INCLUDED IN THIS ISSUE: THE 2018 BACK-TO-SCHOOL BUYING GUIDE

September 2018 | USChess.org

“ The most
challenging
victory of
my career.
“

GM CRISTIAN CHIRILA
NATIONAL OPEN CHAMP
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2 September 2018 | Chess Life

www.uschess.org 3
 PHOTO: ASHLEY RODGERS, TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY
Chess Life
SEPTEMBER
COLUMNS
14 CHESS TO ENJOY / ENTERTAINMENT
The IQ-Elo Connection
By GM Andy Soltis

16

22
BACK TO BASICS / READER ANNOTATIONS
Desperado
By GM Lev Alburt

18 IN THE ARENA / PLAYER OF THE MONTH

A Summer to Remember Players from 10 NATO
By GM Robert Hess nations met at Texas
Tech University to
20 LOOKS AT BOOKS / SHOULD I BUY IT?
compete in the NATO
Logical Ambition
By John Hartmann Chess Championship.

48 SOLITAIRE CHESS / INSTRUCTION

The Strongest Chess-Playing Cab Driver?

50
By Bruce Pandolfini

THE PRACTICAL ENDGAME / INSTRUCTION

22 MILITARY CHESS / NATO CHAMPIONSHIP
#################### !## 
#!#" 
Concrete Calculations BY COLONEL (RETIRED) DAVID A. HATER, U.S. ARMY
By GM Daniel Naroditsky
The United States hosts the event for the first time in the
tournament’s 29-year history.

DEPARTMENTS
30 COVER STORY / NATIONAL OPEN
################### #"!# 
5 SEPTEMBER PREVIEW /
THIS MONTH IN CHESS LIFE AND US BY GM ELSHAN MORADIABADI
CHESS NEWS GM Ioan-Cristian Chirila’s determination wins the day—and
the Edmondson Cup—at the 2018 National Open.
6 COUNTERPLAY / READERS RESPOND

7 US CHESS AFFAIRS /
NEWS FOR OUR MEMBERS 38 MEMBERSHIP APPRECIATION /
MAP WINNERS
8 FIRST MOVES /
###################!!#!" # "
CHESS NEWS FROM AROUND THE U.S.
Meet some of the top affiliates from our year-long membership drive.
9 FACES ACROSS THE BOARD /
BY AL LAWRENCE

54 TOURNAMENT LIFE / SEPTEMBER 42 GRAND PRIX EVENT / U.S. WOMEN’S OPEN

##################!" "#""
71 CLASSIFIEDS / SEPTEMBER BY WGM SABINA-FRANCESCA FOISOR
Saikhanchimeg (Sana) Tsogtsaikhan shines in her
71 SOLUTIONS / SEPTEMBER
second U.S. Women’s Open.
72 MY BEST MOVE / PERSONALITIES
THIS MONTH: GM ROBERT HESS

46 ENTERTAINMENT / HUMOR
################## !#"# #
!
BY DENNIS J. MC GRATH
ON THE COVER
Contrary to popular belief, chess players’ brains can misfire
GM Ioan-Cristian Chirila tweeted, “Summer is off to spectacularly, rendering us incapable of performing the simplest tasks.
a good start!” after winning clear first at the 2018
National Open.
COVER PHOTO BY LENNART OOTES
Didn't get a US Chess Federation Sales Buying Guide in the center of this issue
but you want one? Visit USCFSales.com for contact information to order one.

4 September 2018 | Chess Life

 September Preview / This month in Chess Life and US Chess News
US CHESS NEWS PREVIEW
September
AMERICAN GOLD OLYMPIC
TEAM RETURNS TO BATUMI
From September 23rd-October 6th, GM
Alejandro Ramirez will report daily on the
progress of our U.S. Olympic team. We return
with the same squad that took gold in Baku (GMs
Fabiano Caruana, Hikaru Nakamura, Wesley So,
Samuel Shankland and Ray Robson, with captain
IM John Donaldson and coach GM Aleksandr
Lenderman). Our spirited women’s team will
feature GM Irina Krush, IM Anna Zatonskih,
WGM Tatev Abrahamyan, WGM Sabina-
Francesca Foisor and FM Jennifer Yu. GM
Maurice Ashley will also be providing video dispatches to give US Chess News readers an
insider’s look into the scene in Batumi. Photo: the 2016 gold medal Olympic team.
FOLLOW THE QUEENS
Follow @USChessWomen on Twitter and Instagram and bookmark USChessWomen.org to find
the latest developments in our growing women’s chess initiative, including a video short
directed by Jenny Schweitzer celebrating the challenges, strength of character, and eloquence of
the girls in our game.
GM ALEK S A NDR L ENDER MA
A N WINS THE U .S. OPPEN
SINQUEFIELD CUP
As the Sinquefield Cup wraps up on August 29th,
look for our US Chess News coverage, including
tactics quizzes and insiders’ looks into the St. Louis
chess scene from Eric Rosen and Jen Shahade on our
social media accounts @USChess.
     

T OUR DE F ORCE
LABOR DAY ROUND UP
Look for a series of reports from tournaments and
state championships held over the holiday weekend,
PHOTO COURTESY OF WORLD CHESS HALL OF FAME
September 1-3, and submit your own stories to
jshahade@uschess.org
Novemb err 2 017 | USChe s s .org
LISTEN TO OUR PODCAST!
In the September edition of Cover Stories, Senior
Director of Strategic Communcation Dan Lucas
interviews GM Elshan Moradiabadi about his National
Open cover story. Senior Digital Editor Jennifer Shahade
also discusses what is coming up in US Chess News at
uschess.org and on our social media network. Find “Cover
Stories” on iTunes, as well as on our website under the
category “Podcast” on our new.uschess.org/news/ page.
And don’t miss the “Best Question” contest sponsored by
USCFSales.com and your chance to win a $50 gift
certificate! Send your questions to letters@uschess.org.
CONTRIBUTORS
GM ELSHAN MORADIABADI
(National Open) is an active coach and
player residing in Durham, North
Carolina. Originally from Iran, Elshan
came to the U.S. for graduate school and
to join Texas Tech’s chess program. He
won the 2017 US Chess Grand Prix and
has won several tournaments, most
notably the Washington International
in 2016.
WGM SABINA-FRANCESCA FOISOR
(Women’s Open) is the 2017 U.S.
Women’s champion and has been a
member of the U.S. Women’s Olympic
Team since 2010. In 2018, she was named
to Forbes magazine’s 30 Under 30: Games
list. Her website is sabinafoisor.com.
COL. (RET) DAVID HATER
(NATO) recently retired from the U.S.
Army after a 27-year career. He is a
three-time Armed Forces Open
champion and serves as the captain of the
United States’ NATO team.
GM ALEXANDER IPATOV
(NATO) is a Ukrainian-born
grandmaster, the top player in Turkey,
and a two-time Turkish chess champion.
He currently is pursuing his second
master’s degree at Saint Louis University
where he also captains the chess team. In
his free time, he is doing research on
offbeat opening lines.
DENNIS J. MC GRATH
(Blunders) is Deputy Digital Editor
of the Minneapolis Star Tribune. He
sneaks away from his assigned duties to
write about chess—and his virtual
G Maxi
GM a me neighbor GM Wesley So—whenever he
Vachier-Lagrave sees an opening. This is his first article
scores a career
victory at 5th for Chess Life.
Sinquefield Cup
JAMAAL ABDUL-ALIM
(First Moves, Ledecky) is a freelance
writer based in Washington, D.C. and is
an instructor and program developer
with Chess Challenge in DC, an after-
school program that brings chess to
youths in elementary and middle schools
throughout the city.
SEAN ROBINSON
(First Moves, Black) is an award-
winning investigative journalist based
in Tacoma, Washington. He has
worked for the Tacoma News Tribune
since 2000, and he’s mastered the
Lucena position.
www.uschess.org 5
Counterplay / Readers Respond

Soltis, Shabba, and Some Corrections
CHESS TO ENJOY, PART I
Two things:
One: Thanks, Andy Soltis, for mentioning
Paul Magriel [July 2018]. I had just pulled his
book off the shelf to show a couple of my
daughter’s friends that backgammon was more
than “just luck.” His book, Backgammon, was a
BOMC (Book of the Month Club) selection in
1977 and was considered “the Bible,” particularly
after he won the World Championship the
next year. Interestingly, in an interview I read
shortly after that, he repudiated much of his
book, saying he had learned a lot more in the
intervening few years.
Two: Your Lein quiz (pg. 15) reminded me
of this photo I took at an American Open (photo,
right). Lein is playing a young Nick de Firmian
while Walter Browne looks on.
Al Peña
via email
CHESS TO ENJOY, PART II
Consider the below as a Letter to the Editor
based on [Andy] Soltis’ article in the July 2018
Chess Life.
Randomly set up chessboards in the media
(TV, movies, commercials, ads) seem to incor-
rectly place the black square on the right much
more frequently than 50-50 odds might suggest.
Equally true, and equally unfortunate, is the
perpetuating myth of schizophrenia as described
by GM Andy Soltis in his July article, “The
Enemy of the Good.” He wrote, “This caused
him to descend into schizophrenia, as his mind
split into a ‘White’ half and a ‘Black’ half, each
side at mental war with the other.”
What Dr. B had was Dissociative Identity
Disorder: Multiple Personality Disorder (DID-
MPD). That is the condition where the per-
sonality splits into more than one as in the
famous case of Sybil. Schizophrenia is a
psychotic disorder which is so devastating to
the personality that the “split-personality” is
better described as what happens when you
take a hammer to a car window—hundreds,
even thousands, of little pieces. The person’s
affect (emotions), cognitions (thoughts), and
behavior degenerate into delusions, halluci-
nations, or complete escape from reality. The
two have different etiologies; DID-MPD almost
always [stems] from trauma as an escape from
6 September 2018 | Chess Life
a horrible situation, [such] as Dr. B in the Nazi
concentration camp. Schizophrenia has many
theoretical causes, and if forced to pick between
the two, it is an easy choice—multiple person-
ality every time!
One day the media will get both right: the
white square on the right and describing what
Dr B has as Multiple Personality Disorder!
Michael Atkins
MA, NCC, LCPC (ret.)
via email
SHABALOV
I read with great interest that GM Alexander
Shabalov won all four of his games with Black
in the recent 44th Eastern Open by playing 1.
... Nc6, or in the old descriptive notation: 1. ...
N-QB3 (Chess Life, March 2018, “What a Piece
of Work is Shabba!”)
The last time I remember GM Shabalov being
on the cover of Chess Life, in that cover article
he reviewed the most recent edition of MCO CHESS LIFE READER AL PEÑA SENT THIS PHOTO OF
[Modern Chess Openings], using the theme, “Does A TRIO OF GRANDMASTERS: ANATOLY LEIN, NICK DE
this edition have the new lines that the top FIRMIAN, AND WALTER BROWNE, TAKEN AT THE
AMERICAN OPEN, DATE UNKNOWN.
players are actually playing?”
I have a feeling that 1. ... Nc6 got little or no
attention in that edition.
However, I wonder how many of today’s
chess players realize that a queen’s knight
opening appeared in the first edition of Modern
Chess Openings (authors R. C. Griffith and J. H.
White, 1911)?
Allen Van Gelder
via email
Some corrections to our July
2018 issue:
The cover photo is by Lennart
Ootes, courtesy of the Saint
Louis Chess Club.
Sh
hank
kland
d Shiines
IN ST. LOUIS
S AT U.S. CHAMPIO
C NSHIP
On page 10, Pal Benko’s Paikiidze Prev
vails
W
WINS SECOND
D U.S. WOMEN
N’S CHAMPION
NSHIP
birthday is shown as July 14. His
actual birthday is July 15. JULY COVER PHOTO BY LENNART OOTES, COURTESY
OF THE SAINT LOUIS CHESS CLUB.
Send your letters to letters@uschess.org. Letters are subject to
editing for style, length, and content.
 US Chess Affairs / News for our Members

US CHESS Empowering people through

MISSION chess one move at a time.

2018 EXECUTIVE BOARD ELECTION

The results of the ballot count are as follows:
Mr. Randy Bauer: 1,437 votes
Mr. Ryan Velez: 1,305 votes
Ms. Anjelina Belakovskaia: 408 votes
Mr. Lakshmana Viswanath: 340 votes

These results were presented to the Delegates on Saturday, August 4,

2018, for certification. Bauer and Velez were elected to three-year
terms ending in 2021. The Election committee expresses great thanks
to Mr. Harry Sabine and his team of tellers for counting the ballots
for this year’s election and having the results ready so promptly.
See page two for the current makeup of the 2018-19 US
Chess Executive Board.

THE 2018-19 US CHESS EXECUTIVE BOARD. BACK ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: HAL
SPRECHMAN, RANDY BAUER, CAROL MEYER, ALLEN PRIEST. FRONT ROW, LEFT TO
RIGHT: MICHAEL HOFFPAUIR, RYAN VELEZ, CHUCK UNRUH, MIKE NIETMAN.

GM Fabiano Caruana (MO)

GRANDMASTER
OF THE YEAR

2018 Fabiano learned to play chess at

an after-school program when





 



youngest grandmaster in U.S.

ANNUAL
history when he was 14. He is
a Gold Medalist from the 2016
Olympiad and is a member of
this year’s Olympiad Team. He is
currently ranked #2 in the world.

REPORT Earlier this year, Caruana won

the Candidates Tournament in
Berlin, Germany, earning the
right to be challenger to World
Champion Magnus Carlsen
The 2018 US Chess GOALS
Increase chess opportu
unities
later this year and becoming the

 














Annual Report is available for under-representted
segments of societty
championship.

for download as a PDF

in the Governance section
of uschess.org under
“Reports.” A limited
“
number of print copies
champion ever
e since I was a kid.
kid
are also available; Winning t “Being a two--time national
champion haas made all the
contact Kathleen Collins, that dream
m coming true.”
Samuel Shankland
d



  



kcollins@uschess.org, U . S . CHAMPIO N absolutel
b l ly worth it.””
ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI • APRIL 2018

to request a copy. Nazi Paikidze

U. S . WOMEN ’ S CHAMPION
C
ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI • APRIL
L 2018

Our vision is to enrich the lives of all persons

US CHESS and communities through increasing the play,
VISION study, and appreciation of the game of chess.

www.uschess.org 7
 PHOTO, THIS PAGE: NOEL ST. JOHN; PHOTO, RIGHT: MICHAEL LEDECKY
Sibling Revelry





 

 
By JAMAAL ABDUL-ALIM
L
ong before she became a world champion swimmer, it wasn’t
uncommon for Katie Ledecky to pull out the family chess set
and play the game of kings and queens with her older brother.
“Scrabble and Stratego were among our favorite board games, and
we’d also sometimes play Monopoly,” the gold medalist swimmer told
Chess Life recently. “But we’d always come back to chess.”
Ledecky and her brother, Michael, say they first got introduced to
chess when Michael, who is three years older than his 21-year-old
Olympic swimmer sister, was about seven or eight years old.
“My dad introduced me to the game one evening at home,” Michael
Ledecky recalls. “My first board was a light blue-and-white-checkered
board that was specifically made for beginners.”
Katie Ledecky says she doesn’t think she and her brother understood
all the rules for the first couple of years that they played. The outcomes
of their games were often determined by luck.
“Even though we learned the basics of chess strategy, like castling,
piece spacing, and basic checkmate strategies, most of our games came
down to luck and depended heavily on which of us was the most careful
and attentive,” Katie Ledecky says. “I’d win if Michael made a careless
mistake, which was often.”
8 September 2018 | Chess Life
The siblings say they mostly played chess in the family living room.
During summers they would play three or more games a day.
Eventually they tried their hands at scholastic chess.
“When I was in fifth grade, Katie and I participated in a chess after-
school program that would meet once or twice a week at our Catholic
grade school,” Michael Ledecky says. “We learned more about chess
rules and strategy through the club, and we enjoyed playing with friends.”
The pair’s love for the game got a boost when their grandparents
gave them what Michael describes as a “beautiful brown-and-black
chess set with a raised wooden border and a magnetized mat.”
“That encouraged us to play more,” Michael Ledecky says.
The two soon made a tentative foray into the world of tournament
chess.
“We participated in one chess tournament via the club,” Michael
Ledecky says. “I lost all three of the games I played in the tournament.”
“I remember winning one game out of the three I played in the
tournament,” Katie Ledecky recalls. “But I think I only won because
the girl I played wasn’t paying attention.”
Chess was mostly about fun and family.
 First Moves / Chess news from around the U.S.

