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Chess Life — February 2010
United States Chess Federation PO Box 3967, Crossville, Tennessee 38557 1-800-903-USCF (8723) (931) 787-1234
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February on uschess.org Hilton in the big classroom Jonathan Hilton, the co-author of Wojo’s Weapons (February 2010, Mongoose) narrates his chess adventures during a study abroad tour in Latin America, from taking on a local hustler in Nicaragua to visiting the site of the canceled Carlos Torre Memorial in Mexico.
Our stars > in Gibraltar
Watch some of America’s best players at the Gibtelecom Chess Festival (January 26-February 4). American participants include U.S. Women's Champion Anna Zatonskih (left), GM Gata Kamsky, GM-elect Alex Lenderman, GM Vinay Bhat, IM Irina Krush (right), IM Sam Shankland. Look for exclusive coverage on CLO.
HILTON BY KIP SHAFFER; PASCAL BY IRINA KRUSH; ZATONSKIH AND KRUSH BY BETSY DYNAKO
< Bermuda Open
Last year’s champ GM Pascal Charbonneau will write about the 2010 Bermuda Open, scheduled for February 5-7. You’ll wish you were there when you read about it and browse the photos!
Team Extravaganza >
On President’s weekend (February 13-15), look for news on four of the most exciting tournaments on the American calendar. The Amateur Team South in Orlando, Florida; The Amateur Team North in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; The Amateur Team West in Woodland Hills, California; The Amateur Team East in Parsippany, New Jersey. The Eastern edition will celebrate its ruby anniversary (40th year).
This Month’s Contributors
Pete Tamburro (“Looks at Books,” p. 12) is a frequent contributor to Chess Life and Chess Life for Kids and a past president of the Chess Journalists of America. GM Ben Finegold (“Cover Story,” p. 18) is America’s newest grandmaster.
GM John Fedorowicz (“2009 World Youth,” p. 26) was just inducted into the U.S. Chess Hall of Fame in 2009.
uschess.org
Dr. Alexey Root, WIM (“College Chess,” p. 31) is the author of four books on chess in education, including her latest People, Places, Checkmates: Teaching Social Studies with Chess (March 30, 2010, Westport, Connecticut: Teacher Ideas Press). GM Ian Rogers (“Instruction,” p. 40) is a frequent contributor to Chess Life.
Chess Life — February 2010
3
February Chess Life Columns
18
COVER STORY
The 40-Year-Old GM
12 LOOKS AT BOOKS Botvinnik the Invincible!
By GM Ben Finegold
By Pete Tamburro
America’s latest player to earn the GM title bucks the youth trend.
14 CHESS TO ENJOY The Ups and Downs of Annotating By GM Andy Soltis
16 SOLITAIRE CHESS The Extraordinary Pillsbury
26
Samritha and Tanuj, or The Silver Medals: A Story of Chess in Turkey
By Bruce Pandolfini
42 ENDGAME LAB Problematic Endings By GM Pal Benko
44 BACK TO BASICS An Extra Pawn
By GM John Fedorowicz
By GM Lev Alburt
The Fed reports on our relatively inexperienced youth team’s performance at the world youth championships.
46 WHAT’S THE BEST MOVE? Surprising Twists By GM Larry Evans
Departments 3
31
COUNTERPLAY
8
FIRST MOVES
COLLEGE CHESS
A UTD Thanksgiving: Roses and Recognition
PREVIEW
6
2009 WORLD YOUTH
10 USCF AFFAIRS
By Dr. Alexey Root, WIM
50 TOURNAMENT LIFE
Despite problems unique to college chess, UTD’s eighth norm event proves a success.
70 CLASSIFIEDS 71 SOLUTIONS
36 REMEMBRANCE
Remembering YHR Long-time Chess Life reporter Jerry Hanken’s death means our magazine’s tournament reports will no longer have the same flavor.
On The Cover
Ben Finegold has long been considered the strongest IM in America. No longer. Cover photo by Suzy Gorman, design by Frankie Butler
Right: The many faces of Ben Finegold through the years.
4
Chess Life — February 2010
40
INSTRUCTION
The Lazy Person’s Guide to Endgames By GM Ian Rogers
The conclusion of the article from the January issue that gives you a shortcut to endgame study.
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Counterplay Correction Please correct name as a top finisher at the 2009 U.S. Senior Open: 70-74. It should be Jorge Montero rather than Jose, the age: 72 is correct. My life membership name is listed as Dr. J.A. Montero. It is not often that I make it as a “finisher”! Dr. Jorge Montero via e-mail
McFarland & Company It was great to see the small announcement in your December issue (page 10) of our book winning the Fred Cramer Award for Best Chess Book of 2009. The two authors of Blindfold Chess: History, Psychology, Techniques, Champions, World Records, and Important Games and the three award sponsors were all named— but not us. It cannot take anything away from the superb manuscript delivered by authors Eliot Hearst and John Knott to modestly point out that McFarland put a hundred hours or more of intensive editorial and design work on the book, not to mention the very challenging typesetting job—and manufacturing it to the highest standards now being pursued in U.S. book publishing. As Chess Life readers no doubt know there are precious few review media worldwide currently dealing with serious, high-research, historically-oriented chess books and McFarland is one of the few
publishers still doing them. Give us a little nod now and then! Thanks.
Robert Franklin, president, McFarland & Company, Inc., publishers (and a USCF life member since the early ‘70s)
Bettering the ABCs In regards to the December issue of Chess Life, in the “ABCs of Chess” problem V, I have found a better solution:
+
+k+ p + + + p + + p + nqP+ + + + + P + +KNP+ R + Q + + +
Gary E. Hollis Napavine, Washington
r
+
+
Black to play
1. ... Qc3+ 2. Kd1 Nb2+
At this point, either queen takes knight and queen takes queen, or the king moves to e1 (and White still loses the queen and the knight). Please note that I did not have to sacrifice the rook in my solution. Or, the more disastrous move: 2. Kb1 Rb8+
I am not trying to demean your solutions, but rather show you a better one. I have been a chess enthusiast for 50 years and enjoy the game very much. I belong to a fledgling chess club here in Centralia, Washington where we have only a dozen players, but we do have lots of enthusiasm. I look forward to your next issue of Chess Life.
... where White still loses the queen and is mated in two.
NATIONAL OPEN June 11-13 or June 12-13
Las Vegas INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL www.VegasChessFestival.com
Chess Life welcomes letters from its readers. Letters are subject to editing for content and length. Send your letters to
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6
Chess Life — February 2010
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First Moves
President Marck Cobb with Anatoly Karpov in Poikovski, Russia
Kansas, Karpov, and Caissa
Karpov Chess School wraps up 2009 By Wes Fisk
THE NINTH ANNUAL LINDSBORG OPEN, held on December 19, marked the end of scheduled activities for the Karpov Chess School in Lindsborg, Kansas. In an unusual turn of events, 16-year-old Thorton Bonner, of Spring Valley, Kansas decided to enter the Lindsborg tournament, although he had never played in a USCFsanctioned event. After five grueling rounds, Bonner found that he tied for first place, along with fellow Kansans Taimoor Noor, Jason Wawrzaszek, and Vladimir Inglesias. “This is the ninth consecutive year that we have held the Lindsborg Open,” Chess School Director Tom Brownscombe said. “It is always held around Christmas, so it’s now established as part of the chess tradition in the Midwest.” Noor won the first place trophy, based on tiebreaks, and Bonner took home the trophy for best result by an unrated player. Chess players typically compete in their own rating category, determined by USCF ratings, to assure they are paired 8
Chess Life — February 2010
with players with similar skill levels. Kansas Chess Association treasurer Laurence Coker, Overland Park, and James Smith of Missouri shared first place for players rated under 1800. Scholarships and chess camps Through the generosity of donors, the chess school awarded 17 scholarships to area students to attend the two chess camps held at the Karpov School in July. Many students would not have been able to attend without the scholarships. Students attending the weeklong camps were treated to instruction by one of the top chess grandmasters in the United States. GM Var Akobian, winner of the 2007 World Open, not only taught the students chess, but also showed them the finer points of soccer during their free time. The chess school’s director, Tom Brownscombe, worked alongside GM Akobian and Chris Purdy to provide instruction to the 49 students from throughout the United States who attended the camps.
President Marck Cobb & Karpov in Russia In June, Marck Cobb and his son Layton, at their own expense, boarded a plane to Moscow; at the same time Mikhail Korenman and three other families from Chicago also boarded a plane for Moscow. The combined group of seven adults and seven young people became known as the “American delegation.” Karpov and the American delegation boarded another plane to Surgut, arriving around midnight. After a couple of bus rides, the group arrived in Poikovski, a small town in Siberia where Karpov has a chess school. Some in Lindsborg may recall it was Poikovski that sent a number of their young people to Lindsborg to compete and get to know their host families. Poikovski boasts a cultural center that serves 22 smaller surrounding communities. Their cultural center employs seven instructors, who in turn provide instruction to about 500 students. Over the next few days, students from both countries competed with one another, and despite language difficulties they managed to make some friendships. Another Lindsborg alumni flew in to join the main tournament; GM Alexander Onischuk visited Lindsborg on several occasions, where he taught at the chess school. There were other grandmasters throughout the world that also arrived for the competition. The American student team placed fifth out of several teams in the Poikovski youth tournament. Upon leaving Poikovski, the Americans made their way to St. Petersburg and Moscow where they relaxed and toured. The Russians were holding another tournament in the city of Voronezh, the 13th International Chess Festival. The Americans took the train to Voronezh and played several matches with Russian students. Karpov Chess School president Marck Cobb offered a scholarship to any student who would fly to Lindsborg. “It was a wonderful experience for students from different countries to get to know one another,” said Cobb. “It’s all possible because of chess.” Director Brownscombe and area schools Director Tom Brownscombe expanded the chess school’s reach by teaching chess in the local schools, such as St. Mary’s in Salina, Canton-Galva, and the Lindsborg virtual school. Tom also officiated at several national tournaments during 2009. Brownscombe won the Kansas State Chess Championship in July. The Kansas championships have been held in Lindsborg for several years. This is the second Kansas Championship win for Brownscombe, who previously won it in 2007. He is also the former Nevada state champion. More information can be obtained by going to www.anatolykarpovchessschool.org. uschess.org
In association with Present
The Seventh Annual All-Girls Open National Championships April 16 –18, 2010 – Columbus, Ohio Awards The University of Texas at Dallas, www.utdallas.edu, has established an Academic Distinction Scholarship to the winner of the 18-years-old and younger section. The scholarship is valued at $68,000 for an out-of-state student. Trophies to top 15 individuals and top 3 teams in each section. 3 or more players from the same school to make a team (top 3 scores added to give team final standings). Every player receives a souvenir medal. Entry Fee $50 if postmarked by March 21, 2010, $70 if by April 4, 2010. On-site registration is $90. USCF membership required. All events will be hosted at Hyatt Regency Columbus, 350 N. High Street, Columbus, OH. Entry & Info Make checks payable to: United States Chess Federation, Attn: All Girls, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557
Side Events Bughouse Tournament Friday April 17, 1:00 PM Entry fee: $25 per team
6-SS, G/90, Sections • 8-years-old and younger • 10-years-old and younger • 12-years-old and younger • 14-years-old and younger • 16-years-old and younger • 18-years-old and younger Main Event Friday, April 16 6:00 PM–Opening Ceremony 6:30 PM–Round 1 Saturday, April 17 10:00 AM–Round 2 2:30 PM–Round 3 6:30 PM–Round 4
Sunday, April 18 9:00 AM–Round 5 1:00 PM–Round 6 5:00 PM–Awards Ceremony
Blitz Tournament (G/5) Friday April 17, 3:00 PM Entry fee: $15 if p/m by April 4, $20 on-site Online registration https://secure2.uschess.org/webstore/ tournament.php?wkevent=2010AG or www.kasparovchessfoundation.org Hotel Hyatt Regency Columbus 350 N. High Street Columbus, OH 43215 Hotel Chess Rate: $127 if reserved by April 1, 2010 For hotel reservations: Please call (800) 233-1234 or (614) 280-1234
USCF Affairs February Update on E-mail Capabilities
The USCF has made several enhancements to its e-mail capabilities recently. This gives us several tools that members may be interested in: 1. Members can now receive e-mail updates when an event they played in has been rated. These may even arrive before the event is available on uschess.org/msa.
2. Members can sign up for TLA Mail and get daily updates of upcoming events that they are interested in. As of today, TLA Mail now lists events that have been or will be advertised in Chess Life as well as ones listed by organizers in the USCF’s Online TLA Service.
3. Members can sign up for the above services using the e-mail preferences page, https://secure2.uschess.org/email/email-pref-update.php. (For now they will need to know their USCF ID and PIN (available on your mailing label) to update their e-mail preferences. In the future, members may be able to use their uschess.org login and password.)
4. In addition to the above, members can also use the above link to opt in or out of e-mail sent by the USCF on behalf of our book and equipment partner, USCF Sales, e-mail sent by the USCF on behalf of affiliates, and e-mail sent by the USCF on behalf of other third parties. 5. We are now sending out e-mail renewal notices for USCF memberships.
6. Every year the USCF sends out several thousand replacement membership cards. As a possible alternative, the USCF office now has the ability to e-mail a member a replacment USCF membership card as a PDF file, emailed to the address in the member’s USCF record. It can be printed out on a laser or inkjet printer, though it will look best if it is printed on card stock.
PROMOTE AMERICAN CHESS
BE A USCF Benefactor! HELP PROMOTE AMERICAN CHESS BY BECOMING A USCF BENEFACTOR MEMBER. Benefactor Membership includes Life Membership, a special membership card, and recognition on a benefactor page of our website and periodically in Chess Life. The cost is $3,000, or $1,500 to existing Life Members. Half the funds collected will go to the
Chess Educator of the Year
The Chess Educator of the Year award ceremony will be at 7:00 pm on Thursday, February 25 in McDermott suite on the fourth floor of the McDermott Library, at the University of Texas at Dallas. As the university celebrates its 40th anniversary, we are pleased to announce our first international honoree is GM Jonathan Rowson from Scotland.
Currently, Jonathan is a senior researcher at the Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA), a think tank in London. Jonathan holds a first class degree in politics, philosophy, and economics from Oxford University, an Ed.M. from Harvard University in mind, brain and education, and an Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)-funded Ph.D. from Bristol University. His doctoral thesis, supervised by Professor Guy Claxton, is an inter-disciplinary and multi-method examination of the concept of wisdom, including a detailed analysis of the challenge of overcoming the psychosocial constraints that prevent people becoming ‘wiser,’ similar to what the RSA terms “The Social Aspiration Gap.”
Jonathan was British champion for three consecutive years, 2004-6. Prior to joining the RSA he was a professional player, teacher, and writer. Jonathan views chess as a form of praxis in which we come to better understand our own natures, and has written accessible books (The Seven Deadly Chess Sins and Chess for Zebras) on the subject that have been translated into several foreign languages. An invited speaker at international conferences on learning, thinking, and sport, he has written for The New Statesman magazine, The Herald, and has been featured on BBC radio and television.
His interest in connected communities and social capital strategies stems partly from his role in publicizing research funded by The Scottish Executive that demonstrated the positive role of chess in raising social capital in deprived areas in his home town of Aberdeen.
USCF Life Member Assets Fund and half to assist USCF operations. Become a Benefactor at uschess.org, by phone at 1-800-903-8723, or by mail to USCF, PO Box 3967, Crossville TN 38557.
THA NKS TO O U R BENEFA CTO R S ! USCF Benefactor Members as of January 1, 2010: J EFFREY DAVI DSON ( CA) BIL L GOI C HBE RG ( NY) CHARLES UN RUH ( OK) E DWA RD WYC OFF (C A)
BECOME A BENEFACTOR 10
Chess Life — February 2010
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Looks at Books
Botvinnik the Invincible! Bibliographic Botvinnik By Pete Tamburro
Botvinnik-Smyslov/Three World Chess / Championship Matches: 1954, 1957, 1958 Mikhail Botvinnik 288 pages. New In Chess, 2009, $33.95 available on uscfsales.com
Player Botvinnik
Played Won Lost Drawn 31
13
5
13
% 62.9
Bronstein
28
9
8
11
51.8
Kotov
36
8
8
20
50.0
Keres
51
13
14
24
48.2
Najdorf
23
3
4
16
47.8
Smyslov
52
9
12
31
47.1
Boleslavsky
32
5
7
20
46.9
Reshevsky
23
4
6
13
45.7
12
Chess Life — February 2010
MIKHAIL BOTVINNIK DOMINATED AN AGE OF CHESS. For those of us over 60 years of age, he was The Man. If you asked a young master back in the ’50s or ’60s about their most influential chess books on the road to mastery, the book so often mentioned was 100 Selected Games by Botvinnik. It was dog-eared, underlined and quoted by heart. People played the Winawer French or the Dutch just because he did. This is not so much a book review as a presentation with two goals. The first goal is to make the current generations of chess players aware of just who this man was. The second goal is to convince you why you should plunk down 34 bucks for this book. The first part is the history of Botvinnik. From the 1930s to the 1960s, he was the standard by which chess players measured themselves. Did you work as hard? Did you do your opening preparation as thoroughly? Did you have that same indomitable will to win? Were you as self-critical? He was born in 1911, six years before the Russian Revolution, and lived through two world wars fought on his country’s soil. He won six Soviet championships (only Tal won as many) and the Absolute Championship in 1941 along with such memorable international tournaments as Moscow 1935, Nottingham 1936, Groningen 1946 and the biggest of them all—the World Championship of 1948, where he dominated at the Hague and Moscow against Smyslov, Keres, Reshevsky and Euwe. He considered himself primus inter paris—first among equals. R.W.B. Clarke, in the April 1953, British Chess Magazine (BCM), compiled a table from tournaments in the period 1946-52 appearing in BCM. The results of the top eight players in the world (among themselves) during that period can be seen in the table immediately to the left. It looks more like Botvinnik was first and everyone else was equal. However, when you look at Botvinnik’s match results, therein begins a drama of epic proportions, the highlight of which is this drama in three acts that our book deals with.
He played in seven world championship matches. His first defense of the crown was against Bronstein in 1951 and he retained the crown by drawing 12-12 in an incredible match. To this day masters argue about some of those positions. Then came the Smyslov trilogy. Vassily Smyslov is one of the chess world’s greatest players. His games are art. Some of the newer generations might recall he was still playing in the candidates final in 1984 against a young Garry Kasparov. For the real enthusiasts of the Botvinnik-Smsylov encounters, Moravian Chess published a two-volume Smyslov’s Best Games that came out in 2003. Translated by Ken Neat, it has Smsylov’s notes to the great games of his chess career. The set will cost you about $100. One thing you might have noticed is that Botvinnik started playing his world championship matches in his 40s. This in itself is remarkable. Our book under review has all of the games of the three matches. You can’t find better chess. It ranks right up there with Kasparov-Karpov. I have wondered at times whether Botvinnik’s student, Kasparov, also learned his incredible will to win from his teacher. Botvinnik also drew his first match with Smyslov (who had won the legendary Zurich 1953 candidates tournament to meet Botvinnik), thus winning the match. Smyslov, not to be denied, came back again in 1957 and beat Botvinnik decisively with six wins, three losses and 13 draws. Under the rematch rules, Botvinnik got his revenge with a 7-5 win (11 draws) in 1958. Smyslov actually won one more game than Botvinnik over the three matches, but Botvinnik prevailed. Primus inter paris. Then came the tornado of 1960 known as Mikhail Tal. Tal: 6 wins. Botvinnik: 2 wins(!), 13 drawn. Rematch! Botvinnik: 10(!), Tal: 5, 6(!) drawn. We won’t go into the whys and wherefores of those two matches. Much has been written, but the best world championship match book ever written is Tal’s 1960 match book, and it’s in its latest reprinting. These matches were all-out brawls. All of them. The matches with Smyslov were uschess.org
pressure packed. My one regret for this book is that they didn’t cite a few quotes from Harry Golombek’s on the scene reporting for British Chess Magazine. Quoting Golombek every so often would have spoken volumes for the drama of each occasion. Also, Golombek’s interpretations of what happened and why would have really given life to this book. Now comes the sad part. Botvinnik loses his last championship match 2-5, with 15 draws against Petrosian in 1963. There was no rematch clause, and Botvinnik did not want to go through the candidates to play another match. By now, he was 52 years old, and that was enough. His match record at this point was 36 wins, 39 losses and 82 draws. His play against Petrosian was listless in comparison to his prior matches. In writing about why he lost to Petrosian in Frank Brady’s Chessworld magazine in 1964, he talked about losing his inner harmony and the style of Petrosian’s game, but his passage at the end spoke to the ages. He asked a master, Peter Romanovsky, after an early tournament game, “How could I have lost this game?” “When you lose a game you should
Botvinnik Books Here is an abbreviated bibliography of Botvinnikrelated books in English:
Botvinnik Game Collections: Botvinnik, Mikhail, One Hundred Selected Games (trans. Garry), Bell Pub., Philadelphia, 1951. (Also, a Dover paperback first published in 1960). Botvinnik, Mikhail, Championship Chess (trans. Garry), Bell Pub., Philadelphia, 1951. (Also, a reprint by Hardinge Simpole Chess Classics) Botvinnik, Mikhail, Selected Games, 1967-1970, Pergamon Press, 1981. Botvinnik, Mikhail, Botvinnik’s Best Games 1947-1970, Batsford, 1972. Botvinnik, Botvinnik’s Best Games (Three volumes: 1925-1941; 1942-1956; 1957-1970; 1352 pages! From the Russian Analiticheskie i kriticheskie raboty, translated by Ken Neat), Moravian Chess Publishing, 2001.
have won, Mischa,” came the calm reply, “it means you didn’t want to win enough.” Botvinnik ended his chess playing by 1970. His last tournament win was at Beverwijk in 1969. He died in 1995. For my generation and the one before us, Botvinnik was the title of the Fred Reinfeld book in 1946: Botvinnik the Invincible. It was typical Reinfeld hyperbole, but it accurately reflected the opinion of many chess fans, thus the title of the review. We are fortunate that his three Smyslov matches have been put together with his notes. Why should you get this book? The games are epic struggles. There is more chess in them than you will see in many modern tournaments. Botvinnik’s notes are instructive. They always have been in his books. They are economical, to the point and extraordinarily perceptive. A truly fascinating part of the book is the Botvinnik preparation notebook for two of the three matches. In one, he has his mental and physical plan as well. The opening notes he has for the two matches are really intriguing. You have to remember that these men were amateurs, as Tal characterized it to me in a Chess Life interview years ago. There were no data-
Reinfeld, Fred, Botvinnik the Invincible, McKay, Philadelphia, 1946. Scarce.
Great Botvinnik Tournaments & Matches: Adams, Jimmy (trans. with Hurst), The Second International Chess Tournament, Moscow, 1935, Caissa Editions, Yorklyn, DE, 1998. Adams, Jimmy (ed. and trans.), Moscow, 1936 International Chess Tournament, Caissa Editions, Yorklyn, DE, 1988. Alekhine, Dr. A., The Book of the Nottingham International Chess Tournament (1936), David McKay Co., 1937 (Later Dover paperback edition). Botvinnik, Mikhail, Return Match for the World Chess Championship: Botvinnik-Tal, Olms, 2004. Botvinnik, Mikhail, Match for the World Chess Championship: Botvinnik-Bronstein, Olms Edition, 2004. Botvinnik and Petrosian, The World Chess Championship 1963, Hardinge Simpole Ltd., 2002.
Reinfeld, Fred, editor, The Games of the Match Between S. Flohr and M. Botvinnik played in Moscow and Leningrad November 28 to December 19, 1933, New York, 1935. Quite scarce.
Euwe, Max and Kmoch, Hans, Groningen (1946), edited by B.H. Wood, book form of articles published in Chess magazine in 1949-50, Sutton Coldfield, England, 1950.
Reinfeld, Fred, editor, Botvinnik’s Best Games, Part 1: 1927-1934, New York, 1937. Quite scarce.
Golombek, Harry, The World Chess Championship 1948, Bell Pub., London, 1949. Scarce.
uschess.org
bases, no chess engines, and very few “specialty” opening books. There were notecards! You can spend hours “prospecting” for opening nuggets (theoretical oldies, as I used to call opening novelties “reborn” from before Chess Informant days) in these notes. The thoroughness of his preparation is quite remarkable. He had something ready for just about anything. He even had the von Hennig-Schara gambit in there, of all things—and Black was doing well in his notes! He didn’t have Black play against the Fantasy Variation of the CaroKann, which I found especially curious as Smyslov won some nice games with it. Maybe he figured Smyslov wouldn’t have the guts to play it against him! The bottom line is that you have 69 games, with a few exceptions, annotated by Botvinnik, in the style that made several generations of future chess masters all over the world study with great interest. Its value is that it teaches about the opening, the middlegame and the endgame. It’s not just a book of three matches. It’s three books in one about how to play all three aspects of the game. We old timers learned from him. You can, too.
.
Golombek, Harry, World Chess Championship 1954, MacGibbon and Kee, London, 1954. Scarce. Tal, Mikhail, Tal-Botvinnik: Match for the world chess championship,1960, (Trans. by Hanon W. Russell), RHM Press, 1977. (Later published editions available as well). Winter and Wade, The World Chess Championship: 1951, Turnstile Press, London, 1951. Scarce.
Other Books of Interest: Botvinnik, Mikhail, Botvinnik on the Endgame, Chess Enterprises, Coraopolis, PA, 1985. Botvinnik, Mikhail, 15 Games and Their Stories, (trans. Marfia), Chess Enterprises, Coraopolis, PA, 1982. Botvinnik and Estrin, The Gruenfeld Defense, RHM Press, 1980. Cafferty and Taimanov, The Soviet Championships, Cadogan Books, London, 1998. Kasparov, Garry, My Great Predecessors, Part II, Everyman, London, 2003. Soltis, Andrew, Soviet Chess, 1917-1991, McFarland and Company, North Carolina, 2000.
Chess Life — February 2010
13
Chess to Enjoy
The Ups and Downs of Annotating
By GM Andy Soltis
No two annotators are the same. Each one views a game from his own perspective—looking up or down.
Let’s imagine, for the moment, what two grandmasters would say about this position. Grandmaster conversation GM Vladimir Kramnik (FIDE 2759) GM Arkady Naiditsch (FIDE 2697) Dortmund, 2009
+r+ +r+ +p+n kp+p p+ +p p + + + P + + R + Q + q +N+ P+ + PP P + + +R K
After 21. ... Rhg8
White played 22. Kh1. A typical writer, let’s call him annotator A, might say: “This is the only winning attempt. If instead, 22. Rfd1, then 22. ... Qxf3? 23. Rxd7+ Ke8 24. g3 favors White. But 22. ... Rgd8! 23. Rxd7+ Rxd7 24. Qxf6+ Ke8 25. Qh8+ Ke7 or 23. Kf1 Nxe5 24. Nxe5 Rxd4 25. Rxd4 Qa1+ 26. Ke2 Rc2+ 27. Kf3 Rc3+ 28. Nd3 Qd1+ 29. Ke3 Qe1+.” Another guy, annotator B, would comment quite differently: “The point of 22. Kh1 is to meet Black’s threat of ... Qxf3. Other moves allow White’s initiative to die, such as after 22. exf6+ Nxf6.” Let’s carry this one step further. After Black replied 22. ... b5 in the game, annotator B might explain: “Black wants to trade the rook on d4 to kill the White attack. He is preparing ... Rc4xd4. He also looks forward to an endgame where he can create a passed 14
Chess Life — February 2010
pawn after ... b4 and ... a5-a4.” Annotator A might go in a different direction and talk only about an alternative to 22. ... b5: “With 22. ... Qc6 Black sets a devilish trap, e.g. 23. exf6+ Nxf6 24. Rfd1 threatens Rd7+. But after 24. ... Rg6 25. Rg1 Kf8 26. Ne5? White gets mated by 26. ... Qxg2+! 27. Rxg2 Rc1+.” What is happening here is common yet rarely mentioned. Annotator A makes move-heavy notes for the benefit of a fairly strong audience. He is writing up. The second annotator is teaching and explaining, rather than analyzing, and is aiming at a lower rated readership. He is writing down. This isn’t a matter of the authors’ strength. Annotator B doesn’t write this way because he can’t figure out a sevenmove variation. Nor is A incapable of seeing a game with the eyes of a mere mortal. In fact, each of these notes is roughly based on what Vladimir Kramnik wrote for competing magazines. Which approach an annotator takes is usually a matter of choice, his choice. Some great analysts, like Mikhail Botvinnik or Robert Huebner, liked to write way up. But an equally good annotator, David Bronstein, wrote down. He deplored writeup authors who, he said, provide long variations of analysis in order to give readers “an inferiority complex.” It’s a matter of choice because most strong players can write either way. My 60 Memorable Games was aimed at a fairly sophisticated audience. But Bobby Fischer wrote quite differently for Boy’s Life. When he annotated a game that began 1. e4 d6 2. d4 for the Boy Scout magazine his only comment on those moves was “I want to get control of the center.” After his opponent replied 2. ... Nf6, Fischer wrote, “This is the Pirc Defense. He
has to get the knight out so that he can later ‘fianchetto’ his bishop and castle his king into safety. The only other knight move is ... Nh6. That’s a terrible square for the knight ...” and so on. Writing down that much is bound to annoy stronger readers. But even the greatest annotators disappoint some of their audience. Here’s what Mikhail Tal had to say in his deservedly praised book on the 1960 world championship match: Tal speaks out GM Mikhail Botvinnik GM Mikhail Tal Match, 10th game, Moscow 1960
+ + l + +p+ + +k P p n + p rP p +p P+ + + + + +K NL+P + + + + + + + R
After 39. ... Kh7
White, a pawn down, has been temporizing for several moves. After he played 40. Be4+, Tal packed a lot in his note: He explained that Black threatened to gain a possibly decisive edge with 40. ... Bh6. He outlined the sporting situation (“Botvinnik, literally in the last seconds before his flag fell, realizes the danger and changes plans”). Tal added that other annotators thought 40. Be4+ was dubious but he believed it deserves a double exclamation point. Nevertheless, Tal’s comment ends on a note that frustrates most readers. “Black’s uschess.org
Isaac Kashdan Isaac Kashdan starred on goldmedal-winning U.S. Olympiad teams, helped found Chess Review, and organized and directed the legendary Lone Pine and Piatigorsky Cup tournaments. Yet although “Kash” was one of the world’s top 10 players for several years, his games remain unknown to many of today’s fans. That should change with the publication of Isaac Kashdan, American Chess Grandmaster, by Peter P. Lahde. This month’s quiz draws from the 757 games collected by Lahde. In each of the following six positions you are asked to find the fastest winning line of play. Usually this will mean the forced win of a decisive amount of material, such as a rook or minor piece. Solutions are on Page 71.
Problem I
William Albert Fairhurst Isaac Kashdan
+
+
+
uschess.org
+
+ + + kn+ +P+ p + + + + + + r +r+ + + + + K + + + + Q
Problem III
Yefim Bogolyubov Isaac Kashdan
+
+
Isaac Kashdan Oscar Tenner
k
+ p + + +p + + + + + l + n +Q+ +K+ + N + P P P + q P + + + +
+
+ +k+ p +n+ pp + +q+ + + +p+p+ Q+ P + + + n PN+ P+ + PP P +R+ + K
Black to play
Black to play
White to play
Christian Poulsen Isaac Kashdan
Isaac Kashdan Herbert Seidman
Isaac Kashdan Anthony Santasiere
Problem IV
+
+
r
+
+
Problem VI
Problem V
k
+ + +q+p p + + n + + + + + Q P +P P P+ + +K P + + R + p
Black to play
answer is forced,” he wrote without elaboration. Since Black played 40. ... Nxe4, the poor reader is left wondering why 40. ... Kh8 would be so bad. Up and coming players tend to write... well, up—often at least 100 rating points above their playing strength. When Alexander Alekhine was making his move towards challenging Jose Capablanca for the world championship, he wrote in a style that seemed to say, “Of course, I don’t have to explain all these moves because they’re just so obvious to me.” But Capablanca saw his role as being the game’s No. 1 recruiter of newcomers. He wrote so far down that many of his notes were accessible to the newest newbies. What can an average player make of all this? Well, the first point is that if you don’t understand what an annotator is saying, it may be that you’re just not ready for him. (And for some heavyhanded writers, you may never be.) On the other hand, if you find a book— such as Irving Chernev’s write-down classic Logical Chess, Move by Move—to be simplistic, it may simply be that you’ve graduated from the Chernev school of chess. You also have to guard against guessing how a writer really thinks. If a write-up annotator gives a 13-move variation, you might (wrongly) assume he actually saw all of this by himself. Conversely, you may underestimate a write-down annotator because of his simplified terms. One of the most famous down-writers
+
Problem II
+r+ + + +p+ +k lp p+q+p np+ + +p+ + + + + + +P+ Q PL P L +P P P + + +R K
White to play
was Siegbert Tarrasch. His words were aimed at students and he handed them sweeping declarations about the supremacy of mobility, the need to meet 1. e4 with 1. ... e5, the evils of losing time in the opening and of a bad bishop and so on. As a result, some readers concluded that Tarrasch played the way he wrote. That is, he chose moves according to abstract rules, rather than according to the concrete position. The post-Tarrasch view says you have to play the position. “The proper way to examine chess is to start from the game itself, not to impose something upon it from the outside,” as Cecil Purdy wrote more than 60 years ago. But Tarrasch did play according to the position. There’s ample evidence of this but let’s just look at his titanic match with Mikhail Tchigorin. Three times Tarrasch answered Tchigorin’s favorite French Defense weapon, 1. e4 e6 2. Qe2, with 2. ... Be7 3. b3 d5 4. Bb2: (see diagram top of next page)
He played 4. ... Bf6!?. Black strangely offers to trade his good bishop, leaving himself with a queen bishop that is the notorious problem-piece of the French defense. If White doesn’t like 5. Bxf6 Nxf6 6. e5 he has an attractive option in 5. e5 Be7. Then Black has a cramped position and has spent three of his five moves on this bishop. But Tarrasch wasn’t relying on Tar-
+r rn lk+ +l qn+p pp p p p + + + + +N P P+ +P+ + + N L + PP+L Q P + +R+R K
White to play
r nl qk+n r pp p lp pp + +p+ + + +p+ + + +P+ + +P+ + + P LP PQ PP P RN+ KL NR
After 4. Bb2
rasch’s rules. He chose 4. ... Bf6!? because he didn’t like the more natural 4. ... Nf6 for a specific reason—5. exd5 exd5 6. Bxf6 gxf6 doubles Black’s pawns and should favor White. Even though he may have handed his readers dumbed-down dogmatism, Tarrasch didn’t think and play that way. So why can’t an annotator think one way and still satisfy the broadest audience? Why can’t he bridge the 2,000-plus rating point gap from the strongest to weakest readers? Well, that’s what Garry Kasparov tried to do in Kasparov versus the Rest of the World. He started out the book writing way down, but ended way up, analyzing a highly complex queen and pawn endgame requiring very long lines of analysis. He left many readers bewildered—and took 202 pages to annotate a single game.
.
Chess Life — February 2010
15
Solitaire Chess
The Extraordinary Pillsbury
By Bruce Pandolfini
Harry Nelson Pillsbury was one of the top players in the world in 1900. He shows why in this month’s selection.
Myth, exaggeration, or whatever, it’s an old story. Supposedly, Harry Nelson Pillsbury could give amazing exhibitions, such as playing, blindfolded, 20 games of chess, 20 games of checkers, and a hand of whist. He would also memorize a list of 40 made-up words, backwards and forwards, reciting it at the beginning and end of the exhibition. The topper was that throughout the entire event he would carry on witty conversations. Maybe the story is all baloney, but he really did play quite brilliantly during these public displays, as in this victory over W. Chalk, played at a Montreal simultaneous in 1900. This particular game took off from: French Defense (C10) Harry Nelson Pillsbury W. Chalk Montreal, 1900 1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 dxe4 4. Nxe4 Nf6
r nl qk l r pp p +p pp + +p n + + + + + + PN+ + + + + + P PP+ PP P R LQ KL NR
Your starting position
Now make sure you have the above position set up on your chessboard. As you play through the remaining moves in this game, use a piece of paper to cover the article, exposing White’s next move only after trying to guess it. If you guess correctly, give yourself the par score. Sometimes points are also rewarded for 16
Chess Life — February 2010
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.** 5.
Nxf6+
5.
…
6.
Nf3
Par Score: 5
Accept only 4 points part credit for 5. Bg5, and only 3 points part credit for 5. Ng3 or even 5. Bd3. Qxf6 Par Score: 5
Intending 7. Bd3 and 8. Bg5, trapping the queen (1 bonus point). Black can avoid it by playing ... h7-h6, but he prefers to remove the queen from the danger zone, even at the cost off several tempi. 6.
…
7.
Bd3
7.
…
8.
c3
8.
…
9.
Bf4
Qf5 Par Score: 5 Qa5+ Par Score: 5
After 8. Bd2 (full credit) 8. ... Qb6, White has to decide if he should defend the b2pawn or make it a gambit. The text is simpler, especially for simultaneous play on 26 boards. c6
Black opens a path for the queen to retreat to c7 or d8.** Par Score: 5
White eliminates ... Qa5-d7, as well as ... Bf8-d6. 9.
…
10.
0-0
10.
…
Nd7 Par Score: 5 Nf6
The knight vacates d7 for the bishop.**
11.
Ne5
11.
…
12.
Nc4
12.
…
13.
Nd6+
13.
…
14.
Bxd6
14.
…
Par Score: 5
Black’s last move has turned over the central outpost, so Pillsbury occupies it with his knight. Bd7
Add 1 bonus point for spotting 11. ... Qc7? 12. Ng6. The freeing attempt, 11. ... c5, opens the position prematurely and backfires after 12. dxc5 Qxc5 (12. ... Bxc5? 13. b4—1 bonus point) 13. Qa4+ Bd7 14. Nxd7 Nxd7 15. Bb5, along with Rad1. Best was likely 11. ... Be7, getting ready to castle kingside.** Par Score: 5
White plays a direct attack on the queen, to see where it goes. On 12. ... Qa6? there follows 13. Nd6+ (1 bonus point), discovering on the queen. Take full credit also for the semi-waiting move, 12. Re1. If 12. ... Be7 (not 12. ... Bd6? 13. Nc4— 1 bonus point), and White is still better. Qd8
The try 12. ... Qd5 puts the queen in a tight spot after 13. Be5 (1 bonus point), threatening 14. b4 and 15. Ne3, ensnaring the queen.** Par Score: 6
White plays for the two bishops, control of the dark squares, and attack to the uncastled black king. Bxd6 Par Score: 4
Accept 1 bonus point if you had this position in mind when playing 12. Nc4. Bc8
The bishop returns to its starting square, more or less proving that 11. ... Bd7 was a waste of time.** uschess.org
Problem I
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 71.
February Exercise: A key to planning is pawn configuration and how it supports and enables the pieces. For practice, diagram critical strategic setups twice: for both players, once with pawns, and a second time with everything placed. Affix sets of such diagrams to opposite sides of index cards. As you review these cards, start each one from the side with just pawns, imagining where pieces are located on the other side of the card. Then check your results. Do this regularly and you might become more attuned to pawn structure and its complement, optimal piece placements. You know, the stuff dreams are made of.
15.
Ba3
Par Score: 5
This is the correct retreat, preventing Black from castling. 15.
…
h5
Black tries to get some value from his rook at h8. Perhaps the h-file will open up.** 16.
Qf3
Par Score: 5
With the black king stuck on e8 White can prepare to open the center, either by c3-c4, and d4-d5, or by f2-f4-f5. Pillsbury has in mind yet another plan, attacking the undefended g7-pawn and seeing how Black defends it. Take full credit for 16. Qe2 (idea f2-f4-f5), also 16. Re1. 16.
…
Qd5
Black offers a trade of queens, which would greatly ease defense. Naturally, Pillsbury declines.** 17.
Qg3
17.
…
18.
Qc7
Par Score: 5 h4 Par Score: 5
Deduct 3 points for 18. Qxg7?, running into 18. ... Rg8 19. Qxf6 Qxg2 mate. 18.
…
19.
Rfe1
Nd7 Par Score: 5
Take 3 points part credit for 19. h3 (too defensive), preventing ... h3 and 4 points uschess.org
Problem II
Trapping
ABCs of Chess
+l+ + + +p+ k p +p l n + + + + + + + + + + + PQ+ + + PP+ + + K + Problem IV
+
q
+
+ r p k Q + lp n p + p + + + + + P + + P + + + +L+ + + K + +
…
21.
Re3
Par Score: 5
Qg5 Par Score: 5
The move 21. g3 (receive 4 points part credit) looks safer but Pillsbury does not fear the opening of the h-file. Plus he wants to leave g3 open, available for his heavy pieces. 21.
…
22.
Bxg2
22.
…
23.
Qg3
q+ + +k+ + + +p p +r+ + + + + + pQ p P + + + + + P PP+ P + +K+ + +R
is back to her old stand, attacking g7. 23.
…
24.
Rxe6+
g6 Par Score: 6
h3
This is more forcing than 20. Bf1 (4 points part credit), which would likely transpose back into the game after 20. ... hxg2 21. Bxg2 Qg5. Accept 4 points part credit also for the sneaky 20. f3 hxg2 21. Re5 Qxf3 22. Rxe6+ fxe6 23. Bg6+ Qf7 24. Qd6!, gaining queen for rook. Again Black should respond 20. ... Qg5. 20.
Skewer
+r+k+ +p p p + + + + +p+ + +l Q + + + P P + P+q N P + R + K +
…
Be4
Problem VI
+
Now 20. Re5? allows mate at g2.**
20.
+ +k+ +q+p+ + + +p+ + + +l+p + +n+ + + + P + +Q+ P + + + K +R +
+
p
part credit for 19. Rae1. The text threatens to trap the queen by 20. Re5, since 20. ... Nxe5 leaves mate at e7 (1 bonus point). 19.
+
+
Trapping
+k+ +p+p + + +l+ + +p+ + Q+ +n+ + + +L P + + + +P+ + L + K +
+
Discovery
Problem V
Fork
+
Problem III
Trapping
hxg2 Par Score: 4 Qd8
The queen has no more to do on the kingside (22. ... Qh4? 23. Rh3—1 bonus point), so he drives the white queen off.** Par Score: 5
After a brief interlude Pillsbury’s queen
24.
Black resigned.
If 24. ... fxe6, then 25. Qxg6 is mate.
r+l qk+ r pp+n+p+ +p +R+p+ + + + + + P + + L P + Q P P + P L P R + + K
Final position
“Solitaire Chess” scores:
Total your score to determine your approximate rating below: Total Score 95+ 81-94 66-80 51-65 36-50 21-35 06-20 0-05
Approx. Rating 2400+ 2200-2399 2000-2199 1800-1999 1600-1799 1400-1599 1200-1399 under 1200
Chess Life — February 2010
17
PHOTO BY BETSY DYNAKO
Cover Story
The 40 -Year-Old
America’s latest player to
18
Chess Life — February 2010
uschess.org
By GM Ben Finegold he road to grandmaster did not start at age 20 when I earned the international master title. No, it started well before that, probably around age 5. My dad, Ron Finegold, was a chess master, even losing a rated tournament game to Bobby Fischer in 1963. He taught me the moves at age five, and I was playing in tournaments soon thereafter. My family is from Detroit, Michigan, and we grew up as a chess family, with my brother, Mark, higher rated than me until I was 13 years old. Unlike most kids, I preferred to play in adult (open) events, and not scholastic championships. Don’t get me wrong, as I did play in the annual Michigan Junior Championships, but, I never played in the national scholastics. At age 15, I decided to go to the 1985 Cleveland Open, instead of the state junior championships, and tied for first by beating GM Miguel Quinteros in the last round. The score of that game is lost in the depths of time, but, I do remember being slightly worse with black, then he dropped a piece to a relatively simple tactic. However, my dad’s game against Fischer will be around forever, and, is still interesting to analyze today (see sidebar, p. 23). My first trip abroad to study chess was in 1984, as I went to Moscow, Russia with fellow American Joey Waxman. I was only 14 at the time and had the time of my life, studying chess at the Central Chess Club with the likes of GMs Suetin, Gufeld, Krogius, Smyslov, and many other strong players. Going to Russia in 1984, especially for a young person such as myself was quite a big deal, and I received a letter from the Michigan governor and a proclamation from the state senate! Getting the visa and being able to afford the trip were also quite difficult, but the good people of the Michigan Chess Association were able to raise quite a bit to make the trip doable. I still have notes from the chess seminar as well as a picture of all the participants, including future GMs David Norwood and Vasilios Kotronias. My first trip abroad to play in a chess event was to the Oakham Junior Championships in 1986. This tournament was held in the very small town of Oakham, in northern England. I flew to London with future GM Patrick Wolff, as we were the only two Americans in the field. I met future world champion Viswanathan Anand at that event, and was quite impressed with his accurate calculation and speed of play. I was extremely fortunate to draw against “Vishy” in this event, which saw quite a material turnaround in the ending (see next page):
T
GM
earn the GM title bucks the youth trend. uschess.org
Chess Life — February 2010
19
Cover Story A turnaround Benjamin Finegold (FIDE 2280) GM Viswanathan Anand (FIDE 2405) Oakham Junior Championship (3), 1986
+
+
rk+ + + + pp p + +n+ +N lP p + + +P+p+ + + + P P P + P P + R + K
Black to play
Here “Vishy” with his usual speed bashed out a move I would never have considered. 35. ... Nh8!
It took me a moment to figure out this confusing move. Then I realized Black was going to play Nf7-g5 or Nf7-d6 and White’s position is hopeless. 36. Nc7 Nf7 37. Ne6 Ra8 38. a3 Nd6 39. b4 Bd4 40. Rc6
I need to get my d-pawn going or the extra piece will tell. 40. ... Nxe4 41. d6 Nf6 42. Rc7 Ne8 43. Rc6 Ra7 44. Rc8 Kf7 45. Nd8+ Kf6 46. Nc6 Nxd6 47. Nxa7 Nxc8 48. Nxc8 Ke6
Black gives back the piece. Anand thought his better king and better minor piece would seal the deal. However, I will able to make dangerous threats on the queenside even without my king. 49. Na7 Kd5 50. a4! Bc3 51. b5 Bb4 52. Nc6 Kc4
+
+
+
+ + + + pp pN+ + + +P+ p + P lk+ +p+ + + + P + + P P + + + K
After 52. ... Kc4
53. a5! bxa5 54. Nxb4! Kxb5! 55. Nc2
The ending that started with Black having an extra piece has seen a complete turnaround, and now White is ahead a knight! Luckily, for both if us, the game is drawn. 55. ... Kc4 56. Kf1 Kb3 57. Ne1 a4 58. Ke2 a3 59. Kd2 a2 60. Nc2 Kb2 61. Na1!, Draw agreed.
