THE INAUGURAL HAWAII CHESS FESTIVAL | WEBSTER WINS ANOTHER PRESIDENT’S CUP
JUNE 2015
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DATE
TIME
JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP
July 6
6:00 PM
Opening Ceremony
July 7
1:00 PM
Round 1
July 8
1:00 PM
Round 2
July 9
1:00 PM
Round 3
July 10
1:00 PM
Round 4
July 11
1:00 PM
Round 5
July 12
1:00 PM
Round 6
July 13
1:00 PM
Round 7
July 14
1:00 PM
Round 8
July 15
1:00 PM
Round 9
5:00 PM
Playoff
7:00 PM
Closing Ceremony
10-Player Round Robin
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Though often used as a metaphor for battle, during times of conflict chess is often a source of relaxation, a means of passing long hours, and an aid in recuperation. Battle on the Board: Chess during World War II will present artifacts, stories, and imagery related to how chess aided service members as well as the war’s effect on the world of competitive chess. On View: June 25, 2015 - January 17, 2016
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June 2015 | Chess Life
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JUNE
COLUMNS
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LOOKS AT BOOKS / THE SOVIET CHESS PRIMER The Soviet Chess Primer By John Hartmann
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CHESS TO ENJOY / ENTERTAINMENT A Queen, A Queen! My Kingdom for a Queen! By GM Andy Soltis
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BACK TO BASICS / READER ANNOTATIONS The Phantom Knight By GM Lev Alburt
46
SOLITAIRE CHESS / INSTRUCTION
PHOTOS: LENNART OOTES, CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER OF SAINT LOUIS
Chess Life
The always-vibrant GM Timur Gareev had a less-than-colorful result at the U.S. Championship.
Perfection By Bruce Pandolfini
48
THE PRACTICAL ENDGAME / INSTRUCTION Ego Trip By GM Daniel Naroditskyi
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11 ROUNDS, 11 TITLES BY FM MIKE KLEIN The 2015 Championships included adventurous openings as Black, one-move blunders, a six-move forfeit, and family turmoil for one super-GM.
DEPARTMENTS
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JUNE PREVIEW / THIS MONTH IN CHESS LIFE AND CLO
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COUNTERPLAY / READERS RESPOND
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FIRST MOVES / CHESS NEWS FROM AROUND THE U.S.
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FACES ACROSS THE BOARD / BY AL LAWRENCE
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USCF AFFAIRS / NEWS FOR OUR MEMBERS
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TOURNAMENT LIFE / JUNE
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CLASSIFIEDS / JULY
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Cover Story / 2015 U.S. Championship
32
Here and There / Hawaii Chess Festival SHAKA AND SCHACH BY GM ALEJANDRO RAMIREZ The inaugural Hawaii Chess Festival, held at idyllic Waikiki Beach and won by Armenian GM Hovhannes Gabuzyan, gave participants a taste of chess-playing paradise.
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College Chess / President’s Cup MARCH MATENESS! BY DYLAN MAC CLAIN At the President’s Cup, also known as the Final Four of College Chess, Webster University continues to dominate.
MY BEST MOVE / PERSONALITIES This Month: IM Jay Bonin
ON THE COVER This is getting to be a regular cover appearance for these two! GM Hikaru Nakamura now has four U.S. Championship titles and GM Irina Krush has seven U.S. Women’s Championship titles. COVER PHOTO BY AUSTIN FULLER, CHESS CLUB
AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER OF SAINT LOUIS
The dance floor at the closing ceremony of the U.S. Championships.
4 June 2015 | Chess Life
June Preview / This month in Chess Life and CLO
June
CHESS LIFE ONLINE PREVIEW: OSLO TO ST. LOUIS
The first event of the new Grand Chess Tour is Norway Chess (June 15-26) and will feature our new U.S. champion, World #3 Hikaru Nakamura, as well as World Champ Magnus Carlsen and eight other elite players. Coverage will include in-studio commentary by GMs Yasser Seirawan, Maurice Ashley and CLO Editor Jen Shahade. Check CLO for details and updates.
USCF MISSION “Empowering people through chess one move at a time.” JUNIOR BATTLES
LAS VEGAS MOVES
This year’s National Open and Las Vegas Chess Festival has moved to the Westgate Resort & Casino, and takes place from June 18-21. Look for CLO coverage on this chess festival, which also includes the Game/10 Championship and lectures and simuls by grandmasters, including Gata Kamsky and Ben Finegold.
Follow our most talented players as they battle in the prestigious U.S. Junior Championship (Closed), in which a spot at the following year’s U.S. Championship is up for grabs. This year’s event will be held again at the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis.
USCF VISION “Our vision is to enrich the lives of all persons and communities through increasing the play, study, and appreciation of the game of chess.”
SUMMER IMPROVEMENT
CONTRIBUTORS
Find future and recent articles on how to improve at various ages, including a piece by FM Eric Rosen on earning his third IM norm, Greg Shahade’s always opinionated work, and GM Ioan-Cristian Chirila on fitness and chess.
FM MIKE KLEIN (U.S. Championship) is the director of content for Chess.com. He also teaches, freelances, bikes and snowboards, though never more than any two at the same time. He is also a former chess journalist of the year. GM ALEJANDRO RAMIREZ (Hawaii) is an editor for www.chessbase.com. He is a threetime Olympic player and has qualified for one world championship and one world cup. He enjoys StarCraft, anime, Hearthstone and most things that fall under the “nerdy” category. DYLAN MC CLAIN (Final Four) is a long-time business journalist who worked for The New York Times for 18 years, and helped The Times win two Pulitzer Prizes, before moving to Paris, where he now works for Les Echos, the daily French business newspaper.
6 June 2015 | Chess Life
, PAUL MORPHY s
chess festival π_∏ OctOBER 23-24, 2015 7ZR'D\VRI&+(66FUNZLWK GM Simon WILLIAMS • IM Andrew MARTIN FM Macon SHIBUT • MCM Bob LONG For MORE details on this great event for 2015 see the CLASSIFIEDS ³RU³
&$//72'$<
CHECK OUT USCF’S CORRESPONDENCE CHESS RATED EVENTS! 2015 Open Correspondence Chess Golden Knights Championship USCF ’s 68th ANNUAL
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(PLUS TITLE OF USCF’S GOLDEN KNIGHTS CHAMPION AND PLAQUE)
2ND PLACE $500 • 3RD $300 • 4TH 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: 16001799 (strong); Class C: 1400-1599 (intermediate); Class D: 1399 and below (beginner level). Note: Prize fund based on 200 entries and may be decreased proportionately per number of entries assigned.
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Counterplay / Readers Respond
Underpromotion UNDERPROMOTION CONTEST In the March 2015 “Counterplay,” we announced: Chess Life will award a free copy of Modern Chess Openings, 15th Edition by Nick de Firmian, to the first reader that submits a game from a USCF-rated event showing an underpromotion to any piece and includes a valid explanation for eschewing the queen. We received a number of interesting responses, but our first responder meeting the requirements was Seth Borgo of Washington state, who sent this last-round game he came across from the 1997 Eastern Open that decided the section’s champion:
King's Gambit Accepted (C35)
William Strum (1618) John McManus, Jr. (1406) 24th Eastern Open, Under 1600 (8), Washington, D.C., 12.29.1997
1. e4 e5 2. f4 exf4 3. Nf3 Be7 4. Bc4 Bh4+ 5. Kf1 Nh6 6. Nc3 O-O 7. d4 Ng4 8. Nxh4 Qxh4 9. Qe2 Nc6 10. Bxf4 Nxd4 11. Qd2 Qf6 12. Nd5 Qd8 13. Qxd4 d6 14. h3 c6 15. hxg4 cxd5 16. Qxd5 Be6 17. Qh5 Bxc4+ 18. Kf2 h6 19. g5 Qb6+ 20. Be3 Qxb2 21. Rac1 Kh7 22. gxh6 g6 23. Qd1 Qf6+ 24. Qf3 Qxf3+ 25. gxf3 Rfe8 26. a3 d5 27. exd5 Bxd5 28. Rcd1 Be6 29. c3 b6 30. Rh4 Rac8 31. Rf1 f6 32. f4 Rf8 33. Kg3 Rc4 34. Bd4 g5 35. fxg5 fxg5 36. Re1 Bg4 37. Re7+ Kg6 38. h7 Rf3+ 39. Kxg4 Rfxc3
Rxe5 56. Rg6 Re2+ 57. Kd3 Rh2 58. Ra6 Rxh4 59. Ke2 Rh2+ 60. Kf1 Rb2 61. Ra3 Kg4 62. Kg1 f4 63. Ra8 h4 64. Rg8+ Kf3 65. Kh1 h3 66. Rh8 Kf2 67. Rxh3 Rb1+ 68. Kh2 f3 69. Rh7 Rb4 70. Rh6 Rg4 71. Kh1 Kf1 72. Kh2 f2 73. Re6 Rg8 74. Rh6 Rg2+ 75. Kh1 Rg1+ 76. Kh2 Ke2 77. Re6+ Kd3 78. Rd6+ Ke4 79. Re6+ Kd5 80. Rf6 40. h8=N mate. A close second was this game from life member Robert Keating from the 2007 National Open, Under-2200 section:
Reti Opening (A06)
Gerard Grotenhuis (Unrated) Robert F. Keating (2010) 2007 National Open, Under 2200 (5), Las Vegas, Nevada, 06.10.2007
1. b3 d5 2. Bb2 Nf6 3. e3 c5 4. Nf3 Nc6 5. Bb5 Bd7 6. a4 e6 7. Bxc6 Bxc6 8. Ne5 Rc8 9. d3 Be7 10. Nd2 0-0 11. Qe2 Qa5 12. 0-0 Rfd8 13. f4 Be8 14. g4 Nd7 15. g5 f6 16. Nxd7 Bxd7 17. gxf6 Bxf6 18. Bxf6 gxf6 19. Kf2 Kh8 20. Rg1 Rg8 21. Nf3 Rcf8 22. Qd2 Qxd2+ 23. Nxd2 Rg6 24. Rg3 Kg7 25. Rag1 Kf7 26. Nf3 Rfg8 27. e4 d4 28. c3 dxc3 29. Rc1 Rc8 30. Rxc3 Ke7 31. e5 f5 32. Rh3 h6 33. d4 cxd4 34. Rxc8 Bxc8 35. Nxd4 Bd7 36. Ke3 Kd8 37. Kd3 Kc7 38. a5 b6 39. b4 Bc6 40. axb6+ Kxb6 41. Nxc6 Kxc6 42. Kc3 Kd5 43. Rd3+ Ke4 44. Rd4+ Ke3 45. b5 Rg2 46. Ra4 Rg7 47. Rc4 Rb7 48. Rb4 Rb6 49. Kb3 a5 50. bxa6 e.p. Rxa6 51. Rc4 Rb6+ 52. Kc2 h5 53. h4 Rb5 54. Rc6 Kxf4 55. Rxe6
Send your letters to letters@uschess.org or post on the Chess Life Facebook group or the uschess.org Issues Forum. Letters are subject to editing for style, length, and content. Join us on the Chess Life Facebook group for #FischerFriday!
8 June 2015 | Chess Life
essentially insulting my playing ability and expecting that I will stalemate him.”) Ronald Gravatt, who has been a USCF life member since 1967, wrote: “For years I coached a high school chess team. During one practice session, a position arose in which my player reached immediately for a queen, having advanced the pawn to the eighth rank. But as I looked at the position, I realized that with the movement of said pawn just one file to the right, the underpromotion to a bishop would make for an interesting win.
80. ... f1=R, White resigned. Keating writes: “On the final move of the game, I chose to underpromote to a rook in order to avoid stalemating the white king and allowing a perpetual pursuit by his rook. I did not have time to calculate the way to get out of the perpetual pursuit, and the ending with two rooks versus one rook is one that I felt confident I could blitz out to win without running out of time.” (Note: Fritz gives a queen promotion a mate-in-16 evaluation; the rook is a mate-in-26. ~ed.) We received a number of other interesting entries (including one that seemed to validate the joke we recounted, “the only reason to underpromote to a bishop is to humiliate your opponent.” The reader sent us a game in which he had three light-square bishops, writing, “For anyone who thinks that I was a poor sport by doing that to the kid I was playing, I always punish nonresigners in similar fashion because by not resigning ... he’s
WHITE TO MOVE:
(In the “real” position, the pawn at d7 was on c7, and on that square, there is no justification for the underpromotion.)
1. Kg5 Kg7 2. d8=B! If promoted to queen or rook, then the position is stalemated and now, if the king chooses f8, the rook pawn promotes to a queen and mates! On the other hand, if the king retreats to h8, then 3. Bf6 mates! Without the promotion to a bishop, the mate takes more moves!” Thank you to all who took the time to write, and Mr. Borgo, your copy of Modern Chess Openings is on the way to you.
First Moves / Chess news from around the U.S.
GM WESLEY SO The following game was played in the 2014 ACP Golden Classic, where I won clear first and was able to cross the 2750 mark.
Problem-like position GM Wesley So (FIDE 2744, PHI) GM Daniele Vocaturo (FIDE 2584, ITA) ITT ACP Golden Classic, Bergamo, Italy, 07.14.2014
BLACK TO PLAY
This position could be a good problem for solving—Black to play and find the best move.
PHOTO: LENNART OOTES, CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER OF SAINT LOUIS
31. ... Nxg3
A
fter teaming up last year to bring Levon Aronian to southern California, Metropolitan Chess and American Chess Academy (ACA) have joined forces once again to secure another superstar for this year’s summer camp: Wesley So. With an extraordinary 2014 that included winning major tournaments such as the Capablanca Memorial, ACP Golden Classic, and 1st Millionaire Chess Open, Wesley became one of the world’s fastest-rising players, leaping closer and closer to the haloed 2800 mark. In 2014 Wesley also made two significant changes in his life—he switched (his FIDE affiliation) to the U.S. Chess Federation and left Webster University in order to focus on professional chess full-time. Wesley’s success continued into 2015, as he tied for second in the Tata Steel super-tournament and reached a peak rating of FIDE 2788. With Wesley’s arrival as one of the top U.S. players, we couldn’t think of a better time to invite him to teach at our annual summer chess camp, and he quickly accepted. The camp is set to take place July 22-26 at the Hilton Glendale in Glendale, California. Joining Wesley will be a series of top scholastic coaches, including GM Melik Khachiyan, GM Dejan Bojkov, IM Armen Ambartsoumian (founder of ACA and a U.S. World Youth coach), IM Andranik Matikozyan (ACA and U.S. World Youth), WGM Tatev Abrahamyan (ACA), FM Aviv Friedman (U.S. World Youth), and Jay Stallings (founder of California Youth Chess League). We conducted a brief interview with Wesley regarding his development as a chess player, which can be found in the March archives of Chess Life Online. As a ‘preview’ of the camp, we asked a few of our coaches to send in a lesson on something they found instructive. Here Wesley annotates one of his most interesting wins from 2014, GM Bojkov looks into the rare endgame of three minor pieces versus a rook, and FM Friedman shows a classic example of the IQP (isolated queen pawn) in action.
The day after the game my opponent told me about the fantastic idea 31. ... Ngf4! 32. gxf4 Ng3! which gives Black at least equal chances! Neither of us saw this method of sacrificing two knights during the game, and the variations are extremely hard to calculate. The great tactician Emil Sutovsky joined us during the analysis session, and even he admits that White’s position would be practically impossible to defend! Of course I objected and tried to defend my side but it’s definitely easier to play Black here. Take a look at some lines below, they are very fun to analyze: 33. Bd3 (The try 33. Kxg3? loses immediately after 33. ... exf4+ 34. Kg2 Bxb2 35. Nxb2 h5 36. Nbd3 Ra2 37. Rd1 Qg7 Black’s queen is too powerful and White cannot defend against the kingside pawn storm. Also possible is 33. f5 Nxe2 34. Rc7 Rc8 35. Rxc8+ Bxc8 36. Qa3 and White is safe for the time being, but Black’s knight is very active.) 33. ... Qh5+! 34. Kg2 exf4.
35. Qc2 g4 36. fxg4 f3+ 37. Kxg3 (The variation 37. Kg1 Bxg4 38. Ne3 Bh3 39. Qc6 Rf8 40. Qxd6 www.uschess.org
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First Moves / Chess news from around the U.S. Be5 looks very scary for White.) 37. ... Be5+ 38. Bf4 Bxf4+ 39. Kxf4 Rf8+ 40. Kg3 Qe5+ 41. Kh3 Qh5+ with a perpetual!
endgame that took place during the Tbilisi FIDE Grand Prix tournament:
32. Kxg3 Nf4 33. Nc3 Rf8 34. Be3 g4?
Three minors versus a rook
I was surprised to see this move, it just loses by force. White must be better, but the realization of the advantage wouldn’t have been easy. After 34. ... h5 35. Rg1 Bh6 36. Qd2 Kh8 37. Bxf4 exf4+ 38. Kg2 g4 39. Bxb5 Bc8 40. Ne2 Rg8 41. Kf1 when White is winning but still has work to do.
GM Maxime Vachier-Lagrave (FIDE 2775, FRA) GM Evgeny Tomashevsky (FIDE 2716, RUS) FIDE Grand Prix Series (3rd Stage), Tbilisi, Georgia, 02.23.2015
I like this move, the rook comes to defend and the black king might also become vulnerable along the g-file.
BLACK TO PLAY
White has a rook and four pawns versus three minor pieces. How can we assess the situation? Well, obviously the pawns can become dangerous in an endgame if there is time to advance them (or if one or more of them is already far up the board). If not, they will be targets. The three minor pieces can easily unite their efforts and any pawn will quickly be lost as the rook cannot defend on its own. The general rule is that the smaller parts should be better than the major piece as long as they are united. This is the case here, the pieces are clearly better.
29. ... Ne5 30. Qc3 Bf6 31. Qg3 h5 32. h3 Or 32. f4? h4 33. Qe3 Nd3 with the threat ... Bd4.)
32. ... h4 33. Qe3 Be6 White is completely winning.
37. ... Nd3 38. Qe2 Nxf2 39. Bxd7 Qxd7 The move 39. ... Qg6+ is safely answered with 40. Bg4.
40. Bxf2 Rf6 41. Be3 Qf7 42. Kh2 Kf8 43. Rg2, Black resigned.
Black has coordinated his forces and starts attacking White’s pawns.
34. b4 Qd3 True to his style, Evgeny removes the queens from the board as well as removing the possibility of a perpetual.
35. Kh2 Be7 36. f4 Qxe3 37. Rxe3 Nc4 38. Re2
GM DEJAN BOJKOV Three minor pieces versus a rook is a rare endgame, but a recent game by GM Evgeny Tomashevsky against GM Maxime Vachier-Lagrave placed it into the spotlight. It should be noted in advance that there is a huge difference between the remaining minor pieces. If we have a pair of bishops alive, then it should be a win for the stronger side. If there is a pair of knights remaining then it should be a draw, as proven by GM Garry Kasparov against GM Anatoly Karpov in their famous game from Tilburg, 1991. Now let’s take a look at the recent
10 June 2015 | Chess Life
39. g3 Passive defense would not help, after 39. Rf2 Nd2 40. e5 Kg6 Black will bring the king to f5, the bishop to e3 and chop the pawns off.
39. ... Nd2 40. gxh4
40. ... Bc4 41. Rg2+ Kh6 42. Kg3
36. ... hxg4
37. Bxg4
One down, four to go.
White has taken all of Black’s pawns, but Black is still left with enough pieces to win the game. Naturally White would prefer to keep his pawns together, but after 40. g4 Bd6 41. e5 Bb4 42. f5 Bc4 43. Rf2 Bd5 Black can suddenly start creating mating threats with his pieces.
35. fxg4 h5 36. Rg1!
The continuation 36. ... Qf6 37. Qd2 Kh7 38. Rh1 Bh6 39. Bxb5 Bxg4 40. Nxg4 hxg4 41. Be2 Nxe2+ 42. Qxe2 Qf3+ 43. Qxf3 Rxf3+ 44. Kxg4 Rxe3 45. Nb5 Rxe4+ 46. Kf5 Rxb4 47. Nxd6 liquidates to a winning ending. I had a vision of transposing to a good ending like this sometime during the game.
38. ... Bxb4
The king leaves the danger zone. No better is 42. e5? Nf1+ 43. Kg1 Bc5+ 44. Kh1 Bd5.
42. ... Bf1 43. Rh2 Bd3 44. Kg4 Nxe4 Two down, three to go.
45. Kf5 Bd6 46. Rg2 Kh5 47. Rg8 Ng5+ 48. Kf6 Nh7+ 49. Kg7 Bxf4 Three down, two to go!
50. Ra8 Of course 50. Rh8 Be5+ loses on the spot.
50. ... Be5+ 51. Kf7 Kxh4 That’s four.
52. Ra4+ Kh5 53. h4 Bb2 54. Rf4 Bc3 55. Ke6 Be1 56. Rf3 Bg6 57. Rf1 Bb4 The immediate 57. ... Bxh4 was already good enough.
58. Rf4 Nf8+ 59. Kd5 Be7 60. Rf1 Bc2 61. Rg1 Bb3+ 62. Ke4 Ng6 63. Kf5 Bd8 64. Ke4 Be6 65. Rd1 Be7 66. Ra1 Bc8 67. Ra5+ Kxh4 Five! Tomashevsky has wiped all the pawns off and is left with a theoretically won position.
68. Ra1 Kg5 69. Rg1+ Bg4 70. Rg2 Bc5 71. Rg3 Nf4 72. Ke5 Bf2 73. Ra3 Bh3 74. Ra5 Bg2 The bishops cut White’s king along the diagonals and the knight assists them to push the king towards the back rank.
75. Ra3 Ne2 76. Ra5 Bg3+ 77. Ke6+ Kg6 78. Ra6 Nd4+ 79. Ke7+ Kg7 80. Ra1 Bh3 81. Rh1 In case of 81. Rg1 Nf5+ 82. Ke6 Ne3+ 83. Ke7 Ng2 84. Rh1 Nf4 85. Rg1 Ng6+ White’s king is forced back to the eighth rank anyways.
At a glance it seems as White should be OK, but the reality is that he is about to lose all his pawns one by one ...
81. ... Bg4 82. Rg1 Ne2 83. Rf1 Bf4 84. Rd1 Nc3 85. Rd3 Ne4 86. Kd8 Nc5 87. Rd5 Ne4 88. Rd3 Ng5 89. Ke7 Nf7 90. Rd4 Bg5+ 91. Ke8 Ne5, White resigned. (see diagram top of next page)
First Moves / Chess news from around the U.S. Picturesque domination. The threat of ... Bh5 mate can only be stopped at the expense of the rook. White resigned, and Tomashevsky ended up with one of his best performances, winning clear first place.
15. Bg5 Rxc3 The only move! 16. Qxc3 where White is up material and is much better) 15. Bg5!.
FACES
AT THE U.S. CHAMPIONSHIP!
ACROSS THE BOARD
By AL LAWRENCE
SCOTT ANDERSON BRENTWOOD, MISSOURI
FM AVIV FRIEDMAN I’d like to show an example of treating a position with an isolated center pawn or “isolani”. In a nutshell, the player with the isolani accepts a static weakness with hopes that the added open files and diagonals will allow for dynamic piece play. The defender should try to block the isolani from advancing, attack it directly, and trade minor pieces (the firepower of the opponent) to accentuate the weakness.
Isolated center pawn GM Vasily Smyslov (FIDE 2620) GM Anatoly Karpov (FIDE 2540) 1971 USSR Championship
And the variations are really fun to go over: 15. ... g6 (No better is 15. ... Ne4 16. Nxe4 dxe4 17. Qxe4 g6 18. Qh4! f6 [18. ... Bxg5 19. Nxg5 h5 20. Bxg6! fxg6 21. Qc4+ Kh8 22. Nf7+ Rxf7 23. Qxf7 White is crushing!] 19. Bh6 Re8 20. Qc4+ Kh8 21. Rad1 Qc7 22. Qe6! when Black is paralyzed and White is completely winning.) 16. Rxe7! Qxe7 17. Nxd5 Nxd5 18. Bxe7 Ncxe7 and White is happy once again.
14. ... g6 The d4-d5 shot is gone, but the rest of the game is still worthy, as it shows how dangerous White’s piece play can be.
15. Rad1 Nd5 16. Bh6 Re8 17. Ba4 a6?! Better was 17. ... Nxc3 18. bxc3 Bxa3 19. c4 where White has some initiative for the pawn, but Black is doing fine.
18. Nxd5 Qxd5 The passive 18. ... exd5 was already necessary.
19. Qe3! Prophylactically defending the bishop on h6.
19. ... Bf6 In case of 19. ... Qh5 20. d5! Bc5 (Too many pieces hang after 20. ... exd5 21. Qxb6) 21. Qf4 exd5 22. Rxe8+ Rxe8 23. g4 Qh3 24. Ng5 and White wins.
20. Bb3 Qh5 21. d5! Nd8 22. d6?! WHITE TO PLAY
13. Qd3 A typical isolani position that can arise from several different openings. Here after 13. ... g6 14. Bh6 Re8 15. Rad1 White’s activity slightly outweighs the weakness of his center pawn. Instead the then-future world champion played the somewhat naive ...
13. ... Rc8? 14. Bg5 Smyslov, another world champion (1957-1958) missed a chance for a big advantage: 14. d5! exd5?! (The lesser evil, although still not great is 14. ... Na5
Even stronger would have been 22. Bg5! Bxg5 23. Nxg5 where Black’s position immediately collapses.
22. ... Rc5 23. d7 Re7 24. Qf4 Bg7? 24. ... Bxf3! 25. Qxf6 Qxh6 26. Qxe7 Qg5 would at least keep the fight going.
25. Qb8 Qxh6 26. Qxd8+ Bf8 27. Re3 The engines like 27. Rxe6! but the text is more than enough.
27. ... Bc6 28. Qxf8+ Qxf8 29. d8=Q, Black resigned. For more information about the 2015 Metropolitan and ACA Summer Chess Camp, please visit www.metrochessla.com/camp2015.
King of the Kuiper Belt When he was a kid, Scott was packing up his greatgreat uncle’s bookshelf and came across E.S. Lowe’s Chess in 30 Minutes. Soon his sister Lauren was “telling me I’d been staring at it for far more than 30 minutes.” Years later he joined the Mehlville High School chess team and quickly became its best player. “But it was like Pluto’s being king of the Kuiper Belt—not the greatest achievement.” In college he became president of the Mizzou-Columbia chess club. Since 2010, he’s been a member of the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis, where he’s a big fan of the Wednesday Knights Tournaments. “You turn in your score sheet and one of the resident GMs, say Yasser Seirawan, sends you annotations by e-mail,” Scott said. “How cool is that?” Scott realizes he’s lucky to live in Chess Town, USA. “There’s been a remarkable change in chess in St. Louis. Rex Sinquefield was the reason. It’s amazing what one man and his hard working staff have done.”
KEITH HAYWARD CORINTH, TEXAS Standing in history Keith and wife Carolyn drove to St. Louis. “It’s 11 hours with a stop at the St. James Winery,” Keith said. It was their second visit to the Championships. “I love it—that’s why I’m back!” he said. Hayward, a chess master who’s run a local club for 20 years, first read about the event in Chess Life. “In any round, I’m interested in all 12 games, but I am a Nakamura fan.” Spectators can sit inside the elegant club’s first floor to watch the popular Fox Internet broadcast or enjoy live grandmaster commentary next-door with free food and drinks. But Keith’s preference is to go upstairs and watch the games live—to stand in the real moment of history. The couple also likes going to the Missouri Botanical Garden in nearby Forest Park, and since Carolyn is a landscape architect, they go home with a car full of plants. “This year it was African violets.”
Write to faces@uschess.org. www.uschess.org
11
USCF Affairs / Candidate Statements
USCF Executive Board Candidate Statements and USCF News 2015 SCHOLAR-CHESSPLAYER AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED
KCF AND THE FUTURE OF CHESS EDUCATION
The U.S. Chess Trust is a proud sponsor of this program and would like to congratulate the winners for their outstanding achievement. The winners were announced at the high school nationals by U.S. Chess Trust Trustee and FIDE VP, Beatriz Marinello. This year, 38 eligible candidates applied for the award. This year’s Scholar-Chessplayer awardees are from Florida, California, Colorado and Texas. There is one high school senior and four juniors in the group. This was an extremely strong field of candidates as the top 15 players all had straight As in school, had unbelievably high SAT or ACT scores, and were active in their communities.
• Jackson Chen (CO) • Rachel Gologorsky (FL) • Simone Liao (CA) • Akshay Malhotra (TX) • Darwin Yang (TX) Jackson Chen is a junior from Broomfield, Colorado, where he attends Fairview High School. He is a USCF national master and also an accomplished math ematician and computer programmer. In addition Jackson is the junior representative to the Colorado Chess Association. Rachel Gologorsky is a junior from Miami, Florida. She is a woman FIDE master and has represented the USA in numerous international tournaments. She also scored a perfect 2400 on her SAT. Rachel is a black belt in the Shori and Goju styles of combat. So don’t mess with Rachel! Simone Liao is a junior from Agoura Hills, California, where she attends Westlake High School. She is a woman international master and scored a perfect 2400 on her SAT. Simone is also an entrepreneur, having founded the Ventura Chess and trained dozens of young players through chess classes and tournaments. Akshay Malhotra is a junior from Lewisville, Texas. He is a USCF national master and will be representing Texas in this Year’s Denker Tournament of High School Champions at the U.S. Open. Akshay has applied his considerable mathematical skills to neurological research of Alzheimers disease at the University of Texas at Dallas. Darwin Yang is a senior from Plano, Texas. He is an international master and is a grandmasterr-elect. He has represented the USA in numerous international events. Darwin is the reigning high school national champion. He plans to attend Harvard in the fall.
12 June 2015 | Chess Life
The Kasparov Chess Foundation (KCF) held its annual conference on Monday, April 27th, at the World Chess Hall of Fame in St. Louis, Missouri. Leaders from all five Kasparov Chess Foundation’s worldwide branches, along with the Foundation’s Chairman and Hall of Famer, Garry Kasparov (all pictured above), presented their programs that bring chess to students from Africa to Europe, the United States to Asia, and beyond. While in St. Louis, former World Champion Mr. Kasparov played an exhibition match against Britain’s GM Nigel Short at the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis. KCF executives from Africa, Asia, Europe, Mexico, and the United States made presentations of their programs and accomplishments for the last 15 months. Further, they discussed new initiatives and programs, as well as collaboration between all branches. According to Michael Khodarkovsky, President of Kasparov Chess Foundation USA, “The conference is an opportunity for all of the KCF family foundation to share their experience and ways of improvements, as well as future plans. And, it was very productive to meet face-to-face and learn from each other about successes as well as difficulties in accomplishment of our mission to bring chess in education. It is very inspiring to hear visionary guidance by KCF Chairman, Garry Kasparov, which would certainly have an indisputable impact on our programs worldwide,” he explained. Founded by former World Chess Champion Garry Kasparov, KCF’s mission is to bring the many educational benefits of chess to children throughout the United States by providing a complete chess curriculum and enrichment programs. The Foundation promotes the study of chess as a cognitive learning tool in curricular classes and after-school programs for elementary, middle and high schools, both in the public and private school sectors. The not-for-profit educational organization also organizes tournaments and competitions on a local and national basis. KCF is the official sponsor of the U.S. Olympiad and U.S. Women’s Olympiad teams. For more information, please visit www.kasparovchessfoundation.org.
EXECUTIVE BOARD ELECTION BALLOTS Ballots will be mailed on June 8 to USCF members who are current members active as of May 4, 2015, who will be age 16 or older by June 30th, 2015, and who registered to vote by May 1, 2015. Ballots must be returned by July 21 at 3 p.m. to the address listed on the ballot. See https://secure2.uschess.org/voterregistration.php for more information and to check your registration status. In addition to the half-page statement on the opposite page, a 150-word statement from each candidate appeared in the April 2015 Chess Life and a half-page statement in the May 2015 Chess Life.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF KASPAROV CHESS FOUNDATION
The 2015 Scholar-Chessplayer Award winners are (in alphabetical order):
USCF Affairs / Candidate Statements
Randy Bauer
Boyd Reed for the Executive Board! In my past two candidate statements, I have talked about my past efforts and my plans for the future as a part of the USCF Executive Board. I am hopeful that these have helped you understand what I practice as well as what I preach. Here, I am going to do something radically different. I am asking that, if you support what I’ve been working to
accomplish for the USCF, in the coming surpasses those of any candidate in this election. That alone would be sufficient election you vote for: for why I am asking you to support Boyd, • Randy Bauer but there is one other big reason: • Boyd Reed (write-in candidate) Why am I asking you to do the ‘out of • The other candidate in the race, the ordinary’ and write in Boyd Reed? Anjelina Belakovskaia, has created First, he is a highly qualified candi- significant controversy by statements date—quite frankly, I would vote for that question the integrity of our hugely him in any election. His qualifications successful benefactor/sponsor of the past seven U.S. championship tournaments. include: She has claimed that our current hugely • USCF tournament director since 1988 successful benefactor/sponsor, in picking (age 14) sponsor’s exempted players engaged • USCF National TD since 2006 in (in her words) “cheating by the • USCF Delegate since 2011 organizers.” • FIDE International Arbiter since 2014 To me, this reflects a person who cannot • Member, USCF Finance Committee weigh chess priorities. To me, it appears • Chair, USCF Web Site Advisory that she places her own priorities (for Committee example, qualifying for the U.S. women’s • Proofreader, USCF Official Rules of championship) above those of the organization as a whole (for example, Chess (6th edition) • Western VP, Pennsylvania State Chess maintaining a relationship with a benefactor that has generously provided us Federation • Earned USCF National Master title in with seven years of outstanding U.S. championships on his dime). To publicly 2015 suggest that our sponsors are cheating Let’s be clear: this set of credentials far is wrong, and it damages our reputation
and the reputations of chess in the U.S. I believe that we cannot and should not have a person making these sorts of statements as a member of the policymaking Executive Board of the USCF. The USCF has been damaged by past candidates and Executive Board members who drove away existing or potential sponsors. We must not return to that situation. We have spent several years growing chess in the U.S., obtaining world-class sponsors and getting our finances in order. We must elect people who will continue that progress—not those who might distract from that progress and potentially chase away our best-ever chess benefactors. Help me ensure a stable future for the USCF! Please vote for: • Randy Bauer • Boyd Reed (write him in!)
Anjelina Belakovskaia chess clubs in rural and metro areas; introducing chess leagues for children and adults (a practice long existing in Europe); growing online presence; and enhancing the benefits and satisfaction of current USCF members. To this goal, I bring in my expertise as a chess coach (who taught over 1,000 children in the NY Public schools) and as a chess player (who had a contract with a Belgrade team and played in the Chess League in the former Yugoslavia).
Let’s talk about USCF’s current position, goals, strategy and tactics. Our current situation shows a slightly positive balance and no immediate legal and other threats. This is a reasonable time to set up goals and move forward. Our current goals should be: 1. Increase membership (in all categories) by bringing chess into schools around the country; establishing active
2. Build strong connections with the corporate world—to promote chess skills of critical thinking and problem solving and establishing mutually beneficial relationships. In today’s dynamic world, business leaders have to analyze huge amounts of data, know established patterns and examples, envision the future and make important conceptual, innovative, and intuitive decisions quickly. Chess is an amazing tool to prepare current and future leaders for such challenges. USCF should develop programs for Executives, while establishing and promoting corporate memberships and encouraging small-, mid-, and large-size companies to join USCF. In
promoting chess through books, film, editorials and by advertising National and International chess events beyond our chess circles and by helping chess clubs around the U.S. to organize local events—tournaments, lectures, simul3. Collaborate with universities, schools taneous exhibitions, summer camps and and other institutions on conducting more. Establish connections with the U.S. studies on addressing societal needs Department of Education, Boy and Girl through the game of chess: Scouts, Johns Hopkins CTY Talent Search - Chess and Academic Success program, science centers, etc...
addition, I suggest creating a “USCF Corporate Connections” committee and encourage former chess players who moved on to succeed in Corporate America to contribute their talents and expertise.
- Helping autistic children to succeed As a WGM, 3-time U.S. Women’s Chess through chess Champion, “Chess Mom,” coach and a tournament director, who spent over 25 - Fighting Alzheimer's with chess years actively involved in the chess world, - Chess against Drugs I have a unique perspective, experience 4. Apply for government STEM (Science, and background to offer strategic thinking Technology/ Engineering, Mathematics) and tactical execution, planning USCF grants to research benefits of chess in development for years ahead. education—hire a capable full-time My achievements in chess and business employee to do this job on behalf of prove that I don’t just talk—I actually USCF. do it! With your votes and support, I hope 5. Move the “Scholastic Scholarships” to get elected and work with the current page on the USCF website to a more Executive Board to produce tangible prominent position and work with results. Universities to increase the number and size of scholarships. 6. Organize a nationwide campaign
www.uschess.org
13
Looks at Books / The Soviet Chess Primer
The Soviet Chess Primer A fascinating English translation of a Russian classic text for those interested in chess culture and history—but not a “primer” for beginners. By JOHN HARTMANN
ntil very recently it was hard to imagine Anatoly Karpov and Garry Kasparov agreeing on much of anything. That changed when each man ran unsuccessfully to unseat Kirsan Ilyumzhinov as president of FIDE. Nevertheless, as someone who remembers the white-hot rivalry of their world championship matches, I was startled when I received the new translation of Ilya Maizelis’ The Soviet Chess Primer from Quality Chess. Both Karpov and Kasparov are quoted on the cover, and they both love this book. And it’s not just the two K’s who are fans. In the Foreword, Mark Dvoretsky describes his youthful encounter with Maizelis’ book, calling it “dear to me” and recounting how his personal copies were often “lost” after being lent out. GM Tigran Petrosian (as GM Andy Soltis tells it) preferred the book to breakfast, saving his meal money up and buying a copy instead. Such high regard may be surprising for an American audience, for whom Ilya Maizelis is something of a mystery. If his name is recognized at all, it is as a coauthor of the classic Pawn Endings with Yuri Averbakh, although in truth Maizelis was its primary author. The few references to Maizelis that exist in English describe him as a translator and endgame analyst, with special expertise in pawn endings and technical rook endings. 63 of his endgame studies appear in Harold van der Heijden’s definitive study database. The Soviet Chess Primer is a partial translation of the 1960 edition of Maizelis’ Shakhmaty osnovy teorii ( / Chess: Fundamental Theory). Approximately 60 percent of the Russian text appears in The Soviet Chess Primer; although I cannot read the Cyrillic lettering, it appears that some detailed opening analysis and sections on the history of chess were excised. The translation by John Sugden reads well, and—as one expects from Quality Chess—the production values are high. A quick glance at the table of contents
U
14 June 2015 | Chess Life
would suggest that the English title is apt. After chapter one, “The Game Explained,” readers are taught the “Aim of the Game” (chapter two) and “Tactics and Strategy” (chapter three). More advanced topics, including further elucidations of combination and positional play, follow. Each chapter concludes with a whimsical set of
used (18) to help illustrate how the knight moves. Maizelis includes outrageously difficult mate problems in the “fun” section of chapter one, and his account of the theory of corresponding squares (152) belongs in an endgame tome and not here. The breakneck pace of the book and the complex examples preclude me from thinking it appropriate for the beginner. Take, for instance, this “ancient puzzle” (72) used to illustrate the restriction of piece mobility, in which White mates in three (Solution is directly below the diagram):
WHITE MATES IN THREE MOVES
Solution:
1. Ne6! Bh6-to any square 2. Ne6 xbishop Ba2 3. Nxc2 mate. Maizelis, Ilya. The Soviet Chess Primer. Quality Chess: 2015. ISBN: 978-1-907982-99-6. PB. 400 pages. (Available from uscfsales.com, catalog number B0096QT, $24.95)
“Entertainment Pages,” where miniatures and “fun exercises” appear, and some of the original drawings are brought over from the Russian. So far, so good. Closer scrutiny of The Soviet Chess Primer, however, leads me to question the title chosen by Quality Chess for this new translation. Maizelis’ book is fascinating, especially for the reader interested in chess culture and history, but it is not a primer by any stretch of the imagination. It’s not just that the knight’s tour is
Yes, Black is in Zugzwang, but surely there are much clearer and Elo-appropriate ways to illustrate the point than this? Despite my reservations about the title, The Soviet Chess Primer is a fine book and its acclaim is deserved. I suspect, however, that the particular affection felt for it by former Soviets may have another source. Chess books were hard to come by in the Soviet Union as demand was high and paper was often scarce. It should not surprise us that youthful attachment to cherished books would persist, and in this case the attachment is justified. There are certainly better primers in print today, but few books are more interesting than is The Soviet Chess Primer.
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15
Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment
A Queen, A Queen! My Kingdom for a Queen! You never thought of doubled pawns as meaning this before. By GM ANDY SOLTIS
DURING THE OPENING MOVES OF THE third game of the 2014 World Championship match a photographer snapped a somewhat unusual picture. Unusual, because it was taken from the side of the board you rarely see, from behind the clock. You could still see challenger Vishy Anand, hand on piece, completing a move. You could also see Champion Magnus Carlsen eyeing the move and preparing to write it on his scoresheet. But you couldn’t help noticing something else: Behind the clock, hidden from the player’s view, was a white queen and a black queen. Before the game, match officials had placed them there to avoid that strangely awkward moment in competitive chess when one of the players promotes a pawn and has to search for something that often isn’t there: a second queen. It’s a problem that has plagued even the greatest players of the past.
The topsy-turvy rook
Mikhail Tchigorin Harry Nelson Pillsbury Hastings, 1895
WHITE TO MOVE
Mikhail Tchigorin capped off one of his greatest games by pushing a pawn, 42. g8=Q. Since his original queen was still on the board, he did what every amateur player does:
16 June 2015 | Chess Life
He found a white rook, which Black had captured early in the game and placed on the side of the board, turned it upside down, and planted it on g8. Then he got up from the table and went to an adjoining room, where there were extra sets, to get a real queen, according to another player in the tournament, Georg Marco. Along the way Tchigorin met the new world champion, Emanuel Lasker, who was also playing in the tournament. Lasker appreciated the humor of the situation. He “handed Tchigorin three white queens with the words ‘I hope, Mr. Tchigorin, that this will be enough for you,’ ” Marco said. (Tchigorin didn’t need them. Black resigned nine moves later.) We take this strange convention—the upside-down rook—for granted. It’s a handy way of dealing, in time pressure, with a clumsy situation. No one wants to spend seconds hunting for another queen and losing their train of thought. If you’ve seen street hustlers play speed chess at New York’s Union Square and in other cities, you might notice how some of them keep a second queen handy. Those extra seconds may save money and avoid arguments. Pal Benko recalled how he and fellow American GM Larry Evans nearly came to blows during a blitz tournament in Argentina in 1960 when Evans promoted a pawn—and began to move the pawn like a queen. Benko tried to stop the clock so they could find a queen. “There’s nothing worse than having a supposed pawn fly across the board at you!” he wrote in his memoirs. But Evans didn’t understand what Benko was doing—so he hit Benko’s hand when he reached for the clock. Benko said he nearly struck Evans. “Be careful!” Benko warned him. Evans saw the look in his eyes and said, “Yes, you’ll be famous for beating all the best players in the world —physically!” The most famous second-queen flap occurred in this game, one of the finest ever played:
K’s needing a Q
GM Anatoly Karpov GM Garry Kasparov Linares, 1993
BLACK TO MOVE
Garry Kasparov played the obvious 24. ... cxd1+ and waited for the arbiter to pro-
vide a second queen. When that didn’t happen quickly he left the pawn on d1, said “Queen!” in English and pushed his clock. But Anatoly Karpov, in bad time pressure, knew the rules: Black’s move was not completed until a new piece appeared on d1. So he ignored the “promoted piece on d1” and replied 25. Qxe4!. “But you’re in check,” Kasparov objected. “From where?” Karpov replied. After all, it might be a bishop or knight on d1. Meanwhile, the arbiter hurried off to find a new queen—and brought back a white one. Kasparov said later that he could have solved the mini-crisis by putting an upsidedown rook on d1. Actually, that is illegal under FIDE rules and the game was played in an international tournament governed by them. (In contrast, the upside-down rook is quite legal under USCF rules.) In the end, a black queen was found and Kasparov was penalized a few minutes for pushing his clock before completing his move. If you’ve played against a computer or against a human via a website you may have encountered another problem. When your pawn reaches the eighth rank, a new
Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment
Wijk aan Zee, 2015 GM Magnus Carlsen got off to a slow start in 2015’s first supertournament, at Wijk aan Zee, the Netherlands. But six straight wins in the middle of the tournament helped the world champion take first prize ahead of GM Wesley So of the United States and three other grandmasters who tied for second place. Games from the tournament and its Challengers’ ection provide this month’s quiz. In each of the six positions you are asked to find the fastest winning line of play. This will usually mean the forced win of a decisive amount of material, such as a rook or minor piece. For solutions, see page 71.
screen appears and it offers you a choice of pieces to replace the pawn. That costs you valuable seconds before you make a choice. The Internet Chess Club tried to solve that with its “auto-queen” function. It automatically turns an eighth-rank pawn into a queen. You have to disable the function if you want, say, a knight instead. The site explains that auto-queen is important in bullet chess “since the time taken to choose which piece to promote to can cause instant temporal catastrophe.” Of course, there are rare situations in which you want to promote to a piece other than a queen.
Queen? Who needs’em?
GM Peter Svidler GM Vladimir Malakhov World Cup, 2009
Problem I
Problem II
Problem III
GM Ivan Saric GM Maxime Vachier-Lagrave
GM Radoslaw Wojtaszek GM Ding Liren
GM Loek Van Wely GM Yifan Hou
BLACK TO PLAY
BLACK TO PLAY
WHITE TO PLAY
Problem IV
Problem V
Problem VI
GM Bart Michiels GM David Klein
IM Ari Dale GM Robin Van Kampen
GM Fabiano Caruana GM Maxime Vachier-Lagrave
BLACK TO PLAY
BLACK TO PLAY
BLACK TO PLAY
People who appreciate chess problems or “White to play and win” studies may know about the “Single Box” compositions. This is a format that limits the composer to the original 32 pieces and pawns—the ones you might find in a single box. Under this rule, you can’t promote to a second queen. Or a third knight. Would anyone ever prefer a third knight to a second queen? Black did when he played 31. ... dxe1=N+!. White immediately resigned in view of 32. Rxe1 Qf2+. (Promoting to a second queen would have allowed 32. Bxf7+!.) Actually, the term “single box” is a bit out of date. Today’s better chess sets often come with an extra pair of queens to avoid the second-queen problem, as I learned when I consulted the leading authority on Staunton-format sets, Frank Camaratta. “I introduced the praxis of including two queens with every set I made. It now has become common place,” he said. Today’s players often fail to appreciate the simplicity and beauty of Staunton sets. And few of us realize how this design helped change the way we created a second queen: Many of the pre-Staunton sets had a miniature flag or a second tower on the rooks. In Russia, where a rook is a ladiya or boat, some old sets had a mast above the vessel. In sets in which the rook was depicted as an elephant, there was often a canopied seat, a Houdah, atop it, Camaratta said.
The problem with all of these elegant designs is that you couldn’t turn the rooks upside down and make them stay upright. Who figured out the upside-down rook idea is unknown. When I turned to chess historian John McCrary for help, he found a comment in an 1897 book, Foster's Encyclopedia of Indoor Games. On page 508, under the heading “Queening Pawns”, it says, “... a Rook upside down, or a Pawn with a ring on it, may represent a second Queen.” “The only pre-1897 reference that I know of regarding how to represent a second queen, is in the 1817 book Studies of Chess,” McCrary added. The book cited the custom of putting two pawns on the square of the promotion and “pushing them about in company” to represent a new queen. The book recalled how Francois Andre Philidor had contempt for the two-pawn rule. Philidor’s solution was extreme, the “single box.” Second queens weren’t allowed. If a pawn reached the eighth rank without a piece having been captured, it remained a pawn until a captured piece was available. A rule approving this “dummy pawn” was endorsed by the influential British Chess Association in 1862. But it was widely ridiculed, probably never arose in tournaments—and soon disappeared from rulebooks. www.uschess.org
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Back to Basics / Reader annotations
The Phantom Knight Even in an easily won position, stay alert! By GM LEV ALBURT
ARE YOU PRONE TO ONE-MOVE, EVEN half-move (simply putting your piece en prise) blunders? If yes, what have you been doing about it? This may be an interesting subject to consider for those planning to contribute a game/article to my column. The winner of this month’s award, the very lucky (at least in the game below) Sterling Wells, is also an inspired annotator. Writes Sterling (My further comments are in italics):
3. ... Bg4 4. h3 Setting a subtle trap that I’ve used on many occasions. I’ve even beat a master with this line once.
There’s no way to save a pawn in this position. Any other knight move is met by 11. Qf3+ and 12. Bxg6.
11. Qf3+ Kg8
4. ... Bh5?! Falling for the trap. 4. ... Bxf3 is better although after 5. Qxf3 White’s bishop pair gives me an edge.
