2009 - Chess Life 08

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Chess Life — August 2009

United States Chess Federation PO Box 3967, Crossville, Tennessee 38557 1-800-903-USCF (8723) (931) 787-1234

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August on uschess.org

Chess Festival in Indiana Look for dispatches and blogs from the 110th U.S. Open in Indianapolis, Indiana from August 1-9. CLO coverage will include thoughts from Abby Marshall on the Denker and highlights from simuls by U.S. Champion Hikaru Nakamura and World Women’s Champion Alexandra Kosteniuk. Also follow the fight for the five spots into the 2010 U.S. Championship, preliminarily scheduled for St. Louis in spring, 2009.

U.S. Chess School in St. Louis The tenth edition of the U.S. Chess School will feature the first only allgirls session, and participants range from 18-year-old Amanda Mateer from Arizona to 14-year-old Rochelle Ballantyne (in the above photo) of Brooklyn. Check CLO for reports and photos.

The Scoop continues The U.S. Chess Scoop started in June with coverage of major summer internationals where so many of our young talents earned norms, including Samuel Shankland, Alex Lenderman and Lev Milman. Go to Jennifer’s blog to see all the videos and look for August Scoops on the U.S. Open and more.

Josh Friedel blogs on the Continental GM Josh Friedel's Samford may be over but his exotic travel dispatches continue. Keep your eyes open for his report on the ContinentalChampionships in Sao Paulo, Brazil (July 25-August 2), where he and friends will fight it out for six coveted spots into the World Cup (KhantyMansiysk, Russia Nov. 20-Dec. 15).

Chess Life now available via pdf viewer Read Chess Life on the web with our new online pdf viewer. Flip pages ‘virtually’ and click on hyperlinks for easy access to e-mail and web addresses! The USCF is pleased to offer this enhancement to your membership. There is even an “advertisers” tab that you can click on to go directly to their ads and a thumbnail option so you can see all pages at a glance. You can also download the pdf file directly from within the viewer, as well as adjust the text size.

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August Chess Life Columns 12 LOOKS AT BOOKS Warrior of the Field By Nelly Rosario

14 CHESS TO ENJOY Going Ga-Ga over Gagra

“I really came into this tournament wanting to prove something...”

By GM Andy Soltis

—HIKARU

16 SOLITAIRE CHESS First You Must Survive the Opening By Bruce Pandolfini

18 WHAT’S THE BEST MOVE? 9th Far West Open By GM Larry Evans

38 BACK TO BASICS The Knight In Jeopardy By GM Lev Alburt

40 ENDGAME LAB Kamsky at the 4th Grand Prix, Nalchik 2009 By GM Pal Benko

Departments 3

PREVIEW

6

COUNTERPLAY

8

FIRST MOVES

10 USCF HISTORY 19 USCF AFFAIRS 44 TOURNAMENT LIFE 62 CLASSIFIEDS 63 SOLUTIONS

20 | COVER STORY

Hikaru! By Macauley Peterson

On The Cover Our two-time U.S. champion has seemingly grown up on the pages of Chess Life; we salute that with pictures from our archives and one new one from St. Louis. Cover design by Shirley Szymanek, dog4design.co.uk; Art direction by Frankie Butler

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Hikaru Nakamura has appeared to be peaking for his second U.S. championship win much of this past year. Defeating a field that included the world class Gata Kamsky and holding off a surprising Robert Hess, Hikaru now joins the ranks of super GMs.

32 | 2009 CHICAGO OPEN

36 | HERE AND THERE

Stone Cold Solid

Vive le Variant

By Jonathan Hilton

By Lisa Suhay

GM Jaan Ehlvest rebounds from a disappointing U.S. championship performance to take the Chicago Open on tiebreaks.

Raising champions on and off the board: Chess takes to and from the streets.

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Counterplay

The hoax is on us? Because my ten-consecutive-pawnmove game against John Fashingbauer has been the center of controversy both in the U.S. and abroad, I have hereby made a variety of efforts to highlight the facts (re: “The Hoax is on You,” April “Chess to Enjoy”). First, John Fashingbauer was a real person, whose name appears in the 1950 Milwaukee City Directory. Based on my age at the time and Mr. Fashingbauer’s appearance, he was probably in his 50s in 1950. In 1950, he worked as a shipping clerk at the Allen Bradley Co., which has since been renamed: Rockwell Automation. I played a second game with Mr. Fashingbauer, presented in my self-published book, Chess Is An Art. Based on my research, I have concluded that Mr. Fashingbauer is now deceased. The second game, involving ten-consecutive-pawn moves in the Wing Gambit, was presented by expert Averill Powers, in his regular Sunday chess column in the Milwaukee Journal, titled “The Game of Kings” on May 21, 1950. Without consulting me, Mr. Powers abbreviated the game to ten moves, perhaps seeking to equal the feat of former U.S. Champion Frank J. Marshall, claiming that Black resigned on move 10. In reality, Fashingbauer found a way to keep the game going, resigning on move 28. Oddly enough, had the game been reported accurately, there were eleven consecutive pawn moves by White, who played in response to 10. b6 Nxb6, 11. cxb6 (!). I have just completed a discussion with Myron Katz, attorney at law in Milwaukee. He believes that Averill Powers reported the game as consisting of ten moves because he was distracted by the pressure of having to produce a weekly chess column, after tying for first place in the 1950 Wisconsin State Chess Tournament. The column was crowded by news of Geller’s victory over Botvinnik, along with USCF ranking of local Wisconsin chess players. According to Myron Katz, Averill Powers presented my victory as entertaining but just another story, of small consequence. Since Mr. Powers published the Fashingbauer game, the game has been reprinted many times, including by national game collections and books printed in Russia and Europe. Grandmaster Greg Serper, who viewed Chess Is An Art some years ago, was the first to tell me that many chess fans regard the game 6


as a fantasy, because Fashingbauer in German meant “carnival pawn.” Serper accepted my support of the reality of the game after reviewing my book, which he thought was a good book for the nonmaster. Myron Katz does not believe that disparaging the game or Averill Powers will help bolster interest in chess. Averill Powers is now deceased but leaves behind many relatives who revere his name. I have continued to add to chess history, earning plaudits a few years ago from former USCF columnist GM Hans Kmoch for playing the best games of any current non-chess master. Myron Katz told me that he is not a seer who “knows” why Averill Powers did what he did, but Myron Katz suspects that Powers believed that most readers would find the game entertaining, being aware that many published games have been shortened to meet space limitations. Richard K. Kujoth, Ed.D via e-mail

GM Andy Soltis responds: In my April column I wrote, “In fact, both the players—and the moves—were quite real, according to various American sources ...” Thanks to Mr. Kujoth’s research we can add more to the historical record. His original handwritten score of the game shows:

Sicilian Defense (B20) Richard Kujoth John Fashingbauer Wisconsin State Tourney, May 7, 1950 1. e4 c5 2. b4 cxb4 3. a3 Nc6 4. axb4 Nf6 5. b5 Nb8 6. e5 Qc7 7. d4 Nd5 8. c4 Nb6 9. c5 Nd5 10. b6 Nxb6 11. cxb6 Qxb6 12. Nf3 e6 13. Bd2 Nc6 14. Qa4 d5 15. Bb5 Bd7 16. 0-0 Be7 17. Nc3 0-0 18. Rfb1 Qd8 19. Qd1 a6 20. Bd3 b5 21. Ne2 Qc8 22. Ng3 b4 23. Ng5 Bxg5 24. Bxg5 a5 25. Bxh7+ Kxh7 26. Qh5+ Kg8 27. Bf6 Nxd4 28. Qg5, Black resigned.

Incidentally, Richard Kujoth won the Wisconsin state championship in 194748-49, 1952-53 and 1958.

More Soltis In the March 2009 “Chess to Enjoy” column “What Would Fritz Do?” the move 8. Ke2 is noted as a perfectly good move. This carbon-based player has enjoyed your column for years and would appre-

ciate some discussion about why this move is good. Don Soards via e-mail

GM Andy Soltis responds: There’s nothing very deep about 8. Ke2. White wants to gain a tempo with Be3 followed eventually by Kf2, where the king is quite safe. My point wasn’t that 8. Ke2 is a threat to the health of the Sicilian Defense but rather that it was a move that humans wouldn’t consider at all.

Looking back “Counterplay” In Chess Life, July 2009, looks back 70 years. Scientific American, July 2009, looks back 150 years and finds: “Descent into Chess—A pernicious excitement to learn and play chess has spread all over the country, and numerous clubs practicing this game have been formed in cities and villages. Why should we regret this? It may be asked. We answer, chess is a mere amusement of a very inferior character, which robs the mind of valuable time that might be devoted to nobler acquirements, while it affords no benefit whatever to the body. Chess has acquired a high reputation as being a means to discipline the mind, but persons engaged in sedentary occupations should never practice this cheerless game; they require out-door [sic] exercises—not this sort of mental gladiatorship.” Ralph Kaminsky via e-mail

Considering that in 1859 Charles Dickens published A Tale of Two Cities and in 1939 The Three Stooges released Oily to Bed, Oily to Rise, perhaps 1859 had something over 1939. Then again, 1939 also offered Gone With the Wind and the Wizard of Oz while in 1859 we fought the Pig War with British authorities! ~ed.

Chess Life welcomes letters from its readers. Letters are subject to editing for content and length. Send your letters to [email protected], and include your full name and a telephone number.

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First Moves

SuperNationals IV: A Coach’s View By Eric Nager This feature was originally planned as a sidebar to our SuperNationals IV coverage in our June issue but was cut due to space concerns.

A

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The Bayside Academy Chess Team. FRONT ROW L-R: Coach Eric Nager, Andrew Smith, Richard O'Neill, Ty Kannegieter, Rebecca Pober, Trent Kannegieter, Wesley Dean, Faculty Sponsor Sally Kalaris. BACK ROW L-R: Hayden Gunn, Kevin Nelson, Peyton Winstead, Scott Dahlke, Blake Nelson, Will Runels, Eric Peterson.

reserve team rooms and discounted hotel rooms before they sell out. Another tip, especially if the team consists of more than six-eight players, is to reserve a team room. This provides a central meeting place to put out information to the players and analyze games between rounds, as well as a comfortable place for parents and faculty sponsors to hang out during the day. This is especially true if team members are staying off site from the tournament. Having a team room does not have to be an expensive proposition. By networking with other teams, there is the opportunity to share such a room. We did so at this tournament with Cumberland County, Tennessee, and my players had

a blast interacting with Susan Houston and her team, who were most gracious hosts. I have found the camaraderie built up among team members and between other players from attending national tournaments indispensable to team chemistry. With all these benefits, it’s not too early to start planning for 2010! Eric Nager is the chess coach at Bayside Academy in Daphne, Alabama. His team won the K-12 U1200 section at SuperNationals III, and this year captured second in K-12 U800. He is author of Checklist for Checkmate: 15 Keys to Building a Successful Team, available at Amazon.com. uschess.org

PHOTO: COURTESY OF SUBJECT

s a coach, I thought the SuperNationals went off extremely well. Aside from minor glitches, such as the pairings being located a floor below the playing halls during the first couple of rounds, the tournament kept on schedule, was well directed, and I saw no instances of controversy or poor sportsmanship. It was also a great opportunity to network with other coaches. From a player’s standpoint, it’s a chance to play seven games against other kids from around the country with a long time control. In our state of Alabama there are not many large scholastic tournaments, and my players invariably wind up playing their teammates at such events. In our scholastic league or local single day tournaments, the time controls are relatively short. At SuperNationals, I saw it dawn on one of my players who had never seemed able to slow down before that he really could take his time. He finally played deliberately and scored six points, capturing a tie for second in his section. A beginning player had the same problem. Instructing her to wait a certain amount of time between moves resulted in her games lasting 40-plus moves instead of 20. For the first time I took elementary school players to a national tournament and key for them was getting past the opening. Once we corrected a vulnerability to quick attack for an unrated third grader, he went on to score 3½ points, including a fifth-round game that lasted longer than some high school kids. From a parents’ perspective I know those who accompanied the team enjoyed seeing so many kids who are enthusiastic about chess. This has inspired them to take their own kids to more tournaments. For this reason, I encourage parents to attend. In planning to compete at a national tournament, I’ve found logistical considerations every bit as important as preparation for over-the-board play. One key is to commit as early as possible. This insures participating players get the early registration discount, and can

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USCF History

One Word Per Week

CONFESSIONS OF A TWITTER-LIKE HISTORIAN By Al Lawrence

R

ecapping the seven decades of USCF history for our anniversary year has been an education and a challenge. I admire the volunteers who— with a colorful array of styles and abilities—shaped, pushed, pulled, and sometimes rescued our national organization. It was an honor to represent them to a generation long-removed from their achievements. Some now seem like titans, but surely they made their moves with the same care and, in most cases, the same self-doubt, that all of us share. My own challenge was the “tyranny of the column

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inch”—the ultimate reins on freedom of expression. Each of my articles was to “cover” a decade in no more than 550 words—about one word per week. Sometimes I felt was writing the history of USCF in a series of short tweets. So here are some all-too-brief notes offering only a sample of the events and people I wish I could have written more about. Grandmaster William Lombardy was the first American to win an official world chess championship. He did this in 1957 by running away with the World Junior Championship,


Nimzo-Indian, Classical (E33) Mathias Gerusel William Lombardy Toronto 1957 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Qc2 Nc6 5. Nf3 d5 6. a3 Bxc3+ 7. Qxc3 Ne4 8. Qc2 e5 9. dxe5 Bf5 10. Qa4 0-0 11. Be3 d4 12. Rd1 dxe3 13. Rxd8 exf2+ 14. Kd1 Rfxd8+ 15. Kc1 a6 16. Qb3 Nc5 17. Qc3 Na5 18. e4 Nab3+, White resigned.

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PHOTOS: ARCHIVAL

Above: GM William Lombardy; Above Right: Harry Sabine

11-0, a score that has never been equaled. Even Boris Spassky had conceded two draws (one to American secondplace finisher Edmar Mednis) in winning the previous World Junior in 1955. Lombardy went on to draw a two-game match with world champ Mikhail Botvinnik. He soon withdrew from chess to enter the priesthood, but was recalled into worldly service by Bobby Fischer to help with Bobby’s 1972 world championship victory over Boris. I’ve included an entertaing Lombardy game at the end of this column. Lombardy, Fischer, Robert Byrne (the world championship candidate and long-time New York Times columnist), Donald Byrne, and Sal Matera, were all early members of the famous “Hawthorne Chess Club,” which began meeting in wheelchair-bound John Collins’ Brooklyn apartment on Hawthorne Street. Chess hallof-famers Hermann Helms, Irving Chernev, artist Marcel Duchamp and composer John Cage were among the famous regulars. Collins, with his devoted sister Ethel, was our organization’s finest example of selfless dedication, a siren song attracting greatness to the game. Administrators and organizers need to be recognized, since playing achievements aren’t possible without them. Previous columns mentioned every

USCF president, executive director, and Chess Life editor as a matter of record. But, of course, there were and are many more volunteers and staffers who do the work of USCF on a national level. And the work of those on the state and local level is vital to any success we’ve ever been able to claim. As my five words per week again come to an end, I can only offer an example. During my days as executive director, one board member who never became president won instead the NVE, a fictional concoction of my own: the No Visible Ego medal. Egos can be a healthy, driving force, of course. But egos are the norm. The volunteers who work hundreds of hours without demanding a high-profile, and who are always willing to make reasonable compromises to get things done, are rare. Former Marine Harry Sabine, a Tennessee attorney, has, over four decades, served as local organizer, tournament director, USCF vice president, and volunteer counsel. I remember his size 14, Tennessee Volunteer -orange tennis shoes marching the aisles of USCF’s first national scholastic tournament. So many stories of volunteers like Harry. So little text in a tweet.

Looks at Books

Warrior of the Field A painstaking work of art, scholarship, and chess analysis By Nelly Rosario

MARCEL DUCHAMP WAS AS MUCH a player of words as he was of chess and, as he saw it, of art. So for a man who waged battles in these arenas, it’s uncanny that his name literally means “little warrior of the field.” Though he opted for civilian clothes as a young man during World War I, an 1896 photograph shows a nine-year-old Duchamp donning a French military uniform topped by an officer’s cap. Appropriate livery, actually, for the latent avant-garde artist later to be canonized as the patron saint of modern art. But if Teresa of Avila has already been crowned patroness saint of chess, Marcel Duchamp: The Art of Chess positions Duchamp as king to her queen with its thorough if not obsessive exploration of how his activities as a chess player largely informed his life and his art (or what he called “anti-art”).

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Art of Chess is no doubt a labor of love and 35 years in the making, according to its editor, independent scholar and curator Francis M. Naumann. “The only thing that is not art is inattention,” Duchamp once said. I imagine he’d pay close attention to these three unique essays by Naumann, professor of art history Bradley Bailey, and chess champion/Chess Life Online editor Jennifer Shahade. Here, they’ve created painstaking works of art and scholarship and chess analysis in their own rights. The triptych is introduced by Naumann as being neither “a book about Duchamp the artist” nor “a book about Duchamp the chessplayer … rather, a book about both.” Amazon.com alone lists over 6,000 titles by, about or relating to Marcel Duchamp. Why, then, yet another on a figure already so documented and lionized in the world

of art? Neither is he the only artist to incorporate chess iconography and concepts in his work. There are the paintings and photography of his contemporary, Man Ray; the digital art of mathematician Layachi Hamidouche; Samuel Bak’s collection of watercolors; Nicolas Sphicas’ artistic renderings of actual matches; and installations by Ugo Dossi and Yoko Ono. And just two years ago, I participated in Glenn Kaino’s “The Burning Boards” at the Whitney Museum, an art installation/chess competition in which burning candles served as playing pieces. Then there are the countless chess-inspired musicians, filmmakers, and writers ... Art of Chess, however, is the self-avowed first major study in English completely devoted to exploring how chess was and is inextricably linked to Duchamp’s life and art—and vice-versa. Naumann’s titular essay chronicles Duchamp’s life, using as motif the phases of a chess game. In “Passionate Pastimes: Duchamp, Chess, and The Large Glass,” Bailey proposes that “chess is a critical and largely unrecognized thematic element” of Duchamp’s logic-defying “The Bride Stripped Bare by Her Bachelors, Even.” Shahade concludes with fifteen analyses of Duchamp’s most revealing chess games, laid out on paper and animated online with Duchampian style by French artist Jean Sabrier. Weighing in at just 148 pages, Art of Chess is nonetheless a hearty read. The well-researched essays excavate far beyond their subjects, essentially striking out the slashes between Marcel Duchamp/artist/chessplayer. Art of Chess also attempts to transcend the limitations of text through quality photographs, illustrations, and animated games online, inviting the reader to experience the kind of fourth-dimensional thinking that so intrigued Duchamp. Just as Duchamp described chess to be a “mechanistic sculpture that represents exciting plastic values,” Art of Chess brings an additional dimension to art criticism and serves as an elegant model of how fluid movement between fields of study is possible, enhancing each along the way. Still, there are moments when Art of Chess feels overzealous in claiming Duchamp and his work from the clutches of the art world, especially where Naumann and Bailey rely on conjecture (i.e., “it is possible,” “we can assume,” “one is tempted to,” “it can be discerned”). That Duchamp writes about his serious study of chess a year after his “wunderkind” brother Raymond dies, for instance, is enough for Bailey to speculate that mastery of chess was a way for Duchamp to “satisfy his need to outshine his more gifted sibling.” And Duchamp’s wish that Étant donnés (a tableau featuring the

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nude of his lover, artist Maria Martins, the wife of a Brazilian ambassador) be revealed only after his death is creatively interpreted by Naumann as an endgame “position that leads to victory” rather than as common tact on Duchamp’s part. Perhaps the most engaging reads for the more chess-inclined are the clever structure in Naumann’s essay; Bailey’s comprehensive overview of the Chess Moralities; and the icing on the cake, Shahade’s game analysis, best read while watching Sabrier’s beautifully rendered (and soundtracked) online animations. Shahade includes a nice selection of Duchamp’s games, chosen from over 100

“for their quality and their importance to Duchamp himself ... a variety of opponents, results, and stages in his career.” Her sharp analyses are peppered with game pointers as well as interesting anecdotes about Duchamp, such as the fact that he wrote out word-for-word chess author Aron Nimzovitch’s 364-page Chess Praxis. The commentary is not as dour as one would expect but as enjoyable to read as watching Sunday sports with friends over pitchers of beer. In 1932, Duchamp co-authored Opposition and Sister Squares with Russian chess player Vitaly Halberstadt. As Naumann’s essay points out, the book was

a critical and commercial failure. “Chess” in French is “échec” and, as it happens, the same word for “failure.” For enthusiasts on either end of the art-chess spectrum who choose to read failure in Marcel Duchamp: The Art of Chess, there’s a caveat in Austrian chess player and writer Ernst Strouhal’s analysis of Opposition and Sister Squares: [the book] can be understood as both an artist’s book for chess players, and a chess book for artists. Marcel Duchamp: The Art of Chess, by Francis M. Naumann, Bradley Bailey, and Jennifer Shahade. Readymade Press. 148 pages. $45 (hardcover).

An excerpt from Marcel Duchamp: The Art of Chess The active …Bb4 or the solid …Be7 are more logical than …Bd6, the middle ground which turns out to be the worst of both worlds. Black doesn’t attack anything and has to retreat his bishop a few moves later to defend. 9.e4

White opens the game up, unbottling his bishop and giving him his best chance for an advantage. 9...dxe4 10.Nxe4 Nxe4 11.Qxe4

Duchamp the chess artist Duchamp,Marcel Renaud,Georges Nice, 1927 1. Nf3

This early knight advance often transposes into lines with Duchamp’s usual move, 1.d4.

If only White had a lightsquared bishop, he would have a ready-made attack. But with only two minor pieces (i.e., bishop and knight), White will have to work very hard and get some help from Black in order to mount a decisive attack.

6...Bxd3 7.Qxd3 Nbd7 8.0-0 Bd6

uschess.org

12. Qh4 0-0 13. Bg5 Be7 14. Rfd1 Qb6

Black should sense the danger and realize that desperate times call for ideas like the very odd-looking 14...Kh8!, with the idea of ...Ng8, trading off one Duchamp’s key attacking pieces, the bishop on g5. 15. b3 h6

After ...h6, it’s starting to become too late—White's pieces are flooding in with devastating effect; Black is cramped and his queen just fled the defense. 16. Rd3! Diagram #1:

11...Nf6?!

This normal-looking move is premature. It allows the white queen and bishop to land on their best possible squares. More flexible is 11...0-0 with the idea of meeting 12.Bg5 with ...Be7.

in view of Nxg5 and Rh3. Black could try 16...Qa5. 17. Bxh6! gxh6

In his annotations Renaud points out that refusing the sacrifice with Nd7 would prolong but not save the game. 18. Qxh6 Ng4

18...Nh7, eyeing the g5 square offers a little more resistance but 19. Ne5 Bg5 20. Rg3 is still crushing for White. 19. Qh5 Nf6 20. Qg5+ 1-0

Diagram #2:

1...d5 2.c4 c6 3.e3 Nf6 4.d4 Bf5 5.Nc3 e6 6.Bd3

Georges Renaud (18931975), co-author of the The Art of the Checkmate, gave Duchamp five exclams in his annotations of this game for L’Echiquier, including one for 6.Bd3. Although trades often make a position more drawish, the opposite is true in this case. To avoid doubled pawns, Black trades bishops but develops White’s queen, which from d3 supports e4, continuing the initiative.

White should only have a small edge. Duchamp flawlessly exploits Renaud’s inaccurate 11...Nf6.

On the occasions that a player finds time to lift a rook into a kingside attack, it is a tower of strength. Without this maneuver, White’s attack would have gone nowhere. 16...Rfe8

Capturing the bishop loses

Black resigns in view of White’s unstoppable attacking idea of Ne5, making way for the rook to slide to h3 or g3, at which point Black will be defenseless. For instance, 20...Kf8 21.Qh6+ Kg8 22. Ne5 with the killing threat of Rg3, mating. After 20...Kh8 21. Ne5 immediately is the best move order, threatening mate with both Rh3 and Nxf7.

From an aesthetic point of view, resignation is a sad fact of tournament chess. Rather than allow spectators and fans the pleasure of seeing the final blow, experienced players see checkmate in the near future, and give up. The already abstract world of chess becomes even more abstract as the vision of the finale trumps the actual dénouement.


13

Chess to Enjoy

Going Ga-Ga over Gagra

By GM Andy Soltis

You know about Linares, Hastings, Moscow and the other famous datelines. But you’ve probably never heard about Gagra—because for decades it was the chess world’s biggest secret.

Way back in 1953, before they were called “super-tournaments,” two remarkable events took place. One of them became a legend, thanks to the efforts of the players to make the tournament’s games their legacy. The other tournament is virtually unknown, thanks to a conspiracy of the players to keep it secret. The first tournament was the Candidates round-robin, held at Zurich. It inspired two great tournament books, and the players packed their best-games collections with its games. The other tournament was held in Gagra, a little-known health resort in Soviet Georgia. It was an extraordinarily strong event for the time: Each of the 11 players was a top grandmaster (GM)—at a time when there were only 38 GMs in the world. But not a word about Gagra 1953 was printed. It was a training tournament, held just after the death of Josef Stalin, at a time when such events were regarded virtually as state secrets. The games played at Gagra were a confidential Soviet asset. Sicilian Defense, Richter-Rauzer Variation (B64) GM Vyacheslav Ragozin GM Yefim Geller Gagra 1953 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 d6 6. Bg5 e6 7. Qd2 Be7 8. 0-0-0 0-0 9. f4 e5!? (see diagram top of next column)

Black’s last move was one of Yefim Geller’s most important theoretical contributions. Yet for years afterwards Russian writers, like David Bronstein in his celebrated tournament book, spread

14


r+lq rk+ pp+ lppp +np n + + + p L + NPP + + N + + PPPQ +PP + KR+L+R After 9. ... e5

the myth that 9. ... e5 was played for the first time at the Zurich tournament, three months later. After the fall of the USSR, GM Alexey Suetin described the extreme secrecy in an article in the magazine 64. Suetin was among the few young masters who were occasionally shown important “secret” games. He was allowed to see the following game—but just the moves. The names of the players and the location were kept secret from him. Modern Benoni Defense, Classical Variation (A74) GM Vassily Smyslov GM Vyacheslav Ragozin Gagra 1953 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 e6 4. Nc3 exd5 5. cxd5 d6 6. e4 g6 7. Nf3 Bg7 8. Be2 0-0 9. 0-0 a6

Black’s ninth move, now standard, was introduced at Gagra but remained more or less unknown outside the Soviet Union for nearly a decade. 10. a4 b6 11. Bf4 Ra7!? 12. Nd2 Re7

This is a rook shift in the style of Shatranj players of a thousand years ago.

13. Bf3 Ne8 14. Nc4 Qc7

nl+nrk+ + q rplp pp p +p+ + pP+ + P+N+PL + + N +L+ P + PPP R +Q+RK After 14. ... Qc7

Black is nearly ready (... Nd7-e5) to free his game. But ... 15. e5! dxe5 16. d6! Nxd6 17. Nd5

Black didn’t like 17. ... Q-moves 18. Nxe7+ so he sacrificed his queen with 17. ... Nxc4 18. Nxc7 Rxc7 19. Bc1 and resigned in another 18 moves. Gagra was held to prepare a Soviet team for an eight-board U.S.-USSR match that summer in New York. But a lastminute hitch arose when the State Department said the visiting Soviet delegation—including KGB officers—would be limited to a narrow zone centered in Manhattan. The Soviets were outraged at the restriction and ordered their players, who were already en route, to turn around and fly home. The match was canceled. So was Gagra just a remarkable waste of effort? Hardly. Any time the world’s best players met during this fertile period of opening discovery they added whole new chapters to “book.” The difference is that the chapters from Zurich were quickly published. The Gagra chapters were not. For example, Isaac Boleslavsky, the wizard of the Sicilian and King’s Indian

uschess.org

Gagra 1953 The secret tournament known at Gagra 1953 provides our six positions this month. In each of the following problems you are asked to find the fastest winning line of play. Usually this will mean the forced win of a decisive amount of material, such as a rook or minor piece. But there are at least three mates to be found. Solutions on page 63.

Problem I

Problem II

Problem III

GM Vassily Smyslov GM Paul Keres

GM Vassily Smyslov GM Vyacheslav Ragozin

GM Isaac Boleslavsky GM Tigran Petrosian

+

+

+

+

+

+

Q

+

+

+ + + + + +K+ + + +P+ + +Q+ + + + + + k q + +q

This was the latest anti-Winawer weapon, based on a gambit. 4. ... c5 5. exd5 Qxd5 6. Bd2 Bxc3 7. Bxc3 cxd4 8. Bxd4 e5 9. Bc3

White feels he has compensation even in the ending that follows 9. ... Qxg2 10. Qf3 Qxf3 11. Nxf3 f6 12. Rg1. But Tigran Petrosian had a common-sense answer. 9. ... Nc6! 10. Qf3 Nf6 11. Qg3 0-0 12. Nf3 Bg4 13. 0-0-0?! Bxf3!

uschess.org

k + R + lp pp +Q+p+ n + + + P+ +p+ + + + +p+P P + PPK + L +r+

+

+

+

Problem IV

Problem V

Problem VI

GM Mark Taimanov GM Vassily Smyslov

GM Alexander Tolush GM Vyacheslav Ragozin

GM Alexander Kotov GM Vyacheslav Ragozin

Now 14. Bxh7+ Kxh7 15. Rxd5 Bxd5 should favor Black. 14. gxf3 Qxa2 15. Rhg1 g6 16. Qh4 Qe6 17. f4 Nd7 18. fxe5 Ncxe5 19. Bb5 Nf3 20. Qf4 Nxg1 21. Re1

Perhaps hoping for 21. ... Qh3 22. Bxd7 Qxd7 23. Qf6 and mates. 21. ... Qa2 22. Bc4 Ne2+! 23. Rxe2 Qa1+ 24. Kd2 Nb6 25. Bxf7+ Rxf7 26. Qd4 Rd7!, White resigned.

Gagra 1953 remained a secret until the final days of the Soviet Union when the games were finally published—in Rome. A joint effort by the Italian and Soviet chess federations brought out a series of volumes called the Soviet Tournament News Review. One of the 1990 issues included all the Gagra games (but neglected to say that the games had been withheld until then). In 2003 Vassily Smyslov, who won the tournament, included one of his victories in a collection of his games. But almost all the other Gagra players died during the Soviet era and didn’t get a chance to show off their brilliancies. It’s time to pay tribute to one of Paul Keres’ finest combinations. The unknown Keres GM Paul Keres GM Vyacheslav Ragozin Gagra 1953

+ r r + pl+ Nkn p +q+ + + pN+ pp +P+ + + P +QPP+ + + +PP + + RRK

+r+ +k+ +p+ +pq p+ +p+L+ +l+ + + + + + + P n R Q + + PP+ + + R K White to play

+

+ + + +p+ R + + + + +p + + P k + rR+ +P + + PK+ + r + + White to play

Black to play

1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Bd3!?

+

r

White to play

+r+k+ p + +pp Q+ + +p+ P +L+ + + + +P+ + + NK+P + R P + q + r +

French Defense (C15) GM Yefim Geller GM Tigran Petrosian Gagra 1953

+

White to play

l

defenses, came to the tournament armed with an answer to Yuri Averbakh’s new weapon, 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. e4 d6 5. Be2 0-0 6. Bg5!?. Previously Black had tried ideas such as 6. ... c5 7. d5 a6 8. a4 e5?, which left him without counterplay. Boleslavsky had discovered that Black should open the center with 8. ... Qa5! 9. Bd2 e6! and ... exd5. This opening idea survived a test-firing at Gagra and eventually became the main line of the Averbakh—but only after it was played under more public circumstances. Also unknown outside the Soviet Union were games like Tigran Petrosian’s first and most crushing victory over Geller.

+

White to play

klr + r + + qpp ppLp + + n pPpP+ +P+Pn p P P +R+ + + RPP + LQ+NK After 26. Bc6

Black played 26. ... g5?, allowing 27. fxg6! e.p. Bg4 28. g7 Rhg8 29. Rxf4!!. The queen sacrifice was justified by 29. ... Bxd1 30. Rxf7 Nxc6 31. dxc6!. Now on 31. ... Qe6 White wins with 32. c7+ Kc8 33. cxd8=Q+ Kxd8 34. Bg5+ Kc8 35. Re7! followed by 36. Rxe6 or 36. Rf8+. Also lost is 31. ... Qxf7 32. Rxf7 Rc8 33. Ne3 Bh5 34. Rb7+ Ka8 35. Nd5. Black gave back the queen with 31. ... Qc7 32. Rxc7 Kxc7 but lost the endgame after 33. Ne3 Rxg7 34. Nxd1. Besides the games it left us, Gagra 1953 should be remembered for two reasons. First, it shows how far the Soviets were ahead of the rest of the world. No other country could have mounted a domestic tournament half as strong as Gagra. But, secondly, no other society was paranoid enough to keep an event like Gagra secret from its own people and from the rest of the world.

.


15

Solitaire Chess

First You Must Survive the Opening

By Bruce Pandolfini

If your goal in playing the Sicilian is to have strong middle and endgame prospects, it is worth keeping in mind, “First things first.”

The Sicilian Defense (1. e4 c5) has been an extremely popular asymmetrical response to e-pawn openings for many years. The Sicilian offers a number of plausible systems, suitable to a range of playing styles and comfort zones. Typically, White hopes to build an attack while Black relies on his central pawn majority to fight back. If Black can survive the early going the prospects for actively meaningful middle and endgame counterplay are good. But then, one does have to survive the opening stage, and in the case of Sidney Bernstein versus Alvin Cass, contested in the Marshall Chess Club Championship of 1939, Black’s Paulsen (B40) variation didn’t quite get the job done. In fact, Black never really got out of the opening.

correctly, give yourself the par score. Sometimes points are also rewarded for second-best moves, and there may be bonus points—or deductions—for other moves and variations. Note that ** means that the note to Black’s move is over and White’s move is on the next line.**

practice, the easier game to play.**

4.

8.

5.

…

Sicilian Defense (B40) Sidney Bernstein Alvin Cass Marshall CC Championship, 1939

6.

e5

1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. d4 cxd4.

rnlqklnr pp+p+ppp ++p++ ++++ +pP++ +++N+ PPP+PPP RNLQKL+R

Nxd4

Par Score: 4

Accept only 2 points part credit for either 4. Qxd4 Nc6, losing time, or 4. c3, an unnecessary gambit. 4.

…

5.

Nc3

Nf6 Par Score: 5

Deduct 1 point for 5. e5?, since it drops a pawn to 5. ... Qa5+. Bb4 Par Score: 5

The most forcing continuation—and the main reason 5. ... Bb4 is no longer in favor. Less testing are 6. Nb5 or 6. Bd3. Receive 4 points part credit for either. 6.

…

Nd5

Take 3 bonus points if you knew to answer 6. ... Qa5 with 7. exf6 Bxc3+ 8. bxc3 Qxc3+ 9. Qd2! Qxa1 10. fxg7 Rg8 11. c3 Qb1 (else the queen gets trapped by 12. Nb3 Qb1 13. Bd3) 12. Bd3 Qb6 13. Qh6 and White is close to winning. On 6. ... Ne4 there follows 7. Qg4 Nxc3.** 7.

Qg4

Par Score: 5

Accept full credit for the steady and strong 7. Bd2. By the move played Bernstein goes all out for the attack.

Your starting position

7.

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

With the knight on the protected d5square Black has the option, found in the late 1970’s, of 7. ... 0-0 8. Bh6 g6 9. Bxf8 Qxf8. Although White is still somewhat better, Black has definite positional compensation for the Exchange, and in

16


…

Nxc3

8.

Qxg7

Par Score: 5

Here is the point of 7. Qg4. White figures on recovering his sacrificed piece or obtaining an equivalent in attack. Deduct 3 points for 8. bxc3 Bxc3+ and 9. ... Bxa1. …

Rf8

He has to save the rook. Discovered check with the knight is met by 9. c3 (1 bonus point).** 9.

a3

9.

…

Par Score: 5 Ba5

In the game Szabo-Mikenas (1-0), Kemeri/Riga, 1939, play continued 9. ... Nb5+ 10. axb4 Nxd4 11. Bg5 Qb6 12. Bh6 Qxb4+ 13. c3 Nf5 14. cxb4 Nxg7 15. Bxg7 Rg8 16. Bf6, and White is likely winning. If instead 9. ... Be7, then White answers 10. bxc3. And if 9. ... Nd5+, White will wind up winning the Exchange (Bc1-h6).** 10.

b4

Par Score: 5

Bernstein intends Bc1-g5, but first the enemy bishop must be driven off. Deduct 3 points for 10. Bg5? Qxg5 11. Qxg5 Ne4+ and 12. ... Nxg5. The downside of b2-b4 is that the c3-knight is no longer threatened and there’s a heavy premium on finding attacking resources. Less ambitious but strong is 10. Bh6 (Full credit) 10. ... Qe7 11. Nb3. 10.

…

Bc7

Already White has in mind an upcoming clever move. There’s also a case to be made for 10. ... Bb6 11. Bg5 f6 12. Bxf6 (12. exf6 Bxd4) 12. ... Rf7. White has a sure draw after 13. Qg8+ Rf8 14. Qg7, but it is not certain he can try for more.** 11.

Bg5

Par Score: 5

For White, there’s no turning back: 11. Bh6 Qe7 is satisfactory for Black. uschess.org

ABCs of Chess These problems are all related to key positions in this month’s game. In each case, Black is to move. The answers can be found in Solutions on page 63. August Exercise: Turn to a good game collection and zero in on a random position between strong players (say around move 20). Start asking questions to unearth information about the situation. A suitable question should cover what you’d like to do if you could, or what you’d like to see an imagined opponent play so you could take advantage. As you get more and more practice at asking where all the pieces should or shouldn’t go, you gain a greater sensitivity to specific possibilities, but at the same time, indirectly increase your ability to integrate the separate themes into more strategic thinking.

11.

…

Bxe5

The alternative is 11. ... f6. Things turn out nicely for White after 12. exf6 Rf7 13. Qg8+ Rf8 14. f7 mate (2 bonus points). But Black can try 12. ... Nd5. If 13. f7+, then 13. ... Rxf7 14. Qxf7+ (not 14. Bxd8 Rxg7 15. Bxc7 Nxc7) 14. ... Kxf7 15. Bxd8 Bxd8, with two pieces for rook and pawn. Therefore, on 11. ... f6, White plays 12. Bxf6 (1 bonus point) 12. ... Rxf6 (12. ... Rf7 is met by 13. Bxd8 Rxg7 14. Bxc7) 13. exf6, threatening 14. Qg8 mate; and if 13. ... d5, then 14. f7+ Kd7 15. f8=Q+ Qe7 16. either Qxe7 mate. If Black in turn answers 12. Bxf6 with 12. ... Bxe5, then 13. Bxe5 (but not 13. Qxf8+ Kxf8 14. Bxd8 Bxd4, nor 13. Bxd8 Bxg7) when White has recovered his piece and has an extra pawn.** 12.

Qxe5

Par Score: 5

Accept 1 bonus point if you judged 12. Qxf8+ Kxf8 13. Bxd8 Bxd4 in favor of Black. 12.

…

f6

It looks like Black wins a piece: 13. Qc5 Ne4, or 13. Qe3 Nd5. But Black hasn’t seen something, and Bernstein has.** 13.

Nf5

Par Score: 7

Three of White’s pieces are hanging, but it’s hard to take anything. The epawn is pinned and 13. ... fxe5 runs into 14. Nd6 mate (1 bonus point). On 13. ... fxg5 there follows 14. Nd6+ Ke7 15. Qxg5+ Rf6 (15. ... Kxd6? 16. Qc5 mate—1 bonus uschess.org

Problem I

Problem II

Problem III

Fork

Trapping

Getting out of check

+qk++ ++lppp ++n+ ++++ +NL+ +++P+ +P+++ ++QK+

Q+l+kl+ p+q+p+ ++p++ ++n++ +pP++ ++++ P+P++ RNLK+

+nk++ +ppp+ ++++ +L+++ +N++ ++P+P +++q+ ++K+R

Problem IV

Problem V

Problem VI

Double threat

Trapping

Mating net

++kl+ +p++p+ p+N++p+ ++n++ L++++ ++P+l P+QPq+ ++KR+

r++k++ +N+pp ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ P+++ ++K+

point) 16. Qc5!. 13.

…

14.

Be2

Nd5 Par Score: 6

Essentially, this is the winning move. The bishop aims for h5, and that will net the Exchange. 14.

…

15.

Bh5+

15.

…

16.

Qe4

Nc6 Par Score: 5 Rf7 Par Score: 5

The queen backs out of danger, retaining all the threats of the position. Deduct 2 points for the premature 16. Bxf7+ Kxf7, when White’s pieces end up in an awkward tangle. 16.

…

Qc7

If 16. ... fxg5 (or 16. ... Ne5) 17. Nd6+ and 18. Nxf7 (1 bonus point). Stepping out of the pin, 16. ... Kf8 gives White a mating option: 17. Bh6+ Kg8 18. Qg4+ Kh8 19. Bg7+ Kg8 20. Nh6 mate (2 bonus points). The text tries to stop Nd6+.** 17.

Nh6

Par Score: 5

Accept only 3 points part credit for the immediate 17. Bxf7+ Kxf7; White could then play 18. Bd2, since 18. ... exf5 allows 19. Qxd5+. The text is better as it enables the queen to penetrate to h7. 17.

…

Nd8

++k++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++++ ++p+p+ +PRq+ ++QK+

18.

Nxf7

18.

…

Par Score: 4 Nxf7

If 18. ... fxg5, then 19. Nxd8+ Kxd8 20. 0-0. Accept 1 bonus point if you saw that 18. ... Qc3+ is answered by 19. Ke2. Taking it further: 19. ... Qxa1 20. Qxh7! (not 20. Rxa1 Nc3+) 20. ... Qxh1 21. Qg8+ Ke7 22. Qxd8 mate.** 19.

Bxf7+

19.

…

20.

Qxh7+

20.

…

Par Score: 5 Kxf7 Par Score: 4 Ke8

Accept 2 bonus points if you worked out 20. ... Kf8? 21. Bh6+ Ke8 22. Qg8+, followed by 23. Qf8 mate.** 21.

Qg6+

Par Score: 5

It’s still possible to throw the game away. Deduct 3 points for 21. Bd2? Qe5+. 21.

…

22.

Bxf6+

Ke7 Par Score: 6

This is merely a temporary sacrifice to avoid having to retreat the bishop. 22.

…

23.