The finish could have been 61. ... Kxa1
20
Chess Life — February 2010
62. Kc1 g5 63. Kc2 h5 64. Kc1 h4 65. Kc2 h3 66. Kc1 e4 67. Kc2 e3 68. fxe3, Stalemate. When I graduated high school in June 1986, I decided to forego college and give chess a whirl. I moved to Columbus, Ohio, and played in weekend tournaments, studied chess, and gave chess lessons. I was rated about 2400 USCF, which, at the time, was quite good for a 16-year-old. One of the greatest chess events ever held was in St. John, New Brunswick in February 1988. The “World Chess Festival” was aptly named. Not only were there candidates matches, but also two very strong internationals, as well as the World Blitz Championship with a first prize of $50,000 (in Canadian dollars)! Grandmasters (GMs) from all over the world came, and I was wondering if I could compete with such heavyweights, especially since I was on a roll, playing 50 consecutive USCF- rated games without a loss. The internationals were strong, and I scored about 50% in each event. I was in New Brunswick for almost a month, playing chess, watching the world’s best, and being cold (harsh weather there in February!). I did not exactly have a spectacular event, but, at least I got revenge against IM Robert Kuczynski, who was the winner of the above-mentioned Oakham junior event. Robert beat me in the first round of Oakham, and I was surprised to see him win clear first when all was said and done. Later that year, the 1988 New York Open was quite an important event in my life. I was able to stay at the home of Gina Linn, one of the top female players in the U.S., who I had known for quite some time. After the event, I stayed with her in New York, and soon thereafter she was offered a job in Brussels, Belgium with the Grandmasters Association (GMA) founded by Garry Kasparov and Bessel Kok. We moved to Brussels in July, and I played as much chess as I could. Gina and I were married in January 1989 in Hastings, England where I also received an international master (IM) norm. I eventually earned all of my IM norms, and my rating, which was FIDE 2380 when we arrived in Europe, had gone up to 2490 by January 1990. I was an IM, married, had a good rating, and was playing in three European chess leagues (Belgium, Holland, Germany). My chess was improving quite a bit, and, in July 1989, I had my best tournament to date. There was a 26-player Swiss in Amsterdam, with half the players GMs, and the other half IMs or strong Dutch players. Somehow, I was invited, and almost made a GM norm, although I had to settle for an IM norm, losing to tournament winner Zurab Azmaiparashvili in the last round. I played some good chess
there, and, my most famous opponent, GM Boris Gelfand, was also my most famous victim. Nimzo-Indian Defense, Classical Variation (E38) Benjamin Finegold (FIDE 2375) GM Boris Gelfand (FIDE 2590) OHRA-B Amsterdam, 1989
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Qc2 c5 5. dxc5 Qc7
An unusual move. Black prevents White from playing a later Bf4. Luckily, g5 is a fine square for the bishop. 6. Nf3 Bxc5 7. Bg5 a6 8. e3 Be7 9. Be2 b6 10. 0-0 Bb7 11. Rfd1 d6 12. Rd2 Nbd7 13. Rad1
Black has decided to play in hedgehog style. Now, the game is about equal if Black castles kingside, but, as Kotov once said “Dizziness due to success ...” 13. ... 0-0-0?
+k r + r +l qn lp pp p p pp n + + + + L +P+ + + + N PN+ P PQ RL PP P + +R+ K
After 13. ... 0-0-0
Clearly Black wants to win, but this is too much. 14. b4! h6 15. Bf4 e5?
Much too anti-positional. Black should play 15. ... Ne5. Now the reader should keep an eye on the weak f5-square. 16. Bg3 g5 17. a4 Rdg8?
Now the d6-pawn is weakened further, and the h8-rook is trapped. Not Gelfand’s best game! 18. a5 bxa5 19. c5!
It was not necessary to sacrifice pawns, but, I wanted to get at his king first. At age 19, sacrificing is easy! 19. ... g4
Black cannot play 19. ... dxc5? 20. Nxe5! Nxe5 21. Qf5+—That f5 square! 21. ... Nfd7 22. Rxd7. 20. cxd6 Bxd6 21. Rxd6 gxf3 22. Bxa6!
Crashing through. Black is helpless.
22. ... Bxa6 23. Rxa6 axb4 24. Ra8+ Nb8
If Black plays 24. ... Kb7 25. Ra7+ Kxa7 26. Nb5+ wins neatly. uschess.org
The commentators at the 2009 U.S. Women’s Championship: (l-r) Frequent Chess Life contributor Macauley Peterson, Chess Life Online editor Jennifer Shahade, and Finegold.
25. Qf5+, Black resigned.
PHOTO BY BETSY DYNAKO
Proving the point that 15. ... e5? was too weakening. A year after our son was born in June 1991, Gina and I moved back to the USA. The U.S. Open, coincidently, was held in Dearborn, Michigan in August 1992, only 15 miles or so from our home in Southfield. I was back in the USA permanently for the first time as an IM, husband, and father. I did well, winning seven and drawing five, but as only equal second behind the new American player, GM Gregory Kaidanov. Gregory was on a roll from 1991-1993, winning almost every tournament. We became friends, and, I worked with Gregory for two years when I won the Samford fellowship in 1993. My chess improved immensely while I had the fellowship, and I tied for second in the 1993 U.S. Open and tied for first in 1994. My USCF rating rose to over 2600, and I was invited, for the first time based on rating, to the U.S. Championship. I was invited once before when I was equal first in the 1989 U.S. Junior uschess.org
Championship, but was unable to play. The 1994 Championship was held in Key West, Florida, and I was raring to play! Unfortunately, all my good play the previous year did not spill over into such a strong round robin, and I was lucky to avoid last place, scoring only 4½ out of 13. Still, I won one nice game, against GM Dmitry Gurevich.
knight, he decides to put his king’s knight on d7, controlling e5 and c5, and preparing ... g7-g5 without the need for ... h7-h6.
Dutch Defense (A90) IM Benjamin Finegold (2623) GM Dmitry Gurevich (2651) U.S. Championship (11), 1994
Move 19 and no trades yet! A fascinating struggle all over the board, as Black has more space on the kingside and queenside!
1. d4 f5 2. g3 Nf6 3. c4 e6 4. Bg2 c6 5. Nc3 d5 6. Nh3 Bd6 7. 0-0 0-0 8. Bf4 Be7
This may look odd, but it actually makes a lot of sense! Black does not want to trade bishops, as he will be left with the bad Bc8. Also, Black wants to attack with ... h7-h6, ... g7-g5 and the Bf4 allows Black to gain back the tempo. 9. Qb3 Kh8 10. Rad1 a5 11. c5 Nfd7
Since Black has a6 for his queen’s
12. Na4 g5 13. Bc1 Bf6
Black has played quite well, and now, I felt the need to open the center quickly, before Black develops his remaining forces. 14. f3 h6 15. e4 Na6 16. a3 Rb8! 17. Qc2 b5 18. Nc3 b4 19. Na4
19. ... bxa3 20. bxa3 Nc7!
Now I started to get worried about ... Ba6-c4-b3! 21. Rfe1 Ba6 22. Bf1 Bxf1 23. Rxf1 fxe4
Dmitry thought the game was dynamically balanced until this point, and was quite critical of his choice here. Opening up the center and f-file only helps White. 24. fxe4 Qe8 25. e5 Bd8 26. Nb6! Rxf1+ 27. Rxf1 Nxb6 28. cxb6 Nb5 29. Bb2 Bxb6 (See diagram top of next page) Chess Life — February 2010
21
Cover Story
+q+ k + + + + lp+p+ p pn+p P p + P + + P + + PN LQ+ + P + + +R K
GM Pavel Blatny which made it into Robert Byrne’s column in the New York Times. Nimzowitsch Defense (B00) IM Benjamin Finegold (2620) GM Pavel Blatny (2573) World Open (5), 07.05.2002 1. d4 b6
After 29. ... Bxb6
A Blatny specialty, although I must say I was not prepared!
30. Qd1!
2. e4 Bb7 3. Nc3 e6 4. Nf3 Bb4 5. Bd3 Nf6 6. Bg5 h6 7. Bxf6 Bxc3+ 8. bxc3 Qxf6 9. 0-0 d6
I have used this idea more than once. When I was a little boy, I remember looking at an old Tal game where he used d1 to transfer his queen from one side of the board to the other. 30. ... Bd8 31. a4!
Taking time out to put the knight off sides before the kingside onslaught.
This position has occurred many times, but, unfortunately, I did not know any of the games! The right plan for White is 10. Nd2 e5 11. f4! which I rejected during the game. Black is equal after my plan of a4a5 and trading off my weak pawn. 10. a4 e5 11. a5 0-0 12. Qe2 Nc6 13. axb6 axb6 14. Qe3 Ne7 15. Nd2 g5! 16. g3 Qg7! 17. f3 Bc6 18. Nc4 f6?
31. ... Na7 32. Ba3 Be7 33. Bxe7 Qxe7 34. Qg4 Kg7 35. Nf4
This move shocked me! His queen on g7 put pressure on d4, and now he allows me to maneuver my knight to the excellent e3-square by blocking his queen!
35. ... Kh7 36. Nxe6 Rg8 37. Rf6 Rg6, Black resigned.
19. Qe2 Rxa1?
All of White’s pieces are attacking. The end is near. Black did not wait for 38. Qf5.
I played chess on and off from 19951999, when I was a full time student at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. Gina earned a PhD in clinical psychology in 1999, but since our marriage also ended, I decided to go back full time to chess. I moved to Brooklyn, New York and taught chess in public and private schools for a few months. My son, Spencer, and I were not too keen on New York City, and in March 2000, we went back to Michigan. Although there were fewer opportunities for teaching, I was playing in more tournaments, and hoped to snag some GM norms. I met my second wife, Kelly, on the Internet Chess Club (ICC), and we married at the National Open in March 2001. I had an excellent tournament, and drew three Chinese super-GMs in the last three rounds. Late December saw the birth of our daughter, Erum. I knew it was time to earn the GM title! My first big chance at a GM norm was the 2002 World Open. I started with 3½-½, and then had to start playing the “big boys.” In round five, I was able to win a very long game versus
This sequence of moves Blatny has prepared leads to a wretched position. He simply overlooked a simple tactic. 20. Rxa1 exd4? 21. cxd4 f5 22. c3 g4? 23. f4! fxe4 24. Bxe4
+
+ r k+ + p n q pl p + p + + + + +N PL Pp+ + P + P + +Q+ P R + + K
After 24. Bxe4
Now his planned 24. ... d5 fails to either 25. Ne5 dxe4 26. Nxc6 Nxc6 27. Qc4+ or 25. Bg2 dxc4 26. Bxc6 Nxc6 27. Qxc4+. Blatny overlooked the Qc4+ idea. 24. ... Bb5 25. Bd3 Bc6 26. Qe6+ Kh8 27. Ne3 h5 28. Ra7 Rf6 29. Qc4
Now mutual time trouble makes the game a toss-up. Lucky for me, I did not blunder! 29. ... b5 30. Qb3 Nc8 31. Ra2 Qf8 32. Bxb5 Qe8 33. Bxc6 Qxe3+ 34. Kg2 Ne7 35. Qb5
Finegold showing some of the personality that has always made him a fan favorite.
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Chess Life — February 2010
uschess.org
PHOTOS BY BETSY DYNAKO
r
Rf5 36. Qb8+ Kg7 37. Qxc7 d5 38. Bd7 Qf3+
Funny thing was I ONLY saw Qe4+ and this move scared me! Stupid time trouble. 39. Kg1 Qd1+ 40. Kf2 Qf3+
Now with time on my clock, I found the way to win. 41. Ke1! Qh1+ 42. Kd2 Qxh2+ 43. Kd1 Qxa2 44. Bxf5
Black has no escape and no perpetual check. 44. ... Qa4+ 45. Kd2 Kf8 46. Qe5 Qa2+ 47. Bc2 Ng8 48. Qg5
Actually 48. Qxh5 or 48. Qe6 are both faster. Luckily all roads lead to Rome. 48. ... Qa6 49. Qxd5 Qf1 50. Qd6+ Kg7 51. Qg6+ Kf8 52. Qd6+ Kg7 53. Qe5+ Kf8 54. Bb3 Qf2+ 55. Kc1 Qg1+ 56. Kb2 Qg2+ 57. Ka3 Qa8+ 58. Ba4 Qf3 59. Qe8+ Kg7 60. Bb3 Nh6 61. Qe7+, Black resigned.
A difficult game.
After this, I secured my first GM norm by drawing super-GMs Alexander Onischuk, Ilya Smirin, and Art Yusupov. I tied for first, and was told later by International Arbiter Carol Jarecki that I had surpassed the GM norm by half a point.
I was very lucky to draw Smirin, as my tenacity paid off in the following ending. Ruy Lopez, Berlin Defense (C65) GM Ilya Smirin (2794) IM Benjamin Finegold (2620) World Open (8), 07.06.2002 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nf6 4. 0-0 Bc5 5. c3 0-0 6. d4 Bb6 7. dxe5 Nxe4 8. Qd5 Nc5 9. Bg5 Qe8
I think 9. ... Ne7 is a better way of playing. I was not familiar with the 7. dxe5 line, so I was “winging” it. 10. Re1 Qe6 11. Qd1 a6 12. Bf1 d5?!
This impatient move leads to a worse position. I should have tried to sideline his bishop with 12. ... h6. 13. exd6 e.p. Qxd6 14. Qxd6 cxd6 15. Nbd2 d5 16. Be3 Bg4 17. a4 Nd7?!
Once again, too impatient. I should improve my position with 17. ... Rfe8 instead of going for trades. 18. Bxb6 Nxb6 19. Ne5 Nxe5 20. Rxe5 Rfe8 21. Rxe8+ Rxe8 22. a5 Nd7 23. f3 Bf5 24. Nb3 Kf8 25. Kf2 g5?!
Weakens my pawn structure and gives White more targets. 26. Rd1 Bc2? 27. Rxd5 Nf6 28. Rd6 Bxb3 29. Rxf6 Be6
When I played 29. ... Be6 I thought the Rf6 would be trapped, or at least off sides. Instead, his rook gets out easily and I am a pawn down. 30. f4! g4 31. Rh6! Rd8 32. Rxh7 Rd2+ 33. Kg3 Rxb2 34. Rh5 Rb3 35. Rc5 Ke7 36. f5 Bd7 37. Kxg4 Kd6 38. Rc4 Ke5 39. Bd3 Bc6 40. g3 Ra3 41. h4
+ + + + +p+ +p+ p+l+ + + P + kP+ +R+ +K P r PL+ P + + + + + + + +
After 41. h4
At least I did not lose on time! Now I thought for 25 minutes in the hopeless position. But, Smirin was getting tired
Determing the future world champion French Defense (C15) GM Robert James Fischer Ronald Finegold Western Open Championship (5), 07.06.1963 1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. a3 Bxc3+ 5. bxc3 dxe4 6. Qg4 Nf6 7. Qxg7 Rg8 8. Qh6
This was a Fischer favorite against the French, but Black should get a good game (and why this line is rarely played nowadays). Fischer often suffered in the Winawer. 8. ... Rg6 9. Qe3 b6 10. Bb2 Bb7 11. 0-0-0 Nbd7 12. h3 Qe7 13. Ne2 0-0-0 14. c4
The game is pretty equal. Now the players trade a lot of material and open up the game, which is good for White’s two bishops.
14. ... e5!? 15. dxe5 Nxe5 16. Rxd8+ Kxd8 17. Nf4 Rg8 18. Be2 Kc8 19. Rd1 Rd8 20. Rxd8+ Kxd8 21. Qg3 Ng6 22. h4 Nxf4 23. Qxf4 Ne8
An unusual ending has occurred. White has two bishops and Black has an isolated h-pawn. However, White’s queenside pawns are also quite weak.
uschess.org
24. h5 Bc8 25. h6 Qd6 26. Qg5+ Qe7 27. Qd5+ Qd6 28. Qg5+ Qe7 29. Qg3 Bf5 30. Qf4 Qe6 31. g4 Bg6 32. Qg5+ Qe7 33. Qd5+ Qd6 34. Be5 Qxd5 35. cxd5
White has successfully undoubled his c-pawns. Black is worse, but still in the drawing zone. 35. ... f6 36. Bg3 Ke7 37. Kd2 Nd6 38. Ke3 b5?
+ + + + p p k +p + n pl P +p+P+ + + +p+P+ P + K L +P+L P + + + + +
After 38. ... b5
This is the losing move. My dad told me he simply missed Fischer’s next move. He never expected White to voluntarily give up the two bishops. However, giving up one advantage for another was a Fischer trademark. 39. Bxd6+! Kxd6 40. Kd4 a6 41. c4 bxc4 42.
Bxc4 a5 43. Ba2
Material is equal, but White has a better king, and Black has trouble making any moves. 43. ... f5 44. gxf5 Bxf5 45. Bb3
Black was hoping for the blunder 45. Bb1? which loses to 45. ... e3!. 45. ... Bg6 46. Ba4 Bf5 47. Be8!
+
+L+ + + +p + k + P p +P+l+ + Kp+ + P + + + + + P + + + + + +
p
After 47. Be8
Zugzwang!
47. ... Ke7 48. Ke5 Bg4 49. Bg6! Bd7 50. Bxh7 c6 51. dxc6 Bxc6 52. Bxe4 Bxe4 53. Kxe4 Kf6 54. f4, Black resigned.
My dad told me years later “I knew whoever won this game would go on to be world champion ...”
Chess Life — February 2010
23
Cover Story
At the 2009 U.S. Women’s Championship, Finegold hoists IM Irina Krush (l) and WIM Iryna Zenyuk.
41. ... f6 42. Kh5?! Bd5! 43. Rc8 Bc6!
Now Black has counterplay!
44. Kg6 Rxc3 45. Rd8 Bb5 46. Bxb5 Rxg3+ 47. Kf7 axb5 48. Rb8 Kxf5 49. Rxb7 Rb3 50. a6?
White has some winning chances with 50. Rb6. 50. ... Ra3! 51. Rxb5+ Kg4 52. Rb6 f5
The only move to draw, but easy to find!
53. Kg6 f4 54. h5 f3 55. Rf6 f2, Draw agreed.
We actually got a standing ovation at the end of this game. This game ensured my first GM norm with a round to spare. It took three years to earn my second norm, in the Chicago Spring Invitational. I scored 8-3 to earn a norm in 11 rounds. The norm was clinched after round nine, where I drew the highest-rated player, GM Varuzhan Akobian. Winning in round ten versus Chicago mainstay Al Chow 24
Chess Life — February 2010
and a perfunctory draw with future GM Jesse Kraai was icing on the cake.
Black’s queen is now in a big mess. 23. ... hxg3
A norm clincher! IM Benjamin Finegold (2616) FM Albert Chow (2226) Chicago Spring Invitational (10), 04.21.2005
Black loses his queen after 23. ... Qxf3 24. Nf6+ Nxf6 25. Qxf3.
+r+ rk+ + +n+ + p+ P + p +p lQ pp+ +p+N q p P + +N+ P + PP P R + R K
It took four more years to get my last norm! My second marriage ended in 2008, and since I rarely play in GM-norm-round robin events, it was serendipitous that two such events occurred within one month of each other in August-September 2009. I was well on my way to my last norm in Chicago, with 4½-1½ after six rounds. I was black against soon-to-be-GM wunderkind Ray Robson, when I butchered the game in mutual time trouble. I did not have long to wait, as I was soon flying to Lubbock, Texas for the 2009 Spice Cup B group. I started well, with 5-1, and needed only two more draws in my last three games for the title! I achieved this with a
Black to play
Chow was doing well until this point, when he was “done in” by time trouble! 22. ... Rf7? 23. g3!
24. hxg3 Qg4 25. Nxe5, Black resigned.
Once again, if 25. ... Nxe5 then 26. Nf6+ wins the queen.
uschess.org
PHOTO BY BETSY DYNAKO
(he had already played six GMs in the first seven rounds!) and started to play worse in the fifth and sixth hours.
round to spare, then naturally lost in the final round to GM Eugene Perelshteyn, who ended up catching me with a final score of 6-3 (as did GM Vinay Bhat, who also won his last round). My easiest game was in round three against Texas IM Davorin Kuljasevic. Slav Defense (D15) IM Benjamin Finegold (2601) IM Davorin Kuljasevic (2581) Spice Cup 2009 (3), 09.21.2009 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. Nc3 a6 5. a4 e6 6. Bg5 Nbd7 7. e3 Qa5 8. cxd5 Nxd5
In my pre-game “prep” I had only looked at 8. ... exd5. I wondered why Black did not play the text move, but, I was so busy looking at other lines, I simply did not have the time to look further. Now I had to start thinking! 9. e4! Nxc3 10. bxc3 Qxc3+?
Black should preface this move with 10.
... Nf6! This is actually a well-known position, but not well known to the players in this game! 11. Bd2 Qb2 12. Rb1 Qa3 13. a5
White has fantastic compensation for the pawn. Now Davorin thought for quite some time. He wanted to end his positional troubles, and he was successful. Unfortunately, the tactical troubles did not end. 13. ... c5?
r+l+k l r +p+n+p pp p+ +p+ + P p + + + PP+ + q + +N+ + L PP P +R+Q KL+R
14. Ra1! Qb2 15. Bc4!, Black resigned.
Black has no defense to 16. Ra2.
So now I am a 40-year-old GM. My next stint will be as the grandmaster-inresidence at the fabulous Chess Club and Scholastic Center of St. Louis. I already found a nice townhouse about one block from the chess club, and hopefully I can do well in the 2010 U.S. Championship which will be held at the club, and make the local players proud!
.
Read more about Finegold on his blog and website: http://finegoldchess.blogspot.com/ and www.benjaminfinegold.com/.
After 13. ... c5
PHOTO BY BILL HOOK
Finegold at a Glance 1992
Tied for second U.S. Open (Dearborn, Michigan)
1993
Tied for second U.S. Open (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
1994
Tied for first U.S. Open (Chicago, Illinois)
1994
Tied for second Chicago International (Chicago, Illinois)
1994
1st U.S. G/30 Championship (Bloomington, Illinois)
2002
Tied for first World Open (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) (1st GM norm)
2002
1st U.S. Game/30 Championship (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
2005
Tied for first Chicago Spring Invitational (Chicago, Illinois) (2nd GM norm)
2005
Tied for first National Open (Las Vegas, Nevada)
2006
Tied for first Chicago Open (Chicago, Illinois)
2007
Tied for first U.S. Open (Cherry Hill, New Jersey)
2008
First 7th NACA FIDE (Chicago, Illinois)
2008
Tied for first National Open (Las Vegas, Nevada)
2009
Tied for first SPICE Cup B group (Lubbock, Texas) (3rd GM norm)
uschess.org
A young Finegold in an archival Chess Life photo.
Chess Life — February 2010
25
2009 World Youth
Samritha and Tanuj, or The Silver Medals:
A Story of Chess in Turkey The Fed reports on our relatively inexperienced youth team’s performance at the world youth championships. By GM John Fedorowicz
or the fifth straight year I had the fun task of being one of the coaches at the World Youth Championship. This year’s event was played in Antalya, Turkey from November 11-23, for the second time in three years. The city of Kemer (where the hotel is located) is a very picturesque hour-and-a-half drive from the airport. Two years ago I missed the view as it was too dark during our drive. With the mountains and Mediterranean Sea, we couldn’t have a more relaxed atmosphere for good chess. The Limra Hotel is a self-contained compound. Team USA had all their rooms close together. This made meeting for preparation very easy. As we did two
F
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Chess Life — February 2010
years ago all the coaches assembled in the lobby for the post mortems. We consider this a very important part of the learning process. With the organizers putting out the bulletins regularly, patching up holes quickly was necessary. Another plus was the close proximity to the tournament hall. It was literally 100 feet from the rooms, eliminating hectic bus rides and panic. Jet lag can always be a factor, but our kids were fine—unlike your humble writer. I didn’t adjust to the time change until only two rounds were left! I was awake for pregame prep and post game analysis though! This year’s team was one of our least experienced in recent times. This could be
blamed on the conflict with school calendars for a lot of our top players and potential medal contenders. (58 players were invited from the USA). We looked at this from the bright side, taking up a new and daunting challenge. This year we had five coaches for 25 kids, an easy division. My five students were Alec Getz, Andrew Ng (Under 16 open), David Adelberg (Under 14 open), Varun Krishnan (Under 12 open) and Alisha Chawla (Girls Under 8). Alec and Andrew had the toughest task as their section was very tough. David was a pleasant surprise last year in Vietnam where he contended for a medal. He had chances again this year with six points after eight rounds, but he disappointuschess.org
Young Turks in Turkey. From left to right: Darrian Robinson, Abby Marshall, Andrew Ng, Stuart Finney.
PHOTOS BY GENE NG
Photos below: Our silver medallists: Samritha Palakollu and Tanuj Vasudeva.
ingly lost his last three games. Varun’s preparation with black was a problem; if he gets this fixed he’ll be a factor next year. Alisha started off slowly, but at the end was really rolling. I can see her contending next year. Lets look at some games from our high scorers and potential future world champions. Our first game sees Tanuj clinch the silver medal with this tactical sparkler. I wasn’t a coach at the Pan American Youth last summer, so I hadn’t seen Tanuj yet. I only knew that he won his section easily. He exhibits a positional and tactical feel beyond his youth, has a nice personality, and loves chess—this guy deserves watching. A bright chess career awaits. uschess.org
Chess Life — February 2010
27
2009 World Youth French Defense (C10) FM Tanuj Vasudeva Hamzah Amier World Youth (11), 2009 1. e4
This was an unbelievable game for such a young player. At first I thought Tanuj's sacrifices were unsound, but analysis engines proved me wrong. 1. ... e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 dxe4 4. Nxe4 Nd7 5. Bd3
White’s best line versus Black’s solid setup is 5. Nf3 Ngf6 6. Nxf6+ Nxf6 7. c3 c5 8. Ne5 with good attacking chances.
r+r+ + Q p + kp p + ll+ + qp+ + P + p + P + +L+ + P PP+ P + +K+R R +
8. Qe2 0-0 9. Bg5 c5 10. dxc5 Qa5+?! 11. Bd2 Qxc5 12. 0-0-0
White has the stronger attack in this opposite-side castling type position. 12. ... Bd7 13. Ne5 Rfc8 14. Bc3 Be8
White’s threat of Nxd7 and Bxh7+ forces Black to waste time. 15. Bd4!
This trick prevents ... Rxc3 ideas and puts Black in serious trouble. 15. ... Qa5
Not 15. ... Qxd4?? 16. Bxh7+.
r+r+ + + p + +p Q + +k+ + qp+ lL P + p + P + + + + P PP+ P + +K+R+ +
After 31. Bf5+
31. ... Kxf5
After 31. ... Kd6 32. Qxf7 Black has no defense to 33. Qd7+ or 33. Qe6+. 32. Qxf7+ Kg4 33. Rg1+ Kh3 34. Qf3+, Black resigned.
Our second silver medalist was Samritha Palakollu, who displayed a consistent and sound approach. Her only losses came against the strong Chinese duo that took gold and bronze. She maintained a great attitude whether she won or lost. In this age group, pieces are hung and sudden mates abound, but not from Samritha! This round eight victory over her Russian counterpart put Samritha in serious medal contention.
Black violates the rule of pawn storms. Don't weaken the side where the defense is happening. 17. ... Nd5!? followed by ... Nb4 ideas gives some chances to survive. 18. h4 Nd5
Black threatens to play ... Nf4xd3 removing the important d3-bishop. 19. Qe4! Nf6 20. Qf3 Bd6 21. Qh3
Loading up on g5 and dodging the threat of ... Bxe5 and ... Bc6. 21. ... Nd7 22. Nxd7 Bxd7 23. g5 h5 24. Qf3 e5 25. Qxh5 exd4 26. Qh7+ Kf8 27. Rhe1 Be6 28. Qh8+ Ke7 (see diagram top of next column) 29. Rxe6+ Kxe6
I thought 29. ... fxe6 was Black’s chance for defense. 30. Qxg7+ Kd8 31. Be4! with the double attack on d4 and a8 and White’s attack continues—the passed pawns are lurking as well. 28
Chess Life — February 2010
12. Nxe4 d5 13. Bxd5 cxd5 14. Qxd5 Bf5 15. Qxd8 Rfxd8 16. Ng3 Bxc2 17. Rac1 Bd3 18. Rfd1 Bxb2 19. Rc7
19. ... Ba6
16. ... b5
Risky is 16. ... Nd5!?, but what isn’t?
Opening the board for the bishop pair.
30. Qxg7 Be5 31. Bf5+!
Black never did anything to distract Tanuj from his attack.
17. g4 h6?
11. ... Nxe4!?
Black has played very well, but now she falters.
16. Kb1
It’s not clear what Black should do here.
Typically 11. Bb3 in Dragon/Sozin positions is played, keeping the c4-bishop less exposed.
After 28. ... Ke7
5. ... Ngf6 6. Nxf6+ Nxf6 7. Nf3 Be7?!
If Black plays too passively White develops a nice initiative. 7. ... c5 hitting at the center is a must.
5. ... g6 6. Bb5 Bd7 7. 0-0 Bg7 8. Nxc6 bxc6 9. Bc4 Nf6 10. Be3 0-0 11. Qd2
Sicilian Defense, Accelerated Dragon (B34) Samritha Palakollu Irina Galstyan World Youth (8), 2009 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 d6
Black usually plays 4. ... Nf6 to force Nc3.
5. Nc3
With the white knight still on b1, White can play the Maroczy bind with 5. c4!?. This ensures White a spatial advantage.
Better is 19. ... a5! 20. Rxe7 a4 when White's a2-pawn becomes a problem. 20. Rxd8+ Rxd8 21. h3 Bf6 22. Rxa7 Bc4 23. a4 Rd1+ 24. Kh2 Ra1?
Better is 24. ... h5!; Black’s king needs air badly, and this makes a draw possible. 25. Bh6!
+
+
+k+ R + pp+p + + l p L + + + + P+l+ + + + + + NP + + P P K r + + +
After 25. Bh6
Samritha jumps on her opponent’s error. All of a sudden Black is lost. 25. ... Bd5 26. Rd7 e6 27. Rc7 Bb7 28. Rxb7 Be5 29. Re7 f5
Black’s back-rank weakness has proved costly. 30. Rxe6 Re1 31. Rc6 f4 32. Nh1 f3+ 33. g3 Re2 34. a5 Bd4 35. Rc8+ Kf7 36. Rf8+ Ke7 37. Rxf3 Ra2 38. Bf8+ Ke6 39. Bh6 Rxa5
And White won, mopping up and finally mating on move 62.
Jarod Pamatmat was in great shape with three rounds to go, but put up only a draw in those final games. Nevertheless he had a great tournament including this well-played attack in a queenless middlegame. A lot of young players fold up when queens are gone, but there was no sign of that here. Slav Defense (D12) Jarod Pamatmat (FIDE 2029) Zhakshylyk Nurlanov World Youth (4), 2009 Notes by The Fed and Pamatmat uschess.org
The Next Generation of Female Stars
It wasn’t until after my bags were unpacked, my souvenir magnet was on my refrigerator, and I had recovered from days of travel and Thanksgiving dinner that I realized how much I was going to miss going to the World Youth. I learned so much about chess in those two weeks from my coach Sam Palatnik and from the games themselves. I loved observing the variations in how people dressed and what foods they are and how they prepared for their games. Anything goes. Besides the cultural exposure, I will also miss the camaraderie of the team and witnessing the burgeoning talent of the young players, especially the girls. This was my second World Youth, and I had my eyes on a medal. I won my first game; looking at the pairings for round two, I saw that I was a visitor on board one. I had been prepared to play some tough games, but not this soon! She was 2400 and Russian. I was worse throughout the middlegame but managed to mix it up to reach a complicated endgame. Maybe she was still better. The game continued until we were just playing on thirty second increment. I had a chance to at least draw and maybe win. Unfortunately, I misplayed the position, and at the end of the fifth hour I resigned. After that loss, nothing about my performance was notable, but I got to be excited about the progress of the U.S. team. I was very happy by the number of strong female players on the team. Samritha Palakollu was the big superstar, winning
1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. e3 Bf5 5. Nc3 e6 6. Nh4!?
This move gives White the bishop pair and a slight edge. 6. ... Bg6 7. Qb3
Another try is 7. Nxg6 hxg6 8. Qe2!? with g2-g3 to follow. 7. ... Qb6 8. Nxg6 hxg6 9. cxd5 exd5 10. Bd3 Bd6 11. h3 Qxb3 12. axb3
After the queen swap Jarod outplays his opponent. 12. ... Nbd7 13. Bd2 0-0 14. 0-0 Rfe8 15. f3 Bb4 16. Rfe1 a6 17. Re2 Nb6?!
The knight is misplaced here. With 17. ... Nf8!? the knight can put pressure on d4 when needed. 18. Kf2 Rad8 19. Rc1 Re6 20. h4 Ree8 21. g4 Kf8 22. Rh1 a5 23. h5! gxh5 24. g5 Ng8 25. Rxh5 g6 26. Rh7 Re7 27. Rh3 Ree8 28. Kf1 Re7 29. Reh2 Bxc3 30. bxc3 a4 31. bxa4 Nxa4 32. Bc1 Ke8 33. c4!?
White's most accurate line is 33. Rh8 Kd7 34. Rc2 b5 35. e4. 33. ... Nb6 34. Rh8 Kd7 35. c5 Na8 36. e4 Nc7 37. Bf4 (see diagram top of next column)
White’s bishop pair is strong while Black’s forces are discombobulated. 37. ... dxe4 38. Bxe4 uschess.org
the silver in the Girls Under 8, thanks to her skill and strong fighting spirit. Her parents said that after Samritha lost in round two, she was upset because she really wanted a medal. She became very determined and bounced back. Annie Wang was also impressive; her rating put me to shame. Throughout the tournament Alena Kats kept her calm, intense composure while playing on the top boards, while Simone Liao and Darrian Robinson worked very hard preparing and at the board. They have much potential and promise. The dedication and talent from this group of female players is so encouraging because I believe that once more women start playing chess, then the numbers will be there and the achievement gap in chess between men and women will close. Meanwhile, it’s funny for me to think that in five or ten years or so these girls will all be my peers, though now they’re still so little. I do know to watch out. This tournament and the high school nationals in the spring are my big goodbyes to youth chess, so I’m feeling sad and a little weird. It’s been an awesome journey from cleaning out the novice sections in Columbus to competing for the world championship in Antalya. I’m eighteen years old and off to college next year. I hope to keep playing throughout my college years, though if I do take a break I know that I will be back someday. I have some big goals in chess that may not have been realized at the World Youth, but I remain optimistic. ~Abby Marshall
+ r +n R +p nk rp+ +p+ +p+ + Pp+ P + PP L + + +L+P+ + + + R + + +K+
After 37. Bf4
A possible line: 38. fxe4 Ne6 39. Be3 f5 40. exf5 Nxc5 41. dxc5 Rxe3 42. Bc4 Re5 43. R2h7+ Kc8 44. fxg6 Rf5+ 45. Ke2 Rxg5 46. Be6+ Kb8 47. Bxg8 Rxg6 48. Bf7 Rg2+. 38. ... Ne6 39. Be5 Nxg5 40. Rb2 Ke6 41. Bb1 Red7 42. Re2 Nxf3 43. Bg7+ Kd5 44. Ba2 mate.
White found creative attacking chances in the “queenless” middlegame. One of our most experienced players is Alena Kats. This was her fourth world youth (we first met in 2006 in Batumi, Georgia) and she’s shown steady improvement. Her father Michael (Viva Trabzon) kept me constantly entertained with his fast wit and jovial personality. With a little luck she could’ve gotten to 8½, but had to settle for a more than respectable 7½. In the following game she crushed her opponent from a locked French Winawer position. These locked positions are very difficult to play, but
she showed good understanding, taking advantage of her Uzbek opponent’s inaccuracies to win an easy one. French Defense (C19) Alena Katz (FIDE 2001) Elena Verbova World Youth (3), 2009 1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. e5 Ne7 5. a3 Bxc3+ 6. bxc3 c5 7. Nf3 Nbc6 8. Bd3
Nick de Firmian’s favorite at this point is 8. a4!?. A search shows many wins from the likes of Fischer and Spassky. 8. ... c4
Black is better off keeping the position flexible; now Black’s bishop is like a big pawn. 8. ... Qa5 9. Bd2 f6 is normal for Black and gets into complicated theory. 9. Be2 0-0?!
After locking the queenside, Black's king should head there instead. 10. 0-0 f6 11. exf6 Rxf6 12. Bg5 Rf8 13. Ne5 Nxe5 14. dxe5 Qc7 15. Bxe7!
White’s dark square bishop becomes a liability in the Winawer. 15. ... Qxe7 16. Qd4
Black has a more solid pawn chain, but lacks any type of activity. 16. ... Qg5?
Black is struggling. 16. ... Bd7 rerout-
Chess Life — February 2010
29
2009 World Youth ing this piece to g6 is Black’s only defensive hope.
is a better chance for Black although White still has an edge.
17. f4 Qg6 18. Rf2 b6 19. Raf1 Bb7 20. h3 Rf7 21. Kh2 Raf8 22. g4 Bc8 23. Bd1 h6 24. h4 Qh7 25. Kg3 g6 26. Kh2 Bb7 27. Qe3 Rd7 28. f5!
9. exf6 e.p. Nxf6 10. 0-0
+ + rk+ pl+r+ +q p +p+p p + +p PP+ +p+ +P P P P Q + +P+ R K + +L+R+
After 28. f5
This decisive thematic break wraps things up quickly. 28. ... exf5 29. gxf5 Rxf5 30. Bg4! Rxf2+ 31. Qxf2 Rd8 32. Be6+, Black resigned.
The rook on d8 will fall with check.
Another player who is showing rapid improvement is Dachey Lin. I like his style and the fact that he plays 1. d4, which causes problems for other kids. I think young players are all well prepared for 1. e4, but not equipped against 1. d4. The style of play is less tactical and requires more strategy. This game is a typical example of White’s superior handling of the Nimzo Indian Qc2 line. Lin’s penultimateround win let him finish on a high note. Nimzo-Indian Defense, Classical Variation (E32) Dachey Lin (FIDE 1742) Nikolai Golikov (FIDE 1875) World Youth (10), 2009 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Qc2
Popular at all levels, White avoids doubled pawns with this variation, and can possibly control the center with e2-e4. 4. ... 0-0 5. Nf3
With 5. a3 Bxc3+ 6. Qxc3 b6 7. Bg5 Bb7 8. e3, White hopes his bishop pair compensates for his lagging development. 5. ... b6?!
Better is 5. ... c5!?; this center hit takes the steam out of White’s possible e4. 6. dxc5 Na6 7. a3 Bxc3+ 8. Qxc3 Nxc5 gives Black decent play. 6. e4!
Much stronger than on move 5.
6. ... d5 7. e5 Ne4 8. Bd3 f5?!
This move gives me the creeps! 8. ... Bb7!? 9. 0-0 Bxc3 10. bxc3 Nd7 11. Nd2 30
Chess Life — February 2010
With attacking chances and a target on e6, White is in the driver’s seat. 10. ... Bxc3 11. bxc3
Black’s loose king and the backwarde6 pawn add up to a nice edge for Dachey. 11. ... Qe8?
Black was trying for kingside counterplay, but runs into a simple idea: 12. Ba3!
This alert move wins material.
12. ... c5
If 12. ... Rf7, 13. Ne5 traps the rook.
plentiful, and service was excellent. In closing I would like to thank my fellow coaches GM Sam Palatnik, IM Armen Ambartsoumian, FM Aviv Friedman, and FIDE Trainer and Head of Delegation Michael Khodarkovsky. Not only did we do a great job with the chess, but it was very enjoyable hanging out with these guys. I’d like to thank Semen Filatov and his mom Anna as well. Next year’s event is rumored to be in Greece, 2011 in Rio de Janeiro and 2012 back in Antalya. To all future world youth players, I wish you good preparation, good practice, and good luck! Looking forward to more successes next year.
.
See more World Youth reporting at uschess.org, Chess Life Online, November archives.
13. dxc5 dxc4 14. Bxc4 Qe7 15. Ng5 bxc5 16. Rae1! Kh8 17. Bxe6 Qb7 18. Bxc5
r nl+ r k pq+ + pp + +L n + + L + N + + + + + P + + P+Q+ PP P + + RR K
After 18. Bxc5
18. ... Bxe6
If the rook moves, then Nf7+ cleans up. 19. Bxf8 Nbd7 20. Rxe6 Nxf8 21. Re3
Dachey is up a lot of material, so he takes his time. 21. ... Qd5 22. Ne4 Qf5 23. Qa4 Ng4 24. Rf3 Qe5 25. Ng3 Nf6 26. Qc6 Rd8 27. Qb7 h5? 28. Rf5 Qe6 29. Nxh5 Rd7 30. Qf3 Rd6 31. Nxf6 gxf6 32. Qg4 Nh7 33. h3 Qxa2 34. Rc5 Qf7 35. Rc8+ Nf8 36. Re1 Kh7 37. Qb4 Re6 38. Rxe6 Nxe6 39. Qh4+.
Black lost on time here, but his position is also losing.
The Turkish Chess Federation (TCF) once again did a wonderful job organizing this event. I saw reports that as many as 1,500 players from 89 different countries could be participating. I knew from two years ago what to expect. Very seldom does an undertaking this large run so smoothly. It began with the timely pickups of large, travel-weary delegations and rapid hotel check-ins. For this I was very thankful. The pairings were posted about an hour after all games finished and opponents games could be looked up on the Internet. The restaurant was spacious, food was
Team USA Results Girls Under 8 Samritha Palakollu 8½, Alisha Chawla, Liza Vigna, Annie Wang, 7. Girls Under 10 Simone Liao 7.
Girls Under 12 Sarah Chiang 7½. Girls Under 14 Alena Kats 7½, Anna Matlin 6½.
Girls Under 16 Darrian Robinson 5½. Girls Under 18 Abby Marshall 6½.
Open Under 8 Tanuj Vasudeva, 8½, Winston Zeng, 5.
Open Under 10 Dachey Lin 7½, Tommy He 7, Jonathan Chiang 6½.
Open Under 12 Jarod Pamatmat 7½, Arthur Chen 7, Daniel Gurevich, Michael Brown, and Varun Krishnan, 6½. Open Under 14 David Adelberg, Stuart Finney, 6, Daniel Rozovsky 5½. Open Under 16 Alec Getz 6, Andrew Ng 5½.
uschess.org
College Chess
A UTD Thanksgiving: R O S ES A N D R EC O G N I T I O N
Despite problems unique to college chess, the University of Texas at Dallas’ eighth norm event proves a success.
W
hile most Americans were eating turkey and spending time with family, 16 students from The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) competed at chess for norms and pride. From November 21-29, 2009, UTD sponsored two 10-player round robin tourna- ments. Four invited players rounded out the tournaments: GMs Zviad Izoria and Giorgi Kacheishvili in the GM (grandmaster)norm section, and GMs Babakuli Annakov and Ildar Ibragimov in the IMnorm section. Winning the GM-norm section with six points out of nine were the two invited GMs. Winning the IM (international master)-norm section with six points out of nine was UTD junior Tautvydas Vedrickas. Though Vedrickas didn’t earn an IM norm, he raised his rating from 2272 to 2294 FIDE. The 2009 event was the eighth international norm event sponsored by UTD in the last nine years. In 2001, 2002, and 2004, IM-norm tournaments were held on the UTD campus. In 2005, 2006, and 2007, the tournaments moved to community room sites in the city of Richardson and became GM-norm tournaments. In 2008 and 2009, to accommodate the growing number of norm-hopeful UTD students, both GM-norm and IM-norm sections were held off campus at area hotels. A handful of UTD students made uschess.org
BY DR. ALEXEY ROOT, WIM
norms at these events. GM norms were achieved by Magesh Chandran Panchanathan in 2005, by Drasko Boskovic in 2006, and by Davorin Kuljasevic in 2007. John Bartholomew made an IM norm in 2006, and in 2009, a woman international master norm (WIM) for Zorigt Bayaraa. For the GM-norm section, an IM needed to score six points out of nine to make a GM norm. For the IM-norm section, which included the only two female competitors, 6½ points earned an IM norm, 6 points got a woman grandmaster norm, and 4 points nabbed a WIM norm.
A Norm for Zorigt
Although she has a higher rating than many WIMs, Zorigt (it’s a silent “g,” Zoreet) Bayaraa (pronounced Byra, “like Myra with a B”) is a woman FIDE master. She earned her first WIM norm in the 2009 UTD IM-norm section with 5 points out of 9. With better luck, this might have been her second instead of her first WIM norm. In 2008, at this same event, Bayaraa also scored 5 points, one point above the requirement for a WIM norm. But there was a problem in 2008 with the composition of the IM-norm section. UTD Chess Program Director Jim Stallings explained, “Bayaraa had enough points in the 2008 UTD IM-norm section for a WIM
norm. But due to a last-minute player substitution (which filled the requirement for enough players from other federations but not the requirement for titled players), a norm was not achieved.” In 2009, luckily, no such problems existed. Zorigt is a senior at UTD, in the management honors program. The management honors program provides an intellectually challenging and stimulating academic experience in a unique learning environment for the best and brightest students. Zorigt fits the “best and brightest” description with a 3.9 grade point average, an academic honors scholarship, an undergraduate research scholar award, and a dean’s excellence scholarship. She has a double major in finance and accounting. Zorigt started playing chess competitively at age 11 in her native Mongolia. Her dream is to open a chess palace, with instruction and tournaments, in Mongolia.
