feel like a warm bedroom in Hugh Hefner’s Playboy mansion, inveigle highly paid professionals into its service? “To a newspaperman,” old-time radio wit Fred Allen once said, “a human being is an item with the skin wrapped around it.” Ditto, to magazine editors. We do what we must—to get what we will. Because of our common interest in Malaysia, Nigel and I, as already noted, quickly became friends as well as business associates. Staying friends would not prove difficult; retaining his services was always challenging. He had a family and professional pride, and the checks from Chess Life did not often balance the pay scale. In the case of the 1985 U.S. Open in Hollywood, Florida, I prevailed on chief organizer GM Denker to provide my friend with substantial travel money and free accommodations. At several World Opens, Nigel provided his services because that premier chess organizer Bill Goichberg footed some of the expenses. Yet it was the same 1985 Hollywood U.S. Open that prompted an example of Nigel’s dedication to Chess Life and professional ethics that was above and beyond the call of the dollar. My friend, you see, had a phobia against flying. He had just spent 25 hours on a train from New York to Florida so as to avoid all opportunities to crash headlong into the ground from 40,000 feet. Then, one day at the tournament, international arbiter Carol Jarecki announced she was taking up her plane to get a view of the beautiful beachside hotel where the competition was being held. I asked Nigel whether he would consider getting into a single-engine aircraft, flying over the area, leaning out an open window of said aircraft, while it tipped at a suitably alarming angle, and snapping a panoramic shot of hotel and beach. He stared straight at me, pursed his lips, checked out his camera, paused at length, and said, and I now quote with easy precision, “No.” One word. And he walked away. A few minutes later, Nigel reported for aerial duty, went up into the wild blue yonder with pilot Jarecki, and produced a fine photograph that was also a picture of loyalty. I wrote this caption, “Talk about getting sky high. CL photographer Nigel Eddis went up in a two-seater ... to snap the Diplomat Hotel, the stunning site of this year’s U.S. Open.” Nigel had one precondition before going up. I was not to quiz him afterward about how he felt during the flight. There was a duty to perform, he would perform it manfully, but he would not submit himself even to jocular cross-examination by a friend. That was Nigel Eddis.
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Instruction
rrrrrrrr r
The Purposeful Rook A guide for the class player on activating your rooks— with meaning!
By Carey Theil
If we stop for a moment and think about rook play, many amateur games go something like this: we play a few pawn moves and develop our minor pieces. We “connect our rooks,” meaning we develop until all our pieces are out and our king has castled. Then we post our rooks on open files. On these files, however, our rooks just sit there, watching the middlegame proceed as spectators. If there are no decisive mistakes in the middlegame we proceed to an endgame. Finally, we think, it is safe for our rooks to really fight! In the endgame, our rooks become leading stars, and we battle over open files, where exchanges often occur. We shuffle our rooks back and forth, while we dream of maneuvering our rooks to the magical “seventh rank” and winning all of our opponents’ pawns. While this analysis might seem simplistic, it’s not far from the truth. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Rooks can— and should—be used more actively. We will all benefit from expanding our perspective on the role rooks play in our games. In short, we need to make our rooks purposeful. A fun example of the powerful role rooks can play in the middlegame occurred earlier this year in a game I played against GM Eugene Perelsteyn.
Symmetrical English (A36) Carey Theil (2221) GM Eugene Perelshteyn (2611) Boylston Chess Club, March 2009
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1. e4 c5 2. c4 Nc6 3. Nc3 g6 4. g3 Bg7 5. Bg2 d6 6. Nge2 h5 7. h3 e5 8. d3 Nge7 9. Nd5 Nxd5 10. cxd5 Ne7?!
After this move, Black will have difficulties finding a useful role for his knight. Better was 10. ... Nd4 11. Nxd4 exd4 with roughly equal chances. 11. Bg5 f6 12. Be3 h4 13. Qd2 Bd7 14. f4 hxg3 15. fxe5 fxe5?!
The critical moment in the game. After this recapture, White is better. Necessary was 15. ... dxe5! 16. Bxc5 Rc8 with interesting play. After the text, White has a clear plan: he will try to take advantage of Black’s misplaced knight and infiltrate with his rooks on the f-file. 16. Bg5 Qb6 17. 0-0-0 Qb4 18. Nc3 Ng8 19. Rdf1 Rh5 20. Kb1 Bh6 21. Bxh6 Rxh6 22. Qg5 Qb6 23. Rf3 Qd8 24. Rhf1!
r+ qk+n+ pp+l++ + p+p r + pP p Q ++P++ + NP+R pP P P++L+ +K++R+ After 24. Rhf1
A fun move to play over the board against a grandmaster. Note the relative position of the four rooks. White’s rooks are
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Instruction doubled on the only open file and create deadly threats on f8 and f7. Black’s rook on a8 is a spectator, and his other rook on h6 is so misplaced it’s hard not to feel sorry for him. The power of White’s two rooks is especially noteworthy. It’s hard to imagine rooks being more purposeful! 24. ... Qe7 25. Qxe7+ Kxe7 26. Rf7+ Kd8 27. Rf8+ Be8 28. Rxg8
... and White eventually won. So the recipe for purposeful rooks is simple, right? Open files, place your rooks on them, penetrate into the enemy position and win! Unfortunately, it’s not always going to be that easy.
How NOT to activate GM Colin McNab (FIDE 2427) GM Jonathan Rowson (FIDE 2558) 2004 Scottish Championship
r+l qr+k+ pp p+p pp +n p n+ ++++ +P Pp++ + P P P P+ N PL P R LQ+R K After 10. ... Re8
White has a strong center, but at the moment does not have any good central breaks. 11. c5 dxc5 12. dxc5 would ruin White’s pawn structure. 11. d5 is equally bad, creating outposts for Black’s knights on c5, e5 and allowing access to the d3square. 11. Ba3 suggests itself, but after b6 the bishop will be poorly placed. So by process of elimination, we arrive at 11. Rb1. After all, what can be wrong with putting our rook on the half-open b-file? This is the move McNab chose, but unfortunately for him in this case “activating” the queen-side rook is a mistake. 11. Rb1 b6 12. f3 exf3 13. Qxf3 Bb7!
In his insightful book, Chess for Zebras, Rowson writes: “Now that my queenside is organized, and there are no Rxb7 tricks, I have a clear advantage. 11. Rb1 was a half-move that affected the whole position.” So what should White have done instead? Going back to the initial position, Rowson suggests 11. f3 immediately, and claims that the position is unclear after 11. ... exf3 12. Qxf3 Bg4 13. Qf4 Bh5 14. Rb1 Rb8 15. Rxb7 Rxb7 16. Bxc6 Rb8 17. Bxe8 Qxe8 with compensation for the pawn. One lesson to be learned from this
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game is that rooks do not only need open files, they need open files where they will actually be doing something. In other words, they need to have a purpose in occupying the file. At a minimum, they need to have the prospect of having a future purpose. In the above position, Rb1 became useful only after Black could no longer respond with ... b7-b6. After 11. Rb1 b6 White had lost time and the b1-rook was going nowhere. Even worse, ... b7-b6 actually helped Black by neutralizing White’s pressure on the long diagonal. On the other hand if White had opened the long diagonal immediately with f2-f3, everything would have been different. He would have prevented ... b7-b6 by creating immediate threats against the weak b7-square. After this move, and the subsequent development of Black’s light-squared bishop, the bfile would have become purposeful and Rb1 would have made a lot of sense. So how do we know if a rook will be purposeful on a given file? There is no clear cut answer, but there are a few signs that we can look for. An open file will likely be purposeful if one of the following are true: 1. The file provides an entry square that will allow your rook to penetrate into the enemy camp. 2. By playing your rook on the file, you can prevent the mobilization of your opponent’s pieces. 3. The file can be used as a jumping off point to allow your rook to take part in an attack on the other side of the board. 4. On the open file, your rook will apply pressure to your opponent’s position, or provoke weaknesses. Another common mistake chess players make is to evaluate a position based on how their rooks “look,” meaning they assess the position based on the cosmetic appearance of their (and their opponent’s) rook positions, rather than through an analysis of which rooks are actually purposeful and which are not. An interesting example of cosmetically deceptive rooks occurred in our next game: Rooks at the world championship level GM Boris Spassky (FIDE 2650) GM Anatoly Karpov (FIDE 2700) 1974 World Championship Qualifier match (Game 6) (see diagram top of next column)
At first blush, it seems as though White is doing fine. He has a passed pawn on d6, a centralized knight on e4, and he has firm control of the c-file. In reality, however, White is in big trouble. Even more incredibly, Black’s path forward involves
+r+r++ pp+n+k p l P p+ ++ p+ ++N+P+ PP+++ LR+ PK+ + R++ After 31. Rec2
his use of a better rook! 31. ... Rxc2 32. Rxc2 Ke6 33. a4 a5 34. Ba3
We have reached the critical position. White controls the c-file, and the h-file will not be useful for Black. How does he activate his rook? 34. ... Rb8!
r+++ +p+n+ p l Pk p+ p+ p+ P++N+P+ LP+++ +R+ PK+ ++++ After 34. ... Rb8
A beautiful move. Black does not have any purpose files for his rook, so he intends to create one. Once the bishop moves and ... b7-b5 is played, the b-file will become purposeful. By contrast, White’s c2-rook controls a file that looks good, but isn’t actually very useful. 35. Rc4 Bd4 36. f4 g6 37. Ng3 exf4
Of course, Spassky realizes the power of Karpov’s idea. Therefore, he immediately begins actions on the other side of the board. Unfortunately, these moves only serve to help Black. 38. Rxd4 fxg3 39. Kxg3 Rc8!
The realization of Karpov’s strategy. Now that White has left the c-file, Black takes control. Ironically, while the c-file was not useful for White, it is very useful for Black. If White now plays Rc4, then after the exchange of rooks Black’s strong king and better minor piece will be decisive. 40. Rd3 g5 41. Bb2 b6 42. Bd4 Rc6
Now the d-pawn falls and with it the game. Finally, the contrast of a purposeful
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rook versus a purposeless rook was highlighted by a game I lost last year to the attacking master FM Christopher Chase.
English Opening (A25) Carey Theil (2007) FM Chris Chase (2357) Boylston Chess Club, January 2007 1. e4 g6 2. c4 Bg7 3. Nc3 d6 4. g3 Nc6 5. Bg2 e5 6. Nge2 Bg4 7. h3 Be6 8. d3 Qd7 9. Nd5 Nd8 10. Rb1 c6 11. Ndc3?
This is a loss of time. Because White will win back Black’s bishop in the event of cxd5, White should leave his knight where it is and proceed with a developing move like 11. Be3. 11. ... Ne7 12. b4 0-0 13. b5 f5 14. bxc6 bxc6 15. exf5 gxf5
Understandably, White wants to activate his light-squared bishop. However, he must now deal with the positional threat of ... f5-
f4 and his pieces are not well coordinated. 16. f4 exf4 17. Bxf4 Ng6 18. Bd2?
White does not want to give up his valuable bishop. However, this is a concession he was obliged to make due to earlier missteps. Correct now is either 18. Qd2 or 18. 0-0. 18. ... f4!
r+ n rk+ p+q+ lp +p pl+n+ ++++ +P+ p+ + NP+ PP P+ LN+L+ +R+Q K+R After 18. ... f4
The contrast between the opposing rooks is stark. Even though the White
rook controls the open b-file, it has no real targets or entry squares. Nor is there any immediate prospect of using the b-file to transfer the rook to other parts of the board. The White rook is shooting blanks. By contrast, the rook on f8 is providing critical support to the f-pawn and Black’s minor pieces. Together, they are tearing the White kingside apart. 19. Nxf4 Nxf4 20. gxf4 Bf5
After this pawn sacrifice, Black is already at least equal and his game is easier to play. Even worse, this is an ideal position for a tactical player like Chase. I lasted another 22 moves, but eventually succumbed to the pressure. In conclusion, to succeed, our rooks must be active participants in our games. They are not only endgame soldiers, but should also be used actively in the middlegame. Most importantly, we must strive to find ways for our rooks to be purposeful. It’s not good enough to have nice-looking rooks. They need to actually be doing something!
.
Middlegame Zugzwang and a Previously Unknown Bobby Fischer Game Zugzwang is commonly known as an endgame phenomenon. Middlegame examples are rare, as are unknown Fischer games ... By GM Larry Kaufman In 1964 Bobby Fischer, then 21 years old but already arguably the world’s best player, went on an exhibition tour around the U.S. I was in high school in the Washington, D.C. area then and rated around 2000. Bobby gave a lecture and played about 70 boards in his D.C. simul, which I attended. I chose to watch rather than play, figuring (correctly, I think) that I would learn more from watching his play in 70 games than from playing one. However, a high school chess friend of mine, Daniel Collins, played a board, and I kept a close eye on it. Daniel was perhaps of class C strength then, though he has maintained a class A rating in recent years. As a result of a truly horrendous positional error on move 9, he soon had a lost game. I stopped by on move 26 to try to figure out just how Fischer would win the game, when it gradually dawned
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on me (and on Daniel) that Bobby didn’t need a plan at all, because Daniel had only suicidal moves at his disposal, despite the board having lots of pieces and pawns on it. Such examples of Zugzwang in the middlegame are quite rare, and after Fischer won he asked Daniel for a copy of the game score. Perhaps he meant to publish it someday, but as far as I know he never did so. Recently I heard from Daniel, and I asked him if he still had the moves of that game, and he did! So here they are (with my comments), presumably for the first time anywhere. But first I’ll describe three types of Zugzwang and give some classic examples. Zugzwang is an important concept in chess. This German word might be translated literally as “relocation compulsion” or in simple English “must move.” The idea is that the right to move in chess is
also an obligation; passing your turn is not permitted. There are many positions in chess, mostly in the endgame, where any move you make will ruin your position; you wish you could pass, but you can’t (except in the Korean version of chess). The side forced to make a suicidal move is said to be in Zugzwang. If not for Zugzwang, many more endings would be drawn. In my view, calling stalemate a draw is totally illogical, since it represents the ultimate Zugzwang, where any move would get your king taken. Until around the year 1500 a stalemated player lost. Probably the draw rule was added with the advent of the powerful queen since draws became rare, but that is obviously no longer true in top-level play. The purest form of Zugzwang is mutual Zugzwang, where both players would like to pass. The simplest example is:
Chess Life — September 2009
35
Instruction 4. Bxe2 Rb8+
This is possible since Nxb8 is stalemate. 5. Bb5+!! Rxb5+
5. ... Kxb5 6. Nxb8 wins for White. 6. Ka2!!
Mutual Zugzwang. White to move would lose, but Black cannot pass, and every move loses. Rook moves to b3, b7, or d5 all allow winning knight forks, while 6. ... Rb4 allows 7. Nc5+ Kb5 8. axb4 followed by Ne4 and Nxg5. Here is another study by the same author:
++++ ++++ ++K++ ++++ +++p+ ++++P ++ pN N ++++k White to move and win
1. Ne3! g3 2. Nhf1! g2 3. h4!! g1=Q 4. Kf7!
++k++ ++ P+ + K++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++
++ r+ ++++ R+++ pp k+ p +N++P+ P++l+ K+++ +++L+
Mutual Zugzwang
White to move and win
White to move must stalemate or lose his pawn, while Black to move must play ... Kf7 allowing the winning Kd7. A much more interesting example is this study by Yochanan Afek:
1. Rxb5+!! Kxb5 2. Ne5+ Ka4
(see diagram top of next column)
36
Chess Life — September 2009
Other king moves allow a winning fork. 3. Nd7 Be2!
This is the only defense to the three threats of Nb6 mate, Nc5 mate, and Nxf8.
+++k+ +++R+ +++K+ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ To harm or not to harm
White to move can “pass” by retreating his rook on the f-file, whereas Black to move could draw if allowed to pass, but must play ... Kh8 allowing mate due to Zugzwang. A further distinction can be made between “true” Zugzwangs, where the game is lost due to the obligation to move but would be drawn if one could pass, and “practical” Zugzwangs, where the game might be lost anyway even if one could pass but having to move makes
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PHOTO: GLEN WHEELER
Bobby considering a move against Edmund Wheeler in an exhibition in Fitchburg, Massachusetts during his 1964 simul tour. Photo by Glen Wheeler, from the book A Legend on the Road: Bobby Fischer’s 1964 Simultaneous Exhibition Tour by IM John Donaldson.
White to move would lose after 4. h5 Qg5 or 4. Kc6 Qg8, but it is Black’s turn and he has no way to “pass.” Every legal move loses the queen and the game. After 4. ... Qxf1 5. Nxf1 Kg2 6. Nd2 White wins. Much more common are positions where one player has moves available that do no harm while the other does not. For example:
the loss quicker or more obvious. This last type is the most usual one in positions with many men on the board, though even this type of Zugzwang is rare in the middlegame. Probably the best known middlegame Zugzwang is in this game:
Closed Catalan (E06) Friedrich Sämisch Aaron Nimzowitsch Copenhagen, 1923 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 b6 4. g3 Bb7 5. Bg2 Be7 6. Nc3 0-0 7. 0-0 d5
7. ... Ne4 is now considered better.
Like the Nimzowitsch game, the Fischer Zugzwang game is not a pure one since the right to pass would not save the game. Actually I do not know of any pure Zugzwang in the middlegame in actual play, though it is certainly possible. Still, if the game had gone 26. ... Kd8 (instead of 26. ... Rh6) 27. Nab7+ Kc7 28. Kh2!? (rather than the objectively faster win 28. Qf7) it would have been obvious that all Black moves drop material directly.
Caro-Kann Defense, Classical Variation (B18) Robert Fischer Daniel Collins Simul, Washington D.C., March 8,1964
8. Ne5 c6 9. cxd5?!
9. e4! keeps some advantage, whereas the text move leaves White with no clear plan of action. 9. ... cxd5 10. Bf4 a6 11. Rc1 b5 12. Qb3 Nc6 13. Nxc6 Bxc6 14. h3?!
Better was 14. Ne4 to gain the bishop pair. The text move is pointless. 14. ... Qd7 15. Kh2?! Nh5 16. Bd2 f5 17. Qd1?! b4 18. Nb1 Bb5 19. Rg1?! Bd6 20. e4?!
This “wins” a piece, but the price, two pawns and a strong attack, is too steep. 20. ... fxe4 21. Qxh5 Rxf2 22. Qg5?! Raf8 23. Kh1?! R8f5 24. Qe3 Bd3
24. ... Re2! 25. Qb3 Ba4 traps the queen. 25. Rce1 h6, White resigned.
+
+ +k+ + +q+ p p+ lp+ p + +p+r+ p Pp+ + + +l Q PP P P L rL+ +N+ R RK After 25. ... h6
White resigned here, because every move is suicidal, except for delaying pawn moves. For example, 26. b3 a5 27. g4 R5f3! and if 28. Bxf3 Rh2 mate. However, since Black is already threatening to trap the queen by ... R5f3, the position is only Zugzwang in the sense that White loses more quickly than he would if he could pass. If Black wins the queen directly by 26. ... R5f3 after a pawn move like 26. b3, he “pays” a rook and the Exchange for it, but if he waits for White's “pass” moves to run out, he’ll win at least a piece with more gains likely.
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1. e4 c6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 dxe4 4. Nxe4 Bf5 5. Nc5
r n qk ln r pp+ pp pp +p+ + + + N +l+ + P + + + + + + P PP+ PP P R LQ KL NR After 5. Nc5
This is much less common than 5. Ng3 here, but it scores very well in practice, was used at every opportunity by Fischer in simul play, and is still played in high-level encounters. 5. ... Qc7
This was played recently by GM Vladimir Burmakin. Elite GMs Peter Leko and Gata Kamsky both chose 5. ... b6 in recent games. Both Fischer and Rybka recommend 5. ... e5, which along with 5. ... Nd7, 5. ... Qc7, and 5. ... Qb6 are all seen in grandmaster play. 6. Bd3 Bxd3 7. Nxd3 Nd7 8. Bf4 Qb6
move the queen to a6 when hit. 12. a5 Qd8?!
12. ... Qa6. 13. Re1 g5 14. Bg3 h5 15. h4 g4 16. Nd2 Nh6 17. Nc4?
17. Re6! planning 18. a6 and blocking the “e” pawn was completely winning. 17. ... Nf5 18. a6 b5 19. Na5 Qb6?
19. ... e5! gives Black some counterplay, though he is still lost. 20. Nc5 Nxg3 21. Re6!
This clinches the victory. 21. ... Nb8 22. fxg3 Rd8 23. c3 Rd6 24. Qe2 Rxe6 25. Qxe6+ Kc7 26. b4!
n + l r p k p + P qp+Q p + Np N + +p P P +p P + P + P + + +P+ R + + K After 26. b4
Zugzwang! Although White is obviously winning, it was not immediately obvious what he threatened to do if Black “passed,” though now I see that 27. Qf7 followed by 28. Ne6+ would suffice. But passing is illegal, and every move is suicidal. The queen has no safe square, 26. ... Nxa6 allows 27. Qd7+, 26. ... f5 allows 27. Qe5+, bishop moves allow 27. Qxe7+, and rook moves allow 27. Qg8. If 26. ... Kd8 27. Nab7+ Kc7 28. Qf7! f5 29. Qe8 with a forced mate in seven. 26. ... Rh6 27. Qg8 Nxa6 28. Qxf8 Rh7 29. Nxc6! Nxc5 30. bxc5 Qxc6 31. Rxa7+ Qb7 32. Rxb7+ Kxb7 33. Qg8 Rh6 34. Qg7 Rh8 35. Qxh8 e5 36. d5 e4 37. Qxf6 e3 38. Qb6+ Ka8 39. c6 e2 40. Qb7 mate.
10. ... 0-0-0 11. a4 Re8?!
If you know of an actual game in which a true middlegame Zugzwang occurred, please let us know about it at
[email protected]. Each side must have at least a queen and two other pieces, and the losing side must be able to draw if allowed to pass at will. It is easy to find middlegames where one side has no decent move and must lose, but as in the above two games there is almost always a way to win even after an illegal pass move. Thanks to Daniel Collins for supplying the moves of this unusual and unknown Fischer game.
Black prepares a retreat for this queen, but it's better to play 11. ... g5 here and
Download a .pgn file of this issue’s games at uschess.org.
Better is 8. ... Qa5+, though White has some edge. Now we’re out of theory. 9. Nf3 f6?
Well, this is awful. Black takes away e5 from the white knights, but he takes away the best square from his knight, makes his bishop bad, leaves his “e” pawn backward, and weakens his king. 10. 0-0
White already has a won game.
.
Chess Life — September 2009
37
Back to Basics
An (Adrenaline-Pumping) Ordinary Game
By GM Lev Alburt
A tough-fought, strategic game suddenly erupts with a series of tactical blunders, leaving a lower-rated player the somewhat surprised winner.
Looking through my older columns, I was surprised that so many of them dealt with upsets. The reason for this, I guess, is twofold: a) upsets are unexpected and thus exciting—for me and (I hope) for readers; b) most games I receive (I realize now) are upsets, as those are much more remarkable for the winners than a normal, or “expected” (playing down) victory. I predict, however that Mark Norris, the winner of this month’s award, will soon add 400-500 rating points to his current 1074 USCF rating. Not only did Mark prove himself equal to his 1508-rated opponent in all stages of this long struggle, but he also provided quite impressive (albeit laconic) annotations. Writes Mark Norris: This was one of the most interesting games I have had the pleasure of playing at my chess club. It was quite the game and definitely had my adrenaline pumping. Look for yourself. (As usual, Lev’s future comments are in italics). Orangutan Opening (A00) George Miller (1508) Mark Norris (1074) Watchusett Chess Club Championship Prelims
After 3. ... a6
I came well-prepared. 2. Bb2 Nf6 3. b5 a6 (see diagram top of next column)
Black’s objective is to activate his a8rook. 4. e3?!
An interesting choice. Tkachiev-Karpov blitz game continued 4. a4 axb5 5. axb5 Rxa1 6. Bxa1 c5. Karpov won soon after.
Chess Life — September 2009
more accurate. 10. ... exd5 11. d4? c4! 12. Nc3
r nl q rk+ +p+ +p pp + l n + + +p+ + +p P + + + N PN+ P L +L PP P R +Q+R K
Mark clearly does his opening research very well.
After 12. Nc3
4. ... axb5 5. Bxb5 c6 6. Be2 d5 7. Nf3 Bd6 8. 0-0
12. ... Nc6
r nl qk+ r +p+ +p pp +p lp n + + +p+ + + + + + + + PN+ P LP PL PP P RN+Q+R K After 8. 0-0
1. b4 e6
38
r nl qk l r +p pp+p pp p+ +p n + +P+ + + + + + + + + + + P LP PP PP P RN+Q KL NR
8. ... 0-0
Both players handle the opening stage quite well. Even 4. e3 may not deserve the “?!” sign. Of course, there were alternatives; for example, 8. ... b5 (or even 7. ... b5), to stop White’s c2-c4, or 8. ... Nbd7 preparing ... e6-e5. But the first eight moves (and even a few of those following) could have been played by masters. 9. c4 c5 10. cxd5?!
True, an immediate d2-d4 (10. d4) was
After two dubious (?!) moves and one bad (?) one, the position remains close to equal. Perhaps White’s transgressions were not that bad after all. Black continued to develop. 13. Nb5 Bb4 14. a3 Ba5 15. Nd2
r+l q rk+ +p+ +p pp +n+ n + lN+p+ + +p P + + P + P + L NL PP P R +Q+R K After 15. Nd2
15. ... Bxd2!?
This may not be best. Indeed, 15. ... Bxd2 is a reasonable move—but not the best, as Black’s pawn structure in the center (pawns on c4 and
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d5) put an extra premium on the darksquare bishop. Black has normal, good moves like 15. ... Bf5 or 15. ... Re8, but the strongest is, perhaps, 15. ... Na7, with the goal of bringing the b-pawn to b5. 16. Qxd2 Ne4 17. Qe1 Qb6 18. a4 Bf5 19. f3?!
This is questionable. However, I did fear the pawn sac on e4. 19. f3 is a good move—which has nothing to do with the (highly unlikely) e3-e4 thrust. But trickier—and thus stronger— was a transposition, 19. Ba3 and only after the natural-looking 19. ... Rfe8(?), 20. f3 Nf6 21. Nd6, forking Black’s rook and bishop. 19. ... Nf6
r+ + rk+ +p+ +p pp qn+ n + +N+p+l+ P+p P + + + + PP+ L +L+P P R + QR K After 19. ... Nf6
20. Qc3
As noted above, 20. Ba3! leads to a clear advantage. Black’s dark-square bishop is badly missing! 20. ... Ra5 21. Rfc1 Rfa8 22. Bd1 Bd7 23. Ba3!
A monster! Bc5 is coming and I can do little about it.
r+ + +k+ +p+l+p pp qn+ n + rN+p+ + P+p P + + L Q PP+ + + +P P R RL+ K After 23. Ba3
23. ... Qa6?