FACES
ACROSS
THE BOARD
By AL LAWRENCE
ASHLEY LYNN
PRIORE
PITTSBURGH,
PENNSYLVANIA
“Amazing Things
Happen.”
At just 14 and a freshman in high school, Ashley
was already CEO of the non-profit action group she
founded. Now a recent high school graduate of
The Ellis School, she’ll soon begin studies at the
University of Pittsburgh, working toward a double
major in business and English. But she is already
“Scrabble and Stratego were among a polished writer/speaker—recently delivering a
convincing TEDxPittsburgh talk, “Chess Can Be a

our favorite board games, and we’d Catalyst for Political Change.”
“I spent what felt like much of my early life
also sometimes play Monopoly. But watching my siblings play chess,” Ashley said.
Then her dad taught her when she was four. At
seven, she played in her first rated event. “But it
we’d always come back to chess.” seemed like I attended hundreds as a spectator
before that.”  Pittsburgh Chess Club Scholastic
Director Jerry Meyers rekindled her passion for
“Despite our brief time in the grade-school chess club, chess was always more about
chess. As usual, Ashley was ready to contribute,
recreation, leisure, and enjoyment,” Michael Ledecky says. “I think the most important thing
becoming the club’s governing board secretary.
chess gave me was an opportunity to connect with Katie.”
Although Katie Ledecky never made her mark in the world of chess the way she has in Ashley heads the Queen’s Gambit Chess Institute.
the Olympic lanes, she still says she appreciates what it takes to become a chess champion. “It’s a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit dedicated to teaching
“I appreciate the discipline of the game and admire the effort it takes to become a great chess to the community, ensuring every child has
chess player,” Katie Ledecky says. “Personally, I enjoyed it as a fun way to spend time with the necessary opportunities and tools to learn the
my brother. It was a relaxing way to pass the time between swim practices and studying.” game through a 21st-century approach.” Partnering
The two still play chess on occasion. with city government and Pittsburgh public schools,
As a student at Stanford, Katie Ledecky would have no shortage of opportunities to get in Queen’s Gambit is a “portable classroom” that can
a game with fellow students, given the fact that Stanford has a well-known chess club. But “remodel how kids learn and grow.”
that has yet to occur, and it’s unclear if Ledecky—who earlier this year announced her decision She uses her own interactive curriculum that
to turn professional—will even have time for chess. explains how chess reinforces the subjects taught
“I haven’t taken the chance to challenge any of my classmates or teammates at Stanford,” in school, fosters mental growth, and encourages
Katie Ledecky says. social, economic, and even political involvement.
Katie Ledecky says young people who are aspiring to excel in the world of chess can apply
Sometimes chess is its own teacher. Ashley once
the same lessons she has learned in her swimming career.
had to ask herself, “How do I teach a student to
“My advice for young people is to set big goals, even if they don’t seem possible at first,”
play chess if they cannot count or read?” A few
Katie Ledecky says. “Identify what you need to do to achieve those big goals: the short-term
weeks later, “That very same student said, ‘Ms.
goals you need to achieve along the way. Those goals will give purpose to all your hours of
Ashley, is this 5 rook + 3 bishop = 8 points?’”
practice.
“Don’t be afraid to fail in practice,” Katie Ledecky says. “Purposeful practice will yield Ashley’s goals focus on others. “Chess is a game
perfect results.” of deep thinking and inclusivity. It’s given me so
much, and I want to give back!” As a woman, she
feels responsible, “for expanding this chess commu-
PHOTO, LEFT: OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST KATIE LEDECKY WAS THE GUEST OF HONOR
AT A NATIONAL PRESS CLUB LUNCHEON IN MARCH, WHERE SHE MET THE AUTHOR.
nity to all players—when women lead, amazing
things happen!”
PHOTO, ABOVE: THE CHESS BOARD THAT INSPIRED KATIE AND HER BROTHER TO PLAY
MORE CHESS. Write to faces@uschess.org.

www.uschess.org 9
First Moves / Chess news from around the U.S.
Clever, Tenacious, and Brave
Staff Sergeant Bryan Black, killed in action, is memorialized
through chess in his hometown.
Text and photos by SEAN ROBINSON
H
ank Black, father of a son lost to war, had
every reason to speak of sadness this
summer. Instead he spoke of joy—and chess.
Black’s son, Staff Sgt. Bryan Black, 35, was one
of four U.S. Special Forces soldiers killed October
4, 2017, during an ambush in Niger. Eight months
later, on July 5, hundreds gathered in his
hometown of Puyallup, Washington, a suburb
of Tacoma, to dedicate a set of memorial chess
tables erected in his honor.
The sturdy tables, built with the backing of
more than $15,000 in donations from well-
wishers, friends of Black, and chess philanthro-
pist Erik Anderson, reflected the Black family’s
wish for an enduring monument to a multi-
faceted man.
“When Bryan was killed in action, our lives
were checkmated,” Hank said to the crowd at
the memorial ceremony. “But though our lives
now are so different, life goes on, and today we
are remembering with gratitude and joy the life
that Bryan lived. We choose not to live in the
10 September 2018 | Chess Life
loss of Bryan, but in what we gained from Bryan.
Part of that gain is chess, and the amazing
benefits that chess bestows on those who play
the game—benefits we saw in Bryan’s life.”
The large crowd—more than one might
expect for a chess-themed event—featured a
color guard and military band. Speakers in-
cluded the mayor and deputy mayor of Puyallup,
and U.S. Congressman Denny Heck, who spoke
briefly of Black’s heroism.
“They say you die twice,” Heck said. “The first
time, of course, and then the second time is when
they stop talking about you. What today is about
is simply a terrific way to make sure that we
continue to talk about Bryan far into the future.”
The culminating moment—the unveiling of
the chess tables—drew players old and young,
including a few grizzled veterans from the
Tacoma Chess Club who had known Bryan as
a youth. Hank Black took a turn at the board,
and a raffle for participants featured prizes such
as books and a pair of chess sets autographed
by World Champion Magnus Carlsen.
Bryan Black’s chess career was quiet, little
known outside of Washington state chess
circles, but the arc of his growth and strength
marks a fierce, determined line. He hated losing,
his mother Karen recalled. He immersed himself
in study in fourth grade after his older brother
Jason won a trophy and he didn’t.
The work paid dividends. Bryan tied for second
in the National Elementary Championship in
1994, and won the Washington Junior Open in
2000, finishing with a perfect score. He finished
his competitive career in 2005 with a US Chess
rating of 1975, a few clicks short of expert level.
Along the way, he scored plenty of wins and
a rumored draw against GM Irina Krush.
His most notable win, mentioned at this
summer’s ceremony, was probably a grinding
victory in 2000. Bryan played the white side of a
closed Sicilian, defeating the stronger FM William
Schill, who had just won the Washington State
Chess Championship.
 First Moves / Chess news from around the U.S.

At this summer’s ceremony, one prominent

speaker recalled the game: Erik Anderson,
founder of America’s Foundation for Chess,
who matched the contributions of Puyallup
residents with a $7,500 check, doubling the
total funds backers hoped to raise.
Anderson noted that Schill was his personal
chess coach. He hadn’t known of the connection
to Black until efforts to raise funds for the
memorial began.  
“It turned out that Bryan had played Bill in
2000 right after Bill had won the Washington
State Chess Championship,” Anderson told the
crowd. “I had never beaten Bill. Bryan nonethe-
less beat Bill to hand Bill his first loss during
his reign. How about that?”
Anderson added that he had gone through
the game, and gained insight into the lost soldier.
“He was clever, he was tenacious, he was
very brave,” Anderson said. “Bryan showed
great insight and courage. The really nice
comment that Bill made was that Bryan had
used his time well. I think we know that, that
Bryan used his time well.”
Here is the game, with light annotations
courtesy of FM Schill.

CLOSED SICILIAN (B23)

Bryan Black (1876)
William Schill (2276)
Seattle Spring Open (2), Seattle,
Washington, 03.25.2000

1. e4 c5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. f4 g6 4. Nf3 Bg7 5.

Bc4 e6 6. 0-0 Nge7 7. e5 0-0 8. d3 d5 9.
exd6 e.p. Nf5 10. Ne4 Nxd6 11. Nxd6 Qxd6
12. c3 b6

White is a tiny bit worse out of the opening.

13. Be3 Bb7 14. Qe2 Rad8 15. Rad1 Na5
(15. ... Qc7!) 16. d4 Nxc4 17. Qxc4 Bd5 18.
Qe2 c4 19. Ne5 b5 20. Bd2 f6 21. Ng4
Qc6 22. Rfe1 Rfe8 23. Qf2 Kf7 24. Bc1 h5
25. Ne3 Be4 26. a4 a6 27. axb5 axb5 28.
Nc2 Bf8 29. Re3 Bd5 30. Rf1 Bd6 31. Ne1
Kg7 32. Qd2 Rh8?! 33. Qe2 Rde8 34. Qf2
White’s disadvantage grew incrementally to
-1.06 but never more due to stubborn defense!
And now ...
34. ... h4?! 35. Rh3 Qc7? 36. Rxh4 Rxh4
37. Qxh4 Rh8 38. Qf2 g5? 39. g3 g4 40.
f5 e5 41. Qe2 exd4 42. Qxg4+ Kf8 43. Nf3
d3? (43. ... Rg8! would have still kept an edge
for Black.) 44. Be3 Rg8?? 45. Qd4!
Now White is winning.
45. ... Bxf3 46. Qxf6+ Ke8 47. Qe6+ Kf8 48.
Bh6+ Rg7 49. Bxg7+ Kxg7 50. f6+ Kf8 51.
Rxf3 Qc6 52. Qg4 Bc5+ 53. Kg2, Black
resigned.

PHOTOS: HANK BLACK (OPPOSITE PAGE), FATHER OF U.S. STAFF SGT. BRYAN BLACK, SPEAKING AT THE CEREMONY. ERIK ANDERSON (TOP), FOUNDER
OF AMERICA'S FOUNDATION FOR CHESS, MATCHED THE CONTRIBUTIONS RECEIVED. KAREN BLACK (MIDDLE, LEFT), BRYAN’S MOTHER, AND MICHELLE
BLACK, BRYAN'S WIFE, REACT TO THE UNVEILING OF THE CHESS TABLES. THE BRYAN BLACK MEMORIAL CHESS TABLES IN ACTION (BOTTOM).

www.uschess.org 11
THE CHESS OLYMPIADS
The 43rd Chess Olympiad will be held in
Batumi, Georgia from September 23rd COUNTRIES WITH THE MOST
through October 6th. This month we’re CHESS OLYMPIAD MEDALS
celebrating past Olympiad achievements Total Gold Silver Bronze
and cheering on our 2018 squads.
Soviet Union 19 18 1 0
FUN FACTS United States 19 6 5 8
• Takes place biennially (every two years) Yugoslavia 13 1 6 6
• Frank Marshall played on four U.S. gold medal Hungary 12 3 7 2
teams, the most of any player.
Russia 11 6 3 2
• U.S. won its first four gold medals prior to WWII.
• 2016 was the first time the U.S. won gold when
either the Soviet Union or Russia was participating. OLYMPIAD MEDALS

1931 1935 1976 1984 1998 2008

1928 1933 1937 1960 1966 1974 1978 1982 1986 1990 1996 2006 2016
1930

1940

1950

1960

1980

1990

2000

2020
1970

2010
1927 1957 1976
First official Chess Olympiad First official Women’s Women’s Chess Olympiad 2004 2008
Chess Olympiad is integrated into the
Chess Olympiad OLYMPIAD WOMEN’S
MEDALS
2018 UNITED STATES TEAM

FABIANO CARUANA WESLEY SO HIKARU NAKAMURA SAM SHANKLAND RAY ROBSON

Grandmaster Grandmaster Grandmaster Grandmaster Grandmaster
ALL PHOTOS: COURTESY OF SAINT LOUIS CHESS CLUB

2018 UNITED STATES WOMEN’S TEAM

ANNA ZATONSKIH IRINA KRUSH TATEV ABRAHAMYAN JENNIFER YU SABINA FOISOR

International Master Grandmaster Woman Grandmaster FIDE Master Woman Grandmaster

12 September 2018 | Chess Life

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www.uschess.org 13
Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment
The IQ-Elo
Connection
It’s perceived that elite chess players are highly intelligent, but
remarkably little research confirms it.
By GM ANDY SOLTIS
“IF YOU’RE SO SMART, WHY AREN’T
you rich?”
It’s an ancient taunt. It sounds childish
because we know intelligence is not necessarily
linked to wealth.
But what about to rating? That is:
“If you’re so smart, why aren’t you 2600?”
That also sounds silly. But you must have
met someone who asked whether you have to
be smart to play chess, or at least to play chess
well.
Whatever you replied, it probably wasn’t
based on science, as there’s been remarkably
little research on the subject of ratings and
intelligence.
When Magnus Carlsen joined the world’s
elite at age 19, Der Spiegel magazine asked him
what his IQ was. Carlsen said he didn’t know—
and didn’t want to. Learning it might be a “nasty
surprise,” he said.
“I’m not saying that I am totally stupid,” he
added. “But my success mainly has to do with
the fact that I had the opportunity to learn
more, more quickly.”
What seems certain is that you don’t have
to be highly educated to be highly rated. Many
of today’s elite players have had little or no
college; some never even went to high school.
British organizers joked about this phenom-
enon two decades ago when they held “Aca-
demics versus Illiterates,” an annual team match
pitting college graduates against non-grads. In
1998 the “illiterates” won 7-1.
“It is a legend that for chess you need to be
an intellectual in life,” Alexander Khalifman, a
FIDE world champion, said in 2016. He cited
the case of Ratmir Kholmov, who worked as a
waterfront stevedore and yet became one of
the world’s strongest grandmasters.
14 September 2018 | Chess Life
ENGLISH OPENING,
KING’S ENGLISH VARIATION
(A26)
GM Wolfgang Uhlmann
GM Ratmir Kholmov
Central Chess Club International (2),
Moscow, Russia, 05.1960
1. c4 e5 2. Nc3 d6 3. g3 Nc6 4. Bg2 g6 5.
e4 Bg7 6. Nge2 Nge7 7. d3 0-0 8. 0-0
Be6 9. a3 Qd7 10. Nd5 f5 11. Bd2 Rf7 12.
Rb1 Raf8 13. f3!? h6 14. b4 g5! 15. b5 Nd8
16. f4?!
Some computers like 16. Nec3 f4 17. Qa4,
but White followed the conventional master
view that ... f5-f4 must be stopped in similar
positions.
16. ... gxf4 17. gxf4 Ng6 18. fxe5 Nxe5 19.
Ndf4 fxe4! 20. Bxe4 c6 21. bxc6 bxc6 22.
Kh1 Bh3 23. Rf2?
Better survival chances might have been
offered by 23. Rg1 Bg4 24. Rxg4. Now the roof
falls in.
23. ... d5!! 24. cxd5 cxd5 25. Bxd5
Or 25. Nxh3 dxe4!, e.g. 26. Nef4 e3! 27.
Bxe3 Ng4.
25. ... Qxd5+! 26. Nxd5 Rxf2
Black has two threats and 27. ... Rf1+ is the
lesser.
27. Bf4 Nf3!, White resigned.
White can avoid ... Bg2 mate with the
hopeless 28. Ne3 Rxf4 29. Qg1 Rxe2.
Retrospective ratings tell us Kholmov was
roughly the world’s eighth best player when
this was played, putting him ahead of Mikhail
Botvinnik, even though Botvinnik had a
doctorate, an estimated IQ of 170—and the
world championship title.
Education aside, can you be of below-average
intelligence and well above in Elo rating?
The popular view says you can. The book
on which the movie Forrest Gump was based
included a plot line omitted from the film: The
cognitively-challenged hero becomes a world-
class chess player.
GM Jonathan Levitt made an ambitious
attempt at linking intellectual candle-power
and rating in his book, Genius in Chess. Levitt
proposed a formula:
Your rating, after “many years of intense effort,
will tend to equal” approximately 10 times your IQ
plus 1,000.
Let’s see: If Bobby Fischer’s IQ was 180, as
has been claimed, his potential rating would
be 10 times 180—that is, 1,800—plus 1,000. The
total of 2,800 is pretty close to Fischer’s actual
peak rating of 2785, in 1972.
The great artist Marcel Duchamp, reputed
to have the same IQ as Fischer, studied chess
so much in mid-life that he became more of a
tournament player than an artist. His peak
rating was 2413, according to chessmetrics.com.
Here is one of his quick upsets.
 Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment

PROBLEM I PROBLEM II PROBLEM III

Quiz for Ashley Stewart
WCM Ameyalli Avila Fraire
GM Hikaru Nakamura
GM Valentina Gunina
GM Mikhail Antipov
FM Ylon Schwartz
September
The annual Gribraltar Chess Festival
has become one of the most
popular international opens and
every year Americans test their
talent against the world’s best. This
year GM Hikaru Nakamura of the
U.S. missed his chance for a fifth
successive Gibraltar victory, as GM WHITE TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY
Levon Aronian took first prize in a
blitz playoff with another grand- PROBLEM IV PROBLEM V PROBLEM VI
GM Daniil Dubov GM Nils Grandelius WIM Heather Richards
master, Maxime Vachier-Lagrave. Jonathan Pein IM Rodney Perez Garcia Gilles Suez-Panama
In this month’s quiz you are asked
to find the fastest winning line of
play in each of the six diagrams,
depicting games in the tournament.
This will usually mean the forced
win of a decisive amount of mate-
rial, such as a rook or extra piece.
But watch out for forced mates.
Solutions on page 71.
WHITE TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY

QUEEN’S FIANCHETTO 110) should be able to join the top two percent
DEFENSE (A50) of rated players. Really?
George Koltanowski And what about folks with a middling rat-
Marcel Duchamp ing—let’s say 1400? The formula says that either
Paris, France, 06.1929 they just aren’t taking chess seriously or they
have a “Gumpian” IQ.
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 d6?! 4. e4 b6 5. In 2016, a research paper, “The relationship
f4 Bb7 6. Bd3 Nbd7 7. Nf3 e5 8. d5 g6 9. between cognitive ability and chess skill: A
0-0 exf4 10. Bxf4 Bg7 11. e5 dxe5 12. comprehensive meta-analysis,” questioned the
Nxe5 0-0 13. Qd2? trendy theory that studying alone will make up
for a lack of intellect.
“When it comes to expertise, training and
practice certainly are a piece of the puzzle,” said
co-author Zach Hambrick, a psychology
professor at Michigan State University. “But
this study shows that, for chess at least,
intelligence is another piece of the puzzle.”
In other words, you must meet a minimum
standard to excel.
The IQ-Elo link makes sense when you look
at specific components of intelligence. Several
of them—ability to plan, to use logic, to reason
abstractly—are part of every player’s DNA.
13. ... Nxd5! 14. Nxd7? Yet many great minds have been horrible at
chess. “I was simply the most appallingly bad
Black’s edge is reduced by 14. Nc6, e.g. 14.
... Bxc3 15. bxc3 Bxc6 16. cxd5 Bxd5 17. Bg5. chess player who ever lived,” the writer Isaac
Asimov wrote. Alan Turing (estimated IQ of
14. ... Nxf4 15. Nxf8? Bd4+!, White
185) was a mediocre player. Bill Gates (160)
resigned.
was famously mated by Carlsen in nine moves.
But the Levitt formula leads to dubious And Jean-Jacques Rousseau found that the more
conclusions. Among them: he studied chess, the worse he played.
A player with an average IQ (roughly 90 to Each of them was/is, arguably, a “genius.”
Yet there have been no great games played by
genius/chess amateurs. Here’s the closest I’ve
found.
NIMZO-INDIAN DEFENSE,
LENINGRAD VARIATION (E30)
Sergei Prokofiev
Maurice Ravel
Mont La Joli, 03.14.1924
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Bg5 Nc6
5. e3 0-0 6. Bd3 d5 7. Ne2 a5 8. Qc2 h6 9.
h4! hxg5 10. hxg5 Re8
Not 10. ... Nd7 11. Bh7+ Kh8 12. Bg8+! and
mates. But 10. ... Ne4 11. Bxe4 dxe4 12. Qxe4
f5 defends better.
11. gxf6 Qxf6 12. 0-0-0 dxc4 13. Bh7+ Kf8
14. Ne4 Qe7 15. Nf4 b5 16. Rh5
White missed some quicker wins earlier and
here Bg6! on this or the next move would save
time.
16. ... e5 17. Ng6+ fxg6 18. Bxg6 Be6 19.
Rdh1 Rad8? 20. Rf5+! Kg8 21. Qe2 Bxf5
22. Rh8+! Kxh8 23. Qh5+ Kg8 24. Qh7+
Kf8 25. Qh8 mate.
Yes, chess seems to be filled with smart
people. But, as the great correspondence player
C.J.S. Purdy put it, “Superior skill at chess does
not indicate superior intelligence; it only
indicates superior skill at chess.”

www.uschess.org 15
Back to Basics / Reader annotations
Desperado
Complacency is not a good emotion over the board.
By GM LEV ALBURT
LOGIC, PRACTICE, AND NEW ENGINES ALL
claim some edge for White: the advantage falls
somewhere between +/= and =, or—in other
terms—is equivalent to about one-fifth of a
pawn. Or, using statistics: In grandmaster
games, White prevails with a 5½-4½ score.
Those who excel with White are called, in
Russian, bielotsvetchiks, from bielo/White and
tsvet/color. Bobby Fischer and Garry Kasparov
are among the bielotsvetchiks. (Magnus Carlsen
doesn’t mind getting equal but familiar positions
with white, or even positions if both players
are unfamiliar with it.)
Most bielotsvetchiks believe that White is
entitled to some real edge: +/=, or, say, ½ of a
pawn. But for two players, especially, White’s
starting advantage was huge: +/- or even higher,
in their capable hands. Their names: Semyon
Furman and Lev Polugaevsky. Both started
with the positional 1. d4, to not put at risk the
almost-winning edge, and then pressed and
pressed in solid, relentless, classical, center-
centered juggernaut fashion. With Black, how-
ever, Furman and Polugaevsky parted ways.
Furman grimly defended (we joked his aim was
to reach a rook versus rook plus bishop ending).
Polugaevsky, meanwhile, feeling cornered and
with nothing to lose, lashed out madly with
extra sharp, apparently dubious, but extremely
well-analyzed, variations. And often, he was
victorious.
The super-sharp Polugaevsky variation
served well for Jon Farber 50 years ago. Writes
Mr. Farber (my further comments are in italics):
EMOTIONS AND CHESS
Chess is supposed to be an analytical game,
a search for truth, in which emotions are
unimportant. However, for the non-expert,
16 September 2018 | Chess Life
that is often not the case. I have included a 8. e5 dxe5 9. fxe5 Qc7
game of mine that taught me that, and the
importance of remaining objective, a game in
which both White and Black experienced
extreme highs and lows in the space of a few
moves.
If you ever watched Walter Browne or Garry
Kasparov, especially in time pressure, you would
have known that strong emotions are evident even
for some of the greatest.
SICILIAN DEFENSE,
NAJDORF VARIATION (B96)
Andrew DePalma (1530)
10. Nf3
Jon Matthew Farber (1716)
Greater New York High School The main line ran 10. exf6 Qe5+ 11. Be2
Championship, 1969 Qxg5, regaining the piece.
10. … Nfd7
1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6
5. Nc3 a6 6. Bg5 e6 7. f4 I liked my set-up. I have more space on the
queenside, attractive bishops, play on the c-
file, and a weak pawn to attack on e5. I had
played scores of games with this opening in
blitz, and felt I understood what my strategy
should be. I was comfortable with my position;
comfort is a good feeling to have during a game.
11. Be2
White is a bit better after 11. Ne4 Bb7 12. Nd6+
Bxd6 13. exd6 (or 13. Qxd6) 13. ... Qc5 14. Qd4.
11. ... Bb4 12. Bd2 Bb7
White had played the last several moves
7. ... b5 passively, while I had been improving the
This is the Polugaevsky line of the Sicilian. position of my pieces, and my mental energies
It has fallen out of favor, as White has been were properly focused.
found to have too many attacking chances, but 13. 0-0
at the time (almost a half-century ago) it was
felt to be viable. (see diagram top of next page)

13. ... Nxe5
Feeling I could take the pawn safely.
After White’s erroneous 11. Be2, his e5-pawn is
doomed, and could be taken earlier or on the next
move (after 13. ... 0-0).
14. Nxb5?
An error, missing the checks on the a7-g1
diagonal, and dropping a piece.
14. …Nxf3+ 15. gxf3
If 15. Bxf3, then 15. … Bc5+ 16. Kh1 axb5
gains the extra piece.
Somewhat stronger—but still easily won by
Black—15. Rxf3.
15. … Qc5+ 16. Kh1 Bxd2 17. Qxd2 axb5
And now, up a piece against a lower-rated
player, I “knew” the game was won, and would
play itself. This was complacency, which is not
a good emotion at the board.
Indeed.
18. Rad1 0-0 19. Bd3
19. ... Bc6
I could safely pick-off his a-pawn but had
grown lazy, with the win in the bag as I thought.
I also decided, for no good reason, that my
knight would be better on d7 than c6.
20. a3 Nd7 21. Qf4 Nf6?
This was a bad move; I should be thinking to
improve my king safety. The move 21. ... g6 seems
reasonable, as White does not have the right
pieces to exploit the black square weaknesses.
Still, after 21. ... Nf6 Black is winning—easily.
22. Rg1
I now saw that White was threatening to
sacrifice the rook at g7. Early in my tournament
career, I had a game where White piled up on
the open g-file against my king, but by moving
to h8 I was able to avoid a sacrificial check on
g7, blunt the attack, and win. However, that
was that game, not this game; 22. ... Nh5
followed by ... g6 was best.
Correct.
22. … Kh8?
And now White suddenly jerked upwards
with excitement and started analyzing the board
intently. For my part, I realized my error and
went cold inside, with the proverbial empty
feeling in the pit of my stomach. White was
still debating whether the sacrifice was sound,
when he looked at my face and said to me,
“You’re white as a ghost. It must work,” and
played ...
23. Rxg7!
This looked deadly. Taking the rook allows
mate after 24. Rg1+, while White is threatening
to capture the knight at f6. If 23. ... Rg8, then 24.
Rxf7 wins. Most knight moves will allow 24.
Rxh7+, while after 23. ... Ne4, the computer (not
available 50 years ago) suggests 24. Rxh7+ Kxh7
25. Qh4+ Kg7 26. Rg1+ Qxg1+ 27. Kxg1 Rh8
28. Qg4+ Kf8 29. Qf4 as favoring White, as Black
will have to lose a minor piece. Lastly, 23. ... Qe7
fails to 24. Rdg1 (not 24. Qh6 because of 24. ...
Bxf3+ 25. Kg1 Rg8) 24. ... Rg8 25. Qxf6!! Bxf3+
26. Qxf3 Rxg7 27. Qxa8+. Shutting off my panic,
I forced myself to slow down, look calmly at the
board and analyze, and came up with ...
23. … Qh5!
White should now try 24. Rg3 (or 24. Rf1,
after which 24. ... Rg8 trades rooks and eases
the pressure), and then I could start to regroup
with 24. ... Nd5 and maintain my advantage.
However, sensing he was on the cusp of a
brilliancy and responding to the euphoria of
the moment, he hastily played ...
24. Qxf6
(see diagram top of next column)
My opponent must have thought the upcom-
ing discovered rook check would be decisive,
but after ...
Back to Basics / Reader annotations
24. … Qxf3+
... White deflated. With his queen under
attack, the discovered check no longer worked.
For my part, I returned to my previously happy
state. The game continued:
25. Qxf3 Bxf3+ 26. Kg1 Kxg7 27. Rf1
And, his adrenaline spent, White resigned.
Jon got complacent and overlooked 23. Rxg7!.
Fortunately for him, there was still a way for Black
to win; to Jon’s credit, he found it.
Quite a game for a teenager! No wonder he still
remembers it so clearly.
Did you know you could read archival copies of
"Back to Basics" (and all columns and features)? Go
to uschess.org, click on "Chess Life Magazine," and
then "Archives."
Send in your games!
If you are unrated or rated 1799 or be-
low, then GM Lev Alburt invites you to
send your most instructive game with
notes to:
Back to Basics, c/o Chess Life
PO Box 3967 Crossville, TN
38557-3967
Or e-mail your material to
backtobasics@uschess.org
GM Alburt will select the “most instruc-
tive” game and Chess Life will award an
autographed copy of Lev’s newest book,
Carlsen vs. Karjakin (by Lev Alburt and
Jon Crumiller) to the person submitting
the most instructive game and notes.
Make sure your game (or part of it) and
your notes will be of interest to other
readers. Writing skills are a plus, but
instructiveness is a must! Do not send
games with only a few notes, as they are
of little instructive value and can’t be used.
www.ChessWithLev.com
www.uschess.org 17
In The Arena / Player of the Month
A Summer to
Remember
Brandon Jacobson scores four consecutive international master
norms with his precise play.
By GM ROBERT HESS
BRANDON JACOBSON, A 14-YEAR-OLD
from New Jersey, had a summer to remember.
He scored four consecutive international master
norms in the CCCSA Summer 2018 GM/IM
Norm Invitational in Charlotte, North Carolina,
the 11th NY International Championship, the
12th Annual Philadelphia International, and
the 46th Annual World Open in Philadelphia.
The youngster defeated me in the following
game, where his precision allowed him to call
the shots and left me praising his play.
LONDON SYSTEM (A47)
GM Robert Hess (2659)
FM Brandon Jacobson (2449)
11th NY International Championship (2),
New York, NY, 07.25.2018
1. d4 Nf6 2. Nf3 b6 3. Bf4 Bb7 4. e3 g6 5.
Bd3
A careless move, especially considering
Black’s setup. The bishop is good on d3 when
Black plays e6 and d5, but after the kingside
fianchetto the aim is to play ... d7-d6 and ...
e7-e5.
5. Be2 or 5. h3 are more sensible.
5. ... Bg7 6. 0-0 d6 7. Nbd2 0-0
(see diagram top of next column)
8. c3
Initially it appeared that I could expand my
center, but only now did the consequences
occur to me that 8. e4 c5 9. c3 e5! is an issue
because of the undefended bishop on d3. In the
continuation 10. dxe5?? (10. Be3 cxd4 11. cxd4
exd4 12. Bxd4 Nbd7 is good for Black.) 10. ...
dxe5 11. Nxe5 Nh5 wins a piece.
18 September 2018 | Chess Life
8. ... Nbd7 9. Qe2
Possible was 9. e4 e5 but I wasn’t fond of 10.
Bg5 (10. Bg3 Nh5) 10. ... h6 11. Bh4 exd4 12.
cxd4 c5 since it appears that Black has a pleasant
Benoni pawn structure. Turns out that White
has some hidden resources: 13. Nc4 d5 (13. ...
Qc7 14. Bg3 Nxe4 15. Bxe4 Bxe4 16. Bxd6 Qc6
17. Bxf8 Rxf8 with legitimate compensation
for the sacrificed Exchange, as the bishops
should ensure that Black wins at least a pawn.)
14. Nd6 dxe4 15. Nxb7 Qc7.
I stopped calculating here, not wanting to
waste any more time on a position that looked
bad and was unlikely to happen. 16. Ba6! In
order to voluntarily enter this variation, I would
have needed the foresight that the knight would
only be temporarily trapped on b7 with the
bishop dominating the exposed light squares.
Back on move 9, with a bishop on b7 and a
normal position, these thoughts never crossed
my mind when the follow up 16. ... exf3 17.
Bg3 Qc6 18. Nd6 fxg2 19. Re1 gives White a
small edge.
9. ... a5
My young opponent played this quite quickly,
and it’s a pragmatic decision. There was nothing
to fear after the bishop exchange, but with such
a solid foundation, he had no reason to allow
the swap.
Black is fine after 9. ... Re8 10. Ba6 Qc8 11.
Bxb7 Qxb7.
10. Rfd1 Re8 11. Bg5 e5 12. dxe5 dxe5
13. Be4?
This inaccuracy would not receive a question
mark if the game being analyzed was not mine.
The move itself is not that horrible, but the
thought process behind it was. At this stage of
the game I was trying to force a win out of thin
air, mainly due to my opponent’s lower rating