Logistics
The tournament was a 15-minute drive from UTD, where the students live. Not all of them have cars, so that made for transportation problems. For round five, FM Daniel Yeager was still at UTD when his opponent, WIM Karina Vazirova, started his clock at the Marriott Quorum hotel Chess Life — February 2010
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College Chess
PHOTOS BY ALEXEY ROOT
Above: Various scenes from the event, including top left, reading about the UTD chess team visit to Cuba in the Dallas Morning News. Below, the GM group photo: (l-r) Ludwig, Wang, Kacheishvili, Izoria, Stopa, Sadorra, and Bercys. Simutowe, Zivanic, and Ramirez not shown.
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Chess Life — February 2010
uschess.org
playing site. Not wanting to win by forfeit, Vazirova borrowed FM John Daniel Bryant’s cell phone to talk to Yeager. After determining that Yeager was indeed stranded, she drove to UTD, picked Yeager up, drove him to the hotel, drew against him, then drove him back to UTD. I gave several post-round rides. Most memorable were freshmen Tyler Hughes and Bryant, who asked to be dropped at Braum’s Ice Cream rather than at their residence hall. Classes caused quick draws and scheduling headaches. IM Salvijus Bercys told me that his round one opponent, UTD graduate student GM Alejandro Ramirez, offered a draw after just seven moves. The reason, according to Bercys, was that Ramirez had to return to UTD to work on a paper. UTD had classes Monday through Wednesday (November 23-25). Seven of the GM-section players had five or more draws each, with many of those draws near the minimum of 10 moves requested by Stallings. Competitors with evening classes postponed games until the day after Thanksgiving. By Thanksgiving break, UTD graduate student GM Amon Simutowe had completed only two of five rounds and several other students were missing one round. I asked UTD Chess Coach IM Rade Milovanovic about these logistical problems. First of all, he replied, all tournaments have scheduling difficulties. Second, it is important to have the norm tournaments before the Pan American Intercollegiate Team chess tournament. This year, the Pan Am is December 27-30, 2009. Milovanovic uses these norm tournaments, the December rating list, and his own perceptions of the playing strength and team compatibility of each UTD student to determine his Pan Am teams. During the norm tournaments he said, “I
change my mind almost every day about who will be on our Pan Am teams.” Rade added that he, Stallings, and UTD Chess Program Assistant Director Luis Salinas confer about which four professional players to invite to the norm tournaments. Although they prefer USCF professionals, sometimes they need to pick players with international federations to ensure that norm possibilities exist for the UTD students. No more than six players in a section can be from the same federation. This year, the IM-norm section had exactly six USCF members.
Reti Opening (A07) GM Giorgi Kacheishvili (2650) IM Julio Sadorra (2532) UTD Invitational (2) Notes by Doug Root
bishop to a3 and to prepare b3-b4.
1. Nf3 Nf6 2. g3 d5 3. Bg2 c6 4. 0-0 Bf5 5. d3 h6 6. b3 e6 7. Bb2 Be7 8. Nbd2 0-0
Often played instead is 8. ... Nbd7. But then White can play 9. e4. If 9. ... dxe4 (more common is retreating the bishop) 10. dxe4 Nxe4 11. Bxg7. Sadorra’s 8. ... 0-0 prevents 9. e4, because now the black king defends the g7-pawn. 9. Ne5 Nfd7 10. e4 Bh7 11. Nxd7 Nxd7 12. Qe2 Qa5 13. a3
To prevent Black from playing his
uschess.org
Roses and Recognition
During round seven, GM Timur Gareev of The University of Texas at Brownsville bought roses for the players as well as for Milovanovic. He was one of a handful of enthusiastic spectators on hand throughout the event. At the closing dinner, Stallings thanked the GMs, particularly the invited professionals, for participating. Although no norms were achieved in the GM-norm section, Stallings said, “This means that our visitors provided good learning exercises for team members.” He also added words of appreciation for FIDE Arbiter Jon Haskel for being the tournament director for both norm sections. Recognition was given to the UTD administration for its support of the chess team and program. Stallings also addressed the logistical problems of the 2009 norm tournaments. Stallings stated, “This year is only the second one that we have held the tournament during the academic year. Previously, it was held immediately at the end of the semester around December 7. Our academic calendar was extended by two weeks in 2008; and it was no longer feasible to have the tournament at the end
13. ... Bf6 14. d4 Bg5
Black's move loses time, since 15. f4 is helpful to White. 15. f4 Be7 16. c4 dxe4 17. Nxe4 Nf6 18. Nf2 Qb6 19. b4
Perhaps the more solid 19. Qf3 might be stronger. 19. ... Qa6
of the semester. The challenge became when to hold the tournament. The Thanksgiving holidays were the best place on the calendar. Last year, two rounds a day were played. This year we went to the original format of one round a day to see if this might be more beneficial for team members. We have already started collecting feedback from team members to study how we might further improve the tournament for 2010. As with all aspects of our chess program, the program staff seeks to optimize conditions for our team members, maximize budgetary savings, represent the University in a positive manner, and seek new, innovative ideas for college chess.”
Annotated Games
The time control for this tournament was Game/90 with a 30-second increment. Players were required to keep score for all moves, and games were transmitted live over MonRoi. To play through games go to www.monroi.com, then click on “CHESS GAMES,” and then scroll to “UTD INVITATIONAL,” Nov 21-29.” GM-norm section winners Izoria and Kacheishvili are both from Soviet Georgia but currently call Brooklyn, New York home. As of November 2009, Izoria has been in the U.S. for 3½ years, and Kacheishvili has been here for one year. Kacheishvili’s best game was probably his round two win over UTD freshman IM Julio Sadorra. Originally from the Philippines, Sadorra is now neighbors with GM Wesley So. Just as Sadorra is not the strongest player in his neck of the woods, I am not the strongest player in mine. Annotations for this game are by the strongest player at my house, IM Doug Root. (see game below)
Black’s queen has no retreat and is in danger of being trapped.
+ r r k+ +p+ lp p +p+p n p p + + + q PP P P + P +Q+ P L + +L P + R R K
Better is 19. ... a5 which puts pressure on White’s advanced pawns. With 19. ... Qa6, Black’s queen becomes misplaced on the side of the board.
After 23. ... a5
20. Rfe1 Rad8 21. Rac1 Qa4 22. Nd3 Bxd3 23. Qxd3 a5
24. Ra1! Rd7 Chess Life — February 2010
33
College Chess White wins material after 24. ... axb4 25. axb4 Qxb4 26. Ba3. 25. Bc3 Rfd8
Black loses the queen after 25. ... axb4 26. axb4 Qb3 27. Reb1. 26. Qb1 b6
An interesting alternative is 26. ... Rxd4 27. f5! If White had tried 27. Bf3 then Black can reply 27. ... c5.
27. f5 exf5 28. Bf3 Ne4
28. ... c5 29. d5 Ra7 30. bxa5 and White has the advantage. 29. Rxe4 fxe4 30. Bd1 axb4 31. axb4 Qxa1 32. Qxa1 Bf6 33. Be2 Rxd4
+
r
+k+ + + +p p pp+ l p + + + + PP rp+ + + L + P + +L+ P Q + + K
After 33. ... Rxd4
34. Kf2
34. Qc1 Bg5 35. Qb1—This line may be more precise than 34. Kf2 and 35. Kf3. Time trouble is a factor at this point in the game. 34. ... e3+ 35. Kf3 R4d6 36. g4 Re8 37. c5 bxc5 38. bxc5 Bxc3 39. Qxc3 Rf6+ 40. Kg3 Rf2 41. Qd3 g6 42. h4 Re6 43. Qc4 Kf8 44. Qd3 Kg8 45. Qc4 Kf8 46. Qa6 Kg8 47. Qa8+ Kh7 48. Qa2 Ref6 49. Qc4 Re6 50. h5 g5 51. Qd3+ Kg8 52. Qa6 Rxe2
A mistake. Better was to leave the rook and put the king on g7.
53. Qxe2 Kf8 54. Kg2 Kg8 55. Kf1 Kf8 56. Qd3 e2+ 57. Ke1 Kg8 58. Qd8+ Kg7 59. Qc8
Now Black has no good moves left.
59. ... Kf6 60. Qf8, Black resigned.
Root considered IM Puchen Wang over Sadorra to be the best game of the norm tournaments. Although it may seem unfair to put two Sadorra losses in one article, Sadorra played some of the most interesting chess of the GM section. He had just two draws in nine rounds.
Queen’s Gambit Accepted, Classical Variation (D27) IM Puchen Wang (2515) IM Julio Sadorra (2532) UTD Invitational (7) Notes by Doug Root 1. d4 d5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. c4 e6 4. Nc3 dxc4 5. e3 a6 6. a4 c5 7. Bxc4 Nc6 8. 0-0 Be7 9. Qc2 cxd4 10. Rd1 e5?
Better is 10. ... 0-0.
11. exd4 exd4 12. Ne2 0-0 13. Nexd4 Nxd4 14. Rxd4 Qb6 15. Be3 Bc5 16. a5!
Forcing the black queen from the defense of d8. 16. ... Qa7
r+l+ r k+ qp+ +p pp p+ + n + P l + + +L R + + + + LN+ PQ+ P P P R + + K
After 16. ... Qa7
UMBC PREPARES FOR PAN AMS
The University of Maryland, Baltimore County A Team as it was in preparation for the Pan Am Intercollegiate which was held from December 27-30: (top row, l-r) WGM Sabina Foisor, IM Sasha Kaplan, GM Sergey Erenburg, GM Leonid Kritz.
(bottom row, l-r) Igor Epshteyn, coach; Dr. Alan T. Sherman, Director, UMBC chess program; GM Sam Palatnik, Associate Director, UMBC chess program.
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Chess Life — February 2010
uschess.org
17. Bxf7+! Kh8
The alternatives are quite awful as well—17. ... Rxf7 18. Rd8+ Rf8 19. Rxf8+ Kxf8 20. Bxc5+; 17. ... Kxf7 18. Qc4+ Ke7 (18. ... Kg6 19. Nh4+ Kh5 20. Rd5+) 19. Re1. 18. Bb3 Bxd4 19. Bxd4 b6 20. axb6 Qb7 21. Bc5 Bg4
21. ... Rd8 22. Ng5 which is winning for White. 22. Ne5 Rac8 23. Bxf8!
A precisely-calculated finish.
23. ... Rxc2 24. Nf7+ Kg8 25. Nd8+ Qd5 26. Bxd5+ Nxd5 27. b7 Rxb2 28. Bd6, Black resigned.
IM-norm section winner Vedrickas said that his last round win over Vazirova would be the most enjoyable for Chess Life readers. He showed it to me just before Sunday night’s closing dinner. I quote and paraphrase his annotations. Queen’s Gambit Declined, Exchange Variation (D35) Tautvydas Vedrickas (2300) WIM Karina Vazirova (2109) UTD Invitational (9) Notes by Vedrickas and Alexey Root 1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. cxd5 exd5 5. Bg5 c6 6. e3 Bf5
I expected 6. ... Be7. My plan is to play Ng1-e2-g3. 7. Nge2 Nbd7 8. Ng3 Bg6
Here I realized that maybe my h4 idea wasn’t good because Black can respond with ... h7-h6. Black also has the idea of Qb6 on my b-pawn. 9. Bd3 Bb4
I didn't expect this move. I thought she might play 9. ... Bd6 with the idea of h6. Then when I retreat my bishop to f4, she could play ... Bxf4. 10. 0-0 0-0 11. f3 Re8
This is a good move by Karina. I can't play e3-e4 because my d4-pawn is weak to ... Qb6.
PHOTO COURTESY OF UMBC
12. Bxg6 hxg6 13. e4 Qa5
Once again, I am surprised. I expected 13. ... Qb6. 14. e5 Nh7 15. Bd2 Qb6 16. Be3 f5
Karina stops my plan of f3-f4-f5. The bpawn is indirectly defended, i.e. 16. ... Nxe5 17. Na4; 16. ... Bxc3 17. bxc3 Nxe5 18. Rb1. 17. Na4 Qc7
uschess.org
Also possible is 17. ... Qd8 18. Qb3. 18. h4 Ndf8 19. Qb3
Defends my bishop on e3, with tempo (because I am attacking her bishop on b4). 19. ... Ba5 20. h5 Qf7 21. hxg6 Nxg6
Now I have to play f3-f4 to stop Black from playing ... f4. My knight finds a nice square after 21. ... Qxg6 22. Ne2. 22. f4 Nhf8 23. Qd3 Ne7 24. Kf2 Ne6 25. Nc5
If I played Rh1 first, Black sets up a defense with ... g6, ... Kg7, and ... Rh8. 25. ... Nxc5 26. dxc5
26. ... d4 is a positional pawn sacrifice which I think is a good alternative. The idea for Black would be to follow up ... Rad8. 26. ... g6 27. Rh1 Qe6
Nimzowitsch said that the queen is not a good blockader. 28. Ne2 Kg7 29. Nd4 Qc8 30. Nf3 b6 31. Bd4 bxc5 32. Ng5 cxd4 33. Rh7+, Black resigned.
r+q+r+ + p + n kR +p+ +p+ l +p Pp N + p P + + +Q+ + P P + KP+ R + + +
After 33. Rh7+
And Black resigned because of checkmate in four moves. Here are the lines: 33. ... Kg8 (33. ... Kf8 34. Rf7+ Kg8 35. Qh3 Be1+ 36. Rxe1 d3 37. Qh7 mate) 34. Qh3 Be1+ 35. Rxe1 d3 36. Rh8+ Kg7 37. Qh6 mate. Zorigt’s favorite game was her win, as white, over Tyler Hughes. She showed me the game on Saturday night, as she was waiting to give several of her fellow students a ride back to UTD. French Defense (C00) WFM Zorigt Bayaraa (2255) Tyler Hughes (2354) UTD Invitational (4) Notes by Bayaraa and Alexey Root 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. d3
Tyler plays his openings really well, so I played 3. d3 to avoid his preparation. 3. ... Nc6 4. g3 Nf6 5. Bg2 d5 6. Nbd2 Be7 7. 0-0 0-0
This is all theory. I knew during the
game that we were following a book line. 8. Re1 b5 9. e5 Nd7 10. Nf1 a5 11. h4 b4 12. Bf4
My idea is to maneuver my Nf1-e3-g4, then move the other N to g5, then sacrifice my g4 N on f6. 12. ... a4 13. a3 bxa3 14. bxa3 Ba6 15. Ne3 Nb6
I think 15. ... Na5 is more common, with the idea of ... c5-c4. After 15. ... Na5 I would have played 16. h5. 15. ... Nb6 also takes away protection from f6, where I plan to make my sacrifice. 16. Ng5 Qe8 17. Ng4 Kh8 18. Rb1 Rb8 19. h5
I had considered 19. Nf6 but it didn't work. 19. ... Qd8 20. Qd2 c4
I thought Black should have played 20. ... h6 instead. 21. h6 g6 22. Nf6 Bxf6 23. exf6 Rc8
+r q r k + + +p+p l nn+p Pp P + +p+ N p+p+ L + P +P+ P +P Q P L+ +R+ R K
After 23. ... Rc8
24. Rxe6
At this point, Tyler walked by and commented, “I didn't see where the rook was going when she picked it up.” 24. ... fxe6 25. Nxe6 Qxf6 26. Nxf8 Nd4 27. Qe3 Kg8 28. Rxb6 Qxb6 29. Qe7 Ne2+ 30. Kh2 Qd4 31. Bxd5+, Black resigned.
.
UTD Invitational At A Glance Date: November 21-29, 2009 Location: Marriott Quorum, Dallas, Texas Top Finishers: GM, 1st-2nd, Zviad Izoria, Giorgi Kacheishvili, 6; 3rd, Alejandro Ramirez, 5½; 4th, Puchen Wang, 5th-7th, Marko Zivanic, Daniel Ludwig, Jacek Stopa, 4½; 8th-10th, Salvijus Bercys, Julio Sadorra, Amon Simutowe, 3. IM, 1st, Tautvydas Vedrickas, 6. Tournament Director: Jon Haskel
Chess Life — February 2010
35
Remembrance
Remembering (Your Humble Reporter)
36
Chess Life — February 2010
YHR uschess.org
Long-time Chess Life reporter Jerry Hanken’s death means this magazine’s tournament reports will no longer have the same flavor. Chess politician, chess journalist, and, most importantly, chess lover, Hanken always seemed to be right in the middle of various USCF activities. This month we focus on the reporter.
FROM THE EDITOR
The first time I spoke to Jerry Hanken I intended for it to be the last time. I had just been hired as Chess Life editor, and in reading the previous few years’ worth of issues, I was completely unimpressed with Hanken’s articles; it struck me that he was operating on autopilot and that the articles had merely become vanity pieces. These lines, from October 2005, “World Open: New Site, Repeat Champion,” could have appeared in just about any Hanken article from that period: “Your Humble Reporter [YHR] never fails to fill you in on his own performance, no matter how bad it is. I promised a couple of people that I wouldn’t include any of my games in this report, because there were so many fine GM games. However, I must say that I was not totally disappointed in my score of 3½, and had a chance for an even score in the last round, playing in it against Parker Zhao of New York, who was celebrating his eleventh birthday.” But, before I was able to call him, he called me to introduce himself. I was very quickly taken in by his enthusiasm for chess and his exuberant personality. Instead of telling him I would now be using different reporters, I explained to him my concerns and he agreed, reluctantly, to write to my specifications, which included no more raw game scores—all games must be annotated; only sparing use of sidebar interviews—better to incorporate the interviews within the text of the main article; and (most painfully to Jerry) take himself out of the story and stop using his favorite “YHR”—Your Humble Reporter. As likeable as Jerry was, he could be exasperating beyond belief. He never met a deadline. He never met a comma he didn’t like. An article was never finished—he always had an addition or two well after the initial submission. And he rarely wrote a story that didn’t include a Jerry Hanken game. It became a little contest between us; he would include a game of his and explain to me why it should be printed. More often than not, I simply cut the game, though he won this argument a few times. The winning argument was simply how much joy the particular game gave him.
Over time, I found that the exasperation proved well worth the effort, and he rediscovered the voice that first made him a favorite of Chess Life’s readers. Jerry always found some nugget, some element of humanity, that made his tournament reports compelling reading. In his final World Open report, “The Alexander Technique” from the October 2009 issue, his firstperson reporting now serves the reader rather than himself: “ ‘LENDER—MAN—! LENDER—MAN!’—The chant could be heard all throughout the second floor of the hotel. A crowd of 80 or so chess players were packed tightly in a circle right outside the playing room between rounds two and three of the traditional World Open blitz championship. After nine rounds of grueling, grinding, serious play, the players were letting off steam. I could not penetrate the dense circle, three or four bodies deep, some standing on chairs, some even sitting on others shoulders, many with their cell phones taking videos—all having one heck of a good time!” What a beautiful picture that opening paragraph paints.
PHOTO BY CHRIS BIRD
Jerry told me that the compliment he appreciated the most from me was my telling him how I admired his ability to tell a fresh story about tournaments he had covered for many years. This is an undervalued ability and can only be achieved by a dedicated chess journalist who truly loves chess and chessplayers.
In the movie Cinema Paradiso, the young boy Toto grows up in a small post-war Sicilian village and falls in love with the movies. However, the prudish town priest cuts any kissing scene from any movie before it is shown to the general public. When the adult Toto returns home 30 years later for his good friend the projectionist’s funeral, he is given a gift by the widow: a reel with all the cut kissing scenes.
As we say goodbye to Jerry Hanken after his death on October 1, 2009 due to complications from diabetes, Chess Life here offers a tribute I would like to think that Jerry would appreciate. What follows are some of Hanken’s games—his kisses to ~Daniel Lucas the chess world—that he provided but that were cut from the print version of the articles. uschess.org
Chess Life — February 2010
37
Remembrance “Jerry’s work for Chess Life ranged from the excellent to the mediocre. At his best, he was as good as the best. Often, and especially in the last five years, his articles often seemed ‘phoned in,’ without much care or art.”
—USCF PAST PRESIDENT TIM REDMAN
SEPTEMBER 2006 “ W O J T K I E W I C Z ’ S N AT I O N A L O P E N VA L E D I C T O RY ”
The following game had some bearing on the tournament result. In round one this reporter (one of the eventual three pointers) faced defending champion Gurevich. After a complex struggle in the opening and early middlegame, I knew I “had him,” and began swelling with pride that I could beat such a grandmaster (GM). Then I looked again. A cold chill came over me when I realized, or thought that I realized, that the natural capture of the knight would enable him to advance his king to h5 and form an unstoppable mating net. “Hanken, you idiot!” I said to myself. How could I think it would be so easy? Thinking that I must stop the mate, I played the howler in the text, Qxe5?? Of course, now the knight that I should have taken comes to d7, simply winning my queen. For some reason I had not seen the simple consecutive pawn checks that drive the king back if he plays ... Kh5. This was clearly an example of a loss to a grandmaster by a master through selfintimidation. King’s Indian Defense (E61) Jerry Hanken (2200) GM Dmitry Gurevich (2565) 2006 National Open (1) 1. c4 g6 2. g3 Bg7 3. Bg2 Nf6 4. Nc3 0-0 5. e3 d6 6. Nge2 e5 7. 0-0 c6 8. d4 Qe7 9. Qc2 a5 10. b3 Na6 11. a3 Bf5 12. e4 Bd7 13. dxe5 dxe5 14. Be3
Normally this would not be playable without a preparatory h2-h3, but the b6square is available for the bishop, which then cannot be attacked by ... Nd7. 14. ... Nc5 15. Bxc5 Qxc5 16. Na4
Now White takes control of the queenside dark squares. He has a “plus over equals” advantage. 16. ... Qa7 17. c5 Be6 18. b4 Nd7 19. Nec3 axb4 20. axb4 b5 21. cxb6 e.p.
Now the weaknesses are on the light squares. Giving up the queen for two rooks looks promising, but in the long run White keeps an edge. 38
Chess Life — February 2010
21. ... Nxb6 22. Nc5! Qxa1 23. Nxe6 fxe6 24. Rxa1 Rxa1+ 25. Bf1 Bh6 26. Ne2 Be3
I had overlooked this possibility, but the more I examined the position the more clear it became that White’s king could find safety while Black remained vulnerable to the white queen. 27. fxe3 Raxf1+ 28. Kg2 R8f2+ 29. Kh3 Rh1 30. Qxc6 Kg7 31. Qc7+ Kh6
+
+
+
+ + Q + +p n +p+p k + + p + P +P+ + + + P PK + +N r P + + + +r
After 31. ... Kh6
In this position, White has three moves to keep a significant advantage: 32. Qxb6, 32. Kg4, and the most decisive move, which I missed, 32. Nf4!! exf4 33. exf4 which cuts the Black king off from going to the dark squares, and if he tries to lock White in with ... Kh5, White simply plays 34. g4+ and 35. g5+ which retains a definite advantage. Instead, I chose ... 32. Qxe5?? Nd7!, White resigned.
In the bulletin, editor Chris Bird ran his Fritz and found that the move, which I didn’t see, 32. Nf4, wins almost instantly. Of course, there was also 32. Kg4, where his Majesty has found safe sanctuary, also winning. Not my first chess tragedy by any means, but one I will remember to the end.
J U LY 2 0 0 7 “THE PRINCE OF FOXWOODS”
You may wonder why I chose to show you this first-round game, which Your Reporter lost to Sarkar—it is because of the interesting psychological goings-on during the game. I achieved an advantage out of the opening, and kept it for some time. The last strong player in the world that I would want to beat was Justin, as I was rooting for him to get his GM norm in this tournament. I had to choose a place in the game to offer a draw, when I was still better, so that I could clear my mind and simply play the position. Here it is: Symmetrical English (A36) Jerry Hanken (2200) IM Justin Sarkar (2442) 2007 Foxwoods Open (1) 1. c4 g6 2. g3 Bg7 3. Bg2 c5 4. Nc3 Nc6 5. e3 e5 6. Nge2 Nge7 7. 0-0 0-0 8. a3 a5 9. Nb5 d6 10. d4
White has an edge.
10. ... exd4 11. exd4 Bg4 12. f3 Bd7 13. d5 Ne5
Black offers his d-pawn. He will eventually recover it, but White definitely retains the edge. 14. Nxd6 Qb6 15. f4 Qxd6 16. fxe5 Bxe5 17. Bf4
This was my dilemma: I knew that I was more than slightly better in this position, with the protected passed dpawn, so, I thought it was time to offer a draw, which I did. After the game, Justin told me that he seriously considered accepting it because he knew that his position was not that great. However, one generally doesn’t make GM norms by drawing with low masters in the first round. After the “psychology” dissipated, we just played chess. 17. ... Nf5 18. Qd2 Bxf4 19. Rxf4 Qe5 20. Re4 Qc7 21. Rf1 Rae8 22. Nc3 Kg7 23. Rxe8 Rxe8 24. Ne4 b6 25. d6
White still maintains an edge with this move, but the opening of the a8-h1 diagonal, and its implications, did not sink in with me. 25. ... Qd8 26. Qc3+ Nd4 27. b4 axb4 28. axb4 Re5
This is a very clever move—it defends c5, while simultaneously preparing the way for ... Bc6, attacking the knight on e4.
“Jerry Hanken was one of the original lost boys. He never grew up. That was the source of his charm and—sometimes—his lack thereof.”
—FORMER CHESS LIFE EDITOR GLENN PETERSEN uschess.org
“I went out to play in the 45th American Open in Los Angeles over Thanksgiving weekend. This was the first one Jerry missed. How many of us can say we’ve played in a tournament 44 years in a row? Randy Hough shared a few words about how Jerry helped save the tournament when they lost their sponsor in the 1990s. He also mentioned his contributions to helping getting the Lone Pine tournaments going back in the ‘70s. “[Hough also spoke] about checking into the hotel before this year’s event, and having one of the desk people ask him about Jerry. Randy explained that he passed away. The man was sorry to hear that and mentioned how Jerry had given him some chess sets and books.” —POLLY WRIGHT
29. Kh1
As soon as the game ended, Justin instantly pointed out to me that this was the losing move. Of course, he was correct. Putting the king on such a vulnerable diagonal was just about the worst move I could have done. I was afraid of the fork on e2, which became possible because of the clever way Justin broke the pin on the d4knight. 29. Re1 appeared to be a reasonable alternative, but 29. ... Be6 seems to still give Black the edge, so what should I have played? My ‘Fritzy’ suggests 29. Qa1, which would allow me to at least, for now, maintain equality. 29. ... Bc6
The over-extended d-pawn is now lost.
30. Rf4 Bxe4
My game is a post-apocalyptic wreck. “Alas, Babylon!” 31. Bxe4
+
+ + +p kp p P +p+ + p r + PP nL R + + Q + P + + + P + + + +K +
q
+
After 31. Bxe4
31. ... g5 32. bxc5 bxc5 33. Rf5 Rxe4 34. Rxc5 Qf6 35. Qa1
Only now, I think of this move.
35. ... Re2, White resigned.
And the rest is silence.
uschess.org
J U LY 2 0 0 8 “KAUFMAN: A PERFECT CHAMPION”
While trying to find one more game to annotate, it seems that my first-round victory was pretty interesting. I scored plus one and was in the running until my exciting last round loss to Bill [Kramer]. This is by far the best game I have played since my illness last year and gives the old guy hope for the future. Symmetrical English (A37) Juan E. Dominguez (1744) Jerry Hanken (2200) 2008 Senior Open (1)
This is my first round win which didn’t get on the MonRoi system. It has a nice point at the end. 1. c4 c5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. Nf3 g6 4. g3 Bg7 5. Bg2 e6 6. d3 Nge7 7. 0-0 0-0 8. Bf4 d6 9. Rc1 h6 10. Qd2 Kh7 11. h4
Creating an unnecessary weakness on the kingside. 11. ... a6 12. b3 Rb8 13. e4 f5 14. exf5 Nxf5 15. Nh2 Ncd4 16. Be3 b5 17. cxb5 axb5 18. Bxd4 Nxd4 19. Qd1 b4 20. Ne2 Nf5
In order to keep and best utilize my space advantage, I have to avoid trading my knight.
+ r + k +l+ Q l + +p+ p + + + pq p + + + +P+ Nr P P+ +N P + + R +R K
After 30. Qe7
I must admit that I had not seen this move and felt a moment of panic. When I got control of my nerves, I saw the decisive line, Rf7. I had to see that I can give up my rook with check. Mate or loss of the queen makes this line forced. 30. ... Rf7 31. Qxd8+ Rf8 32. Qxf8+ Bxf8 33. f3 Bd6
Taking the f-pawn is not good, but now the bishops really come into their own. 34. Kg2
34. Nc4 is a little better but the darksquare bishop goes to b8 and has a great future. 34. ... g4 35. Rh1 Bxf3+, White resigned.
.
21. h5 g5 22. Be4 Kh8 23. Bxf5
This is far too accommodating, giving me two bishops against two knights on an open board.
23. ... Rxf5 24. Ng4 Bb7 25. Ne3 Rf3 26. d4
White finally gets this in but it is too late.
26. ... Qe8 27. dxc5 dxc5
There is no hurry. White’s position hangs by a thread. 28. Qd6 Rd8 29. Qxc5 Qxh5 30. Qe7
For more tributes to Jerry Hanken, please see the December issue of The Chess Journalist at chessjournalism.org. There are also many memories posted on the “USCF Issues” forum at uschess.org. Chess Life — February 2010
39
Instruction [NOTE: CONTINUED FROM THE JANUARY ISSUE]
THE LAZY PERSON’S GUIDE TO . . .
BY GM IAN ROGERS
PART 4
(CONTINUED) lazy player’s friend. If you find your king near the back rank, you know you have work to do, and who wants to do work?
More pawns mean more troubles for a lazy player. If Magnus Carlsen can twice lose simple R+1 versus R+2 endings, what hope is there for mere mortals to cope with rook endings with even more pawns? Fortunately, a few general rules help ease the burden: Rule 4—Use your king to do the big jobs.
Whether it is helping out your extra passed pawns or stopping your opponent’s advance, an active king is a
Rule 5—Harass with your rook.
If you can’t simply take pawns, tie your opponent to their defense with your rook. Then your king (and pawns) will have time to do their thing. (see diagram next column)
As a generic rook endgame, this is hard to beat. You may have heard that four pawns against three on the same side in a rook endgame is a draw. Well, a not-so-lazy player named Kasparov lost this position with black so it can’t be that easy.
+
+
+ + + + Rp k + + +p+ + + P Kp + + P + + + + P r+ + + P + + + +
Position 7
Status: Win Assessment: Tricky In fact White has all the ingredients needed for success; in particular a great king. (The white king is so good, in fact, that if Black had his rook on ... e2 here, White could force a winning pawn endgame with the pawn sacrifice 1. e6!)
While it is bad luck that here 1. e6 Ra5+ 2. Kh4 Kf6! (the active king!) hangs on for Black, not surprisingly there is a different way to break through: 1. f5! gxf5 2. e6! Rxh2 3. Rxf7+ Kg8 (the back rank = death) 4. Kf6! and the e-pawn will soon run through. Sadly, rook endings need precision and general rules will only get you so far. Perhaps the best advice one can offer to the lazy player is to buy a copy of Dvoretsky’s Endgame Manual. There is no need to read it; just place it next to your board when you are playing a rook ending and your opponent will hopefully fold in the face of your awesome endgame skills (acquired through osmosis).
PART 5
+
Many moons ago I had the misfortune of watching two strong players reach the following position:
(See diagram top of next column) 40
+
+
+
+ + + + p+ +k+ + P + + + P +K+ + + + + + + + + + + + + +
White to play
White had cashed in a big material advantage to reach this position and after 1. b5! his
Chess Life — February 2010
opponent quickly realized that both 1. ... axb5 2. a6 and 1. ... Kd6 2. b6 were hopeless and resigned. I was flabbergasted. Until then I had assumed that almost everybody knew that the position after 1. b5 Kd6! 2. b6 Kc6 was a dead draw—an exceptional case when a protected passed pawn is not enough for victory. Even playing carelessly Black can hardly lose this position, because after
3. Kd4 Kb7 4. Kc5 Kc8?! 5. Kc6 Kb8 6. b7 Ka7 7. Kc7 is stalemate!
This is just one of chess’ many ‘injustice patterns’—positions where logic tells you that one side should be winning easily but the defender’s resources prove to be sufficient.
The term ‘injustice pattern’ was coined by John Purdy, the son of the first World Correspondence Champion Cecil Purdy. I first saw many of the examples which follow in an uschess.org
article John Purdy wrote for the Australian medical journal Drug Therapy in the 1970s, and this article owes a great debt to his pioneering work. The two most obvious examples of injustice in chess are the bishop and ‘wrong’ a- or h-pawn and the endgame 2Ns versus K. Surely an advantage of bishop and pawn, or two knights should be enough to force checkmate, but it isn’t! However one shouldn’t forget the classic knight and ‘wrong’ a- or h-pawn:
+ + + + Pk+ + + +N+ + + + + + + K + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
An easy draw
The draw is easy for Black, who simply moves in and out of the corner—just as easy as if the knight had been a darksquared bishop. Or how about the b-pawn and entombed bishop?
+ + + + Lk+ + + P + + + +K+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
b-pawn and entombed bishop
A useless piece of knowledge, you might think, until you reach the following endgame ...
+ + + + Lp k + + + + + + P + + + + + + + + K + + + + + + + + + +
White to play uschess.org
The lazy player might think that, with Black’s king kept out of the corner, the win should be simple. It is, but not after 1. Kc4 b5+! 2. axb6+ e.p. (otherwise 2. ... Kb7) 2. ... Kb7, giving the diagram labeled “b-pawn and entombed bishop.” Once you recognize the danger, 1. Kb4! b5 2. a6 is not hard to find and the win is not far away. Injustice patterns are counterintuitive and therein lies the problem for the lazy chessplayer, one who likes to say “That looks good—I’ll work it out when I get there.” However all that glitters is not gold; much as it may cost time and effort, there could be some merit in trying to remember some of these examples. The bishop seems to be particularly vulnerable to injustice patterns:
+ + + + p k + + P p + + + +P pL+ + +P+K+ + + + + + + + + + + + + +
An injustice pattern
Draw! Despite the extra bishop, Black’s king cannot be forced from the squares b8, c8 and, if necessary, a8. This pattern works without the c pawns and even without the cand b-pawns.
+k+ + + +p+ + + p P + + + P +L K + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
Not for the lazy player!
Another strange case where an extra bishop is worthless— and it doesn’t matter if White has a dark-squared bishop instead of the d5-bishop. Of course a player who doesn’t know about the first diagram in this section might think that 1. Bxb7+ led to a win, but Black’s defenses are sufficient. Had Fischer recognized this
pattern early enough, the Ameri- can legend would have saved game one of his 1972 match against Boris Spassky— the famous game where Fischer gave up a bishop for no apparent reason. The bishop can cause some injustice of its own, especially when faced with the seemingly overwhelming force of rook and pawn.
+
R
+
+
k
+
+
+
+
+ P + + + K +l+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
Draw
White’s king cannot get close enough to cause any damage— so long as Black remembers to answer 1. f7 with 1. ... Kg7! The following example is even more surprising:
+
+ + +k+ + + + K + + + +P + + + + + + + R +l+ + + + + + + +
+
+
Draw
White has succeeded in forcing Black’s king from the corner but he cannot extricate his own king from the h-file without allowing the black king back to h8. (It is possible for White to win if the pawn is back on h4 but the technique is so convoluted that no lazy player should even consider learning it.)
+ + + + R + +p k + + +p+ + + + P + + P + +l+ + + + + K + + + + +
White to win
There is nothing terribly unfair about White being unable to win this position, until you consider what would happen if Black had an extra pawn on e6. Then Black is completely defenseless! Adding the black pawn on e6, White plays his king to e7 and rook to f8, forcing ... e5. White plays fxe5, moves the rook around to f6 and wins with e6! Bxe6, Rxe6!, when the pawn endgame is trivial, or ... fxe6 Rf7+ and Kf6.
+
+Q+ + + + pk + + r + + + + KP + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
Draw
Winning with queen and pawn versus rook and pawn is usually just a matter of swapping pawns but here it can’t be done. However, this injustice pattern applies in only a few positions; for example, move White’s pawn to g4, and the win will be easy after Kh4 and g5. The final example is one of the most remarkable injustice patterns yet. Few players appear to be aware of it.
+
+ + + + + + kn+ + + + +K p + + + + + + + P + + + + + + + + + +
Draw!
Normal practice would suggest an easy win for Black yet White can manage to hold a draw by keeping the opposition—1. Kd6 Kb7 2. Kd7!. Now, even with its new-found freedom, Black’s knight cannot find a better square from which to defend the e-pawn, e.g. 2. ... Nd4 3. Kd6 Nf3 4. Kd5 followed by 5. Ke4.
Chess Life — February 2010
.
41
Endgame Lab
Problematic Endings
By GM Pal Benko
At a tournament in Bazna, Romania, problematic-endgame turning points only become clear at the analysis table. A small but high level GM tournament took place in Bazna, Romania and provides the basis for this month’s column. Missed Solution GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2720) GM Liviu-Dieter Nisipeanu (FIDE 2675)
+
+r+ + p +k+ + +n+ + + + +p+ p +p P p + + P +N+P P+n+N KP+ + + +R+
Black to play
White has a slight advantage since the black pawns are more vulnerable. 36. ... Ne3
Better is 36. ... Rg8 or even 36. ... g4.
37. Rb1 g4 38. Nh4 Re4
Black loses a pawn; maybe 38. ... f3 could have provided stronger resistance. 39. Ng6 g3+ 40. Kf3 Nxg2 41. Ngxf4 Nxf4 42. Nxf4 Ne7 43. Kxg3
Tricky, but stronger is 43. Rg1, though not 43. Nxd5? Nxd5 because of 44. Kxe4 Nxc3+. Now the counter-trap is 43. Kxg3 Re3+ 44. Kf2 Rxc3? 45. Rb7+ followed by 46. Rxe7. 43. ... Kc6 44. Kf3 Nf5 45. Nxd5!?
A nice sac, but with limited time it creates problematic complications. More practical is 45. Ng6 playing to use the passed h-pawn. 45. ... Kxd5 46. Rb5+ Ke6 47. d5+ Kf6
If 47. ... Ke5? then 48. d6+ Ke6 49. Rxf5! Kxf5 50. d7 wins. 42
Chess Life — February 2010
48. Kxe4 Nd6+ 49. Kd4 Nxb5+ 50. Kxc4 Nd6+
+
p
+
+
+
+
+ + n k + + +P+ + +K+ + + + P + +P P+ + + + + + + + +
After 50. ... Nd6+
51. Kd4?
Gata discovered the right solution only after the game: 51. Kc5 Ne4+ 52. Kb4! (52. Kd4? Ng5 ) and now if 52. ... Ke5 happens 53. c4 Kd6 54. h4 Nf6 55. Kb5 etc. wins while after 52. ... a5+ 53. Kc4 Nd6+ 54. Kc5 Ne4+ 55. Kc6 Nxc3 56. d6 Ke6 57. a3! Nd5 58. h4 Nf6 59. h5 wins. 51. ... Nb5+ 52. Kd3?
He still could have returned to the right path via 52. Kc4 Nd6+ 53. Kb4. 52. ... Ke5 53. c4 Nd6 54. h4
A slight edge is provided by 54. c5 Ne4 55. Kc4 Nd2+. 54. ... Nf5 55. h5 Kd6 56. Kc3 Kc5 57. Kb3
With the passed pawns blockaded, the win has slipped away. 57. ... Nh6 58. Ka4 Kxc4 59. d6 Kc5, Draw.
Gata has had many winning opportunities in his recent endgames, but failed to seal the deal. After a long layoff from competition, it seems that now that he is back he is playing too much. Wrong Solution GM Boris Gelfand (FIDE 2733) GM Alexei Shirov (FIDE 2745)
+
+
+ + + + Lp+p k +p+p+ + + + P +l+ + P P + +P+ + +P K + + + + +
White to play
White is a pawn up and the h7-pawn is a target. Despite this, there is little chance to win because of the opposite-colored bishops. 45. e4 Bb3 46. Ke3 Bd1 47. f4 Bc2?
Here 47. ... e5! could have secured the draw. After 48. fxe5 Bc2 49. Kd4 Kc6 or 48. f5 Kc6 holds on. The move played left the route open to the weak h7-pawn. 48. Kd4 Kc6 49. Ke5 Kd7 50. Kf6 Ke8
Too passive. Still, 50. ... e5 is better.
51. e5 Bb3 52. Bb4 Bc2 53. Kg7 Ba4 54. Kxh7 Bc2 55. Kg7 Bb3 56. Kf6 Bc2 57. Bd6! Bb3
+
+k+ + + + +p+ + Lp Kp+ + + P P + + P P Pl+ + + + + + + + + + +
After 57. ... Bb3
58. a4??
The correct breakthrough is the immediate 58. f5!! exf5 59. e6! Bxe6 60. h5 uschess.org
Problem I
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 or drawn position for White. Solutions can be found on page 71. Please e-mail submissions for Benko’s Bafflers to:
[email protected]
gxh5 61. g6 fxg6 62. Kxe6 Kd8 63. Kd5! Kc8 64. Kc6, preventing the black king from reaching the a8 corner and drawing. 64. ... g5 65. a4 f4 66. a5 f3 67. a6 f2 68. a7 f1=Q 69. a8=Q mate would have come just in time—much like in a composed problem. 58. ... Bxa4 59. f5 Bc2!
A feasible defense since White has given up his ace a-pawn. 60. fxe6 fxe6 61. Kxe6 Bb3+ 62. Kf6 Bc2 63. e6 Bd3 64. Bg3 Bc2 65. h5 gxh5 66. g6 Bd3 67. Bh4 Kf8 68. e7+ Ke8 69. Kg7 Bc2 70. Kh6 Bb3 71. Kxh5, Draw.
After 71. g7 Bg8, the black bishop cannot be approached, while after 71. Kh7 or 71. Kg7 Bc2, White makes no further progress. Let’s see some games of the more adventurous players. Sharp solution GM Alexei Shirov (FIDE 2745) GM Liviu-Dieter Nisipeanu (FIDE 2675)
r ll+k+n r + +p+p p p+ R n p +p+ p + P +P+ + P + LP N +P+ +P P + KN+L+R
White to play
20. Bc5!?
Shirov, famous for his attacking style, does not disappoint here. He demonstrates the weakness of the d6-square with this sacrifice, though the solid 20. Rd2 is also fine. 20. ... Ne7 uschess.org
Problem II
S. Belokon, 1969
k l + + + L + + + K+P+P+ + + + + + + + + + + +r+ + + + + + + + + +
White to play and win
21. Ne3 Bxd6 22. Bxd6 Bb7 23. c4 Bc6 24. Kb2 Ng6 25. Ngf5 Kd8?
Giving up the g7-pawn does not ease his hardships, so 25. ... Rh7 is correct. The d6-bishop splits the black camp. Besides, White now has the clear plan of mobilizing his kingside pawns. 26. Nxg7 Ne8 27. Nxe8 Rxe8 28. Nf5 Re6 29. h4 h5 30. c5 Re8 31. g4!
Not wasting time by following a Rh3Rg3 plan (though this is also good). Black has no counterplay. If 31. ... a5, then 32. a4! is strong. 31. ... hxg4 32. h5 Nf4
If 32. ... Nh8, then 33. Bg2.
33. Nh6 gxf3 34. Nxf7+ Kc8 35. Bxe5 Rxe5
Desperation. 35. ... Rf8 would have allowed him to last longer. 36. Nxe5 Kc7 37. h6 Rh8 38. h7 Bxe4 39. Rh4 Rxh7 40. Rxf4 Rh2+ 41. Kc3, Black resigned.
The tournament’s winner was lucky in the following position—but luck must be stimulated, seen, and seized: Problem mate GM Vassily Ivanchuk (FIDE 2746) GM Alexei Shirov (FIDE 2745)
+
+
+
+
+
+ + + +l p + + + p +p + + + P + Nk+ P p+ + K + L + + +
Black to play
+ + + + l p +p+ L k + + + + + N + + + + + + + + + + + K + N + + +
White to play and win
If 20. ... Bxd6, then 21. Bxd6 and White snags the e5-pawn (though this is not his main goal—it is the long-term blockade of the d7-pawn, as is soon revealed).
+
V. Ratner, 1925 (Version by P. Benko)
Shirov again could not resist sacrificing a piece in this game; the draw is in hand here because of the strong passed pawn. Simply by playing either 58. ... Kc2 or 58. ... Bf7, White may only draw at best. 58. ... Bc4
This move allows the opportunity for White to create a passed pawn; Black can now easily go wrong. 59. g4! hxg4 60. h5 e4 61. h6 e3+ 62. Ke1 Bg8 63. Nxa2 f5 64. Be5 Ke4 65. Bc7 f4 66. Nc3+ Kf5
Also good enough is 66. ... Kd3, and if 67. Nd5, then ... f3 can follow. 67. Nd5 Bh7?
Unnecessary. A quick draw follows 67. ... g3! 68. Nxf4 Kg5 or 68. Bxf4 Ke4. 68. Ke2 g3??
A crucial mistake. Quite unbelievably, after 68. ... f3+ 69. Kxe3 Kg6 the win can’t be forced. The f3-pawn always must be guarded and the g4-pawn can hardly be taken. I leave the task of checking this to the readers. 69. Kf3! e2
No better is 69. ... g2 either. Thus after 70. Kxg2 e2 71. Kf2 f3 72. Ba5 the f3pawn proves just as feeble as in the game continuation. 70. Kxe2 g2 71. Kf2 f3 72. Bb6 Ke6 73. Nc3 Kf7 74. Be3 Kg6 75. Nd5 Kf7
If 75. ... Kh5 76. Nf6+ Kg6 77. Nd7! wins. 76. Kxf3 Bb1 77. Nc3 Bc2 78. Kxg2 Kg6 79. Kg3 Kh5 80. Nd5 Kg6 81. Kh4 Bb1 82. Bg5 Bc2 83. Nf6 Bf5 84. h7!, Black resigned.