Perhaps tired of working hard on every move in a complex—and slowly (after 15. ... Bxd2) deteriorating position, Black finally blunders. Another queen’s retreat —23. ... Qd8—would keep material equal, and the struggle going on. 24. Nc7 Qa7 25. Nxa8 Qxa8 26. Bb4? Nxb4
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Black grabs the opportunity to create counterplay. Bravo! 27. Qxb4 b5! 28. Rcb1
I would prefer the solid 28. Rc3. 28. ... bxa4
q+ + +k+ + +l+p pp + + n + r +p+ + p Qp P + + + + PP+ + + +P P RR+L+ K After 28. ... bxa4
29. Bxa4??
Playing for a faulty tactic. 29. Ra3 would have been a more viable option. Well, 29. Ra3 allows 29. ... Rb5. Perhaps an exchange of queens, followed by Ra3, the king’s march to c3, and possibly e3-e4, offers White the best chances for victory. 29. ... Rxa4
George set up a diabolical trap: if 29. ... Bxa4, then 30. Qxa5!, but missed Mark’s excellent response. 30. Qb8+ Qxb8 31. Rxb8+ Ne8 32. Rxa4 Bxa4
R
+n+k+ + + +p pp + + + + + +p+ + l+p P + + + + PP+ + + +P P + + + K After 32. ... Bxa4
33. Rc8 Kf8 34. Rc5
Unfortunately, White still comes out on top. No, Black is better, as even in the ending the bishop and knight are stronger than rook—by at least one pawn. 34. ... Nf6 35. Kf1 Ke7 36. Ke1 Kd6 37. Kd2 Nd7 38. Ra5 Bb3 39. Ra6+ Kc7 40. e4 Nb6 41. Ra7+ Kd6 (see diagram top of next column) 42. Rxf7
After 42. e5+ Kc6 43. Rxf7 Na4, White has (and must force) a draw with 44. Rf8
+
+
+ + R + +p pp n k + + + +p+ + +p PP+ + +l+ +P+ + K +P P + + + + After 41. ... Kd6
Kc7 45. Rf7+. 42. ... dxe4!
This move frees d5 for the king and plays for a funny little tactic. 43. fxe4??
Terrible. Other options are unpleasant as well. 43. Rxg7 exf3 44. gxf3 Kd5, where Black should be able to draw. Mark continues to underestimate the bishop plus knight duo! After 43. Rxg7 (indeed, best) 43. ... Nd5, preparing the pawn’s queening, I don’t see any good defense. Even after the unimaginative 43. ... exf3 44. gxf3 Nd5 it’s White who’s fighting for a draw.
.
43. ... c3+ 44. Kxc3 Bxf7 45. e5+ Kd5 46. g4 Nc4 47. h3 Nxe5 48. dxe5 Kxe5 49. Kd3 Kf4, White resigned.
View this issue on our new pdf viewer! Go to uschess.org and click on the “Chess Life Magazine” link in the left margin.
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 annotations. Do not send games with only a few notes, as they are of little instructive value and can’t be used. Writing skills are a plus, but instructiveness is a must! Make sure your game (or part of it) and your notes will be of interest to other readers.
Chess Life — September 2009
39
Endgame Lab
2009 U.S. Championship, Part I
By GM Pal Benko
Exemplary endgames were the rule at the 2009 U.S. Championship. In the first of a two-part column, Benko looks at a selection of the top finishers’ games, focusing this month on pawn-up endings. Connected passed pawns GM Hikaru Nakamura (2748) GM Alexander Shabalov (2638) The champ uses a combination to move into a superior ending.
r+ + rk+ +l qn lp p p p p n p + + pP+ P+ +P+P P +N N LL+ PP+ + + R +Q+R K
24. Bf1!
30. ... Ra1+
White has kept his extra pawn, but he will be committed to nursing it for awhile.
The position was balanced but Black was too optimistic and overestimated his chances for an adventure. Simplest was 30. ... g4 (with the intention of playing ... Re5) and after 31. h6 gxh6 32.Rxh6 c5! a counter-strike might have come.
24. ... Kf8 25. Ree1
If 25. Rae1, then 25. … Be6. 25. ... Rdb8 26. Ra3 Nf6 27. Rd1 Ra7
Or 27. ... Be4. 28. Rd2 Be4 29. Rf2 Ng4?
Losing a tempo and letting White grab the initiative. 29. ... Rc7 could have been played, creating complications. 30. Rf4 Nf6
If 30. … Bxc2, then 32. Nd4 Bd1 33. Rd3
Black to play
31. Nc5! Bxc2 32. Rf2 Bd1 33. Nxa6 Rb6 34. b4!
15. ... d5!?
Or 34. a5! The mobilized and connected passed pawns decide matters quickly.
A common response in the center against a wing-attack. But instead of a pawn sac, safer was the passive 15. ... Nh7. 16. exd5 e4 17. Bg2 Qg3
Though this looks like an effective move, it leads to an inferior endgame. Either 17. ... Bb4 or 17. ... Rfd8 could have yielded more complex play. 18. Qe1 Qxe1 19. Rfxe1 Nxg4 20. Bxb6! Nxb6 21. Rxe4 Nxd5 22. Nxd5 Bxd5 23. Rxe7 Rfd8
r+ r +k+ + + Rp p p+ + + p + +l+P+ P+ + +n P +N+ + + PP+ +L+ R + + K After 23. ... Rfd8
40
Chess Life — September 2009
34. ... Rbxa6 35. Bxa6 Rxa6 36. a5 Ne4 37. b5 Rd6
In case of 37. ... Ra8 38. b6 Nc5 39. a6 Nxa6 (39. ... Rxa6 40. b7) 40. Rb2 wins. 38. a6! Nxf2 39. a7! Nh3+ 40. Rxh3, Black resigned.
Poisoned Pawn GM-elect Robert L. Hess (2605) GM Julio Becerra Rivero (2669)
+ +r+k+ + + +p p r+p R + + +p+ + pP P RP+ + + + + + + + PP+ + + + K Black to play
31. Kh2 Rc1 32. Kg3 Rc2
Here still 32. ... c5 was a real chance to equalize. 33. Rd7 Ra8 34. Rc7 Ra3+ 35. f3 Raa2
Seemingly Black has achieved his goal of winning the g2-pawn but he forgot about his own king’s vulnerability. 36. Rd8+ Kh7 37. Kg4 Rxg2+ 38. Kf5 Rad2 39. Rf8 g4
The situation has quickly become hopeless. The white king is chased ahead but even it helps in building the mating net around the black king. If 39. ... Rd6 then after 40. e5 and White wins. 40. Rcc8 g6+ 41. Kf6 Rd6+ 42. Ke7 Kh6 43. f4 Re6+ 44. Kxf7, Black resigned.
Monarch March GM Yury Shulman (2716) GM Alexander Onischuk (2761)
+ + +k+ +R+ +p+p p +r+p+ pP+ + + P+ + + + + + + + + + +P P + + + K White to play
The question is whether the extra pawn can be realized against the active white rook. If all queenside pawns are traded,
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Benko’s Bafflers Most of the time these studies resemble positions that could actually occur over-the-board. You must simply reach a theoretically won position for White. Solutions can be found on page 63. Please e-mail submissions for Benko’s Bafflers to: pbenko@ uschess.org
Problem I
Problem II
Pal Benko and Peter Gyarmati StrateGems, 2007
J. Mikotovics and Ervin Janosi, StrateGems, 2007
+
+ + + +p+k+p +q P + + P + P +K + + + + L + + + + r + + + + + Q P
White to play and win
it would be a theoretical draw. 37. Kf2
Better would have been 37. h4! and after 37. ... h6 (37. ... Re4 38. g3) 38. Kf2 g5 39. h5 could have been given more practical chances. 37. ... g5 38. Kf3 h5 39. h3
Now either 39. Kg3 or 39. g3 and 40. h4 were still possible. 39. ... Kg7 40. g3 Kg6 41. g4 f5 42. gxf5+ Kxf5 43. Rh7 Kg6 44. Rd7 Rf6+ 45. Kg3
Why not 45. Kg2 and if 45. ... h4 46. Rd5? 45. ... h4+ 46. Kg2 Kf5 47. Rd8 Ke4 48. Rg8 Kf4 49. Rd8 Ke3 50. Re8+ Kd3
+
+R+ + + + + + p + r + pP+ + p P+ + + p + +k+ +P + + +K+ + + + + After 50. ... Kd3
Black has achieved his goal of his king reaching the queenside. After this Black may allow pawn-trades and even the loss of a pawn. 51. Rg8 Rf4 52. Rxg5
The winning procedure is similar after 52. ... Rg6 too. 52. ... Rxa4 53. Rg6 Rb4 54. Rxb6 Kc4 55. Kf3 a4 56. Rb8 a3 57. b6 a2 58. Ra8 Kb3, White resigned.
Black’s technique was convincing. Kingside attack Next we can observe the youngest and oldest participants’ fight.
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Sicilian Defense, Richter-Rauzer Variation (B65) IM Ray Robson (2538) GM Boris Gulko (2631) 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 Nc6 6. Bg5 e6 7. Qd2 Be7 8. 0-0-0 0-0 9. f4 h6 10. h4?! Nxd4 11. Qxd4 Qa5 12. Kb1 e5 13. Qd2
r+l+ rk+ pp+ lp p + p n p q + p L + +P P P + N + + P PP Q +P+ +K+R+L+R After 13. Qd2
13. ... Nxe4
White avoided the complications arising from taking the offererd piece sac. Instead, he rather enters into an endgame which is slightly worse for him. 14. Nxe4 Qxd2 15. Rxd2 hxg5 16. hxg5 exf4 17. Rf2 Bf5?
The right bishop move was 17. ... Be6 (or 17. ... d5) to close the dangerous c4f7 bishop diagonal. After that 18. Rxf4 f5 19. gxf6 e.p. Bxf6 and Black at least has a playable game. (see analysis diagram top of next column) 18. Rxf4 Bxe4
18. ... d5 is too late because 19. Rxf5 dxe4 20. g6! is very strong.
k+ N + + P + + + K+ + l + +p+ + + P + + + QN+ +n+ +p+p+p+ + + q + White to play and draw
r+ + rk+ pp+ + p + pl l + + + + + + +N R + + + + + P PP+ +P+ +K+ +L+R Analysis after 19. ... Bxf6
+ + + + pp+ + p + pk l + + + + + + + RP+ + + + + P PP+r+ + +K+R+ + After 28. Rf4
28. ... Kd7
The black king travels to help his queenside pawns but he has no compensation for the lost Exchange. 29. a4 a5 30. Rd3 b6 31. Rb3 Kc6 32. Rc4+ Kb7 33. Rd3 Be5 34. Rf3 Bf6 35. Rf5 Rg2 36. Ka2 Rg1 37. c3 Rg3 38. Kb1 Rg1+ 39. Kc2 Rg2+ 40. Kd3 Ka6
If 40. ... Rxb2, then 41. g5 and the rooks break in. 41. b4 axb4 42. cxb4 Ra2
19. Rfh4! f5 20. Rxe4 Bxg5 21. Bc4+ Rf7 22. Rd4 Rd8 23. Rh5 Bf6 24. Bxf7+ Kxf7 25. Rxf5 Re8 26. Rd1 Re2 27. g4 Ke6 28. Rf4
This simply allows the end to arrive faster, but the position is untenable in any case. The white king can chase away the rook from the g-file.
(see second diagram next column)
43. g5 Be5 44. b5+, Black resigned.
Chess Life — September 2009
.
41
2009 WORLD CHESS LIVE GRAND PRIX SUMMARY World Chess Live sponsors over $25,000 at the 2009 Grand Prix!
Welcome,
Members!
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.
Newly crowned GM-elect Lenderman is still adding to his lead at the top of the GP standings. He's now 76points ahead of second place Sergey Kudrin, who is only holding on to a slim 4-point lead over Jaan Ehlvest. Despite Lenderman's lead, there are still five more major events with enhanced points up for grabs, kicking off this month with the 31st Annual Southern California Open.
It's been a sizzling summer for reigning Grand Prix champion Alex Lenderman, as he gained three grandmaster norms in successive tournaments—Copper State International in Arizona, the Philadelphia International followed by the World Open in Philly—to become the latest U.S. grandmaster!
Since this tournament is in his home state, we should see this month’s WCL Grand Prix spotlight player GM Melikset Khachiyan making a late bid for more points to challenge the leaders. Currently, Khachiyan is in 9th place—it will take a mighty effort for him to make it to the top with the other contenders.
Khachiyan was understandably unhappy with his poor performance at the 2009 U.S. Chess Championship in St. Louis, where he finished near the bottom of the table. He has admitted that just ten years ago he would not have handled the disappointment of such a finish, or even a lost game in a very gentlemanly manner. But as he told one reporter, “Now, it’s a loss, I have to see what I did wrong and learn.” And indeed he took his losses in St. Louis and figured out what went wrong when he finished a point ahead of the field to win the 14th Annual Pacific Coast Open at the end of July. ~Betsy Dynako (WCL)
2009 WORLD CHESS LIVE GRAND PRIX STANDINGS The following point totals reflect all rated event information as of July 27 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
JUNIOR CATEGORIES
NAME 1 IM Alex Lenderman 2 GM Sergey Kudrin 3 GM Jaan Ehlvest 4 GM Giorgi Kacheishvili 5 IM Enrico Sevillano 6 GM Alexander Ivanov 7 GM Varuzhan Akobian 8 IM Jay Bonin
STATE NY CT NY NY CA MA CA NY
PTS. 255.10 178.84 174.46 151.03 144.06 121.64 112.34 102.04
NAME STATE Players born between 1986 and 1988 inclusive: 1 GM Alejandro Ramirez TX 2 IM Oliver Barbosa NY 3 GM Hikaru Nakamura NY
84.00 74.50 54.00
Players born between 1989 and 1991 inclusive: 1 IM Alex Lenderman NY 2 IM Samuel Shankland CA 3 John Daniel Bryant CA
255.10 71.25 29.66
9
GM Melikset Khachiyan
CA
87.00
10 11 12 13 14 15
GM Alejandro Ramirez IM Bryan G. Smith IM Oliver Barbosa GM Alexander Shabalov IM Samuel Shankland GM Yury Shulman
TX PA NY PA CA IL
84.00 75.60 74.50 71.69 71.25 67.20
Players born between 1992 and 1993 inclusive: 1 Conrad Holt KS 63.64 2 Michael Thaler NY 18.00 3 Christian Tanaka CA 16.40
PA NY SC
26.00 16.80 13.00
SENIOR CATEGORY GM Melikset Khachiyan at the U.S. Championship
Players born 1944 and before: 1 FM Alex Dunne 2 FM Isay Golyak 3 Klaus Pohl
PTS.
Players born between 1994 and 1995 inclusive: 1 FM Daniel Naroditsky CA 2 Parker Zhao NY 3 Deepak Aaron NY
32.33 20.50 12.77
Players born 1996 and after: 1 David Adelberg 2 Luke Harmon-Vellotti 3 Yian Liou
22.66 19.14 16.40
AZ ID CA
CATEGORIES AND PRIZES FIRST PRIZE: $5,000 ! 2nd: $2,500 5th: $500
3rd: $1,000 6th: $250
4th: $750
$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 junior 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). Additionally, all GP/JGP place prize winners will receive a special prize valued at $60.
www.worldchesslive.com
Real chess. Real people. Real fun!
PHOTO BY BETSY DYNAKO
$10,000 IN CASH PRIZES!
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 August 5, 2009 are unofficial and subject to change during the year or until year-end tabulation is complete. There are currently 4,452 players with JGP points. 281 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 DOMMALAPATI, ABHINAY WINTER, CURTIS A SREENIVASAN, RAMANUJA TROFF, KAYDEN WILLIAM PISANI, NICHOLAS PISANI, PAUL SHETTY, ATULYA ARYA GURCZAK, JOHN RAJASEKARAN, VIKAS ZHOU, JASON CHEN, JEREMY RICHMAN, JONATHAN TYLER BRETON, ALEX KORLEY, KASSA LATHAM, ANDREW SWAN, CHARLES PILLAI, KADHIR ANDRES DANG, MICHAEL DALY, TROY HUANG, WINSTON
State VA MD MD UT WA WA MI AZ VA MO NJ NY NJ NY KS IL NY MI FL MA
Pts. 165 160 150 135 135 125 125 115 115 105 105 100 95 95 95 95 90 90 90 90
Name HARMON-VELLOTTI, LUKE CAO, MINDI VEECH, JOHN KUMAR, ARAVIND ZEITLIN, MATTHEW KOGEN, JONATHAN S QU, CHEN TUHRIM, RICHARD J ROBINSON, DARRIAN HUGHES, JOHN LODGER HUA, MARGARET M MCVAY, KIERNAN R FU, JASON SELDEN, ALEX EVEN WU, CHRISTOPHER KELLY, JACOB JOHNSTON, DANIEL F KUTIKOFF, ADAM CHALLA, RUSHI JAMBOR, ALEXANDER
State ID IL WI NJ NY IL NY NY NY OH MO NJ TN NY NJ PA NY FL TX WI
Pts. 90 90 90 85 85 85 85 85 85 85 80 80 80 80 80 75 75 75 75 75
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 — September 2009
43
Tournament Life
Information for Organizers, TDs, and Affiliates Organizing a 2009 Grand Prix Event
Tournament Directors
To qualify, an event must be USCFrated (regular or quick) and meet these criteria: • All USCF-rated players over 2199 must be eligible to play in the top (or only) section. • The prize fund for which all masters are eligible must equal or exceed $300 guaranteed. • Class prizes for Under 2300 or a higher rating requirement qualify towards GP points, but if they exceed 25% of the total qualifying Grand Prix money, they count as 25% of the total. • Other than entry fees and USCF dues, no charges over $25 are permitted. • The tournament must be submitted for the Tournament Life section of Chess Life and designated by the submitter as a Grand Prix tournament. • Only players who are USCF members during the tournament may earn GP points. Foreign GMs, IMs, WGMs, and WIMs can play without being members, but they will not obtain Grand Prix points unless they join. • Conditions concerning USCF Grand Prix tournaments are subject to review and adjustment by the USCF Executive Director. The top prizes must be unconditionally guaranteed (or if a Grand Prix event’s prize fund is based on entries, only the absolutely guaranteed minimum payout counts for point awards) and announced in Chess Life. Even if prizes are raised at the tournament, no additional points can be awarded because the bonus would be unfair to players who may otherwise have entered. If you have questions about the Grand Prix, please contact Chuck Lovingood at
[email protected] or 931-787-1234 ext. 148.
The tournament director has the right to shorten the basic time control, in minutes, by the time delay used, in seconds. Example: Clocks for G/60 with 5-second time delay (t/d5) may be set at 55 minutes instead of 60. There is no requirement to advertise this option in advance. It may also be used for games starting later than the official starting time of any particular round even when not used otherwise. Organizers, TDs and Affiliates
To speed up the processing of rating reports, USCF now asks that wherever possible these reports have IDs for every player. If you collect a new membership, do not submit your rating report until your disk and paper reports include that player’s ID number. To assist TDs in doing this, we have made several enhancements to our web server which will speed up online membership processing and give TDs a quick way to obtain USCF IDs for new memberships. We also recommend that TDs use the Member Services Area to check for member IDs. The search capabilities of MSA have been enhanced to assist TDs in finding existing member IDs. For more details, please check the USCF website: www.uschess.org/rtgchange.php.
1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th
$300-$499
6
$500-$749
8
Tot
6 2
10
$750-$999
10
5
15
$1,000-$1,499
12
8
20
$1,500-$1,999
14 10 6
30
$2,000-$2,499
16 12 8
$2,500-$2,999
18 14 10 6
2
$3,000-$3,999
20 16 12 8
4
$4,000-$4,999
22 18 15 12 8
$5,000-$5,999
24 20 17 14 11 8
$6,000-$9,999
26 22 19 16 13 10 8
4
40 50 60 5
80 6
100 6
120
$10,000-$29,999 30 26 23 20 16 13 10 8
4
150
$30,000 & up
36 32 29 26 21 18 14 12
8
4
200
$ (Enhanced)
54 48 44 39 31 27 21 18
12 6
300
Points involved divided equally (rounded to two decimal points) among tied players.
44
Chess Life — September 2009
It’s not much work to hold a small tournament, and there is little risk if you use a low-cost 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 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! Submissions
If at all possible, please e-mail your TLAs. This will help to reduce errors.
[email protected] fax: 931-787-1200 TLA Department U.S. Chess Federation PO Box 3967 Crossville, TN 38557 TLAs received after the 10th of the deadline month will not appear in the issue currently being processed.
.
Professional Players Health and Benefits Fund
Many Grand Prix tournament organizers will contribute $1 per player to the Professional Health & Benefits Fund. All Grand Prix tournaments that participate in this program are entitled to be promoted to the next higher Grand Prix category — for example, a 6-point tourna ment would become a 10-point tournament. Points in the top category are promoted 50%.
Guaranteed Grand Prix points awarded for: Top Prizes
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Tournament Life
USCF National Events See TLA in this issue for details: 1st U.S. Women’s Open (NEW) September 5-7 • Tulsa, Oklahoma 2009 U.S. Senior Open September 5-7 • Tulsa, Oklahoma 50th Annual U.S. Armed Forces Open Oct. 10-12 • Gettysburg, Pennsylvania 2009 National Youth Action November 20-22 • Oak Brook, Illinois 2009 National Scholastic (K-12) December 11-13 • Dallas, Texas
Future Events (Watch for details) 2009 U.S. Women’s Championship October 2-12 • St. Louis, Missouri 2009 Pan Am Intercollegiate December 27-30 • South Padre Island, Texas 2010 U.S. Amateur Team - South Feb. 12-14 • Orlando, Florida 2010 U.S. Amateur Team - West Feb. 13-15 • Woodland Hills, California 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 U.S. Open July 31-Aug. 8 • Irvine, California 2010 U.S. Senior Open August 22-27 • Boca Raton, Florida 2010 National Scholastic (K-12) Dec. 10-12 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida 2011 National Junior High Championship April 15-17 • Columbus, Ohio 2011 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 6-8 • Dallas, Texas 2011 National Scholastic (K-12) Dec. 9-11 • Dallas, Texas
2012 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 11-13 • Nashville, Tennessee 2012 National Scholastic (K-12) Nov. 30-Dec. 2 • Orlando, Florida 2013 SuperNationals V TBA • Nashville, Tennessee 2013 National Scholastic (K-12) Dec. 13-15 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida 2014 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 9-11 • Dallas, Texas 2014 National Scholastic (K-12) Dec. 12-14 • Orlando, Florida
Overdue Bids Bids on the following tournaments are past deadline and will be considered immediately: 2009 U.S. Masters 2009 Collegiate Final Four 2010 U.S. Masters 2010 U.S. Amateur Team (East, North) 2010 U.S. Class Championship 2010 U.S. Amateur (East, North, South) 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 - TBA 2010 U.S. Junior Open - TBA 2010 National Youth Action 2011 U.S. Open*
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Note: Organizers previously awarded options for USCF National Events must still submit proposals (including sample budgets) for their events. 2012 Senior High Championship April 13-15 • Minneapolis, Minnesota
Tournament memberships not valid for National events 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 submissions. 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, promoting 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 tournaments 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.
uschess.org
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 http://main. uschess.org/go/tlainfo. 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 entry fee or pay them with entry at site. Sept. 5-7, Oklahoma 1st U.S. Women’s Open $$1600 Gtd. plus class prizes based on entries. G/90(+30). 6-SS. Tulsa Best WesternTrade Winds Central, 3141 E. Skelly Dr.,Tulsa, OK 74105. (918)749-5561. Prizes: $1600 (Gtd): 1st- $800 + trophy + probable invitation to 2010 U.S. Women’s Championship; 2nd - $500, 3rd - $300, class prizes as entries permit. Eligibility: Open to all female USCF members. EF: $80 if rec’d by 8/30; $90 at site. Reg.: 9:00-10:15am. Rds.: 10:30-3, 9-2, 9-2.Tiebreaks after round 6 if necessary. Byes: One 1/2-point bye available if req. by rd 3. HR: $55, (800) 685-4564. Free wireless. www.tradewindstulsa.com. Side Events: Sat: Blitz Fischer-Random Pizza Bash. Sun: River Spirit Casino. Info: FKimBerry@ AOL.com. Website: www.geocities.com/okiechessfestival Adv Entry: Cks payable to: Frank K. Berry, 402 S. Willis, Stillwater, OK 74074. FIDE rated. NS. W. WCL JGP.
Sept. 5-7, Oklahoma 2009 U.S. Senior Open $$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 +invitation into 2010 U.S. Championship, if eligible.) 2nd-$700, 3rd-$400, 4th$300, 5th-$200. 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.: 9:0010:15am. 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.geo cities.com/okiechessfestival. Adv Entry: Cks payable to: Frank K. Berry, 402 S. Willis, Stillwater, OK 74074. FIDE rated. NS.W.
A Heritage Event! Oct. 10-12, Pennsylvania 50th Annual U.S. Armed Forces Open 6SS, Rds 1-2 G/90, Rds 3-4 G/2, Rds 5-6 30/90 SD/1. Site: American Civil War Museum, 297 Steinwehr Ave., Gettysburg, PA. EF: FREE! Must check in by 0845 on Sat. to be paired. Reg.: Sat. 0800-0845, Rds.: Sat. 0900-1230-1600, Sun. 0900-1400, Mon. 0900. Two half-point byes available. Open to all Active Duty, Reserve, Military Retirees, Cadets, Midshipmen, and ROTC (with DOD ID) who have a USCF Membership. Prizes: Trophies & Plaques to Top Service Team,Top 3 overall players,Top player of each DoD Service on Active Duty,Top Reservist, Top Retiree, Top 3 Cadets/Midshipmen/ROTC, Top 2 each Class AD and below, Biggest Upset, and other prizes. Awards Ceremony: Monday Oct. 12 after Rd 6. HR: 2 choices, must call hotels directly by Sep. 9 and ask for Chess Tournament Rate. Comfort Inn, 3301 Black Gap Rd, Chambersburg, PA 717-2636655, $59.40 per night. Or, Days Inn, 865 York Road, Gettysburg, PA 717-334-0030, $111.60 per night. Use website to enter www.usmilitarychess.org, or mail to Mike Hoffpauir, ATTN: USAFO, 405 Hounds Chase, Yorktown, VA 23693 with Rank, Name, USCF ID#, Branch of Service. Send all questions to: Mike Hoffpauir,
[email protected], 757-846-4805.
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 1/2 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 Cer-
Chess Life — September 2009
45
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING SEPTEMBER 1-14
Tournament Life emony: 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 http://doubletree.hilton.com/ en/dt/groups/personalized/CHIOADT-NYA-20091120/index.jhtml (630) 4726020 or 630 472-6000 (1.800.222.TREE), HR single/double/triple/quad $89. Enter on line (except Bughouse) at http://nya2009.com. Checks payable only to Chess Central (no checks to USCF or Mike Zacate): Mail registrations with name-contact 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: http://nya2009.com. $10 service charge for on-site section/roster changes, and all refunds. Bookdealers scheduled.
Indian Springs, AL 35124. CHAMPIONSHIP (1500+; $1,275 $$b/40): $400300-225, A: 200,U1800: 150. RESERVE (UNR-1499; $1,100 $$b/35): $350-250-200, E: 175, U1000: 125. EF: $40, if mailed by SEP 4th, 2009. Onsite Reg: $50. GMs/IMs Free Entry! Rds.: FRI: 7:15; SAT: 9:30-2-6:30; SUN: 8:30-2. 2-Day Option: SAT: Rds. 1-2 @ G/75, 8-11and then schedules merge. Byes: Rds. 1-5; request before Rd 2. SCHOLASTIC (U1200): 5 Sections, Trophies: Top 4 Individuals; Medals 5th-7th. EF: $20/$10, at Site $30/$20, Rds.: 9:30-10:45-12:30-1:45, 3. Checks payable to: Caesar Lawrence. ENT: Caesar Lawrence, 882 McAllister Dr., Calera, AL 35040. Info: Caesar
[email protected]. ACF: www.alabamachess.com. WCL JGP.