Qg7+

Nxf6 Black resigned

.

On 23. ... Ke8 24. Qxf6 Qxc2 25. 0-0, Black has nothing to show for the material deficit. Scoring box is on page 63.


17

What’s The Best Move?

9th Far West Open By GM Larry Evans April In Reno Sergey Kudrin, Enrico Sevillano and Gergely Antal shared first in the top section of this annual event at the Sands Regency Hotel-Casino that attracted 180 players to Reno last Easter. Jerry Weikel and his wife Fran, two of the most experienced organizers in America, provided snacks and a friendly atmosphere all weekend before doling out $17,280 in prizes. Many contestants return twice each year for both the spring and fall tournaments. The 27th Western States Open is set for October 23-25 and this writer again will conduct a free chess clinic between rounds. Solutions to this month’s quiz positions are on page 63. Readers are invited to send their positions in for possible consideration in this column. Send to [email protected] or mail to Chess Life, c/o What’s The Best Move, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.

18


1. White moves

r+ + k + pp+nRpp q+p+ n p + + +p+P +PP + + + +Q+N+ PP L PP+ + + + K

2. White moves

r+ q r + ppp nppk + +ln p + + +N+ + +pLP+ + PP+ +P P+P+ +L+ R +Q+RK

(a) Rxd7 (b) Bb4 (c) Re2

(a) Nxe7 (b) dxe4 (c) Nxg7

3. Black moves

4. Black moves

+

k + +lpQ p n + + + + p + P + + + + P + + +L+K+PP + r + + +

+

p

(a) Bc4+ (b) e4 (c) Bg8

rn + rk+ +pq lpp p+ p n p + + pP+ +l+P+PP +NN + + PPP+L+ + R LQ+R+K (a) Nxg4 (b) d5 (c) Nh7

uschess.org

USCF Affairs August National Chess Day

Beatriz Marinello named U.S. Zonal president

On October 9, 1976 President Gerald Ford declared a National Chess Day. As we approach that anniversary date, we encourage state and local clubs to commemorate the day in some way, perhaps with a tournament or an educational program about chess in their communities.

The USCF executive board has appointed former USCF President Beatriz Marinello as the U.S. Zonal president in FIDE.

National Chess Day began in South Carolina. It was created by the late Bill Dodgen, who was president of the South Carolina Chess Association for a number of years. It was originally a state chess day in South Carolina, but Bill quickly expanded it to a nationwide effort and was appointed National Chess Day chairman. Bill’s idea was to encourage local and state chapters to organize events to bring in beginners and others who played chess but had not joined the USCF. We can continue Bill’s vision by establishing special tournaments, community awareness events, and even contacting our local media. This is a great opportunity to expand chess awareness. After your National Chess Day event please send articles, clippings, or photos to [email protected]. USCF award recipients for 2009 • Chess City of the Year: St. Louis, Missouri • Chess Club of the Year: Fresno Chess Club • Chess College of the Year: University of Utah • Committee of the Year: LMA • Distinguished Service: John McCrary, Beatriz Marinello • Frank J. Marshall: John Fedorowicz • Grandmaster of the Year: Yury Shulman • Koltanowski Medal: Gold: Rex Sinquefield • Meritorious Service: Jennifer and Mike Skidmore, Steve Steppe • Organizer of the Year: Tony Rich • Outstanding Career Achievement: Tim Sawmiller, Gary Fox, Tim Just • Scholastic Service: Aviv Friedman, After School Activities Partnership • Special Services: Calvin Olsen, David Moeser • Tournament Director of the Year: Francisco Guadalupe • U.S. Chess Hall of Fame: Burt Hochberg, John Fedorowicz

2nd Annual Schein-Friedman Awards Announced The Schein-Friedman Scholastic Recognition Project is glad to announce its second-year scholarship recipients. The first and second place recipients were declared tied: FM Darwin Yang and WIM Alisa Melekhina, who will each receive a $4,000 scholarship. Third place goes to Luke Harmon, who will receive a $2,000 scholarship. Darwin Yang, who hails from Texas, is 12 years old and one of the country’s leading talents. Number one for his age group, he is a national scholastic champion, a Pan American gold medallist, and a bronze medallist at the recent World Youth (under age 12) championship. Over 2300, Darwin’s results have been stellar, and his aspirations for reaching the highest title are justified! Pennsylvania’s Alisa Melekhina is a multi-time U.S. representative and high-place finisher at many world championships and other world events. Thanks to impressive progress in recent years, she also holds a rating of 2300+, a WIM and has her first international master and woman grandmaster norm. Alisa is the top girl for her age group and the youngest participant at the 2007 U.S. invitational championship. Ten-year-old Luke Harmon is an expert-level player and Idaho’s highest-rated active player. A two-time national scholastic champion, he currently ranks at number two nationally for his age group. Luke has been working hard on his chess, playing in challenging open tournaments, and training vigorously for his goals: his immediate one is to become a master, and long-term goal of becoming one of the country’s top grandmasters. This project is designed to help some of our younger champions improve and dedicate themselves more to chess while offsetting the financial expenses that usually comes with this goal. Hopefully, the project will reward youngsters who excel and help them become tomorrow’s best players and grandmasters. At the same time they would be serving as role models and be inspirational to the entire scholastic community. The program is generally designed for youngsters age 7-17. Occasionally, in cases of unusual excellence (considerably exceeding the program’s criterions), applications by players up to age 20 would be considered. Congratulations to all the recipients!

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

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


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Cover Story

HIKARU!

HIKARU NAKAMURA WAS CLEARLY A FAVORITE AT THIS YEAR’S STELLAR U.S. CHAMPIONSHIP—EVEN WITH WORLD-BEATER GATA KAMSKY IN THE FIELD—BUT WHO EXPECTED THAT HIS MAIN CHALLENGE WOULD COME FROM A 17-YEAR-OLD GM-ELECT WHOSE MOST RECENT CLAIM TO FAME WAS WINNING A NATIONAL SCHOLASTIC EVENT? BY MACAULEY PETERSON | Photography by Betsy Dynako

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“Let’s be realistic here. No one was going to go 9-0.” Hikaru Nakamura had just beaten his third-round opponent, GM-elect Robert Hess, but was annoyed at himself for a careless oversight that gave Hess drawing chances. Nakamura was already out of the running for the vaunted $64,000 “Fischer Memorial” bonus prize, which was promised to any player who could win the tournament with a perfect score. The day before, against Jaan Ehlvest, Hikaru essayed a queen sacrifice that he later called “madness.” Ehlvest decided to give back an Exchange, “unlike the computer programs which basically just say I'm an idiot,” Hikaru explains in a tournament summary on his website, hikarunakamura.com. Idiot or not, he managed to hold a draw with black, and after three rounds Nakamura was tied for the lead alongside Gata Kamsky, Yury Shulman and Josh Friedel. Each had given up one draw already, but that was no surprise for Hikaru, who described the prospect of an unblemished winning streak as “probably the equivalent of a baseball pitcher pitching a perfect game in the World Series—it’s just not going to happen.” He pondered this a brief moment and then added, “Well, it happened once, but that’s a different matter.” When Bobby Fischer blanked the field at the 1963-64 U.S. Championship, he was 20 years old and had already won five U.S. championship titles. At the time he was head and shoulders above the eleven other players he faced. The round-robin included top American grandmasters Samuel Reshevsky, Arthur Bisguier, and Larry Evans, but also three IMs and two untitled players. The situation 45 years later is quite different. At the start of the tournament I spoke to several grandmasters about the Fischer prize, and they all pointed out that the odds of someone winning it were astronomical. The remarks of Spanish grandmaster Miguel Illescas, a former trainer of Vladimir Kramnik, are representative. “I think it’s a bit unfair to compare different generations of players because we have to admit that now chess is a professional sport. It was not 30 years ago. And of course when you check the games of guys like Capablanca, Alekhine and company, many times they were facing real amateurs ... In the Fischer era, of course in the United States you had some good opponents, but it’s impossible to compare with nowadays. I mean, now every guy can be probably second after Fischer in all the tournaments.” Nakamura concurred, noting that he and, in particular, Kamsky, Alexander Onischuk and Shulman, are so close in playing strength that there was no way any one of them could get past all the oth-

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ers unscathed. And in a Swiss format, aside from perhaps one or two rounds, there will be no free ride at the top, even when international masters and amateurs are involved. Nakamura was determined to get out of a spring slump and reclaim his 2008 form, even in such a tough tournament as this. “I felt like coming into this tournament there was a lot more at stake than

Hess - Becerra-Rivero (Round 2) “I was happy with my position out of the opening. He usually doesn’t play Qd6 as he [did today] he usually plays Bg4, but I don’t do the exchange Ruy Lopez so he figured I’d prepared something.” Although Hess travelled to Saint Louis alone, he has worked with GM Miron Sher for ten years now. During the tournament they consulted by phone about

NAKAMURA BLENDS A REFRESHING MIX OF CANDOR, P E R S P I C A C I T Y, A N D A L L - A M E R I C A N S WA G G E R .

last time,” referring to his U.S. championship win in 2005. “I really came into this tournament wanting to prove something, whereas in that one, there always were expectations that I might win, but I was never really considered a favorite.” In St. Louis, he was clearly considered a favorite, and so no one was surprised to see Nakamura in the lead on the final weekend. But none expected his company to include the 17th seed, 17-year-old Robert Hess—least of all Hess himself, who said in our post-tournament interview, “I came in here just hoping to finish with a positive score.” Hess’ stellar performance stole some of Nakamura’s spotlight, and his humble demeanor won over many of the local spectators, who were pulling for a storybook end to his Cinderella streak. Hess had a successful year, picking up all three of the required norms for the grandmaster (GM) title and over 100 USCF rating points since Foxwoods 2008, where he scored his first GM norm. In Foxwoods 2009, he beat Nakamura and Ehlvest, en route to his third and final norm. Despite earning the grandmaster title, Robert has no aspirations to play professionally. He has managed to balance his chess achievements with life as a student at Stuyvesant High School in New York City. “It’s really tough because I get here, and they still give me all the homework I have to do and they expect me to do it,” lamented Hess. “Some tournaments I just haven’t been doing it because I’ve been trying to focus on the chess, and here’s no exception.” Missing more than a week of school isn’t looked kindly upon anywhere, let alone at one of the top schools in the country. “They gave me a little bit of leniency, but I’m pretty far behind on that front.” On the chess front Hess jumped out ahead, with wins over GMs Larry Christiansen and Julio Becerra.

which lines to play before every game. Naturally it’s harder to collaborate remotely compared to having a second there in person, but teacher and student were nevertheless able to make some solid competitive decisions together. Against Becerra, for instance, Sher noticed that Onischuk had taken on c6 in a game with Becerra, so Sher recommended the line to Hess. GM Emil Sutovsky, who provided the live analysis for Chess.FM and the on-site spectators, and also served as Gata Kamsky’s second, explained that this sort of insight is the mark of an experienced trainer. “[Sher] pays attention, and noticed that Onischuk—who is not a regular e4 player—he played this opening against Becerra a year ago, so he had something in mind.”

+ + rk+ +r+ lppp +p+ +q+ +p+ + + P RPL + + + +Q+ + + PPP + R + K White to play

22. h4—“I was happy with my move h4. After that move I figured my position was much better, I got a lot of space.” 22. ... h6 23. Qh3 Rb6 24. h5 Qf6—“But here he went ... Qf6 and I followed with 25. Qg3, because now if he takes the rook here I have Be5. I wasn’t sure exactly how easily winning it would be, but after 26. ... Qxe5 27. Qxe5 Bxb4 28. Qc7 White’s much better.” 25. Qg3 Ra6 26. Rcd1 Re8—“He went 26. ... Re8, which is a move I didn’t quite


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Cover Story understand, so I just went ahead and went 27. Bd6 because I figured that he has a backward pawn on c6 which is rather weak, so I kind of forced him to trade on d6 ... the problem is he can’t go 28. ... Qe5 because I have 29. Rd8.” Black can’t take the queen on g3 because his e8rook hangs. Sutovsky suggested 29. ... Qe7 as a possibility, but Hess had noted that 30. Qb8 refutes it with similar back rank threats as in the game. 27. Bd6 Bxd6 28. Rxd6 Qg5—“After trading queens, I didn’t think I was winning but I thought that he’s the one fighting for a draw here after 30. R1d4. I have all my pawns protected, his pawn on c6 is still very weak, and now his pawn on g5 is quite weak as well.” 29. Qxg5 hxg5 30. R1d4 Ra1+ 31. Kh2 Rc1 32. Kg3 Rc2 33. Rd7—“Now I’m trying to

double up my rooks on the seventh rank because his pawn on f7 is quite weak.” If 33. ... Rc4, 34. Rxc4 bxc4 35. Rd4 c3 36. Rc4 (36. ... c2 37. f3) 36. ... Rb8 37. f3 “and you’ll get this four against three which is not clear if it’s won but it has some chances,” noted Sutovsky, “although I would say it’s closer to a draw.” 33. ... Ra8 34. Rc7 Ra3+ 35. f3 Raa2 36. Rd8+ Kh7—“This is all forced. Now I think

he probably thought I was going to go 37. Rcc8, which is not a good move because now my king is in danger of getting mated,” after 37. ... Rxg2+ 38. Kh3 g6. Hess noticed this trap and hit upon 37. Kg4 several moves in advance, just after the trade of queens. Becerra had around five minutes to make the last three moves before time control making his defensive task even more difficult, and Hess figured he had a won game. During this critical period of the game he avoided looking at his opponent so as not to give away his own emotional state. Unlike some of his peers, Hess doesn’t play poker, or have a practiced “poker face,” but he is clearly attune to the psychological elements at play in his chess, and tries to apply extra pressure on his opponents when he senses they are uncomfortable. Through the vagaries of the Swiss system, this win gave Hess his head-to-head pairing with Nakamura in round three. Nakamura’s loss to Hess in Foxwoods provided extra motivation for Hikaru who wanted to, as he notes on his blog, “prepare a lot harder and try to crush him in the opening.” Things did not quite go as planned, however. Nakamura - Hess (Round 3) (see diagram top of next column)

From this position, Hikaru played 31. Kg3. “If I had just played something else —I mean anything, practically, was

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r

+ + + + +nk p p+lNpp p + P + + +PL PPP + + R + P+ + K + + + + + After 30. ... Rb8

winning there—g5 was the easiest way.” In the game, Hikaru intended to play 34. Nd4 but after 34. ... Ba8 35. c6 he was concerned about 35. ... Nc5. “Nf5+ was very careless of me, I completely overlooked this variation.” Things still look good for White, however. Hikaru noted that during the post mortem “Var [Akobian] actually came by and spotted this tactic with [36.] c7 Bb7 [37.] Nc6, and maybe it’s winning.” Inserting 37. f5! e5 and then 38. Nc6 is even better, as 38. ... Rxc4 is met by 39. Bxe5! and White keeps the c7-pawn. “At that point I was already a little bit flustered and so I didn’t do that, I played [34.] Nd6. Then Robert played quite well and he had good chances to draw but fortunately he didn’t play the most accurate defense and I won.” Number-one seed Gata Kamsky, who has been very active in 2009, was easily keeping pace with Nakamura. His second round win over Varuzhan Akobian was pegged as the “game of the tournament” by GM Nick de Firmian, ICC Chess.FM’s game of the day analyst.

Kamsky - Akobian (Round 2) Akobian is known as a French specialist, but Kamsky put in substantial work on the French for his February match with Veselin Topalov [See Chess Life, May 2009]. Last fall he also worked on the French with Shulman, another French specialist who is a close friend and sparring partner of Akobian.

rl+ k r + q +ppp p+ lpn + +pp N + +LP L + + + +Q+ PPP+ PPP + KR+ +R After 15. ... b5

Here Kamsky played 16. Rhe1! The bishop cannot be taken because 16. ... bxc4 17. dxc5 wins the material back with interest. “Through cool defense Akobian was able to see through it, and avoid the first blow, de Firmian reported. Unfortunately for Akobian, 16. ... cxd4 17. Rxd4 Rb6 18. Bb3 Bb7 19. Qh3 was just too strong. [Then 19. ... a5 and:] “Of course he missed the threat of [20.] Rxd6 and [21.] Nxf7; on the other hand, Black is hard pressed to do anything,” Kamsky said after the game. 19. Kg8 loses to 20. Bxe6, and so the resulting bishop crossfire creates a very artistic finish, especially after 22. Rxe6, which wins Black’s queen by force. Gata was superbly stoic at the board during this game, illustrated nicely by a time-lapse video (which you can find on www.USChessChamps.com) shot during the round by the documentary team of Randy Sinquefield and Kevin Duggin. Kamsky sits almost perfectly motionless for minutes at a time, while the world zips by behind him. Akobian was circumspect about this setback. “It looks like I got crushed, but it’s only because I was playing Kamsky, and he played like five moves in a row which are like number one line for Rybka. So if he makes one different move I’m fine. But he plays all the brilliant moves and he just won.” Varuzhan nevertheless recovered nicely and won three in a row to lead the tournament at the half way mark.

Akobian - Becerra-Rivero (Round 4) Akobian scored a nice win, thanks in no small part to the assistance of his super GM second, Gabriel Sargissian, who came up with the novelty 15. Rad1 just minutes before they left their hotel that afternoon.

r+ + rk+ plqn+ppp +pl n + + + + L p RP+ + + N +N+ PPQ+LPPP + +R+ K After 15. Rad1

After their planned Exchange sacrifice, Akobian noted that Black cannot play 17. ... Bd6 because of 18. Qd2 Nc5 19. e5 and if 19. ... Be7 20. Bxe7 Qxe7 21. Qxb4 and White wins immediately. So Becerra played 15. ... Bc5 16. Rxd7 Nxd7 17. Na4 Bb6 and after 18. Be7 they expected 18. ... Rfe8 or 18. ... c5. A likely continuation after 18. ... c5 is 19. Bd6 Qc6

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T H E C H E S S C L U B A N D S C H O L A S T I C C E N T E R O F S T. L O U I S P R O V E D A N E L E G A N T, C O M F O R T A B L E S E T T I N G F O R T H E C H A M P I O N S H I P.

20. Bxf8 Nxf8 21. Bc4 threatening 22. Bd5 and if 21. ... Qxe4 then 22. Bxf7+. “I felt very confident when you have something like this prepared.” On 18. ... Rfe8 19. Bd6 Qc8 20. Bc4 Ba6 21. Bxf7+ Kxf7 22. Qb3+ Kg6 23. Nh4 mating. As a result of this preparation, Becerra had to spend a lot of time and Akobian had built up a forty-minute time advantage by move 18. (You can find this game and a video of Akobian’s live analysis on Chess Life

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Online. See Sidebar: “U.S. Championship flashback.”) Kamsky, meanwhile, gave up draws to Shulman and Josh Friedel before facing Nakamura with black in an eagerly anticipated round five matchup. Spectators around the world were waiting for this game, the pair’s first over the board encounter in nearly five years. IM Malcolm Pein, who publishes Chess magazine in the U.K., remarked that “every Kamsky-Nakamura game is a won-

derful clash of styles. Here in the U.K. I think everyone admires Nakamura because he’s a bit like some of the players that came out of Britain in the 80s during the so-called English chess explosion, not trained in the classical style—sort of the antithesis to the Russian school of chess—whereas Kamsky, if you like, has had a very traditional chess upbringing and has a very ‘correct’ style of play.” The game proved to be quite an exciting draw.


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Cover Story Nakamura - Kamsky (Round 5) Nakamura gave his perspective later that day. “Neither of us was really that well prepared. First of all, I surprised him by playing a sort of anti-Grünfeld and then when he played ... a6—that’s not what he normally plays, so it’s kind of like we surprised each other. And then I thought I knew the line better than him but I wasn’t really all that familiar with this ... Be6, ... Nbd7 line. It’s probably OK for Black, but I just wasn’t ready for it.” “I just played what I thought was the most practical and, you know, it’s a game in the end. There’s psychology for both of us.” (see diagram top of next column)

“I heard that Emil [Sutovsky] apparently thought I should have taken on e6 in the opening ... whereas I played Rd1 and f3

Who is Kris Littlejohn? Kris Littlejohn is a 2220-rated national master (NM) and graduate of the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD). He and Nakamura were introduced via the Internet Chess Club by a mutual friend, Jason Doss. They later chatted on AOL instant messenger, and met in person for the first time at the 2005 HB Global tournament in Minneapolis. The pair has been working together formally since 2006, and he’s been the person to prepare Nakamura’s openings since October 2007. Littlejohn achieved his NM rating in May 2006, ironically at a tournament organized by UTD, dubbed the Nakamura Open, in which Hikaru participated and went 5-0. Having such a low rated second is unheard of for someone of Nakamura’s caliber. Elite grandmasters occasionally opt for a young IM—Vassily Ivanchuk works with Mexican IM Manuel León Hoyos, for instance—but never an untitled player like Littlejohn. Nakamura says they have developed their own training methods. “I don’t think it really matters what your rating level is,” Hikaru says of his partner. “If you can understand the style and you can prepare openings, that’s all that matters. Just because he’s 2200 as opposed to being 2400—the only real difference in my opinion is that his technical skills aren’t as good as, say, an IM. But if he can prepare me that’s all that matters, since I’m the one playing the game.”

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+

q rk+ + +npplp p+ rlnp+ +p+ + + + NP+ + + N L + PPQ+LPPP + +RK +R After 16. Rd1

instead, and then it’s all just a real mess,” Nakamura told me. His second, Kris Littlejohn, had been sitting in the audience listening to Sutovsky’s live account. (See Sidebar: Who is Kris Littlejohn?) “I thought that I was better, then I was worse, then I thought I had chances again at the end.” After 16. ... Ng4 17. Bxg4 Bxg4 18. f3 Ne5 19. Bf2 Nc4 20. Nc6 Bxc3+ 21. bxc3 Qc7 22. Nb4 Be6 23. 0-0 Rfd8 24. Bd4 a5 25. Nd3 b4 26. Nf4 Qd7 27. Rc1 Na3 28. Qf2, on his website Nakamura points to 28. ... Nb5, as

Kamsky’s missed opportunity. “If he had chosen 28. ... Bc4 he would have retained a substantial advantage. However, it is hard to fault Gata since in most of these lines which Rybka likes, a human would be scared of mating threats,” he writes. After 29. Bc5 Rd2 30. Qh4 f6 31. cxb4 axb4 32. Qh6, “It felt like there was something for me, but I just couldn’t seem to find it, or else there is nothing, but I just had a gut feeling that there should be something there. It’s really unfortunate that [33.] Rd1 doesn’t simply win.” In fact, it loses. [33. Rcd1 Qxd1 34. Nxe6 Qxf1+ 35. Kxf1 Rd1 mate] “I just didn’t have much time there, so I just took the safe route and it was a draw.” During the live Chess.FM webcast, Sutovsky said he had expected that this line was at least a strong possibility. When Jennifer Shahade and I mentioned this to Hikaru later he responded with dry sarcasm. “Well, I guess he seems to be a genius then, as I play pretty much everything ... I certainly haven’t played this in a long time, and recently against the Grünfeld—especially in the Olympiad, for instance—I played Rb1 along with everyone else [Onischuk, Shulman, Akobian], so I’m a little bit surprised that he would think that’s one of the top three things I would play considering I haven’t played it in a long time. But I mean, good for him —clearly it worked out as Gata was well prepared.” Although much of Nakamura’s preparation in the weeks leading up to the championship was done by Littlejohn, Nakamura has had ample opportunity to study his top rivals up close. “Obviously I’ve had stuff on all these guys for some time, so it’s not like I was preparing last night.”

After five rounds, and a half point from the lead, Jennifer and I wondered if Nakamura would consider a rapid playoff desirable. No!, was the resounding response. “I want to win the tournament straight up. Any time you tie it’s OK, but really I want to win this tournament before that stage ... maybe I’m better than them [at rapid], but still, it’s rapid, and anything can happen.” Six players were within a half point of the leaders Shulman and Akobian. “I wondered whether Kamsky or Nakamura might just start with a whole stream of wins,” IM Pein told the Chess.FM audience, “but sooner or later when you’ve got a field of this size they’re gonna have to play each other.” For Nakamura, life didn’t get any easier in round six. He faced Onischuk with black, and felt afterward that he was close to losing out of the opening. “Alex is so solid that I figured a draw was fine so I wasn’t really trying to play aggressively this game—I was black. There’s no need to play for a win in every game, at least not now.” However, when Nakamura forced the matters with 17. ... Bxe5, Onischuk obtained the bishop pair and a pleasant initiative. “I wish I could say something positive about my game today, but I have to say that I think it was the worst game I played in the tournament.” An interesting endgame emerged before the time control.

+

+

n + + p +p+p p + Lpk +P+ P + + +rP + + + + + + + +PP R + + K After 31. ... Kh6

“Here he played [32.] Bg5[+] which surprised me,” Nakamura told a packed commentary room in the basement of the Chess Club and Scholastic Center. “I actually thought that after [32.] Ra8 Ne6 [33.] g3 there must be a mating net here.” The idea is Kg2, h4, and Bg5 mate. And if Black checks on the second, Kh3 threatening Kg4 is strong. “I didn’t see a forced win, but my gut instinct is that it was just losing.” Instead, if 32. ... Nd7 33. Bg5+ Kg7 34. Rd8 Nc5 35. Bf6+ Kh6 36. g3 and White has ideas of Rg8, h3, and building a mating net. In the game, after 32. ... Kg7 33. Bf6+ Kh6 34. Bg5+ Kg7 35. Ra3 f5 White has to take,

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DEFENDING CHAMPION YURY SHULMAN, WITH CHIEF TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR CAROL JARECKI IN THE BACKGROUND, PAR TICIPATES I N T H E W I N E G L A S S D R AW I N G O F C O L O R S C E R E M O N Y.

and “the point now is the bishop has no squares; the bishop’s just stuck on g5, and my knight has access to d4, c5, f4 as well from e6. His bishop isn’t really that useful here. The pawn on f6 gives White something, but Nakamura managed to hang on for the half point. Hikaru was clearly benefiting from a more mature outlook and refined selfawareness. “The difference between drawing and losing is huge. If I were to have lost today I would still have an outside shot at winning, perhaps, but it just makes it that much harder, and with a draw and two whites coming up, I should have chances.” Nakamura blends a refreshing mix of candor, perspicacity, and all-American

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swagger. He is certainly opinionated, and can come across as arrogant, but it’s a mistake to view him so simplistically. It’s this very brashness, combined with an innate confidence that makes him such a dangerous competitor. The current Russian champion, Peter Svidler, said it best: “We’re now teammates, so I’ve had an occasion to watch [Hikaru] closely.” Svidler and Nakamura have been playing side-by-side for the team of “Evry Grand Roque” in the French League. When we spoke by phone at the start of the U.S. Championship, Peter was on holiday with his family on the Volga river north of Ivanovo, Russia, but was keeping an occasional eye out across the pond. “There are quite a lot of people

around with great chess skills. Not very many of them are that bloodthirsty—in a good way,” the Russian remarked. Nakamura, for his part, seems to feel that he needs to tone down his ambitions within any one game. After escaping with a draw versus Onischuk, he explained that with such a tight field at the top, he was better off pushing for wins in the final rounds when he would inevitably face lower-rated players and with an extra white coming up. “So with black against Alex I didn’t see any need to play recklessly. There are countless times that I have, and it’s worked sometimes, but recently it hasn’t worked out well for me when I try to win, so I just figured: Just play solidly and see what happens.”


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Cover Story On board two, Kamsky, with white, was paired down to Robert Hess and looking to end a spate of draws since his win over Akobian. Hess had climbed back to +2 after dispatching Melikset Khachiyan the day before, but reported that he was beginning to tire after five grueling days of play.

Kamsky - Hess (Round 6) 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 g6 6. Be3 a6 7. f3 b5 8. a4 b4 9. Nd5 Nxd5 10. exd5 Bb7 11. Bc4 Nd7 12. Qd2 Nb6 13. Qxb4 Nxc4 14. Qxb7 Qc8 15. Qxc8+ Rxc8 16. Bf2 Nxb2 17. 0-0 Bg7 18. Rfb1 Nc4 19. Rb7 0-0 20. Rd1 Bf6 21. Nc6 e6 22. Bd4 Kg7 23. Ne7 Bxd4+ 24. Rxd4 e5 25. Nxc8 exd4 26. Rc7 Ne3 27. Nxd6 Nxd5 28. Rc4 Rd8 29. Nb7 Ne3 30. Rc7 Rb8 31. Nd6 Rb2 32. Rxf7+ Kg8 33. Rd7 Rxc2 34. Ne4 Rxg2+ 35. Kh1 Ra2, Draw agreed

Hess boldly chose a hybrid Dragon/ Najdorf or “Dragadorf” Sicilian against Kamsky, even though he had never played the Sicilian against a higher rated opponent before. His rationale was sound. “I know that Kamsky loves space, so playing the Ruy Lopez against him usually isn’t a good option since it usually gives White a lot of space. I saw he usually plays Be2 after g6, but I figured he would not go Be2 because I don’t play the Sicilian. But I had a few lines prepared— me and Miron [Sher] decided Sicilian would be the best idea.” Sutovsky agreed with that strategic decision, and told Hess in the commentary room after the game that, as Kamsky’s second, he was unhappy to see 1. ... c5. “I thought your chances in the Ruy Lopez would be significantly lower than here.”

Sutovsky elucidated Kamsky’s approach. “8. a4 is more of a positional plan—basically he wants to provoke you to play b4 and then take care of your b-pawn, but you’re just in time with this combination which happened in the game and it’s pretty forced—otherwise black is in trouble.” After 14. ... Qc8, winning the pawn back, Hess felt he was fine, “and if White tries to play even too aggressively, he may end up in a worse position.” On 16. Ke2, then Nxb2 anyway, and after 17. Rhb1 Nc4, “Black doesn’t really have any problems; it’s hard to attack the a6-pawn and White has to get this [a1] rook out somehow, but it takes a while.” Hess was pleased to come up with 19. ... 0-0, when White can’t grab the e7pawn on account of 20. ... Nb6 and there are too many loose pawns plus White has to watch out for ... Rc4 ideas.

Champion of Champions, Sam Shankland

Sam Shankland was the only participant in the U.S. Championship, who earned his spot through a qualification tournament. Sam won the U.S. State Champion of Champions event, the final of which was held on The Internet Chess Club on April 5th. He beat Mackenzie Molner in the finals and was awarded a special prize at the closing ceremony in St. Louis to honor the achievement. The U.S. Championship was grueling for Sam. “Every single tournament I’ve had at this length I’ve often had trouble towards the end keeping myself in good

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form.” Sure enough he scored only half a point from his last five games. Juggling school work and preparation was also a challenge. When Jennifer asked how he was keeping up, Sam demurred. “My lawyer advised me not to answer that question.” Shankland had some chances in the final position of his game against Khachiyan, but he felt he would draw the position 98% of the time, so preferred to rest up and prepare for his next game. “I wasn’t too comfortable with the way I was playing so far—I thought I’d made a couple of mistakes in the game—and compared to most other grandmasters in the United States I’ve had the most trouble with this man here [gesturing to Melik], historically ... I just felt that I wasn’t playing or calculating very well and in a position like this one I thought that the only way that I would end up winning would be to end up with some kind of pawn race and I didn’t think that my calculation was working for me at the moment.” Sutovsky called this “some sort of Bronstein consideration,” explaining that the legendary GM David Bronstein once offered a draw in a nearly winning position because he had missed a direct win a few moves earlier. Bronstein’s insecurity in his own calculation ability that day led him to call it a day. After spending over 10 minutes with Shankland and Khachiyan, we were looking to get back to the top boards as Kamsky and Nakamura were both still playing in round four. But Sam wasn’t yet ready to yield the microphone. “Can I take 30 seconds to show you

one trick?” I put it to an audience vote, and they were overwhelmingly in favor.

+ rrlk+ +p+ +ppp qppln + p n + + P+ NP+ + +PN + Q LP+ PPP + +RRLK After 16. ... Bf8

“OK, so obviously [17. Nxe6 Nxe6] 18. Nd5 followed by Bxf6 is good, so [17. ...] Rxe6 is forced, now [18. e5] takes [18. ... dxe5] [19.] Rxd8, takes [Qxd8], [20.] Bc4 Re7 is interesting after [21.] Rxe5, Nce4 but I think White is about equal at the end. In any case he plays 20. ... Nd5 21. Rd1 Rd6—So there’s a few things White can try to do here, but [22.] Qxe5 peters out to a draw pretty quickly, but [22.] Bxd5 was interesting followed by [23.] Qxe5 [trying to pressure the d5- pawn] but here Black has this nice trick with [23. ...] d4. And if 24. Nb5 Rd5 followed by ... d4-d3 Black’s just going to be better. And 24. Qxc5 runs into [24. ...] dxc3 25. Rxd6 Bxd6 (or 25. ... cxb2) 26. Qxc3 Be5.” It was more like two minutes than 30 seconds but the speed with which Sam rattled off the complex variations stunned some onlookers who looked forward to seeing more from the young Californian international master.

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Robert drew quite a few chuckles from the crowd when he wryly observed that if the game continued 36. Nf6+, “of course if king to h8, I get checkmated, so that wouldn’t be the best option.” Instead, 36. ... Kf8 37. Nh7+ Ke8, with a perpetual, was forced. Jennifer observed that at this stage Hess had played the top three seeds, all with black, making his result even a little more impressive. No one yet anticipated how close he would come to winning the whole thing.

Going for broke Varuzhan Akobian wasn’t exactly the dark horse of the U.S. Championship, but he was definitely not considered a favorite to win as much as his Olympiad teammates were. Var had several things going for him, however, notably a strong confidence-building match win over defending champion Yury Shulman, in April, and a world class second in Gabriel Sargissian, an Olympiad gold medalist who has assisted Levon Aronian in elite tournaments all over the globe. The round seven pairing with Nakamura was pivotal for both players. Nakamura wanted to use his white to leapfrog into first with a win. “This was certainly the time for me to turn on the jets and go for broke,” he recalled a few days after the tournament.

Nakamura - Akobian (Round 6) 1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 Nf6—Nakamura expected Akobian to play the 4. ... dxe4 line like he did against Kamsky, and had spent time before the game looking for what Akobian's improvement might be there, but Nakamura had also prepared for Akobian’s ... Nf6 and ... Nd7 line as well. 4. e5 Nfd7 5. f4 c5 6. Nf3 Nc6 7. Be3 a6 8. Qd2 b5 9. h4—“Kasparov has played 9. h4

so obviously it has to be the best line. That's more or less my attitude. Anything Kasparov plays with white you more or less should trust it. 9. ... cxd4 10. Nxd4 Nxd4 11. Bxd4 Bc5— “This [line] is probably OK, but it leads to an unpleasant endgame after [12.] h5.” 12. h5 Qb6 13. 0-0-0 0-0—“He probably should play 13. ... Bxd4 here, trade everything down 14. Qxd4 Qxd4 15. Rxd4 and then play 15. ... Nb8.” 14. Bxc5 Nxc5—“He probably should take with the queen here is my guess, but even after 15. Ne2 I didn't really see how he could obtain equality here. One of the main ideas is to play ... f6, but here if he tries ... f6 I can go 16. Nd4 (or 16. h6) ... either way I felt that I had an advantage here.” 15. f5—Nakamura found this continuation over the board—15. ... Qc7 (15. ... b4

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I M I R I N A K R U S H A N D S T. L O U I S R A P P E R O R E O . C O N A T T H E O P E N I N G C E R E M O N Y.

looks like the most active and logical move, but it fails spectacularly to 16. Na4! Nxa4 17. f6 winning. E.g. 17. ... Nc3 [17. ... h6 18. Rh4] 18. Qg5 Nxa2+ 19. Kd2 g6 20. Qh6 Qf2+ 21. Be2 Qd4+ 22. Ke1) 16. Re1. Emil Sutovsky suggested 16. Qd4 but Nakamura felt 16. Re1 was stronger, and in fact after 16. ... Bb7 (16. ... Nd7 17. fxe6 fxe6 18. Nxd5) 17. h6 g6 Black looks to be OK. 16. ... exf5 (16. ... Bb7 17. f6 with a winning attack. Nakamura expected 16. ... Ne4 17. Nxe4 dxe4 18. h6 g6 [18. ... Qxe5 19. hxg7 Qxg7 20. Rxe4] 19. fxg6 fxg6 20. Rxe4 Bb7 21. Re3 Rad8 22. Bd3). “I’m up a pawn here but I wasn’t really convinced that this is winning, because say he just plays ... Qc5 and waits, I’m not

really sure how I can improve my position ... I thought from a practical point of view this was his best try.” 17. h6 g6 18. Nxd5 Qd8 19. Nf6+ Kh8 20. Qb4—The computer prefers to force the

queens off with 20. Qd6 Qxd6 21. exd6 Be6 22. Re5. 20. ... Ne6—Akobian could keep White's advantage to a minimum with 20. ... Qc7 21. Rh3 Be6 22. Rc3 Rac8. 21. Rh3 Bb7 22. Rd1 Qc7 23. Rd6 Be4— Black can still suffer on with 23. ... Rfc8 24. Rc3 Qe7. 24. Nxe4 fxe4 25. Qxe4 Rad8 26. Rhd3— Now the queenside pawns become too weak. 26. ... Qe7 27. Qe3 Kg8 28. Rxa6 Rxd3 29. Bxd3 Qb7 30. Rd6 Qxg2 31. Bxb5 (see diagram next column, next page)


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Cover Story

GM-ELECT ROBER T HESS, AFTER A STRONG FOXWOODS PERFORMANCE AND A P E R F E C T S C O R E A T T H E S C H O L A S T I C S U P E R N A T I O N A L S I V, A L M O S T P U L L E D O F F A N U P S E T F O R T H E A G E S I N S T. L O U I S .

+

+

k+ r + + +p+p + Rn+pP +L+ P + + + + + + + Q + PPP+ +q+ + K + + After 31. Bxb5

... and with the way cleared on the queenside, Nakamura cooly pushes his pawns home to victory in 40 moves. 28


After this win Nakamura had played all the other top contenders, and so was paired down to IM Michael Brooks, a wildcard from Kansas City, rated just 2419. Brooks was an outlier in this group, acutely awkward in the limelight, without a second or even his own computer in St.Louis, yet he still managed to score several impressive upsets over GMs Alexander Shabalov, Becerra-Rivero, and IM Ray Robson, and was on pace for a grandmaster norm. Nakamura was not about to be derailed, however, and won without too much difficulty. After Onischuk and Kamsky drew on board one, and Shulman had a worse but seemingly holdable queenless middlegame against Hess, Nakamura figured he would

take a half-point lead into the final round, and left for dinner with his second.

“No realistic chance of winning” In April, U.S. Chess League founder Greg Shahade wrote in Chess Life Online that Robert Hess had “almost no realistic chance of winning the event.” (CLO, April 16, 2009). Just before the round-nine finale, I checked in with him again for a reaction. “At first I wasn’t surprised because I was like, you know he’s a young kid, he’s improving—I expect these kids to do well—but now it’s getting a little ridiculous ... I knew he was a strong player, I just didn’t know he was this strong.” Hikaru arrived back at his hotel and uschess.org

checked for the results. What? Shulman played 43. ... Rc6?? He refreshed the browser window in case that was some relay error. But no, Shulman was about to resign. Hess would need just one more win to guarantee at least a playoff. Hikaru went for a walk along the Gateway Arch Riverfront to clear his head. That evening he decided to play 1. e4 and head for something sharp—to go for a knockout rather than be satisfied with some small advantage that might fizzle into a draw. He needed to beat Josh Friedel to avoid what would likely be a multi-way playoff. Robert was feeling pretty nervous on Saturday night. “I usually never get nervous but I was playing for the U.S. Championship and it started getting to me.” He prepared until 1:30 a.m. or so looking for some opening advantage. The idea of a playoff was almost inconceivable. In fact he had booked a flight home to New York for Sunday evening and wasn’t even planning to stay for the closing ceremony. Now he was playing for the title! Hess had white against Akobian, but decided not to take risks and instead to simply play it safe. After less than six hours of sleep, he was up again talking to Miron, for some last minute advice. By the time he got to the board, for the 10:00 a.m. game, the jitters were gone. Hikaru did not sleep well, and was up at 5:00 a.m. worrying about how to channel Alexander Morozevich. Littlejohn had suggested a line in the 4. Ng5 Two Knights Defense that Morozevich tried against Sergey Karjakin in a blitz game about a year ago. At first he thought Kris was kidding. But as the sun rose he decided that White’s play was indeed promising. The gamble worked. Nakamura’s 22move win over Friedel was a shocker, and Hess was naturally disappointed to see Josh go down so quickly, after Nakamura artfully trapped his queen. Hess would have to win his own game, or settle for second. “I was pressing, but it was a draw the whole way through pretty much, so there’s not much pressing to be done,” he told Jennifer and me later. “If not for his move [42. ...] b5, it actually might be a little tough, but he found b5 and it’s just a complete draw.” Nakamura had won. Hikaru praised Hess as having played some of the best middlegame chess of the tournament. Hess was pleased with the compliment. “Personally I don’t really like theory that much,” he explained. “I’m more into the creativity of the game, so I go for tricky middlegames [rather than] 30 moves of theory.” Most of his wins were long grinds; he never had a clear edge coming out of the opening. It’s fun to be underestimated as the young new guy, and when Robert set out for St. Louis, he just wanted to beat some

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grandmasters. “My huge goal was to get top ten because that gets you the right to play in the Continental,” the championship of the Americas which concludes on August 2. Instead, his result in St. Louis qualifies Hess directly for the World Cup in Russia this November. He’s already looking forward to the Russian winter. “You know actually I’m a fan of colder weather so that’s a good thing. I’m just pretty excited to play, so I hope it goes well.” For now, he just wants to reach 2600 FIDE. At the closing ceremony, Nakamura had a message for Hess. Echoing words Shabalov told him when he played in his first U.S. championship, Hikaru said: “His time will come.”

than Ray, you know, some simple position, just slightly better for me.” Close to the time control, Robson erred with 38. ... Ra2, when White wins a pawn.

l

+ + + + +k+ p p + + p +N+ +p+ R + P + +P+K+ P r+ + + P + + + + After 38. ... Ra2

The 2006 champion Third place on tiebreak went to Onischuk, who is the first player since Fischer to go four consecutive championships without a loss. His last round win was worth $5,000, but it came at a cost to his young apprentice, Ray Robson. Alex has been working with Ray since last fall, and Ray has been in pursuit of his first grandmaster norm for over a year. It was an unfortunate final pairing that naturally generated just a little friction. “I think we will talk tonight, but I saw how disappointed he was,” Onischuk told me just after the game. “He missed a GM norm, so we didn’t talk [after the game].” Sutovsky had thought Robson would hold the draw until well into the second time control, but Onischuk was not so sure. “I still think I was slightly better. In [the] Catalan you get these kind of endgames and it’s not easy. If I were black playing against, let’s say, Kramnik, I wouldn’t enjoy it at all ... you know this kind of chess I think I play much better

“Ray calculates very well, but in the endgame it’s more about understanding, not about how well you calculate lines, so when I got this endgame I thought I had very good chances to win, actually.” Instead of 38. ... Ra2, Robson had the strong move 38. ... g5. “It’s probably a draw, I agree, but he still had to find some precise moves,” was Onischuk’s verdict. Setting the prize money aside, there was no question that Onischuk had to press for a win. “I always tell Ray that norms will come, GM title will come ... He’ll earn it—he has already earned it— but you know he has to improve his play. He should become a strong player—it’s not about norms, it’s about how you play.” Onischuk won the championship in 2006, then took second in 2007 and 2008, and he initially thought he would have a three-peat second place here, but his modified median tiebreaks could not match Hess’.