5. g4! Bg6 6. Ne5
Colle System (D04)
Sterling Wells (1756) Brandon Ou (1711) 41st Annual Eastern Open (6), Bethesda, Maryland 12.29.2014 My goal for this tournament was to reach the hallowed grounds of the 1800s, to brag to all of my friends that I am an exalted class “A” player. This game is an example of why I failed to reach that goal and will have to continue my quest in future games. I started with a great position against a lower-rated player, decided to neglect all development, hold onto pawns for dear life, and trash my own position. This game was a gift, a gift that was not deserved but that I grabbed anyways. My queen’s knight remained motionless till move 32, my queen’s rook remained on the couch till move 33, and my queen’s bishop refused to move till move 34! I didn’t castle till move 19 and my king journeyed to the center of the board without being mated. But despite all odds, one blunder allowed me to regain my advantage and clinch the game.
1. d4 d5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. e3 I went back to my bread-and-butter opening for this game. I used to play the French as Black and the Colle aka Reverse French as White. I’ve been playing 1. e4 lately, but I knew my opponent played the French and I wasn’t comfortable playing the white side against my favorite opening—so I went with a familiar pawn structure.
18 June 2015 | Chess Life
12. Bxe4?!
6. ... Nbd7?! A friend pointed out that 6. ... Nfd7! saves Black because now after 7. h4 Nxe5 8. dxe5 h6 and the bishop escapes. This does not work with … Nbd7 because dxe5 comes with tempo on the knight on f6 and the bishop is dead.
7. h4! Threatening h4-h5, trapping the bishop. I had someone sit for a full hour before moving in this position. It’s not much fun for Black.
7. ... h5 8. Nxg6 fxg6 9. Bd3! The point of this whole variation. There is only one way to defend g6 and you have to have nerves of steel to play it.
The first opportunity I have for development. Much stronger is 12. Nc3! and if 12. ... Nxc3 13. Bxg6! and mate in a few moves. Of course there are better defenses for Black but this is really the way to go for White. Yes, both 12. Nc3 and 12. Nd2 win quickly and easily.
12. ... dxe4 13. Qxe4 Kh7 14. c4?! The continuation 14. f4 would have prevented Black’s next move and he would have to contort himself to develop (plans like ... a5, ... Ra6, ... e6). Taking on b7 gives Black some counterplay; 14. f4 is OK, but my preference is the developing 14. Nc3.
14. ... e5! A very sound pawn sacrifice and the only way for Black to develop reasonably.
15. dxe5?
The king takes a business trip away from the office but he’s soon going to have a meeting with some unwanted guests.
Like the fool I am I allow ... Nd3+ (after ... Nc5 with tempo on my queen) forcing my king to flee for the hills. 15. 0-0 or any move that would develop my queenside would be preferred.
10. g5 Ne4
15. ... Nc5 16. Qd5 Qe8
9. ... Kf7
Back to Basics / Reader annotations
16. ... Nd3+ is premature as it forces the trade of queens after 17. Ke2.
Kg7 26. Bb2+ winning the Exchange. No such luck however.
17. f4?!
24. ... Nd3 25. Kg2 Rxh4 26. Kg3 Rh7 27. a3 Bd6+ 28. Kxg4 Rh2 29. Rg1?
The only move that saves the pawn but I still allow ... Nd3+ (after Rd8). I should have cut my losses with 17. 0-0.
17. ... Rd8 18. Qf3 Qa4?
I was unjustifiably afraid of ... Rg2+ more than I was of ... Be5 for whatever reason.
29. ... Ne5+ 30. Kf4 Nf7+ 31. Ke4 My king flirts with disaster. I was hoping he would check on e8, this way the king gets closer to c3 after which ... Be5 no longer wins by force due to Nc3.
31. ... Be5 32. Nc3 My knight’s first move is to sacrifice itself for the cause. This game was effectively played entirely without it.
32. ... Bxc3 33. Rb1 Rh5 34. Bb2 Bxb2 My bishop disappears after its very first move as well. What a useless piece of wood! This loses the thread of the attack due to my impressive rejoinder. 18. ... Nd3+ keeps my king on his toes.
35. Rxb2 Rxg5 36. Rbg2 Rxg2 37. Rxg2
19. 0-0! Ignoring the threat of ... Nb3: 19. ... Nb3 20. f5 gxf5 (if 20. ... Nxa1 21. fxg6+ Kxg6 22. Qe4 mate) 21. g6+! Kg8 (21. ... Kxg6 loses to 22. Qxf5+! Kh6 23. axb3!! Qxa1 24. e4+! and mate after Black sacrifices random pieces) 22. axb3, winning. An important lesson: some threats can and should be ignored.
20. ... Qg4+ 21. Qxg4 hxg4 22. f6 gxf6 23. exf6 Kg8 My connected passed pawns look very strong but amazingly Black is already better. There’s no way to defend h4 and my pieces have yet to leave the back rank.
24. b4? (see diagram top of next column) I lash out hoping for 24. ... Ne6 25. f7+!
41. Kxg5, Black resigned. There are some games where you outplay your opponents and others where they give you gifts. I think this was a game of the former variety but fortunately I was lucky not to lose. My lack of development killed me even without the queens on the board. Still, having the guts to play down a full piece and never surrender won me this game as it has saved me in many other games. As I have always said, the worst move in any position is resignation. In this game, both opponents often demonstrated good, even creative, play— and a lot of resilience. What they both failed to do is simply to win an easily won position—White, by his pawn-grabbing rashness on move 12, Black by a case of chess blindness (which I’ve tried to explain in my previous note) on move 40.
Send in your games! If you are unrated or rated 1799 or below, 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
19. ... Qxc4 20. f5?! I was blind to Black’s next move, forgetting to look at all checks and captures like I should have while calculating. Perhaps Sterling was simply “in love” with the line mentioned above, where 20. f5 wins.
This is an extreme case of what GM Nicolay Krogius, Ph.D. in psychology, called the “remaining false image”: in Brandon’s mind, his knight was still on f7, where it was on moves 30-37.
37. ... Nh8? This gives me some practical chances to defend. 37. ... Nd6+ followed by 38. ... Kf7 was much more active. His knight is now almost as useless as mine. Still, Black is winning here—easily.
38. Kf4 Kf7 39. Kg5 Rd5+ 40. Kg4 (see diagram top of next column) I almost played 40. Kh6 when I realized that 40. ... Rh5 would b mate!
40. ... Rg5+?? I was incredibly grateful for the free rook. And despite what you might think, no money changed hands during this game.
Or e-mail your material to backtobasics@uschess.org GM Alburt will select the “most instructive” game and Chess Life will award an autographed copy of Lev’s newest book, Platonov’s Chess Academy (by Lev Alburt and Sam Palatnik) 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. Make sure your game (or part of it) and your notes will be of interest to other readers. www.ChessWithLev.com
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Cover Story / 2015 U.S. Championships
11 ROUNDS,11 TITLES The 2015 Championships included adventurous openings as Black, one-move blunders, a six-move forfeit, and family turmoil for one super-GM. TITLE NUMBER 4 FOR NAKAMURA AND 7 FOR KRUSH By FM MIKE KLEIN
The City Museum in downtown St. Louis calls itself “an eclectic mix of children’s playground, funhouse, surrealistic pavilion, and architectural marvel.” At times, the 2015 U.S. Championship and 2015 U.S. Women’s Championship might have felt more at home there. Although the top seeds in both tournaments had eventually add ed on to their mounting titles, the funhouse fortnight (March 31 [Opening Ceremony]-April 14, 2015) which included adventurous open ings as Black, inexplicable one-move blunders, a controversial forfeit on move six, and some convoluted family turmoil with America’s newest grandmaster. The one thing missing at the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis was a playoff, the only time in recent years that neither tournament required one. When the points were tallied, GM Hikaru Nakamura captured his fourth championship, while GM Irina Krush added a seventh. It’s hard to beat the best. Their pursuers were not the names most expected. GM Wesley So, only nominally
behind Nakamura in rating entering the tournament, had a first U.S. Championship he’d like to forget. He didn’t seriously challenge the top of the tables, and forfeited round nine for thrice ignoring the arbiter’s request not to take notes during the game. So’s former college roommate, the young
started slow with an even score through three rounds. But with the addition of two games this year (achieving parity with the men—an 11-game round robin), Krush had plenty of time to recuperate. She blazed to a 7/8 finish to overcome the early leader, WGM Katerina Nemcova. Nakamura’s win was his third in three tries in 2015 (he said it was the first time in his career he has done that). He also bested the fields at both the Tradewise Gibraltar Masters as well as the Zurich Chess Challenge. In the latter event, he really needed to show off his blitz acumen to then overtake GM Viswanathan Anand in a tiebreaker game. Going into the final round in St. Louis, it looked like yet another playoff would be required. Instead, Nakamura dispatched GM Alex Onischuk, thus invalidating any attempt by the trailing Robson to draw even. Was there a little piece of Nakamura that wanted to display his rapid chess prowess in case of a tie? “Maybe not from the standpoint of
“Just getting there [the world championship] is the goal.”
20 June 2015 | Chess Life
NAKAMURA GM Ray Robson, turned out to be the biggest challenger to Nakamura. Already playing in his eighth(!) U.S. Championship, the 20-year-old Robson pulverized the bottom finishers and fell only a half-point short of Nakamura. As for the ladies, the absence of IM Anna Zatonskih (her first missed championship since the relocation to St. Louis) seemed to clear Krush’s path for her fourth-straight first place. Instead, Krush
Continued on p. 24
PHOTO, TOP: MIKE KLEIN; PHOTO, BOTTOM LEFT: LENNART OOTES, CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER OF SAINT LOUIS; PHOTO, BOTTOM RIGHT: AUSTIN FULLER, CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER OF SAINT LOUIS
Cover Story / 2015 U.S. Championships
Their wins represent 4 U.S. Championships for Nakamura and 7 U.S. Women’s Championships for Krush. Below, each is pictured with Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis founder Rex Sinquefield, who continues to be the driving force behind the current chess Renaissance in the U.S.
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Wesley So's Tumultuous First U.S. Championship GM Wesley So has had an eventful last year. In October, 2014, he won $100,000 in the first Millionaire Chess Open. Two weeks later, he left Webster University and moved in with an adoptive family in Minnetonka, Minnesota. Shortly after he completed his FIDE transfer to
22 June 2015 | Chess Life
the U.S. and was nearly unbeatable in tournament play until his five win, four loss performance in April in St. Louis. So forfeited his round nine game after only six moves. Chief Arbiter IA Tony Rich was summoned to the board by So’s opponent, GM Varuzhan
Akobian. Rich inspected a secondary scoresheet So was writing on below his actual scoresheet. The notes read, in part, “double check and triple check” and “use your time.” Rich had warned So in rounds two and three that he was in violation of FIDE rules by taking notes.
PHOTO: LENNART OOTES, CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER OF SAINT LOUIS
Cover Story / 2015 U.S. Championships draw, matters relating to a claim and other relevant data. 11.3 During play the players are forbidden to use notes ... 11.5 It is forbidden to distract the opponent in any manner whatsoever. 11.7 Persistent refusal by any player to comply with the Laws of Chess shall be penalized by loss of the game. The six-move loss was the second shortest in U.S. Championship history (IM Kamran Shirazi hung a rook on move five in 1984). In an appeal letter, So accepted the arbiter’s decision, but explained that he thought that taking notes on a separate sheet of paper was permissible. He only appealed the loss of rating points, but FIDE rules state that once moves have been made, the game must be rated. The appeals committee said they could not help recover lost rating points. Internet discussions were plentiful; one comment section on Chess.com saw more than 450 replies. Chess players were fairly equally divided into two camps. Many argued Rich was correct to apply the rules and follow through with his warnings, while others insisted that a time penalty was more appropriate and this wasn't a serious infraction. Rich consulted with IA Francisco Guadalupe by phone before declaring a forfeit. Guadalupe agreed. In addition, at Rich’s behest, the appeals committee took up the issue of whether it was an appropriate penalty (even though So had not requested this). GM Ben Finegold, IM Rusa Goletiani, and IA Chris Bird ( joining by phone) agreed that the penalty was just.
He had warned So that a third offense would result in forfeiture. In particular, these FIDE rules were at issue: 8.1b The scoresheet shall only be used for recording the moves, the times of the clocks, offers of a
play against me. Obviously he wanted a free point.” Akobian maintained they were still friends. So’s response? “We were.” Then there’s FM Paul Truong, a coach on the Webster team. He said that So had been warned “for three years” and “about a dozen times” about stopping the practice of writing on his scoresheet. Truong said that there were team meetings about it since any reprisal could hurt the entire team (GM Ray Robson confirmed that the team discussed this issue with So; “Unfortunately it's been a habit of mine for years” —So.) After the loss, a woman with whom So lives and refers to as “mother” blamed Truong for meddling with So’s tournament. The woman, Lotis Key, met So in 2013 at an event in Minnesota and he moved in with her shortly after the win at Millionaire Chess (Truong claimed on his Facebook page that So’s scholarship was revoked for team rule violations, while So had previously stated he was just taking a break from school). Key has become an ersatz manager and never left the playing hall while So played his games. Key claimed Truong conspired to injure So by paying for and arranging travel for So’s estranged biological mother and aunt to visit St. Louis in the first week of the tournament. Truong vehemently denied the accusations and produced a hotel statement that no room was reserved in his name or on his credit card. So’s mother, Leny So, said hearing her son call someone else “mother” was “very painful.” Visiting from Toronto, she continued, “It seems his behavior is being controlled. We are blocked [from contact]. We fear for his welfare.” Leny said they visited because they have had trouble talking with Wesley since his move to Minnesota.
So said afterward, “This tournament has been a nightmare for me and I just want it to be finished.” In spite of this, his comeback was remarkable. He rebounded the next day to beat GM Gata Kamsky as Black, then closed out the tournament with another win to finish clear third (61⁄2/11). He also went on to win 31⁄2/4 in the opening rounds of Shamkir Chess, which he flew to days after St. Louis. This 51⁄2/6 is even better than Bobby Fischer, who “only” went 5/6 after forfeiting game two in the 1972 World Championship.
Leny and her sister-in-law, Susan Leonard, claimed Wesley would not talk with them in St. Louis without Key present. “Our hands are tied,” Leonard said. “We want to be very careful because we don't want to hurt him.”
The forfeit proved to be a discussion topic beyond the chessboard. It unearthed fissures in the U.S. national team and within his college team and family.
“We're afraid of the psychological control,” Leny said. “We're thinking, ‘Is this what happened to Bobby Fischer?’”
Akobian, a past teammate at international events where So has served as the American coach, said the event was “unfortunate” and insisted that he didn’t know So would be forfeited. When pressed, So said, “I can accept Var(uzhan) not wanting to
Before round three, Leny So and Leonard were barred from coming to the tournament. According to the club, this was a request of Wesley’s, who claimed that they attempted to grab his arm after the previous round.
“This was a difficult tournament for him, a lot of strange and difficult circumstances for him,” Robson said. “During tournaments he tries to be as professional as possible ... I do see him coming back and doing better.”
~Mike Klein
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Cover Story / 2015 U.S. Championships
As has become the norm, the sumptuous Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis drew many fans and covered the event via live Internet streaming.
24 June 2015 | Chess Life
during the tournament (in the end, he briefly crossed 2800 for the second time in his career, before finishing St. Louis with a modest gain of 1.3 points to remain world number three). “In tournaments like this you’re pretty much forced to try to win every game,” he said. “That adds a lot of stress.” For fans this “burden” created vintage Nakamura games, reminiscent of how he might have played a weekend Swiss in his younger years. He saved his most audacious choices for the younger players—GM Conrad Holt got a King’s Indian, GM Daniel Naroditsky was served a Sicilian Dragon, and GM Kayden Troff faced a Benoni! Although in all three games White had great chances, Nakamura’s risk-assessment paid off as he went three-for-three. A draw to any of those players would have clipped his rating by about three points. The opening-round King’s Indian was not a departure from Nakamura’s repertoire (he’s used it to beat former World Champion GM Vladimir Kramnik several times, amongst many other top players). However, the opening carries inherent risk. That was evident in the first 15 moves, by which time Nakamura had already ditched all of his kingside pawns. Before you knew it, his pieces invaded while Holt’s were backing up, and a short time later the
queen’s knight’s journey from b8 to e1 elegantly sealed White’s fate. Nakamura called the effort “a very bad game by my standards ... very shaky, to say the least.” You don’t often see both players facing weaknesses on the same color complex, but you did on this day:
Doubly weak
GM Conrad Holt (2626) GM Hikaru Nakamura (2881) 2015 U.S. Championship (1), St. Louis, Missouri, 04.01.2015 Notes by GM Benjamin Finegold.
21. ... Qxe4 Holt has been doing well thus far, and
PHOTO: LENNART OOTES, CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER OF SAINT LOUIS
Continued from p. 20
necessarily showing off,” he said, “but just to beat him since I failed to do it in the main tournament. It’s not really that big of a deal. “You don't win this many tournaments in a row unless your name is Magnus,” Nakamura said. He decided to play this year for two reasons: the “rising level of quality” of the competition (the 2015 U.S. Championship was both the youngest and the highestrated in history; Nakamura mentioned So and GM Sam Shankland in particular) and as a tune-up before his final FIDE Grand Prix event. Nakamura said throughout the tournament that he would finish last in all his 2015 events if it meant winning in Khanty-Mansiysk in May. In this sense, participation in the U.S. Championship was a double-edged sword for the top American player. While it may have helped him stay sharp for the final leg in his quest to qualify for the Candidates tournament in 2016, he also jeopardized his rating, which is an additional method of qualifying (two players punch their Candidates tickets from the Grand Prix events, and two others get in via their average 2015 rating). Nakamura explained the rating risk caused him to take great chances as Black
Cover Story / 2015 U.S. Championships now has two ways to secure a nice advantage, 22. Bh5 or 22. Ng2 give White a nice position.
22. Bf1? Too passive. Now Hikaru gets full compensation for his sacrificed pawn.
22. ... Bd3! 23. Bh3 Nc2! It takes a strong will to allow Be6+, but this was forced and Hikaru always trusts his calculation.
24. Be6+ Rf7 25. Nf5??
Almost any reasonable move was fine and the game would be a tossup. Here, however, Holt undefends f3 and g2 with his move, and now the game ends suddenly. Certainly, Holt assumed Black would play ... Nxa1 at some point, but, Hikaru finds a better idea!
25. ... Ne1!! And it’s all over!!! If White tries to stop Qg2 mate with 26. Nh4, then 26. ... Qg2+ anyways!! Followed by 27. ... Nf3 mate.
26. Ne7+ Kf8 27. Ng6+ Ke8, White resigned.
PHOTOS: AUSTIN FULLER, CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER OF SAINT LOUIS
White is helpless against ... Qg2 mate or ... Nf3+ winning for Black. Nakamura won more smoothly in round two over GM Varuzhan Akobian, who forgot his analysis deep in the opening. In his next turn as Black, the reigning champion GM Gata Kamsky sat across from Nakamura. Kamsky, winner in 2013 and 2014, last suffered a loss in 2012 in the penultimate round to Nakamura (who went on to win the tournament—his most recent appearance at the event). The two have created a little pattern in the seven incarnations in St. Louis. Beginning in 2009, the trophy reads: Nakamura, Kamsky, Kamsky, Nakamura, Kamsky, Kamsky, Nakamura. Kamsky opened with 1. d4 and expected another King’s Indian, but Nakamura didn’t repeat any openings in St. Louis. Instead 2. ... e6 appeared, and after a long middlegame with inchworm maneuvering, Nakamura’s pieces controlled most of the board. “The last few moves, I was just shuffling pieces around, waiting for him to finish
IM Nazi Paikidze (top) and WGM Katerina Nemcova tied for second, a full point behind Krush.
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Cover Story / 2015 U.S. Championships me off,” Kamsky said. Nakamura then uncharacteristically miscalculated after a desperate Kamsky chucked a piece at him late in the game. Kamsky, who said he didn’t prepare much for the tournament, called the draw a “miracle.” The half-point that was lost stung Nakamura, who was still referencing this game after the event was over. It also cost him a chance at the yearly “Fischer Prize” for a perfect score. Nakamura said the chances of repeating a perfect championship are incredibly long. “I would put it at more like $640,000,” he said. “To accomplish 11-0 is borderline impossible. It’s similar to when Warren Buffett did this $1 billion challenge for the NCAA March Madness last year (for a perfect bracket).” Club founder Rex Sinquefield said that when organizers tried to buy insurance on the prize, no one knew how to price it. He said he would happily pay out the $64,000 for a repeat of Bobby Fischer’s unblemished 1963/4 title. No one has ever gotten past four opening wins since the prize premiered a few years ago. Meanwhile, the first three rounds of the U.S. Women’s Championship did not go swimmingly for Krush. She struggled to even draw her opening game against WGM Sabina Foisor, a woman who has nicked Krush for several points in past years. Krush then beat WIM Viktorija Ni despite squandering a completely winning position at one point. The following round, the Georgian transfer IM Nazi Paikidze used a well-timed piece sacrifice to steamroll the top seed. Floundering at 50 percent and trailing Nemcova by a full point, Krush then took control of her event. She won the next two games to go into the rest day with momentum. Back to the other top seed, Nakamura’s hyped matchup with So in round four ended in a draw, then Nakamura went all out for another win as Black in round five against the struggling Naroditsky. Not content with his position out of the opening, Nakamura pitched the Exchange and after several inaccuracies, wrested the initiative away from White.
newcomer; she’s won the Belarusian title four times). In the course of the game, Krush missed several wins. Two connected passed pawns didn’t do the trick, then she inexplicably didn’t even consider a winning move late in the game. She called the missed chances “pretty devastating” and when her coach told her that a certain move was -9 in the computer evaluation, “that was the final nail ... I was really distraught.”
Off Form
19. Ne2?! The knight was better placed on d4.
19. ... Bb5 20. Nd4?! Perhaps White was hoping for a repetition? Not against Nakamura!
20. ... Ba6 21. Rhe1 Nfd7 22. f4? Now Black is probably better. Best was 22. a4 Nc4+ 23. Ka2 and the game is balanced.
22. ... Nc4+ 23. Bxc4 Bxc4 24. f5 Nc5 25. Re3 Ke8 26. Bf4? Several inaccurate moves have given Black a great position.
26. ... Na4+ 27. Kc1 Ba6 28. e5?
42. Rxg6+??
A blunder. Did Daniel miss that 29. Bxe5 was impossible due to 29. ... Bh6?
After battling back White goes for the wrong perpetual. Correct was 42. Rd8! Rxd8 43. e8=Q+ Rxe8 44. Rxe8+ Qxe8 45. Qxe8+ and although Black’s king can take a walk, there’s no avoiding the checks in the end.
28. ... dxe5 Hikaru finishes the game very efficiently.
29. Rxe5 Bxe5 30. Bxe5 Nxc3 31. Re1 gxf5 32. Bf6? Even though White is losing, he should at least try 32. Nxf5 Ne2+ 33. Kd2 Rc5 34. Ng7+ Kf8 35. Ba1 Ng3 and Hikaru would likely win.
32. ... Ne4 33. Nxf5
(see diagram top of next column)
The “reflex move” is wrong. 42. ... Bg7! The key is to keep the h-pawn on the board. It provides cover for the king after 43. Qd5+ Kh8. Krush never bothered to analyze the move. Other tries for White also fail, for example 43. Rxg7+ Kxg7 44. Qxc3+ Kf7 45. Qxd2 b1=Q 46. Qd5+ Kg7 47. Qg5+ Qg6.
Now Sharevich gets her draw easily.
43. ... Bg7 44. Qe6+ Kh7 45. Qf5+ Kg8 46. Qd5+ Kh8 47. Qh5+ Kg8 48. Qd5+ Kh8 49. Qh5+ Kg8, Draw agreed.
33. ... Bd3! Now everything is hanging.
18. ... Kf8
34. c3 Rc5! 35. Nxe7 Rb5!, White resigned.
Nakamura sacrificed the Exchange, a common thematic idea in the Dragon. White should be better here, but Daniel was not on his game this tournament.
Things got really interesting after the lone rest day. In the women’s field, Krush drew WGM Anna Sharevich (another tournament
26 June 2015 | Chess Life
42. ... hxg6??
43. Qxg6+
Taking the initiative
GM Daniel Naroditsky (2730) GM Hikaru Nakamura (2881) 2015 U.S. Championship (5), St Louis, Missouri, 04.05.2015 Notes by GM Benjamin Finegold.
WGM Anna Sharevich (2372) GM Irina Krush (2549) 2015 U.S. Women’s Championships (6), St. Louis, Missouri, 04.07.2015
After the game, longtime coach GM Giorgi Kacheishvili told Krush, “Now we’ll see what you’re made of.” “I'm not sure what he recognizes in me, but he knows to appeal to my fighting spirit,” Krush said. Krush won the following round, but again didn’t even bother analyzing an elementary tactic. With Black’s king at home and an unguarded bishop on c5, she missed Qh5+, winning the piece without a fight.
Cover Story / 2015 U.S. Championships “If I would have been looking at that check, it would have spoiled a nice positional squeeze!” was Krush’s sanguinity coming out. “I'll be showing that to my students.” Although only a round removed from the Sharevich debacle, she had already changed her tune. In the course of 24 hours, Krush went from thinking it was a “major catastrophe” to a “minor setback.” Nemcova kept pace, winning in rounds six and seven to re-establish a one-point lead over Krush. Here’s her win over firsttimer Apurva Virkud:
Sicilian Defense (B20)
WGM Katerina Nemcova (2361) WCM Apurva Virkud (2239) 2015 U.S. Women’s Championships (7), St. Louis, Missouri, 04.08.2015 Notes by Nemcova. When I was preparing for this game, I found out that there are not many games available of my opponent. Therefore, I decided to search for some Sicilian sidelines that would provide interesting and nonstandard play where we both need to think early on.
1. e4 c5 2. b3 This is the pick! Alexander Morozevich is probably currently the strongest advocate for this line, in 2014 he has 16(!) games with this 2. b3 move; however, we can find also Magnus Carlsen and other strong players playing it from time to time.
2. ... d6 3. Bb2 Nc6 4. Nc3 More popular is the immediate 4. Bb5 or 4. f4, but it’s okay my move is fine too.
4. ... Nf6 5. Bb5 Bd7 6. f4 a6 7. Bxc6 Bxc6 8. Qe2 e6 9. Nf3 Qc7 Now we both developed a majority of our pieces and it’s time to decide where to castle.
10. 0-0-0 There is no problem with castling kingside. To be honest, I even think that with more aggressive players such as Irina Krush or Alisa Melekhina, I would choose the more peaceful alternative. In this game I aimed for a more complicated position though. Although it is probably equal after 10. 0-0 Be7 11. e5 dxe5 12. Nxe5 0-0 13. Rae1, I feel that White has a slightly more comfortable position.
16. ... Nc5 17. Qe3 Bxc3 18. Qxc3 Ne4 19. Qe3 Kb8 20. Rhe1 Rc8 21. Kb1
Not so appealing is 12. exd5 Nxd5 for White is opening the position without having its pair of bishops ... There might be no real danger immediately but I still don’t like the idea. 13. Nxd5 Bxd5 14. g3? c4! and now it’s clear how excellent the bishop on d5 is.
12. ... Nd7 Possible, but less accurate is 12. ... Ne4 13. Nxe4 dxe4 14. Ng5 with the key move 14. ... e3! where Black opens the blacksquared bishop and creates interesting play for both sides. 15. Qxe3 Bxg2 16. Rhg1 I still think it is easier to play such position for White.
13. dxc5 I have a need to occupy the d4-square and I don’t see a reason to wait.
13. ... Bxc5 14. Nd4 Here we have a kind of French pawn structure with my extra b3-move. I thought that this position is more comfortable for White, because Black’s light-square bishop has limited space and I have the g2-g4 followed by f4-f5 plan in the future. However, Black has also a future with doubling rooks on the c-file and pressing on the c2-pawn. Objectively speaking, Black should have no troubles as well.
14. ... Qb6 15. Qd3 Preparing Nce2 to support or recapture on d4 with the knight.
15. ... Bb4!? I like this idea of Black to exchange the other knight and have a quick knight transportation to the central e4-square. Possible was also 15. ... Bxd4 16. Qxd4 Qxd4 17. Rxd4 and White still can transfer the remaining knight to d4 and then wonder whether to follow a plan with g2g4 and f4-f5, or some pawn advancement on the queenside.
10. ... 0-0-0 11. d4 d5!
16. a3
(see diagram top of next column)
Although I planned to play the above mentioned Nce2, I realized that I don’t like the black bishop on b4 where it has some future possibilities of cooperation with ... Nd7-c5-e4 and ... Qa5. It looked better to take him off the board.
A very strong move by Apurva. Without this move, Black gives space to White’s pieces and donates quite an advantage.
12. e5
21. ... g6?! In the game I thought it looks natural, but unnecessary as well. I am not sure if I would make such a move. White’s immediate f4-f5 can only help Black’s bishop to develop. 21. ...—22. f5 Bd7 23. fxe6 (23. g4 h5 and Black is opening the position more and more.) 23. ... fxe6 and here we go, the diagonal b1-h7 is weakened and the bishop has an excellent spot on g6 or h5.
22. Nf3 I decided to exchange queens and go for more of a positional play where I will try to explore the weakened black squares.
22. ... Qxe3 23. Rxe3 Rc7 24. Rd4 Rhc8 25. Ng5 h6 26. Nxe4 dxe4 Although the computer evaluates this as dead equal, I see White’s position as far more comfortable. White has the important d6-square and a pawn majority on the queenside that will get to see action soon.
27. a4 Bd5? Quite a brave move ... but not very good. It helps White to get time and fix the queenside pawn structure in White’s favor. Better was to fight White’s potential pawn advances on the queenside with 27. ... b5 while getting some space for Black’s maneuvering.
28. c4! Bc6 29. Ba3 Ka8 30. a5!
White is in time to get most everything she wants in this position. White’s pieces will soon completely dominate the position. www.uschess.org
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Cover Story / 2015 U.S. Championships 30. ... h5 31. h4 Re8 32. Kb2 Rcc8 33. Kc3 Ka7 34. Bc5+ Ka8 35. Bb6 Kb8 36. Rd6 Ka8 37. Kd4 Kb8 38. Re1 Rg8 39. g3 Rge8 40. Ra1 Rg8 41. Ra2 Rge8 42. Re2 Rg8 43. Rd2 Rge8 44. Ke3 Now I see White as in the best possible set-up to create something. White’s king is blocking the e4-pawn from any future advancement, the rooks take care of the d-file, the bishop of the black squares, and the pawns are ready to advance.
44. ... Rg8 45. R2d4 Rge8 46. b4 Rg8 47. Bc5 Rh8 48. Rd2 Rhg8 49. Rxc6! While it’s nice to move around and keep a good position with a clear advantage, the point for the game will not just appear out of nowhere. Therefore, this was a crucial moment to calculate properly, see the emerging forced rook endgame and evaluate it correctly.
49. ... Rxc6 50. Rd7 Rg7 The computer recommends 50. ... Kc8 51. Rxf7 Rc7 52. Rf6 Kd7 53. Kxe4 Rg7 and trying to keep this position in a passive way. I still believe that White will be able to break through on the queenside and win. There are just too many weaknesses in the black position, Black is two pawns down and there is no reason why one of the black rooks should be better than the perfectly placed bishop on either c5 or d6.
51. Rd8+ Kc7 52. Rh8! Now the black rook on g7 is quite locked.
52. ... Rxc5 This is pretty much the only choice for Black—trying to survive a rook endgame. Even worse is 52. ... Kd7 53. Bf8.
53. bxc5 Kc6 54. Rc8+ Just getting time, there is no other point in this move.
54. ... Kd7 55. Rf8 Kc6 56. Kxe4 Kxc5 57. Rc8+ Kb4 58. Kd4 Kxa5 59. c5
This was the position that had to be calculated 10 moves ago during the Exchange sacrifice. If this endgame is a draw, then the whole thing was a mistake and White should have tried to press on the queenside with pawns. Luckily, everything is fine.
28 June 2015 | Chess Life
59. ... b5 A more challenging move is 59. ... b6!? where I calculated 60. Ra8 (60. c6? Kb5! [and this position is equal at the end. White has no more power to support the c-pawn and playing 61. c7 is selfdestructing for it gives 61. ... Kc6 with a winning position for Black.] 61. Kc3 Rh7 62. Kb3 Rg7 is equal; 60. Rb8! is the most accurate win for it immediately placed the rook to cut off the king.) 60. ... bxc5+ 61. Kxc5 Rh7 62. Rb8 and thought its much better, but not 100 percent winning. It is winning though. 62. ... Ka4 63. Kd6 a5 64. Ke7 Ka3 65. Rb6 a4 66. Kf8 and the king mercilessly goes to capture the rook or f7-pawn. Black has no chances to escape such a position.
over-the-board decisions I made in St. Louis (“decision” as in more than a simple move, but something that led to the game going in a completely different direction.) I had been looking at this Exchange sacrifice for a while, but this is the first moment in the game I can actually implement it. The alternative was 21. ... Na5, trying to win the c3-pawn, but the c3pawn is not such a valuable prize when the king is weak.
21. ... Nxe5! 22. Bxe5 Rxe5 23. Nxe5 Qxe5
60. Rb8! No way back for the black king!
60. ... Kb4 61. c6 f5 62. exf6 e.p. Rc7 63. Ke5 Rxc6 64. f7 Rc5+ 65. Kxe6 Rf5 66. f8=Q+ Rxf8 67. Rxf8 a5 68. Kf6 a4 69. Kxg6 a3 70. Ra8 Kb3 71. f5 a2 72. f6, Black resigned. I think this game is very instructional in regard to opposite-color bishop play and the advantage of fixing a pawn structure for one’s favor. There was long preparation prior to the sacrifice and a deep analysis of emerging rook endgame involved. I considered this game as one of the most critical at the championship. The champ then chipped away with two wins in rounds eight and nine, while Nemcova drew both rounds. It took Krush ten days and nine rounds, but she finally caught the leader with two games remaining (Krush also needed a late-tour nament comeback in 2014 to keep the title). This effort against FM Alisa Melekhina showed Krush’s superior positional understanding:
Catching up
FM Alisa Melekhina (2321) GM Irina Krush (2549) 2015 U.S. Women's Championships (8), St. Louis, Missouri, 04.09.2015 Notes by Krush.
The forced result of the Exchange sacrifice. The pride of White’s position, the e5-pawn and Bf6, is gone, and so are all hopes of attacking the king. Black has a very solid structure and can realistically win a second pawn as well. The only problem is, material is limited, and if more pieces are traded, White will be fine even if Black wins the second pawn. However, White really needed to grasp the essence of the position immediately, which is not so easy to do as it has just appeared on the board. Alisa plays a very natural move, Qd4, trying to trade pieces, but Black can run away from the trade.
24. Qd4 24. Bd3!? I’d say this is definitely not an obvious move, making no effort to save the c3-pawn. 24. ... Qxc3 25. Rad1 This will lead to trades, either of light-squared bishops or rooks (Rc2 is coming); 24. Bb7!? a neat tactical approach: 24. ... Qxe3 25. fxe3 Bxb7 26. Rd7 Bc5 27. Rxb7 Bxe3+ Well, this is not quite a draw yet, there is play left in the endgame.
24. ... Qg5 An important question in chess is: what to trade and what to leave on the board? I certainly made sure to answer this question for myself during the game. I under stood: Black wants to trade nothing. Definitely not queens. Not rooks. Light-squared bishops would be the least evil. By the way, ... Rd8 is threatened.
25. Rad1 Rc4 26. Qd3 Bb5!
The decision I took in the diagrammed position is definitely one of the top two
Little moves like this won the game. Just improving the bishop, getting it under the queen’s protection, controlling d7 just in case, and allowing a future ... Ba4 idea.
Cover Story / 2015 U.S. Championships 27. Rb2
a way to play for mate.
35. Qg2 Qh3!
I was pretty sure Alisa was not happy with her position at this point. I thought 27. Rb2 was a tricky move. If I am not careful, it could be preparing something like a4 or Bc6!?! (at some point). But if Black is paying attention, then in itself, Rb2 doesn’t help White.
34. ... Rc1 35. Qe4 Qc3 36. Rf1 Rxf1+ 37. Kxf1 Bb5+, White resigned.
The continuation 35. ... Rxh2+? 36. Qxh2 Nxh2 37. Kxh2 is no bargain for Black, as the a-pawn is worrisome.
27. ... Qc5 Protecting the rook so that on a4 the bishop can take. Also attacking the c3pawn.
28. Bf3 When I saw this move, which doesn’t help White in any particular way, I got very optimistic about my position.
28. ... Ba4 29. Re1 29. Rc1 Bg5 the other bishop comes into play—that’s why ideally Black keeps all pieces on the board; they can be used for the attack.
Psychological Exchange sacrifices are a powerful thing, as GM Tigran Petrosian showed. With a Krush-Nemcova final-round matchup looming, some of the luster came off in round 10. Krush did her part though, as she used a knight-and-rook combo as perfectly as the chessboard allows against WFM Jennifer Yu (one of three wildcards on the women’s side; none of whom are old enough to vote).
Knight-rook combo
WFM Jennifer R. Yu (2278) GM Irina Krush (2549) 2015 U.S. Women’s Championships (10), St. Louis, Missouri, 04.11.2015
29. ... Bf6
32. ... g5 30. Qe3 A blunder, but White’s position is bleak by this point.
They say three pieces is mate, and here comes the third piece. Maybe she was inspired by Nakamura, who also played ... g5 and got his rook in the attack versus Troff (as you’ll see later in this article).
33. bxa6 Rxb2 34. Rxb2 Rh6
30. ... Bxc3 31. Rd2 Bxd2 32. Qxd2 Rc2 33. Qd8+ Kg7 34. Qh4 Black can take a third pawn, but there’s
Black is of course winning, but Krush finishes with panache.
36. Qxh3 Rxh3 Incredibly, White can’t avoid the mates and has no time to advance her a-pawn.
37. Kg2 Rxh2+ 38. Kf1 Rh1+ 39. Kg2 39. Ke2 Re1 mate.
39. ... Rg1+ 40. Kh3 h5, White resigned. With 41. ... g4 mate coming. Meanwhile, Nemcova made her only major slip of the event and relinquished her grip on the lead, which she had clear since round three. Paikidze, a student at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, took out the Webster University graduate student to place them both one point behind Krush with one round to play. Krush’s mystique essentially ended any doubts to her title defense right there. In post-game interviews with both Paikidze and Nemcova, neither gave themselves much chance to overtake the leader, even though Nemcova still controlled her own destiny. That lack of optimism proved correct as Krush simplified her 11th game and never gave Nemcova any chances for complications in the final round. Krush held a miniscule edge when she repeated the position to clinch her seventh title and fourth in a row. When asked prior to the last round if she knew who had the record for most U.S. Women’s Championships, Krush didn’t, but quipped self-referentially, “I do hope one day that I will know that person!” By the same time the next day, she’d researched the answer: WIM Gisela Kahn Gresser with nine. “I’d like to break the record one day,” Krush said. “If I get to 10, that’ll be pretty good.”
2015 U.S. Championship Rating
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12 Score
GM Hikaru Nakamura
2881
x
½
½
1
½
1
½
½
1
1
½
1
8
GM Ray Robson
2758
½
x
1
½
0
½
½
½
1
1
1
1
7½
GM Wesley So
2841
½
0
x
1
1
0
0
1
1
0
1
1
6½
GM Alexander Onischuk
2747
0
½
0
x
1
½
1
½
½
½
½
1
6
GM Gata Kamsky
2762
½
1
0
0
x
½
½
½
½
1
½
½
5½
GM Varuzhan Akobian
2703
0
½
1
½
½
x
1
½
0
0
½
1
5½
GM Samuel Sevian
2655
½
½
1
0
½
0
x
½
1
1
0
½
5½
GM Samuel L. Shankland
2742
½
½
0
½
½
½
½
x
½
0
1
½
5
GM Kayden W. Troff
2634
0
0
0
½
½
1
0
½
x
1
½
1
5
GM Conrad Holt
2626
0
0
1
½
0
1
0
1
0
x
1
0
4½
GM Timur Gareev
2677
½
0
0
½
½
½
1
0
½
0
x
½
4
GM Daniel Naroditsky
2730
0
0
0
0
½
0
½
½
0
1
½
x
3
www.uschess.org
29
Cover Story / 2015 U.S. Championships Krush said it was fitting to win on the same Sunday as Orthodox Easter. She was going to church nearly every day following her games. She goes so often that the local parishioners know her as the “chess player.” One service was 31⁄2 hours, mostly standing. “I see absolute harmony between what happened in my tournament and what happened on the calendar I’m living by,” Krush said. She said that on Good Friday, the day that Christians believe Jesus was crucified, she “suffered” and vomited both before and during the round. “I never forgot that the last day of the tournament is Easter. This day is a happy day, a day of victory for all believers. I had faith this day would see my resurrection.” Nemcova and Paikidze tied for second with 71⁄2/11 and both were pleased with the result. Nemcova said it was her first time qualifying for the Women’s World Championship (the top three finishers earned spots). Ni’s torrid finish included five wins and two draws in the final seven games; her fourth place equaled her best U.S. Women’s Championship. Sharevich finished fifth, giving the Webster team (Sharevich, Nemcova, Robson) a combined +10 score—14 wins against four losses in decisive games. Goletiani played in her first championship since 2012 and started fast before taking sixth. On the other side of the playing hall, the second half produced divergent storylines from two other Webster students, one past and one present. Current Webster Gorlok, GM Ray Robson, shook off a loss to Kamsky in round five to beat former teammate GM Wesley So in round six. After going more than 50 games without a loss, this was So’s second loss, and he would have two more to follow. One loss was to 14-year-old GM Sam Sevian, a young talent universally praised by his peers. So only carded one draw on the crosstable in the entire event, causing him
to rethink his strategy for future championships: “Next time I will play for two results.” It was the last of the four losses that created a stir both inside the playing hall and in online discussion forums. Chief Arbiter Tony Rich cited So for “taking notes” early in the round nine game versus Akobian, and followed through with his previous warning to forfeit him. For more on the ruling, and So’s new life away from college, see the sidebar. Robson won again in round seven to equal Nakamura on 5/7. Perhaps incited by this, Nakamura took yet another gamble as Black the following round. How do you top a King’s Indian and Dragon? How about a novelty in the Benoni!
I suggested this move in the commentary room before Troff played it, to try to get the knight to either f5, g4, or c4. But it is a bit too slow.
Gambling as Black
17. ... g4! 18. Ne3 Bxe3 19. Rxe3 Qg7 20. hxg4 Nxg4?
GM Kayden Troff (2634) GM Hikaru Nakamura (2881) 2015 U.S. Championship (9), St. Louis, Missouri, 04.09.2015 Notes by GM Benjamin Finegold.
14. ... g5 A novelty. Dutch Super-IM Benjamin Bok played 14. ... Nf6 in 2014 and drew. Hikaru’s move livens up the game and tries to prevent White from easily playing f4.
15. h3
The most testing move is 15. f4. Likely, Troff did not want to go into the complications that Hikaru had looked at, likely, in home analysis. 15. ... gxf4 16. gxf4 Ng6 17. Nc4 Bd4+ 18. Kh1 Nf6 is one interesting line, with a dynamic balance.
15. ... Qf6 16. Qh5?! Bh6!? A surprising move, with the idea of ... Qg7 and ... Nf6 kicking out the queen, followed by ... g5-g4 and Black has the initiative.
17. Nd1!?
Even stronger is 20. ... Nf6! 21. Qh1 Nfxg4 22. Re2 f5 when Black has the initiative.
21. Rc3?!
Hikaru thought 21. Re2 was best, and that White should be better. The rook is oddly placed on c3.
21. ... Ndf6 22. Qh1 Re5 23. Qf3?! A better try is 23. Nc4 Nxe4! (23. ... Rxe4 24. f3! Rxc4 25. Bxc4 is good for White.) 24. Nxe5 Qxe5 25. Bf4 Qd4 26.
2015 U.S. Women’s Championship Rating
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Score
GM Irina Krush
2553
x
0
½
1
½
1
1
½
1
1
1
1
8½
IM Nazi Paikidze
2349
1
x
1
½
½
½
½
½
½
½
1
1
7½
WGM Katerina Nemcova
2361
½
0
x
½
1
½
½
½
1
1
1
1
7½
WIM Viktorija Ni
2275
0
½
½
x
½
0
½
1
1
1
1
1
7
WGM Anna Sharevich
2372
½
½
0
½
x
1
1
0
½
½
1
1
6½
IM Rusudan Goletiani
2321
0
½
½
1
0
x
0
1
1
1
½
½
6
WGM Tatev Abrahamyan
2413
0
½
½
½
0
1
x
1
1
0
0
1
5½
WGM Sabina-Francesca Foisor
2331
½
½
½
0
1
0
0
x
1
1
½
½
5½
WGM Apurva Virkud
2239
0
½
0
0
½
0
0
0
x
½
1
1
3½
WIM Annie Wang
2278
0
½
0
0
½
0
1
0
½
x
1
0
3½
FM Alisa Melekhina
2321
0
0
0
0
0
½
1
½
0
0
x
½
2½
WFM Jennifer R. Yu
2278
0
0
0
0
0
½
0
½
0
1
½
x
2½
30 June 2015 | Chess Life
Cover Story / 2015 U.S. Championships Be3 Qxd5 27. Bg2 when both sides have chances, irrespective of the engine’s evaluation of 0.00!
23. ... Bd7
Hikaru highly criticized this move in the post-game press interview and added “White is winning after 24. Rb3.” Although the engines may not agree with that assessment (again, 0.00) we can see Hikaru was not happy with his play this game. The result, however, says otherwise!
24. Qd3? The losing move. White cannot afford to move all of his pieces away from his king!
24. ... Qh6 25. Bg2 An up and down Benoni has finally gone in Hikaru’s favor and he blows away Troff with a blistering attack.
PHOTO: LENNART OOTES, CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER OF SAINT LOUIS
25. ... Qh2+ 26. Kf1
26. ... Nxf2! Very accurately calculated by Hikaru.
27. Kxf2 Bh3 28. Qf1 No better is 28. Qf3 Ng4+ 29. Kf1 Qh1+ 30. Ke2 Qxg2+ 31. Qxg2 Bxg2.
28. ... Rxe4!! Hikaru said this was the key to the knight sacrifice. Now Black is winning due to the open white king and misplaced white pieces on the queenside.
29. Nxe4 Also losing for White is 29. Qh1 Ng4+! 30. Kf3 (30. Kf1? Qxh1 mate) 30. ... Bxg2+ 31. Qxg2 Ne5+ 32. Kf2 Re2+!.
GM Ray Robson took second place, a mere half-point behind Nakamura.
29. ... Nxe4+ 30. Ke3 Bxg2 31. Qf4 Nxc3 32. Qg5+ Kf8 33. bxc3 Re8+ 34. Kf2 The other tries allow nice mates: 34. Kd3 Bf1 mate; 34. Kf4 Re4+ 35. Kf5 Qh3+ 36. g4 Re5+ 37. Kf6 Re6+ 38. dxe6 Qxc3+ 39. Kf5 Qe5 mate.
34. ... Bh1+, White resigned. Nakamura would nurse that half-game lead into his direct encounter with Robson on the tournament’s second Saturday, round 10. Robson wanted to avoid a Berlin and decided the night before to play a sideline in the Four Knights Opening, which didn’t really surprise the former American scholastic prodigy. “Ray doesn’t normally play the Four Knights but fortunately growing up I played it a lot and I’m familiar with the structures,” Nakamura explained. He said that by this point in the event, his focus shifted from protection of rating points to winning the event. “I didn't see the point in going crazy,” he said about the static game. The tournament win was still a long way off. In the final round, Nakamura had the super-solid Onischuk, while Robson had the stylistically diametric GM Timur Gareev. In the championship, Gareev had already played the Schliemann Defense, Owen’s Defense, and the nameless 1. d4 d6 2. Nf3 h6?! It’s hard to even think of any opening where Black plays 2. ... h6. “Timur, with him, anything is possible,” Robson said going into the game. Gareev took white and played the (relatively mainstream) Veresov Attack, all the while Nakamura peeking at the game to see what he needed to do in his. “It seemed like right at the start, when I looked at Ray’s game, he was already better, or winning, or something,” Nakamura said.
The estimation was correct and Robson won without much fight. For Nakamura, his extra pawn on the b-file looked ready to produce a five-hour grind. Instead, Onischuk made life easy by walking into a fork and hung a rook. He smiled at his uncharacteristic blunder and then congratulated Nakamura. The champ now sits at four titles, one behind Kamsky and half way to Fischer. “It's fairly likely I’ll be back, but everything depends on the FIDE cycle and when the tournaments are,” Nakamura said of 2016. Robson said that this was his best tournament ever. “I would have liked to at least get into a playoff, but overall I can’t complain.” As for Krush, she will be back too, but her career is about to take a new trajectory. “You can expect me more in [an ambassador] role,” she said. “I’m not completely stepping away from chess, but the balance will shift somewhat.” She runs a chess school in New York City and also enjoys live commentary and serving as a special guest at large scholastic events. A few days after the tournament, she set up her first Facebook and Instagram account. Will she be as successful in business? “I think so. I love chess ... I really know it from A to Z. You operate on the principle of you do good to all people. The business is secondary to doing good.” Nakamura is definitely not taking a break in his career. His lifelong goal of competing for the world title is closer than at any previous point. At the closing ceremony of the 2014 World Championship, an announcement was made that the 2016 World Championship would be in the United States. Nakamura remained skeptical but said he’d welcome the event. “If I were to win the Candidates I’d want to play somewhere like New York probably, or maybe California actually since I’ve been out there quite a bit recently. For the most part, just getting there is the goal. As we saw with Magnus, it took him a long time just to get to the world championship match. There are a lot of hurdles, so if I get there, it’s not going to matter where I play.” For now, there’s that issue of where to spend the $45,000 first place prize. The tournament closed on April 14, one day before tax day. Nakamura said he’d use some to pay Uncle Sam. As for the rest, “I'll probably just invest it ... maybe I’ll go to a playoff hockey game.”