Dec. 11-13, Texas 2009 National Scholastic (K-12) Championship
(Sponsored by: Eclectic Collections www.colognes.com/eclectic_collections) 6-SS, G/60. Los Angeles Chess Club, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, CA 90025, 2nd fl. (4 blks W 405). $$1,500 Gtd.. In two sections, Open: $400-200-50, U2200: $125, U2000: $125. Reserve: (U1800) $$200-100, U1600 $125, Under 1400/unrated $100, U1200: $75. EF: $55 if rec’d by 9/10; $60 at the door ($45 LACC members if rec’d by 9/10; $50 at the door; $30 new LACC members) $3 off SCCF members. Up to 3 half-point byes available. Re-entry $25. 1-day option I: Play 3 games- no 1/2 pt byes- Pay 1/2 EF; 1-day option II: Play 3 games- three 1/2 pt byes- pay full EF. Free coffee & cookies. Reg.: 11:00 - 11:45 am. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day. Public Parking on the NE corner of Santa Monica & Butler; or in the building underground ($3). Inf: (310) 795-5710 or
[email protected]. URL: www.LAChessClub.com. Ent: LACC - Box 251774, Los Angeles, CA 90025. A State Championship Qualifier.
5-SS, G/45. Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W. 10th St., bet. 5-6 Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. EF: $40, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free! $$ 840 b/42 paid entries, minimum half each prize Gtd: $$ 300-200-115, top U2200/unr. $125, U2000 $100. Limit 2 byes, commit by 2 pm. Re-entry $20. CCA ratings may be used. Rds. 12-2-3:45-5:30-7:15 pm. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 9/24; $10 extra to “enter” by phone!
Sept. 15, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) St. John’s Masters at the Marshall Chess Club
Sept. 26-27, California Northern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 1st Annual Exchange Bank Open
7SS, G/90. Hilton Anatole, 2201 Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, TX. 214-7481200 or 1-800-HILTONS and ask for the chess rate ($120). 13 Sections. Play only in your grade section. December rating supplement will be used. 1/2- point bye available any round (except round seven) if requested in advance of rd. 1. Team score = total of top three (minimum two) finishers from each school per grade. First place individual and team, including ties, will be National Champion for their grade. Schedule: Opening ceremony Fri. 12:30 pm. Rds.: Fri. 1 pm-6 pm, Sat. 10 am-2 pm-6 pm, Sun. 9 am-1 pm. Awards Ceremony Sun. , Approx. 5 pm. Special round times for K-1 sections: Fri. 1:30 pm-5:30 pm, Sat. 9:30 am-1:30 pm-5:30 pm, Sun. 9:30 am-1:30 pm. Awards Ceremony Sun Approx. 4:30 pm for K-1. EF: $50/participant (postmarked by 11/12), $70/participant (postmarked by 11/29), $85 later or $90 at site, $5.00 extra for all phone registrations, $20 change fee for roster or section changes after 11/13 or any onsite changes. Onsite registrationThurs. 9 am-10 pm & Fri. 8 am-10 am. After 10 am players will have a 1/2-point bye rd 1. Awards: Trophies to top 10 individuals & top five teams (minimum) in each grade. Class prizes: 1st-3rd place K-3: 800-999, 600-799, U600, Unr. 4-6: 1000-1199, 800-999, 600-799, U600 Unr. 7-9: 1200-1399, 1000-1199, 800-999, U800, Unr. 10-12: 1400-1599, 12001399, 1000-1199, U1000, Unr. Every player receives a commemorative item! Side Events: Bughouse: Thurs. 11 am, Reg. onsite only Thurs. 8 am-10 am, $25/team. Blitz EF: Advance/online entry: $15; Onsite - $20. Blitz Sections: K-6 and K-12, Thurs. 5 pm, Reg. onsite until 4 pm. Blitz Awards: Trophies in K6 and K-12 sections. Individual: Top 10, Team: 1st-5th place. K-6 Class: 1000-1199, 800-999, 600-799, U600 Unr. K-12 Class: 1400-1599, 1200-1399, 1000-1199, U1000, Unr. Bughouse Awards: Trophies for Bughouse, TBA. Team Rooms are limited. Contact Cheryle Bruce 931-787-1234 ext.147. Hotel info: http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/DFWANHH-Hilton-Anatole-Texas/ index.do Questions: Cheryle Bruce: 931-787-1234 ext. 147 or Ent: U.S. Chess, Attn.: K-12 Championship, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557 or online at: https://secure.uschess.org/webstore/tournament.php. Official webpage for details: http://main.uschess.org/tournaments/2009/k12/. WCL JGP.
Grand Prix
6SS, G/100 (i.e. G/95 with t/d 5). Indian Springs School, 190 Woodward Drive,
USCF Membership Rates Premium (P) and Regular (R) (U.S., CANADA, MEXICO) 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 scholastic 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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**Purchased online only
Chess Life — September 2009
Sept. 24, 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 10th 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 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible!
Sept. 26, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) New York Indian Summer Game/45!
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. $$G 300-200-100. Top U2400 and Top U2300 prizes. Special prize for biggest upset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:159:30-10:45pm. One bye available, rds. 1 or 4 only; declare at registration.
Exchange Bank, 444 Aviation Blvd., Santa Rosa, CA 95403. 4 round Swiss, G/120. In 3 Sections Open: $$GTD: $250-175. Reserve: Open to 1899 & under. $$GTD: $200-125. Booster: Open to 1499 & under. $$GTD: $150-100. Unr. must play in Open Section. ALL: EF: $35 advance until 9/21, $45 at site. Reg.: 09/26 8:30am - 9:30am. Rds.: Sat 10, 3; Sun 10, 3. ENT: Paul Stagnoli, 4233 Kintyre Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95409 (707) 539-6368. INFO: paulgs@ sonic.net. No phone or e-mail entries. Bring equipment, none provided. No cell phones allowed. NS NC W. WCL JGP.
Sept. 19, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Allentown School Day’s Swiss
Sept. 26-27, California Southern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 Bakersfield Fall Classic
4SS, G/90. St James Church, 11th & Tilghman Sts., Allentown, PA 18102. EF: $40, LVCA Members $30, $$200-100 guaranteed to top 2, more per entries. Up to two 1/2 pt byes with advanced notice (if declared before round 3). REG.: Ends 10am. RDS.: 10:30-1:30-4:45-7:45. Ent/Info: Checks payable to: Bruce Davis, 1208 Linden St., Fl 1, Bethlehem, PA 18018. 610-625-0467 or bdavis@ lehighvalleychess.org or www.lehighvalleychess.org/. Reg by mail by 9/14 to enter to win a Saitek Competition Chess Clock. WCL JGP.
Sept. 19-20, Maryland World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 UMBC Championship
A Heritage Event! A State Championship Event! Sept. 11-13, Alabama World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 56th Annual Alabama State Chess Championship
Type Adult P Adult P ** Adult R Adult R ** Senior (65+) ** Young Adult P (U25)* Youth P (U16)* Scholastic P (U13)* Young Adult R (U25)* Youth R (U16)* Scholastic R (U13)*
Sept. 12-13, California Southern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Eclectic Collections
prize. Reg. ends: 11:45 am. G$$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+.
5SS, 20/1, SD/1. University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore (in Commons, 3rd floor). Open: (All) $$900: $300-200-100 Gtd., Class prizes $100 ea. to top U2300, U2100, U1900.Top UMBC student awarded trophy & title of 2009-2010 UMBC Chess Champion. Certificates & UMBC Class titles to top UMBC students U2200, U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400, U1200, & Unr. All prospective members of any UMBC Chess Team for academic year 20092010 must play in this section. Free ent. to GMs, $40 deducted from any prizes. U1800: (U1800/Unr.) $$800 b/40: $300-200-100, Class prizes $100 ea. to top U1600, U1400. No Unr. player may win more than $200 in this section. See separateTLA for rated beginners tournament held 9/19. All: EF: $40 if postmarked by 9/4, $50 later, $10 less if under age 20. Reg.: 8:30-9:30am Sat., Rds.: 10-3-7:30pm Sat, 10:30-3:30pm Sun. Byes: Up to three 1/2-pt. byes avail. in Rds. 1-5 if req’d at least 1 hr. before Rd. (before Rd 2 for any Rd. 4-5 bye), but only at most one 1/2-point bye in Rds 4-5. HR: La Quinta Inn and Suites, 1734 West Nursery Road, Linthicum, MD 21090, 410-859-2333, Ask for UMBC chess rate. www.lq.com (From I-95, take Exit 47A onto I-195 towards BWI Airport. Take Exit 2A onto 295 north towards Baltimore; take first exit, bearing right onto West Nursery Road.) Directions to UMBC: Take Exit 47B off I-95 & follow signs to UMBC. Park in Lot 9 or 16. Ent: Dr. Alan T. Sherman, Dept. of CSEE, UMBC, Attn: Championship, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250. Make out check to UMBC. For more information:
[email protected], (410) 4558499, www.umbc.edu/chess. NS, W, FIDE. WCL JGP.
Sept. 20, 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
PROFESSIONAL PLAYERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS FUND Many Grand Prix tournament organizers will contribute $1 per player to the Professional Health & Benefits Fund. All Grand Prix tournaments which participate in this program are entitled to be promoted to the next higher Grand Prix category—for example, a six-point tournament would become a 10-point tournament. Points in the top category are promoted 50%.
5-SS, G/90 (Rounds 1-3), 40/2, SD/1 (Rounds 4-5). East Hills Mall, 3000 Mall View Road, Bakersfield, CA 93306. $1700 prize fund b/o 40, 80% GUARANTEED: $500 (GTD!!)-300-200 top U2000 $250, U1800 $200, U1600/Unr $150-$100. EF: $45 by 9/24, $55 after; $6 discount for BCC members and SCCF members. GMs & IMs FREE ($45 from prize). Special K-8 Tournament: September 26, 5-SS G/30, Rounds: 10-11:30-1pm-2:30-4pm. EF: $20 by 9/24, $30 after; prizes 1st–3rd place Overall & 1st – 3rd place trophies in scholastic categories. All: 1/2-pt bye available any round with entry. Reg.: 8:45-9:30 a.m. Saturday. Rds.: Saturday: 10am-1:30pm-5pm, Sunday: 9am-3:30pm. Info: Kenneth J. Poole 661-304-7468,
[email protected] or visit www.bakers fieldchessclub.com. Ent: Bakersfield Chess Club, P.O. Box 176, 3501 Mall View Rd., Suite 115, Bakersfield, CA 93306. WCL JGP for Fall Classic only.
Sept. 26-27, Texas World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) DFW FIDE Open VI 5SS, G/90 with 30 second increment. Dallas Chess Club, 212 S. Cottonwood Dr., #A, Richardson, TX 75080. One Section $$550G. Open: This section is FIDE rated but uses USCF Rules. $400-$100-$50. EF: $50, Juniors (U19)/Senior/Hcap $30, plus $5 non-DCC membership fee if applicable. Registration: 9:45 -10:15 am. Rds.: Sat 10:45 - 3:10 - 7:16, Sun 10:45-3:10. One Bye allowed if requested before rd 2, withdrawals are not eligible for prizes. Ent: Dallas Chess Club, see address above. Info: 214-632-9000,
[email protected] NS. NC. FIDE. WCL JGP.
Sept. 27, California Southern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 19th Chess Palace Anniversary 5-SS, G/30. Chess Palace is located at 12872 Valley View St., Suite 5, Garden Grove, CA 92845. $$1,000 Cash Prize Guaranteed. In two sections: Open: $300-$100-$75, U2000: $100, Reserve U1800: $100-$50, U1600 $90, U1300 $80.Plus trophy awards for all prize winners. EF: Early Registration (before 9/13/09): $ 55, Late Reg.: $10 more, Onsite (not guaranteed): $15 more SCCF memb, seniors, and juniors save $2. Reg.: 8:30-9:30 a.m. Rds.: 10-11:15-1PM2:15-3:30. Free parking. Inf:
[email protected]. Website & Online entry: www.chesspalace.com/events.htm. Extra: Free t-shirt, snacks, and raffle tickets. Ent: (714) 899-3421.
A Heritage Event! A State Championship Event! Oct. 2-4 or 3-4, Indiana World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) 68th Indiana State Chess Championship 5SS, 40/2 SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, 2930 Waterfront Pkwy., West Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46214. $$2800 b/90. In 2 Sections, Championship: EF: $70 rcvd by 9/29, $80 at site. $$: $500-250. U2300 $245, U2200 $240, U2000 $235, Upset $50. $100 State Champion Award. 1st Place Guaranteed. Reserve: Open to 1799 & under. EF: $55 rcvd by 9/29, $65 at site. $$: $300-215-210. Class C $205, Class D & Under $200, Upset $50. ALL: Memb. Req’d: ISCA. OSA. Reg.: Ends Fri. 6:30pm (2-day option: Regs. ends Sat. 9:30am). Rds.: Fri. 7pm, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 9-3:30 (2-day option: Sat. 10-1:30-5, Sun. 9-3:30). Annual Meeting 2:30pm Sunday. Car load discount, sign up in groups of 4 and receive 10% off adv EF, rcvd by 9/8. ENT: Gary J Fox, 134 Wheatland Ave., Logansport, IN 46947. INFO: 574-722-4965,
[email protected]. HR: $72, 317-299-8400, www.indiananchess.org. NS NC W. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event! Oct. 2-4, 3-4, Maryland World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 40 49th Maryland Open 5SS, 30/90, SD/1 (Rnd 1 G/120) (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Rockville Hilton, 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852. All prizes guaranteed. 3 sec-
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tions: Open $1000-500-300-200, top U2100 $200 Amateur Section (U1900) $700-400-300-100, top U1700 $150, top U1550 $150 Reserve Section (U1400) $600-350-250-100, top U1200 $100, top U1000 $100. Unrated may not win over $200 in U1100 or $400 in U1900. EF: $60 by 9/18 mail or online, $65 by 10/1 online, and $70 at the door. Special EFs: GM&IMs free; $60 deducted from prize. Special HR: $69, may not be avail after 9/18, reserve at http://tinyurl.com/mdopenrooms. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 7pm, rds Fri 8, Sat 12-6, Sun 9-2:15. 2-day schedule: reg ends Sat 10am rds 11-2-6, 9-2:15 Ent: MCA, c/o Michael Regan, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd., Towson, MD 21204. Online entry @ http://mdopen.eventbrite.com. Questions: matkins2@ cox.net or
[email protected] FIDE. WCL JGP.
3 Sections, $$ (695G): Championship: EF: $30 by 9/26, $40 later. $200-100, U2000 $75, U1800 $50. Premier: U1600. EF: $25 by 9/26, $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 9/26, $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 10am. Rds.: 10:301-3:15-5:45. Ent/Info: PSCF, c/oTom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223, 412-908-0286,
[email protected]. W.
Oct. 3, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 14th Annual Arkport Open
5SS, 3-day 40/2, SD/1, 2-day rds. 1-2 G/60 then merges. LAX Hilton, 5711 W. Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045. $$10,000 b/200, 50% of each prize guaranteed. In 3 sections: Open: 1600-1000-800-400-200, U2400 300-200, U2200 700-500-300. EF: $83 if received by 10/8, $95 door. Premier (U2000): $$ 700500-300-100, U1800 400-200-150, U1600 400-200-150. EF: $83 if received by 10/8, $95 door. Amateur (U1400/Unrated): $$400-200-100, U1200 100, Unr 100, unrated may win unrated prize only. EF: $67 if received by 10/8, $80 door. On-line entry: www.westernchess.com. No credit card entries at door. All: $25 Best Game prize, all sections eligible. One half point bye if requested with entry, rds 4-5 cannot be revoked. SCCF membership req. of S. Cal. res., $18 reg, $10 junior. Reg.: 5:30-6:30 p.m. Fri, 9-10 a.m. Sat. Rds.: 3-day 7 p.m. Fri, 11-5:30 Sat, 10-4:30 Sun. 2-day: 10:30-1:30 Sat. (G/75), then merges. HR: $109, (310) 410-4000. Use Group Code LOS. Parking $8/day. Info: admin@ westernchess.com. Web site: www.westernchess.com. Ent: SCCF, c/o John Hillery, 835 N. Wilton Pl. #1, Los Angeles, CA 90038. NS. NC. F. State Championship Qualifier. WCL JGP for rounds slower than G/60.
4SS, Rds. 1 & 2 G/60, Rds 3 & 4 G/90. Arkport Village Hall, 6 Park Ave., Arkport, NY 14807. $GTD: $200 - 100, $B/25: U1800 and U1600 each $100 – 50. EF: $30 cash at site. Reg.: 9 – 9:45 a.m., 10/3/09, Rds.: 10, 12, 2:15, 5:30. Director: Ronald Lohrman. Info: 607 295 9858. Ent: F. K. Harris, 1 Northridge Dr., Arkport, NY 14807. WCL JGP for Rds. 3-4.
Oct. 3, Tennessee World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Memphis Fall Cajun Chess Festival 4SS, G/60, $1000 b/50 full-pd. EFs, 50% Gtd. Neshoba Unitarian Universalist Church, 7350 Raleigh Lagrange Rd., Cordova,TN. 2 Sects. OPEN: $300-200-100; U1600: $200-100-50; (Top prize for U1000: $50). Byes: 1/2-pt. avail. for any one Rd. (commit before Rd. 3). On-site Reg.: Sat., 8:30-9am, Rds. 9:30-12 noon2:30-5. EF: $35 by 9/30 ($25 for Jrs under 18); $40 at site for all. (Jr. EFs count for 70% full paid entry). ReEntry: $20 up to Rd. 3. ENT: On-line at www.cajun chess.com, or mail entry to Cajun Chess, 7230 Chadbourne Dr., New Orleans, LA 70126. Info or Phone Ent: 504-208-9596 or 504-905-2971, or cajunchess@ yahoo.com. Major credit cards accepted.
Oct. 3-4 or 4, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) New York October Open! 4-SS, 30/90, SD/1. Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W. 10th St., bet. 5th6th 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. $$ 400-200100, U2200/unr. $100. FIDE. Under 2000. $$ 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.chess center.cc thru 10/1. 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.
A State Championship Event! Oct. 4, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2009 PA State Game/60 Championship 4SS, G/60. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pitt., 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA 15213.
uschess.org
Oct. 9-11, California Southern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 40 Los Angeles Open
Oct. 9-11 or 10-11, Illinois World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 120 (enhanced) 18th annual Midwest Class Championships 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Under 1000 & Under 700 Sections: 6SS, G/75, 10/10-11 only. Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel, 601 North Milwaukee Avenue, Wheeling, IL 60090 (from Chicago, I-294 north to US-45 north; from Milwaukee, I-94 to Lake Cook Rd to US-45 south). Free parking. $20,000 guaranteed prizes and trophies. In 9 sections; no unrated allowed in Master or Expert, 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): $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 $70 U1000, $110 E, $150 D, $250 C, $350 B, $500 A. Top 7 sections EF: 3-day $103, 2-day $102 mailed by 10/1, all $105 online at chesstour.com by 10/6, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10/6 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. U1000 & U700 EF: $27 mailed by 10/1, $28 online at chesstour.com by 10/6, $30 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10/6 (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 or lower if
paid with 1 year USCF dues. 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 Master Section. GMs $80 from prize. 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 10-1:30-5, Sun 9-12:30-3:15. Bye: all, Master must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $94-94-94-94, 800937-8461, 847-777-6500, reserve by 9/25 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, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
Oct. 9-11, Texas World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 Lone Star Open 5SS, G/120, FIDE rated. Free entry for GMs and IMs (EF deducted from winnings). SIDE EVENTS: (Schol.Team & Ind., 5SS, G/30, 1-day only, Sat. Oct. 10th); 5-min. Blitz “CAJUN KNOCK-OUT” (Sat. night after Rd. 3). Separate room for schol. Players - A trophy or medal will be awarded to each schol. player. Marriott Dallas/Addison Quorum by the Galleria, 14901 Dallas Pkwy., Dallas (800-228-9290 or 972-661-2800). 5 Sects. PRIZES: $10,000 b/200 paid ent. $5,000 min. gtd. OPEN: $1400-800-500-300-200; U2200: $700-400; U2000: $800-400-200-100-50; U1800: $800-400-200-100-50; U1600/Unr*: $800-400200-100-50; U1300: $400-300-200-100-50. *Unrated players may only win 50% of the prize fund except in the Open Sect. where they must pay full EF and are eligible for full prize fund. Schol. Sects. (Team & Individual): K-2, K-5, K-8, K12. Prizes: Trophies to top 5 individuals & top 3 teams in each section (more ind. trophies depending on attendance). Every non-trophy winner receives a souvenir chess medal. Teams may have as many players as they wish from the same school in the same section but must have a minimum of 3 players to be considered a team; the top 3 scores will count for final team score. Scholastic players may play in both adult and scholastic tournaments by registering for both tournaments and taking a bye for Rd. 2 in the adult tournament. USCF-recommended computer tiebreaks will decide trophy and medal placements for winners of all schol. sections. Free chess clock to player who travels farthest to tourn. in both adult and schol. tournaments. Discounted hotel parking ($5 per day for chess players). CAJUN BOUNTY: Defeat the top ranked player and win free entry to our next tournament! EF: $79 by 10/7; $89 at site; Unr. (U1600) and Jrs. (under 19 yrs of age and playing in U1300 or U1600 Sections) $49 by 10/7; $59 at site. Schol. EF: $20 by 10/7; $25 at site; Re-Entry Fee: $25 (avail. up to Rd. 4 - no re-entry in OPEN section; 3 re-entries or 2 Jr. entries count as one additional entry for prize fund). 3-day Sched: Reg. Fri. 5:30-7pm, Rds. Fri. 8pm; Sat. 11-6:30, Sun. 9:30-2:30. 2-day Sched: Reg. Sat. 8:30-10am, (Rds 1 & 2, G/75) Sat. 11-2:30-6:30, Sun. 9:30-2:30. Both schedules merge at Rd. 3. Schol. Sched: (All 5 rds G/30—one day only, Sat., Oct. 10). Reg. Sat. 8:30-9:30am, Rd. 1 at 10am; Other rds will follow immediately. Byes: Avail. all Rds. (commit before Rd. 3). HR: $85 for single, double, triple or quad (800-228-9290 or 972-661-2800), reserve by Sept. 15 and mention Cajun Chess tournament to assure group rate. ENT: On-line registration and printable entry form at www.cajunchess.com, or mail entry form to Franc Guadalupe,
Chess Life — September 2009
47
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING SEPTEMBER 1-14
Tournament Life 305 Willow Pointe Dr., League City, TX 77573. Info or Phone Ent: 713-530-7820 or 504-905-2971. Major credit cards accepted (no checks at site). FIDE. WCL JGP.
Oct. 9-Dec. 4, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced) 2009 Queens Chess Club Championship 8-SS, G/120. All Saints Lutheran Church, 164-02 Goethals Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11432. EF: $55, $60 at site. $$500-$300-$200 guaranteed to top 3, more per entries. Up to three 1/2 pt byes ok with advance notice (byes for rounds 6, 7 and/or 8 must be declared before round 5). REG.: 7:30-8:00. RDS.: 8:15 each Friday. ENT (mail by 10/2): Ed Frumkin, 445 E. 14th St., #10D, NYC 10009 (212677-3224 before 10pm and before 5pm on Fri). No round on November 13. QCC membership required (U19 y/o, female, 65 & older $20 for six months, others $25/6 months). WCL JGP.
Oct. 10, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) Jenifer Woods Memorial Grand Prix 4SS RDS. 1 & 2 G/60, RDS. 3 & 4 G/90 @RCC (GTD) $150-90-60 class $80. Reg.: 8:30-9:15. RDS.: 9:30-12-2:15-5:30 EF: $30 Adv Ent/Info: Rochester Chess Center, 221 Norris Drive, Rochester, NY 14610. (585)442-2430. WCL JGP rds. 3-4.
Oct. 10-11, Virginia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 Kingstowne Fall Festival Kingstowne Snyder Center, 6450 S. Van Dorn St., Alexandria, VA 22315. 3 sections. Open (FIDE rated): 4SS 40/100 SD/1. EF: $40 if received by 10/7, $50 at site. If joining USCF for 1st time, USEF: $84 if received by 10/7, $94 at site. Prizes $$1000G: $400-250-125. U1800-U1600-Unr. each $75. Rds.: 115, 10-4. Amateur (U1800-Unr): 5SS G/100. EF: $20 if received by 10/7, $30 at site. If joining USCF for 1st time, USEF: $64 if received by 10/7, $74 at site. Prizes $$500 b/32: $180-100-70. U1600-U1400-Unr. each $50. No unrated may win more than $150. Rds.: 11-3-7, 11:30-4. Reserve (U1600-Unr.): 5SS G/100. EF: $15 if received by 10/7, $25 at site. If joining USCF for 1st time, USEF: $59 if received by 10/7, $69 at site. Prizes $$400 b/32: $150-80-50. U1400-U1200-U1000-Unr. each $30. No unrated may win more than $100. Rds.: 11-3-7, 11:30-4. All: one half-point bye in Open, two in other sections. Reg.: 9:30-10:30. Ent (checks payable to): Don W. Millican, 5901B Prince George Dr., Springfield, VA 22152. e-mail (info only):
[email protected]. FIDE. W. WCL JGP.
Oct. 15, 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 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible!
48
Chess Life — September 2009
A Heritage Event! A State Championship Event! Oct. 16-18 or 17-18, South Carolina World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 70th S.C. Championships 5SS, 35/90,SD1(2 day schedule Rd.1 G/90). Days Inn Southeast, 7300 Garners Ferry Rd.(at I-77), Columbia, SC 29209. $2,700 b/60($1,350 GTD) In 3 sections (trophy to 1st & 2nd S.C. player in each section): Open/Championship: $600-300-150 u2200-$150 u2000-$150. Amateur (u1800): $300-150 u1600$150. Reserve (u1400): $300-150 u1200-$150 u1000-$150. Special Junior prize (under 19): no monies; trophies for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place. EF: $60 if rec’d by 10/12; $70 at site; $35; re-entry; $20 for junior prize entry. SCCA memb. req’d, OSA. Byes: avail. all rds, Rds. 4 or 5 must commit before 2nd rd. (irrevocable;only one bye available on Sunday) 3 day schedule: Reg. ends 7pm, Fri. Rds. 8, 2-8, 9-2:30. 2 day schedule: Reg. ends 7pm, Fri., 9am Sat. Rd. 1 @10am, then merge with 3 day. HR: $65 (reserve by 9/30; mention chess tnt) 803-7835500. Other info: More $$ per entries. Free entry to masters ($60 deducted from any winnings.) Unrateds eligibilty for prizes based on perf. rating after 4th rd. Annual meeting held 1-2pm on Sunday. SC Championship title to top SC player. Info/Reg/Pmt: S.C. Chess Assn., c/o David Y. Causey, 741 Dragoon Dr., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 (
[email protected]) (Please indicate whether playing in 2 or 3 day schedule when pre-registering and include payment to receive early entry fee otherwise $70 at site.) WCL JGP.
X, A, B, C, D, E/below each $102, Unr. $84. Reg.: 8:00-8:45am. Rds.: 9:00-10:0012:45-3:15-5:45. Ent: Rutherford County Chess Club, P.O. Box 1593, Murfreesboro,TN 37133. http://rccc.us/ (with map to site),
[email protected] 615895-7989 NS. NC. W. WCL JGP for rounds 3, 4, 5.