U.S. CHAMPIONSHIP

FLASHBACK! BONUS AUDIO/VIDEO ON USCHESS.ORG! EMIL SUTOVSKY’S PERFORMANCE AT THE CLOSING CEREMONY OF "TORNA A SURRIENTO,” AN EARLY 20TH CENTURY NEAPOLITAN SONG.

VA R U Z H A N A K O B I A N S H O W S H I S W I N O V E R J U L I O B E C E R R A - R I V E R O T H A T PUT HIM INTO A TIE FOR FIRST PLACE AFTER FOUR ROUNDS.

S A M S H A N K L A N D A N D M E L I K S E T K H A C H I YA N T A G T E A M L I V E A N A L Y S I S O F THEIR FOUR TH ROUND GAME, IN THE U.S. CHAMPIONSHIP COMMENTARY ROOM. IT ENDED IN A DRAW BUT EMIL SUTOVSKY THOUGHT SHANKLAND S H O U L D H AV E P L AY E D O N . H E A R S H A N K L A N D I N T R O D U C E T H E L I V E AUDIENCE TO DVORETSKY’S CHESS TERM: THE “EMERGENCY EXIT.”


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Cover Story

TOURNAMENT SPONSOR REX SINQUEFIELD PRESENTS THE CHAMPION WITH HIS WINNINGS. SHOR TLY THEREAFTER, SINQUEFIELD PURCHASED BOBBY FISCHER’S LIBRARY FOR $61,000 AT AUCTION, PUTTING THE UNCLAIMED $64,000 FISCHER PRIZE TO GOOD USE.

An American super-GM Nakamura’s performance rating in St. Louis was 2807 (USCF), and his FIDE ELO is back over 2700. The U.S. title, plus his regained “super GM” rating, should ensure Nakamura plenty of choices on the global chess circuit in the coming year. Already he competed in a high-class round-robin in San Sebastian, Spain. This month we’ll see him in action in Amsterdam’s NH tournament, where “rising stars” battle “experience.” In December he will play in a new elite tour-

30


nament in London, alongside Magnus Carlsen and Vladimir Kramnik. That event is organized by Malcolm Pein, who said Nakamura was his first choice for an invitation. He was quite excited to follow the chess over here “in the colonies.” “I think that everybody should stop and think for a minute about how lucky we are that we can watch all of America’s best players playing each other in the national championship, because when you look

around the world —and particularly here [in the U.K.]— that’s not a privilege to which people are accustomed to a lot of the time.” In Amsterdam, Nakamura will face, among others, his new French League teammate Peter Svidler. The Russian champion will be trying to use his vast experience to his advantage, but he shares a certain admiration for the new U.S. champion. “[Hikaru] gets better as time goes on. The things that make him

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Front row, left to right, Jaan Ehlvest, Alexander Onischuk, Joel Benjamin, Samuel Shankland, Varuzhan Akobian; Second row, left to right, Chris Bird, Boris Gulko, Irina Krush, Hikaru Nakamura, Ray Robson, Rex Sinquefield, Melikset Khachiyan, Enrico Sevillano, Robert Hess, Anna Zatonskih, Ildar Ibragimov; Third row, left to right, Julio Becerra-Rivero, Alexander Shabalov, Tyler Hughes, Joshua Friedel, Yury Shulman, Gregory Kaidanov, Gata Kamsky, Charles Lawton, Emil Sutovsky; Back row, left to right, Doug Eckert, Michael Brooks, Larry Christiansen.

Final Results Place

Points

Name

1

7

Hikaru Nakamura

2-3

6½

Robert Hess, Alexander Onischuk

4-5

6

Gata Kamsky, Varuzhan Akobian

6-9

5

Yury Shulman, Josh Friedel, Ildar Ibragimov, Larry Christiansen

10-15

4½

Jaan Ehlvest, Ray Robson, Gregory Kaidanov, Joel Benjamin, Alexander Shabalov, Boris Gulko

16-19

4

Michael Brooks, Tyler Hughes, Enrico Sevillano, Julio Becerra-Rivero

20

3½

Irina Krush

21-22

3

Samuel Shankland, Melikset Khachiyan

23

2

Doug Eckert

24

1

Charles Lawton

25

½

Anna Zatonskih

special are things that, for instance, I wish I had more of myself, such as the desire to play every game for a win— which I find, let’s say, not every day—and an absolutely amazing self-belief. This is not to say that he has no chess attributes which are enviable—of course not—but to me, at the moment, things that set him apart from most of the other chess players are things to do with his natural desire to win everything.” When I personally congratulated Naka-

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mura on his achievement the day after the last round, he was, in some sense, already downplaying his effort. He thanked me and then simply said, “Seven more to go ‘til I pass Fischer.” As for the Fischer memorial prize, a few weeks later, Rex Sinquefield, the chief sponsor of this year’s championship, took the $64,000 he saved and bought Fischer’s library at a New York auction house. He even had a bit of change to spare.

.

The USCF and the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of St. Louis are grateful for the sponsorship provided by the Internet Chess Club (ICC) and MonRoi, as well as all of the financial and in-kind sponsors. See more U.S. Championship reporting on Chess Life Online at uschess.org, May archives. Download a pgn file of all the games from the U.S. Championship at the St. Louis Chess Club website, www.saintlouischessclub.org.


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JAAN EHLVEST

STONE COLD SOLID GABRIEL SARGISSIAN

After a disappointing U.S. Championship performance, former world-top-five player JAAN EHLVEST bounces back with a convincing victory in Chicago By Jonathan Hilton

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2009 Chicago Open

“Ladies and gentlemen, Ehlvest has left the building,” one bystander remarked as the 46year-old Estonian grandmaster seized his $6,300 check and started running. After having defeated top-seeded GM Gabriel Sargissian handily in their Armageddon playoff match—with the black pieces, no less—GM Jaan Ehlvest was ready to disappear. No one knew what caused him to hurry. Did he have a plane flight to catch? Was he off to go celebrate? One spectator thought the latter: as the new Chicago Open champion darted past the many grandmasters still standing in line to collect their prizes, a voice called out after him, “Not the whole check, Jaan! Not the whole check!” Ehlvest’s tournament victory reminds us of what this former world “top five” player is capable of achieving. Six of his seven games yielded a decisive result, and he scored wins over GMs Timur Gareev, Zviad Izoria, and Alexander Shabalov on his way to the magical 5½/7 score often required to win the Chicago Open. After what must have been a disappointing “plus zero” performance in the U.S. Championship— which, despite solid draws against fellow world-class players Nakamura, Onischuk, and Kamsky, was tainted by risky play that ultimately backfired against Akobian and Friedel —Ehlvest came to the Windy City resolved to play structured, disciplined chess. His “stone cold” face proved unreadable over the chessboard, and his positions were consistently “rock solid.” After beating IM Bryan Smith from the black side of a Berlin Defense in the Ruy Lopez, Ehlvest took on Shabalov in this critical sixth-round battle:

English Opening (A10) GM Jaan Ehlvest (2667) GM Alexander Shabalov (2613) Chicago Open (Round 6), 05.25.2009 1. c4 b6!?

This kind of unconventional defense for Black is a hallmark of Shabalov's style. 2. Nc3 Bb7 3. e4 e6 4. d3

Ehlvest had himself played the black side of this position against Evgeny Agrest in 2001. That game continued with the weird-looking 4. Nf3 Bb4 5. Bd3 Ne7 6. Ne2 Nbc6 7. a3 Bd6, but Ehlvest has an entirely different interpretation of the position for White. 4. ... Bb4 5. Qg4!?

When you're a grandmaster, you can bring your queen out early. The queen sortie proves surprisingly solid.

PHOTOS: CHRIS BIRD

5. ... Qf6 6. Nge2 Qg6 7. Qh3 Ne7 8. a3 Bxc3+ 9. Nxc3 f5 10. Qg3

White has acquired the two bishops, so he decides it’s time to call his opening a success and head for the endgame. 10. ... Qxg3 11. hxg3 Nbc6 12. Be3 0-0-0 13. 0-0-0 h6 14. f3 d5

This two-pronged attack on White’s center nearly equalizes for Black, but Ehlvest continues to play solidly, waiting

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for the ambitious Shabalov to err. 15. cxd5 exd5 16. Bf2 Rhf8

16. ... d4 17. Ne2 leaves Black slightly uncomfortable, for instance, 17. ... Rhe8 18. Rh5 would allow White to continue applying pressure. With the text, Black coaxes White into relieving some of the central tension. 17. exf5 d4

17. ... Nxf5 would allow 18. d4, after which White's kingside pressure is annoying: 18. ... Rfe8 19. g4 Ne3 20. Bxe3 Rxe3 21. Rh5 Ne7 22. Bd3 with the idea of an eventual g4-g5. 18. Ne4 Nxf5 19. Re1 Na5 20. g4 Nd6 21. Nd2

White had other options, notably 21. b4, but he is still aiming to play solidly. 21. ... c5 22. Rh5 Rf7 23. Bg3 Kd7 24. b3 Re8 25. Rxe8 Nxe8 26. b4

At a snail’s pace, White improves. The trade of one set of rooks means the newlyopened c-file will not afford Black counterplay. 26. ... Nf6?! (see diagram top of next column)

26. ... cxb4 27. axb4 Nc6 28. b5 may not have appealed to Black, but after 28. ... Nb4 29. Nc4 (29. Nb3 Bxf3! saves the day) 29. ... Re7 he at least has the plan of ... Nb4-d5-e3.

+ + + + pl+k+rp p + n p n p + +R P p +P+ P +P+PL + N +P+ + K +L+ After 26. ... Nf6

27. Rh1!?

White declines Black’s sacrifice and instead insists on playing solid moves— Ehlvest seeks to convert a slight advantage rather than hedge his bets on a larger one. 27. bxa5 Nxh5 28. gxh5 is a substantial material advantage for White, and may even be winning after 28. ... Rf5 (28. ... b5 29. Bb8 a6 30. f4 with the idea of Bb8-e5 and g2-g4) 29. axb6 axb6 30. Nc4 Rg5!? (30. ... Kc6 31. f4 Rxh5 32. Be2 Rh1+ 33. Kd2 b5 34. Bf3+ Kd7 35. Bxb7 bxc4 36. dxc4 looks winning for White) 31. Bf4 Rf5 32. Bb8 b5 33. Ne5+ Ke6 34. Ng6!, when Black is at his wit’s end to avoid getting his king and rook forked. 27. ... cxb4 28. axb4 Nc6 29. b5 Nd8

On 29. ... Nb4, 30. Nb3 simply wins


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2009 Chicago Open Black's d4-pawn. Black no longer has the idea of ... Bb7xf3, as in the note to White's 27th move, since he inserted ... Ne8-f6 first. 30. Nc4 Re7 31. Nd6 Ke6 32. Nf5 Rd7 33. Bf2 Ke5 34. Be2 g6 35. Bg3+ Kd5

+ n + + pl+r+ + p + npp +P+k+N+ + p +P+ + +P+PL + +L+P+ + K + +R After 35. ... Kd5

36. Nxh6

White is playing around Black’s king. As the players move toward the time control, play becomes increasingly complex. 36. Rxh6!? gxf5 37. Rxf6 fxg4 38. fxg4 Kc5 gives up the solidity of White’s pawn formation prematurely. 36. ... Kc5 37. Kd2 Ne6

37. ... Kxb5 gives White a free hand to unleash first-rank checks against Black’s king, but it is difficult to prove anything more than a draw. 38. Rb1+ Kc6 39. Rc1+ Kb5 (39. ... Kd5? 40. f4) 40. Be5 might be the way for White to go. 38. Be5 Nd5 39. Ng8

White is encircling the g6-pawn. 39. ... Nef4 40. Nf6 Nxf6 41. Bxf4 Nd5 42. Be5 Nc3 43. Rh6 Kxb5

Black is also struggling after 43. ... Re7 44. f4 Nxe2 (44. ... Re6 45. Bf1 Nxb5 46. Bg7 with the idea of f4-f5 looks imposing) 45. Kxe2 Re6 46. Rh7 Bxg2 47. Kf2 Bd5 48. Rxa7 Kxb5 49. Bxd4. 44. Rxg6 Nxe2 45. Kxe2 a5

Black is a pawn down but looks to generate fast play with his a-pawn.

White knows that this opposite-color bishop endgame is anything but drawn. 46. ... Rxg7 47. Bxg7 Kc5 48. g5 Kd5 49. g6 b5 50. Bf6 Bc8 51. Bd8

White’s first task is to render Black’s queenside duo immobile. Then, all White need do is begin pushing his own pawns. 51. ... a4 52. g7 Be6 53. Be7 Bg8 54. g4 Ke5 55. Kf2 Ke6 56. Bf8 Kf6 57. f4 Bd5 58. Bc5 Kxg7 59. Bxd4+ Kg6 60. Bc5 Bb3 61. d4 Bd1 62. Kg3, Black resigned.

Tying for first with Ehlvest was GM


21. ... Nxe4? would of course be refuted by 22. Nd2. 22. Bxc6 Qxc6 23. Nd2 Nd7

r

+ rk+ + pn+pl p+qp +pp P + p + pP+P+ + + + L PP PPN PQK R + R + After 23. ... Nd7

24. g4!?

Closed Ruy Lopez (C88) GM Darmen Sadvakasov (2645) GM Gabriel Sargissian (2736) Chicago Open (Round 6), 05.25.2009

White is fighting for space, but the dark-square holes in his pawn formation resemble Swiss cheese. 24. ... Nc5 25. b3 Ne6 26. Rg1 Kh7 27. h4 Nf4

1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 Nf6 5. 0-0 Be7 6. Re1 b5 7. Bb3 0-0 8. a4 b4 9. d3 d6 10. a5 Be6 11. Nbd2 Rb8

r

q

rk+ + p lppp p+npln + P + p + p +P+ + +L+P+N+ PPN PPP R LQR K After 11. ... Rb8

12. h3

A rare move, but these kinds of Ruy positions are played more on feel than by memory. White prevents the continuation 12. Nc4 Bg4 from Black, as in the draw Kasparov-Grischuk, 2002. 13. Be3 Nd7 14. h3 Bxf3 15. Qxf3 Bg5 took some of the sting out of White's position. 12. ... h6 13. Qe2 Qc8 14. Nc4 Rd8 15. Be3 Qb7 16. Qf1!?

46. Rg7!

34

Gabriel Sargissian, ranked number 63 in the world on the latest official FIDE chart. Sargissian, who hails from Armenia, started off as the favorite and lived up to that expectation throughout. After two initial wins over GMs Mesgen Amanov and Gildardo Garcia, he switched to a “win every other game” mode with a draw, then a win, then a draw again, even continuing the pattern with his last-round “grandmaster draw” encounter with Ehlvest. This had nothing to do with what color pieces he had each round, however: his path to the top included wins with both black and white. One of his crowning achievements was winning the following 80-move slugfest with GM Darmen Sadvakasov:

Here White embarks on a journey with his queen, gaining kingside space but giving Black a free hand to finish his maneuvering. White often focuses more on stirring up action in the center. 16. ... Bf8 17. g3 Re8 18. Kh2 g6 19. Qg2 Bg7 20. Ba4

A typical idea for White. In this case, Black is allowed to initiate structural changes on the queenside that may favor him. 20. ... Bxc4 21. dxc4 Rf8

Given the course of the game, one wonders whether Black disliked 27. ... Nd4!? immediately. 28. Bxd4 exd4 29. f4 Rbe8 is unclear, though White’s a-pawn will always need defense. 28. Qf3 Qe8 29. Rae1 Qe7 30. Qg3 Rg8 31. Nf3 Ne6 32. Qh3

White has done well over the past few moves and his attack is growing, so Black makes the practical decision to “cash out” of subtle maneuvering and create further imbalances. 32. ... Nd4 33. Bxd4 exd4 34. Ng5+ Kh8 35. f4 Rge8 36. Nf3 Qf6 37. f5!?

37. Qg3 was more cautious. Then 37. ... d3 could be met with 38. e5 dxe5 39. fxe5 Qd8 40. Rd1. 37. ... d3!

Taking up the challenge. This is an effective breakthrough, but White’s spatial advantage gives him plenty of resources for counterplay. 38. cxd3 Qb2+ 39. Kh1 Qxb3 40. f6?

The final move to make time control. White wrestles for the initiative, but it is not clear how Black proceeds after 40. Rd1, since 40. ... Qa4!? 41. g5 Qd7 (41. ... h5 42. f6 Bf8 43. Ra1 looks fine for White) 42. gxh6 Bxh6 43. Rdf1 b3 44. Qg2 b2 45. fxg6 fxg6 46. Qxg6 Qh7 47. Rb1 leaves Black with no obvious route to an advantage. 40. ... gxf5 41. gxf5 Qc3, keeping a slight pull, may be the best try. 40. ... Bxf6 41. g5 Qxd3!

Black gives up a piece to quash the attack; White’s material is not enough. 42. gxf6 Rxe4 43. Rxe4 Qxe4 44. Qg4 Re8 45.

uschess.org

Qxe4 Rxe4 46. Rc1 Rf4 47. Kg2 Rxf6 48. c5 Rf5 49. cxd6 cxd6 50. Rc4 b3 51. Rb4 Rxa5 52. Rxb3

White’s pawns have fallen, but he manages to set Black a few challenges yet. 52. ... Rd5 53. Kg3 Kg7 54. Kf4 a5 55. Ke4 a4 56. Ra3 Ra5 57. Nd4 f5+ 58. Kd3 Kf6 59. Kc4 g5 60. hxg5+ hxg5 61. Kb4 Ra8 62. Kc4 g4 63. Kd3 Ke5 64. Ra1 a3 65. Rf1 Rf8!?

65. ... f4 runs into 66. Nc6+ Kf5 67. Nd4+ Kg5 68. Ne6+, though after 68. ... Kh4 69. Nxf4 a2 70. Ra1 Kg3 71. Ne2+ Kf2 Black should still win. 66. Re1+ Kf6

On 66. ... Kd5, White has 67. Rb1! Rc8 (67. ... Ke5 68. Re1+) 68. Rf1 Rf8 69. Rb1, forcing the game continuation. 67. Nxf5!

Resourceful play from White. 67. ... a2 68. Ne3 Ra8 69. Nc2 Kg5 70. Kc3 g3 71. Kb2 Kf4 72. Ka1 Rg8 73. Nd4 g2 74. Kxa2 Kg3 75. Rd1 Kf2 76. Nf5 d5 77. Ne7 Rg5 78. Kb3 Re5

+

+

+

+

+

+

N + + + + + +pr + + + + + +K+ + + + + kp+ + +R+ + +

After 78. ... Re5

79. Nxd5

White can play the tricky 79. Ng6, hoping for 79. ... Re1?? 80. Rd2+ Kf1 81. Rxg2 Kxg2 82. Nf4+, drawing. 79. ... Re3+! 80. Kc2 g1=Q 81. Rxg1 Kxg1 leaves Black with a well-known winning position, however. There is no fortress, for instance: 82. Nf4 d4 83. Nd3 Kg2 84. Kd2 Kf3 85. Nc5 Ra3 86. Nd7 (86. Nd3 Ra2+) 86. ... Kf4 87. Nc5 Ra5 88. Nd3+ Kf3 89. Nb2 (89. Nb4 Ke4) 89. ... Ra2 90. Kc2 Rxb2+ 91. Kxb2 Ke2 wins. 79. ... Rxd5 80. Rxd5 g1=Q, White resigned.

Although not physically imposing in stature, Sargissian has intense, dark eyes. His thick black eyebrows, light facial hair, and pointy ears give him a unique physiognomy. As a hero, he is dashing; as an adversary, he is dangerous. One would expect Sargissian’s opponents to occasionally cower in fear. One can only imagine what was going through Black’s head as he played the following move:

uschess.org

Oops GM Gabriel Sargissian (2736) GM Gildardo Garcia (2499) Chicago Open (Round 2), 05.23.2009

+R+ l + + +n+p+ + + Lpk + +pP +p + N + + + + + PP r+ + PK+ + + + + After 32. Rc8

Sargissian has just played his rook to c8. Black now reached for his bishop and played 32. ... Bc5??, ending the game in light of 33. Rh8, checkmate. After the finish of the last round, the line of those awaiting their prize checks was filled with the numerous GMs who split third through eighth with 5/7. While in line myself, I met up with GMs Loek Van Wely, Yury Shulman, Varuzhan Akobian, and Shabalov—all of whom were in this ad hoc “five points” club. Joining in at the head of the line was last year’s co-champion, the good-natured GM Tigran Petrosian. “How did you do this year, Mr. Petrosian?” I asked politely. “Badly!” he exclaimed. “I drew five games.” Shulman then jokingly asked the obvious question: “What are you doing here?” The ever-witty Petrosian grabbed his good friend Varuzhan Akobian. “I’m this man’s body guard!” he exclaimed. Although Petrosian’s “plus two” performance—which included a round four win over Ehlvest himself—only netted him 4½/7, he did use his final provisionally rated tournament to notch his USCF over 2700. GM Dashzegve Sharavdorj, FM Jake Kleiman, and FM Carl Boor, Jr., tied with Petrosian’s score but split the U2500 money amongst themselves. Also notable was the 4/7 performance of FM Darwin Yang, who drew with IM Benjamin Finegold in the first round and (like Sargissian) defeated GMs Mesgen Amanov and Gildardo Garcia. This was by no means the first time the 12-year-old had beaten a grandmaster, however— most notably, he also beat GM Josh Friedel at the 2008 World Open. Of the 50 players competing in the Open Section, there were 19 grandmasters, making it easy for up-and-coming players to get multiple opportunities to play grandmasters over the course of seven rounds. Those who chose to play in the 2-day program—which kicks off the first day with four Game/45’s—were in for an especially rough time, though: six out

of the eight who entered this schedule were grandmasters! British master-level player John Burgess explained to me that this kind of “dense” field is not at all unusual. “In 2004, I played in my first Chicago Open,” he noted. “I played Shulman in the first round and I didn’t know he was a grandmaster, so I beat him. After that, it felt like I was playing GMs the rest of the tournament.” Burgess’ manifold losses over the following six rounds included one to Ehlvest, who tied for first that year as well. “These days I play in the U2300 section,” added Burgess. “I’m happier now.” On a closing note, in last year’s report Jerry Hanken stated he felt the price of gas would peak “at about five bucks and then come crashing down.” That prediction was certainly a fair one. Hanken also predicted that turnout at the Chicago Open would not drop below 750, and he was again correct. Thanks to the hard work of the organizers, Bill and Brenda Goichberg, and the entire Continental Chess Association staff, the tournament continued to prosper for its second year in its new location—the tranquil North Shore Westin in the trendy suburb of Wheeling. It’s a hotel sterile enough to assuage even the most passionate germaphobe, and with its high ceiling and wide corridors, calling it merely “capacious” is an understatement. Ehlvest may have left the building, but I suspect that next year he’ll be back.

.

2009 Chicago Open At A Glance Date: May 22-25, 2009 Location: Westin North Shore Hotel, Wheeling, Illinois Top Finishers: Open, 1st-2nd: Gabriel Sargissian, Jaan Ehlvest, 5½. 3rd-8th: Loek Van Wely, Yury Shulman, Varuzhan Akobian, Giorgi Kacheishvili, Alexander Shabalov, Benjamin Finegold, 5. 9th: Tigran Petrosian, 4½. Under 2500: Dashzegve Sharavdorj, Jake Kleiman, Carl Boor, Jr, 4½. Under 2300, 1st: Tyler Hughes, Yaacov Norowitz, 6. Under 2100, 1st: Evgeny Shver, 6½. Under 1900, 1st: Jordan Cohen, 6½. Under 1700, 1st: Sarkis Toneryan, 7. Under 1500, 1st: Jeffrey DiOrio, 6½. Under 1300, 1st: Shaogang Bian, 6½. Under 900, 1st: Taofiki Lasisi, Adil Dzelilovic, 6½. Chief Tournament Director: Bill Goichberg.


35

Here and There

L I F E S T R AT E G I E S :

Raising champions on and off the board, chess takes to and from the streets. By Lisa Suhay

Vive le Variant! F

rom the day I began using chess as a method for teaching high school academics, instead of as a rated pursuit, I have been given the “stinkeye” by many real players who think it’s worthy to teach students chess, but only as long as the setting conforms to the hushed, hardwood environs which include the deadly passions those dedicated only to the win. Some greet teaching traditional chess as an information and self-esteem delivery system much the way players did the initial introduction of “The Mad Queen.” That old girl and the new life chess is living in my classroom (and the others schools coordinated by The Hip-Hop Chess Federation) have a lot in common since they were either lionized as addictive and exciting or resisted as unwelcome variants. Like Her Highness, the new chess life is here to stay along with: Hip-Hop stars, celebrity players and students bopping through non-competitive chess in education. Prompting me to write are the words of a dedicated, local chess parent who intends to have “non-serious” players forced from a school chess club. Not a team, but an after-school club which could be used by teachers and parents to build self-esteem, diminish teen violence, and boost standardized test scores. The fear is that these free radicals would take eyes off the prize. The fact is the prize has moved and it’s time to look around and get our bearings. This isolationism might be an understandable reaction if chess had sprung into being as it is today, with a queen, bishop and knight, rather than as it was in

36


500 A.D. when the kingdom was male and elephants roamed the red squares teaching princes how to guide a battle. Once the Mad Queen’s skirts swept in, it was anybody’s game and so it should be today. More important is the fact you can’t beat ‘em, stalemate is killing the game’s reach so let’s join ‘em. What is often reduced to the label “chess marketing” is really a natural progression destined to free chess from being relegated as an underfunded, sparsely attended, insular, afterschool activity, by infusing it back into the daily culture as it was in the days of the kings and queens who birthed the game. Luckily, I have no formal chess titles or credentials to be stripped for this heretical belief. I am a living variant: veteran journalist, children’s book author, mother of four chess fanatics (ages 5, 10, 13 and 15), turned high school English and American government teacher. One can be a “serious” player and be a variant like: President Barack Obama, Eleanor of Aquitaine, Isabella of Spain, Bobby Fischer, Hip-Hop Artist RZA and my every student I teach. I was neither a teacher, nor a very accomplished chess player before last fall. I stepped onto the board much as Alice did through the looking glass, via a combination of chance and curiosity. I was asked to fill a teaching position at a private, inner city high school. There I found students adrift, disengaged from achievement, drive and hard thought. Many had lived such troubled lives they’d become anesthetized to the world, taught only to test well. In their minds, thinking was the variant.

The muse struck when I paused in readying lesson plans to watch my husband, Robert, play chess against our then fouryear-old son Quinten. They were seeing moves and strategy. I was reading the board as an ever-changing, mesmerizing story. I scrapped my traditional lesson formats and introduced chess as a knowledge delivery system. The first lesson was British literature, Eleanor of Aquitaine’s “Court of Love” and it progressed to chess in literature, art, history, society and psychology. I added to my teaching library three master works: Birth of the Chess Queen by Marilyn Yalom; The Art of Learning by Josh Waitzkin and The U.S. Chess Federation rule book. Much of my strategy and coaching came from Adisa Banjoko, CEO of the Hip-Hop Chess Federation, SanFrancisco, California. Seeing our improvised program, Banjoko took our school under his wing as part of a pilot program that is using chess, music and martial arts to curb school violence. Banjoko teaches at-risk children, “stop and think before you make a potentially life-changing move.” “I have talked to many kids in jail who tell me they would not be there if they had just stopped to think,” he explained. “In this economy we can expect to see violence on the rise, but if we hip these kids to chess as a power, control, they can have, we have a better chance of stopping the violence in our schools and neighborhoods.” The Norfolk Police Department, Opportunity Inc., Career Start Foundation and Old Dominion University have all come

uschess.org

PHOTO: LISA SUHAY

DEVIN NELSON (LEFT) AND DREW HORNBACK, AS PART OF THEIR ENGLISH COMPOSITION CLASS, PLAY A GAME AND THEN TELL THE STORY OF THE GAME.

together to partner with my students and their parents to create an ongoing community Hip-Hop Chess program which will travel to various locations around the city teaching, playing, challenging and offering help across the 64-squares to teens and young adults in need of life strategies and coaching. That these unorthodox variations on traditional tournaments is succeeding in growing media and public acceptance of chess takes nothing away from the grandeur or intensity of those who pursue it as a passion or profession. It is an excellent reason to embrace it as a starving man on an island might when a cruise ship anchors nearby and invites him aboard. To him it should matter little that he is a “serious sailor” bent on circumnavigation because he is starving to death in isolation. Given the amount of economic strain our world faces can chess tournaments, tutors, chessbased commerce, federations and aspirants afford to ignore the path to this new mate? The resistance is on both sides. Traditional teachers and administrators trying to drive up student performance on standardized tests have as great a fear and resentment of classroom chess, as do some chess professionals of what they perceive as “dumbing-down the game.” This page in a magazine named for the two sides of our shared coin: chess/life, is the perfect place to inspire unity. For the international grandmaster and a struggling inner city teen alike, chess and life are fused as a force of nature which drives them up the ladder.

uschess.org

Teachers can’t play this out alone because we are not credentialed players and are not pretending to hold status or rank. This is an outreach. The Hip-Hop Chess Federation and local schools are reaching for the stars and so few have come from the heavens to help. Josh Waitzkin from one side and Recording Artist RZA have stepped up. Instead of creating chess stunts, at-risk students need to witness the social infusion continue. They need to see President Obama play a match against a “D” student, NBA stars learning from short, stocky, rapperkids in a setting where needy children can win a game and a non-academic scholarship. To that end, learning to play chess is mandatory for all my classes, no matter what the subject being covered or their expected skill level at the game. Students learn chess is a story rewritten with every game. They learn chess’ history and variants thereof. Chess serves in teaching metaphor, allegory, coping skills and life strategies, creative writing topics (aka ChEssays) and ever-changing models for how governments rise and fall. Shown a pre-press draft of this piece GM Yasser Seirawan added, “Indeed, while in junior high school (Meany Middle School in Seattle) the principal asked me to teach a chess class which I did ... It was a rewarding experience. It was NOT that I taught future world champion contenders rather my classes were about: problem solving, critical thinking, reasoning, comprehension and of course reading and writing. Chess can be used in a myriad number of

ways as a teaching tool: history, literature, mapping, pattern recognition and a host of ways of thinking. Expanding beyond just the ‘rules of play’ opens up exciting vistas of thought.” Results in my classes were immediate and dramatic; disciplinary issues evaporated. Students with ADD, ADHD, OCD and dyslexia were transformed into hyperfocused and driven chess-a-holics. Reading comprehension and test scores improved. The U.S. Chess Trust and the Virginia Scholastic Chess Association supplied tournament sets. House of Staunton provided a top-of-the-line, tournament sanctioned game clock and Seirawan-variant pieces to spice things up. In his videos, Yasser Seirawan explains that he and Bruce Harper added the hawk and pachyderm to both give back to the game some lost attributes and to curtail the boredom of stalemate among grandmasters. The same can be said of the social variants so many try to ignore or defend against today. My suggestion is to embrace these newcomers of all skill levels, for they come bearing fresh hope and enthusiasm. In chess, as in life, the variants often become the game. Some think that is what we fear most. I think the fear is of being passed, left orphaned in our own kingdom. If that is the case, take heart: The Mad Queen ascended to stately grace. The new elephant stands by his King as of old. The hawk spies the opening. And in this royal processional, no child shall be left behind. See www.lisasuhay.blogspot.com for more.


37

Back to Basics

The Knight In Jeopardy

By GM Lev Alburt

With a knight on rook four, beware your opponent’s pawn move to knight four!

This month’s “most instructive game and notes” award goes to 14-year-old Jacob Heybey. As you’ll see, he played— overall—a good game, and provided us with thoughtful comments. Still, both at the board and at home analyzing, Jacob on several occasions missed a simple knight-winning pawn move (his opponent, obviously, also missed it). So, there is a useful new tactic for Jacob to learn, and also for his opponent, Christian Hauze, and for some readers as well. (My future comments will be in italics). Christian Hauze (Unrated) Jacob Heybey (1025) PA Scholastic Championship, March 2009 1. d4 d5 2. c3!?

rnlqklnr ppp pppp + + + + + +p+ + + P + + + P + + PP +PPPP RNLQKLNR After 2. c3

This move threw me off for a moment. I was expecting 2. c4 or 2. Nf3. Fortunately, only for a moment. 2. ... Nf6 3. Nf3 c5

After 4. dxc5

4. dxc5 (see diagram top of next column) 4. ... e6!? Chess Life — August 2009

c6 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. Nf3 dxc4 5. e4 b5.

rnlqkl r p + pppp +p+ n + +p+ + + +pPP+ + + N +N+ PP + PPP R LQKL+R Analysis diagram after 5. ... b5

It might have been better to continue with the Slav idea with 4. ... a5. Both moves are fine—and likely to lead to similar (even the same) positions.

White got two tempi, namely g3 and then Bg2. The second tempo is there when Black played ... e7-e5 in two moves.

5. g3 Nc6

7. Bg2 Be7 8. 0-0 e4

This move—allowing White to protect the c5-pawn—is okay, but why not simply take the pawn with 5. ... Bxc5, with a good game? 6. b4 e5

r+lqkl r pp+ +ppp +n+ n + + Ppp + P + + + + P +NP P+ +PP P RNLQKL+R After 6. ... e5

Turning the game into a Reversed Slav. A very good observation.

38

rnlqkl r pp+ pppp + + n + + Pp+ + + + + + + P +N+ PP +PPPP RNLQKL+R

Now the game is a reversed Slav gambit. In this gambit, Black grabs a pawn in return for giving up control of the center. In this reversed position, White has used his extra tempo to play g3. Compare with a line like 1. d4 d5 2. c4

r+lqk+ r pp+ lppp +n+ n + + Pp+ + P +p+ + + P +NP P+ +PPLP RNLQ+RK After 8. ... e4

9. Nh4?

A definite mistake. Knights belong in the center, not on the edge of the board. Correct was 9. Nd4. Besides, placing the knight on h4 here is asking for trouble. 9. ... Be6

Giving more support to the backwards d5-pawn. 10. Nd2 uschess.org

r+ qk+ r pp+ lppp +n+ln + + Pp+ + P +p+ N + P + P P+ NPPLP R LQ+RK After 10. Nd2

Big blunder number one. White’s last move blocks his c1-bishop and thus allows 10. ... g5, winning the h4-knight (for a pawn). Jacob misses this opportunity. 10. ... 0-0 11. Nb3 Qd7 12. Na5?!

This blunder allows me to win the pawn back and wreck his pawn structure in two easy moves.

(?—L.A.) Compounding his troubles. The move Nxg2 would have gotten the knight back into play quicker.

a1-rook is immobilized due to the ... c3c2 fork, and his d1-rook has no more than four squares. Black’s knight is eyeing the c4, d3, and f3 squares.

16. ... dxc4

21. a4 Nc4

The last chance to play ... g7-g5 and win White’s knight. 17. Qxd7?! Nxd7

r+ + rk+ pp+n+ppp + + + + P l + + +p+p+ N + + P P P+ + PKP R L +R+ After 17. ... Nxd7

14. e3

r+ + rk+ pp+q+ppp + +ln + P lp+ + + +p+ N + P P P P+ + PLP R LQ+RK After 14. e3

The idea is to prevent ... d5-d4 after White plays c3-c4. However this closes in his dark-squared bishop. Again, both opponents overlook 14. ... g5!—and keep overlooking this typical blow for a few more moves. 14. ... Bh3 15. c4 Bxg2 16. Kxg2

r+ + rk+ pp+q+ppp + + n + P lp+ + +P+p+ N + + P P P+ + PKP R LQ+R+ After 16. Kxg2

uschess.org

After 21. ... Nc4

Clamping down on the bishop’s bid for freedom. Also winning is 21. ... Nf3. 22. Ba3

12. ... Nxa5 13. bxa5 Bxc5

Black now has complete control of the center, better pawn structure, and better minor pieces. (The knight on h4 can’t [safely] move.)

r+ r +k+ pp+ +ppp + + + + P l + + P+nNp+ + + p P P + + PKP R LR+ +

18. Rd1

Stronger was 18. Bb2—an idea noted by Jacob on the next move. 18. ... Rfd8

Black should play 18. ... Ne5, with a big advantage (a pawn plus a better position), before White plays the developmental 19. Bb2 and prevents it. 19. Nf5?

This allows Black to completely entomb White’s bishop. Better is 19. Bb2.

White goes down in flames. After 22. Ra2, planning 23. Rc2, Black still would have to labor in order to win. Now, it’s all over.

.

22. ... Nxa3 23. Nb5 Nxb5 24. Rxd8+ Rxd8 25. axb5 c2 26. Rc1 Rd2 27. a6 bxa6 28. bxa6 Ba3, White resigned.

View this issue of Chess Life Online via our new pdf viewer. Go to uschess.org, click on “Chess Life Magazine” and then “Online Viewer.” You will need your login ID and password.

19. ... c3!

r+ r +k+ pp+n+ppp + + + + P l +N+ + +p+ + + p P P P+ + PKP R LR+ + After 19. ... c3

Because of this bind, White’s rooks will never get connected and White’s bishop will never get free. The knight is the only piece free. A truly great move—well explained. 20. Nd4

The only other try is 20. a4, which is answered with 20. ... Ne5! 20. ... Ne5

A remarkable position. White’s bishop is entombed, his knight is pinned, his

Send in your games! If you are unrated or were rated 1799 or below on your Chess Life label, then GM Lev Alburt invites you to send your instructive games with notes to: Back to Basics, c/o Chess Life PO Box 3967 Crossville, TN 38557-3967 Or e-mail your material to [email protected] GM Alburt will select the “most instructive” game and Chess Life will award an autographed copy of Lev’s newest book, Chess Training Pocket Book II (by Lev Alburt and Al Lawrence) to the person submitting the most instructive game and annotations. Do not send games with only a few notes, as they are of little instructive value and can’t be used. Writing skills are a plus, but instructiveness is a must! Make sure your game (or part of it) and your notes will be of interest to other readers.


39

Endgame Lab

Kamsky at the 4th Grand Prix, Nalchik 2009

By GM Pal Benko

In the country of his birth, our top player played a number of instructive endgames against some of the best players in the world. The Nalchik Grand Prix event was one of the strongest Russian events in years— the average rating was over 2700. The American representative, Kamsky, had only an average performance, but he played the most interesting endgames.

though victory would require long and accurate technical play.

Unnecessary. It was time to grab the pawns by playing 74. Qc7+ Ke6 75. Qg7.

43. ... Re5 44. a4 bxa4 45. Qxa4 Kf6 46. Qd7 Ng5 47. Qd8+ Kf5 48. Qd3+ Kf6 49. Qd8+ Kf5 50. Qf8+ Ke4 51. Qa8+ Kf4 52. Qf8+ Ke4 53. Qa8+ Kf4 54. b5 Ne4

74. ... Ke6 75. Qc7?

Blockade! GM Peter Leko (FIDE 2751) GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2720)

Winning for White is 54. ... Rxb5?! 55. Qa4+ Ne4 56. g3+ Kxg3 57. Qxe4.

+

q

k + p + pn+p p +Q+p+ + + + + + r L + + + + +P PP + PPK + R + + After 32. Rc1

White has a better position but the black side is still defendable. 32. ... Rxf4?!

A surprising decision; better instead is the simple 32. ... Qd7 (or 32. ... Qd5) when after 33. Rc8+ Kg7 34. Be5+ Nxe5 35. Qxe5+ Kh6 it does not look pretty but the position can be held. 33. Rc8 Rxf2 34. Rxd8+ Nxd8 35. Qd5 Nf7 36. b4 Kg7 37. a3 Rf6

The material is still about equal but the agile white queen should soon snag a pawn. So here 37. ... Nd6 38. Qa8 b5 may have been a more effective defense, building a blockade. 38. Qa8 e5 39. Qxa7 Re6 40. Kg1 e4

Black trusted in his passed pawn but the king will block it. 41. Kf1 e3 42. Ke2 b5 43. Qd7

Loss of a tempo. The immediate 43. a4! bxa4 44. b5 would win the knight, 40


55. b6

Stronger was 55. Qf8+ Rf5 56. Qb8+ Re5 and then 57. b6. In the next stage White misses several winning moves. 55. ... Nc3+ 56. Ke1

Worth a try is 56. Kd3!? 56. ... Rb5 57. Qf3+ Ke5 58. Qxe3+ Ne4 59. Ke2 Rb1 60. Qa3 Nd6

+

+

+

+ + + + +p P n +p+ + + k + + + + + Q + + +P + +K+P+ +r+ + + After 60. ... Nd6

The b-pawn has been blockaded. White should get the g- and h-pawns in exchange for the b- one; not too difficult a task, but he fails to execute despite multiple opportunities. 61. Qc5+ Ke6 62. Qc6 Rb2+ 63. Kd3 Rb3+ 64. Kc2 Rb4 65. Kc1 Rb3 66. Qc5 h6

Black is now in Zugzwang. Now 67. Qc2 effects the desired exchange of two for one. Instead White tries to force the rook away from the b-file. 67. Qd4 g5 68. Qc5 Kd7 69. Kc2 Rb5 70. Qc7+ Ke6 71. Qc6 Rb4 72. Kc1 Rb3 73. Qc5 Kd7 74. g4

75. Qd4 was still very strong. 75. ... Kd5 76. Qa7 Kc6 77. Qc7+ Kd5 78. Kc2 Rb5 79. Qh7 Rxb6 80. Qxh6 Rc6+ 81. Kd3 Nf7 82. Qh7 Rf6

White has obviously missed the target. He got only one pawn for the b6 one and Black can create a firm defensive position. Further winning attempts by White will be fruitless. 83. Qg8 Kd6 84. Qe8 Rf3+ 85. Kd4 Rf4+ 86. Kc3 Rf3+ 87. Kb4 Rf6 88. Kb5 Kd5 89. Qa8+ Ke6 90. Kc5 Ke7 91. Qa7+ Kf8 92. Qa3 Kg8 93. Kd5 Kg7 94. Qg3 Kg6 95. h4 gxh4 96. Qxh4

This trade changes nothing. White makes 25 more boring moves and agreed to a Draw. The above game reminded me of one of mine, played in New York City years ago against IM Jay Bonin. The following position occurred:

+

+k+ + + + n + +r+ + + + P Q PK + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Game drawn

I realized much sooner than Leko that all efforts would be in vain despite being two pawns up because the blockade is unbreakable. Daredevil After the previous game, Gata again

uschess.org

Benko’s Bafflers

Please e-mail submissions for Benko’s Bafflers to: pbenko@ uschess.org

GM Vassily Ivanchuk (FIDE 2696) GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2720)

l+ q r k + + lppp + + + + +p+ P +Q + +p+ + +LP + +P + + PP+ + L R K After 22. Qh5

The position is quite balanced so here was even less reason to show bravado. 22. ... Bd5?!