See much more about the Championships at the official site, uschesschamps.com, including photos and .pgn files for all the games, and FM Kostya Kavutskiy’s round-byround reports. See the April archives of Chess Life Online on uschess.org for additional reports from St. Louis. www.uschess.org
31
Shaka* and Schach
The inaugural Hawaii Chess Festival, held at idyllic Waikiki Beach and won by Armenian GM Hovhannes Gabuzyan, gave participants a taste of chess-playing paradise.
T
he life of a chess player is a strange one. We travel a lot, but the location is rarely a major factor in our equation. Neither is climate, food, or sometimes even local culture. If the tournament is good, that is where we go. World Cup in middle of nowhere Russia, in winter, with a 48 hour long trip there and back? Of course—where do I sign up? Small open tournament in sunny California? Eh, probably not going to that one.
Once in a while, however, the stars and the planets align, Caissa smiles upon us and organizes a strong, worthwhile event in paradise. This year this piece of heaven on Earth was known as the Hawaii Chess Festival. Chess in America is definitely getting stronger, both at the top level and at the scholastic. USA now has two top-10 players, a gold medalist from the past Olympiad, and the World Under-14 female champion. Nothing to scoff at! But these achievements
* The common Hawaiian hand gesture that can be used as a form of thanks, a greeting, or a goodbye. 32 June 2015 | Chess Life
don’t come out of nowhere; they come from the tournaments and events hosted around the nation, the training pits for strong players, the proving grounds for young talents and the opportunity for the community to get a taste of what real chess competition is. I had the pleasure of visiting Hawaii, specifically the island of O’ahu, late last year. The place was beyond my imagination, beautiful past any description I could conjure with simple words, and home of
PHOTO COURTESY OF HAWAII CHESS FESTIVAL
By GM ALEJANDRO RAMIREZ
Here and There / Hawaii Chess Festival
ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF HAWAII CHESS FESTIVAL
the best food I have tasted in my life. When I learned that there was going to be a tournament hosted in Waikiki Beach, there was simply no way I could miss it. As a chess player one has to make tough choices regarding travel and scheduling, and attending Hawaii meant skipping Cappelle-la-Grande and Reykjavik, but the rainy beaches of Dunkirk and the frigid temperatures of Iceland simply could not compare. The event in Hawaii was exactly that— a festival. There were several concurrent tournaments, including blitz sections, simultaneous exhibitions, a chess camp and lectures by grandmasters. It was more than just going to a tournament. The warmth of the locals, the players, the organizers ... it was like instantly clicking into a community. For me the festivities started when I arrived in Hawaii. A very delayed flight put me there an hour late for the VIP dinner. I came into the dinner party wearing my informal travel attire, with a suitcase in one hand and a travel pillow around my neck. I had a quick drink and joined the party. I saw some good old friends—GM Maurice Ashley who I’ve had the delight to do commentary with, WIM Sabrina Chevannes who is my best European friend by far (at least she is when I can understand her strange accent—she is from the United Kingdom) and GM Hou Yifan who should be everybody’s role model on how to be a superstar and still as humble as they come. And of course, the wonderful organizer Beau Mueller. Organizing an event of this magnitude is no easy task, and doing it for the first time in the remote island of O’ahu was even tougher. However, Beau managed to accommodate the players beautifully, the tournament ran without a single major hiccup and I can confidently say everyone was very pleased with ... well ... everything! After a few rounds of bughouse and catching up over a little mai tai, we called it an evening and got ourselves ready for the week to come. The first chess activity was Magic Island Day. For me, these types of activities,
At A Glance
along with the lectures, should be integral of any festival, and should be mandatory of any invited grandmasters that are getting hefty conditions to a tournament. It was a day to meet grandmasters, interact with them, play in a simultaneous exhibition (normal or blindfolded, as given by the one and only GM Timur Gareev!), learn from them ... to ask questions and gain knowledge that cannot be taught in books. We had the chance to explore Hawaii thanks to the incredible generosity of the local players and the planned activities from the organizers. Whale watching was very fun, and although only Sabrina and I got to see the whale, I think it is safe to assume that everyone had a fantastic leisurely time at sea. The main events of the festival were the Grandmaster Challenge and the Open section of the International. Without a doubt the Grandmaster Challenge was the most spectator friendly: GM Sam Shankland, GM Hou Yifan, GM Timur Gareev and IM Shinya Kojima battled it out in 12 bloody rounds. Shinya was chosen as the lucky winner from an auction made before the event to determine who would play in the tournament; the highest bidder declined, and the second place elected Kojima in his stead. The strongest player from Japan, he wasn’t going to be bullied around by the grandmasters. Their tournament was split in two; day one had six rounds (three of rapid and three of blitz). The second day of their tournament would be the finale of the festival. After day one Shankland led by a point, while Kojima trailed. Still, it was only the halfway point. The grandmasters took a couple of day’s rest while the International Open kicked off. The attendance of the event, to me, was the only disappointing part of the event. It is true that Hawaii is far away for most people, and overall it was an expensive tournament to go to, but with $5,000 for first prize, a beautiful chesscation, and wonderful playing conditions, it seemed that not enough players showed up. Besides myself, GMs Samy Shoker, Alex Shabalov and Niclas Huschenbeth came from the mainland. Gareev joined in
an attempt to take all the possible prize money in the tournament, but he was not so successful at it. Meanwhile the intrepid GMs Hovhannes Gabuzyan and Robert Aghasaryan traveled from distant Armenia for this event! This is definitely the Hawaiian warrior spirit, even if they were basically from as far away as possible from the tournament. I started off well, with 3/3 after beating Shoker. After this came one of the craziest days of chess I’ve ever had ... I kept waking up at some ungodly time (like 7 a.m., is that even a real hour? What is this “breakfast” thing you keep mentioning?). First to go hiking with Yifan and her family, the next to play the Hawaii Blitz. I guess the time difference was very real, a full five hours to my native Texas. The tournament was stacked: Shankland, Shoker, Huschenbeth ... a six-round double Swiss, so basically a marathon. Somehow I was the highest rated player in the event as my USCF blitz was well over 2800 (and still is, by some mathematical miracle). I lost to Shankland 1⁄2-11⁄2 but recovered with 2-0 wins against everyone else to tie for first. Not a bad way to start the day, and I followed it up with a nice win against Aghasaryan. Unfortunately for me, Gabuzyan showed me who is boss in round five of the main event (the Hawaii International Open), and he convincingly won the tournament. I was able to draw my last round and finished in some sort of tie for second. I would show you the game against Gabuzyan normally, because he beat me in a nice positional manner and punished all my mistakes, but I’ll show you my round four game instead because it’s my article:
English Opening (A14)
GM Alejandro Ramirez (2675) GM Robert Aghasaryan (2381) 04.16.2015 Notes by Ramirez This game was played after the blitz tournament, so it was definitely a long day of chess ... Continued on p. 36
Hawaii International Open
Date: March 14-22, 2015 | Location: Hilton Waikiki Beach Hotel, Honolulu, Hawaii | 108 players | Top Finishers: Open, 1st, 51⁄2: Hovhannes Gabuzyan; 2nd-4th, 41⁄2: Alejandro Ramirez, Samy Shoker, Robert Aghasaryan; 5th-7th, 4: Niclas Huschenbeth, Ryosuke Nanjo, Shinya Kojima; 8th-10th, 31⁄2: Nikolai Andrianov, Yogesh Gautam, Anthony F. Saidy; Amateur/Reserve, 1st, 51⁄2: Abir Sinha; 2nd, 5: Scott Kira; 3rd-5th, 41⁄2: Todd Imada, Heather Flewelling, Lorenzo Farinas, Jr.; 6th-9th, 4: Sharma Prachet, Neil Doknjas, Jonathan Jo Crowe, An Riccardo Tran; Novice, 1st, 6: Erwell Mari Dulay; 2nd, 5: Giorgio Tran; 3rd-4th, 41⁄2: Yang Xu, Robert Junyu Liu; 5th-10th, 4: Dylan Tucker, Kacy Kuniyoshi, Pe San, Joshua White, Shigemi Degawa, Dan Volosnikov. | Chief Tournament Director: Carol Jarecki.
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Here and There / Hawaii Chess Festival
IM Anthony Saidy interviews two-time women’s world champion Hou Yifan, who headlined the Hawaii Chess Festival. Hou Yifan participated in a whale watching expedition while at the festival.
34 June 2015 | Chess Life
PHOTO COURTESY OF HAWAII CHESS FESTIVAL
China Is Near
Here and There / Hawaii Chess Festival
Upon learning that Women’s World Champion Hou Yifan would appear at the Hawaii Chess Fest—in lieu of defending her title—this writer could not resist the chance to meet the young Chinese superstar and interview her in one of his favorite places. To players of my generation, China was a non-factor. China had its own form of chess, xiangqi, and its chessplayers were simply not seen internationally. But something was incubating there. Soviet masters visited, starting in the 1950s. The world sat up and took notice at the Buenos Aires Olympiad of 1978. There, an unknown Chinese player, Liu Wenzhe, checkmated Dutch GM Jon Hein Donner in under 20 moves. Then in 1991, Xie Jun won the women’s world crown, ending Georgian hegemony. Other Chinese women, Zhu Chen and Xu Yuhua, would later win the title, after FIDE’s unfortunate introduction of the knockout format, as well as Olympic gold. In 2014 the western state of denial about China’s chess excellence came to an end: China, for the first time, won the overall chess Olympiad. All was achieved by a cultivated elite in a country where chess lacks popularity. Methods are laid out in Liu’s book Chinese School of Chess. They are peculiar to China, but no one can argue with success. Hou Yifan was born in provincial Xinghua on February 27, 1994. The story goes that at age three she was so taken with some chess pieces in the window of a shop that her dad, a magistrate, bought them for her. She started regular play at six. At nine, GM Ye Jingchuan pronounced her an “exceptional genius.” That year the family, including her mom, a nurse, moved to Beijing to be near the National Chess Center. At 13 she was Chinese women’s champ. At 14 and a half she became the youngest-ever female to gain the overall grandmaster title and made the finals of the Women’s World Championship, losing out to Russia’s Alexandra Kosteniuk. At 16, in 2010, she became the youngest person ever to gain a world chess crown. The roulette-like vicissitudes of the knockout system, which culminates in rapid games, were brought home to Hou Yifan two years later, when she lost out in the
second round. Exercising her right to challenge Anna Ushenina of Ukraine, Hou regained the title in 2013 by a 51⁄2-11⁄2 match victory. After tying for third at Gibraltar this February short of her 21st birthday, Hou Yifan pushed her rating to 2686, around 65th in the world, just ahead of Judit Polgar. [This writer is no fan of the incessant comparison of ratings. Judit is 38 and has a much longer record of excellence at the very highest level.] Hou had a contract to come to Hawaii, and the Women’s World Championship in Sochi, Russia started without her. Was she eyeing bigger fish? At press time the final match was pending between Natalia Pogonina of Russia and Mariya Muzychuk of Ukraine. At the Hawaii Festival Hou took part in a quadrangular rapid/blitz tournament, leaving GMs Timur Gareev and Sam Shankland far behind. Armenia’s 19-year-old GM Hovannes Gabozyan dominated the Open tournament for a $5,000 prize. It had six other grandmasters among 108 participants. Conditions and hospitality under Hawaii Chess Federation President Beau Mueller were superb. The personable Hou Yifan was most gracious during the interview. She may admire Bobby Fischer as a player, but she is nothing like him. IM Anthony Saidy: Thanks for granting this interview to our readers. How did you learn to speak English so well? GM Yifan: I had a lot of practice from a young age, solving daily problems. I went to English school, got fundamental knowledge. How many years of English did you take? Not years, hours. [I was deeply impressed. Young Americans proficient in Chinese are rare.] Here's a question from our USCF president, Ruth Haring: If equal numbers of men and women played chess, would it level the playing field (equalizing strength)? I don’t really think so. The nature of man and woman is different. Woman is more sensitive and emotional. Women are more kind in facing an emergency. When you are in time pressure you must be calm, not nervous. Men can be more concentrated.
In Liu Wenzhe’s very interesting book Chinese School of Chess [Batsford, 2002] he says women are equal in tactics, but inferior in strategy. This is a theory book, not really practical; I can’t fully understand it. Yes, I think we are good in tactics, about strategy I am not 100 percent sure. Now a question from GM Yasser Seirawan, whom you know. What is your final ambition? To be in the top 10, or more? If you set any final goal, how can you go further? I should fight to be in top 10. That means the elite level, it means more than winning a tournament like Women’s Championship. Yes, I would like to play a match with Carlsen, of course, but I still have some distance to catch him, I’m looking forward. If I play him now, I have no hope to win. [He is more than four years her senior, and has defeated her in two classical games.] When you walk around Beijing, do people recognize you? In the national-team sports area, yes. Around the university, no. Many would recognize my name, it is better-known than my face. We don’t televise live games as in basketball. Chess is not that popular in China. In 1895 China suffered a catastrophic setback from the West. We developed our own games [like xiangqi, Chinese chess]. Only in the open policy from 1979-80 under Deng Tsiao-ping was international chess welcomed. [I showed her a decades-old minicomputer that plays xiangqi. The instructions in Chinese were over the reporter’s head. I offered it to Ms. Hou.] No, you keep it. It is very precious. How do you use computers for training? They can help you check opponent’s games, check accuracy of analysis, but classical books can help you with tactics, endgames, and intuition. What classical books have you read? Nimzowitsch? Not entirely. Tarrasch? Not really. Botvinnik? He’s in Russian, and I don’t understand Russian. Some books in Chinese, tactics,
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Here and There / Hawaii Chess Festival
endgames, New in Chess opening books. Books cannot be ignored.
Continued from p. 33
1. Nf3 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. g3 d5 4. Bg2 Be7 5. b3
[She is a known admirer of Fischer, and eagerly accepted some literature about him, but was not asked about his books.]
Now that Chinese players have won the Olympiad, and the women’s world championship, doesn’t the government increase funds for chess? I don’t feel that. That’s all I can say. Apart from chess, what plans do you have in life? After my bachelor’s degree, I will study for a master’s. I would like to use chess for international communication, diplomacy, gathering people together. Like Capablanca? Not so political. You defeated Judit Polgar when you were 17. Is that your only game with her? Yes. Do you think having children ends a woman’s chess career? That’s a key moment, but you can take off a few years and come back. GM Gata Kamsky gave up chess for 10 years. Maybe he lost some strength thereby. But he gained experiences and knowledge, also important for a chessplayer. Finally, what is your message to American girl players? You must have passion for chess. Girls have many interests, like fashion [Ms. Hou dresses quite fashionably]. You must not be forced to play chess. Have passion. Thanks, and all success to you in the future.
36 June 2015 | Chess Life
14. ... Qg4?! 14. ... Qd7 15. Rad1 Qc6+.
15. f3! Surprisingly we will see that White does have an initiative here.
How will chess be regarded in China in 20 years? With globalization, the whole world should be connected. Chess should be a universal language. Fischer, asked why the Soviet Union was best in chess, had a brief answer: “Money.” In Russia there is more basis for chess, politicians, business people, sponsors. In China, table tennis and other sports are more important.
Setting up Nd5, as the bishop on b2 is defended.
15. ... Qg6 16. f4! The point, f4-f5 is a real threat. The computer gives some weird moves here but the position is already unpleasant.
16. ... Rfe8 17. Nb5! These kind of set-ups are my favorite to play. If you want more info, buy my Reti DVD at uscfsales.com! Without any more shameless plugs, lets move on ...
5. ... c5 6. 0-0 0-0 7. e3 Nc6 8. Qe2 b6 9. Bb2 Bb7 10. Nc3 This position is surprisingly complicated, and I have been able to beat many strong players from this deceivingly simple structure. The potential hanging pawns structures for both sides are sometimes difficult to understand. I was hoping to catch my opponent in one of these, but it was not meant to be.
10. ... d4! This move in this precise moment is good.
11. exd4 Nxd4! Forced. 11. ... cxd4 12. Ne4 and your engine will tell you that Black is better, but it lies worse than any one in Wall Street. The structural weaknesses and obvious play for White means that unless you are playing Stockfish or Houdini, Black will find himself in a difficult situation rather soon.
The point. Nc7 is the obvious threat, but there is more than that.
17. ... Rad8 Attacking d3. White collects an extra pawn after 17. ... Rac8 18. Nxa7.
18. f5! Qg4 The line 18. ... exf5 19. Nc7 Bd6 20. Nxe8 Rxe8 21. Qf3 f4 22. Rae1 gives Black insufficient compensation for the lost Exchange.
19. Rf3 Apparently stronger was 19. Rae1, but I liked my solution.
19. ... Nh5 Threatening a little trick on f4. Thankfully I’m strong enough to see those things, as sunburnt as I was. 19. ... Bd6 was the only move to keep chances, but after 20. Nxd6 Rxd6 21. h3 Qg5 22. Re1 clearly things are going well for White.
20. Re1 Bf8
12. Nxd4 Bxg2 13. Kxg2 Qxd4 This is kind of the point, Black has no structural weaknesses and even the d4 advance would not bring White an advantage. 13. ... cxd4 14. Ne4 is slightly more pleasant for White, but should also be around equal.
14. d3
I saw the following winning sequence, and decided that it was better than taking the two rooks for the queen after Nxa7.
21. h3! 21. Nxa7 exf5 22. Qxe8 Rxe8 23. Rxe8 f4 24. Nc8! and White should still be better.
21. ... Qg5 22. Nc7! Re7 23. Bc1 What an awkward situation for the queen, it finds itself nearly trapped!
23. ... Qf6 24. fxe6 Qg6 25. exf7+ Rxf7 26. Nd5
For the “Grandmaster Challenge,” one lucky participant could play in a round robin event against GM Timur Gareev (left), GM Sam Shankland (second from left), and GM Hou Yifan (second from right). IM Shinya Kojima, far right, made up the foursome. International Arbiter Carol Jarecki is in the white jacket and next to her is Event Organizer Beau Mueller. I evaluated this position as nearly winning. Not only am I up a pawn, my knight on d5 is pretty monstrous.
26. ... Rxf3 27. Qxf3 Nf6 Simplifying my task, but honestly it was just torture from here on.
PHOTO COURTESY OF HAWAII CHESS FESTIVAL
28. Re6, Black resigned. The festival of course closed with a spectacular finale in the Grandmaster Challenge. Sam Shankland led by a point before the start of the day, but that changed quickly. The last six rounds had one dominant player: Hou Yifan. Hou Yifan is an interesting personality. She was the women’s world champion coming into the tournament (she was replaced by Mariya Muzychuk when the Ukrainian won the World Women’s Cham-
pionship knockout which Hou Yifan did not play due to her Hawaii commitment). She’s smart, well read, and she’s working on her English—which at times is still a little goofy. However you can tell she is a very sincere, down-to-earth person. It is not something I expected from a world champion who has millions of Weibo (Chinese Twitter) followers and is idolized by crowds (See sidebar “China Is Near.”). Sunday was her day. She scored a massive 51⁄2/6 (only drawing her last round) to finish with 9/12, 21⁄2 points (!) ahead of Timur Gareev. What a spectacle, and I had front row seats. Her determination and strength of play reminded me of the great grandmasters I have been able to see in Wijk aan Zee, the Olympiad and Linares/Morelia. The closing dinner was simply marvelous, and it was a perfect chance to say
goodbye to a tournament I could not get enough of. Despite the busy schedule, it really felt like paradise—in every sense, from the chess festivities to the weather to the beach to the fantastic food and the love of the locals. I tasted the best sushi I have had in my life thanks to the generosity of Hester Inouye and Lloyd Kawamura. I explored the most beautiful corners of O’ahu thanks to Damien Nash, and I got to learn about Hawaiian culture thanks to Beau Mueller and Guy Ontai. I had amazing Chinese food, Hawaiian food, Japanese food, I sunbathed, I saw a whale and snorkeled to see a sea turtle, I played against grandmasters, I laughed and I had a lot of fun. There is only one question that remains. Why weren’t you there, and what are you waiting for to sign up for the 2016 Hawaii Chess Festival? www.uschess.org
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March Mateness! At the President’s Cup, also known as the Final Four of College Chess, Webster University continues to dominate. By DYLAN MAC CLAIN s the teams gathered at the New York Athletic Club in Manhattan on the final weekend of March for the 2015 President’s Cup—the championship final of college chess—the question was whether the juggernaut from Webster University could be stopped. Webster had won the last two national
A
38 June 2015 | Chess Life
championships, though in last year’s final it was on the ropes in the final round against Texas Tech. Only a reversal of fortune on board four allowed Webster to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. This year, Webster was again ranked number one in the tournament, but the obstacles to winning another champi-
onship were greater than ever. Webster had lost two of its best players from its previous title runs. Wesley So, among the top 10 players in the world, had left Webster after his sophomore year to become a full-time professional. Georg Meier, the team’s number three player, had taken a semester off and was ineligible to compete.
The competition was also more formidable. Unlike in previous years, where a Cinderella team had made it to the final, this year, the four teams were all among the elite college chess programs. Between them, they fielded 17 grandmasters and five international masters in the competition. Al Lawrence, the director of the program at Texas Tech, had used a football analogy to describe what could happen. “It is anygiven-Sunday kind of thing,” he said. Of course, on any given Sunday, a favorite can get on a roll and bury the competition. That is what happened as Webster reeled off eight wins and yielded four draws, with no losses, to score 10 points, topping its previous record of 91⁄2 in 2013. (In the President’s Cup, which is named
after the trophy for the winners, but is also known as the Final Four because it usually takes place on the same weekend as the NCAA basketball championship. Total board scores are used to calculate the winner.) The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) took second with 51⁄2, Texas Tech was third with 41⁄2, and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), scored 4. Lawrence summed up the situation, at least as it related to Texas Tech’s perfor mance, in an e-mail after the event. “Both Webster and UTD are able to bring six world-class grandmasters to the Final Four. That’s just out of our league unless we find lightning in a bottle. The lightning just wasn’t there this weekend,” he wrote. Susan Polgar, the former women’s world champion who is Webster’s coach, not
only snagged her third straight championship for Webster, but also won her fifth straight title as a coach (she was the head of Texas Tech’s program when it won the President’s Cup in 2011 and 2012). In an e-mail afterwards, Polgar said that though the team had all but locked up first place before the last round matchup against Texas Tech, that was still the crucial round because the team wanted to surpass its score in 2013. She wrote, “It is very important for our students to achieve the goals they set for themselves.” The game that gave Webster its new record was the victory by its top board, Quang Liem Le over Yaroslav Zherebukh in the final round.
(see game next page)
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39
PHOTO: PAUL TRUONG
The 2015 President’s Cup champions, Webster University Gorloks (l-r, front row): GM Susan Polgar (coach), GM Andre Diamant, GM Quang Liem Le, GM Illya Nyzhnyk. (l-r back row): GM Vasif Durarbayli, GM Ray Robson, GM Fidel Corrales Jimenez.
College Chess / President’s Cup
4th place, University of Maryland, Baltimore County Retrievers (l-r): IM Levan “The Georgian Gangster” Bregadze, GM-elect Tanguy “The Belgium Butcher” Ringoir, GM Kore “The Indian Knight” Akshayraj, GM Niclas “The Dark Knight” Huschenbeth, Captain Right: IM Nazi “The Black Widow” Paikidze.
GM Quang Liem Le (2755, Webster University) GM Yaroslav Zherebukh (2728, Texas Tech) President’s Cup (3), New York, NY, 03.29.2015
tious, the bishop is better on e2 than on d3 where it might later become a target of a black knight on e5 or if Black pushes his c-pawn to c4. It is also important to control g4, which the bishop does from e2.
short, it has become another liability.
16. ... Ng6 17. Kh1 A useful move by White to prevent his knight from being pinned by Black playing ... Bd4.
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5
9. ... Re8?!
17. ... Qf6 18. Bd3 Bd7 19. Qc2 Rf8
With Texas Tech needing as many wins as possible, Zherebukh chose the Benoni Defense. Le wrote in an e-mail, “In my opinion, the Benoni is a very risky opening. Black always tries to complicate the game and get dynamic play, but often he just has a worse position.”
Black had other possibilities here, including 9. ... a6 or 9. ... Ne8. The rook also seems misplaced on e8 as often Black tries to push his pawn to f5, in which case the rook would be better on the ffile.
The rook’s return to f8 shows that the earlier move to e8 was not successful.
3. d5 e6 4. Nc3 exd5 5. cxd5 d6 6. Nf3 Also possible and more common moves were 6. e4 or 6. g3. Le chose a “quiet” line to avoid excessive complications. He said, “I wanted to play positionally for two results. The situation of my team was good, therefore, there was no need to take risks. I knew that my opponent needed to try for a win and hope for a miracle to happen (the only chance for Texas Tech to win the Final Four was to beat Webster 4-0 in the last round). So I decided just to play a normal game, not shying away from complications, but not playing too aggressively either.”
6. ... g6 7. Nd2 The Nimzowitsch or Knight’s Tour Variation.
7. ... Bg7 8. e4 O-O 9. Be2 Though this move does not look ambi-
40 June 2015 | Chess Life
20. Bd2 Ne7 21. Rab1 Rac8
10. O-O Na6 Black wants to bring the knight to c7 so that it can support a push of the bpawn. 10. ... a6 and 10. ... Nbd7 were other good possibilities.
11. f3 Nc7 12. a4 White wanted to stop Black from ever playing ... b5 to gain counterplay.
12. ... Nd7 13. Nc4 Ne5 14. Ne3 White does not want to trade pieces as that would make Black’s defensive task easier. In addition, the knight on e3 attacks the f5-square.
14. ... f5 For Black to have a chance to win, this pawn push had to happen sooner or later.
15. exf5 gxf5 16. f4 Black’s f-pawn is blocked and isolated. It also blocks his light-square bishop. In
Black would like to push his c-pawn to c4 so this move is intended to support that idea.
22. Nb5! Though Le could not single out one turning point in the game, he wrote of this move, “I was glad to find the positional idea 22. Nb5. Of course there were other plans, but I think this was a good practical decision because after the exchange of those knights, Black had some weaknesses to defend and White’s position got much
PHOTOS: TTU BY AL LAWRENCE; UMBC BY MIKE MORGAN, PAIKIDZE BY MARYLANA DEMOND
Modern Benoni Defense, Classical Variation (A79)
College Chess / President’s Cup easier to play.”
22. ... Nxb5 23. axb5 Qf7 23. ... c4 would not have worked because after 24. Bxc4 Bxb5, White would have 25. Bc3, and Black would lose material after 25. ... Bxc4 26. Bxf6 Bxf1 27. Bc3.
24. Bc4 Ra8 25. Qd3 Le patiently improves the position of his queen.
25. ... Kh8 26. b4 b6 27. Rfe1 Ng6 28. g3 Qf6 29. bxc5 bxc5 30. Rb3 Qd4 31. Qc2 Qe4+
with b6 is also very strong. If on move 31 my opponent had played 31. ... Rfe8 (instead of 31. ... Qe4+), then 32. Bc3 Qe4+ 33. Qxe4 fxe4 (33. ... Rxe4 34. Bxg7+ Kxg7 35. Ra1) 34. Bxg7+ Kxg7 and White would still have the move 35. b6!, winning the d6-pawn. This shows that Black was already in a very difficult position at this point.”
32. Qxe4 fxe4 33. b6 axb6 34. Rxb6 White wins a pawn and Black has no compensation for it.
34. ... Rfb8 35. Rxd6 Bh3 36. Ra6 Rxa6 37. Bxa6 Bd4 38.Bf1 Bxf1 39. Nxf1 Rd8 40. Rxe4 Rxd5 41. Ne3 Rd8 42. Nf5
Desperation.
47. Rh6+ Kg8 48. Rxh5 Rd1+ 49. Kg2 c4 50. Rg5+ Kf7 51. Rg7+ Ke6 52. Rc7 Kd5 53. Bf2, Black resigned. With the threat of Ne3, Black must lose his c-pawn, so he threw in the towel. In round two, Webster had annihilated Texas at Dallas, 31⁄2 to 1⁄2, despite Texas at Dallas’ effort to surprise Webster by putting one of its top-rated players, Valentin Iotov on board four. (Teams could move players around as long as they were within a few points of each other and the members of Texas at Dallas’ team were all about the same rating.) Webster’s Vasif Durarbayli had the task of playing Iotov, and he handled it well.
Grünfeld Defense (D90)
GM Valentin Iotov (2590, UT Dallas) GM Vasif Durarbayli (2676, Webster University) President’s Cup (2), New York, NY, 03.28.2015 Notes by Durarbayli Le wrote, “Yes, initially I wanted to double my rooks on the a-file to attack the a7-pawn. But with the queen exchange on e4 in the game, I did not have enough time to execute this plan because my opponent would have a counterattack on b5. Fortunately, the idea to break through
Despite the reduced material, White’s edge is overwhelming.
42. ... Bb2 43. Be3 Ba3 44. Re6 Nf8 45. Rc6 Rd5 46. g4 h5
Before the Final Four, we considered UTD as our main opponent. We prepared against them but they surprised us. We did not expect that Iotov would play on the fourth board. Before the game, I decided to play the Grünfeld though it is not my main opening.
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 d5 4. Nf3 Bg7 5. h4
3rd place, Texas Tech Knight Raiders (l-r): GM Yaro Zherebukh, IM Andrey Gorovets, Texas Tech University President Duane Nellis, GM Samy Shoker, GM Elshan Moradiabadi, WGM Carla Heredia Serrano.
www.uschess.org
41
College Chess / President’s Cup
2nd place, University of Texas at Dallas Comets (back row l-r): GM-elect Denis Kadric, GM David Berczes, GM Leonid Kritz. (front row l-r): GM Valentin Iotov, GM Giorgi Margvelashvili, GM Conrad Holt.
Iotov had never played 5. h4 before. His idea was to avoid my preparation and he did. I did not remember anything after this.
Nxc3 12. bxc3 Na6
5. ... c6
13. Be2 Nc7 14. Qb1?
I wanted my knight on the d5-square, which is the best place for it.
The idea of 5. ... dxc4!? is a much more complicated line as in 6. e4 c5 7. d5 0-0 8. Bxc4 b5 9. Bxb5 Nxe4 10. Nxe4 Qa5+ 11. Nc3 Bxc3+ 12. bxc3 Qxb5 13. h5 Qc4 14. Rh4 Qxc3+ 15. Bd2 Qd3 16. hxg6 fxg6 17. Bh6 Qxd1+ 18. Rxd1 Re8, which is close to equal, as in Mamedyarov-Giri, Beijing, 2013. I was trying to play it safe.
White is trying to create an attack against Black’s king, otherwise Black’s pawns on the queenside will move forward. But White does not have enough resources to succeed.
21. ... gxf4 22. Bxd5 Qxd5 23. Bxf4 b4 24. Qc1 Kh7 25. Qc2+
During the game I thought, “Why should not I not take the pawn and then just defend it?” It was maybe not a great idea, but it worked out well. In GrischukCarlsen (London 2013) the game continued: 6. ... 0-0 7. Bxf6 Bxf6 8. h5 Bf5 9. e3 e6 10. hxg6 Bxg6 11. Bd3 Nd7 12. Qe2 e5 13. Bxg6 hxg6 14. dxe5 Nxe5 15. cxd5 cxd5 16. Rd1 Qa5 17. Kf1 Rad8 18. Nd4 Qc5 19. Nb3 Qc6 20. Na5 Qc7 21. Nb3 Qc6 22. Na5 Qc7 23. Nb3 Qc6, Draw agreed.
7. e4 b5 8. e5 Nd5 9. h5 h6 10. Bd2 g5 11. a4
42 June 2015 | Chess Life
Iotov did not want to allow my bishop on the b1-h7 diagonal, but he missed the ... Bg4 move and after this White can not castle. It would have been better to continue 14. 0-0 Bf5 15. axb5 cxb5 16. Nh2 Nd5 17. f4 gxf4 18. Qe1 0-0 19. Bxf4, and the position would have been unclear.
14. ... Bg4 15. Bd1 Qd7 16. Bc2 a5! 17. Nh2 Be6 18. 0-0 Nd5 19. Be4 0-0 20. axb5 cxb5 21. f4
25. ... f5! An unexpected and strong move that allows the en passant capture with check.
26. exf6+ e.p. Bf5 27. Qd2 Bxf6 28. Nf3 Rg8 29. Rf2 Be4 30. Ne5 Raf8 31. Ng6 Bxg6 32. hxg6+ Rxg6 33. Be5 bxc3 34. Qc2
PHOTO: COURTESY OF UTD
6. Bg5 dxc4
College Chess / President’s Cup After 8. 0-0 a6 9. Be2 (9. Ba4 b5 10. Bb3 Na5 with the idea 11. ... Nxb3 and 12. ... Bb7 would be fine for Black) 9. ... ... d6 and ... f7-f5 is coming.
8. ... d5
34. ... Bxe5! A combination to end the game in style.
35. Rxf8 Bxd4+ 36. Kf1 Qh5 37. Qe4 Qh1+ 38. Ke2 Qxg2+ 39. Qxg2 Rxg2+, White resigned. If 40. Kf3 Rf2+ 41. Ke4 Rxf8, and Black has too many pawns. Texas at Dallas’ rough start was a surprise. According to Jim Stallings, the program’s long-time director, the team knew that it would be a difficult tournament, but they thought they had a reasonable chance to win it before it began. But, after round two, the team “held the not-so-coveted sole possession of fourth place,” as Stallings wrote in an e-mail. The only way to secure second place was to beat UMBC soundly and hope that Webster took care of Texas Tech. In fact, that was what happened. Texas at Dallas’ win was fueled by two decisive victories: Leonid Kritz over Tanguy Ringoir, and Conrad Holt, Texas at Dallas’ top performer over the weekend with 21⁄2 points out of a possible 3, who beat Kore Akshayraj. After six years of eligibility, it was Kritz’s swan song as a college player, and he capped his career with a brilliant victory.
This move is best because it equalizes immediately.
9. O-O-O If 9. exd5 Nxd5 and Black has good play everywhere. For example, 10. Nxc6 bxc6 11. Nxd5 cxb5 12. 0-0-0 c6 13. Nb4 Qf6.
Or, 10. Nxc6 bxc6 11. Bxc6 Nxe3 12. Qxe3 (12. Bxa8 Qxd2+ 13. Kxd2 Nc4+ 14. Ke1 Nxb2) 12. ... Rb8. Or, 10. Nxd5 Qxd5 11. Nxc6 (11. Bxc6 bxc6 12. 0-0 c5) 11. ... Qxb5 12. Ne7+ Kh8 13. Nxc8 Qxb2.
This came as a surprise—during preparation I considered only 3. ... g6.
I think Black should have no problems here. He has two ideas, one is to play ... d7-d5, and another is to play ... f7-f5, possibly after some preparation.
8. Qd2
Two Sigma heard about the President’s Cup through Erik Anderson, the head of WestRiver Management, a private investment company. Anderson also is a co-founder of America’s Foundation for Chess, which has become one of the country’s largest providers of in-class chess curriculum. Anger said that once the people at Two Sigma heard about it, sponsoring the President’s Cup made a lot of sense. He said, “We have a lot of passionate chess players” at the company, which has 750 employees. There is even an annual internal chess tournament which usually attracts about 40 competitors.
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nge7
V4. ... exd4 5. Nxd4 g6 6. Nc3 Bg7 7. Be3 O-O
It was Herman who was able to get the elegant and prestigious New York Athletic Club on Manhattan’s Central Park South for the venue in 2014 and he did it again this year.
Evan Anger, the company’s head of recruitment, said in an interview that the decision to support the President’s Cup was unusual. “To be honest, it is probably not the kind of opportunity that we would have thought of,” he said.
Ruy Lopez (C60)
This is too simple. Better are the main lines with 4. c3 or 4. 0-0 and c2-c3 later.
Chess competitions are always looking for corporate support, and that is true of the President’s Cup as well. Since 2011, Booz Allen Hamilton has not only been the sponsor, but also the organizer of the event. Michael E. Hoffpauir, one of the firm’s principals, who also is a national tournament director, has run the tournament for the last five years, while Mark Herman, a senior executive, has been responsible for most of the logistics.
This year, the President’s Cup picked up a second sponsor—Two Sigma, a New York City-based investment company that uses technology algorithms to make decisions about how to manage $25 billion in assets.
GM Leonid Kritz (2626, University of Texas-Dallas) GM-elect Tanguy Ringoir (2607, University of Maryland, BC) President’s Cup (3), New York, NY, 03.29.2015 Notes by Kritz.
4. d4
Sponsors
Another interesting continuation was 9. Bxc6. For example, 9. ... bxc6 10. Bh6 Bxh6 11. Qxh6 c5 (11. ... dxe4 12. 0-0-0) 12. Nb3 Rb8 13. 0-0-0 c4 14. Nd4 c6. Or, 9. Bxc6 bxc6 10. Bh6 Bxh6 11. Qxh6 c5 12. Nf3 f6 13. exd5 g5 (a cool idea!) 14. 00-0 Nf5 15. Qh3 (15. Qh5 Ng7 16. Qh6 Bg4) 15. ... Ne3 16. Qg3 Nf5 17. Qh3, etc. Positions in this line are pretty complicated and entail risk for both sides. I
While Two Sigma does not expect that any of the players in the final will one day work for the company, it is possible, because “a background in finance is not necessary.” Instead, the company seeks out people who have an interest in science and mathematics—which chess players often do. Mr. Anger said that Two Sigma only committed to be a sponsor for 2015, but that the door was open to continue. “As long as the organization that we are involved with maintains our values, our focus is that it would be a long-term relationship,” Anger said.
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43
College Chess / President’s Cup 17. Nxe4 Nxd6 18. Nf6+ Kh8 19. h5
wanted to avoid risk and preferred to play an equal endgame knowing that my opponent feels much more comfortable in complication positions.
9. ... Nxd4 10. Bxd4 c6 This gives White additional chances. Actually, the position becomes “playable” —Black missed the chance to fully equalize with 10. ... dxe4. This was the most unpleasant move because the endgame is very close to being drawn, though White would still have some advantage after 11. Bxg7 Qxd2+ 12. Rxd2 Kxg7 13. Nxe4 a6 14. Bd7 b6 15. Re1 Bb7.
11. Bxg7 Kxg7 12. Qd4+ Kg8 13. Be2 Also interesting was 13. Bc4, but I didn’t see how Black was going to get an acceptable position after Be2.
16. ... Nf5 Apparently straightforward, but now Black loses by force. Another option was16. ... Rd8, but after 17. Rxe6 fxe6 18. Qxe6+ Kf8 19. Qf6+ Ke8 20. Bc4 Nd5 (20. ... Rd6 21. Qf7+ Kd7 22. Nxe4) 21.
13. ... Be6 14. h4
14. ... dxe4 Risky is 14. ... h5 15. g4 dxe4 16. Qe5 Nd5 17. Nxd5 cxd5 18. gxh5.
20. Nd7+ f6 21. Qxe6 Qc7
15. Qe5
Or, 21. ... Qe8 22. Qxd6 Rf7 23. Bg4 Rd8 24. Rd1, and White’s advantage is clear.
This is the point—White plays on black squares, in particular now Nxe4-Nf6(+) is a very dangerous threat.
22. Nxf8 Rxf8 23. Rd1 Ne8
15. ... Qb8
16. Rd6 (see diagram top of next column) Black’s position has become more and more dangerous. There is only one move that can save Black from immediate loss, but it is not easy to find.
At A Glance
19. ... g5 Black’s situation is already dire. For example, 19. ... Nf5 20. hxg6 h6 21. Rxh6+ Nxh6 (21. ... Kg7 22. Rh7+ Kxg6 23. Bh5+ Kg5 24. Ne4+ Kh4 25. Qf6 mate) 22. g7+ Kxg7 23. Qg5+ Kh8 24. Qxh6 mate. Or, 19. ... Ne8 20. hxg6 Nxf6 21.Qxf6+ Kg8 22. gxh7 mate.
Another interesting idea was 14. Qf6, but after 14. ... Nc8 15. Qxd8 Rxd8 16. exd5 cxd5 17. Bf3 Ne7, Black should be able to hold it.
I think this was the best defense. Instead, 15. ... Nd5 16. Nxe4 Qb8 17. Rxd5 Bxd5 18. Nf6+ Kh8 19. Qd4 (19. Qc3 Qf4+ 20. Kb1 Rae8 21. Nxd5+ [White nets a pawn after 21. Nxe8+ f6 22. Nxf6 Qxf6 23. Qxf6+ Rxf6 24. f3] 21. ... Qe5 22. Qxe5+ Rxe5 23. Ne3 f5 is much better for White) 19. ... c5 20. Qd2 Be6 21. Qh6 and it is all over.
The inclusion of this move is crucial. All the same variations with the pawn on h4 result in an almost equal endgame.
No better is 23. ... Re8 24. Qxf6+ Qg7 25. Qxd6 Rxe2 26. Qd8+ Qg8 27. Qf6+ Qg7 28. Rd8+. Or, 23. ... Nc8 24. Rd7 Qf4+ 25. Kd1 Qxf2 26. Qe4. Nxd5 Rxd5 (21. ... cxd5 22. Bb5+) 22. Bxd5 cxd5 23. h5, Black would also be losing. It was not obvious, but the only way for Black to stay in the game was 16. ... Re8. Then 17. h5 Bd5 18. hxg6 (18. h6 Nf5!) 18. ... Nxg6 19. Qh2, when White would have a solid advantage, but at least Black is not losing immediately. Note that in this line, 16. ... Re8 17. h5, Black would lose after 17. ... Nf5 18. hxg6 fxg6 (18. ... Qxd6 19. gxh7+ Kf8 20. Qf6) 19. Nxe4 Nxd6 20. Nf6+ Kf8 21. Rxh7, and there is no defense against Nd7(+)-Qh8 mate.
24. Rd7 Qe5 25. Qxe5 fxe5 26. h6 Now the rook cannot leave f8 because of Rd8.
26. ... e4 26. ... Rxf2 27. Rd8 Rf8 28. Bh5.
27. Rd8, Black resigned. The threat is Bh5 or 27. ... Kg8 28. Bc4+ Kh8 29. Bf7. See more games and photos at www.uschess.org/content/view/13006/806/.
Final Four of College Chess
Date: March 28-29, 2015 | Location: New York Athletic Club, New York, New York | 22 players, 4 teams | Top Finishers: 1st, 10: Webster University (Quang Liem Le, Ray Robson, Illia I. Nyzhnyk, Vasif Durarbayli, Fidel Corrales Jimenez, Andre Diamant; 2nd, 51⁄2: University of Texas at Dallas (Giorgi Margvelashvili, Leonid Kritz, Conrad Holt, Denis Kadric, Valentin L. Iotov, David Berczes); 3rd, 41⁄2: Texas Tech University (Yaroslav Zherebukh, Elshan Moradiabadi, Andrey Gorovets, Samy Shoker, Carla Heredia); 4th, 4: University of Maryland Baltimore County (Niclas Huschenbeth, Tanguy Ringoir, Kore Akshayraj, Levan Bregadze, Nazi Paikidze). | Chief Tournament Director: Mike E. Hoffpauir.
44 June 2015 | Chess Life
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Solitaire Chess / Instruction
Perfection In this U.S. Championship issue, we take a look back just over 50 years ago at a historic game from the 1963 U.S. Championship. By BRUCE PANDOLFINI
FROM MORPHY TO PILLSBURY TO MARshall to Reshevsky to Nakamura, the U.S. Championship has showcased some of the game’s greatest players and performances. Perhaps no performance was greater than Bobby Fischer’s perfect sweep (11-0) of the 1963-64 event. Fischer had already won his first nine games when in the tenth round he faced world class grandmaster Pal Benko (Black). In what turned out to be a most memorable encounter indeed, Fischer wasted no time in dispensing with his elite opponent. That historic game began:
Pirc Defense (B09)
Robert J. Fischer Pal Benko U.S. Championship 1963-64 (10), New York, 12.30.1963
1. e4 g6 2. d4 Bg7 3. Nc3 d6
Fischer plays for a version of the Austrian Attack. Accept full credit for playing 4. Nf3, 4. Be3, 4. Bg5, 4. f3, 4. Be2, 4. Bc4, or even 4. g3. White’s front of three straight pawns looks formidable. As a counter, Black says not so fast. Advance too quickly and I will target those pawns and surrounding squares for potential weaknesses. Let’s see how the argument proceeds.
4.
5.
46 June 2015 | Chess Life
Nf3
Par Score 5
In turn, Fischer develops his kingknight, which also strengthens his d-pawn while influencing the square e5.
5.
…
0-0
Benko castles, so he should be OK (?). **
6.
Bd3
Par Score 5
White prepares kingside castling and also fortifies his e-pawn. As a rule, if you have such a central pawn array, it makes sense to bolster it against future attacks.
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 awarded for second-best moves, and there may be bonus points—or deductions—for other moves and variations. Note that ** means that White’s move is on the next line.**
f4
Nf6
Black develops normally and prepares kingside castling.**
6.
4.
…
Par Score 5
…
Bg4
Was this a questionable decision? By pinning the f3-knight, Benko is really assailing the d4-pawn. But it also implies ceding the two bishops, and such a force can be quite a weapon in Fischer’s hands. These days, a lot of strong players try 6. ... Na6 instead, with the idea of following with ... c7-c5.**
7.
h3
Par Score 5
Fischer wastes no time clearing the air. He wants the two bishops and fast. Accept only 3 points part credit for 7. Be3.
7.
…
Bxf3
Once you start down a path, sometimes you can’t go back. Like here.**
8.
Qxf3
Par Score 5
Accept only 3 points part credit for 8. gxf3. It opens the g-file, which doesn’t
mean much here, while doubling pawns unnecessarily. Besides, taking back on f3 with the queen is a perfectly normal developing move.
8.
…
Nc6
Benko opts for direct attack against the d-pawn. But 8. ... Na6 was still worthy of consideration, since it would have been terribly unlikely that Fischer would have surrendered his two-bishop edge so soon just to inflict doubled a-pawns.**
9.
Be3
Par Score 5
A solid developing move that also safeguards the center. Meanwhile, Fischer now has the option of castling queenside.
9.
…
e5
A fateful decision, but what else was there? In playing for central counterplay, Benko allows Fischer to instill a certain kind of character on the position, and it’s going to favor Bobby.**
10.
dxe5
Par Score 5
Step one: Fischer trades off his attacked d-pawn. Receive only 3 points part credit for 10. fxe5, which after 10. ... dxe5 11. d5 meets up with 11. ... Nd4, and Black is alive and kicking.
10.
…
dxe5
What else? Black has to take back.**
11.
f5
Par Score 6
The nice move ensures that Fischer will be in control of the f-file’s opening. And he has other possibilities too, such as a kingside pawn storm beginning with a subsequent g2-g4.
11.
…
gxf5
Perhaps fearful of a kingside avalanche, Benko accepts what he deems to be the lesser of two evils. But his kingside does look ripe for invasion.**
12.
Qxf5
Par Score 6
By taking back with the queen, White
Solitaire Chess / Instruction
Problem I
ABCs of Chess
Problem II
Mating Net
Problem III
Obstruction
Discovered Defense
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.
June Exercise: The world has changed, and so has chess evaluation. Do this. Play through a batch of games played and/or annotated by a famous grandmaster prior to 1950. Undoubtedly, you will encounter many wonderful and nice moves, making for memorable instruction. Then do this. Input the same moves into a decent contemporary analytic engine. Voilà! Don’t be surprised if the computer disagrees with a significant percentage of the great player’s moves and advice. It’s okay to be shocked, however, if the computer goes on to say: “If I have seen further than others it’s because I’ve stood on the shoulders of giants.” keeps the f-file clear for his major pieces. Accept only 3 points part credit for 12. exf5. After it, the center opens a bit more, and White’s king is still uncastled.
12.
…
Nd4
Black would have played this move against 12. exf5 as well.**
13.
Qf2
Par Score 5
The white queen is actually well placed here. From f2 it defends the second rank and also remains poised for kingside operations.
13.
…
Ne8
A questionable decision. One of its biggest problems is that it abandons control of h5, but we’re not there yet.**
14.
0-0
Par Score 5
Accept full credit for 14. 0-0-0. This decision would lead to slightly different play, but it also has its merits. Fischer liked his chances along the open f-file, however, so kingside castling makes a lot of sense.
14.
…
Nd6
From d6, the knight supports f7, guards c4 against a bishop placement, and also upholds a possible ... f7-f5 advance. But it has a drawback too in that the square h5 is harder to defend.**
15.