Oct. 17, Wisconsin World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 Hales Corners Challenge X 4SS, G/60. Two Sections: Open & Reserve (under 1600). Wyndham Milwaukee Airport Hotel, 4747 S. Howell Avenue, Milwaukee (414-481-8000). EF: $35-Open, $25-Reserve, both $5 more after 10/14. Comp EF for USCF 2200+, call TD for details. $$ Open: 1st-$325 (guaranteed), 2nd-$175 (guaranteed), A-$100, B & Below-$75; $$ Reserve: 1st-$100, 2nd-$75, D-$50, E & Below-$40; plus goddesschess.com sponsored prizes for female players in both sections. Reg.: 8:30-9:30, Rds.: 10-1-3:30-6. Ent: Payable to Southwest Chess Club, c/o Allen Becker, 6105 Thorncrest Drive, Greendale, WI 53129. Questions to: TD Tom Fogec: 414-425-6742 or 414-405-4207.
Oct. 17-18, California Northern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Fremont Open
5-SS, G/30. Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W. 10th St., bet. 5-6 Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. EF: $40, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free! $$ 840 b/42 paid entries, minimum half each prize Gtd: $$ 300-200-115, top U2200/unr. $125, U2000 $100. Limit 2 byes, commit by 1:30. Re-entry $20. CCA ratings may be used. Rds. 121:30-2:45-4-5:20 pm. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 10/15; $10 extra to “enter” by phone!
4-SS, 30/90; SD/60. Fremont Adult School, 4700 Calaveras Ave., Fremont, CA 94538. $$B 80 paid entries (not counting unrateds).Three Sections: Open $400260 U2200 $250-150; A/B A $250-150 B $250-150; Reserve C $250-150 D/E $250-150 Unr: Trophy First. Reserve players playing in the A/B section compete for the B prizes. All, EF: postmarked by 10/12 $60, $70 at site. Unrateds $20 in the Reserve section or may play up to the Open section for the regular fee. USCF memb. req’d. May play up for add’l $10 per section. Reg.: Sat 10/17 9:00-9:45am. 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 October Ratings List, CCA minimums and Directors discretion will be used to place players as accurately as possible. Please bring clocks and equipment. INFO: Ken Zowal (510)-623-9935. Email:
[email protected] or
[email protected]. Ent: Ken Zowal, P.O. Box 3211, Fremont, CA 94539. No Phone entries. WCL JGP.
Oct. 17, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2009 Lehigh Valley LVCA Oct Championship
Oct. 20, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) St. John’s Masters at the Marshall Chess Club
4SS, G/90. St James Church, 11th & Tilghman Sts., Allentown, PA 18102. EF: $40, LVCA Members $30, $$200-100 guaranteed to top 2, more per paid entries. Up to two 1/2 pt byes with advanced notice (if declared before round 3). REG.: Ends 10am. RDS.: 10-1:30-4:45-7:45. Ent/Info: Checks payable to: Bruce Davis, 1208 Linden St., Fl 1, Bethlehem, PA 18018. 610-625-0467 or
[email protected] or www.lehighvalleychess.org/. Reg by mail by 10/12 to enter to win a Saitek Competition Chess Clock. WCL JGP.
4SS, G/30.ThirdTues. of every month. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open to players rated over 2100 (plus all players scoring 2.5 or more at any CCNY at MCCThursday. 4 Rated GamesTonight! since the prior month’s SJM) EF: $40, members $30, GMs $10 (returned on completion of tournament). For each event, money added to prize fund by the sponsors, St. John’s University, and other generous patrons.Top three prizes guaranteed. $$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.
Oct. 17, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) New York October Action!
Oct. 17, Tennessee World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Heart of Tennessee Open 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 10/15, $25 at site. $$ (1000, top 2 G, class prizes b/6 entries per class, else proportional): $200-104,
A State Championship Event! Oct. 23-24, Utah World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Utah Open Championship 5SS. Olpin Student Union, University of Utah, Collegiate Room and Saltaire Room.
uschess.org
$$700 Gtd plus section & class trophies. Open: 1st $200, 2nd $100. Reserve U1600: 1st $150, 2nd $75. Reserve U800: 1st $100, 2nd $75. UT State Champion trophies to top male & female finishers in Open from UT. Also, cash class prizes in addition to trophies based on number of entries. Open: Reg.: Fri 22:45 or 6-6:25 and Sat 8-9:30; 1/2 pt bye avail. for any 2 rds declared prior to rd 3 to accommodate those unable to play on Fri. Rds. 1-3 G/90, Rds. 4-5 G/2, Fri. 3-6:30, Sat 10-1:15-5:30. (5 sec delay all rounds.) Reserve: Sat. only. (2 sect’s: U1600 & U800). Reg.: 8-9:30 am. U1600 G/60, Rds.: 10-12:30-2:45-57:30. U800 G/45, Rds.: 10-12-1:45-3:30-5:15. EF: $30 Adult, $20 Youth; $5 less in adv. GM, IM free. UCA mtg: Saturday, 9:30-9:55. Ent/Info: Grant Hodson, 5856 Cilma Dr., West Valley City, UT 84128, 801-968-1724,
[email protected], and at www.utahchess.com. WCL JGP.
An American Classic! A Heritage Event! Oct. 23-25, Nevada World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced) 27th Annual Sands Regency Reno-Western States Open 6SS.40/2,20/1,G 1/2. Sands Regency Hotel/Casino, 345 N. Arlington Ave., Reno, NV 89501. 1-800-648-3553 or (775) 348-2200. $$43,500 b/425, Gtd. $$28,750-$3500-2500-2000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500 in Open Section plus 1/2 of all other prizes. 7 Sections: OPEN: EF: GMs & IMs free (enter by 10/1 or pay late fees), Masters $149, (2000-2199)-$175, (1999-below)-$201. $$ Prizes 1-10 listed above, (2399-below) $1500-500, (2299-below) $1500-500. If a tie for 1st overall then 2 (G/10) playoff for $100 from prize fund. (Note: GM/IM w/free entry not eligible for class prizes 2399 and below; may elect to pay entry fee and become eligible). EXPERT: (2000-2199) EF: $148. $$20001000-500-400-300-200 (under 2100)- $600.”A” Sec. (1800-1999) EF: $147, $$1800-900-500-400-300-200-100-100-100-100-100-100.”B” Sec. (1600-1799) EF: $146, $$1,600-800-500-400-300-200-100-100-100-100-100-100. “C” Sec. (1400-1599) EF: $145, $$ 1,400-700-500-400-300-200-100-100-100-100-100100. “D” Sec. (1200-1399) EF: $144, $$1,200-600-500-400-300-200-100-100-100100-100-100.”E” Sec. (1199-below) EF: $75 (“E” Sect. entries count as ½ paid player toward prize fund), $$500-400-300-200-100-100-50-50- 50-50. (Unrated Players) EF: Free + must join USCF or increase membership for 1 additional year thru this tournament($49 adults,$25 juniors) Prizes:Top unrated in “D” & “E” Sections wins 1 yr. USCF membership plus trophy. Note: Adult unrated will be put in “D” Sect., Junior unrated in “E”, unless request to play up. Seniors additional prizes (65+) $$300 (Srs not eligible: provisionally rated, unrated, masters & E Sect); Club Championship $$800-400-200 decided by total score of 10 (and only 10) players from one club or area (not eligible – GMs, IMs, “E” Sec., or unrated). Trophies to Top 3 (A-E Sections). ALL: EF $11 more if postmarked after 10/1 and $22 more if postmarked after 10/16 or at site. Do not mail after 10/16 or phone or email after 10/20. $20 off EF to Srs (65+) and Jrs 19/under (E sect. not eligible). Players may play up. Unrated players not eligible for cash prizes except Open 1-10. Provisionally rated players may win up to 50% of 1st place money except open Section 1-10. CCA ratings may be used. Note pairings not changed for color alternation unless 3 in a row or a plus 3 and if the unlikely situation occurs 3 colors in a row may be assigned. Reg.: (10/22) 5-8 pm, (10/23) 8:30-10 am. Rds.: 12-7, 10-6, 9:30-4. Byes available any round, if requested before 1st round (Open Section – 2 byes max.).
uschess.org
SIDE EVENTS: Wed. (10/21) 7pm Clock Simul, [40/2, G/1] (Including an analysis of YOUR game. GM Sergey Kudrin $30 (A great value!). Thurs (10/22) 6-7:30 pm GM Larry Evans lecture -Free, 7:30 Simul TBA (only $15!), 7:30 Blitz (5 min) Tourney ($20-80% to prize fund). Sat 10/24 (34:30pm)GM Larry Evans Clinic(Game/Position Analysis) – Free. Sun. (10/25) Quick Tourney (G/25) 5 Rd. Swiss ($20) [12 (Noon)-5pm] 80% to prize fund. ENT: Make checks payable and send to: SANDS REGENCY (address above) HR: $34! (Sun-Thurs) & $54! (Fri-Sat) + 13.5% tax. (mention CHESS 1022 & reserve by 10/5/09 to guarantee room rates.) INFO: Jerry Weikel
[email protected], (775) 747 1405, or website: www.renochess.org/wso (also go here to verify entry). FIDE .W. WCL JGP.
Oct. 23-25 or 24-25, Ohio World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 80 (enhanced) Cleveland Open 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option rds 1-2 G/75, U1200 & U1000 are Oct 24-25 only with all rds G/75). Sheraton Cleveland Airport Hotel, 5300 Riverside Drive (inside Cleveland Hopkins Airport with free shuttle, near junction of I-71 and I-480), Cleveland, OH 44135. Free parking. $$G 13,000. In 7 sections: Open: $1200600-400-200, top U2300 $700, U2200 $600, U2100/Unr $500. FIDE. Under 2000: $1000-500-300-200. Under 1800: $1000-500-300-200. Under 1600: $1000-500300-200. Under 1400: $800-400-300-200. Under 1200: $300-200-120-80. Under 1000: $200-100-60-40. Unrated may enter any section, with prize limits: U1000 $80, U1200 $150, U1400 $300, U1600 $400, U1800 $500, U2000 $600. Balance goes to next player(s) in line. EF: 3-day $98, 2-day $97 mailed by 10/15, all $99 online at chesstour.com by 10/20, $105 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10/20 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Under 1200 or Under 1000 EF: all $60 less. Special EF: FREE TO UNRATED in U1000 or U1200 if paid with 1 year USCF dues. Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Special USCF dues if paid with entry: online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds Fri 7:30 pm, 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, U1200 & U1000 Sun 9-12:30. Byes: OK all; Open must commit by rd 2, others by rd 3. HR: $83-83, 216-2671500, request chess rate, reserve by 10/9 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. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
Oct. 24-25, District of Columbia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20 Oscar Shapiro D.C. Open U.S. Chess Center, 1501 M Street, NW, Wash. DC 20005. $$G 3000. 5 Sections. Open, 4-SS, TC: 40/2, SD/1. EF: $48 by 10/15. $$500-300-200, U2200 150 100. DC Championship title and trophy to top DC resident. Reg.: 10 - 11. Rds.: 11:30 - 6, 11 - 5. Amateur, open to U2000. 5-SS, TC: 30/90, SD/1. EF: $43 by 10/15. $$ 300 - 200 - 100, U1800 150 - 100. DC Amateur Championship title and trophy to top DC resident. Reg.: 8 - 9, Rds. 9:30-2:45-8, 11-4:30. Reserve, open to U1600. 5-SS, TC: 30/90, SD/1. EF: $43 by 10/15. $$ 300-200-100, U1400 150 - 100. Reg.: 8 - 9, Rds. 9:30-2:45-8, 11-4:30. Booster, open to U1200.
4-SS, TC: G/45. EF: $13 by 10/15. $50 + Trophy for first, trophies and medallions thru 15 places. Reg.: 12 - 1. Rds.: 1:30 - 4 - 6:30 - 8. Beginner, open to children (age 11 and younger) rated U800 or unrated. 4-SS, TC: G/30. EF: $13 by 10/15. Trophies and medallions thru 15 places. Reg.: 12 - 1. Rds.: 1:30 - 2:45 - 4:00 - 5:15. All, $7 more after 10/15. Make checks payable to “DCCL”, mail to U.S. Chess Center, 1501 M St., NW, Washington, DC 20005. Info: 202/857-4922. www.chessctr.org. WCL JGP for rounds slower than G/60.
A Heritage Event! Oct. 24-25, Virginia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 25th Emporia Open 5SS, G/120. Greensville Ruritan Club, Ruritan Rd., Emporia. Off of Hwy. 58 West of Emporia. EF: $35 rec’d by 10/21, $45 site. Free to Unr., no separate prize. $$G 500, $400 class prizes b/5: $250-150-100, X (if no X wins top 3), A, B, C ea. $75. D, E and below ea. $50. Reg.: 9-9:45am, Rds.: 10-2:30-7, 9-1:30. Refreshments provided w/EF, no add’l charge. VCF memb. req’d, $10/yr & avail. at site. Info: Virginia Chess Fed., Woodrow Harris, 1105 West End Dr., Emporia, VA 23847.
[email protected]. W. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event! Oct. 25, Massachusetts World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 76th Greater Boston Open 4SS, G/60. Kennedy Senior Center, 117 E. Central St., Natick, MA 01760. $$1700 guaranteed. In four sections: Open: $300-150, under 2150 $125. Under 2000: $250-$125, under 1850 $100. Under 1700: $200-$100, under 1550 $75. Under 1400: $150-$75, under 1200 $50. Unrated may play in any section but can’t win 1st except in the Open section. EF: $39 postmarked by 10/20 or online at www.MassChess.org by 10/23; $45 at site. Discounts: $15 off to unrated, $10 off to seniors (65+) or additional family member (1st pays full EF). Limit one discount per player. No phone or e-mail entries. Memb. Req’d: MACA ($12 adult/$6 under 18). OSA. Reg.: 8:30-9:30 AM. Rds.: 10-1-3:15-5:30. Byes: limit 1, must request with entry. Ent: payable to MACA, mail to Ken Ballou, 27 Fenway Drive, Framingham, MA 01701-4012 or online (PayPal) at www.MassChess.org. Info: George Mirijanian, 978-345-5011, GBOInfo2009@ masschess.org.
Oct. 25, 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. 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 State Championship Event! Oct. 30-Nov. 1, or Oct. 31-Nov. 1, North Carolina World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20
Chess Life — September 2009
49
Tournament Life
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING SEPTEMBER 1-14
2009 North Carolina Open Championship 5-SS, 30/90, SD/1. (2-day option Round 1 G/80). Clarion Hotel Greensboro Airport, 415 Swing Road (I-40 at Exit 213), Greensboro, North Carolina 27409. (336)-299-7650. $10,000 b/185 full paid entries, $5,000 GTD. In 6 sections: Open: $800-600-500; u2300-$400, u2200- $600-400-300; u2100- $200. Under 2000: $600-400-300; u1900- $200. Under 1800: $600-400-300; u1700- $200. Under 1600: $600-400-300; u1500- $200. Under 1400: $600-400-300; u1200$200, u1000- $200. Unrated: Trophies to top 7. (Unrateds must play in the Unrated or Open section) EF: $83 3-day, $82 2-day if received by 10/27; $90 at site. GMs and IMs are FREE, $70 deducted from any prize. Unrated: $23 3day, $22 2-day if received by 10/27; $25 at site. Juniors: $48 if playing for trophy, $69 if playing for cash if received by 10/27; $10 more at site. 3-day schedule: Reg.: Ends 7 p.m. Rounds: 7:30, 2-7:30, 10:30-4. 2-day schedule: Reg.: Ends 9:30 a.m. Rounds: 1st at 10 a.m., then merges with 3-day. All: Re-entry: $45, not in open. NCCA membership required- $5 (adults only); other states ok. Half-point byes available in 1st 4 rounds, limit 2, must commit before 1st round. Hotel: $89 Double/King with 2 complimentary breakfast per room night!! Cut-off date on 10/16 to be guaranteed a room. Mention: Chess Tournament. Info:Thad Rogers (478)-742-5607, Atlanta Chess Center (404)-377-4400. The tournament is sponsored by American Chess Promotions on the behalf of the North Carolina Chess Association. Enter: American Chess Promotions, 3055 General Lee Road, Macon, Georgia 31204-1517. Email: atlantachess@ yahoo.com. NS. FIDE. WCL JGP.
Oct. 31-Nov. 1, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Octember Open 4SS, 30/90, SD/1. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th 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 2 byes, commit at entry. NO RE-ENTRY. May be limited to first 60 players. WCL JGP.
A State Championship Event! Oct. 31-Nov. 1, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 2009 PA State Championship 5SS, G/120. Wm Pitt Union, Univ. of Pitt., 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. $$(2510 b/90, 2/3 gtd.) 4 Sections: Open: $500-250, U2200 $140. U2000: $300100, U1850 $140. U1700: $300-100, U1550 $140. U1400: $300-100, U1200 $140. Unr. limited to $125 in U2000, $100 in U1700, $75 in U1400. Trophies to Top PA &Top PA Junior in each section. EF: $40 by 10/23, $50 later. Re-entry: $20. PSCF req’d, OSA. Reg.: ends Sat. 9:30am. Rds.: Sat. 10-2:30-7, Sun. 10-2:30. Info: 412-908-0286,
[email protected]. Ent: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223. W. WCL JGP.
Nov. 6-8 or 7-8, Vermont World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) 14th annual Green Mountain Open & Vermont Championship 5 SS, 30/90, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/60). Stratton Mountain Inn, Middle Ridge Rd (take Stratton Mountain Rd from center of Bondville), Stratton
Mountain, VT 05155 (about 2 hours from Albany, NY or Springfield, MA). $$G 1500. In 2 sections. Open, open to all. $$300-150-80, top U2000/Unr $180, U1800 $160, state championship trophy to top VT resident. Under 1600/Unr: $$ 200-100-50, U1400 $120, U1200 $100, Unrated $60. EF: 3-day $53, 2-day $52 mailed by 10/30, all $54 online at chesstour.com by 10/29, $55 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10/30 (entry only, no questions), $60 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. $30 less to unrated. All: Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com $30, if mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. GMs free; $40 deducted from prize. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds Fri 7 pm, Sat 12-6, Sun 9-2:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10:30 am, rds. Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 9-2:15. Half point byes OK all, limit 1; must commit before rd 2. HR: $79-79, 1-800-787-2886, 802-297-2500, reserve by 10/23 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/. $10 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
Nov. 7-8, Virginia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20 14th Annual Northern Virginia Open 5SS, Rds. 1-3 G/2, rds. 4-5 30/90 SD/1. $$2,300 (Top 3 G) B/90. Hotel Sierra, 45520 Dulles Plaza, Sterling, VA 20166. www.hotel-sierra.com luxurious single and double suites. 20 Reserved Single Suites available by Oct 28 at $99. Contact hotel at 703-435-9002 or 1-800.4.SIERRA (Be sure to ask for Virginia Chess rates) or book it online at http://stay.hotel-sierra.com/?id=VIR Near Dulles Airport. See tournament website for directions and more information. Open: $575-325-200 (G); Top X/A-Unr/B/C/D: each $190, Top U1200: $175, Top Upset Thru Rd 4 - $100. Reg.: Saturday, Nov 7: 8:30am-9:45am. Rounds: Sat 10-230-7, Sunday 10-3:30p. One 1/2 pt bye allowed, must commit to byes before Rd 1, and are irrevocable after play starts. EF: $50 if rec’d by Nov 1, $60 at site or after 11/1. Ent: Michael Atkins, PO Box 6138, Alexandria, VA 22306. Make checks to “Virginia Chess”. Email:
[email protected], but NO e-mail entries, just information. Web: www.vachess.org/nova.htm. W, NS, FIDE. WCL JGP.
Nov. 13-15, Florida World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 40 (enhanced) 8th Annual Turkey Bowl 5SS, G/120, Sat. (2-day Sch.) Rd. 1 G/60. New Location: El Palacio Hotel & Conference Center, 4900 Powerline Rd, Ft. Lauderdale. $$6,100 b/200 paid entries, 60% min. Gtd. 4 Sections: Open: $1,000/Trophy-600-400-250, U2300 $150-100. U2000: $600/Trophy-300-200-100. U1600: $600/Trophy-300-200-100. U1200: $600/Trophy-300-200-100. Unr. may enter Open or U1200 only. EF: $65 by Nov. 10, $14 more later and on-site, GMs & IMs free ($65 deducted from prize). Reg.: ends 1/2 hr before 1st rd. Rds.: 3-Day 1st Rd. Fri. 7:30, 2-Day 1st Rd. Sat 10, Rds. 2-5 Sat. 1:15, 6:30, Sun. 9:30, 2:30. 2 1/2 pt. byes, if req’d before rd. 2. Turkey Bowl Scholastic Tournament, 5SS, G/30, Sat. 11/14. See website for more info. HR: $69 by Cut-off Date, 954-776-4880. Ent: Boca Raton Chess Club, 2385 Executive Ctr. Dr., Ste. 100, Boca Raton, FL 33431. Online entry & add’l info: www.bocachess.com, 561-883-2917. FIDE. WCL JGP for G/120 rds.
Nov. 13-15 or 14-15, Ohio World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 120 (enhanced) 18th Annual Kings Island Open 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Kings Island Resort, 5691 Kings Island Drive (I-71, 6 mi north of I-275), Mason, OH 45040. Free parking. $$ 25,000 based on 360 paid entries (re-entries count as 60% entries, U1000 Section EF 40% entries, unrated not counted); minimum $20,000 (80% of each prize) guaranteed. Free analysis of your games by GM Arthur Bisguier. In 8 sections: Open: $2500-1200-600-300-200, 1st on tiebreak $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr $1400-700. FIDE. Under 2100: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1900: $20001000-500-300-200. Under 1700: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1500: $1500-700-400-200-100. Under 1300: $1200-600-300-200-100. Under 1000/Unr: $300-200-100-60-40. Unrated prize limits: U1000 $80, U1300 $130, U1500 $300, U1700 $400, U1900 $500. Balance goes to next player(s) in line. EF: 3-day $103, 2-day $102 mailed by 11/5, all $105 online at chesstour.com by 11/10, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 11/10 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. Under 1000 Section EF: 3-day $43, 2-day $42 if mailed by 11/5, $44 online at chesstour.com by 11/10, $46 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 11/10, $50 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. All: FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED in U1000 or U1300 if paying 1 yr 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. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds Fri 7 pm, 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. Byes: OK all; Open must commit by rd 2, others by rd 3. HR: $73-73, 800-727-3050, 513-398-0115, reserve by 10/30
WARNING!
or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Car rental is easiest & cheapest transportation from Cincinnati Airport. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
Nov. 27-29, Michigan World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 2009 Motor City Open 6-SS. 3 Sections: OPEN, U1800, U1400.Top section FIDE-rated. Prize Fund: $8,500 OVERALL. 70% Guaranteed. Held at New Detroit’s FABULOUS MOTOR CITY CASINO HOTEL, 2901 Grand River Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201 (Directions and Lodging Info below). 2-Day & 3-Day Schedules available. EF by Mon., 11/23 (add $10 after), IM’s and GM’s Free ($100 EF deducted from prize): 3-DAY: OPEN $103 ($93 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). U1800: $83 ($73 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). U1400: $63 ($53 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). 2-Day Open: $102 ($92 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). U1800: $82 ($72 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). U1400: $62 ($52 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). Re-Entries: NO Re-Entries in OPEN Section. U1800, U1400: $40, $30 (Up to two 1/2-pt. byes allowed from previous RDS). TL: 3-Day Schedule: G-120. 2Day Schedule: RDS 1-3, G-50; RDS 4-6, G-120. REG: 3-Day Schedule: Fri, 11/27, 9:00-11:00am. 2-Day Schedule: Sat, 11/28, 8:30-9:45am. RDS: 3-Day Schedule: Fri, 12, 6; Sat, 12:30, 6; Sun, 10, 2:30. 2-Day Schedule: Sat, 10:30, 12:45, 3, 6; Sun, 10, 2:30. Up to three 1/2-pt. byes available; must be requested before start of RD 3. All sections merge after RD 3. Unrated eligible only for UNR and Overall prizes in ALL sections, can play in ANY section. USCF and MCA memberships required; can be purchased on site. IM Ben Finegold Lecture on Fri, 11/27, 4:00-5:00pm ($10). Cell phones must be turned off or in silent mode while in tournament room. INFRACTION: deduct 1/2 the remaining time or game forfeiture if less than 10 minutes remaining on clock; automatic forfeiture for 2nd infraction. Spectators will be subjected to expulsion for the remainder of the event for any offense. Headphones cannot be used if opponent objects for any reason and cannot be used in the last round by players with a plus score. Player must be willing to present same to TDs for examination at any time. Failure to do so will result in removal from tournament without refund. $$8,500 OVERALL (70% guar.): OPEN: $3,600 (b/48): 1st-2nd3rd, $1,200-$600-$400; 1st U2400, $350; 1st U2200, $350; 1st U2000, $350; 1st U1800/UNR, $350. U1800: $2,550 (b/42): 1st-2nd-3rd, $800-$400-$350; 1st-2nd, U1600, $300-$200; 1st-2nd U1400/UNR, $300-$200. U1400: $2,350 (b/50): 1st-2nd-3rd, $500-$350-$300; 1st-2nd U1300, $250-$150; 1st-2nd U1100, $250-$150; 1st-2nd U900/UNR, $250-$150. Mechanical or Quartz Clock for Biggest Upset in each section! Chief Sr. TD: IM Ben Finegold; Asst. Sr. TD: Ed Mandell. Bring boards, pieces, clocks! Directions & Lodging: MOTOR CITY CASINO HOTEL, 2901 Grand River Ave., Detroit, MI 48201, (313) 237-1589. Easy access to Grand River Exit from I-94, I-96, I-75 and M-10 (Lodge Freeway). See www.mapquest.com for directions. Reservations: MCO Chess Rate $99 (reg. $249!) by Nov. 7th for this great rate! Reserve online at www.motorcitycasino.com OR call toll-free, 1-866-STAY-MCC (866-782-9622). Info, Ent: Ed Mandell, (586) 558-4790, All The King’s Men Chess Supplies and Brain Games, 27170 Dequindre Rd., Warren, MI 48092. Toll-Free, (866) 5387890. Fax, (586) 558-2046. Email:
[email protected], Web: www.allthe kingsmenchess.com. WCL JGP for 3-day and 2-day rds. 4-6.
An American Classic! A Heritage Event! Nov. 27-29 or 28-29, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 150 (enhanced) 40th annual National Chess Congress 6SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-3 G/50). Trophy sections play separate 2-day schedule only, 11/29-30, G/50. Sheraton Hotel Philadelphia City Center, 17th & Race Sts., Philadelphia 19103. $30,000 GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND. Free analysis of your games by GM Arthur Bisguier. In 11 sections. Premier, open to all rated 2000/above and juniors under 18 rated 1800/above. $3000-1500700-400-200, clear win or 1st on tiebreak $100, U2400/Unr $1400-700. FIDE. Under 2200: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 2000: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1800: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1600: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1400: $1400-700-400-300-200. Under 1200: $1400-700-400-300-200. Unrated may not win over $100 in U1200, $200 in U1400, $300 in U1600, $500 in U1800, or $700 in U2000. Top 7 sections entry fee: 3-day $108, 2-day $107 mailed by 11/19, all $109 online at chesstour.com by 11/24, $115 phoned by 11/24 (406-896-2038, no questions), $130 at site. GMs free, $100 deducted from prize. Re-entry $60, not available in Premier. Mailed EF $3 less to PSCF members. No checks at site, credit cards OK. 3-day late entry ends Fri 11 am, rounds Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 2-day late entry ends Sat 9 am, rounds Sat 10, 12:45, 3:30 and 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. Trophy Sections: Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600. Unrateds age 15/over may not enter Under 600. Trophies to top 8 players in each section. Entry fee: $27 mailed by 11/19, $28 online at chesstour.com by 11/24, $35 phoned by 11/24 (406-896-2038, no questions), $40 at tmt. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Late entry ends Sat 9 am, rounds 10 am, 12:45 pm, 3:30 pm each day. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Student/Alumni trophies to top 5 teams of 4 (regardless of section)
THE USE OF A
CELL PHONE
DROPPING OUT?