The modest 22. ... Qe8 or 22. ... g6 even the more venturous 22. ... Qd3 or 22. ... Bc5 were possible alternatives.

Problem II

Richard Becker 2008

Arpad Rusz 2008

+ + +Q+ +R+ + + + + + p + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + P K k rq+

Most of the time these studies resemble positions that could actually occur over-the-board. You must simply reach a theoretically won position for White. Solutions can be found on page 63.

could not resist to the opportunity to sacrifice his queen.

Problem I

White to play and win

+

+

+

+

+

k

+

+

R

+

+

+

+ rp + P + + +p+ + +P kP + + + Pp+ + + P + + + KL+R+ + +

+

+

White to play and draw

+

+

+

q

+

+ p + +nlLp + + p +P + + +P+ + +K+ + After 64. ... Ne4

65. Ke2?

This natural move allows a positional draw. To realize the advantage of the exchange requires the king’s help. 65. ... Nf2!! would have excluded the white king from assisting his pieces, thus 65. Kc2! was the right track. 65. ... Nd6? 66. Kd3 Ke7 67. Kd4 Kf6 68. Kd5 Ke7 69. Ra7+ Kf6 70. Ra6 Ke7 71. Ra7+ Kf6 72. Bh5 Be5 73. Ra6 Kf5 74. Bg4+, Black resigned.

properly preparing the theoretical win. 67. Ka5 Rc8 68. Rb4+ Ka8 69. Rb5 Re8 70. Bd4 Rc8 71. Rd5 Kb7 72. Bb6 Rg8 73. Kb5 Re8 74. a8=Q+ Kxa8 75. Kc6?

75. Rd7 was natural and good. 75. ... Re6+ 76. Kc7 Re7+ 77. Kd6

If 77. Kc8? Re5! 78. Rd3 Re3! etc. can play for stalemate. 77. ... Rh7 78. Kc6 Rh6+ 79. Kc7 Rh7+ 80. Kc8

k+K+ + + + + + +r L + + + + +R+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + After 80. Kc8

23. Rd1 Bxb3 24. Rxd8 Rxd8 25. Bg5?!

It seems that White was surprised by the “sac” and failed to play 25. Qe2— winning a pawn because of the weakness of the Black back rank.

Here we go again I have written about this frequent endgame several times saying that it is worthy of study.

25. ... Bxg5 26. Qxg5 Rd1+

GM Vladimir Akopian (FIDE 2696) GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2720)

More careful was either 26. ... Re8 or 26. ... Rc8. 27. Kh2 h6 28. Qe7

Misses the last opportunity to win a pawn by 28. Qe3! and if 28. ... Rf1 29. Kg3 Bd5 30. Qc5 Bc4 31. Qc8+! Kh7 32. Qf5+ Kg8 33. Qxe4. 28. ... Bc4 29. Qb7 Re1 30. Qc8+ Kh7 31. Qf5+ Kg8 32. Qc8+ Kh7, Draw agreed.

Everything is defended so there is no point in playing on. Exchange up GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2720) GM Peter Svidler (FIDE 2726)

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+ + +r+ Pk+ + + + + + + + L + + K+R+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + After 66. ... Kb7

This is a winning position but White must force the taking of the a7-pawn,

80. ... Rh8+?

Another chase with 80. ... Rh5! 81. Rd3 Rh3! 82. Be3 Rh8+ 83. Kc7 Rh7+ 84. Kc6 Rc7+! And the draw can be held. 81. Bd8 Rh7 82. Ra5+ Ra7 83. Rb5 Rb7 84. Rh5 Rf7 85. Ra5+ Ra7 86. Rb5 Rb7 87. Re5 Rh7 88. Re1 Rb7 89. Ra1+ Ra7 90. Rb1 Rb7 91. Re1 Rh7 92. Re2 Rb7 93. Be7??

The right way to win is 93. Rc2 Rg7 94. Rc1 Rh7 (94. ... Rb7 95. Bc7 Rb8+ 96. Kd7 wins.) 95. Bc7 Rh8+ 96. Kd7 Kb7 97. Rb1+ Ka6 98. Kc6 Rh6+ 99. Bd6 Rh5 100. Rb8 Rh7 101. Bf8 Ka7 102. Rb4 Ka8 103. Rd4 Rb7 104. Re4 but of course it is not easy to do in practice. 93. ... Rb8+??

A pity he missed 93. ... Rxe7! 94. Rxe7 stalemate.

.

94. Kc7 Rb7+ 95. Kc6 Ra7 96. Bd8 Rh7 97. Bc7 Rh6+ 98. Bd6, Black resigned.


41

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

Welcome, Welcome to World Chess Live (WCL), a new family-friendly service with special benefits for USCF members. Once again, WCL is pleased to sponsor USCF’s 2009 Grand Prix (GP) and 2009 Junior Grand Prix (JGP). We’re providing prize funds of $25,080 and $10,200 (cash, merchandise, and memberships), and will also be running online grand prize satellite events throughout the year. Hot, hot, hot! No matter where you are in the USA, August brings with it the peak of summer’s heat. Unfortunately, it also serves to remind us that summer is coming to an end, so while we're just past the halfway point for the Grand Prix this year, there is still time to earn points. The ever-inspiring New York IM Alex Lenderman, continues to show us how best to maximize Grand Prix points effectively. The

Members!

defending GP champion is holding strong to first place, with a 72 point lead over his nearest rival, GM Alexander Ivanov. Ivanov moved up the standings from fifth place last month while IM Enrico Sevillano rose from fourth to third. This knocked GM Sergey Kudrin, former second place holder, down to fourth. This month’s spotlight is shared between GP leader Lenderman, and a young man who is new to the standings, Conrad Holt from Kansas. Both players are still in their teens and have their eyes set on becoming grandmasters. Lenderman, who is 19 years old, took a major step towards his goal when he earned his first grandmaster norm last month at the Copper State International. To celebrate his norm and 5½/6 score, he danced the “Lenderman Boogie,” which has been preserved for us all to enjoy on Chess Life Online.

At age 16, Holt is still a relatively unknown name, but he has declared he would be a grandmaster within two years. IM Ben Finegold agrees with the prediction saying, “I have played Holt three times. He knows his openings very well, plays for a win against everyone, and has very few draws, unless they are all the way till the end. He has great talent and is an imaginative player.” Holt may be an imaginative player because of his unusual way of studying the game. He has no coach and instead studies by playing on the Internet Chess Club (usually blitz) and didn’t start tournament play until just four years ago. In fact, he is currently listed as having only played in 52 USCF-rated events. ~Betsy Dynako (WCL)

2009 WORLD CHESS LIVE GRAND PRIX STANDINGS The following point totals reflect all rated event information as of June 23 for the 2009 World Chess Live Grand Prix. All Grand Prix updates are unofficial and subject to change during the year or until year-end tabulation is complete.

OVERALL STANDINGS NAME 1 IM Alex Lenderman 2 GM Alexander Ivanov 3 IM Enrico Sevillano 4 GM Sergey Kudrin 5 GM Giorgi Kacheishvili 6 GM Jaan Ehlvest 7 IM Jay Bonin 8 IM Bryan Smith 9 GM Alexander Shabalov 10 IM Ben Finegold 11 GM Varuzhan Akobian 12 GM Yury Shulman

JUNIOR CATEGORIES STATE NY MA CA CT NY NY NY PA PA MI CA IL

PTS. 187.60 115.64 113.66 113.09 109.28 103.71 83.04 75.60 71.69 66.95 66.34 61.20

13

Conrad Holt

KS

57.64

14 15

GM Michael Rohde IM Andranik Matikozyan

NY CA

57.41 46.50

PA NY SC

26.00 14.80 11.00

SENIOR CATEGORY

The up-and-coming Conrad Holt makes his mark on the Grand Prix circuit.

Players born 1944 and before: 1 FM Alex Dunne 2 FM Isay Golyak 3 Klaus Pohl

NAME STATE Players born between 1986 and 1988 inclusive: 1 GM Alejandro Ramirez TX 2 IM Oliver Barbosa NY 3 IM Kirill Kuderinov GA

PTS. 42.00 29.75 27.33

Players born between 1989 and 1991 inclusive: 1 IM Alex Lenderman NY 2 John Daniel Bryant CA 3 Matt Parry NY

187.60 29.66 26.00

Players born between 1992 and 1993 inclusive: 1 Conrad Holt KS 57.64 2 Toby Boas FL 12.83 3 Steven Zierk CA 12.66 Players born between 1994 and 1995 inclusive: 1 FM Daniel Naroditsky CA 2 Deepak Aaron NY 3-4 Richard Ding AZ 3-4 Daniel Rozovsky CT

30.33 12.77 10.00 10.00

Players born 1996 and after: 1 David Adelberg 2 Luke Harmon-Vellotti 3 FM Darwin Yang

26.00 19.14 14.00

AZ ID TX

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

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

4th: $750

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

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

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

SENIOR CATEGORY: MERCHADISE PRIZES

$10,200 IN JUNIOR GRAND PRIX PRIZES!

1944 / before 1st: $300

FIRST PRIZE: $1,000 !

2nd: $200

3rd: $100

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

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

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

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

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

2nd: $500 5th: $100

3rd: $250 6th: $100

4th: $150

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

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

www.worldchesslive.com

Real chess. Real people. Real fun!

PHOTO BY FRANK J. BERRY

$10,000 IN CASH PRIZES!

World Chess Live, a new family-friendly online chess service, is sponsor of the 2009 World Chess Live Junior Grand Prix (JGP). Official standings for events received and processed by July 8, 2009 are unofficial and subject to change during the year or until year-end tabulation is complete. There are currently 4,274 players with JGP points. 251 JGP events resulted in points earned. Top prize includes $1,000 cash, trophy and free entry to the 2009 U.S. Open. Other prizes awarded to the top 20 finishers and the top individual in each state.

2009 World Chess Live

Junior Grand Prix Top Overall Standings Name WINTER, CURTIS A DOMMALAPATI, ABHINAY SREENIVASAN, RAMANUJA SHETTY, ATULYA ARYA PISANI, PAUL PISANI, NICHOLAS CHEN, JEREMY ZHOU, JASON TROFF, KAYDEN WILLIAM RICHMAN, JONATHAN TYLER BRETON, ALEX KORLEY, KASSA SWAN, CHARLES PILLAI, KADHIR ANDRES GURCZAK, JOHN CAO, MINDI DANG, MICHAEL DALY, TROY HARMON-VELLOTTI, LUKE TUHRIM, RICHARD J

State MD VA MD MI WA WA NJ MO UT NY NJ NY IL NY AZ IL MI FL ID NY

Pts. 160 145 130 125 120 105 105 105 100 100 95 95 95 90 90 90 90 90 85 85

Name KUMAR, ARAVIND ROBINSON, DARRIAN VEECH, JOHN FU, JASON MCVAY, KIERNAN ROBERT SELDEN, ALEX EVEN KELLY, JACOB CHALLA, RUSHI HILTON, JONATHAN KOGEN, JONATHAN S RAJASEKARAN, VIKAS JOHNSTON, DANIEL F GADSON, ISAIAH SINGH, REVA SHREE ELKIN, JOSHUA HUA, MARGARET M ZHANG, STEPHEN J GUPTA, KARTIK LATHAM, ANDREW TALWAR, JAMES V

State NJ NY WI TN NJ NY PA TX OH IL VA NY MO NY NY MO MO VA KS NY

Pts. 85 85 80 80 80 80 75 75 75 75 75 75 75 75 70 70 70 70 70 70

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

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


43

Tournament Life

Information for Players USCF MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EVENTS.

If not a member, add dues to advance entry fee or pay them with entry fee at site. U.S. Championship Qualifier. Tournament in which qualification spots for the U.S. Championship are awarded. American Classic. Generally, an event that has been held by one organizer for the last three years and has attracted more than 400 players each year. Heritage Event. Tournament held for at least 25 years. Quick Chess. Tournaments with time controls of G/5 to G/29. There is a separate “quick” or “overall” rating system that includes these events, and games played in these tournaments will not affect a player's regular rating. Games played with a time control of G/30 through G/60 will be rated in both the quick/overall system and the regular system. Rating Classes

In most events, you don’t have to win the tournament to win a prize—you can win a class prize as a top scorer of your rating group, or a section prize in a section restricted to your rating group. These rating groups are: Senior Master - 2400 & up Master 2200-2399 Class C Expert 2000-2199 Class D Class A 1800-1999 Class E Class B 1600-1799 Class F

1400-1599 1200-1399 1000-1199 800-999

Class G 600-799 Class H 400-599 Class I 200-399 Class J 199/below

Some tournaments use different groups such as 1900-2099, and some have “under’’ prizes or sections including all below a specified level. Ratings Information

You never lose your rating, no matter how long it has been since you last played. If you return after a long absence, please tell the director and USCF your approximate rating and last year of play. If you have a FIDE rating, or a rating or category from any other country, no matter how many years ago, you are not unrated. FIDE or foreign ratings may be

rejected or have adjustment points added. If details are not announced, players wishing to use such ratings should contact the organizer in advance. For foreign players with multiple ratings (USCF, FIDE, CFC, FQE, other foreign), the highest rating is used, with possible adjustment points added, unless otherwise announced. Ratings based on 4-25 games are called “provisional ratings” to indicate they are less reliable than established ratings. However, such ratings are valid for pairing and prize purposes at all USCF-rated events, unless otherwise stated. A Director may assign an estimated rating to any player, and may expel an improperly rated player from an event.

TLA ads for entering options. Along with entry fee, send full name, address, USCF ID number, expiration date, and section desired (if any). Also, give your last official USCF rating from your magazine label (first 4 numbers on top row). If you are unrated, or have a rating from many years ago, be sure to indicate this. Your official USCF rating is on the top line of your mailing label: Regular, Quick, and Correspondence. Mailed entries are usually not acknowledged unless you enclose a self-addressed postcard. If entering online, print confirmation of entry. They are refundable if you withdraw before Round 1 is paired, unless otherwise stated. For National Events, refund requests must be submitted in writing no later than Hotel-Motel Rates 30 days after the tournament ends. Any Rates listed are often special chess requests made after this date may not be rates—you must request “chess rates’’ or honored. you will be charged more. The chess rates may be unavailable if not reserved sev- If You Must Withdraw If you enter by mail and cannot attend, eral weeks in advance, or if the block of chess rooms is used up. Hotel-desk per- or must drop out of a tournament in sonnel are often poorly informed about progress, it is important you give notice chess rates—if that is the case, ask for the before pairings are started, so no one is Sales Office or contact the tournament deprived of a game. Mail entrants should send withdrawal notices at least a week organizer. beforehand — phone any later than this. What to Take to a Tournament To withdraw by phone on tournament day, Along with a pen or pencil and your call the site and ask specifically for “the USCF ID card (or current Chess Life), take chess tournament.’’ E-mail withdrawals a chessboard, set, and clock if you have several days in advance are acceptable if them. the TD’s e-mail address is listed. Any later For prizes of $600 or more, bring your than this, both e-mail your withdrawal U.S. Social Security card. If you have no and call the tournament site as the TD Social Security number, the organizer might not have access to his (her) e-mail must deduct 30% from your prize for the account. If you forfeit without notice, you IRS (this includes foreigners). may be fined up to the amount of the Warning! The use of a cell phone in the entry fee. tournament room is prohibited at most tournaments. If your cell phone rings in a Tournament Directors Tournament Director Certification is an room with games in progress, you could be endorsement of professional competence penalized, or even forfeited. only. Such certification does not in itself How to Enter in Advance render any Tournament Director an agent Entering by mail or online (if available) of the USCF, nor is any Affiliate an agent is easier for both you and the tournament of the USCF. organizer and often costs less. Check the

.

Tournament Life Abbreviations & Terms All tournaments are non-smoking with no computers allowed unless otherwise advertised by S and/or C (see below for explanations). QC: Quick Chess events. $$Gtd: Guaranteed prizes. $$b/x: Based-on prizes, x = number of entries needed to pay full prize fund. At least 50% of the advertised prize fund of $501 or more must be awarded. Bye: Indicates which rounds players who find it inconvenient to play may take ½-point byes instead. For example, Bye 1-3 means ½-point byes are available in Rounds 1 through 3. C: Computers allowed. CC: Chess club. EF: Entry fee.

44

Enhanced Grand Prix points (see previous page). Ent: Where to mail entries. FIDE: Results submitted to FIDE for possible rating. G/: Game in. For instance, G/75 means each side has 75 minutes for the entire game. GPP: Grand Prix Points available. HR: Hotel rates. For example, 60-65-70-75 means $60 single, $65 twin, $70/3 in room, $75/4 in room. JGP: Junior Grand Prix Memb. req’d: Membership required; cost follows. Usually refers to state affiliate. Open: A section open to all. Often has very strong players, but some eligible for lower sections can play for the learning experience.


OSA: Other states accepted. Refers to state dues. PPHBF: Professional Players Health and Benefits Fund. Quad: 4-player round robin sections; similar strength players. RBO: Rated Beginner’s Open. Rds: Rounds; scheduled game times follow. For example, 11-5, 9-3 means games begin 11 a.m. & 5 p.m. on the first day, 9 a.m. & 3 p.m. on the second day. Reg: Registration at site. RR: Round robin (preceded by number of rounds). S: Smoking allowed. SASE: For more info, send self-addressed stamped envelope.

SD/: Sudden-death time control (time for rest of game follows). For example, 30/90, SD/1 means each player must make 30 moves in 90 minutes, then complete the rest of the game in an hour. Section: A division of a tournament, usually excluding players above a specified rating. Players in a section face only each other, not those in other sections. SS: Swiss-System pairings (preceded by number of rounds). T/Dx: Time delay, x = number of seconds. Unr: Unrated. USEF: Combined entry fee & USCF dues. W: Site is accessible to wheelchairs. WEB: Tournaments that will use a player’s on-line rating.

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Tournament Life

USCF National Events See TLA in this issue for details: 2009 U.S. Game/60 Championship August 22 • Skokie, Illinois 2009 U.S. Game/30 Championship August 23 • Skokie, Illinois 1st U.S. Women’s Open (NEW) September 5-7 • Tulsa, Oklahoma 2009 U.S. Senior Open September 5-7 • Tulsa, Oklahoma 50th Annual U.S. Armed Forces Open Oct. 10-12 • Gettysburg, Pennsylvania 2009 National Youth Action November 20-22 • Oak Brook, Illinois

Future Events (Watch for details) 2009 U.S. Women’s Championship October 2-12 • St. Louis, Missouri 2009 National Scholastic (K-12) December 11-13 • Dallas, Texas 2009 Pan Am Intercollegiate December 27-30 • South Padre Island, Texas 2010 U.S. Amateur Team - South Feb. 12-14 • Orlando, Florida 2010 U.S. Amateur Team - West Feb. 13-15 • Woodland Hills, California 2010 National Junior High Championship April 9-11 • Minneapolis, Minnesota 2010 Senior High Championship April 16-18 • Columbus, Ohio 2010 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 7-9 • Atlanta, Georgia 2010 U.S. Open July 31-Aug. 8 • Irvine, California 2010 U.S. Senior Open August 22-27 • Boca Raton, Florida 2010 National Scholastic (K-12) Dec. 10-12 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida 2011 National Junior High Championship April 15-17 • Columbus, Ohio 2011 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 6-8 • Dallas, Texas 2011 National Scholastic (K-12) Dec. 9-11 • Dallas, Texas

Note: Organizers previously awarded options for USCF National Events must still submit proposals (including sample budgets) for their events. 2012 Senior High Championship April 13-15 • Minneapolis, Minnesota 2012 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 11-13 • Nashville, Tennessee 2012 National Scholastic (K-12) Nov. 30-Dec. 2 • Orlando, Florida 2013 SuperNationals V TBA • Nashville, Tennessee 2013 National Scholastic (K-12) Dec. 13-15 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida

Overdue Bids Bids on the following tournaments are past deadline and will be considered immediately: 2009 U.S. Masters 2009 Collegiate Final Four 2010 U.S. Masters 2010 U.S. Amateur Team (East, North) 2010 U.S. Class Championship 2010 U.S. Amateur (East, North, South, West) 2010 U.S. Game/60 2010 U.S. Game/30 2010 U.S. Game/10 (QC) 2010 U.S. Game/15 (QC) 2010 U.S. Junior Chess Congress 2010 U.S. Junior Closed 2010 U.S. Junior Open 2010 National Youth Action 2011 U.S. Open*

Bidding Deadlines Please contact the National Office if you are interested in bidding for a National Event. The USCF recommends that bids be submitted according to the following schedule. However, bids may be considered prior to these dates. *USCF reserves the right to decline all bids and organize the event itself.

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

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ATTENTION AFFILIATES The United States Chess Federation has partnered with R.V. Nuccio & Associates Insurance Brokers, Inc. to provide USCF affiliates with affordable annual liability and short term event insurance. The liability coverage is available for approximately $265 per year for a $1,000,000 limit of insurance. Also available is contents property and bonding insurance. For more information, please go to www.rvnuccio.com/chess-federation. html. For event insurance, please go to www.rvnuccio.com. TheTournament Announcements on the following pages are provided for the convenience of USCF members and for informational purposes only. Unless expressly indicated otherwise, neither the U.S. Chess Federation nor Chess Life warrants the accuracy of anything contained in these Tournament Announcements. Those interested in additional information about or having questions concerning any of these tournaments are directed to contact the organizer listed. Chess Life will exercise all due diligence in providing accurate typesetting of non-camera-ready copy but assumes no responsibility for errors made in such work. SUBMISSIONS: If possible e-mail your tla to: [email protected] (Joan DuBois). For tla deadline schedule, formatting help and Grand Prix information see April 2009 pg. 50-51 or check www. uschess.org/tla/grprixstdarc.php and click on a WCL GP Summary. Payment can be done online through the TD/Affiliate area or sent to: U.S. Chess, TLA Dept., PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.

Nationals All tournaments listed in Tournament Life are USCF rated. USCF MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EVENTS. If not a member, add dues to advance entry fee or pay them with entry at site. Aug. 22, Illinois World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 2009 U.S. Game/60 Championship 4R-SS, G/60 - $5000 b/150 fully paid entries. Holiday Inn Chicago - North Shore. 5300 W. Touhy Ave., Skokie, IL 60077 (see tournament website for directions). Free Parking. In 6 sections: M/X: $500-300-200-100Top U2400, U2300, U2200 each $150, Class A: $350-250-150-75, Class B: $350-250-150-75, Class C: $300-200-100-50, Class D: $300-200-100-50, Class E/F/U: $200-100-50-25, Unrated Prize - Book Prize Only. Unrated must play in M/X or Class E/F/U sections. Trophies for 1st - 3rd place, scholastic players with non-cash prize entry fee. $10 extra to play 1 class up. Entry Fee: $80 adult, $40 scholastic (K-12), $20 anyone but not eligible for cash prizes thru 6pm 8/21. Onsite $100 adults, $60 scholastic (K-12), $20 anyone but not eligible for cash prizes. $5 refund at tournament with proof of ICA membership (Scholastic entries count as 1/2 entry, No-cash prize entry does not count towards based on) - non-cash prize entry fee not eligible for any discounts. SPECIAL COMBINED ENTRY FEES: Discounted Entry fees available for registering for the US G/60 & US G/30 ($5 off each tournament) - non-cash prize entry fee not eligible for any discounts. SPECIAL OFFER FOR ILLINOIS OPEN STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS: Enter either the US G/60 or US G/30 and receive a $5 rebate for your early registration to the 2009 Illinois Open State Championships. For more information visit www.chessforlife.com. Mail payments (made payable to) and registration information to: North American Chess Association, 2516 North Waukegan Road Suite 342, Glenview, IL 60025. Byes: One 1/2 pt bye allowed. Rd 4 bye must commit by start of Rd 2. Re-enter with 1/2pt bye in Rd 1 for $50. August Supplement used. Schedule: Reg: 8:15am - 9:15am, Rds 10, 12:30, 3, 5:30. Hotel rates: $99+tax, 847-679-8900. Mention North American Chess Association rate. Reserve by 8/7 or as available only. Car rental: Hertz, 800-654-3131, Hertz CDP#178693. BRING BOARDS, SETS, CLOCKS - NONE PROVIDED. USCF membership required. NS,NC,W. Information: Sevan A. Muradian 888.80.CHESS or [email protected]. For further information, online registration and payment please visit www.nachess.org/g60. Checkmate Chess Supply Co will be bookseller onsite. Support local Illinois Organizers.

Aug. 23, Illinois World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2009 U.S. Game/30 Championship 5R-SS, G/30 - $2500 b/150 fully paid entries. Holiday Inn Chicago - North Shore. 5300 W. Touhy Ave., Skokie, IL 60077 (see tournament website for directions). Free Parking. In 6 sections: M/X: $250-150-100-50 Top U2400, U2300, U2200 each $75, Class A: $175-125-75-40, Class B: $175-125-75-40, Class C: $150100-50-25, Class D: $$150-100-50-25, Class E/F/U: $100-50-25-25, Unrated Prize - Book Prize Only. Unrated must play in M/X or Class E/F/U sections.Trophies for 1st - 3rd place, scholastic players with non-cash prize entry fee. $10 extra to play 1 class up. Entry Fee: $60 adult, $40 scholastic (K-12), $20 anyone but not eligible for cash prizes thru 6pm 8/22. Onsite $80 adults, $60 scholastic (K-12), $20 anyone but not eligible for cash prizes. $5 refund at tournament with proof of ICA membership (Scholastic entries count as 1/2 entry, No-cash prize entry does not count towards based on) - non-cash prize entry fee not eligible for any discounts. SPECIAL COMBINED ENTRY FEES: Discounted Entry fees available for registering for the US G/60 & US G/30 ($5 off


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SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING AUGUST 1-14

Tournament Life each tournament) - non-cash prize entry fee not eligible for any discounts. SPECIAL OFFER FOR ILLINOIS OPEN STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS: Enter either the US G/60 or US G/30 and receive a $5 rebate for your early registration to the 2009 Illinois Open State Championships. For more information visit www.chessforlife.com. Mail payments (made payable to) and registration information to: North American Chess Association, 2516 North Waukegan Road Suite 342, Glenview, IL 60025. Byes: One 1/2 pt bye allowed. Rd 4 bye must commit by start of Rd 2. Re-enter with 1/2pt bye in Rd 1 for $50. August Supplement used. Schedule: Reg: 8:15am - 9:15am, Rds: 10, 12:30, 3, 5:30. Hotel rates: $99+tax, 847-679-8900. Mention North American Chess Association rate. Reserve by 8/7 or as available only. Car rental: Hertz, 800-654-3131, Hertz CDP#178693. BRING BOARDS, SETS, CLOCKS - NONE PROVIDED. USCF membership required. NS,NC,W. Information: Sevan A. Muradian 888.80.CHESS or [email protected]. For further information, online registration and payment please visit www.nachess.org/g30. Checkmate Chess Supply Co will be bookseller onsite. Support local Illinois Organizers.

Sept. 5-7, Oklahoma 1st U.S. Women’s Open $$1600 Gtd. plus class prizes based on entries. G/90(+30). 6-SS. Tulsa Best WesternTrade Winds Central, 3141 E. Skelly Dr.,Tulsa, OK 74105. (918)749-5561. Prizes: $1600 (Gtd): 1st- $800 + trophy + probable invitation to 2010 U.S. Women’s Championship; 2nd - $500, 3rd - $300, class prizes as entries permit. Eligibility: Open to all female USCF members. EF: $80 if rec’d by 8/30; $90 at site. Reg.: 9:00-10:15am. Rds.: 10:30-3, 9-2, 9-2.Tiebreaks after round 6 if necessary. Byes: One 1/2-point bye available if req. by rd 3. HR: $55, (800) 685-4564. Free wireless. www.tradewindstulsa.com. Side Events: Sat: Blitz Fischer-Random Pizza Bash. Sun: River Spirit Casino. Info: FKimBerry@ AOL.com. Website: www.geocities.com/okiechessfestival Adv Entry: Cks payable to: Frank K. Berry, 402 S. Willis, Stillwater, OK 74074. FIDE rated. NS. W. WCL JGP.

Sept. 5-7, Oklahoma 2009 U.S. Senior Open $$4000 Gtd. G/90(+30). 6-SS. Tulsa Best Western Trade Winds Central, 3141 E. Skelly Dr.,Tulsa, OK 74105. (918)749-5561. Eligibility: Open to all USCF members born before Sept. 5, 1959. Prizes: $4000 (Gtd): 1st-$1200 (+trophy+invitation into 2010 U.S. Championship, if eligible.) 2nd-$700, 3rd$400, 4th-$300, 5th-$200. U2100: $200-100, U1900: $200-100, U1700 $200-100, U1500/UNR: $200-100. Trophies:Trophies for 1st, 2nd, and each champion for ages 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74 and over 75. World Senior Entrant: Top finisher born on or before January 1, 1949 receives: 1) official USCF entrant in the World Senior Championship, and 2) a $500.00 USCF stipend toward expenses there (Condino, Italy from Oct 27 to Nov 8) which includes room and board by host country. EF: $90 if rec’d by 8/30; $105 at site. Reg.: 9:0010:15am. Rds.: 10:30-3, 9-2, 9-2. Tiebreaks after round 6 if necessary. Byes: One 1/2-point bye available if req. by rd 3. HR: $55, (800) 685-4564. Free wireless. www.tradewindstulsa.com. Side Events: Sat: Blitz Fischer-Random Pizza Bash. Sun: River Spirit Casino. Info: [email protected]. Website: www.geocities.com/okiechessfestival. Adv Entry: Cks payable to: Frank K. Berry, 402 S. Willis, Stillwater, OK 74074. FIDE rated. NS.W.

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A Heritage Event! Oct. 10-12, 50th Annual U.S. Armed Forces Open 6SS, Rds 1-2 G/90, Rds 3-4 G/2, Rds 5-6 30/90 SD/1 Site: American Civil War Museum, 297 Steinwehr Ave., Gettysburg, PA. EF: FREE! Must check in by 0845 on Sat. to be paired. Reg.: Sat. 0800-0845, Rds.: Sat. 0900-1230-1600, Sun. 0900-1400, Mon. 0900. Two half-point byes available. Open to all Active Duty, Reserve, Military Retirees, Cadets, Midshipmen, and ROTC (with DOD ID) who have a USCF Membership. Prizes: Trophies & Plaques to Top Service Team,Top 3 overall players,Top player of each DoD Service on Active Duty,Top Reservist, Top Retiree, Top 3 Cadets/Midshipmen/ROTC, Top 2 each Class AD and below, Biggest Upset, and other prizes. Awards Ceremony: Monday Oct. 12 after Rd 6. HR: 2 choices, must call hotels directly by Sep. 9 and ask for Chess Tournament Rate. Comfort Inn, 3301 Black Gap Rd., Chambersburg, PA 717263-6655, $59.40 per night. Or, Days Inn, 865 York Road, Gettysburg, PA 717-334-0030, $111.60 per night. Use website to enter www.usmilitarychess.org, or mail to Mike Hoffpauir, ATTN: USAFO, 405 Hounds Chase, Yorktown, VA 23693 with Rank, Name, USCF ID#, Branch of Service. Send all questions to: Mike Hoffpauir, [email protected], 757-846-4805.

Nov. 20-22, Illinois 2009 National Youth Action 9SS, G/30, DoubleTree Hotel, 1909 Spring Road, Oak Brook, Illinois, 60523,Tel: 1-630-472-6000 (1.800.222.TREE); $89 single/double/triple/quad. Four Sections – K-3, K-6, K-9, K-12. Entry Fee: $40 by 10/25/09 USPS (or $40 on-line by 10/25, 6 pm); $60 by 11/13/09 USPS (or $60 on-line 10/25/09, after 6 pm - 11/13/09, 6 pm); $75 USPS 11/13 –11/17 (or $75 on-line 11/13/09, 6:01 pm – 11/19, 6 pm); $75 by 11/20/09 6 PM on site (on-site entries after 11/20/09 6 PM can not be guaranteed pairing for round 1, instead they may receive ½ point bye round 1). Checks payable only to Chess Central. Awards: Individual: 1st –20th Place in each section (K-3, K-6, K-9, K-12). Class Awards: 1st-3rd Place, K-3: U800, U600, U400, Unr. K-6: U1000, U800, U600, Unr. K-9: U1200, U1000, U800, Unr. K-12: U1400, U1200, U1000, Unr. Teams: 1st-10th Place in each section. Special Sportsmanship trophy! Schedule: Opening Ceremony Sat., Nov 21 at 9:30 am. Rds. 1-5 Sat., 10 am, 12 noon, 2 pm, 3:30 pm & 5 pm. Rds. 6-9 Sun., 10 am, 12 noon, 2 pm & 3:30 pm. Side Events: Bughouse Tournament – Fri, Nov 20, 6:30 pm. EF $20 per team ($10 for individuals and we help you create a team). On site registration only. Registration closes at 5 pm, Fri, Nov 20. One section only, K-12. Bughouse Awards: 1st-10th Place. Blitz Tournament – Sat, Nov 21, K-6 & K-12, 6:30 pm, EF $15 USPS/on-line by 10/25, 6 pm, $20 USPS from10/26 – 11/17; $20 on-line 10/26, 6:01 pm 11/19, 6pm; $25 on site. Registration closes at 5 pm, Sat, Nov 21. Blitz Awards: Individual: 1st-20th in each section. Team: 1st-10th in each section. Awards Ceremony for Blitz and Bughouse: Sun, 9 am. NYA Awards Ceremony: Sun, Nov 22, 5:30-7 pm. Club Teams allowed! Master simuls and analysis scheduled. Hotel Info: DoubleTree Hotel, Oakbrook, IL (hotel registration code: NYA) www.doubletreeoakbrook.com, or http://doubletree.hilton. com/en/dt/groups/personalized/CHIOADT-NYA-20091120/index.jhtml (630) 472-6020 or 630 472-6000 (1.800.222.TREE), HR single/double/triple/quad $89. Enter on line (except Bughouse) at http://nya2009.com. Checks payable only to Chess Central (no checks to USCF or Mike Zacate): Mail registrations with name-contact info-grade-birthday-team/school-uscf ID & exp.-

address-city-zip-e-mail address-coach name & contact info to Mike Zacate (Please, no checks payable to Mike or USCF), 9401 Birch, Mokena, IL 60448. Updated info/Hotels/On-Line Entries: http://nya2009.com. $10 service charge for on-site section/roster changes, and all refunds. Bookdealers scheduled.

Grand Prix A State Championship Event! Aug. 14-16 or 15-16, Arkansas World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 Arkansas State Championship 6 SS. Clarion Inn, 1255 S. Shiloh Dr. (= I-540 & 6th St.), Fayetteville, AR. EF: $45 (rcv’d by 8/13), $50 at door. 2 Schedules: I. Reg.: Fri. 5-5:45 p.m. Rds.: Fri. 6; Sat. 9-2-6:30; Sun. 9-1:30. G/120. II. Reg.: Sat. 8:30-9:15 a.m. Rds.: 9:3011:45, G/60; then merge with Sched. I (Rds. 3-6). Prizes (b. 40): $400-250(Top 2 prizes gtd. $300-$200); A,B,C,D $200 each class (min. 3/class or prize = $75); E & below $100; Unr $50; Upset $50. Plaques to Ark. winners. 1/2 pt. bye avail Rds 1-5 (commit before Rd. 3 pairings). Hotel: Clarion Inn (479) 521-1166, $72 (1-4). USCF & ACA memb. OSA. NS, NC, W. TD & Ent: Les Kline, 801 Rush Dr., Fayetteville, AR 72701; email: [email protected]. WCL JPG.

Aug. 15, Georgia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2009 Atlanta August G/45 Championship 4-SS, G/45, Atlanta Chess Center, 3155A East Ponce de Leon Avenue, Scottdale, Georgia 30079. In 2 sections: Open: EF: $22 if received by 8/13; $25 at site. $500 GUARANTEED. $150-100-70, u1900, u1700, u1500 each $60. Under 1300: EF: $16 if received by 8/13; $19 at site. Unrateds play for FREE!Trophies to top 3, top 2 under 1100, under 900, top Unrated. Reg.: Ends 10:30 a.m. Rounds: 11-1-3-5. Info: (404)-377-4400 or [email protected]. Enter: Same as above. NS.

Aug. 15, New Jersey World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 2nd Annual Greater Pitman Open Chess Championship 4SS, G/60 t/d5, Pitman Manor, 535 N. Oak Ave., Pitman, NJ 08071. Free parking! EF: $39 via mail by 8/8, $41 online (www.atkmchesssets.com/pitmanopen) by 8/14, $49 cash or $51 for Visa/MC onsite. GMs/IMs/WIMs/WGMs free; $39 from prize. Prizes guaranteed: $425-250-225-200-175-150-100. $100 clear-cut winner bonus. Min. guarantee of $100, to top Expert, A, B, C, $50 to top D, E/below. Top only – No duplicates, No Pooling. Win larger of duplicate prizes. Players with less than 26 rated games are NOT eligible for class prizes. Trophy to top under 13 years old. Rds.: 10am, then ASAP. Lunch break after rd. #2.Two 1/2 pt. byes allowed (rds 1-3) if reqstd with EF. ENT: All the King’s Men, 62 S. Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08071, 856-582-8222. INFO: Stephen Dick, [email protected]. MUST BRING YOUR OWN EQUIPMENT! WCL JGP.

Aug. 15, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) New York Summer Game/45! 5-SS, G/45, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W 10 St., bet. 5-6 Ave., NYC:

uschess.org

845-569-9969. EF: $40, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free! $$ 840 b/42 paid entries, minimum half each prize Gtd: $$ 300-200-115, top U2200/unr. $125, U2000 $100. Limit 2 byes, commit by 2 pm. Re-entry $20. CCA ratings may be used. Rds.: 12-23:45-5:30-7:15 pm. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 8/13; $10 extra to “enter” by phone!

A State Championship Event! Aug. 15, Oklahoma World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Oklahoma Quick Chess Championship (QC) GTD $450. 6SS, One Section, G/25. Owasso Rejoice Christian School, NE corner of Hwy 169 & 106th Street North, Owasso, OK (10 miles north of Tulsa). Reg.: 9-9:30am. Rds.: 10, 11:15, 1:30, 3:00, 4:30, 6:00. One 1/2 point bye in Rds 1-5. Prizes: $$GTD 150-125-100-75, 1st Place Championship Plaque &Title, $75 Special Performance place prize (see OCA website for details). EF: $25 at door, Oklahoma Chess Assn membership included. Contact: Chuck Unruh, PO Box 340, Collinsville, OK 74021, 918-371-2978 or 800-460-2794, chunruh@ aol.com. Info: www.ochess.org.

Aug. 15, Virginia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2009 Bill Bochman Memorial ROUNDS: 3-Round Swiss System Game/90. SITE: St. John’s Lutheran Church, 4608 Brambleton Ave. SW, Roanoke, VA 24018. GUARANTEED PRIZES:Top Section: $125-$100-$75. Additional Sections: If Octagonals, Each is guaranteed $125-$100, If Hexagonals, Each is guaranteed $100-$75, If Quads, Each is guaranteed $100. ENTRY FEE: If received by Aug 14, $30.00. At site, $40.00. REGISTRATION: 6-9 pm on 8/14; 8:30-9:30 am on 8/15. ROUNDS: 10-2-6. BYES: One only per tournament; must request before 1st round begins. ADVANCE ENTRIES: Roanoke Valley Chess Club, P.O. Box 14143, Roanoke, VA 24038. PHONE: (540) 725-9525 or (276) 632-2850. E-MAIL: [email protected]. WEB PAGE: roanokechess.com. NO SMOKING. NO COMPUTERS.

Aug. 18, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) St. John’s Masters at the Marshall Chess Club 4SS, G/30.ThirdTues. of every month. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open to players rated over 2100 (plus all players scoring 2.5 or more at any CCNY at MCCThursday 4 Rated GamesTonight! since the prior month’s SJM) EF: $40, members $30, GMs $10 (returned on completion of tournament). For each event, money added to prize fund by the sponsors, St. John’s University, and other generous patrons. Top three prizes guaranteed. $$G 300-200-100. Top U2400 and Top U2300 prizes. Special prize for biggest upset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:159:30-10:45pm. One bye available, rd. 1 or 4 only; declare at registration.

Aug. 21-23 or 22-23, California Northern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 60 (enhanced) Central California Open 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75), Ramada University Hotel, 324 E. Shaw Ave., Fresno, CA 93710 (CA-99 to CA-41 to Shaw Ave). Cosponsored by Fresno Chess Club. $$ 15,000 based on 150 paid entries (re-entries count half), minimum $10,000 (2/3 of each prize) guaranteed. In 4 sections: Open:

uschess.org

$2000-1000-500-300, top U2200 $800-400. FIDE. Under 2000: $1500-700-400200, top U1800 $800-400. Under 1600: $1200-700-400-200, top U1400 $600-300. Under 1200: $1000-500-300-200, top U1000 $400-200. Unrated may enter any section, with prize limits: U1200 $100, U1600 $300, U2000 $500. Balance goes to next player(s) in line. EF: 3-day $113, 2-day $112 mailed by 8/13, all $115 online at chesstour.com by 8/18, $120 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 8/18 (entry only, no questions), $130 at site. Mailed EF $10 less to Fresno Chess Club members. FREE TO UNRATED in U1200 section if paying 1 year USCF dues with entry. GMs free, $100 deducted from prize. All: Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. No checks at site, credit cards OK. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds Fri 7 pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds Sat 112:30-6, Sun 9-3:15. Byes: OK all; must commit before rd 2. HR: $89-89, 800-241-0756, 559-224-4040, request chess rate, reserve by 8/7 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

Aug. 22, Illinois World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 2009 U.S. Game/60 Championship See Nationals.