Qg3
Par Score 6
Fischer zeroes in on Black’s weakened position. The possibility of a future Be3h6 now looms on the horizon.
Problem IV
Mating Net
15.
…
Problem V
Problem VI
Fork
Mating Net
Kh8
18.
exd4
…
Black moves his king to the corner, getting it off the g-file. Emanuel Lasker chafed at such moves, in that it often meant a lost tempo in the endgame, when one tries to bring the king back to the center. But this game isn’t going to reach the endgame. It has risk attached to it, but perhaps Black should have tried 15. ... f5.**
A brilliant obstruction. Give yourself 2 bonus points if you rejected 19. e5?, when 19. ... f5! saves the day, since 20. Qxe8 can be met by 20. ... Nxe8.
16.
19.
Qg4
Par Score 6
Step by step, Fischer heads to the promise land.
16.
…
c6
This keeps the white knight out of d5, but it doesn’t dissuade Fischer from his goal. Indeed, it’s hard to see what else Black could reasonably try, since 16. ... f5 could have been met by the simple 17. e4xf5 (1 bonus point).**
17.
Qh5
Par Score 6
It reminds us of a famous quote by Nimzowitsch (though in a radically different position): “The queen is well placed here.”
17.
…
Qe8
Now we see Black’s idea. Black hopes to move his f-pawn (a defensive discovered attack) and offer a queen trade at the appropriate moment.**
18.
Bxd4
Par Score 6
Fischer continues with his plan, leading to the opening of the d3-h7 diagonal.
If you’re captured, you usually have to capture back.
19.
Rf6!
Par Score 8
Kg8
…
Ah, Lasker’s advice comes back to haunt Black, though Black’s king is not coming back to the center for the endgame. No, now it’s fleeing for its very life. Nevertheless, it can run, but it can’t hide. Accept 1 bonus point if you planned to answer 19. ... Bxf6 by 20. e5, with mate hanging at h7.**
20.
e5
Par Score 6
Here come the guys. For those not yet awake, the threat is 21. Qxh7 mate.
20.
h6
…
This helps for now, but it doesn’t help for later. Nothing does.**
21.
Ne2
Par Score 6
Give yourself 1 bonus point if you realized that moving the knight to safety (say 21. ... Nb5) allows 22. Qf5. Give yourself 1 bonus point more if you analyzed 21. ... Bxf6 22. Qxh6, with mate to follow. So ...
21.
…
Black resigned. See score box in Solutions, page 71.
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47
The Practical Endgame / Instruction
Ego Trip Naroditsky had a brutal experience at the 2015 U.S. Championship, but here is an example of what went right. By GM DANIEL NARODITSKY
BOASTING A WORLD-CLASS FIELD, THE 2015 U.S. Championship produced 11 rounds of high-quality, fighting chess and left spectators on the edge of their seats. Coming off sensational victories in Gibraltar and London, GM Hikaru Nakamura was his typical unstoppable self, starting with two wins and never looking back. In the Women’s Championship, GM Irina Krush reaffirmed her total domination over American women’s chess and finished a full point ahead of her nearest pursuer. Unfortunately, the championship was a brutal event for me. After losing the first two games, I completely lost my footing and finished in last place with 21⁄2/11, dropping more than 20 rating points in the process. A disappointment, but I will learn from my mistakes and definitely come away stronger. An event of this caliber always produces a litany of fascinating endgame battles. It is a real shame that we must limit ourselves to one. And I must admit, ego simply got the better of me this time!
to liquidate into a rather unusual ending. White’s material advantage should be decisive, but it is remarkably difficult to make progress. In order to untangle himself, White must find a way to eliminate the c3-pawn. To this end, my first inclination was to play 40. f3, intending an eventual Bf2-e1. However, following 40. ... a4 41. Bf2 Kb8! Black threatens the highly problematic ... Na7-b5, essentially forcing 42. Be1. After 42. ... Nxd4 43. Bxc3 Nxf3 Black gains a pawn for the Exchange and keeps his fortress alive. Not impressive. With only a few minutes remaining, my eye was suddenly drawn to an improbable geometric construction: if White can clear the third rank while keeping the d4-pawn defended, there is nothing to stop the rook from picking up the c3-pawn!
At this point, Conrad settled into a deep think. There is obviously plenty to ponder. Given only a few moves, White will snag the c3-pawn, move his rook back to g3, and slowly wear down Black’s outwardly impregnable fortress. Clearly perturbed by the turn of events, my opponent simply loses the thread.
41. ... Kd8?! A clear step in the wrong direction, and a precursor to the calamitous blunder on the next move. To generate counterplay, Black had to prepare the aforementioned … Na7-b5 maneuver, and 41. ... Kb8! was the right way to do it. After 42. Rg3 Na7 43. Rxc3 Nb5 44. Rg3 Kb7 a fascinating position arises.
40. f4!
Halting Holt
GM Daniel Naroditsky (2730) GM Conrad Holt (2626) 2015 U.S. Championship (9), St. Louis, Missouri, 04.10.2015
ANALYSIS DIAGRAM
My only success of the tournament came in round nine, against GM Conrad Holt. After gaining the upper hand in a sharp French, I won an Exchange and managed
Amazingly, the absence of the c3-pawn does not make White’s job any easier. There is simply no way to make inroads without giving back at least a pawn. White must choose between several equally tempting options: A. 45. Be1?! gives up the wrong pawn. After 45. ... Nxd4 46. Rg2 Kc6 Black has excellent drawing chances. B. 45. c3!? is a worthy try, but it seems to fall just short: 45. ... Nxa3 46. Kb2 Nb5 47. Be1 Kb6 and I can’t see any compelling way to make inroads. For instance, 48. Rg8 a3+ 49. Ka2 Kc6 and White’s bishop is perpetually tied down to the c3-pawn, rendering Black’s fortress completely impenetrable.
There is still room for creativity in the endgame. Needless to mention, f2-f4 is a decidedly anti-positional move, but it is the only way to generate tangible winning chances. As usual, concrete calculation trumps general reasoning.
40. ... a4!
48 June 2015 | Chess Life
Conrad maintains his composure, finding the only way to retain drawing chances. By immobilizing the a3-pawn, Black ensures that a future knight maneuver to b5 will come with far greater effect.
41. Bf2
The Practical Endgame / Instruction
Practically perfect Each month GM Naroditsky will present two problems taken from actual games that illustrate the theme of this month’s column. Your task is to find the best line of play. Problem I should be solveable by a player at roughly a 1500 rating and Problem II by a player roughly at a 2000 rating.
Problem I: 1500 Level
Problem II: 2000 Level
GM Gata Kamsky (2762) GM Conrad Holt (2626) 2015 U.S. Championship (7)
Apurva Virkud (2239) GM Irina Krush (2549) 2015 U.S. Women’s Championship (4)
WHITE TO MOVE
BLACK TO MOVE
See the solutions on page 71.
C. 45. Kb2! is definitely the way to go, although it is hard to say whether White’s position is winning. After the semi-forced sequence 45. ... c3+ 46. Kc1 Be4 47. Be1 Nxd4 48. Rg7+ Ka6 49. Bxc3 Nxc2 50. Rf7 White’s pieces reach peak activity and f4-f5 becomes a deadly threat.
overwhelming material advantage does not turn out to be decisive.
42. Rg3 Na7? The right idea, but a flawed execution. As it turns out, the position of Black’s king on d8 will lead to his instant demise. It was not too late to get back on the right track with 42. ... Kc7! 43. Rxc3 Na7.
48. Ba5 Bg6 49. c3 Permanently locking up the queenside, and ending Black’s hopes for counterplay once and for all.
49. ... Na7 50. Bd8
43. Be1!
Even still, the game is far from over. Black reinforces the f5-square with 50. ... Ne3, and following 51. Bd4 Nc4 52. Ra7+ (52. f5, tempting as it looks, falls short after 52. ... Bxf5 and 53. Rxf5?? no longer works) 52. ... Kb5 53. Rb7+ Kc6! 54. Rb4 Nxa3 55. Rxa4 Nc4 ...
This move came as a shock to Conrad, who was undoubtedly expecting 43. Rxc3. Instead, White abruptly shifts gears, choosing to capture on c3 with the bishop.
43. ... Nb5 44. Bxc3 Only now does everything become clear. With the king on b8, White’s concept would have been ludicrous, but as it stands, the a3-pawn is untouchable on account of Ba5+! In an attempt to improve the position of his king, Black unintentionally corrupted the drawing mechanism by removing its key component.
44. ... Ke8
I would probably rate Black’s drawing chances as slightly higher than White’s winning chances. The torture will go on forever, but I cannot see a compelling plan to make progress. Amazing. It is very rare that such an
A sad necessity, but the damage is already done. With the bishop on c3, White has all the time in the world to lock up the queenside and penetrate.
45. Kb2 Kf7 46. Rg2 Be4 47. Rd2 Bf5 Black is consigned to passivity, since 47. ... Kg6 48. Bb4 Kf5 would only accelerate the inevitable after 49. c3! Kxf4 50. Rf2+ Bf3 51. Rh2 with Rh7 to follow.
The last finesse. The bishop is transferred to an ideal square on f6, where it will restrict the knight and pave the way for the rook.
50. ... Nc6 51. Bf6 Be4 52. Rh2 Ke8 53. Rh8+ Kd7 54. Rg8 Kc7 55. Rg7+ Kb6 56. Be7 Bf5 Of course, 56. ... Nxe7 57. Rxe7 Bf5 offered no hope: White wins in rather comical fashion by bringing his king to f6 and taking on e6.
57. Bc5+ Ka6 58. Rf7! Threatening Rxf5 followed by e6.
58. ... Bg4 59. Kc2, Black resigned. The immediate 59. f5 won faster, but —seeing as how I was not exactly in top form—I decided to play it safe by bringing my king over. A practical endgame in the purest sense. From the outset, both players faced concrete challenges that have little to do with theoretical knowledge or general understanding. Imagination, precise calculation, tenacity—these are the central attributes of a modern endgame player!
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49
2015 Trophies Plus Grand Prix Summary
Trophies Plus to award $12,500 in cash prizes in the 2015 Grand Prix! 2015 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX STANDINGS The following point totals reflect all rated event information as of May 5 for the 2015 Grand Prix. All Grand Prix updates are unofficial and subject to change during the year or until year-end tabulation is complete. PHOTO: COURTESY OF CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER OF SAINT LOUIS
OVERALL STANDINGS NAME
With a clear first place finish at the 2015 Reno Larry Evans Memorial Open, GM ALEXANDER IVANOV catapulted to first place in the 2015 Trophies Plus Grand Prix race.
CATEGORIES AND PRIZES
$
12 ,500
STATE
PTS.
1
GM Alexander Ivanov
MA
121.10
2
GM Gata Kamsky
NY
94.00
3
IM John Daniel Bryant
CA
73.66
4
IM Priyadharshan Kannappan MO
71.33
5
GM Ioan Cristian Chirila
CA
70.00
6
GM Elshan Moradiabadi
TX
64.37
7
GM Sergey Kudrin
CT
64.33
8
FM Ruifeng Li
TX
53.37
9
GM Niclas Huschenbeth
MD
52.00
10
GM Enrico Sevillano
CA
51.66
11
GM Mark Paragua
NY
49.25
12
IM Steven C. Zierk
MA
45.58
13
IM Sergey Erenburg
VA
45.56
14
IM Ashwin Jayaram
MO
44.50
15
IM Jeffery Xiong
TX
44.00
Trophies Plus: IT’S NOT JUST A TROPHY. IT’S THE BEGINNING OF A LIFETIME OF ACHIEVEMENT.
IN CASH PRIZES!
Proud sponsor of USCF National Scholastic tournament awards since 1999.
FIRST PRIZE: $5,000!
Proud sponsor of the USCF 2007-2015 All-America Team.
2nd: $2,500 | 3rd: $1,000 4th: $900 | 5th: $800 6th: $700 | 7th: $600 8th: $500 | 9th: $300 10th: $200 315 W. 1st St., Templeton, Iowa 51463 | 800.397.9993 | www.trophiesplus.com
50
June 2015 | Chess Life
2015 USCF JUNIOR GRAND PRIX TOP OVERALL STANDINGS Official standings for events received and processed by May 12, 2015 are unofficial and subject to change during the year or until year-end tabulation is complete. The top prize for 2015 will be a Chess.com one-year Diamond membership valued at $100, a Chess.com gear/merchandise package valued at $100, a USCF plaque, free entry into the 2016 U.S. Open, and $1,000 of expense money from the USCF to offset the trip. For the top five players on the overall list and to each state winner, Chess.com will also award a choice of a one-year ChessKid.com gold membership (valued at $50/annually) or a one-year Chess.com Gold membership (valued at $40/annually) The USCF gratefully acknowledges the participation of Chess.com!
Name
State
Pts.
Name
NJ
5319
CHEN, DAVID
PA
2800
CA-N
4427
CASTILLO, ANDREW
TX
2790
WONG, NATHANIEL
MD
4064
MOPURU, RANESH
VA
2752
CHANG, ELIAM HUAI-YANG
CA-N
3993
GHATTI, SANJAY
GA
2747
YE, LUKE SICONG
NE
3858
WEFER, AUSTIN S
NY
2745
GORTI, AKSHITA
VA
3548
NAIR, SIDDHANT
VA
2739
SERGOTT, LUKE CHRISTOPHER
MI
3438
POLAVARAM, RITHIK SAI
TX
2736
RUNNELS, WESLEY
MA
3414
SWAFFORD, ELIAS
GA
2724
GUO, ARTHUR
GA
3235
ASIEDU, ELIANA
NY
2677
TAKAHASHI, MICHAEL JOHN
IA
3061
MERCHANT, ALI ARMAAN
MD
2659
MALINSKY, ANDREW P
PA
2989
ARRIAGA, LUIS OOKIE
TX
2658
PINNINTI, SAHAS R PATEL, ANUJ
DOMMALAPATI, AASA
State
Pts.
VA
2963
OLGUIN, EDWIN
TX
2620
VALLABHANENI, SUNITH
CA-N
2944
RENTMEESTER, KYLE
WI
2606
ZHAO, CHENYI
CA-N
2923
ESWARAN, AKSITHI
CA-N
2597
SINGHAL, SANAT, JR
CA-S
2920
YOMTOBIAN, YOSEF
NY
2592
KOBLA, VISHAL EIDELMAN, GABRIEL MORRIS, MARK D AQUINO, ETHAN CONNOR RULLAN, FRANCO RENE
VA
2894
KRISHNA, RAM
TX
2525
CA-S
2891
RAMOS, LUIGI
TX
2522
TX
2867
WAGNER, NICHOLAS R
PA
2482
CA-S
2842
DEVALAPALLI, PRANAV
GA
2479
TX
2827
YBARRA, JAYDEN
TX
2474
www.uschess.org
51
Tournament Life / June
USCF National Events
Note: Tournament memberships not valid for National events
SEE TLA IN THIS ISSUE FOR DETAILS 2015 U.S. Junior Open June 12-14 • Schaumburg, Illinois 2015 U.S. Senior Open June 12-14 • Schaumburg, Illinois 2015 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) June 18 • Las Vegas, Nevada 2015 U.S. Women’s Open June 18-19 • Las Vegas, Nevada 2015 National Open June 19-21 or 20-21 • Las Vegas, Nevada 116th annual (2015) U.S. Open August 1-9, 4-9 or 6-9 • Phoenix, Arizona 2015 U.S. Masters Championship August 27-31 • Greensboro, North Carolina
FUTURE EVENTS (Watch for details) 2015 U.S. Girls Junior Championship (Closed) June 22-26 • Tulsa, Oklahoma - Frank Berry fkimberry@aol.com 2015 U.S. Junior Championship (Closed) July 6-16 • St. Louis, Missouri - Info: 314-361CHESS, info@saintlouischessclub.org 2015 U.S. Cadet Championship (Closed) July 25-30 • Rockville, Maryland - Info: Michael Regan, mregan@stsci.edu 2015 K-12 Grade Championship December 4-6 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida 2016 National High School (K-12) Championship April 1-3 • Atlanta, Georgia 2016 National Junior High (K-9) Championship April 15-17 • Indianapolis, Indiana 2016 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 6-8 • Nashville, Tennessee 117th annual (2016) U.S. Open July 30-August 7 • Indianapolis, Indiana 2016 K-12 Grade Championship December 16-18 • Nashville, Tennessee 2017 SuperNationals VI May 12-14 • Nashville, Tennessee 2017 K-12 Grade Championship December 8-10 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida 2018 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 11-13 • Nashville, Tennessee 2018 K-12 Grade Championship December 14-16 • Orlando, Florida 2019 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 10-12 • Nashville, Tennessee 2019 K-12 Grade Championship December 13-15 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida 2020 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 8-10 • Nashville, Tennessee 2020 K-12 Grade Championship December 11-13 • Orlando, Florida 2021 SuperNationals VII May 7-9 • Nashville, Tennessee
Bids Note: Organizers previously awarded options for USCF National Events must still submit proposals (including sample budgets) for their events.
OVERDUE BIDS 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.
DEADLINE JULY 1, 2014: 2015
U.S. Amateur (North)
2015
U.S. G/30 Championship
2015
U.S. G/60 Championship
For our expanded list of national events available for bid, see: www.uschess.org/content/view/12116/705/.
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-fed eration.html. For event insurance, please go to www.rvnuccio.com.
NOTE The TLA pages “Information for Organizers, TDs, and Affiliates” and “Information for Players” can now be found online at main.uschess.org/go/tlainfo.
PROFESSIONAL PLAYERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS FUND Many Grand Prix tournament organizers will contribute $1 per player to the Professional Health & Benefits Fund. All Grand Prix tournaments which participate in this program are entitled to be promoted to the next higher Grand Prix category—for example, a six-point tournament would become a 10-point (Enhanced) tournament. Points in the top category are promoted 50%. 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.
52
June 2015 | Chess Life
See previous issue for TLAs appearing June 1-14 The Tournament 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. Effective with TLAs submitted after November 10, 2010, the following additional rules apply to Grand Prix tournaments: 1) The guaranteed first prize must be at least $150. 2) No more than one prize under $100 may count towards the Grand Prix point total. 3) Prizes below the maximum entry fee do not count towards the Grand Prix point total. Also include full time control noting increment or time delay even if delay is zero (d0). USCF Junior Grand Prix: A Junior Grand Prix event must have four or more rounds with a time control greater than 65 min. Please see: www.uschess.org/data page/JPG-Rules.php for complete Rules. SUBMISSIONS: E-mail your tla to: tla@uschess.org (Joan DuBois). For tla deadline schedule, formatting help and Grand Prix information see pg. 69 and 70 of the March 2014 issue or check www.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 USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 12-14, ILLINOIS TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 2015 U.S. Junior Open 6SS, G/90+30/increment. Hyatt Regency Schaumburg, 1800 E. Golf Rd., Schaumburg, IL 60173. 847-605-1234 $99.00 chess rate singledouble-triple-quad until 5/15/15, Free WiFi included with Room! Please reserve early. 4 Sections based on age as of 1/1/2015: Under 21, U15, Under 11 and Under 8. June Rating Supplement used. U21: $500+entry to 2016 US Junior Championship, if still eligible by age, $250-125-75-50. Individual plaques to top five overall, plaques for best player age 18, 17, 16, 15, Under 15, and for ratings U1600, U1400, U1200. U15: Individual trophies to top 15 overall, trophies for best player age 14, 13, 12, 11, Under 11 and for ratings U1400, U1200, U1000. U11: Individual trophies to top 15 overall, trophies to best player age 10, 9, 8, 7, Under 7, and for ratings U1200, U1000, U800. U8: Individual trophies to top 15 overall, best player age 7, 6 & under, and for ratings U1000, U800, U600; Commemorative medals for all participants. Teams: Trophies to top three school teams and top club team in each of the four sections. Top four scores, minimum of three, count towards team score in each section. Byes: One half-point bye, any round except Rd. 6, if requested before Rd. 1. EF: $50 postmarked or online by 5/23, $70 thereafter – credit cards ok onsite. Schedule: Onsite registration: Thurs 7-9pm or Fri 8-9am. Rds.: Fri, Sat 10am & 4pm, Sun 9am & 3pm. Side Events: Friday Night Blitz (8:30pm) and Saturday Night Puzzle Solving (8:30pm) - $15 each by 5/23, $20 each onsite. Entries: Mail to ChessIQ (checks payable to) 4957 Oakton St., Suite 113, Skokie, IL 60077 or online at www.chessiq.com/junior2015. Info: sevan@chessiq.com. On tournament day only: 847.274.1352. Sets, Boards and Clocks provided. Must use organizer provided equipment. USCF and FIDE rated. FIDE Laws of Chess to be used. JUNE 12-14, ILLINOIS TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 2015 U.S. Senior Open 6SS, G/90+30/increment. Hyatt Regency Schaumburg, 1800 E. Golf Rd., Schaumburg, IL 60173. 847-605-1234 $99.00 chess rate singledouble-triple-quad until 5/15/15, Free WiFi included with Room! Please reserve early. Open to USCF members born on or before June 26, 1965. $5,000 b/100 full entries - $1,250-800-500-300, U2300 $500-300, U2000 $300-150, U1800 $300-150, U1500/UNR $300-150. DGT 2010 Special Edition Clocks to top 3. Plaques to top age 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74 and over 75. 2014 Defending US Senior Champion to receive complementary entry fee to 2015 event. EF: $110 post marked or online by 5/23, $125 thereafter and onsite. Byes: One half-point bye, any round except Rd. 6, if requested before Rd. 1. Schedule: Onsite registration: Thurs 7-9pm or Fri 8-9am. Rds.: Fri, Sat 10am & 4pm, Sun 9am & 3pm. Entries: Mail to ChessIQ (checks payable to) 4957 Oakton St., Suite 113, Skokie, IL 60077 or online at www.chessiq.com/senior2015. Info: sevan@chessiq.com. On tournament day only: 847.274.1352. Sets, Boards and Clocks provided. Must use organizer provided equipment. USCF and FIDE rated. FIDE Laws of Chess to be used. JUNE 18, NEVADA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 (ENHANCED) 2015 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) 8SS, G/10 +2. Westgate Resort & Casino, 3000 Paradise Rd., Las Vegas 89109. $$6,000 Guaranteed Prize Fund. $1700-850-500, U2300 $500, U2100 $500, U1900 $450, U1700 $400, U1500 $350, U1300 $300, U1000 $250, unrated $200. Must be 3 players eligible for each prize awarded. EF: $69 by 5/25, $79 by 6/9, $100 later. REG.: 2-4 p.m. Rds.: 5-5:406:15-6:50-7:25-8-8:35-9:10. Higher of regular or quick rating used. Please bring digital chess clocks. 1/2 point bye available in any round (limit 2). HR: $69 single or double ($89 Friday and Saturday nights). (800) 732-7117 – be sure to ask for the CHESS rates. ENT: Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925 or www.VegasChessFestival.com. W. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 18-19, NEVADA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) 2015 U.S. Women’s Open 5SS, G/90 +30. Westgate Resort & Casino, 3000 Paradise Rd., Las Vegas 89109. $$2,000 Guaranteed Prize Fund. $500-300-200, U2000 $200, U1800 $200, U1600 $200, U1400 $200, U1200 $200. EF: $50 by 5/25, $70 later. REG.: 8-9 a.m. Rds.: 10-2:30-7, 9-1:30. 1/2 point bye available in any round (limit 1). HR: $69 single or double ($89 Friday
and Saturday nights). (800) 732-7117 – be sure to ask for the CHESS rates. ENT: Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 890090925 or www.VegasChessFestival.com. W. FIDE. An American Classic! A Heritage Event! USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 19-21 OR 20-21, NEVADA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED) 2015 National Open 6-SS, 40/90, SD/30 +30 (2 day option rounds 1-3 G/40 +5). Westgate Resort & Casino, 3000 Paradise Rd., Las Vegas 89109. $80,000 Guaranteed Prize Fund will not be reduced. Open: $6500-3300-1600-800-500350-350-350-350-350-250-250-250-250-250, under 2500 1600, under 2400 1200, under 2300 1000, $2,000 EXTRA for perfect score. The winner of the Open section also receives a replica of the Edmondson Cup. Under 2200: $3500-1800-900-500-400-250-250-250-250-250-200200-200-200-200. Under 2000: $3500-1800-900-500-400-250-250-250250-250-200-200-200-200-200. Under 1800: $3500-1800-900-500-400250-250-250-250-250-200-200-200-200-200. Under 1600: $3000-1500800-500-400-250-250-250-250-250. Under 1400: $2000-1000-500-350250-200-200-200-200-200. Under 1200: $1200-600-400-300-200-200. Unrated: $500-300-200. Plus Score Bonus ($14,000 guaranteed) in addition to any other prizes, every player with 3-1/2 points or more wins a $50 gift certificate. Plus score certificates will be awarded on site only. Players age 14 and under are eligible for best game prizes including the Freddie Award and $400 in cash prizes (donated by Fred Gruenberg).Top 2 sections FIDE rated. EF: $179 by 1/20, $199 by 5/25, $239 by 6/15, $260 later. $40 less for seniors 65 and over. Add $125 for adults rated under 2100 or juniors under 2000 playing in the Open 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 Open Section. Provisionally rated players may not win more than the amount of 3rd prize in any section except Open. CCA minimum ratings or other ratings may be used if higher than USCF June Supplement. Reg.: 2 p.m.-10 p.m. Thursday, 8-9:30 a.m. Friday. Rds.: 11-5:30, 104:30, 10-4:30. 2-day schedule: Reg.: 8-9 a.m. Saturday. Rds.: 10-12-2-4:30 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 and may not be cancelled. Chess sets and boards provided for tournament play only, not for skittles. Please bring digital chess clocks! The LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL features the National Open, the U.S Game/10 Championship, the U.S. Women’s Open, the International Youth Championship, and other events. Many free extras and surprises! Free parking. Free raffles with great prizes. Free GM Lectures. Free GM analysis of your games. Free Daily Bulletins. Grandmaster Chess Camp for all ages on Thursday. U.S. Women’s Open Thursday and Friday. U.S. Game/10 Championship and Grandmaster Simuls Thursday afternoon. Youth Tournaments Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Blitz Tournaments Saturday & Sunday. Poker Tournament Monday morning. Don’t be shut out — make your reservations early and be sure to ask for the CHESS rates — $69 single or double ($89 Friday and Saturday nights) guarantees a Signature or remodeled room with new furniture, refrigerator, flat screen TV and more. Cutoff for special hotel rate is May 25th. (800) 732-7117 or www.VegasChessFestival.com/ hotel. ENT: Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 890090925, on line at www.VegasChessFestival.com. Info: (702) 560-0955 and leave a message. W. FIDE. A Heritage Event! USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 1-9, 4-9 OR 6-9, ARIZONA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 116th Annual U.S. Open Includes Traditional one game per day schedule (9 days), also 6-day slow time control option, and 4-day option. 9SS, 40/120, SD/60 d5 (4 day option, Rds. 1-6, G/60 d5). Arizona Biltmore, 2400 E. Missouri Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85016. HR: $99 single/quad, No resort fee, complimentary self-parking; Reservations 800.445.8667; Reserve by July 9 or rate may increase. $50,000 in prizes based on 500 paid entries, else proportional, $40,000 (80% of each prize) minimum guaranteed. A one-section tournament with Class prizes. Top US player not otherwise qualified qualifies for 2016 US Championship. Choice of three schedules: Traditional: 40/120, SD/60 d5. One round daily at 7 PM, except Rd. 9, 3 PM 8/9. 6Day Option: 40/120, SD/60 d5. 7 PM 8/4, 12 NOON & 7 PM 8/5-8/7, 7 PM 8/8, 3 PM 8/9. 4-Day Option: Rds. 1-6: G/60 d5; then 40/120, SD/60 d5. 12 NOON, 3 PM, 7 PM, 10 PM 8/6; 12 NOON, 3 PM, 7 PM 8/7; 7 PM 8/8; 3 PM 8/9. All schedules merge after Round 6 & compete for same prizes. Projected prizes: Top places $8000-4000-2000-15001000-800-600-500, clear winner or playoff $200 bonus. If tie for first, top two on tiebreak play Armageddon game (White 5 minutes, Black 3 minutes and gets draw odds) for bonus and title. Class Prizes: Top
Master (2200-2399) $2500-1200-800-500, Expert (2000-2199) $25001200-800-500, Class A (1800-1999) $2500-1200-800-500, Class B (1600-1799) $2500-1200-800-500, Class C (1400-1599) $2000-1000600-400, Class D (1200-1399) $1500-700-500-300, Class E or below (under 1200) $1500-700-500-300, Unrated $800-400-200. Half-Point Byes: must commit before Round 4; up to 3 byes allowed for 2000/up, 2 byes for 1400-1999, one bye for Under 1400/Unr. Limit 1 bye in last two rounds. Zero-point byes are always available in any round if requested at least two hours before the round(s) in question. Delay: All US Open side events use 5 sec. delay except the Blitz [d0] and Bughouse [d0]. Entry Fee: Online, $145 by 6/22, $165 by 7/20, $185 after 7/20. By mail, $147 postmarked by 6/22, $167 postmarked by 7/20, $187 after 7/20; do not mail after 7/27! By phone, $150 by 6/22, $170 by 7/20, $185 after. No phone entries after 7/31 (by the close of business at the Office)! At site, all $190; GMs and WGMs receive free entry. All entries must be made at least two (2) hours prior to the player’s first game. Current USCF membership required. August Rating Supplement used; unofficial ratings used if otherwise unrated. CCA ratings used if above USCF. Foreign player ratings: usually 100 points added to FIDE or FQE, 200+ added to most foreign national ratings, no points added to CFC. Highest of multiple ratings generally used. Entries: USCF, ATTN: 2015 U.S. Open, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557. Online entry available soon: https://secure2.uschess.org/webstore/tournament.php?wk event=2015USOPEN. Phone entry: 800.903.8723. Not FIDE rated, No cell phones. Bring a clock — none supplied. Sets/boards supplied for tournament but not for skittles. Many meetings, workshops and seminars, including: USCF Committee Meetings 8/5-8/7, USCF Awards Luncheon 8/8 NOON, USCF Delegates Meeting 8/8-9. Many side events and other championships, including: U.S. National Blitz Championship 7SS Double, G/5 d0, Rd. 1 at 12 NOON 8/8; Weekend Swiss 5SS, G/60 d5, 12-3 Sat 8/1, 10-12:30-3 Sun 8/2; U.S. Open Scholastic (see separate TLA for the Scholastic event); U.S. Open Quads G/30 d5 121:30-3 Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri; U.S. National G/15 Championship 12-1-2-3-4 Wed 8/5; U.S. Open Bughouse Sat. 10:30 AM 8/1. 18th Annual Golf Tournament for the U.S. Open Chess Players, (see tournament website for details). U.S. Open Tennis Tournament (see tournament website for details). In addition, three other championships will also take place: the 2015 Denker Tournament of HS Champions (see website for a participant list), the 2015 Barber Tournament of K-8 Champions (see website for a participant list), the and the 2015 National Girls’ Invitational Tournament (see separate TLA for the Girls event). Please check the U.S. Open website often for updates, new information and corrections and other useful documents! (Coming soon) www.uschess.org/tournaments/2015/usopen/. USCF Junior Grand Prix for U.S. Open. USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 27-31, NORTH CAROLINA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED) 2015 U.S. Masters Championship 9-SS, 40/90, G/30, inc.30. Embassy Suites Airport, 204 Centreport Dr., Greensboro, NC 27409, (336) 668-4535, mention chess tournament for dis- counted hotel rate. GM, IM, WGM, and WIM norms may be possible. 2014 tournament was a super swiss with 12 norms achieved! $17000 in prizes UNCONDITIONALLY GUARANTEED! $5000-3000-1800-1100650-550- 500-450-400-350 U2400 500-300 U2300 500-300 U2200 500-300
USCF SPECIAL REFEREE PROGRAM Are you a TD in need of help at a tournament with a rules, prize or other problem? Our Special Referees are experienced NTDs who can function as an Appeals Committee or answer rule issues. Please log into TD/A for contact information.
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Tournament Life / June U2100 500-300. EF: $249 if received by August 14 $299 later or on site. $50 dis- count off either for NC residents. GM’s and foreign IM’s Free. No money taken out of winnings to reimburse for EF. This tournament is open on- ly to players who have ratings 2200 or above, those who have ever been so rated, all foreign FIDE-rated players and juniors (under age 21) rated over 2000. RDS.: Aug 27 7:00PM then 12-7, 12-7, 12-7, 12-7. HR: $99 All rooms are suite style. Free made to order breakfast daily, free manager’s reception nightly, and free airport shuttle available for all guests. Hotel reservation: https://resweb.passkey.com/ Resweb.do?mode=welcome_ei_new&eventID=13620024 Advance Entry: Registration is available at www.carolinaschessinitiative.com. Alternately, checks can be sent to: Walter High, 105 North Crabtree Knoll, Chapel Hill, NC 27514. Make checks payable to: Carolinas Chess Initiative (CCI). On site entry will be available on August 27 from 26:30PM. BYES: A maximum of two byes allowed. Byes must be requested before round 2 is paired. INFO: Walter High wmhigh@nc.rr.com, or Gary Newsom, gary.newsom@charlot- techesscenter.org. More info including pre-entry lists may be available at: carolinaschessinitiatve.com. FIDE rated. Hotel has a no smoking policy in- cluding electronic cigarettes. FIDE electronic device rules in effect.
Grand Prix USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 5-7 OR 6-7, FLORIDA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 7th Summer Solstice Open 5SS, Open section G/90+30 sec. incr., All other sections but U1100 G/120 d5, U1100 section G/90 d5 (2-day Option all sections Rd. 1 G/60 d5). La Quinta Inn and Suites, 3701 N. University Dr., Coral Springs. $$6,300 b/170 paid entries, 50% min. Gtd. Open: $800/Trophy-500400, U2300/Unr. $300. FIDE. U2100:$700/Trophy-350-200, U1900 $150. U1700: $700/Trophy-350-200, U1600 $150. U1400: $700/Trophy-350200, U1300 $150. U1100: Trophies for 1st to 3rd, 1st U900, 1st U700, Medals to all others. Top Senior Prize (among all cash prize sections, must be at least 50 on June 5): $100. Unr. may enter Open, U1400 or U1100 only. EF: $79 by June 2, $10 more later and on-site, GMs & IMs free ($79 deducted from prize). U1100 section $39 by June 2, $10 more later and on-site. Re-entry cash prize sections $40. Reg.: Ends 1/2 hr before 1st rd. Rds.: 3-Day 1st Rd. Fri. 7:30; 2-Day 1st Rd. Sat 10; 2nd Rd. Sat. 1:15; 3rd Rd. all sections but U1100 6:30, 3rd Rd. U1100 5:45; 4th Rd. Sun. 9:30; 5th Rd. all sections but U1100 2:30, 5th Rd. U1100 1:45. 2 1/2 pt. byes, if req’d before rd. 2. HR: $72 by Cut-off Date, Includes free breakfast & Internet, 954-753-9000, Ext. 6. Ent: Boca Raton Chess Club, 2385 Executive Ctr. Dr., Ste. 100, Boca Raton,
FL 33431. $10 service charge for refunds. Online entry & add’l info: www.bocachess.com, 561-479-0351. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 6-7, IOWA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) Port of Burlington Open 5-SS, G/90+30s. Port of Burlington Welcome Center, 400 Front St., Burlington, IA 52601 $750 Guaranteed. Open $150+Trophy-100-75 U2000 $100 U1800 $100; U1600 $75 U1400 $75. U1200 $75. EF: $45 till June 3rd then $55; IM and GM free with ($45 deducted from prize). Iowa State Membership (if resident of Iowa) Req’d, Other States Welcome. Reg.: Ends 15 min before round 1. Rds.: Sat 10:00am; 2:30pm; 7:30pm; Sun 9:00am; 2:00pm. One half point bye if requested before round 1. Ent: Eric Vigil, 445 Galway Dr., Iowa City, IA 52246. evigil@gmail.com 319-621-3116 or online at https://www.onlineregistration.cc/. Additional Info: USCF and FIDE Rated. June 2014 USCF Rating supplement will be used for Pairing Purposes. FIDE rules will be used. Life Master Pete Karagianis will be giving a Lecture Friday Evening at the Mississippi Manor Bed and Breakfast at 6PM. 2015 IASCA GP Qualifier Event. JUNE 12-14, ILLINOIS TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 2015 U.S. Junior Open See Nationals. JUNE 12-14, ILLINOIS TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 2015 U.S. Senior Open See Nationals. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 12-14 OR 13-14, FLORIDA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 Sunshine Summer Open & Scholastic DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at Sea World. 10100 International Dr., 32821. $8,000/b140 (Scholastic=1/2). 60% Guaranteed. 5SS, G/120 d5 (2-day. Rnd 1 G/60 d5). 4 Sections: Premier: $1000-700400, U2200 $400-300; U2000: $700-400-300, U1800 $400-300; U1600: $700-400-300, U1400 $400-300; Scholastic U1200: $400-300-150, U1000 $100, U800 $50. Trophy to top each age “7 & under” thru 14 with at least 2 players. Unrateds limited to $100, unless Place prize in Premier. Rated players can play-up one section. Special OCA Awards TBD. EF:3-day $85, 2-day $84, Scholastic U1200: EF: $45; After June 7, EF: $95 ($55 for Scholastic), plus $5 if paid onsite; FREE EF for GMs ($90 deducted from any prize won); CFCC Memb EF discount: $10 ($5 for Jr/Sr) and part of CFCC Grand Prix with $600 additional prizes. Reg.: ends 1/2 hr. before 1st Rd. Scholastic (Sat & Sun only). Rnd. 1: 7pm Fri (or 10am Sat at G/60 d5). Re-entry $40. Rds. 2 thru 5: Sat 1 & 6, Sun 9 & 2. 1/2-pt. byes if req’d before Rnd. 2 (max 2). HR: $105 (407) 352-1100; (Mention “CCS”, No Resort Fee), or http://tinyurl. com/June2015Hotel. Reserve by May 25. (72-hr Cancellation penalty.)
Free Parking, local shuttle and WiFi with sleeping rooms; other SelfParking: $5/day/exit. Ent: CFCC, c/o Harvey Lerman, 921 N. Thistle Ln., Maitland, FL 32751 or online at https://onlineregistration.cc (by 6/11). Info: call (407)629-6946 (407-670-9304 onsite cell) or www.centralflchess.org. JUNE 13, TENNESSEE TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 John Hurt Memorial 12 Site: Courtyard Memphis East/Bill Morris Parkway, 3076 Kirby Parkway, Memphis, TN 38115, 1-901-365-6400. 4SS, G/60 d5. EF: $25 if received by June 6, $35 at site. MCC members $25 anytime. Prize Fund $550 Totally Guaranteed: $150, $100, $75, $50, $25. Class Prizes: B, C, D/E $50 each. Registration 06/13: starts at 8am CDT. Rounds: 10am CDT and other rounds ASAP. Entries: MCC, P.O. Box 17864, Memphis, TN 38187. www.memphischess.com; gpylant@gmail.com JUNE 13, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) Foster City Grand Prix Luper$wiss (3SS, G/90 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Foster City, CA 94404. Prizes: $1,500 b/55 60% guar. 1900+: $300-150-50, u2100 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100-50, u1700 50-50. u1500: $200-100-50, u1250 50-50. Jun 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 9-9:15. Rds.: 9:30 1 4:30. EF: 43, Ecn 29 w 1/2 prz. after 6/10 +15, playup +15, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 6/7. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/ grandprix. W. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 13-14, WISCONSIN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 Milwaukee Summer Challenge IV 5SS, G/120 d5 in top 3 sections: Master/Expert (open only to 2000 and above), U2000, U1500. 4SS, G/60 d6 in U1000 section. Olympia Resort Hotel, 1350 Royale Mile Rd., Oconomowoc, WI; 1-800-558-9573; (Mention Southwest Chess Club for $99 room rate). EF: $40 in top 3 sections, $25 in U1000. All $5 more after 6/10. $$GTD: Master/Expert = 1st-$300, 2nd-$200, 3rd-$100. U2000=1st-$150, U1500=1st-$80, U1000=1st$50. Reg.: 8:30-9:30. Rds.: Top 3 sections-Saturday, June13: 10:00 am, 2:30 pm, 7:00 pm, Sunday June 14: 10:00am-3:00 pm, Rds.: U1000 Saturday, June 13: 10:00 am, 1:00 pm, 3:30 pm, 6:00 pm. ENT: Allen Becker, 2130 N. 85th St., Wauwatosa, WI 53226 or allenbecker@wi.rr.com. Questions: TD Robin Grochowski 414-861-2745. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 13-14, NEW YORK TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 2015 Can-Am International Chess Tournament 5SS, G/100 d5. Venue: Wick Student Center, Daemen College, 4380 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14226. $10,000 guaranteed. Open: $1300 – 1000 – 750; U2000: $1000 – 725 – 525; U1800: $850 – 600 – 400; U1500: $650 – 450 – 300; U1200 & unr. $500 – 300 – 150. EF: $65, [Canadians $10 less], $80 after June 7. Unrated restricted to $500 winnings. Reg-
20th annual PACIFIC COAST OPEN July 16-19, 17-19 or 18-19, 2015 - $25,000 projected prizes, $20,000 minimum 6 rounds at luxurious Sheraton Hotel, Agoura Hills CA, 12 miles from Malibu 6 rounds, 40/100, SD/30, d10 (2day option, rds 1-3 G/40, d10), Sheraton Hotel, 30100 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills CA 91301 (US-101 to Reyes Adobe Road exit), 26 miles west of Burbank. Free parking. Hotel rate: $99-99, 818-707-1220, reserve by 7/2, may sell out earlier. Prizes $25,000 based on 230 paid entries (re-entries, U1250 Section count half), minimum guarantee $20,000 (80% each prize). 6 sections: Open: $3000-1500-1000-500, clear or tiebreak win $100 bonus, top Under 2300/Unr $1200-600. 150 Grand Prix points (enhanced). Under 2100: $2000-1000-500-300. Under 1900: $2000-1000-500-300. Under 1700: $1600-800-400-200. Under 1500: $1600-800-400-200. Under 1250: $800-400-200-100, plaques to first 3, top Under 1000, Under 800, Unrated. Unrated limits: U1900 $900, U1700 $700, U1500 $500, U1250 $300.
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June 2015 | Chess Life
Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player team combined score among all sections: $1000-500-300-200. Team must average under 2200; may play in different sections, register (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2. Top 5 sections entry fee: $135 at chessaction.com by 7/15, $140 phoned by 7/13 (406-8 9 6 -2 0 3 8, no questions), 4-day $139, 3-day $138, 2-day $137 mailed by 7/7, $150 at site (no checks, credit cards OK) or online until 2 hours before game. Under 1250 section entry fee: all $50 less than top 5 sections. Special USCF dues: see Chess Life or chesstour.com. USCF membership required. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. SCCF membership ($18, under 18 $13 with magazine, $3 without) required for rated So. Cal. residents.
4-day schedule: Reg Thu to 6 pm, rds Thu 7 pm, Fri 6 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 11:15 am & 4:30 pm. 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 11 am, rds Fri 12 noon & 6 pm, Sat 11 am & 5 pm, Sun 11:15 am & 4:30 pm. 2-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 9 am, rds Sat 10 am, 12:15 pm, 2:30 pm & 5 pm; Sun 11:15 & 4:30. Half-point byes OK all (limit 2); Open must commit before round 2, other sections before round 4. All: Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied. Re-entry (no Open to Open) $70. Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix pts available. E n t ry: chessaction. c o m or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham NY 10803. $15 charge for refunds. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Questions: chesstour.com, director@chess.us, 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at chessaction. com (online entries posted instantly).
See previous issue for TLAs appearing June 1-14 istration: 8:30-9:30 am June 13. Late entries must take ½ point bye first round. Rounds: Sat. 10:00, 2:30, 7:00; Sun. 10:00, 2:30. 1/2 point byes available for rounds 1-4 if requested at registration. Online registration at www.wnychess.org; inquiries at info@wnychess.org; or Brian Sayers – 716-570-3966. Mail check, name, USCF#, rating and section to WNY Chess, 4746 Shisler Rd., Clarence, NY 14031. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 13-14, COLORADO TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 The Denver Open 5 Rd. SS. Sections: Open, U1800, U1500. Time Control: Rds. 1 - 3, G/90 d5, Rds. 4 - 5, G/90; increment/30. Site: Denver Marriott Tech Center, 4900 S. Syracuse, Denver, CO 80237, Phone: 303-779-1100. Special Deal: special $79 room rate, if reserved by 5/20/2015. Phone: 1-888-611-4134 and mention Denver Open chess tournament. Players will also receive free parking and WiFi. Directions: East side of I-25 off Belleview. Prizes: $4800 based on 140 entries***. Open: $650 $400 $200 U2000 $200 U1900 $150; U1800: $600 $350 $200 U1700 $200 U1600 $150; U1500: $550 $300 $200 U1400 $200 U1300 $150. Youth (under 15 years old and rated U1200): $200. Upset (Largest upset win > 100 points): $100. Schedule: Registration: 8:00 - 9:30am. Round 1: Sat. 10:00am; Round 2: Sat. 2:30pm; Round 3: Sat. 7:00pm; Round 4: Sun. 9:00am; Round 5: Sun. 3:00pm*. Entry Fee: Non DCC members, $55 if received before 6/11/15 $65 on site - DCC members $45 any time**. Entries: Payable to Denver Chess Club. Randolph Schine, 8101 E. Dartmouth Ave., #15, Denver, CO 80231. Email: randolphschine@comcast.net. Phone: 303-695-7839/720-300-7544. www.denverchess.com for details and online registration option. CSCA Tour Event. USCF and CSCA membership required. Out-of-state association (OSA) membership accepted. Tournament will be directed by USCF Senior TD, Bob Crume. Only one half point bye may apply to a players score, with regards to prize money. *Last round byes count as zero points but are not considered withdrawals. **Join the DCC on or before the day of the tournament and receive the discounted entry fee. ***Prize money will be increased if we exceed 140 players or secure additional funding. JUNE 13-14, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 LACC 12th Year Anniversary (Sponsor: Harold C. Valery, MD, Inc.). 10SS, G/45 d0. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. 2 sections: OPEN & U1800. EF: $70; $60 LACC members; No prizes 1/2, spouses/siblings 1/2, new members 1/2, Free new LACC Life members, $5 off it notified by 6/12. Reg.: 3day: FRI: 6-7 pm; 2-day: SAT:11-12 pm. Rds.: FRI 7&8:30 pm; SAT 12, 1:30, 3, 4:30; SUN 12, 1:30, 3, 4:30. Byes: Up to five 1/2-point byes available. 1-Day option I: Play Sat or Sun- no 1/2 pt byes- 1/2 EF. 1Day option II: Play Sat or Sun- receive five 1/2 pt byes- Full EF. 2-Day option : Play Sat & Sun- receive two 1/2 pt byes- Full EF. Prizes: $$2,000 Grd. 1st-4th $500-250-100-50 U2000: $100-50. U1800: $200100-50; U1600: $200–100-50; U1400: $100-50-25; U1200/unrated: $50-25. Info: Mick Bighamian: (310) 795-5710; Mick@LAChessClub.com or website www.LAChessClub.com. Parking: Free on streets, BoA, or basement. A Heritage Event! USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 13-14, KENTUCKY TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 2015 Kentucky Open - In Memory of Steve Dillard Total Prizes - $1875, Time Control: 5 round Swiss System G/90 d5. June supplement will be used. Location: University of Kentucky, Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY - big white tower near student center. Link with driving instructions: http//www.uky.edu/studentcenter/parking. A map of the campus parking is here: http://lexchess.com/images/ stories/chess_uk_patterson_tower_web.png. Top 3 Ky players in Open section will be invited to the Adult State Championship. Top 2 Juniors in Open Section will be invited to the Junior State Championship. USCF standard tiebreaks will be used. Prizes: based on 60 players in 3 sections as follows: Open: 1st $500, 2nd $300, 3rd $100, Expert $100, Class A $100. U1800: 1st $250, 2nd $150, U1600 $100. U1400: 1st $150, 2nd $75, U1000/ Unrated $50. Advance Registration: Mail entries to Randas Burns, 7715 Ashton Park Circle, Louisville, KY 40288. Make checks out to KCA. Or you can sign up online at kcachess.net (click on “more options” and link will be there). All entries must be received by June 10th. Entry Fee: $45 , KCA members $40. Onsite Registration: 8:00-9:30. Rds.: Sat. 10:00, 2:00, 5:30. Sun 9:00-2:30. KCA Meeting between 4th and 5th round at 1:00. Byes: Maximum two half-point byes, must commit before round 3. Bring sets, boards, and clocks. Questions: Randas Burns 502-500-7493, randas burns@yahoo.com. For questions about site or directions: Jerry Baker, 859.806.0637, lexchess64@gmail.com. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 13-14, TEXAS TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) 2015 DCC Fide Open VII 5SS, G/90 inc/30. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S. Cottonwood Dr. #C, Richardson, TX 75080. Two sections: Open and Reserve. Open: $$875G. FIDE and USCF rated but uses FIDE rules. Will use USCF ratings and rules for pairings and for awarding prizes. Default late forfeiture time is one hour. TD may extend this time at TD’s discretion. Note that Foreign players must disclose their FIDE ID number before 1st round in order to play. Note that USA Players with no FIDE ID must disclose their email address.$$ $500-$250-$125. EF: $80, Senior/Hcap/Additional Family Member $55. Small appearance fee to the First three GM/IM’s who apply. GM/IM must play all rounds to get appearance fee (appearance fee might be deducted from prize). Reserve: Open to players rated below 2000 USCF. This section is not Fide Rated but is USCF rated and uses USCF rules. EF: $40. The Reserve give back 10% in prizes and if at least 8 paid entries and if there is a clear winner, then that winner receives free entry to next DCC Fide Open. In the reserve section, Tournament reserves the right to use Fide rules on electronic devices and on starting White’s clock at start of a round and to use FIDE pairing rules. Both: Reg.: 6/13 from 9:45–10:15am. Rds.: Sat 10:45am-3:10pm-
7:16pm, Sun 9:45 am-2:10pm. One half point Bye allowed if requested before end of round rd. 2 and before getting full point bye. Withdrawals and zero point last round byes are not eligible for prizes. Note that house players (if required) must pay $2 per round and be USCF members. ENT: Make/mail Checks payable to Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036-4719. Info: 214-6329000, info@dallaschess.com. FIDE. JUNE 18, NEVADA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 (ENHANCED) 2015 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) See Nationals. JUNE 18-19, NEVADA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) 2015 U.S. Women’s Open See Nationals. JUNE 19-21 OR 20-21, NEVADA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED) 2015 National Open See Nationals. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 19-21 OR 20-21, GEORGIA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 Castle Chess Grand Prix 5-SS, G/120 d5 (2 day schedule, rd. 1 G/90 d5). Cox Hall, Emory University, 569 Asbury Cir., Atlanta, GA 30322. $12,000 G! Seven sections: Master: $2,100-1250-750-450; U2400: $800-500; Expert: $750-425-225; Class A: $675-375-200; Class B: $575-350-175; Class C: $500-300-150; Class D: $400-250-150; U1200: $350-200-100. Official June ratings usually used. Unofficial ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Players rated within 100 points of next higher section may play up one section. EF: $79 if received by 6/17. $100 later or at site. Free to GM, IM or USCF 2400. Unrated Players: $50. Re-entry: $50; Unrated may enter any section, except Master. Prize limit of $150 in U1200, $ 200 in D, $250 in C, $300 in B, $350 in A, or $400 in Expert to all unrated players, and to rated players with fewer than 10 lifetime games who are not playing up. Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. 3 day schedule: Reg.: 6:30-7:30 pm on 6/19. Rds.: 8; 1:30-6:30; 9-1:30. 2 day schedule: Reg.: 8:00-9:00 am on 6/20. Rd. 1 at 9:30 am, then merges with 3 day schedule. One 1/2 pt bye any round. Must commit before playing first game. No changes. Ent: Castle Chess Inc., c/o Debbie Torrance, 271 17th St. NW, Suite 1600, Atlanta, GA 30363. Make check payable to: Castle Chess Inc. Info: Scott Parker, 770-939-5030 except on tournament days call Jim Mundy, 770-313-2684, tournament@ castlechess.org, on-line registration at www.castlechess.org. Note: Bring sets, boards, clocks. None supplied. All parking at Emory is in either Fishburne or Peavine parking decks. No parking next to Cox Hall. Please allow time to walk from the deck to Cox Hall (the building with the clock tower.) W. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 20, OHIO TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 “Summer Time” Pawn Storm XXXI 4SS, G/60 d10, at Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. Fifth St., Dayton, OH 45402. EF: $33 to 12 Jun then $43. EF $25 to 2200 or higher. GTD Prizes: Open $300-200, U1900 $160-$50, U1600 $160-50. Reg.: 9:30-10:15. Rds.: 10:30-1:30-4:30-7:00. OGPx Event-OCA mbrs $3 disc. DCC mbrs $3 disc. Mail EF to: Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH 45402 or register online at www.daytonchessclub.com/ or call 937.461.6283 for more information.