and the fact that I was equipped with the white
pieces. Brandon showed mature understanding
in realizing that he could now seize the
initiative, whereas to this point I had been
dictating the action.
I’d intended to play 13. Bb5 before realizing
that 13. ... c6 14. Ne4 Qc7 avoids the tactics
and is preferable for Black. (14. ... cxb5 15. Bxf6
Bxf6? (Miraculously holding for Black is 15. ...
Qc7! 16. Bxg7 Bxe4 though White’s pawn
structure is superior and king is safer, so there
is a long-term advantage if Black is not able to
quickly secure the weak points.) 16. Rxd7 was
what I had been hoping for; 13. Ne4 Qc8 14.
Nfd2 leaves Black a little awkward.
13. ... Qc8 14. Bxb7 Qxb7 15. Nc4
It’s never easy for me to voluntarily trade a
bishop for a knight, but here it makes sense.
Brandon handled the opening perfectly, has
more space, and can play ... e5-e4 at any
moment, intending to land a knight on d3. The
bishop on g7 currently is not a great piece, so
it’s not unreasonable to aim for a good knight
versus bad bishop. Better was 15. Bxf6 Bxf6
(15. ... Nxf6 likely is stronger. When you have
more space, you tend to want to leave your
opponent with more pieces on the board. Here,
in particular, Black can play for e4 and reroute
the knight. If White plays ... e5-e4, the pieces
get tied down to the pawn’s defense.) 16. Ne4
Qxe4 17. Rxd7 Qc6 18. Rdd1 with a compact
structure and a level game.
15. ... Qc6
Brandon apparently did not want to do
anything committal, so he refrained from
playing 15. ... e4. Black looks excellent, though
there is always the concern that the pawn is
overextended and a future target.
16. Na3
Due to my love of bishops, I once again
rejected 16. Bxf6. Here, though, White expands
in the center and eliminates all of the issues
that plagued my position. Importantly, the d-
file is already under control and now the d5-
square is for the knight or rook’s taking. 16. ...
Bxf6 (16. ... Nxf6? 17. Ncxe5) 17. e4 Nc5 (17.
... Bg7 18. Ne3) 18. Rd5 Rad8 19. Rad1 At least
optically White’s position looks much im-
proved.
16. ... Nc5
The correct decision, advancing the knight
to a protected square so a knight can jump to
e4 next. Brandon has obtained a better position
by optimizing the placement of his pieces and
warding off my threats.
After 16. ... Ne4?! 17. Qb5 Black is forced
Black to play the only move 17. ... Nb8 with
level chances.
17. Bh4 Nfe4 18. Nb5 a4
Brandon seizes additional space on the
queenside, importantly making it difficult to
cement the knight’s standing on the b5-square.
This decision paid tremendous dividends, since
the queen becomes overworked.
19. Rac1?
This was quite a poor move. The rook does
nothing on c1, whereas it became a target
several moves later.
Black continues grabbing space after 19. c4
f5; 19. Nd2 challenges the knight on e4. With
a pair of knights removed from the board,
Black’s kingside pawn storm is less impactful.
19. ... Nxd2 (19. ... Nd6 20. Nxd6 cxd6 21. e4
transforms the game into a Sicilian structure.)
20. Rxd2 g5 21. Bg3 Ne4 22. Rdd1 h5 (22. ...
f5! 23. h3 [23. f3 Nxg3 24. hxg3 f4 and Black
remains in great shape.] 23. ... Nxg3 24. fxg3
f4 Black has the advantage, but a stalled initiative
would allow White to turn the game around.)
23. h3! Now if Black captures on g3, the pawn
structure appears worse but White has direct
access to the open f-file and a target on h5. (23.
f3 Nxg3 24. hxg3 is totally fine for White; I
even prefer the position, since the knight can
head for some of the light squares.)
19. ... h6 20. Ne1 g5 21. Bg3
21. ... h5!
My opponent had shown great restraint but
found the right time to pounce. He refused to
let me escape his iron grip over the board’s
important squares.
22. f3
Here 22. h3 does not help White, since the
second knight replaces the first. After 22. ...
Nxg3 23. fxg3 Ne4 with a large advantage.
22. ... Nxg3 23. hxg3 g4?!
White now has no choice but to accept an
open kingside, though this actually helps the
pieces break free.
The move 23. ... e4 was the move necessary
to crack open White’s fragile structure without
handing over counterplay. For example, 24.
Nd4 (24. c4 Rad8 25. Rxd8 Rxd8 26. Rd1 Rd7
27. f4 Nd3 is great for Black.) 24. ... Qf6 25. f4
(25. g4 exf3 26. gxf3 hxg4 27. fxg4 Ne4 when
In The Arena / Player of the Month
Black threatens the ruthless ... a3 to undermine
the c3-pawn.) 25. ... h4 when Black has an edge.
24. e4
Not being able to bear the sight of tripled,
isolated pawns and fearing an onslaught down
the h-file, I rejected 24. fxg4 hxg4 (Less effective
is 24. ... Ne4?! 25. gxh5 Nxg3 26. Qg4 Nxh5
27. Qxh5 Qxb5 28. Nf3 and White goes on the
offensive. Material is equal, but the knight has
more promise than the bishop.) 25. Nc2 f5 26.
Nb4 Qh6 27. Nxc7 Ne4.
24. ... Rad8 25. Nc2
Brandon swiftly punishes me. Turns out he
saw the winning variation in advance. The
continuation 25. c4 Ne6 26. Nd3 offered far
more stubborn resistance, but White hardly is
out of the woods.
25. ... Bh6
The problem with having the rook on c1 is
glaringly obvious. With the queen tied to the
knight on b5, there isn’t an opportunity to offer
a trade of all rooks on the d-file.
26. Rb1 gxf3 27. gxf3 Kh7 28. Nb4 Qg6
29. Nxc7 Qxg3+ 30. Qg2
30. ... Rg8!
Overlooked by me, but Brandon had this
idea spotted a while back. There was no pre-
vious opportunity to swap rooks on d8, for the
d2-square would have been infiltrated. Now
Black is completely winning.
31. Qxg3 Rxg3+ 32. Kh2
The f3-pawn is lost regardless: 32. Kf2 Rdg8
33. Rh1 Rg2+ 34. Kf1 R8g3.
32. ... Rxd1 33. Rxd1 Rxf3 34. Kg2 Rf4 35.
Nbd5 Rg4+ 36. Kf3 Nxe4 37. Ne8 Bg5 38.
Nxb6 a3
Very precise. White holds onto hopes of
survival after 38. ... Rf4+ 39. Ke2 Rf2+ 40. Kd3.
39. bxa3 Rf4+ 40. Kg2 Rf2+ 41. Kg1 Be3
42. Nd5 Bc5, White resigned.
I tipped my king, not entirely sure where
the fatal mistake occurred and impressed by
the accurate play of my soon-to-be-international
master opponent.
www.uschess.org 19
Look at Books / Should I Buy It?
Logical Ambition
One of the most interesting titles to appear in recent years is also
one of the most maddening.
By JOHN HARTMANN
LOOKING BACK AT RECENT MONTHS’
columns, I have noticed a rather evident bias
towards “serious” titles and topics, often devoted
to calculation, solving, or improvement. Such
an emphasis is not too surprising—after all,
research is me-search, as the old saying goes—
but it also completely neglects huge swaths of
chess literature. Last month’s column was a
first step in redressing this bias and I hope to
broaden my scope in the months to come.
So why, then, am I reviewing another serious
tome here?
Let me put it simply. IM Erik Kislik’s Applying
Logic in Chess is one of the most interesting
titles to appear in recent years, but it is also
one of the most maddening. Rarely have I been
at once so fascinated and utterly frustrated by
one and the same book. Surely something that
can prompt such a visceral reaction deserves
discussion.
Erik Kislik is an American international
master currently living in Hungary. He works
as a trainer for international masters and
20 September 2018 | Chess Life
grandmasters like Spanish Super-GM Francisco
Vallejo Pons, and he bills himself as “an expert
in computer chess and one of the most in-
demand chess trainers on ICC [chessclub.com].”
Applying Logic in Chess is his first book and it is
a vastly ambitious effort, offering readers a
comprehensive, no-holds-barred rendering of
his ideas about chess improvement and training.
Part of the difficulty in reviewing Kislik’s
book is a direct result of this ambition. A quick
glance at the Table of Contents reveals the vast
terrain he tries to cover over the course of the
text; it’s very hard to synthesize his ideas
succinctly. One hand-hold, as it were, can be
carved through a consideration of the meaning
of the book’s title, and an exploration of what
Kislik means by logic.
Consider this example taken from Chapter
7 (“Is Chess a Logical Game?”). Kislik employs
it to show how the employment of “simple
logic in complex positions” can allow us to
penetrate “right to the heart of a position.”
(178) The text and notes are his.
MINSKI
Die Schwalbe, 2016
[Kislik]
“Here is a study that was used during the
world solving championship of 2015 and
stumped some of the best solvers in the world.
One might assume that the position is illogical
and has an irrational solution because some
elite chess solvers struggled with it. This
position is actually not as random as you might
imagine. The way I arrived at the correct
solution was by realizing that Black has two
unique threats: taking on g2 and playing ... c2.
There is actually only one move that stops both
of those threats:
1. Be4!!
White gives up a bishop but uses the tempo
effectively to trade off a bunch of pawns.
1. ... Rxe4+ 2. Kd3
White hits the black rook with tempo and
attempts to capture the two remaining pawns
as quickly as possible.
2. ... Ra4!
After 2. ... Rc4, 3. dxc3 draws.
3. Rxa4 Bxb5+ 4. Rc4+!
This distracts the bishop. 4. Kxc3?? Bxa4
leaves the white king cut off because it cannot
come to c2 to get in front of the a-pawn.
4. ... Bxc4+
If 4. ... Kb7 5. Kxc3 Bxc4 6. Kc2.
5. Kxc3 Kd7
After 5. ... a2 6. Kb2 White draws by giving
up the d-pawn.
6. Kc2 Kc6
6. ... Ba2 7. Kc3, intending Kb4, is an
important point.
7. Kb1, Draw agreed.
White gives up the d-pawn to achieve a
simple theoretically drawn position in which
Black can never make progress if White just
keeps the king in the corner behind the a-pawn.
The logic behind the solution to this study
is clear: by discerning Black’s threats, White
was able to figure out the only ways to stop
them that would allow favourable [sic] simpli-
fication.” (178)
What is the nature of this “logic behind the
solution?” Clearly, and despite Kislik’s talk of
“first principles” (15) and informal fallacies (11,
78, 103), we are not dealing with any sort of

formal logical system that might undergird all
of our thinking. Here we must also note how
misleading the book’s cover is. There is nothing
in the text that resembles a flowchart for thought.
Instead, Kislik has a more modest, if
equivocal, understanding of logic and reason
in chess. In an important passage that appears
just before the above example, he writes:
“ ... sometimes the logic of a position is very
simple and allows us to play 20 perfect moves in
a row if we simply grasp the main point of the
position. This is one of many reasons to hone
your chess logic and your logical skills in chess.
... The fact that there is always a clear explanation
for every single error you have ever made in a
game is powerful evidence that chess is a rational
game. When a position does not make sense to
you, it is simply because you have no experience
or knowledge in that type of position. Building
experience and knowledge in different types of
positions is one of the most valuable skills to
work on improving as a result.” (177)
I’m reminded here of a Boris Pasternak poem,
where the great Russian bard writes of his
desire to reach “[t]o the essence of the passing
days / To their cause / To the bases, to the
roots, / To the very core.”
We can say that
chess is logical and rational because it is a game
of perfect information, subject to compre-
hensive study with databases and engines. More
than that, however, we need to undertake
structured, intensive study of the game to build
our skill in discerning the key features of
different positions and uncovering their “logic.” 
Here is where Kislik’s book absolutely shines.
Applying Logic in Chess is filled to the brim with
advice for improvement, and I cannot begin
to hope to discuss it all here. What follows is a
paltry, partial list of some of the highlights.
• Following Larry Kaufman’s work, Kislik
argues (14-26) that we need to more
precisely value the pieces. The familiar 1-
3-3-5-10 scale is replaced with 1 (pawn),
3.45 (knight), 3.55 (bishop), 5.25 (rook)
and 10 (queen). The bishop pair is worth
half a pawn, while a tempo is equivalent to
about a quarter of a pawn.
• Kislik’s ideal playing style, especially in
light of modern time controls, is to play
simple, healthy, “logical” moves, and
reserve complexity and calculation for
critical moments. (38-9) Here he follows
Carlsen and eschews the dreaded “Tal
Syndrome.”
• Playing is most important for improvement,
followed by game analysis, and only then
training. (Chapter 3)
• Kislik uses an extended version of Jacob
Aagaard’s “three questions” (45) to orient
thought during games. He adds two to the
list: Dorfman’s “Who benefits from the
exchange of queens?” and “What are the
pawn-breaks?”
• Training should be divided into temporary
and permanent tasks. It should be “task-
oriented” instead of “result- or
ego-oriented.” This could be read
alongside Aagaard’s discussion of growth
mindsets.
• Kislik differentiates between six facets of
chess strength (chapter 4): concrete
knowledge, pattern recognition,
calculation, candidate moves, positional
understanding, and logic. He offers specific
training advice for each element.
• He favors CT-ART over online tactical
trainers for achieving basic tactical compe-
tence. (106) Once a week he runs through
an already-solved tactics book to reinforce
key patterns. (86)
• One of the most important elements in
Kislik’s vision for improvement is the
accumulation of “chess culture” through
the study of master games. This can be
broken down into three parts: (a) Players
should study every game from World
Championship matches after 1930; (b)
They should scan through relevant games
each week in This Week In Chess
(TWIC); (c) They should especially study
annotated games collections by the players
themselves.
• There is an extensive discussion of, and
heavy emphasis on, the proper use of
engines and chess databases in analysis and
opening study. (Chapters 8-10) Kislik’s
expertise is evident in these pages, and for
me, this is perhaps the best part of the
book.
• Chapter 10, devoted to “metagame
strategy,” is immensely thoughtful. Here he
treats questions related to opening choice,
how to prepare and maintain a repertoire,
and his methods for building opening files.
This list barely scratches the surface of what
appears in Applying Logic in Chess. Hardly a page
is turned without readers encountering
something thought-provoking. Still, we might
sum it up as follows: work very, very hard; use
computers to study; and use our cultivated chess
“logic” to play quick, solid moves.
There is a lot that is new, or new to me, in
this book, including discussion of conditional
equality (154-160), the “burden of proof” (239)
and the “most obvious move” principle (128).
But Kislik also overstates the originality of
much of what he proposes and he fails to
engage/recognize key literature. De la Maza
and Tikkanen have independently argued for
Look at Books / Should I Buy It?
a form of spaced repetition in tactical study.
(86) Shereshevsky and Silman both prescribed
extensive study of historical games (117-8).
And Jacob Aagaard offers an influential account
of critical moments, which Kislik would have
done well to engage. (285)
Worse, when he is not crowing about the
novelty of his ideas, Kislik tends to set up straw
men to demolish. The first pages of the chapter
on logic (Chapter 7) are a prime example of
this tendency. He presents “common arguments”
and “common beliefs” in order to punch them
down, but the “arguments” (note—they are not
arguments but bald assertions) are so asinine
that they barely merit attention. Phrases like
“I’ve never seen anyone write about X” and
“I’ve never met anyone who did Y” appear
throughout the text. It’s pure bluster, and the
ideas in the book are more than strong enough
to stand without such puffery.
In the end I think Applying Logic in Chess is
an excellent book, but one that should have
gone through (at least) another round of
developmental editing. I love the fact that there
are multi-page stretches unsullied by diagrams
or analysis—there is plenty of analysis too, of
course—and I cannot think of a book with so
many pearls of wisdom strewn, if somewhat
randomly, through its pages. It is frustrating
that that you have to do a lot of sifting to find
them, but rest assured that the process is entirely
worthwhile.
Nota Bene: In the interest of full disclosure,
I took a one-time lesson with Erik Kislik in
2015, mainly focused on his understanding of
best practices for ChessBase and engine use. I
have had no other substantial contact with him
since then.
1. Pasternak, Boris. “Во всем мне хочется
дойти...” translator unknown. Taken from
Dvoretsky, Mark. Secrets of Chess Training.
London: Batsford, 2001. iv.
2. An aside: it occurs to me that playing for
counterplay /mate with 1. Bd5!? is no less logical
than Kislik’s and Minski’s solution, if we
understand “logical” to mean responsive to the key
features of the position. After 1. ... c2! 2. b6 (with
the idea of Ra8 mate) 2. ... Kd8 3. Rc5 appears to
save the bishop and stop the c-pawn. Only
intensive analysis exposes the flaw in this plan,
which I cannot give here for lack of space, but the
key points (drawn from Minski’s solution) appear
in the downloadable .pgn file at uschess.org.
Kislik, Erik. Applying Logic in Chess. Gambit
Publishing, 2018. ISBN Paperback: 9781911465249. FAN.
320 pages. (Available from uscfsales.com, catalog
number B0202GB, $28.95)
Look for Erik Kislik’s article on attacking play in
the October issue of Chess Life.
www.uschess.org 21
 FISCHER RANDOM

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q at the Saint Louis Chess Club h $50k PER
MATCH

Garry Kasparov vs Veselin Topalov

Hikaru Nakamura vs Peter Svidler
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28 June 2018 | Chess Life

Best of Luck
TO THE UNITED STATES OLYMPIAD TEAM

RECAPTURE the GOLD

AT THE 2018 BATUMI CHESS OLYMPIAD!

GM Fabiano GM Hikaru GM Wesley GM Ray GM Sam

CARUANA NAKAMURA SO ROBSON SHANKLAND

CAPTAIN COACH
IM John DONALDSON GM Alex LENDERMAN

Mike Klein, GM Aleksandr Lenderman, GM Hikaru Nakamura, IM John Donaldson, GM Sam Shankland, GM Ray Robson, GM Wesley So, GM Fabiano Caruana
at the Closing Ceremony of the 2016 Baku, Azerbaijan, Chess Olympiad. Collection of the World Chess Hall of Fame. Courtesy of Mike Klein, Chess.com

www.uschess.org 29
TEXAS TECH CHANCELLOR ROBERT
DUNCAN SHAKES HANDS WITH LT.
CHASE WATTERS, UNITED STATES
NAVY, AFTER MAKING THE FIRST
MOVE. WATTERS’ OPPONENT IS MR.
CARL PORTMAN, GREAT BRITAIN’S
TEAM CAPTAIN. LOOKING ON, LEFT
TO RIGHT: GM ALEX ONISCHUK; JAN
CHEUNG, NATO CHESS GAMES
EDITOR; AND COLONEL TOMAZ
MALINOWSKI OF POLAND, THE
CHAIRMAN OF THE INTERNATIONAL
MILITARY CHESS COMMITTEE.