White has prepared a problem-like mate. 84. ... Kg7 85. Bh6+ Kh8 86. Kg5 Bxh7 87. Bf8 Bg6 88. Kh6 then Bg7 mate is forced. Such a mate has been worked out in several problems. I present two of them in the “Bafflers.”
.
Chess Life — February 2010
43
Back to Basics
An Extra Pawn
By GM Lev Alburt
Among grandmasters, two extra pawns usually spell victory, while one extra pawn means about a 50% winning chance. What about for the class player?
In the following game, White won a pawn in an early opening skirmish. After that, he demonstrated both purposeful strategy and skillful tactics. Finally, the game was crowned by a not-so-obvious queen sacrifice. Writes the winner of this month’s award, Joseph Lauchlan: Facebook offers an application, powered by chess.com, where opponents play correspondence chess, allowing three to ten days per move. On the site, I’m rated 1955; in two appearances in official tournaments, my rating is 1422. I play white in the following game, while Steve Cecutti plays black. (Lev’s further comments are in italics). Social networking chess Joseph Lauchlan Steve Cecutti 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6
I’m not comfortable in many lines of the Sicilian. Some variety of 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 is my usual method. But Black has too many good choices, and I inevitably end up in a complicated position with which I am not familiar. I must start to play some of these lines. Or Joseph may learn a solid line for White, like 2. c3. 3. Bc4
r nl qk ln r pp+ pp pp + p + + + p + + +L+P+ + + + +N+ P PP P PP P RN LQ K +R
After 3. Bc4 44
Chess Life — February 2010
3. ... Nf6
The move 3. ... Nc6 would avoid the pitfalls that follow. Indeed. 4. e5
r nl qk l r pp+ pp pp + p n + + p P + +L+ + + + + +N+ P PP P PP P RN LQ K +R
After 4. e5
This interesting move, gleaned from the “Shredder” chess online opening database, throws a wrench in my opponent’s Sicilian ideas. He probably should take the pawn. 4. ... d5 5. Bb5+ Bd7
After 5. … Nfd7, White has good options starting with 6. e6 fxe6 7. Ne5; for example, 7. … Nc6 8. Nxc6 bxc6 9. Bxc6 Rb8 10. Qh5+ g6 11. Qe5 and White has his choice of rooks; or 8. … Qb6 9. Nxa7 and either capture allows White to eventually check at h5, preventing Black from castling. As it is, 5. … Bd7 gives White the pawn on c5, at least. I’d add just a few comments to these quite good analyses: after 6. ... fxe6 7. Ne5, Black’s best is 7. ... g6 (to stop Qh5+); for White, I’d prefer 7. Ng5, with advantage. However, you shouldn’t try to choose between 7. Ne5 and 7. Ng5 before your opponent actually plays 5. ... Nfd7. 6. Qe2 Bxb5 7. Qxb5+ Qd7 8. Qxc5 Ne4 9. Qe3 e6
r n +k l r pp+q+p pp + +p+ + + +p P + + +n+ + + + QN+ P PP P P P P RN L K +R
After 9. ... e6
10. d4
Stronger here is 10. d3, forcing the knight to c5, e.g., 10. d3 Nc5 11. d4 Ne4, and White has won a tempo (and 11. d3d4 isn’t a must). If 10. ... Bc5, then the simple 11. d4 is OK, but the material grabbing 11. Nd4 is even stronger. 10. ... Nc6 11. 0-0 Be7 12. c3 0-0 13. Nbd2 Nxd2 14. Nxd2
I want to spring my f-pawn, following the maxim that I should attack on the side where my pawn chain leads me. 14. ... f6 15. f4
r+ + r k+ pp+q l pp +n+p p + + +p P + + P P + + P Q + P P N +P P R L +R K
After 15. f4
Time to make an assessment. White is up a pawn, for no or very little compensauschess.org
tion. Among grandmasters I’d guess the outcome would be about 7-3: four wins for White, six draws (see my book on this subject, Building up Your Chess—the Art of Evaluation). Black’s best would be to take on e5, and, after 16. fxe5, exchange of rooks, followed by ... b5 and, perhaps, a sort of minority attack. Instead, Black started shuffling his f-rook to f7 (not the best position, as we’ll see so vividly) and back. 15. ... Rf7 16. Nf3 f5 17. Bd2 Na5
This is a mistake. With the kingside closed and little room to maneuver, this move seems natural. But it places the knight on the bishop’s recently claimed line and allows White to expand on the queenside. 18. b3
r+ + +k+ pp+q lr pp + +p+ + n +p Pp+ + P P + +P P QN+ P+ L +P P R + +R K
After 18. b3
18. ... Rc8 19. c4 Nc6 20. c5 g6 21. b4 Nd8 22. a4 Rf8 23. b5 Kh8
+r n r k pp+q l +p + +p+p+ +P Pp Pp+ P+ P P + + + QN+ + L +P P R + +R K
After 23. ... Kh8
ported by other forces—thus, it can’t be viewed even as a nuisance! 27. ... Rf7 28. a6 b6
+r+ + k p +q lr+p P p +p+p+ +P Pp Pp+ + P Pn P + Q +N+ + L +P+ RR+ + K
After 28. ... b6
Advancing the pawn seems to delay the breakthrough as the c5-pawn is attacked thrice and pinned to the queen. Advancing the c-pawn does not help; for example, 29. c6 Qc7 30. Qb3 Rcf8 31. Bb4 Re8. Very good observation—White must be careful not to let Black build a strong fortress. 29. cxb6!
When White, with 27. Qc3, put his queen on the same file as the black rook, I was somewhat surprised. Now, I am simply curious: did Joseph foresee his brilliancy when playing his 27th move? 29. ... Rxc3 30. bxa7!
+ + + k +q P lr+p P+ +p+p+ +P+p Pp+ + P Pn P + r +N+ + L +P+ RR+ + K
After 30. bxa7
30. ... Rc8 31. b6
Could any of Black’s queenside pawns have challenged for space instead of allowing White to further restrict Black’s pieces? It seems that any advancement would allow the breakthrough to occur more quickly.
Another maxim: two connected pawns on the sixth rank are better than a rook. Add a third with rooks supporting them, and White simply does not need his queen. If only Black’s other rook stayed on the eighth rank ...
24. h4 Nf7 25. Rfb1 Nh6 26. a5 Ng4 27. Qc3
31. ... Bc5 32. dxc5 Qc6 33. b7
Black has returned his rook to f8 and brought his knight from a5 to g4! Meanwhile, White dominates the queenside and will soon open up a file, line up his rooks, and look to exchange advantageously. The black knight on g4 can’t be supuschess.org
White can avoid the pesky checks by 33. Ra5 Rxa7 34. bxa7 Ra8 35. Rb8+ Kg7 36. Rxa8 Qxa8 37. Rb5 Kh6 38. Rb7 followed by 39. Ba5 and 40. Bb6. 33. ... Qxc5+ 34. Kh1 Nf2+ 35. Kh2 Ng4+ (see diagram top of next column)
+r+ + k PP+ +r+p P+ +p+p+ + qp Pp+ + + P n P + + +N+ + L +P K RR+ + +
After 35. ... Ng4+
36. Kg3
Usually, a queen and knight duo is capable of creating deadly threats to the opponent’s king; here, however, the pair is quite toothless. 36. ... Qf2+ 37. Kh3 Rff8
Too late!
38. bxc8=Q Rxc8 39. Rb8 Qxa7 40. Rxc8+ Kg7 41. Rc7+
Passed pawn lusts to expand—Nimzowitsch). 41. ... Qxc7 42. a7 Nf2+ 43. Kh2 Ng4+ 44. Kg3 Qc5 45. Be1 Kh6 46. a8=Q Kh5 47. Qd8 h6 48. Ra6 Qc2 49. Ra7, Black resigned.
Black cannot stop 50. Qg5+! hxg5 51. Rh7+ 52. hxg5 threatening Rxh6 mate. A well-deserved win, and instructive comments. Perhaps Joseph’s real strength is close to his Facebook rating of 1955, with his USCF rating soon to follow.
.
Send in your games!
If you are unrated or were rated 1799 or below on your Chess Life (CL) label, then GM Lev Alburt invites you to send your most instructive game 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 CL 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 — February 2010
45
What’s The Best Move?
Surprising Twists By GM Larry Evans
The tipping point Pilots quip that flying consists of hours and hours of boredom punctuated by moments of sheer terror —reminiscent of chess games that reach a tipping point. Each one of these positions features a surprising twist where White failed to find the right move at the critical moment. Can you? Solutions to this month’s quiz positions are on page 71.
1. White moves
r+lq rk+ pp+ +pp lp+ n p + + + + + + L + +NP +QP PP + PLP R + +RK
(a) Rad1 (b) Rfd1 (c) Be5
3. White moves
+
+r+k+ + + Rppp p Q + + pq+ +r+ + + + + +P+ p P P+ +PPKP + +R+ +
(a) Rxe8+ (b) a4 (c) Qxb6
46
Chess Life — February 2010
2. White moves
+ +l+ + pq+ p k p pP+ R +P+P+ K +rp + + + + + + P+ + +Q+ + + + +
(a) Kf5+ (b) Rh8 (c) Qe4
4. White moves
r+l+k+ r pp+ppplp +n+ np+ q + + + +LNP+ + + N L + PPP+ PPP R +QK +R
(a) Nb3 (b) Qd2 (c) 0-0
uschess.org
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2009 WORLD CHESS LIVE GRAND PRIX STANDINGS The following point totals reflect all rated event information as of December 24 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 NAME 1 IM Alex Lenderman 2 GM Sergey Kudrin 3 GM Jaan Ehlvest 4 GM Melikset Khachiyan 5 IM Enrico Sevillano 6 GM Giorgi Kacheishvili 7 GM Alexander Ivanov 8 IM Bryan Smith
JUNIOR CATEGORIES STATE NY CT NY CA CA NY MA PA
PTS. 456.02 284.28 216.79 199.33 193.86 190.70 188.97 178.18
NAME STATE PTS. Players born between 1986 and 1988 inclusive: 1 GM Alejandro Ramirez TX 104.33 2 IM Oliver Barbosa NY 95.00 3 IM Jacek Stopa TX 93.40
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NY PA NY
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Players born between 1989 and 1991 inclusive: 1 IM Alex Lenderman NY 2 IM Samuel Shankland CA 3 FM John Daniel Bryant TX
456.02 85.25 59.66
Players born between 1994 and 1995 inclusive: 1 Parker Zhao NY 2 FM Daniel Naroditsky CA 3 Deepak Aaron NY
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Junior Grand Prix Top Overall Standings Name WINTER, CURTIS A DOMMALAPATI, ABHINAY MIZUSHIMA, DEREK ATTANAGODA, ISURU ADEEPA MARUPUDI, PRANAV PISANI, NICHOLAS RAJASEKARAN, VIKAS RICHMAN, JONATHAN HUANG, WINSTON PISANI, PAUL TROFF, KAYDEN W SREENIVASAN, RAMANUJA CHEN, JEREMY HUGHES, JOHN LODGER FISHER, WILLIAM KARAMSETTY, JEEVAN QU, CHEN VIRKUD, APURVA DING, JIALIN HARMON-VELLOTTI, LUKE
State MD VA MD VA NJ WA VA NY MA WA UT MD NJ OH PA VA NY MI MO ID
Pts. 305 290 265 205 195 190 180 180 175 175 170 170 160 160 155 150 145 145 135 135
Name ZHOU, JASON SHETTY, ATULYA ARYA KUMAR, ARAVIND SINGH, REVA SHREE GURCZAK, JOHN FINEGOLD, SPENCER FU, JASON JOHNSTON, DANIEL F PILLAI, KADHIR ANDRES JACOBS, CASEY SEVIAN, SAMUEL TUHRIM, RICHARD J SERNA, JEFFREY MICHAEL MOORTHY, SRINIVAS R JING, AARON C KOGEN, JONATHAN S MARTINSON, TIMOTHY MICHAEL GADSON, ISAIAH LATHAM, ANDREW STEINBERG, MAX
State MO MI NJ NY AZ MI TN NY NY NY CA-N NY NM MD WI IL NM MO KS NY
Pts. 135 135 130 130 125 125 125 125 125 120 120 120 115 115 110 110 110 110 110 110
Prepare to make your best move since joining the USCF... Don’t miss one of this year’s top benefits of USCF membership.
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• 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
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Chess Life — February 2010
49
Tournament Life
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING FEBRUARY 1-14
USCF National Events See TLA in this issue for details: 2010 U.S. Amateur Team - North Feb. 12-14 or 13-14 • Milwaukee, Wisconsin 2010 U.S. Amateur Team - South Feb. 12-14 or 13-14 • Orlando, Florida 2010 U.S. Amateur Team - West Feb. 13-15 • Woodland Hills, California 40th Annual World Amateur Team & U.S. Amateur Team - East Feb. 13-15 • Parsippany, New Jersey 2010 U.S. Junior Chess Congress Feb. 19-21 • Indianapolis, Indiana 2010 U.S. Masters March 13-14, 19-21 or 15-21 • Hendersonville, North Carolina 2010 All Girls National Championships April 16-18 • Columbus, Ohio 2010 U.S. Amateur West Championship May 29-31 • Tucson, Arizona 2010 National Open June 11-13 or 12-13 • Las Vegas, Nevada
FUTURE EVENTS (Watch for details) 2010 National Junior High (K-9) Championship April 9-11 • Minneapolis, Minnesota Final Four (playoff from 2009 Pan Am Intercollegiate Championship) April 9-11 2010 National High School (K-12) Championship April 16-18 • Columbus, Ohio
BIDS Note: Organizers previously awarded options for USCF National Events must still submit proposals (including sample budgets) for their events. Overdue Bids Bids on the following tournaments are past deadline and will be considered immediately: 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) T.B.A. 2010 U.S. Game/15 (QC)
Note: Tournament memberships not valid for National events 2010 U.S. Championship April 23-May 6 • St. Louis, Missouri 2010 Burt Lerner National Elementary (K6) Championship May 7-9 • Atlanta, Georgia 2010 U.S. Open July 31-Aug. 8 • Irvine, California 2010 Denker Tournament of High School Champions July 31-Aug. 3 • Irvine, California 2010 Tournament of College Champions July 31-Aug. 3 • Irvine, California 2010 U.S. Girls Junior Open July 31-Aug. 3 • Irvine, California 2010 U.S. Senior Open August 22-27 • Boca Raton, Florida 2010 National Youth Action Nov. 3-5 • Long Branch, New Jersey 2010 National Scholastic (K-12) Dec. 10-12 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida 2010 Pan-American Intercollegiate Championship Dec. 27-30 • Milwaukee, Wisconsin 2011 National Junior High (K-9) Championship April 15-17 • Columbus, Ohio 2011 National High School (K-12) Championship April 29-May 1 • Nashville, Tennessee 2011 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 6-8 • Dallas, Texas 2011 National Scholastic (K-12) Dec. 9-11 • Dallas, Texas 2010 U.S. Junior Closed - TBA 2010 U.S. Junior Open - TBA Deadline: June 1, 2010: 2010 Collegiate Final Four 2011 U.S. Junior Chess Congress 2011 U.S. Amateur Teams (East, North, South, West) 2011 U.S. Amateur (East, North, South) 2011 National Open 2011 U.S. Game 10 2011 U.S. Game 15 2011 U.S. Game 60 2011 U.S. Action G/30 2011 U.S. Masters 2011 U.S. Class Championship
2012 National High School (K-12) Championship April 13-15 • Minneapolis, Minnesota 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 2015 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 8-10 • Nashville, Tennessee 2015 National Scholastic (K-12) Dec. 5-7 • Orlando, Florida
FIDE EVENTS 2010 FIDE World Amateur Chess Championship March 19-25 • Skokie, Illinois 2010 FIDE Intercontinental School Team Chess Championship March 26-28 • Skokie, Illinois
2011 Pan-American Intercollegiate Championship 2011 Collegiate Final Four 2011 U.S. Junior Open 2011 U.S. Junior Closed 2011 U.S. Armed Forces Open
Bidding Deadlines Please contact the National Office if you are interested in bidding for a National Event. The USCF recommends that bids be submitted according to the following schedule. However, bids may be considered prior to these dates. *USCF reserves the right to decline all bids and organize the event itself.
The TLA pages “Information for Organizers, TDs, and Affiliates” and “Information for Players” can now be found online at main.uschess.org/go/tlainfo. 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. 50
Chess Life — February 2010
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 November 2009 pg. 53-54 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. Feb. 12-14 or 13-14, Wisconsin 2010 U.S. Amateur Team Championship – North Two sections: Open and Scholastic (Saturday only) Open: 5SS, G/90+30/move/ increment (G/120 if digital clocks not available; 2-day: rd.1-2 G/60). Crowne Plaza Hotel Milwaukee Airport, 6401 South 13th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53221. 1-414-764-5300. $79.99 chess rate, please reserve early. Open to 4 player teams with one optional alternate. Team average (4 highest ratings—2009 Annual Rating List) must be under 2200. EF: 3-day $140, 2-day $141 per team if received by February 9th, $180 thereafter. Individuals wishing to play, send $35 and request to be put on a team.Team changes on site $20. Check out official website www.wichessacademy.com. All advance entries will be posted on February 10th. Prizes: Awards to top two teams, top teams with average rating u1900, u1600, and u1300. Winning team qualifies for national play-offs. Prizes to best team composed of juniors (high school and younger). Prizes to top score on each board. Rounds: 3-day: on-site registration/check-in 5:30-6:30pm, rds.: 7pm, 11:00am & 5:00pm, 10:00am & 3:30pm. 2-day: on-site registration/checkin 9:00-10:30am, rds. 11:00am & 2:00pm then merge with 3-day. **Saturday Only** Scholastic section. 4SS, G/60. Open to 4 player teams with one optional alternate. Team average (4 highest—2009 Annual Rating List) must be under 1600. EF: $120 per team if received by February 9th, $150 thereafter. Individuals wishing to play, send $30 and request to be put on a team. Team changes on site $20. All advance entries will be posted on www.wichessacademy. com on February 10th. Prizes: awards to top team overall, top three High School Teams, top three Middle School Teams, top three Elementary School Teams. Prizes to top score on each board. Rounds: on-site registration/check-in: 9:00am-10:30am; rds.: 11:00am, 1:30pm, 3:45pm, 6:00pm. Checks made payable to and send to: VICA, 6822 North Crestwood Dr., Glendale, WI 53209. Please includeTeam’s name and roster, captain’s email and phone number, and desired schedule. Info:
[email protected],
[email protected], 608-334-2574, 414-234-1005. WCL JGP (in Open Section).
Feb. 12-14 or 13-14, Florida 2010 U.S. Amateur Team South 5SS, G/120 (2-day option, rd 1 G/60). Sheraton Orlando Downtown Hotel, 60 South Ivanhoe Blvd., Orlando, FL 32804. 4-player teams (plus alternate). 2 Sections (using Yr-end ratings): OPEN, Team Avg rtng<2200. SCHOLASTIC, Game/60, Team avg<1200. Players need not be from the same school. Teams can be formed on-site. ***FCA members in Open are eligible for FL GP Points. *** Winning Open team competes in national playoff online. EF per player: OPEN $30 by 2/6, $40 later. SCHOLASTIC $20 by 2/6, $25 later. SPECIAL EF: 5-player team $140 by 2/6, $180 later. PRIZES: OPEN 1st, 2nd teams: plaques and four Excalibur Clocks, 3rd: plaques; SCHOLASTIC 1st, 2nd teams: plaques and four Excalibur Clocks, 3rd: trophies; Board Prizes: each section: Brds. 1-4, Excalibur Clocks. Class Prizes: OPEN: U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400; Scholastic: U1000, U800Trophies. Other awardsTBD. Schedule: OPEN 3-day: rds 8, 1-7, 9-3, 2-day: rds 10-1-7, 9-3; SCHOLASTIC (Sat & Sun): 10-1-4, 9-12, Awards 2:30. HR: $79 (888) 627-8525 or (407) 425-4455; (Mention “Chess”). Complimentary parking voucher & internet with sleeping rooms; other parking at $5 per day. Reserve by Jan 29, ALL HOTELS FILL UP USATS WEEKEND! ENT: CFCC, 921 N. Thistle Ln., Maitland, FL 32751 or online usats2010.eventbrite.com. See www.centralflchess.org for details or call (407)629-6946. WCL JGP (in Open Section).
A Heritage Event! Feb. 13-15, California Southern 27th Annual U.S. Amateur Team West 6-SS, 40/2, SD/1. Warner Center Marriott, 21850 Oxnard Street, Woodland Hills, CA 91367. Four-player teams plus optional alternate, average rating of four highest must be U/2200, diff. between bds. 3 & 4 may not exceed 1000. Dec. list used. EF: $132 per team if received by 2-12, $36 individual (on line only), $148 at site, under age 18 or HS/below $96 by 2-12, $110 site.Trophies and 4 clocks to top 3 teams, U2100, U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400/unr. Trophies (1 large, 4 small) to top college, industrial, junior (under 18), Senior (over 50), U1200. Clocks to best score each board, alternate, and any 6-0. Gift certificate prizes for best team names (1st/2nd). Reg.: 9-10 a.m. 2-13. Rds.: 11-6, 11-6, 10-4:30. On-line entry, help in forming teams, advance entry list: www.westernchess.com. HR: $119, 800-228-9290, ask for Western Chess. Reserve by Jan. 20 or rates may go up. Parking $6. Ent: SCCF, c/o John Hillery, 835 N. Wilton Place #1A, Los Angeles, CA 90038. NS, NC, W. F. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event! Feb. 13-15, New Jersey 40th Annual World Amateur Team & U.S. Team East – Ruby Anniversary 6SS, 40/2, SD/1. Parsippany Hilton, 1 Hilton Ct., Parsippany, NJ. 07054. Chess Rate valid until 1/16. Reserve early 973-267-7373 or 1- 800-HILTONS. Morris/Essex train to Morris Plains 1.5 miles. Open to 4- player teams with one optional alternate.Team average (4 highest ratings—2009 Annual Rating list) must be under 2200. EF: $145 postmarked by 2/5/10. Scholastic teams Col-
uschess.org
lege and below $140 per team, ALL-$180 after or at door.—all teams, any changes at site $25 charge. Check out official website www.njscf.org. Prizes: 1-5th Place teams, plaque and 4 digital clocks; Top Team (Denis Barry Award) U2100, 2000, 1900, 1800, 1700, 1600, 1500, 1400, 1300, 1200, 1000 each plaque and 4 Digital Clocks; Top college team (same school) 4 Digital Clocks & plaque; Top HS team (grades 9-12 same school), Top Middle School (grades 5-9 same school), Top Elementary School (grades K-6 same school), Top 2 Scholastic Teams (mixed schools okay) (Collins Award), Mixed Doubles (2 males, 2 females-no alternates), Seniors (all players over age 50), Military, each plaque & 4 Digital Clocks to top team; Company Team (same employer) Old Timers Trophy (all players over 65), Family (4 family members), State teams—CT, DE, MD, MA, NJ, NY (Benjamin Award), PA, VA, NC, RI, OH, Canada, each plaque top team; team traveling longest distance—entry refunded. Best Player 1-4 and top alternate, All 6-0 scores each Digital clock. Biggest Individual upset each round Engraved Cross pen; Entry fee refunded to team with Best “Chess related” name, Sunday night— Best “Chess Related costumes or gimmick—gourmet dinner for four. Reg.: 9-12 Sat 2/13. Rds.: 1-7:30, 11-6, 9-3:30. Special Events!! Surprises and special give-aways each round. Sunday night—Bughouse $20 per team. Cash prizes. HR: Parsippany Hilton, chess rates expire 1/16/2010. Rates $119 (up to 4 in room) 2nd hotel now attached to Hilton also up to 4 in room $117 per night-Hampton Inn— -includes breakfast for 4 each day. For help forming teams and more information contact
[email protected]: Chks payable to NJSCF, mail by 2/05 to: E.Steven Doyle, 17 Stonehenge Road, Morristown, NJ 07960. (Include Team name, Captain, players full names, USCF Expiration, ID numbers and ratings in board order). Include SASE for confirmation if wanted, No registered or certified mail accepted. NS, NC, W. WCL JGP.
Feb. 19-21, Indiana 2010 U.S. Jr. Chess Congress 6SS, Rds. 1-4 G/60, Rds. 5-6 G/90. Radisson Hotel at the Indianapolis Airport, 2500 S. High School Rd., Indianapolis, IN. NEW sections this year: 12th grade & Under, 8th grade & Under, 6th grade & Under, and 3rd grade & Under. CLUB TEAMS are welcome! Club and school teams are the top 4 scoring team members (minimum 2). Schedule: Blitz side event Fri. (2/19) at 7 pm, see below. Regular 6/SS tournament Sat. and Sun only. Opening Ceremony Sat. 2/20 at 8:30 am, Rds 1-4 at 9am, 12:00pm, 2:30pm, 4:30pm. Bughouse tournament side event Sat. evening at 7:00 pm, see below. Sun 2/21 Rds. at 9am, 1pm. Awards at 4:30pm. Entry Fee: $40 by 2/8/10, $50 by 2/18/10, $60 after and onsite. Register: Make checks payable to East Side Middle School Chess Club and mail to: 2010 Chess Congress, East Side Middle School, 2300 Lindberg Rd., Anderson, IN. 46012. Email entries to
[email protected]. EMAIL ENTRIES are NOT confirmed until receipt of entry fees. Entries will be posted at www.2010ChessCongress.com as they are received. Onsite entries will be accepted Friday evening after 5 pm (and during the blitz tournament) and from 6:30am to 8:00am on Sat. morning, 2/20. Any player not registered by 8am will receive a half-point bye for round one and begin play in round two. Side event: Bughouse tournament Sat. evening 2/20 at 7:00 pm. Register for bughouse onsite ONLY for $10 per player Friday evening or during the day on Saturday. Bughouse awards to each team member of at least the top 5 scoring teams in 2 sections, 12th grade & Under and 6th grade & Under. Awards: More trophies this year! Trophies to at least the top 20 individuals in each section, top 5 teams. Numerous additional class prizes for each section. See website for details. Hotel: Indianapolis Airport Radisson. Conveniently located at the Indianapolis International Airport and offering free shuttle service from airport terminals 24/7. FREE PARKING at hotel. $70 per night room rate!!! Hotel offers free wireless internet access. Additional Info: Limited team rooms available, contact number below for details. Concessions and chess merchandise will be available onsite. All event details at www.2010Chess Congress.com. Questions, call (765) 617-3845 after 3pm. WCL JGP.
Mar. 13-14, 19-21 or 15-21, North Carolina World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 60 (enhanced) 2010 U.S. Masters 9SS, 40/2,SD/30. Hendersonville, NC. $$5000 b/50 fully paid: $1500-900300-200-200-200-200-200-200. U2300: $300-200-200-200-200. Open only to players who have ratings over 2200, those who have ever been so rated, foreign FIDE-rated players, and juniors (under age 21) rated over 2000. Concurrent with N.C. Sub-Masters for those with lower ratings. Rds (2 schedules merge round 5): 2-Weekend schedule: Sat 12, 7, Sun 12, 7, Fri 7, Sat 12, 7, Sun 12, 7; 7-Day schedule: Mon 7, Tue 7, Wed 7, Thurs 7, Fri 7, Sat 12, 7, Sun 12, 7 EF: $150 by Feb 13, $160 by Mar 9, $170 at site. GMs, IMs, and foreign FIDErated players receive reduced fee entry of $30 if preregistered (counts as 1/5 entry toward prizes). Byes: 4 available rds 1-5. HR: Quality Inn & Suites, 201 Sugarloaf Rd,, Hendersonville, NC 28792. $60 or $68/night with hot breakfast, indoor pool, sauna, jacuzzi, and mini-golf. 800-581-4745, http://www.qualityinnsuiteshvl.com. Info and entry: Kevin Hyde, 705 Old Mountain Page Rd., Saluda, NC 28773.
[email protected] http://www.ncchess.org. FIDE. WCL JGP.
Mar. 19-25, Illinois 2010 FIDE World Amateur Chess Championship - an Official FIDE World Chess Championship! 9R-SS G/90 + 30/sec increment. Holiday Inn Hotel, 5300 W. Touhy Ave.,
DROPPING OUT? Have to miss a round? It is very important that you
NOTIFY THE DIRECTOR before pairings are made, so no one is deprived of a game! If you forfeit without notice, you may be FINED up to the amount of the entry fee!
Skokie, IL 60077. 847.679.8900. $20,000 Guaranteed. Open to players with no FIDE title and rated under 2000 FIDE. All players compete in a single section. Please see tournament website for more detailed rating regulations. Overall: $3000-2000-1600-1400; Top Women: $1000-600-400-200; (17991600): $1000-600-400-200; (1599-1400): $1000-600-400-200; (U1400): $1000-600-400-200; (Unrated): $1000-600-400-200. EF: $120 by 6pm 02/15, $150 by 6pm 03/15; $200 thereafter and onsite. No re-entries allowed. No halfpoint byes allowed (zero point byes only). Onsite registration from 3-5pm 03/19. Rds.: 3/19 – 6:30pm; 3/20-21- 12pm and 6:30pm per day; 3/22-25 – 6:30pm per night. Mail entries with registration information to: North American Chess Association (make checks payable to), 4957 Oakton Street, Suite 113, Skokie, IL 60077. More information and online registration available at: www.worldchesschamps.com. Questions via email only: sevan@worldchess champs.com. No smoking. For more information on additional prizes such as FIDE titles, Scholarships toTexasTech University, a progressive prize fund, entry fee specials, and more, please visit the tournament website. Boards, sets, clocks provided. Tournament provided equipment must be used. WCL JGP.
Mar. 26-28, Illinois 2010 FIDE Intercontinental School Team Chess Championship - an Official FIDE Intercontinental Chess Championship! 7R-SS G/90 w/5-sec delay. Holiday Inn Hotel, 5300 W. Touhy Ave., Skokie, IL 60077. 847.679.8900. Open to players in 5 age categories in teams of 4: U10, U12, U14, U16, U18. Please see tournament website for more detailed age and team regulations. Prizes: Team-winners of First, Second and Third places in each age category and the members of the teams will be awarded Gold, Silver and Bronze medals, Diplomas and Special Trophies. Team trophies will be awarded also teams finished in 4th – 20th places in each age category. EF: $150 by 6pm 02/01, $175 by 6pm 03/01; $200 thereafter. No onsite registrations allowed. No re-entries allowed. No half-point byes allowed (zero point byes only). Rds.: 3/26 – 6:00pm; 3/27 & 28 – 9am, 12pm and 6:00pm. Mail entries with registration information to: IntECS (make checks payable to), 63 75th Street, Willowbrook, IL 60527. More information and online registration available at: www.worldchesschamps.com. Questions via email only:
[email protected]. No smoking. Boards, sets, clocks provided. Tournament provided equipment must be used. WCL JGP.
Apr. 16-18, Ohio 2010 All Girls National Championship presented by the Kasparov Chess Foundation in association with the USCF and UTD. 6SS, G/90. Hyatt Regency Columbus, 350 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43215, (614) 280-1234, Hotel Rate $127. 6 Sections: 8 years old and younger; 10 and younger, 12 and younger, 14 and younger, 16 and younger, 18 and younger. Age as of 4/1/2010. USCF membership required. Winner of 18 years old and younger Section wins an Academic Distinction Scholarship to The University of Texas at Dallas, worth $80,000 for an out-of-state student. EF: $50 if postmarked by 3/21; $70 if by 4/4; $85 by 4/15 or $90 on-site. Do not mail after 4/8 as your entry may not be received on time. Opening Ceremony: 6pm, Friday. Rounds: Rd 1 - 6:30pm Fri; Rounds 2-4 - Sat 10am, 2:30pm, 6:30pm; Rounds 5-6 - Sun 9am & 1pm. Awards Ceremony: Sun. 5pm. Trophies to top 15 indiv & top 3 teams (top 3 players added for team scores). Bye: One 1/2-pt bye available, any round, if requested before end of Rd. 2 and if player has not received a full-point bye. Side Events: Bughouse Tournament - Fri. 1pm, EF $25/team. Blitz Tournament - Fri. 3pm, EF $15 by 4/4, $20 after or on site. Entries: Mail to USCF, Attn: All Girls, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557 or online at http://uschess.org/tournaments/2010/allgirls. NS, NC, W. WCL JGP.
USCF Membership Rates Premium (P) and Regular (R) (U.S., CANADA, MEXICO) Type Adult P Adult P ** Adult R Adult R ** Senior (65+) ** Young Adult P (U25)* Youth P (U16)* Scholastic P (U13)* Young Adult R (U25)* Youth R (U16)* Scholastic R (U13)*
1 yr $49 $42 $41 $34 $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
**Purchased online only
Chess Life — February 2010
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Tournament Life
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING FEBRUARY 1-14
May 29-31, Arizona 2010 U.S. Amateur West Championship Holiday Inn Palo Verde, 4550 S. Palo Verde Rd.,Tucson, AZ 85714, 520-746-1161. SECTIONS: Championship (U2200), Reserve (U1600), Booster (U1200) & Scholastic (must be K-6 and U1000). Scholastic section is 3 separate 1-day tournaments. SCHEDULE: (Championship, Reserve, and Booster) 6/SS, 40/2, 25/1. Reg.: 5/29, 8:30 - 9:30 AM. Rds.: 10-4, 10-4, 9-3. (Scholastic) 4/SS, G/40. Reg: 8:30 - 9:30 AM each day. Rds.: Round 1 at 10 AM then as available for Rounds 2-4. PRIZES: (Championship) Chronos clock + plaque to Top 3; Digital clock + plaque to Top 1900-1999, 1800-1899, 1700-1799, 1600-1699, and U1600; Plaque to top Senior 50+, Junior U20 and Junior U14. (Reserve) Chronos clock + plaque to 1st; Digital clock + plaque to 2nd, 3rd, Top 13001399, 1200-1299, and U1200; Plaque to top Senior 50+ and Junior U14. (Booster) Chronos clock + trophy to 1st; Trophy to 2nd - 5th, Top Unrated and Junior U11. (Scholastic, each day) Digital clock + trophy to 1st; Trophy to 2nd - 5th, Top U800, U600, and Unrated. 1-yr USCF membership for perfect scores that don’t win the clock. SPECIAL PRIZES:Top 2 Family Pairs in the non-scholastic sections. Biggest Upset of each round in the non-Scholastic sections. Chronos clock to Scholastic player with the highest combined score over the three 1-day tournaments. EF: (Championship & Reserve) $55 if rec’d by 5/26, $65 if after 5/26. (Booster) $40 if rec’d by 5/26, $50 if after 5/26. (Scholastic) $15 each day or $40 for all three days if by 5/26, additional $5 if after 5/26. ALL: Half-point byes allowed for all rounds but must be requested prior to start of Round 2. SIDE EVENT: Blitz tournament Friday 5/28; G/5, 5 Rounds, Double SS; Entry Fee: $10 ($15 to non-tournament players); Reg.: 6:00–6:45pm at site; Rounds: begin at 7:00pm. Prizes: ($$b/20) $75-$45, Top U1600 $30, Medallion to top K-12, K-8, K-6. ENTER: www.sazchess.org/store/store.php or mail to (make checks payable to “SACA”): SACA, Attn: US Amateur West, PO Box 42407,Tucson, AZ 85733 or at site. HR: $69 (single/double) or $85 (suite) if by 5/14, mention “SACA”. INFO: Karen Pennock, 520-975-3946, email:
[email protected], web: www.sazchess.org. NC. NS. W. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event! June 11-13 or 12-13, Nevada World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced) 2010 National Open 6-SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2 day option rds 1-3 G/60). South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89183. $100,000 Prize Fund based on 850 paid entries ($70,000 guaranteed). Championship. $$: 80004000-2000-1000-600-400-400-400-400-400-200-200-200-200-200, under 2500 2000, under 2400 1500, under 2300 1000. $2,000 EXTRA for perfect score.The winner of the Championship section also receives a replica of the Edmondson Cup. Under 2200. $$: 5000-2500-1300-600-350-250-250-250-250-250-100100-100-100-100. Under 2000. $$: 5000-2500-1300-600-350-250-250-250-250250-100-100-100-100-100. Under 1800. $$: 5000-2500-1300-600-350-250250-250-250-250-100-100-100-100-100. Under 1600. $$: 5000-2500-1300-600350-250-250-250-250-250-100-100-100-100-100. Under 1400. $$: 2500-15001000-500-250-150-150-150-150-150-100-100-100-100-100. Under 1200. $$: 1500-1000-500-250-150-100-100-100-100-100-100-100-100-100-100. Unrated, $$: 600-400-200-100-100-100. Plus score bonus ($16,000) in addition to any other prizes, every player who finishes with 3-1/2 points or better wins a $50
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gift certificate. Plus score certificates will be given on site only. EF: $159 by 1/19, $179 by 5/17, $199 by 6/9, $220 on site, $100 more for players rated under 2100 in the Championship Section.This is an open tournament - you may play in any section at or above your rating level; unrated players may play only in Unrated or Championship Section. Provisionally rated players may not win more than 3rd prize in any section except Championship. CCA minimum ratings or other ratings may be used if higher than USCF June Supplement. Reg: 4-11 p.m. Thursday, 8-9:30 a.m. Friday. Rds.: 11-6, 11-6, 10-5. 2-day schedule: Reg: 8-9 a.m. Saturday. Rds.: 10-12:30-3-6: merge with 3-day in round 4. Half point byes available in any round, but round 5 or 6 byes must be requested before the start of round 2. Chess sets and boards provided for tournament play only, not for skittles. Please bring chess clocks! The LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL features the National Open, the U.S Game/10 Championship and other championship events. Many free extras and surprises! Free parking. Free raffle with great prizes. Free GM Lectures. Free GM analysis of your games. Chess Camp for all ages onThursday. Grandmaster SimulsThursday afternoon. US. Game/10 Thursday night. Scholastic Tournament Friday. Girls & Boys Championships Saturday & Sunday. LOW room rates! HR: $65 single or double ($95 Friday and Saturday nights). 1-866-791-7626 or (702) 796-7111. Don’t be shut out; make your reservations early and be sure to ask for the chess rates; South Point sells out most weekends. Cutoff for special hotel rate is May 15th. Rates may be as high as $150 a night after May 15th. RESERVE NOW! Credit card or one night room deposit will be required to hold reservation, may be canceled 72 hours in advance for nominal fee.Tournament Registration: National Open, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0125, on line at www.VegasChessFestival.com or by fax at (702) 933-9112. NS. W. FIDE. WCL JGP.
Grand Prix Feb. 12-14, Texas World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 South Houston 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. Feb. 13th); 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. Hilton Houston NASA Clear Lake, 3000 NASA Road One, Houston (281-333-9300). 5 Sects. PRIZES: $10,000 b/200 paid ent., min. $5,000 Gtd. OPEN: $1400-800500-300-200; U2200: $700-400; U2000: $800-400-200-100-50; U1800: $800-400-200-100-50; U1600/Unr*: $800-400-200-100-50; U1300: $400-300200-100-50. *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, K-12. 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. CAJUN BOUNTY: Defeat the top ranked player and win free entry to our next tournament! EF: $79 by 2/10; $89 at site; Unr. (U1600) and Jrs. (under 19 yrs of age and playing in U1300 or U1600 Sections) $49 by 2/10; $59 at site. Schol. EF: $20 by 2/10; $25 at site; Re-Entry Fee: $25 (avail. up to Rd. 4 – in all sections; 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. 112:30-6:30, Sun. 9:30-2:30. Both schedules merge at Rd. 3. Schol. Sched: (All 5 rds G/30—one day only, Sat., Feb. 13). Reg. Sat. 8:30-9:30am, Rd. 1 at 10am; Other rds will follow immediately. Byes: Avail. all Rds. (commit before Rd. 3). HR: $89 for single or double; $99 for triple; $109 for quad (281-333-9300), reserve by Jan. 29 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, 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.
Feb. 13, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) Jenifer Woods Memorial Grand Prix 4SS RDS. 1 & 2 G/60, RDS. 3 & 4 G/90 at 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.
Feb. 13-14, Virginia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 Kingstowne Chess Festival Kingstowne Snyder Center, 6450 S. Van Dorn St., Alexandria, VA 22315. 4 Sections. Open (FIDE-rated): 4SS 40/100, SD/60. EF: $40 if received by 2/10, $50 at site. If joining USCF for 1st time, USEF $84 if received by 2/10, $94 at site. Prizes $$1000G: $400-250-125. U2000, U1800, Unr. each $75. Rds.: 115, 10-4. Amateur (U1800-unr.): 5SS G/100. EF: $20 if received by 2/10, $30 at site. If joining USCF for 1st time, USEF $64 if received by 2/10, $74 at site. Prizes $$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. Booster (U1600-unr.): 5SS G/100. EF: $15 if received by 2/10, $25 at site. If joining USCF for 1st time, USEF $59 if received by 2/10, $69 at site. Prizes $$370 b/32: $150-80-50. U1400U1200-Unr. each $30. No unrated may win more than $100. Rds.: 11-3-7, 11:30-4. Novice (U1400-unr.): 6SS G/75. EF: $10 if received by 2/10, $18 at site. If joining USCF for 1st time, USEF $54 if received by 2/10, $62 at site. Prizes $$285 b/32: $100-70-40. U1200-U1000-Unr. each $25. No unrated may win more than $80. Rds.: 11-2-5-8, 12:30-4. All: One half-point bye allowed in Open, two in other sections. Last-round bye must commit by end of play Sat. and irrevocable. Reg.: 9:30-10:45. Ent (checks payable to): Don W. Millican, P.O. Box 2902, Springfield, VA 22152. e-mail (info only):
[email protected]. FIDE W. WCL JGP.
uschess.org
Tournament Life
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING FEBRUARY 1-14
A Heritage Event! Feb. 13-15 or 14-15, California Northern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 50 (enhanced) 36th Annual Peoples Tournament 6SS, 30/90 G/60 (2-day opt rounds 1-3 G/60). Hotel: Crowne Plaza, 45 John Glenn Dr., Concord, CA 94520. Chess rate $79. Free parking. Prizes: $7,001 b/129. 6 sections. Open (FIDE rated): $$ Gtd. 1000-500-201 (u2300: 200 100). 1900-2099: 500-200-100-100-100. 1700-1899: 500-200-100-100-100. 15001699: 500-200-100-100-100. 1300-1499: 500-200-100-100-100. Under 1299: 500-200-100-100-100. Unrated prize limit of $200 in all sections except Open. EF: $99 3-day & $98 2-day mailed/online by 2/11, Onsite +$25 Play-up +$19. GMs IMs free - EF subtr from prize. Re-entry $45. EF Econ Opt: Deduct $30 from EF & agree to donate back 1/2 of prize money won. February 2010 Supp, CCA min &TD discretion will be used to place players accurately. 3-day sched: Reg Sat 10-11, Rds Sat/Sun 11:15 4:45, Mon 10, 3:30. 2-day sched: Reg Sun 99:45, Rds Sun 10, 12:10, 2:20, 4:45. Mon 10, 3:30. Max two 1/2-pt byes - must commit bef rd 3. Ent: Bay Area Chess, 4423 Fortran Ct., Ste. 160, San Jose, CA 95134. $20 charge for refund. Quest:
[email protected], Tel 408786-5515. Info & Entries: BayAreaChess.com/events/10/ppl. NS, NC, W. WCL JGP.
Feb. 13-15, Oklahoma World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 Jerry Hanken FIDE Winter Open 7-SS, G/90+30 sec, Quality Inn, 2515 W. 6th Ave. (Hwy-51) Stillwater, OK 1405-372-0800. HR: 70-70-70. One section open to all. EF: $40 if postmarked or received by cash or ck before Feb 10, $50 at door. $10 OCF membership required from all players. Reg.: Sat 10:30-11:45; Rds.: Sat 12, 4:30, Sun 9-1:155:30, Mon 9-1:30. $$G 2,450 will not be lowered. $$G, $400, 300, 200. $$G $300 each class ($150-100-50) Ex,A,B,C,D & below. Unr. competes in D & below. $50 - upset, One (1) half pt bye rds 3-7. Free Parking. Ent: Frank Berry, 402 S. Willis, Stillwater, OK 74074. 1-405-372-5758.
[email protected] NC, CMV, LS, W, USCF, OCF, FIDE. WCL JGP.
Feb. 16, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) Marshall Masters (formerly the St. John’s Masters) 4SS. G/30. Third Tues. 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 MCC Thursday 4 Rated Games Tonight! since the prior month’s Masters) EF: $40, members $30, GMs $10 (returned on completion of tournament).Top three prizes guaranteed. $$G 250-150-100. Top U2400 andTop 2300 prizes. Special prize for biggest upset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45PM. One bye available, rds. 1 or 4 only; declare at registration.
Feb. 18, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight! 4-SS, G/30. Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 West 10 St., bet. 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. EF: $35, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$560 b/32 paid entries (may be limited to 1st 36 to enter), top 2 Gtd: $$ 200-110-50, Top U2200/unr $105, U2000 $95. Limit 2 byes (1 bye for U2000), commit by 8:15. Reentry $15. CCA ratings may be used. Class pairings OK rd. 4. Reg ends 10 min before game. Rds 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible!