JUNE 21, NEVADA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) National Open Blitz (BLZ) 7 D-SS (14 games), G/3 +2. Westgate Resort & Casino, 3000 Paradise Rd., Las Vegas 89109. Hotel Reservation: 800-732-7117. $$G 3,000. 2 Sections: Open: $600-300-200. U2300, U2100 $200-100 each. U1900: $400-200-100, U1700, U1500, U1200 125-75 each. Must be 3 players eligible for each prize awarded. EF: $40 by 5/25, $50 later. REG.: by 9:30 p.m. Rd. 1 at 10 p.m. www.VegasChessFestival.com. W. FIDE. JUNE 21, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) Bay Area Chess Grand Prix Luper Swiss (3SS, G/90 d5) 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Prizes: $1,500 b/55 60% guar. 1900+: $300-150-50, u2100 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100-50, u1700 50-50. u1500: $200-100-50, u1250 50-50. Jun 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 9-9:15. Rds.: 9:30 1 4:30. EF: 43, Ecn 29 w 1/2 prz. after 6/18 +15, playup +15, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 6/14. Info: BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 25-30, VIRGINIA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED) 3rd annual DC International 9SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10, open to all. Hyatt Regency Crystal City, 2799 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Arlington, VA 22202 (free shuttle from Reagan National Airport; see World Open for rates & parking info). $$G 10,000: $30001500-1000-700-600-500-400-300-200, top FIDE under 2300 or unrated $1200-600. Minimum prize $700 to foreign GMs with FIDE ratings 2500/over, $500 to foreign GMs with with FIDE ratings under 2500, $400 to foreign IMs or WGMs (all must complete all games with no byes; limited to first 5 foreign GMs & first 5 foreign IMs/WGMs to enter by 6/24 at chessaction.com). Minimum prize $300 to other GMs who complete all games with maximum 2 half point byes (limited to first 5 to enter at chessaction.com). Players who have forfeited without notice in past CCA Internationals are not eligible for minimum prizes. IM & GM norms possible, satisfies FIDE requirement that one GM norm be in an event with only one round per day for a minimum of 3 days. FIDE rated. EF: GMs, IMs, WGMs $50 online at chessaction.com by 6/1, $75 online at chessaction.com by 6/24, $100 at site; $100 deducted from prize (no deduction from minimum prize). Foreign FIDE rated players: $100 online at chessaction.com by 6/1, $125 online by 6/24, $150 at site; $100 deducted from prize. USA players FIDE rated 2200/up: $200 online by 6/1, $225 online by 6/24, $250 at site. Others: $300 online by 6/1, $325 online by 6/24, $350 at site. All: Phoned entry (406-896-2038) all $10 more; no phoned entry after 6/22. Mailed entry (Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803) all $10 more; no mailed entry after 6/18. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine: see World Open. Schedule: Late reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds. Thu 7 pm, Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 & 5:30, Sun 10 & 4. Mon 11 am, Tue 11 am. Two half point byes available (must commit before rd. 2); norm not possible if taking bye. HR: see World Open. Bring sets, boards, clocks if possible- none supplied. Ent: chessaction.com. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.us, 347-201-2269. Online entries posted instantly at chessaction.com. Invitations: GoAtChess.us. Use @ symbol instead of “At” in email addresses. JUNE 26, NEW YORK TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 Marshall $500 Friday Night Blitz - FIDE Rated (BLZ) 9SS, G3+2inc. $500 Gtd: $150-100-50. U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50. EF: $30, MCC Mbrs. $20. Rds.: 7-7:30-7:50-8:10-8:40-99:20-9:40-10pm. Limit two byes; request by rd. 7. marshallchessclub.org 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716.
20th annual BRADLEY OPEN July 17-19 or 18-19, Windsor Locks, CT $7500 GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND 5 rounds, Sheraton Hartford Hotel at Bradley Airport. $102 room rates, free parking, free airport shuttle. FREE LECTURES by IM Danny Kopec, Sat & Sun 9 am Open: Prizes $1000-500-300, top U2210/Unr $600-300. Under 2010 Section: $800-400-200, top U1810 $500-250. Under 1610 Section: $700-400-200, top U1410 $300-150. Under 1210 Section: $400-200-100, trophies. Mixed Doubles: male/female teams averaging U2200: $200. May play in different sections; enter by 2 pm 7/18 (no extra fee). Unrated prize limit: $200 in U1210, $400 in U1610. FULL DETAILS: see “Grand Prix” in this issue or chesstour.com.
www.uschess.org
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Tournament Life / June USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 27-28, VIRGINIA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) World Open Warmup 5SS, G/90 d10. Hyatt Regency Crystal City, Arlington (see World Open). $$G 200-100, U2000 $110, U1600/Unr $90. EF: $40, at site only, no checks. Reg. ends 9:30 am 6/27, rds. Sat 10, 2 & 6, Sun 10 & 2. One half point bye allowed if U1600 or unrated, otherwise two byes allowed, must commit before rd. 2. June ratings used. A Heritage Event! USCF Junior Grand Prix! A State Championship Event! JUNE 27-28, OKLAHOMA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 70th Oklahoma Open State Championship 5SS, Rds. 1-2 G/90 d5, Rds. 3-5 G/2 d5. $1450 Guaranteed. La Quinta Inn OKC Airport Hotel, 800 S. Meridian (I-40 at Meridian), Oklahoma City, 405-942-0040. 3 Sections: Open G$$ 500-300-200; Reserve (U1800) G$$ 200-150-100; Booster (U1400) $$ b/entries; Plaques & USCF recognized State Championship titles for OK resident section winners. EF: $45 if rec’d by 6/22, otherwise $50, OCA membership included. Reg.: 8:30-9:30am Saturday, must enter before Rd. 2 pairings are prepared and play Rd. 5 to be prize eligible. One 1/2 point bye in Rds. 1-4 only; accelerated pairings may be used. Rds.: Sat 10, 2 & 6; Sun 10 & 3. HR: $75.20 plus tax (1-4 occupants), including breakfast buffet & airport shuttle; reserve by 6/17 for chess rate; no outside food or drinks. OCA Annual Membership Meeting & Election Sunday 8am; Voting Eligibility: Must be 16, Oklahoma resident and OCA member 10 business days prior to 6/28. Contact: Chuck Unruh, PO Box 340, Collinsville, OK 74021, 800460-2794, email: chunruh@aol.com. More info: www.ochess.org. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 27-28, NEW MEXICO TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 Albuquerque/Rio Rancho Open at Meadowlark Senior Center, 4330 Meadowlark Lane SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124. Co-sponsored by The Meadowlark Chess Group and the New Mexico Chess Organization. 5/SS, G/90 + 10 second delay for all sections except Morphy. Morphy Section: 4 rounds/Swiss System, Game in 45 minutes, plus a 10 second delay. Sections: Open EF $35; Reserve (U1800) EF $30; Fischer (U1500) EF $25; Marshall (U1200) EF $20; Morphy (U1100); EF $12. $5 Family discount after one full-price entry. Late Fee: $15 if entry not received by 6/25. One 1/2 pt bye if requested before Rd. 1. Ent: payable to NMCO, P.O. Box 4215, Albuquerque, NM 87196. Entry form: nmchess.org. Payment may be made by Paypal.com. Reg.: Sat. 8-8:30 A.M. Rounds: For all sections except Morphy: 9-14:30, 9-1. Rounds: For Morphy 9:15 am, 11:00am, 1:15 pm and 4:00 pm. Prizes: Open: $300/$150/$75 guaranteed; Reserve:$150/$75/35 $$b/15; Fischer (U1500) $100/$50/$30 $$b/15; Marshall (U1200) $60/45/25,
$$b/15; Morphy: Chess books, medals to top 3 finishers and those tied with them. W. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 27-28 OR 28, NEW JERSEY TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 Chess Mates Championship/Super Swiss #3 5-SS. 75 East Cherry St., Suite 10A, Rahway, NJ 07065. 2 Schedules: 2-day: 6/27-28. All games G/75 d10. 1-day: 6/28. Rounds 1-3: G/25 d5 Rounds 4-5: G/75 d10. 3 Sections: Open, U2100, U1600. EF: $90 if received by 6/13, $100 by 6/26, $110 at site. GMs 50% off. IMs 25% off. Re-entry $40. Total Prizes: $4,000. 60% guaranteed (Will be 100% if there are 50 or more participants.). Open Section: $550-300-200, U2350 $250-100. +Trophy to top-scoring CM member. U2100 Section: $500-300-150, U1850 $250-100. U1600 Section: $500-300-150, U1350: $250-$100. 2-Day: Reg. 11:15-11:55 a.m. on 6/27. Rds. 12:00 noon, 3:15, 6:30 p.m. on 6/27. 3:15, 6:30 p.m. on 6/28. 1-day: Reg. 11:0011:25 on 6/28. Rds. 11:30 a.m., 12:45, 2:00, 3:15 (schedules merge), 6:30 p.m. on 6/28. Byes: 2 half-point byes allowed. Must commit before the 3rd round. Info: www.chessmatesnj.com, chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118, 760-583-8429. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 27-28, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 2015 Tal Memorial (A sponsored event) 6SS, G/61 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. 1 Open section. EF: $70; $50 LACC members; No prizes 1/2, spouses/siblings 1/2, new members 1/2, Free new LACC Life members, $5 off if notified by 6/26. Reg.: Sat 10-11:30 am. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day. Byes: Up to three 1/2-point byes available. 1-Day option I: Play 1 day- no 1/2 pt byes- 1/2 EF. 1-Day option II: Play 1 day & receive three 1/2 pt byes- Full EF. Prizes: $$1,500 (b/45) $750 Gtd. 1st-3rd $400-200-100 U2000: $100. U1800: $200-100-$50; U1600: $100–50; U1400: $100-50; U1200/unrated: $50. Information: Mick Bighamian: (310) 795-5710; Mick@LAChessClub.com or www.LAChessClub.com. Parking: Free on streets, BoA, or basement JUNE 28, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) Cupertino Grand Prix DuperSwiss75 (3SS, G/75, d5) Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Prizes: $1,500 b/55 60% guar. 1900+: $300-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100-50, u1600 50-50. u1500: $200-100-50, u1200 50-50. Jun 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 8-8:45. Rds.: 9-12:45-2:40. EF: 47, Econ 32 w 1/2 prz. after 6/25 +15, playup +15, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 6/21. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/ grandprix. W. JUNE 30, NEW YORK TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 Marshall Masters 4SS, G/25 d5. Open to USCF 2000+ and players with a plus score in
any MCC Open or U2300 event since the previous Masters. $500 Gtd: $170-130-100. U2300: $100. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs. $20. Rds.: 7-8:159:30-10:45. Limit two byes; request by rd. 2. marshallchessclub.org 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 30-JULY 1, VIRGINIA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) 4th annual World Open Women’s Championship 5SS, G/90 d10. Hyatt Regency Crystal City, Arlington (see World Open for location, rates). Open to all females. $2000 guaranteed prizes: $700-400-200, top U1800/Unr $260, U1500 $240, U1200 $200, plaques to top 3, 1st U1800, U1600, U1400, U1200, U1000. EF: $80 online at chessaction.com by 6/25, $83 mailed by 6/16, $85 phoned to 406-8962038 by 6/28, $95 at site, or online until 8 am 6/30. Reg. ends Tue 9 am, rds. Tue 10, 2 & 6, Wed 10 & 2. Bye: OK any round, limit 1 bye, must commit before rd. 2. July ratings used. Special USCF dues: see World Open. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). An American Classic! A Heritage Event! USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 30-JULY 5, JULY 1-5, 2-5 OR 3-5, VIRGINIA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED) 43rd Annual World Open 9SS. Hyatt Regency Crystal City, 2799 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, VA 22202 (a few miles from Washington, DC). Free shuttle from Reagan National Airport, special chess rate for hotel valet parking $6/day, parking about $7-15/day nearby if hotel garage is full. In 8 sections. $210,000 guaranteed prizes (note changes to Master class prizes). Unrated may enter only Open, U2200, U2000, or Unrated Sections. Free analysis of your games by GM Sam Palatnik 7/1-5, free GM lectures 9 am 7/3 & 7/4. Open Section, July 1-5 only: 40/2, SD/30 d10. Under 2200 to Under 1200 Sections, June 30-July 5, July 1-5, 2-5, or 35: 40/2, SD/30 d10 (4-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10; 3-day option, rds. 1-5 G/35 d10). Unrated Section, July 3-5 only: G/60 d10, plays separate schedule. Open (note changes): $20000-10000-5000-25001300-1000-800-700-600-500, clear winner bonus $300, top FIDE 2300-2449 $4000-2000-1000-800-500, top FIDE U2300/Unr $4000-20001000-800-500. If tie for first, top 2 on tiebreak play speed game 10 pm 7/5 for title & bonus prize. GM & IM norms possible. FIDE rated. Under 2200/Unr: $12000-6000-3000-1500-1000-800-600-500-400-400, top U2100 (no unr) $2000-1000, unrated limit $2000. Under 2000/Unr: $12000-6000-3000-1500-1000-800-600-500-400-400, top U1900 (no unr) $2000-1000, unrated limit $1000. Under 1800: $12000-6000-3000-15001000-800-600-500-400-400, top U1700 $2000-1000. Under 1600: $10000-5000-2500-1300-900-700-600-500-400-400, top U1500 $1600800. Under 1400: $8000-4000-2000-1300-900-700-600-500-400-400, top U1300 $1200-600. Under 1200: $4000-2000-1000-800-600-500-400-
45th annual CONTINENTAL OPEN Aug 13-16, 14-16 or 15-16, 2015 - $30,000 GUARANTEED PRIZES! 6 rounds, Host Hotel at Cedar Lake, Sturbridge MA - GM Gata Kamsky will play! 6 rounds, Host Hotel at Cedar Lake, 366 Main St (Rt 20 west), Sturbridge MA 01566 (I-84 Exit 3, near I-90). Free parking. Experience 1790-1840 America at Old Sturbridge Village (www.osv.org), swim in Cedar Lake, visit shops & galleries. Prizes $30,000 guaranteed. 3-day & 4day schedules 40/110, SD/30, d10, 2-day schedule (except Open Section) rds 1-3 G/40, d10, then merges with others. Free lectures by IM Danny Kopec, Sat & Sun 9 am: game analysis in afternoons. Open: $3000-1500-700-500-300, clear or tiebreak win $200 bonus, top U2300/Unr $1400-700. FIDE rated, 150 GPP. Under 2100: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1900: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1700: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1500: $1400-700-400-300-200. Under 1300: $1400-700-400-300-200 Under 1000: $800-400-300-200, trophies to top 3, first U800, U600, Unr.
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June 2015 | Chess Life
Unrated prize limits: U1000 $200, U1300 $400, U1500 $600, U1700 $800, U1900 $1000. Mixed doubles: best male/female 2player team (average under 2200) combined score among all sections: $1000-600-400. Register before both players begin round 2. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Top 4 sections entry fee: $165 online at chessaction.com by 8/12, $175 at 406896-2038 by 8/10, 4-day $174, 3-day $173, 2-day $172 mailed by 8/4, $180 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hrs before game. Re-entry (no Open) $80. Under 1500, Under 1300 entry fee: All $30 less than top 4 sections. Under 1000 Section entry fee: all $80 less than top 4 sections. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life: see Chess Life or chesstour.com. USCF membership required.
Advance entry fee $5 less to MACA members; may join/renew at masschess.org. 4-day schedule: Reg Thu to 6 pm, rds Thu 7 pm, Fri 6, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 11 am, rds Fri 12 & 6, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 9 am, rds Sat 10, 12:15, 2:30 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Half-pt byes OK all rds (limit 2); Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 4. All: No smoking. Bring sets, boards, clocks if possible-none supplied. JGP. Hotel rates: $94-94, 800-582-3232, 508-347-7393, reserve by 7/31. Entry: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, director@chess.us, 347-2012269. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat. 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm.
See previous issue for TLAs appearing June 1-14 400-300-300, top U1000 $1000-500. Unrated: Trophies to top 10. Prize limits: 1) If any post-event rating posted 6/26/14-6/26/15 was more than 30 points over section maximum, prize limit $2000. 2) Players with under 26 lifetime games rated as of 7/15 official list cannot win over $1000 in U1200, $2000 U1400, $3000 U1600 through U2000. Games rated too late for 7/15 official list not counted toward 26 game total. 3) Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Mixed Doubles Bonus Prizes: best male/female combined 2-player “team” score: $3000-1500-700-500-300. Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2; teammate pairings avoided but possible; prize limits do not apply to mixed doubles. Entry fee for U2200 through U1400 sections, and Open Section if USCF or FIDE 2200/over: Online at chessaction.com: $308 by 4/15, $318 by 5/15, $328 by 6/28, $350 until 2 hours before first game. Phoned to 406-896-2038: $315 by 4/15, $325 by 5/15, $335 by 6/26. Mailed by 4/15: 6-day $316, 5-day $315, 4-day $314, 3-day $313. Mailed by 5/15: 6-day $326, 5-day $325, 4-day $324, 3-day $323. Mailed by 6/17: 6-day $336, 5-day $335, 4day $334, 3-day $333. Do not mail entry after 6/17. At site until 1 1/2 hours before first game: all $350; no checks, credit cards OK. GMs & foreign IMs in Open: free; $200 deducted from prize. IMs, WGMs & foreign FMs in Open: EF $100 less, $100 deducted from prize. Open Section EF $100 more if not rated 2200 or over by USCF or FIDE. Under 1200 Section EF: all $100 less than above. Unrated Section EF: $28 online at chessaction.com by 6/28, $33 mailed by 6/17 or phoned by 6/26, $40 at site until 1 hour before game or online until 2 hours before game. Seniors 65/up: all EF $100 less in U1400 or above sections. 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 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry: Online at chessaction. com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. 6-day schedule: Tue 7 pm, Wed 7 pm, Thu 6 pm, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 5day schedule: Wed 7 pm, Thu 11 am & 6 pm, Fri 11 am & 6 pm, Sat 11 am & 6 pm, Sun 10 am & 4:30 pm. 4-day schedule: Thu 11, 2:30 & 6, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 3-day schedule: Fri 11, 1:30, 3:30, 6 & 8:30, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. Unrated schedule: Fri. 11, 2:30 & 6, Sat. 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun. 10, 1:30 & 4:30. All schedules merge & compete for same prizes. 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 1/2 hours before your first game. Bring sets, boards, clocks if possible- none supplied. HR: $99-99-109, 703-418-1234, ask for chess rate, may sell out about May 31, two night minimum July 3-4. Special car rental rates: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings: See www. chesstour.com/foreignratings.htm. US player ratings: Official July ratings used; FIDE ratings used for 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. See also chesstour.com/devices.htm. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Questions: chesstour.com, chesstour.info, DirectorAt Chess.US. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Awards: Open through U1800 prizes & Unrated trophies awarded 7/5, others mailed by 7/20. Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied. JULY 1, VIRGINIA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) World Open 7-Minute Championship (BLZ) 5-SS, double round (10 games), G/7 d2. Hyatt Regency Crystal City (see World Open). Prizes $1000 based on 35 entries, else in proportion except 60% each prize guaranteed. $300-150-70, U2100 $130-70, U1800 $12060, U1500/Unr $100. EF: $40, at site only, no checks. Reg. ends 10:30 am, rds. 11, 12, 1, 2, 3. One pair of 1/2 pt byes available, must commit before rd. 2. Blitz rated (will not affect regular ratings), but higher of regular or blitz used for pairings & prizes. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 2-5 OR 3-5, TEXAS TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) 2015 DCC Fide Open VIII 7SS, G/90 inc/30. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S. Cottonwood Dr. #C, Richardson, TX 75080. Two sections: Open and Reserve. Two schedules: 4 day and 3 day. Open: $$875G. FIDE and USCF rated but uses FIDE rules. Will use USCF ratings and rules for pairings and for awarding prizes. Default late forfeiture time is one hour. TD may extend this time at TD’s discretion. Note that Foreign players must disclose their FIDE ID number before 1st round in order to play. Note that USA Players with no FIDE ID must disclose their email address.$$ $500-$250-$125. EF: $80, Senior/Hcap/Additional Family Member $55. Small appearance fee to the First three GM/IM’s who apply. GM/IM must play all rounds to get appearance fee (appearance fee might be deducted from prize). Reserve: Open to players rated below 2000 USCF. This section is not Fide Rated but is USCF rated and uses USCF rules. EF: $40. The Reserve give back 10% in prizes and if at least 8 paid entries and if there is a clear winner, then that winner receives free entry to next DCC Fide Open. In the reserve section, Tournament reserves the right to use Fide rules on electronic devices and on starting White’s clock at start of a round and to use FIDE pairing rules. Both: Reg.: 4Day: 7/2 from 6-7:45pm. 3day: 7/3 from 9:45–10:15am. Rds.: Rd.1 4day Thurs 7/2 at 7:16pm then merge with 3day rd 2. 3day rds: Fri 10:45am-3:10pm-7:16pm, Sat 10:45 am-3:10pm. Sun 9:45am-2:10pm. Two half point Byes allowed if requested before end of round rd. 2 and before getting full point bye. Byes for both rds. 6 and 7 not allowed. Withdrawals and zero point last round byes are not eligible for prizes. Note that house players (if required) must pay $2 per round and be USCF members. ENT: Make/mail Checks payable to Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036-4719. Info: 214-632-9000, info@dallaschess.com. FIDE. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 3-5 OR 4-5, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 2015 Sacramento Chess Championship
ROUNDS: 6. FORMAT: Swiss. RATING: Full-K. SITE: Holiday Inn Express & Suites, 2224 Auburn Blvd., Sacramento, CA. ON-SITE REGISTRATION: 7/3 – 8:30 am - 9:45 am; 7/4 – 8:00 am - 8:45 am. ROUNDS: 3-day: 7/3 – 10 & 3:30, 7/4 – 10:30 & 4, 7/5 – 10 & 3:30. 2-day: 7/4 – 9, 11:15, 1:30, & 4, 7/5 – 10 & 3:30. TIME CONTROLS: Master/Expert 3day 40/90 G/30 +30 inc, 2-day: Rounds 1-3, G/50 +15 inc, Rounds 4-6, 40/90 G/30 +30 inc. Reserve & Amateur 3-day 30/75 G/45 +30 inc, 2-day Rounds 1-3, G/50 +15 inc, Rounds 4-6, 30/75 G/45 +30 inc. SECTIONS: Master/Expert (above 1999) - FIDE Rated, Reserve (16001999), Amateur (U1600). ENTRY FEES: $80 postmarked by 6/29. $90 after 6/29. IMs/GMs free. Entrants may play up one section for $10. $5 discount to CalChess members (excluding reentries). Reentry after round 2 of the 3-day schedule: $40. PRIZES: Master/Expert 1st Place $625 & trophy, 2nd Place $400, 3rd Place $300. 1st Place Reserve & Amateur $550 & trophy. Prize fund of $4,750 based on 90 full paid entries (with 75 full paid entries, the prize fund will be $3,760). HOTEL: Holiday Inn Express & Suites, $95 per night, available until 6/23, (916) 923-1100 or 1-888-465-4329, online at www.hiexpress.com/sacramentone, group code SCC. ADVANCE ENTRIES & INFO: John McCumiskey (TD), e-mail: sactochess@sbcglobal.net; phone: (916) 524-9479. Checks payable to Sacramento Chess Club and mailed to 6700 50th St., Sacramento, CA 95823-1306. Full flyer and advance entries: http://sacramentochessclub. org under Weekend Events. OTHER INFO: Wheelchair Access. 07/15 rating list only. The Master/Expert section FIDE rated and will use FIDE rules, with modifications (information on-site). Please bring clocks. 1/2 point byes available in any round and must be requested before the completion of the previous round. Maximum two 1/2 point byes per entry. 1/2 point byes for rounds 5 & 6 must be requested prior to round 1 and may not be changed. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 3-5, 4-5 OR 5, NEW YORK TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED) Marshall Monthly Grand Prix - FIDE Rated 5SS, 40/90 SD30 +30inc. $750 Gtd: $200-150-125-100. U2200 $100; U1900 $75. EF: $60, MCC Mbrs $40. Rds.: 3 day Fri. 6pm, Sat. & Sun. 12:30-5:30. 2 day Sat. 11am (G/25 d5) then merge with 3 day in round 2. 1 day Sun. 9-10:10-11:20 (G/25 d5) then merge in round 4. Limit two byes; request by rd. 3. marshallchessclub.org, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212477-3716.
Mineola. EF: $35 by 6/29, $42 at site, non-memb $9 more. $$ (660 b/22, top 2 G) 200-100, U2100, 1900, 1700, 1500, 1300/UR each 72. 4 byes 19. captnhal@optonline.net. Reg to 7:15 PM. Rds.: 7:15-8:20-9:25 each Mon. Rule 14H not used. Ent: Harold Stenzel, 80 Amy Dr., Sayville, NY 11782. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 10-12 OR 11-12, TEXAS TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED) 2015 Houston Summer Chess Festival 5SS, G/90, 30-second Inc. (Open Section), G/120 d5 (Under Sections). $12,950 b/225 full-paid entries, 60% Guaranteed. Marriott Houston South at Hobby Airport, www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/houhh-hous ton-marriott-south-at-hobby-airport/, 713-943-7979. $85 HR valid until 6/26. Free parking! Reserve early! After that date, rate may or may not be honored. 5 Sections: Open (FIDE rated): $1,500-$850-$600-$400$300, (U2400: $750-$500, U2200: $700-$400), UNDER 2000: $800-$400$200-$100-$75, UNDER 1800: $800-$400-$200-$100-$75, UNDER 1600: $800-$400-$200-$100-$75, UNDER 1400/Unrated: $700-$350-$200$100, (U1200: $500-$250-$125). Champion’s plaque for the five section winners, on tie-breaks. Choice of two schedules: 3-Day: Fri 7/10, 8pm, Sat 7/11 2pm & 7pm, Sun 7/12 10am & 3pm; 2-Day: Sat 7/11 9am then merges with 3-Day Schedule. Entry Fee: $79 by 6/26, $89 after; Special EF: $49 by 6/26, $59 after: for Juniors under 19, Seniors over 62 and Unrated playing in the U1400. Unrated are only eligible for 60% of the awarded prizes unless paying full entry fee and playing in the Open Section. Special EF counts as 2/3 of a full entry and is only available in the U1400/Unrated Section. July Rating Supplement used. Byes: Up to two (2) half-point byes, any round, if requested before end of Rd. 2. Reentry: $30 from 3-Day to 2-Day Schedule or within same schedule allowed. Blitz and Bughouse Tournaments, registration on site. Scholastic Tournament: Sat 7/11, G/30 d5; EF $20 by 6/26, $25 after, Four Sections: K-3, K-6, K-9 and K-12, Rounds 11am, 1pm, 2:30pm & 3:45pm, Trophies for top 10 individual and plaques to top 3 teams in each section. Top 4 players, minimum 2 count towards team standings. Commemorative medals for all players participating in Scholastic event. ENTRIES: Mail to Francisco Guadalupe, 305 Willow Pointe Dr., League City, TX 77573. Enter on line at: www.active.com/houston-tx/boardgames/tournaments/houston-chess-festival-2015. Note: Active.com charges a small fee. Info: flguadalupe@aol.com. FIDE.
JULY 4, VIRGINIA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED) World Open 10-Minute Championship (QC) 5SS, G/10 d2. Hyatt Regency Crystal City (see World Open). Prizes $2000 based on 65 entries, else in proportion except 60% each prize guaranteed. In 2 sections. Open Section: $400-200-100, top U2300 $220, U2100/Unr $200. Under 1900 Section: $280-140-70, top U1700/Unr $160, U1500 $130, U1300 $100, no unrated may win over $150. EF: $40, at site only, no checks. Reg.: 6-9 pm, rounds 9:30, 10:10, 10:50, 11:30, 12:10. 1 half point bye available, must commit before rd. 2. Quick-rated (will not affect regular ratings), but higher of regular or quick used for pairings & prizes.
USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 11, FLORIDA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 CFCC Tornados at UUU 4-SS, G/75 d5. University Unitarian Universalist Society, 11648 McCulloch Rd., Orlando 32817. EF: $30, CFCC mbr $25, Masters free (EF deducted from any prize). $$750 b/30: (1st Place Guaranteed) 200-120-80, U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400, U1200 $70 ea. (Must draw/win a game to be eligible for prize.) Reg.: 9:30am. Rds.: 10, 1, 3:30, 6. See website for details: centralflchess.org. Info: (407) 629-6946.
USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 4-5, NEW JERSEY TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED) 3rd Annual - Fourth of July Open - Leon Shulman Cup $15,000 projected prizes, $10,000 minimum guaranteed! 5 rounds, G/90 d5. Holiday Inn, 2175 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002, across from Garden State Park – 5 miles from Philadelphia City Center. Prizes $15,000 based on 160 paid entries $10,000 minimum guaranteed. In 5 sections: Open Section: $1500-700-400-300, top Under 2300/Unr $800-400. Under 2100 Section: $1200-500-300-200, top Under 1900 $600-300. Under 1800 Section: $1200-500-300-200, top Under 1600 $500-250. Under 1500 Section: $1200-500-300-200, top Under 1300 $500-250. Under 1200 Section: $1000-500-300-100, trophies to 1st, top Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600, Unrated. EF: Online $95 by 6/13 $105 by 6/27, $120 at site. GMs, IMs free; $100 deducted from prize. Under 1200 Section entry fee: all $20 less than above. Schedule: Reg. ends Saturday 9:45 am, rds. Sat 10:00 am, 2:00 pm, 6:00, Sun 10:00 am & 2:00 pm. All: Half point byes OK all, limit 2, must commit before rd. 2. Hotel rates: $109 – “Chess Rate”, 1-(856) 663-5300; reserve by 6/15 or rate may increase. Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied. Ratings: June official USCF rating list used. Unofficial uschess. org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Contact: dgorman@darse mail.com (703) 989-6867.
Visit www.chesstour.com for late news, hotel availability, results, games, minimum ratings, etc. Enter tournaments at chessaction.com. To receive our free email newsletter, see chess calendar.com or chesstour.com. Most tournaments have alternate schedules with less or more days than below. Asterisk means full details in this issueotherwise, see future issues or our website. Events in red offer FIDE norm chances.
JULY 5, VIRGINIA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) World Open Blitz Championship (BLZ) 5SS, G/5 d0 (double round, 10 games). Hyatt Regency Crystal City (see World Open). $3000 guaranteed prizes. In 2 sections: Open Section: $500-300-200, top U2400 $220-110, U2200/Unr $200-100. Under 2000 Section: $400-200-100, top U1800/Unr $220-110, U1600 $160-80, U1400 $100, no unrated may win over $150. EF (at site only, no checks): $40 by 7 pm 7/5, $50 after 7 pm 7/5. GMs free; $40 deducted from prize. Reg. ends 9:15 pm, rounds 9:45 pm, 10:30, 11, 11:30, 12. Bye: OK rd. 1. Blitz rated (will not affect regular ratings), but higher of regular or blitz used for pairings & prizes. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 5, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) Bay Area Chess Grand Prix Super Swiss (4SS, G/61 d5) 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Prizes: $1,500 b/55 60% guar. 1900+: $300-100-100, u2100 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100-50, u1700 50-50. u1500: $200-100-50, u1250 50-50. July 15 Supp & TD disc.Reg.: 9-9:15. Rds.: 9:30 11:50 2:40 5 EF: 43, Ecn 29 w 1/2 prz. after 7/2 +15, playup +15, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 6/28. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/ grandprix.
CONTINENTAL CHESS SCHEDULE
6/5-7: N ortheast O pen, Stamford C T (see M ay issue) 6/25-30: D C International, A rlington V A * 6/26-28: W orld O pen Senior Amateur, Arlington V A * 6/27-28: W orld O pen U nder 13, Arlington V A* 6/30-7/1: W orld O pen W omens C hamp, Arlington V A* 6/30-7/5: W orld O pen, A rlington V A * 7/17-19: Pacific C oast O pen, Agoura Hills C A * 7/17-19: C hicago C lass, W heeling IL* 7/17-19: Bradley O pen, W indsor Locks C T* 7/24-26: Southern O pen, O rlando FL* 8/7-9: C leveland O pen, C leveland O H* 8/14-16: C ontinental O pen, Sturbridge M A* 8/14-16: C entral C alifornia O pen, Fresno C A* 8/21-23: M anhattan O pen, N ew Y ork N Y * 8/28-30: Atlantic O pen, W ashington D C * 8/28-30: Indianapolis O pen, Indianapolis IN * 9/5-7: N ew Y ork State C hampionship, Albany N Y * 9/25-27: Hartford O pen, W indsor Locks C T* 10//7-12: W ashington C hess C ongress, A rlington V A * 10/9-11: M idw est C lass, W heeling IL* 10/30-11/1: Boardw alk O pen, G allow ay N J 11/6-8: Eastern C hess C ongress, Stamford C T 11/13-15: Kings Island O pen, Blue Ash O H 11/27-29: N ational C hess C ongress, Philadelphia PA 12/26-28: Empire C ity O pen, N ew Y ork N Y 12/26-29: N orth A m erican O pen, L as V egas N V F or later events, see chesstour.com .
JULY 6, 13, 20, NEW YORK TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 74th Nassau Action 9SS, G/25 d5 or G/30 d0. 1st Presbyterian Church, 1st & Main Sts.,
www.uschess.org
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Tournament Life / June JULY 11, CONNECTICUT TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 Fairfield County Masters & Class Championships The strongest tournament in Connecticut! Chess Club of Fairfield County, 710 West Ave., Norwalk, CT 06850. In 2 Sections - Masters: 5SS, G/ 30 d5, Open to Minimum 2200 rating. $$GTD: $500-300-200. Class Championships: 5SS, G/30 d5, Open to 2199 & under. $$GTD: $400-200-100. Top U2000, U1800, U1600 - $100 Each. Half-point byes available for rounds 1 & 2. Must commit before round 1. Max 2 byes. ALL: EF: $40 in advance online by Fri 8pm 7/10 or postmarked by Mon 7/6. $50 late on-site. CCFC members $30 advance / $40 late. Grandmasters and International Masters free - entry fee deducted from prize. Reg.: 10:00 - 10:30am. Rds.: 11:00, 12:15, 2:30, 3:45, 5:00. ENT: Chess Club of Fairfield County LLC., 710 West Ave., Norwalk, CT 06850, www.fairfieldcounty chess.com/masters15.html. INFO: 203-505-6215, ccfc@fairfieldcountychess.com. A Heritage Event! USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 11-12, WISCONSIN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 39th Annual Green Bay Open Radisson Hotel, 2040 Airport Dr., Green Bay, WI 54313. 5SS, 40/100, 30/1, SD/30 d5. EF: $45, Juniors under 19 $40, if rec’d by 7/8, all entries after 7/8 including phone, email & in person are $10 more! $$ (Top 2 Gtd. 5 per class) $1685 Cash + 6 trophies! 1st $400 + trophy; 2nd $220, X $115; 1900’s & 1800’s $115 each; 1700’s & 1600’s $110 each; 1500’s & 1400’s $105 each; 1300’s & 1200’s $100 each; Under 1200/Unrated $90. Trophies to top Juniors ages 17-18, 15-16, 13-14, 11-12, 10 & under. Reg.: 8:45-9:25am. Rds.: 10-2:30-7:30; 10-3:30. HR: $89/$89/$99/$109 call 920-494-7300 mention chess tournament. Room block held to 6/19. Other Info: 1/2 bye avail. Rds. 1, 2 or 3 if req’d w/entry. Entries & Inquiries to: Luke Ludwig, 2191 Allouez Ave., Green Bay, WI 54311. 920-465-9859, email: lukealudwig@aol.com WCA Tour Event. W. A Heritage Event! USCF Junior Grand Prix! A State Championship Event! JULY 11-12, NEW HAMPSHIRE TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) 65th New Hampshire Open 4SS, 40/100, SD/60 d5. Radisson Hotel Nashua, 11 Tara Blvd. (near Exit 1 of Everett Turnpike, US Route 3), Nashua, NH 03062; 802-8889970. $$G 3,565. 4 sections. Open, $$G 400-230-170, U2215 215, U2065 200. NH Champion title to top-scoring NH resident. Under 1965, $$G 300-200-150 (no Unr may win more than 180), U1765 200. Under 1665, $$G 300-200-150 (no Unr may win more than 120), U1465 200. Under 1365, $$G 200-150-100 (no Unr may win more than 90), U1165 120-80. All, EF $59 in advance or $65 at door, except $49/$55 for Under 1365 section, free to GM/IM in Open. NHCA memb. req. for rated NH residents: $8 adult, $6 age 18/under. Reg.: Sat 8:30-9:30 a.m., Rds.: 10-4, 9:303:30. Half-point bye okay for any one round (but not for Rd. 4 in Open). NHCA membership meeting 9 a.m. Sun. HR: $99 (plus 9% tax) if reserved directly with hotel; reserve by 6/26, mention NHCA. Ent: NHCA, c/o Robert Messenger, 4 Hamlett Dr., Apt. 12, Nashua, NH 03062. To enter online using credit card, start by visiting www.nhchess.org. Info: bob. messenger@myfairpoint.net or 603-891-2484 (home). USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 16-19, 17-19 OR 18-19, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) 20th annual Pacific Coast Open 6SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-3 G/40 d10). Sheraton Agoura Hills Hotel, 30100 Agoura Rd., Agoura Hills, CA 91301 (US-101 to Reyes Adobe Road exit). Adjacent to the Santa Monica Mountains, 26 miles west of Burbank, 12 miles from Malibu, 28 miles from Ventura. Free parking. Prizes $25,000 based on 230 paid entries (re-entries & U1250 Section count half), minimum $20,000 (80% each prize) guaranteed. In 6 sections. Open: $3000-1500-1000-500, clear or tiebreak win $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr $1200-600. Under 2100: $2000-1000-500-300. Under 1900: $2000-1000-500-300. Under 1700: $1600-800-400-200. Under 1500: $1600-800-400-200. Under 1250: $800-400-200-100, plaques to first 3, top U1000, U800, Unr. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/ female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: $1000-500300-200. Team average rating must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2; teammate pairings avoided but possible. Unrated may enter any section, with prize limit U1900 $900, U1700 $700, U1500 $500, U1250 $300; balance goes to next player(s) in line. Top 5 sections EF: $135 at chessaction.com by 7/15, $140 phoned by 7/13 (406-8962038, no questions), 4-day $139, 3-day $138, 2-day $137 mailed by 7/7, $150 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hours before game. GMs free; $120 deducted from prize. Under 1250 Section EF: All $50 less than top 5 sections entry fees. SCCF membership ($18, under 18 $13 with magazine, $3 without) required for rated Southern CA residents. Re-entry $70; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. 4-day schedule: Reg. Thu to 6 pm, rds. Thu 7 pm, Fri 6 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 11:15 & 4:30. 3day schedule: Reg. Fri to 11 am, rds. Fri 12 & 6, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 11:15 & 4:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 9 am, rds. Sat 10, 12:15, 2:30 & 5, Sun 11:15 & 4:30. All schedules: Half point byes OK all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd. 2, other sections before rd. 4. HR: $99-99, 818707-1220, request chess rate, reserve by 7/2 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347201-2269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm.
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USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, CONNECTICUT TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED) 20th Annual Bradley Open 5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Sheraton Hotel, 1 Bradley Airport (visible at airport entrance), Windsor Locks, CT 06096 (I-91 Exit 40 to Rt. 20). Free parking. $7500 guaranteed prize fund. In 4 sections. Open: $1000-500-300, U2210/Unr $600-300. Under 2010: $800-400-200, top U1810 (no unr) $500-250. Under 1610: $700400-200, top U1410 (no unr) $300-150. Under 1210: $400-200-100, trophies to first 3, top U1000, U800, U600, Unrated. Mixed Doubles bonus prize: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: $200. Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 7/18. Unrated may not win over $200 in U1210 or $400 in U1610. Top 3 sections EF: $78 online at chessaction.com by 7/15, $85 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 7/13, 3-day $83, 2-day $82 if check mailed by 7/8, $90 at site, or online until 2 hours before game. U1210 Section EF: all $40 less than above. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. GMs, IMs, & WGMs free, $70 deducted from prize. Online EF $3 less to CSCA or WMCA members. Re-entry $50; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction. com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Bye: all, limit 2; must commit before rd. 2. HR: $102-102, 860-627-5311; reserve by 7/3 or rate may increase. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, chesstour.info, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, ILLINOIS TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED) 8th annual Chicago Class 5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, G/60 d10). 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 to Lake Cook Rd. to US-45 south). Free parking. $20,000 guaranteed prize fund. In 7 sections: Master (2200/up): $2000-1000-500-300, clear win or 1st on tiebreak $100, top U2400 $800-400. Expert (2000-2199): $1400-700400-200. Class A (1800-1999/Unr): $1400-700-400-200. Class B (16001799/Unr): $1400-700-400-200. Class C (1400-1599/Unr): $1200-600400-200. Class D (1200-1399/Unr): $1000-500-300-200. Class E (Under 1200/Unr): $500-250-150-100, trophies to first 3, top Under 1000, 800, Under 600, Unrated. Rated players may play up one section. Prize limits: Unrated may not win over $200 in E, $350 D, $500 C, $700 B, or $900 A. Mixed Doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: $800-400-200. Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 7/18. Top 6 sections EF: $105 online at chess action.com by 7/15, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 (entry only, no questions) by 7/13, 3-day $108, 2-day $107 mailed by 7/8, all $120 at site, or online until 2 hours before first game. GMs $100 from prize. Class E Section EF: all $50 less than above. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Online EF $5 less to ICA members; join/renew at il-chess.org. An ICA Tour event. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry $50; not available in Master Section. GMs $80 from prize. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Bye: all, limit 2; Master must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $107-107-107-107, 800-937-8461, 847-777-6500, reserve by 7/3 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: DirectorAtChess.US, chesstour.com, 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, OHIO 2015 Columbus Open 5-SS, G/30/90 d5 SD/1 d5 (2-day schedule, rd. 1 G/90 d5), OVER $8000 IN PRIZES, UNCONDITIONALLY GUARANTEED. All rounds will be played at the Ohio Union, 1739 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43210, on the Ohio State University campus. Parking is $7/day at nearby campus parking garages. 3 sections: Open, open to all. G $1500, 1000, 600, 500, 400; U2000, $600, 400; Premier, open to 1799/below: $600, 400; U1600: $600, 400; Reserve, open to 1399/below: $600, 400. All EF: $95 if rec’d by 7/10/2015. $105 at site. Free to Sr. Master/above who complete their schedule. ($95 EF deducted from winnings.) 3-day schedule: Reg. Ends Fri. 6:30 p.m., Rds: Fri. 7 p.m.; Sat. 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m.; Sun. 9:30 a.m., 3 p.m. 2-day schedule: Reg. Ends Sat. 9:30 a.m. Rd. 1 at 10 a.m., then merges with 3-day schedule. Re-entry: $20. Any player who loses Fri. night may re-enter for $20 and loss will not count in tournament standings! One 1/2-pt. Bye available in Rds. 1-4 (request required prior to Rd. 1). Unrated players may play in any section. $25 upset prize each section. HOTELS: The Blackwell Inn, 2110 Tuttle Park Pl., Columbus, OH 43210. This is 4-star hotel; rates $117 for double with group code OSU Chess Club, 614-247-4000. For more frugal, Varsity Inn South, 1445 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus, group rate $79 per night 1-4 persons, with code: Columbus Open Chess Tournament. 614-291-2983 This hotel has a swimming pool, free parking, and is around 2 miles from playing site. ENT: C/O Lou Friscoe, 1623 Glenn Ave., Columbus, OH 43212. Inquires: (614) 486-6856 or (614) 228-8111. Entry forms or to register online, see website for more info: www.centralchessclub.com.
USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED) Bay Area Chess GM Melikset Khachiyan Championship 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. 5SS, G90+30 2-day rds. 1-2 G/50 d5. Park free. Prize: 5,000 b/94 (70% guar). 3 sects: 2000+ (FIDE) $1,000-500-200, u2300: 250-125-100. 1600-1999: $700-300-100, u1800: 200-100, u1600: $700-300-100 u1400: 125-100, u1200: 100. Unr max $100 exc Open. Jul 15Supp & TD disc. Reg.: F 6-6:45p & Sa 8:30-8:45a. Rds.: F 7p, Sa 9 1:20, Su 10 2:30. (2-day Sa 9 11:10 & merge). EF: 89, Econ EF: 69 w 60% prz, after 7/13 +20. Playup +20. Rated 2250+ $0 by 7/7 (prize - EF). Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/champs. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 17-19, KANSAS TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 Kansas Open All events at Holiday Inn, 549 South Rock Rd., Wichita, KS. 3 sections: (7/18 and 7/19) 5SS, G/120 d5. All prizes based on 80 non-scholastic rate entries in Open + Reserve + Amateur. Open: all: $350-250-150. U1900: 100. Reserve: 1799/below: $300-200-100. U1600: 75. Amateur: 1399/below $250-150-50. U1200: 50. Note- additional $25 and plaque to top KS resident in each section (Including Blitz). EF: $45 if postmarked by 7/11, $55 thereafter and on-site. Special $10 discount for advance entry into both KS Open + Blitz tourney, $10 entry fee for Scholastics, not competing for cash, but for plaques in Reserve or Amateur (and Blitz). Special free Scholastic entry for some (see website). Reg.: 7/18 8:30-9:30am. Rds.: 7/18: 10- 2:30-7, 7/19: 9:30, 2:00. KANSAS BLITZ CHESS: 1 section: (7/17), 5SS, G/10 d0. All prizes based on 40 nonscholastic rate entries $180-120-60. U2100 60. U1800 60. U1500 and unrated 60. EF: $25 if postmarked by 7/11, $35 thereafter and on-site, $10 entry fee for all Scholastics not competing for cash. Reg.: 7/17 67pm. Rds.: 7:00, 7:30, 8, 8:30, 9. KANSAS BUGHOUSE: 1 section: (7/17) 4pm. (details- see website) HR: Special room rate at Holiday Inn, 316-686-7131 or 877-863-4780 and mention event key KOC, up to 4 in a room, $90 per night, reservations by 7/3. Special: KCA membership required of KS residents to participate in Kansas Open (See website for details) www.kansaschess.org. Ent: Laurence Coker, 8013 W. 145th St., Overland Park, KS 66223. Checks payable to “Kansas Chess Association”. wlcoker7@hotmail.com or 913-851-1583. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 18-19, VIRGINIA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 25th Annual Charlottesville Open 5SS, G/90 d5. EF: $55 by 7/16, then $65. 2 Sections: Open & U1700. Prizes: $2000 b/o 60. Open Section: Place prizes guaranteed. $$400, $$250, $$150 U2100 $150, U1900 $130; U1700 Section: $300, $200, $150 U1500 $140, U1200 $130. Site & HR: Comfort Inn Monticello, 2097 Inn Dr., Charlottesville, VA 22911 (434) 977-3300) $99.95 + tax if reserved by 6/15. Reg.: 11-11:40 am. Rds.: Sat. 12, 3:15, 7:15 Sun. 9:30, 1:15. Entries: Ernest Schlich, 1370 S. Braden Cres., Norfolk, VA 23502. Checks to VCF. On-line reg. at www.vachess.org Mbr: VCF rqd. for VA residents $10, $5 under age 17. Info: ernest.schlich@gmailcom Byes: single halfpoint bye on request. No CC on site, cash only please. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 18-19, LOUISIANA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 2015 Paul Morphy Open 5-SS, (Pro: G/90 i30; Am: G/2 d5). Site: Hilton New Orleans Airport, 901 Airline Dr., Kenner, LA 70062. EF: $50 if mailed by 7/10, $60 at site; out-of-state masters free, EF deducted from prize. LCA Memb. req’d for all La. residents ($15 adult, $5 Sch.), OSA. Prizes: $3000 b/80, $1500 (50%) Gtd.! Two Sections: Open: $600-300-200; U2000 $250-125, U1800 $225-100. Reserve (U1600): $300-200; U1400 $250-125; U1200/UNR $225-100. Rds.: Sat: 9:15-1-5:30, Sun: 9:30-2. HR: $109, (800)872-5914, group code: La.C, reserve early. Ent/Info: Adam Caveney, 1301 Gen. Taylor St., New Orleans, LA 70115, cb20234@yahoo.com, (504) 895-4133 (evenings), (504) 615-6730 (on day of tourney). JULY 21, NEW YORK TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 Marshall Masters 4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to 2000+ and players with a plus score in any MCC Open or U2300 event since the previous Masters. $620 GTD: 250150-100. Top U2400 60, Top U2300 30, Biggest upset $30. EF: $40, Mbr $30. GM’s Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. www.marshallchessclub. org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 24-26 OR 25-26, FLORIDA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED) 23rd annual Southern Open 5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Wyndham Orlando Resort, 8001 International Dr., Orlando 32819. Special parking (note change) $5/day. $$15,000 guaranteed prizes. In 4 sections. Open: $2000-1000-500-300, clear or tiebreak winner $100 bonus, top Under 2300/Unr $800-400. Under 2100: $1500-800-400-200, top Under 1900/Unr $600-300. Under 1700: $1200-600-300-200, top Under 1500 (no unr) $500-250. Under 1300: $800-400-200-150, top Under 1100 (no unr) $200-100, plaques to top Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600, Unrated. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: $800-400. Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 7/25. Unrated may not win over $200 in U1300 or $500 U1700. Top 3 sections EF: $105 online at chessaction.com by 7/22, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 7/20, 3-day $108, 2-day $107 mailed by 7/15, all $120 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hours before game. GMs, IMs & WGMs free; $100 deducted from prize. U1300 Section EF: all $40 less than above. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with entry. Online at
See previous issue for TLAs appearing June 1-14 chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Reentry $60; not available in Open Section. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. All: Half point byes OK all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $92-92 (no resort fee), 1-800-421-8001, 407-351-2420; reserve by 7/10 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-2012269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. JULY 26, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) Cupertino Grand Prix DuperSwiss75 (3SS, G/75 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Prizes: $1,500 b55. 60% guar. 1900+: $300-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100-50, u1600 50-50. u1500: $200-100-50, u1200 50-50. Jul 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 88:45. Rds.: 9-11:45-2:40. EF: 47, Econ 32 w 1/2 prz. after 7/23 +15, playup +15, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 7/19. Info: BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 27-AUG. 2, OHIO TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 Dayton Chess Festival: Dayton Masters (Closed); Aviator OpenGP:40; X-15 Blitz (BLZ)! July 27-July 31 Dayton Masters FIDE RR: (invite only): 9-RR, 40/90, SD/30, +30incr. GM/IM Norms possible plus 1-3 Futurities in parallel. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Opening Ceremony Mon 11:00am. Rds.: Mon 12:00pm & 7:00pm, Tue-Wed-Thr 11:00am & 6:00pm, Fri 10:00am. Closing Ceremony Fri 5:00pm. Details & EFs at www.DaytonChessFestival.com or www.DaytonChessClub.com. July 31-Aug 2, Aviator Open-GP:40-FIDE Rated: 5SS, G/90, incr 30. $4000, b/60, FIDE Rated. At the Dayton Chess Club. OPEN FORMAT – One Section Open to All. Prizes: 1-$1,100; 2-$800; 3-$700; 4-$500; 5-$400; 6-$300; 7-$200. EF: $88 if rec’d NLT 7/24, then $98. 3dy schedule – Rds.: Fri8:00pm, Sat-12:00pm & 6:00pm, Sun-10:00am & 4:30pm. 2dy schedule – Reg.: Sat-8-9am with Rd. 1 9:30am, G/60 +30incr, then join 3 day schedule. 2 byes permitted, must schedule prior to R3. OH Grand Prix Event - $3 disc OCA mbrs. Also $3 disc DCC mbrs. Reg.: on site Fri 67:30pm & Sat for those taking a bye in R1 from 9:30-11:00am. ENTRIES: Dayton Chess Club, 18 West 5th St., Dayton, OH 45402 or register online at DaytonChessclub.com. No cks at site. Hotel TBD. Info and more details call 937.461.6283 or go to www.DaytonChessFestival.com or www.DaytonChessClub.com. Aug 2, X-15 Blitz! G/5, no delay. $350
b/20. 1-$200, 2-$100, 3-$50. Rated Blitz at Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH 45402. Number of rounds & SS or RR determined by number of entries, max number of rounds 11. Registration ends 1:00pm Sun. Rd.1 begins 1:30pm. EF: $25. Register at site on Fri, Sat, or Sun. Info and more details at www.DaytonChessFestival.com or www.DaytonChess Club.com. JULY 31, NEW YORK TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz (BLZ) 9-SS, G/3 d2. FIDE Blitz rated. $500 Gtd.: $200-100, top U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50. Highest rating (regular, quick or blitz) used for pairings & prizes. EF: $30, MCC Mbrs $20, GM’s $20. Reg.: 6:156:45. Rds.: 7-7:30-7:50-8:10-8:40-9-9:20-9:40-10pm. Max three byes. Request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212477-3716. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 31-AUG. 2 OR AUG. 1-2, MARYLAND TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 5th Annual Potomac Open 5SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30” incr, (Rnd. 1 G/90 +30” incr) (2-day schedule: rds. 1-2 G/45+30”incr) U1250 & U1000 G/120 d5 (Rds. 1-2 G/60 d/5), U1250 3-day Rds. 1&2 G/120 d5. Rockville Hilton, 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852. $$Based on score. 7 sections: Championship (min. rating of 1900) FIDE rated: 5.0 =$1600, 4.5 =$800, 4.0=$450, 3.5=$175, 3.0=$50 [min $1500 payout, top score group raised if less than $1500]. U2100: 5.0 =$1500, 4.5 =$700, 4.0=$350, 3.5=$150, 3.0=$40. U1900: 5.0 =$1200, 4.5 =$650, 4.0=$350, 3.5=$125. U1700: 5.0= $1200, 4.5 = $600, 4.0= $300, 3.5= $100. U1500: 5.0= $1000, 4.5= $500, 4.0= $250, 3.5= $100. U1250 & U1000: 5.0= $500, 4.5= $250, 4.0= $125, 3.5= $50. Trophies to top 5 in U1000. If no 5-0 in section, then sole 1st at 4.5 or shared 1st at lower score receive bonus (added to score prize) - Championship: $300; U2100 $200, U1900 $150, U1700 & U1500: $100; U1250 & U1000: $50. Unrated may not win over $100 in U1000, $200 U1250, or $400 in U1500. Sets and boards provided. Clocks provided in the Championship, U2100 & U1900 sections. Optionally, pairings can be texted to your phone. Free Sunday morning continental breakfast for players. Free parking for day guests. EF: $97 by 7/17, $102 by 7/28, and $107 online only by 7/30, $110 at the door. Special EFs: $35 less for U1250 & U1000, GMs free, $50 deducted from prize, IMs $45 off EF, $20 deducted from prize, $6 off EF if staying at hotel. HR: $89, Rooms may not be avail after 7/18. 3day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 7pm, rds. Fri 8, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 9:30 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10am rds. 11, 2:15 & 6, Sun 9:30 & 3:30. U1250 & U1000 schedule Reg. ends Sat 10am rds. 11, 1:15 & 4:00, Sun 9:30 & 1:30 U1250 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 7pm, rds. Fri 8, Sat 11
Cajun Chess 12405 Hillary Step Drive Olive Branch, MS 38654 504-208-9596 cajunchess@yahoo.com www.cajunchess.com
Marshall Chess Club 23 W. 10th St. New York, NY 10011 212-477-3716 admin@marshallchessclub.org www.marshallchessclub.org
San Diego Chess Club 2225 6th Ave. San Diego, CA 92101 State: Southern California 619-239-7166 sandiegochessclub@gmail.com www.sandiegochessclub.org
Chess Club and Scholastic Center of St. Louis 4657 Maryland Avenue St. Louis, MO 63108. 314-361-CHESS info@stlouischessclub.org www.stlouischessclub.org
ChessNYC.com c/o Russell Makofsky & Michael Propper PO Box 189, 1710 1st Ave New York, NY 10012, 212-475-8130 info@chessnyc.com www.chessnyc.com
Shore HS Chess League PO Box 773 Lincroft, NJ 07738 shorehschessleague@yahoo.com
ChessIQ 4957 Oakton Street, Suite 113 Skokie, IL 60077, 847.423.862 6 sevan@chessiq.com www.chessiq.com PaperClip Pairings c/o J. Houghtaling Jr & Remy Ferrari 6005 Forest Blvd. Brownsville, TX 78526, 956-459-2421 jejrhoughtaling@bisd.us
Dallas Chess Club 200 S. Cottonwood Dr. Suite C Richardson, TX 75080 972-231-2065 info@dallaschess.com www.dallaschess.com
USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 31-AUG. 2, AUG. 1-2 OR AUG. 2, NEW YORK TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 Marshall August Grand Prix - FIDE Rated 5-SS, 40/90 SD30 +30. FIDE Rated. $800 Gtd: $300-150-100. U2200: $125; U1900 $125. EF: $60, MCC Mbrs $40. GM’s Free. Reg.: Ends 15 min before round start. Rds.: 3-day: Fri. 6pm, Sat. & Sun. 12-5:30pm. 2-day: Sat. 11am (G/25 d5) then merge with 3-day in round 2. 1-day: Sun. 9-10:10-11:20am (G/25 d5) then merge in round 4. Max two byes. Request by rd. 3. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212477-3716. AUG. 1-9, 4-9 OR 6-9, ARIZONA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 116th Annual U.S. Open See Nationals. USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 2, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) Bay Area Chess Grand Prix Super Swiss (4SS, G/61 d5) 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Prizes: $1,500 b/55. 60% guar. 1900+: $300-100-100, u2100 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100-50, u1700 50-50. u1500: $200-100-50, u1250 50-50. Aug 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 9-9:15. Rds.: 9:30-11:50-2:30-5. EF: 43, Ecn 29 w 1/2 prz. after 7/29 +15, playup +15, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 7/23. Info: BayAreaChess.com/ grandprix. AUG. 7, MARYLAND TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 2015 Washington International Blitz (BLZ) 5 double SS, G/3+2” incr. Rockville Hilton, 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852. 2 Sections: Open, $$Guaranteed: $400-$200-$150, U2200 $130-$70, U2000 $110-$60. U1800 (b/20): $250-$150-$75, U1600 $50. Sets, boards and clocks provided. Free parking for day guests. EF: $30 by 7/28, $35 by 8/5, and then $40. Special EFs: GMs & IMs $20 off EF. Schedule Reg. ends 7pm Rnd. 1 at 8pm then ASAP. Ent: MCA, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd., Towson, MD 21204. Detailed rules, more information and registration at http://washintlblitz.mdchess.com. USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 7-9 OR 8-9, OHIO TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED) Cleveland Open 5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Sheraton
GOLD & SILVER
GOLD AFFILIATES
Continental Chess Association PO Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. 201-347-2269 director@chess.us www.chesstour.com
& 4, Sun 9:30 & 1:30. Ent: Michael Regan, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd., Towson, MD 21204. More information and registration at http://thepo tomacopen.com.
Shining Knights, Lt d. P.O. Box 545 Glenmoore, PA 19343 484-228-8457 cindy@shiningknights.com www.shiningknights.com Silver Knights Chess 701 W. Broad Street, Suite 308 Falls Church, VA 22406, 703-574-2070 chess@silverknightschess.com www.silverknightschess.com
SILVER AFFILIATES Bay Area Chess (CA) www.BayAreaChess.com
Long Island Chess Nuts (NY) 516-739-3907
Oklahoma Chess Foundation OCFChess.org
The Berkeley Chess School (CA) www.berkeleychessschool.org
Los Angeles Chess Club (CA) www.LAChessClub.com
Sparta Chess Club (NJ) www.spartachessclub.org
En Passant Chess Club (TX) edguetzow@sbcglobal.net
Michigan Chess Association www.michess.org
Success Chess School (CA) www.successchess.com
AFFILIATES GOLD
Any affiliate that has submitted at least 50 USCF memberships during the current or previous calendar year, or is the recognized State Affiliate, is eligible to become a Gold Affiliate. Gold Affiliates are honored in a special list in larger type in Tournament Life each month, giving the affiliate name, address, phone number, e-mail address, and website. Gold Affiliation costs $350 per year, and existing affiliates may subtract $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.
www.uschess.org
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Tournament Life / June Cleveland Airport Hotel, 5300 Riverside Drive (inside Cleveland Airport; free shuttle), Cleveland, OH 44135. Free parking. $15,000 guaranteed prize fund. In 5 sections. Open: $2000-1000-500-300, clear or tiebreak winner $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr $800-400. Under 2100: $1500-800400-200, top U1900/Unr $600-300. Under 1700: $1200-600-300-200, top U1500 (no unr) $500-250. Under 1300: $800-400-200-150, top U1100 (no unr) $200-100, plaques to top Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600, Unrated. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: $800-400. Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 8/8. Unrated may not win over $200 in U1300 or $500 in U1700. Top 3 sections EF: $105 online at chessaction. com by 8/5, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 8/3, 3-day $108, 2-day $107 mailed by 7/29, all $120 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hours before game. GMs, IMs & WGMs free; $100 deducted from prize. U1300 Section EF: all $40 less than above. Online EF $5 less to OCA members. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry $50; not available in Open Section. 3day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. All: Half point byes OK all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $92-92, 216-267-1500, request chess rate, reserve by 7/24 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: chess action.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 8-13 (NOT JULY 25-30), MARYLAND TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 4th Annual Washington International (note date change) 9SS, 40/100, SD/30 inc/30. Rockville Hilton, 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852, 301-468-0308 All prizes guaranteed. Two sections: A Section (minimum 2100 FIDE or 2200 USCF to play. FIDE ratings used for pairings and prizes) $4000-2000-1000-900-700-600-400, top U2500 $1300-650, top U2300 $1100-550. Limited number of minimum prizes for non-US FIDE rated players, see web page. Limited amount of housing support is available for non-US GMs and IMs. GM and IM norms possible (1 GM & 1 IM earned last year). B Section 7-SS (under 2201 USCF and under 2200 FIDE, USCF ratings used, FIDE rated) $2000-$1000-$500, top U2000 $1000, top under 1800 $500. Free Continental breakfast before morning rounds. All equipment provided for both sections. A section EF: GMs, non-US IMs Free; US IMs and WGMs $199; FIDE above 2300 $299; FIDE from 2200 to 2299 $349; FIDE from 2100 to 2199 $399, FIDE from 2000 to 2099 $600, FIDE less than 2000 $800. All $25 more after 6/8, $35 more after 7/24, $45 more after 8/4, $70 more at the door. B Section EF: $249. $20 more after 7/24, $30 more after 8/4, $40 more at the door. Special EFs: All $100 less for non-US FIDE rated in A section; If staying at the Hilton (min 3 nights), $50 less for US IMs and WGMs, others $75 less. All $25 less for new WI players. All $20 rebate for every new paying WI player you refer. All $50 less, if born before 8/8/1965. A Section Schedule Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. 8/8-8/10:11am & 6pm, 8/11 & 12: 6pm, Thur 8/13 11am. B Section Schedule Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. 8/8-8/10:11am & 6pm, 8/11 6pm. HR: $93 Ent: MCA, c/o Michael Regan, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd., Towson, MD 21204. More information, hotel reservation link, & online entry at http://washintl.mdchess.com. A Heritage Event! USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, MASSACHUSETTS TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) 45th annual Continental Open 6SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option except Open Section, rds. 1-3 G/40 d10). Host Hotel at Cedar Lake, 366 Main St. (Rt. 20 West), Sturbridge, MA 01566 (I-84 Exit 3, near I-90). Free parking. Experience early 19th century America at Old Sturbridge Village (see www.osv.org). $30,000 guaranteed prizes. In 7 sections. Open: $3000-1500-700-500300, clear or tiebreak win $200 bonus, top U2300/Unr $1400-700. FIDE. Under 2100: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1900: $2000-1000-500300-200. Under 1700: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1500: $1400-700400-300-200. Under 1300: $1400-700-400-300-200. Under 1000: $800400-300-200, trophies to top 3, first U800, U600, Unr. Unrated may enter any section, with prize limit U1000 $200, U1300 $400, U1500 $600, U1700 $800, U1900 $1000; balance goes to next player(s) in line. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: $1000-600-400. Team average rating must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must register at site (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2; teammate pairings avoided but possible. Top 4 sections EF: $165 online at chessaction.com by 8/12, $175 phoned by 8/10 (406-896-2038, no questions), 4-day $174, 3-day $173, 2-day $172 mailed by 8/4, $180 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hours before game. GMs free; $150 deducted from prize. Under 1500 or Under 1300 Section EF: all $30 less than top 4 sections EF. Under 1000 Section EF: all $80 less than top 4 sections EF. All: Online EF $5 less to MACA members; may join/renew at masschess.org. Re-entry $80; not available in Open. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. 4-day schedule: Reg. Thu to 6 pm, rds. Thu 7 pm, Fri 6 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 11 am, rds. Fri 12 & 6, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 9 am, rds. Sat 10,12:15, 2:30 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. No 2-day Open Section. All schedules: Bye all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd. 2, other sections before rd. 4. HR: $95-95, 800-582-3232, 508-347-7393, request chess rate, reserve by
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June 2015 | Chess Life
7/31 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour. com, chesstour.info, DirectorAtChess.us, 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat. 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 14-16 OR 15-16, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED) 6th annual Central California Open 5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/60 d10). Doubletree Hotel (formerly Radisson), 2233 Ventura St., Fresno, CA 93710. Free airport shuttle, free parking for hotel guests. Cosponsored by Fresno Chess Club and Fresno Chess Foundation. $$ 7500 GUARANTEED PRIZES. In 4 sections: Open: $1000-500-250, clear or tiebreak 1st $100, top U2250/Unr $550-250. Under 2050: $800-400-200, top U1850 (no unr) $500-250. Under 1650: $700-350-200, top U1450 (no unr) $300-150. Under 1250: $400-200-100, plaques to first, top U1000, U800, U600, Unrated. Unrated may enter any section, with prize limits: U1250 $200, U1650 $500 (balance goes to next player(s) in line). Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: $200-100. Team average rating must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 8/15. Top 3 sections EF: $85 online at chessaction.com by 8/13, 3-day $93, 2-day $92 mailed by 8/5, all $95 phoned to 406-8962038 by 8/10 (entry only, no questions), $100 at site. Under 1250 Section EF: all $30 less than above. Online EF $10 less to Fresno Chess Club members. GMs, IMs & WGMs free, $80 deducted from prize. All: Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Reentry $60; not available in Open Section. No checks at site, credit cards OK. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Byes: OK all, limit 2; limit 1 bye if eligible for class money prizes; must commit before rd. 2. HR: $109-109, 800-333-3333, 559268-1000, request chess rate, reserve by 7/31 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: DirectorAtChess.US, chesstour.com, 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 15-16, MICHIGAN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 2015 U.P. Open Location: Masonic Building, 128 W. Washington St., Marquette, MI (parking and entrance in rear of building). 5SS, G/115 d5. Entry Fee: $40. $35 if registered (mail/E-mail) by Aug 13. $20 for Juniors 19 or under. Prizes: (1st and 2nd GTD) $300 first place, $150 second, others based on entries. Trophy to top UP resident. Reg.: 9-9:30 Sat. Rounds: Sat 10:00, 2:30, 7:00, Sun 9:30, 2:00—all times EDT. Half-point byes available in all rounds, but must be requested before registration ends. Info and early entries: Robert John, 315 E. Prospect St., Marquette, MI 49855, 906-228-8126, rjjjr@chartermi.net. USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 21-23 OR 22-23, NEW YORK TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED) 14th annual Manhattan Open 5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Hotel Pennsylvania, 401 Seventh Ave (32nd-33rd St., across from Penn Station), New York 10001. $20,000 guaranteed prizes. In 6 sections. Open: $2000-1000-600400, clear/tiebreak win $100 bonus, top Under 2400/Unr $600-300. FIDE. Under 2200: $1500-800-400-200, top U2000/Unr $600-300. Under 1900: $1500-800-400-200, top U1700 $600-300. Under 1600: $1200600-300-200, top U1400 $500-250. Under 1300: $800-400-200-100, top U1100 $300-150. Under 1000: $500-250-150-100, trophies to first 3, top U800, U600, Unr. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: $800-400-200. Team average rating must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 8/22. Unrated may enter any section, with prize limit U1900 $700, U1600 $500, U1300 $300, U1000 $200; balance goes to next player(s) in line. Top 4 sections EF: $128 at chessaction.com by 8/19, $140 phoned to 406-896-2038 (no questions) by 8/17, 3-day $138, 2-day $137 if check mailed by 8/12, all $150 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hours before game. GMs free; $100 from prize. Under 1300 Section EF: all $30 less than top 3 sections EF. Under 1000 Section EF: all $60 less than top 3 sections EF. Online entry $5 less to NYSCA members ($12/yr with 2 issues Empire Chess, $20/yr 4 issues, may join with entry). Reentry $60, not available in Open. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. 3-Day Schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm. Rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2Day Schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am. Rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Half point byes available all rounds, limit 2 byes, Open must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $129-139-149-159 plus required $15/night facility fee, 1-800-223-8585, reserve by 7/24 (earlier is better) or rate will increase, ask for Continental Chess Association rate. Facility fee includes high speed WIFI in room, unlimited local & long distance calling, and unlimited use of Ballys Total Fitness located next door to the hotel. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, chesstour.info, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (Online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm.
USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 22, FLORIDA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 CFCC Tornados at UUU 4-SS, G/75 d5. University Unitarian Universalist Society, 11648 McCulloch Rd., Orlando 32817. EF: $30, CFCC mbr $25, Masters free (EF deducted from any prize). $$750 b/30: (1st Place Guaranteed) 200-120-80, U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400, U1200 $70 ea. (Must draw/win a game to be eligible for prize.) Reg.: 9:30am. Rds.: 10, 1, 3:30, 6. See website for details: centralflchess.org. Info: (407) 629-6946. AUG. 27-31, NORTH CAROLINA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED) 2015 U.S. Masters Championship See Nationals. USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, INDIANA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED) 10th annual Indianapolis Open 5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Airport, 2501 S. High School Rd. (off I-465 & Airport Expwy), Indianapolis, IN 46241. Free parking, free airport shuttle, free wireless, indoor pool, game room, fitness center. $$14,000 guaranteed prize fund. In 4 sections. Open: $2000-1000-600-300, clear or tiebreak winner $100 bonus, top Under 2200/Unr $800-400. Under 2000: $1400-700400-200, top Under 1800 (no unr) $600-300. Under 1600: $1200-600-300150, top Under 1400 (no unr) $400-200. Under 1200: $600-300-150100, plaque to first 3, top Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600, Unrated. Unrated may not win over $200 in U1200, $400 U1600, or $600 U2000. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: $600-400-200. Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2; teammate pairings avoided but possible. Top 3 sections EF: $99 online at chessaction.com by 8/26, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 8/24 (entry only, no questions), 3-day $103, 2-day $102 mailed by 8/19, all $120 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hours before game. GMs, IMs & WGMs free; $90 deducted from prize. Under 1200 Section EF: all $40 less than above. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. All: Half point byes OK all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $95-95, 1-800-227-6963, 317-236-7495; reserve by 8/14 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.us, 347-2012269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. A Heritage Event! USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED) 47th annual Atlantic Open 5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Washington Westin Hotel, 1400 M St. NW at Thomas Circle, Washington, DC 20005. $$ 20,000 guaranteed prizes. In 7 sections. Open: $2000-1000-500300, clear or tiebreak 1st $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr $800-400. Under 2100: $1400-700-400-200. Under 1900: $1400-700-400-200. Under 1700: $1400-700-400-200. Under 1500: $1200-600-400-200. Under 1300: $1000-500-300-200. Under 1000: $500-250-150-100, plaques to top 3, first U800, U600, Unrated. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: $800-400-200. Team average rating must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 8/29. Unrated may not win over $200 in U1000, $350 U1300, $500 U1500, $700 U1700, or $900 U1900; balance goes to next player(s) in line. Top 6 sections EF: $105 online at chessaction.com by 8/26, $115 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 8/24 (entry only, no questions), 3-day $113, 2-day $112 if check mailed by 8/19, $120 at site, or online until 2 hours before game. GMs free; $100 from prize. Under 1000 Section EF: All $50 less than above. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Reentry $60, not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with entry- Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat. 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Bye: all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $99-99, 202-4291700, reserve by 8/7 (note correction) or rate may increase. Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Parking: Valet day parking about $10, Valet 24 hour access parking about $20; rates could increase, garage has limited space. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, chesstour.info, DirectorAtChess.US, 201-347-2269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entry posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. A Heritage Event! USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 29-30, IOWA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) 61st Iowa Open Championship (USCF & FIDE Rated) IASCA GP Super Qualifier. 5-SS, G/90, i30. Accelerated pairings may be used in Rounds 1-2. IASCA Super GP Qualifier. Marriott Hotel and
See previous issue for TLAs appearing June 1-14 Conference Center, 300 E. 9th St. (I-80, SE side of Exit 242), Coralville, IA 52241. We will be in the Exhibit Hall of the Conference Center this year!! No more small rooms!! Reg.: 8:30-9:30am. Rds.: Sat 10, 2:30, & 7:30; Sun 9:30 & 2:30. EF: $57 if postmarked before 8/24; $69 at site. IM & GM free-EF deducted from any prize, Jrs. & Sr. $10 off, $10 off Out of state residents. Prize Info: Prizes: ($1900 b/65 Top 3 Gtd) 550+T-300-150 U2200, U2000, U1800, U1600 150/75 each. US Chess Federation (USCF) membership required. On Site Available. IASCA membership required, ($10 or Out of State Accepted (OSA). On-Site Available. Send Entry Fee to: IASCA, c/o Mark Capron, 3123 Juniper Dr., Iowa City, IA 52245 or register online at https://onlineregistration.cc/. Additional Info: USCF and FIDE Rated!! Byes: Bye available Rounds 13 if requested prior to start of round. Rounds 4-5 only if requested prior to tournament starting. USCF – August 2015 Rating List will be used for pairing purposes. FIDE rules will be used. Head Floor TD will be Bill Broich. Call 319-321-5435 or mcapron243@mchsi.com Directions: Take I-80 to exit 242, go south to 9th street, take a left and follow to the end of 9th street and you are there! The Marriott Hotel and Conference Center, Chess rate available, $109 only until 8/14/15, rates may increase after this date. Pool, restaurant, more restaurants in walking distance. 319-688- 4000. USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, NORTH CAROLINA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED) The 2015 North Carolina Open This tournament is being held in conjunction with the U.S. Masters. Come watch the stars of the chess world compete while playing in the NC Open! 5-SS, G/120 d5; 2-day schedule: Rd. 1 G/90 d5 then merges with 3- day Embassy Suites Airport, 204 Centreport Dr., Greensboro, NC 27409, (336) 668-4535, mention chess tournament for discounted hotel rate. $13000 in prizes UNCONDITIONALLY GUARANTEED! In 4 sections, OPEN $1000-500-300-250-150-125-125-100-100-100 U2100 250-150- 100; U2000 $1000-500-300-250-150-125-125-100-100-100 U1850 250- 150-100; U1700 $1000-500-300-250-150-125-125-100-100100 U1550 250-150-100; U1400 $1000-500-300-250-150-125-125-100100-100 U1200 250-150-100. EF: $69 if received by August 14. $85 if received later or onsite. $2 discount to NCCA members. SCHEDULE: 3Day registra- tion ends at 7PM on 8/28 Round at 7:30PM. 2-Day registration ends at 9:30AM on 8/29 Round at 10AM. Subsequent rounds are 8/29 at 2PM- 7PM and 8/30 at 9AM-2PM. HR: $99 All rooms are suite style. Free made to order breakfast daily, free manager’s reception nightly, and free airport shuttle available for all guests. Hotel booking link: https://resweb.passkey.com/Resweb.do?mode=welcome_ei_new& eventID=13620024. ADVANCE ENTRY Registration is available at www. carolinaschessinitiative.com. Alternately, checks can be sent to Walter High, 105 North Crabtree Knoll, Chapel Hill, NC 27514. Make checks payable to Carolinas Chess Initiative (CCI). OTHER: One half-point bye available. Byes must be requested before round 2 is paired. Open section FIDE rated. INFO: Walter High wmhigh@nc.rr.com or Gary Newsom gary.newsom@charlottechesscenter.org. More info including pre-entry lists may be available at carolinaschessinitiative.com. Hotel has a no smok- ing policy including electronic cigarettes. Special Saturday-only U1000 Scholastic Tournament: Saturday, August 29 4SS, G/30 d5. Rounds 10:30-12-2-3:30. In two sections, determined on-site based on entries. Tro- phies to top 10 in each section. USCF rated. EF: $20 in advance $25 on- site. SEPT. 4, NEW YORK TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED) 2nd annual New York State Blitz Championship (BLZ) Out of state welcome; NYS blitz title to top NYS resident, on tiebreak if necessary. 5SS, G/5, d0, double round, 10 games, Albany Marriott (see NY State Championship). $$ 1000 guaranteed: $300-150-100, U2000/Unr $160-80, U1700/Unr $140-70. EF: $40, NYSCA members $35, at site only, no checks. Free to GMs; $40 deducted from prize. Reg. ends 8 pm, rds. 8:30, 9, 9:30, 10, 10:30. Bye: 1. Blitz rated, but higher of regular or blitz used for pairings & prizes. A Heritage Event! USCF Junior Grand Prix! SEPT. 4-7, 5-7 OR 6-7, NEW YORK TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED) 137th annual NY State Championship Out of state welcome. 6SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option in U2100 & below, rds. 1-3 G/40 d10). Albany Marriott, 189 Wolf Rd., Albany 12205 (Thruway Exit 24, I-87 north to Wolf Rd., Exit 4). Luxurious hotel with indoor/outdoor pool, sauna, fitness center, free parking, free airport shuttle, many restaurants in area. $$G 13,000. In 5 sections. Open: $1500-700-500-300, top U2300/Unr $800-400. State title and $100 bonus to top NYS resident (both decided on tiebreak if tied). Under 2100: $1000-500-300-200, top Under 1900 $400. Under 1800: $1000-500300-200, top Under 1600 $400. Under 1500: $800-400-200-100, top Under 1300 $300. Under 1200: $500-300-200-100, trophy to first 3, top Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600, Unrated. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: $500-300-200. Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must register at site (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2; teammate pairings avoided but possible. Unrated may not win over $200 in U1200, $400 U1500 or $600 U1800. Top 4 sections EF: $98 online at chessaction.com by 9/2, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 8/31 (entry only, no questions), 4-day $109, 3-day $108, 2-day $107 if check mailed by 8/26, all $120 at site, or online until 2 hours before game. Under 1200 Section EF: All $30 less than top 4 sections EF. All: Online entries $7 less to NYSCA members (NYSCA dues $12/yr with 2 issues Empire Chess or $20/yr with 4 issues; join or renew together with entry.) Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry $60, all sections but Open. GMs free, $90 deducted from prize. No checks at site, credit cards OK. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 11 am, rds. Sat 12 & 6, Sun 12 & 6, Mon 10 &
3:30. 4-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 6 pm, Sun 12 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sun. 10 am, rds. Sun 11, 1:30, 3:30, 6, Mon 10 & 3:30, no 2-day schedule in Open. Bye: all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 4. HR: $102102, 800-443-8952, 518-458-8444, reserve by 8/27 or rate may increase. NYSCA meeting 9 am Sun. Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction. com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham NY 10803. Questions: www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). NYS Blitz Championship Fri 8:30 pm, enter by 8 pm. USCF Junior Grand Prix! SEPT. 12, INDIANA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 South Bend Regional CC Open 4SS, G/85 d5. Hilton Garden Inn & Gillespie Center, 53995 SR 933, South Bend, IN 46637. $1300, b/50, 50% Guaranteed. 1st $400, 2nd $200, Top X$180, Top A $160, Top B $140, Top C $120, D/Under $100. EF: $30 received by 08/08/2015, $40 received by 09/04/2015, $50 onsite, Free Entry to all Master rated players, $40 withheld from any prize winnings. Cash and checks accepted, NO Credit Cards. Onsite Registration 8:30am-8:50am. Rounds: 9am, 12:30pm, 3:30pm, 6:30pm. 1/2pt Byes available in rnds. 1-3. Mail EFs to: South Bend Regional Chess, PO Box 1594, Granger, IN 46530. Contact: Mathew Leach, leachmat@gmail.com USCF Junior Grand Prix! SEPT. 25-27 OR 26-27, CONNECTICUT TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED) 6th Annual Hartford Open 5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Sheraton Hartford Hotel, 1 Bradley Airport (visible at airport entrance), Windsor Locks, CT 06096 (I-91 Exit 40 to Rt. 20). Free parking. $5000 guaranteed prize fund. In 4 sections. Open: $800-400-300, U2210/Unr $300-150. Under 2010: $500-250-150, top U1810/Unr $300-150. Under 1610: $400-230-120, top U1410/Unr $200-100. Under 1210: $200-100-50, trophies to first 3, top U1000, U800, U600, Unrated. Unrated may not win over $120 in U1210 or $250 in U1610. Mixed doubles: $200-100 bonus to best male/female combined score among all sections. Team average must be under 2200; may play in different sections; teams must register by 2 pm 9/26; teammate pairings avoided but possible. Top 3 sections EF: $68 online at chessaction.com by 9/23, $75 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 9/22, 3-day $73, 2-day $72 if check mailed by 9/16, $80 at site, or online until 2 hours before game. No mailed credit card entries. U1210 Section EF: all $20 less than above. No checks at site, credit cards OK. GMs, IMs & WGMs free, $60 deducted from prize. Online EF $3 less to CSCA or WMCA members. Re-entry $40; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Bye: all, limit 2; must commit before rd. 2. HR: $102-102, 860-627-5311; reserve by 9/11 or rate may increase. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: website www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). USCF Junior Grand Prix! OCT. 7-12, 9-12 OR 10-12, VIRGINIA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) 2nd annual Washington Chess Congress Premier Section, 9SS, Oct 7-12, 40/2, SD/30 d10; GM & IM norms possible, FIDE rated. Other Sections, 7SS, Oct 9-12 or 10-12, 40/2, SD/30 d10 (3-day option, rounds 1-2 G/75 d10). Hyatt Regency Crystal City, 2799 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, VA 22202. Free shuttle to/from Reagan International Airport and Crystal City Metro station (contact hotel for schedule). $25,000 guaranteed prizes. In 4 sections: Premier: Open to 1900/over USCF or FIDE and all foreign FIDE rated players. $3000-1500-700-500-300, clear or tiebreak first bonus $100, top FIDE Under 2300/Unr $1400-700. Minimum prize $500 to first 5 foreign GMs FIDE rated 2500/over to enter who play all 9 rounds with no byes. Under 2100: $2000-1000-500-300-200, top Under 1900 (no Unr) $1300-700. Under 1700: $2000-1000-500-300-200, top Under 1500 (no Unr) $1100-600. Under 1300: $1000-600-400-300-200, top Under 1100 (no Unr) $400-200. Prize limits: Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) cannot win over $300 in U1300, $600 in U1700, or $1000 in U2100. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team”combined score among all sections: $1000-600-400. Only first 7 rounds of Premier counted. Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2. Ratings: FIDE ratings used in Premier, USCF October official in other sections.Top 3 sections EF: $145 online at chessaction.com by 10/6, $155 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10/5, 4day $154, 3-day $153 if check mailed by 9/28, all $160 at site until 1 hour before game, or online at chessaction.com until 2 hours before game. U1300 Section: all $60 less. Premier Section GMs, IMs, WGMs, foreign FMs: free, $140 deducted from prize. Premier Section FIDE rated foreign players: EF $50 less. Special 1 yr USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with entry: Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry: $80, no re-entry from Premier to Premier. 6-day schedule (Premier only): Reg. ends Wed 6 pm, rds. Wed 7 pm, Thu 12 noon & 7 pm, Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 am & 6 pm, Sun 11 am & 6 pm, Mon 10 am. 4-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm. Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4. Byes: OK all; limit 3 (limit 2 in last 4 rds.), must commit before rd. 3. Bring sets, boards, clocks if possible- none supplied. HR: $99-99-109, 703-418-1234, reserve by 9/23 or rate may increase. Special chess rate valet parking $6/day, with or without
guest room. Car rentals: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633 or reserve car online at chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Questions: DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269, www.chesstour.com. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sun 10 pm, enter by 9:45 pm. USCF Junior Grand Prix! OCT. 9-11 OR 10-11, ILLINOIS TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED) 24th annual Midwest Class Championships 5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). 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 to Lake Cook Rd. to US-45 south). Free parking. Prizes $20,000 based on 250 paid entries (re-entries & Under 1100 Section count as half entries), else in proportion except $16,000 (80% of each prize) minimum guaranteed. In 7 sections; no unrated allowed in Premier. Premier (1900/up): $2000-1000-500-300, clear win or 1st on tiebreak $100, top U2300 $800-400. 1700-2099: $1400-700-400-200. 1500-1899: $1400700-400-200. 1300-1699: $1300-700-400-200. 1100-1499: $1200-600400-200. Under 1300: $1000-500-300-200. Under 1100: $500-300-200100, plaques to top 3, top U900, U700, U500, Unrated. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team”combined score among all sections: $800-400-200. Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 10/10; teammate pairings avoided but possible. Unrated prize limits: $200 U1100, $350 U1300, $500 1100-1499, $700 1300-1699, $900 1500-1899. Top 6 sections EF: $105 online at chessaction.com by 10/7, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10/5 (entry only, no questions), 3-day $113, 2-day $112 mailed by 9/30, all $120 at site, or online until 2 hours before first game. Under 1100 EF: all $50 less than above. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Online or mailed EF $5 less to ICA members; join/renew at il-chess.org. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry $50; not available in Premier Section. GMs $90 from prize. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Bye: all, limit 2; Premier must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $107-107-107-107, 800-937-8461, 847-777-6500, reserve by 9/25 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Questions: chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied.
Regional Alabama JULY 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Southern Open (FL) See Grand Prix. A State Championship Event! JULY 25, Alabama Dual-Rated State Chess Championship 4SS, Game/45 + 10 second increment. Location: Evangel Church, 3975 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery, AL. Round times: 9:00, 11:15, 2:00, 4:15. Three sections: OPEN (b/20, 60%GTD): 1st $250, 2nd $150, U2000 $100. U1800 (b/20, 60%GTD): 1st $225, 2nd $150, U1500 $100. U1200 (b/20, 60%GTD): 1st $225, 2nd $150, U1000 $100. Trophies and Alabama titles to top Alabamian finishers. USCF and ACF required, OSA. EF (all sections): $30 by July 17, $35 thereafter or onsite (onsite registration 8:00-8:30AM). Registration: Send name, USCF ID, section and entry fee (payable to “Evangel Church”) to Doug Strout, 6000 Camelot Ct., Montgomery, AL 36117 (dtstrout@bellsouth.net).
Arizona USCF Junior Grand Prix! Tuesday Night Open 4 or 5 round, USCF rated tournament; ROUND TIMES: 7:00pm One game every Tuesday of the month: Time Control: 40/120,SD/60 d5 PRIZES: 1st Place and Class Prizes based on number of entries; ENTRY FEE: $45; TO REGISTER: chessemporium.com, call 602-482-4867. SITE: 10801 N. 32nd St., Suite 6, Phoenix, AZ 85028. JUNE 18, 2015 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 18-19, 2015 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 19, Youth Trophy Tournament (NV) See Nevada. JUNE 19-21 OR 20-21, 2015 National Open (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 20-21, International Youth Championship (NV) See Nevada. JUNE 21, National Open Blitz (BLZ) (NV) See Grand Prix. JULY 16-19, 17-19 OR 18-19, 20th annual Pacific Coast Open (CA-S) See Grand Prix.
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Tournament Life / June JULY 18, 2nd Annual Prescott Open - a Mini-Swiss Event 3 SS, 30/60, 30/30 d0. Yavapai College Community Room 225, Bldg. 19, 1100 E. Sheldon St., Prescott, AZ 86301. Sections 8-10 by rating. Prizes: $150 b/8: $100-50. EF: $20 if rec’d by 7/15, $25 at site. Free to OTB Masters. Reg.: 9:30-10:15 am. Rds.: 10:30, 1:30, 4:30. Ent: Tom Green, 1533 Buttermilk, Prescott, AZ 86305. 740-803-2532. tagreen@owu.edu. W. AUG. 1-9, 4-9 OR 6-9, 116th Annual U.S. Open See Nationals. AUG. 14-16 OR 15-16, 6th annual Central California Open (CA-N) See Grand Prix.
California, Northern JUNE 13, Chess4Less Kids Quads (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) 1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies: Players w/plus score. Sched: Required Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 22 by 6/11, 37 after 6/11. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. JUNE 13, Chess4Less Kids Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) 1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies to players w + score & all teams. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 22 by 6/11, 37 after 6/11. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. JUNE 13, Foster City Grand Prix Luper$wiss (3SS, G/90 d5) See Grand Prix. JUNE 13, Sacramento Chess4Less Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Trophies: Players w/plus score. Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 22 by 6/11, 37 after 6/11. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. JUNE 13, Sacramento Luper Swiss (3SS, G/90 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Prize: $900 b/36 1700+: $200-100, u1900 100-50.u1700: $200-100, u1600 100, u1400 50. Jun 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 9-9:15. Rds.: 9:30 1 4:30. EF: 43, Econ 29 1/2 prz., after 6/10 +15, playup +15, Rated 2200+ $0 by 6/5. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W. JUNE 14, Bay Area Fremont Quads (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Trophies: Players w/plus score. Sched: Required Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 27 by 6/12, 42 after 6/12. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. JUNE 14, Bay Area Fremont Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Trophies to players w + score & all teams. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 34 by 6/12, 49 after 6/12. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. JUNE 18, 2015 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 18-19, 2015 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 19-21 OR 20-21, 2015 National Open (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 20, Chess4Less Kids Quads (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) 1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies: Players w/plus score. Sched: Required Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 22 by 6/18, 37 after 6/18. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. JUNE 20, Chess4Less Kids Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) 1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies to players w + score & all teams. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 22 by 6/18, 37 after 6/18. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. JUNE 20-21, International Youth Championship (NV) See Nevada. JUNE 21, Bay Area Chess Grand Prix Luper Swiss (3SS, G/90 d5) See Grand Prix. JUNE 21, FATHER’s DAY Special: Daddy, Daughter/Son Championship (5SS, G/30 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies to players w + score & all teams. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 5p. EF: 39, 54 after 6/19. Fathers/Brothers get free entry! Info: http://BayAreaChess. com/signature. W. JUNE 27, Chess4Less Kids Quads (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) 1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies: Players w/plus score. Sched: Required Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 22 by 6/25, 37 after 6/25. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. JUNE 27, Chess4Less Kids Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) 1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies to players w + score & all teams. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 22 by 6/25, 37 after 6/25. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. JUNE 28, Cupertino Grand Prix DuperSwiss75 (3SS, G/75, d5) See Grand Prix. JULY 3-5 OR 4-5, 2015 Sacramento Chess Championship See Grand Prix. JULY 5, Bay Area Chess Grand Prix Super Swiss (4SS, G/61 d5) See Grand Prix. JULY 5, Bay Area Cupertino Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: Players w/plus score. Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 27, 42 after 7/3. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. JULY 5, Bay Area Cupertino Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies to players w + score & all teams. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 34, 49 after 7/3. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. JULY 11, Chess4Less Kids Quads (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) 1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies: Players w/plus
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score. Sched: Required Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 22 by 7/9, 37 after 7/9. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature.
Rds.: 9:30-12:50-4:15. EF: 43, Ecn 29 w 1/2 prz. after 8/5 +15, playup +15, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 8/1. Info: BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W.
JULY 11, Chess4Less Kids Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) 1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies to players w + score & all teams. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 22 by 7/9, 37 after 7/9. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature.
AUG. 8, Sacramento Chess4Less Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Trophies: Players w/plus score. Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 22, 37 after 8/6. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
JULY 11, Sacramento Chess4Less Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Trophies: Players w/plus score. Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 22 by 7/9, 37 after 7/9. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
AUG. 8, Sacramento Luper Swiss (3SS, G/90 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova CA 95670. Prize: $900 b/36. 1700+: $200-100, u1900 100-50. u1700: $200-100, u1600 100, u1400 50. Aug 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 9-9:15. Rds.: 9:30-12:50-4:15. EF: 43, Econ 29 1/2 prz., after 8/5 +15, playup +15, Rated 2200+ $0 by 8/1. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W.
USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 11, Sacramento Junior Grand Prix Super Swiss (4SS, G/61 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Prize: $900 b/36 1700+: $200-100, u1900 100-50.u1700: $200-100, u1600 100, u1400 50. Jun 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 9-9:15. Rds.: 9:30-11:50-2:40-5. EF: 43, Econ 29 1/2 prz., after 7/8 +15, playup +15, Rated 2200+ $0 by 7/8. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W JULY 12, Bay Area Fremont Quads (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Trophies: Players w/plus score. Sched: Required Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 27 by 7/10, 42 after 7/10. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. JULY 12, Bay Area Fremont Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Trophies to players w + score & all teams. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 34 by 7/10, 49 after 7/10. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. JULY 12, Fremont DuperSwiss75 (3SS, G/75 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Prizes: $1,250 b40. 60% guar. 1900+: $200-100-50, u2100 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100, u1700 5050. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Jul 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg. 8:30-8:45. Rds.: 9-11:45-2:40. EF: 47, Econ 32 w 1/2 prz. after 7/9 +15, playup +15, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 7/2. Info: BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W. JULY 16-19, 17-19 OR 18-19, 20th annual Pacific Coast Open (CA-S) See Grand Prix. JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, Bay Area Chess GM Melikset Khachiyan Championship See Grand Prix. JULY 19, Bay Area Cupertino Quads Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: Players w/plus score. Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 27, 42 after 7/17. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. JULY 19, Bay Area Cupertino Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies to players w + score & all teams. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 34, 49 after 7/17. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. JULY 25, Chess4Less Kids Quads (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) 1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies: Players w/plus score. Sched: Required Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 22, 37 after 7/23. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. JULY 25, Chess4Less Kids Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) 1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies to players w + score & all teams. Sched: Reg 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 22, 37 after 7/23. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 25-26, Hans Poschmann Memorial 4-SS, 30/90; SD/60 d5. 40955 Fremont Blvd., Fremont CA, 94538. $$B 60 paid entries (not counting unrated entries ). Three Sections: Open $300-210 U2200 $200-100; A/B $200-150 U1800 $145-100; Reserve $200-150 U1400 $145-100 Unrated players in the Reserve can win a maximum of $100 All, EF: postmarked by 7/20 $60, $70 at site. USCF memb. req’d. May play up for add’l $10 per section. Reg.: Sat 7/25 9:00-9:45am. RDS.: Sat 10:00-3:30; Sun 10:00-3:30; One 1/2 pt bye available if requested in advance (bye in rds. 3 or 4 must be requested before rd 1). 2015 July Supplement, CCA minimums and Directors discretion will be used to place players as accurately as possible. Please bring clocks and equipment. INFO: Ken Zowal (510)-623-9935, Email: kenneth.zowal@sbcglobal.net or richardkoepcke@yahoo.com. Ent: Ken Zowal, P.O. Box 3211, Fremont, CA 94539. No Phone entries. JULY 26, Cupertino Grand Prix DuperSwiss75 (3SS, G/75 d5) See Grand Prix.