The 2018 NATO

Chess Championship
The United States hosts the event for the first time in the
tournament’s 29-year history.
By COLONEL (RETIRED) DAVID A. HATER, U.S. ARMY

24 September 2018 | Chess Life


F
OR THE FIRST TIME IN ITS 29-YEAR HISTORY, THE NATO CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP TOOK
place in the United States. Further, the June 4-8, 2018 event at Texas Tech University in Lubbock,
Texas was being held in the western hemisphere for only the second time.
The event was made possible thanks to the
generous support of hosts Texas Tech University.
In the history of the event only 14 of the 29
NATO nations have hosted, and of those, only
three hosted it without any formal government
financial support: England, Canada, and now
the United States. Because the Department of
Defense stopped funding chess in 2012 and
commercial sponsorship is always a challenge,
our only viable option was to partner with a
chess organization. Enter Texas Tech, which
provided lodging and food in the college dorms
and restaurant system, a fine playing venue in
their alumni center, and an amazing amount of
logistical support.
Out of the 29 NATO nations, 23 have partic-
ipated in the tournament at least once. Whether
a country participates is influenced by factors
including military requirements, government
support, and location of the host country. This
year we lost several teams, or parts of teams,
due to some of these factors. Also, some of the
countries who normally play in Europe could
not afford the expense of coming to the United
States. Ultimately, 10 nations participated—less
than when the event is held in Europe, but
roughly the same number that attended when
the event was held in Canada.
Most of the participating nations were the
regulars who play every year, but there were a
few new faces. The nations that sent represen-
tatives were Germany, Poland, Greece,
Denmark, USA, Slovenia, Netherlands, United
Kingdom, Canada, and Estonia.
Usually a few titled players participate in the
ALL PHOTOS: ASHLEY RODGERS, TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY
NATO Championship. This year’s overall depth
was stronger than usual, with the top three
teams of Germany, Poland, and Greece each
having an international master as their highest-
rated player. Each team is allowed up to six
players; the top four scores determine the final
team score in the seven-round tournament.
Although this was a smaller tournament than
usual, 70 percent of the teams had an average
FIDE rating over 2000, so the United States
team had its work cut out for them.
The opening ceremony was held at the
Memorial Circle of Texas Tech University,
which is dedicated to all military veterans. All
the participating teams attended in uniform.
Honored guest Lieutenant General Bernard
Mittemeyer, who was the 35th Surgeon General
of the United States Army until 1985, delivered
the keynote address. General Mittemeyer also
The Official
U.S. Team:
NAVY LIEUTENANT
Chase Watters
NAVY LIEUTENANT COMMANDER
George “Chip” Kraft
NAVY PETTY OFFICER
Enrico Balmaceda
ARMY SPECIALIST
Abiye Williams
AIR FORCE CAPTAIN
Gordon Randall
ARMY SECOND LIEUTENANT
Nicholas Oblak
U.S. Officials &
Veterans:
NAVY CHIEF PETTY OFFICER
Alberto Hernandez
NAVY PETTY OFFICER
Andrew Peraino
ARMY COLONEL
Jon Middaugh
MARINE CIVILIAN EMPLOYEE
(STAFF SERGEANT RETIRED)
John Farrell
AIR FORCE TECHNICAL SERGEANT
Andrew Duren
served as the Chief of Urological Surgery at
Texas Tech University and recently retired
from that position at the young age of 87. Other
luminaries, including the Texas governor;
mayor of Lubbock, Texas; Tech University
president; and former world chess champion
Garry Kasparov, sent letters of support.
After the opening ceremony, it was time to
get down to battling over the chessboard. As
with any competitive event, significant upsets
occurred starting in round one—even the titled
players were unable to escape. The biggest upset
was defending co-champion FM Finn Pedersen’s
[Denmark] loss to long-time German team
captain Karl Koopmeiners.
The United States scored five wins and a draw,
with two major upsets: Navy Lieutenant Com-
mander George “Chip” Kraft defeated Greece’s
Military Chess / NATO Championship
Konstantinos Mouroutis and Navy Chief Petty
Officer Alberto Hernandez defeated Arie
Werksma. (Unfortunately, because Hernandez
was an extra player, his score didn’t count.) Even
Germany could not escape upsets as eighth seed
Elijah Everett lost to Poland’s Aleksander
Stankowski.
Round two was even more competitive. On
board one, Germany’s IM Lorenz Drabke drew
Slovenia’s Igor Mestek. The U.S. Navy duo of
Kraft and Hernandez again both pulled off
upsets as Kraft defeated Germany’s Guido Schott
and Hernandez defeated Poland’s team captain
and International Military Chess Committee
Secretary Slawomir Kedzierski.
ENGLISH OPENING (A22)
Guido Schott (FIDE 2127, GER)
Chip Kraft (FIDE 1950, USA)
29th NATO Chess Championship (2),
Lubbock, Texas, 06.05.2018
Annotation by Kraft
1. c4 e5
I play the English myself as white and have
always answered c4 with ... c5 until now. This
was one of the two opening changes that I
made for the NATO tournament. I also gave
up my Scandinavian with ... Qd6 for the
Accelerated Dragon, which I tried out for the
first time in a tournament in round six of the
NATO.
2. Nc3 Nf6 3. g3 Bb4 4. Bg2 Bxc3
If White had played Nd5 instead of Bg2, I
was going to take the knight, play ... d6, ... 0-0,
... Ba5, followed by ... Bb6. I watch a lot of
Roman’s Labs and he suggests that line.
5. bxc3 Nc6
This was the line that I wanted. White
maintains the two bishops, but with the doubled
c-pawns.
6. e4 d6 7. d3 0-0 8. Ne2
With this move, White declares his inten-
tions to play an eventual f2-f4.
8. ... Ne8
I am simply planning to meet f2-f4 with ... f7-
f5. What I am seeing with the pawn structure
here is that after White castles and Black plays
... f5, if exf5 and my ... Bxf5, I have an excellent
diagonal for my light square bishop. Also, if
www.uschess.org 25
Military Chess / NATO Championship
White allows Black to play ... fxe4, after dxe4,
White is saddled with double isolated c-pawns.
Recapturing Bxe4 in that position allows Black
to play ... Bh3 and I am more than happy to
exchange light square bishops.
9. Rb1 Rb8 10. 0-0 f5 11. Be3
The computer suggests 11. exf5 and after
11. ... Bxf5 then 12. f4 with a slight advantage
for White.
11. ... Nf6
The computer says better is 11. ... fxe4 12.
Bxe4 (else the double isolated c-pawns) 12. ...
Bh3 13. Bd5+ Kh8 14. Bg2 Bxg2 15. Kxg2 Qd7
with a half point advantage for Black. With
my move of my knight back to f6, I am keeping
pressure on e4, seeking exf5 and ... Bxf5, which
I thought was better for Black, but which the
computer states is equal.
12. h3?
This moves immediately gives Black a full
point advantage according to Stockfish. Obvi-
ously with his bishop on e3, he must have been
concerned with ... Ng4 ideas, but this leads to
a fatal pawn weakening.
12. ... fxe4 13. dxe4
Stockfish suggests c5 here in a bad position
for White, with a possible line of 13. ... exd3
14. Qxd3 Be6 15. cxd6 Qxd6 16. Qxd6 cxd6
and Black is a full pawn up with a strong center.
13. ... b6
Preventing c4-c5. I am very pleased at this
point as Black.
14. f4
The only move. White has nothing on the
queenside.
14. ... Be6 15. Qa4
Stockfish suggests just letting the c pawn go
and playing 15. f5 Bxc4, and then 16. Qc2
followed by g3-g4. This would have made for
an interesting game.
15. ... Na5
The correct move. The c4-pawn is clearly
in my sites and 16. c5 is met by 16. ... Nc4
anyway, hitting the bishop on e3, followed by
17. ... bxc5.
16. fxe5 dxe5
Stockfish scores this at -2.05 right now.
17. Rfd1
The wrong rook to d1.
17. ... Qc8
17. ... Qe7 was far superior according to
computer. I was seeking the tempo gained by
attacking the h3-pawn.
26 September 2018 | Chess Life
18. Kh2 Nxc4
I did not hesitate on this move, but better
was 18. ... Bd7 19. Qc2 Qe8 threatening ... Ba4.
Stockfish says White has nothing better than
20. Rxd7 in that position. The c4-pawn can
be captured on my terms.
19. Bg5 h6
19. ... b5 was better, as White gets into
problems after 20. Rxb5 Qe8 (i.e. 21. Rb4 Qxa4
22. Rxa4 Nb2 or 21. Rdb1 Nd6 22. Bxf6 gxf6
23. c4 a6 24. Qxa6 Ra8 winning), so in that
line after 19. ... b5 20. Qc2 Na3 -4.00.
20. Bc1 a6
My plan is simple: to cement the outpost on
c4 with ... b5. But 20. ... Nd7 was a better move,
threatening ... Rf2 and ... Nc5 at the same time.
21. Ng1 b5
21. ... Nxe4 apparently did work here after
22. Bxe4 Rf2+ 23. Kh1 (23. Bg2 Qb7 mates)
now 23. ... b5 24. Qb3 Bf5 with a winning pin,
as White will have fatal light square weaknesses
and get mated on g2 if he trades the bishops.
22. Qc2 g5?!
22. ... Qe8 was better.
23. Rf1 Qe8 24. Qe2 Qg6 25. a4 Nd6!
My opponent was very low on time here
and missed the Bc4 move.
26. axb5 Bc4 27. Rxf6 Rxf6
Black is -4.66 now, according to Stockfish.
28. Qe3 axb5
Up the Exchange and a pawn now.
29. Ba3 Ra8 30. Bxd6 cxd6 31. Rb2 Raf8
It seemed to me like domination of the f-
file was a quick way to victory here. But 31. ...
Qf7 and then 32. ... Qa7 was the best contin-
uation.
32. Nf3 R8f7
32. ... Qh5 was better.
33. Rd2 Qg7
33. ... Bf1! was a tricky piece exchange to
amplify the pressure on the f-file.
34. Rb2 Qf8 35. Nd2 Qc8 36. Bf3 Be6
Eyeing h3.
37. Bh5 Rc7 38. h4??
But all is lost anyway.
38. ... Rxc3 39. Qb6 gxh4 40. Qxb5
White makes time control on move 40 here,
but his position deteriorated greatly in the last
few moves.
40. ... hxg3+ 41. Kg1 Rf2 42. Nf1 Bc4,
White resigned.
Fitting that the game should end with a piece
move to the weakened c4-square, which was
set in motion many moves ago when White’s
c-pawns became doubled and isolated. 2-0 start.
I was thrilled at this point!
In round two, the United States’ top player,
Navy Lieutenant Chase Watters defeated
Germany’s Karl Koopmeiners and Army
Lieutenant Nick Oblak held Germany’s Oliver
Nill to an upset draw. So even though the other
two players lost, the U.S. team was in good shape
after round two with 6½ points.
Round three was tougher for the U.S. team.
On board six, Watters faced the current Greek
women’s champion, WIM Ekaterini Pavlidou.
It was clearly a hard match and unfortunately,
Watters came up on the short end. Meanwhile,
Oblak lost to IM Drabke on board seven. Kraft
and Hernandez, however, scored some points:
Hernandez had defeated Germany’s Hans-
Christopher Andresen and Kraft held Poland’s
Marcin Pietruszewski to a draw.
The individual competition also was getting
interesting. Greece’s IM Anastasios Pavlidis and
WIM Ekaterini Pavlidou, and USA’s Chief Petty
Officer Alberto Hernandez had the only perfect
scores. Ironically, if we had designated Hernandez
in our top six players, we would have been tied
with Germany for first place!
Round four was a mixed bag for the U.S. team.
Hernandez played on board one versus IM Pavlidis,
where the 400-point rating difference showed
and Pavlidis won. Three boards down Kraft drew
with Poland’s top player, IM Mateusz Bobula, and
Watters defeated Netherland’s Jan Cheung, who
is the games editor for NATO Chess. Another
critical game of the round was on board two,
where WIM Pavlidou defeated IM Drabke.
At the halfway point of the tournament, the
U.S. team was tied for third with Germany at
11 points—only half a point out of second place.
In the individual competition, only Pavlidis and
Pavlidou were 4-0 but couldn’t play each other
because they were on the same team. Poland’s
Damian Graczyk was in third place with 3½
points, followed by 14 players (three from the
U.S.) tied for fourth with 3 points.
Thursday is always the critical day in NATO
Championships as it is one of two days when
 Military Chess / NATO Championship

PRE-TOURNAMENT PREDICTIONS: THE 2018 NATO TEAMS

Germany — One of the founding nations of the NATO Chess
Championship (along with Denmark and the United
Kingdom), Germany has participated in 27 of the 28 NATO
Championships and has won the gold medal 22 times and
silver four times. Germany’s top four players, led by IM Lorenz
Drabke, sported an average rating of 2303 making defending
champion Germany the team to beat.
Poland — After Germany, Poland has won the most NATO
medals. In the 16 times Poland has played, they have won gold
once, silver nine times, and bronze four times. With the
addition of IM Mateusz Bobula and team average rating of
2254, Poland proved to be the greatest challenge to Germany.
Denmark — Denmark has medaled seven times, winning silver
twice and bronze five times. This year, Denmark was
hampered by having only four players on the roster. Although
their hopes to medal were slim, with a top four average rating
of 2116 they could not be completely counted out.
Slovenia — While close in rating to the U.S. team at 2057,
Slovenia had some distinct drawbacks. First, with only four
players, all scores counted and all players needed to have a good
tournament. But their bigger problem was rating spread. Two of
Slovenia’s four players were seeded in the bottom half, while the
U.S. team had five of their six players seeded in the top half.
United States — The United States is one of only three nations
to have participated in all 29 NATO Championships. While the
U.S. team didn’t have the strength of the other teams, it was
well-balanced and had more depth. The team’s 2085 average
FIDE rating made it hard, but not impossible, to medal.
Netherlands — The Netherlands team is one of the three
teams that has attended all 29 NATO Championships. They
also attended all 12 unofficial NATO Championships, so they
are one of only two teams to play in every unofficial and
official NATO event from 1978 through 2018. Though quality
depth was not an issue for the team, only two of their six
players were seeded in the top half, making it unlikely for
them to win medals this year.
Estonia — Estonia was only able to send one player this year,
as—ironically—the other player, the Estonian military chess
team captain, was in the United States attending the U.S.
Army War College and could not break away. The fact that
Estonia was committed to sending at least one representative
spoke well of their support of the event.
United Kingdom — The United Kingdom has participated in
every event from 1978-2018. With an average rating of only
1850 and only one player, David Olney, in the top half of the
field, the team was not in serious contention for a medal.
Canada — With an average rating of 1721, the Canadian team
would likely lose more than they would win. Canada attended
the first NATO Championship in 1989 but didn’t return until
2002. Since 2002, Canada has sent a team almost every year.
Greece — Although Greece has been a long-time member of
NATO, 2017 was the first year they participated. Greece was
led by a brother and sister team of titled players: IM
Anastasios Pavlidis and Greek Women’s Champion WIM
Ekaterini Pavlidou. With a 2191 average rating, Greece was a
serious contender.

two games are played in the same day. In the
fifth round, five of our players were paired up.
Army Specialist Williams delivered a win and
Kraft lost to Germany. All the other games
drew. In the overall race for an individual
champion, IM Pavlidis defeated Germany’s Mark
Helbig (see annotated game next page) to emerge
in the lead with the only perfect score.
Going into the penultimate round, Greece led
the team results with 14½ followed by Germany
and Denmark with 13 (Denmark snuck into the
mix after every one of their players won their
round five game.). The U.S. team had slipped to
fifth place with 12½.
The U.S. had hoped the team would survive
round five (which we did) and then score points
in round six. Unfortunately, every top six player
was paired up! Kraft came through as he beat
Slovenia’s Igor Mestek, and Watters drew with
Poland’s Marcin Pietruszewski, but the other
four games ended in losses for our team. Our
hopes for squeaking into third place were
effectively over.
The individual competition was still close.
Pavlidis drew with Graczyk rather quickly so
he would go into the last round with 5½ out
of 6. Elijah Everett defeated Pedersen in a
miniature. In round seven, boards one and two
both drew.
The two draws meant that IM Pavlidis took
clear first in the individual competition. Graczyk
and Everett tied for second with Graczyk taking
the silver medal on tiebreak. In the team
competition, Poland edged out Germany to take
the team title with 20½ points. Germany and
Greece each ended with 20 points. The U.S.
team finished with a respectable 16 points for
fourth place, edging out Denmark by a half point.
Side events included the NATO Blitz Cham-
pionship, which Germany’s Elijah Everett won
with 8½ out of 10 points. GM Alexander
Onischuk also gave a clock simultaneous
exhibition against 12 players and scored 10
wins, one draw, and one loss.
As an outreach event to the community,
Texas Tech hosted the Lubbock Open, which
allowed the community to play against the
NATO players. The event ended in a three-
way tie for first between IM Mateusz Bobula,
Chase Watters, and Elijah Everett, all with 4½
out of 5.
US Chess executive board member and FIDE
Arbiter Mike Hoffpauir directed the tourna-
ment, assisted by FIDE National Arbiter
Melanie Kneen and WCM Claudia Munoz
from Texas Tech.
If you are currently in the U.S. Armed Forces or
are a civilian employee with the Department of
Defense, you are eligible to apply to represent the
U.S. Armed Forces in the 2019 NATO Chess
Championship (held from Sept. 15-21, 2019 in
Berlin, Germany). For more information, please
contact Col. David A. Hater, U.S. Army retired, at
dhater1@aol.com and SSgt John F. Farrell,
USMC retired, at JohnnyUSMC@aol.com.
Applications must be received by Dec. 15, 2018;
team selection will be made shortly thereafter.