A Heritage Event! Feb. 19-21, 20-21 or 21, Minnesota World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 117th Warren Stenberg Memorial Annual Minnesota Open Radisson Hotel and Conference Center, 3131 Campus Drive, Plymouth, MN 55441. In 5 Sections, Premier: Open to All. 5SS, 40/2, SD/1, 5 sec. delay (2day option rds 1-2 G/90), EF: $65 (3-day option) or $64 (2-day option) by 2/12; $75 on site. $$b/35: $500-300-150. U2200, U2100 each $125. Amateur (U2000): 5SS, 40/2, SD/1, 5 sec. delay (2-day option rds 1-2 G/90). Open to 1999 & under. EF: $55 (3-day option) or $54 (2-day option) by 2/12; $65 on site. $$b/35: $400-250-125. U1900, U1800 each $100. Reserve (U1700): 6SS, Game/2, 5 sec. delay (2-day option rds 1-2 G/60), Open to 1699 & under. EF: $50 (3-day option) or $49 (2-day option) by 2/12; $60 on site. $$b/40: $350175-100. U1600, U1500, U1400 each $75. Sophomore (U1400): 6SS, Game/2, 5 sec. delay (2-day option rds 1-2 G/60), Open to 1399 & under. EF: $40 (3-day option) or $39 (2-day option) by 2/12; $50 on site. $$b/45: $300-150-75. U1300, U1200, U1100 each $60. Bantam (U1100): 6SS, Game/2, 5 sec. delay (2-day option rds 1-2 G/60), Open to 1099 & under. EF: $35 (3-day option) or $34 (2-day option) by 2/12; $45 on site. $$b/42: $250-100-50. U1000, U900 each $50. ALL: MSCA Memb. Req’d: $18. OSA. Class prizes based on 5 per class. Ratings based on February 2010 Supplement. Discounted EF must be received by 2/12/2010, please specify 3-day or 2-day option. 3-day option schedule: On site Reg.: 5-6pm Fri, Feb 19. Rnds.: Premier and Amateur: Fri 7; Sat 10-4:30; Sun 10-4:30; Reserve, Sophomore, and Bantam: Fri 7; Sat 102:30-7.; Sun 10-3. 2-day option schedule: On site Reg.: 8-8:30am Sat, Feb 20. Rnds.: Premier and Amateur: Sat 9-1-4:30, Sun 10-4:30; Reserve, Soph-
ONCE RATED, ALWAYS RATED You never lose your rating, no matter how long it has been since you last played. If you return to tournament play after a long absence, please tell the director your approximate rating and year of play. If you rejoin USCF after many years without being a member, please provide this information to the TD and to USCF as well. 54
Chess Life — February 2010
uschess.org
omore, and Bantam: Sat 9-11:30-2:30-7; Sun 10-3. 2 Side Events: Saturday Non-rated Beginners Tournament: Open to players rated below 800 or unrated, who have never won a membership at a Novice tournament. EF: $15. Prizes: 1st, 2nd, 3rd all get trophies. All players who score 4 out of 5 points receive USCF and MSCA memberships. Reg.: 10-10:30 Sat, Feb 20. Rnds.: Sat (approx): 11-12:15-1:30-3:15-4:30. Sunday Tornado: EF: $15 by 2/12/2010: $20 at site. $$b/14: $100-50. $50 for the top player in the lower rating half. Reg.: Sun 9-9:45. Rnds.: Sun (approx): 10-12:30-3:00-6:30. ENT: MSCA, PO Box 582754, Minneapolis, MN 55458-2754. INFO: Shu Lee shuman.lee@gmail. com. HR: $89 special rate at the Radisson. Send email to shuman.lee@gmail. com to check on availability and make reservations (763) 559-6600, Reservations 1-800-395-7046 US/Canada Toll-free Radisson Hotel and Conference Center, 3131 Campus Drive, Plymouth, Minnesota 55441. Round one start time is approximate. It will begin at the conclusion of the General Membership Meeting, which begins at 6 p.m. on Friday evening. NS NC W. WCL JGP.
Feb. 19-Mar. 19, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) Queens Late Winter Open 5-SS, G/120. All Saints Lutheran Church, 164-02 Goethals Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11432. EF: $35 advance, $40 at site, $5 less to QCC members. $$200-$100 gtd to top 2, more per entries. Up to two 1/2 pt byes ok with advance notice (byes for Rounds 4 and/or 5 must be declared before Round 3). REG.: 7:30-8:00. RDS.: 8:15 each Friday. ENT: (mail by 2/12) Ed Frumkin, 445 E 14th St #10D, NYC 10009 (212-677-3224 before 10 pm - do not call on Friday). WCL JGP.
Feb. 20, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) New York February Action! 5-SS, G/30. Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W. 10 St., bet. 5-6 Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. EF: $40, Club membs $30, GMs free ($25 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. 12-1:302:45-4-5:20 pm. Reg. ends 15 min. before game. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 2/18; $10 extra to “enter” by phone!
Feb. 20, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) 2010 Presidents Week LVCA Grand Prix 4SS, G/90. St. James Church, 11th & Tilghman Sts., Allentown, PA 18102. EF: $40, LVCA Members $30, $$200-100 guaranteed to top 2, more per paid entries. FREE ENTRY TO UNRATEDS, if paying 1 year USCF Dues. Up to two 1/2 pt byes (if declared before round 3). REG.: Ends 10am. RDS.: 10:30-1:304:45-7:45. Ent/Info: Check payable: Bruce Davis, 1208 Linden St., Fl 1, Bethlehem, PA 18018. or call 610-625-0467 or
[email protected]/. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event! Feb. 20-21, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 120 (enhanced) 2010 Marchand Open - 32nd Annual Dr. Erich Marchand “requested that his friends play chess in his memory.” 5SS,
uschess.org
30/60, SD/60. St. John Fisher College, 3690 East Ave., Rochester, NY. $$10,750 Gtd. Open Section: $2000-1300-850-550-300, Under 2200 & U2000 each $500-300 120 Grand Prix Points. FIDE Rated. EF: $70. U1800 Section: $600400-250. Under 1600 $400-250. EF: $65. U1400 Section: $400-275-175. Under 1200 $275-175. EF: $60. U1000 Section: $260-190-130-70. Under 800 $150-90-60. EF: $55. Unrated players in the U1800 section can only win $125, in U1400 & U1000 $55. IM and GM’s free if registered by 2/12. Great food available at site. Reg.: 8-9:15 am. Rds.: 10-2:15-6:30, 10-2:15. One 1/2 point bye available in rd. 3 or 4 if requested at entry. Info: 585-442-2430. Ent: Rochester Chess Center, 221 Norris Drive, Rochester, NY 14610. W. WCL JGP.
Feb. 20-21, Virginia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Hampton Chess & Sports Festival 5SS, G/2. Hampton Roads Convention Center, 1610 Coliseum Dr., Hampton. 2 sections: Open & U1600. Prizes: $1350 b/0 50 Increased with 56+ entries. Open: $250-200-150 1800-1999 $100 U1800 $100. U1600 Section: $150120-100 1200-1399 $90 U1200 $90. HR: Holiday Inn, 1815 Mercury Blvd., Hampton $79 + tax (757) 838-0200. www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/hi/1/en/ hotel/lfiva. EF: $40 by 2/18 else $50. Reg.: 9:00-9:40. Rds.: Sat. 10-2:30-7, Sun. 10-2:30. Entries/Cks: Virginia Chess, 1370 S. Braden Cres., Norfolk, VA 23502. Info: Ernie (757) 853-5296,
[email protected]. www.vachess.org. Single half pt. Bye available. WCL JGP.
Feb. 22-Mar. 22, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 86th Nassau Grand Prix 5-SS, 40/80. 1st Presbyterian Church, 1st & Main Sts., Mineola. 2 sections: Open: EF: $38 by 2/20, $$ (630 b/18, top 2 G) 200-100, U2100/UR, 1900, 1700 each 110. Booster: open to U1500/UR, EF $22 by 2/20. $$ (270 b/15) 100, U1300, 1100/UR each 85. Both: non-memb EF $11 more. EF at site $7 more. 2 byes 1-5. Reg ends 7:15 PM. Rds: 7:15 each Mon. Ent: Harold Stenzel, 80 Amy Dr., Sayville, NY 11782.
[email protected]. WCL JGP.
Feb. 26-28, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) 4th annual Saratoga Open 5SS, 30/90, SD/1, Saratoga Hilton Hotel, 534 Broadway (I-87 Exit 13-N, 4 miles north on US 9), Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. $$G 1200. In 2 sections: Open: $$ 300-150-70, U2200 120, U2000 100. Under 1800/Unr: $$ 150-90-50, U1600 100, U1400 70. EF: $52 mailed by 2/19, $53 online at chesstour.com by 2/23, $55 phoned by 2/23, $65 at site. Reg. ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds Fri 7, Sat 11-4:30, Sun 9-2:30. Half point byes OK all, limit 2, must commit before rd 2. HR: $117117, 888-999-4711, 518-584-4000, reserve by 2/13 or rate may increase. 48 hours notice required for room cancellation. Ent: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
Feb. 27, Wisconsin World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 UW Winter Open 4-SS, Rd1 G/60, Rds 2,3,4 G/90. Inn Wisconsin Room, Memorial Union, 800 Langdon St., Madison, WI. EF: $20 Open, $15 Reserve by 25 Feb, $5 more at site.
$$1000G Open: $200, $150, A $125, U1800 $100. Reserve (U1600): $100, $85, D $75, E $65, U1000 $55, Unr $45. Reg.: 9-9:45. Rds.: 10, 12:30, 4, 7:30. ENTRIES: Guy Hoffman, PO Box 259822, Madison, WI 53725. Info: schach
[email protected], 608-262-0308 11AM-6PM M-F. NS, NC, W. A Wisconsin Tour event. WCL JGP.
Feb. 27-28, California Northern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 Spring Chess Festival with $9,000 Prize fund b/150 entries. 6 SS, G/90. 415 Grand Ave., 3rd Floor, South San Francisco, CA 94080. 6 sections. EF: $80 by 02/15, $100 at site, $20 to play a section up. GMs & IMs free ($50 will be deducted from prize). Reg.: 8:30-9:45 on 02/27. Rds.: 10 am, 1:30 pm & 5:00 pm both days. Prizes: Open Section: $700-$500-$300, top U2300- $300, Prizes for Expert/A/B/C/D sections are 1st 600, 2nd 400, 3rd 350, Top U1200 - 300. Ent: Felix German, 723 Camino Plaza, PMB 170 San Bruno, CA 94060. Info: Ph# 415-335-0900, email:
[email protected]. WCL JGP.
Feb. 27-28, Florida World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Central Florida Chess Club Championship 5SS, G/120. Orlando Chess & Games Ctr, 8751 Commodity Cir., Suite 4, Orlando, 32819. EF: $40. CFCC mem req @ $25 ($15 Jr/Sr). $$G 600: 190100-70, U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400 each 60, plaques (if mem as of Jan 27) to Club Champion, U2200, U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400, & top under age 16. Reg.: Sat 9:15am. Rds.: 10-2-6, 9-2. CFCC elections 1pm Sun. Ent: CFCC, 921 N.Thistle Ln., Maitland, FL 32751. Info: (407) 629-6946 or www.central flchess.org. WCL JGP.
Feb. 27-28, Maryland World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 UMBC Open - Alvin S. Mintzes Chess Tournament 5SS, 20/1, SD/1. University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore (in Commons, 3rd floor). Held concurrently with Maryland “Sweet 16” (Invitational) - winner to receive in-state fixed-dollar tuition scholarship to UMBC. Open: (All) $$1050: $350-200-100 Gtd., Class prizes $100 ea. to top U2250, U2150, U2050, U1950. Free ent. to GMs, $40 deducted from any prizes. U1800: (U1800/Unr.) $$765 b/40: $250-175-100, Class prizes $80 ea. to top U1600, U1400, U1200 (b/4). No Unr. player may win more than $200 in this section. All: EF: $40 if postmarked by 2/12, $50 later, $10 less if under age 20. Reg.: 8:30-9:30am Sat., Rds.: 10-3-7:30pm Sat, 10:30-3:30pm Sun. Byes: Up to three 1/2-pt. byes avail. in Rds. 1-5 if req’d at least 1 hr. before Rd. (before Rd 2 for any Rd. 4-5 bye), but only at most one 1/2-point bye in Rds 4-5. HR: La Quinta Inn and Suites, 1734 West Nursery Road, Linthicum, MD 21090, 410859-2333, Ask for UMBC chess rate. www.lq.com (From I-95, take Exit 47A onto I-195 towards BWI Airport.Take Exit 2A onto 295 north towards Baltimore; take first exit, bearing right onto West Nursery Road.) Directions to UMBC: Take Exit 47B off I-95 & follow signs to UMBC. Park in Lot 9 or 16. Ent: Dr. Alan T. Sherman, Dept. of CSEE, UMBC, Attn: Championship, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250. Make out check to UMBC. For more information:
[email protected], (410) 455-8499, www.umbc.edu/chess. NS, W, FIDE. WCL JGP.
Chess Life — February 2010
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Tournament Life
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING FEBRUARY 1-14
Feb. 27-28, Washington World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 18th Dave Collyer Memorial 5SS, G/120. St. Anne’s Children’s Center Conference Room, W. 25 Fifth Avenue, Spokane WA 99201. Sleep in option: Players may play round 1 beginning at noon with a g/60 t/c. EF: $27 if received by 2/26; $33 at door Under 19 $5 less. $$GTD: $325-200-125. Ex — $100; A; B; C; D/E/Unr: $100-75; Biggest Upsets: $100-50 (non-provisional ratings only). One prize per player except for biggest upset. Reg.: Feb. 27 8:30-9:30 am (sleep-in option must register by 11:40). Rds.: 2/27: 10(or 12) — 2:30 — 7:00; 2/28: 9:00; 1:30. one 1/2 point bye available. Players meeting at 9:45 Feb. 27. ENT: Spokane CC, c/o Kevin Korsmo, 9923 N. Moore, Spokane, WA 99208-9339. INFO: www.spokanechessclub.org,
[email protected]. NS NC W. WCL JGP.
Feb. 28, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced) Grandmaster Challenge 6-SS G/30, (NOTE CHANGE). 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 to participants) GMs free, $25 deducted from prize. Reg. ends 11:45 AM. G$$350-250-150-100-75-50, $100 U2400, $100 U2200, $75 U2000, $50 U1800, top over 55 $=age, top under 18 $= 3x age, top scoring female $=# of players. Rds.: 12-1:20-2:40-4-5:20-6:40. (NOTE CHANGE) Byes: limit 2, request before Round 3. Additional class prize $500 2800+, $250 2700+.
A State Championship Event! Mar. 5, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2010 PA Quick Chess Championship (QC) 6SS, G/10, T/D3. Hotel Carlisle & Embers Convention Center, 1700 Harrisburg Pike, Carlisle, PA 17015, Exit 52A NB/Exit 52 SB off I-81, Exit 226 off PA Turnpike. 3 sections, EF rec’d by 2/16: Open: $12. U1500: $10. U1100: $8. $$ (730G): Open: 175-100-50, U1800 $45, U1600 $40. U1500: 125-75-50, U1200 $40, Unr $30. U1100: Trophies: 1-5, U800, U600, 1-2 Unr. All: EF: $20 after 2/16, PSCF $5 OSA. Reg.: 6-6:30pm. Rd 1: 7pm. Feb 2010 Regular ratings used. Bye: limit 1, ask by rd 2. HR: Mention “PA States” for best rate; 800-692-7315 $75. Ent: PSCF, c/oTom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223-2245. Info:
[email protected]. 412-908-0286. W.
Mar. 5-7 or 6-7, Massachusetts World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 80 (enhanced) 19th annual Eastern Class Championships 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Under 900 Section is 6 rounds playing March 6-7 only, G/75. Host Hotel at Cedar Lake, 366 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01566 (I-84 Exit 3, near I-90). Free parking. $$ 20,000 based on 250 paid entries (re-entries count half, U900 one-third), minimum $12,000 (60% of each prize) guaranteed. In 8 sections: Master (2200/up): $2000-1000-500-300, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak $100 bonus, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE. Expert (2000-2199): $1400-700-400-300. Class A (1800-1999): $1400-700-400-300. Class B: $1400-700-400-300. Class C (1400-1599): $1200-600-300-200. Class D (1200-1399): $1200-600-300-200. Class E (Under 1200): $800-400-200-
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Chess Life — February 2010
100. Under 900: $200-100-60-40. Rated players may play up one section. Unrated may enter U900 through A, with prize limits: U900 $100, E $200, D $300, C $400, B $500, A $600. Balance goes to next player(s) in line. EF: 3-day $108, 2-day $107 mailed by 2/25, all $109 online at chesstour.com by 3/2, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 3/2 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. GMs free, $90 deducted from prize. Class E EF: All $20 less. Under 900 EF: all $70 less. No checks at site, credit cards OK. All: Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30. Re-entry $60; not available in Master Section. MACA memb. ($12, under 18 $6) required for MA residents; WMCA accepted for western MA res. 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. Under 900 schedule: Reg. ends Sat. 10 am, rds Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 9-12:30-3:15. Byes: OK all, limit 2; Master must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $87-87, 800-582-3232, 508347-7393, request chess rate, reserve by 2/19 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. $15 service charge for refunds. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event! Mar. 5-7, Virginia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 42nd Annual Virginia Open 5SS, Rd1 G/2, Rds 2-5 40/2 SD/1. Crowne Plaza Tysons Corner, 1960 Chain Bridge Rd., McLean 22102. www.cptysonscorner.com. Chess room rates of $79 for Single and Double, reserve before Feb 27. Walk-up chess rate possible, but not guaranteed, reserve early!! No Outside Food allowed in Tournament Playing Room! See www.vachess.org/vaopen.htm for online link to register for hotel. $3400 inTwo Sections, Open and Amateur (U1900) Top 4 G in Open, rest based on 140. Open: $600-400-300-250 Top X,A Each $180. Winner also gets plaque and title 2009 Virginia Open Champ. Amateur: $400-200-150,Top B,C,D, U1200 Each $160, Top Unrated $100. Amateur winner gets plaque and 2009 Virginia Open Amateur title. ALL: Reg: Friday 3/5 5:30p-7:45p Rds 8pm Friday, Sat. 10a4:30p, Sunday 9a-3:30p. EF: $60 if received by Feb 28, $70 later and at site. $5 discount to active military personnel. $35 Re/entry allowed From Rd 1 into Rd 2 only Sat. Reg: 9-9:45. One 1/2 point bye allowed with entry, declared before Rd 1 and then irrevokable. VCF membership required for Virginia residents ($10 Adults, $5 U19). Ent: Make checks payable to “Virginia Chess” and mail to: Michael Atkins, PO Box 6138, Alexandria, VA 22306. Website: www.vachess.org/ vaopen.htm.
[email protected] for questions, NO INTERNET or PHONE entries only NS, NC, W. FIDE. WCL JGP.
Mar. 6-7, California Northern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced) Spring Open 6SS, G/90. Bay Area Chess Center, 4423 Fortran Ct., San Jose, CA 95134. Free parking. Prizes: $3,000 b/77 - $$Gtd 2,000. 3 Sections. Open (1800 & up): $$ Gtd. 500-200-100-100-100. 1400-1799: $500-200-101 (u1600=100-66-66).
u1400: 500-200-101 (u1200:100-66). Unrated prize limit of $200 in all sections except Open. Sections EF: $66 mail/online by 3/4, Onsite +$19 Play-up +$19. GMs & IMs free before 3/4. Re-entry $33. March 2010 Supp, CCA min & TD discretion will be used to place players accurately. Sched: Reg. Sat 1010:30a, Games at Sat 11, 2:15, 5:30; Sun 10, 1:15, 4:30. Ent: Bay Area Chess, 4423 Fortran Ct., Ste. 160, San Jose, CA 95134. $20 charge for refund. Questions:
[email protected], Tel 408-786-5515. Info & Entries: BayAreaChess.com/events/10/spring. NS, NC, W. WCL JGP.
Mar. 6-7, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2010 Carlisle Open & PA Collegiate Championship 5SS, G/90, T/D5. Hotel Carlisle & Embers Convention Center, 1700 Harrisburg Pike, Carlisle, PA 17015, Exit 52A NB/Exit 52 SB off I-81, Exit 226 off PA Turnpike. 2 sections: Open & U1500. $$ (1260G): Open: 180-120, U2200 $110, U2000 $100, U1800 $90, U1600 $80. U1500: 150-100, U1400 $90, U1200 $85, U1000 $80, Unr $75. All: College Tr: 1-2 in each section, 1-2 team (top 4 over both sections). EF: $29 rec’d by 2/16, $39 after, PSCF $5 OSA. Reg.: 8:45-9:30 am. Rds.: 10-2-5:30, 9-1. Feb 2010 ratings used. Bye: limit 1, ask by rd 2. HR: Mention “PA States” for best rate; 800-692-7315 $75. Ent: PSCF, c/oTom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223-2245. Info: martinak_tom_m@ hotmail.com. 412-908-0286. W. WCL JGP.
Mar. 12-14 or 13-14, California Southern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 100 (enhanced) 17th annual Western Class Championships Note corrections: 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/75), Under 900 Section is 6 rounds. G/75 playing Mar 13-14 only. Renaissance Agoura Hills Hotel, 30100 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills, CA 91301 (US-101 to Reyes Adobe Road exit). Adjacent to the Santa Monica Mountains, 26 miles west of Burbank, 12 miles from Malibu, 28 miles from Ventura. Free parking. $$20,000 based on 230 paid entries (re-entries, U900 count as half entries), minimum $16,000 (80% each prize) guaranteed. In 8 sections. Master (over 2199): $2000-1000-500300, clear or tiebreak winner $100, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE. Expert (2000-2199): $1400-700-400-200. Class A (1800-1999): $1400-700-400-200. Class B (1600-1799): $1400-700-400-200. Class C (1400-1599): $1200-600300-200. Class D (1200-1399): $1000-500-300-150. Class E (1000-1199): $1000-500-300-150. Under 900: $300-150-100-50. Rated players may play up one section. Unrated must play in A or below with maximum prize A $600, B $500, C $400, D $300, E $200, U900 $100; balance goes lineto next player(s) in line. Top 7 sections EF: 3-day $113, 2-day $112 mailed by 3/4, all $115 online at chesstour.com by 3/9, $120 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 3/9 (entry only, no questions), $130 at site. Special EF: $60 less to unrated in A through E. $60 less to all in Under 900. All: Special 1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: Online at chesstour.com. Adult $30, Young Adult $20. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30. Re-entry (except Master) $60. SCCF memb. ($18, jr $10) required for rated Southern CA residents. 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 6 pm, rds Fri 7, Sat 11-6, Sun 10-4:15. 2-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 10 am, rds Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 10-4:15. U900 schedule: Reg Sat to 9:30 am, rds 10-1-4 each day. Byes: OK all rds, limit 2; Master must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $87-87, 818-707-1220, reserve by Mar 3 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Questions:
uschess.org
chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Ent: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for withdrawals. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
Mar. 13-14, Louisiana World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2010 Louisiana Pro-Am 5-SS, G/2 (Round 1: G/90). Site: Holiday Inn New Orleans Westbank, 275 Whitney Ave., Gretna, LA 70053. EF: $50 if mailed by 3/6, $60 at site. LCA Memb. req’d ($10 adult, $5 Schol.), OSA. Prizes: $1800 b/60, 50% Gtd. Two Sections: Pro (Open): $400-200; U2000 $200-100. Amateur (U1800): $250-100; U1600 $200-100; U1400 $150; U1200/UNR $100. Reg.: 3/13, 8-9am. Rds.: Sat: 9:151-5:30, Sun: 9:30-2. HR: $99, (504) 366-8535. Ent/Info: Adam Caveney, 1301 Gen. Taylor St., New Orleans, LA 70115,
[email protected], (504) 8954133 (evenings), (504) 615-6730 (on day of tourney). NS, NC. WCL JGP.
Mar. 13-14 or 14, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 March 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, U 2000 $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.
Mar. 13-14, Texas World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) TexOhma FIDE Open 5SS, G/90 with 30 second increment. Dallas Chess Club, 212 S. Cottonwood Dr. #A, Richardson, TX 75080. One Section $$550G. Open: This section is FIDE rated but uses USCF Rules. $400-$100-$50. EF: $55, Juniors (U19)/Senior/Hcap $35, plus $5 non-DCC membership fee if applicable. Registration: 9:45 -10:15 am. Rds.: Sat 10:45 - 3:10 - 7:16, Sun 10:45-3:10. One Bye allowed if requested before rd 2, withdrawals and zero point last round byes are not eligible for prizes. Ent: Dallas Chess Club, see address above. Info: 214-632-9000, info@dallas chess.com. NS. NC. FIDE. WCL JGP.
Mar. 13-14, 19-21 or 15-21, North Carolina World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 60 (enhanced) 2010 U.S. Masters See Nationals.
Mar. 16, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) Marshall Masters (formerly the St. John’s Masters) 4SS. G/30. Third Tues. of every month. 23 W. 10th St., NYC 212 477-3716. Open to players rated over 2100 (plus all players scoring 2.5 or more at any CCNY at MCC Thursday 4 Rated Games Tonight! since the prior month’s Masters) EF: $40, members $30, GMs $10 (returned on completion of tournament). Top three prizes guaranteed. $$G 250-150100. Top U2400 and Top 2300 prizes. Special prize for biggest upset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45PM. One bye available, rds. 1 or 4 only; declare at registration.
Mar. 19-21 or 20-21, Missouri World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 100 (enhanced) 14th annual Mid-America Open 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Under 900 is 6 rounds playing March 20-21 only, G/75. Crowne Plaza Hotel St. Louis-Clayton, 7750 Carondelet Ave., St. Louis, MO 63105 (I-64 W/US 40-W Exit 32B, 1.2 miles north on Hanley Rd). $$ 20,000 based on 250 paid entries (re-entries count half, U900 Section one-third), minimum $16,000 (80% of each prize) guaranteed. In 8 sections: Open: $2000-1000-500-300, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak $100 bonus, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE. Under 2200: $1400-700-400-300. Under 2000: $1400700-400-300. Under 1800: $1400-700-400-300. Under 1600: $1200-600-300200. Under 1400: $1200-600-300-200. Under 1200: $800-400-200-100. Under 900: $200-100-60-40. Unrated may enter any section, with prize limits: U900 $100, U1200 $200, U1400 $300, U1600 $400, U1800 $500, U2000 $600. Bal-
uschess.org
ance goes to next player(s) in line. EF: 3-day $108.50, 2-day $107.50 mailed by 3/9, all $109 online at chesstour.com by 3/16, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 3/16 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. GMs free, $90 deducted from prize. Under 1200 EF: All $20 less. Under 900 EF: all $70 less. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30. Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. MCA memb. ($5) required for MO residents. 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. Under 900 schedule: Reg. ends Sat. 10 am, rds Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 9-12:30-3:15. Byes: OK all, limit 2; Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $87-87, 888-303-1746, 314726-5400, request chess rate, reserve by 3/3 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. $15 service charge for refunds. WCL JGP.
Mar. 20, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) 2010 March LVCA Grand Prix 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. FREE ENTRY TO UNRATEDS, if paying 1 year USCF Dues. Up to two 1/2 pt byes (if declared before round 3). REG.: Ends 10am. RDS.: 10:30-1:30-4:457:45. Ent/Info: Check payable: Bruce Davis, 1208 Linden St., Fl. 1, Bethlehem, PA 18018 or call 610-625-0467 or
[email protected]. WCL JGP.
A State Championship Event! Mar. 20, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2010 PA State Game/29 Championship (QC) 5SS, G/29. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pitt., 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. 2 Sections: Champ: EF: $25 by 3/12, $35 later. $$ (690G): $200-100, U2000 $90, U1800 $80, U1600 $70, U1400 $60, U1200 $50, U1000 $40. Trophies: 13 U1400, 1-3 U1200, 1-3 U1000. Scholastic: Grades K-12 unrated or U900. EF: $15 by 3/12, $25 later.Trophies toTop 7, 1-3 U600. ALL:Trophies: 1-2 Schools, 1-2 Clubs, Teams of 4-7 players from both sections. PSCF $5, OSA. Reg.: 1010:30am. Rds.: 11-12:30-1:45-3-4:15. Ent/Info: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223-2245, 412-908-0286. W.
Mar. 21, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced) Grandmaster Challenge 6-SS, G/30. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC 212 477-3716, limited to first 64 entries. EF: $35 over 55/under 18, $45 others, $10 less to Marshall members (free buffet to participants) GMs free, $25 deducted from prize. Reg. ends 11:45 AM. Prizes: G$$350-250-150-100-75-50, $100 U2400, $100 U2200, $75 U2000, $50 U1800, top over 55 $=age, top under 18 $= 3x age, top scoring female $=# of players. Rds.: 12-1:20-2:40-4-5:20-6:40. (NOTE CHANGE) Byes: limit 2, request before Round 3. Additional class prize $500 2800+, $250 2700+.
1st $125, 2nd $75, 3rd $50. $$ 100% guaranteed. FIRST 5 GMs and Ims PREREGISTER FREE! ($50 deducted from winnings). EF online: $50 by 2/15, $60 by 3/5, after 3/5 $70. $75 ONSITE. Register at www.greaterchchess.com. Cherry Hill Library Multi-cultural room from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Onsite reg. 9:30-10 a.m. 1st rd. 10:15. More info:
[email protected] or (856) 287-2393.
Mar. 27-28, Florida World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 North Florida Classic Chess Championships II 5SS, G/90. Price-Martin Center, 220 N. 11th Street, Palatka, Florida. $500 to First Place Unconditionally Guaranteed. 2nd Place $ 250, 3rd $ 125, Top U1800, U1600, U1400, U1200/UNR Each $ 150. First Place Fully Guaranteed, other prizes based on entries (b/38) More Entries Mean More Prize Money! EF: $45 if by Feb. 28, $50 at Site. USCF Rated.TD Ben Cody & Jim Hedge. Reg ends 9:30 a.m. Saturday. Rounds: 10-1:30-5, Sunday 11-3. Championship Trophy to First, Trophies to Top each class listed above. 5-Second Time Delay permitted. NS NC W. Advance Entries: Jim Hedge 4502 Pontiac Street, Palatka, FL 32177. www.palatkachessclub.com,
[email protected], (386) 9724225. Sponsored by The Palatka Chess Club and the City of Palatka. Contact us for special rates Before you book Hotel rooms. WCL JGP.
Mar. 27-28 or 28, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) New York March Open! 4-SS, 30/90, SD/1. Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W. 10 St., bet. 5th6th Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. $$ 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.chesscenter.cc thru 3/25. 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., both 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.
Mar. 31-Apr. 4, Apr. 1-4, 2-4 or 3-4, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced) Philadelphia Open Open Section, Mar 31-Apr 4: 9SS, 40/2, SD/1. GM & IM norms possible. U1300 to U2100, Apr 1-4, 2-4 or 3-4: 7SS, 40/2, SD/1 (3-day option, rds. 12 G/75, 2-day option, rds. 1-4 G/40). U1000, April 3-4: 7SS, G/40. Sheraton City Center Hotel, 17th & Race Sts, Philadelphia, PA 19103. Prizes $100,000 based on 650 paid entries (Seniors count as 3/4 entries; U1000 Section, reentries, GMs, WGMs & foreign IMs as half entries), else proportional, minimum $70,000 (70% of each prize) guaranteed. In 7 sections: Open: $10000-50002500-1300-1000-700-600-500-400-400, clear first bonus $200, FIDE 2300-2449 $3000-1500-700, FIDE Under 2300/Unr $3000-1500-700. If tie for first, top 2 on tiebreak play speed game for title & bonus. FIDE rated. Under 2100, Under 1900, Under 1700: each $5000-3000-2000-1000-700-600-500-400300-300. Under 1500, Under 1300: each $4000-2000-1500-1000-700-600-500400-300-300. Under 1000: $1000-600-400-300-250-200-150-100. Prize lim-
Mar. 25, 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!
Mar. 27, New Jersey World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 Greater Cherry Hill Super Sunday Grand Prix 5SS, Game 30. SECTION 1: 1st $450, 2nd $300, 3rd $150. SECTION 2: U1800
Chess Life — February 2010
57
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING FEBRUARY 1-14
Tournament Life its: 1) Players with under 26 lifetime games rated as of 4/10 list may not win over $500 in U1000, $1500 in U1300, or $2500 in U1500. Games rated too late for 4/10 list not counted. 2) If more than 30 points over section maximum on any USCF rating supplement 4/09-3/10, prize limit $1500. 3) Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) cannot win over $200 in U1000, $400 U1300, $800 U1500, $1200 U1700, $1600 U1900, or $2000 U2100. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. 4) Balance of limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Mailed EF: 5-day (Open only) $205, 4-day $204, 3-day $203, 2-day $202 if mailed by 1/13; 5-day $225, 4-day $224, 3-day $223, 2-day $222 mailed by 3/23; all $250 at site. PSCF members may deduct $3 from mailed EF only. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Online EF at chesstour.com: $207 by 1/13, $227 by 3/29, $250 after 3/29 until 2 hours before rd 1. Phone EF at 406-896-2038 (entry only, no questions): $210 by 1/13, $230 by 3/29. No phone entry after 3/29. GMs, foreign IMs, foreign WGMs free; $150 deducted from prize. US WGMs $100; $120 deducted from prize. Special EF: $100 less for Under 1000 Section. $50 less to unrated in U1300 to U2100 sections. $70 less to rated seniors 65/over in U1300 & above sections. Special 1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry: $100, no re-entry from Open Section to Open Section. 5-day schedule (Open only): Reg. ends Wed 6 pm, rds. Wed. 7 pm,Thu 12 & 7, Fri/Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 4-day schedule: (U1300 to U2100): Reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds. Thu 7 pm, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 3-day schedule (U1300 to U2100): Reg. ends Fri 10 am, rds Fri 11, 2:30 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 2-day schedule (U1300 to U2100): Reg. ends Sat. 9 am, rds Sat. 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. Under 1000 schedule: Reg. ends Sat. 9 am, rds. Sat. 10. 12. 2, 3:45, Sun. 10, 12, 2. 4-day, 3-day, & 2-day merge & compete for same prizes. Byes: all; limit 4 (limit 2 in last 4 rds), Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 4. Bring sets, boards, clocks if possible- none supplied. HR: $93-93-93-93, 215-4482000, reserve by 3/23 or rate may increase. Parking $8/day with guest room, $15/day without; garage near hotel is about $10 on weekend. Car rentals: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633 or reserve car online at chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings: Usually 100 points added to FIDE, 100 to FQE, 200/more to most other foreign, no points added to CFC, PR 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: April list used; FIDE ratings used in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special rules: Players must submit to a search for electronic devices if requested by Director. In round 3 or after, players with scores of 80% or over and their opponents may not use headphones, earphones or cellphones or go to a different floor of the hotel without Director permission. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658, www.chesstour.com. You may request “lowest possible section” if April rating unknown. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP (except U1000).
Apr. 2-4, Nevada World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 150 (enhanced) 10th Annual Reno-Far West Open 6SS,40/2,20/1,G/1/2. Sands Regency Hotel/Casino, 345 N. Arlington Ave. Reno, NV 89501.1-866-386-7829 or (775) 348-2200. $$21,200 b/250. $$14,200 Gtd. (Prizes 1-10 in Open Section Gtd. plus 1/2 of all other prizes). Free Lecture & Analysis Clinic by GM Larry Evans! 5 Sections. Open (2000 & above) EF: $137, (1999 & below = $151) (GMs & IMs free but must enter by (3/13) or pay late fee). $$2,000-1,200-1000-800-600-400-300-300-300-300, (2399/below)- $1,000, (2299/below)- $1,000, (2199/below) -$1000-500-300200 (If a tie for 1st then a playoff for $100 out of prize fund plus trophy). Sec.”A” (1800-1999) EF: $136; $$1,000-500-400-300-200-100-100. Sec.”B” (16001799) EF: $135; $$900-500-400-300-200-100-100. Sec.”C” (1400-1599) EF: $134; $$700-500-400-300-200-100-100. Sec.”D”/under (1399-below) EF: $133; $$600-400-300-200-100-100-100;Top Senior (65+) -$200; Club Champ.$400-200. ALL: Entries must be postmarked by 3/13 or pay late fee-$11 until 3/26 (do not mail after 3/26), $22 at site. All classes have trophies 1st – 3rd. Unrated players are free entry but not eligible for cash prizes- must join USCF for 1 full year thru this tournament. 1st Unrated = trophy + 1 yr. USCF Mem.
$10 discount to Seniors (65+ yrs.) & Juniors (19-under). Players may play up. Provisionally rated players may only win 1/2 of 1st place money. CCA ratings may be used. Note: pairings not changed for color unless 3 in a row or a plus 3 and if the unlikely situation occurs 3 colors in a row may be assigned. SIDE EVENTS:Thurs. (4/1) 6-7:15pm Free Lecture-GM Larry Evans; 7:30pm-GM YERMOLINSKY Simul ($15); 7:30pm-Blitz (5 Min) tourney ($20) 80% entries = Prize Fund. Sat. (4/3) (3-4:30pm) Free Game/Position Analysis - GM Larry Evans. ALL REG: (4/1) 5-9pm,(4/2) 9-10am. RDS: (Fri) 12-7, (Sat)10-6, (Sun)9:30-4:30. Byes available any round (if requested by Rd.1 2 max in Open sect.). ENT: make checks payable and send to: SANDS REGENCY (address listed above), postmarked by 3/13. $11 late fee if postmarked after 3/13 and before 3/26. Do not mail after 3/26 or email after 3/31. $22 late fee at site. HR: (Sun-Thurs. $27!) (Fri. & Sat. $47!) + tax. 1-866-386-7829 mention (Code) CHESS410 (Reserve by 3/15/10) to get Chess rate. INFO: Jerry Weikel, 6578 Valley Wood Dr., Reno, NV 89523, (775) 747-1405,
[email protected] check out our website at: www.reno chess.org/fwo. To verify entry check website. WCL JGP.
Finegold at the most beautiful and technologically advanced Chess Club in the world! 5SS, G/120. Chess Club & Scholastic Center of Saint Louis, 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108. Free entries for GMs and IMs, deducted from prize. EF: $60, $50 for annual members of the club if registered by 4/9. MCA Membership Req’d from $5. OSA. One Section. PF: $3,700 Unconditionally Guaranteed! 1st Place: $750. 2nd Place: $450. Top U2300: $350. 2nd U2300: $150. $300 1st/$100 2nd in each A, B, C, D, U1200. Top 2 finishers qualify for 2011 Club Championship. Reg.: 9-9:45. Rds.: 10, 2:15, 6:30. Sunday: 9, 1:15. Two 1/2 point byes available if declared before round 1. Hotel (ask for chess rate): Chase Park Plaza Hotel, 1-877-587-2427, $159/night. Parkway Hotel, 314256-7777, $97/night. Water Tower Inn, 314-977-7500, $70/night. Ent: 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108, or online at saintlouischessclub.org. Info: 314-361-CHESS or
[email protected]. WCL JGP.
Apr. 3-4, Texas World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) North Texas FIDE Open
5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Sheraton Hotel, 1 Bradley Airport (visible at airport entrance), Windsor Locks, CT 06096 (I-91 Exit 40 to Rt 20). Free parking. $$ 15,000 based on 220 paid entries, $10,000 (2/3 each prize) minimum guaranteed. U1105 Section & re-entries count as 60% entries towards prize fund. In 7 sections. Open: (FIDE rated) $1500-700-500-300, top Under 2305 $800–400.. Under 2205: $1000-500-300-200. Under 2005: $1000500-300-200. Under 1805: $1000-500-300-200. Under 1605: $1000-500-300200. Under 1405: $800-400-300-200. Under 1105: $500-300-200-100. Unrated may not win over $100 in U1105, $200 U1405, $300 U1605, $400 U1805, or $500 U2005. Prize limit $300 if official rating was 50 or more points over section or prize maximum on any list 4/08 to 3/09. Top 6 sections EF: 3-day $98, 2day $97 mailed by 4/8, all $99 online at chesstour.com by 4/14, $105 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 4/14 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. Under 1105 Section EF: 3-day $58, 2-day $57 mailed by 4/8, all $59 online at chesstour.com by 4/14, $65 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 4/14 (entry only, no questions), $70 at site. $20 less to unrated in U1105 Section. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. GMs free, $80 deducted from prize. Mailed EF $3 less to CSCA or WMCA members. Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entryonline at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30. 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. 112:30-6, 9-3:15. Bye: all, limit 2; must commit before rd 2. HR: $87-87, 860-627-5311; reserve by 4/2 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-3311600, AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
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: $55, Juniors (U19)/Senior/Hcap $35, 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 and zero point last round byes are not eligible for prizes. Ent: Dallas Chess Club, see address above. Info: 214-632-9000, info@dallas chess.com. NS. NC. FIDE. WCL JGP.
Apr. 10, Kentucky World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 Western Kentucky University Open 4SS, G/60, USCF rated. PRIZES: $1500 b/50 full pd. ent.Top 4 places gtd. Free Entry for GMs and IMs (EF deducted from winnings). OPEN SECTIONS, PRIZE FUND: 1st - 4th place (Gtd): $325,175, 80, 50, Class A $100, 65, 35, Class B $100, 65, 35, Class C $100, 65, 35, Class D $75, 35, Class E and below $75, 35, Top Unrated $50. *Unrated players can only play in unrated section. If we reach 75 full pd ent then we will double the prize fund. SIDE EVENTS: College team tournament: Sat. Only 3/27. 4SS, G/60. Trophies to top three teams, Medals to top five players. EF: $25 by March 31st, $35 on site. Reg. Sat. 8-9 am. Rds: 10-1-3-5. Format: Mod. Swiss (players may play other players from own school and will be mixed in with open section), open to College and University teams from North America.Teams must provide current college ID w/ picture (shown at registration). Tiebreak: All Ties will be broken. G/10 playoff for first place. SIDE EVENTS: Scholastic Tournament: Sat. Only 4/10. 5SS, G/30. Trophies to top five teams in each section, medals for top 8 players in each section. EF: $15 postmark by March 31st, $25 on site. Reg: Sat. 8-9 am. Rd 1: 10 am. Rds: 2-5 ASAP/ as announced. SECTIONS: High School (open to grades 9-12), Jr. High (open to grades 6-8), Elementary (open to grades 4-5), Primary (open to grades k-3). Format: 5 Round Swiss. Top 4 scores count towards team total. Tiebreak: see above. OPEN EF: $35 if postmarked by 4/2/2010, $50 at site. GM’s and IM’s receive free entry (EF deducted from winnings). Dues Required: USCF membership, Kentucky Chess Association for KY residents (Adult $8, Youth $4). Reg. Sat. 8-9 am.; Byes: 1/2 point for any Rd. (limit 1), must commit by reg. HR: Hampton Inn (270) 842-4100, $79.00, includes continental breakfast and free internet, Reserve by Mar. 10 and mention WKU Open to assure group rate. Airport Shuttle: Bowling Green Shuttle (866) 234-8705 will provide airport shuttle from Nashville Airport to Bowling Green: reservations: www.BGShuttle.com. Playing site: Garrett Conference Center - WKU Campus. Chief TD: Chris Prosser. ENT: Online registration & directions: www.hilltopper chess.net (accepts check or credit card; cash or check at site). Info or phone entry: Samuel J. Hunt (918) 809-6278.
Apr. 10-11, Missouri World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 Saint Louis Open Battle wits with 2009 U.S. Champion GM Hikaru Nakamura and GM Ben
Apr. 16-18 or 17-18, Connecticut World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 60 (enhanced) Hartford Open
Apr. 23-25 or 24-25, Tennessee World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 40 (enhanced) 9th Southern Class Championships 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Radisson Hotel at Opryland, 2401 Music Valley Drive (TN-155 to West McGavock Pike Exit 12), Nashville, TN 37214. Free parking. Prizes $10,000 based on 160 paid entries (Class E, unrated, & re-entries count as half entries), $7500 (minimum 75% each prize) guaranteed. In 6 sections; no unrated allowed in Master-Expert. MasterExpert (2000/up): $1000-500-300-150, clear win or first on tiebreak $50, top U2200 $700-400. FIDE. Class A (1800-1999/Unr): $800-400-200-100. Class B (1600-1799/Unr): $800-400-200-100. Class C (1400-1599/Unr): $800-400200-100. Class D (1200-1399/Unr): $700-400-200-100. Class E (Under 1200/Unr): $400-300-200-100. Rated players may play up one section. Unrated prize limit $100 E, $200 D, $300 C, $400 B, $500 A. Top 5 sections EF: 3-day $88, 2-day $87 mailed by 4/15, all $89 online at chesstour.com by 4/20, $90 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 4/20 (entry only, no questions), $100 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Special EF for all in Class E Section and unrated in Class C or D: all $40 less. Special Radisson entry fee: $20 less if staying at Radisson with chess rate 4/24 (limit one deduction per guest room). All: TCA memb. required for TN residents. GMs free, $70 deducted from prize. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20. Mailed, phoned or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30. Re-entry $50; not available in Master Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. 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. Bye: all, Master-Expert must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $92-92, 615-889-0800, 800-395-7046, ask for chess rate, reserve by 4/9 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied. 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.
Apr. 29-May 27, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) 2010 Hatboro Open (Note correction of GP pts.) 5-SS, 40/90, G/1. Trinity Orthodox Presbyterian Church, 151 W. County Line Road (near Blair Mill Road), Hatboro 19040. $$950 b/30. In one section: $400-200, U1900 $100, U1700 $100, U1500 $100, Upset Prize $50. EF: $30 if postmarked by 4/8, $35 at site, $5 less to Chaturanga CC members. Write checks to “Chaturanga Chess Club.” Reg.: 7-7:20pm. Rds.: 7:30pm eachThursday. Bye: limit 1, any round, must request before Round 3 starts. Ent/Info: Jorge Amador, POB 387, Forest Grove, PA 18922, (215) 7948368,
[email protected]. NS, NC, W. WCL JGP.