AUG. 8-13 (NOT JULY 25-30), 4th Annual Washington International (note date change) (MD) See Grand Prix. AUG. 9, Bay Area Fremont Quads (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Trophies: Players w/plus score. Sched: Required Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 27, 42 after 8/7. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. AUG. 9, Bay Area Fremont Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Trophies to players w + score & all teams. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 34, 49 after 8/7. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. AUG. 14-16 OR 15-16, 6th annual Central California Open See Grand Prix.
California, Southern The Los Angeles Chess Club
The Most Active Club on the West Coast! (310) 795-5710 * www.LAChessClub.com; Contact: Mick@LAChessClub.com; Saturdays: 10am-10 pm (Beg & Interm. classes + 2 Tournaments). Sundays: 117 & 1-5 pm (Junior class + 2 Tournaments) – Details on our web site. Tuesdays: 7:30-9:30 pm (Advance Lecture). 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025. (4 blocks W of 405, SW corner of Santa Monica& Butler * 2nd Floor – above Javan Restaurant) Group Classes * Tournaments * Private (1:1) Lessons. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 6&7, LACC - Saturday & Sunday G/61 6SS, G/61 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. EF: $55 ($35 LACC memb; No prizes 1/2; spouses/siblings 1/2). Reg.: 11-12 pm. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day. 1-day option: $30/$20. Prizes: 1/2 collections. Parking: Free at BoA & basement. Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LA ChessClub.com. JUNE 6, 13, 20, 27, LACC - Every Saturday Chess 4 JRS 4 separate events- 5SS, G/30 d0. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd. & Butler LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blocks West of 405. EF: $30 ($20 LACC memb, No prize 1/2, siblings 1/2, Free new LACC members). Reg.: 12-1 pm. Rds.: 1pm & asap; done by 5; Prizes: Trophies & medals; everyone receives a prize! Parking: Free on streets & BoA. Free pizzas & juices. Info: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com or Mick@LAChessClub.com. JUNE 6, 13, 20, 27, LACC - Sat Nite Blitzathon (BLZ) 7DSS, G/5 d0 (14 Games). 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blks W of 405. EF: $20 ($15 LACC memb). Blitz-rated. No prizes $10. Reg.: 6-6:30 pm. Rds.: 6:30, 6:55, 7:20, 7:45, 8:10, 8:35, 9 pm. Prizes: 1/2 collections. Parking: Free on streets & BoA. Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com JUNE 7, 14, 21, 28, LACC - Every Sunday Chess 4 JRS 4 separate events- 5SS, G/30 d0. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd. & Butler LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blocks West of 405. EF: $30 ($20 LACC memb, No prize 1/2, siblings 1/2, Free new LACC members). Reg.: 12-1 pm. Rds.: 1pm & asap; done by 5; Prizes: Trophies & medals; everyone receives a prize! Parking: Free on streets & BoA. Free pizzas & juices. Info: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com or Mick@LAChessClub.com. JUNE 13-14, LACC 12th Year Anniversary See Grand Prix. JUNE 18, 2015 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 18-19, 2015 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Nationals.
AUG. 2, Bay Area Chess Grand Prix Super Swiss (4SS, G/61 d5) See Grand Prix.
JUNE 19, Youth Trophy Tournament (NV) See Nevada.
AUG. 2, Bay Area Cupertino Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: Players w/plus score. Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 27, 42 after 7/29. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
JUNE 19-21 OR 20-21, 2015 National Open (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 20-21, International Youth Championship (NV) See Nevada.
AUG. 2, Bay Area Cupertino Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies to players w + score & all teams. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 34, 49 after 7/29. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
JUNE 21, National Open Blitz (BLZ) (NV) See Grand Prix.
AUG. 8, Chess4Less Kids Quads (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) 1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies: Players w/plus score. Sched: Required Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 22, 37 after 8/6. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. AUG. 8, Chess4Less Kids Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) 1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies to players w + score & all teams. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 22, 37 after 8/6. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. AUG. 8, Foster City Luper$wiss (3SS, G/90 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Foster City, CA 94404. Prizes: $1,250 b/40. 60% guar. 1900+: $200-100-50, u2100 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100, u1700 5050. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Aug 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 9-9:15.
JUNE 27-28, 2015 Tal Memorial See Grand Prix. JULY 16-19, 17-19 OR 18-19, 20th annual Pacific Coast Open See Grand Prix. JULY 19, Pacific Coast Open Sunday Quad 3RR, G/25 d5. Sheraton Hotel, Agoura Hills (see Pacific Coast Open). EF: $20, at site only, no checks. $50 1st prize each section. Reg. ends 1:45 pm, rds. 2:00, 3:00, 4:00. AUG. 8-13 (NOT JULY 25-30), 4th Annual Washington International (note date change) (MD) See Grand Prix. AUG. 14-16 OR 15-16, 6th annual Central California Open (CA-N) See Grand Prix.
See previous issue for TLAs appearing June 1-14
Colorado JUNE 13-14, The Denver Open See Grand Prix. JUNE 18, 2015 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 18-19, 2015 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 19-21 OR 20-21, 2015 National Open (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 20-21, International Youth Championship (NV) See Nevada. JULY 17-19, Kansas Open (KS) See Grand Prix. USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 1-2, Pikes Peak Open - Manitou Springs, CO 5-SS. Time Control: Rds. 1-2 G/90 d5; Rds. 3-5 G/90 with 30 seconds increment. Manitou Springs City Hall, 606 Manitou Avenue. One open section. EF: $35 if rec’d by 7/28, $40 at site. $5 discount for juniors, seniors, unrateds. Additional $5 discount for Supporting Members of Colorado Springs Chess Club. Cash prizes per entries. Register: 8:30– 9:30 AM. Rounds: 10 AM, 2:30 PM, 7:00 PM Saturday; 9 AM, 3 PM Sunday. Entries to: Richard Buchanan, 1 Sutherland Rd., Manitou Springs, CO 80829. Information: (719) 685 1984 or buckpeace@pcisys.net. CSCA membership required: $15, juniors & seniors $10. OSA Colorado Tour Event.
Connecticut JUNE 7, Northeast Open Sunday Quad 3RR, G/25 d5. Sheraton Hotel, Stamford (see Northeast Open). EF: $20, at site only, no checks. $50 1st prize each section. Reg. ends 1:45 pm, rds. 2:00, 3:00, 4:00. JUNE 13, 21st annual Robert Musicant/Donald Yazgoor Memorial Scholastic 5SS, G/30 d0. Norwalk Library, 2nd Flr. Auditorium, 1 Belden Ave., Norwalk, CT 06850. Near Exit 1 from US-7. Open to all players finishing 12th grade or younger. EF: $10 postmarked by 6/6/15. ALL-$15 after or at door. Prizes: Trophies to Top 3 overall, Top 3 U-1200/UNR, Top overall in grade categories K-2, 3-5, 6-8, Top U-1200/UNR in grade categories K-2, 3-5, 6-8. Name of first overall is engraved on the Musicant Cup. Name of first U-1200/UNR is engraved on the Yazgoor Cup. Both cups are on permanent display in the Norwalk Library Main Branch Children’s Library. Reg.: 9:15-9:45. Sat 6/8: Rd. 1-10:00am, others ASAP. Lunchroom facility available for bag lunch. Pizza/desserts will be provided. Boards and sets will be provided. Please bring a clock if you have one. For more information contact: norwalknights@optonline.net. Chks payable to Christopher Potts, mail to: Christopher Potts, 73 Nursery St., Norwalk, CT 06850. Include player’s full name, grade finishing and USCF ID number. Include SASE for confirmation if wanted. W. JUNE 30-JULY 5, JULY 1-5, 2-5 OR 3-5, 43rd Annual World Open (VA) See Grand Prix. JULY 11, Fairfield County Masters & Class Championships See Grand Prix. JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, 20th Annual Bradley Open See Grand Prix.
Camps, Family Game Nights, Parents Night Out, Casual Chess Play and more! Complimentary Refreshments, Ample Parking, Comfortable Waiting Room, and more! Located at 8353 SW 124 St., Suite 201-A, Miami, FL 33156. Contact Chris Stormont, Phone: 786-303-2437, Email: chris@stormontkingschess.com, Web: www.StormontKingsChess.com. JUNE 5-7 OR 6-7, 7th Summer Solstice Open See Grand Prix. JUNE 12-14 OR 13-14, Sunshine Summer Open & Scholastic See Grand Prix. JULY 11, CFCC Tornados at UUU See Grand Prix. JULY 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Southern Open See Grand Prix. JULY 26, Southern Open Sunday Quad 3RR, G/25 d5.Wyndham Orlando Resort (see Southern Open). EF: $20, at site only, no checks. $50 1st prize each section. Reg. ends 1:45 pm, rds. 2:00, 3:00, 4:00. AUG. 8-13 (NOT JULY 25-30), 4th Annual Washington International (note date change) (MD) See Grand Prix. AUG. 22, CFCC Tornados at UUU See Grand Prix.
Georgia JUNE 19-21 OR 20-21, Castle Chess Grand Prix See Grand Prix. JUNE 30-JULY 5, JULY 1-5, 2-5 OR 3-5, 43rd Annual World Open (VA) See Grand Prix. JULY 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Southern Open (FL) See Grand Prix. AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 47th annual Atlantic Open (DC) See Grand Prix. OCT. 7-12, 9-12 OR 10-12, 2nd annual Washington Chess Congress (VA) See Grand Prix.
Idaho JUNE 6, 2015 Boise Chess Festival EF: Free!! Free!! Free!! All events are free to all participants! All ages welcome! 2015 Idaho State Chess Champion, FM David Lucky playing a 12 board Simul; 18 Time Idaho State Chess Champion, Larry Parsons playing a 12 board simul; and Caleb Kircher, 2014 Idaho State Chess Champion playing a 12 board simul; Drawings, Speed Chess Exhibitions, Bughouse Exhibitions; Spar with Chess Champions; 2015 Boise Chess Festival Blitz (BLZ): USCF Rated G/5 d0 Tournament, blitz rating being used for pairings & prizes, 5 Rounds; Unrated Lightning G/1 Minute, Fun for Everyone; Family Friendly; Instructional Sessions; Adult and Scholastic Chess Players welcome; Beginners welcome, even if you don’t yet play. Game Analysis by Idaho Chess Champions. www.Boise ChessFestival.info, Contact: Julie Nahlen 208.562.9785, chessanyone@integrity.com. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 20-21, Idaho Open
5SS, Time Control: G/120 d5. 2 Sections: Open and Reserve (U1400). Site: La Quinta Inn & Suites, 7965 W. Emerald St., Boise, ID 83704. USCF mem req., EF by 6/15 $30 (U18 & 60+ $25), Special Family Rate of $60. $5 more for all if received after 6/15. Email entries OK. Northwest Chess Grand Prix points available! Register & check in: 8-8:45am 6/20. Rd. times: Sat 9am, 1:30pm, 6pm; Sun 9am, 1:30pm. 1/2 pt byes: Max 1, any round. M.ust commit before Rd. 2 pairing. Players arriving for round 2 may take a retroactive R1 1/2 pt bye as long as they arrive by 1:15pm. Prizes: $$ b/30; Open: $200-100-75; Reserve: $100-75-50. HR/ENT/INFO: ICA, www.idahochessassociation.org. Contact: Jeffrey Roland, 1514 S. Longmont Ave., Boise, ID 83706. jroland@cableone.net. W.
Illinois JUNE 12-14, 2015 U.S. Junior Open See Nationals. JUNE 12-14, 2015 U.S. Senior Open See Nationals. JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, 8th annual Chicago Class See Grand Prix. JULY 19, Chicago Class Sunday Quad 3RR, G/25 d5. Westin North Shore Hotel (see Chicago Class). EF: $20, at site only, no checks. $50 1st prize each section. Reg. ends 1:45 pm, rds. 2:00, 3:00, 4:00. AUG. 8-13 (NOT JULY 25-30), 4th Annual Washington International (note date change) (MD) See Grand Prix. AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 10th annual Indianapolis Open (IN) See Grand Prix. AUG. 29-30, 61st Iowa Open Championship (USCF & FIDE Rated) (IA) See Grand Prix. OCT. 9-11 OR 10-11, 24th annual Midwest Class Championships See Grand Prix.
Indiana JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, 8th annual Chicago Class (IL) See Grand Prix. USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 1-2, 2015 Indiana Class Championships 4SS, G/120 d5. Clarion Hotel, 2930 Waterfront Pkwy, West Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46214. Ph: 317-299-8400. HR: $82 (book by July 1). In 6 Sections: Master/Expert, A, B, C, D (See Class E below). May play up one class. Sections combined if necessary. Prizes (50% gtd): $$1700, b/50 paid entries, M/X $250, $150, A,B,C,D $200, $125, Reg.: 8:30-9:45. Rds.: Sat 10-3 & Sun 10-2:30. EF: $40 if rec’d by 7/28, $50 on-site. ISCA Memb. req’d, OSA. 1 bye if before RD.2, NO LAST RD. BYES. Ent: Online, indianachess.org or mail to: Craig Hines, 613 North Park Dr., Evansville, IN 47710, 812-423-2996, (cell)812-618-8700, July ratings used. Class E: August 1st only. 4SS, G/60 d5. Rds.: 10, 12:30, 3, 5. EF: $20. Trophies 1-10 places. AUG. 7-9 OR 8-9, Cleveland Open (OH) See Grand Prix. AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 10th annual Indianapolis Open See Grand Prix.
JULY 19, Bradley Open Sunday Quad 3RR, G/25 d5. Sheraton Hartford Hotel, Windsor Locks (see Bradley Open). EF: $20, at site only, no checks. $50 1st prize each section. Reg. ends 1:45 pm, rds. 2:00, 3:00, 4:00. AUG. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 45th annual Continental Open (MA) See Grand Prix. AUG. 21-23 OR 22-23, 14th annual Manhattan Open (NY) See Grand Prix. SEPT. 25-27 OR 26-27, 6th Annual Hartford Open See Grand Prix.
District of Columbia AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 47th annual Atlantic Open See Grand Prix. OCT. 7-12, 9-12 OR 10-12, 2nd annual Washington Chess Congress (VA) See Grand Prix.
Florida USCF Junior Grand Prix! Boca Raton Chess Club Friday nights, G/85 d5 Tournament, one game a week for 4 weeks. www.bocachess.com, 561-479-0351. Casselberry Chess Club (Orlando) Thursday Night Tournaments 6-10 PM. Details: casselberrychessclub.com or call (407) 388-0636. USCF Junior Grand Prix! South Florida Chess Club Wednesday’s 6:30-10:30pm. All games are G/85 d5, and they are all 4 round tournaments. www.SouthFloridaChessClub.com. Questions? call 561-573-3677 or email southfloridachessclub@gmail.com.
23rd annual SOUTHERN OPEN July 24-26 or 25-26, Wyndham Orlando Resort
$15,000 GUARANTEED PRIZES 5 round Swiss, choice of 3-day or 2-day schedule. $92 room rate, no resort fee. In 4 sections: Open Section: Prizes $2000-1000-500-300, clear/tiebreak win $100 bonus, top Under 2300/Unr $800-400. 120 Grand Prix points. Under 2100 Section: $1500-800-400-200, top U1900/Unr $600-300. Under 1700 Section: $1200-600-300-200, top Under 1500 (no unr) $500-250. Under 1300 Section: $800-400-200-150, top Under 1100 (no unr) $200-100, plaques to top Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600, Unrated. M IXED DOUBLES BONUS PRIZES: Best male/female 2-player team (average U2200) combined score among all sections: $800-400. Unrated prize lim its: $200 in U1300, $500 in U1700. FULL DETAILS: see “Grand Prix” in this issue or chesstour.com.
The Stormont Kings Chess Center in Miami, FL Conducts Private and Group Lessons, Homeschool Activities, Tournaments,
www.uschess.org
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Tournament Life / June SEPT. 12, South Bend Regional CC Open See Grand Prix.
Maryland
OCT. 9-11 OR 10-11, 24th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL) See Grand Prix.
Maryland Chess Association Tournaments
Iowa JUNE 6-7, Port of Burlington Open See Grand Prix. AUG. 29-30, 61st Iowa Open Championship (USCF & FIDE Rated) See Grand Prix.
Kansas
MCA runs several scholastic & open tournaments throughout Maryland each month. Listings & online registration at www.MDChess.com. Maryland scholastic players can qualify for a $41,000 scholarship awarded each year that covers 4 years of tuition & fees at UMBC (University of Maryland, Baltimore County). JUNE 25-30, 3rd annual DC International (VA) See Grand Prix. JUNE 26-28, 7th annual World Open Senior Amateur (VA) See Virginia. JUNE 27-28, 7th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (VA) See Virginia.
JULY 17-19, Kansas Open See Grand Prix.
JUNE 27-28, World Open Warmup (VA) See Grand Prix.
AUG. 29-30, 61st Iowa Open Championship (USCF & FIDE Rated) (IA) See Grand Prix.
JUNE 29-30, World Open Under 2300 (VA) See Virginia.
Kentucky East Kentucky Chess Club - Monthly Tournament Check out our website: http://eastkychess.weebly.com/ or Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/eastkychess. Learn, watch, play and teach..” JUNE 13-14, 2015 Kentucky Open - In Memory of Steve Dillard See Grand Prix. AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 10th annual Indianapolis Open (IN) See Grand Prix.
Louisiana
JUNE 30-JULY 1, 4th annual World Open Women’s Championship (VA) See Grand Prix. JUNE 30-JULY 5, JULY 1-5, 2-5 OR 3-5, 43rd Annual World Open (VA) See Grand Prix. JULY 5, World Open Blitz Championship (BLZ) (VA) See Grand Prix. JULY 31-AUG. 2 OR AUG. 1-2, 5th Annual Potomac Open See Grand Prix. AUG. 7, 2015 Washington International Blitz (BLZ) See Grand Prix. AUG. 8-13 (NOT JULY 25-30), 4th Annual Washington International (note date change) See Grand Prix.
JULY 18-19, 2015 Paul Morphy Open See Grand Prix.
AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 47th annual Atlantic Open (DC) See Grand Prix.
Maine
5SS, G/100 d5. McKay Complex, Room C159, Fitchburg State University, 67 Rindge Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420. EF: $10 semi-annual club dues. Reg.: 6-7:10 p.m. Rds.: 7:15 p.m. each Wed. Byes: 1-4, limit two. Prizes: chess books to 1st, 2nd, top U1600, U1400, 1200. Info: George Mirijanian, 176 Oak Hill Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420, miriling2@aol.com, 978-3455011. Website: www.wachusettchess.org. Air-conditioned, plenty of free parking. W. JUNE 30-JULY 5, JULY 1-5, 2-5 OR 3-5, 43rd Annual World Open (VA) See Grand Prix. JULY 11-12, 65th New Hampshire Open (NH) See Grand Prix. JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, 20th Annual Bradley Open (CT) See Grand Prix. AUG. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 45th annual Continental Open See Grand Prix. AUG. 16, Continental Open Sunday Quad 3RR, G/25 d5. Host Hotel at Cedar Lake (see Continental Open). EF: $20, at site only, no checks. $50 1st prize each section. Reg. ends 1:45 pm, rds. 2:00, 3:00, 4:00. SEPT. 25-27 OR 26-27, 6th Annual Hartford Open (CT) See Grand Prix.
Michigan JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, 8th annual Chicago Class (IL) See Grand Prix. AUG. 7-9 OR 8-9, Cleveland Open (OH) See Grand Prix. AUG. 15-16, 2015 U.P. Open See Grand Prix. AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 10th annual Indianapolis Open (IN) See Grand Prix. OCT. 9-11 OR 10-11, 24th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL) See Grand Prix.
JULY 11-12, 65th New Hampshire Open (NH) See Grand Prix.
OCT. 7-12, 9-12 OR 10-12, 2nd annual Washington Chess Congress (VA) See Grand Prix.
JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, 20th Annual Bradley Open (CT) See Grand Prix.
Massachusetts
JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, 8th annual Chicago Class (IL) See Grand Prix.
AUG. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 45th annual Continental Open (MA) See Grand Prix.
USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 3, 10, 17, 24, JULY 1, Wachusett CC “B” Division Championship
AUG. 29-30, 61st Iowa Open Championship (USCF & FIDE Rated) (IA) See Grand Prix.
Minnesota
8th annual Chicago Class July 17-19 or 18-19, 2015 - Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel
$20,000 GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND! 5 rounds, 40/110, SD/30, d10 (2-day option, rounds 1-2 G/60, d10), Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel, 601 North Milwaukee Ave, Wheeling IL 60090. Free parking. In 7 sections; no unrateds in Master or Expert. No residence requirements. An Illinois Chess Tour event. Master (2200/up): $2000-1000-500300, clear win or 1st on tiebreak $100 bonus, top U2400 $800-400. 120 Grand Prix Points (enhanced). Expert (2000-2199): $1400-700-400200. A (1800-1999): $1400-700-400-200. B (1600-1799): $1400-700-400-200. C (1400-1599): $1200-600-400-200. D (1200-1399): $1000-500-300-200. E (Under 1200): $500-250-150-100, trophies to top 3, top Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600, Unrated.
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June 2015 | Chess Life
Unrated prize limits: $200 E, $350 D, $500 C, $700 B, $900 A. Rated players may play up one section. Unrated may enter A or below. Mixed doubles bonus prizes (see Tournament Life): $800-400-200.
3-day schedule: Reg. to Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2day schedule: Reg. to Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5; Sun. 10 & 3:30. Half point byes OK all, Master must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3.
Top 6 sections entry fee: $105 at chessaction.com by 7/15, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 7/13, 3-day $108, 2day $107 mailed by 7/8, all $120 at site, or online until 2 hours before first game. Class E Section entry fee: all $50 less than above. Re-entry (except Master): $50. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Online or mailed EF $5 less to ICA members; join/renew at il-chess.org. Special 1 year USCF dues if paid with entry: see Tournament Life or chesstour.com. USCF membership required.
All: No smoking. Bring clocks, sets, boards if possible-none supplied. JGP. Hotel rates: $107-107-107-107, 800-937-8461, 847-777-6500, reserve by July 3 or rates may increase. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Entry: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham NY 10803. Refunds, $15 service charge. Questions: Director@Chess.US, www.chesstour.com, 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly).
See previous issue for TLAs appearing June 1-14 OCT. 9-11 OR 10-11, 24th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL) See Grand Prix.
Mississippi JULY 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Southern Open (FL) See Grand Prix.
Missouri USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 27, Kansas City Open Noland Road Baptist Church, 4505 S. Noland Rd., Independence, MO 64055. 4SS, G/75 d5. Reg.: 8-8:45. Rds.: 9, 12, 3, 6, USCF required. EF: $20 by 6/20, $30 onsite. Sections: Open & Reserve (U1600) b/40: 1st $150, 2nd $100, 3rd $50 each section. Entries to: CJ Armenta, 12734 Richmond, Grandview, MO 64030. Cash only onsite. A State Championship Event! JUNE 27, Missouri Novice Championship - A Rated Beginner Open Tournament (RBO) Open only to new/unrated players or players Rated under 1000. 4 rounds, Game in 60 d5. Location: Chess Club and Scholastic Center of St. Louis. 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108. Registration: 8:30-9:30. Round Times: 10am, 1, 3:30, 6. Entry Fee: $15 pre-registered (payment received by 6/26) $20 on site. MCA Required available onsite for $5, (O.S.A), No 1/2pt byes. Prizes: based on 10: 1st $100 + Novice State Champion Trophy, 2nd $60 3rd $30. Entries/Info: Bob Howe, 210 N. Olive St., Pacific, MO 63069, (636) 234.7928, bdhowe@yahoo.com. USCF Junior Grand Prix! A State Championship Event! JUNE 27-28, Missouri Class Championship Where every player can become a State Champion! 5SS, G/115 d5. Location: The Missouri Chess Association will host the tournament at The Chess Club and Scholastic Center. 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108. Prizes: $150-1st, $75-2nd, in each section: Master, Expert, A, B, C, D, E/Under 1200. The 2015 Missouri Class Champion Plaque awarded to the winner of each section. Registration: 8:30-9:30; Round times: Sat-10-2:30-7, Sun-9:30-2 Entry Fee: $35 pre-registered by 6/26. $40 on site. On Site cash only. Free Entry to GM/IM. Max 1 half bye; MCA required, O.S.A., available on site from $5. Entries/Info: Bob Howe, 210 N. Olive St., Pacific, MO 63069, (636) 234.7928, bdhowe@yahoo.com. “Playing up” one section is allowed. Players paired only with those in their own section. (Small sections could be combined for pairings only. Combined sections use prize pairing in last round) Other state players welcome. JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, 8th annual Chicago Class (IL) See Grand Prix. JULY 17-19, Kansas Open (KS) See Grand Prix. AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 10th annual Indianapolis Open (IN) See Grand Prix. AUG. 29-30, 61st Iowa Open Championship (USCF & FIDE Rated) (IA) See Grand Prix. OCT. 9-11 OR 10-11, 24th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL) See Grand Prix.
for each prize to be awarded. EF: $39 by 5/25, $50 later. REG.: 9-9:30 a.m. RDS.: 10-11:30-1-2:30-4. www.VegasChessFestival.com. W. JUNE 19-21 OR 20-21, 2015 National Open See Nationals. JUNE 20, National Open Blitz Sectionals (BLZ) RR G/3 +2. Westgate Resort & Casino, 3000 Paradise Rd., Las Vegas 89109. Hotel reservation: 800-732-7117. 10-12 player. $100-60, 2nd half $40, in each section. EF: $30. www.VegasChessFestival.com. REG.: by 9:30 p.m. Rd. 1 at 10 p.m. W. JUNE 20-21, International Youth Championship 5SS, G/60 d5. Westgate Resort & Casino, 3000 Paradise Rd., Las Vegas 89109. In 4 Sections by age: 14 & Under, 14 & Under Reserve (under 1000), 9 & Under, 9 & Under Reserve (under 800). Trophies to top 10 in each section plus class and team trophies. 1st Place in each section wins a Computer loaded with valuable Chess Software and hundreds of Videos, 2nd-4th win chess prizes valued at 250-150-100. Unrated players may not win 1st in Reserve sections. EF: $89 by 5/25, $99 by 6/15, $120 later. 1/2 point bye in any round (limit 2) if requested in advance. REG: 8-9 a.m. RDS: 10-1-4, 10-1. Youth Blitz 6/19 6:30 p.m. ($20 by 5/25 $25 later). HR: $69, $89 Friday and Saturday. (800) 7327117 – be sure to ask for the CHESS rates. ENT: Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925 or www.VegasChessFes tival.com. W. JUNE 21, National Open Blitz (BLZ) See Grand Prix. JULY 16-19, 17-19 OR 18-19, 20th annual Pacific Coast Open (CA-S) See Grand Prix. AUG. 14-16 OR 15-16, 6th annual Central California Open (CA-N) See Grand Prix.
end between 4-6pm. Full details & pre-reg at njchess.com. JUNE 18, 3rd Thursday Quads 3 RR, G/30 d5. Quads grouped by rating. All the King’s Men Chess & Games Center (Just 22 mins. from Center City Philadelphia), 62 S. Broadway, Pitman, NJ. 856-582-8222. Prizes: $25 1st per quad. Unr. cannot win more than $10. EF: $12.50, members $10. Reg.: 6-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8-9 pm. Info: cs@ATKMchessSets.com. All: Visa/MC/Disc/Amex OK w/$1surcharge. Bring a clock! JUNE 19, FCA Friday Night Blitz-O-Mania (BLZ) RR. G/5 d2. 271 Fort Lee Rd., Leonia, NJ 07605. Prizes(b/20): $125, Class prize based on entries. EF: $10. Reg.: 7:00-7:30pm. Rd. 1: 7:45. Info: frank@frankschess.com, 201-961-4029. JUNE 20, 3rd Saturday Quads 3-RR. G/55 d5. 75 East Cherry St., Suite 10A, Rahway, NJ 07065. EF: $25, $20 members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Reg.: 12:1512:50 p.m. Rds.: 1:00, 3:15, 5:30 p.m. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj. com, 732-499-0118, 760-583-8429. JUNE 20, King’s Chess Club Quads Morning quads and afternoon quads, G/30 d5, Kindergarten-undergraduate (scholastic, youth, and young adult memberships). 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. JUNE 21, Sunday Quads 3-RR. G/25 d5. 75 East Cherry St., Suite 10A, Rahway, NJ 07065. EF: $20, $15 members. Prizes: $50 to first in each section. Reg.: 3:00-3:25 p.m. Rds.: 3:30, 4:40, 5:50 p.m. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118, 760-583-8429.
JULY 11-12, 65th New Hampshire Open See Grand Prix.
JUNE 21, Westfield Quads 3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, $20 Members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Reg.: 1:15-2:00 p.m. Rds.: 2:15, 4:00, 5:45 p.m. For additional information: John Moldovan: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-2191358, www.westfieldchessclub.com and westfieldchessclub.blogspot.com.
JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, 20th Annual Bradley Open (CT) See Grand Prix.
JUNE 25-30, 3rd annual DC International (VA) See Grand Prix.
AUG. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 45th annual Continental Open (MA) See Grand Prix.
JUNE 26-28, 7th annual World Open Senior Amateur (VA) See Virginia.
New Hampshire
SEPT. 25-27 OR 26-27, 6th Annual Hartford Open (CT) See Grand Prix.
New Jersey
JUNE 27, Hamilton Chess Club Quads 3RR, 40/80 15/30 15/30 d0. Full K. McManimon Hall, 320 Scully Ave., Hamilton Twp., NJ 08610. Quads open to all. EF: $10. Prizes: $25 per Quad. Reg.: 9-10:30am. Rds.: 10:30am-1:30pm-4:30pm. OSA. Contact email: hamiltonchessclub.com. W. JUNE 27-28, 7th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (VA) See Virginia.
JUNE 2, 9, 16, Princeton Quads ImaginationGuru, 1325 U.S. 206, Skillman, NJ 08558, above Santander Bank. 3-RR. G/55 d5. 1 game per week. EF: $35, $25 members. Prizes: $70 to first in each section. Reg.: 5:45-6:45 p.m. Rds.: 7:00 p.m. on the dates listed. Info and registration: www.imaginationguru.com, 1-800762-9854.
JUNE 27-28 OR 28, Chess Mates Championship/Super Swiss #3 See Grand Prix.
JUNE 13, Central Jersey Chess Tournament Princeton Academy, 1128 Great Rd., Princeton. 6 sections: 4 rated, 2 unrated. Open, U1200: K-12, 3SS, G/40 d5. U900, U600: K-8, 4SS, G/25 d5. Intermediate (K-6), Beginners (K-2): 4SS, unrated, no clocks. Trophies: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and top school or club team per section, medals to all! $35 pre-reg online by 6/11, $45 on-site. Reg.: 1:15-1:45, sections
JUNE 28, Westfield Quads 3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, $20 Members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Reg.: 1:15-2:00 p.m. Rds.: 2:15, 4:00, 5:45 p.m. For additional information: John Moldovan: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-2191358, www.westfieldchessclub.com and westfieldchessclub.blogspot.com.
JUNE 27-28, World Open Warmup (VA) See Grand Prix.
Nebraska JULY 17-19, Kansas Open (KS) See Grand Prix. AUG. 1-2, National State Games of America Chess Tournament Lincoln, Nebraska USCF Sanctioned and rated, but no USCF membership required. OPEN: 5rd SS, G/120 d5; Open, U 1800, U1600 (August 1-2, 2015). RESERVE: 5rd SS, G/60 d5; Reserve Class B/C, Class D, Class E and below (U 1200), and Unrated (August 1, 2015). JUNIOR OPEN: 4rd SS, G/40 d5 (Under age 19) (August 1, 2015). SCHOLASTIC: 5rd SS, G/30 d5; (Under age 13 and rated under 1200) Class E, Class F, Class G, Class H, Under 400, Unrated (August 1, 2015). EF: Determined by section and date of entry. Early entry fees: Open $30, Reserve $25, Junior $19, Scholastic $18. No entry fee for GMs or IMs. All entries online only. No byes in second half of event. Entry to: www.SGA2015.com/chess. Questions: Mike Gooch: mdgooch22@gmail.com or (402) 333-0722. NOTE: Youth players who play in the OPEN section can be recognized for “Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix” points provided they are a current member of the USCF. AUG. 29-30, 61st Iowa Open Championship (USCF & FIDE Rated) (IA) See Grand Prix.
Nevada JUNE 18, 2015 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) See Nationals. JUNE 18-19, 2015 U.S. Women’s Open See Nationals. JUNE 19, Youth Trophy Tournament 5-SS, G/25 d5. Westgate Resort & Casino, 3000 Paradise Rd., Las Vegas 89109. Hotel reservation: 800-732-7117. Open to players age 14 & under. 3 sections: Open, U1000, U700. Trophies top 5 in each section, top 2 in each 200 point rating group and unrated. Must be 3 players eligible
www.uschess.org
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Tournament Life / June JUNE 29-30, World Open Under 2300 (VA) See Virginia.
6:15 p.m. Byes: 2 byes allowed, must commit prior to round 3. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118, 760-583-8429.
SEPT. 25-27 OR 26-27, 6th Annual Hartford Open (CT) See Grand Prix.
JUNE 30-JULY 1, 4th annual World Open Women’s Championship (VA) See Grand Prix.
JULY 11, Fairfield County Masters & Class Championships (CT) See Grand Prix.
OCT. 7-12, 9-12 OR 10-12, 2nd annual Washington Chess Congress (VA) See Grand Prix.
JUNE 30-JULY 5, JULY 1-5, 2-5 OR 3-5, 43rd Annual World Open (VA) See Grand Prix. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Wednesday G/90 5-SS. G/85 d5. 75 East Cherry St., Suite 10A, Rahway, NJ 07065. 1 game per week. EF: $40, $30 members. Prize Fund: $210 b/8 paid entries. Prizes: $100-60, U1800 $50. More prizes if 10+ paid entries. Reg.: 6:45-7:25 p.m. Rds.: 7:30 p.m. on the dates listed. 2 byes allowed. Must commit prior to round 3. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732499-0118, 760-583-8429. JULY 4, 1st Saturday Quads 3-RR. G/55 d5. 75 East Cherry St., Suite 10A, Rahway, NJ 07065. EF: $25, $20 members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Reg.: 12:1512:50 p.m. Rds.: 1:00, 3:15, 5:30 p.m. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj. com, 732-499-0118, 760-583-8429. JULY 4-5, 3rd Annual - Fourth of July Open - Leon Shulman Cup See Grand Prix. JULY 5, Sunday Quads 3-RR. G/25 d5. 75 East Cherry St., Suite 10A, Rahway, NJ 07065. EF: $20, $15 members. Prizes: $50 to first in each section. Reg.: 3:00-3:25 p.m. Rds.: 3:30, 4:40, 5:50 p.m. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118, 760-583-8429. JULY 5, Westfield Quads 3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, $20 Members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Reg.: 1:15-2:00 p.m. Rds.: 2:15, 4:00, 5:45 p.m. For additional information: John Moldovan: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-2191358, www.westfieldchessclub.com and westfieldchessclub.blogspot.com. JULY 7, 14, 21, Princeton Quads ImaginationGuru, 1325 U.S. 206, Skillman, NJ 08558, above Santander Bank. 3-RR. G/55 d5. 1 game per week. EF: $35, $25 members. Prizes: $70 to first in each section. Reg.: 5:45-6:45 p.m. Rds.: 7:00 p.m. on the dates listed. Info and registration: www.imaginationguru.com, 1-800762-9854. JULY 11, Dr. Luzviminda Machan Open 4-SS. G/40 d5. 75 East Cherry St., Suite 10A, Rahway, NJ 07065. EF: $40, members $30. Prize Fund: 70% of EF. Prizes: 1st, 2nd & Under prize, based on 8 players. Minimum $80 to 1st. More or larger prizes if there are more entries. Reg.: 12:15-12:50 p.m. Rds.: 1:00, 2:45, 4:30,
3rd Annual
JULY 11, Summer U2400 Open Somerset Holiday Inn, 195 Davidson Ave., Somerset, exit#10, off I-287. 5-SS, G/30 d5. G$$:250-200-150-100-50. 5-0 score gets extra $50. Minimum $75 b/16 to top Expert, Class A & U1800. No pooling /duplicate prizes. EF: $45 at entryfeesrus.com or $60 cash at site. Reg. to 9:45am on 07/11. Starts: 10am then a lunch break. Early entries paired Friday. Special $5 refunds to card carries CPNJ members. See entryfeesrus.com, Info: Ken acn@goes.com /908-887-3126. W. Web. JULY 12, Sunday Quads 3-RR. G/25 d5. 75 East Cherry St., Suite 10A, Rahway, NJ 07065. EF: $20, $15 members. Prizes: $50 to first in each section. Reg.: 3:00-3:25 p.m. Rds.: 3:30, 4:40, 5:50 p.m. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118, 760-583-8429. JULY 12, Westfield Quads 3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, $20 Members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Reg.: 1:15-2:00 p.m. Rds.: 2:15, 4:00, 5:45 p.m. For additional informaton: John Moldovan: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-2191358, www.westfieldchessclub.com and westfieldchessclub.blogspot.com. JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, 20th Annual Bradley Open (CT) See Grand Prix.
New Mexico JUNE 27-28, Albuquerque/Rio Rancho Open See Grand Prix. JULY 16-19, 17-19 OR 18-19, 20th annual Pacific Coast Open (CA-S) See Grand Prix.
New York USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 4, 11, 18, 25, JULY 2, Long Island CC June Open 5SS, G/90 d5. United Methodist Church, 470 East Meadow Ave., East Meadow, NY 11554. Open to all. $(b/20 pd. ent.): $100-80. Top U2000, U-1500/unr. $50 ea. EF(cash only): $35. Non-LICC members +$10. Reg.: 7:15 – 7:30 PM, no adv. ent., Rds.: 7:30 PM ea. Thursday. 2 byes 1-5. Info: www.lichessclub.com. JUNE 13-14, 2015 Can-Am International Chess Tournament See Grand Prix.
JULY 19, Westfield Spring Scholastic Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. K-12. 3 Sections: Open, U1250, U750. Open: 3-SS. G/40 d5 Rds.: 2:15, 4:00, 5:45 p.m. U1250, U750: 4-SS. G/25 d5. Rds.: 2:15, 3:30, 4:45, 6:00 p.m. EF: $25, $20 members. Prizes: Trophies to Top 5 in each section. Tiebreaks used. See USCF Rule 34E. Reg.: 1:15-2:00 p.m. Information: John Moldovan email: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-2191358, www.westfieldchessclub.com and westfieldchessclub.blogspot.com.
JUNE 18, Marshall Thursday Action 4SS, G/25 d5. $325 b/28: $100-75-50. U2200, U1900: $50. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs. $20. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. Limit two byes; request by rd. 2. marshallchessclub.org 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716.
JULY 31-AUG. 2 OR AUG. 1-2, 5th Annual Potomac Open (MD) See Grand Prix.
USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 19-21, 20-21 OR 21, Marshall Monthly U2300 5SS, 40/90 SD30 +30inc. Two sections. 1600+: $820 b/35: $300150-100. U2200 $145; U2000 $125. U1600: $400 b/17: $120-100-80. U1300: $100. EF: $60, MCC Mbrs. $40. Rds.: 3 day Fri. 6pm, Sat. & Sun. 12:30-5:30. 2 day Sat. 11am (G/25 d5) then merge with 3 day in round 2. 1 day Sun. 9-10:10-11:20 (G/25 d5) then merge in round 4. Limit two byes; request by rd. 3. marshallchessclub.org 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716.
AUG. 8-13 (NOT JULY 25-30), 4th Annual Washington International (note date change) (MD) See Grand Prix. AUG. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 45th annual Continental Open (MA) See Grand Prix. AUG. 21-23 OR 22-23, 14th annual Manhattan Open (NY) See Grand Prix. AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 47th annual Atlantic Open (DC) See Grand Prix.
Fourth of July Open
Leon Shulman Liberty Cup July 4-5, 2015
$15,000 projected prizes, $10,000 minimum guaranteed! Trophies Plus Grand Prix: 60 (Enhanced) USCF Junior Grand Prix 5 rounds, G/90, d5, Holiday Inn, 2175 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002, across from Garden State Park – 5 miles from Philadelphia City Center. Prizes $15,000 based on 160 paid entries $10,000 minimum guaranteed. In 5 sections: Open Section: $1500-700-400-300, top Under 2300/Unr $800-400. Under 2100 Section: $1200-500-300-200, top Under 1900 $600-300. Under 1800 Section: $1200-500-300-200, top Under 1600 $500-250. Under 1500 Section: $1200-500-300-200, top Under 1300 $500-250. Under 1200 Section: $1000-500-300-100, trophies to 1st, top Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600, Unrated.
JUNE 19, Marshall U2200 Friday Night Action 4SS, G/25 d5. $325 b/28: $100-75-50. U2100, U1900: $50. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs. $20. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. Limit two byes; request by rd. 2. marshallchessclub.org 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716.
JUNE 25, Marshall Thursday Action 4SS, G/25 d5. $325 b/28: $100-75-50. U2200, U1900: $50. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs. $20. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. Limit two byes; request by rd. 2. marshallchessclub.org 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716.
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Entry fee: Online $95 by 6/13 $105 by 6/27, $120 at site. GMs, IMs free; $100 deducted from prize. Registration: https://shulmancup2015.eventbrite.com Under 1200 Section entry fee: all $20 less than above. Schedule: Reg. ends Saturday 9:45 am, rds. Sat 10:00 am, 2:00 pm, 6:00, Sun 10:00 am & 2:00 pm. All: Half point byes OK all, limit 2, must commit before rd. 2. Hotel rates: $109 – “Chess Rate”, 1-(856) 663-5300; reserve by 6/15 or rate may increase.
Simply click on
Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied. Ratings: June official USCF rating list used. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated.
and then on the
Contact: dgorman@darsemail.com (703) 989-6867
66
June 2015 | Chess Life
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See previous issue for TLAs appearing June 1-14 JUNE 25-30, 3rd annual DC International (VA) See Grand Prix.
JULY 11, Fairfield County Masters & Class Championships (CT) See Grand Prix.
JUNE 26, Marshall $500 Friday Night Blitz - FIDE Rated (BLZ) See Grand Prix.
JULY 11, Marshall Saturday G/45 4SS, G/40 d5. Two sections. 1700+: $460 b/39: $120-100-80-60. U2100: $100. U1700: $460 b/39: $120-100-80-60. U1400: $100. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $20. Rds.: 12-1:45-4-5:45. Limit two byes; request by rd 2. Website: marshallchessclub.org, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716.
JUNE 26-28, 7th annual World Open Senior Amateur (VA) See Virginia. JUNE 27, Marshall Saturday G/30 5SS, G/25 d5. Two sections. 1800+: $460 b/39: $120-100-80-60. U2100: $100. U1800: $460 b/39: $120-100-80-60. U1500: $100. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs. $20. Rds.: 12-1:15-2:30-3:45-5. Limit two byes; request by rd. 3. marshallchessclub.org 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. JUNE 27-28, 7th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (VA) See Virginia. JUNE 27-28, World Open Warmup (VA) See Grand Prix. JUNE 28, 4th Sunday Quads - In Memory of Norma Shelly and Bill Little Albany Area Chess Club, resumption of Sunday Quads. 3R Quad w/8, 12 o/w SS, G/60 d5. 251 New Karner Rd., Colonie, NY. Two Sections: U1900, U1500. Prize: 1st $30. EF: $15 cash,check, no cc. Rds.: 10, 12:30, 3. Reg.: 9:15-9:45, 1/2 bye 2nd rd. only, req before 1st rd. Membership in USCF must be current. Adv. entry to: hawkphil2@aol.com by Thurs. before event. C. Eson TD. JUNE 28, Marshall Sunday G/45 4SS, G/40 d5. Two sections. 1600+: $460 b/39: $120-100-80. U2100 $100; U1800 $60. U1600: $460 b/39: $120-100-80-60. U1300: $100. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs. $20. Rds.: 12-1:45-4-5:45. Limit two byes; request by rd. 2. marshallchessclub.org 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. JUNE 29, 12th Nassau G/15 (QC) 6SS. G/12 d3 or G/15 d0. 1st Presbyterian Church, 1st & Main Sts., Mineola. EF: $25 by 6/22. $32 at site, Non-memb + $5. $$ (420 b/20) 120, U2000, 1800, 1600, 1400/UR 75 ea. 3 byes 1-6. Reg to 7:15 PM. Rds.: 7:15-7:55-8:30-9:05-9:40-10:15. Rule 14H not used. Ent: Harold Stenzel, 80 Amy Dr., Sayville, NY 11782. July ratings used. JUNE 29-30, World Open Under 2300 (VA) See Virginia. JUNE 30, Marshall Masters See Grand Prix. JUNE 30-JULY 1, 4th annual World Open Women’s Championship (VA) See Grand Prix. JUNE 30-JULY 5, JULY 1-5, 2-5 OR 3-5, 43rd Annual World Open (VA) See Grand Prix. JULY 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Community Chess Club of Rochester Wed Night Chess! Note: 1 game rated per night, G/80 d5. Rochester Chess Center, 221 Norris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. 585-442-2430. EF: $5, CCCR members $3. Reg.: 7-7:25 pm. Rd.: 7:30pm. www.rochesterchessclub.org. JULY 2, Marshall Thursday Action 4SS, G/25 d5. $325 b/28: $100-75-50. U2200, U1900: $50. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $20. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. Limit two byes; request by rd. 2. Web: marshallchessclub.org, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. JULY 3, Marshall U2200 Friday Night Action 4SS, G/25 d5. $325 b/28: $100-75-50. U2100, U1900: $50. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $20. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. Limit two byes; request by rd. 2. Web: marshallchessclub.org, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. JULY 3-5, 4-5 OR 5, Marshall Monthly Grand Prix - FIDE Rated See Grand Prix. JULY 4, Marshall Saturday G/45 4SS, G/40 d5. Two sections. 1600+: $460 b/39: $120-100-80-60. U2100: $100. U1600: $460 b/39: $120-100-80-60. U1300: $100. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $20. Rds.: 12-1:45-4-5:45. Limit two byes; request by rd. 2. Web: marshallchessclub.org, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. JULY 6, 13, 20, 32nd Nassau Senior 3SS, 40/80 d0. 1st Presbyterian Church, 1st & Main Sts., Mineola. Open to born before 7/21/65. EF: $10 by 6/29, $17 at site, non-memb $9 more. Trophies to top 3. Bye: 1-3. Reg to 7:15 PM. captnhal@optonline. net. Rds.: 7:15 each Mon. Ent: Harold Stenzel, 80 Amy Dr., Sayville, NY 11782. JULY 6, 13, 20, 74th Nassau Action See Grand Prix. JULY 7, Marshall Tuesday Action 4SS, G/25 d5. $420 b/35: $120-100-80-60. U2000: $60. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $20. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. Limit two byes; request by rd. 2. Web: marshallchessclub.org, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. JULY 9, Marshall Thursday Action 4SS, G/25 d5. $325 b/28: $100-75-50. U2200, U1900: $50. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $20. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. Limit two byes; request by rd. 2. Web: marshallchessclub.org, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 9, 16, 23, 30, 5th Long Island CC Summer Open 4SS, G/90 d5. United Methodist Church, 470 East Meadow Ave., East Meadow, NY 11554. Open to all. $(b/20 pd. ent.): $85-60. Top U-2000, U-1500/unr. $45 ea. EF: $30(cash). Non-LICC members +$10. Reg.: 7:15-7:30 PM, no adv. ent., Rds.: 7:30 PM SHARP ea. Thursday. 2 byes 1-4. Info: www.lichessclub.com. Skittles rm. JULY 10, Marshall U2200 Friday Night Action 4SS, G/25 d5. $325 b/28: $100-75-50. U2100, U1900: $50. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $20. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. Limit two byes; request by rd. 2. Web: marshallchessclub.org, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716.