www.uschess.org 27
Military Chess / NATO Championship
Military Games
GM Alexander Ipatov offers a deep dive into
an interesting NATO game. By GM ALEXANDER IPATOV
QUEEN’S INDIAN DEFENSE (E12)
IM Anastasios Pavlidis (FIDE 2357, GRE)
FM Mark Helbig (FIDE 2361, GER)
29th NATO Chess Championship (5),
Lubbock, Texas, 06.07.2018
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 b6 4. a3 Ba6
The move 4. ... Bb7 is more common. 5. Nc3
d5 (5. ... g6 is interesting, but objectively inferior
to 5. ... d5. 6. Qc2! aiming to seize control over
the center with e2-e4. 6. ... Bxf3 7. gxf3. White
has a bishop pair and control over the center.
These two factors have higher weight than
28 September 2018 | Chess Life
doubled pawns. 7. ... Nc6 8. e3 Bg7 9. Bd2 0-0
10. 0-0-0 Nh5 11. h4 d5 12. cxd5 exd5 13. Kb1
Ne7 14. e4! White favorably opened up the
position and won convincingly later in the
game A R Saleh Salem [2586]-Sergey
Fedorchuk [2664], Doha, 2014) 6. cxd5 (6.
Bg5!? is my preference over the too theoretical
6. cxd5. 6. ... Be7 7. Qa4+ c6 8. Bxf6! Bxf6 9.
cxd5 exd5 10. g3 White’s plan is easy to
understand: Bg2, 0-0, Rad1, Rfe1 and e2-e4.
10. ... 0-0 11. Bg2 Re8 12. 0-0 Na6 13. Rad1 g6
14. Rfe1 Bg7 15. e4 dxe4?! [15. ... Nc7=] 16.
Nxe4 Qc7 17. d5! Alexander Ipatov [2592]-
Denis Khismatullin [2653], Jerusalem, 2015.)
THE TEAM FROM THE UNITED STATES,
REPRESENTING SEVERAL MILITARY
BRANCHES, STANDS AT ATTENTION AT
THE OPENING CEREMONIES.
6. ... Nxd5 7. Qc2 The main line. White prepares
e2-e4. Black, in return, often strikes back with
... c7-c5. (7. e3 is also well-known. 7. ... Be7 8.
Bb5+ is useful to provoke c7-c6 before playing
Bd3. 8. ... c6 9. Bd3 0-0 10. 0-0 Nxc3 11. bxc3
c5 12. Qe2 Nd7 13. Rd1 Qc7 14. e4 Nf6 M.
Andersen [2605]-A. Lenderman [2600],
Reykjavik, 2018 15. a4!? with the typical idea
a4-a5.) 7. ... Nxc3 8. bxc3 c5 9. e4 Nd7 10. Bd3
Qc7 11. Bb2 cxd4 12. cxd4 Qxc2 13. Bxc2 Rc8
14. Bd3 Bd6 15. Ke2 Ke7 Shakhriyar
Mamedyarov (2800)-Pavel Eljanov (2739),
Geneva, 2017.
5. Qc2
The alternative 5. e3 appears to be a bit timid
to fight for the opening advantage leads to a
small edge after 5. ... d5 6. Nbd2 Be7 7. b4 0-0
8. Bb2 c5 (Also good for Black is 8. ... dxc4!? 9.
Bxc4 Bxc4 10. Nxc4 a5! 11. bxa5 [No better is
11. b5 Qd5 12. Qa4 Nc6! followed by ... Nc6-a7
attacking the b5-pawn.] 11. ... b5! 12. Ncd2
Rxa5=) 9. dxc5 bxc5 10. b5 Bb7 11. Be2 a6 12.
a4 dxc4 13. 0-0 axb5 14. axb5 Nbd7 15. Nxc4
Alexander Ipatov (2652)-Hjorvar Gretarsson
(2547), Baku, 2016.
5. ... c5
The second most played continuation. It
allows d4-d5 which forces Black to play a
Benoni position.
The main move is the paradoxical 5. ... Bb7
that makes us think that Black has just lost a
tempi on playing ... Bc8-a6 and then ... Ba6-b7
back. However, Black’s idea is to play ... c7-c5
on the next move and avoid White’s d4-d5 as
in the game. After 6. Nc3 c5 7. d5?! is no longer
dangerous. Black can just grab the pawn and
see if White has enough compensation (7. e4
is the main move; 7. dxc5!? bxc5 8. Bf4 is also
playable.) with 7. ... exd5 8. cxd5 Nxd5.
6. d5 exd5 7. cxd5 g6 8. Nc3 Bg7
9. g3
This is by far the main move, but other
moves are no less interesting:
The move 9. Bf4!? was played by a rising
Russian star earlier this year. White also has
the better of it after 9. ... d6 10. h4!? h6 (The

natural 10. ... 0-0 runs into 11. h5! Nxh5 12.
Rxh5 gxh5 13. Ng5 f5 14. Ne6; White also has
the better of it after 10. ... h5 11. e4 Bxf1 12.
Kxf1 0-0 13. Nd2 a6 14. a4 Ng4 15. Nc4 Bd4
16. f3 Ne5 Denis Khismatullin [2681]-Vasily
Yemelin [2568] St. Petersburg, 2014, 17. Bxe5
dxe5 18. g3 Nd7 19. Kg2 Rb8 20. Qd2 b5?! 21.
axb5 axb5 22. Na5! and the knight goes to c6.)
11. e3!? (Black has good compensation after
11. g3 Qe7 12. Qa4+ b5 13. Nxb5 0-0 14. Nxd6
Nxd5 Vladimir Fedoseev [2706]-Viktor
Bologan [2610], Poikovsky, 2018) 11. ... Bxf1
12. Kxf1 0-0 13. h5! Nxh5 (Weaker is 13. ... g5
14. Bxg5 hxg5 15. h6 Bh8 16. h7+ Kg7 17. Qf5
Re8 18. Qxg5+ Kf8 19. Qf4 followed by
g2-g4-g5.) 14. Rxh5! gxh5 15. Ne4! B. Esen
(2570)-S. Lobanov (2394), St. Petersburg, 2015;
9. e4 Bxf1 10. Kxf1 d6 11. Qa4+ Perhaps White
should keep queens on the board if he wants
to play for more. The position was just level
after 11. ... Qd7 12. Qxd7+ Nbxd7 13. Bf4 Ke7
Varuzhan Akobian (2640)-Alexander Onischuk
(2681), Saint Louis, 2018.
9. ... 0–0 10. Bg2 d6 11. 0–0 b5 12. b4
Stopping any kind of ... b5-b4 and making
the black bishop ineffective on a6. On the other
hand, it weakens the a1-h8 diagonal and
undermines the knight on c3.
12. ... Nbd7 13. Bf4 Qb6
14. Rac1
White missed 14. bxc5! where Black would
have had three options, but none of the contin-
uation would lead to an equality. Of course, it
is not easy to play 14. bxc5 as it makes the black
pawns more mobile (but weak!) and the light-
square bishop more active. 14. ... dxc5.
a) 14. ... Qxc5 15. Be3 Qc7 16. Rac1 (the
b5-pawn and c6-square are weak) 16. ... Rac8
17. Qb3 Nc5 18. Qb4;
b) 14. ... Nxc5 15. Nd4 Going towards the dream
c6-square) 15. ... Nce4 16. Nxe4 Nxe4 17. e3 f5
(17. ... Bxd4 18. exd4 Black would be doomed
without the dark-square bishop.) 18. Qc6! Black
has way too many weaknesses;
15. Rab1. Applying direct pressure against
the b5-pawn. Black’s pawns on b5 and c5 look
strong, but, in fact, are undersupported. 15. ...
Rfe8 (Much worse is 15. ... b4 16. axb4 cxb4
Military Chess / NATO Championship
17. Na4 Qb5 18. Nd4) 16. Rfc1.
14. ... Rac8 15. Qa2 Rfe8 16. Bh3 h5
Black wants to play Nf6-g4, but underes-
timates the weakness of the g5-square. Pawns
do not go back in chess!
16. ... h6!?
17. Ng5 Rc7
17. ... Ng4 18. Nce4.
18. Qd2 cxb4 19. axb4 Ne5 20. Be3 Qb8
21. Qa2 Bc8 22. Bg2 Bf5 23. Bf4 Rc4 24.
Qa5 Bd7 25. Nb1 Rxc1 26. Rxc1 Nc4 27. b4-pawn on the next move.
Qa2 Ng4 28. h3 36. Ne4 Bg7?
Now it is a serious mistake.
The obvious 36. ... Bxb4?? runs into 37. Nf6+;
Best is 36. ... Bb2 37. Bb8 Kf8 38. Nxd6 Ba3!
39. Ne4 (Black has nothing to fear after 39.
Nxc4 bxc4 40. Bf4 c3 41. Be4 Ba4) 39. ... Bxb4
40. Ba7 f5 41. Nc5 Ke7 Black should be able to
hold thanks to the king centralization and
advanced b-pawn.
37. Bb8 Be5 38. f4 Bd4+ 39. Kh2 f5 40.
Nxd6 Bc3 41. Nxc4 bxc4 42. d6
28. ... Nge5
Black could have tried 28. ... Nxf2!? 29. Kxf2
Qb6+ 30. Kf1 Ne3+ where White would have
to find 31. Kg1!! allowing discovered check
(Black has the better of it after 31. Bxe3 Qxe3
32. Qd2 Qxg3) 31. ... f6!! 32. Ne6 (And Black
wins an Exchange in the following continuation
32. Nf3? g5 33. Rc6 Bxc6 34. dxc6+ Nc4+ 35.
Kh1 gxf4) 32. ... g5 33. Qa5! White needs to
trade queens as soon as possible. It not only
makes the white king feel safer but also prepares
42. ... Kf7?
a rook invasion on the c-file. 33. ... Qxa5 34.
bxa5 gxf4 35. Nxg7 Kxg7 36. Rc7 Re7 37. Bf3 Missing the last chance with 42. ... Kf8!. This
(Much worse is 37. gxf4?? Nxg2 38. Kxg2 Bxh3+ way, Black helps his king without allowing
39. Kxh3 Rxc7) 37. ... a6 38. gxf4 when both White to either win the c4-pawn or advance
sides have chances. his d-pawn and after 43. Bd5 Bb5 44. Bc7 (44.
e4 fxe4 45. Bxe4 Kf7 46. Bd5+ Ke8 I don’t see
29. Nd2 Nxd2 30. Bxd2 Rc8 31. Rxc8+
Bxc8 32. Qa5 Bd7 how White can “keep the game going”—that
is, to avoid the material annihilation and three
After some turbulence in the middlegame, versus two endgame.) 44. ... Bxb4 45. d7 Bxd7
an equal endgame has been reached. Black has
46. Bxc4 Bc6. Black should hold.
a nice outpost for the knight on c4. In contrast,
White would want to bring his own knight to 43. Bd5+ Be6 44. d7! Bf6 45. Be5 Bd8 46.
c6, but that is not easy.
Bc6 Ke7 47. Bb5 Bb6 48. Kg2 Bxd7 49.
Bxc4
33. Be3 Nc4 34. Qxa7 Qxa7 35. Bxa7
Now it is a technical win for White.
(see diagram top of next column) 49. ... Bc6+ 50. Kf1 Be3 51. h4 Bb7 52. Bc3
Be4 53. Be1 Bb7 54. Bf2 Bd2 55. Bc5+
35. ... Bc3?! Ke8 56. b5 Ba5 57. Kf2 Bd2 58. e3 Ba5
59. Be2 Kd7 60. Bd4 Kd6 61. Bc4 Ke7 62.
It doesn’t spoil anything yet, but it is highly Bc5+ Kf6 63. Bd6 Bb6 64. Be5+ Ke7 65.
unnecessary. White gains an important tempi Bd4 Ba5 66. Bc5+ Ke8 67. b6 Bc3 68. Be2
by bringing the knight back. Kd7 69. Bb5+ Kd8 70. Bd4 Ke7, Black
The move 35. ... Kf8! was simple and strong. resigned.
Black brings the king to the center, protects
the d6-pawn and is ready to go after the
www.uschess.org 29
GM IOAN-CRISTIAN CHIRILA
TAKES HOME THE COVETED
EDMONDSON CUP AFTER
WINNING “ARGUABLY THE
MOST CHALLENGING
VICTORY” OF HIS CAREER.
 Cover Story / National Open

A Most
Challenging Victory
GM Ioan-Cristian Chirila’s determination wins the day—and
the Edmondson Cup—at the 2018 National Open.
By GM ELSHAN MORADIABADI

T
he 53rd edition of the National Open,
the crown jewel in the Las Vegas
International Chess Festival, took place
in Las Vegas from June 21st through 24th.
Organizers Alan and Janelle Losoff once again
brought players from around the globe to the
Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino for a
seven-round Swiss main event. A day-long
chess camp led by grandmasters, the Walter
Browne Memorial Blitz, and the U.S. Women’s
Open were among the many side events (see
pg. 42 for more about the U.S. Women’s Open).
The open section attracted 65 players and
included 20 grandmasters, 11 international
masters, and several other titled players. For
the first time, the open section was comprised
of four-day, three-day, and two-day options,
which meant the grandmasters were spread
out until the final merger in round five. The
distribution was disproportional: while 11
grandmasters—roughly half—opted for the
traditional format of two games a day, almost
all of the remaining grandmasters played in the
two-day section, making the two-day event a
tough and difficult one. Only one grandmaster
entered the three-day event. To save energy
and time, some grandmasters chose the section
that had the shorter time control, relying more
on heuristics than on calculation. This approach
failed all but one, GM Nikola Mitkov, about
PHOTO: LENNART OOTES
Final Four championship. Negi, who lately has
been a less active player due to pursuing his
studies at Stanford University, quit after
conceding losses on rounds one and three.
While the two-day event had the feel of an
all-grandmaster round-robin, the four-day
event was more typical for an open tournament,
with grandmasters meeting lower-rated players
in the earlier rounds. The very first round saw
no surprises on the top boards. All of the
grandmasters managed to outplay their oppo-
nents rather easily. In particular, the top-seed
of the event, GM Dariusz Swiercz, demon- 19. a5!? b5 20. axb6 e.p. Rxb6 21. b3 Re7
strated the importance of proper development
in what seemed like an effortless win in the Either 21. ... f5 or 21. ... Nh5 followed by ...
following game: Nf6 is a must!
22. Ra2 g5?!
MODERN BENONI, Only weakens the king. f2-f4 is not easy to
FIANCHETTO VARIATION (A63) prevent.
GM Dariusz Swiercz (2753)
Derek O’Connor (2329) 23. Na4 Rb4 24. Bc4 f6 25. Rd2 Ra7 26.
2018 National Open (1), Las Vegas, Nevada, Nb2!
06.21.2018
The knight will eventually land on c4.
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 e6 4. Nc3 exd5 5. 26. ... Rbb7 27. Bf1 Bd7 28. Nc4 Qe7 29.
cxd5 d6 6. Nf3 g6 7. g3 Bg7 8. Bg2 0–0 9. f4 gxf4 30. gxf4 Kh8 31. Rg2 Rb8 32.
0–0 Re8 10. Re1 a6 11. a4 Nbd7 12. Bf4 Reg3 Rg8 33. Bd3 Bb5 34. e5!
Nh5 13. Bg5 Bf6 14. Bxf6 Qxf6 15. e4 Rb8
16. Bf1 Ng7 17. Re3 Ne5 18. Nxe5 Qxe5
An obvious but beautiful finesse!
34. ... Bxc4 35. bxc4 fxe5 36. Qh5 e4 37.
(see diagram next column) Qxh7+, Black resigned.