PROHIBITED!
Have to miss a round?
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! 50
Chess Life — September 2009
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
representing any U.S. college, HS or pre-HS players attend or have graduated from. Half point byes OK all rounds; limit 3, Premier must commit before rd 2, others before rd 4. HR: $93-93-93-93, reserve by 11/13 or rate may increase. Parking at hotel $5/day with guest room, $12 without; garage next to hotel is about $10. Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633 or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, ccaguide.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP (top 7 sections).
Dec. 5-6, North Carolina World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 Greater Charlotte Championship A Queen City Chess Association Sponsored Event! 5-SS, G/120. University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC), 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC. 3 sections: Open: $500-250-125; U2000, $100; Under 1800: $400-200-100, U1600 $100; Under 1400: $300-150-100; U1200 $75. EF: $49 if postmarked by 11/25; $59 later or on site. FREE entry to 2200+ if committed to play by 10/1. (EF deducted from prize). Registration onsite 8-8:45AM Sat. Schedule: Rounds: Sat 9:30-2:30-7:30; Sun 9-2. One Halfpoint bye (any round) must be requested with entry. Top six residents of Greater Charlotte area in Open Section qualify for round robin to be played in January to decide Charlotte Champion. HR: Sleep Inn University, 1 1/4 miles from site, 704-549-4544, $59.95 chess rate if reserved by 11/15 (mention QCCA). Free b-fast. Entries: Send to Charles Carerros, 2209-I Sumner Green Ave., Charlotte, NC 28203. Make checks to “QCCA”. Info: www.queencitychess.com for registration and more details. WCL JGP.
Dec. 26-28 or 27-28, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 40 (enhanced) 5th annual Empire State Open 6SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-3 G/60). Saratoga Hilton Hotel, 534 Broadway (I-87 Exit 13-N, 4 miles north on US 9), Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Free parking. $$G $5000. In 4 sections. Open: $800-400-300, top U2200/Unr $300-150. FIDE. Under 2000: $500-250-125, top U1800 $300-150. Under 1600: $400-200-100, top U1400 $250-125. Under 1200: $300-150-75, top U1000 $125. Unrated may not win over $150 in U1200 or $300 in U1600. EF: 3-day $83, 2-day $82 mailed by 12/18, all $84 online at chesstour.com by 12/23, $86 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 12/23 (entry only, no questions), $90 at site. $50 less to unrated. Special 1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: online at chesstour.com $30; mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Reentry $50; not available in Open. GMs free, $60 deducted from prize. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 10:30 am, rds. Fri 11-6, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 9:30 am, rds Sat 10-1-3:30-6, Sun 9-3:15. Bye: all, limit 2, must commit before rd 3. HR: $107107, 888-999-4711, 518-584-4000, reserve by 12/12 or rate may increase. Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Inquiries: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. $15 service charge for refunds. WCL JGP.
An American Classic! Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, Nevada World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced) 19th annual North American Open 7SS, 40/2, SD/1 (3-day option, rds 1-4 G/75). Bally’s Casino Resort, 3645 Las Vegas Blvd. S, Las Vegas, NV 89103. $$ 120,000 based on 600 paid entries (seniors count as 3/4 entries, re-entries & GMs as half entries, U1000/Unr Section as 1/5, else in proportion; $90,000 minimum (75% each prize) guaranteed. No unrateds in U1300, U1500, or U1700 sections. In 7 sections. Open: $100005000-2500-1200-1000-800-600-500-400-400, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak bonus $200, 2300-2499 $2500-1200, U2300/Unr $2500-1200. FIDE. Under 2100/Unr: $8000-4000-2000-1500-1000-800-600-500-400-400, no unrated may win over $2000. Under 1900/Unr: $8000-4000-2000-1500-1000-800600-500-400-400, no unrated may win over $1000. Under 1700: $8000-4000-2000-1500-1000-800-600-500-400-400. Under 1500: $6000-30001500-1000-800-700-600-500-400-400. Under 1300: $6000-3000-1500-1000800-700-600-500-400-400. Under 1000/Unr: $1000-600-500-400-300-200, no unrated may win over $200. Prize limits: 1) Players with under 26 games played as of 12/09 list may not win over $1500 U1300, $2500 U1500 or U1700. Games rated too late for 12/09 list not counted. 2) If more than 30 points over section maximum on any list 12/08-11/09, prize limit $1500. 3) Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Mailed EF: 4-day $244, 3-day $243 mailed by 10/15, 4-day $274, 3-day $273 mailed by 12/12. Online EF: $245 online at chesstour.com by 10/15, $275 by 12/19, $300 12/20 until two hours before round=2 01. Phoned EF: $250 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10/15 (no questions), $280 by 12/19. No phone entry after 12/19. EF at site: $300. Special EF: Seniors over 65 in Under 1300 or above, $70 less. Re-entry $120; not available in Open Section. GMs $150 from prize. U1000/Unr Section EF: 4-day $64, 3-day $63 if mailed by 12/12, $65 online at chesstour.com by 12/19, $70 phoned by 12/19 (406-896-2038, entry only, no questions), $80 at site. $30 less to unrated. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. 4-day reg. ends 12/26 5 pm, rds 12/26 6 pm, 12/27 116, 12/28 11-6, 12/29 10-4:30. 3-day reg. ends 12/27 4 pm, rds 12/27 5-8:30, 12/28 11-2:30-6, 12/29 10-4:30. Bye: all, limit 4, limit 2 in last 4 rounds; Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 4. HR: $96-96, 800-8333308, 702-739-4111, rate may increase if not reserved by 11/22, all rooms in chess block may sell out about 11/1. Free parking (garage at adjacent Paris Las Vegas Hotel is most convenient). Car rental: for special Avis rate reserve car through chesstour.com or call 800-331-1600, use AWD #657633. 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. Some foreign ratings not accepted for U1900 or below. Highest of multiple ratings usually used. Players who fail to disclose foreign or FIDE ratings may be expelled. US player ratings: December list used; FIDE ratings not used. Special rules: In round 3 or after, players with scores of 80% or more and their opponents may not use headphones, earphones, or cellphones or go to a different floor of the hotel without Director permission, and must submit to a search for electronic devices if requested by Director. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
Jan. 15-18, 16-18 or 17-18, California Northern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced) Golden State Open 7SS, 40/2, SD/1 (3-day option rds. 1-2 G/75, 2-day option rds. 1-4 G/35, no 2-day Open Section.) Under 900 Section plays separate 2-day schedule Jan 17-18 only, G/35. At Concord Hilton Hotel, 1970 Diamond Blvd, Concord CA 94520 (I-680 Willow Pass Rd exit). Free shuttle between hotel and Concord BART station. Free parking. $$60,000 based on 450 paid entries (re-entries & U900 Section count as 1/3 entries), minimum guarantee $40,000 (2/3 each prize). Open, open to all. $$4000-2200-1300-1000-800-700-600-500-400-400, clear or tiebreak winner $300, top U2400 $2000-1000. FIDE. Under 2200: $30001500-800-700-600-500-400-300-200-200. Under 2000: $3000-1500-800700-600-500-400-300-200-200. Under 1800: $3000-1500-800-700-600-500-400300-200-200. Under 1600: $2500-1300-700-600-500-400-300-300-200-200. Under 1400: $2000-1000-700-500-400- 300-200-200. Under 1200: $2000-1000700-500-400-300-200-200. Under 900: $800-400-200-150-100-80-70. Prize limits: 1) Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) may enter any section, with maximum prize U900 $200, U1200 $400, U1400 $600, U1600 $900, U1800 $1200, U2000 $1500. 2) Players with under 26 lifetime games rated may not win over $400 in U900, $800 in U1200 or $1200 in U1400. 3) If more than 30 points above section maximum on any list 1/09-12/09, prize limit $1000. 4) Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Top 7 sections EF: 4-day $174, 3day $173, 2-day $172 mailed by 1/7, all $175 online at chesstour.com by 1/12, $180 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 1/12 (entry only, no questions), $200 at site. GMs free; $150 deducted from prize. Under 900 Section EF: $52 mailed by 1/7, $55 online at chesstour.com by 1/12 (entry only, no questions), $60 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 1/12, $70 at site. All: Special 1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: online at chesstour.com $30; mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Re-entry (except Master) $60. Mailed EF $5 less to rated CalChess members. 4-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6:15 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30. 3-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 10:15 am, rds Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30. 2-day schedule: Reg Sun to 9:15 am, rds Sun 10-12-2-4-6, Sun 10-4:30, not available for Open Section. Under 900 schedule: Reg. Sun to 9:15 am, rds. Sun. 10-12-2-4, Mon. 10-122. Byes: OK all; Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 4; limit 3 byes in Open. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Foreign player ratings: See chesstour.com. HR: $99-99-109, 925-827-2000, reserve by 1/1 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Questions: chesstour.com, 845-4969658. Ent: Continental Chess, c/o Goichberg, Box 661776, Arcadia, CA 91066. $15 service charge for withdrawals. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. 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.
SEE TLA PAGE 49
uschess.org
Chess Life — September 2009
51
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING SEPTEMBER 1-14
Tournament Life planned in 09. Mon. Quads by request. Vulcan Open-May; B’ham City C’shipsAug.; Magic City Open-Nov. SS 4rd G/60 2d Sat.ea. mo. Details & flyers: R.W. Ellis 205-979-6068,
[email protected].
Sept. 27, 19th Chess Palace Anniversary
Sept. 11-13, 56th Annual Alabama State Chess Championship
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Oct. 9-11, Los Angeles Open
Arizona
See Grand Prix.
Jan. 15-18, 16-18 or 17-18, Golden State Open (CA-N)
LAX Hilton, 5711 W. Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045. Six-player sections by rating. EF: $20 if received by 10/8, $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.
See Grand Prix.
Oct. 11, LAO Scholastics
Delaware
See Grand Prix.
Arkansas Sept. 25-27, Majeed Nahas Memorial Open
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 26-27, Bakersfield Fall Classic
Oct. 11, LAO Hexes
HR: $93-93, 860-627-5311, reserve by 10/17 or rate may increase. Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633 or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. November ratings used. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Include school, grade, birth date, USCF ID, address of each player. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com.
Nov. 6-8 or 7-8, 14th annual Green Mountain Open & Vermont Championship (VT) Nov. 27-29 or 28-29, 40th annual National Chess Congress (PA) See Grand Prix.
5-SS G/2. Quapaw Community Center, 500 Quapaw Ave., Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901. EF: $35 adv, $40 at site. Prizes: b/40 1st 500 +T, 2nd 200, A, B, C. D/below/Unr 1st in ea 150 +T. Must have 3 in class $50 Upset - $50 for best Budapest (black) Smith Morra Gambit (white). Reg.: 7-9 am 9/26. Rds.: 9:15 - 2:15 - 7:30, 9 -2. Half point byes rds 1-4 ok. Special Friday night Nahas quick G/15, e.f. 10, prizes per entries same site. 1st guaranteed $75, more per entries. Reg.: 6-7 pm 9/25, Rds. 7 then asap all games must start as Smith Morra or Budapest variations (whites choice) clocks start atTD direction. Entry: Kirk Petty, 200 Brumley Trail, Lot O, Hot Springs, AR 71901. WCL JGP for Open.
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 10/8, $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.
California Northern
Jan. 15-18, 16-18 or 17-18, Golden State Open (CA-N)
Sept. 26-27, 1st Annual Exchange Bank Open See Grand Prix.
Connecticut
4-SS, Game/30. U.S. Chess Center, 1501 M Street, NW, Washington, DC 20005. EF: $15 if by 10/3, $20 at site. Open to any girl in K-12, not only from DC. $100 Savings Bond to first place, trophies to top 5 in each of HS, MS and ES. Reg.: 12 - 12:45. (202) 857-4922. www.chessctr.org.
Oct. 17-18, Fremont Open
Sept. 17, UCONN Chess Club Open House (QC)
Oct. 24-25, Oscar Shapiro D.C. Open
G/5, format TBD. UCONN Castleman Building, Room 204, 261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. Reg.: 7 - 7:30 PM. Rds.: ASAP. EF: FREE !!! Prizes: Trophy & Bragging rights. Pizza & refreshments will be served. Used book sale. Info: Tom Hartmayer, 860-989-5394,
[email protected].
Florida
See Grand Prix.
Jan. 15-18, 16-18 or 17-18, Golden State Open See Grand Prix.
California Southern Sept. 4, 11, 18, 25, 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.
Sept. 5, 12, 19, 26, LACC LA Masters 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.
Sept. 5, 12, 19, 26, 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
Sept. 7, 14, 21, 28, 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.
Sept. 7, 21, LACC September Scholastics I & II 5SS, G/30. LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405. EF: $25 ($20 LACC memb). 2 Sections: Over 1000 and U1000. Reg.: 1:30-2. Rds.: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Prizes:Trophies, Medals, and special prizes (every player receives a prize!). Free street parking, refreshments, and class 1-2 pm. Inf: (310) 7955710 or www.LAChessClub.com.
Sept. 12-13, Eclectic Collections See Grand Prix.
Colorado See Grand Prix.
Sept. 24, UCONN Quick Chess Swiss (QC) 4-SS, G/15, 5. UCONN Castleman Building, Room 204, 261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. EF: $5, students free. Reg.: 7-7:30 PM. Rds.: ASAP. $$ 50%30%-20% net proceeds from EF’s. Info: Tom Hartmayer, 860-989-5394,
[email protected]
Sept. 26, 4th Sat. of the Month Quad Howard Johnson’s Hotel, 1119 S. College Avenue, Newark, DE 19713. (time controls:40/75, s/d 30). EF: $20. $$GTD: $40. Reg.: 9-9:30. Rds.: 9:45 1:45 5:30. ENT: Kevin Pytel, 604 N. Walnut St., Newport, DE 19804-2624. 302-7536877.
[email protected]. INFO: Kevin Pytel 302-753-6877. NS W.
District of Columbia Oct. 10, DC Girls Open
See Grand Prix.
South Florida Chess Club Wednesday’s 6:30-10:30pm. Rated G/90 Tournaments and skittles. Most tournaments are 4+ rounds to with a time control slower than G/60, those events would qualify for WCL JGP. www.SouthFloridaChessClub.com. Boca Raton Chess Club
A Heritage Event! Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 29th Willimantic Fall Open
Friday nights, Game 90 Tournament, one game a week for 4 weeks. www.bocachess.com, 561-883-2917. WCL JGP.
5-SS, G/90. UCONN Castleman Building, Room 204, 261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. EF: $20 at site, students free. Reg.: 7-7:30 PM. Rds.: 7:30 PM. $$ 35%-30%, Top U-1600 20%-15%. Info: Tom Hartmayer, 860-989-5394,
[email protected]. WCL JGP.
Miami Country Day Grand Prix, Scholastic and Non-Scholastic Sections. More info at
Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 6th annual New England Scholastic Championships Note corrected entry deadlines. 7SS, G/45. Sheraton Hotel, 1 Bradley Airport (visible at airport entrance), Windsor Locks, CT 06096 (I-91 Exit 40 to Rt 20). Free parking, free airport shuttle. Open to all K-12 students; New England titles and free entry prizes limited to players & teams from schools in CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, or VT. Team prizes based on top 4 scores from school combined. Teams of 2 or 3 players allowed, but are at a disadvantage. In 4 sections: High School (K-12), Middle School (K-8), Elementary (K-5), Primary (K-2). Players face only those in their section. EF for USCF members: HS $38.75, Middle School $38.50, Elem $38.25, Primary $38 if mailed by 10/23 not 10/31, all $38 online at chesstour.com by 10/27 not 11/4, $50 at site. EF for non-USCF members (fees include membership): HS $48.75, Middle School $48.50, Elem $48.25, Primary $48 if mailed by 10/23 not 10/31, all $48 online at chesstour.com by 10/27 not 11/4, $60 at site. Memberships include magazine for players scoring at least 3 pts. Trophies to top 10 players, top 7 teams, top 3 unrated in each section, top E, U1000, U800 (HS), U1000, U800, U600 (MS), U800, U600, U400 (Elem), U600, U400, U200 (Primary). Free entry in all Continental Chess Association Swiss tournaments until 5/31/10 to top New England player each section. Late reg. ends Sat 9 am, rds Sat 10-1-3-5:30 pm, Sun 9-11-1:30. Awards Sun 3:30 pm. Half point byes allowed rds 1-4 only, with at least 1 hour notice.
www.bocachess.com or call 954-421-8222 or 561-883-2917.
Sept. 12, Oct. 3, Nov. 7, Dec. 5, Jan. 9, Feb. 6, Mar. 6, Apr. 3, May 1, $500 Guar. Cash Opens 5rd Swiss, G/30. EF: $25; $30 at door. SPCC mems $5 off. $100-$60-$40; U1600, U1400, & U1200 $50-$30-$20 each. 1st rd 10:15 AM. Sunshine Center, 330 Fifth St. N., St. Pete. NC, W. prereg at www.stpetersburgchessclub.com. 727-822-1171.
Sept. 12, Oct. 3, Nov. 7, Dec. 5, Jan. 9, Feb. 6, Mar. 6, Apr. 3, May 1 St. Petersburg Rated Beginner’s Opens (RBO’s) 5rd Swiss, G/30. USCF RBO 4 Sect. K-2U400; K-5U500; K-8U700; & K-12U1000; top 12 in each get trophy (all K-2 get trophy) all others medal.Team (2 or more) - best four scores from all divisions trophy to top 12. EF: $18. SPCC mems $15. 1st rd 10:15 AM. Sunshine Center, 330 Fifth St. N., St. Petersburg, FL. NC, W. pregister online at www.stpetersburgchessclub.com. 727-822-1171.
Sept. 19, 6th DBCC G/50 Open Schnebly Recreation Center, 1101 N. Atlantic Ave (A1A), Daytona Beach, FL 32118. 4SS, G/50. EF: $25. $$ ($250/b12): $100-75. U1600: $50-25. Rds.: 1011:45-2-3:45. ENT: Paul BTomaino, 575 N Williamson Bl #116, Daytona Beach, FL 32114. 386-239-9485. INFO:
[email protected]. www.daytonabchcc.org. NS NC W.
Oct. 3, CFCC October Quick Chess (QC) 7SS, G29 (G25 w/5 sec. delay). Orlando Chess & Games Ctr., 8751 Commodity Circle Suite 4, Orlando, 32819. EF: $30 CFCC/OCG mbr: $25. Masters free-EF deducted from prize. $$605 b/30: 200-100-80, Class B, Class C, Class D/Under $75 ea. Reg.: 9:30am. Rds.: 10, 11:15, 1, 2:15, 3:30, 4:45, 6. Info: (407) 629-6946, www.centralflchess.org. W. WCL JGP.
Oct. 10, DBCC Club Championship Open Schnebly Recreation Center, 1101 N. Atlantic Ave (A1A), Daytona Beach, FL 32118. 2 Sections: Open & Scholastic. 5SS, G45. EF: Open $25. Scholastic $5. Open: $$ ($350/b15): $125-100. U1600: $75-50. Scholastic:Trophy. Rds.: 10-11:35-2-3:35-5:10. Open: Trophy to highest DBCC Club Member. Scholastic: Trophy & Club Scholastic Champion (all Scholastic eligible). Reg.: 9-9:45. ENT: Paul B. Tomaino, 575 N. Williamson Bl. #116, Daytona Beach, FL 32114. 386239-9485. INFO:
[email protected] www.daytonabchcc.org. NS NC W.
Oct. 10, First Saturday Quads 3RR, 40/80 15/30 15/30. Palatka Bridge & Chess Center, 521 13th St., Palatka, FL. Quads open to all. EF: $12. Trophy to 1st. Each Quad. Reg.: 8:30-9:30/am. Rds.: 10-1-4. Ben Cody (386) 329-1173. www.palatkachessclub.com. NS NC W.
Oct. 31, CFCC Bonus Tornado 4-SS, G/75. Orlando Chess & Games Ctr., 8751 Commodity Cir. Suite 4, Orlando, 32819. EF: $30, CFCC/OCG mbr: $25, Masters free-EF deducted from prize. $$605 b/30: 200-100-80, U1800, U1600, U1400 $75 ea. Prize increased 50% for 4-0 score. Reg.: 9:30am. Rds.: 10-12:30-3-5:30. Info: (407) 629-6946, www.centralflchess.org. W. WCL JGP.
Nov. 13-15, 8th Annual Turkey Bowl See Grand Prix.
Georgia Nov. 13-15, 8th Annual Turkey Bowl (FL) See Grand Prix.
Idaho Sept. 26-27, 2009 Eastern Idaho Open 5SS, G/120. 2 Sections: Open and Reserve (U1400). Site: ISU, Student Un Bldg,
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Chess Life — September 2009
uschess.org
Salmon River Suites, 1065 S. 8th St., Pocatello, Idaho. EF: USCF mem req., $30 (U18 & 60+ $25), ISU Chess Club $10, by 9/19/09. $40 (all) after. Reg & Ck in: 7:30-8:30 AM 09/26. RNDS.: 9,2,7,9,2. 1/2 pt byes: Max 1, Rd 1-4 only. Commit by end of rd 2. Prizes: $$ b/30 non ISU; Open: $200-100-75; Reserve: $100-75-50. HR/ENT/INFO: ICA % Jay Simonson, 391 Carol Ave., Idaho Falls, ID 83401, 208-206-7667,
[email protected], www.idahochessassociation.org NC, NS, W. WCL JGP.
Nov. 20-22, 2009 National Youth Action
Indiana
47802 (I-70 & U.S. 41). EF: $80 per team if rec’d by 9/10, $100 at site. Sections: Open & Reserve (secs. may be combined if less than 5 teams in a section); all individuals in Reserve must be under 1600. Prizes: each sec. 1st, 2nd team trophy plus 4 plaques/team; cash prizes based on number of teams. ISCA required for Indiana residents. Reg.: 8-9 a.m., Round 1 at 9:15. Ent: Steve Steppe, 53 E. Antler Dr., Terre Haute, IN 47802,
[email protected] (PayPal accepted), thacc.org, 812-299-5111. WCL JGP.
Illinois
Chess Club Friday Night Blitz (QC)
Oct. 2-4 or 3-4, 68th Indiana State Chess Championship
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. Renaissance Knights Chess Foundation Illinois’ Premier Chess Organization - We organize monthly scholastic & adult tournaments throughout the Chicago area; sponsor chess activates at community events, i.e. Taste of Chicago; provide in-school & afterschool programs, workshops & summer camps. Players of all skill levels, from beginners to Masters, attend our events. For dates & locations: visit our website www.rknights.org; Tel: 773-844-0701; Email: ren
[email protected]. Sept. 26, 2009 St. Matthew Chess Tournament held by the 2008 US Champion, and 2008 Olympiad Bronze medal winner GM YURY SHULMAN, at 24500 Old McHenry Rd., Hawthorn Woods, IL 60047. Tel. 847-438-7709. G/30 5rds, EF: $25 postmarked by 9/1, $30 after, on site $35 before 9:15 REG.: begins at 9:00, Rd 1 begins 10:00am, no elimination. 4 Sections: Primary K-3, Elementary 4-5, Middle 6-8, HS 9-12 and adults, Nonrated (all grades and adults). TROPHY awards to top 5 individuals in each section, top 3 individuals in each grade K-5, top individuals grade 6-12, top 3 team trophies, top 5 in unrated. Trophy awards at 3:00. ENT: checks payable to “Yury Shulman International Chess School”, mail w/registration form to 428 Waverly Rd., Barrington, IL 60010. INFO: email
[email protected] or www.shul manchess.com, Kiran Frey 847-382-5410, GM Yury Shulman 312-375-7475.
Oct. 9-11 or 10-11, 18th annual Midwest Class Championships See Grand Prix.
Oct. 11, Rated Beginners Open 5SS, G/30, open to under 900 or unrated. Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel, 601 North Milwaukee Avenue, Wheeling, IL 60090 (from Chicago, I-294 north to US-45 north; from Milwaukee, I-94 to Lake Cook Rd to US-45 south). Free parking. EF: $20. Special 1 year USCF dues if paid with EF, including paper magazine: Adult $30, Senior or Young Adult $25, Scholastic $15. Trophies to top 5. 3 year USCF membership extension to 1st, 2 years 2nd, 1 year 3rd. Reg. ends 9:30 am, rds. 10, 11:30, 1, 2:30, 4. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Half point bye available rd 1. Ent: at site only. Questions: chesstour.com, 845-496-9658.
uschess.org
See Nationals.
Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, 19th annual North American Open (NV) See Grand Prix.
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].
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. WCL JGP.
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.
Irvington Chess Club 1st Wed. Tournament 3SS, G/15. Irvington Public Library - Community Room, 5625 E Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46219. Held on the first Wednesday of each month. Open to All. EF: $5. Unr: Free. Reg.: Anytime between 5:30pm and 5:45pm. Rds.: 6p, 6:35p, 7:10p. An outreach of the Our Lady of Lourdes Chess club (www.ollchess club.org). ENT: http://jotform.com/form/90231349169. INFO: Kieron Mitchell, 317-430-5254
[email protected]. Some clocks and boards provided bring them if you have them! NS NC W.
A State Championship Event! Sept. 12, Indiana State Team Tournament 4-SS, G/90, for teams of 4. Holiday Inn, 3300 U.S. 41 South, Terre Haute, IN
See Grand Prix.
Oct. 9-11 or 10-11, 18th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL) See Grand Prix.
Nov. 13-15 or 14-15, 18th Annual Kings Island Open (OH) See Grand Prix.
Iowa Nov. 14, 2009 Des Moines Fall Classic-IASCA Mini Qualifier Des Moines Botanical Center, 909 Ray D. Ray Drive, Des Moines, IA 50316. 3 Sections (1) RBO (2) Reserve (3) Open. In 3 Sections: RBO: 5SS, G/30 T/D 5, Open to 1199 & under. EF: $10.00 if received by November 12th, $20.00 at site. Prizes: Trophies: U1200, U1000, U800, U600, U400, U200. Rds.: 9:30-10:4512:30-1:45-3:00. Reserve: 4SS, G/75T/D 5, Open to 1599 & under. EF: $20.00 if received by November 12th, $30.00 at site. $$b/10: $40.00-20.00-10.00. U1400 1st $20.00, 2nd $10. Rds.: 9:30-1:00-3:45-7:00 (earlier if agreed upon). OpenIASCA Mini-Qualifier: 4SS, G/75 T/D 5, EF: $20.00 if received by November 12th, $30.00 at site. $$b/10: $75.00-40.00-20.00. U1800 1st, $30.00, 2nd $15.00. Rds.: 9:30-1:00-3:45-7:00 (earlier if agreed upon). ALL: Memb. Req’d: $15.00. OSA. Reg.: 8:00 to 9:00 am. ENT: Bill Broich, 7149 Wilshire Blvd., Windsor Heights, Iowa, 50322. 515-205-8062,
[email protected]. NS NC W. WCL JGP for Reserve and Open only.
Kentucky Nov. 13-15 or 14-15, 18th Annual Kings Island Open (OH) See Grand Prix.