For details on
2010 U.S. AMATEUR TEAM EVENTS East, North, South, West See Nationals Section! 58
Chess Life — February 2010
uschess.org
Apr. 30-May 2 or May 1-2, Vermont World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced) 21st annual Vermont Resort Open 5 SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Lake Morey Resort, 1 Clubhouse Rd, Fairlee, VT 05045 (I-91 to Exit 15; less than a mile to the resort on Lake Morey Rd). 2 1/2 hours from Boston or Hartford, 1 hour 45 minutes from Manchester, NH, 20 minutes from Dartmouth College. 600 acre lake with boating, indoor pool, health club, tennis, basketball, biking, hiking, etc. $4000 guaranteed prizes. In 5 sections. Open: $500-300-200, top Under 2200/Unr $350-150. FIDE. Under 2000: $400-200-100. Under 1800: $400-200-100. Under 1600: $300-150-100. Under 1400: $300-150-100. Unrated may enter any section but may not win over $80 in U1400, $160 in U1600 or $240 in U1800. EF: 3-day $73, 2-day $72 mailed by 4/22, all $75 online at chesstour.com by 4/28, $80 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 4/28 (entry only, no questions), $85 at site. $50 less to unrated. No checks at site, credit cards OK. GMs free; $60 deducted from prize. Re-entry $40, not available in Open. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20. Mailed, phoned or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 9 & 3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10:30 am, rds. Sat 11, 2:30, 6, Sun 9 & 3:15. Half point byes OK all, limit 2; must commit before rd 2. HR: $85-85-95, 800-423-1211, 802-3334311, reserve by 4/16 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658, www.chesstour.com. $15 service charge for refunds. May ratings used. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
May 14-16 or 15-16, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20 (enhanced) 18th annual New York State Open 5SS, 30/90, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/60). Howard Johnson Tiki Resort, 2 Canada St., Lake George, NY 12845. $$G 4000. In 3 sections. Open: $$ 500250-130, top 1910-2109 $200-100, top Under 1910 $200-100. Senior, open to under 2010 or unrated born before 5/17/60. $$ 400-200-100, top Under 1810 $200-100, top Under 1610 $170-90. Under 1710: $$ 400-200-100, Under 1510 $200-100, Under 1310 $170-90. No unrated may win over $250 in Senior or $150 in Under 1710. All: 1 year NYSCA membership to NY residents who are not members. EF: 3-day $78, 2-day $77 mailed by 5/7, $79 online at chesstour.com by 5/12, $85 phoned by 5/12 to 406-896-2038 (payment only, no questions), $90 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. $40 less to unrated in U1710 or Senior sections. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30. Re-entry $40, not available in Open Section. GMs free, $60 deducted from prize. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 12-6, Sun 9-2:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 11:30 am, rds Sat 123-6, Sun 9-2:15. Half point byes OK all, must commit before rd 2; limit 2 byes (limit 1 bye towards U1910, U1610 or U1310 prizes). HR: 59-59-70 (2 double beds), 65-65-76 (2 queen beds), 518-668-5744, reserve by 5/5 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Sal-
uschess.org
isbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chess tour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
An American Classic! May 27-31, 28-31, 29-31 or 30-31, Illinois World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 300 (enhanced) 19th annual Chicago Open Open Section, May 27-31: 9SS, 40/2, SD/1, GM & IM norms possible. Under 1300 to Under 2100, May 28-31, 29-31 or 30-31: 7SS, 40/2, SD/1 (3-day option, rds 1-2 G/75; 2-day option, rds. 1-4 G/40). Under 1000, May 30-31: 7SS, G/40. Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel, 601 North Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling, IL 60090 (from Chicago, I-294 north to US-45 north; from Milwaukee, I-94 east to Lake Cook Rd to US-45 south.) Free parking. $100,000 guaranteed prize fund. In 7 sections. Open: $10000-5000-2500-1200-1000700-600-500-400-400, clear winner bonus $200, FIDE 2300-2449 $3000-1500-700, FIDE Under 2300/Unr $3000-1500-700. If tie for first, top 2 on tiebreak play speed game for title & bonus. FIDE rated. Under 2100, Under 1900, Under 1700: each $5000-3000-2000-1000-700-600-500-400300-300. Under 1500, Under 1300: $4000-2000-1500-1000-700-500-400-300300-300. Under 1000: $1000-600-400-300-300-300-200-200-200-200. Prize limits: 1) Players with under 26 lifetime games rated through 5/10 list may not win over $500 U1000, $1500 U1300 or $2500 U1500. Games rated too late for 5/10 list not counted. 2) If more than 30 points over section maximum on any list 5/09-4/10, prize limit $1500. 3) Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) cannot win over $200 in U1000, $400 U1300, $800 U1500, $1200 U1700, $1600 U1900 or $2000 U2100. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. 4) Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Mailed EF: 5-day (Open only) $200, 4-day $199, 3-day $198, 2-day $197 mailed by 3/15; 5-day $220, 4-day $219, 3-day $218, 2-day $217 mailed by 5/19; all $250 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Online EF at chesstour.com: $203 by 3/15, $223 by 5/24, $250 after 5/24 until 2 hours before rd 1. Phone EF at 406-896-2038 (entry only, no questions): $205 by 3/15, $225 by 5/24 (entry only, no questions). No phone entry after 5/24. GMs, foreign IMs, foreign WGMs free; $150 deducted from prize. US WGMs $100; $120 deducted from prize. Special EF: $50 less to unrated in U1000 to U2100 sections. $70 less to rated seniors 65/over in U1300 & above sections. Under 1000 EF: $82 if mailed by 5/19, $83 online at chesstour.com by 5/24, $85 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 5/24 (entry only, no questions), $100 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. ICA membership ($15, scholastic $10) required for rated Illinois residents. Special 1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30. Re-entry: $100, no re-entry from Open Section to Open Section. 5-day schedule (Open only): Reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds Thu 7 pm, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30. 4-day schedule (U1300 to U2100): Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, Rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30. 3-day schedule: (U1300 to U2100): Reg. ends Sat 10 am, Rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30. 2-day schedule (U1300 to U2100): Reg. ends Sun 9 am, Rds. Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30. Above schedules merge & compete for same prizes. Under 1000 schedule: Reg. ends Sun 9 am, Rds. Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45, Mon. 10, 12, 2. Byes: OK all, limit 4 (limit 2 in last 4 rds), Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 4. Hotel
rates: $98-98-98-98, 800-937-8461, 847-777-6500, reserve by 5/14 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings: Usually 100 points added to FIDE, 100 to FQE, 200/more to most other foreign, no pts added to CFC or Jamaica. 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: May official ratings used; May FIDE ratings used for Open Section. Special rules: 1) Players must submit to a search for electronic devices if requested by Director. In round 3 or after, players with scores of 80% or over and their opponents may not use headphones, earphones, cellphones, or go to a different floor of the hotel without Director permission. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 845496-9658, www.chesstour.com. You may request “lowest possible section” if May rating unknown. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP (except U1000).
A Heritage Event! June 11-13 or 12-13, Nevada World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced) 2010 National Open See Nationals.
June 11-13 or 12-13, Vermont World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) 7th annual Vermont Spring Open 5SS, 30/90, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/60). Stratton Mountain Inn, Middle Ridge Rd. (take Stratton Mountain Road from center of Bondville), West Wardsboro, VT 05360. 35 minutes east from Manchester, VT or 55 minutes west from Brattleboro on Rt 30; under 2 hours from Albany, NY or Springfield MA. $$G 2000. In 3 sections. Open: $300-150-80, top Under 1950/Unr $180-90. Under 1750: $250-120-60, top Under 1550 $160-80, no unrated may win over $150. Under 1350: $200-100-50, top Under 1150 $120-60, no unrated may win over $80. EF: 3-day $68, 2-day $67 mailed by 6/4, all $69 online at chesstour.com by 6/9, $75 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 6/9 (entry only, no questions), $80 at site. $40 less to unrated in U1350 or U1750 Section. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry. Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30. Re-entry $40, not available in Open. GMs free; $40 deducted from prize. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds Fri 7, Sat 12 & 6, Sun 9 & 2:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 11:30 am, rds. Sat 12, 3 & 6, Sun 9 & 2:15. Half point byes OK all, must commit before rd 2; limit 1 bye towards class prizes. HR: $79-79, 1-800-STRATTON, 802-297-2500, reserve by 5/28 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633, or reserve car online at chesstour.com. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Ent: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658, chesstour.com. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
June 25-29, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 150 (enhanced) 4th annual Philadelphia International
Chess Life — February 2010
59
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING FEBRUARY 1-14
Tournament Life 9SS, 40/2, SD/1. Valley Forge Convention Center (and Scanticon & Radisson Hotels), 1160 1st Ave., King of Prussia, PA 19406. Free parking. $$G 7000: $2000-1200-800-600-400-300-200, top FIDE under 2300 or unrated $1000-500. Minimum prize $600 to foreign GMs who complete all games with no byes, $300 to foreign IMs & foreign WGMs who complete all games with no byes. IM & GM norms possible; FIDE rated. EF: Free to GMs, foreign IMs, foreign WGMs; $100 deducted from prize of US GMs. Foreign FIDE rated players $115 mailed by 6/16, $117 online by 6/23, $125 phoned by 6/23 (406-896-2038, payment only, no questions), $150 at tmt. USA FIDE 2100/up rated players: $215 mailed by 6/16, $217 online by 6/23, $225 phoned by 6/23, $250 at tmt. Others: $315 mailed by 6/16, $317 online by 6/23, $325 phoned by 6/23, $350 at tmt. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life: see World Open. Schedule: Late reg. ends Thu 10 am, rds Thu through Sun 11 & 6, Mon 11.Two half point byes available (must commit before rd 2); norm not possible if taking bye. HR: $99-99, 610-337-2000, reserve by 6/5 or rate may increase. Bring sets, boards, clocks if possible- none supplied. Ent: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: 845-496-9658, www.chesstour.com. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event! An American Classic! June 29-July 5, July 1-5, 2-5 or 3-5, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 300 (enhanced) 38th Annual World Open 9 SS, 40/2, SD/1 (4-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, 3-day option, rds 1-5 G/45), Open Section plays 5-day July 1-5 or 7-day June 29-July 5 only. Under 900/Unr Section plays separate 3-day schedule July 3-5 only, G/45. Valley Forge Convention Plaza (and Scanticon & Radisson Hotels), 1160 1st Ave., King of Prussia, PA 19406. Free parking. 20 miles west of Philadelphia (PA Turnpike to I-76 East to Exit 327, right on N Gulph Rd, right on 1st Ave, or from Philadelphia, I-76 West to Exit 328B-A, right on Mall Blvd, right on N. Gulph Rd., right on 1st Ave.). For shuttle info from Philadelphia Airport or 30th St train station, call 800-559-2040 or 215-616-5370. All play in same room (brightly lighted exhibit hall with capacity 1800 players). Radisson and Scanticon hotels are connected to Convention Plaza. Prizes $250,000 based on 1100 paid entries (seniors, reentries, U1200 Section, GMs, WGMs count as 50% entries, rated players in U900 as 25% entries, Unrated in U900 or U1400 not counted), $175,000 minimum (70% of each prize) guaranteed. Free analysis of your games by GM Sam Palatnik; free GM lectures 9 am 7/3 & 7/4. In 9 sections (Unrated eligible only for Open, Under 2400, Under 1400 or Under 900). Open: $20000-10000-50002500-1200-1000-800-700-600-500, clear winner bonus $200, top FIDE U2500 $2000-1000. If tie for first, top 2 on tiebreak play speed game 11:30 pm 7/5 for title & bonus prize. GM & IM norms possible. FIDE rated. Under 2400/Unr: $13000-7000-3000-2000-1000-900-800-700-600- 500, top U2300 $2000-1000. IM norms may be possible. FIDE rated. Under 2200: $13000-7000-30002000-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U2100 $2000-1000. Under 2000: $13000-7000-3000-2000-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U1900 $2000-1000. Under 1800: $13000-7000-3000-2000-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U1700 $2000-1000. Under 1600: $12000-6000-3000-2000-1000-900-800-700-600500, top U1500 $2000-1000. Under 1400/Unr: $10000-5000-2500-1200-1000-
60
Chess Life — February 2010
900-800-700-600-500, top U1300 $1500-800, top Unrated $200-100, no unrated may win over $400. Unrateds may be paired against each other in later rounds, even with different scores. Under 1200: $5000-2500-1200-1000-800-700600-500-400-300, top U1050 $1000-500. Under 900/Unr: $1000-600-400-300300-300-200-200-200-200, no unrated may win over $200. Prize limits: 1) Players with under 26 games played as of 7/10 list may not win over $500 in U900, $1500 in U1200, $3000 U1400 or U1600. Games rated too late for 7/10 list not counted. 2) Players with official rating more than 30 points over section maximum any month 7/09-6/10 have a prize limit of $2000. 3) Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. EF, if mailed by 2/17: 7-day $307, 5-day $305, 4-day $304, 3-day $303. Mailed by 5/15: 7-day $317, 5-day $315, 4-day $314, 3-day $313. Mailed by 6/18: 7-day $327, 5-day $325, 4-day $324, 3-day $323. At site: All $350; no checks, credit cards OK. Online entry at chesstour.com: $310 by 2/17, $320 by 5/15, $330 by 6/24, $350 after 6/24 until 2 hours before rd 1. Phone entry at 406-896-2038: $315 by 2/17, $325 by 5/15, $335 by 6/24 (entry only, no questions). No phone entries after 6/24. GMs free; $200 EF deducted from prize. WGMs $100; $150 EF deducted from prize. EF $150 less to all in U1200 Section and rated seniors over 65 in Under 1400 & above. Under 900/Unr Section EF: $78 if mailed by 6/17, $80 online at chesstour.com by 6/24, $85 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 6/24 (entry only, no questions), $100 at site. Special EF to unrated in U900 or U1400 Sections: $28 mailed by 6/17, $30 online at chesstour.com by 6/24, $35 phoned to 406896-2038 by 6/24 (entry only, no questions), $40 at site. No checks at site; credit cards OK. Re-entry: $160, no re-entry from Open to Open. $20 fee for switching section after 6/30. Special 1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30. 5-day schedule: Thu 7 pm, Fri 11 am & 6 pm, Sat 11 am & 6 pm, Sun 11 am & 6 pm, Mon 10 am & 5 pm. 7-day schedule: Tue-Thu each 7 pm, Fri-Sat each 6 pm, Sun 11 am & 6 pm, Mon 10 am & 5 pm. 4-day schedule: Fri 11, 2:30 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 5. 3-day schedule: Sat 11, 1:30, 3:30, 6 & 8:30, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 5. All schedules merge & compete for same prizes. Under 900/Unr schedule: Sat 1:30, 3:30 & 6, Sun 11, 1:30, 3:30 & 6, Mon 10 & 12:30. Half point byes OK all, limit 4 (limit 2 in last 4 rds), Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 5. Entries, re-entries close 1 hour before your first game. Bring sets, boards, clocks if possible- none supplied. HR: Scanticon or Radisson $99-99, 610-337-2000, 888-267-1500 ask for chess rate, may sell out about May 25, two night minimum July 3-4. Backup hotel: Dolce (formerly Hilton), $99-99, 610-337-1200 ask for chess rate. Special car rental rates: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings: Usually 100 pts added to FIDE (except Open Section), 100 to FQE, 200 or more to most foreign, no pts added to CFC, Puerto Rico or Jamaica. Some foreign ratings not accepted for U2000 or below. Highest of multiple ratings usually used. Players who fail to disclose foreign or FIDE ratings may be expelled. US player ratings: Official JULY ratings used; FIDE ratings (May list) used for Open Section only. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Special rules: 1) Players must submit to a search for electronic devices if requested by Director. In round 3 or after, players with scores over 80% and their opponents may not use headphones, earphones, cellphones or go to a different floor of the hotel without Director permission. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills,
NY 12577. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. You may request “lowest possible section” if July rating unknown. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied. WCL JGP (except U900).
Regional Alabama Feb. 27, Birmingham Feb Tornado 4SS, TC: G/75. Homewood Community Center, 1632 Oxmoor Road, Homewood, AL 35209. OPEN ($375 b/15): $200-100-75; RESERVE (U1500; $375 b/15): $200-100-75; Late REG.: FEB 27th, 8-8:40am. Rds.: 9, 11:30, 2:30, 5. EF: $30, if mailed by FEB 20th; $40 at site. SCHOLASTIC (K-12): 5SS, TC: G/40 - AMATEUR (UNR-999). EF: $20, if mailed by FEB 20th, $10 more at site. Trophy: Top 3. Rds.: 9-10:30-12:30-2, 3:30. Checks payable to: Caesar Chess. ENT: Caesar Chess 4524 Southlake Parkway, Suite 34-PMB 310, Birmingham, AL 35244. Info:
[email protected], www.CaesarChess.com. WCL JGP.
Mar. 6, Alabaster Scholastic 5SS, TC: G/40. Thompson Intermediate School, 10019 Hwy 119, Alabaster, AL 35007. RATED: (K-12), (K-6); (K-3) - EF: $20 and NOT RATED: (K-8) and (K3) - EF: $10, If mailed by FEB 27th; $30/$20 at site. Trophy: Top 3; Medals 4th-6th andTeamTop 2 ea section. Rds.: 9-10:30-12:30-2, 3:30. Late REG: MAR 6th from 8-8:40am. Checks payable to: Caesar Chess. ENT: Caesar Chess LLC, 4524 Southlake Parkway, Suite 34 – PMB 310, Birmingham, AL 35244. Info:
[email protected], www.CaesarChess.com.
Arizona Every Friday - Friday Night Action SS G/30, Every Friday, Rounds 7, 8, 9, 10pm. Chess Emporium, 10801 N 32nd St., Phoenix, AZ 85029. EF: $35. 82% prize fund. ChessEmporium.com. 602-4824867.
Every Tuesday - Tuesday Night Action SS 45/2 SD/1, 1 round every Tuesday of the month at 7pm. Registration first Tues. of month. Chess Emporium, 10801 N 32nd St., Phoenix, AZ 85029. EF: $35. 60% prize fund. ChessEmporium.com. 602-482-4867. WCL JGP.
Mar. 12-14 or 13-14, 17th annual Western Class Championships (CAS) See Grand Prix.
May 29-31, 2010 U.S. Amateur West Championship See Nationals.
California Northern Feb. 13, SRJC Chess Club Tournament 3RR, G/60 (no time delay). 1501 Mendocino Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95401-4395, room 4608. EF: $10. Prizes: $20 1st in each quad. Rds.: 9-12-3. No equipment will be provided, so players are asked to bring their own boards/sets/clocks.
uschess.org
Reg.: reg starts at 8 am the day of the tournament. Contact: Aaron Crotty,
[email protected], (707) 293.6661.
Feb. 13-15 or 14-15, 36th Annual Peoples Tournament See Grand Prix.
Feb. 14, CalNorth Youth Chess Age Level Championships San Mateo Marriott, 1770 South Amphlett Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94402. Room Rate is $89. A $15 rebate from the tournament will be provided for hotel guests reducing the room cost to $74. Free shuttle service from the San Francisco Airport. Info & Entry: Form at www.calnorthyouthchess.org/AgeLevel2010. Open to 4 through 13 year olds who are USCF members. Competition by age not grade. Minimum of eight trophies to winners of each age group + a special 4 through 9 open group with longer time controls. Ages 4-5, 6, 7, 8, 9 Game/30, 5 Rds.: Ages 10, 11, 12, 13 + Open 4 to 9 Game/60, 4 Rds. Club/SchoolTeam trophies. Chess medals to all who do not win a place trophy. Info: Alan M. Kirshner, Ph.D.,
[email protected], (510) 659-0358.
$20 if received one week in advance, $25 after, $30 at site (Siblings $5 off). Mail checks to Beverly Hills Chess Club. Prizes: Trophies, medals, & gift cert. Reg.: 12-12:45 pm. Rnds.: 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5 pm. Comp. Lecture 11-12 pm. Lunch: $5 Pizza & Soda. www.bhchessclub.com. Info: Robert Minoofar, 888-91-CHESS (24377), or 310-274-7873,
[email protected].
Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28, LACC – Junior Grand Prix Sunday Scholastics 5SS, G/30. LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blocks 405 West. EF: $25 ($20 LACC memb, Free for new LACC memb). Reg.: 12-1 pm. Rds.: 1,2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Prizes: A Disney prize for each player and top 10 qualify for the Junior Grand Prix with trophies, medals distributed at the end of the month. Free BOA or street parking; or underground ($3). Free refreshments. Free class (12-1 pm). Info: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.
Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28, LACC Sunday G/60
Feb. 27-28, Spring Chess Festival
3SS, G/60. LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blocks 405 West. EF: $20 ($15 LACC memb). Reg.: 11:30-12 pm. Rds.: 12, 2, 4. Free BOA or street parking. Info: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.
See Grand Prix.
Feb. 13-15, 27th Annual U.S. Amateur Team West
Mar. 6-7, Spring Open
See Nationals.
See Grand Prix.
Feb. 15, 13th Annual Southern California Scholastic Amateur Team
Mar. 12-14 or 13-14, 17th annual Western Class Championships (CAS)
4-SS, SD/45, Warner Center Marriott, 21850 Oxnard Street, Woodland Hills, CA 91367. Four-player teams plus optional alternate, Grade 12/below, average rating of four highest must be U1200. (Dec. 2009 rating list used, Feb. 2010 used for previously unrated players.) EF: $75 per team received by 2/12, $85 at site. Trophies (team & individual) to top 3 teams, top U1000, U800, U400/unr. Reg.: 9:00-10 a.m. Rds.: 10:30-1-2:45-4:30. Info, help in forming teams:
[email protected]. Web site, advance entry list: www.westernchess. com. HR: $119, 800-228-9290, ask for Western Chess. Reserve by Jan. 20 or rates may go up. Parking $6. Ent: SCCF, c/o John Hillery, 835 N. Wilton Place #1A, Los Angeles, CA 90038. NS, NC, W.
See Grand Prix.
A State Championship Event! Apr. 16-18, CalChess State Scholastics 2010 at Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America Pkwy., Santa Clara, CA 95054. Free parking. Hotel: Hyatt Regency, 5001 Great America Pkwy., Santa Clara, CA 95054. Hotel rate $99 code G-BACH. 14 sections.Trophies to top 20 players & top 10 teams in each section. Trophies to all KG players & teams. Sched: KG or 1-3 new & under 800> Sat 9-4:30. 4-6 new & under 600> Sun 9-4:30. All other sections> Sat & Sun 9-6. Blitz & Bughouse in 4 sections (K3 4-6 7-8 9-12) on Fri 6-9 & Sat 6-9, respectively. EF: 1-day> $48, 2-day> $60, Blitz & Bughouse: $15. 10% discount to first 400 entries, 5% to next 200, 2.5% to next 200. Register early to save your money & help our planning. More info at: CalChessScholastics.org. NS, NC, W.
May 19-21, Denker Qualifier and Regional Championship Event! Free parking. Hotel: Hyatt Regency Santa Clara, 5101 Great America Pkwy., Santa Clara, CA 95054. Hotel rate $99 code G-BACH. 12 sections. Trophies to top 10 players & top 10 teams in each section.Trophies to all KG players & teams. Sched: KG, 1-3 new & under 800, 4-6 new & under 600> Sat 9-4:30 only * 78 Varsity & 9-12 Varsity> 6 x G/120 Fri 5:45, Sat 9, 1:15, 5:45, Sun 10, 2:15. 2-day opt. Sat 9, 12, 3 merges with the 3-day sched in rd 4. All other sections> Sat & Sun 9-6. Blitz & Bughouse in 4 sections (K-3 4-6 7-8 9-12) on Fri 6-9 & Sat 6-9, respectively. EF for sections: 1-day> $48, 2-day> $60, Blitz & Bughouse: $15. 10% discount to first 100 entries, 5% to next 100, 2.5% to next 100. Register early to save your money & help our planning. More info at: CalChessScholastics.org. NS, NC, W.
California Southern
LA Chess Club www.LAChessClub.com. Saturdays: 10AM-10 PM (Class & 3 Tournaments). Sundays: 12-6 & 1-5 PM (Adult & Junior Tournaments) – Details on our website. Tuesdays: 7:30-9:30 PM (Intermediate/Advanced Lecture). 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025 (310) 7955710. (4 blocks 405 West, Santa Monica & Butler, 2nd Floor). Private (1:1) Lessons, Group Classes, Tournaments. Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27, LACC LA Masters G/15 (QC) 5SS, G/15. LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Floor. 4 blocks 405 West. EF: $30 ($20 LACC memb). Reg.: 6-6:30 pm. Rds.: 6:30, 7, 7:30, 8, 8:30. Prizes: 3/4 EF. Q-rated. Free BOA or street parking; or underground ($3).
Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27, LACC Saturday G/60
Feb. 15, AT HEXES 3-SS, G/90. Warner Center Marriott, 21850 Oxnard Street, Woodland Hills, CA 91367. Six-player sections by rating. EF: $20 if rec. by 2-12, $25 door. $$4020-10 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 Place #1A, Los Angeles, CA 90038, on line at www.westernchess.com.
Feb. 21, Beverly Hills AFTERNOON Blitz Tournament (QC) 5 DSS, G/5 Q-Rated. BHCC, 8950 W. Olympic Blvd., #210, Beverly Hills, CA 90211. EF: $10 if received one week in advance, $15 after, $20 at site (Members $5 off). Mail checks to Beverly Hills Chess Club. Prizes: 80% of EF ($100 Guaranteed) – 1st/2nd/3rd: 40%,25%,15%. Reg.: 1-1:30 pm. Rnds.: Starts at 2 pm. Free Parking. www.bhchessclub.com. Info: Robert Minoofar, 888-91-CHESS (24377), or 310-274-7873,
[email protected].
Feb. 28, Beverly Hills SUNDAY Scholastic Tournament (K-12) 5SS, G/30. BHCC, 8950 W. Olympic Blvd., #210, Beverly Hills, CA 90211. EF: $20 if received one week in advance, $25 after, $30 at site (Siblings $5 off). Mail checks to Beverly Hills Chess Club. Prizes: Trophies, medals, & gift cert. Reg.: 12-12:45 pm. Rnds.: 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5 pm. Comp. Lecture 11-12 pm. Lunch: $5 Pizza & Soda. www.bhchessclub.com. Info: Robert Minoofar, 888-91-CHESS (24377), or 310-274-7873,
[email protected].
Mar. 12-14 or 13-14, 17th annual Western Class Championships See Grand Prix.
A State Championship Event! Mar. 27-28, SCCF Super State Scholastic Championship HS and JH Championship section 6-SS, G/80. Elem and Primary (K-3rd) 6-SS, G/60. K-1 section 5-SS, G/30. OC Great Park, Irvine Marine Way, Irvine, CA 92618. Free parking. LaQuinta Inn & Suites $75 rate code Chess Palace. 14972 Sand Canyon Avenue, Irvine, CA - (949) 551-0909 . Trophies to top 10 players, top 3 teams, and top 3 clubs in all sections. 9 Sections. Sat 9a-4:30p only: K1, Primary Reserve, Elementary Reserve — Sun 9a-4:30p only: Jr. High Reserve, High School Reserve, unrated section. Sat & Sun 9a-6p: all Championship sections (Elementary, Jr. High, and High). Sat 6-9: Bughouse in 4
sections (K-3, 4-6, 7-8, 9-12). Entry Fee: for 1-day sections: $35, 2-day sections: $45, Blitz & Bughouse: $15 each. 10% discount to first 50. 5% to next 50. Register early to save your money and our time. More info at: www.chesspalace.com. WCL JGP for HS and JH Championship section.
Colorado Mar. 6-7, Manitou Springs: Colorado Springs Open 5-SS, Rds 1-3 40/90 and G/1; Rds.: 4-5 40/2 and G/1. Manitou Springs City Hall, 606 Manitou Ave., One open section. EF: $30 if rec’d by March 4, $35 at site. $8 EF discount for juniors, seniors, unrated. CSCA required, ($15, jrs & srs 10), OSA. Cash prizes per entries. Registration: 8:30-9:30, Rds.: 10, 2:30, 7:00; 9:00 AM, 3:00. Entries to: Richard Buchanan, 1 Sutherland Rd., Manitou Springs, CO 80829. Phone (719) 685-1984 or e-mail
[email protected]. COLORADO TOUR EVENT. WCL JGP.
Connecticut Feb. 11, 18, 25, Mar. 4, UCONN Winter Tune Up 2010 4-SS, G/90. UCONN Castleman Building, Room 206, 261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. EF: $10, students free. Reg.: 7:15-7:30 PM. Rds.: 7:30 PM. $$ 50%-30%-20% net proceeds from EF’s. 1/2 point byes available in rounds 13 only, no last round byes. Info: Tom Hartmayer, 860-989-5394, tomhart3@ charter.net. WCL JGP.
Feb. 20, Newtown Dead-of-Winter G/30 CH Booth Library, 25 Main St., 3rd Fl., Newtown, CT 06470, 100 yds. south of Flagpole on Rte.25. 3SS or 3RR, depending on number of entries and ratings, G/30, Prizes: $75 = 1st each quad or section, $40 = 2nd if Swiss. Rds.: 1:15, and as available thereafter. EF: $20 at door only. Reg.: 12:30-1. Info:
[email protected]. Check website in case of inclement weather: newtown chessclub.wetpaint.com NS, NC, W. Space is limited, arrive early.
Feb. 28, UCONN February K-6 Scholastic Open 4-SS, G/30. UCONN Castleman Building, Room 204, 261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. EF: $25, $30 at site. Reg.: 9-9:45 AM. Round 1 at 10 AM, all others ASAP. Trophies to Top 5, Top 5 K-3. 1/2 point byes available in rounds 1-3 only, no last round byes. Info:Tom Hartmayer, 860-989-5394,
[email protected].
Mar. 5-7 or 6-7, 19th annual Eastern Class Championships (MA) See Grand Prix.
Mar. 25, Apr. 1, 8, 15, UCONN Chess Club Championship 2010 4-SS, G/90. UCONN Castleman Building, Room 206, 261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. EF: $20, students free. Reg.: 7:15-7:30 PM. Rds.: 7:30 PM. $$ 35%-30%,Top U-1600 20%-15% net proceeds from EF’s.Trophy toTop Student. 1/2 point byes available in rounds 1-3 only, no last round byes. Info:Tom Hartmayer, 860-989-5394,
[email protected]. WCL JGP.
A State Championship Event! Mar. 28, Connecticut State Chess Association K-6 Scholastic State Championship Out of state welcome & prize eligible. Sponsored by the UCONN School of Engineering & UCONN CC. UCONN Castleman Building, rooms 204 & 206, 261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. Parking in North Garage. 4 - SS, G/30. 5 Sections: K - 6 Open, (Open to all), Reserve K - 6 U-700, K - 3, Reserve K - 3 U-700. All EF: $50 by 3-24, $60 after. Checks payable to “UCONN”. Reg.: 89:30 AM, Rds.: 10-11-12-1. Half point byes available in rds. 1 - 3 only, no last round byes. Prizes: Trophies to Top 5 in each section. Trophies to Top 5 teams of top 4 from 1 school combined from all sections. All players with plus scores, 2.5 or better, get free entry into CSCA K-8 Championship on April 4th. Ties broken by USCF tiebreak rules. Info & Entries: John Fikiet, 15 Holly Dr., Storrs, CT 06268. 860-429-1350,
[email protected], www.uconnchess. uconn.edu, www.engr.uconn.edu, UCONN Map http://admissions.uconn.edu/ virtualtour/search/.
A State Championship Event! Apr. 4, Connecticut State Chess Association K-8 State Open Championship Out of state welcome & prize eligible. Sponsored by the UCONN School of
3SS, G/60. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405. EF: $20 ($15 LACC memb). Reg.: 11:30-12 pm. Rds.: 12, 2, 4. Prizes: 1/2 EF. Parking: 2 Free lots SW of S. Monica/Purdue; or underground ($3). Info: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.
Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27, LACC Saturday Nite Double Blitz G/5 (QC) 5DSS, G/5 (10 Games). LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405. EF: $10. Q-rated. Reg.: 9-9:30 pm. Rds.: 9:30, 9:50, 10:10, 10:30, 10:50 pm. Prizes: 1/2 EF. Free BOA or street parking; or underground ($3).
WA RN I N G !
Feb. 6 & 20, Beverly Hills SATURDAY Scholastic Tournament (K-12) 5SS, G/30. BHCC, 8950 W. Olympic Blvd., #210, Beverly Hills, CA 90211. EF:
CELL PHONE THE USE OF A
PROHIBITED! IN THE TOURNAMENT ROOM IS AT MOST TOURNAMENTS!
IF YOUR CELL PHONE RINGS IN A ROOM WITH GAMES IN PROGRESS, YOU COULD BE SEVERELY PENALIZED, MAYBE EVEN FORFEITED!
TURN IT OFF!
uschess.org
NATIONAL OPEN June 11-13 or June 12-13 Las Vegas INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL www.VegasChessFestival.com Chess Life — February 2010
61
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING FEBRUARY 1-14
Tournament Life Engineering & UCONN CC. UCONN Castleman Building Rooms 204 & 206, 261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. Parking in North Garage. 4- SS, G/60. EF: $50, by 4-1, $60 later. Checks payable to “UCONN”. Reg.: 8 - 9:30 AM, Rds.: 10 12:30 - 2:30 - 4:30. Half point byes available in rds. 1 - 3 only, no last round byes. Prizes: Trophies to Top 5 overall, Top 5 Grade 7, Top 5 Grade 6. Trophy to Top 5 teams of 4 or less from 1 school. Ties for Top 5 individual places broken by G/60 playoff tournament or match on May 16th same location, round 1 at 10 AM. All other ties broken according to USCF tiebreak rules. All players with plus scores, 2.5 or better, get free entry into CSCA K-12 Championship on April 25th. Info & Entries to: John Fikiet, 15 Holly Dr., Storrs, CT 06268, 860-429-1950.
[email protected], www.uconnchess. uconn.edu, www.engr.uconn.edu, UCONN Map http://admissions.uconn.edu/ virtualtour/search/.
Mar. 28, Metro Sunday Quads 3-RR, G/90. U.S. Chess Center, 1501 M St. NW. EF: $20 $$ $40 each quad. Scholastic sections. EF: $10,Trophy prizes. Both: Reg.: 9:15 - 9:50. Rds.: 101-4. (202) 857-4922. www.chessctr.org./quads.php.
Apr. 11, Rated Beginners Open (RBO) 4-SS, G/30. US Chess Center, 1501 M St. NW, Washington, DC 20005. Open to players rated under 1200 or unrated. EF: $20 ($15 if by 4/3). 5 sections by age. Reg.: 12-12:45. Info: 202/857-4922. www.chessctr.org/rbo.php.
Florida Boca Raton Chess Club
Apr. 16-18 or 17-18, Hartford Open
Friday nights, Game 90 Tournament, one game a week for 4 weeks. www.bocachess.com, 561-883-2917. WCL JGP.
See Grand Prix.
Palm Beach Gardens Chess Club
A State Championship Event! Apr. 25, Connecticut State Chess Association K-12 & UCONN School of Engineering High School $14,000 Scholarship State Open Championship
Meets every Saturday 9 am till 4 pm. 4-SS Rated Games G/75 or G/120 (WCL JGP). Also, Scholastic Games G/30, 4-SS. For more info: see www.palmbeach chessclub.info or call President/TD John Dockery at 561-762-3377.
Out of state welcome & prize eligible except for Denker/2010 U.S. Girls Open Chess Championship awards. Sponsored by the UCONN School of Engineering & UCONN CC. UCONN Castleman Building Room 204, 261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. Parking in North Garage. 4 - SS, G/60. EF: $50 by 4-21, $60 after. Checks payable to “UCONN”. Reg.: 8 - 9:30 AM, Rds.: 10 - 12:30 2:30 - 4:30. Half point byes available in rds. 1-3 only, no last round byes. Prizes: State Champ title, CSCA Denker/2010 U.S. Girls Open Championship $300 Award & trophy to highest scoring CT male/female residents in grades 9-12. UCONN School of Engineering Scholarships to Top 3, (out of state eligible), in grades 9-12, 1st:Trophy plus $2000 scholarship renewable for 4 years with 3.4 GPA, 2nd: Trophy plus $1000 scholarship renewable for 4 years with 3.4 GPA, 3rd:Trophy plus $500 scholarship renewable for 4 years with 3.4 GPA, 4th - 5th: Trophies. Scholarships are available only to tournament winners in grades 9-12 who are admitted to and enroll in an engineering program at the UCONN School of Engineering. Scholarships are not transferable and are renewable for a maximum of 4 years. Students are limited to 1 scholarship in the School of Engineering. Prior winners are eligible to upgrade only, prior 1st prize winners are eligible for trophy & titles only. Trophy to top 3 teams of 4 or less from 1 school. Ties for top 3 individual places broken by G/60 playoff tournament or match on May 16th same location, round 1 at 10 AM. Other ties broken by USCF tiebreak rules. Info & Entries: John Fikiet, 15 Holly Dr., Storrs, CT 06268, 860-429-1950.
[email protected], www.uconnchess. uconn.edu, www.engr.uconn.edu, UCONN Map http://admissions.uconn.edu/ virtualtour/search/.
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.
Apr. 30-May 2 or May 1-2, 21st annual Vermont Resort Open (VT)
Feb. 27-28, Central Florida Chess Club Championship
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Delaware
Mar. 27-28, North Florida Classic Chess Championships II
Feb. 6, Mar. 6, Apr. 3, May 1, $500 Guar. Cash Opens
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.
Feb. 12-14 or 13-14, 2010 U.S. Amateur Team South See Nationals.
Feb. 20, February OCG Scholastic Tournament 5SS G/30. Trophies and Medals. Ent: $20. OCGC members $16. Reg.: 9:15 9:45am. Rds.: First round 10:00am. Awards ceremony at 3:30pm. Info: www. orlandochess.com, 407-248-0818.
Feb. 20, Palm Beach Day Academy Scholastic Located at 1901 South Flagler Drive, WPB, Fl. 33401. K-12, 5 Divisions, 5-SS, G/30, Saturday, 2/20/10. Trophies for Top 5 Players and Top 5 Teams in each Division. For more info: see www.palmbeachchessclub.info or call President/TD John Dockery at 561-762-3377.
See Grand Prix.
Feb. 27, 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. $$GTD: $40. Reg.: 9-9:30. Rds.: 9:45-1:45-5:30. ENT: Kevin Pytel, 604 N. Walnut St., Newport, DE 19804-2624, 302-753-6877.
[email protected]. INFO: Email is the best way to contact me. NS, W.
Mar. 27, Greater Cherry Hill Super Sunday Grand Prix (NJ) See Grand Prix.
Georgia Apr. 23-25 or 24-25, 9th Southern Class Championships (TN) See Grand Prix.
June 29-July 5, July 1-5, 2-5 or 3-5, 38th Annual World Open (PA) See Grand Prix.
Idaho
District of Columbia
A State Championship Event! Feb. 13-15, 2010 Idaho State Closed Championship
Feb. 13-14, Kingstowne Chess Festival (VA) See Grand Prix.
Mar. 7, Metro First Sunday Quads 3-RR, G/90. U.S. Chess Center, 1501 M St. NW. EF: $20 $$ $40 each quad. Scholastic sections. EF: $10,Trophy prizes. Both: Reg.: 9:15 - 9:50. Rds.: 101-4. (202) 857-4922. www.chessctr.org./quads.php.
IDAHO RESIDENTS ONLY! Boise State University (BSU) Student Union Building, 1910 University Dr., Boise, Idaho 83725. 6SS, 30/120, SD/60. Rounds: 9, 4, 9:30, 4, 8, 3. One 1/2 point bye, rounds 1-5, must commit before 2nd rnd pairings. Chk in & Reg: 7am-8am, Sat., Feb 13. Those not Reg. by 8am may not be paired in 1st rnd. One Section: Open. EF: $35 (includes $10 ICA Member-
ship) by February 9, 2010. $30 (includes $10 ICA Membership) for Seniors (60+) and Juniors (under 18) by February 9, 2010. $10 for the host BSU Chess Club members (plus $10 ICA Membership) by February 9, 2010. $50 (includes $10 ICA Membership) for EVERYONE after February 9, 2010. Prizes: Trophies: 1st, 2nd, 3rd Overall; 1st, 2nd: Class X, A, E, F, Woman, Junior, Senior, Unrated; 1st, 2nd, 3rd: Class B, C, and D. HR/ENT/INFO: ICA, % Jay Simonson, 391 Carol Ave., Idaho Falls, ID 83401, 208-206-7667, email
[email protected], www.idahochessassociation.org. NC, NS, W. WCL JGP.
Illinois
North American Chess Association Tournaments for kids and adults of all playing strength. Creators of the electronic scoresheet, eNotate. Monthly FIDE title tournaments (WIM, WGM, IM). Sevan A. Muradian, FIDE Arbiter & International Organizer. www.nachess.org |
[email protected] | 888.80.CHESS. Feb. 20, Quad Tournament 3 rounds, G/80. Holiday Inn Hotel, 495 Airport Road, Elgin, IL 60123. (Intersection of I-90 & Rt. 31.) Entry fee is $20 (cash or check only). Cash prizes of $40 for first and $20 for second in each Quad. Registration begins at 8:30 A.M. First round starts at 9:30, and this single day event ends by 6:30. For more information see: www.mchenryareachess.org, or call Bob at 815-519-3323.
Feb. 27, Kasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights Greater Chicago Junior High Championship! 5-SS, G/30, open to all grades 8/below. Crowne Plaza Northbrook, 2875 Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook, IL 60062 (free parking). 2 sections: 1. Varsity: open to all. Trophies: top 6 players, the top 3 schools, top rated Under 1200 and top 3 unrated. 2. Junior Varsity: Open to Under 1000 or unrated.Trophies: top 6 players, top 3 schools, top rated Under 700 and top 3 unrated. Any player who scores 4 or more points and doesn’t win a trophy will receive a medal! EF: $35 per player postmarked by 2/8/10. All EF $7 extra per player postmarked 2/9-15 (no mail accepted postmarked after 2/15). Mailed entries $5 less per player if 4 or more from same school mailed together in SAME ENVELOPE! Mail Entries: list name, rating USCF ID# (proof of current USCF membership required, enclose dues if necessary) school, grade, birth date, address & section. Checks payable & mailed to: Renaissance Knights, PO Box 1074, Northbrook, IL 60065. Online entries at www.rknights.org $35 thru 2/15, $42 2/15-23, No online entries after 2/23. $5 extra to switch sections. Refunds: $10 service charge for each player refunded. On-Site entry fee: $50. On-site registration: ENDS 9:15 AM. RDS.: 10-12-2-3:30-5:15. Byes: Limit 2. More info: www.rknights.org. Questions:
[email protected] (773) 844-0701. HR: $79 chess rate, reserve by 2/12, may sell out,Tel: 847-298-2525. Sets provided, bring clocks.
Feb. 27, Kasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights present Greater Chicago Primary Championship! 5-SS, G/30, open to all grades 3/below. Crowne Plaza Northbrook, 2875 Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook, IL 60062 (free parking). 2 sections: 1. Varsity: open to all. Trophies: top 6 players, top 3 schools, top rated Under 900 and top 3 unrated. 2. Junior Varsity: Open to Under 700 or unrated. Trophies: top 6 players, top 3 schools, top rated Under 500 and top 3 unrated. Trophies to the top 3 Kindergartners! Any player who scores 4 or more points and doesn’t win a trophy will receive a medal! EF: $35 per player postmarked by 2/8/10. All EF $7 extra per player postmarked 2/9-15 (no mail accepted postmarked after 2/15). Mailed entries $5 less per player if 4 or more from same school mailed together in SAME ENVELOPE! Mail Entries: list name, rating USCF ID# (proof of current USCF membership required, enclose dues if necessary) school, grade, birth date, address & section. Checks payable & mailed to: Renaissance Knights, PO Box 1074, Northbrook, IL 60065. Online entries at www.rknights.org $35 thru 2/15, $42 2/15-23, No online entries after 2/23. $5 extra to switch sections. Refunds: $10 service charge for each player refunded. On-Site entry fee: $50. On-site registration: ENDS 9:15 AM. RDS.: 10-12-2-3:30-5:15. Byes: Limit 2. More info: www.rknights.org. Questions:
[email protected] (773) 844-0701. HR: $79 chess rate, reserve by 2/12, may sell out, Tel: 847-298-2525. Sets provided, bring clocks.
Feb. 28, Kasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights Greater Chicago Elementary Championship!
PLAN AHEAD for 2010 ! NEW: U.S. Girls Junior Open Championship Tournament of College Champions Denker Tournament of High School Champions All three tournaments above held July 31-Aug. 3, 2010 - Irvine, California
U.S. Open July 31-Aug. 8, Aug. 3-8 or Aug. 5-8, 2010 Irvine, California More details to be announced in March 2010 Chess Life! 62
Chess Life — February 2010
5-SS, G/30, open to all grades 6/below. Crowne Plaza Northbrook, 2875 Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook, IL 60062 (free parking). 2 sections: 1. Varsity: open to all. Trophies: top 6 players, top 3 schools, top rated Under 1000 and top 3 unrated. 2. Junior Varsity: Open to Under 800 or unrated. Trophies: top 6 players; top 3 schools, top rated Under 600 and top 3 unrated. Any player who scores 4 or more points and doesn’t win a trophy will receive a medal! EF: $35 per player postmarked by 2/8/10. All EF $7 extra per player postmarked
ATTENTION AFFILIATES The United States Chess Federation has partnered with R.V. Nuccio & Associates Insurance Brokers, Inc. to provide USCF affiliates with affordable annual liability and short term event insurance. The liability coverage is available for approximately $265 per year for a $1,000,000 limit of insurance. Also available is contents property and bonding insurance. For more information, please go to www.rvnuccio.com/chess-federation.html. For event insurance, please go to www.rv nuccio.com. uschess.org
2/9-15 (no mail accepted postmarked after 2/15). Mailed entries $5 less per player if 4 or more from same school mailed together in SAME ENVELOPE! Mail Entries: list name, rating USCF ID# (proof of current USCF membership required, enclose dues if necessary) school, grade, birth date, address & section. Checks payable & mailed to: Renaissance Knights, PO Box 1074, Northbrook, IL 60065. Online entries at www.rknights.org $35 thru 2/15, $42 2/15-23, No online entries after 2/23. $5 extra to switch sections. Refunds: $10 service charge for each player refunded. On-Site entry fee: $50. On-site registration: ENDS 9:15 AM. RDS.: 10-12-2-3:30-5:15. Byes: Limit 2. More info: www.rknights.org. Questions:
[email protected] (773) 844-0701. HR: $79 chess rate, reserve by 2/12, may sell out,Tel: 847-298-2525. Sets provided, bring clocks.