whom I write more later.
In fact, many of the titled players were out
of the contest long before the faster time-control
section merged with the others. For instance,
GM Parimarjan Negi from India, with a 2656
Elo, suffered a round one short loss against
GM Carlos Antonio Hevia Alejano from Cuba,
who is a student at UT-RGV, which won the
After not the best opening play by Black,
White has a clear edge and a comfortable
middlegame. Black’s knight on g7 is an issue
here and Black should solve its problem at any
cost. Swiercz understood this well and managed
to take advantage of it, while Black, with less
experience, did not sense the danger and lost
due to this small positional fact.
Higher-rated players also prevailed in round
two, but the games were less one-sided. Veteran
grandmaster Michael Rohde played a cautious
yet solid game on the white side of a Spanish
opening against GM Dariusz Swiercz. While
Swiercz was trying hard to squeeze something
out of the position, Rohde came up with an

www.uschess.org 31
Cover Story / National Open
interesting reaction and won a central pawn,
leaving Swiercz with only enough compen-
sations. Unfortunately for the seasoned New
Yorker, Rohde was the one who made the final
mistake in time control.
CAUTIOUS YET SOLID
GM Michael Rohde (2460)
GM Dariusz Swiercz (2753)
2018 National Open (2), Las Vegas, Nevada,
06.22.2018
AFTER 26. ... Bg6
27. Ba2!
A strong move, threatening Bb1 and sudden-
ly the knight on d3 is feeling uncomfortable.
27. ... Qf6 28. Bxd5 Nf4 29. Be4 Re8 30.
Bxf4?!
This move does not lose, but it throws away
White’s slight edge and gives Black some
dangerous initiative. The move 30. Rc1 would
have maintained the tension and after 30. ...
h6 31. Bxg6 Nxg6 32. Re1 Black definitely has
enough compensation, while White is far from
any danger of losing.
30. ... Bxf4 31. Qd3 Qg5 32. Re1 Rd8 33.
Bxg6 hxg6 34. Re4 Bc7 35. Qc3?
An unfortunate blunder that gives away the
d4-pawn, which was shielding White’s king
against Black’s dangerous dark-square bishop.
After 35. Qe3 Qd5 36. Nd2 and the position
is balanced.
35. ... Bb6 36. Kh1 Qf6 37. Qe1 Bxd4
Now Black’s bishop is much stronger than
White’s knight. The outcome of the game is
imminent.
38. Re8+ Rxe8 39. Qxe8+ Kh7 40. b3 Bc5
41. b4 Bb6 42. Qe1 Qb2 43. Ne3 Qe5 44.
Nc2 Qf4 45. Qe2 Qc1+ 46. Ne1 Bc7 47.
Qf2 Qxa3 48. Nc2 Qc1+ 49. Ne1 Qf4 50.
g4 Qxb4 51. Kg2 Qf4 52. Kf1 a5 53. Nd3
Qc4 54. Qe3 a4, White resigned.
In another interesting round two game, the
eventual winner of the event, GM Ioan-Cristian
Chirila—who seemed a bit rusty after his short
hiatus from tournament play—was cruising
through a positional game against this year’s
32 September 2018 | Chess Life
U.S. women’s championship sensation, FM
Annie Wang. After FM Wang missed an
important exchange, GM Chirila forced a
winning endgame and was on his way to a
simple “Karpovian” victory—except for the
moment when he gave FM Wang a golden
chance, which the youngster missed:
EYES ON THE EXCHANGE
GM Ioan-Cristian Chirila (2637)
FM Annie Wang (2395)
2018 National Open (2), Las Vegas, Nevada,
06.22.2018
AFTER 13. ... Ne5
This is an interesting theoretical position
from the 2017 U.S. championship between the
2017 U.S. champion, GM Wesley So, and his
main rival at the event. So chose the best contin-
uation; I wonder if either of the players had
any preparation in that regard.
14. f4!?
This is a normal reaction.
The strongest move is 14. Qe2!, which avoids
the queen exchange and prepares White for
some activity in the center. 14. ... Bc5 (14. ...
Qxd4 15. Nd5 Qc5 16. Rac1 Qd6 17. Bxe5 Qxe5
18. Nxe7+ Kh8 19. Qc2 leads to an advantage
for White as he comfortably would penetrate
in Black’s position via c7.) 15. Red1 Qe7 16.
Na4 Bxd4 17. Bxd4 and Wesley So won in the
ensuing complex battle. 1-0 [(45) Wesley So
(2822)-Alex Onischuk (2667), St. Louis, 2017].
14. ... Nc6
This requires some accuracy and puts the
“burden of proof” on Black.
The continuation 14. ... Ng6 15. f5 seems
scary and in fact proved fruitful for White in
the past; however, with concrete play, Black
should be fine. After 15. ... exf5 16. Nxf5 Bc5+
17. Kh1 Qxd1 18. Raxd1 Ng4 19. Rf1 Nf2+ 20.
Rxf2 Bxf2 21. Nd5 Bxd5 22. exd5 f6 23. d6
White only has sufficient initiative for the
Exchange and not more.
15. Nxc6 Bxc6 16. Qe2 b5!?
Vacating the b6-square.
17. e5 Qb6+ 18. Kh1 Nd7 19. Ne4 Rac8 20.
Red1 Qb7 21. Rac1 Rfd8 22. Nd6 Bxg2+
23. Qxg2 Qxg2+?
A serious mistake. The endgame is very bad
for Black. Annie should have kept the queens
on the board.
Correct was 23. ... Rxc1. An important
nuance! 24. Rxc1 Qb8 25. Qc6 Bxd6 26. exd6
Nb6 27. Qc7 Qa8+ 28. Kg1 Rc8 29. Qe7 Rxc1+
30. Bxc1 Nd5! A very difficult move to see in
advance. Now after 31. Qd7 b4 32. f5 exf5 33.
Bg5 Nb6 34. Qxf5 Qc6 Black’s pieces are active
and White’s exposed king gives Black enough
play to hold comfortably.
24. Kxg2 Rxc1
The line 24. ... Bxd6 25. exd6 f6 was the last
chance but the position is already very difficult,
if not lost.
25. Rxc1 Bxd6 26. exd6
The position is practically lost now.
26. ... h6 27. Bd4 Nf6 28. Rc6 Ne4 29. Be5
Unnecessary but it won’t cause any harm.
After 29. Bxa7 Nxd6 (29. ... Rxd6 30. Rxd6
Nxd6 31. a4 and the a-pawn will at least cost
the knight and the game later.) 30. Bb6 Rd7
31. a4 and the a-pawn is unstoppable.
29. ... f6 30. Kf3 Nd2+ 31. Ke2 fxe5 32.
Kxd2 exf4 33. gxf4 Kf7 34. Ke3 Kf6 35.
Kd4 g5 36. fxg5+ hxg5
Chirila is in complete control and is on his
way for a smooth win until ...
37. h3??
One of those moments when we all think a
prophylactic move decides.
The try 37. Kc5 is fast enough! 37. ... Ke5
38. b4 and Black is in Zugzwang.
37. ... Rd7??
Returns the favor in a difficult position.
I think both players calculated the following
line and deducted that White should be
winning: 37. ... b4! 38. Kc4 (And now Black
avoids Zugzwang. 38. Ke4 Rd7 39. Ra6 Rh7 and
neither side can improve.) i.e. 38. ... Ke5 39.
Kxb4 (39. Kc5 Rd7 Now White is in Zugzwang!
40. Ra6 Rd8 41. Rxa7 Rxd6 42. Kxb4 Kd4 43.
Rg7 e5 44. Rxg5 e4 and Black activity and
advanced e-pawn secures a draw for her.) 39.
... Rxd6 40. Rxd6 Kxd6 41. Kc3. White will
have an “outside” passed pawn, but things are
more complicated than that! 41. ... Ke5 42. a4
Kf4 43. b4 e5! 44. a5 e4 45. Kd2 Kg3! An
important tempo threatening ... Kf2 (a theme
from the game Maroczy-Marshall, Monte Carlo,
1903). 46. Ke3 Kxh3 47. b5 g4 48. b6 axb6 49.
axb6 g3 with an eventual draw.
38. b4!
An important move.
38. ... Rh7 39. Rc3
 Cover Story / National Open

Prophylactic!
39. ... Rh4+ 40. Kc5 e5 41. Rd3 Rh8 42. d7
Ke7 43. d8=Q+!

Elegant! The pawn endgame is winning for

White.
43. ... Rxd8 44. Rxd8 Kxd8 45. Kd5 Kd7
46. Kxe5, Black resigned.

Round three saw heightened clashes among

the grandmasters. Although games among
grandmasters typically tend to be tense and
close, the third round games among the leaders
were rather short-lived except for one. While
your author’s self-destructive play brought him
down in 20 moves against GM Illia Nyzhnyk,
GM Chirila displayed great deal of accuracy
and brutally punished the over-ambitious play
of GM Richard Bitoon of the Philippines, which
led to mate in only 28 moves.

SICILIAN DEFENSE (B21)

GM Richard Bitoon (2503)
GM Ioan-Cristian Chirila (2637)
2018 National Open (3), Las Vegas, Nevada,
06.22.2018

1. e4 c5 2. f4 d5 3. exd5 Qxd5 4. Nc3 Qd8

5. Nf3 g6 6. Bb5+ Bd7 7. Qe2 Bg7 8. Ne5
a6 9. Bc4 Nh6 10. d3 Nc6 11. Be3 Nd4 12.
Qf2 Bc8 13. 0-0-0 0-0

AUTHOR GM ELSHAN MORADIABADI FACED TOUGH COMPETITION IN THE TOURNAMENT, INCLUDING

The Filipino GM is already playing with fire,
opting for an overly ambitious set up with a
long castle. White is already worse, but Chirila
puts an end to White’s hope with accurate play.
14. h4
The follow up 14. Bb3 b5 is bad also but is
at least more resilient.
14. ... Ng4 15. Nxg4 Bxg4 16. h5 b5 17.
Bd5 b4! 18. hxg6 bxc3 19. Bxd4 cxd4!
This move seals the deal.
The other capture 19. ... Bxd4?! causes Black
some hassle. 20. Qh4 h5 21. Qg5 e6 22. Qh6
PHOTO: TIM HANKS
GAMES AGAINST GM ILLIA NYZHNYK, WHO TIED FOR SECOND PLACE, AND TOURNAMENT WINNER
GM IOAN-CRISTIAN CHIRILA.
Chirila avoids any final trick with Re6.
23. gxf7+ Rxf7 24. Kb1 Kf8 25. Bxf7 Kxf7
26. f6 Qb4 27. fxg7+ Kxg7 28. b3 Qa3,
White resigned.
Brutally executed!
Heading into round four, only four players
had a perfect score. While two grandmasters,
GMs Ruifeng Li and Chirila, faced each other
in a complex close encounter, GM Illya Nyzhnyk
took advantage of his pairing against his much
In the Li against Chirila match, both sides
demonstrated a deep understanding of the
Italian opening and managed to maintain
tension entering a complex middle game, with
White having the usual small but long-lasting
initiative. In the ensuing battle, GM Li sacrificed
a bishop for two pawns and an Exchange later,
only to recoup some of the material by trading
his rook and knight for his opponent’s queen
and pawn. Just when it seemed that things were
going to fizzle out into a complex but close-
to-drawn position, GM Li went tragically astray.

fxg6 23. Qxg6+ Bg7 24. Bxe6+ Bxe6 25. Qxe6+ lower rated and less experienced opponent and
Rf7 26. Rxh5. scored his fourth consecutive win. Yet GM GIUOCO PIANO (C54)
20. Bb3 Nyzhnyk’s win did not come that easily as he GM Ruifeng Li (2681)
missed several chances to finish off his opponent; GM Ioan-Cristian Chirila (2637)
No better is 20. Qh4 h5. at one moment, FM Teemu Virtanen even had 2018 National Open (4), Las Vegas, Nevada,
20. ... h5 21. Rde1 Qd6 22. f5 e5! the chance to save himself with a draw. 06.23.2018

www.uschess.org 33
Cover Story / National Open
THE FINAL ROUND BATTLE FOR THE EDMONDSON CUP BEGINS BETWEEN GM DARIUSZ SWIERCZ
AND GM IOAN-CRISTIAN CHIRILA.
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Nf6 4. d3 Bc5
5. c3 d6 6. Nbd2 a5
The new trend.
7. Nf1
Less common but original and interesting.
Ruifeng Li is known for his lack of interest in
opening debates.
7. Bb3 0-0 8. 0-0 (8. h3 d5 9. Qe2 b5 10. Nf1
Be6 11. Bg5 d4 12. Ng3 dxc3 13. bxc3 b4 14. c4
h6 15. Be3 Nd4 16. Qd1 Re8 17. 0–0 Ra6 18.
Bxd4 Bxd4 19. Nxd4 Kh7 0–1 [19] Bartlomiej
Heberla [2555]-Valentin Dragnev [2458],
Katowice, 2017) 8. ... Be6 9. h3 Bxb3 10. Nxb3
Bb6 11. Bg5 h6 12. Bh4 Qe7 13. Nbd2 Qe6 14.
Nc4 Ba7 15. Bxf6 Qxf6 16. Ne3 Ne7 17. g3 Qe6
18. Kg2 d5 19. exd5 Nxd5 20. Nxd5 Qxd5 21.
Qe2 Rfe8 22. Qe4 Rad8 23. Rad1 c6 24. Qxd5
cxd5 25. Rfe1 f6 26. Nh4 Kf7 27. Nf5 h5 28. d4
e4 29. Ne3 g6 30. f4 h4 31. g4 Bb8 32. f5 g5 33.
Re2 Bf4 34. Kf2 Ke7 35. Ke1 Kd6 36. Kd2 Rc8
37. Kc2 b5 38. a3 b4 39. axb4 axb4 40. Ra1 bxc3
41. Ra6+ Rc6 42. Rxc6+ Kxc6 43. bxc3 Bxe3
44. Rxe3 Ra8 45. Kb2 Kb5 46. Re1 Kc4 47. Re3
Rb8+ 48. Kc2 Rb3 0-1 (48) Kamil Miton (2584)
-Gabriel Sargissian (2672), Riadh, 2017.
7. ... h6 8. Ng3 0-0 9. 0-0 Be6 10. Bb5
Bd7 11. Ba4 Re8 12. Re1 Qb8 13. d4 Ba7
14. d5 Ne7 15. Bxd7 Nxd7 16. Nh4 Qd8 17.
Nh5 Kh7 18. Qg4
Also possible is 18. Qf3 Rf8 19. Qh3.
18. ... Ng6 19. Nf5 Nf6 20. Qh3 Nxh5 21.
Qxh5 Qf6 22. Bxh6!?
Best practical try.
34 September 2018 | Chess Life
Even this seemingly strong move would not
yield anything for White. After 22. g4 Nf4 23.
Bxf4 exf4 24. h4 Re5 25. Kg2 Rae8 26. f3 Bc5
27. g5 Qg6 28. Qg4 Be3, the position is unclear
but balanced. The move 22. Be3 is another solid
choice but Black is still in control after 22. ...
Nf4 23. Bxf4 exf4 24. g3 fxg3 25. hxg3 Qg5 26.
Qf3 (26. Qxf7 loses to 26. ... Rf8 27. Qd7 Rad8
28. Qe6 Rf6 and next move Rxf5.).
22. ... gxh6 23. Qxh6+ Kg8 24. Re3!?
Forced! Now White will be down a rook for
two pawns but the open f-file and the monster
knight on f5 gives White more than enough
compensation.
24. ... Bxe3 25. fxe3 c6!?
Provocative but playable. Chirila challenges
the pawn on d5 right away.
26. Rf1 cxd5 27. exd5 e4
Maybe a little risky, but accurate.
Another option could be 27. ... Rac8 28.
Qh3 (28. Qh5 Kf8 29. h4 Rc4 30. Qh6+ Kg8
31. h5 Rg4 and Black should be able to control
White’s initiative.) 28. ... Kf8 29. Nh6 runs
into 29. ... Nf4 30. exf4 exf4 31. Ng4 Qg7 32.
Nh6 Qf6.
28. Qh3 Kf8 29. Qh6+ Kg8 30. Qh3 Kf8 31.
Nh6 Qg7 32. Rxf7+ Qxf7 33. Nxf7 Kxf7
34. Qd7+ Re7 35. Qxd6
(see diagram top of next column)
A complex position has ensued. White has
a bit more material, but Black’s pieces find
perfect harmony almost instantly.
35. ... Ra6!
Simple and effective.
36. Qd8 Ne5 37. Qh8
This move is okay, but Li shows signs of
over-pushing in this position.
The continuation 37. h3 a4 38. Kh2 was
safer.
37. ... Rg6 38. Qh5?
White traps his queen voluntarily!
38. ... Kg7 39. h3??
Loses the queen on spot.
39. d6 Rxd6 40. h3 was a must!
39. ... Nf3+, White resigned.
After 40. Kf1 Rg5 or 40. ...Re5, the queen is
trapped.
After this loss, GM Li withdrew from the
rest of the event.
Round five saw the big merger as players
from the two-day event joined the classical
event. On board one, GMs Chirila and Nyzhnyk
split the point rather quickly, so no one had the
chance to win the $2,000 bonus for achieving
a perfect 7-0 score. On board two, after his
miraculous round four win against Californian
IM John Daniel Bryant, GM Swiercz played a
long grinding game against GM Tigran
Petrosian, where he had a small but long lasting
edge. Given Petrosian’s tough schedule, it was
apparent that Petrosian’s energy dropped
drastically as the game proceeded. Finally, GM
Swiercz’s accurate play brought him the victory.
At the beginning of the final day, GMs
Chirila, Swiercz, and Nyzhnyk led with 4½ out
of 5, with a number of grandmasters and other
titled players trailing close behind them with
4 points. In round six, GM Nyzhnyk played
solid with white and drew with GM Swiercz.
On board two, GM Chirila took advantage of
PHOTO: TIM HANKS
my careless and irresponsible play and won
quickly without much difficulty. After having
played some difficult games, GM Chirila made
the most out of his chances when his opponent
went wrong.
(see next game top of next page)