Maine A State Championship Event! Sept. 19-20, Maine Championship (Closed) RDS. 5SS, TL: 40/90 SD/60. (A Maine Chessplayer of the year event) Location: Southern Maine Community College, Hildreth Hall & Campus Center, 2 Fort Rd., S. Portland, ME 04106. Sections: One, Open to Residents, College Students and Military Personel Stationed in Maine. EF: $35 if received by 9/16, $40 at site. Entry Fee includes a Maine Chess Association Membership. Prize Fund: $900 b/30. 1st $250 A,B,C & best U1400 all $150. Registration: 8 - 8:45. RDS.: SAT. 9, 1:30, 6:30. SUN: 9, 2:15. Advance Registration Appreciated: Philip H. Lowell, Jr., 143 Lamb St., Apt. 2, Westbrook, ME 04092. Ph. (207) 854-4028. Email:
[email protected].
A State Championship Event! Sept. 19-20, Maine RBO Championship
Chess Life — September 2009
53
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING SEPTEMBER 1-14
Tournament Life Rds: 5SS. Time: G/90. (A Maine Chessplayer of the year Event.) Southern Maine Community College, Hildreth Hall, 2 Fort Rd., S. Portland, ME 04106. Sections: One, Open to all players rated U1200 and unrated. EF: $25 if received by 9/16, $30 at site. Entry fee includes a Maine Chess Association Membership. Prize Fund: b/12 1st $100, 2nd $50, Top U1000 $50. Reg.: 9-9:45. Rds.: Sat. 10, 1:30, 5, Sun. 10, 1:30. Advance Registration Appreciated: Philip H. Lowell, Jr., 143 Lamb St., Apt. 2, Westbrook, ME 04092. Ph. (207) 854-4028. Email:
[email protected].
Maryland
or $10 at site. Prizes:Trophies for 1st, 2nd & 3rd each section. Sections: Grades K-4, 5-6, 7-8 & 9-12 Reg.: 10am. Rds.: 10:30, 11:30, 12:30 & 1:30. Ent: Ed Kostreba, P.O Box 1372, Ware, MA 01082, 413-967-3242, e-mail: cadcamsv@bell atlantic.net, www.wmass-chess.us.
Oct. 25, 76th Greater Boston Open See Grand Prix.
Oct. 17, Alexander Alekhine Open
Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 6th annual New England Scholastic Championships (CT)
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. Accel. pairings if 18+ players. Info: Charles Ward, 573-443-6685,
[email protected]. W.
See Connecticut.
Sept. 19, UMBC Rated Beginner’s Championship (RBO) 5SS, G/30. UMBC, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore (in Commons, 3rd floor). Open to U1200/Unr. USCF membership required. Free USCF memb. to anyone scoring at least 3.5 pts. Certificate to anyone completing 5 rds. Top UMBC student awarded trophy & title of 2009-2010 UMBC Amateur Chess Champ. EF: $15 if postmarked by 9/4, $20 later. Reg.: 8:30-9:30am, Rds.: 10-11:30-1:303-4:30 Sat. 1/2 pt. bye avail. in any rd. if req’d before rd. 1. Held concurrently w/UMBC Champ. 9/19-9/20 (see separate TLA). Ent: Dr. Alan T. Sherman, Dept. of CSEE, UMBC, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250 ATTN: Beginners Champ. Cks payable to UMBC. Dir: Exit 47B off I95 & follow signs to UMBC. Park in lot 9 or 16. For more info: 410-455-8499,
[email protected], www.umbc.edu/chess. NS, W.
Sept. 19-20, UMBC Championship
Nov. 6-8 or 7-8, 14th annual Green Mountain Open & Vermont Championship (VT) See Grand Prix.
Montana
Nov. 27-29 or 28-29, 40th annual National Chess Congress (PA)
Sept. 26-27, John Barto Memorial Tripleheader
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 26-28 or 27-28, 5th annual Empire State Open (NY) See Grand Prix.
Michigan Oct. 23-25 or 24-25, Cleveland Open (OH) See Grand Prix.
Nov. 27-29, 2009 Motor City Open
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 25, Oct. 9, Catonsville Friday Knight Quick #89, #90 (QC) 5SS, G/15. Catonsville Chess Club, Bloomsbury Community Center, 106 Bloomsbury Ave., Catonsville, MD 21228. EF: $8, club members $5. 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. Website: http://mysite.verizon.net/vze12d59q/. Dir: 695 to exit 13 West, left at second light, 3 blocks on right.
Oct. 2-4, 3-4, 49th Maryland Open See Grand Prix.
Oct. 10, Catonsville Second Saturday Action 5SS, G/30. EF: $20, club members $17, under 17 $15. Rds.: 12:00-1:30-2:454:00-5:15. Reg.: 11:15am. Bloomsbury Community Center, Room 118, 106 Bloomsbury Ave., Catonsville, MD 21228. $$b/24 $100-$60-$40 U1850 $40 U1550 $40, more per entries. Bye: 1-4. Info:
[email protected] , http://mysite. verizon.net/vze12d59q. Ent: Joe Summers, 1201 Daniels Ave., Balt., MD 21207. 410-788-1009.
Massachusetts Sept. 9, 16, 23, 30, Oct. 7, Hervey R. Brisson Memorial 5SS, G/110. Wachusett Chess Club, McKay Campus School, Room C199, Fitchburg State College, 67 Rindge Road, Fitchburg, MA 01420. EF: $1 per game played; free to Wachusett CC members. 50 percent discount to Mass. Chess Association members. Reg.: 7-7:10 p.m. Rds.: 7:15 p.m. Byes: 1-4, limit two. Prizes: chess books. Info: George Mirijanian, 176 Oak Hill Road, Fitchburg, MA 01420,
[email protected], 978-345-5011, Website: www.wachusettchess.org. Online ratings as of Sept. 9 will be used. NC. NS. W. WCL JGP.
Sept. 26, 3rd Eli Bourdon Memorial 3SS, G/90. Holyoke Library, 335 Maple St., Holyoke, MA. EF: $27, rated 2200+ & Unr $5, by 9/21. Unr must play in U-1400 section & are not eligible for prizes. EF ALL: Add $5 at site late reg. fee. $$650 b/30 (Special Entry Fees not counted). Sections: Open: 1st $180, 2nd $100. U1800: 1st $130, 2nd $80. U1400: 1st $100, 2nd $60. Reg.: 8:30-9:15. Rds.: 9:30, 1 & 4:15. Ent: W.M.C.A., 119 Brunswick St., Springfield, MA 01108. Call Ed at 413-967-3242 or e-mail
[email protected], NS, NC. www.wmass-chess.us.
Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Billerica Friday Swiss 5 Rds. 40/90, SD/30. Billerica COA, 25 Concord Rd., Billerica, MA. EF: $12. Reg.: 7:30pm. Cash prizes minimal b/entries. For info, call Brad Ryan, (978) 369-8533. NS, NC. WCL JGP.
Oct. 17, Fall Scholastic Swiss (QC) 4SS, G/25. Palmer Library, 1455 North Main St., Palmer, MA. EF: $7 by 10/12,
No advanced entries. EF: $10. Prize fund is 90% payout, with 1st place getting 1/3 of the total prize fund and first A, B, C, D, E and U1000/unrated each take 1/9 of the prize fund. One 1/2 point bye if declared by round 1. Annual club memb. req’d. MCA memb. req’d from $5 OSA. Info: 314-361-CHESS.
[email protected]. WCL JGP.
Missouri
3 events. Sat: 5rd, SS, G/45 and 5rd, RR, speedo; Sun: 5rd, SS, G/29. Open to all. MCA memb. Req’d. $12, OSA. EF: $10 for g/45 and G/29, $5 for speedo by 9-24. $5 more at site. Jrs 1/2 price. Reg.: Sat 9:15-9:45, Sun 8:45-9am. Sat rds: 10, 11:40, 1:30, 3:10, 7pm, speedo at 5:30pm. Sun rds: 9:15, 10:25, 11:10, 12:45, 1:55. GranTree Inn, 1325 N. 7th, Bozeman, MT 59715. 800-624-5865, HR: $84, mention chess. $$-50% of entries and $10 to biggest upset each event. Ent: Dan McCourt, 608 West Central, Missoula, MT 59801. Checks payable to MCA. Info: Dan McCourt 406-721-0254,
[email protected]. NC, W, in conjunction with Montana Closed.
Nevada Oct. 23-25, 27th Annual Sands Regency Reno-Western States Open
Friday Action Quads - Every Friday Night (QC)
See Grand Prix.
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].
Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, 19th annual North American Open
Saint Louis Blitz Series - Every Saturday night (QC)
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.
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].
A State Championship Event! Sept. 25-27, Missouri Chess Festival Best Western Columbia Inn, 3100 I-70 Dr. SE, Columbia, MO 65201 (intersection of US-63 & I-70). 2009 MISSOURI OPEN: 5SS, G/120. $$b/40: $250-1st Overall + Plaque, Class Prizes: 120-1st in each M/X, A, B, C, D, E, U1000/Unr. EF: $42 by 9/19, $50 on site. Site entries cash only. Reg.: 10-10:45am. Rds.: Sat-11/3:30/8, Sun-10:30/3. Max one 1/2-pt bye. MISSOURI STATE INVITATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP: By invitation only. Concurrent with Missouri Open. EF: $40. $$b/20: $500-1st, $250-2nd, $125-3rd. See www.mochess.org for info on eligibility. MO QUICK CHAMPIONSHIP: 4SS, G/29 (QR). $$b/20: $75-1st Overall + Plaque, $50-1st U1600. Reg.: 6:30-7pm Friday. Rds.: 7/8/9/10pm. EF: $10 by 9/19, $15 on site. MO BUGHOUSE CHAMPIONSHIP: 5-Dbl Rds, G/5. $$b/12 teams: $50-1st Team + Plaques, $30-2nd Team. (Both players must be MO residents to receive title.) Reg.: 8-8:15am Sat. Rds paired ASAP, ending by 10am. EF: $10/team, on site only. MO BLITZ CHAMPIONSHIP: 5SS, G/5 (QR). Prizes: $75-1st + plaque, $50-2nd, $25-3rd. EF: $10. Reg.: 8-8:15am Sunday. Rds paired ASAP, ending by 9:30am. MCA SCHOLASTIC: 5SS, G/30. Prizes: Trophies to top 3 in each section: HS, K-8, K-6, K-3. EF: $10 by 9/19, $15 on site. Reg.: 9-10am Saturday. Rds.: 10:30/11:45/1:15/2:30/3:45. Awards: 5:15pm.To receive Championship titles/plaques you must be a MO resident. MCA memb. req’d except for MCA Scholastic & Bughouse, available on site from $5, OSA. HR: $74.95/night, free Wi-Fi & Hot breakfast, 573-474-6161, mention CHESS. Entries/Info: Thomas Rehmeier, 5217 Denice St., Jefferson City, MO 65109.
[email protected], 573-291-0852. WCL JGP for 2009 Missouri Open.
Oct. 7, October Knights 4SS, G/90. Reg. Wednesday, Oct. 7th, 6:00 - 6:45pm. Rounds (one per week) 7pm 10/7, 14, 21, 28. Check in with TD by 6:45 to be paired each week/round.
NO TOURNAMENTS IN YOUR AREA? WHY NOT ORGANIZE ONE?
See Grand Prix.
New Jersey
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.
Sept. 12, Garden State Scholastic 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. Trophies to 1st - 5th place; Scholastic Quads: open to K-12 G/60 Quads. Trophies to 1st and 2nd each quad. All EF: $15 if rec’d by September 5th, $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.
Sept. 13, Westfield Quads 3 RR game/45 full k.. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. 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.westfieldchessclub.com.
Sept. 14, 21, 28, Hackettstown Fall Quads 3RR, 40/90. Hackettstown Community Ctr., 293 Main St., Hackettstown, NJ 07840. EF: $7. Prize to the winner of each quad is $20. (cash) Reg.: 7-7:30PM. RDS.: 7:30 each Mon. ENT: Angelo DePalma, 18 Hillside Ave., Newton, NJ 07860.
[email protected], 973-579-8737.
Sept. 17, 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!
Sept. 19, Hamilton Chess Club Quads 3RR 40/80 15/30 15/30. Full K. Ray Dwier Recreation Center, Bldg. 392,
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!
54
Chess Life — September 2009
uschess.org
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
Quads open to all. EF: $20. 1st Place $50. Reg.: 9-10:00/am. Rds.: 10:00/am1:00/pm-4:00/pm NS NC W. Info: Hal Sprechman 732 259-3881.
make checks payable to Character Kings and send to Hal Sprechman, P.O Box 1511, Jackson, NJ 08527. Please indicate section.
Sept. 27, Ken’s Last Sunday Quads
Oct. 10, Princeton Day School
Sept. 19, Jersey Shore K-12 Regionals
Dean of Chess Academy, 1161 Route #202, Branchburg, NJ 08876. In 4 player Quads. G/90. Regs.: before 10am. First Round 10am, then ASAP with lunch break. EF: $20, Prizes: Choice of $40 orTrophy & EF refund. Current Chess students of Ken may play for half EF & half prize. Info: KenThomas,
[email protected] / cell 908-763-6468. NS NC W.
650 The Great Road. Plaques to top 3 school teams and top 6 in each section. Medals to all players. Three sections for OVER 1000 begin at 10:15 and must preregister: NEAR MASTERS (K-12 over 1400) and FUTURE MASTERS (Players K-12 over 1200) G/60, 3 rds. CLOSED (K-12 1000-1200) G/45 4 rds. ALL OTHER SECTIONS. G/30 4 rds. beginning at 12:00 noon. (round times will be accelerated if possible): OPEN (Players K-12 U-1000), RESERVE (K-12 U800), NOVICE II (K-8 U-600), NOVICE I (unrated K-6), K-1 (unrated) NO SCORE K-1 (unrated). PARENTS OF PLAYERS rated G/30 3 rounds. Pre-registration online $30 (On-site 11-12 noon $40). Info and register online: www.pds.org/ chess. Inquires to Bonnie Waitzkin
[email protected].
The Academy at Grace and Peace, 1563 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River, NJ 08755. All Sections open to K-12. Section A: U500, Section B: 500-1000, Section C: 1000-1500, Section D: 1500+. Section A, B, C 4SS, G/30. Section D: 3 Rounds, G/60. Trophies to Top 5 in each section, Medals to all others. EF: $25 if rec’d by 9/12, $30 on site. Reg.: 9:00-9:45 AM. Rds.: 10:00 AM and ASAP. Info: John Burke, 732-714-1544 or
[email protected]. Ent: Make checks payable toThe Academy at Grace and Peace. Please indicate USCF ID# and section.
Sept. 20, Westfield Fall Scholastic Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. 4 sections: k-12 full k Open, U1250, U750, unrated. Open Section: 3 SS game/45. Trophies to top five players in each section. Entrance fee: $20, $15 members at site $30, $25 members. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45 - 4:15- 6:00. U 1250: 4 SS game/30. Trophies to top five players in each section. Entrance fee: $20, $15 members at site $30, $25 members. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45-4:00-5:156:30p.m. U750: 4 SS game/30. Trophies to top five players in each section. Entrance fee: $20, $15 members, at site $30, $25 members. Registration: 22:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45-4:00-5:15-6:30 p.m. Tiebreaks for trophies. Unrated section: 3 SS, k-2, 3-5, 6-12. $5 registration, 2-2:30 p.m. Gold medal to first, Silver medal to second, Bronze medal to third. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45-4:00-5:15 p.m. Todd Lunna, 732-946-7379.
[email protected], www.westfieldchessclub.com. Send advance entries to: Todd Lunna, 36 Maple Drive, Colts Neck, New Jersey 07722, by Sept. 17.
Sept. 26, 3rd Annual Greater Pocono Scholastic Championships (PA) 4SS, G/45. Pocono Mountain East HS, 200 Pocono Mountain School Rd., Swiftwater, PA 18370. Sections: K-12 U/1000, K-12 Champ. EF: $20 online by 9/23; $30 on-site 9:00-9:30. Rds.: 10:30-12:30-2:00-3:30. Prizes: trophies to top individuals & schools. Free game analysis by NM Adam Weissbarth. See www.silverknightschess.com to register.
Sept. 27, 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.
Sept. 27, Garden State Quads 3RR 40/80 G/30. Full K. Prevention First, 1405 Route 35, Ocean, NJ 07712.
GOLD & SILVER AFFILIATES 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 special 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 existing affiliates may substract $3 for each month remaining on their regular affiliation, or $20 for each month remaining on their Silver Affiliation. 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
Sept. 27, Westfield Swiss #61 (QC) 5 SS game/15 (QC) full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. Prizes: $500 Guaranteed $125, $85, $50. U2100, U1850, U1600, U1350 $60 each. Entrance Fee: $35, $25 Members. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:453:25-4:05-4:45-5:30 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna www.westfieldchessclub.com.
Oct. 15, ATKM 3rd Thursday Quads
Oct. 3, 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.
Oct. 4, Wizards of the Mind Chess Tournament www.wizardsofthemind.com. 15 Center Street, Springfield, NJ 07081. 3 sections. U1900: - 4SS, G30, 9-9:20am, rounds start 9:30am. U1000: - 4SS, G30, 9-9:20am, U400: - Reg. 2-2:20, Rounds start 2:30pm. Trophies to top 5 in each section, medals and special trophies to all in U400 section. EF: 25 mailed by 9/26, $30 on-site. Facility has wireless internet service. Mail entries to 15 Center Street, Springfield, NJ 07081. Make checks payable to: “Wizards of the Mind.” Bring chess clocks in U1900 and U1000 sections.
Oct. 5 - Dec. 21, Fall Team Tournament 9-12 rounds, 40/90. Hackettstown Community Center, 293 Main St., (Rte. 46). EF: $15; Under 18 & Over 65, $10. Small cash prizes, b/entries, to players on winning team, plus high scorer on each board. Reg.: 7-7:30 p.m. on Oct. 5. Rds.: 7:30 p.m. each Monday. ENT: Michael Laverty, 151 Lake Valhalla, East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
[email protected]. WCL JGP.
Oct. 10, Garden State Scholastic 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. Trophies to 1st - 5th place; Scholastic Quads: open to K-12 G/60 Quads. Trophies to 1st and 2nd each quad. All EF: $15 if rec’d by October 3rd, $20 on site. Reg.: 9-9:45 am. Rds.: 10 and ASAP. Info: Hal Sprechman, 732 259-3881,
[email protected]. Ent: Please
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!
Oct. 17, Jersey Shore K-12 Regionals The Academy at Grace and Peace, 1563 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River, NJ 08755. All Sections open to K-12. Section A: U500, Section B: 500-1000, Section C: 1000-1500, Section D: 1500+. Section A, B, C 4SS, G/30. Section D: 3 Rounds, G/60. Trophies to Top 5 in each section, Medals to all others. EF: $25 if rec’d by 10/10, $30 on site. Reg.: 9:00-9:45 AM. Rds.: 10:00 AM and ASAP. Info: John Burke, 732-714-1544 or
[email protected]. Ent: Make checks payable to The Academy at Grace and Peace. Please indicate USCF ID# and section.
Oct. 17-18, Paul Aaroe Memorial 4-SS, 40/90, SD/60. Community Center, 293 Main St., Hackettstown, NJ. EF: $18, Under 18 & Over 65: $15 at site; $15 & $10 if rec’d by Oct. 15. Prizes: (b/15 entries): $40-$25-$15; U-2000, U-1800, U-1600, U-1400: $20 each, minimum two players each class. Additional prizes possible if more than 15 entries. Reg.: 10-10:45 a.m., Rds.: 11 a.m. & 4 p.m. each day, earlier by mutual agreement when possible. Byes:Two half-point byes available, but must score one-half point OTB to win a prize. Advance entries: Eric Mark, 609Thomas St., Stroudsburg,
GOLD AFFILIATES Cajun Chess 7230 Chadbourne Drive New Orleans, LA 70126 504-208-9596
[email protected] www.cajunchess.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
Chess Club and Scholastic Center of St. Louis 4657 Maryland Avenue St. Louis, MO 63108. 314-361-CHESS
[email protected] www.stlouischessclub.org
North American Chess Association 2516 North Waukegan Road Suite 342,Glenview, IL 60025 888-80-CHESS,
[email protected] www.nachess.org
Continental Chess Association PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. 845-496-9658
[email protected] www.chesstour.com
PaperClip Pairings c/o J. Houghtaling Jr & Remy Ferrari 6005 Forest Blvd Brownsville, TX 78526 956-459-2421
[email protected]
En Passant Chess Club 1301 North Shore Drive San Benito, TX 78586 956-399-9724
[email protected]
San Diego Chess Club 2225 Sixth Avenue San Diego, CA 92101 619-239-7166
[email protected] http://sdchessclub.multiply.com
Jersey Shore High School Chess League PO Box 773, Lincroft, NJ 07738
[email protected]
SPICE Box 45080, Lubbock, TX 79409 806-742-7742,
[email protected] www.SPICE.ttu.edu 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
SILVER AFFILIATES Chess Center of New York (NY) www.chesscenter.cc
Long Island Chess Nuts (NY) 516-739-3907
Orange Crush Chess Club (IN)
[email protected]
Indiana State Chess Association www.indianachess.org
Marshall Chess Club (NY) www.marshallchessclub.org
Sparta Chess Club (NJ) www.spartachessclub.org
International Chess Academy (NJ) www.icanj.net
Michigan Chess Association www.michess.org
Renaissance Knights (IL) www.RKnights.org
Oklahoma Chess Foundation www.OKchess.org
Chess Life — September 2009
55
Tournament Life
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING SEPTEMBER 1-14
PA 18360,
[email protected]. Checks payable to Hackettstown Chess Club. NS, NC. WCL JGP.
Oct. 24, King’s Chess Club Quads Morning quads and afternoon quads, G/30, K-12. Bethlehem Church, 758 Route 10, Randolph, NJ 07869. EF: None. Reg.: 9-9:20 am., 1st rd. 9:40. Arr. by noon to reg. only for afternoon quads. Medal to each quad winner. Info: Bethlehem Church 973-366-3434 or Bob McAdams 973-694-3988, rwm@fam bright.com.
Oct. 25, 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.
Oct. 25, Ken’s Last Sunday Quads Somerset Ramada Inn, 60 Cottontail Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873. Take exit #12 off I-287. In 4 player Quads. G/90. Regs.: before 10am. First Round 10am, then ASAP with lunch break. EF: $20, Prizes: Choice of $40 or Trophy & EF refund. Current Chess students of Ken may play for half EF & half prize. Info: Ken Thomas,
[email protected] / cell 908-763-6468. NS NC W.
Nov. 1, Westfield Quads 3 RR game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. 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.
Nov. 8, Westfield Quads 3 RR game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. 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.
Nov. 14, Jersey Shore K-12 Regionals The Academy at Grace and Peace, 1563 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River, NJ 08755. All Sections open to K-12. Section A: U500, Section B: 500-1000, Section C: 1000-1500, Section D: 1500+. Section A, B, C 4SS, G/30. Section D: 3 Rounds, G/60. Trophies to Top 5 in each section, Medals to all others. EF: $25 if rec’d by 11/7, $30 on site. Reg.: 9:00-9:45 AM. Rds.: 10:00 AM and ASAP. Info: John Burke, 732-714-1544 or
[email protected]. Ent: Make checks payable toThe Academy at Grace and Peace. Please indicate USCF ID# and section.
A State Championship Event! Nov. 22, New Jersey K-12 Grade Championship 5SS, G/30. Brookdale College, 765 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ 07738. Student Life Center, use Parking Lot #7 or #6; 4 miles from Garden State Parkway exit 109. 13 Sections: Play only in your grade! MORE TROPHIES!!! Grades K-6; Trophies to top 15 individuals, top 5 teams - top 3 from each school/grade; 50% of players receive trophy or medal! Grades 7-12:Trophies to top 10 individuals, top 5 teams; Rds.: 10am and ASAP. EF: $35 by 11/15, $55 at site. USCF mem req’d. Reg.: 8-9:00am After 9:00am 1/2 pt bye rd 1. Info: 732 259-3881,
[email protected]. Ent: Please make checks
payable to NJSCF and send to NJSCF, PO Box 1511, Jackson, NJ 08857. Entries must include name, grade school, date of birth, USCF ID # & expiration, mailing address, phone number & entry fee, please include email address. The 1st Place player and team from NJ in each grade will be recognized as the NJ Champion for that grade! Chess sets and boards will be provided! Please bring a chess clock!
Nov. 29, Ken’s Last Sunday Quads Dean of Chess Academy, 1161 Route #202, Branchburg, NJ 08876. In 4 player Quads. G/90. Regs.: before 10am. First Round 10am, then ASAP with lunch break. EF: $20, Prizes: Choice of $40 orTrophy & EF refund. Current Chess students of Ken may play for half EF & half prize. Info: KenThomas,
[email protected] / cell 908-763-6468. NS NC W.
Dec. 27, Ken’s Last Sunday Quads Somerset Ramada Inn, 60 Cottontail Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873. Take exit #12 off I-287. In 4 player Quads. G/90. Regs.: before 10am. First Round 10am, then ASAP with lunch break. EF: $20, Prizes: Choice of $40 or Trophy & EF refund. Current Chess students of Ken may play for half EF & half prize. Info: Ken Thomas,
[email protected] / cell 908-763-6468. NS NC W.
New Mexico
tions Sun 2:10. Ent: received by 10/23. Pay to NMCO, Box 4215 ABQ 87196. Info, directions & entry form: nmchess.org. WCL JGP.
New York Sept. 12-Oct. 3, 3rd Farmingdale CC Sept. Swiss 4SS, G/140. Farmingdale Public Library, 116 Merritts Rd., Farmingdale, NY 11735. Open to all U-2300/unr.: $(b/20): $105-85.Top U-1800, U-1500 $55 each. EF: $20. Reg.: 9:15-9:45 AM. No adv. ent. Rds.: 10:00 AM SHARP each Saturday. 2 byes 1-4. Info: www.farmcc.webs.com. NS, W. WCL JGP rds. 3-4.
Sept. 14-Oct. 5, Nassau Semi-finals 4SS 40/80. 1st Presbyterian Church, 1st & Main Sts., Mineola. Semi-final: open to over 1399, or 2+ pts in Nassau Qualifying. EF: $34 by 9/12. $$ (600 b/20) 150-100, U2000, 125-75-50, U1400/UR 100. 2 pts qualifies for top section of NCC Championship. Novice: under 1400/UR not qualified for Semi-final section. EF: $21 by 9/12. $$ (170 b/10) 100, U1200/UR 70. Both: EF non-memb $10 more, $7 more at site. 2 byes 1-5. Reg to 7:15 PM. Rds.: 7:15 each Mon. Ent: H. Stenzel, 80 Amy Dr., Sayville, NY 11782
[email protected]. WCL JGP.
Sept. 15, St. John’s Masters at the Marshall Chess Club
A State Championship Event! Sept. 5, New Mexico Speed Chess State Championship (QC)
See Grand Prix.
Sponsored by the Wired Kings CC and the New Mexico Chess Organization. Main Library, 501 Copper, NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102. W. Community Room (lower level) 7-DSS G/5 $10 Entry Fee - No Onsite Entries. One section. Prizes: $$b/40: $150-$50-$25; 1st U1500, U1200 all $25. No byes allowed - Entries must be received by 9/2/09. USCF membership required but not available on site. N/S - No food or beverage on site. Check In: 10:00. Rds.: 10:30, 11:00, 11:30, 12:00, 1:30, 2:00, 2:30. Checks payable to Chad Schneider, 12004 Prospect Ave., NE, Albuq., NM 87112. Info: Chad Schneider (505)550-4654.
[email protected]. Website: http://wiredkingscc.blogspot.com.
4-SS, G/30. Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W. 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (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.
Sept. 12, Santa Fe Open
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 at entry.