Feb. 28, Kasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights Greater Chicago High School Championship! 5-SS, G/30, open to all grades 12/below. Crowne Plaza Northbrook, 2875 Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook, IL 60062 (free parking). 2 sections: 1. Varsity: open to all.Trophies to the 6 top-scoring players and the 3 top-scoring schools, the top rated Under 1500, and the top 3 unrated. 2. Junior Varsity: Open to Under 1200 or unrated. Trophies: top 6 players; top 3 unrated, top 3 schools, top Under 900 and top 3 unrated. Any player who scores 4 or more points and doesn’t win a trophy will receive a medal! EF: $35 per player postmarked by 2/8/10. All EF $7 extra per player postmarked 2/9-15 (no mail accepted postmarked after 2/15). Mailed entries $5 less per player if 4 or more from same school mailed together in SAME ENVELOPE! Mail Entries: list name, rating USCF ID# (proof of current USCF membership required, enclose dues if necessary) school, grade, birth date, address & section. Checks payable & mailed to: Renaissance Knights, PO Box 1074, Northbrook, IL 60065. Online entries at www.rknights.org. $35 thru 2/15, $42 2/15-23, No online entries after 2/23. $5 extra to switch sections. Refunds: $10 service charge for each player refunded. On-Site entry fee: $50. On-site registration: ENDS 9:15 AM. RDS.: 10-12-2-3:30-5:15. Byes: Limit 2. More info: www.rknights.org. Questions:
[email protected] (773) 844-0701. HR: $79 chess rate, reserve by 2/12, may sell out, Tel: 847-298-2525. Sets provided, bring clocks.
Mar. 13, 8th Annual Mark Oestreich Memorial Chess Tournament
Mar. 26-28, 2010 FIDE Intercontinental School Team Chess Championship
Feb. 27-28, Kasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights present Greater Chicago Scholastic Championships!
See Nationals.
See Illinois.
May 27-31, 28-31, 29-31 or 30-31, 19th annual Chicago Open
Iowa
See Grand Prix.
Feb. 27, Drake Chess Festival 2010-IASCA Mini-Qualifier
Indiana Chess Club Friday Night Blitz (QC) 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, $5.00 discount for any state associaton (except ISCA), FIDE Titled Players Free. + Free Snack Bar Adv. ENT: Donald Urquhart, 501 N. East St. # 802, Indianapolis, IN 46204-1629. Info: call Don at 317-6346259 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
See Grand Prix.
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.
Mar. 19-25, 2010 FIDE World Amateur Chess Championship
Feb. 19-21, 2010 U.S. Jr. Chess Congress
Time controls 30/70, then 40/60. No sudden death. Salem Community Center, 416 Oglesby St., Salem, Illinois. Entry fee: $15.00. Prize fund: $360.00, based on 30 players. 1st $80, 2nd $40. Classes: A, B, C, D/E/Unrated $60.00 each. Registration: 8:00 – 9:15. Rounds: 9:30, 1:00, 5:00. Entries: Jim Davies phone 314-721-4967, 7358 Shaftesbury, St. Louis, MO 63130. email jandadavies@sbc global.net.
Mar. 19-21 or 20-21, 14th annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Nationals.
See Nationals.
GOLD AFFILIATES
Chess Club and Scholastic Center of St. Louis 4657 Maryland Avenue St. Louis, MO 63108. 314-361-CHESS
[email protected] www.stlouischessclub.org Continental Chess Association PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. 845-496-9658
[email protected] www.chesstour.com En Passant Chess Club 1301 North Shore Drive San Benito, TX 78586 956-399-9724
[email protected]
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
San Diego Chess Club 2225 Sixth Avenue San Diego, CA 92101 619-239-7166
[email protected] http://sdchessclub.multiply.com Tri-State Chess 288 Third Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215 1-888-CHESS-35
[email protected], www.TriStateChess.com
PaperClip Pairings c/o J. Houghtaling Jr & Remy Ferrari 6005 Forest Blvd Brownsville, TX 78526 956-459-2421
[email protected]
Unity Chess Club 9375 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 100 Office 136, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 480-949-5464 (KING)
[email protected], unitychess.com
Renaissance Knights Chess Foundation PO Box 1074 Northbrook, IL 60065 773-844-0701
[email protected] www.renaissanceknights.org
Western PA Youth Chess Club Attn: Jerry Meyers 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
Oklahoma Chess Foundation www.OKchess.org
Indiana State Chess Association www.indianachess.org
Marshall Chess Club (NY) www.marshallchessclub.org
Orange Crush Chess Club (IN)
[email protected]
International Chess Academy (NJ) www.icanj.net
Michigan Chess Association www.michess.org
Sparta Chess Club (NJ) www.spartachessclub.org
uschess.org
Feb. 27, Drake Chess Festival 2010-Rated RBO 5SS, G/30 with 5 second delay. Open to 1199 & under. Where: Olmstead Center on the Drake University Campus, 2507 University Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50311. Reg.: 8:30 to 9:30 am. Rounds: 9:45-11:00-1:00-2:15-3:30. Entry Fee: $10.00 if received by February 25th, $15.00 at site. Prize Info: Trophies for the Top Score U1200, U1000, U800, U600, U400, U200. US Chess Federation (USCF) membership required. On-Site Available. Send Entry Fee to: Bill Broich, 7149 Wilshire Blvd., Windsor Heights, Iowa 50322. Additional Info: Phone 515-205-8062 or E-mail
[email protected].
Feb. 27, Drake Chess Festival 2010-Reserve NOTE CORRECTIONS: 4SS, G/75-T/D 5. Open to 1599 & under. Where: Olmsted Center on the Drake University Campus, at the corner of 29th Street and University Avenue, (North of University Avenue), Des Moines, IA 50311. Reg.: 8:30 to 9:30 am. Rounds: 9:45-1:15-4:00-7:00 (earlier if agreed upon). Entry Fee: $20.00 if received by February 25th, $30.00 at site. Prize Info: $40.0020.00-10.00. U1400 1st $20.00, 2nd $10.00. One prize per player. Prizes based on 20 entries for Reserve section. US Chess Federation (USCF) membership required. On-Site Available. Send Entry Fee to: Bill Broich, 7149 Wilshire Blvd., Windsor Heights, Iowa 50324 Additional Info: Phone 515-205-8062 or
[email protected]. WCL JGP.
Kentucky Mar. 27, Carpetbagger Minus Score Quick #1 (QC) 5-SS. G/25. The Clifton Center, 2117 Payne St. (corner of Clifton & Payne), Louisville, KY. EF: $24 if by 3/17/10, $30 at site. Prizes (260 b/30): $60, U1950 $56, U1700 $52, U1450 $48, U1200/Unr. $44. MINUS SCORE (if you are not a
GOLD & SILVER AFFILIATES
Jersey Shore High School Chess League PO Box 773, Lincroft, NJ 07738
[email protected]
Cajun Chess 7230 Chadbourne Drive New Orleans, LA 70126 504-208-9596
[email protected] www.cajunchess.com
NOTE CORRECTIONS: 4SS, G/75 T/D 5. Open. Where: Olmsted Center on the Drake University Campus, at the corner of 29th Street and University Avenue (North of University Avenue), Des Moines, IA 50311. Reg.: 8:30 to 9:30 am. Rounds: 9:45-1:15-4:00-7:00 (earlier if agreed upon). Entry Fee: $20.00 if received by November 12th, $30.00 at site. Prize Info: 1st $75.00, 2nd $40.00, 3rd $20.00, U1900 1st, $30.00, 2nd $15.00. One prize per player. Prizes based on 20 entries for Open section. US Chess Federation (USCF) membership required. On-Site Available. IASCA membership required, $15, $10 Jr. or Sr. On-Site Available. Send Entry Fee to: Bill Broich, 7149 Wilshire Blvd., Windsor Heights, Iowa 50324. Additional Info: Phone 515-205-8062 or E-mail
[email protected]. WCL JGP.
GOLD
Any affiliate that has submitted at least 50 USCF memberships during the current or previous calendar year, or is the recognized State Affiliate, is eligible to become a Gold Affiliate. Gold Affiliates are honored in a 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.
Chess Life — February 2010
63
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING FEBRUARY 1-14
Tournament Life Apr. 10-11, Catonsville-Fells Point Open
June 29-July 5, July 1-5, 2-5 or 3-5, 38th Annual World Open (PA) See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Bloomsbury Community Center, 106 Bloomsbury Ave., Catonsville, MD 21228. 2 Sections, Open: 5SS, G/90, $$b/30 $225-$110-$85 U2200 $75 U2100 $75 U2000 $75 b/4, more per entries. U1900: 5SS, G/90, $$b/30 $200-$100-$75 U1700 $70 U1500 $70 U1300 $70 b/4. All EF: $30 before March 28, $40 after, under 17 $10 off. GMs or IMs: free entry but $40 deducted from any prize. Reg.: 9:45-10:45am. Rds.: Sat 11:00-3:00-7:00 Sun 10:00-2:00. Bye: 1-4, max 2. Info:
[email protected], Website: http://mysite.verizon.net/vze12d59q. Ent: Joe Summers, 1201 Daniels Ave., Balt., MD. 21207. 410-788-1009. Make checks payable to Joe Summers, include USCF ID and section, Open or U1900. Dir: 695 to Exit 13 West, Left at second light (Bloomsbury Ave),Three blocks on right. WCL JGP.
Maine
June 29-July 5, July 1-5, 2-5 or 3-5, 38th Annual World Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
May 27-31, 28-31, 29-31 or 30-31, 19th annual Chicago Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
Massachusetts
See Grand Prix.
Maryland
Feb. 10, 17, 24, Mar. 3, 10, George E. O’Rourke Memorial
prize winner & have a score under 2.5 then you get money): 2pts $5, 1.5pts $4, 1pts $3, 0.5pts $2, 0 pts $1. Rds.: 1:15-2:25-3:30-4:30-5:30. Reg.: 12:301pm. Half point bye available (2 max) any round w/registration. Info via e-mail (chess in subject) to:
[email protected]. ENT: Lawrence Cohen, P.O. Box 6632, Villa Park, IL 60181. NS, NC.
Apr. 10, Western Kentucky University Open See Grand Prix.
Louisiana Mar. 13-14, 2010 Louisiana Pro-Am
Apr. 30-May 2 or May 1-2, 21st annual Vermont Resort Open (VT)
Feb. 13, MCA Chestertown Scholastic Chestertown Middle Sch., 402 East Campus Avenue, Chestertown, MD 21620 4 sections: Rally: K-12, 4SS, G/65 MD Sweet 16 Rally Section; Under 1200: K-12 and U1200, 4SS, G/65; U900 K-8, 5SS, G/30; Novice: K-5 U500, 5SS G/30. EF: $12 by 2/9, $20 by 2/12, $25 at the door reg. Trophies top individuals in each section. At door reg 8:30-9:00 receives 1st rnd 1/2 pnt bye. 1st rnds at 9:30 for top 2, and 10:00 for next two. Ent: Michael Regan, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd.,Towson, MD 21204. Detailed rules, info, & online entry: http://chestertown.eventbrite.com/.
Feb. 13-14, Kingstowne Chess Festival (VA) See Grand Prix.
Feb. 19, Catonsville Friday Knight Quick #96 (QC) 5SS, G/15. EF: $8, club members $5. Reg.: 7:30pm. Rds.: 8, 8:30, 9, 9:30, 10. $$b/24 1st=$50, 2nd=$25, U1850 $12. Bloomsbury Community Center, 106 Bloomsbury Ave., Catonsville, MD 21228. Info: Joe Summers 410-788-1009,
[email protected] Website: http://mysite.verizon.net/vze12d59q/.
Feb. 27-28, UMBC Open - Alvin S. Mintzes Chess Tournament
Feb. 27-28, Kasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights present Greater Chicago Scholastic Championships! See Illinois.
Minnesota Feb. 19-21, 20-21or 21, 117th Warren Stenberg Memorial Annual Minnesota Open
Missouri
5SS, G/110, T/D5. Wachusett Chess Club, McKay Campus School, Room C188, Fitchburg State College, 67 Rindge Road, Fitchburg, MA 01420. EF: $1 per game played; free to Wachusett CC and Mass. Chess Assn. members. Reg.: 7-7:10 p.m. Rds.: 7:15 p.m. Byes: 1-4, limit two. Prizes: chess books and back issues of Chess Horizons. Info: George Mirijanian, 176 Oak Hill Road, Fitchburg, MA 01420,
[email protected], 978-345-5011, Website: www.wachusettchess.org. Online ratings as of Feb. 10 will be used. W. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event! Feb. 13-14 or 14, 85th Western MA/CT Valley Championship 5SS, G/90. (w/1 day option) Holyoke Community College, 303 Homestead Ave. (Route 202), Holyoke, 01040. Reg.: 8:30-9:30. Rds.: Sat. 9:30, 1:30 & 4:45. Sun. 1:30 & 4:45. Section: One. Prizes: Revolving trophy to 1st, Trophy to Top Expert, Class A, B, C, D, E & Un-rated. EF: $22 by Feb 9th, checks payable to: W.M.C.A. $27 at site. Ent: Edward Kostreba, P.O Box 1372, Ware, MA 010825372, 413-967-3242, www.wmass-chess.us, NS, NC. WCL JGP.
Mar. 5-7 or 6-7, 19th annual Eastern Class Championships See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 28, Connecticut State Chess Association K-6 Scholastic State Championship (CT)
Mar. 6, Catonsville First Saturday Action
See Connecticut.
5SS, G/30. EF: $20, club members $17, under 17 $15. Rds.: 12:00-1:45-3:004:15-5:30. Reg.: 11:15am. Bloomsbury Community Center, Room 118, 106 Bloomsbury Ave., Catonsville, MD 21228. Two Sections: Open $$b/24 $100$60-$42 U1850 $40 U1550 $40, more per entries. U1200 $$b/12 $50-$25 U1000 $25 b/4 U800 $25 b/4. Bye: 1-4. Info:
[email protected]. Website: http://mysite.verizon.net/vze12d59q. Ent: Joe Summers, 1201 Daniels Ave., Balt., MD 21207. Include USCF ID, rating and section. Checks payable to Joe Summers. PH: 410-788-1009.
Michigan
Apr. 4 Connecticut State Chess Association K-8 State Open Championship (CT) See Connecticut.
Apr. 25, Connecticut State Chess Association K-12 & UCONN School of Engineering High School $14,000 Scholarship State Open Championship (CT) See Connecticut.
Mar. 27, Greater Cherry Hill Super Sunday Grand Prix (NJ)
May 14-16 or 15-16, 18th annual New York State Open (NY)
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Friday Action Quads - Every Friday Night (QC) 3RR, G/29 Quick Rated. Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint 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. Site entries only. Info: 314-361-CHESS, www.saintlouischessclub.org. NS, NC, W.
Saint Louis Blitz Series - Every Tuesday Night (QC) 5SS, G/5 Quick Rated. Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint 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%. For example, with 20 entries, 1st place is $75 and the highest scoring player with a rating in the lower 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: 314-361CHESS, www.saintlouischessclub.org. NS, NC, W.
Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24, February Knights 4SS, G/90. Chess Club & Scholastic Center of Saint Louis, 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108. Reg. Wednesday, February 3, 5:30-6:15pm. Rounds (one per week) 6:30pm 2/3, 2/10, 2/17, 2/24. Check in with TD by 6:15 to be paired each week/round. No advanced entries. EF: $10. Prize fund is 90% payout, with 1st place getting 1/3 of the total prize fund and first A, B, C, D, E and U1000/unrated each take 1/9 of the prize fund. Winner qualifies for 2009 Club Championship in March. One 1/2 point bye if declared before round 2. Annual club memb. req’d. MCA memb. req’d from $5 OSA. Info: 314-361-CHESS.
[email protected]. WCL JGP.
Feb. 13, 2nd Annual Metro Saint Louis Class Championship 3SS, G/120. Chess Club & Scholastic Center of Saint Louis, 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108. Free entries for GMs and IMs, deducted from earnings. GMs and IMs are not counted toward the based on prize fund total. EF: $35, $30 for annual members of the club if registered by 2/12. MCA Membership Req’d from $5. OSA. PF: $1,200 (b/40): $200 and trophy for 1st in each M/X, A, B, C, D, U1200/UNR. Winner of M/X section qualifies for 2011 Club Cham-
ACTIVITY MEANS MEMBERS Free 8-Line Tournament Life Announcements!
Adult Dues Options! >> New Free TLA Categories Added! RUN AN ADDITIONAL TOURNAMENT THIS SPRING! 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 April and June 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).
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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 $34 and give online-only access to Chess Life and a mailed TLA Newsletter (bi-monthly). (Note to affiliates: If you collect a $49 membership, you may submit it online to USCF for $42, in effect creating a $7 commission. If you submit it by mail or phone the affiliate commission is $3.)
CHESS CLUB SPECIAL. A tournament playing only on one or more weekday evenings.
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Chess Life — February 2010
uschess.org
pionship. Players must compete in their own rating section. Reg.: 9-9:45. Rds.: 10, 2:15, 6:30. One 1/2 point bye if declared before round 1. Hotel: Water Tower Inn at 314-977-7500 ask for the “chess rate” of $70/night. Ent: 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108, or online at saintlouischessclub.org. Info: 314-361-CHESS or
[email protected].
Mar. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Club Championship (invitational tournament) 5SS, G/90. Chess Club & Scholastic Center of Saint Louis, 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108. This is an invitational event for those that qualified in the previous “Knights” events. No entry fees. Winner of the Club Championship will receive a plaque to take home commemorating their accomplishment. In addition, a trophy at the club will be displayed, chronicling each club champion! Winner qualifies for 2011 Club Championship. Winner will also get a year family membership to the club. Every contestant will receive some club gear for successful participation! Rounds (one per week) 6:30pm: 3/3, 3/10, 3/17, 3/24, 3/31. Check in with TD by 6:15 to be paired each week/round. Annual club memb. req’d. MCA memb. req’d from $5 OSA. Info: 314-361-CHESS.
[email protected]. WCL JGP.
Mar. 19-21 or 20-21, 14th annual Mid-America Open See Grand Prix.
Apr. 10-11, Saint Louis Open See Grand Prix.
Nevada Apr. 2-4, 10th Annual Reno-Far West Open See Grand Prix.
June 11-13 or 12-13, 2010 National Open See Nationals.
New Jersey International Chess Academy (Fair Lawn, NJ) Chess Classes: Tuesday 6:30 – 9:00 PM, Thursday 6:30 – 9:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Add. 14-25 Plaza Rd. N, Fair Lawn, NJ 07410. Phone 201797-0330. Website: www.icanj.net. Contact: Diana Tulman, 201-287-0250. Email:
[email protected]. Fair Lawn facility offers Advance Chess Training for serious chess players (rating > 1800).
International Chess Academy (Teaneck, NJ) Chess Classes: Monday 6:30 – 7:30 PM, Wednesday 6:30 – 9:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM. Add. 185 Court Street, Teaneck, NJ 07666. Phone 201833-1741. Website: www.icanj.net. Contact: Diana Tulman, 201-287-0250. Email:
[email protected] facility offers a Summer Chess Camp and Monday night tournaments 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Feb. 6, Princeton Day School 650 The Great Road. Plaques to top 3 school teams and top 6 in each section. Medals to all players. Four sections for OVER 1000 begin at 10:15 and must preregister: OVER 1600 (K-12), 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 U-800), 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 $35. On-site 11-12 noon $45. Info and register online: www.pds.org/chess. Inquires to Bonnie Waitzkin
[email protected].
Feb. 7, Monmouth Chess School & Club Anniversary Tournament 51 Monmouth St., Red Bank, NJ directions www.monmouthchess.com. 4SS, G/40, EF: $35/25 members postmarked by 2/1; $45/35 site. Masters free, EF deducted from winnings. Prizes based on 30 entries: OPEN 150-75; U1900 10050; U1600 100-50; U1300 80 40; U1000 75. Reg.: 11:45 - 12:15; Rds.: 12:30, 2:00, 3:30, 5:15. Mail checks to: MCS&C, c/o Dr. Koblentz, 9 Rimwood Lane, Colts Neck, NJ 07722. Non-members cash only at site. Questions 732-219-0916.
Feb. 13-15, World Amateur Team & U.S. Team East See Nationals.
10:30/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.
A State Championship Event! Mar. 6-7, New Jersey High School Chess Championships
Feb. 27, Super Scholastics Saturday Swiss K-8
5SS, G/90. Rutgers University - Rutgers Student Center, 126 College Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901. Call (732) 445-6127 for directions. 3 sections: Varsity Championship (9-12): 5 player teams with one alternate allowed. Coaches set order by player strength. Order must not be changed. Team avg. based on top 5 highest ratings. Trophies to top 10 NJ teams. Trophies for top three players, boards 1-5. Rds.: Sat. 10-2-6, Sun. 10-2. EF: $150-/team before 2/27. $185/team at site. $5 per change on site. Junior Varsity (9-12): 4 player teams with one alternate allowed. Team avg. based on top 4 highest ratings. Trophies to top 10 NJ teams. Trophies for top 3 players, boards 1-4. Rds.: Sat. 10-2-6, Sun. 10-2. EF: $120/team before 2/27, $150/team on site. $5 per change on site. Booster (K-12): Trophies to top 15 individuals, top 5 teams, top 2 JHS, & top 2 elementary (K-6). Rds.: Sat. 10-2-6, Sun 10-2. Top 4 scores constitute team score. EF: $30 before 2/27, $37 at site. All: USCF memb. required. EF includes 1 year membership to NJSCF for NJ residents. Reg.: Sat. 8-9:00am. After 9:00am, 1/2 Point bye for round one. Info: 973-794-4601. ENT: Make checks payable to NJSCF and send to Roger Inglis, 49A Mara Rd., Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034. Entries must include, name, grade & school, date of birth, USCF ID# & exp. date, mailing address, email address, phone number and entry fee. WCL JGP.
Somerset Ramada Inn, 60 Cottontail Ln., Somerset, NJ Exit #12 off I-287. (In 4 Sections/& skittles) Trophies to top 5, others get medals/prizes. Hot Shots (always U1700): 4SS G/45, $150-100-50, b/10. Checkmates (always U1300): 4SS G/45, $100-50 b/10, New Stars (always U1000): 5SS G/30, $100-50 b/10, Chess Pirates (always U600): 5SS G/30, $100-50 b/10. Player’s highest life time rating used. Rds.: 11am then ASAP, lunch break. EF: $27 mailed by 02/22 or paid online, entryfeesrus.com. EF at site $35. Cash only. Reg.: before 10:45am. Ent: 115 W. Moore St., Hackettstown, NJ 07840. Info: Ken Thomas
[email protected] or 908-763-6468. NS, NC, W.
Feb. 27-28, New York State Scholastic Championships (out of state welcome) See New York.
A State Championship Event! Feb. 28, New Jersey Junior High School Championships 5SS, G/30. Brookdale College, 765 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ 07738. Student Life Center, use Parking Lot #7 or #6; 5 minutes from Garden State Parkway exit 109. 5SS, G/30. Section: JHS (K-9). More Trophies! ALL: Trophies to top =2 015 individuals, top 5 teams. Rds.: 10am then ASAP.Top 4 scores constitute team score. EF: $30 before 2/20, $50 at site. USCF memb. req’d. EF includes 1 year memb. to NJSCF for NJ state residents. Reg.: 8-9:00 am. After 9:00 am, half-point bye for round one. INFO: 732-259-3881,
[email protected]. ENTRY: Aaron Kiedes, 4 Seymour Terrace, Hackettstown, NJ 07840. Entries must include name, grade, school, date of birth, USCF ID #, & expiration date, mailing address, phone number & entry fee. Checks made out to NJSCF.
A State Championship Event! Feb. 28, New Jersey State Elementary Championships 5SS, G/30. Brookdale College, 765 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ 07738. Student Life Center, use Parking Lot #7 or #6; 5 minutes from Garden State Parkway exit 109. 2 Sections: Elementary (K-6) & Primary (K-3). All: Trophies to top 15 individuals, top 5 teams. Elementary & Primary: Top 5 in each grade. Rds.: 10am then ASAP. Top 4 scores constitute the team score for Elementary; top 3 for Primary. EF: $30 before 2/21, $50 at site. USCF memb. req’d. EF includes 1 year Atlantic Chess News for NJ state residents. Reg.: 8-9:00am After 9:00am 1/2 point bye for round 1. Info: 732 259-3881, Ent: Aaron Kiedes, 4 Seymour Terrace, Hackettstown, NJ 07840. Entries must include name, grade & school, date of birth, USCF ID and expiration date, mailing address, email address, phone number and entry fee. Checks made out to NJSCF.
Feb. 28, Westfield Quads 3 RR, game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street Westfield, NJ. $50 to first in each quad. Entry Fees $20, $15 Members. Registration: 2-2:15 p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-526-7163, www.westfieldchessclub.com.
Mar. 1-29, Spring Swiss Bliss 5-SS, 40/90. Hackettstown Community Center, 293 Main St., (Rte. 46). EF: $15; Under 18 & Over 65, $12. Prizes: $75-$50-$25, U-1800 $30, U-1400 $30, b/20 entries, first prize guaranteed. Reg.: 7-7:30 p.m. on March 1. Rds.: 7:30 p.m. each Monday. Byes: any round, must commit to last-round bye w/entry; must score one half-point OTB to win a prize. ENT: Eric Mark, 609 Thomas St., Stroudsburg, PA 18360;
[email protected]. Checks payable to: Hackettstown Chess Club. NS, NC. WCL JGP.
Mar. 5-7 or 6-7, 19th annual Eastern Class Championships (MA) See Grand Prix.
Mar. 6, 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@fambright. com.
Mar. 7, Westfield Swiss #62 (QC) Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. 5 SS game/15 (QC) full k. $425 Guaranteed $125, $60 U2100, U1850, U1600, U1350 $60 each. Entrance Fee: $35, $25 Members. Reg.: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45-3:25-4:05-4:45-5:30 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-526-7163, www.westfieldchessclub.com.
Mar. 13, Princeton Day School 650 The Great Road. Plaques to top 3 school teams and top 6 in each section. Medals to all players. Four sections for OVER 1000 begin at 10:15 and must preregister: OVER 1600 (K-12), 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 U-800), 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 $35. On-site 11-12 noon $45. Info and register online: www.pds.org/chess. Inquires to Bonnie Waitzkin Chessteach@ gmail.com.
Mar. 14, Westfield Quads 3 RR, game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street Westfield, NJ. $50 to first in each quad. Entry Fees $20, $15 Members. Registration: 2-2:15 p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-526-7163, www.westfield chessclub.com.
Mar. 20, 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 3/13, $30 on site. Reg.: 9:00-9:45 AM. Rds.: 10:00 AM and ASAP. Info: John Burke, 908-705-7958 or
[email protected]. Ent: Make checks payable to:The Academy at Grace and Peace. Please indicate USCF ID# and section.
A State Championship Event! Mar. 20-21, First Only New Jersey State Championship (Only for NJ Players and Past NJ Champs.) Dean of Chess Academy, 3150 US Rt. 22, Branchburg, NJ. In 3-Sections: G$$2800. Only NJ Masters-Experts section: 4SS, TC: 40/2hrs, SD/60. G$$: $500-300-200-100. Top Expert $100. Only one Sat half point bye. Rds. Sat. 10am- 4:30pm, Sun. 9am-4pm. Only NJ Class A-B section: (Only for 1600-1999) $300-200-100. Top Class B $100. Only NJ Class C section: (Only U1600) $300-200-100. Top Class D, E, & F $100 each. Lower Sections: 5SS, TC: G/100. Only 2 byes in rounds 1-4. Rds.: Sat: 10-2-6, Sun: 11-3. Trophies: Top 3 each section, Top Expert, Class B, D, E, F & Unrated, Senior age 65. & K-8. (Only rated players win cash) Early EF: Only Master-Exp:
Feb. 19, Monmouth Chess School & Club February Scholastic 51 Monmouth St., Red Bank, NJ directions www.monmouthchess.com. 4SS or 5SS if 30 or more entries, G/30, EF: $35/25 members postmarked by 2/1; $45/35 site. Trophies top 5 in each section, medals for all who complete four rounds. Book/merchandise prizes $100 for first in each section: K-12; K-8, K5, K-2. Reg.: 11:45-12:15; Rds.: 12:30, 1:45, 3:15, 4:30. Accelerated rounds if possible. Mail checks to: MCS&C, c/o Dr. Koblentz, 9 Rimwood Lane, Colts Neck, NJ 07722. Non-members cash only at site. Questions 732-219-0916.
Feb. 20, 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 2/13, $30 on site. Reg.: 9:00-9:45 AM. Rds.: 10:00 AM and ASAP. Info: John Burke, 908-705-7958 or
[email protected]. Ent: Make checks payable toThe Academy at Grace and Peace. Please indicate USCF ID# and section.
Feb. 21, Westfield Quads 3 RR, game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street Westfield, NJ. $50 to first in each quad. Entry Fees $20, $15 Members. Registration: 2-2:15 p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-526-7163, www.westfieldchessclub.com.
Feb. 22, Quick Fun (QC) 5-SS, G/10. Hackettstown Community Center, 293 Main St., (Rte. 46). EF: $6. Prizes: All EF returned as prizes, 1st prize: 50% of total EF, other prizes based on entries, class prizes possible. Reg.: 7-7:30 p.m. Rds.: 7:30 p.m., then ASAP. Info:
[email protected]. NS, NC.
NATIONAL OPEN June 11-13 or June 12-13 Las Vegas INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL
Feb. 26, ATKM‘s 4th Friday G/10 Swiss (QC) (6 Rounds) For info. and registration, go to YourChessSet.com/g10. For more info e-mail Stephen at
[email protected] or call 856-582-8222.
Feb. 27, Hamilton Chess Club Quads
www.VegasChessFestival.com
3RR 40/80 15/30 15/30. Full K. Ray Dwier Recreation Center, Bldg. 392, Groveville, NJ 08620. Quads open to all EF: $10. $25 per Quad. Reg.: 9-
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Chess Life — February 2010
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SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING FEBRUARY 1-14
Tournament Life $70, Other sections $65 if by 3/15. Past NJ Champs EF is $35 if early, but $80 at site: Please join online at entryfeesrus.com. On site EF: Master-Exp $80, Lower sections $75. Cash only at site. Reg.: 3/20, 8am-9:45am. Hotel Sierra is nearby and a great deal. Hotel Rates $89/free Breakfast. (908) 704-2191. The playing hall accommodates Only 100 players, so the only the first 100 EF’s received will play. Ent: KenThomas, 115 West Moore Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07840-2233. Make checks payable to NJSCF. For info contact Ken,
[email protected] or (908)763-6468. Players and spectators cell phones & ear covering are restricted. FIDE, NS, NC, W. WCL JGP.
Mar. 21, Westfield Spring Scholastic Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. 3 Sections k-12 full k Open, Under 1250, Under 750. Open Section 3 SS game/45 trophies to top five players in each section. Entrance Fee: $20, $15 Members at site $30, $25 Registration 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45-4:25-6:05 p.m. Under 1250 4 SS game/30 Trophies to top 5 in each section Entrance Fee: $20, $15 Members at site $30, $25 Members. Registration 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45-4:00-5:156:30 p.m. Under 750 trophies to top five players in each section. Entrance Fee: $20, $15 Members at site $30, $25. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:454:00-5:15-6:30 p.m. Tiebreaks for trophies Info: Todd Lunna 732-526-7163,
[email protected], www.westfieldchessclub.com. Send Advance Entries to:Todd Lunna, 36 Maple Drive, Colts Neck, NJ 07722 by March 17th.
Mar. 27, Greater Cherry Hill Super Sunday Grand Prix See Grand Prix.
Mar. 27, Super Scholastics Saturday Swiss K-8 Somerset Ramada Inn, 60 Cottontail Ln., Somerset, NJ Exit #12 off I-287. (In 4 Sections/& skittles) Trophies to top 5, others get medals/prizes. Hot Shots (always U1700): 4SS G/45, $150-100-50, b/10. Checkmates (always U1300): 4SS G/45, $100-50 b/10, New Stars (always U1000): 5SS G/30, $100-50 b/10, Chess Pirates (always U600): 5SS G/30, $100-50 b/10. Player’s highest life time rating used. Rds.: 11am then ASAP, lunch break. EF: $27 mailed by 03/22 or paid online, entryfeesrus.com. EF at site $35. Cash only. Reg.: before 10:45am. Ent: 115 W. Moore St., Hackettstown, NJ 07840. Info: Ken Thomas
[email protected] or 908-763-6468. NS, NC, W.
Mar. 28, Westfield Quads 3 RR, game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street Westfield, NJ. $50 to first in each quad. Entry Fees $20, $15 Members. Registration: 2-2:15 p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-526-7163, www.westfieldchessclub.com.
Feb. 18-Mar. 25, FIDE Thursdays!! 6SS, G/120. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. Open to all players rated 1600 or above. EF: $50, $30 members. $$500 b/20: $175-125-100, U2000 $100; 2 byes OK, commit before Round 4. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7PM each Thursday; FIDE rated. WCL JGP.
Feb. 19-Mar. 19, Queens Late Winter Open See Grand Prix.
Feb. 20, New York February Action! See Grand Prix.
Feb. 20-21, 2010 Marchand Open - 32nd Annual See Grand Prix.
Feb. 21, 11th Annual NY February Under 13 Open! 4-SS, G/30, open to all born after 2/21/97. 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 2/12/10. 2. Novice, for Under 1000 or Unrated, EF: $31 mailed by 2/12. Both, EF: $30 online at www.chesscenter.cc by 2/18, $35 by phone at 406-896-2191 by 2/18, $40 at site, Club members $10 less ($10 fee for refunds). Trophies to top 10, 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.
Feb. 21, Binghamton Monthly Tourney FREE USCF ONLINE MEMBERSHIP ($34 VALUE, call for details) WITH ENTRY FEE. 4 ROUND SS, GAME/60. Reg.: 8:45 AM to 9:00 AM. ENTRY: $35 Cash only on site. Please register in advance if possible. (Checks payable to “Cordisco’s Corner Store.”) Rounds: 9:15, 11:45, 2:15, 4:30. Prizes: b/14. Open Section. 1st- $130, 2nd - $70, 3rd- $30.Trophies 1st - 3rd. Under 1700. 1st- $65, 2nd- $30. Trophies 1st - 4th. Please bring clocks. Cordisco’s Chess Center, 308 Chenango St., Binghamton, NY 13901. (607) 772-8782.
[email protected].
Feb. 21, 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. $$ (all EFs returned less $36 per quad). Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds. 7:30-8:30-9:30. NO FREE ENTRIES!! No phone entry!
Feb. 21, Sunday Under 1400 Action!
See Grand Prix.
4-SS, G/30. Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 West 10 St., between 56 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716, for Under 1400 or unrated. EF $30, Club Members $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$200 b/20 paid: $10060-40, $60 limit to unr. Reg. ends 3:45 pm. Rds. 4-5:15-6:45-8 pm. No advance entries.
May 14-16 or 15-16, 18th annual New York State Open (NY)
Feb. 22-Mar. 22, 86th Nassau Grand Prix
Mar. 31-Apr. 4, Apr. 1-4, 2-4 or 3-4, Philadelphia Open (PA) See Grand Prix.
Apr. 16-18 or 17-18, Hartford Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Feb. 22-Mar. 22, Marshall CC Under 1600 Monday Swiss
New York Feb. 6, Syracuse University Winter Open 4SS Rds.: 1&2 G/60, Rds.: 3&4 G/90. Syracuse University, Carnegie Hall, Rm. 222 (Fr 81N, Ex. 690E, Ex. 14, Son Teal to Columbus, L on E. Genesee, R. Westcott, R. Euclid, to Park Check Pt, 3rd right. Fr 81S, Ex. E. Adams, R on E. Adams, R on Comstock, R Euclid, to Park Check Pt, 3rd right). 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 (315) 436-9008. WCL JGP.
5SS, G/90. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1300 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7 PM each Monday. Byes OK, limit 2, request by Rd. 3. WCL JGP.
Feb. 25, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
See Grand Prix.
4-SS, G/30. Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W. 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (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.
Feb. 16, Marshall Masters (formerly the St. John’s Masters)
Feb. 26-28, 4th annual Saratoga Open
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Feb. 18, 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight!
Feb. 27, Marshall CC Saturday G/60
See Grand Prix.
4SS, G/60. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. ($360 b/24) $120-
Feb. 13, Jenifer Woods Memorial Grand Prix
70-50, 1700-1999/unr $60, U1700 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:1511:45AM. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. Note: Only one bye available, request at entry.
A State Championship Event! Feb. 27-28, New York State Scholastic Championships Open to grades K-12 in any state (top NYS player & team in each section are NY champions). Saratoga Hilton, 534 Broadway (I-87 Exit 13-N, 4 miles north on US 9), Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.Team prizes based on top 4 scores from same school; no combined school teams allowed even if one school “feeds” another. Teams of 2 or 3 players allowed, but are at a disadvantage. In 6 sections, each is a 6SS, G/60 except K-1 is 5SS, G/30 playing Feb 28 only. High School, grades K-12. EF $38 mailed by 2/5. Top NYS grade 9-12 qualifies for DenkerTournament of HS Champions. Junior High, grades K-9. EF $37.90 mailed by 2/5. Elementary, grades K-6. EF $37.60 mailed by 2/5. Elementary Novice, grades K-6 under 800 or unrated. EF $37.50 mailed by 2/5. Primary, grades K-3. EF $37.30 mailed by 2/5. K-1, grades K-1. EF $37.10 mailed by 2/5. Postmarked 2/6-16: All EF $10 more. Do not mail entry after 2/17. Online at chesstour.com, all sections: EF $40 by 2/6, $50 by 2/22. No online entry after 2/22. Phoned to 406-896-2038, all sections: $55 by 2/22. No phone entry after 2/22. Entry at site: all $60. Trophies to top 20 players, top 3 Unrated, and top 8 teams each section and top each U1400, U1200, U1000 (HS), U1200, U1000, U800 (JHS), U1000, U800 (Elem), U600, U400 (Elem Novice). Speed playoff if perfect score tie. Free entry to NY State Championship, Labor Day weekend 2010 (Albany), to top player each section. Schedule: Late reg. ends Sat 11 am, rds Sat 12-3-6, Sun 9-12-2:30. K-1 schedule: Late reg. ends Sun 9 am, rds Sun 10-12-1:30-3-4:30. Half point byes OK all, limit 2, must commit before rd 2. HR: $117-117, 888-999-4711, 518-584-4000, reserve by 2/13 or rate may increase. 48 hours notice required for room cancellation. Backup hotel: Courtyard by Marriott, 2 blocks away, 518-226-0538. Special car rentals: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #657633. Mail entry: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Include name, rating, USCF ID, USCF expiration (non-members enclose dues), section, school, grade, birth date, address of each player. Checks payable to Continental Chess. $15 per player service charge for refunds. $10 extra to switch sections, all substitutions from advance list charged $60. Questions: chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied.
Feb. 28, Grandmaster Challenge See Grand Prix.
Mar. 2, Marshall CC New York Experts Open to U2200 4SS, G/30. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50. U1800 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, request at entry.
Mar. 3-31, Marshall CC Under 2000 Wednesday Swiss 5SS, 30/90,SD/1. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1700 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7 PM each Wednesday. Byes OK, limit 2, request by Round 3. WCL JGP.
Mar. 4, 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.
Mar. 5-7 or 6-7, 19th annual Eastern Class Championships (MA) See Grand Prix.
Mar. 6-7 or 7, Marshall March U2300 4SS, 30/90, SD/1. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. EF: $45, Members $25. ($360 b/24) $120-70-50, U2000/unr $65, U1700 $55. Reg.: ends 12:15PM. 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.
Mar. 6-27, 3rd Farmingdale CC March Swiss 4SS, G/140. Farmingdale Public Library, 116 Merritts Rd., Farmingdale, NY 11735. Open to all U-2300/unr.: $: 100% of EFs to be returned as prizes! 1st: 35%, 2nd: 25%, Top U-1800, U-1500/unr. 20% 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.
Mar. 7, Rodeph Sholom Scholastic Chess Championship III 4-SS, G/30. 7 WEST 83 ST., NYC. 5 SECTIONS. BEGINNER (grades K-1 only) Unrated Players Only. NOVICE (grades 2/below) U600. RESERVE (grades 26 only) U500. PRIMARY (Grades 5/below) U1000. CHAMPIONSHIP/OPEN (grades 12/below). AWARDS: Trophies to top 15 in each section. Top U400 NOVICE, U700 PRIMARY, U800 CHAMPIONSHIP. Special Prizes: Engraved digital chess clocks to: Top Player in each section, all 4-0 scores & Top Unrated in Open Section. Engraved plaque to top UNR player in each section. High Scorer trophy to all who score 2 and do not get into top 15. Engraved medals to all others. Team Prizes: Trophies to top 4 teams in each section. Engraved digital chess clock to Top Team in each section. (Team score created by adding top 4 scores from same school). EARLY EF: $39 if received (postmarked by March 1). LATE EF: $45 Phoned, faxed or online thereafter until March 5, 5pm. Onsite EF: $55. Reg.: 9-9:30. Rds.: All 10-11:30-12:45-2. Late entrants may not be paired for the first round. Mail Entries: and make check payable to TriState Chess, 1675 York Ave. #2M, N.Y. N.Y. 10128 Phone: (718) 645-5896 Fax: (718) 535-7896 Online Entry: www.TriStateChess.com.
For details on
2010 U.S. AMATEUR TEAM EVENTS East, North, South, West See Nationals Section! 66
Chess Life — February 2010
uschess.org
Mar. 7, The Chess Exchange Monthly Trophy Quads 1st Sunday every month. 3-RR, G/30,The Chess Exchange: Chess & Games Club, 288Third Ave., Bklyn, 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.
Mar. 7, The Right Move #160 Team and Individual Championship FREE EF. 4SS, G/30. Play starts promptly at 10:00. Players must check in by 9:15 A.M. (Latecomers will not play in round one). Brandeis H.S., 145 W. 84th St., 10024 (near Columbus Ave., Manhattan, NYC). Open to gr. K-12. Five rated sections: Open, Under 1700, Under 1200, Under 800, Under 600. (May renew or join USCF at tournament). Non-member sections by grades: K-3, 4-6, 7-12.Trophies to top 3 in each section except Open ($50, $30, $20 for 1st-3rd); medal to each player with 2.5 or more points. Team plaque to 1st and 2nd each section, with top 4 scores counting in each section (minimum 3 players on team in section). To register: use website at www.therightmove.org or email - thechessstop@ aol.com or Fax to 718-455-2863 before 6:00PM on Fri. Give full name, school, grade, USCF ID#, exp. date, and section. NO ON-SITE REGISTRATION.
Mar. 11, 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. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-10050, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:159:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game.
11:15-11:45AM. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. Note: Only one bye available, request at entry.
$40, members $20. $$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.
Mar. 21, Grandmaster Challenge
Apr. 7-May 5, Marshall CC Under 2000 Wednesday Swiss
See Grand Prix.
5SS, 30/90, SD/1. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1700 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7 PM each Wednesday. Byes OK, limit 2, request by Round 3. WCL JGP.
Mar. 25, 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight! See Grand Prix.
Mar. 27, Greater Cherry Hill Super Sunday Grand Prix (NJ)
Mar. 27-28 or 29, New York March Open! See Grand Prix.
Apr. 10, NY April Under 1600!
Mar. 28, Connecticut State Chess Association K-6 Scholastic State Championship (CT)
4-SS, G/50, open to U1600 or unr. Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W. 10th St, bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. EF $40, Club members $25, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. May be limited to 1st 26 entries. $$ (300 b/20 paid): 150-70-30, top U1300 $50, $70 limit to unr. Limit 2 byes, commit by 2:30. Reg. ends 15 min before game. Rds. 12:30-2:30-4:306:30 pm. CCA Ratings may be used. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 4/8. $10 extra to “enter” by phone!
Mar. 27, Prove Your Point! 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.
See Connecticut.
Mar. 29-Apr. 26, Marshall CC Under 1600 Monday Swiss 5SS, G/90. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1300 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7 PM each Monday. Byes OK, limit 2, request by Rd. 3. WCL JGP.
Mar. 31-Apr. 4, Apr. 1-4, 2-4 or 3-4, Philadelphia Open (PA) See Grand Prix.
Mar. 13, Utica Four Seasons – Fall
Apr. 8, 4 Rated Games Tonight! 4-SS, G/30. Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W. 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (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.
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 10, Prove Your Point! 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.
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.
Apr. 1, Fools Rush In Tonight!
Mar. 13-14 or 14, March Open
Apr. 1-May 6, Marshall CC Thursday Members-Only Swiss
See Grand Prix.
6SS, G/120. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open to members only. EF: $30. $$500 b/20: $175-125-100, U2000 $100. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm eachThursday Byes ok, limit 3, request before round 4. WCL JGP.
4-SS, 30/90, SD/1. Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W. 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. EF $40, Club members $25, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-100-50, top U2000 $95, U1800 $85. Reg. ends 15 min. before game. 2 schedules: 2-day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day; 1-day, (rds 1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun; both merge rd 3. Limit 2 byes, commit by rd 2. Re-entry $20, counts half. Class pairings OK rd 4. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 4/8. $10 extra to “enter” by phone! WCL JGP.
Apr. 3-4 or 4, Marshall April Open
Apr. 11, NEW Sunday Sliding Scale Quads!
Mar. 16, Marshall Masters (formerly the St. John’s Masters) See Grand Prix.
Mar. 18, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/30. Chess Center at Fool’s Paradise, 23 W. 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 40 entries. EF $2. Everyone wins a prize! Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:159:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry very foolish!
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. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-10050, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:159:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game.
4SS, 30/90, SD1. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $45, Members $25. ($360 b/24) $120-70-50, U2000/unr $65, U1700 $55. Reg.: ends 11:50am. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2-day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day; 1-day, (rds 1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun; both merge rd 3. Limit 2 byes, request at entry. NO RE-ENTRY. May be limited to first 60 players. WCL JGP.
Mar. 20, Marshall CC Saturday G/60
See Connecticut.
4SS, G/60. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. ($360 b/24) $120-70-50, 1700-1999/unr $60, U1700 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.:
Apr. 6, New York Experts
Apr. 4 Connecticut State Chess Association K-8 State Open Championship (CT)
Apr. 10-11 or 11, NY April Under 2300!
3-RR, G/30. Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W. 10th St., NYC: 212477-3716. EF: Master $35, Expert $30, A $25, U1800 $20. $$ (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!
Apr. 25, Connecticut State Chess Association K-12 & UCONN School of Engineering High School $14,000 Scholarship State Open Championship (CT) See Connecticut.
Open to U2200 4SS, G/30. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF:
May 14-16 or 15-16, 18th annual New York State Open See Grand Prix.