Aug. 22, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2009 Lehigh Valley LVCA Aug Championship 4SS, G/90. St. James Church, 11th & Tilghman Sts., Allentown, PA 18102. EF: $40, LVCA Members $30. $$200-100 guaranteed to top 2, more per entries. Up to two 1/2 pt byes with advanced notice (if declared before round 3). REG.: Ends 10am. RDS.: 10-1:30-4:45-7:45. Ent/Info: Checks payable to: Bruce Davis, 1208 Linden St., Fl 1, Bethlehem, PA 18018. 610-625-0467 or [email protected] or www.lehighvalleychess.org/. Reg by mail by 8/17 to enter to win a Saitek Competition Chess Clock. WCL JGP.

Aug. 22, Tennessee World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 17th Battle of Murfreesboro 5-SS, rd.1 G/30, rd.2 G/60, rds.3, 4, 5 G/75. Grace Lutheran Church, 811 E. Clark Blvd., Murfreesboro, TN. EF: $25 by 8/20, $30 at site. $$ (1160, top 2 G, class prizes b/6 entries per class, else proportional): $200-120, X, A, B, C, D, E/below, Unr. each $120. Reg.: 8:00-8:45am. Rds.: 9:00-10:00-12:30-3:00-5:30. Ent: Rutherford County Chess Club, P.O. Box 1593, Murfreesboro, TN 37133. http://rccc.us/ (with map to site), [email protected] 615-895-7989 NS. NC. W. WCL JGP for Rd. 5 games only.

Aug. 23, Illinois World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2009 U.S. Game/30 Championship See Nationals.

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

A Heritage Event! Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, District of Columbia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 120 (enhanced) 41st annual Atlantic Open 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75), Washington Westin Hotel, 1400 M St NW atThomas Circle, Washington, DC 20005. $$G 20,000 GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND. In 7 sections. Open: $2000-1000-500-300, clear or tiebreak 1st $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr $1200-600. FIDE. Under 2100: $1500-700-400200. Under 1900: $1500-700-400-200. Under 1700: $1500-700-400-200. Under 1500: $1300-700-400-200. Under 1300: $1200-600-300-200. Under 1000: $400-300-200-100. Unrated may not win over $100 in U1000, $200 U1300, $400 U1500, $500 U1700, $600 U1900, or $700 U2100. Top 6 sections EF: 3day $103, 2-day $102 mailed by 8/20, all $104 online at chesstour.com by 8/25, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 8/25 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. Under 1000 EF: All $60 less. All sections: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry $60, not available in Open Section. GMs free, $90 deducted from prize. FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED in U1000 or U1300 Section if paid with 1 year USCF dues. All: Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entryonline at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 10-4:15. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat. 10 am, rds Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 10-4:15. Bye: all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $96-96, 202-429-1700, reserve by 8/7 or rate may increase. Regular rate at this luxury hotel is over $200! Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Parking: $8/day to 2 am or $16/day overnight; garage has limited space. Ent: Continental Chess Association, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, Georgia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2009 Atlanta Chess Center Open 5-SS, Rd. 1 G/2 hours, Rds. 2-5 30/90, SD/1. (2-day Rd. 1 G/90). Atlanta Chess Center, 3155A East Ponce de Leon Avenue, Scottdale, Georgia 30079. $2700 b/89, 50% GTD. In 3 sections: Open: $350-250; u2200- $200-100, u2000- $200-100. Under 1800: $300-200; u1600- $200-100. Under 1400: $300-200; u1200- $200. All, EF: $42 if rec’d. by 8/26; $46 at site. Re-entry: $25. Bye, all rounds (limit 2), must commit before 1st round. 3-day schedule: Reg.: ends 7:15 p.m. Rds.: 7:45, 2-7:30, 10-3:45. 2-day schedule: Reg.: ends 10 a.m.


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Tournament Life


Rds.: 1st at 10:30 a.m., then merges with 3-day. Hotel/Info: (404)-377-4400 or [email protected]. Enter: Same as above. NS. WCL JGP.

Aug. 29-30 or 30, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Marshall CC August GP! 4SS, 30/90, SD/1; Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $45, Members $25. $$625 Gtd: 250-100-75, U2200/Unrated $100, U2000 $100. Reg. ends 15 min. before game. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2-day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day; 1-day, (rds 1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun; both merge rd 3. Limit 2 byes, request at entry. NO RE-ENTRY. May be limited to first 60 players. WCL JGP.

Aug. 29-30, Texas World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) DFW FIDE Open V 5SS, G/90 with 30 second increment. Dallas Chess Club, 212 S Cottonwood Dr. #A, Richardson, TX 75080. One Section $$550G. Open: This section is FIDE rated but uses USCF Rules. $400-$100-$50. EF: $50, Juniors (U19)/Senior/Hcap $30, plus $5 non-DCC membership fee if applicable. Registration: 9:45 -10:15 am. Rds.: Sat 10:45 - 3:10 - 7:16, Sun 10:45-3:10. One Bye allowed if requested before rd 2, withdrawals are not eligible for prizes. Ent: Dallas Chess Club, see address above. Info: 214-632-9000, [email protected] NS. NC. FIDE. WCL JGP.

Sept. 3, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight! 4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 West 10 St., bet. 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. EF: $35, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), may be limited to 1st 36 entries. $$ 560 Gtd: $$ 200-110-50, Top U2200/unr $105, U2000 $95. Limit 2 byes (1 bye for U2000), commit by 8:15. Reentry $15. CCA ratings may be used. Class pairings OK rd. 4. Rds 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible. EFs $5 EXTRA IF UNDER 10 MINUTES BEFORE GAME!

A State Championship Event! Sept. 4-7 or 5-7, Louisiana World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20 2009 Louisiana State Championship 7SS, G/150. Web: Complete details at www.louisianachess.org. Site: Drury Inn, 7939 Essen Park, Baton Rouge, LA 70809-7438. 4-day schedule: Reg. Fri. 5:306:45pm. Rounds: Fri. 7:00pm, Sat. 11am & 6pm, Sun. 10am & 6pm, Mon. 10am & 6pm. Business meeting: Mon. 3:30pm. 3-day schedule: Reg. Sat. 8:309:45am. Rounds: Sat. 10am & 1:30pm, G/90. Merge with 4-day in Round 3. Byes: Up to two 1/2 pt byes available if requested before rd 2, but byes for both rd 6 AND 7 is not permitted. Prizes: $4500 b/80, 50% Gtd. Open: $1000-600-400, U2000: $375-225; U1800: $350-200; U1600: $300-150; U1400: $250-125; U1200: $200-$100; Unrated: $150-75. EF: $60 if received by 8/31, $70 at site. LCA membership required ($10 adult/$5 scholastic), OSA. Louisiana State Blitz Championship: 5SS, G/5. Play each opponent twice. Sun. 3:30pm. $10 EF. Prizes: $250 b/40. $100-75-50-25. HR: $79 king x1, $84 queen x2. Free parking, free continental breakfast, and free evening cocktails. Reserve by 8/20

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or rates may increase. Reserve online at www.druryhotels.com, click on Book it Fast, then enter group number 2066526; to reserve by phone, call 1-800-3250720, specify the Baton Rouge location, and reference Louisiana Chess Association. Entry/Info: Entry forms at www.louisianachess.org. Checks payable to Alex Steger, 14946 Currency Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70817, [email protected], (225) 933-9548. NS, NC. WCL JGP.

A State Championship Event! Sept. 4-7, Michigan World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 2009 Michigan Open $$3775 GTD. 7-SS. Best Western Lansing West, 7711 West Saginaw Highway, Lansing, MI 48917. Saginaw Hwy M-43 at I-96. Rooms: $80.99+tax by Aug 5, 517-627-8471 or 877-772-6100 and specify MCA room block. Where were you 20 years ago? Prizes for best combined scores (1989 + 2009) 3 Sections: OPEN (anyone), RESERVE (U1800), BOOSTER (U1400). Rds.: (4-day) Fri, Sep 4: 7:30pm; Sat 11am, 6pm; Sun 10am, 7pm; Mon 10am, 4:30pm. (3-day) Sat, Sep 5: 11:30am, 2:30pm. (2-day) Sun, Sep 6: 10am, 11:30am, 1pm, 2:30pm. Up to 2 1/2-point byes available in rds 1-6, must request prior to rd 4. TC: (4day) 40/2, SD1; (3-day) rds 1, 2: G/75 (merge w/4-day for rounds 3-7); (2-day) rds 1-4: G/30 (merge w/ 4-day for rounds 5-7). EF: Masters are free; Advance (by Mon, Aug 31) OPEN: 4-day $54, 3-day $53, 2-day $52, site $65. RESERVE: 4-day $44, 3-day $43, 2-day $42, site $55. BOOSTER: 4-day $34, 3-day $33, 2-day $32, site $45. Juniors (U18) $10 off. Participants of the 1989 event $5 off. Re-entry allowed for 2-day advanced price. Please make checks payable to MCA. USCF memb req’d. MCA memb req’d for Michigan residents. www.michess.org. Reg.: Advance Jennifer Skidmore, 4151 Chester Dr., Apt. 211, Ypsilanti, MI 48197. [email protected]. 734-678-0463. Site (4day) Fri 5:30-6:29pm. (3-day) Sat 9:30-10:29am. (2-day) Sun 8:30-9:29am. PRIZES: $$: $3775 GTD. Trophies to all place-winners. OPEN: 1st $500, 2nd $250, 3rd $175, U2200: $150-$100, U2100: $150-$100, U2000: $125-$75, U1900: $125-$75. RESERVE: 1st $350, 2nd $200, 3rd $125, U1700: $100$50, U1600: $100-$50, U1500: $100-$50. BOOSTER: 1st $200, 2nd $150, 3rd $100, U1300: $75-$50, U1200: $75-$50, U700+UNR $75-$50. MCA Membership Meeting: 4pm Sun, Sep 6. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! A State Championship Event! Sept. 4-7, 5-7 or 6-7, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 80 (enhanced) 131st annual NY State Championship Out of state welcome. 6SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option except in Open Section, rds 1-3 G/45), Albany Marriott, 189 Wolf Road, Albany 12205 (Thruway Exit 24, I-87 north to Wolf Rd, Exit 4). Luxurious hotel with indoor/outdoor pool, sauna, fitness center, free parking, free airport shuttle, many restaurants in area. $$G 13,000. In 4 sections. Open: $1600-800-400-200, top U2300/Unr $700, U2200 $600, U2100 $500. FIDE. Under 2000: $1200-600-300-200, top U1800 $700350. Under 1600: $1000-500-300-150, top U1400 $600-300. Under 1200: $800-400-200-100, top U1000 $300-150. Unrated may not win over $100 in U1200, $300 in U1600, or $500 in U2000. All: 1 year NYSCA membership to NY residents paying EF who are not members. EF: 4-day $99, 3-day $98, 2-day $97 mailed by 8/27, all $100 online at chesstour.com by 9/2, $105 phoned to 406-

896-2038 by 9/2 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED in U1200 if paying 1 year USCF dues. All: Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entryonline at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Re-entry $70, all sections but Open. GMs free, $80 deducted from prize. No checks at site, credit cards OK. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11-6, Sun 11-6, Mon 9-3:15. 4-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 6 pm, Sun 11-6, Mon 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sun. 10:30 am, rds Sun 11-1:30-3:30-6, Mon 9-3:15, no 2-day schedule in Open. Bye: all, limit 2, must commit before rd 2. HR: $96-96, 800443-8952, 518-458-8444, reserve by 8/21 or rate may increase. NYSCA meeting 9 am Sun. Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! Sept. 4-7 or 5-7, Texas World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 80 (enhanced) 75th Annual Southwest Open 7SS, DFW Marriott Airport South, 4151 Centreport Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas, 76155. $$ 10,000 GTD, 3 Sections and scholastic side events: Open (This section is FIDE rated but uses USCF rules.) Rds. 1-3 G/90 with 30 sec. increment, rds. 4-7 G/120 with 30 sec. increment: $$ 1,500-800-400, 2300-2399 $500, U2200 $700-300. Reserve: Opened Under 2000 & unrated. Rds.: 1-7 30/90 SD/1, rd. 1 of three day is G/120 (deduct 5 min. for delay). $$ 1000-500-250. B $$ 600-300-150, C 600-300-150, Unrated $200. Unrateds only eligible for unrated prize. Novice: Open to Under 1400. Rds.: 1-7 30/90 SD/1, rd. 1 of three day is G/120 (deduct 5 min. for delay). $600-300-150, U1200 $400, U1000 $300. ALL: TCA membership required. Other states accepted. . EF: $79 if received by 8/26, $89 at site. $68 Junior(U19) if received by 8/26 else $78, Senior(over 65)/Handicapped/ additional family participant $48 if receive by 8/26 else $60. Re-entry $50 not available in Open section. Add $5 for CC phone entries; prereg requires pre-paymt. After 9/2/09 all registration and changes on site only; all changes including withdrawals, $10 after 9/2/09. Online registration: www.active.com/event_detail.cfm?event_id=1754751. Note that Active.com charges a small fee. 4 day: Reg.: Friday 9/4, 6:15 pm-7:15. Rds.: Fri.: 7:45, Sat: 2:30 pm & 8:00, Sun.: 12:30 pm & 6:15, Mon.: 9 am & 2:45 pm. 3 day: Reg. Sat. 9/5 9-9:30 am, Rd. 1 at 10 am then merge with 4 day. Foreign Unrated must play in Championship section. Registrations that do not indicate 4 or 3 day schedule will be put in the 3 day. HR: $89/89/89/89. 800-228-9290 reserve by 8/14 and ask for Southwest Open Chess rate. Free Parking. Up to two 1/2 pt byes available if requested before end of rd. 2, but byes for both rd. 6 AND 7 not permitted.TCA Meeting at 10 am on 9/6 in the Centreport Ballroom. K-12 Scholastic on Saturday, 9/5. 5-SS, Rds. 1-3 G/30, rds. 4-5 G/45, EF: $29 by 8/26, $40 after; Pre-reg. requires pre-payment. After 9/2/09 all registration and changes on site only; all changes $10 after 8/26/09. No refunds after 9/2/09, $10 handling fee for refunds before 8/26/09. Entries do not count toward base in Championship and Amateur. Registration 8:00-8:40 am, Rd. 1 at 9:30 am, rest ASAP with small lunch break. Sections: K-12 Championship and K-12 U750. Prizes: Trophies to top 12 individuals, five teams in each sec-

uschess.org

tion. K-12 U750 also top three unrateds. Medals to plus scores who do not win a trophy. Ent: Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley,TX 76036. Info: Barb Swafford, 214-632-9000, [email protected] www.swchess.com NS. NC. W. FIDE. WCL JGP.

Sept. 5, New Hampshire World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 New England Blitz Championship (QC) A NH Grand Prix Event. 5 Rd. DBLSS, Holiday Inn Nashua, 9 Northeastern Blvd., Nashua NH 03062. Blitz rule #3A is in effect. EF: $20 for players in any NEO section, $25 otherwise. $$GTD: $200-100. U2000 $100, U1600 $100. Reg.: Registration 8:00-8:45 PM. Rds.: Round 1 9 PM then ASAP. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49 Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex Relyea relyea@opera mail.com. www.relyeachess.com. NS W.

Sept. 5-6, Minnesota World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Region 6 Open Championship Oak Ridge Hotel, 1 Oak Ridge Drive, Chaska, MN 55318. In 2 Sections, Premier: 4SS, G/90, inc/30, EF: $50 by 8/28/2009, $60 at site. $$b/30: $500-250. U2200 $100, U2000 $100. Reserve: 4SS, G/90, inc/30, Open to 1699 & under. $40 by 8/28/2009, $50 at site. $$b/55: $350-175. U1600 $60, U1400 $60, U1200 $60, U1000 $60. ALL: Memb. Req’d: $18. OSA. Any Region 6 state acceptable (MN, WI, ND, SD). Class prizes based on 5 per class. ENT: MSCA, PO Box 582754, MPLS, MN 55458-2754. INFO: www.minnesotachess.org. HR: $79 1.952. 368.3100 Oak Ridge Hotel, 1 Oak Ridge Drive, Chaska, MN 55318. WCL JGP.

Sept. 5-6, Missouri World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20 Saint Louis District Championship 5SS, G/120, Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108. EF: $60, $50 for annual members of the club. MCA Membership Req’d from $5. OSA. PF $$GTD $2500: 1st overall $650, 2nd overall $475, 1st each A, B, C, D, U1200 $275. Reg: 9-9:50, Rds: Sat 10, 2, 6 Sun 10, 2. Accelerated pairings used. One 1/2 point bye if declared before round 1. Ent: 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108 314-361-CHESS, [email protected]. WCL JGP.

Sept. 5-7, California Northern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 Labor Day Chess Festival 6-SS, 30/90, SD/1 (2-day option rds 1-3 G/60); Golden Gateway Holiday Inn. Van Ness at Pine, San Francisco. $$B 160 paid entries (not counting free or unrated entries). Six Sections: Master $700-$400-$250 U2400 $250; Expert $380-$200-$150. “A” $380-$200-$150. “B” $380-$200-$150. “C” $380-200150. “D/E” $380-$200-$150 U1200 $150. Unr: Trophy First. Trophy to top finisher (State Champion) in each section. All, EF: postmarked by 8/31 $70 (Jrs. $60). $80 at site (Jrs. $70). Unrateds $20 in the D/E section or may play up to the Master section for the regular fee. $5 discount to CalChess members. USCF memb. req’d. May play up one section for add’l $10 (Jrs $5). GM/IM free entry. Reg.: Sat 9/5 8-9:30am, Sun 9/6 8:15-9:15am. RDS: Choice of schedules- 3day, 2-day merge at round 4, all compete for the same prizes. 3-day schedule: Sat 10:00-4:00; Sun 11:00-4:45; Mon 10:00-3:30. 2-day schedule: Sun 9:30-

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11:45-2:00-4:45; Mon 10:00-3:30. 1/2 pt bye(s) any round(s) if requested in advance (byes rds 5-6 must be requested before rd 1). 2009 August Ratings List, CCA minimums and Directors discretion will be used to place players as accurately as possible. Please bring clocks and equipment. HR: Golden Gateway Holiday Inn (415)-441-4000. INFO: Richard Koepcke (650)-224-4938. Ent: Richard Koepcke, P.O. Box 1432, Mountain View, CA 94042. No Phone entries. Master Section FIDE Rated. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! Sept. 5-7, California Southern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 120 (enhanced) 31st Annual Southern California Open 6-SS, 40/2, SD/1. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2270 Hotel Circle North, San Diego, CA 92108. $20,000 prize fund based on 200 players, 60% of each prize is guaranteed. 5 Sections. Prizes: Open Sec 1st $2,600-1,800-1,200-900-600-500-400, BU2300 $800-400, BU2200 $1,000-600-400-200; Premier Section (U2000): $1,000-600-400-200; Amateur Section (U1800) $1,000-600-400-200; Reserve Section (U1600) $1,000-600-400-200; Booster Section (U1400) $600-400-200100, BU1200 $300-150, Best Unrated $100. Plus Best Game Prizes: $75-50-25, one reserved for non-open sections. Reg.: 8 to 9:30 AM, Sept official rating list used. Rds.: 10 AM & 5 PM on Sat and Sun, 9 AM and 4 PM on Mon. No reentries, no “fast” schedule, only quality chess. EF: $120 if received by 8/14, $140 by 8/28, $160 after 8/28 or at door. Only $75 if U1400 or unrated. Free entry for GMs and IMs (EF deducted from winnings). Open section will be FIDE rated. Unrated must play in Open (eligible for place prizes only) or U1400 (eligible for Unrated prize only). SCCF membership req’d ($18 Adult, $10 Jr) for all So Cal residents. Two half point byes OK in rds 1-6, must be requested at least one hour before round, but a last round bye must be requested at registration and is irrevocable. Ent: SCCF, c/o John Hillery, 835 Wilton Pl. #1, Los Angeles, CA 90038 or enter online at www.westernchess.com. For more info call Bruce Baker of SDCC at (619) 239-7166 or see our website at sdchessclub.multiply.com. SCCF Annual Membership Meeting: Sunday 3 PM. Hotel Rates: Special rate of only $130 single or double, 619-297-1101, or 1-800-2276963 if booked by 8/14/09, must reserve at least 2 nights, book ASAP, as rates will go up and rooms may sell out by mid-August. Great tropical themed hotel is in the heart of Mission Valley, close to airport, great attractions such as Sea World, the SD Zoo, the lively Gaslamp District for night life, Seaport Village and Fashion Valley for shopping.The Crown Plaza Hotel (see www.cp-sandiego.com) has a great restaurant and sushi bar, a heated pool, a fitness room, Whirlpool spa, free shuttle service and is next to the excellent Riverwalk golf course. NS, NC, W. State Championship Qualifier. WCL JGP.

A State Championship Event! Sept. 5-7 or 6-7, Illinois World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 2009 Illinois Open Championship 6SS, 2 Schedules, 2 Sections, New Site: DoubleTree Hotel: 1909 Spring Road, Oakbrook, Illinois 60523, (630) 472-6020, (630) 472-6000, $89 room rate limited availability (group code CHS). $10,000 B/200 paid players, $5,000 Gtd., $$$ increased to maximum as attendance increases! Open (open to all/FIDE rated for Classic schedule): $1200-800-600; U2400: $500-400-375; U2200: $350-325-300; U2000: $275-250-200, Un can win top 3 only. Reserve (U1800):

$1000-700-550; U1600: $450-400-350; U1400: $300-250; U1200: $225-$200, Un can win top 3 only. Classic Schedule G/120 inc 30 or G/150: Sat-Sun: 115, Mon. 10-4. Busy Person Schedule: Sun (rnds 1-3) G/45: 11-1-3, Sun 5 pm (rnd 4, merged), Mon. 10-4. EF: Early $80, $5 rebate on site for pre-entries upon request for current or renewing ICA members. $5 rebate on site for preentries upon request for USCF G/30 and/or G/60 Championship players, ($10 extra to play up from Reserve to Open section) if postmarked by August 31, no e-mail/phone entries available (check Web page for extended on-line CC entry deadline), Include: USCF id #, current USCF & ICA, Section, Schedule. EF ALL: $90 at door ($10 to play up): 9/5 or 9/6, 9:30-10:30 AM, $100 after 10:30 AM 9/5 or 9/6. No phone or e-mail entries available, please use USPS and online entries. Re-entry: $50 with 1/2 point bye rnd 1 or alternate schedule with no byes. Entries (checks payable only to Chess For Life, LLC):Tim Just, 37165 Willow, Gurnee, IL 60031. Info: 847-244-7954 (before 6 PM), 2 side events! U1000TrophyTournament, Sat. daytime & G/25 Quick Chess, Sat. PM (look for our TLAs or go to our web page for more info). http://chessforlife.com. Book Dealer on site. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! Sept. 5-7, 6-7 or 7, New Hampshire World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20 (enhanced) 69th New England Open Holiday Inn Nashua, 9 Northeastern Blvd., Nashua, NH 03062. $$2500 GTD. A NH Grand Prix Event. Main event: In 4 sections. 6-SS GAME/105 + 30 sec., analog clocks play GAME/120. 2-day schedule: Rounds 1-3 GAME/60. Open: FIDE rated $$GTD $500-250-100, U2250 $125. U2000: $$GTD $300-125-75. U1800: $$GTD $300-125-75. U1600: $$GTD $250-125-75, U1400 $75. All EF: 3-Day schedule $49, 2-Day schedule $48 if postmarked by 1 September, all $60 at site. Unrated may enter any section but may only win 50% of place prizes in under sections. Registration: Saturday 10:00-10:45 AM, Rounds: Sat. 11:30-5:00, Sun. 11-5:30, Mon. 10-4 (3-Day), Sunday 9:00-9:45 AM Rounds: Sun. 10-1-3:15-5:30, Mon. 10-4 (2-Day). Monday Swiss: In 2 sections. 4-SS GAME/60. U2100 and U1700. Prizes based on entries. 7 Sept. Registration: 9:00-9:45. Rounds: at 10-1-3:15-5:30. EF: $20 by 1 September, $25 at site. Scholastic sections also available. Please see Chess Life for Kids or flyer. HR: $80 (603) 888-1551 ENT: Alex Relyea, 49Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex Relyea [email protected]. www.relyeachess.com. NS W. WCL JGP for Main event.

A Heritage Event! A State Championship Event! Sept. 5-7 or 6-7, New Jersey World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 50 (enhanced) 2009 New Jersey State Championship Somerset Ramada Inn, 60 Cottontail Lane, Somerset, NJ, Exit 12 off I-287 (Weston Canal Road). In 4 Sections: Open, Gold U1900 Silver U1600 & Booster U1300. 6SS,TC: 40/2, SD/1, Playing Schedules: 3-day, 9/5-7, 2-day, 9/6-7. All prizes guaranteed. Open: $500-400-300-200-200-200-200.Top Expert & Class A, $100 each. U1900: $500-300-200.Top B $100. U1600: $500-300-200. Top D $100. U1300: $500-300-200. Trophies: Top 3 each section. NJ Champion, Exp, A, B, D, E & Unr. New players may win first prize only in Open Section. Early EF: Open: $71 / lower sections $66. (Former NJ Champs, see below). Entry must


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Tournament Life be mailed by 9/01 or paid online by 9/04, Open $85 /lower sections $80 at site. All Reentrys $45, but can’t be NJ Champ. Join at website entryfeesrus.com via PayPal. Playing site Reg 3-day: 9/05, 9am-11am. Rds. Sat. 12-7, Sun 116, Mon. 9-4. Reg 2-day: 9/06, 9am-10:30am, Round 1-3 (G/45) starts 11am then ASAP. Both schedules merge in Rd 4. Byes: 2 byes allowed, 1-5. Hotel Rates $79 with free continental Breakfast. (732) 560-9880. Mention “NJ Chess” to receive this special hotel rate. SPECIAL PRIZES will be awarded by drawing to early online entries. NOTICE-Former NJ Champs get early EF of $35. Late EF is $70. Former NJ Champs for multiple yrs get early EF of $1 (ONE DOLLAR). Late EF is $70. No exceptions. Only early EF’s get discount. Ent: Ken Thomas, 115 West Moore St., Hackettstown, NJ 07840. Make checks payable to NJSCF. Info: Ken, [email protected] or (908) 763-6468. Players and spectators, no ear covering allowed, especially cell phones attached to the ear. NS, No NC, W. NYC players will be shuttled to/from the Bound Brook Station. Call Ken’s cell. 908-763-6468. FIDE. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! Sept. 5-7, Ohio World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 65th Ohio Chess Congress Four Sections OPEN, U2000, U1700, U1400. 6 rounds–Swiss System, USCF rated,Time Control 40/2, SD/60. OPEN, U2000, and U1700 all FIDE rated. Location: Dayton Chess Club, 18 West Fifth Street, Dayton, OH 45402 (less than 1 block from hotel). PRIZES: $$7,000 (80% guaranteed, prizes based on 125, last year 130) OPEN: $1,000-700-400 & U2200: $400-200; U2000: $800500-300, U1700: $750-450-300, U1400: $750-450. EF: $75 if by Sep 4, then $85, $10 less if under 18 FREE to GM/IM who complete schedule, $75 deducted from prize. OCA Membership required of all Ohio residents - $15, $10 junior. Early Registration: Friday, Sep 4, 8 p.m. to midnight all sections - Regular Registration Saturday, Sep 5 – 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. both at Dayton Chess Club. Rounds: Saturday 12:00 (noon) & 6:30, Sunday 9:30 & 4:00, Monday 9:30 & 4:00. Byes (1/2 pt): limit 2, must declare by start of round 3. Side Events: Ohio Blitz Championship Sunday Night, OCA Members Meeting Sunday at 3:15, OCA Trustees Meeting Monday at 3:15. Hotel: Crown Plaza (Super Hotel, pool/park/great restaurant – less than 1 block from playing site) $79 (14), 33 East Fifth Street, Dayton, OH 45402. Call 1-877-227-6963 and refer to group code DCQ or go on line to www.cpdayton.com and refer to group code DCQ. Reserve early as hotel is expected to sell out. Other Hotels: See www.daytonchessclub.com website for list of other nearby hotels. Advance Entries: Make checks payable to Dayton Chess Club – mail to: Ohio Chess Congress, C/O Dayton Chess Club, 18 West 5th Street, Dayton, OH 45402. Need More Information: call 937.461.6283, or email [email protected]. NS, NC, WCL JGP.

Sept. 5-7, Oklahoma World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20 5th Okie Chess Festival (GPP: 20 for Okie Open only) $$5,400 Gtd., in two events. G/90 +30 sec. Tulsa Best Western Trade Winds Central, 3141 E Skelly Dr.,Tulsa, OK 74105. (918)749-5561. OKIE MASTER INVITATIONAL: 8-RR FIDE (7 rounds). (Invitation from Tom Braunlich only). $2800 (Gtd): $800-500-300-300-225-225-225-225. OKIE OPEN: (20 USCF GP pts) 7SS. (Open to all). $2400(Gtd): $500-400-200 U1800: $450 (250-200) U1600: $450

(250-200) U1300: $400 (200-100-100).Two 1/2-point byes available if requested before rd=2 03. EF for Open: $45 for FIDE-rated players, $50 all others if rec’d by 8/30; all $10 more at site. Reg.: 9:00-10:15am. OCF mem required ($10). Rds.: 10:30-3, 9-2-7, 9-2. HR: $55 (800) 685-4564 Free wireless, free parking; www.tradewindstulsa.com. Side Events: Fischer-Random Blitz; Pizza party. Questions: [email protected]. Website: www.geocities.com/okiechess festival Adv Entry: Cks payable to: Frank K. Berry, 402 S. Willis St., Stillwater, OK 74074, FIDE rated. NS. W. WCL JGP in Okie Open only.

A Heritage Event! A State Championship Event! Sept. 11-13, Alabama World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 56th Annual Alabama State Chess Championship 6SS, G/100 (i.e. G/95 with t/d 5), Indian Springs School, 190 Woodward Drive, Indian Springs, AL 35124. CHAMPIONSHIP (1500+; $1,275 $$b/40): $400300-225, A: 200,U1800: 150. RESERVE (UNR-1499; $1,100 $$b/35): $350-250-200, E: 175, U1000: 125. EF: $40, if mailed by SEP 4th, 2009. Onsite Reg: $50. GMs/IMs Free Entry! Rds.: FRI: 7:15; SAT: 9:30-2-6:30; SUN: 8:30-2. 2-Day Option: SAT: Rds. 1-2 @ G/75, 8-11and then schedules merge. Byes: Rds. 1-5; request before Rd 2. SCHOLASTIC (U1200): 5 Sections, Trophies: Top 4 Individuals; Medals 5th-7th. EF: $20/$10, at Site $30/$20, Rds.: 9:30-10:45-12:30-1:45, 3. Checks payable to: Caesar Lawrence. ENT: Caesar Lawrence, 882 McAllister Dr., Calera, AL 35040. Info: [email protected]. ACF: www.alabamachess.com. WCL JGP.

Sept. 11-13 or 12-13, North Carolina World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20 2009 North Carolina Class Championship 5-SS, 30/90, SD/1. (2-day option Round 1 G/80). Hilton Charlotte University Place, 8629 J. M. Keynes Drive, Charlotte, North Carolina 28262. 1-(704)-5477444. ($10,000 b/195 full paid entries) $5,000 GUARANTEED. In 9 sections: Open: $700-500-425, u2300-$425-200. Under 2200: $650-400-300, u2100- $200. Under 2000: $650-400-300, u1900-$200. Under 1800: $650-400-300, u1700$200. Under 1600: $650-400-300, u1500- $200. Under 1400: $650-400-300, u1200- $200. Under 1000:Trophies to top 7. Under 800:Trophies to top 9, top 3 under 600. Unrated: Trophies to top 9. Entry Fee: $83 3-day, $82 2-day if received by 9/07; $90 at site GMs and IMs for Free: $70 deducted from any prize. Re-entry: $45, none in Open Section. Juniors: (counts 2/3 towards base) EF: $48 if playing for trophy, $69 playing for cash; $10 more at site. Unrated, Under 1000, Under 800 (counts 1/4 toward base; scholastic players welcome): EF: $23 3-day, $22 2-day if received by 9/07; $25 at site. NCCA membership required $5 (adults only), other states ok. Half-point byes available in first 4 rounds, limit 2, must commit before 1st round. 3-day schedule: Reg.: ends 7 p.m. 9/11. Rounds: 7:45, 2-7:30, 10-3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg.: ends 9:30 a.m. Rounds: 1st at 10 a.m., then merges with 3-day. Hotel: $89-$89. Reserve early to make sure you have one. Mention: American Chess. Info:Thad Rogers (478)-742-5607, Atlanta Chess Center (404)-377-4400, or [email protected]. Enter: American Chess Promotions, 3055 General Lee Road, Macon, Georgia 31204. NS. FIDE. WCL JGP.

Sept. 12, Georgia World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2009 Atlanta September G/45 Championship 4-SS, G/45. Atlanta Chess Center, 3155A East Ponce de Leon Avenue, Scottdale, Georgia 30079. $500 GUARANTEED. In 2 sections: Open: EF: $22 if received by 9/10; $25 at site. $200-120; u1900, u1700, u1500 each $60. Under 1300: $16 if received by 9/10; $19 at site. Unrateds play for FREE! Trophies to top 3, top 2 under 1100, under 900, top unrated. Reg.: ends 10:30 a.m. Rounds: 11-1-3-5. Info: (404)-377-4400 or [email protected]. Enter: Same as above. NS.

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

Sept. 12, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Lackawanna County Open Clarion Hotel, 300 Meadow Ave., Scranton, PA (Exit 184 off I-81). 4R SS, Rds.: 1&2: Gm/50, Rds.: 3&4: Gm/70. $$425Gtd: 200-100, U1800-$75, U1400/unr$50 and trophies to 1st, and top in ea catg. EF: $25 mailed or rec. by 9/5, $30 online thru PayPal by 9/11, $35 at site. Reg.: 8:30-9:45. Rds.: 10-12- 2 & 4:30. Entries/Info: Bernie Sporko, 127 S. Main St., Carbondale, PA 18407. 570-2822793, Cell: 570-604-2461. E-mail: [email protected]. WCL JGP for Rds. 3 & 4.

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! 50


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

Sept. 19, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 Allentown School Day’s Swiss 4SS, G/90, St James Church, 11th & Tilghman Sts., Allentown, PA 18102. EF: $40, LVCA Members $30, $$200-100 guaranteed to top 2, more per entries. Up to two 1/2 pt byes with advanced notice (if declared before round 3). REG.: Ends 10am. RDS.: 10:30-1:30-4:45-7:45. Ent/Info: Checks payable to: Bruce Davis, 1208 Linden St. Fl 1, Bethlehem, PA 18018. 610-625-0467 or bdavis@ lehighvalleychess.org or www.lehighvalleychess.org/. Reg by mail by 9/14 to enter to win a Saitek Competition Chess Clock. WCL JGP.

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

Sept. 24, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight! 4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 West 10 St., bet. 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. EF: $35, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$560 b/32 paid entries (may be limited to 1st 36 to enter), top 2 Gtd: $$ 200-110-50, Top U2200/unr $105, U2000 $95. Limit 2 byes (1 bye for U2000), commit by 8:15. Reentry $15. CCA ratings may be used. Class pairings OK rd. 4. Reg ends 10 min before game. Rds 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible!

Sept. 26, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) New York Indian Summer Game/45! 5-SS, G/45, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W 10 St., bet. 5-6 Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. EF: $40, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free! $$ 840 b/42 paid entries, minimum half each prize Gtd: $$ 300-200-115, top U2200/unr. $125, U2000 $100. Limit 2 byes, commit by 2 pm. Re-entry $20. CCA ratings may be used. Rds. 12-23:45-5:30-7:15 pm. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 9/24; $10 extra to “enter” by phone!

Sept. 26-27, California Northern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 1st Annual Exchange Bank Open Exchange Bank, 444 Aviation Blvd., Santa Rosa, CA 95403. 4 round Swiss, G/120. In 3 Sections Open: $$GTD: $250-175. Reserve: Open to 1899 & under. $$GTD: $200-125. Booster: Open to 1499 & under. $$GTD: $150-100. Unr. must play in Open Section. ALL: EF: $35 advance until 9/21, $45 at site. Reg.: 09/26 8:30am - 9:30am. Rds.: Sat 10, 3; Sun 10, 3. ENT: Paul Stagnoli, 4233 Kintyre Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95409 (707) 539-6368. INFO: paulgs@ sonic.net. No phone or e-mail entries. Bring equipment, none provided. No cell phones allowed. NS NC W. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! A State Championship Event! Oct. 2-4 or 3-4, Indiana World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced) 68th Indiana State Chess Championship 5SS, 40/2 SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75) Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, 2930 Waterfront Pkwy., West Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46214. $$2800 b/90. In 2 Sections, Championship: EF: $70 rcvd by 9/29, $80 at site. $$: $500-250. U2300 $245, U2200 $240, U2000 $235, Upset $50. $100 State Champion Award. 1st Place Guaranteed. Reserve: Open to 1799 & under. EF: $55 rcvd by 9/29, $65 at site. $$: $300-215-210. Class C $205, Class D & Under $200, Upset $50. ALL: Memb. Req’d: ISCA. OSA. Reg.: Ends Fri. 6:30pm (2-day option: Regs. ends Sat. 9:30am). Rds.: Fri. 7pm, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 9-3:30 (2-day option: Sat. 10-1:30-5, Sun. 9-3:30). Annual Meeting 2:30pm Sunday. Car load discount, sign up in groups of 4 and receive 10% off adv EF, rcvd by 9/8. ENT: Gary J Fox, 134 Wheatland Ave., Logansport, IN 46947. INFO: 574-722-4965, info@donley chess.org. HR: $72, 317-299-8400, www.indiananchess.org. NS NC W. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! Oct. 2-4, 3-4, Maryland World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 40 49th Maryland Open 5SS, 30/90, SD/1 (Rnd 1 G/120) (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75) Rockville Hilton, 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852. All prizes guaranteed. 3 sections: Open $1000-500-300-200, top U2100 $200 Amateur Section (U1900) $700-400-300-100, top U1700 $150, top U1550 $150 Reserve Section (U1400) $600-350-250-100, top U1200 $100, top U1000 $100. Unrated may not win over $200 in U1100 or $400 in U1900. EF: $60 by 9/18 mail or online, $65 by 10/1 online, and $70 at the door. Special EFs: GM&IMs free; $60 deducted from prize. Special HR: $69, may not be avail after 9/18, reserve at http://tinyurl.com/mdopenrooms. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 7pm, rds Fri 8, Sat 12-6, Sun 9-2:15. 2-day schedule: reg ends Sat 10am rds 11-2-6, 9-2:15 Ent: MCA, c/o Michael Regan, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd., Towson, MD 21204. Online entry @ http://mdopen.eventbrite.com. Questions: [email protected] or [email protected] FIDE. WCL JGP.

uschess.org

Oct. 3, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 14th Annual Arkport Open 4SS, Rds. 1 & 2 G/60, Rds 3 & 4 G/90. Arkport Village Hall, 6 Park Ave., Arkport, NY 14807. $GTD: $200 - 100, $B/25: U1800 and U1600 each $100 – 50. EF: $30 cash at site. Reg.: 9 – 9:45 a.m., 10/3/09, Rds.: 10, 12, 2:15, 5:30. Director: Ronald Lohrman. Info: 607 295 9858. Ent: F. K. Harris, 1 Northridge Dr., Arkport, NY 14807. WCL JGP for Rds. 3 & 4.

Oct. 3-4 or 4, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced) New York October Open! 4-SS, 30/90, SD/1, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W 10 St., bet. 5th6th Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. $$ 1,200 b/60 paid entries, minimum half each prize Gtd. May be limited to 1st 62 entries! 2 sections, Open. $$ 400-200100, U2200/unr. $100. FIDE. Under 2000. $$ 200-100, U1800 $100, $100 unr. prize limit. Both, EF: $45, Club membs $30, GMs free ($25 from prize), specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. Online entry at www.chess center.cc thru 10/1. 2 options: 2-Day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day; 1-day (rds 1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun., merge rd 3. 2 byes max, commit by rd 2. Reg. ends 15 min. before game. Re-entry $20, counts half. Foreign unr. must enter Open. CCA Ratings may be used. EF $10 extra by phone! WCL JGP.

A State Championship Event! Oct. 4, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6 2009 PA State Game/60 Championship 4SS, G/60. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pitt., 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. 3 Sections, $$ (695G): Championship: EF: $30 by 9/26, $40 later. $200-100, U2000 $75, U1800 $50. Premier: U1600. EF: $25 by 9/26, $35 later. $90-60, U1400 $50, U1200 $40, U1000 $30;Trophies toTop 2,Top 2 U1400,Top 2 U1200, Top 2 U1000. Scholastic: Grades K-12 U900. EF: $15 by 9/26, $25 later. Trophies to Top 7, 1-3 U600. ALL: Teams of 4 to 7 combined from all sections, Trophies 1st-2nd schools, clubs. PSCF $5, OSA. Reg ends 10am. Rds.: 10:301-3:15-5:45. Ent/Info: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223, 412-908-0286, [email protected]. W.

Oct. 9-11 or 10-11, Illinois World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 120 (enhanced) 18th annual Midwest Class Championships 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Under 1000 & Under 700 Sections: 6SS, G/75, 10/10-11 only. Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel, 601 North Milwaukee Avenue, Wheeling, IL 60090 (from Chicago, I-294 north to US-45 north; from Milwaukee, I-94 to Lake Cook Rd to US-45 south). Free parking. $20,000 guaranteed prizes and trophies. In 9 sections; no unrated allowed in Master or Expert, unrated allowed in Under 700 only if age 15 or below. Master (2200/up): $2000-1000-500-300, clear win or 1st on tiebreak $100, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE. Expert (2000-2199): $1300-700-400-300. Class A (1800-1999/Unr): $1300-700-400-300. Class B (1600-1799/Unr): $1300-700400-300. Class C (1400-1599/Unr): $1200-600-400-200. Class D (1200-1399/Unr): $1000-500-300-200. Class E (Under 1200/Unr): $1000500-300-200. Under 1000: $200-100-60-40, trophies to top 7. Under 700: Trophies to top 7. Rated players may play up one section. Unrated prize limit $70 U1000, $110 E, $150 D, $250 C, $350 B, $500 A. Top 7 sections EF: 3-day $103, 2-day $102 mailed by 10/1, all $105 online at chesstour.com by 10/6, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10/6 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. U1000 & U700 EF: $27 mailed by 10/1, $28 online at chesstour.com by 10/6, $30 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10/6 (entry only, no questions), $40 at site. All: ICA memb. ($15, scholastic $10) required for rated Illinois residents. FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED in Class D or lower if paid with 1 year USCF dues. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entryonline at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Re-entry $60; not available in Master Section. GMs $80 from prize. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 9-3:15. U1000 & U700 schedule: Reg. ends 9:30 am, rds. Sat 10-1:30-5, Sun 9-12:30-3:15. Bye: all, Master must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $94-94-94-94, 800937-8461, 847-777-6500, reserve by 9/25 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

Oct. 9-Dec. 4, New York World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced) 2009 Queens Chess Club Championship 8-SS, G/120, All Saints Lutheran Church, 164-02 Goethals Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11432. EF: $55, $60 at site. $$500-$300-$200 guaranteed to top 3, more per entries. Up to three 1/2 pt byes ok with advance notice (byes for rounds 6, 7 and/or 8 must be declared before round 5). REG.: 7:30-8:00. RDS.: 8:15 each Friday. ENT (mail by 10/2): Ed Frumkin, 445 E 14th St #10D, NYC 10009 (212677-3224 before 10pm and before 5pm on Fri). No round on November 13. QCC membership required (U19 y/o, female, 65 & older $20 for six months, others $25/6 months). WCL JGP.