4/SS G/60. Santa Fe Womens Club, 1616 Old PecosTrail, Santa Fe. EF: $15.00, $5 discount each add’l family member after one full price entry. Sections: OPEN, U1700, U1400, U1100. Rds.: 9-11:30-2:30 -5:00. Prize fund: $500 b/60. One 1/2 pt bye request before 1st Rd pairing. Mail Reg. must be received by 9/10, checks payable to: NMCO, P.O. Box 4215, Albuquerque, NM 87196. On Site reg. 8-8:30, late fee $5. Info & entry form, directions with map: nmchess.org.
A State Championship Event! Oct. 24-25, New Mexico Open MCM Elegante Hotel, 2020 Menaul NE, Albuquerque. 5/SS. Sat. G/2 Sun. 30/90 SD/60. Rds.: 9-2-6:30, 8:30-2:30. Bye 1 max 1/2 pt request prior Rd 1. Best finish by NM resident in Open is 2009 NM Champion. EF: Open: $35, U1800: $30. U1400: $25. Rated U1100 playing in U1400, $20. PRIZES b/80: Open $250-$125-$75, U1800 $175-$100-$50. U1400 $120-$60-$30 Best U1100 $30. Unrated 50% of prize except in Open. Reg.: Sat. 8–8:30. $10 late fee. $5 Family discount after one full price entry. NMCO Annual meeting & elec-
Sept. 17, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
Sept. 19, Marshall CC Saturday G/60
Sept. 20, Binghamton Monthly Tourney 4 ROUND SS, GAME/60. Reg.: 8:45AM to 9:00AM. ENTRY: $35. Cash only at site. (Checks payable to Cordisco’s Corner Store) Rounds: 9:15, 11:45, 2:15, 4:30. Prizes: 1st -$130, 2nd -$70, 3rd -$30.Trophies 1st - 3rd. Under 1700 1st$65 2nd- $30. Trophies 1st - 4th. Guaranteed. Please bring clocks. Cordisco’s Chess Center, 308 Chenango St., Binghamton, NY 13901. (607) 772-8782.
[email protected].
Sept. 20, Grandmaster Challenge (QC) See Grand Prix.
Sept. 20, Studio Sept. 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.
ACTIVITY MEANS MEMBERS Free 8-Line Tournament Life Announcements!
Adult Dues Options! >> New Free TLA Categories Added! RUN AN ADDITIONAL TOURNAMENT THIS WINTER! 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 January and March 2010, if no TLA for such an event appeared in 2009, and the TLA is e-mailed by the appropriate deadline. The 8 free lines cannot be applied to longer TLAs.
RBO. Open to Under 1200/Unr or Under 1000/Unr.Tournament name must include “Rated Beginners Open” or “RBO.”
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:
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! SENIOR. For age 50 or above, or a higher minimum age.
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).
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.
56
Chess Life — September 2009
uschess.org
Sept. 24, 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight! See Grand Prix.
Carroll and President, Brooklyn, 718-645-5896. EF: $15 $$: Trophies to top 2 in each quad. Reg.: ends 10 minutes before rd. 1. Rds.: 3-4:15-5:30.
Sept. 26, New York Indian Summer Game/45!
Oct. 6, Marshall CC New York Experts
See Grand Prix.
Open to U2200 4SS, G/30. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$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.
Sept. 26, 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. WCL JGP rds. 3-4.
Sept. 27, 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. $$ (all EFs returned less $36 per quad). Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds. 7:30-8:30-9:30. NO FREE ENTRIES!! No phone entry!
Sept. 27, NY Indian Summer Under 1800! 4-SS, G/50. Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W. 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. EF $40, Club members $30, $10 less if also entering 9/26 Indian Summer G/45, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 9/24. $$ (480 b/32 paid entries): 150-100-50, top U1600 $95, top U1400 $85. Limit 2 byes, commit by 2 pm. Reg. ends 15 min before game. Rds. 12-2-4-6 pm. CCA Ratings may be used. $10 extra to “enter” by phone!
Sept. 28-Oct. 26, Marshall CC Under-1600 Monday Swiss 5SS, G/90. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1300 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Monday. Byes ok, limit 2, request by rd. 3. WCL JGP.
Oct. 1, 4 Rated Games Tonight! 4-SS, G/30. Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W. 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (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.
Oct. 8, 4 Rated Games Tonight! 4-SS, G/30. Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W. 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-10050, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:159:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game.
Oct. 9-Dec. 4, 2009 Queens Chess Club Championship
Oct. 18, NEW Sunday Sliding Scale Quads! 3-RR, G/30,.Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W. 10th St.., NYC: 212477-3716. EF: Master $35, Expert $30, A $25, U1800 $20. $$ (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!
Oct. 18, Sunday Under 1400 Action! 4-SS, G/30. Marshall Chess Club, 23 West 10 St., between 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212477-3716, for Under 1400 or unrated. EF $30, Club Members $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$200 b/20 paid: $100-60-40, $60 limit to unr. Reg. ends 3:45 pm. Rds. 4-5:15-6:45-8 pm. No advance entries.
See Grand Prix.
Oct. 20, St. John’s Masters at the Marshall Chess Club
Oct. 10, 2009 Jefferson County Open & Closed Championship
See Grand Prix.
4 Rds-SS, G/75. Ramada Inn, Arsenal St. at Exit 45, I-81, Watertown, NY (Hotel res 315-788-0700). $$(b/16) $100-50, Class $25. Reg.: 8:30-9:20, Rds.: 9:30, 12:15, 3 and 5:30. EF: mld $25, WCC $20, At door $28 & $23. (Closed Chmp Title for Jefferson Cnty residents only) Ent: Wtn. Chess Club, % Don Klug, 518 Sherman St., Watertown, NY 13601. Tele #: 315-785-8800. WCL JGP.
Oct. 22, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
Oct. 10, Jenifer Woods Memorial Grand Prix See Grand Prix.
Oct. 10-11 or 11, Marshall CC October U2300 4SS, 30/90, SD1. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $45, Members $25. ($360 b/24) $120-70-50, U2000/unr $65, U1700 $55. Reg.: ends 12:15 pm. 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 2 byes, request at entry. NO RE-ENTRY. May be limited to first 60 players. WCL JGP.
Oct. 14-Nov. 11, Marshall CC Under-2000 Wednesday Swiss 5SS, 30/90, SD/60. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1700 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Wednesday. Byes ok, limit 2, request by round 3. WCL JGP.
4-SS, G/30. Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W. 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (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.
Oct. 22-Nov. 19, 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. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U2000 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Thursday Byes ok, limit 2, request by round 3. WCL JGP.
Oct. 24, Marshall CC Saturday G/60 4SS, G/60. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($360 b/24) $120-70-50, 1700-1999/unr $60, U1700 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. Note: Only one bye available, request at entry.
Oct. 25, Grandmaster Challenge (QC) See Grand Prix.
Oct. 15, 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight!
Oct. 3, 14th Annual Arkport Open
top Unr, top 3 teams (top 3 scorers from same school) each section. 8 weeks free entry to 1st, 4 weeks free to 2nd each section. Speed playoff for 4-0. Limit of 2 byes, commit by 11:30. On-site reg. ends 9:30 am. Rds 10-11:30-12:45-2 pm. Ent: Chess Center of NY, PO Box 4615, New Windsor, NY 12553. List USCF ID, rating, section, school/grade, DOB.
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Oct. 29, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
Oct. 3, Prove Your Point!
Oct. 17, New York October Action!
3-SS, G/30. Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W. 10th St., NYC: 212-4773716. EF $20. 3-0 wins $40, 2.5 wins $20, 2 wins $10. Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds. 7:30-8:30-9:30.
Oct. 18, 15th Annual NY October Under 13 Open!
4-SS, G/30. Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W. 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (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.
Oct. 3-4 or 4, New York October Open! See Grand Prix.
Oct. 4, The Chess Exchange Monthly Trophy Quads 3-RR, G/30.The Chess Exchange: Chess & Games Club, 288Third Ave., Between
See Grand Prix. 4-SS, G/30, open to all born after 10/18/96. Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 West 10th St., bet. 5-6 Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. May be limited to 1st 52 entries. 2 Sections. 1. Open, EF: $32 postmarked by 10/9. 2. Novice, for Under 1000 or Unrated, EF: $31 mailed by 10/9. Both, EF: $30 online at www.chesscenter.cc by 10/15, $35 by phone at 845-496-2191 by 10/15, $40 at site, Club members $10 less ($10 fee for refunds). Trophies to top 10,
Oct. 31-Nov. 1, Octember Open See Grand Prix.
CHECK OUT USCF’S CORRESPONDENCE CHESS RATED EVENTS
USCF’s 62nd ANNUAL 2009 Open Correspondence Chess Golden Knights Championship $1,000 First Prize
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 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 proportionately 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
(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 proportionately 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 — September 2009
57
Tournament Life 3-RR, G/30.The Chess Exchange: Chess & Games Club, 288Third Ave., Between Carroll and President, Brooklyn, 718-645-5896. EF: $15 $$: Trophies to top 2 in each quad. Reg.: ends 10 minutes before rd. 1. Rds.: 3-4:15-5:30.
50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:159:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game.
Nov. 2-30, Marshall CC Under-1600 Monday Swiss
Nov. 13-15, 8th Annual Turkey Bowl (FL)
5SS, G/90. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$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.
See Grand Prix.
A State Championship Event! Nov. 14, 2009 New York State Action Chess Championship
Nov. 3, Marshall CC New York Experts
Quality Inn and Suites, 611 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham (Northway Exit 6). G/30, 4-SS in two sections: Open and Scholastic in combination with the 2009 New York State Quick Chess Championship. NYSCA membership required. Open: $23 entry fee if received by 11/9, $30 at site, with one additional $3 discount for entries in the New York State Action Chess Championship, carpools of three or more, or military ID. Place and class prize based on entries. Scholastic: $15 entry fee if received by 11/9, $20 at site. Registration by mail or at site from 9:30-10:45 a.m. Rounds: 11 a.m., 12:30-1:45 and 3 p.m. Entries/Information: Karl Heck, 5426 Route 67, East Durham, NY 12423,
[email protected], www.enyca.org, 518-966-8523.
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING SEPTEMBER 1-14
Nov. 1, The Chess Exchange Monthly Trophy Quads
Open to U2200 4SS, G/30. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1800 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. One bye available, request at entry.
Nov. 5, 4 Rated Games Tonight! 4-SS, G/30. Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W. 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (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.
Nov. 6-8 or 7-8, 14th annual Green Mountain Open & Vermont Championship (VT) See Grand Prix.
Nov. 7-8, Fourth Marshall CC Amateur Team Championship! 4SS, G/120. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $30 per player, Members $25. All, $5 less if played in any of the first three MCC AmateurTeam Championships. 2 player teams with ratings averaging under 2200. $$ (b/15 teams): 150-75, U1800 team $90, top scores bds. 1 &2 $90 each. Reg. ends 15 min. before game. Rds.: 12-5:00 pm each day; Limit 1 team bye, request with entry. Replacement player must have same or lower rating, must play same board. WCL JGP.
Nov. 12, 4 Rated Games Tonight! 4-SS, G/30. Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W. 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-100-
Nov. 14-15, Marshall November Open 4SS, 30/90, SD1. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $45, Members $25. ($360 b/24) $120-70-50, U2000/unr $65, U1700 $55. Reg.: ends 11:50am. 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 2 byes, request at entry. NO RE-ENTRY. May be limited to first 60 players. WCL JGP for rounds slower than G/60.
Dec. 26-28 or 27-28, 5th annual Empire State Open
A State Championship Event! Nov. 14, 2009 New York State Quick Chess Championship (QC)
See Grand Prix.
North Carolina Sept. 26-27, Henderson Fall Challenge 09 4SS, G/120. Open, U1800, U1600, U1400, U1000, UNRATED. Rounds: Sat. 2&7 pm, Sun 12&5 pm. For more info, go to www.ncchess.org, click on tournament; then on Sept 26-27, Henderson Fall Challenge 09 to see premium & info. WCL JGP.
Oct. 30-Nov. 1, or Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 2009 North Carolina Open Championship See Grand Prix.
Dec. 5, QCCA Winter Scholastic A Queen City Chess Association Sponsored Event!
Quality Inn and Suites, 611 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham (Northway Exit 6). G/10, 6-SS in two sections: Open and Scholastic in combination with the 2009 New York State Action Chess Championship. NYSCA membership required. Open: $23 entry fee if received by 11/9, $30 at site, with one additional $3 discount for entries in the New York State Action Chess Championship, carpools of three or more, or military ID. Place and class prize based on entries. Scholastic: $15 entry fee if received by 11/9, $20 at site. Registration by mail or at site from 3-4:30 p.m. Rounds: 5-5:30-6-6:30-7-7:30 p.m. Entries/Information: Karl Heck, 5426 Route 67, East Durham, NY 12423,
[email protected], www.enyca.org, 518-966-8523.
4-SS, G/45. University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC), 9201 University City Boulevard, Charlotte, NC. Two Sections: K-4 and K-12.Trophies to 1st-5th place and medals 6-10th place in each section. EF: $10 if postmarked by 11/25. $15 later and on site. Registration onsite 8-9AM only! Schedule: Rounds at 9:30-Noon-2-4. Entries: Send to: Fabio Hurtado, 2269 Elendil Lane, Charlotte, NC 28269. Make checks to “QCCA”. Info: www.queencitychess.com for registration form and more details.
Nov. 14, Utica Four Seasons – Fall
See Grand Prix.
4SS Rds. 1-2: G/60, Rds. 3-4: G/90. Mohawk Valley Community College, Exit 31, I-90, bear left, South on E. Genesee, (2.6 miles), left on Memorial Highway (2.3 miles), left Sherman, right into MVCC, IT Building. EF: $30. Prizes (b/20): $200, 125, 75, Class 100. Reg.: 8:30-9:15. Rds.: 9:30-12:00-2:15-5:30. Ent: Joe Ball, 310 Helfer Lane, Minoa, NY 13116. WCL JGP rds. 3-4.
Dec. 5-6, Greater Charlotte Championship A Queen City Chess Association Sponsored Event!
Ohio Sept. 19, House of Chess Open 4SS, G/45. House of Chess, Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, OH (W of JC
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 Affiliate Standings
Name
State
Count
CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN PAPERCLIP PAIRINGS BAYAREACHESSCOM GRANADA GUARD WESTERN PA YOUTH CHESS CLUB SCHOLASTIC CHESS OF INDIANA DALLAS CHESS CLUB MAINE ASSOC OF CHESS COACHES RIDERWOOD CHESS CLUB JERSEY SHORE HS CHESS LEAGUE CHESS CENTER OF NEW YORK
NY TX CA PA IN TX ME MD NJ NY
519 510 232 207 204 156 152 149 141 138
Name
State
Count
MAINE ASSOC OF CHESS COACHES METRO CHESS NEW MEXICO SCHOL CHESS ORG SIOUX EMPIRE CHESS FOUNDATION AIRLINE COMMUNITY SCHOOL WELLS MEMORIAL SCHOOL WEST CHESTER CHESS CLUB MESA CHESS CLUB COASTAL MAINE SCHOLASTIC CHESS ST MARYS PARISH SCHOOL CC
ME DC NM SD ME NH DE NM ME ME
152 76 23 22 21 20 18 13 12 11
Name
State
Count
MICHIGAN CHESS ASSOCIATION PENNSYLVANIA ST CHESS FED MINNESOTA ST CHESS ASSN MASSACHUSETTS CHESS ASSOC NEW JERSEY ST CHESS FED MARYLAND CHESS ASSOCIATION NEW HAMPSHIRE CHESS ASSN GEORGIA CHESS ASSOCIATION TENNESSEE CHESS ASSOCIATION UTAH CHESS ASSOCIATION
MI PA MN MA NJ MD NH GA TN UT
270 165 108 95 70 57 48 29 23 23
Small State Affiliate Standings
State Chapter Affiliate Standings
Adult Memberships Standings
Name
State
Count
CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN JERSEY SHORE HS CHESS LEAGUE MAINE ASSOC OF CHESS COACHES THE ATLANTA CHESS & GAME CNTR DALLAS CHESS CLUB CHESS CENTER OF NEW YORK SAN DIEGO CHESS CLUB MARSHALL CHESS CLUB SCHOLASTIC CHESS OF INDIANA HAMILTON ELEM SCH CHESS CLUB
NY NJ ME GA TX NY CA NY IN MI
472 141 76 71 70 64 58 57 52 51
Name
State
Count
PAPERCLIP PAIRINGS BAYAREACHESSCOM GRANADA GUARD WESTERN PA YOUTH CHESS CLUB SCHOLASTIC CHESS OF INDIANA RIDERWOOD CHESS CLUB SILVER KNIGHTS CHESS NUTS LONG ISLAND CHESS NUTS CHESS CLUB, OAK VIEW CAJUN CHESS
TX CA PA IN MD PA FL NY CA LA
464 196 195 152 135 124 124 122 118 114
Name
State
Count
DIXON, MARK A CHRISMER, GARIE L NAVARRO, DANIEL A RYAN, BEN J CLARK, MIKE WILLIS, MARVIN, P DOCKERY, JOHN T BERRY, FRANK K MCDONALD, THOMAS D ELLIOTT, CAROL MAXHEIMER
TX TX TX NE MO CA FL OK TX IA
22 20 18 17 15 15 14 14 13 13
Scholastic and Youth Memberships Standings
Member Standings
PCT Gain Standings State
Dec08
Jul09
Pct
State
Dec08
Jul09
Pct
State
Dec08
Jul09
Pct
State
Dec08
Jul09
Pct
LA NV MT
602 808 76
651 869 81
8.1 7.5 6.6
MS TN IN
278 1599 1610
293 1648 1651
5.4 3.1 2.5
DE SC MN
163 528 1020
167 539 1016
2.5 2.1 -0.4
NE
296
294
-0.7
58
Chess Life — September 2009
uschess.org
Penny). Sections: Open, U1600. Reg.: 11-11:25 AM. Rds.: 11:30-1:15-3:305:15. Prizes (b/25): Open 1st: $200, 2nd $100; U1900 1st $100; Reserve(U1600): 1st $100 Ent: $25, Club members $20. Info & entries: House of Chess, Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, OH 44070. Phone: (440) 9791133. E-mail:
[email protected]. Web www.thehouseofchess.com/.
Sept. 20, Beachwood September Scholastic 4SS, G/30. Beachwood Community Center, 25325 Fairmount Blvd., Beachwood, OH, 44122, 5 minutes west off I-271. EF: Free to Beachwood Chess Club students, others $20 at site. Sections: Championship, U 1000, U 600. Prizes: Trophies to all scoring 3 points or higher, participation awards. Reg.: 12:0012:45 PM. Rds.: 1:00 & ASAP. Info: Mike Joelson,
[email protected], 216-321-7000, www.progresswithchess.org.
Oct. 4, Beachwood October Scholastic 4SS, G/30. Beachwood Community Center, 25325 Fairmount Blvd., Beachwood, OH, 44122, 5 minutes west off I-271. EF: Free to Beachwood Chess Club students, others $20 at site. Sections: Championship, U 1000, U 600. Prizes: Trophies to all scoring 3 points or higher, participation awards. Reg.: 12:0012:45 PM. Rds.: 1:00 & ASAP. Info: Mike Joelson,
[email protected], 216-321-7000, www.progresswithchess.org.
Oct. 10, Toledo Oct 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 10/8 $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.
Oct. 23-25 or 24-25, Cleveland Open See Grand Prix.
Oct. 24, CWRU Fall Classic 4SS, G/45. Nord Hall, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106. Located on south side of Euclid, behind street level buildings. Free parking off westbound MLK, go upstairs to site. EF: $25 at site. Sections: Open, U1600. Prizes (b/30): Open, 1st 200, 2nd 100, U1900 100. U1600, 1st 100. Reg.: 9-9:45 AM. Rds.: 10:00, 12:15, 2:15, 4:00. Info: Mike Joelson,
[email protected], 216-3217000, www.progresswithchess.org.
Nov. 13-15 or 14-15, 18th Annual Kings Island Open See Grand Prix.
Nov. 14, Toledo Nov 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 11/12 $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.
Nov. 15, Beachwood November Scholastic 4SS, G/30. Beachwood Community Center, 25325 Fairmount Blvd., Beachwood, OH, 44122, 5 minutes west off I-271. EF: Free to Beachwood Chess Club students, others $20 at site. Sections: Championship, U 1000, U 600. Prizes: Trophies to all scoring 3 points or higher, participation awards. Reg.: 12:0012:45 PM. Rds.: 1:00 & ASAP. Info: Mike Joelson,
[email protected], 216-321-7000, www.progresswithchess.org.
Nov. 28, Tryptophan Open, Reynoldsburg 4-SS, G/75. New Song Comm Church, 13873 National Rd., Reynoldsburg, OH 43068. EF: $25 by 11/27, then $30. 3 Sections: Open, Select/U1700, Reserve/U1400. Prizes: $870 b/40: Open 160-120 U1850 100; Select 120-80 U1550 50; Reserve 100-60 U1250 50; best chess apparel $30. Reg.: 8:30-9:30, Rds.: 10-1-3:45-6:45. Info: www.neilley.com/chess,
[email protected]. WCL JGP.
Dec. 5, CWRU Winter Open 4SS, G/45. Nord Hall, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106. Located on south side of Euclid, behind street level buildings. Free parking off westbound MLK, go upstairs to site. EF: $25 at site. Sections: Open, U1600. Prizes (b/30): Open, 1st 200, 2nd 100, U1900 100. U1600, 1st 100. Reg.: 9-9:45 AM. Rds.: 10:00, 12:15, 2:15, 4:00. Info: Mike Joelson,
[email protected], 216-3217000, www.progresswithchess.org.
Dec. 20, Beachwood December Scholastic 4SS, G/30. Beachwood Community Center, 25325 Fairmount Blvd., Beachwood, OH, 44122, 5 minutes west off I-271. EF: Free to Beachwood Chess Club students, others $20 at site. Sections: Championship, U 1000, U 600. Prizes: Trophies to all scoring 3 points or higher, participation awards. Reg.: 12:0012:45 PM. Rds.: 1:00 & ASAP. Info: Mike Joelson,
[email protected], 216-321-7000, www.progresswithchess.org.
Oklahoma Sept. 5-7, 1st U.S. Womens Open See Nationals.
Sept. 5-7, 2009 U.S. Senior Open See Nationals.
Oct. 10, 2nd Ada Open 4-SS, G/60+15. (dual rated). 1st Presbyterian Church, (580) 332-3073, WFC Center, 301 E. Kings Road, Ada 74820. $$100 1st, other $$ per entries. Reg.: 9-9:45am. RDS.: 10-12:30-3-5:30. EF: $20. OCF req $10. BrasketSwiss pairings: Top half of the beginning X-table awarded half pt. LS, W. Ent: Frank Berry, 402 S. Willis St., Stillwater, OK 74074.
[email protected] (Go east on Main Street to downtown Ada and turn right (South) on Broadway. Continue South on Broadway - about a mile - until you come to the top of a hill, which is a four way stop.Turn left (East) on King’s Road. In one block King’s Road deadends at the Presbyterian church. The second church bldg, behind the first, is the WFC.) WCL JGP.
Oct. 24, Bville Quick Chess Marathon (QC) 8 SS, G/25. Best Western Weston Inn, 222 SW Washington Blvd., Bartlesville, OK 74006, (918) 335-7755. Reg.: 8:30-9:30am. Rds.: 10, 11, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7. No cash prizes. EF: $10, OCF $10. Brasket variation in Swiss pairings will be used.
Oregon Sept. 19-20, Grants Pass Open XXXV Site: Rogue Community College, 3345 Redwood Hwy: Student Center. 5 Rd Swiss, Time Control: Game in 2hrs. Reg.: 8-9AM, 19th. EF: $30.00 if received by Sept. 12th. $900.00 Prizes based on 30. 1st $250.00. 1st $EX/A/B/C/DE $100.00. 1st Unrated: $50.00. Info/Entries: Ritch Duron, P.O. Box 3071, Central Point, OR 97502. (541) 582-6712. WCL JGP.
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. 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 sections can play for the learning experience.
uschess.org
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.
Chess Life — September 2009
59
Tournament Life
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING SEPTEMBER 1-14
Pennsylvania 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! North Penn Chess Club Main & Richardson, Lansdale, PA. See www.npchess club.org for schedules & info or call 215-699-8418. 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 Friday Night Early/Late USCF Rated 5-minute Blitz (QC) 8SS, G/5. StTimothy’s Church, 140 So. Ott St., Allentown, PA 18104. EF: $5 CASH ONLY AT SITE. Prize: 50% of Paid Entries. 1st-70%, 2nd-30% AND Top U1700$7 based on 12 or more players + FREE Coffee For All Entrants. FREE ENTRY TO UNRATEDS, with paid one year USCF Membership. Event 1-Reg.: 6:307:00pm. Rds.: 7-7:15-7:30-7:45-8-8:15-8:30-8:45pm. Event 2-Reg.: 8:45-9:00pm. Rds.: 9-9:10-9:25-9:35-9:55-10:15-10:25-10:35pm. Ent/Info: Bruce Davis, 610-821-4320 or
[email protected] or www.lehighvalleychess.org/
Sept. 18, Friday Night Action #9 4SS, G/30. Bryn Mawr Community Center, 9 S. Bryn Mawr Ave., Bryn Mawr, PA 19010. Sections: Open, U/1400. EF: $30 online; $15 for players under 18; $10 more on-site 6:30-6:45. Open to first 40 players who register. Rds.: 7:00, then ASAP. Prizes: $100 guaranteed 1st, others per entries. See www.silverknightschess.com to register.
Sept. 19, Allentown School Day’s Swiss See Grand Prix.
Sept. 26, 3rd Annual Greater Pocono Scholastic Championships 4SS, G/45. Pocono Mountain East HS, 200 Pocono Mountain School Rd., Swiftwater, PA 18370. Sections: K-12 U/1000, K-12 Champ. EF: $20 online by 9/23; $30 on-site 9:00-9:30. Rds.: 10:30-12:30-2:00-3:30. Prizes: trophies to top individuals & schools. Free game analysis by NM Adam Weissbarth. See www.silverknightschess.com to register.
A Heritage Event! Sept. 26-27, 52nd Gateway Open 4-SS. G/120. Pittsburgh Chess Club, 5604 Solway St., Suite 209, Pittsburgh, PA 15217. EF: $28 postmarked by 9/21, $38 later, $3 discount to PCC members, $5 extra to play up a section, half-price to players rated 2100 & above.Two sections: Championship and Reserve (U1800). $$(655 b/30) Championship: $150-100, U2000 $70. Reserve: $$100-70, U1600 $60, U1400 $55, U1200/Unr $50. Reg.: 9-9:45 AM. Requests for half-point byes in Rounds 3 & 4 must be made by the start of Round 2. Rounds: 10 AM - 3 PM each day. Info: 412-4211881, www.pittsburghcc.org. Entries: Pittsburgh Chess Club, Attn: Clyde Kapinos, 5604 Solway Street, Suite 209, Pittsburgh, PA 15217. Make checks
60
Chess Life — September 2009
payable to Pittsburgh Chess Club. NC. W. WCL JGP.
Oct. 3, W.Chester 1st Sat. Quads Our 20th Year! 3RR, 40/80,sd/30. United Methodist Church, 129 S. High St. West Chester, PA. EF: $20; every tenth quad free $$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.
Oct. 4, 2009 PA State Game/60 Championship See Grand Prix.