CHECK OUT USCF’S CORRESPONDENCE CHESS RATED EVENTS
USCF’s 63rd ANNUAL 2010 Open Correspondence Chess Golden Knights Championship $1,000 First Prize
(plus title of USCF’s Golden Knights Champion and plaque)
• 2nd place $600 • 3rd place $400 • 4th place $300 • 5th place $200 • 6th thru 10th place $100 each. Entry fee: $25.
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
USCF’s 7th ANNUAL 2010 E-mail Correspondence Chess Electronic Knights Championship
(Seven-player sections, one game with each of six opponents.)
$700 First Prize
(plus title of USCF’s Electronic Knights Champion and plaque)
• 2nd place $400 • 3rd place $300 • 4th thru 10th place $100 each. Entry fee: $25.
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 — February 2010
67
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING FEBRUARY 1-14
Tournament Life June 11-13 or 12-13, 7th annual Vermont Spring Open (VT)
Mar. 13, 9th Annual Queen City Classic Chess Tournament
See Grand Prix.
5SS, G/30. Paul Brown Stadium, Club West, Downtown Cincinnati, OH. 17 School Sections, includes rated and non-rated. Grade K Non-Rated, Grade 1 Non-Rated, Grade 2 Non-rated, Grade 3 Non-rated, Grades K-3<600, Grades K-3 Open, Grade 4 Non-Rated, Grade 5 Non-Rated, Grade 6 Non-Rated, Grades 4-6<700, Grades 4-6 Open, Grades 7-9 Non-Rated, Grades 7-9<900, Grades 7-9 Open, Grades 10-12 Non-Rated, K-12 Open, Collegiate. USCF membership is not required for the non-rated and K-3 rated sections. Registration form online at www.queencityclassic.org. Prizes: Trophies to all who score 3.5 points or higher, top five team trophies awarded medals to all others. EF: $35 early bird fee which includes lunch, t-shirt, program/score book, medal, simul participation. Registration fee increases to $50 after February 16. Registration closes Wednesday, March 10, 2010. NO SATURDAY REGISTRATIONS. Checks, VISA, MasterCard, Discover and AmEx accepted. Schedule: Friday, March 12, early check in from 4-6 p.m. FREE SIMUL at 6:30 p.m. for tournament participants, $20 for non-participants. SIMUL features International Master Irina Krush, International Grandmasters Maurice Ashley and Gregory Kaidanov and special guests. Saturday, March 13, check in 7- 8:30 a.m., matches begin at 9:00 a.m. Grandmasters will be available for questions and instructions in the skittles room all day Saturday. Entry/Info: Queen City Classic Chess Tournament, 5400 Kennedy Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45213. 1.866. 772.4377, 513.924.5038 or fax to 513.352.9370. Confirm all registrations at www.cpu-solutions.com.
June 25-27, 2nd annual World Open Senior Amateur (PA) See Pennsylvania.
June 26-27, 2nd annual World Open Girls Championship (PA) See Pennsylvania.
June 26-27, World Open Under 13 Championship (PA) See Pennsylvania.
North Carolina Feb. 20, TACO LIX 3-SS, G/90. Caraleigh Fellowship Hall, 118 Summit Ave., Raleigh, NC. EF: $21 (rec’d by 2/18)/$25 at site. Prize fund: $$640 b/40. OPEN: $120-$60 u2000: $60, U1800: $100-$50 u1600 $50, U1400: $100-$50 u1200 $50. Reg.: 9-9:45. Rds.: 10-1:45-5. NCCA req’d $5 OSA. Info: http://raleighchess.freewebpages. org/taco.html. Jeff Jones (919)270-9948.
[email protected].
Mar. 13-14, 19-21 or 15-21, 2010 U.S. Masters See Nationals.
Mar. 13-14, 19-21 or 15-21, N.C. Sub-Masters 9SS, 40/2,SD/30 .Hendersonville, NC. $$1670 b/50. Rds.: Concurrent with U.S. Masters. EF: $50 by Feb 13, $55 by Mar 9, $60 at site. HR: Quality Inn & Suites, 201 Sugarloaf Rd., Hendersonville NC 28792. $60 or $68/night with hot breakfast, indoor pool, sauna, jacuzzi, and mini-golf. 800-581-4745, www.qualityinnsuiteshvl.com. Info and entry: Kevin Hyde, 705 Old Mountain Page Rd., Saluda, NC 28773.
[email protected] www.ncchess.org. WCL JGP.
Mar. 13-14, 19-21 or 15-21, Sub-Sub-Masters RBO 9SS, 40/2,SD/30. Hendersonville, NC. Rated U1000 or unrated. Plaque to 1st. Rds.: Concurrent with U.S. Masters. EF: $10. Info and entry: Kevin Hyde, 705 Old Mountain Page Rd., Saluda, NC 28773.
[email protected] www.ncchess.org. WCL JGP.
Mar. 20, TACO LX 3-SS, G/90. Caraleigh Fellowship Hall, 118 Summit Ave., Raleigh, NC. EF: $21 (rec’d by 3/18)/$25 at site. Prize fund: $$640 b/40. OPEN: $120-$60 u2000: $60, U1800: $100-$50 u1600 $50, U1400: $100-$50 u1200 $50. Reg.: 9-9:45. Rds.: 10-1:45-5. NCCA req’d $5 OSA. Info: http://raleighchess.freewebpages. org/taco.html. Jeff Jones (919)270-9948.
[email protected].
Mar. 13, Toledo Mar 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 3/11 $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360 b/20, $100-50, 1st Class A ,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450. WCL JGP.
Apr. 10, Toledo Apr 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 4/8 $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.
Apr. 16-18, 2010 All Girls National Championship presented by the Kasparov Chess Foundation in association with the USCF and UTD.
Ohio
See Nationals.
Feb. 20-21, Mid-Ohio Super Tournament
See Grand Prix.
5 Round Swiss, G/90. Mansfield YMCA, 750 Scholl Rd., Mansfield, Ohio 44902. To be split into sections according to entries. Open Section, Under 2200, U2000, U1800, U1600 U1400 U1200. Prizes will be the same in all sections based on Entries. 70% to players. Reg. ends 9:30 a.m. Feb. 20th, Rds at 10 a.m. 1:15 p.m. 4:30 p.m. Feb. 21st, 10:a.m. 1:15p.m. Enter in Advance $30.00. At Door $35.00.TD. Carl R. Boor, 244 S. Adams St., Mansfield, Ohio 44902, 419-566-4029. WCL JGP.
Apr. 23-25 or 24-25, 9th Southern Class Championships (TN)
between Tulsa or Okla. City (see www.okchess.org for details). 3-SS. G/55(+15). View Acres Baptist Church, 2327 S. 65th W. Ave., Tulsa. EF: $25, cash or check, at site only. Free EF for players rated 2000+ (deducted from their prize winnings, if any). Reg.: 8:30-9:20. OCF mem. encouraged ($10). Rds.: 9:30, 12:30, 3:00. Prizes: 1st $100 (G), plus class prizes per entries — plus Series Prizes: $7.50 from each EF goes to a series prize fund to be distributed at end of series. Info:
[email protected]. NS. W.
Feb. 13-15, Jerry Hanken FIDE Winter Open See Grand Prix.
Mar. 6, Sooner Chess Series #2 (sponsored by the Challengers Chess Club of Oklahoma City) Second of 10 one-day events held the first Saturday each month alternating betweenTulsa or Okla. City (see www.okchess.org for details). 3-SS. G/55(+15). Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, 13112 N. Rockwell Ave., Oklahoma City. 73142 (located on the east side of Rockwell Ave., 1/2 mile south of John Kilpatrick Tpke/Memorial Road and 1/2 mile north of NW 122nd St). EF: $25, cash or check, at site only. Free EF for players rated 2000+ (deducted from their prize winnings, if any). Reg.: 8:30-9:20. OCF mem. optional ($10). Rds.: 9:30, 12:30, 3:00. Prizes: 1st $100 (G), plus class prizes per entries - plus Series Prizes: $7.50 from each EF goes to a series prize fund to be distributed at end of series. Info:
[email protected]. NS. W.
A Heritage Event! Mar. 13-14, 25th Annual Phillips 66 Chess Classic (FIDE Rated) 4 round Swiss, time controls: primary - 40 moves/2 hours, secondary 30 minutes/game. Registration limited to first 48 players. Advance registration recommended by March 6th. On-site registration (if available) from 8:30 to 9:30 AM. Entry fee: $100/person. OCF membership required ($10). 100% of entries returned as prize fund. Woolaroc Events Center, highway 123 south of Bartlesville, OK. Rounds: Sat. 11 & 5, Sun. 9 & 2. Brunch served Saturday and Sunday. Dinner served Saturday. (no charge). Free entry to Woolaroc. Hotel: Microtel Inn, 2696 SE Washington Blvd., $55/single, $64/double, free continental breakfast, (918) 333-2100. Entries to: Steve Wharry, 8409 N. 70th East Ave., Owasso, OK 74055, phone: (918) 376-9698, email:
[email protected]. See: www.okchess.org or www.smwharry.net/Woolaroc. htm for more details. WCL JGP.
Pennsylvania
North Penn Chess Club Main & Richardson, Lansdale, PA. See www.npchess club.org for schedules & info or call 215-699-8418. Every Saturday Lehigh Valley Super Quads and G/10 (QC) (NO QUADS OR BLITZ ON LVCA GRAND PRIX DATES LISTED IN CHESS LIFE) G/40 Quads, 3-RR. Reg.: 1p. St. James Church, 11th &Tilghman Sts., Allentown, PA 18102. G/10 Swiss, 5-SS. Info:
[email protected], www.lehighvalleychess.org/.
June 25-29, 4th annual Philadelphia International (PA) See Grand Prix.
Oklahoma Feb. 6, Sooner Chess Series #1
A State Championship Event! Feb. 6, 2010 PA State Amateur Team Championship
First of 10 one-day events held the first Saturday each month alternating
4SS, G/75. William Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh,
PLAN AHEAD for 2010 ! NEW: U.S. Girls Junior Open Championship Tournament of College Champions Denker Tournament of High School Champions All three tournaments above held July 31-Aug. 3, 2010 Irvine, California
U.S. Open July 31-Aug. 8, Aug. 3-8 or Aug. 5-8, 2010 Irvine, California
More details to be announced in March 2010 Chess Life! 68
Chess Life — February 2010
uschess.org
PA 15213. 4-player teams, average rating U2200, alternates allowed. EF: $60/team by 1/29, $80 later. $$ (700 b/16 teams): $250-100, U2000 $95, U1800 $90, U1600 $85, U1400 $80. Reg.: 9-9:30 Rds.: 10-1-4-7. PSCF $5, OSA. Ent/Info: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223, 412908-0286,
[email protected]. W. WCL JGP.
Feb. 19, Friday Night Action #14 4SS, G/30. Belmont Park Classroom, 200 Anderson Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406. Sections: Open, U/1400. EF: $30 online by noon the day of the event; $10 more on-site 6:30-6:45; $10 less for players under 18. Rds.: 7:00, then ASAP. Prizes: $100 to 1st overall; others per entries. Register at www.silverknights chess.com. Registration limited to first 30 players.
Feb. 20, 2010 Presidents Week LVCA Grand Prix
into Greater Philadelphia Junior Invitational. See www.silverknightschess.com to register.
Mar. 21, PCL March Quick Quads (QC) 3RR, G/15. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am, Rds.: 11:30amNoon-12:30pm. Info:
[email protected], 412-908-0286. W.
Mar. 26, Friday Night Action #15 4SS, G/30. Belmont Park Classroom, 200 Anderson Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406. Sections: Open, U/1400. EF: $30 online by noon the day of the event; $10 more on-site 6:30-6:45; $10 less for players under 18. Rds.: 7:00, then ASAP. Prizes: $100 to 1st overall; others per entries. Register at www.silverknights chess.com. Registration limited to first 30 players.
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 27, Greater Cherry Hill Super Sunday Grand Prix (NJ)
Feb. 21, PCL February Quick Quads (QC)
See Grand Prix.
3RR, G/15. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am, Rds.: 11:30amNoon-12:30pm. Info:
[email protected], 412-908-0286. W.
Mar. 31-Apr. 4, Apr. 1-4, 2-4 or 3-4, Philadelphia Open See Grand Prix.
Apr. 11, PCL April Quick Quads (QC)
Feb. 27, Scranton Winter Open 4R SS, Gm/40. Clarion Hotel, 300 Meadow Ave., Scranton, PA (Exit 184 off I81). $$ (b/20), $125, $75, U1800 -$50, U1400/unr -$40 Upset prize, & door prize. EF: $25 rec. by Feb.26, $30 at site. Reg.: 8:30 - 9:45am. Rds.: 10, 11:30, 1:30 & 3. Entries/Info: Bernie Sporko, 127 S. Main St., Carbondale, PA 18407. 570282-2793, cell: 570-604-2461, e-mail:
[email protected]. Online entries acc. thru PayPal, include entry info in message.
3RR, G/15. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am, Rds.: 11:30amNoon-12:30pm. Info:
[email protected], 412-908-0286. W.
Apr. 29-May 27, 2010 Hatboro Open
June 25-29, 4th annual Philadelphia International See Grand Prix.
Our 21st year! 3RR, 40/80,sd/30. United Methodist Church, 129 S. High St., West Chester, PA. EF: $20; every tenth quad free $$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.
June 26-27, 2nd annual World Open Girls Championship
A State Championship Event! Mar. 6-7, 2010 PA State Scholastic Championship 5SS. 142 Trophies!! (With 107 Individual & 35 Team). Hotel Carlisle & Embers Convention Center, 1700 Harrisburg Pike, Carlisle, PA 17015, Exit 52A NB/Exit 52 SB off I-81, Exit 226 off PA Turnpike. 8 sections (Sat & Sun 3/6 & 7 unless indicated): EF: K-3 Open: (Sat 3/6 only) $29. K-6 U800: (Sat 3/6 only) $27. K-9 U1000: (Sun 3/7 only) $27.25. K-6 Open: $30.50. K-8 Open: $31.50. 712 U1000: $28.50. 7-12 U1300: $29.50. K-12 Open: $32.50. All: EFs if rec’d by 2/16, $10 more rec’d 2/17-3/2, $20 more after 3/2. Feb 2010 ratings used. Bye: limit 1, ask by rd 2. Reg Fri 3/5 6-10 pm, Sat 3/6 9:30-10:15 am, Saturday at site entries get 1/2-bye. $5 charge for changes/refund after 2/16. Rds (Sat 3/6 1-day sections): G/40T/D5; 10-11:45-2-3:45-5:30; (Sun 3/7 K-9 U1000): G/40, T/D5; 9-10:30-12:30-2-3:30; (2-day sections): G/90, T/D5; 10-2-5:30, 9-1. Bughouse: Reg on-site only until Sat 3/6 8:30pm. Rds begin Sat 3/6 8:45pm. EF: $20/team. HR: Mention “PA States” for best rate; 800692-7315 $75. Ent: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223-2245. Info: Steve: 215-784-5938
[email protected] Dan: 610649-0750
[email protected] www.pscfchess.org/pascholasticchamp/. W. WCL JGP in 2-Day sections.
5SS, G/90. Valley Forge Convention Plaza (see World Open).Open to all girls born after 6/28/92.Trophies to top 5, 1st C, D, E, Under 1000, Under 800, Unrated; free entry in all CCA Swiss tournaments 7/15/10-12/31/10 to 1st. EF: $41 mailed by 6/16, $43 online at chesstour.com by 6/23, $45 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 6/23, $50 at site. Late reg. 9 to 9:30 am 6/26, rds. Sat 102-6, Sun 10-2. One half point bye allowed, must commit before rd 2. HR & Ent: See World Open. WCL JGP.
June 26-27, World Open Under 13 Championship 6SS, G/65. Valley Forge Convention Plaza (see World Open). Open to all born after 6/28/97. Trophies to top 5, 1st C, D, E, Under 1000, Under 800, Unrated; free entry in all CCA Swiss tournaments 7/15/09-12/31/09 to 1st. EF: $42 mailed by 6/16, $43 online at chesstour.com by 6/23, $45 phoned to 406-8962038 by 6/23, $50 at site. Reg. 6/26 9 to 10:30 am, rds. Sat. 11-2-5, Sun. 10-1-4. One half point bye allowed, must commit before rd 2. HR & Ent: See World Open. WCL JGP.
June 26, 28, 30, World Open G/65 4SS, G/65, separate event each day. Valley Forge Convention Plaza (see World Open). Open to under 2050 or unrated. EF: $40. Prizes $500 based on 16 entries, otherwise raised or lowered in proportion: Top 2 $150-80, Under 1800 $100, Under 1550 $90, Under 1300 $80. Reg: 9-9:45 am each day, Rds: 10-1-3:306. Ent: at site only, no checks. WCL JGP.
June 27, 29, World Open G/30
Mar. 20, 2010 PA State Game/29 Championship (QC)
5SS, G/30, separate event each day. Valley Forge Convention Plaza (see World Open). Open to under 2150 or unrated. EF: $40. Prizes $500 based on 16 entries, otherwise raised or lowered in proportion: Top 2 $150-80, Under 1900 $100, Under 1650 $90, Under 1400 $80. Reg: 9-9:45 am each day, Rds: 10-11:30-12:30-4. Ent: at site only, no checks.
See Grand Prix.
June 29-July 5, July 1-5, 2-5 or 3-5, 38th Annual World Open
Mar. 20, Greater Philadelphia Scholastic Championships
See Grand Prix.
Radnor Middle School, 150 Louella Avenue, Wayne, PA 19087. Sections: K-1, K-3, K-6, K-8, K-12. Time Control: K-1, K-3, K-6 5SS, G/30; K-8, K-12 4SS, G/60. EF: $30 online by 3/17; $35 by noon 3/19; $40 on-site if at least 30 minutes before round 1. Rds.: K-1, K-3, K-6 10-11:05-12:30-1:45-3:00, awards ceremony at 4:00; K-8, K-12 10-12:30-2:35-3:40, awards ceremony at 5:40. Prizes: trophies to top individuals & schools. All players in K-1, K-3, and K-6 sections get trophies. Free game analysis by NM Peter Minear. Winner of K-12 is seeded
July 1, World Open G/20 (QC)
Mar. 20, 2010 March LVCA Grand Prix See Grand Prix.
Register online website: www.richess.org, email: rhodeislandchess@yahoo. com. (401) 359-1602.
A State Championship Event! Mar. 27, R.I. Scholastic State Championship Open to Out Of State Players. All Sections USCF Rated. Individual & team trophies for top 3 in each section. K-4, Gr 5-6, Gr 7-8, Gr. 9-12. EF $20 advance by 3/14, $25 by 3/19, $40 at site. Register online: www.richess.org email:
[email protected]. Phone: (401) 359-1602.
Mar. 28, Connecticut State Chess Association K-6 Scholastic State Championship (CT) See Connecticut.
Apr. 4 Connecticut State Chess Association K-8 State Open Championship (CT) Apr. 25, Connecticut State Chess Association K-12 & UCONN School of Engineering High School $14,000 Scholarship State Open Championship (CT)
Mar. 6, W.Chester 1st Sat. Quads
See Grand Prix.
Feb. 27 & Mar. 13, BK Tmt for kids
See Connecticut.
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 6-7, 2010 Carlisle Open & PA Collegiate Championship
4SS, G/60. RI College, Providence, RI. Sections & Prizes: $500 b/40: OPEN, U1900, U1500. EF: $25 by 2/18, $30 at site. REGISTER ONLINE (Paypal) at: www.rhodeislandchess.org NO EMAIL ENTRIES. Reg.: 9-9:30, Rd 1 at 9:30 prompt. Entries after 9:30 get 1/2 point bye. Ent: RI Chess, P.O. Box 15444, Riverside, RI 02915. Site tel. (401) 837-1302. NS, NC, W.
June 25-27, 2nd annual World Open Senior Amateur
Mar. 5, 2010 PA Quick Chess Championship (QC)
4SS, G/30. Mother of Divine Providence School, 405 Allendale Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406. Sections: K-6 U/700, K-12 Champ. EF: $22 online by 2/24; $27 online by noon 2/26; $35 on-site 9:00-9:30. Rds.: 10:00, then ASAP. Prizes: trophies to top individuals & schools. Free game analysis by NM Peter Minear. See www.silverknightschess.com to register, or for information about sections for unrated players.
Feb. 20, 106th Rhode Island Pawn Eater
See Grand Prix. 5SS, 40/2, SD/1. Valley Forge Convention Plaza (see World Open). Open to all born before 6/28/60 and rated under 2010 or unrated. Prizes: $2000 based on 35 entries, else in proportion except $1000 minimum guaranteed: $500-250125, Under 1810 $300-150, Under 1610/Unr $250-125, Under 1410 $200-100. EF: $68 mailed by 6/16, $70 online at chesstour.com by 6/23, $75 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 6/23, $80 at site. Reg. ends 6:30 pm 6/25, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. Byes: OK all, limit 2 byes if 1810/over, limit 1 bye otherwise, must commit before rd 2. Special USCF dues: see chesstour.com. HR & Ent: See World Open.
Feb. 27, State Warm-Up
Rhode Island
5SS, G/20. Valley Forge Convention Plaza (see World Open). Open to under 2200 or unrated. EF: $40. Prizes $500 based on 16 entries, otherwise raised or lowered in proportion: Top 2 $150-80, Under 1950 $100, Under 1700 $90, Under 1450 $80. Reg: 9-9:45 am each day, rds. 10-11-12-1:30-2:30. One half point bye allowed, must commit before rd 2. Ent: at site only, no checks. Quick rated, but higher of quick or regular rating used for pairings & prizes.
See Connecticut.
Tennessee Feb. 27, Pre-Spring Special 3 sections: G/60 (4 rds) and G/30 (7 rds) and U1200 G/45 (5 rds), EF: $20 ($15 MCC members) 1st G/30-$100; 1st G/60-$100 guaranteed prizes. U1200: Trophies to Top 3. Free blitz tournament for all entries after last rd! ($10 for blitz only), unrated g/5, trophy for 1st. Registration 2/27: 8-9:30am. Rounds (G/60): 10-1-3-5. Rounds (G/30): 10-11-1-2-3-4-5. Rounds (G/45): 10 and as soon as possible. Site: Hampton Inn, 962 South Shady Grove Rd., Memphis, TN 38120. Hotel reservations: (901) 762-0056. Entries: Memphis Chess Club Inc., PO Box 17864, Memphis, TN 38187-0864. www.memphischess.com,
[email protected].
Mar. 19-21 or 20-21, 14th annual Mid-America Open (MO) See Grand Prix.
Mar. 27, Jack Smith Memorial 6 Two sections: (Open 4SS, G/60) and (U1200 5SS, G/45), EF: $20 (MCC members $15), Prizes: $200 in prizes guaranteed! 1st $150, top U1600: $50, U1200:Trophies to top 3. Site: Hampton Inn, 962 South Shady Grove Rd., Memphis, TN 38120. Hotel reservations: (901) 762-0056. Registration (3/27) 8-9:30am. Rounds: Open 10-1-3-5, U1200 10 etc. Entries: Memphis Chess Club Inc., PO Box 17864, Memphis, TN 38187-0864. www.memphischess.com,
[email protected].
Apr. 23-25 or 24-25, 9th Southern Class Championships See Grand Prix.
Texas Feb. 12-14, South Houston Open See Grand Prix.
A State Championship Event! Feb. 19-21, 2010 Texas State Scholastic Championships 7SS. Sheraton Dallas North (Formerly Adams Mark), 400 North Olive Street, Dallas,TX 75201. HR: $105-$105-$105-$105, 888-627-8191, MentionTexas Chess Association to get Hotel Chess Rate. One night deposit may be required by Hotel. Four championships in one great location: TX Primary Scholastic Championships; TX Elementary Scholastic Championships; TX Middle School Scholastic Championships; TX High School Scholastic Championships. EF: $39 by 2/11; $69 after 2/11 or on site. February Rating Supplement will be used. Current USCF membership required (may be obtained on site). On Site Registration: Friday, 7-9pm, Saturday, 7-7:45am. Saturday registrants may receive a 1st Rd. 1/2-pt. bye. One 1/2-pt. bye (for any round) allowed if requested by the end of Rd. 2. Sections: K-1 Championship, Primary (K-3) Championship, Primary JV (K-3 w/Ratings Under 700), Elementary (K-5/6) Championship, Elementary JV (K-5/6 Under 800), Elementary Novice (K-5/6 Under 500), Middle School (6-8/9) Championship, MS JV (6-8/9 Under 900), MS Novice (6-8/9 Under 600), High School (9-12) Championship, HS JV (9-12 Under 1000). See Article IX, Section 1E, TCA Bylaws for each section’s eligi-
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.
uschess.org
Enhanced Grand Prix points (see previous page). Ent: Where to mail entries. FIDE: Results submitted to FIDE for possible rating. G/: Game in. For instance, G/75 means each side has 75 minutes for the entire game. GPP: Grand Prix Points available. HR: Hotel rates. For example, 60-65-70-75 means $60 single, $65 twin, $70/3 in room, $75/4 in room. JGP: Junior Grand Prix. Memb. req’d: Membership required; cost follows. Usually refers to state affiliate. Open: A section open to all. Often has very strong players, but some eligible for lower sec-
tions can play for the learning experience. OSA: Other states accepted. Refers to state dues. PPHBF: Professional Players Health and Benefits Fund. Quad: 4-player round robin sections; similar strength players. RBO: Rated Beginner’s Open. Rds: Rounds; scheduled game times follow. For example, 11-5, 9-3 means games begin 11 a.m. & 5 p.m. on the first day, 9 a.m. & 3 p.m. on the second day. Reg: Registration at site. RR: Round robin (preceded by number of rounds). S: Smoking allowed. SASE: For more info, send self-addressed
stamped envelope. SD/: Sudden-death time control (time for rest of game follows). For example, 30/90, SD/1 means each player must make 30 moves in 90 minutes, then complete the rest of the game in an hour. Section: A division of a tournament, usually excluding players above a specified rating. Players in a section face only each other, not those in other sections. SS: Swiss-System pairings (preceded by number of rounds). T/Dx: Time delay, x = number of seconds. Unr: Unrated. USEF: Combined entry fee & USCF dues. W: Site is accessible to wheelchairs. WEB:Tournaments that will use a player’s on-line rating.
Chess Life — February 2010
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SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING FEBRUARY 1-14
Tournament Life bility requirement, www.texaschess.org/2007/03/bylaws.html. Also www.swchess.com also has eligibility rules. Four-year scholarship to The University of Texas at Dallas to winner of High School Championship section. Winner must meet UTD entrance requirement and follow team rules. UTD is sole judge as to who wins the scholarship.Trophies for top 20 individuals and top 15 teams in each section plus participation medals for all, and plus Score Awards for players scoring 4 or more points that do not win an individual trophy. Schedule: Round times vary depending on the Championship;Time control also varies. For round times and time control, see: www.swchess.com. Side Events: Blitz Tourney: K-6 and K-12, Friday 8pm. EF: $15. Trophies to top 15 Individual in each section. Bughouse Tourney: K-6 and K-12, Saturday, 8:35pm. EF: $20 Team (On site registration only). trophies to top 10 teams in each section. All registrations (except Bughouse) available on line: see www.swchess.com and you can download flyers and entry forms. Checks payable to Dallas Chess Club. Mail entries to Dallas Chess Club, c/o Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036. For tournament info, visit our website or contact Barbara Swafford,
[email protected] or 214-6329000. Refunds will be given only up to 2/17 with a $10 surcharge for withdrawing, after 2/17 there will be no refunds. There will be no substitution of team members.There will be a $10 change fee for changes after 2/17.There will be a $5 surcharge per player for phone registrations USCF membership is required. Proof of membership is required or player must join/renew their memberships. No registration/changes/or withdrawals after 2/17/10. After that date you must make changes at site (Sheraton Dallas North). Chess In Education Conference for coaches, teachers and administrators, contact
[email protected] for more info. NS, NC, W.
Feb. 20-21, Texas Southwest Collegiate Championships (Correction, not a GP event as was published in Jan. CL.) 5-SS, G/90 with 30 sec inc. Sheraton Dallas North (Formerly Adams Mark), 400 North Olive Street, Dallas,TX 75201. HR: $105-$105-$105-$105, 888-627-8191, MentionTexas Chess Association to get Hotel Chess Rate. One night hotel deposit may be required. Open to any college student or team. Top 4 count for team score. USCF membership required. EF: $49 by 2/11/10, $69 thereafter. Don’t mail after 2/14, entry may not be received. Online/Credit Card registration link at www.swchess.com. Note that active.com charges a small fee. Reg.: Fri 7-9 pm, Sat 7-7:45am. Saturday registrants may receive a 1st rd. 1/2 pt. bye. One 1/2 pt. bye allowed if requested by end of rd. 2. Rds.: Sat 9-1:30-6, Sun 9-1:45. $$ $500-$250-$125, 1st U2000 $150, 1st U1600 $150, 1st U1200 $150, Unrated eligible for U1200 prize. Plaques to top 10 Individuals, Plaques to top 5Teams. Open Blitz Tourney: Open, Fri 2/19, 8:00 pm, $10, $$ Plaques to Top 5 individual. Ent: Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036. (Make Checks payable to Dallas Chess Club. One check can be sent for multiple players.) Entries must include name, USCF ID or new/pending (include a copy of the receipt), rating, USCF expiration date & school. All incomplete registrations will be charged the late EF, additionally there will be a $5 per player surcharge on registration received without payment, these players could possibly not be paired for round 1 and not be paired until payment is received. Refunds will be given only up to 2/17 with a $10 surcharge for withdrawing, after 2/17 there will be no refunds. There will be no substitution of team members. There will be a $10 change fee for changes after 2/17. There will be a $5 surcharge per player for phone registrations. USCF membership is required. Proof of membership is required or player must join/renew their memberships. No registration/ changes/or withdrawals after 2/17/10. After that date you must make changes at site (Sheraton Dallas North). February Supplement will be used. Chess In Education Conference for coaches, teachers and administrators, contact
[email protected] for more info. Tournament Info: Barbara Swafford, 214.632.9000 please do not call after 2/17,
[email protected]. Website: www.swchess.com. NS. NC. W. FIDE. WCL JGP.
Mar. 6, Steven Grubbs Memorial 5SS, G/30. Student Union Galaxy Rooms at The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, Texas 75080. Three rated sections Opened to all in grades preK - 12th. HS/MS(K-12), Elem (K-6), Primary(K3). One Not Rate section Elem Not Rated (K-6). This section is opened to all players in grades K-6 including rated players. $$Trophies: HS/MS:Top 10 ind., top 3 teams; Elem: Top 10 ind., top 5 teams; Primary: Top 10 ind., top 3 teams; Elem Not Rated: Top 10 Ind, top 5 teams. EF: $16 if postmarked by 2/26; $26 thereafter and on site. Add $5 for phone entries. On site registration may result in 1/2 point first round bye. Reg.: 8:00-8:45am, Rd 1 pairing posted at 9:20am, all others ASAP with 45-minute lunch break. One 1/2 pt. bye if requested before end of Rd 2. Tournament is not elimination, play all 5 rounds. Pre-Registration requires prepayment with complete information. All changes after 3/4/10 to be made on site only. Make Checks payable to: Dallas Chess Club. US Chess Federation Membership is required for all Rated sections. Not Rated sections do not require US Chess Federation membership. Enter: Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 LonghornTrail, Crowley,TX 76036.www.dallaschess.com, www.chess.utdallas.edu. E-mail:
[email protected], 214-632-9000. Note that seating is limited and is on a first come first serve basis. Park on metered parking by Student Union or by UTD bookstore. Or get visitors pass at guard shack on University Drive and park on visitor’s parking. All proceeds from this tournament will go to the Steven M. Grubbs Memorial Scholarship Fund at the University of Texas at Dallas. NS, NC, W.
Mar. 13-14, TexOhma FIDE Open See Grand Prix.
Mar. 27, Spring Slammer Hornbeak Bldg, 2nd floor, 4450 Medical Dr., San Antonio, TX 78229. 5-SS, Rd. 1 G/30, Rds. 2-5 G/60. $$1,000 b/40: $250-150; A, B, U1600 ea. $100-$75. U1400/unr. $75. EF: $30 if rec’d by 3/25, $35 at site. Junior (18/under) or Senior (65+) entry (count 2/3 toward based-on): $20 by 3/25, $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10:30-11:30-2-4:30-7:30. Half-pt. bye any 1 rd., notice before rd. 2. Entries: SACC, POB 501, Helotes, TX 78023. Info: www.sanantonio chess.com, 210-695-2324. NS. NC. W.
May 27-31, 28-31, 29-31 or 30-31, 19th annual Chicago Open (IL) See Grand Prix.
Vermont Mar. 6, Middlebury Open 4SS, G/60. Courtyard Marriott, 309 Court St. (Route 7), Middlebury, VT 05753. EF: $25 in advance or $30 at door; free to residents of NY, NH & MA. $$: 100% of paid EFs. Rds.: 10-12:30-3:30-6. Contact: Parker Montgomery,
[email protected], cell 603-499-2139.
Apr. 30-May 2 or May 1-2, 21st annual Vermont Resort Open See Grand Prix.
June 11-13 or 12-13, 7th annual Vermont Spring Open See Grand Prix.
Virginia Feb. 13-14, Kingstowne Chess Festival See Grand Prix.
Feb. 20, February Freeze K-8 Chess Tournament 4SS, G/30. Montessori School of McLean, 1711 Kirby Road, McLean, VA 22101. Sections: K-8 Rated, K-8 Unrated. EF: $20 online by 2/17; $25 online by noon 2/19; $30 on-site 9:00-9:30. Rds.: 10:00, then ASAP. Prizes: trophies to top individuals & schools. Free game analysis by NM Adam Weissbarth. See www.silverknightschess.com to register.
Feb. 20-21, Hampton Chess & Sports Festival See Grand Prix.
Mar. 5-7, 42nd Annual Virginia Open See Grand Prix.
A State Championship Event! Mar. 12-14, Virginia State Scholastic & College Chess Championships 6SS, Rds. 1-3 G/60; Rds. 4-6 G/90. Virginia Tech University, Squires Student Center, Blacksburg, VA. Organized by VA Chess Federation. Blitz Championships Friday March 12, 6PM. Main Tournament Saturday and Sunday, March 13-14. Players in MainTournament must be K-12 & college players attending school or college in Virginia beginning Jan. 10, or must be Virginia residents. Virginia residency is not required for the Blitz Tournament. Registration, eligibility, tournament details and hotels at www.vachess.org or www.vschess.org. Questions to Mike Hoffpauir,
[email protected], or 757-846-4805. WCL JGP.
Mar. 20, Kingstowne Quad #62/Action-Plus #34 Kingstowne Thompson Center, 6090 Kingstowne Village Pkwy., Alexandria, VA 22315. 2 Events. Quad #62: 3RR, G/100. EF: $10 if received by 3/17, $15 at site. Prizes: Medals to 1st and 2nd in each quad: gold to 1st if 3-0 score, else silver; bronze to 2nd. Rds.: 11-3-7. Action-Plus #34: 5SS, G/45. EF: $15 if received by 3/17, $20 at site. Prizes $$250 b/20: $100-60, U1800-U1400-Unr. each $30. Rds.: 11-1-3-5-7. Both: Reg. 9:30-10:45. Ent (checks payable to): Don W. Millican, P.O. Box 2902, Springfield, VA 22152. e-mail (info only):
[email protected]. W.
June 25-29, 4th annual Philadelphia International (PA) See Grand Prix.
Washington Feb. 27-28, 18th Dave Collyer Memorial See Grand Prix.
West Virginia Feb. 13-14, Kingstowne Chess Festival (VA) See Grand Prix.
Wisconsin Feb. 12-14 or 13-14, 2010 U.S. Amateur Team Championship North See Nationals.
Feb. 27, UW Winter Open See Grand Prix.
Feb. 27-28, Kasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights present Greater Chicago Scholastic Championships! See Illinois.
A Heritage Event! Mar. 27, 29th Annual Waukesha Memorial A Wisconsin Tour Event! 4SS. G/60. Dual rated. Comfort Suites Hotel, Exit 294, I-94 and WI 164, Pewaukee, WI 53072. $$Non-monetary, traveling trophy to First, books for class winners. Open to all. EF: $15 ($12 by 3/26). Reg.: 9:00-9:45, Rds.: 10:00; 1:00; 3:30; 6:00. No state memb. req’d. OSA. Mail entries to Waukesha CC, 1911 Stardust Dr., Waukesha, WI 53186. Phone Info: Jim Nickell (262) 544-6266. Online info:
[email protected].
Apr. 3-4, North Texas FIDE Open
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For Sale * WORLD’S FINEST CHESS SETS * *The House of Staunton, produces unquestionably the finest Staunton Chess sets. *Pay-Pal and all Major Credit Cards accepted. The House of Staunton, Inc.; 1021 Production Court; Suite 100; Madison, AL 35758. *Website: www.houseofstaunton.com; phone: (256) 858-8070; email:
[email protected]. World’s largest collection of scanned chess e-books, magazines, checkmates & tactic puzzles www.tobychess.com Visit www.taoofthechessboard.com Say yes to chess, to life and to joy. Chess Software for Less—www.ShopChessUSA.com Chess Assistant, CT-ART 4.0, Total Chess Training, Rybka Aquarium and more!
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. #. 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. Study chess with Grandmaster Sam Palatnik! A series of lectures will nurture your talent and your rating will soar. Visit: www.chessinn.com; e-mail:
[email protected]; Call: 443-660-8025.
Miscellaneous FREE computer program for Hostage Chess (“fascinating, exciting, extremely entertaining”: Grandmaster Kevin Spraggett. “I believe Hostage the most interesting, exciting variant that can be played with a standard chess set”: Grandmaster Larry Kaufman.) Prisoners can be exchanged, then dropped onto empty squares. Go to www.hostagechess.com for the rules, and to download the program. Try to defeat it, or watch it play against itself.
Wanted CHESS-PLAYER SCHOLARS in top 10% of high school class with USCF > 2000 and SAT > 1400 for possible college scholarships to UMBC. Prof. Alan Sherman, Dept. of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, Univ. of Maryland, Baltimore County, 21250. 410-455-2666,
[email protected]
The TLA pages
Mar. 27, Rated Beginners Open (RBO) 4SS, G/60. Dual rated. Comfort Suites Hotel, Exit 294, I-94 and HWY 164, Pewaukee, WI 53072. Open to players rated under 1200 or unrated. Prizes: Trophy to first, book prizes for class winners. EF: $15 ($12 by 3/26). Reg.: 9:00-9:45, Rds.: 10:00; 1:00; 3:30; 6:00. Mail entries to: Waukesha CC, 1911 Stardust Dr., Waukesha, WI 53186. Phone Info: Jim Nickell (262) 544-6266. Online info:
[email protected].
“Information for Organizers, TDs, and Affiliates” and “Information for Players”
For details on
can now be found online
2010 U.S. AMATEUR TEAM EVENTS
at
Mar. 27, Victoria Open Victoria College, 2200 E. Red River, Victoria, TX. 4SS, G/60. EF: $10 if rec’d by 3/20, $15 at site, Masters free ($10 from prize). 65% prize fund. Reg.: 8-8:45a. Rds.: 9am, others ASAP w/ 1hr between Rd2/3. Entries: Lisa DeVries, 217 Nantucket Ave., B103, Victoria, TX 77904. Info: 361-237-4177. LS, NC, W.
Classifieds
East, North, South, West See Nationals Section!
main.uschess.org/go/tlainfo
See Grand Prix.
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Chess Life — February 2010
uschess.org
Solutions
Chess to Enjoy (page 14) Problem I.
Fairhurst-Kashdan, Folkestone 1933 1. ... Rh2+! 2. Ke1+ Kb7 (threatening 3. ... Rb1 mate) 3. Qxh2 Rb1+ 4. Kf2 Rb2+ 5. Kg3 Rxh2 followed by ... Ne7, ... a5-a4-a3-a2-a1=Q. Problem II.
Bogolyubov-Kashdan, Stockholm 1930 1. ... Qf3+! 2. Kxg5 Be7+ and mates or 2. Kh4 Qf5, threatening 3. ... Nf3 mate ( 3. g4 Bf2+ or 3. Qg4 Nf3+ 4. Kh3 Ng1+ 5. Kh4 Be7+). Problem III.
Kashdan-Tenner, New York 1934 1. Qxd7! Qxd7 2. Rb8+ Kf7 3. Ne5+ and 4. Nxd7. Problem IV.
Poulsen-Kashdan, Stockholm 1937 1. ... Rd2+ 2. Kh1 Nxf3! (not 2. ... Qh3 3. Qf8+ Kh7 4. Qe7+) and now 3. Rxe6 Rxh2 mate or 3. Qf8+ Kh7 4. Qxf3 Qxe1+ or 3. Qa8+ Kg7 4. Qa7+ Qf7 and mates. Problem V.
Kashdan-Seidman, U.S. Championship 1940 1. Rc1 Qd7 2. Bxe6+! Qxe6 3. Qxe6+ and 4. Rxc8. Problem VI.
Kashdan-Santasiere, New York 1929 1. Ne7+! Bxe7 2. Qxf7+ Kh8 3. Qxe7 threatens 4. Rf8+ Nxf8 5. Qxf8 mate.
What’s The Best Move? (page 46) 1. C. Stephan Berndt (2440)-Daniel Fridman (2630)
Germany, 2008. A. White lost the Exchange and the game after the “natural” 1. Rad1? Bg4! 2. Rxd8 Rfxd8 3. Qe3 (also futile is 3. Bc7 Bxf3 4. Bxb6 Bxg2 5. Bxd8 Bxf1) 3. ... Bxe3.
B. Tame but playable is 1. Rfd1 Bg4 2. Rxd8 Raxd8 3. Bc7! Bxf3 4. Bxd8 Rxd8 5. Bxf3 with an equal opposite bishop ending. C. The best try for an edge is 1. Be5. 2. B. Jacob Aagaard (2420)-Robert Kempinski (2545) Groningen, 1998. A. White settled for a draw by perpetual: 1. Kf5+ Kxh6 2. Qg5+ Kh7 3. Qh4+ Kg7. B. The king can be an attacking piece—use it! 1. Rh8!! Kxh8 (if 1. ... Rc2!? 2. Qh1! Qxd5+ 3. Qxd5 Rc5 4. Qxc5 bxc5 5. Rxe8; or 1. ... Bg6 2. Rg8+! Kxg8 3. Kh6) 2. Kh6 Qxd5 3. Qg7 mate. C. Tempting but fatal is 1. Qe4? Qxd5+! 2. Qxd5 Rc5. 3. A. Hussein Asabri (2191)-Daniel Gemy (2200) Dresden Olympiad, 2008. A. Decisive is 1. Rxe8+ Qxe8 2. Qxb6 exf2 3. Kf1! threatening Rd8. B. White played 1. a4? and won but Black missed a draw by 1. ... Rxf2+ 2. Kg1 Rg2+! 3. Kxg2 Qxe2+ with perpetual check. C. Also 1. Qxb6? Rxf2+ 2. Kh1 Rxh2+! leads to a draw. 4. C. Hikaru Nakamura (2710)-Lubomir Ljubojevic (2553) Amsterdam, 2009. A. The current USA champion fell for an opening trap by dropping a pawn, and later the game: 1. Nb3? Qb4! 2. Bd3 (if 2. Nd2 Qxb2 3. Nb5 Qe5 4. f4 Qb8) 2. ... Nxe4! 3. Bxe4 Bxc3+ 4. bxc3 Qxe4. B. Even worse is 1. Qd2? Nxe4 2. Nxe4 Qxd2+ 3. Kxd2 Nxd4. C. The simplest solution is 1. 0-0 0-0 2. Bb3 (or Bd5).
Endgame Lab – Benko’s Bafflers (page 42) Problem I. 1. e7 Rd8!? 2. exd8=N! Bxa7 4. c7 Bb8 5. c8=B! wins. Problem II. 1. Bf1! Kb7+ 2. Kf3 Bd4 3. Nb3 Bxe5 4. Na5+ Ka8 4. ... Kc8 5. Bh3+. 5. Nc6 Bd6 6. Ba6 f5 7. Ke3 Bg3 7. ... Bf4+ 8. Kd4; 7. ... Bh2 8. Kd4 f4 9. Ke4 Bg3 10. Kf5 f3 11. Kg4. 8. Kd4 f4 9. Kd5 f3 10. Ke4 f2 11. Kf3 f1=Q+ 12. Bxf1 Kb7 13. Na5+ Kb6 14. Nc4+ wins.
Solitaire Chess – ABCs of Chess (page 16) Trapping: The queen is lost to 1. ... Bg4. Problem I.
Trapping: Black traps the queen with 1. ... Rh7. Problem II.
Discovery: White loses material after 1. ... Ng3. Problem III.
Fork: The simple 1. ... Nc5 wins the d3-bishop. Problem IV.
Trapping: Black traps the queen with 1. ... Re4, since 2. Nxe4 allows 2. ... Qe2 mate. Problem V.
Skewer: White gets skewered by 1. ... Rh6. Problem VI.
CHESS LIFE USPS# 102-840 (ISSN 0197-260X). Volume 65 No. 2. PRINTED IN THE USA. Chess Life, formerly Chess Life & Review, is published monthly by the United States Chess Federation, 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557--3967. Chess Life & Review and Chess Life remain the property of USCF. Annual subscription (without membership): $50. Periodical postage paid at Crossville, TN 38557--3967 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chess Life (USCF), PO Box 3967, Crossville, Tennessee 38557--3967. Entire contents ©2010 by the United States Chess Federation. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise without the prior written permission of USCF. Note: Unsolicited materials are submitted at the sender's risk and Chess Life accepts no responsibility for them. Materials will not be returned unless accompanied by appropriate postage and packaging. Address all submissions to Chess Life, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557--3967. The opinions expressed are strictly those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Chess Federation. Send all address changes to: U.S. Chess, Membership Services, PO Box 3967, Crossville, Tennessee 38557--3967. Include your USCF I.D. number and a recent mailing label if possible. This information may be e-mailed to addresschange@ uschess.org. Please give us eight weeks advance notice. PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 41473530 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO EXPRESS MESSENGER INTERNATIONAL P.O. BOX 25058 LONDON BRC, ONTARIO, CANADA N6C 6A8
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