An American Classic! A Heritage Event! Oct. 23-25, Nevada World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced) 27th Annual Sands Regency Reno-Western States Open 6SS.40/2,20/1,G 1/2. Sands Regency Hotel/Casino, 345 N. Arlington Ave., Reno, NV 89501. 1-800-648-3553 or (775) 348-2200. $$43,500 b/425, Gtd. $$28,750-$3500-2500-2000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500 in Open Section plus 1/2 of all other prizes. 7 Sections: OPEN: EF: GMs & IMs free (enter by 10/1 or pay late fees), Masters $149, (2000-2199)-$175, (1999-below)-$201. $$ Prizes 1-10 listed above, (2399-below) $1500-500, (2299-below) $1500-500. If a tie for 1st overall then 2 (G/10) playoff for $100 from prize fund. (Note: GM/IM w/free entry not eligible for class prizes 2399 and below; may elect to pay entry fee and become eligible). EXPERT: (2000-2199) EF: $148. $$20001000-500-400-300-200 (under 2100)- $600.”A” Sec. (1800-1999) EF: $147, $$1800-900-500-400-300-200-100-100-100-100-100-100.”B” Sec. (1600-1799) EF: $146, $$1,600-800-500-400-300-200-100-100-100-100-100-100. “C” Sec. (1400-1599) EF: $145, $$ 1,400-700-500-400-300-200-100-100-100-100-100100. “D” Sec. (1200-1399) EF: $144, $$1,200-600-500-400-300-200100-100-100-100-100-100.”E” Sec. (1199-below) EF: $75 (“E” Sect. entries count

uschess.org

as 1/2 paid player toward prize fund), $$500-400-300-200-100-100-50-5050-50. (Unrated Players) EF: Free + must join USCF or increase membership for 1 additional year thru this tournament($49 adults,$25 juniors) Prizes: Top unrated in “D” & “E” Sections wins 1 yr. USCF membership plus trophy. Note: Adult unrated will be put in “D” Sect., Junior unrated in “E”, unless request to play up. Seniors additional prizes (65+) $$300 (Srs not eligible: provisionally rated, unrated, masters & E Sect); Club Championship $$800-400-200 decided by total score of 10 (and only 10) players from one club or area (not eligible – GMs, IMs, “E” Sec., or unrated).Trophies toTop 3 (A-E Sections). ALL: EF $11 more if postmarked after 10/1 and $22 more if postmarked after 10/16 or at site. Do not mail after 10/16 or phone or email after 10/20. $20 off EF to Srs (65+) and Jrs 19/under (E sect. not eligible). Players may play up. Unrated players not eligible for cash prizes except Open 1-10. Provisionally rated players may win up to 50% of 1st place money except open Section 1-10. CCA ratings may be used. Note pairings not changed for color alternation unless 3 in a row or a plus 3 and if the unlikely situation occurs 3 colors in a row may be assigned. Reg.: (10/22) 5-8 pm, (10/23) 8:30-10 am. Rds.: 127, 10-6, 9:30-4. Byes available any round, if requested before 1st round (Open Section – 2 byes max.). SIDE EVENTS: Wed. (10/21) 7pm Clock Simul, [40/2, G/1] (Including an analysis of YOUR game. GM Sergey Kudrin $30 (A great value!). Thurs (10/22) 6-7:30 pm GM Larry Evans lecture -Free, 7:30 Simul TBA (only $15!), 7:30 Blitz (5 min) Tourney ($20-80% to prize fund). Sat 10/24 (3-4:30pm)GM Larry Evans Clinic(Game/Position Analysis) – Free. Sun. (10/25) Quick Tourney (G/25) 5 Rd. Swiss ($20) [12 (Noon)5pm] 80% to prize fund. ENT: Make checks payable and send to: SANDS REGENCY (address above) HR: $34! (Sun-Thurs) & $54! (Fri-Sat) + 13.5% tax. (mention CHESS 1022 & reserve by 10/5/09 to guarantee room rates.) INFO: Jerry Weikel [email protected], (775) 747 1405, or website: www.renochess.org/wso (also go here to verify entry). FIDE .W. WCL JGP.

Oct. 23-25 or 24-25, Ohio World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 80 (enhanced) Cleveland Open 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option rds 1-2 G/75, U1200 & U1000 are Oct 24-25 only with all rds G/75), Sheraton Cleveland Airport Hotel, 5300 Riverside Drive (inside Cleveland Hopkins Airport with free shuttle, near junction of I-71 and I-480), Cleveland, OH 44135. Free parking. $$G 13,000. In 7 sections: Open: $1200600-400-200, top U2300 $700, U2200 $600, U2100/Unr $500. FIDE. Under 2000: $1000-500-300-200. Under 1800: $1000-500-300-200. Under 1600: $1000-500300-200. Under 1400: $800-400-300-200. Under 1200: $300-200-120-80. Under 1000: $200-100-60-40. Unrated may enter any section, with prize limits: U1000 $80, U1200 $150, U1400 $300, U1600 $400, U1800 $500, U2000 $600. Balance goes to next player(s) in line. EF: 3-day $98, 2-day $97 mailed by 10/15, all $99 online at chesstour.com by 10/20, $105 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10/20 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Under 1200 or Under 1000 EF: all $60 less. Special EF: FREE TO UNRATED in U1000 or U1200 if paid with 1 year USCF dues. Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Special USCF dues if paid with entry: online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds Fri 7:30 pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 9-3:15, U1200 & U1000 Sun 9-12:30. Byes: OK all; Open must commit by rd 2, others by rd 3. HR: $83-83, 216-2671500, request chess rate, reserve by 10/9 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

Nov. 13-15 or 14-15, Ohio World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 120 (enhanced) 18th Annual Kings Island Open 5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75), Kings Island Resort, 5691 Kings Island Drive (I-71, 6 mi north of I-275), Mason, OH 45040. Free parking. $$ 25,000 based on 360 paid entries (re-entries count as 60% entries, U1000 Section EF 40% entries, unrated not counted); minimum $20,000 (80% of each prize) guaranteed. Free analysis of your games by GM Arthur Bisguier. In 8 sections: Open: $2500-1200-600-300-200, 1st on tiebreak $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr $1400-700. FIDE. Under 2100: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1900: $20001000-500-300-200. Under 1700: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1500: $1500-700-400-200-100. Under 1300: $1200-600-300-200-100. Under 1000/Unr: $300-200-100-60-40. Unrated prize limits: U1000 $80, U1300 $130, U1500 $300, U1700 $400, U1900 $500. Balance goes to next player(s) in line. EF: 3-day $103, 2-day $102 mailed by 11/5, all $105 online at chesstour.com by 11/10, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 11/10 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. Under 1000 Section EF: 3-day $43, 2-day $42 if mailed by 11/5, $44 online at chesstour.com by 11/10, $46 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 11/10, $50 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. All: FREE ENTRYTO UNRATED in U1000 or U1300 if paying 1 yr USCF dues. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entryonline at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm,

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!

rds Fri 7 pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 9-3:15. Byes: OK all; Open must commit by rd 2, others by rd 3. HR: $73-73, 800-727-3050, 513-398-0115, reserve by 10/30 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Car rental is easiest & cheapest transportation from Cincinnati Airport. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

Nov. 27-29, Michigan World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20 2009 Motor City Open 6-SS. 3 Sections: OPEN, U1800, U1400.Top section FIDE-rated. Prize Fund: $8,500 OVERALL. 70% Guaranteed. Held at New Detroit’s FABULOUS MOTOR CITY CASINO HOTEL, 2901 Grand River Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201 (Directions and Lodging Info below). 2-Day & 3-Day Schedules available. EF by Mon., 11/23 (add $10 after), IM’s and GM’s Free ($100 EF deducted from prize): 3-DAY: OPEN $103 ($93 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). U1800: $83 ($73 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). U1400: $63 ($53 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). 2-Day Open: $102 ($92 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). U1800: $82 ($72 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). U1400: $62 ($52 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). Re-Entries: NO Re-Entries in OPEN Section. U1800, U1400: $40, $30 (Up to two 1/2-pt. byes allowed from previous RDS). TL: 3-Day Schedule: G-120. 2Day Schedule: RDS 1-3, G-50; RDS 4-6, G-120. REG: 3-Day Schedule: Fri, 11/27, 9:00-11:00am. 2-Day Schedule: Sat, 11/28, 8:30-9:45am. RDS: 3-Day Schedule: Fri, 12, 6; Sat, 12:30, 6; Sun, 10, 2:30. 2-Day Schedule: Sat, 10:30, 12:45, 3, 6; Sun, 10, 2:30. Up to three 1/2-pt. byes available; must be requested before start of RD 3. All sections merge after RD 3. Unrated eligible only for UNR and Overall prizes in ALL sections, can play in ANY section. USCF and MCA memberships required; can be purchased on site. IM Ben Finegold Lecture on Fri, 11/27, 4:00-5:00pm ($10). Cell phones must be turned off or in silent mode while in tournament room. INFRACTION: deduct 1/2 the remaining time or game forfeiture if less than 10 minutes remaining on clock; automatic forfeiture for 2nd infraction. Spectators will be subjected to expulsion for the remainder of the event for any offense. Headphones cannot be used if opponent objects for any reason and cannot be used in the last round by players with a plus score. Player must be willing to present same to TDs for examination at any time. Failure to do so will result in removal from tournament without refund. $$8,500 OVERALL (70% guar.): OPEN: $3,600 (b/48): 1st-2nd3rd, $1,200-$600-$400; 1st U2400, $350; 1st U2200, $350; 1st U2000, $350; 1st U1800/UNR, $350. U1800: $2,550 (b/42): 1st-2nd-3rd, $800-$400-$350; 1st-2nd, U1600, $300-$200; 1st-2nd U1400/UNR, $300-$200. U1400: $2,350 (b/50): 1st-2nd-3rd, $500-$350-$300; 1st-2nd U1300, $250-$150; 1st-2nd U1100, $250-$150; 1st-2nd U900/UNR, $250-$150. Mechanical or Quartz Clock for Biggest Upset in each section! Chief Sr. TD: IM Ben Finegold; Asst. Sr. TD: Ed Mandell. Bring boards, pieces, clocks! Directions & Lodging: MOTOR CITY CASINO HOTEL, 2901 Grand River Ave., Detroit, MI 48201, (313) 237-1589. Easy access to Grand River Exit from I-94, I-96, I-75 and M-10 (Lodge Freeway). See www.mapquest.com for directions. Reservations: MCO Chess Rate $99 (reg. $249!) by Nov. 7th for this great rate! Reserve online at www.motorcitycasino.com OR call toll-free, 1-866-STAY-MCC (866-782-9622). Info, Ent: Ed Mandell, (586) 558-4790, All The King’s Men Chess Supplies and Brain Games, 27170 Dequindre Rd, Warren, MI 48092,Toll-Free, (866) 538-7890. Fax, (586) 558-2046. Email: [email protected], Web: www.allthe kingsmenchess.com. WCL JGP for 3-day and 2-day rds. 4-6.

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

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

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

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

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

**Purchased online only


51

Tournament Life


An American Classic! A Heritage Event! Nov. 27-29 or 28-29, Pennsylvania World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 150 (enhanced) 40th annual National Chess Congress 6SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-3 G/50). Trophy sections play separate 2-day schedule only, 11/29-30, G/50. Sheraton Hotel Philadelphia City Center, 17th & Race Sts., Philadelphia 19103. $30,000 GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND. Free analysis of your games by GM Arthur Bisguier. In 11 sections. Premier, open to all rated 2000/above and juniors under 18 rated 1800/above. $3000-1500700-400-200, clear win or 1st on tiebreak $100, U2400/Unr $1400-700. FIDE. Under 2200: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 2000: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1800: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1600: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1400: $1400-700-400-300-200. Under 1200: $1400-700-400-300-200. Unrated may not win over $100 in U1200, $200 in U1400, $300 in U1600, $500 in U1800, or $700 in U2000. Top 7 sections entry fee: 3-day $108, 2-day $107 mailed by 11/19, all $109 online at chesstour.com by 11/24, $115 phoned by 11/24 (406-896-2038, no questions), $130 at site. GMs free, $100 deducted from prize. Re-entry $60, not available in Premier. Mailed EF $3 less to PSCF members. No checks at site, credit cards OK. 3-day late entry ends Fri 11 am, rounds Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 2-day late entry ends Sat 9 am, rounds Sat 10, 12:45, 3:30 and 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. Trophy Sections: Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600. Unrateds age 15/over may not enter Under 600. Trophies to top 8 players in each section. Entry fee: $27 mailed by 11/19, $28 online at chesstour.com by 11/24, $35 phoned by 11/24 (406-896-2038, no questions), $40 at tmt. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Late entry ends Sat 9 am, rounds 10 am, 12:45 pm, 3:30 pm each day. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entryonline at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Student/Alumni trophies to top 5 teams of 4 (regardless of section) representing any U.S. college, HS or pre-HS players attend or have graduated from. Half point byes OK all rounds; limit 3, Premier must commit before rd 2, others before rd 4. HR: $93-93-93-93, reserve by 11/13 or rate may increase. Parking at hotel $5/day with guest room, $12 without; garage next to hotel is about $10. Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633 or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, ccaguide.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP (top 7 sections).

An American Classic! Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, Nevada World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced) 18th annual North American Open 7SS, 40/2, SD/1 (3-day option, rds 1-4 G/75), Bally’s Casino Resort, 3645 Las Vegas Blvd. S, Las Vegas, NV 89103. $$ 120,000 based on 600 paid entries (seniors count as 3/4 entries, re-entries & GMs as half entries, U1000/Unr Section as 1/5, else in proportion; $90,000 minimum (75% each prize) guaranteed. No unrateds in U1300, U1500, or U1700 sections. In 7 sections. Open: $100005000-2500-1200-1000-800-600-500-400-400, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak bonus $200, 2300-2499 $2500-1200, U2300/Unr $2500-1200. FIDE. Under 2100/Unr: $8000-4000-2000-1500-1000-800-600-500-400-400, no unrated may win over $2000. Under 1900/Unr: $8000-4000-2000-1500-1000-800600-500-400-400, no unrated may win over $1000. Under 1700: $8000-40002000-1500-1000-800-600-500-400-400. Under 1500: $6000-3000-1500-1000800-700-600-500-400-400. Under 1300: $6000-3000-1500-1000-800-700600-500-400-400. Under 1000/Unr: $1000-600-500-400-300-200, no unrated may win over $200. Prize limits: 1) Players with under 26 games played as of 12/09 list may not win over $1500 U1300, $2500 U1500 or U1700. Games rated too late for 12/09 list not counted. 2) If more than 30 points over section maximum on any list 12/08-11/09, prize limit $1500. 3) Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Mailed EF: 4-day $244, 3-day $243 mailed by 10/15, 4-day $274, 3-day $273 mailed by 12/12. Online EF: $245 online at chesstour.com by 10/15, $275 by 12/19, $300 12/20 until two hours before round=2 01. Phoned EF: $250 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10/15 (no questions), $280 by 12/19. No phone entry after 12/19. EF at site: $300. Special EF: Seniors over 65 in Under 1300 or above, $70 less. Re-entry $120; not available in Open Section. GMs $150 from prize. U1000/Unr Section EF: 4-day $64, 3-day $63 if mailed by 12/12, $65 online at chesstour.com by 12/19, $70 phoned by 12/19 (406-896-2038, entry only, no questions), $80 at site. $30 less to unrated. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entryonline at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. 4-day reg. ends 12/26 5 pm, rds 12/26 6 pm, 12/27 116, 12/28 11-6, 12/29 10-4:30. 3-day reg. ends 12/27 4 pm, rds 12/27 5-8:30, 12/28 11-2:30-6, 12/29 10-4:30. Bye: all, limit 4, limit 2 in last 4 rounds; Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 4. HR: $96-96, 800-8333308, 702-739-4111, rate may increase if not reserved by 11/22, all rooms in chess block may sell out about 11/1. Free parking (garage at adjacent Paris Las Vegas Hotel is most convenient). Car rental: for special Avis rate reserve car through chesstour.com or call 800-331-1600, use AWD #657633. Foreign player ratings: Usually 100 points added to FIDE, 100 to FQE, 200/more to most other foreign, no pts added to CFC or Jamaica. Some foreign ratings not

ONCE RATED, ALWAYS RATED You never lose your rating, no matter how long it has been since you last played. If you return to tournament play after a long absence, please tell the director your approximate rating and year of play. If you rejoin USCF after many years without being a member, please provide this information to the TD and to USCF as well.

52


accepted for U1900 or below. Highest of multiple ratings usually used. Players who fail to disclose foreign or FIDE ratings may be expelled. US player ratings: December list used; FIDE ratings not used. Special rules: In round 3 or after, players with scores of 80% or more and their opponents may not use headphones, earphones, or cellphones or go to a different floor of the hotel without Director permission, and must submit to a search for electronic devices if requested by Director. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

Sept. 26-27, 1st Annual Exchange Bank Open

Jan. 15-18, 16-18 or 17-18, California Northern World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced) Golden State Open

LA CHESS CLUB * www.LaChessClub.com Fridays: 8 PM-10 PM (Blitz Tournament) Saturdays: 10AM-10 PM (Class & 2 Tournaments) Sundays: 12 PM6 PM (Tournament) Tuesdays: 7:30 PM-9:30 PM (Intermediate/Advanced Lecture) 11514 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025 * (310) 795-5710 (4 blocks West of 405, Santa Monica & Butler * Second Floor) Private (1:1) Lessons * Group Classes * Tournaments.

7SS, 40/2, SD/1 (3-day option rds. 1-2 G/75, 2-day option rds. 1-4 G/35, no 2-day Open Section.) Under 900 Section plays separate 2-day schedule Jan 17-18 only, G/35. At Concord Hilton Hotel, 1970 Diamond Blvd., Concord, CA 94520 (I-680 Willow Pass Rd exit). Free shuttle between hotel and Concord BART station. Free parking. $$60,000 based on 450 paid entries (re-entries & U900 Section count as 1/3 entries), minimum guarantee $40,000 (2/3 each prize). Open, open to all. $$4000-2200-1300-1000-800-700-600-500-400-400, clear or tiebreak winner $300, top U2400 $2000-1000. FIDE. Under 2200: $30001500-800-700-600-500-400-300-200-200. Under 2000: $3000-1500-800-700600-500-400-300-200-200. Under 1800: $3000-1500-800-700-600-500-400-300200-200. Under 1600: $2500-1300-700-600-500-400-300-300-200-200. Under 1400: $2000-1000-700-500-400- 300-200-200. Under 1200: $2000-1000-700500-400-300-200-200. Under 900: $800-400-200-150-100-80-70. Prize limits: 1) Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) may enter any section, with maximum prize U900 $200, U1200 $400, U1400 $600, U1600 $900, U1800 $1200, U2000 $1500. 2) Players with under 26 lifetime games rated may not win over $400 in U900, $800 in U1200 or $1200 in U1400. 3) If more than 30 points above section maximum on any list 1/09-12/09, prize limit $1000. 4) Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Top 7 sections EF: 4-day $174, 3-day $173, 2-day $172 mailed by 1/7, all $175 online at chesstour.com by 1/12, $180 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 1/12 (entry only, no questions), $200 at site. GMs free; $150 deducted from prize. Under 900 Section EF: $52 mailed by 1/7, $55 online at chesstour.com by 1/12 (entry only, no questions), $60 phoned to 406-8962038 by 1/12, $70 at site. All: Special 1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: online at chesstour.com $30; mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Reentry (except Master) $60. Mailed EF $5 less to rated CalChess members. 4-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6:15 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30. 3-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 10:15 am, rds Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30. 2-day schedule: Reg Sun to 9:15 am, rds Sun 10-122-4-6, Sun 10-4:30, not available for Open Section. Under 900 schedule: Reg. Sun to 9:15 am, rds. Sun. 10-12-2-4, Mon. 10-12-2. Byes: OK all; Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 4; limit 3 byes in Open. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Foreign player ratings: See chesstour.com. HR: $99-99-109, 925-8272000, reserve by 1/1 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Questions: chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Ent: Continental Chess, c/o Goichberg, Box 661776, Arcadia, CA 91066. $15 service charge for withdrawals. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.

Regional Alabama B’ham C. C. Meets Mon. nites each wk., 2116 Columbiana Rd. (Columbiana Crossing Shopg. Ctr.), B’ham 35226. All skills & levels welcome! W. N.S. USCF rtd tourns. planned in 09. Mon. Quads by request. Vulcan Open-May; B’ham City C’shipsAug.; Magic City Open-Nov. SS 4rd G/60 2d Sat.ea. mo. Details & flyers: R.W. Ellis 205-979-6068, [email protected].

Sept. 11-13, 56th Annual Alabama State Chess Championship

See Grand Prix.

Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, 18th annual North American Open (NV) See Grand Prix.

Jan. 15-18, 16-18 or 17-18, Golden State Open See Grand Prix.

California Southern

Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, LACC LA Masters 4SS, G/30. LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405. EF: $30 ($20 LACC memb). Reg.: 5:30-6. Rds.: 6, 7, 8, 9. Prizes: 75% EF. 2 Free lots SW of S Monica/ Purdue; or underground ($3). Inf: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.

Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, LACC Saturday Open 4SS, G/30. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405. EF: $20 ($15 LACC memb). Reg.: 11:30-12. Rds.: 12, 1, 2, 3. Prizes: 1/2 EF. 2 Free lots SW of S. Monica/ Purdue; or underground ($3). Inf: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.

Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, LACC Sunday Open 3SS, G/60. LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405. EF: $20 ($15 LACC memb). Reg.: 11:30-12. Rds.: 12, 2, 4. Prizes: 1/2 EF. Free parking on streets. Inf: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.

Aug. 2, 16, LACC August Scholastics I & II 5SS, G/30 LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405. EF: $25 ($20 LACC memb). 2 Sections: Over 1000 and U1000. Reg.: 1:30-2. Rds.: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Prizes:Trophies, Medals, and special prizes (every player receives a prize!). Free street parking, refreshments, and class 1-2 pm. Inf: (310) 7955710 or www.LAChessClub.com.

Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28, LACC Friday Nite Blitz (QC) 5SS, G/5 (10 Games). LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405. EF: $10. Q-rated. Reg.: 7:30-8. Rds.: 8-8:30-9-9:30,10. 2 Free Parking lots SW of S Monica/ Purdue; or underground ($3). Prizes: 1/2 EF. Inf: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.

Aug. 21-23 or 22-23, Central California Open (Northern CA) See Grand Prix.

Aug. 22, 2009 Utah Amateur Championship (UT) See Utah.

Aug. 23, 2009 California G/30 Championship 6-SS, G/30. Los Angeles Chess Club, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, CA 90025, 2nd fl. (4 blks W 405). $$1,000 (b/30). In two sections, Open: $300-150-50, U2200: $100, U2000: $75. Reserve: (U1800) $$150-75, U1600 $100, Under 1400/unrated $75, U1200Trophy. EF: $45 if rec’d by 8/19; $50 at the door ($35 LACC members if rec’d by 8/19; $40 at the door; $25 new LACC members) $2 off SCCF members. Up to 2 half-point byes available. Free refreshments! Reg.: 11:00 - 11:45 a.m. Rds.: 12, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 pm. Free Parking on the streets, or in the building underground ($3). Inf: (310) 795-5710 or Mick@ LAChessClub.com. URL: www.LAChessClub.com. Ent: LACC - P.O. Box 251774, Los Angeles, CA 90025.

Sept. 5-7, 31st Annual Southern California Open

See Grand Prix.

See Grand Prix.

Arizona

Jan. 15-18, 16-18 or 17-18, Golden State Open (Northern CA)

Aug. 22, 2009 Utah Amateur Championship (UT)

Colorado

See Utah.

Arkansas Aug. 14-16 or 15-16, Arkansas State Championship See Grand Prix.

Sept. 25-27, Majeed Nahas Memorial Open 5-SS G/2. Quapaw Community Center, 500 Quapaw Ave., Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901. EF: $35 adv, $40 at site. Prizes: b/40 1st 500 +T, 2nd 200, A, B, C. D/below/Unr 1st in ea 150 +T. Must have 3 in class $50 Upset - $50 for best Budapest (black) Smith Morra Gambit (white). Reg.: 7-9 am 9/26. Rds.: 9:15 - 2:15 - 7:30, 9 -2. Half point byes rds 1-4 ok. Special Friday night Nahas quick G/15, e.f. 10, prizes per entries same site. 1st guaranteed $75, more per entries. Reg.: 6-7 pm 9/25, Rds. 7 then asap all games must start as Smith Morra or Budapest variations (whites choice) clocks start atTD direction. Entry: Kirk Petty, 200 Brumley Trail, Lot O, Hot Springs, AR 71901. WCL JGP for Open.

California Northern Aug. 21-23 or 22-23, Central California Open See Grand Prix.


Sept. 5-7, Labor Day Chess Festival See Grand Prix.

Sept. 12-13, 4th Ursula Foster Memorial Open 5 round swiss. TIME CONTROLS: rds 1-3 g/90 rds 4-5 G/2. SITE: Doctors Medical Center (cafeteria), 1441 Florida Ave., Modesto, CA 95352. PRIZE FUND 70% returned in prizes 1st 50% plus plaque 2nd 20% and 1st U 1700 30%. ENTRY FEE: $30.00 if rec’d by Sept 8th, $35.00 at site. REGISTRATION: 9 am-9.45. ROUNDS: Sept 12th 10am, 1:30, 4:45 Sun Sept 13th 10am 2:15. Byes up to two if requested before round 2. ADVANCE ENTRY: Please, write checks to Don Tiffin, 128 Palm Ave., Modesto, CA 95350. Phone (209 524-2901). E-Mail [email protected]. WCL JGP.

See Grand Prix.

Aug. 15, G/29 Super Saturday #2 - Boulder (QC) Part of the CO & WY G/29 Grand Prix, not a USCF GP Event. 6-SS, G/29, no delay. One section. EF: $12, $9 for Jr/Sr/Unr. Prizes: 100% minus USCF rating fee. (60% for tourney prizes, rest to GP prize fund.) Reg.: 830-930am. Rds.: 930, 1045, 100, 215, 330, 445. Site: University Memorial Center, Room 415, CU campus, Boulder, CO 80309. Info/Entries: Klaus Johnson, 3605 Endicott Drive, Boulder, CO 80305, Email: [email protected].


Aug. 22-23, Monument Open 6 round Swiss system tournament. Time Control: All Rounds: G/120. Site: Sundance Mountain Lodge, 1865 Woodmoor Drive, Monument, CO 80132. Directions: If coming from north of Monument Hill:Take I-25 South to exit 161 (State Highway 105 / Monument). Head east (away from the mountains) on S.H. 105, then make a left onto Woodmoor Drive (1st traffic light). The Lodge is 1/3 of a mile on your right. If coming from south of Monument Hill: Take I-25 North to exit 161 (State Highway 105 / Monument). Head west (toward the mountains) on S.H. 105, then make a right onto Woodmoor Drive (1st traffic light). The Lodge is 1/3 of a mile on your right. Restaurant, bar and lodging on site. Call early to reserve a room. Phone number for the lodge is 719-481-6000. Mention you’re with the chess tournament. Check out their website: www.sundancemountainlodge.com. Sections: Open (open to all) and Reserve (U1500). On Site Entry fee: $40; Sr, Jr, Unr $32. Pre-registration entry fee: $35; Sr, Jr, Unr $27 which must be paid at the time of pre-registration and received by August 20, 2009. Please include email address for confirmation of prepayment received. USCF & CSCA membership required: See www.uschess.org/ for USCF membership rates. CSCA Membership rates are Adults (age 21-64) $15 for one year or $5 per tournament. Youth (under 21) and Seniors (65 or older) are $10. Family memberships available for $3 off regular dues with only one magazine (Colorado Chess Informant) delivered to the family address. More information at www.colorado-chess.com/. Prizes: Cash prizes per entries paid at end of event. Registration: 8:30 - 9:30 AM Satur-

uschess.org

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Tournament Life day. Rounds: 8/22 Saturday - 10:00 AM, 2:30 PM, 7:00 PM; 8/23 Sunday - 9:00 AM, 1:30 PM, 6:00 PM. Entries: Jerry Maier, 229 Hargrove Court, Colorado Springs, CO 80919. Phone: (719) 660-5531. E-mail: [email protected]. CSCA & USCF required, OSA. Memberships available on site. Final round byes must be requested before the start of Round 3, and are irrevocable. Wheelchair Accessible. Mon Roi friendly! COLORADO TOUR EVENT. WCL JGP.

Aug. 25, August 2009 G/29 Grand Prix Event - Fort Collins (QC)

800-331-1600, use AWD D657633 or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. November ratings used. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Include school, grade, birth date, USCF ID, address of each player. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com.

Delaware

Part of the CO & WY G/29 Grand Prix, not a USCF GP Event. 3SS, G/29, no delay. One Section, Accelerated Pairings with more than 12 entries. EF: $3. Prizes: 100% minus USCF rating fee. (60% for tourney prizes, rest to Grand Prix Prize Fund.) Reg.: 630-700pm onsite only, e-mail if you intend to come. Rds.: 7pm, 8pm, 9pm. Site: Lory Student Center, 2nd Floor Food Court, Colorado State University campus, Fort Collins, CO 80525. For Info: Lee Lahti, Phone: 970-372-8590, E-Mail: [email protected].

Aug. 22, 4th Sat. of the Month Quad

Sept. 5-6, 2009 Colorado Open

Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, 41st annual Atlantic Open

5-SS Rd 1: G/90, Rds 2-5 40/90 G/60. $2000 b/80. Indigo Room, DoubleTree Hotel, 7801 E. Orchard Rd., Greenwood Village, CO 80111. $2000 b/80. Two Sections. Open: $300-$180-$120, U2000/U1800 $120-$60. Reserve (U1600/unrated): $240-$160-$120, U1400/U1200 $120-$60, U1000 $80, Unrated $80. EF: $40, $10 less for Jr/Sr/Unrated, $5 more if rec’d after 9/2. Reg.: 8-9 AM, Rds.: Sat: 9:00, 12:30, 6:00, Sun: 9:30, 4:00 (Member meeting at 3:00). Hotel # 1-303-779-6161, ask for chess rate. Entries: Richard Buchanan, 1 Sutherland Rd., Manitou Springs, CO 80829. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.colorado-chess.com. CSCA req’d ($15, $10 for Jr/Sr), OSA. A CO Tour Event. WCL JGP.

See Grand Prix.

Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, 18th annual North American Open (NV) See Grand Prix.

Connecticut

Howard Johnson’s Hotel, 1119 S. College Avenue, Newark, DE 19713. (time controls: 40/75, s/d 30). EF: $20. $$GTD: $40. Reg.: 9-9:30. Rds.: 9:45 1:45 5:30. ENT: Kevin Pytel, 604 N. Walnut St., Newport, DE 19804-2624. 302-753-6877. [email protected]. INFO: Kevin Pytel 302-753-6877. NS W.

District of Columbia Sept. 13, Metro Sunday Quads 3-RR, G/90. U.S. Chess Center, 1501 M St. NW. EF: $20 $$ $40 each quad. Scholastic sections. EF: $10, Trophy prizes. Both: Reg.: 9:15 - 9:50. Rds.: 10 - 1 - 4. (202) 857-4922. www.chessctr.org./quads.php.

Florida South Florida Chess Club Wednesday’s 6:30-10:30pm. Rated G/90 Tournaments and skittles. Most tournaments are 4+ rounds to with a time control slower than G/60, those events would qualify for WCL JGP. www.SouthFloridaChessClub.com. Aug. 22, CFCC Orlando Bonus Tornado

A Heritage Event! Aug. 22-23, 30th Townsend Cup 4-SS, 40/2, SD/1. Comfort Suites, 64 Knotter Dr., Southington, CT. Three sections: OPEN, EF $40, $$50%-30%-20%, RESERVE (Under 1800), EF $25, trophies 1-2-3. ONE DAY, on Sat., 4/SS, G/1, EF $20, trophies 1-2-3. ALL: EF $10 more at door. Reg.: 8:30-9, Rds. 9-2, 9-2. (One Day, 9-11-2-4). HR: $89. Ent: Fred Townsend, 11 Cole Dr., Wolcott, CT 06716. [email protected], (203)879-2009. NS. NC. WCL JGP for Open and Reserve.

A Heritage Event! Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 29th Willimantic Fall Open 5-SS, G/90. UCONN Castleman Building, Room 204, 261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. EF: $20 at site, students free. Reg.: 7-7:30 PM. Rds.: 7:30 PM. $$ 35%-30%, Top U-1600 20%-15%. Info: Tom Hartmayer, 860-989-5394, [email protected]. WCL JGP.

Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 6th annual New England Scholastic Championships 7SS, G/45, Sheraton Hotel, 1 Bradley Airport (visible at airport entrance), Windsor Locks, CT 06096 (I-91 Exit 40 to Rt 20). Free parking, free airport shuttle. Open to all K-12 students; New England titles and free entry prizes limited to players & teams from schools in CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, or VT. Team prizes based on top 4 scores from school combined. Teams of 2 or 3 players allowed, but are at a disadvantage. In 4 sections: High School (K-12), Middle School (K-8), Elementary (K-5), Primary (K-2). Players face only those in their section. EF for USCF members: HS $38.75, Middle School $38.50, Elem $38.25, Primary $38 if mailed by 10/31, all $38 online at chesstour.com by 11/4, $50 at site. EF for non-USCF members (fees include membership): HS $48.75, Middle School $48.50, Elem $48.25, Primary $48 if mailed by 10/31, all $48 online at chesstour.com by 11/4, $60 at site. Memberships include magazine for players scoring at least 3 pts. Trophies to top 10 players, top 7 teams, top 3 unrated in each section, top E, U1000, U800 (HS), U1000, U800, U600 (MS), U800, U600, U400 (Elem), U600, U400, U200 (Primary). Free entry in all Continental Chess Association Swiss tournaments until 5/31/10 to top New England player each section. Late reg. ends Sat 9 am, rds Sat 10-1-3-5:30 pm, Sun 9-11-1:30. Awards Sun 3:30 pm. Half point byes allowed rds 1-4 only, with at least 1 hour notice. HR: $93-93, 860-627-5311, reserve by 10/17 or rate may increase. Car rental:

4-SS, G/75, Orlando Chess & Games Ctr, 8751 Commodity Cir., Suite 9, Orlando, 32819. EF: $30, CFCC/OCG mbr: $25, Masters free-EF deducted from prize. $$605 b/30: 200-100-80, U1800, U1600, U1400 $75 ea. Prize increased 50% for 4-0 score. Reg.: 9:30am. Rds.: 10-12:30-3-5:30. Info: (407) 629-6946, centralflchess.org. W, WCL JGP.

Sept. 5, First Saturday Quads 3RR, 40/80 15/30 15/30. Palatka Bridge & Chess Center, 521 13th St., Palatka, FL. Quads open to all. EF: $12. Trophy to 1st. Each Quad. Reg.: 8:30-9:30/am. Rds.: 10-1-4. Ben Cody (386) 329-1173. www.palatkachessclub.com. NS NC W.

Oct. 10, DBCC Club Championship Open Schnebly Recreation Center, 1101 N. Atlantic Ave (A1A), Daytona Beach, FL 32118. 2 Sections: Open & Scholastic. 5SS, G45, EF: Open $25. Scholastic $5. Open: $$ ($350/b15): $125-100. U1600: $75-50. Scholastic:Trophy. Rds.: 10-11:35-2-3:35-5:10. Open: Trophy to highest DBCC Club Member. Scholastic: Trophy & Club Scholastic Champion (all Scholastic eligible). Reg.: 9-9:45. ENT: Paul B. Tomaino, 575 N. Williamson Bl #116, Daytona Beach, FL 32114. 386239-9485. INFO: [email protected] www.daytonabchcc.org. NS NC W.

Georgia

(U18 & 60+ $25), ISU Chess Club $10, by 9/19/09. $40 (all) after. Reg & Ck in: 7:30-8:30 AM 09/26. RNDS.: 9,2,7,9,2. 1/2 pt byes: Max 1, Rd 1-4 only. Commit by end of rd 2. Prizes: $$ b/30 non ISU; Open: $200-100-75; Reserve: $100-75-50. HR/ENT/INFO: ICA % Jay Simonson, 391 Carol Ave., Idaho Falls, ID 83401, 208-206-7667, [email protected], www.idahochessassociation.org NC, NS, W. WCL JGP.

Illinois North American Chess Association Tournaments for kids and adults of all playing strength. Creators of the electronic scoresheet, eNotate. Monthly FIDE title tournaments (WIM, WGM, IM). Sevan A. Muradian, FIDE Arbiter & International Organizer. www.nachess.org | [email protected] | 888.80.CHESS. Renaissance Knights Chess Foundation Illinois’ Premier Chess Organization - We organize monthly scholastic & adult tournaments throughout the Chicago area; sponsor chess activates at community events, i.e. Taste of Chicago; provide in-school & afterschool programs, workshops & summer camps. Players of all skill levels, from beginners to Masters, attend our events. For dates & locations: visit our website www.rknights.org; Tel: 773-844-0701; Email: ren [email protected]. Aug. 15, Quad Tournament 3 rounds, G/80. Holiday Inn Hotel, 495 Airport Road, Elgin, IL 60123. (Intersection of I-90 & Rt. 31.) Entry fee is $20 (cash or check only). Cash prizes of $40 for first and $20 for second in each Quad. Registration begins at 8:30 A.M. First round starts at 9:30, and this single day event ends by 6:30. For more information see: www.mchenryareachess.org, or call Bob at 815-5193323.

Aug. 22, 2009 U.S. Game/60 Championship See Nationals.

A Heritage Event! Aug. 22, 45th Bradley Summer Open 4 Rds., Swiss, regular rating system. G/80 with 5 second delay, Robert Michel Student Center, 915 N. Elmwood Ave., Peoria, IL 61625, $14 if rec’d by 8-2009, $17 at site, $2 disc’t to ICA members, $2 disc’t to GPCF members, free to Masters. Prize fund: 75% of EF’s, 1st: 25%, 2nd: 15%, A/B, C/D, under 1200: 10% each, Upset 5%, Registration: 8-8:45 AM. Rds.: 9, 12, 2:45, 5:30, no State membership required. Other information: half-point bye in any 1 round, but a bye in Rd. 4 must be elected before the start of Rd. 3, www.gpcf.net. Advance entries: Wayne Zimmerle, 514 W. Loucks, #2, Peoria, IL 61604, 309-6924480 day, 309-686-0192 night, [email protected]. NS, NC. WCL JGP.

Aug. 23, 2009 U.S. Game/30 Championship See Nationals.

Sept. 5, Il. Open Saturday PM G/25 (QC)

Sept. 12, 2009 Atlanta September G/45 Championship

DoubleTree Hotel, 1909 Spring Road, Oakbrook, Illinois 60523. 5SS, G/25, $$ 150-125, U2000 $100, U1600 $75, U1400 $50, Un=top prizes only. Rnds.: 67-8-9-10. USPS $25 by 8/31 ($25 On-Line until 9/4, 6 pm), $30 on site until 5:30 PM. Entries. (checks payable only to Chess For Life, LLC): Tim Just , 37165 Willow, Gurnee, Il 60031. Info: 847-244-7954 (before 6 PM), On Line Entries/info: http://chessforlife.com.

See Grand Prix.

Sept. 5, Il. Open Under 1000 Trophy Tournament (QC)

Idaho

Open to all players rated Under 1000, DoubleTree Hotel, 1909 Spring Road, Oakbrook, Illinois 60523. 5SS, Trophies to top 7. G/25, Rnds.: 10:30-11:30-1-2-3. USPS $25 by 8/31 ($25 on-line by 9/4, 6 pm), $30 on site until 10 AM. Entries. (checks payable only to Chess For Life, LLC):Tim Just , 37165 Willow, Gurnee, IL 60031. Info: 847-244-7954 (before 6 PM), On Line Entries/info: http://chessforlife.com.

Aug. 15, 2009 Atlanta August G/45 Championship See Grand Prix.

Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, 2009 Atlanta Chess Center Open See Grand Prix.


Sept. 26-27, 2009 Eastern Idaho Open 5SS, G/120. 2 Sections: Open and Reserve (U1400). Site: ISU, Student Un Bldg, Salmon River Suites, 1065 S. 8th St., Pocatello, Idaho. EF: USCF mem req., $30

Sept. 5-7 or 6-7, 2009 Illinois Open Championship See Grand Prix.

Sept. 26, 2009 St. Matthew Chess Tournament held by the 2008 US Champion, and 2008 Olympiad Bronze medal winner GM YURY SHULMAN, at 24500 Old McHenry Rd., Hawthorn Woods, IL 60047 Tel.847-438-7709 G/30 5rds, EF: $25 postmarked by 9/1, $30 after, on site $35 before 9:15 REG.: begins at 9:00, Rd 1 begins 10:00am, no elimination. 4 Sections: Primary K-3, Elementary 4-5, Middle 6-8, HS 9-12 and adults, Nonrated (all grades and adults). TROPHY awards to top 5 individuals in each section, top 3 individuals in each grade K-5, top individuals grade 6-12, top 3 team trophies, top 5 in unrated. Trophy awards at 3:00. ENT: checks payable to “Yury Shulman International Chess School”, mail w/registration form to 428 Waverly Rd., Barrington, IL 60010. INFO: email [email protected] or www.shulmanchess.com, Kiran Frey 847-382-5410, GM Yury Shulman 312375-7475.