Oct. 10, MasterMinds CC Swiss/Open Quads Blair Christian Academy, Philadelphia, PA, 220 W. Upsal St. 2 events. Quads: 3RR, 40/80, SD/30. EF: $20, Perfect score winner $60 else $50. Rds.: 10-2-5. Scholastic Swiss: EF $15, ASAP $5 rec’d by Thursday before, $25 at the door. 3 sections: Open 3SS G/60, Rds.: 10-12:30-3; 1st, 2nd, 3rd, top under 1200, top unrated; U1100 -1st, 2nd, 3rd, top under 800, top unrated & U750K-6 - 1st, 2nd, 3rd, top under 600, top under 400, top unrated 4SS, G/40. Rds: 10, 11:45, 2, 3:45. 1st & 2nd school & club trophies. All Reg. ends 9:30am. Free parking on site! Ent: MasterMinds CC 36 E. Hortter St. Philadelphia, PA 19119. Checks made payable to MasterMinds CC Info: Bradley Crable, 215-844-3881,
[email protected], or www.mastermindschess.org.
Oct. 10, Smithfield Pack 92 Scholastic 5RD SS, G/30. On Site Registration: 9:15-9:45 AM, 1st rd 10:00 AM. EF: $20 if received by 10/7/09, $25 at site. Scholastic k-12 trophy prizes. Smithfield Twp Municipal building on Red Fox Rd., I-80 2nd Exit (309) 3 mi left onTwin Falls Rd. Proceeds go to Cub Scout Pack 92. For more info contact: Mike Laverty, 570-421-9802. Email:
[email protected]. Mail Entry Fee to: Michael Laverty, 151 Lake Valhalla, East Stroudsburg, PA 18301.
Oct. 10-12, 50th Annual U.S. Armed Forces Open
A State Championship Event! Nov. 1, 2009 PA State Championship Scholastics 5SS, G/40. Wm Pitt Union, Univ. of Pitt., 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. 3 Sections: Premier: U1100 & unr. in grades 9-12. Reserve: U900 & unr. in grades 6-8. Booster: U700 & unr. in grades K-5. All: Trophies to top 7 in each section.Teams of 4 to 7 players from all scholastic and adult sections:Trophies to top 3 schools & top 3 clubs. EF: $15 by 10/23, $25 later. PSCF req’d, OSA. Reg.: ends 9:30 am. Rds.: 10-Noon-1:30-3-5. Info: 412-908-0286,
[email protected]. Ent: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223. W.
Nov. 8, PCL November Quick Quads (QC) 3RR, G/15. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 juniors. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am. Rds.: 11:30am-Noon-12:30pm. Info:
[email protected], 412-908-0286. W.
Nov. 27-29 or 28-29, 40th annual National Chess Congress See Grand Prix.
Rhode Island Cranston-Warwick CC Monthly Every Tuesday. 4SS, 40/75, SD/30. Garden City Center, Cranston. EF: $3/game (club mbrs: $2/game). Reg.: 6:30-6:50pm; email preferred. Rds.: 1st 4 Tuesdays of the month, 7pm sharp! 5thTuesday extra rated games and events. One bye rd 1-3; if notified in advance. Prizes based on entries. Info: www.cran stonchess.org, 401-575-1520. WCL JGP.
See Nationals.
South Carolina
Oct. 11, PCL October Quick Quads (QC)
Oct. 16-18 or 17-18, 70th S.C. Championships
3RR, G/15. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 juniors. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am. Rds.: 11:30amNoon-12:30pm. Info:
[email protected]. 412-908-0286. W.
See Grand Prix.
Tennessee
Oct. 17, 2nd Annual David Elliott Memorial
Oct. 3, Memphis Fall Cajun Chess Festival
5-SS, G/30. St. Luke’s Ev. Luth. Church, 417 N. 7th St., Allentown, PA 18102. $$500 Gtd. $$150 (plus trophy)-80-70, top 1600-1899/unrated $100, top U1600 $100. EF: $25 No advance entries. Half-point byes: Limit 1 (must be requested at registration). Reg.: 9-10. Rds.: 10-11-1:30-3-4:30 (note long lunch break). If tie for first place trophy — blitz play-off 6 PM. Info: Eric C. Johnson (610) 433-6518 or www.freewebs.com/allentowncentercitychessclub. No smoking.
See Grand Prix.
Oct. 17, 2009 Lehigh Valley LVCA Oct Championship See Grand Prix.
Oct. 23-25 or 24-25, Cleveland Open (OH) See Grand Prix.
Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 2009 PA State Championship See Grand Prix.
Oct. 3, Memphis Fall Scholastic Team & Individual Cajun Chess Festival 5SS,G/30. Neshoba Unitarian Universalist Church, 7350 Raleigh Lagrange Rd., Cordova, TN. Indiv. Sects. K-2, K-2-Reserve, K-6, K-6 Reserve, K-12, K-12-Reserve.Team Sects: K-2, K-6, K-12. (Reserve Sects. are not USCF rated and do not require membership; all other sections are USCF rated; teams may only play in rated sections). Teams consist of a minimum of 3 players and may have as many players as they wish, but only the top 3 scores will count toward the team score. Team members must be from the same school or home school district and all team members must register in the same USCF-rated section. Byes: 1/2-pt. avail. for any one Rd. (commit before Rd. 3). Prizes: Trophies to top 5 in each ind. sect. and top 3 in each team sect. Chess medal to all nontrophy winners. On-site Reg.: Sat.,9-9:30am, Rd. 1 starts at 10am, other
uschess.org
rounds will immediately follow. EF: $15 by 9/30; $20 at site. ENT: On-line at www.cajunchess.com, or mail entry to Cajun Chess, 7230 Chadbourne Dr., New Orleans, LA 70126. Info or Phone Ent: 504-208-9596 or 504-905-2971, or
[email protected]. Major credit cards accepted.
Oct. 10, 2009 Cumberland County Fall Open Cumberland County Community Complex, 1398 Livingston Road, Crossville,TN 38555. In 2 Sections OPEN: 4SS, Game/60, $$GTD: $50. 25 - X, A, B, C, D, E & BELOW. Amateur: 4SS, Game/60, Open to 999 & under. $$GTD: $50. G, H & Below, Unr (Unrated eligible for unrated prize only). ALL: EF: $10 till 10/05/2009 then $15 at the door. Memb. Req’d: 10.00. Reg.: Registration from 7:30 am to 8:30 am CDT. Rds.: 9:00am, 11:00am, 2:00pm 4:30pm CDT. ENT: Harry D Sabine, 931-484-9593. INFO: Susan Houston, 931-261-4024. www.tnchess.org.
Oct. 17, Heart of Tennessee Open See Grand Prix.
Oct. 24, Memphis October Chess Festival 4SS, G/60. EF: $20 (MCC members $15), $200 in prizes guaranteed! 1st $150, top U1600: $50. Site: International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 474, 1870 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104. Registration (10/24): 8-9:30am. Rounds: 10-1-3-5. Entries: Memphis Chess Club Inc., PO Box 17864, Memphis, TN 38187-0864. www.memphischess.com, gpylant@gmail. com.
Virginia Sept. 4, 11, 18, 25, Arlington Chess Club Friday Night USCF Rating Ladder 30/90 SD/1. Arlington Forest United Methodist Church, 4701 Arlington Blvd., Arlington, VA 22203. 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/arlingtonchess club/ladder.htm. Ladder has been running for over 45 years, now win money too! Contact: Adam Chrisney 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.
Sept. 12, Kingstowne Quad#59/Action-Plus #31 Kingstowne Thompson Center, 6090 Kingstowne Village Pkwy., Alexandria, VA 22315. 2 Events. Quad #59: 3RR G/100. EF: $10 if received by 9/9, $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 #31: 5SS G/45. EF: $15 if received by 9/9, $20 at site. Prizes: $$250 b/20: $100-60, U1800-U1400-Unr. each $30. Rds.: 11-1-3-5-7. Both: Reg.: 10-10:45. Ent (checks payable to): Don W. Millican, 5901B Prince George Dr., Springfield, VA 22152. e-mail (info only):
[email protected]. W.
b/28 2 sections, Open: $120-100, U2000 $80, U1800 $60. Reserve (U1600): $50-40, U1400 $25 U1200 $25. Reg.: 9-9:45. Rds.: 10-1-4-7. EF: $25 by 10/3, $35 at site. Ent: Morgantown CC, c/o J.T. Wassell, 104 Dustin Lane, Morgantown, WV 26501. Email:
[email protected], web: http://morgan townchess.org. WCL JGP.
Wisconsin Oct. 17, Hales Corners Challenge X See Grand Prix.
Oct. 24-25, Greg Knutson Memorial 5SS, G/120. Red Gym 716 Langdon St., Madison, WI 53706. EF: $16 if received by 10/21. $20 at site. Cab drivers may subtract $5. $$GTD: 1st $140, 2nd $120, A $90. B $80, C $70, D $60, U1200 $50, Unr $40. Rds.: 11, 3, 7:30: 10:15, 3. Reg.: 10:15-10:45. Entries: Guy Hoffman, PO Box 259822, Madison, WI 53725. Info: 608-262-0308 (11am-6pm)
[email protected]. A WCA Tour event. NS NC. WCL JGP.
A State Championship Event! Nov. 7-8, 2009-2010 Wisconsin Junior Open
Texas
See Grand Prix.
Gruenhagen Conference Center, UW-Oshkosh, Corner of High and Osceola St., Oshkosh, WI 54901. Open to youth born after 11/7/1988. In 4 Sections, Open Section: 5SS, G/120, EF: $15 in advance by 11/3; $20 at site. Prizes: Top 5, Top 3 each 1300, 1200 and 1100,Top 4 Under 1100 andTop 3 Unrated. Reserve (Under 1100 or Unrated): 5SS, G/120, EF: $14 in advance by 11/3; $19 at site. Prizes:Top 5,Top 3 each 900, 800, 700, Under 700 and top four Unrated. NonRated Beginner’s Grade 7-12: 5SS, G/120, Open to Grades 7-12. EF: $11in advance by 11/3; $16 at site. Prizes:Top 5 places,Top 3 Grade 7-9. Non-Rated Beginner’s Grade K-6: 5SS, G/120, Open to Grades K-6. EF: $10 in advance by 11/3; $15 at site. Prizes: Top 5 places, Top 3 Grade K-3. ALL: Reg.: 11/7, 8:45-9:30 A.M. Rds.: 10:15-2:30-7:15; 10:00-3:00. ENT: Mike Nietman, 2 Boca Grande Way, Madison, WI 53719. INFO: Mike Nietman, 608-467-8510 (before 11/6)
[email protected]. HR: 920-424-1106 $35 double (dorm room) (Mention Chess). www.wischess.org. NS NC W. WCL JGP except for non-rated sections.
Sept. 26-27, DFW FIDE Open VI
Oct. 17, 3rd Annual VA Tech Hokie Memorial
Nov. 7-8, WCA Veteran’s Tournament
3/4-SS, G60. VATech Univ, locationTBD. $$400 b/20 paid entries.Two sections, Open & Amateur (U1600). Open $125-75-50, Amateur $75-50-25. Reg.: 8-9:30 Sat Oct 17 on site. One 1/2 pt bye, must declare before reg closes. Rds.: 10, 12:30, 3 & 5:30. EF: $25 if entry info received by Oct 13, then pay on site. Late Reg is $35 on site. Ent: Email player’s name, section, USCF ID to Mike Hoffpauir (
[email protected]), ATTN: Hokie Memorial. Pay entry fee on site only. Scholastic tournament (K-8) also being held at same time. Info:
[email protected], 757-846-4805, or www.vachess.org/hokie-09.htm. W, NS, NC. Event honors the VA Tech students who died in the campus shootings of April 16, 2007.
5SS, G/120. Gruenhagen Conference Center, UW-Oshkosh, Corner of High and Osceola St., Oshkosh, WI 54901. Open to Age 21 and over. EF: $20 by 11/3; $25 at site. $$b/40 and 3 per class: $150-100. A - $80; B - $70; C - $60; D $50; E/Unr - $40. Reg.: 11/7 8:45-9:30 A.M. Rds.: 10:15-2:30-7:15; 10:00-3:00. Held in conjunction with the WI Junior Open but in a separate room. ENT: Mike Nietman, 2 Boca Grande Way, Madison, WI 53719. INFO: Mike Nietman, 608467-8510 (evenings before 11/6)
[email protected]. HR: 920-424-1106 $35 (dorm room) (Mention Chess). www.wischess.org. NS NC W.
Oct. 24-25, 25th Emporia Open
Sept. 26-27, Kendel Crose Memorial 2009 Wyoming Closed
See Grand Prix.
5SS, Rd. 1 = G/60, Rds. 2-5 = 35/90, G/60. C’mon Inn Casper, Teton Room, 201 East Lathrop Road (At Exit 185 on I-25), Evansville, Wyoming. Wyoming chess players only. Section: Open (All). EF: Open $20. WCA memb. req. $$ b/entries. Reg.: 8:30-9:30 am, Rds.: 9:45-12-5:30, 9-2:30. Ent: Allan Cunningham, 4019 Golden Court, Cheyenne, WY 82001. (307) 635-3102, e-mail: adcdac@bres nan.net NS, NC. WCL JGP for rds. 2-5 only.
A Heritage Event! Nov. 28, 49th Mid-South Open 4SS, G/60. Two Sections: Open and Under 1200, Open: EF: $15 by 11/21, $20 at door, $200 in prizes guaranteed! 1st $150, top U1600: $50. Under 1200: EF: $10 by 11/21, $15 at door,Trophies to top 6. Site: Hampton Inn, 962 South Shady Grove Rd., Memphis,TN 38120. Hotel reservations: (901) 762-0056. Registration (11/28): 8-9:30am. Rounds: 10-1-3-5. Entries: Memphis Chess Club Inc., PO Box 17864, Memphis, TN 38187-0864. www.memphischess.com, gpy
[email protected].
See Grand Prix.
Oct. 9-11, Lone Star Open See Grand Prix.
Dec. 11-13, 2009 National Scholastic (K-12) Championship See Nationals.
Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, 19th annual North American Open (NV) See Grand Prix.
Utah Oct. 23-24, Utah Open Championship
30/90 SD/1. Arlington Forest United Methodist Church, 4701 Arlington Blvd., Arlington, VA 22203. Player with most monthly points - $50 and most total points March - December wins $100. Must Join Club to play ($50 Adult, $40 U18) check web to make sure we are open each week - members.cox.net/arlingtonchess club/ladder.htm. Ladder has been running for over 45 years, now win money too! Contact: Adam Chrisney for info:
[email protected] No advance entries, sign up for ladder weekly by 8pm, games start 8:15pm. Future monthly events will appear a month in advance here. WCL JGP.
Oct. 10-11, Kingstowne Fall Festival
Nov. 7-8, 14th Annual Northern Virginia Open
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Vermont Nov. 6-8 or 7-8, 14th annual Green Mountain Open & Vermont Championship See Grand Prix.
Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Arlington Chess Club Friday Night USCF Rating Ladder
West Virginia
Wyoming
Oct. 10, Mountaineer Open 4SS, G/75. Morgantown Chess Club, 100 Cobun Ave., Morgantown, WV. $$500
PARENTS, TEACHERS & COACHES! Check out the new USCF Certified Chess Coach Program at http://main.uschess.org/content/view/9474/131/
uschess.org
Chess Life — September 2009
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Tournament Life
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Activities THE CHESS EXCHANGE: Chess & Games Club FULL-TIME CHESS CLUB, Backgammon, Scrabble, etc. Hours: MONTHURS 12pm-9pm, FRI 12pm-11pm, SAT 12pm-11pm, SUN 12pm-6pm. Club address: 288 3rd Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11215. 1-888-CHESS-35, (718) 6455896. www.TriStateChess.com,
[email protected]. Correspondence Chess Club: Candidate Master, 1071 N. Grand Ave., Suite 210, Nogales, AZ 85621.
[email protected]. GMs Giorgi Kacheishvili and Zviad Izoria are available for participation in your tournaments, for lectures, simuls or other activities. Please contact
[email protected] or cell 646-239-0783. FIDE MASTER Seeks NY’er with a computer and printer to co-author chess books. Contact: Rudy Blumenfeld, 155 Beach 19th Street, Apt. 8N, Far Rockaway, NY 11691.
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].
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I CHECK THEREFORE I AM T-Shirt, Hats, Mugs and more! Visit www.iamsportswear.com today. World’s largest collection of scanned chess books, magazines, checkmates (12 million+), tactic puzzles (156,000+), Deep Tactics converts chess diagram on computer to interactive. New opening traps, solitaire chess, trainers & chess books on video. www.tobychess.com * CHESS BOOKS:* Out of print, used, rare. Large stock online at www.chessbooks.co.uk <www.chessbooks.co.uk> Two Knights’ Defense cooked: Berliner, Ulvestad, Traxler, Fried Liver +- guaranteed: Refute my analysis, get $10 off purchase price of Magic
[email protected] $19.95 + S&H. See Correspondencechess.com for details. New opening for Black: g6/Bg7/e6/Ne7/d5! (eventually) Visit www.taoofthechessboard.com Say yes to chess, to life and to joy. ANCIENT CHESS.COM Chess variants through history and around the world. Unique sets, lessons and tales. http://ancientchess.com BILGUERS HAND BOOK and addendum. 1,300 pages 1873. Fine and complete. Rebound. Make offer. 702-438-1687. Selling a chess library (around 700 books). If interested please call: (212) 801-1480—daytime, (718) 409-0035— evenings. Chess Art Paintings. www.rogermorinartgallery.com AUTOGRAPHED Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess Book: poor condition. Signature: bold, clean. Offers, questions: Jonathan Befus/PO Box 150076/Grand Rapids MI/49515.
Instruction TOP-QUALITY BARGAIN CHESS LESSONS BY PHONE With more than 40 years of experience teaching chess, the Mid-Atlantic Chess Instruction Center is the best in the business. We specialize in adult students. We offer 32 different courses as well as individual game analysis. Center Director: Life Master Russell Potter. Tel.: (540) 344-4446. If we are out when you call, please leave your name & tel. #. CHESS INSTRUCTION Andrew Karklins, USCF Life Senior Master. Available for lessons and/or analysis (by mail or in person). $25 per hr. Call or write (773) 327-0862, 432 W. Wellington #503, Chicago, IL 60657. LEARN MATERIAL POWER RATIO The newest and quickest system for evaluating positions. $7.95. Barry Cushner, 138 Stetson Avenue, Swampscott, MA 01907. CHESS PUZZLES: Thousands of crucial positions from historic & modern games, indexed by GM. Solutions displayed if needed. www.wtharvey.com. LEARN CHESS BY MAIL: Any Strength: Inquire about individual programs. Alex Dunne, 324 West Lockhart Street, Sayre, PA 18840.
[email protected]. YOU’LL SEE REAL PROGRESS by Studying with 3- Time U.S. Champ GM Lev Alburt! Private lessons (incl. by mail and phone) from $80/hr. Autographed seven-volume, self-study Comprehensive Chess Course-only $134 postpaid! P.O. Box 534, Gracie Station, NY, NY 10028. (212) 794-8706.
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Visit WWW.ITALIANGAMBIT.COM A Comprehensive Book for 1. e4 players by Chess Master Jude Acers.
CHESS PUZZLES: 10,000 INSTRUCTIVE DIAGRAMS from Grandmaster Games. Find the Winning Move. www.wtharvey.com
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 A series of books to help you improve your chess visualization skills. Exercises taken from real games. www.chessvisualization.com.
Free Chess Training Videos Visit www.chess-videos.com! You can even post your own videos or join our discussion forums for game analysis, playing tips, and general chess discussion. Watch. Discuss. Learn. Chess-videos.com
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Chess Life — September 2009
LEARN FROM A LIFE MASTER FM Craig Mar teaches winning strategies on ICC. (510) 836-2645 henryymar @aol.com $25/hour SCHOLARSHIPS FOR KOPEC’S CHESS CAMPS 2008 in NH (August 17-22) Eight merit scholarships (Two Each at $400, $300, $200, $100), for ages 1016, Details: www.kopecchess.com/2008 scholarships Questions: IM Dr. Danny Kopec 516-867-4031 (
[email protected]).
Play Correspondence Chess Online with a Master Five years worth of games only $350. Contact George C. Grasser 863-370-4884 or E-Mail
[email protected] for details. FORMER NEW ENGLAND AMATEUR CHAMP. 40 minute lesson, $5 per lesson, by phone. 508-753-0424. References. Working on your game? More than 500 free chess videos at your fingertips. www.ChessVideos.TV
Instructors Needed CHESS CLUB IN SPRINGFIELD, NJ is looking for an instructor and counselors for summer 2007 chess camp: full day or half day. Please email
[email protected] or call 973-262-1395.
Miscellaneous SAVE IT FOR POSTERITY! Artist will paint your favorite chess position or best move on canvas for all to admire your brilliancy! Basic chess painting $600. Satisfaction guaranteed. Samples, go to: AGPaderArt.com. CHESS REGINA, invented by Ava Maria, solves all chesswars. The "ladyin-waiting", who may be called Alice, stands to the left of each Queen, moves 6 spaces in any direction, opening the board to 81 total squares. "Lady-In-Waiting" patterns after actual British Monarchy; all Queens had them. (patent pending)
[email protected] On the INTERNET, the greatest show in chess: ISOLANIS.COM
Wanted Earn Big $$$ Looking for experienced chess coaches to teach after-school programs (Grades K-12) in the Greater New York area. Emphasis on developing Chess Teams! Send resume:
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Solutions
Chess to Enjoy Problem I.
1. Rc1! (or 1. Rc2) threatens 2. Rg1 and 3. Rg8 mate, e.g. 1. ... Rb4 2. Rc8 mate. Problem II.
1. Bxd5! Rxd5 2. Ra1 Qb3 3. Rfb1 Qc4 4. Rb4 traps the queen.
B. Instead 1. Nf6+! is fatal: 1. ... gxf6 2. exf6 e5 (or 2. ... Qc2 3. Qxf8+! Kxf8 4. Rd8 mate) 3. Qxf8 Kxf8 4. Rd8 mate. C. Black can still offer some resistance after 1. Rd4 Ba6 2. Qe7 Qc2 3. Rg4 Kh8 4. Rxg7 Qf5. 3. A. Teschner-Portisch, Monte Carlo 1969.
Problem II. 1. Nd4! Nxd4 White stands better after 1. ... Qf1? 2. Qa2! Qa1 3. Qxa1 g1=Q 4. Qc3 Qa1+ 5. Qxa1 e1=Q 6. Qa2 Qe5 7. Qf7. 2. Ne6 Bd8 2. ... c1=Q 3. Qxc1 Qxc1 4. Nc7+ Qxc7 Stalemate. 3. Nxd4 Black is better if 3. Qc3? c1=Q 4. Qxc1 Nc2. 3. ... Qf2 4. Qa2 Qxd4 5. Qd5+ Qxd5 Stalemate.
1. ... Rf7+ 2. Kd6 Qg6+ 3. Kc5 Rf5+ and ... Qxe8. No better is 2. Kc8 Rf8 or 2. Ne7 Qc5+ 3. Kd7 Qd5+ 4. Kc8 Qe6+ 5. Kd8 Qd6+.
A. Black missed 1. ... Qf2! (inviting 2. Rxf2 Re1+) 2. Ng3 Qe1+! 3. Rxe1 Rxe1+ and mate next. B. The game was drawn after 1. ... Qa6? 2. Ng3. C. Black is the one who gets mated after 1. ... Rxc2?? 2. Rxe8+.
Problem IV.
4. B. Savon-Bronstein, Petropolis 1973.
Problem I.
A. It was drawn after 1. ... Kd6? 2. b4 (because if now 2. ... g4 3. e5+ leads to perpetual check). B. Bronstein missed 1. ... g4! because if 2. fxg4 f3 or 2. hxg4 h3! forces mate. C. It’s only drawn after 1. ... Qg3+ 2. Kh1 g4 3. Qf1 gxf3 4. gxf3.
Promotion: The win is straightforward: 1. ... Bxa1, since 2. Bxd8 Rxd8 3. Rxa1 Rd1+ ends it.
Problem III.
1. ... c2! and there is no perpetual check after 2. Rxd5 exd5 3. Qxe5 c1=Q 4. Qxd5+ Kh8. Problem V.
1. h6! Nxe3 2. hxg7+ Kxg7 3. Rxh7+ Kf6 4. Qd4+ and mates. Or 1. ... fxg6 2. hxg7+ Kxg7 3. Rxh7+! Kxh7 4. Rh1+ Kg7 5. Bh6+ and mates. Problem VI.
1. ... cxb3 is good enough (2. Rxc5 Bxe2 3. Rxc7 Rxc7 4. Rxe2 Rxa4+). But quicker is 1. ... Qb8 and then 2. Nxc5 cxb3!. Or 2. Rxc4 Nxa4! (3. bxa4 Bxc4 4. Qxc4 Rb1 mate).
What’s The Best Move? 1. C. Torre-O’Kelly, Malaga 1973.
A. White can win with 1. Rxg7+ Rxg7 (or 1. ... Bxg7 2. Rg1! Re8 3. f6) 2. Bxh6 Rh8 3. Ne7 but there’s a simpler way. B. Indecisive is 1. Nxf6+ Nxf6 2. Rxg7+ Rxg7 3. Qxh6+ Kg8 4. Qxf6 Qxe4. C. The crusher was 1. Rg6! Rh8 (if 1. ... fxg6 2. fxg6+ Kh8 3. Bxh6) 2. Rxh6+ gxh6 3. Qxh6+ Kg8 4. Rg1+ with mate next. 2. B. Levenfish-Riumin, Moscow 1936.
A. White eventually drew after the tame retreat 1. Ng3?
Endgame Lab – Benko’s Bafflers Problem I. 1. e6+! 1. Kh6?! Rg2! 2. Qf1+ Ke8 3. Qc4! Rg6+ 4. Kxh7 Qxc4 5. a8=Q+ Kf7 6. Qf3+ Ke6 7. Kxg6 Qe4+! 8. Qxe4 stalemate 1. ... dxe6 1. ... Kxe6? 2. Qe3+ Kf5 3. Qg5+ wins 2. Kh6! Rg2 3. Qf1+ Kg8 4. Qf8+ Kxf8 5. d7+ Kf7 6. d8=N+ Kf6 7. Be7+! Kxe7 8. Nxc6+ Kf6 9. Kxh7 9. Kh5? Rg8 10. Nb8 Rg5+ 9. ... Rg7+ 10. Kh8 Rxa7 11. Nxa7 Ke5 11. ... Ke7 12. Kg7 Kd6 13. Kf6 12. Kg7 Kd5 12. ... Kd6 13. Kf6 e5 14. Kf5 Kc7!? 15. Nb5+ Kc6 16. Na3 wins 13. Kf6 e5 14. Kf5 e4 15. Kf4 e3 16. Kxe3 Kc5 17. Ke4 Kb4 18. Nc6+ Kb5 19. Kd5 wins.
Solitaire Chess – ABCs of Chess
Problem II.
Getting out of check: White has no answer to 1. ... Be5, when the queen and mate are menaced. Problem III.
Back row: Black wins for sure with 1. ... Rxd2 2. Rxd2 Qe1+, whereas 1. ... Bh2+ 2. Kxh2 Rxf3 3. Rxd8+ Qxd8 4. Rxf3 should lead to a draw. Problem IV.
Unpin: Black saves the queen and wins with 1. ... Rxf4+ 2. gxf4 Qxd6. Problem V.
Driving off: After 1. ... Rg4, White has no reasonable way to save his bishop. Problem VI.
Back row: Black scores with 1. ... Rb1. On 2. Rg1 there follows 2. ... Bd4. Meanwhile, 2. Qf3 fails to 2. ... Rxf1+ 3. Qxf1 Qxd6.
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