JULY 11, 18, 25, Rochester Chess Center Saturday Tournaments! 3-SS, G/60 d5. Rochester CC, 221 Norris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. 585442-2430. Prizes based on entries. EF: $15, RCC members $13. $2 less for HS and Pre-HS. Reg.: 1-1:45 pm. Rds.: 2-4-6. One bye available, request at entry. www.nychess.org. Also, Youth tournament, G/30 d5, every Saturday morning 10am-1pm, trophies and prizes. EF: $5.
USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 30, AUG. 6, 13, 20, 27, SEPT. 3, Marshall Thursday Open 6-SS, G/90 +30. FIDE Rated ($600 b/25): $250-150. U2100: $125. U1800: $75. EF: $60, MCC Mbrs $40. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7pm each Thurs. Limit two byes; request by rd. 4. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. JULY 31, Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz (BLZ) See Grand Prix. JULY 31-AUG. 2 OR AUG. 1-2, 5th Annual Potomac Open (MD) See Grand Prix. JULY 31-AUG. 2, AUG. 1-2 OR AUG. 2, Marshall August Grand Prix - FIDE Rated See Grand Prix.
JULY 12, Marshall Sunday G/60 4SS, G/55 d5. Two sections. 1500+: $460 b/39: $120-100-80. U2100 $100; U1800 $60. U1500: $460 b/39: $120-100-80-60. U1200: $100. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $20. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. Limit two byes; request by rd. 2. marshallchessclub.org, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716.
AUG. 1, Marshall U1700 4-SS, G/40 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1400: $75. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45am. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7pm. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212477-3716.
USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 13, 20, 27, AUG. 3, 10, 17, Marshall FIDE Mondays U1800 6-SS, G/90 +30. Two sections. Open: Open to all players 1600+. FIDE Rated. ($600 b/25) $200-150-100. U2000: $100-50. U1800: ($600 b/25): $200-150-100. U1500: $100-50. EF: $60, MCC Mbrs $40. Reg.: 6:156:45pm. Rd: 7pm each Mon. Limit two byes; request by rd. 4. 23 W. 10th St., NYC, 212-477-3716, www.marshallchessclub.org.
AUG. 4, Marshall First Tuesday Action! 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($300 b/25): $125-75, U2100 $50 U1800 $50. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $20. GM’s Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. www.marshallchess club.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716.
USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 13, 20, 27, AUG. 3, 10, 17, Marshall Slow Mondays 6SS, G/90+30inc. Two sections. 1800+ — FIDE Rated: $550 b/31: $150-120-100-80. U2100: $100. U1800: $550 b/31: $150-120-100-80. U1500: $100. EF: $50, MCC Mbrs $30. Rds.:7pm each Mon. Limit two byes; request by rd. 4. marshallchessclub.org, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212477-3716. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 15-19, 8th NY International - CHAMPIONSHIP SECTION 9-SS, 40/90, SD/30 +30. Only open to players currently rated 2000+ (USCF or FIDE). FIDE ratings used for pairings and prizes. FIDE rated. Prizes $9,000 unconditionally guaranteed! $4000-2000-1000, U2400 FIDE: $1000-500, U2300 FIDE $500. Entry Fee: $200. Players not rated USCF or FIDE over 2200: $300. GM’s Free. Local IM’s: $150, foreign IM’s: $100. $25 less: For MCC members & foreign players not taking byes. All $50 more if received after June 30. Schedule: Wed. 7pm, Thurs. – Sun. 11am & 6pm. Byes: 2 byes available, must commit before round 3; limit 1 bye in rounds 8-9. FIDE IM/GM norms possible; must play all rounds. Last year 2 norms were achieved! Playing site: In honor of the Marshall’s 100th year anniversary, the NY International is returning home to 23 W. 10th St. this year. Registration: Call MCC with credit card, mail check, or online. Limited to 70 players! Register early! 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716, www.marshallchessclub.org. JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, 20th Annual Bradley Open (CT) See Grand Prix. JULY 21, Marshall Masters See Grand Prix. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 22, 29, AUG. 5, 12, 19, 26, Marshall Weekly Wednesdays (note date change) 6-SS, G/90 +30. Two sections. U2000: ($600 b/25) $250-150-100. U1700: $100. U1400: ($600 b/25): $250-150-100. U1100: $100. EF: $60, MCC Mbrs $40. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7pm each Wed. Limit two byes; request by rd. 4. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. (This TLA supercedes previously published as “Marshall Slow Wednesdays”.) USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 23-26, 8th New York International - U2200 SECTION 7-SS, 40/90, SD/30 +30. Open to all players rated U2200 and unrated. No FIDE ratings over 2200. USCF Ratings used for pairings and prizes. FIDE Rated. Prizes $8,000 based on 70 paid entries. $3000-2000-1000, U1900: $1000-500, U1600: $500. Entry Fee: $200 if received by June 30; $250 in July. $25 less for MCC members. Schedules: 4-day: Thurs. 7pm, Fri. – Sun. 12:30pm & 6pm. 2-day: Sat. 9-10:10-11:20am (G/25 d5) then merge with 4-day. Byes: 2 byes available, must commit before round 3. Playing site: In honor of the Marshall’s 100th year anniversary, the NY International is returning home to 23 W 10th St. this year. Registration: Call MCC with credit card, mail check, or online. Limited to 70 players! Register early! www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. JULY 30, Marshall U2400 Action - NEW! 4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to players rated below 2400 USCF. ($375 b/25): $150-100, U2100: $75. U1800: $50. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $25. Reg.: 6:156:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212477-3716.
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!
AUG. 6, Marshall Thursday Action! 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100, U2200: $75, U1900: $50. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $25. GM’s Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:3010:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. www. marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. AUG. 7, Marshall U2200 Friday Night Action! 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($300 b/25): $150-75, U1900: $75. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $20. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. AUG. 7-9 OR 8-9, Cleveland Open (OH) See Grand Prix. AUG. 8, Marshall Saturday G/60 (Open & U1800) 4-SS, G/55 d5. Two sections: Open: ($450 b/35): $200-150, U2000: $100. U1800 ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1500: $75. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $20. GM’s Free. Reg.: 11:15-11:45am. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7pm. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. AUG. 8-13 (NOT JULY 25-30), 4th Annual Washington International (note date change) (MD) See Grand Prix. AUG. 9, Marshall Sunday G/45 (Open & U1600) 4-SS, G/40 d5. Two sections: Open: ($450 b/35): $200-125, U2100: $75, U1800: $50. U1600: ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1300: $75. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $20. GM’s Free. Reg.: 11:15-11:45am. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7pm. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. AUG. 13, Marshall U2400 Action - NEW! 4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to players rated below 2400 USCF. ($375 b/25): $150-100, U2100: $75 U1800: $50. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $25. Reg.: 6:156:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212477-3716. AUG. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 45th annual Continental Open (MA) See Grand Prix. AUG. 14, Marshall Friday Night Blitz - NEW! (BLZ) 9-SS, G/3 d2. ($500 b/35): $200-100, top U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50. Highest rating (regular, quick or blitz) used for pairings & prizes. EF: $30, MCC Mbrs $20, GM’s $20. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-7:307:50-8:10-8:40-9-9:20-9:40-10pm. Max three byes. Request at entry. Blitz rated. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-4773716. USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 14-16, 15-16 OR 16, Marshall U2300 5-SS, 40/90 SD30 +30. Open to players rated below 2300 USCF. FIDE Rated. $800 Gtd: $300-150-100. U2100: $125; U1800 $125. EF: $60, MCC Mbrs $40. Reg.: Ends 15 min before round start. Rds.: 3-day: Fri. 6pm, Sat. & Sun. 12-5:30pm. 2-day: Sat. 11am (G/25 d5) then merge with 3-day in round 2. 1-day: Sun. 9-10:10-11:20am (G/25 d5) then merge in round 4. Max two byes. Request by rd. 3. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716.
WARNING! THE USE OF A CELL PHONE IN THE TOURNAMENT ROOM IS PROHIBITED! 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!
www.uschess.org
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Tournament Life / June AUG. 15, Marshall Saturday U1500 4-SS, G/40 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1200: $75. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45am. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7pm. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212477-3716. AUG. 21-23 OR 22-23, 14th annual Manhattan Open See Grand Prix.
JUNE 12, DCC Friday Nite Quick #20 (QC) 4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: 7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF: $14 ($10 DCC mbr). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net, 937-461-6283.
SEPT. 4, 2nd annual New York State Blitz Championship (BLZ) See Grand Prix. SEPT. 4-7, 5-7 OR 6-7, 137th annual NY State Championship See Grand Prix. SEPT. 25-27 OR 26-27, 6th Annual Hartford Open (CT) See Grand Prix. OCT. 7-12, 9-12 OR 10-12, 2nd annual Washington Chess Congress (VA) See Grand Prix.
North Carolina
JUNE 13, Solon Summer Starter 4SS, G/30 d5. 6025 Kruse Dr., Solon, OH 44139. EF: $30, IMs, GMs free. Sections: Open, U1800, U1400, U1000. Registration: 9-9:45 at site. Rds.: 10:00, 11:30, 1:00, 2:30, U-1000 ASAP. Prizes: $800 Guaranteed!! Open: $150, $50, U-2000 $50. U-1800: $100, $50, U1600 $50. U-1400: $100, $50, U1200 $50. U1000: $60, $30, U750 $30, U500 $30. Free healthy box lunch to ALL players! Convenient Online Registration at www.progresswithchess.org Info: Contact: Mike Joelson, 216-3217000. JUNE 19, DCC Friday Nite Quick #21 (QC) 4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: 7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF: $14 ($10 DCC mbr). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net, 937-461-6283.
JUNE 25-30, 3rd annual DC International (VA) See Grand Prix. JUNE 26-28, 7th annual World Open Senior Amateur (VA) See Virginia. JUNE 27-28, 7th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (VA) See Virginia. JUNE 30-JULY 1, 4th annual World Open Women’s Championship (VA) See Grand Prix. JUNE 30-JULY 5, JULY 1-5, 2-5 OR 3-5, 43rd Annual World Open (VA) See Grand Prix. JULY 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Southern Open (FL) See Grand Prix. AUG. 8-13 (NOT JULY 25-30), 4th Annual Washington International (note date change) (MD) See Grand Prix.
AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 47th annual Atlantic Open (DC) See Grand Prix.
OCT. 7-12, 9-12 OR 10-12, 2nd annual Washington Chess Congress (VA) See Grand Prix.
Ohio
AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 47th annual Atlantic Open (DC) See Grand Prix.
AUG. 27-31, 2015 U.S. Masters Championship See Nationals.
AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, The 2015 North Carolina Open See Grand Prix.
JUNE 20, “Summer Time” Pawn Storm XXXI See Grand Prix. JUNE 26, DCC Friday Nite Quick #22 (QC) 4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: 7:30/ 8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF: $14 ($10 DCC mbr). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net, 937-461-6283. JUNE 27, Cincy Tornado - Emotional Chess Last Saturday of Month. 2 Sections: OPEN & Under 1600. 4-SS, G/60 d5. EF: $30 if paid online/$35 at site. OGPrix Event/OCA deduct $3. Masters above 2200 Free EF & Lunch. Open b/15: $150-$70; 1st A,B each $70. Master Bounty Prize: Best Final Result against 1# Rated Master pays $100 for win/$50 draw. $100 for perfect score to 1# Rated Master. UNDER 1600 b/15: $150-$70; 1st D,E each $70. Reg. Ends 9:45am. 1st Round: 10am. 1st Baptist Church, 11195 Winton Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45218. www.chessearth.com, info@chessearth.com. Last Saturday of Month. JULY 10, DCC Friday Nite Quick #23 (QC) 4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: 7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF: $14 ($10 DCC mbr). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net, 937-461-6283.
USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 11, Toledo July Swiss Open, 4SS, Rnd. 1 G/75 d5, Rnds. 2-4 G/85 d5. The University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Cafe, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, OH 43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF: $20 by 7/9, $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360 b/20, $100-50, 1st A,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450. JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, 2015 Columbus Open See Grand Prix. JULY 27-AUG. 2, Dayton Chess Festival: Dayton Masters (Closed); Aviator Open-GP:40; X-15 Blitz (BLZ)! See Grand Prix. AUG. 7-9 OR 8-9, Cleveland Open See Grand Prix. USCF Junior Grand Prix! AUG. 8, Toledo August Swiss Open, 4SS, Rnd. 1 G/75 d5, Rnds. 2-4 G/85 d5. The University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Cafe, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, OH 43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF: $20 by 8/6, $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360 b/20, $100-50, 1st A,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450. AUG. 8-13 (NOT JULY 25-30), 4th Annual Washington International (note date change) (MD) See Grand Prix. AUG. 9, Cleveland Open Sunday Quad 3RR, G/25 d5. Sheraton Cleveland Airport Hotel (see Cleveland Open). EF: $20, at site only, no checks. $50 1st prize each section. Reg. ends 1:45 pm, rds. 2:00, 3:00, 4:00. AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 10th annual Indianapolis Open (IN) See Grand Prix.
Oklahoma JUNE 27-28, 70th Oklahoma Open State Championship See Grand Prix. JULY 17-19, Kansas Open (KS) See Grand Prix.
Oregon JUNE 18, 2015 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) (NV) See Nationals.
ACTIVITY MEANS MEMBERS Free 8-Line Tournament Life Announcements (TLAs)!
Adult Dues Options! >> NEW FREE TLA CATEGORIES ADDED! RUN AN ADDITIONAL TOURNAMENT THIS FALL! 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 October and December 2015, if no TLA for such an event appeared in 2014, and the TLA is e-mailed by the appropriate deadline. The 8 free lines cannot be applied to longer TLAs. SPECIAL CATEGORIES QUALIFY FOR FREE TLAS! Each affiliate is entitled to one TLA per month of up to 8 lines for events in the following categories, if submitted by e-mail. The free lines cannot be applied to longer TLAs: SENIOR. For age 50 or above, or a higher minimum age. UNRATEDS FREE. Any tournament that offers free entry to unrated players. If your prizes are based on entries, say “paid entries.” USCF BOOSTER TOURNAMENT. A tournament that offers at least two USCF membership renewal prizes, or a quad that offers at least one per section. CHESS CLUB SPECIAL. A tournament playing only on one or more weekday evenings.
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RBO. Open to Under 1200/Unr or Under 1000/Unr. Tournament name must include “Rated Beginners Open” or “RBO.” BLITZ. Time control of Game/5. TLAs such as “USCFrated Blitz every Friday 7 pm” are accepted. COLLEGIATE. A tournament limited to college students. JUNIOR. For age 20/below (age 20 must be eligible). NON-SCHOLASTIC WITH SCHOLASTIC. A tournament for all ages held concurrent (same location) with a scholastic tournament that in its previous year drew at least 50 players. We encourage organizers of scholastics to hold open or collegiate events on the side. 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 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 $33 with paper Chess Life or $26 with the online version!
One-year membership with Chess Life: Only $46 for Premium Membership, which includes a copy of Chess Life every month. Regular Memberships are available for $40 and give online-only access to Chess Life. (Note to affiliates: If you collect a $46 membership, you may submit it online to USCF for $43.)
See previous issue for TLAs appearing June 1-14 JUNE 18-19, 2015 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 19-21 OR 20-21, 2015 National Open (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 20-21, International Youth Championship (NV) See Nevada. AUG. 14-16 OR 15-16, 6th annual Central California Open (CA-N) See Grand Prix.
Pennsylvania Every Friday - LVCA 7 & 9 pm Blitz Events Open/U1200 (BLZ) 8SS, G/5 d2. St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church, 140 So. Ott St., Allentown, PA 18104. EF: $5, Prizes: Open and U1200, Minimum 50% Returned. 1st-70%, 2nd-30% AND will ADD PRIZES if 12 or more players per section, FREE Coffee For All Entrants. REG.: Ends 6:55pm, Cash on site only. RDS.:7 pm, then ASAP. On Site: 484-866-3045 or email bdavis@ lehighvalleychessclub.org, www.lehighvalleychessclub.org/.
JULY 11, W.Chester 1st Sat. Quads Our 26th year! 3RR, Game/80 d5. 2nd Presbyterian Church, 114 S. Walnut St., West Chester, PA. EF: $20; $40, $50 for 3-0. Reg.: 9am. Rds.: 9:30,12,2:30. Info: WCCC1975@gmail.com. A Heritage Event! USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 18-19, 46th Susquehanna Valley Open 5 - SS. G/85 d5. Honeysuckle Student Apts., 111 Honeysuckle Ct., Bloomsburg, PA 17815. EF: $29 by july 15, $40 later. $$ (400G): 150 - 75 - 40, 135 in class prizes. Prizes may be increased if over 30 entries. seating may be limited. Reg.: 9-9:30am. Rds.: 10 am-1:30 pm-5 pm, 10 am1:30 pm. Housing: $50 for one night, $90 for Fri & Sat - for housing info contact Sam Lamonto, 717-580 7492, slam.dk@verizon.net. Ent: GHACC,C/O Michael Jemo, 128 Forest Hills Acres, Hazle Twp., PA 18201, 570-455-9261, 570-956-2492. jem023@ptd.net. JULY 31-AUG. 2 OR AUG. 1-2, 5th Annual Potomac Open (MD) See Grand Prix. AUG. 7-9 OR 8-9, Cleveland Open (OH) See Grand Prix.
Every Saturday - LVCA Quads/RBO U1200 Quads + G/7 d3 G/40 d5 Quads, 3-RR. Reg.: 1-1:45, Rds.: 2 pm, then asap. Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 514 3rd Ave., Bethlehem, PA 18018. 2 Sections: Open Section EF: $10. Prizes: $30 for 3-0 score, else $25 for 1st. RBO Section EF: $10. Prizes: $30 for 3-0 score, else $25 for 1st. G/7 d3 (BLZ) Event Rd. 1: 6:15 pm or asap. Prizes: 50% of entries, 1st-70%, 2nd-30%, more prizes if 12 or more. Bruce, 484-866-3045. Info: srdiamondd@yahoo.com.
AUG. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 45th annual Continental Open (MA) See Grand Prix.
MasterMinds Scholastic Summer League Info at www.mastermindschess.org.
AUG. 21-23 OR 22-23, 14th annual Manhattan Open (NY) See Grand Prix.
North Penn Chess Club Main & Richardson, Lansdale, PA. See www.northpennchessclub.org for schedules & info or 215-699-8418.
AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 47th annual Atlantic Open (DC) See Grand Prix.
JUNE 7, Chess In Jasper Park & Picnic (3 events) Emmaus, PA (BLZ) (3) 5-SS events, G/7 d3. Jasper Park Pavillion, 4960 Vera Cruz Rd. North, Emmaus, PA 18049. EF: $10 Cash each event, No adv ent. Prizes: Min. 50% Rtd. based on paid entries. 1st-60%, 2nd-30%, 3rd-10% AND ADD if 12 or more players “Top U1600” - $15, Top U1000 - $15, more based on pd. Picnic:11am-dusk. Reg Ends: 1, 3, 5 pm for each event. Event: Rd-1: 1pm, 3pm, 5pm each. Info: 484-866-3045, bdavis@lehighvalleychessclub.org, www.lehighvalleychessclub.org/. A Heritage Event! JUNE 20, 45th Fred Thompson Memorial 4SS, G/60 d5. Pittsburgh Chess Club, 5604 Solway St., Pittsburgh, PA 15217. EF: $28 postmarked by 6/16, $38 thereafter, $3 discount to PCC members. 2 Sections: Open and Reserve (U1600). Prizes $$500 b/30. Open: $120 - 80, U2000 $60, U1800 $40. Reserve: $80 - 50, U1400 $40, U1200/Unr $30. Reg.: 9-9:45. Requests for half-point byes must be made by the start of Round 2. Rds.: 10AM-12:30PM- 3:30PM-6PM. Info: 412-421-1881, www.pittsburghcc.org. Entries: Pittsburgh Chess Club, Attn: Thompson Memorial, 5604 Solway St., Pittsburgh, PA 15217. Make checks payable to Pittsburgh Chess Club. W. JUNE 25-30, 3rd annual DC International (VA) See Grand Prix. JUNE 26-28, 7th annual World Open Senior Amateur (VA) See Virginia. JUNE 27-28, 7th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (VA) See Virginia. JUNE 27-28, World Open Warmup (VA) See Grand Prix. JUNE 29-30, World Open Under 2300 (VA) See Virginia. JUNE 30-JULY 1, 4th annual World Open Women’s Championship (VA) See Grand Prix. JUNE 30-JULY 5, JULY 1-5, 2-5 OR 3-5, 43rd Annual World Open (VA) See Grand Prix. JULY 11, Masterminds CC Quads Blair Christian Academy, 220 W. Upsal St., Philadelphia, PA 19119. Quads: 3RR, 40/75, SD/30 d5. EF: $30 cash; winner $100. Reg ends 9AM. Rd. 1 9:30AM then asap. Information: mastermindschess.org or brad@mastermindschess.org.
FOREIGN RATING? NOT UNRATED! If you have no USCF rating, but do have a rating or category from any other country, no matter how many years ago, you are not unrated.
AUG. 8-13 (NOT JULY 25-30), 4th Annual Washington International (note date change) (MD) See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 4-7, 5-7 OR 6-7, 137th annual NY State Championship (NY) See Grand Prix. OCT. 7-12, 9-12 OR 10-12, 2nd annual Washington Chess Congress (VA) See Grand Prix.
Rhode Island JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, 20th Annual Bradley Open (CT) See Grand Prix. AUG. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 45th annual Continental Open (MA) See Grand Prix.
South Carolina JULY 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Southern Open (FL) See Grand Prix.
South Dakota AUG. 29-30, 61st Iowa Open Championship (USCF & FIDE Rated) (IA) See Grand Prix.
Tennessee
TN 38555. $420 guaranteed prize fund. In 2 Sections - Open: 4SS, G/60 d5. $$: $75. 30-X,A,B,C,D/ Below. Amateur: 4SS, G/60 d5, Open to U1200 & under. $$: $75. 30- F,G,H/Below,UNR UNR eligible for unrated prize only. ALL: EF: $15 if mailed by 7/13, $20 at site. Memb. Req’d: TCA $10 TN residents only. ENT: Harry D. Sabine, P. O. Box 381, Crossville, TN 38557. INFO: www.cumberlandcountychess.org or Susan at 931287-3765. W. AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 10th annual Indianapolis Open (IN) See Grand Prix.
Texas JUNE 13, Many Springs 77 North Richland Hills Public Library, 9015 Grand Ave., North Richland Hills, TX 76180. 3 Round Swiss, G/60 d5. EF: $20, 65% of EF returned as prizes. Sections to be determined by participation. Registration onsite 8:45-9:05. First Round 9:15AM, Second Round 12:15PM, Third Round 2:30PM. Additional information: Aurelio Gonzalez at either 817-789-8360, agonzalejr@yahoo.com.com or www.tarrantcountychess club.org/.net JUNE 13-14, 2015 DCC Fide Open VII See Grand Prix. JUNE 18, 2015 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 18-19, 2015 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 20-21, International Youth Championship (NV) See Nevada. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 27-28, San Antonio City Championship Hornbeak Bldg., 3rd Flr. 4450 Medical Dr., SA, TX 78259. 5SS, Rds. 1 and 2 G/90 d5, Rds. 3-5 G/120 d5, $$(1050 b/40, 2/3 gtd.) $300 1st, $125 2nd, U2100 $125, U2000 $125, U1800 $125, U1600 $100, U1400 $75, Unr. $75. EF: $45 if rcv’d by 6/25, $50 at site: Trophy to top Bexar County Resident. Option play for 1/2 prizes: $23 by 6/25, $28 later and at site: EFJr U19 entry $20 if rcv’d by 6/25 or $25 at site. Option play and U19 (junior) entries count 2/3 toward “based on”. ($ 5. Discount to Club Members and ex-military personnel paying full entry) Reg.: 8:309:30 am. Rds.: 10-2-6; 9-2 half pt. bye any 1 rd. notice before Rd.2 is paired. Swap and shop used books, equip.: 8:30-9:30 am. Entries: SACC, PO BOX 690576, San Antonio, TX 78269-0576, contact info: Web: sanantoniochess.com, Ph.: 210-384-4797, E-mail: lhrlouis@yahoo.com. JULY 2-5 OR 3-5, 2015 DCC Fide Open VIII See Grand Prix. USCF Junior Grand Prix! JULY 7, 14, 21, 28, Monthly - Tuesday Night Swiss 4SS, first 4 Tuesdays of every month. Time control: G120 d5. Center64 CC, 3201 Hillcroft St., Suite 2E, Houston, TX 77057. EF: $25 members, plus $7 registration fee for non-members. Prizes: 50% EF. Reg.: 6:156:55 p.m. First Tue. of month. Rds.: 7 p.m. Tuesdays. INFO: www.center 64.com. JULY 10-12 OR 11-12, 2015 Houston Summer Chess Festival See Grand Prix. AUG. 8-13 (NOT JULY 25-30), 4th Annual Washington International (note date change) (MD) See Grand Prix.
JUNE 13, John Hurt Memorial 12 See Grand Prix.
Utah
JUNE 19-21 OR 20-21, 2015 National Open (NV) See Nationals.
JUNE 18, 2015 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) (NV) See Nationals.
JULY 18, 2015 Clinton Pearson Jr Memorial Open Cumberland Co. Community Complex, 1398 Livingston Rd., Crossville,
JUNE 18-19, 2015 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Nationals.
NO TOURNAMENTS IN YOUR AREA? WHY NOT ORGANIZE ONE?
Do you need to go out of town for tournament play? Would you and others in your area like the convenience of an occasional event closer to home? Organize one! It’s not much work to hold a small tournament, and there is little risk if you use a low-cost site and avoid guaranteed prizes. You might even make a profit! Either a based-on Swiss with projected prizes up to $500, a Quad format, or a trophy tournament will virtually guarantee taking in more in fees than you pay out in prizes.
If you have a FIDE rating, you are also not unrated.
The affiliation fee is just $40 a year. You will receive the annual rating supplement and have access to the TD/Affiliate area of our website.
Tell the Director of any event you enter about your foreign rating or category or your FIDE rating, so that you can be paired appropriately.
Want to know more? Contact Joan DuBois at joandubois@uschess.org. We’ll be glad to help you be part of the promotion of American chess!
Remember, you can both run and play in a small event. Many of them wouldn’t be held if the organizer/TD couldn’t play.
www.uschess.org
69
Tournament Life / June JUNE 19, Youth Trophy Tournament (NV) See Nevada.
G/35 d5, Rnd. 4 G/40 d5. Reg. at 804-398-2310, Mike Callaham, water man2010kir@aol.com. Name, phone, email, USCF ID. Cash and cc accepted via website, email, and on site. EF: $25.00. RCI mem $20.00. Trophy to 1st and 2nd adult and 1st k5, k8, and k12. Information at: https://richmondchessinitiative.wordpress.com/busline-grand-prix-schedule/. Not a USCF Grand Prix event.
JUNE 19-21 OR 20-21, 2015 National Open (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 20-21, International Youth Championship (NV) See Nevada.
USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 27-28, 7th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (Note corrections.) 6SS, G/60 d10. Hyatt Regency Crystal City, Arlington (see World Open for location, rates). Open to all born after 6/28/02. In 4 sections. Open Section: Trophies to top 10, 1st C, Under 1400/Unr; free entry in all CCA tournaments 7/16/15-12/31/15 to 1st. Under 1400 Section: Trophies to top 10, 1st Under 1200, Unrated; free entry in all CCA tournaments 7/16/15-9/30/15 to 1st. Under 1000 Section: Trophies to top 10, 1st Under 800, Unrated; free entry in all CCA tournaments 7/16/15-9/30/15 to 1st. Under 600 Section: Trophies to top 10, 1st Under 400, top 3 Unrated; free entry in all CCA tournaments 7/16/14-9/30/15 to 1st. EF: $42 online at chessaction.com by 6/23, $45 mailed by 6/17 or phoned to 406-896-2038 by 6/22, $50 at site, or online until 9 am 6/27.. Reg. 6/27 to 10 am, rds. Sat. 11-2-5, Sun. 10-14. Up to 2 half point byes allowed, must commit before rd. 3. Ent: chess action.com or Continental Chess, PO Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Questions: chesstour.com, chesstour.info, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge for refunds.
JUNE 21, National Open Blitz (BLZ) (NV) See Grand Prix. AUG. 14-16 OR 15-16, 6th annual Central California Open (CA-N) See Grand Prix.
Vermont JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, 20th Annual Bradley Open (CT) See Grand Prix. AUG. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 45th annual Continental Open (MA) See Grand Prix. SEPT. 4-7, 5-7 OR 6-7, 137th annual NY State Championship (NY) See Grand Prix.
Virginia
JUNE 27-28, World Open Warmup See Grand Prix.
JUNE 6, Richmond Metropolitan Grand Prix! Richmond Public Library - Main. 4SS, Rnds. 1&2 G/30 d5. Rnd. 3 G/35 d5, Rnd. 4 G/40 d5. Reg. at 804-398-2310, Mike Callaham, waterman2010 kir@aol.com. Name, phone, email, USCF ID. Cash and cc accepted via website, email, and on site. EF: $25.00. RCI mem $20.00. Trophy to 1st and 2nd adult and 1st k5, k8, and k12. Info: https://richmondchessinitiative.wordpress.com/busline-grand-prix-schedule/. Not a USCF Grand Prix event.
JUNE 26-28, 7th annual World Open Senior Amateur 5SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10. Hyatt Regency Crystal City, Arlington (see World Open for location, rates).Open to all born before 6/29/65 and rated under 2210 or unrated. $3000 guaranteed prizes. In 2 sections. Under 2210: $600-300-200, top U2010 $350-200. Under 1810: $500-250-150, top U1610 $300-150. EF: $80 online at chessaction.com by 6/24, $83 mailed by 6/15, $85 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 6/22, $95 at site, or online until 5 pm 6/26. Reg. ends 6:30 pm 6/26, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5:30, Sun 10 & 4. Half point byes OK all rounds, limit 2 byes, must commit before rd. 2. Special USCF dues: see World Open. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly).
AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 47th annual Atlantic Open (DC) See Grand Prix. OCT. 7-12, 9-12 OR 10-12, 2nd annual Washington Chess Congress See Grand Prix.
Washington JUNE 18, 2015 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) (NV) See Nationals. JUNE 18-19, 2015 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Nationals.
JUNE 20-21, International Youth Championship (NV) See Nevada. JULY 16-19, 17-19 OR 18-19, 20th annual Pacific Coast Open (CA-S) See Grand Prix.
West Virginia AUG. 7-9 OR 8-9, Cleveland Open (OH) See Grand Prix.
JULY 1, World Open 7-Minute Championship (BLZ) See Grand Prix.
AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 47th annual Atlantic Open (DC) See Grand Prix.
JULY 5, World Open Blitz Championship (BLZ) See Grand Prix. JULY 11, Richmond Metropolitan Grand Prix! Richmond Public Library - Main. 4SS, Rnds. 1&2 G/30 d5. Rnd. 3 G/35 d5, Rnd. 4 G/40 d5. Reg. at 804-398-2310, Mike Callaham, waterman2010 kir@aol.com. Name, phone, email, USCF ID. Cash and cc accepted via website, email, and on site. EF: $25.00. RCI mem $20.00. Trophy to 1st and 2nd adult and 1st k5, k8, and k12. Info & link at website: https://rich mondchessinitiative.wordpress.com/busline-grand-prix-schedule/. Not a USCF Grand Prix event.
TOURNAMENT LIFE
AUG. 8-13 (NOT JULY 25-30), 4th Annual Washington International (note date change) (MD) See Grand Prix.
JUNE 30-JULY 5, JULY 1-5, 2-5 OR 3-5, 43rd Annual World Open See Grand Prix.
JULY 4, World Open 10-Minute Championship (QC) See Grand Prix.
JUNE 27, Richmond Metropolitan Grand Prix! Richmond Public Library - North Ave. 4SS, Rnds. 1&2 G/30 d5. Rnd. 3
AUG. 7, 2015 Washington International Blitz (BLZ) (MD) See Grand Prix.
JUNE 30-JULY 1, 4th annual World Open Women’s Championship See Grand Prix.
JULY 2, 3, 4, World Open Daily 2 pm Blitz (BLZ) 3 separate tournaments at Hyatt Regency Crystal City (see World Open). Each is a 4-SS, double round (8 games), G/5 d0. Prizes $$300 guaranteed: $100-50, U2100 $60, U1800 $50, U1500/Unr $40. EF: $20, at site only, no checks. Reg. ends 1:45 pm, rds. 2, 2:45, 3:15, 3:45. One pair of 1/2 pt byes available, must commit before rd. 2. Blitz rated (will not affect regular ratings), but higher of regular or blitz used for pairings & prizes.
JUNE 25-30, 3rd annual DC International See Grand Prix.
JULY 31-AUG. 2 OR AUG. 1-2, 5th Annual Potomac Open (MD) See Grand Prix.
JUNE 19-21 OR 20-21, 2015 National Open (NV) See Nationals.
USCF Junior Grand Prix! JUNE 29-30, World Open Under 2300 5SS, G/90 d10. Hyatt Regency Crystal City (see World Open). Open to under 2300 or unrated. Prizes $$500 guaranteed: $200-100, U1900 $110, U1500/Unr $90. EF: $40, at site only, no checks. Reg. ends 9:30 am 6/29, rds. Mon 10, 2, 6, Tue. 10, 2. One half point bye allowed if U1500/Unr, otherwise two byes allowed; must commit before rd. 2. June ratings used.
JUNE 20, Richmond Metropolitan Grand Prix! Richmond Public Library - Westover Hills. 4SS, Rnds. 1&2 G/30 d5. Rnd. 3 G/35 d5, Rnd. 4 G/40 d5. Reg. at 804-398-2310, Mike Callaham, water man2010kir@aol.com. Name, phone, email, USCF ID. Cash and cc accepted via website, email, and on site. EF: $25.00. RCI mem $20.00. Trophy to 1st and 2nd adult and 1st k5, k8, and k12. Information & link at: https:// richmondchessinitiative.wordpress.com/busline-grand-prix-schedule/. Not a USCF Grand Prix event.
JULY 18-19, 25th Annual Charlottesville Open See Grand Prix.
Wisconsin JUNE 13-14, Milwaukee Summer Challenge IV See Grand Prix. JULY 11-12, 39th Annual Green Bay Open See Grand Prix. JULY 17-19 OR 18-19, 8th annual Chicago Class (IL) See Grand Prix. AUG. 28-30 OR 29-30, 10th annual Indianapolis Open (IN) See Grand Prix. AUG. 29-30, 61st Iowa Open Championship (USCF & FIDE Rated) (IA) See Grand Prix. OCT. 9-11 OR 10-11, 24th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL) See Grand Prix.
All tournaments are non-smoking with no computers allowed unless otherwise advertised by S and/or C.
ABBREVIATIONS & TERMS BLZ: QC: $$Gtd: $$b/x:
Bye:
Blitz rated. Quick Chess events. Guaranteed prizes. 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.
dx: +XX: EF: Ent: FIDE: G/:
Indicates which rounds players who find it inconvenient to play may take 1⁄2-point byes instead. For example, Bye 1-3 means 1⁄2point byes are available in Rounds 1 through 3.
GPP: HR:
CC:
Chess club.
JGP:
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June 2015 | Chess Life
Time delay, x = number of seconds. Time increment, xx = number of seconds added after each move.
Memb. req’d: Open:
Entry fee. Where to mail entries. Results submitted to FIDE for possible rating.
Quad:
Game in. For instance, G/75 means each side has 75 minutes for the entire game.
RBO:
Grand Prix Points available. Hotel rates. For example, 60-65-7075 means $60 single, $65 twin, $70/3 in room, $75/4 in room. Junior Grand Prix.
Rds:
Reg:
Membership required; cost follows. Usually refers to state affiliate. A section open to all. Often has very strong players, but some eligible for lower sections can play for the learning experience. 4-player round robin sections; similar strength players.
RR: SD/:
SS:
Rated Beginner’s Open. 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. Registration at site.
Unr: W: WEB:
Round robin (preceded by number of rounds). 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. Swiss-System pairings (preceded by number of rounds). Unrated. Site is accessible to wheelchairs. Tournaments that will use a player’s online rating.
Solutions / Classifieds / June
Solutions
Classifieds
PAGE 17 / CHESS TO ENJOY
PAGE 49 / PRACTICALLY PERFECT
Problem I. 32. ... Qa2+! 33. Kxa2 b1=Q+ 34. Ka3 Qb3 mate. Problem II. 62. ... b5! creates a winning passer, e.g. 63. axb5 a4 or 63. cxb5 c4 64. Be4 c3 followed by 65. … Rd2 and 66. … c2. Problem III. 22. Qc4+ Rf7 23. Red1! and 24. Rd8 wins, e.g. 23. … Rf8 24. Rd8 threatening 25. Rxf8+ Kxf8 26. Rd8 mate or 23. ... Qb1 24. h3. Problem IV. 49. ... Rg3! (also 49. ... Rg1!) threatens … Rh3 mate, e.g. 50. Rh2 e3! and 51. … e2. Or 50. Kh6 Kf6 51. Kh5 e3. Problem V. 16. … Qh4! wins e.g. 17. h3 Qf2+ 18. Kh1 Rxh3+! 19. gxh3 Ng3 mate. The game went 17. fxe4 Qxh2+ 18. Kf2 Nxe5 19. dxe5 Qh4+! 20. g3 (No better is 20. Ke2 Ba6+ 21. Kd2 Rd8+ or 20. Kg1 fxe4 and 21. ... Rf8.) 20. ... Qh2+ 21. Bg2 Bxe4 22. Rg1 Rg6 23. Kf1 Rxg3, White resigned. Problem VI. 30. ... Rxe4+! 31. Kxe4 (31. fxe4 Rxf1) 31. ... Re8! wins after 32. Rfe1 Bxc5+ 33. Kf5 Rf8+ 34. Kg5 Bxb4. The game went 32. Kf4 g5+! 33. Kf5 Kf7! 34. Rfe1? Bd3+ 35. Re4 Bf6, White resigned. Also lost is 34. Rad1 Bd7+ 35. Ke4 Bxc5+ 36. Kd3 Bb5+.
Problem I. White is winning, but Kamsky finds the most efficient way to reel in the point: 54. Bc8+! Kh5 55. Rg7!, Black resigned. After the rook trade, Black will lose all of his queenside pawns. Problem II. The position looks even, but Irina comes up with a bolt from the blue: 33. ... g4! and White’s position suddenly comes apart at the seams. 34. f4 Nd7 35. Be2 Nc5 36. Bxg4 Bxe4 37. Bf3?? A blunder in a tough position. 37. Kd2 would have retained drawing chances. 37. ... Qxd4! 38. Qxd4 Nb3+ 39. Kd1 Bxf3+, White resigned.
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Problem I. Mating Net: Black mates by 1. ... Bg3+ 2. Kg1 Qh2+ 3. Kf1 Qxf2 mate. Problem II. Obstruction: The obstructing 1. ... Rc3 is trouble for White. If 2. Bxc3, then 2. ... d4, followed by mate at a2. Problem III. Discovered Defense: Black stops the mate and keeps his extra piece by 1. ... c5. If 2. Qxd8, then 2. ... Nxd8. Problem IV. Mating Net: Black wins with 1. ... Ba2+ 2. Ka1 Bb3+ and mate soon. Problem V. Fork: Black wins a piece with 1. ... Rxe4. If 2. Nxe4, then 2. ... Ne2+; or if 2. Bh6, then 2. ... Rg4. Problem VI. Mating Net: Mate along the h-file follows from 1. ... Bd4+.
Total Score 95+
Approx. Rating 2400+
81-94
2200-2399
66-80
2000-2199
51-65
1800-1999
36-50
1600-1799
21-35
1400-1599
06-20
1200-1399
0-05
under 1200
Activities A GRAND CHESS FESTIVAL BY BRITISH EXPERTS GM Simon Williams and IM Andrew Martin with Americans FM Macon Shibut and publisher Bob Long. FUN simul, prizes, lectures, free book, and $50 Paul Morphy Coin if at least 60 registrants. Ridiculously low room rates at La Quinta Inn in Davenport, Iowa. October 23-24, 2015. Registration $200-$250. Call 563-271-6657 for updates.
PAGE 47 / ABCS OF CHESS
TOTAL YOUR SCORE TO DETERMINE YOUR APPROXIMATE RATING BELOW:
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71
PHOTO: CHRIS BIRD
MY BEST MOVE IM JAY BONIN MORE THAN 3,700 EVENTS PLAYED SINCE 1991 IRONMAN OF NEW YORK CHESS
I
first visited the Marshall Chess Club sometime in November 1972, where I was warmly received by Bill Slater, the day manager. The club was a bevy of activity, with speed chess, bughouse, consultation games, and more—I was like a kid in a candy store. But I did not know about tournaments. I would eventually discover tournament play when I came across a flier for the Greater New York High School Championship (I was first board for James Madison High School at the time). I tied for first with seven out of eight in the novice section, winning a trophy—and so began my tournament career. My legacy began in 1980, when Bill Goichberg opened the Chess Center of New York, a dream come true as they held tournaments every day. The total number of my games went up, but then the action shifted to the Manhattan Chess Club when the Chess Center went out of business in 1984. These experiences helped me as I won the New York State championship in 1982, earned my international master title, then won three more New York State championships. On my 27th birthday, I beat GM Sammy Reshevsky, the first time I ever defeated a grandmaster. I’ve had many wins and suffered many disappointments. So what has been my best move after thousands of tournaments? A move from this win against our current and seven-time U.S. women’s champion stands out.
“
I’ve had many wins and suffered many disappointments. 10. cxd5 Nxd5 11. dxc5 Bxc5 12. a3 a5 13. Nc4 Qe7 14. e4 Nf6 15. e5 Nd5 16. Nfd2 16. b5 This looks dangerous.
1. d4 Nf6 2. Nf3 e6 3. c4 d5 4. Nbd2 I like to put my queen knight on d2, discouraging the equalizing plan of ... dxc4, ... Be7 and ... c7-c5, which is the natural reaction.
4. ... Be7 5. g3 O-O 6. Bg2 b6 7. O-O Bb7 8. b3 c5 9. Bb2 Nc6 Black gets into trouble after this; the queen knight belongs on d7.
72 June 2015 | Chess Life
Irina tries to return the piece in a favorable way, but I have to benefit from the open f-file.
19. fxe3 Bxe3+ 20. Kh1 Rad8 21. Qh5 h6 Again threatening Nf6+, and again h6 defending, but now h6 is a target.
22. Rf3 Bd4 This looks like it saves the day, but:
23. Nf6+ Kh8 24. Bc1 The killer, and an alternate candidate for my best move. Bxh6 is the winning threat.
Catalan Opening (E06)
IM Jay Bonin (2424) IM Irina Krush (2533) Marshall Masters (3), 07.16.2013
”
24. … Bxe5 17. Ne4!
No better is 24. ... Bxa1 25. Bxh6 Rd1+ 26. Bf1 Rxf1 27. Kg2!.
My Best Move and the point. I’m going for bigger game.
25. Bxh6 Bxf6 26. Rxf6 Qxf6
17. … bxc4 18. bxc4 Now if 18. … Nc7, then 19. Nf6+ is very strong. Not 19. ... gxf6 because of 20. Qg4+ Kh8 21. exf6, winning.
18. … Ne3
Also losing is 26. ... gxf6 27. Bxf8+.
27. Bg5+ Kg8 28. Bxf6 gxf6 29. Rf1 It’s over now.
29. … Rd7 30. Qg4+ Kh7 31. Rxf6, Black resigned.
Whose Best Move would you like to see? Write to us at letters@uschess.org.
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VISIT OUR NATION’S CAPITAL The World Open completes a three year run in the Washington area before returning to Philadelphia in 2016. $99 rooms, valet parking $6 (if full, about $7-15 nearby), free airport shuttle. Free shuttle to DC Metro, minutes from Washington’s historic attractions! 8 sections: Open, U2200, U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400, U1200, Unrated. FIDE ratings used for Open.
SPECIAL FEATURES! 1) Schedule options. 5-day is most popular, 4-day and 3-day save time & money. New 6-day has three 1-round days. Open plays 5-day only. 2) GM & IM norms possible in Open. NOTE CHANGE; Masters can now play for both norms & large class prizes! 3) Prize limit $2000 if post-event rating posted 6/26/14-6/26/15 was more than 30 pts over section maximum.
4) Provisional (under 26 games) prize limits in U2000 & below. 5) Unrated not allowed in U1200 though U1800; prize limited in U2000. 6) Mixed Doubles: $3000-1500-700500-300 for male/female teams. 7) International 6/25-30 (not 26-30): FIDE norms possible, warmup for main event. Also many side events. 8) Free analysis by GM Sam Palatnik 7/1-7/5. Free GM lectures 7/3 & 7/4, 9 am.
$210,000 GUARANTEED PRIZES! OPEN S ECTION:$20000-10000-5000-2500-1300-1000-800-700600-500, clear win or top 2 playoff $300 bonus, top FIDE 2300-2449 $4000-2000-1000-800-500,top FIDEUnder2300/Unr$4000-2000-1000800-500. FIDE rated, GM & IM norms possible. UNDER 2200/unrated: $12000-6000-3000-1500-1000-800-600500-400-400, top Under 2100 (no unr) $2000-1000. UNDER 2000/unrated: $12000-6000-3000-1500-1000-800-600500-400-400, top U1900 (no unr) $2000-1000. Unr prize limit $1000. UNDER 1800 (no unrated): $12000-6000-3000-1500-1000-800600-500-400-400, top Under 1700 $2000-1000.
Reserve early! Chess rate $99-99, 703418-1234, may sell out by about 5/31. Time limit: 6-day & 5-day options 40/2, SD/30, d10. 4-day, rounds 1-2 G/60, d10, then merges. 3-day, rds 1-5 G/35, d10, then merges. Unrated: 3-day schedule only, G/60, d10. July official USCF ratings used (July FIDE ratings used for Open Section). Open to U1800 prizes & Unrated trophies awarded at site, others mailed by 7/20. Open through U1400 entry fees: Online at chessaction.com, $308 by 4/15, $318 by 5/15, $328 by 6/28, $350 at site to 1.5 hours before game or online until 2 hrs before game. Open Section: All $100 more if not rated over 2199 by USCF or FIDE. U1200 Section entry fees: All $100 less. Unrated Section entry fees: $28 online by 6/28, $40 at site until 1 hour before game or online until 2 hours before game.. Seniors 65/up: entry fee $100 less in U1400 & above.
UNDER 1600 (no unrated): $10000-5000-2500-1300-900-700600-500-400-400, top Under 1500 $1600-800. UNDER1400(nounrated):$8000-4000-2000-1300-900-700-600500-400-400, top Under 1300 $1200-600. UNDER 1200 (no unrated): $4000-2000-1000-800-600-500-400400-300-300, top Under 1000 $1000-500. UNRATED: Trophies to top 10. PROVIS IONALLY RATED PLAYERS (July 2015 official rating based on 4 to 25 games) may not win over $1000 in Under 1200, $2000 in Under 1400, or $3000 in Under 1600 through Under 2000.
Mailed or phoned entries, titled player entries: see Tournament Life. Entries are posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). $15 service charge for refunds. Bring set, board, clock- not supplied. 6-day schedule: Tue 7 pm, Wed 7 pm, Thu 6 pm, Fri 11 am & 6 pm, Sat 11 am & 6 pm, Sun 10 am & 4:30 pm. 5-day schedule: Wed 7 pm, Thu to Sat 11 am & 6 pm, Sun 10 am & 4:30 pm. 4-day schedule: Thu 11 am, 2:30 pm & 6 pm, Fri & Sat 11 am & 6 pm, Sun 10 & 4:30. 3-day schedule: Fri11, 1:30, 3:30, 6 & 8:30, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. Unrated schedule: Fri 11 am, 2:30 pm & 6 pm, Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 10, 1:30 & 4:30. Unrated Section plays three days only. Half point byes OK all, limit 4 (limit 2 in last 4 rounds). Open must commit before round 2, others before round 5. All merge & play for same prizes.
PAST WINNERS 1973 Walter Browne, 1974 Bent Larsen, 1975 Pal Benko, 1976 Anatoly Lein, 1977 John Fedorowicz, 1978 Peter Biyiasas, 1979 Haukur Angantysson, 1980 Larry Christiansen, 1981 Igor Ivanov, 1982 Nick de Firmian, 1983 Kevin Spraggett, 1984 Joel Benjamin, 1985 Maxim Dlugy, 1986 Nick de Firmian, 1987 Boris Gulko, 1988 Maxim Dlugy, 1989 Mikhail Gurevich, 1990 Igor Glek, 1991 Gata Kamsky, 1992 Gregory Kaidanov, 1993 Alex Yermolinsky, 1994 Artashes Minasian, 1995 Alex Yermolinsky, 1996 Alex Yermolinsky, 1997 Alex Shabalov, 1998 Alex Goldin, 1999 Gregory Serper, 2000 Joel Benjamin, 2001 Alex Goldin, 2002 Kamil Miton, 2003 Jaan Ehlvest, 2004 Varuzhan Akobian, 2005 Kamil Miton, 2006 Gata Kamsky, 2007 Varuzhan Akobian, 2008 Evgeny Najer, 2009 Evgeny Najer, 2010 Viktor Laznicka, 2011 Gata Kamsky, 2012 Ivan Sokolov, 2013 Varuzhan Akobian, 2014 Ilya Smirin.