Oct. 9-11 or 10-11, 18th annual Midwest Class Championships See Grand Prix.

Oct. 11, Rated Beginners Open 5SS, G/30, open to under 900 or unrated. Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel, 601 North Milwaukee Avenue, Wheeling, IL 60090 (from Chicago, I-294 north to US-45 north; from Milwaukee, I-94 to Lake Cook Rd to US-45 south). Free parking. EF: $20. Special 1 year USCF dues if paid with EF, including paper magazine: Adult $30, Senior or Young Adult $25, Scholastic $15. Trophies to top 5. 3 year USCF membership extension to 1st, 2 years 2nd, 1 year 3rd. Reg. ends 9:30 am, rds. 10, 11:30, 1, 2:30, 4. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Half point bye available rd 1. Ent: at site only. Questions: chesstour.com, 845-496-9658.

Nov. 13-15 or 14-15, 18th Annual Kings Island Open (OH) See Grand Prix.

Nov. 20-22, 2009 National Youth Action See Nationals.

Indiana Chess Club Friday Night Blitz (QC) NOTE: No event Aug. 7 so as not to conflict with US OPEN. 2302 West Morris

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uschess.org

St. at the West Morris St. Free Methodist Church. Entrance is in the back, down the stairs by the office. When: Starts Every Friday except the Fri before the second Sat doors open at 6:00 P.M. tournament starts at 6:30 P.M. Type: 3 Rounds, Game/5, Round Robin Quad, U.S.C.F. Rated. EF: $7.00 if received one week before tournament starting date, $8.00 at the door. Prizes: Based on 4 full Pd. entries per quad, First in each quad: $20.00, Second in each quad: chess merchandise. Send advance entries to: Donald Urquhart, 501 N. East St. #802, Indianapolis, IN 46204-1629. For more info: call Don at (317) 634-6259 or email [email protected].

FREE ENTRY: Quad Quick Chess Tournament (QC) Fri. before the second Sat. of the Month NOTE: No event Aug. 7 so as not to conflict with US OPEN. G/15, U.S.C.F. rated. Located at 2302 West Morris St. at the West Morris St. Free Methodist Church in the Ellis Hall Room. Entrance in back, down stairs, by office. Late Ent. 66:25pm. Rd 1, 6:30pm. Prizes: First in each quad gets choice of 50% off entry fee for Sat. Monthly a $15.00 value certificate, or chess merchandise. A cash buyback option is available on the certificate, call for details. Second gets the prize not chosen by First EF: Free. Adv. ENT: Donald Urquhart, 501 N. East St. # 802, Indianapolis, IN 46204-1629. Info: call Don at 317-634-6259 or email [email protected]. A ORANGE CRUSH EVENT.

Every SECOND Sat. of the Month. OPEN CHESS TOURNAMENT NOTE: No event Aug. 8 so as not to conflict with US OPEN. 5 Round, G/61, U.S.C.F. rated. 2302 West Morris St. at the West Morris St. Free Methodist Church in the Ellis Hall Room. Entrance in back, down stairs, by office. Late Ent. 8-9am, Rd 1, 9:30am. Prizes: $465.00 b/o 20 full pd. Ent. 1st $150; 2nd $75; Class A, B, C, (D, E, Unr) $60 each. Prizes increased if entries allow. EF: $25 if rec’d one week before tournament date, $30 at door, $5.00 discount for your birthday month, FIDE Titled Players Free. + Free Snack Bar Adv. ENT: Donald Urquhart, 501 N. East St. # 802, Indianapolis, IN 46204-1629. Info: call Don at 317-634-6259 or e-mail [email protected]. Note: there must be at least 3 entries in a class for that class prize to be awarded. If two adjoining class prizes are vacant, a combo prize will be awarded. News Flash!!! OCCC Has won the bid for 09 US Open. All Sat Monthly’s will offer Orange Points that may be used for FREE ENTRY to US Open in 09. WCL JGP.

Irvington Chess Club 1st Wed. Tournament (QC) 3SS, G/15, Irvington Public Library - Community Room, 5625 E Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46219. Held on the first Wednesday of each month. Open to All. EF: $5. Unr: Free. Reg.: Anytime between 5:30pm and 5:45pm. Rds.: 6p, 6:35p, 7:10p. An outreach of the Our Lady of Lourdes Chess club (www.ollchessclub.org). ENT: http://jotform.com/form/90231349169. INFO: Kieron Mitchell, 317-430-5254 [email protected]. Some clocks and boards provided - bring them if you have them! NS NC W.

Oct. 2-4 or 3-4, 68th Indiana State Chess Championship See Grand Prix.

Massachusetts

Oct. 23-25 or 24-25, Cleveland Open (OH) See Grand Prix.

Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26, Sept. 2, Tigran Petrosian Memorial

Nov. 13-15 or 14-15, 18th Annual Kings Island Open (OH) See Grand Prix.

Iowa Sept. 5, Iowa Reserve Championship (U1600) Kirkwood Community College, Iowa Hall, Iowa Room, 6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. Campus Map: www.kirkwood.edu/maincampus. REG.: 8-9:30, 4-SS Rds.: 10, 12:30, 2:45, 5:00. G/60T/D5. PRIZES: $245 b/20 90+T75-50 U1200-$30. EF: $29 postmarked 8/29, $35 at site, Juniors $5 off. IASCA membership required ($15 Reg, $10 Jr.) or OSA. ENT: James Hodina, 3411 Blue Pt. Ct. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. INFO: 319-390-6525 or james.hodina@ mchsi.com. Visit http://sites.google.com/site/chessiniowa for flyers and hotel info. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! Sept. 5 & 6, 55th Iowa Open Championship IASCA Super GP Qualifier. Kirkwood Community College, Iowa Hall, Iowa Room, 6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. Campus Map: www.kirkwood.edu/maincampus. REG.: 8-9:30, 5-SS Rds.: 10-2:30-7, 9-1:30. G/135 T/D15 deducted time. PRIZES: $830 b/25, 250+T-150-100, U2000 & U1800 90/75 each. EF: $49 postmarked 8/29, $55at site, Juniors $5 off. IASCA membership required ($15 Reg, $10 Jr.) or OSA. ENT: James Hodina, 3411 Blue Pt. Ct. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. INFO: 319-390-6525 or [email protected]. Visit http://sites.google.com/site/chessiniowa for flyers and hotel info. WCL JGP.

Louisiana Sept. 4-7 or 5-7, 2009 Louisiana State Championship See Grand Prix.

5SS, G/110, Wachusett Chess Club, McKay Campus School, Room C199, Fitchburg State College, 67 Rindge Road, Fitchburg, MA 01420. EF: $1 per game played; free to Wachusett CC members. Reg.: 7-7:10 p.m. Rds.: 7:15 p.m. Byes: 1-4, limit two. Prizes: chess books plus photos of Petrosian’s Feb. 1982 simul in Fitchburg. Info: George Mirijanian, 176 Oak Hill Road, Fitchburg, MA 01420, [email protected], 978-345-5011. Website: www.wachusettchess.org. Online ratings as of Aug. 5 will be used. NC. NS. W. WCL JGP.

Aug. 16, Legends of Chess: Karl Falkbeer 4SS, G/65. Boylston C.F., 240B Elm St., Suite B9, Somerville, MA, 02144. Open & U1800. EF: $27, $17; BCC members; $$b/entries. Reg.: 9:15-9:55AM. Rounds: 10:00, 12:40, 3:00, 5:15. NS, NC, W. Tel. 617-629-3933. WCL JGP.

Aug. 22, 12th Western Mass Open 3SS, G/90, The Kittredge Center at H.C.C., 303 Homestead Ave. (route 202), Holyoke, MA. EF: $28, New & Unr $15, Rated 2200+ FREE ($28 deducted from prize won), all rec’d by 8-17-09. New & Unr can enter ANY section, but eligible to win 50% of prize. EF ALL: $35 at site. $$650 b/30 (1/2-off fee counts as 1/2 entry, Free Entries not counted). Sections: Open: 1st $180, 2nd $100. U1800: 1st $130, 2nd $80. U1400: 1st $100, 2nd $60. Reg.: 8:30-9:15. Rds.: 9:30, 1 & 4:15. Ent: W.M.C.A., 119 Brunswick St., Springfield, MA 01108. Call Ed at 413-967-3242 or e-mail [email protected] www.wmass-chess.us, NS, NC.

Aug. 22, 16th Charles Drafts Open Boylston C.F., 240B Elm St., Suite B9, Somerville, MA, 02144. 4SS, G/60. Open & U1900. $$400G: 100-50-50 in both sections. EF: $25, $20; BCC members if received by 8/20/09, $5 more at door. Reg.: 9:15-9:55AM. Rounds: 10:00, 12:40, 3:00 & 5:10. Send entries payable to Boylston C.F. at above address. NS, NC, W. Tel. 617-629-3933.

Maryland

Aug. 22-23, 30th Townsend Cup

Aug. 21, Sept. 11, Catonsville Friday Knight Quick #87, #88 (QC)

Aug. 23, BCF Sunday Scholastic Quads

See Connecticut.

5SS, G/15, Catonsville Chess Club, Bloomsbury Community Center, 106 Bloomsbury Ave., Catonsville, MD 21228. EF: $8, club members $5. Reg.: 7:30pm. Rds.: 8, 8:30, 9, 9:30, 10. Prizes based on entries with 65% returned in prize fund. Info: Joe Summers, [email protected] or 410-788-1009. Website: http://mysite.verizon.net/vze12d59q/. Dir: 695 to exit 13 West, left at second light, 3 blocks on right.

3RR, G/30. Boylston CC, 240B Elm St., Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. Sections: Groups of four according to rating. EF: $15; $10 BCC members. Prizes: $20 1st & Medal 2nd per Quad. Reg.: 9:30 – 10:00 AM. Rounds: 10:15, 11:20, 12:40. Tel. 617-629-3933. More information: 617-417-8800.

Aug. 29, BCF Swiss #24

See Grand Prix.

4SS, G/65. Boylston C.C., 240B Elm St., Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. Open & U1800. EF: $27, $17 BCF members. $$b/entries. Reg.: 9:15-9:55 am. Rounds: 10, 12:40, 3:00, 5:15. NS, NC, W. Tel. 617-629-3933. WCL JGP.

Oct. 2-4, 3-4, 49th Maryland Open

Sept. 2, 16, Early Bird Rapids Quads

Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, 41st annual Atlantic Open (DC) See Grand Prix.

Oct. 9-11 or 10-11, 18th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL)

Nov. 27-29 or 28-29, 40th annual National Chess Congress (PA)

See Grand Prix.

See Grand Prix.

3RR, G/30. Boylston C.F., 240B Elm St., Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. EF: $27, $17 BCC members; $$50 1st per Quad. Reg.: 6:00- 6:15 PM. Round: 6:20, ASAP. NS, NC, W. Tel. 617-629-3933.

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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 2009, if no TLA for such an event appeared in 2008, and the TLA is e-mailed by the appropriate deadline. The 8 free lines cannot be applied to longer TLAs.

RBO. Open to Under 1200/Unr or Under 1000/Unr.Tournament name must include “Rated Beginners Open” or “RBO.”

SPECIAL CATEGORIES QUALIFY FOR FREE TLAS! Each affiliate is entitled to one TLA per month of up to 8 lines for events in the following categories, if submitted by e-mail. The free lines cannot be applied to longer TLAs:

NON-SCHOLASTIC WITH SCHOLASTIC. A tournament for all ages held concurrent (same location) with a scholastic tournament that in its previous year drew at least 50 players. We encourage organizers of scholastics to hold open or collegiate events on the side.

NEW CATEGORY! SENIOR. For age 50 or above, or a higher minimum age.

BLITZ. Time control of Game/5. TLAs such as “USCFrated Blitz every Friday 7 pm” are accepted. COLLEGIATE. A tournament limited to college students. JUNIOR. For age 20/below (age 20 must be eligible).

NEW CATEGORY! UNRATEDS FREE. Any tournament that offers free entry to unrated players. If your prizes are based on entries, say “paid entries.”

SPECIAL RATES FOR CLUB ADS. Up to 5 lines $180 per year, $100 for 6 months for unchanged club ads in the TLA section. Announce meeting dates & times, activities, contact info, etc.

USCF BOOSTER TOURNAMENT. A tournament that offers at least two USCF membership renewal prizes, or a quad that offers at least one per section.

USCF DISCUSSION GROUPS. See www.uschess.org/ forums for four groups: Tournament Organization, Chess Club Organization, Tournament Direction, USCF Issues.

Ages 21-24 dues lower than Adult dues! The membership category once called “Youth” has been renamed “Young Adult,” and eligibility has changed from under 21 to under 25. Annual dues for this category are only $32 with paper Chess Life or $24 with the online version!

One-year membership with Chess Life: If purchased online at uschess.org, now only $42 for Premium Membership, which includes a copy of Chess Life every month. Regular Memberships are available for $29 and give online-only access to Chess Life and a mailed TLA Newsletter (bi-monthly). (Note to affiliates: If you collect a $49 membership, you may submit it online to USCF for $42, in effect creating a $7 commission. If you submit it by mail or phone the affiliate commission is $3.)

CHESS CLUB SPECIAL. A tournament playing only on one or more weekday evenings.

uschess.org


55


Tournament Life Sept. 3, 10, 17, 24, Thursday Night Swiss

Nov. 27-29, 2009 Motor City Open

4SS; 40/90, G/20. Open & U1800. Boylston C.F., 240B Elm St., Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. EF: $27, $17 BCC members; $$(240:b/20 entries): Open & U1800: $80 - 40. Reg.: 6:30- 6:55 PM. Rd.: 7:00 NS, NC, W. Tel. 617629-3933. WCL JGP.

See Grand Prix.

Sept. 4, 11, 18, 25, Billerica Friday Swiss

See Grand Prix.

4 Rds. 40/90, SD/30. Billerica COA, 25 Concord Rd., Billerica, MA. EF: $12. Reg.: 7:30pm. Cash prizes minimal b/entries. For info, call Brad Ryan, (978) 369-8533. NS, NC. WCL JGP.

Missouri

Sept. 12, BCF Quads 9-9 3RR, G/60. Boylston C.C., 240B Elm St., Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. EF: $27, $17; BCF members; $$50 1st per Quad. Reg.: 9:15-9:55AM. Rounds: 10:00, 12:40, 3:00. NS, NC, W.Tel. 617-629-3933. Website: www.boylstonchessclub.org.

3RR, G/29 QR, Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis MO 63108. EF: $10. Prize fund $36 first in each quad. Club membership req’d. available from $1. Reg.: 6:30 - 6:45. Rounds begin at 7:00. Site entries only. Info: 314-361-CHESS [email protected].

Sept. 13, BCF Sunday Scholastic

Saint Louis Blitz Series - Every Saturday night (QC)

Sections: 8, 11, 14 years old & under. 3RR, G/40. Boylston CC, 240B Elm St., Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. EF: $15; $10 BCC members. Prizes: Trophies to top two in each section. Reg.: 9:30 – 10:00 AM. Rounds: 10:15, 11:20, 12:40, 1:45. Tel. 617-629-3933.

5SS, G/5 QR, Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108. EF: $5. Prize fund 100% payout! First overall will take home 75% of all entry fees, and the highest scoring player in the bottom half takes 25%. Club membership req’d. available from $1. Reg.: 6:30 - 7. Rds.: 7, 7:15, 7:30, 7:45, 8. Site entries only. Info: 314-361-CHESS. [email protected].

Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 6th annual New England Scholastic Championships (CT) See Connecticut.

Michigan Aug. 15-16, 2009 U. P. Open Location: Masonic Building, 128 W. Washington St., Marquette, MI (parking and entrance in rear of building). 5SS/G 2 hr. Entry fee: $30 ($20 for juniors 19 or under)—$5 more at site. Prizes: First Place $200 guaranteed, others based on entries. Trophy to top U. P. resident and top U. P. junior. Reg.: 9-9:30 Sat. Rounds: Sat. 10:00, 2:30, 7:00; Sun. 9:30, 2:00—all times EDT. 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, [email protected]. WCL JGP.

Sept. 4-7, 2009 Michigan Open

Minnesota

Sept. 2, September Knights

Sept. 5-6, Region 6 Open Championship

Friday Action Quads - Every Friday Night (QC)

Aug. 8, Dog Days Open 4SS, G/60, Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108. EF: $25, $20 for annual members of the club. MCA Membership Req’d from $5. OSA. PF (b/40): $750: $100 1st/ $25 2nd in each M/X, A, B, C, D, U1200. Reg: 9 - 9:50. Rds: 10, 12:15, 2:30, 4:30. One 1/2 point bye if declared before round 1. Ent: 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108 314-361-CHESS, [email protected].

Aug. 15, Columbia Open 4SS, G/75; Best Western Inn, 3100 I-70 Dr. SE, Columbia, MO 65201; Prizes: $500 b/30: $150 1st, $100 2nd, $75 each U1800, U1500, U1200, Upset prize, $25. Reg.: 9-9:45am; Round times: 10, 1, 3:30, 6:30. EF: $20 rec’d by 8/8, $25 on site. Site entries cash only. Max 1 half bye; MCA required, O.S.A., available on site from $5. Entries/Info: Bob Howe, 4403 Gage Pl., Columbia, MO 65203, (636) 234.7928. (if 20+ participants, winner qualifies for MO Invitational!) WCL JGP.

See Grand Prix.

Aug. 29, Jose Capablanca Open

Oct. 9-11 or 10-11, 18th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL)

3SS, G/75. UMC Memorial Union, Room N208, 518 Hitt St., Columbia, MO. Directions: From I-70 exit 126, south on Providence, east on Rollins, north on Hitt.

See Grand Prix.

GOLD AFFILIATES Cajun Chess 7230 Chadbourne Drive New Orleans, LA 70126 504-208-9596 [email protected] www.cajunchess.com

New Jersey State Chess Federation c/o Roger Inglis 49-A Mara Rd. Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034 973-263-8696, [email protected] www.njscf.org

Chess Club and Scholastic Center of St. Louis 4657 Maryland Avenue St. Louis, MO 63108. 314-361-CHESS [email protected] www.stlouischessclub.org

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

Continental Chess Association PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. 845-496-9658 [email protected] www.chesstour.com

PaperClip Pairings c/o J. Houghtaling Jr & Remy Ferrari 6005 Forest Blvd Brownsville, TX 78526 956-459-2421 [email protected]

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

San Diego Chess Club 2225 Sixth Avenue San Diego, CA 92101 619-239-7166 [email protected] http://sdchessclub.multiply.com

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

SPICE Box 45080, Lubbock, TX 79409 806-742-7742, [email protected] www.SPICE.ttu.edu Tri-State Chess 288 Third Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215 1-888-CHESS-35 [email protected], www.TriStateChess.com Unity Chess Club 9375 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 100 Office 136, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 480-949-5464 (KING) [email protected], unitychess.com Western PA Youth Chess Club Attn: Jerry Myers 4101 Windsor Street Pittsburgh, PA 15217 412-422-1770 [email protected] www.youthchess.net

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Chess Center of New York (NY) www.chesscenter.cc

Long Island Chess Nuts (NY) 516-739-3907

Orange Crush Chess Club (IN) [email protected]

Indiana State Chess Association www.indianachess.org

Marshall Chess Club (NY) www.marshallchessclub.org

Sparta Chess Club (NJ) www.spartachessclub.org

International Chess Academy (NJ) www.icanj.net

Michigan Chess Association www.michess.org

Renaissance Knights (IL) www.RKnights.org


5SS, G/90 Reg. Wednesday, Sept. 2nd, 6:00 - 6:45pm. Rounds (one per week) 7pm 9/2, 9, 16, 23, 30. Check in withTD by 6:45 to be paired each week/round. No advanced entries. EF: $10. Prize fund is 90% payout, with 1st place getting 1/3 of the total prize fund and first A, B, C, D, E and U1000/unrated each take 1/9 of the prize fund. One 1/2 point bye if declared by round 1. Annual club memb. req’d. MCA memb. req’d from $5 OSA. Info: 314-361-CHESS. [email protected]. WCL JGP.

Sept. 5-6, Saint Louis District Championship See Grand Prix.

A State Championship Event! Sept. 25-27, Missouri Chess Festival Best Western Columbia Inn, 3100 I-70 Dr. SE, Columbia, MO 65201 (intersection of US-63 & I-70). 2009 MISSOURI OPEN: 5SS, G/120. $$b/40: $250-1st Overall + Plaque, Class Prizes: 120-1st in each M/X, A, B, C, D, E, U1000/Unr. EF: $42 by 9/19, $50 on site. Site entries cash only. Reg.: 10-10:45am. Rds.: Sat-11/3:30/8, Sun-10:30/3. Max one 1/2-pt bye. MISSOURI STATE INVITA TIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP: By invitation only. Concurrent with Missouri Open. EF: $40. $$b/20: $500-1st, $250-2nd, $125-3rd. See www.mochess.org for info on eligibility. MO QUICK CHAMPIONSHIP: 4SS, G/29 (QR). $$b/20: $75-1st Overall + Plaque, $50-1st U1600. Reg.: 6:30-7pm Friday. Rds.: 7/8/9/10pm. EF: $10 by 9/19, $15 on site. MO BUGHOUSE CHAMPIONSHIP: 5-Dbl Rds, G/5. $$b/12 teams: $50-1st Team + Plaques, $30-2nd Team. (Both players must be MO residents to receive title.) Reg.: 8-8:15am Sat. Rds paired ASAP, ending by 10am. EF: $10/team, on site only. MO BLITZ CHAMPIONSHIP: 5SS, G/5 (QR). Prizes: $75-1st + plaque, $50-2nd, $25-3rd. EF: $10. Reg.: 8-8:15am Sunday. Rds paired ASAP, ending by 9:30am. MCA SCHOLASTIC: 5SS, G/30. Prizes: Trophies to top 3 in each section: HS, K-8, K-6, K-3. EF: $10 by 9/19, $15 on site. Reg.: 9-10am Saturday. Rds.: 10:30/11:45/1:15/2:30/3:45. Awards: 5:15pm.To receive Championship titles/plaques you must be a MO resident. MCA memb. req’d except for MCA Scholastic & Bughouse, available on site from $5, OSA. HR: $74.95/night, free Wi-Fi & Hot breakfast, 573-474-6161, mention CHESS. Entries/Info: Thomas Rehmeier, 5217 Denice St., Jefferson City, MO 65109. [email protected], 573-291-0852. WCL JGP for 2009 Missouri Open.

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

SILVER

SILVER AFFILIATES

Oklahoma Chess Foundation www.OKchess.org

Reg.: 9:30-10:15. Rds.: 10:30, 1:15, 4:00. EF: $1, no prizes — just the satisfaction of playing well. Info: Charles Ward, 573-443-6685, czar8196@ tranquility.net. W.

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

uschess.org

Nevada

A State Championship Event! Sept. 5, New Jersey U1300 K-8 State Championship

Aug. 22, 2009 Utah Amateur Championship (UT)

Somerset Ramada Inn, 60 Cottontail Lane, Somerset, Exit 12 off I-287 at Weston Canal Road. (732) 560-9880, Fax (732) 356-7455. In three rated & one unrated Section. Hot Shots: U1300, Check Mates: U900 & Rising Stars: U500 & Chess Bandits: Unrated/Beginner event. (note-U200 may play in) All Sections: 5-SS, G/30, G$$ 100 to winner each section plusTrophies toTop 10, Others get choice of chess medallions or grab bag prizes. Registration: Saturday 9/05, 11am-12pm. Rounds: 12:30pm, then ASAP with lunch break after round #2. EF: $25 if mailed by 9/1 or paid online by 9/4 on website EntryFeesRus.com, $35 at site. Early EF: Special Combined EF: Pay $69 for both Saturday K-8 and NJ Open (2-day) Sunday and Monday. Not available at site. Half-point bye allowed in rounds 1-4 if requested with EF. August Rating supplement used. Mail entries to: KenThomas, 115 West Moore Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07840-2233. Checks payable to NJSCF. Indicate section desired and your grade level. Information: Call 908-763-6468 or [email protected]. NS NC W.

See Utah.

Oct. 23-25, 27th Annual Sands Regency Reno-Western States Open See Grand Prix.

Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, 18th annual North American Open See Grand Prix.

Jan. 15-18, 16-18 or 17-18, Golden State Open (Northern CA) See Grand Prix.

New Hampshire Aug. 22, Kopec’s Camp - Brewster Academy Camp - NH Open 4SS, G/60. Brewster Academy, Wolfeboro, NH, Rt. 28. 2 sections: Open: $$b/10 entries, 1st $150, 2nd $75, Top B $60. Reserve: (U1600/Unr.) $$b/10 entries, 1st $75 & trophy, top junior, C, D, E, and Unrated receive trophies, Kopec Products. EF: $35 if received by 8/14, $40 if received after 8/14 through paypal at www.kopecchess.com,$42 if paid at site. Reg.: 8:30-9:30 am. Rds.: 10-1-3:30-7 or Rds.: 10-2- Barbeque dinner at 6pm included in EF. Info: Kopec’s Chess Camp, 516-782-5285. E-Mail info: [email protected]. Ents: Kopec’s Chess Services, 42 Hamilton Road, Merrick, NY 11566.

Sept. 5, New England Blitz Championship (QC) See Grand Prix.

Sept. 5-7, 6-7 or 7, 69th New England Open See Grand Prix.

Sept. 5-7 or 6-7, 2009 New Jersey State Championship See Grand Prix.

Sept. 12, Garden State Scholastic Prevention First, 1405 Route 35, Ocean, NJ 07712. Primary: open to K-3: 4 SS, G/30.Trophies to 1st-5th place; Medals to all others. Scholastic Swiss: open to K-12; 4 SS, G/30. Trophies to 1st - 5th place; Scholastic Quads: open to K-12 G/60 Quads. Trophies to 1st and 2nd each quad. All EF: $15 if rec’d by September 5th, $20 on site. Reg.: 9-9:45 am. Rds.: 10 and ASAP. Info: Hal Sprechman, 732 259-3881, [email protected]. Ent: Please make checks payable to Character Kings and send to Hal Sprechman, P.O Box 1511, Jackson, NJ 08527. Please indicate section.

New Jersey

Sept. 13, Westfield Quads

Geller Quads - First Friday Every Month! New Jersey Children’s Chess School, 862 DeGraw Ave., Forest Hill (Newark), NJ 07104. Open to K-8. 3 RR, G/35. Reg.: 6PM. Rds.: 6:30-7:40-8:40PM. Chess classes in NJCCS meet every Friday 6:30-9PM. Chess camp “Geller Kids” meets July & August, day & overnight. Website: www.kidschesscamp.com. Email: chesscamp@hot mail.com. Phone: 973-483-7927.

Sept. 17, ATKM 3rd Thursday Quads

The Newark Sleepless Knights Chess Club Boylan Recreation Center of Newark, 916 So. Orange Ave., Newark, New Jersey 07103. Meets 1st and 2nd Saturdays of every months from 2-6pm. USCF rated tournaments and free chess lessons available.

3 RR game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. Prizes $50 to first in each section. Entry Fee: $20, $15 Members. Registration: 2-2:15 p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-946-7379, www.westfieldchessclub.com. 3 RR G/30 t/d5, Quads are grouped by rating. All the King’s Men Chess Shop, 62 S Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08071. Prizes: $25 1st per quad. Unrated cannot win more than $10. EF: $12, $10 ATKMCC members. Unrated (i.e. players with NO rating whatsoever, provisional or otherwise) $7, $5 ATKMCC members. Reg.: 6:15 - 6:45 PM. Rds.: 7-8-9 pm. INFO: Stephen Dick, cs@ATKMchess Sets.com, 856-582-8222. All: Visa/MC/Disc OK w/$1 paid surcharge. Bring a clock!

Sept. 19, Jersey Shore K-12 Regionals

4SS, G/30. 51 Monmouth St., Red Bank, NJ directions www.monmouthchess. com. EF: $25/20 members. Prizes per entries OPEN, U1500, U1200, U900, U600. Reg.: 12:00-12:45. Rds.: 1, 2:15, 3:30, 4:45. Info: learnchess@optonline. net, 732-219-0916 Dr. Koblentz.. Boards/sets provided, bring your clocks!

The Academy at Grace and Peace, 1563 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River, NJ 08755. All Sections open to K-12. Section A: U500, Section B: 500-1000, Section C: 1000-1500, Section D: 1500+. Section A, B, C 4SS, G/30. Section D: 3 Rounds, G/60. Trophies to Top 5 in each section, Medals to all others. EF: $25 if rec’d by 9/12, $30 on site. Reg.: 9:00-9:45 AM. Rds.: 10:00 AM and ASAP. Info: John Burke, 732-714-1544 or [email protected]. Ent: Make checks payable toThe Academy at Grace and Peace. Please indicate USCF ID# and section.

Aug. 16, Westfield Swiss #60 (QC)

Sept. 20, Westfield Fall Scholastic

5 SS game/15 (QC) full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. Prizes: $500 Guaranteed $125, $85, $50. U2100, U1850, U1600, U1350 $60 each. Entrance Fee: $35, $25 members. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:453:25-4:05-4:45-5:30 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna www.westfieldchessclub.com.

Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. 4 sections: k-12 full k Open, U1250, U750, unrated. Open Section: 3 SS game/45. Trophies to top five players in each section. Entrance fee: $20, $15 members at site $30, $25 members. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45 - 4:15- 6:00. U 1250: 4 SS game/30. Trophies to top five players in each section. Entrance fee: $20, $15 members at site $30, $25 members. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45-4:00-5:156:30p.m. U750: 4 SS game/30. Trophies to top five players in each section. Entrance fee: $20, $15 members, at site $30, $25 members. Registration: 22:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45-4:00-5:15-6:30 p.m. Tiebreaks for trophies. Unrated section: 3 SS, k-2, 3-5, 6-12. $5 registration, 2-2:30 p.m. Gold medal to first, Silver medal to second, Bronze medal to third. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45-4:00-5:15 p.m. Todd Lunna, 732-946-7379. [email protected], www.westfieldchessclub.com. Send advance entries to: Todd Lunna, 36 Maple Drive, Colts Neck, New Jersey 07722, by Sept. 17.

Aug. 15, 2nd Annual Greater Pitman Open Chess Championship See Grand Prix.

Aug. 16, Monmouth Chess School and Club August Swiss

Aug. 20, ATKM 3rd Thursday Quads 3 RR G/30 t/d5, Quads are grouped by rating. All the King’s Men Chess Shop, 62 S Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08071. Prizes: $25 1st per quad. Unrated cannot win more than $10. EF: $12, $10 ATKMCC members. Unrated (i.e. players with NO rating whatsoever, provisional or otherwise) $7, $5 ATKMCC members. Reg.: 6:15 - 6:45 PM. Rds.: 7-8-9 pm. INFO: Stephen Dick, cs@ATKMchessSets. com, 856-582-8222. All: Visa/MC/Disc OK w/$1 paid surcharge. Bring a clock!

Aug. 22, Hamilton Chess Club Quads 3RR 40/80 15/30 15/30. Full K. Ray Dwier Recreation Center, Bldg. 392, Groveville, NJ 08620. Quads open to all EF: $10. $25 per Quad. Reg.: 910:30/am. Rds.: 10:30/am-1:30/pm-4:30/pm NJ State Chess Federation, no dues magazine Subscription per year, OSA NS NC W.

Sept. 26, 3rd Annual Greater Pocono Scholastic Championships (PA)

For info. and registration, go to www.YourChessSet.com/quads4. For more info. E-mail Stephen at [email protected] or call 856-582-8222.

4SS, G/45. Pocono Mountain East HS, 200 Pocono Mountain School Rd., Swiftwater, PA 18370. Sections: K-12 U/1000, K-12 Champ. EF: $20 online by 9/23; $30 on-site 9:00-9:30. Rds.: 10:30-12:30-2:00-3:30. Prizes: trophies to top individuals & schools. Free game analysis by NM Adam Weissbarth. See www.silverknightschess.com to register.

Aug. 23, Garden State Quads

Sept. 27, ATKM 4th Sunday G/60 Quads/Swiss

3RR 40/80 G/30. Full K. Prevention First, 1405 Route 35, Ocean, NJ 07712. Quads open to all. EF: $20. 1st Place $50. Reg.: 9-10:00/am. Rds.: 10:00/am1:00/pm-4:00/pm. NS NC W. Info: Hal Sprechman 732 259-3881.

For info. and registration, go to www.YourChessSet.com/quads4. For more info. E-mail Stephen at [email protected] or call 856-582-8222.

Aug. 23, ATKM 4th Sunday G/60 Quads/Swiss

Aug. 23, Westfield Quads 3 RR game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. Prizes $50 to first in each section. Entry Fee: $20, $15 Members. Registration: 2-2:15 p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-946-7379, www.westfieldchessclub.com.

FOREIGN RATING? NOT UNRATED!

Aug. 30, Ken’s Last Sunday Quads Holiday Inn Express, Howard Boulevard, Mt. Arlington, NJ. Take exit #30 off US Route #80. In 4 player Quads. G/90. Regs.: before 10am. First Round 10am, then ASAP with lunch break. EF: $20, Prizes: Choice of $40 or Trophy & EF refund. Current Chess students of Ken may play for half EF & half prize. Info: Ken Thomas, [email protected] / cell 908-763-6468. NS NC W.

Aug. 30, Red Bank Open Championship 4SS G/30. 51 Monmouth St., Red Bank, NJ. EF: $25/20 members if received by 8/27, on site 35/30. Prizes based on 30 entries: OPEN: $100, 50, 35; U1600: $80, 40; U1300: $75, 35: U1000: $70, 30. Reg.: 12:00-12:45. Rds.: 1, 2:15, 3:30, 4:45. Boards/sets provided, bring clocks! Info: learnchess@ optonline.net, 732-219-0916. Mail checks to MCS&C, c/o Dr. Koblentz, 9 Rimwood Lane, Colts Neck, NJ 07722.

Aug. 30, Westfield Quads 3 RR game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. Prizes $50 to first in each section. Entry Fee: $20, $15 Members. Registration: 2-2:15 p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-946-7379, www.westfieldchessclub.com.

uschess.org

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. If you have a FIDE rating, you are also not unrated. 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.


57

Tournament Life Sept. 27, Garden State Quads


3RR 40/80 G/30. Full K. Prevention First, 1405 Route 35, Ocean, NJ 07712. Quads open to all. EF: $20. 1st Place $50. Reg.: 9-10:00/am. Rds.: 10:00/am1:00/pm-4:00/pm NS NC W. Info: Hal Sprechman 732-259-3881.

Sept. 27, Ken’s Last Sunday Quads

New Mexico Aug. 22, 2009 Utah Amateur Championship (UT) See Utah.

Aug. 17-Sept. 21, Marshall CC Under-1600 Monday Swiss 5SS, G/90. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1300 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Monday. Byes ok, limit 2, request by rd. 3. No game September 7 (Labor Day).

A State Championship Event! Sept. 5, New Mexico Speed Chess State Championship (QC)

Aug. 18, St. John’s Masters at the Marshall Chess Club Aug. 20, 4 Rated Games Tonight!

5 SS game/15 (QC) full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. Prizes: $500 Guaranteed $125, $85, $50. U2100, U1850, U1600, U1350 $60 each. Entrance Fee: $35, $25 Members. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:453:25-4:05-4:45-5:30 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna www.westfieldchessclub.com.

Sponsored by the Wired Kings CC and the New Mexico Chess Organization. Main Library, 501 Copper, NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102. W. Community Room (lower level) 7-DSS G/5 $10 Entry Fee - No Onsite Entries. One section. Prizes: $$b/40: $150-$50-$25; 1st U1500, U1200 all $25. No byes allowed - Entries must be received by 9/2/09. USCF membership required but not available on site. N/S - No food or beverage on site. Check In: 10:00. Rds.: 10:30, 11:00, 11:30, 12:00, 1:30, 2:00, 2:30. Checks payable to Chad Schneider, 12004 Prospect Ave., NE, Albuq., NM 87112. Info: Chad Schneider (505)550-4654. [email protected]. Website: http://wiredkingscc.blogspot.com.

Oct. 3, ATKM 1st Saturday Kids G/30 Swiss (K-8)

Sept. 12, Santa Fe Open

Holiday Inn Express, Howard Boulevard, Mt. Arlington, NJ. Take exit #30 off US Route #80. In 4 player Quads. G/90. Regs.: before 10am. First Round 10am, then ASAP with lunch break. EF: $20, Prizes: Choice of $40 or Trophy & EF refund. Current Chess students of Ken may play for half EF & half prize. Info: Ken Thomas, [email protected] / cell 908-763-6468. NS NC W.

Sept. 27, Westfield Swiss #61

For info. and registration, go to YourChessSet.com/KidsSwiss. For more info e-mail Stephen at [email protected] or call 856-582-8222.

Oct. 17, Jersey Shore K-12 Regionals The Academy at Grace and Peace, 1563 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River, NJ 08755. All Sections open to K-12. Section A: U500, Section B: 500-1000, Section C: 1000-1500, Section D: 1500+. Section A, B, C 4SS, G/30. Section D: 3 Rounds, G/60. Trophies to Top 5 in each section, Medals to all others. EF: $25 if rec’d by 10/10, $30 on site. Reg.: 9:00-9:45 AM. Rds.: 10:00 AM and ASAP. Info: John Burke, 732-714-1544 or [email protected]. Ent: Make checks payable to The Academy at Grace and Peace. Please indicate USCF ID# and section.

4/SS G/60, Santa Fe Womens Club, 1616 Old PecosTrail, Santa Fe. EF: $15.00, $5 discount each add’l family member after one full price entry. Sections: OPEN, U1700, U1400, U1100. Rds.: 9-11:30-2:30 -5:00. Prize fund: $500 b/60. One 1/2 pt bye request before 1st Rd pairing. Mail Reg. must be received by 9/10, checks payable to: NMCO, P.O. Box 4215, Albuquerque, NM 87196. On Site reg. 8-8:30, late fee $5. Info & entry form, directions with map: nmchess.org.

New York Aug. 15, New York Summer Game/45! See Grand Prix.

See Grand Prix. 4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-10050, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:159:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game.

Aug. 22, Marshall CC Saturday G/60 4SS, G/60. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($360 b/24) $12070-50, 1700-1999/unr $60, U1700 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. Note: Only one bye available, request at entry.

Aug. 22-23, 30th Townsend Cup See Connecticut.

Aug. 23, Grandmaster Challenge (QC) See Grand Prix.

Aug. 23, Studio August Quad 3RR Game in 2. Reg.: 9:00 am Rds.: 10-2-6. Studio of Bridge and Games, 1639 Eastern Pkwy., Schenectady, NY 12309-6011.

Aug. 27, 4 Rated Games Tonight!

Oct. 25, Ken’s Last Sunday Quads

Aug. 16, Binghamton Monthly Tourney

Holiday Inn Express, Howard Boulevard, Mt. Arlington, NJ. Take exit #30 off US Route #80. In 4 player Quads. G/90. Regs.: before 10am. First Round 10am, then ASAP with lunch break. EF: $20, Prizes: Choice of $40 or Trophy & EF refund. Current Chess students of Ken may play for half EF & half prize. Info: Ken Thomas, [email protected] / cell 908-763-6468. NS NC W.

4 Round SS, Game/60, REG.: 8:45 to 9:00 AM. ENTRY: $35. Cash only at site. (Checks payable to: Cordisco’s Corner Store) ROUNDS: 9:15-11:45-2:15-4:30. PRIZES: 1st $175 -2nd $75 -3rd $30. Trophies 1st - 3rd. Under 1700 1st $40 2nd $20.Trophies 1st - 3rd. Guaranteed. Please bring clocks. Cordisco’s Chess Center, 308 Chenango St., Binghamton, NY 13901. (607) 772-8782. jcordisco@ stny.rr.com.

4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-10050, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:159:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game.

Aug. 16, NEW Sunday Sliding Scale Quads!

Aug. 29, Syracuse Monthly Open

Nov. 14, Jersey Shore K-12 Regionals The Academy at Grace and Peace, 1563 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River, NJ 08755. All Sections open to K-12. Section A: U500, Section B: 500-1000, Section C: 1000-1500, Section D: 1500+. Section A, B, C 4SS, G/30. Section D: 3 Rounds, G/60. Trophies to Top 5 in each section, Medals to all others. EF: $25 if rec’d by 11/7, $30 on site. Reg.: 9:00-9:45 AM. Rds.: 10:00 AM and ASAP. Info: John Burke, 732-714-1544 or [email protected]. Ent: Make checks payable toThe Academy at Grace and Peace. Please indicate USCF ID# and section.

Nov. 29, Ken’s Last Sunday Quads Holiday Inn Express, Howard Boulevard, Mt. Arlington, NJ. Take exit #30 off US Route #80. In 4 player Quads. G/90. Regs.: before 10am. First Round 10am, then ASAP with lunch break. EF: $20, Prizes: Choice of $40 or Trophy & EF refund. Current Chess students of Ken may play for half EF & half prize. Info: Ken Thomas, [email protected] / cell 908-763-6468. NS NC W.

58


3-RR, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St., NYC: 212-4773716. EF: Master $35, Expert $30, A $25, U1800 $20. $$ (all EFs returned less $36 per quad). Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds. 7:30-8:30-9:30. NO FREE ENTRIES!! No phone entry!

4SS, Rds 1 & 2 G/60, Rds. 3 & 4 G/90. Courtyard by Marriot, 6415 Yorktown Circle, E. Syracuse (exit 35 I-90, Carrier Circle, 298 E, left at Holiday Inn). $(b/14): $100-50, Class: $30. Reg.: 8:30-9:15, Rds.: 9:30-12-2:15-5:30. EF: $30. Ent: Joe Ball, 310 Helfer Lane, Mineola, NY 13116. WCL JGP for rds. 3 & 4.

Aug. 16, NY Summer Under 1800!

Aug. 29-30 or 30, Marshall CC August GP!

4-SS, G/50, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. EF $40, Club members $30, $5 less if also entering 8/15 Summer G/45, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 8/13. $$ (480 b/32 paid entries): 150100-50, top U1600 $95, top U1400 $85. Limit 2 byes, commit by 2 pm. Reg. ends 15 min before game. Rds. 12-2-4-6 pm. CCA Ratings may be used. $10 extra to “enter” by phone!

See Grand Prix.

Aug. 31, 19th Nassau G/10 (QC) 7SS, G/10, 1st Presbyterian Church, 1st & Main Sts., Mineola. EF: $20 by 8/24, $27 at site, non-memb $5 more. $$ (400 b/25) 100, U2100, 1900, 1700, 1500, 1300/UR 60 each. 3 byes 1-7. Reg to 7:15 PM. Rds.: 7:15-7:45-8:15-8:45-9:159:45-10:15. Rule 14H not used. Sept ratings used. Ent: Harold Stenzel, 80 Amy Dr., Sayville, NY 11782 [email protected].

uschess.org

Sept. 1, Marshall CC New York Experts

Sept. 12, NY September Under 1600!

Open to U2200. 4SS, G/30. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1800 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. One bye available, request at entry.

4-SS, G/50, open to U1600 or unr., Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. EF $40, Club members $25, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. May be limited to 1st 26 entries. $$ (300 b/20 paid): 150-70-30, top U1300 $50, $70 limit to unr. Limit 2 byes, commit by 2:30. Reg. ends 15 min before game. Rds. 12:30-2:30-4:306:30 pm. CCA Ratings may be used. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 9/10. $10 extra to “enter” by phone!

Sept. 3, 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight! See Grand Prix.

Sept. 3, 14th Annual Chess Center Thursday “End-of-Summer” Scholastic Novice! 4-SS, G/30, age 17/below, Under 1400 or unrated, Marshall Chess Club, 23 W. 10 St., bet. 5-6th Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. EF: $20, Club members $10.Trophies: top 4, top Unr. Reg. by 12:45 pm. Rds. 1-2:30-3:45-5 pm. Limit 2 byes, commit by 2:30. No advance entries. Phone entry often impossible!

Sept. 4-7, 5-7 or 6-7, 131st annual NY State Championship

Sept. 12, Prove Your Point! 3-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St., NYC: 212-4773716. EF $20. 3-0 wins $40, 2.5 wins $20, 2 wins $10. Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds. 7:30-8:30-9:30.

9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game.

Sept. 19, Marshall CC Saturday G/60 4SS, G/60. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($360 b/24) $120-70-50, 1700-1999/unr $60, U1700 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. Note: Only one bye available, request at entry.

Sept. 20, Grandmaster Challenge (QC) See Grand Prix.

Sept. 24, 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight! See Grand Prix.

Sept. 26, New York Indian Summer Game/45! See Grand Prix.

Sept. 12, Utica Four Seasons – Summer

Sept. 27, NEW Sunday Sliding Scale Quads!

4SS, G/60. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($360 b/24) $12070-50, 1700-1999/unr $60, U1700 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. Note: Only one bye available, request at entry.

4SS Rds. 1-2: G/60, Rds. 3-4: G/90. Mohawk Valley Community College, Exit 31, I-90, bear left, South on E. Genesee, (2.6 miles), left on Memorial Highway (2.3 miles), left Sherman, right into MVCC, IT Building (not Cafeteria Room 16). EF: $30. Prizes (b/20): $200, 125, 75, Class 100. Reg.: 8:30-9:15. Rds.: 9:3012:00-2:15-5:30. Ent: Joe Ball, 310 Helfer Lane, Minoa, NY 13116.WCL JGP for rds. 3 & 4.

Sept. 6, Marshall CC Sunday Action

Sept. 12-13 or 13, NY September Under 2300!

4-SS, G/50, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. EF $40, Club members $30, $10 less if also entering 9/26 Indian Summer G/45, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 9/24. $$ (480 b/32 paid entries): 150-100-50, top U1600 $95, top U1400 $85. Limit 2 byes, commit by 2 pm. Reg. ends 15 min before game. Rds. 12-2-4-6 pm. CCA Ratings may be used. $10 extra to “enter” by phone!

See Grand Prix.

Sept. 5, Marshall CC Saturday G/60

5SS, G/30, Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. ($$ 360 b/24): 120-70-50, U2200/unr $65, U2000 $55. Rds.: 12-1:30-2:454-5:20pm. One bye available, request at entry.

Sept. 6, The Chess Exchange Monthly Trophy Quads 3-RR, G/30,The Chess Exchange: Chess & Games Club, 288Third Ave., Between Carroll and President, Brooklyn, 718-645-5896. EF: $15 $$: Trophies to top 2 in each quad. Reg.: ends 10 minutes before rd. 1. Rds.: 3-4:15-5:30.

Sept. 9 - Oct. 7, Marshall CC Under-2000 Wednesday Swiss 5SS, 30/90, SD/60. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1700 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Wednesday. Byes ok, limit 2, request by round 3.WCL JGP.

Sept. 10, 4 Rated Games Tonight! 4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-10050, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:159:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game.

4-SS, 30/90, SD/1, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. EF $40, Club members $25, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-100-50, top U2000 $95, U1800 $85. Reg. ends 15 min. before game. 2 schedules: 2-day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day; 1-day, (rds 1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun; both merge rd 3. Limit 2 byes, commit by rd 2. Re-entry $20, counts half. Class pairings OK rd 4. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 9/10. $10 extra to “enter” by phone! WCL JGP.

Sept. 12-Oct. 3, 3rd Farmingdale CC Sept. Swiss 4SS, G/140. Farmingdale Public Library, 116 Merritts Rd., Farmingdale, NY 11735. Open to all U-2300/unr.: $(b/20): $105-85.Top U-1800, U-1500 $55 each. EF: $20. Reg.: 9:15-9:45 AM. No adv. ent. Rds.: 10:00 AM SHARP each Saturday. 2 byes 1-4. Info: www.farmcc.webs.com. NS, W.


Sept. 27, NY Indian Summer Under 1800!

Sept. 28-Oct. 26, Marshall CC Under-1600 Monday Swiss 5SS, G/90. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1300 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Monday. Byes ok, limit 2, request by rd. 3. WCL JGP.

Oct. 1, 4 Rated Games Tonight!


4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-10050, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:159:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game.

Sept. 15, St. John’s Masters at the Marshall Chess Club

Oct. 3, 14th Annual Arkport Open

Sept. 13, NEW Sunday Sliding Scale Quads!

Sept. 10-Oct. 15, FIDE Thursdays!!

See Grand Prix.

See Grand Prix.

6SS, G/120. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open to all players rated 1600 or above. EF: $50, $30 members. $$500 b/20: $175-125-100, U2000 $100; 2 byes OK, commit before Round 4. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm eachThursday; FIDE Rated. WCL JGP.

Sept. 17, 4 Rated Games Tonight!

Oct. 3, Prove Your Point!

Sept. 12, Jenifer Woods Memorial Grand Prix See Grand Prix.

4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-10050, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:15-

3-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St., NYC: 212-4773716. EF $20. 3-0 wins $40, 2.5 wins $20, 2 wins $10. Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds. 7:30-8:30-9:30.

Oct. 3-4 or 4, New York October Open! See Grand Prix.

CHECK OUT USCF’S CORRESPONDENCE CHESS RATED EVENTS

USCF’s 62nd ANNUAL 2009 Open Correspondence Chess Golden Knights Championship $1,000 First Prize

USCF’s 6th ANNUAL 2009 E-mail Correspondence Chess Electronic Knights Championship (Seven-player sections, one game with each of six opponents.)

$700 First Prize

(plus title of USCF’s Golden Knights Champion and plaque)

• 2nd place $600 • 3rd place $400 • 4th place $300 • 5th place $200 • 6th thru 10th place $100 each. Entry fee: $25. The entry deadline is November 30, 2009. These USCF Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all USCF members who reside on the North American continent, islands, or Hawaii, as well as those USCF members with an APO or FPO address. USCF members who reside outside of the North American continent are welcome to participate in e-mail events. Your USCF membership must remain current for the duration of the event, and entry fees must be paid in U.S. dollars. Those new to USCF Correspondence Chess, please estimate your strength: Class A: 1800-1999 (very strong); Class B: 1600-1799 (strong); Class C: 1400-1599 (intermediate); Class D: 1399 and below (beginner level). Note: Prize fund based on 300 entries and may be decreased proportionately per number of entries assigned. Correspondence Chess Matches (two players) • $5 entry fee per person with two, four or sixgame options. Win A Correspondence Chess Trophy • Four-player, double round-robin with class-level pairings. • 1st-place winner receives a trophy. • Entry fee: $10. Victor Palciauskas Prize Tournaments • Seven-player class-level pairings, one game with each of six opponents. • Players must have a USCF CC rating to enter. • 1st-place winner receives $130 cash prize and a certificate signed by Victor Palciauskas. • Entry fee: $25. John W. Collins Memorial Class Tournaments • Four-player, double round-robin with class-level pairings (unrateds welcome). • 1st-place winner receives a John W. Collins certificate. • Entry fee: $7.

uschess.org

(plus title of USCF’s Electronic Knights Champion and plaque)

• 2nd place $400 • 3rd place $300 • 4th thru 10th place $100 each. Entry fee: $25. The entry deadline is November 30, 2009. These USCF Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all USCF members with e-mail access. Your USCF membership must remain current for the duration of the event, and entry fees must be paid in U.S. dollars. Maximum number of tournament entries allowed for the year for each player is ten. Note: Prize fund based on 200 entries and may be decreased proportionately per number of entries assigned.

E-mail Rated Events (need e-mail access): Lightning Match • Two players with two, four or six-game option. • Entry fee $5 per person. Swift Quads • Four-player, double round-robin format. • 1st-place prize merchandise credit of $30. • Entry fee: $10. Walter Muir E-Quads (webserver chess) • Four-player, double round-robin e-mail format tournament with class-level pairings. • 1st-place receives a certificate. • Entry fee: $7. Express Tournament • Seven-player events, one game with each of six opponents. • Prizes: 1st place $30 merchandise credit, 2nd place $20 credit. • Entry fee: $15. Please circle event(s) selected. NOTE: Except for Lightning Matches, Swift Quads, Walter Muir E-Quads, Electronic Knights & Express Tournaments, players will use post office mail, unless opponents agree to use e-mail.

To Enter: 800•903•USCF (8723), Fax 931•787•1200 or on-line www.uschess.org Name_________________________________________ USCF ID# ____________________________________ Address ________________ City _________________ State ___ ZIP __________Phone _________________ E-mail___________________ Est. Rating _________ Credit card # (VISA, MC, Discover, AMEX) __________________________ Exp. date __________ If using VISA, need V-code ___________________ □ Check here if you do not wish to have an opponent who is incarcerated. *Note: This may slow down your assignment.

Make checks payable to U.S. Chess and mail to: Joan DuBois, USCF , PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557


59

Tournament Life Oct. 4, The Chess Exchange Monthly Trophy Quads


3-RR, G/30,The Chess Exchange: Chess & Games Club, 288Third Ave., Between Carroll and President, Brooklyn, 718-645-5896. EF: $15 $$: Trophies to top 2 in each quad. Reg.: ends 10 minutes before rd. 1. Rds.: 3-4:15-5:30.

Oct. 6, Marshall CC New York Experts Open to U2200 4SS, G/30. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1800 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. One bye available, request at entry.

Oct. 8, 4 Rated Games Tonight! 4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-10050, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:159:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game.

Oct. 9-Dec. 4, 2009 Queens Chess Club Championship See Grand Prix.

Oct. 10-11 or 11, Marshall CC October U2300 4SS, 30/90, SD1; Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $45, Members $25. ($360 b/24) $120-70-50, U2000/unr $65, U1700 $55. Reg.: ends 12:15 pm. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2-day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day; 1-day, (rds 1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun; both merge rd 3. Limit 2 byes, request at entry. NO RE-ENTRY. May be limited to first 60 players. WCL JGP.

Oct. 14-Nov. 11, Marshall CC Under-2000 Wednesday Swiss

A State Championship Event! Sept. 12, Ohio Senior Championship Open to anyone born before 1960. 2 sections, Open and U1600. 4SS, Rnd 1 G/75, Rnds 2-4 G/90. The University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Café, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, Ohio 43614. See web site for campus map: www.toledochess.org/ EF: $30 by 9/10 $35 at site, $2 off for OCA members. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $1000 b/30, $200150-100, 1st Class A ,B, $100, 1st U1600 $150, 1st Class C,D/under, $100.Trophy to Open and U1600 winners. Ent: Jonathan Doran, 4120 Walker Ave., Toledo, OH 43612. 419-350-1971. E-mail: [email protected].

Sept. 12, Toledo Sep Swiss Open, 4SS, Rnd 1 G/75, Rnds 2-4 G/90.The University ofToledo Health Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Café, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, Ohio 43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF: $20 by 9/10 $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360 b/20, $100-50, 1st Class A ,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450. WCL JGP.

Oct. 10, Toledo Oct Swiss Open, 4SS, Rnd 1 G/75, Rnds 2-4 G/90.The University ofToledo Health Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Café, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, Ohio 43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF: $20 by 10/8 $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360 b/20, $100-50, 1st Class A ,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450

Oct. 23-25 or 24-25, Cleveland Open See Grand Prix.

4SS, G/30. Bryn Mawr Community Center, 9 S. Bryn Mawr Ave., Bryn Mawr, PA 19010. Sections: Open, U/1400. EF: $30 online; $15 for players under 18; $10 more on-site 6:30-6:45. Open to first 40 players who register. Rds.: 7:00, then ASAP. Prizes: $100 guaranteed 1st, others per entries. See www.silverknightschess.com to register.

Aug. 22, 2009 Lehigh Valley LVCA Aug Championship See Grand Prix.

Aug. 22, 2009 LVCA Scholastic K-12 Championship (10 Trophies) 5-SS, G/30. EF: $30, $35 CASH ONLY after 8/19/09 AT SITE.Trophy’s to 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, Top U1400, U1200, U1000, U800, U600, UNR, FREE ENTRY TO UNRATEDS, if paying 1 year USCF Dues, Free Door Prizes, Coffee & Donuts. Rds.: 10-11:30-12:45-2-3:30. Reg.: ends 9:30am. Site: St. James Church, 11th & Tilghman Sts., Allentown, PA 18102. Ent: Mail to - “Bruce Davis”, 1208 Linden St., Bethlehem, PA 18018, Ph. 610-625-0467, E-mail: [email protected]. Info: www.lehighvalleychess.org/.

A Heritage Event! Aug. 30, 33rd Pittsburgh Summer Open

Sept. 5-7, 1st U.S. Women’s Open

Sept. 5, W.Chester 1st Sat. Quads

Oct. 23-25 or 24-25, Cleveland Open (OH)

Oklahoma

Sept. 11-13 or 12-13, 2009 North Carolina Class Championship

Aug. 21, Friday Night Action #8

See Grand Prix.

Nov. 13-15 or 14-15, 18th Annual Kings Island Open

North Carolina

Every 1st Saturday Lehigh Valley Super Quads 3-RR, St James Church, 11th & Tilghman Sts., Allentown, PA 18102. EF: $10. $30 Perfect Score, else $25 1st. Reg.: 12:30-1:15. Rds.: 1:30-3-4:30. Info: 610821-4320, [email protected], www.lehighvalleychess.org/.

3SS, G/90. Pittsburgh Chess Club, 5604 Solway St., Suite 209, Pittsburgh, PA 15217. EF: $28 by 8/25, $38 later. $3 discount to PCC members. Players organized into Octos (8-player sections) by ratings. Last section may have more than 8. Late entries receive 0-point byes and are placed in last section. $$ 10050 to each section. Reg.: 9-9:45am. Rds.: 10-1:30-5. Info: 412-421-1881, www.pittsburghcc.org. Ent: Attn: Clyde Kapinos, Pittsburgh Chess Club, 5604 Solway St., Suite 209, Pittsburgh, PA 15217. Make checks payable to Pittsburgh Chess Club. NS, NC, W.

5SS, 30/90, SD/60. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1700 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Wednesday. Byes ok, limit 2, request by round 3. WCL JGP. See Grand Prix.

North Penn Chess Club Main & Richardson, Lansdale, PA. See www.npchess club.org for schedules & info or call 215-699-8418.

See Grand Prix.

Aug. 15, Oklahoma Quick Chess Championship (QC)

See Nationals. See Nationals.

Our 20th Year! 3RR, 40/80,sd/30. United Methodist Church, 129 S. High St., West Chester, PA. EF: $20; every tenth quad free $$40, $50 for 3-0, $5 for 3rd rd win if not 3-0. Reg.: 9am; Rds.: 9:30,1,4:30. Info: Jim White 484-678-3164.

Aug. 22, House of Chess Open

Sept. 5-7, 5th Okie Chess Festival (GPP: 20 for Okie Open only)

Sept. 12, Lackawanna County Open

4SS, G/45 House of Chess, Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, OH (W of JC Penny). Sections: Open, U1600. Reg.: 11-11:25 AM. Rds.: 11:30-1:15-3:305:15. Prizes (b/25): Open 1st: $200, 2nd $100; U1900 1st $100; Reserve(U1600): 1st $100 Ent: $25, Club members $20. Info & entries: House of Chess, Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, OH 44070. Phone: (440) 9791133. E-mail: [email protected]. Web www.thehouseofchess.com/.

See Grand Prix.

See Grand Prix.

Sept. 5-7, 2009 U.S. Senior Open

Ohio

Sept. 5-7, 65th Ohio Chess Congress See Grand Prix.

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Pennsylvania Every 2nd Saturday. Allentown 2nd Saturday Quads 3RR, G/40. St. Luke’s Ev. Luth. Church, 417 N. 7th St., Allentown, PA 18102. Quads open to all. EF: $12. $$24/quad. Reg.: 12-1, Rds.: 1:15-2:45-4:15. No adv. ent. Info: 610-433-6518. Other rated events every week!

See Grand Prix.

Sept. 13, 50th Pittsburgh Chess League 30/90, SD/1. Wm Pitt Union, Univ. of Pitt., 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. Monthly 4-player team event from Sept. to Apr. EF: $50/team by 9/10. Rds.: 2pm. Ent/Info: Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223-2245, [email protected], www.pitt.edu/~schach/ W.

Sept. 13, MasterMinds CC 2nd Sunday Summer Quads Blair Christian Academy, Philadelphia, Pa., 220 W. Upsal St. Quads: 3RR,

uschess.org

40/80, SD/30. EF: $20 Perfect score winner $60 else $50. Rds.: 10-2-5. Reg. ends 9:30am. Info: Bradley Crable, 215-844-3881, www.mastermindschess.org.

Virginia

NC. Event honors the VA Tech students who died in the campus shootings of April 16, 2007.

Sept. 19, Allentown School Day’s Swiss

Aug. 7, 14, 21, Arlington Chess Club Friday Night USCF Rating Ladder

Nov. 27-29 or 28-29, 40th annual National Chess Congress (PA)

See Grand Prix.

Sept. 26, 3rd Annual Greater Pocono Scholastic Championships 4SS, G/45. Pocono Mountain East HS, 200 Pocono Mountain School Rd., Swiftwater, PA 18370. Sections: K-12 U/1000, K-12 Champ. EF: $20 online by 9/23; $30 on-site 9:00-9:30. Rds.: 10:30-12:30-2:00-3:30. Prizes: trophies to top individuals & schools. Free game analysis by NM Adam Weissbarth. See www.silverknightschess.com to register.

Oct. 4, 2009 PA State Game/60 Championship See Grand Prix.

Oct. 10-12, 50th Annual U.S. Armed Forces Open See Nationals.

Oct. 11, PCL October Quick Quads (QC) 3RR, G/15. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 juniors. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am. Rds.: 11:30amNoon-12:30pm. Info: [email protected]. 412-908-0286. W.

Nov. 27-29 or 28-29, 40th annual National Chess Congress See Grand Prix.

Rhode Island Cranston-Warwick CC Monthly Every Tuesday. 4SS, 40/75, SD/30. Garden City Center, Cranston. EF: $3/game (club mbrs: $2/game). Reg.: 6:30-6:50pm; email preferred. Rds.: 1st 4 Tuesdays of the month, 7pm sharp! 5thTuesday extra rated games and events. One bye rd 1-3; if notified in advance. Prizes based on entries. Info: www.cran stonchess.org, 401-575-1520. WCL JGP.

Tennessee Aug. 22, 17th Battle of Murfreesboro See Grand Prix.

Texas Aug. 22-23, Summer Slammer Hornbeak Bldg, 2nd floor, 4450 Medical Dr., San Antonio, TX 78229. 7-SS, G/60. $$1,100 b/40: $250-150; A, B, U1600, U1400/unr. ea. $100-$75. EF: $30 if rec’d by 8/20, $35 at site. Junior (18/under) or Senior (65+) entry (count 2/3 toward based-on): $20 by 8/20, $25 at site. Reg.: 9:30-10:30 a.m., Rds.: 11-1:30-4-7, 10-12:30-3. Half-pt. bye any 2 rds. (except BOTH 6 & 7), notice before rd. 2. Entries: SACC, POB 501, Helotes, TX 78023. Info: www.sanantoniochess.com, 210-695-2324. NS. NC. W.

Aug. 29-30, DFW FIDE Open V See Grand Prix.

Sept. 4-7 or 5-7, 75th Annual Southwest Open See Grand Prix.

Utah A State Championship Event! Aug. 22, 2009 Utah Amateur Championship 5SS, Univ. of Utah, Student Union Bldg. Panorama Rm. and Den., SLC, UT 84112. TWO Sections: U-1800 & U-1000. Winner of U-1800 is Utah Amateur Champion. EF: U-1800 $20 U-1000 $10. Both if by Aug 20, $5 more on-site. Time Controls: U-1800 G/60 td/5. U-1000 Rd 1-2 G/35 td/5. Rd 3-5 G/55 td/5. Rds: U-1800 10AM, 12:15, 3, 5:15, 7:30. U-1000 10AM, 11:15, 1, 3, 5. $$U-1800 B/32 100+Plaque, 80+Trophy, 70+Medal $$U-1000 B/32 50+Trophy, 40+Plaque, 35+Medal. Reg.: Sat 9AM-9:40.Two 1/2 pt. Byes available. Non-cash awards& Amateur Title to top Utah Residents. Tourney flyer w/more info: www.utah chess.com. ENT: [email protected] or call Morry Holland 801-562-0156.

PROFESSIONAL PLAYERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS FUND (PPHBF) Many Grand Prix tournament organizers will contribute $1 per player to the Professional Health & Benefits Fund. All Grand Prix tournaments which participate in this program are entitled to be promoted to the next higher Grand Prix category—for example, a six-point tournament would become a 10-point tournament. Points in the top category are promoted 50%.

uschess.org

30/90 SD/1. Lyon Village Community House, 1920 N Highland Rd., Arlington, VA. Player with most monthly points - $50 and most total points March December wins $100. Must Join Club to play ($50 Adult, $40 U18) check web to make sure we are open each week - members.cox.net/arlingtonchessclub/ladder.htm. Ladder has been running for over 45 years, now win money too! Contact: Adam Chrisney for info: [email protected]. No advance entries, sign up for ladder weekly by 8pm, games start 8:15pm. Future monthly events will appear a month in advance here. WCL JGP.

Aug. 15, 2009 Bill Bochman Memorial See Grand Prix.

Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, 41st annual Atlantic Open (DC) See Grand Prix.

Sept. 4, VA Closed Friday Night Blitz (QC) Event is open to all USCF members, not just VA residents. Same location as VA Closed. 4 or 5-DblSS depending on number of players. EF: $25 if received by Sep 1, $35 thereafter and at door.Two sections, Open and Amateur (U1800). $$500 b/30 paid entries. Rd 1 at 7:30 PM. Ent: Mail with payment to Mike Hoffpauir, ATTN: VA Closed, 405 Hounds Chase, Yorktown, VA 23693. Checks to “VIRGINIA CHESS”. Info: e-mail [email protected], 757-846-4805 or www.vachess.org/2009closed.htm. W, NS, NC.

Sept. 4, 11, 18, 25, Arlington Chess Club Friday Night USCF Rating Ladder 30/90 SD/1. Lyon Village Community House, 1920 N. Highland Rd., Arlington, VA. Player with most monthly points - $50 and most total points March December wins $100. Must Join Club to play ($50 Adult, $40 U18) check web to make sure we are open each week - members.cox.net/arlingtonchessclub/ladder.htm. Ladder has been running for over 45 years, now win money too! Contact: Adam Chrisney for info: [email protected] No advance entries, sign up for ladder weekly by 8pm, games start 8:15pm. Future monthly events will appear a month in advance here. WCL JGP.

A Heritage Event! A State Championship Event! Sept. 5-7, 73rd Annual Virginia Closed State Championship 6-SS, 30/90, SD/1. Hilton Garden Inn Richmond-Innsbrook, 4050 Cox Rd., Glen Allen, VA (804) 521-2900. Conveniently located just off I-295. Ask for chess rate and mention the tournament. Reserve before 8/15 for chess rate (http://hiltongardeninn.hilton.com). Open to VA residents, military stationed in VA, and students attending any VA school, College or University (must show valid ID or other proof of Fall 2009 VA school enrollment). Annual VCF Business Meeting Saturday Sep 5 10am-12 noon. $$2,350 b/75 paid entries. Two sections, Open and Amateur (U1800). Open $500-300-200, Top Expert & A $100 ea. Trophy to 1st, Top Exp & A. Amateur $400-200-150. Top C, D, U1200, Unr $100 each. Trophy to 1st, Top C, D, U1200. Trophies to top Senior (60+), Junior (U18) and Woman with 1pt added to their Open section scores. Reg.: Fri Sep 4, 4PM-7PM and Sat Sep 5, 10:30AM-12:30PM. Rds.: Sat 1 & 7; Sun 11 & 5; Mon 10 & 3:30. Two 1/2 pt byes available, must declare before start of Rd 2. EF: $55 if received by Sep 1, $65 thereafter and on site. Re-entry allowed for Rd.2 only @ $30 with 1/2 pt bye. Ent: Mail payment to Mike Hoffpauir, ATTN: VA Closed, 405 Hounds Chase, Yorktown, VA 23693. Checks to “VIRGINIA CHESS”. Info: e-mail [email protected], 757-846-4805, or www.vachess. org/2009closed.htm. W, NS, NC, FIDE.

See Grand Prix.

West Virginia Aug. 23, 17th Annual Parkersburg Homecoming Chess Tournament 4SS, G/60. Parkersburg Municipal Building, 2nd & Market Streets, Parkersburg, WV 26101. 2 Sections: Open EF: $15 postmarked by 8/16, $20 at site, Trophy to First, $$ Based on Entries. Non-Rated EF: $7, Trophies to 1st & 2nd. ALL: Reg. ends 9-9:45. Rds.: 10-12:45-3-5:15. Ent/Info: Patrick Kelly, 104 Iroquois Drive, Marietta, OH 45750, (740)374-0538, [email protected], NS, NC, W.

Wisconsin Sept. 5-7, Marshall Rohland Memorial/Wisconsin Closed Championship Ramada Conference Center, 6331 S. 13th St., Milwaukee, WI 53221. In 3 Sections: Premier: 6SS, 40/2, SD/1, EF: $38 if received by 09/01, $45 after. Junior(U21) $33 if received by 09/01, $45 after. Comp entry 2200+ Comp entry past WI State Champions. No Credit Card’s onsite. $$GTD: $400-200-150. Class A: $125, U1800: $125. Reg.: 9:30 am -10:30 am. Rds.: 11-7,10-7, 10-4. One bye for rounds 1-5. Reserve(U1800): 6SS, 40/2, SD/1, Open to 1799 & under. EF: $23 if received by 09/01, $30 after. Juniors $5 discount. $$GTD: $250200.Trophies for Best C,D,U1200, UNR. Rds.: 11-7, 10-7, 10-4. One bye rounds 1-5. Scholastic- 09/05/2009 only: 6SS, G/30, EF: $15 if received before 09/01, $25 after. Prizes: Trophies: 1st-5th, Medals 6th-20th. Trophies Best HS, Best MS 1st-3rd, Best Elem 1st-3rd, Top HS Team, Top two MS Team, Top two Elem Team. Reg.: 7:45 am - 8:30 am. Rds.: 9 am - 10:30 am - 12 pm - 1:30 pm - 3 pm - 4:30 pm. One bye available rounds 1-5. ALL: Open to current state residents, students of state schools or past champions. Largest Upset Any Section: $50. ENT: 6822 N. Crestwood Dr., Glendale, WI 53209, 414.234.1005. INFO: Ashish Vaja [email protected]. HR: $79 414-764-1500. NS NC. WCL JGP for Premier and Reserve only.

Oct. 9-11 or 10-11, 18th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL) See Grand Prix.

SEE

ALL OF YOUR

USCF

MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS ON PAGE 5

Oct. 17, 3rd Annual VA Tech Hokie Memorial 3/4-SS, G60. VATech Univ, locationTBD. $$400 b/20 paid entries.Two sections, Open & Amateur (U1600). Open $125-75-50, Amateur $75-50-25. Reg.: 8-9:30 Sat Oct 17 on site. One 1/2 pt bye, must declare before reg closes. Rds.: 10, 12:30, 3 & 5:30. EF: $25 if entry info received by Oct 13, then pay on site. Late Reg is $35 on site. Ent: Email player’s name, section, USCF ID to Mike Hoffpauir ([email protected]), ATTN: Hokie Memorial. Pay entry fee on site only. Scholastic tournament (K-8) also being held at same time. Info: [email protected], 757-846-4805, or www.vachess.org/hokie-09.htm. W, NS,

OF THIS ISSUE

NO TOURNAMENTS IN YOUR AREA? WHY NOT ORGANIZE ONE? Do you need to go out of town for tournament play? Would you and others in your area like the convenience of an occasional event closer to home? Organize one! It’s not much work to hold a small tournament, and there is little risk if you use a lowcost site and avoid guaranteed prizes. You might even make a profit! Either a based-on Swiss with projected prizes up to $500, a Quad format, or a trophy tournament will virtually guarantee taking in more in fees than you pay out in prizes. The affiliation fee is just $40 a year. You will receive the annual rating supplement and have access to the TD/Affiliate area of our website. Remember, you can both run and play in a small event. Many of them wouldn’t be held if the organizer/TD couldn’t play. WANT TO KNOW MORE? Contact Joan DuBois at [email protected]. We’ll be glad to help you be part of the promotion of American chess!


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Activities THE CHESS EXCHANGE: Chess & Games Club FULL-TIME CHESS CLUB, Backgammon, Scrabble, etc. Hours: MONTHURS 12pm-9pm, FRI 12pm-11pm, SAT 12pm-11pm, SUN 12pm-6pm. Club address: 288 3rd Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11215. 1-888-CHESS-35, (718) 6455896. www.TriStateChess.com, [email protected]. Correspondence Chess Club: Candidate Master, 1071 N. Grand Ave., Suite 210, Nogales, AZ 85621. [email protected]. GMs Giorgi Kacheishvili and Zviad Izoria are available for participation in your tournaments, for lectures, simuls or other activities. Please contact [email protected] or cell 646-239-0783. FIDE MASTER Seeks NY’er with a computer and printer to co-author chess books. Contact: Rudy Blumenfeld, 155 Beach 19th Street, Apt. 8N, Far Rockaway, NY 11691.

For Sale WHOLESALE LIST OF CHESS BOOKS Three pages. Send SASE. Thinkers' Press, 1101 West 4th, Davenport, IOWA 52802. 24 PAGE CHESS CATALOG FREE Previously owned books and DVDs, new, old, and really old. Big savings on everything. Souvenirs, photos, autographs and more. Complete catalog of Thinkers’ Press books and Chess Reports. PDF brochure on running part time chess retail business. Send your name and e-mail address to: [email protected] and get your catalogs pronto. Visit www.chessco.com daily for updated information. www.stores.ebay.com/4yourdeskinc Electronic Chess, PurchaseThe Grandmaster, Brand New, 4 Your Desk Inc., 471 North Broadway, Suite 196, NY 11753, (516) 409-8213, NYS Buyers Must Include Sales Tax. BOOK COMPARING CHESS960 (FRC) AND CHESS1, modifies our understanding of chess principles. Search Amazon.com for “chess960”. Visit www.CastleLong.com. For a FREE copy of Confidential Chess Lessons send name and address to James Schroeder, 3011 E 9th St #15, Vancouver, WA 98661. Attractive Chess Art Portraits, done in chalk pastels, prints or originals available for all world champions, and legends. Very reasonalbly priced. Free Catolog for your selection. Call (937) 313-8379 or E-mail at [email protected] Chessvideo.com is now ChessOndvd.com The World’s Largest DVD ChessStore. Over 200Titles. Get Private Lessons from GrandMasters, Polgar Roman, Kasparov, Shirov. Karpov on Fischer, Foxy Openings, Fischer Spassky. Rematch and more. Retain 70% more than reading a book. ChessOndvd.com, 1-877chessdvd. Deep Tactics 6.0 combo $49, Chess Life & Reviews 33-75 $39, Much more, 928-246-1580 www.stores.ebay.com/toby-chess NEW AND ANTIQUE CHESS SETS The House of Staunton, sole U.S. distributor for Jaques of London, produces unquestionably the finest Staunton Chess sets currently available and offers the world’s largest selection of antique chess sets dating from 1780. PayPal and all Major Credit Cards accepted. For our new products catalog send $5.00 or for a 70 page plus color-illustrated catalog of our new and antique items send $15.00 to:The House of Staunton, Inc.; 362 McCutcheon Lane;Toney, AL 35773. Website: www.houseofstaunton.com; phone: (256) 858-8070; email: [email protected]. LEATHER CHESS BOARDS BY STUMPY: Squares & designs burned on to suede. Can be customized. Prices range according to size & design. Phone: 423-364-1117. Visit WWW.ITALIANGAMBIT.COM A Comprehensive Book for 1. e4 players by Chess Master Jude Acers. ANTIQUARIAN AND OUT OF PRINT CHESS BOOKS For sale. Free catalog. Kramer-books, PO Box 243, Whitehall, PA 18052-0243. TREASURE CHESS: rare, used and new books bought and sold, bargains. 650-856-2346; [email protected]; members.aol.com/chess316 “TWO DEANS OF AMERICAN CHESS AND THE ORIGIN OF CHESS” send $15 and address to Jerry DeGattis, 3955 Coffee Rd. #76 95355 Visit www.thechesslibrary.com NEW BOOK: Bronstein: Fifty Great Short Games—IM Minev. Free tournament crosstable archives. CHESS VISUALIZATION COURSE A series of books to help you improve your chess visualization skills. Exercises taken from real games. www.chessvisualization.com. I CHECK THEREFORE I AM T-Shirt, Hats, Mugs and more! Visit www.iamsportswear.com today.

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Instructors Needed CHESS CLUB IN SPRINGFIELD, NJ is looking for an instructor and counselors for summer 2007 chess camp: full day or half day. Please email [email protected] or call 973-262-1395.

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Wanted Earn Big $$$ Looking for experienced chess coaches to teach after-school programs (Grades K-12) in the Greater New York area. Emphasis on developing Chess Teams! Send resume: [email protected] or Tri-State Chess, 288 Third Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11215. Buying Chess Memorabilia, books, photos, posters, art, letters, autographs. Seeking stamp and postcard collections. Please contact NM Richard Benjamin (770) 953-6916. E-mail: [email protected]. CHESS-PLAYER SCHOLARS in top 10% of high school class with USCF > 2000 and SAT > 1400 for possible college scholarships to UMBC. Prof. Alan Sherman, Dept. of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, Univ. of Maryland, Baltimore County, 21250. 410-455-2666, [email protected]. Fide Master Wants to share an apartment with an apartment owner. Rudy Blumenfeld, 431 Beach 20th St., Far Rockaway, NY 11691. (Southern/Northern California) Professional Photography of Tournaments and players. Documentary or artistic. USCF rated photographer that understands positions. 415-205-0564. www.fraserimagery.com/chess. Rubber stamps to make chess diagrams. Ames, Box 690025, Quincy, MA 02269 Looking for people to play chess on Friday nights in Andover township (no time limit). Bernard Norgard (973) 352-9520.

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Solutions

Chess to Enjoy Problem I.

1. Qf6+ (or 1. Qg7+) 1. ... Ka2 2. Qfa6+ Kb2 3. Qaa3 mate. Problem II.

1. Qe7 Rg8 2. Bh6! mates. Problem III.

1. Rg3! threatens 2. Rg4+! hxg4 3. Rh6 mate. Black resigned after 1. ... Rc5 2. Rh6! in view of 3. Rg4 mate. Problem IV.

1. ... Qe5! threatens 2. ... Qf4+ 3. Kg2 Qh2+ 4. Kf3 Qxh3 mate. After 2. Nf1 Qf4+ 3. Kg2 Rxf1! 4. Re2 and Black won. Problem V.

1. Bxf7+! Kxf7 2. Rf3+ Kg8 3. Qh3 threatens 4. Rg3 as well as 4. Qxe6+. Black also loses after 1. ... Kf8 2. Qd6+; 1. ... Kh8 2. Qh4+ Qh7 3. Qf6+ Qg7 4. Rh3 mate, and 1. ... Kh7 2. Qh4+ Qh6 3. Bg6+! Kg7 4. Qe7+. Problem VI.

1. f4! threatens 2. fxg5+. The game went 1. ... g4 2. f5! Qxe7 3. f6! Qe5 4. Qh7 Rg8 5. fxg7+ Ke6 6. Qg6+ Kd7 7. Rf7+ Kc8 8. Ne7+ Kb8 9. Nc6+, Black resigned.

What’s The Best Move? 1. A. GM Sergey Kudrin - GM Melikset Khachiyan.

A. White won a long game after 1. Rxd7! Nxd7 2. Qxf5 Rd8 (if 2. ... Nf6 3. Bxh6!) 3. Qh7 Qxc4 4. Qh8+ Ke7 5. Qxg7 Re8 6. Bxh6. B. Unsound is 1. Bb4? c5! 2. dxc5 Kxe7 3. c6+ Kd8. C. Black is hoping for 1. Re2 Qxa2. 2. C. Gergely Antal - Ricardo DeGuzman.

A. The edge evaporates on 1. Nxe7 Qxe7 2. Be5 Nd7 3. Bxe4+ g6. B. Ditto 1. dxe4 Nxf5 2. gxf5 Bc4 3. Qxd8 Rfxd8 4. Rfd1. C. IM Antal, a Hungarian student at Texas Tech,

uncorked 1. Nxg7! Ng6 (curtains is 1. ... Kxg7 2. Be5! Neg8 3. g5! hxg5 4. Qh5) 2. Bxh6! Kxh6 3. g5+! Kxg7 4. gxf6+ Kh6 5. Bxe4 Qd6 6. Qd2+ Kh7 7. Qg5 Rh8 8. Rf4! Kg8 9. Bxg6 Kf8 10. Bxf7! and soon won. 3. C. Vladimir Mezentsev - Dana Mackenzie.

A. Shun moves that aid the opponent such as 1. ... Bc4+? 2. Kd2. B. No help either is 1. ... e4? 2. Kd2. C. The saving grace is 1. ... Bg8! White dumped his queen by 2. Qd3?? Bc4 instead of forcing a draw by 2. Qg6 Bf7 3. Qh7. 4. B. Samuel Sevian - George Trammell.

A. Black ultimately lost after 1. ... Nxg4?! 2. Bxg4 Bxf1 3. Qxf1 Bxh4 4. f6 Bxf6 5. Nd5 Qd8 6. Nxf6+ Qxf6 7. Qxf6 gxf6 8. Bxh6. B. The thematic 1. ... d5! solves Black’s problems. If 2. exd5 Rd8. C. Defensible but passive is 1. ... Nh7 2. Bxc4 Qxc4 3. Nd2.

Endgame Lab – Benko’s Bafflers Problem I. 1. Qa2 1. Rb2? Qa6+ 2. Qa2 Qxa2+ is even; 1. Rb1+? Kd2 2. Qa2+ Ke3 3. Qe6+ Kf2 1. ... Qf5 1. ... Qd3 2. Rb2! h5 Zugzwang 3. h4 Rd1 4. Qa5 Rd2 5. Qc5+ Rc2 6. Qg5+ Kd1 7. Qxh5+ Kd2 8. Qg5+ and White is better. 2. Rc7+! Kd1 3. Rc3 Qe4 4. Qb2 Qa4+ 5. Kb1 Qe4+ 6. Rc2 Qe3 7. Qb5 Re2 8. Qd5+ Ke1 9. Rc1+ Kf2 10. Qf5+ Kg2 11. Qf1+ Kxh2 12. Qh1+ Kg3 13. Rg1+ Kf4 14. Qxh6+ wins. Problem II. 1. d7 Qxd7!? 1. ... Rxd7 2. Rxd7 Qxd7 3. h6 Qc7 4. Bxh7 Qc1+ 5. Bb1 Qxh6 6. Be4 Qc1+ 7. Bb1 Qc2 8. Bxc2 bxc2 9. Ka2 c1=N+ 10. Kb1 Ne2 11. Kc2 Nf4 12. Kc3 Ne6 13. Kc2 (mutual Zugzwang) 13. ... Nd8 14. Kc3 Nc6

15. Kc2 (positional draw-blockade); 1. ... Rxd7 2. h6? Rd4! 3. Rf1 Rxb4 4. Rd1 Rf4 5. Rf1 Rf2 6. Re1 Rxb2 and Black is better. 2. h6! Rf7 3. Rf1 Re7 4. Re1 (Positional draw. Perpetual attack/stalemate.)

Solitaire Chess – ABCs of Chess Problem I.

Fork: Black has the immediate 1. ... e5, since 2. Bxe5 is met by 2…Qa5+. Problem II.

Trapping: White’s queen falls to 1. ... Nb6 2. Qb8 Bd6. Problem III.

Getting out of check: With 1. ... c6 White must lose something. Problem IV.

Double threat: The best move is 1. ... Nb6 (1. ... Qxf1+ doesn’t do quite as well), and White drops material. Problem V.

Trapping: After 1. ... Kd7 2. Nxa8 Kc6, the knight is trapped and the resulting ending is won for Black. Problem VI.

Mating net: The game comes to an end with 1. ... Qg1+ 2. Rf1 f2 mate.

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

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

CHESS LIFE USPS# 102-840 (ISSN 0197-260X). Volume 64 No. 8. PRINTED IN THE USA. Chess Life, formerly Chess Life & Review, is published monthly by the United States Chess Federation, 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557--3967. Chess Life & Review and Chess Life remain the property of USCF. Annual subscription (without membership): $50. Periodical postage paid at Crossville, TN 38557-3967 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chess Life (USCF), PO Box 3967, Crossville, Tennessee 38557-3967. Entire contents ©2009 by the United States Chess Federation. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise without the prior written permission of USCF. Note: Unsolicited materials are submitted at the sender's risk and Chess Life accepts no responsibility for them. Materials will not be returned unless accompanied by appropriate postage and packaging. Address all submissions to Chess Life, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557-3967. The opinions expressed are strictly those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Chess Federation. Send all address changes to: U.S. Chess, Membership Services, PO Box 3967, Crossville, Tennessee 38557-3967. Include your USCF I.D. number and a recent mailing label if possible. This information may be e-mailed to addresschange@ uschess.org. Please give us eight weeks advance notice. PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 41473530 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO EXPRESS MESSENGER INTERNATIONAL P.O. BOX 25058 LONDON BRC, ONTARIO, CANADA N6C 6A8

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