SERIOUS MISTAKES
GM Ioan-Cristian Chirila (2637)
GM Elshan Moradiabadi (2624)
2018 National Open (6), Las Vegas, Nevada,
06.24.2018
AFTER 12. Rd1
12. ... Nh6?
Black’s last move is a serious mistake. A
knight on the rim is indeed dim!
13. g4!?
Enterprising and principled.
13. ... Bg5?
A serious blunder.
Better was 13. ... Bg6 14. f4 Rd8 15. Nc3 0-0
when f4-f5 is not really dangerous because
Black can take on f5 with the bishop.
14. Qa3!
I totally missed it! Now I cannot castle.
14. ... Be7??
A blunder that loses on the spot! I completely
missed White’s reply.
The line 14. ... Bxc1 15. Rxc1 Bg6 16. e3 is
really bad but far from lost.
15. Qa4!
Here is the point! The pawn on d5 is hanging.
15. ... f6 16. Bxd5 fxe5 17. Bxe6 Bf7 18.
Qc4 Bxe6 19. Qxe6 exd4 20. Bg5 Ng8
Best was 20. ... Qc5 21. Bxe7 Qxe7 22. Qxe7+
Kxe7 23. Rxd4 when White is up a healthy
pawn in the endgame, but I lacked the
motivation to defend this, so I let the eventual
champion brutally checkmate my king.
21. Nd2 c5 22. Qe5 Nf6 23. Ne4 Qc6 24.
Bxf6 gxf6 25. Qh5+ Kf8 26. Ng3 Qe8 27.
Qh6+ Kg8 28. Nf5 Qf7 29. e3 Bf8 30.
exd4 Qg6 31. Qf4 h5 32. dxc5 hxg4 33.
hxg4, Black resigned.
Flawless play by Chirila.
The games among the players with 4 points
ended in a draw, with the exception of GM Nikola
Mitkov. GM Mitkov took advantage of his
opponent’s inaccuracy and secured a win to reach
5 points, joining GMs Swiercz and Nyzhnyk.
Going into the final round, the key games
for the $8,000 first prize and the coveted
Edmondson cup were GM Swiercz versus GM
Chirila and GM Mitkov versus GM Nyzhnyk.
A draw for GM Chirila would secure a tie for
first, but the others needed to win if they wanted
to capture the prestigious title. GM Mitkov
played solidly and well against GM Nyzhnyk
and did not give the slightest chance to the
Ukrainian. In fact, at some point he was pushing
for a win but the game eventually ended in a
draw leaving both players with 5½ points
apiece. This made the game between GMs
Swiercz and Chirila even more critical as GM
Chirila only needed a draw, while GM Swiercz
had to win in order to be the sole winner.
Let’s have a look at this dramatic game, which
actually was one of the very last games of
National Open and ended after more than five
hours’ battle. Truly the kind of fighting spirit
a tournament like this calls for!
FOUR KNIGHTS GAME (C48)
GM Dariusz Swiercz (2753)
GM Ioan-Cristian Chirila (2637)
2018 National Open (7), Las Vegas, Nevada,
06.24.2018
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6!?
A bit of change on Chirila’s part. He opts for
super solid Petroff or Russian defense. This
might have come as a surprise to Swiercz.
3. Nc3 Nc6 4. Bb5 Bd6!?
Either this is Chirila’s main choice or he was
not prepared for this, but lines 4. ... Nd4 or 4.
... Bc5 with ... Nd4 or even 4. ... Bb4 are
considered somewhat more solid.
5. d3 a6 6. Bxc6!?
Swiercz decides to play a long game.
A risky line that Swiercz may have been
interested in is 6. Ba4 h6 7. a3 0-0 8. g4!?, but
Chirila could have gone down a different path.
6. ... dxc6 7. h3 Nd7
A standard way to play in such positions.
The knight wants to go to f8 and then e6 and
Black would love to place his pawn on f6. A
well-protected center is what Black wants in
here.
8. Be3 0–0 9. 0–0 c5
Avoiding d3-d4 and preparing the ... Nb8–
c6 maneuver, which is a bit ambitious but typical
for such positions.
10. Nd2 Re8
The continuation 10. ... Nb8 11. Nc4 Nc6 12.
Nxd6 cxd6 13. f4 is not what Chirila really wants.
11. Nc4 Nf8 12. Nxd6 cxd6 13. f4
Compared to the other line, the knight on
Cover Story / National Open
f8 is placed much nicer and offers Black better
defensive possibilities. White has a small but
long-lasting initiative.
13. ... exf4 14. Bxf4 Ng6 15. Bg3 Be6 16.
Qf3
Stops ... d6-d5.
16. ... Qd7 17. Rae1
The line 17. a4 Rad8 18. Qf2 f6 19. b3 b6 is
similar to the game.
17. ... Rad8 18. b3 f6 19. Re3 Ne7
I am really curious to know why Chirila did
not play 19. ... Ne5.
20. Rfe1 Nc6
Now the knight wants to land on d4.
21. Qf2 Nd4?!
A bit reckless.
22. Nd5!
Now the knight on d4 is going to feel very
uncomfortable. d6 is a target and now White
can claim his advantage.
22. ... Nc6?
This is too much!
Better was 22. ... Qf7 23. c3 Nc6 24. c4 b5
when Black should be able to hold this position.
23. Nf4
23. Nxf6+ gxf6 24. Bh4 is what the engines
cry for! 24. ... Bf7 25. Bxf6 Bg6 (otherwise 25.
... Rc8 26. h4 Bg6 27. Rg3 Re6 28. Bb2 and it
seems White will recoup the sacrificed piece
and remain a pawn up.) 26. Bxd8 Qxd8 27. Rf1
Ne5 and White is better but practically, Black
is not without a chance.
23. ... Bf7 24. Qd2 Ne5 25. Rf1 Ng6 26. c4
Ne5 27. Ne2 b5 28. Nc3 bxc4 29. bxc4
Rb8 30. Bxe5 Rxe5 31. Rg3 Qe7
Black has completely equalized.
32. Nd1 Rb4 33. Qf4 Rg5 34. Rxg5 fxg5
35. Qf2 Be6 36. Ne3 h6?!
Unnecessary but understandable in time
pressure.
After 36. ... Rb8 Black should hold without
any difficulty.
37. Nf5 Qd7?
A serious blunder.
Best was 37. ... Bxf5 38. Qxf5 Rb8 and Black
is still fine.
38. Nxh6+!
Now the king is weak.
38. ... gxh6 39. Qf8+ Kh7 40. Rf6 Qg7
A sad necessity!
41. Qxg7+ Kxg7 42. Rxe6 Ra4 43. Kf2
Rxa2+ 44. Kf3 a5 45. Rxd6 a4
www.uschess.org 35
Cover Story / National Open

This endgame is difficult but indeed winning
for White.
46. e5!
Passed pawn should be pushed!
46. ... Rd2 47. g4 a3 48. Rd7+ Kf8 49.
Ke4 a2 50. Ra7 Ke8 51. Kd5!
Activity is more important than material in
the rook endgames.
51. ... Rxd3+ 52. Ke6 Kf8 53. Rxa2 Rxh3
Now Black is totally busted, but Chirila is
showing perseverance and Swiercz is getting
too comfortable.
54. Ra5?
This does not throw away the win, but it is
already a bad sign.
After 54. Ra8+ Kg7 55. Ra7+ Kg6 56. Ra6
Kg7 57. Kd7 the e-pawn will easily be promoted.
54. ... Rg3 55. Kf5?
Another bad move, but White is still within
the realm of “winning.”
The continuation 55. Kd6 Rxg4 56. Ra8+
Kg7 57. e6 still wins.
55. ... Rf3+ 56. Ke6 Rf4 57. Rxc5 Rxg4 58.
Rc7??
This is impossible to explain!
After 58. Rc8+ Kg7 59. c5 the c-pawn and
e-pawn are way too fast! 59. ... Rg1 60. Rd8 g4
61. Rd4 h5 62. c6 g3 63. Rc4 g2 64. c7 Rf1 65.
c8=Q g1=Q and both players manage to
promote but it is White to move and the
initiative wins in positions like this! 66. Rc7+
Kh6 67. Qh8+ Kg5 68. Rg7+.
58. ... Rf4!
Controlling the key square on f6! Black is
safe now.
59. c5 g4 60. Rh7 g3 61. Rxh6 Rg4 62.
Rh1 g2 63. Rg1 Ke8 64. c6 Kd8 65. Kd6
Rd4+ 66. Kc5 Rg4 67. Kd6 Rd4+ 68. Ke6
Rd2 69. Ra1 Kc7 70. Ra7+ Kxc6 71. Rg7
Swiercz tries in vain. The position is simply
drawn.
71. ... Kc5 72. Rg4 Rf2 73. Kd7 Rf7+ 74.
Ke8 Ra7!
Even 74. ... Rf2 75. e6 Kd6 76. e7 Rd2 is a
draw, but Chirila puts an end to Swiercz’s hopes.
75. Rxg2 Kd5 76. Re2 Ke6 77. Kd8 Ra5
78. Kc7 Rxe5 79. Rxe5+ Kxe5, Draw
agreed.
And GM Chirila wins it! As he stated in his
comment to US Chess News (online), this event
was “arguably the most challenging victory of
my career.” To understand his achievement,
simply look back at his fourth round and final
round games. In both cases, Cristian worked
hard over the board and showed great deal of
consistency—a quality one needs to score such
a great victory.
GMs Swiercz, Nyzhnyk, and Mitkov shared
second place with 5½/7. IM Dean Ippolito, FM
Nicholas Raptis, Siddharth G. Banik, and FM
Teemu Virtanen shared the U2500 and U2400
first place prizes.
The Under divisions also saw their share of
battles, with most of the sections having multiple
players sharing first prize. In Under 2300, first
place was split among Vilmos Balint, Carla
Heredia, and Lorand Bela Kis, each with 6 points.
Under 2100 saw a three-way tie among Andrew
Koenigsberg, Ryan Phillips, and Omar Garcia,
also with 6 points each. Rachael Li, Ryan Leong,
Jose Manuel Cruz Pacheco, and Luke Curry
also finished with 6 points to share first place
in the Under 1900 section. Brice Huang was
the clear winner in the Under 1700 division
with 6½ points, while Mark Y.A. Chen won
Under 1500, also with 6½ points. In the Under
1300 section, Joshua White, Mohmammed M.
Jarullah, Saul Ramirez, and Wyatt Okikawa
shared first with 6 points each.
The event concluded with the Spirit of Chess
Grandmaster Invitational blitz tournament—
players didn’t leave the hall until 1 a.m.! Based
on their enthusiasm, I am sure most of these
players will come back next year for another
edition of the National Open. A round of
applause and many thanks to all who worked
hard at this event. For a complete listing of final
standings and results, visit https://www.vegaschess
festival.com/live/results/.
The National Open is one of America’s longest-
running tournaments. Established in 1965 by Ed
Edmondson, the tournament moved around the
country until Fred Gruenberg brought it to Las
Vegas in 1983. Over the years, Fred and Alan Losoff
organized the National Open and continually added
new championships and events.
Today the National Open serves as the centerpiece
for the Las Vegas International Chess Festival. Alan
and Janelle Losoff have organized the tournament
since Fred’s retirement in 2009, but Fred continues
to support the tournament as a player and by
offering the “Freddie” awards to promising players
under age 15.

At A Glance 2018 National Open

Date: June 21-24, 2018 | Location: Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada | 8 sections | 722 players | Open: 1st, 6: Ioan-
Cristian Chirila; 2nd-4th, 5½: Dariusz Swiercz, Illia Nyzhnyk, Nikola Mitkov; Under 2300: 1st-3rd, 6: Vilmos Balint, Carla Heredia, Lorand
Bela Kis; Under 2100, 1st-3rd, 6: Andrew Koenigsberg, Ryan Phillips, Omar Garcia; Under 1900: 1st-4th, 6: Rachael Li, Ryan Leong, Jose
Manuel Cruz Pacheco, Luke Curry; Under 1700, 1st, 6½: Brice Huang; 2nd-4th, 6: Osias Balisacan Ganotisi, Anatoliy Zharkikh, A. K. Singh;
Under 1500: 1st, 6½: Mark Y.A. Chen; 2nd-4th, 6: Jason Zhang, Julio Jose Candanedo, Ivan Nikola Mitkov; Under 1300, 1st-4th, 6: Joshua
White, Mohmammed M. Jarullah, Saul Ramirez, Wyatt B.K. Okikawa; Beginners-Friday: 1st, 6: Dawson Yamasaki; 2nd-3rd, 5: Matthew
David-Willia James, Hector Rocca; Beginners-Saturday: 1st, 6: Manish Honnati; 2nd-3rd, 5: Shubham Waldiya, Matthew David-Willia James;
Beginners-Sunday: 1st, 5½: Roman Peredo; 2nd, 5: Eli Mounts; 3rd, 4½: Dawson Yamasaki; Beginners-Overall: Dawson Yamasaki. | Chief
Tournament Director: Enrique Huerta.

  



www.vegaschessfestival.com/

36 September 2018 | Chess Life

 SPECIAL THANKS TO
ALL OUR BENEFACTORS!
US Chess Benefactor Members as of May 14, 2018:

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H E L P P R O M O T E A M E R I C A N C H E S S

Membership Appreciation Program (MAP)

The MAP program continues in 2018. See details at main.uschess.org/go/MAP. Top standings will appear every two months in Chess Life.

Overall Affiliate Standings Adult Membership Standings

Name State Count Name State Count
CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN NY 899 CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN NY 699
BAY AREA CHESS CA 673 CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CTR MO 108
PAPERCLIP PAIRINGS TX 239 SAN DIEGO CHESS CLUB CA 84
THE BERKELEY CHESS SCHOOL CA 206 MARSHALL CHESS CLUB NY 78
PARKWAY CHESS TX 181 BAY AREA CHESS CA 67
BOCA RATON CHESS CLUB FL 155 DALLAS CHESS CLUB TX 63
NEW YORK CITY CHESS INC NY 149 LOS ANGELES CHESS CLUB CA 55
WESTERN PA YOUTH CHESS CLUB PA 135 BOCA RATON CHESS CLUB FL 54
BEYOND CHESS CA 116 ROCHESTER CHESS CENTER NY 45
CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CTR MO 115 LAS VEGAS CHESS CENTER NV 40
DENVER CHESS CLUB CO 40
Small State Affiliate Standings
Name State Count Scholastic and Youth Membership Standings
ALL SAINTS CATHOLIC SCHOOL CC ME 77 Name State Count
MAINE ASSOC OF CHESS COACHES ME 73 BAY AREA CHESS CA 606
JOHN BAPST MHS CHESS CLUB ME 34 CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN NY 200
NEW MEXICO SCHOL CHESS ORG NM 32 PAPERCLIP PAIRINGS TX 200
TOURNAMENT IN A BOX NH 23 THE BERKELEY CHESS SCHOOL CA 185
ENDGAME CHESS NM 18 PARKWAY CHESS TX 161
WVSCA WV 16 NEW YORK CITY CHESS INC NY 134
TWIN STATE MONTY VT 7 WESTERN PA YOUTH CHESS CLUB PA 130
KNIGHTS CHESS CLUB NH 7 BEYOND CHESS CA 116
RELYEA CHESS NH 6 BOCA RATON CHESS CLUB FL 101
LITTLE HOUSE OF CHESS INC NY 98
State Chapter Affiliate Standings
Name State Count Member Standings
MARYLAND CHESS ASSOCIATION MD 233 Name State Count
MICHIGAN CHESS ASSOCIATION MI 170 NAVARRO, DANIEL A TX 74
WASHINGTON CHESS FEDERATION WA 135 AGHAJANYAN, ARTUR CA 26
MINNESOTA ST CHESS ASSN MN 116 BRACKENRIDGE, KEITH OH 25
PENNSYLVANIA ST CHESS FED PA 80 STALLINGS, JAY CA 24
NEVADA CHESS INC NV 65 LUNA, GILBERTO, II FL 21
NEW JERSEY ST CHESS FED NJ 40 TUSING, TIMOTHY A FL 21
MASSACHUSETTS CHESS ASSOC MA 38 WOLF, TODD W ND 21
SOUTH DAKOTA CHESS ASSN SD 30 CAMPBELL, TIM V MO 19
IOWA STATE CHESS ASSOCIATION IA 13 MAXWELL, JONATHAN VA 16
TENNESSEE CHESS ASSOCIATION TN 13 BRAUNLICH, THOMAS D OK 13

PCT Gain Standings

State Dec17 Jul18 PCT State Dec17 Jul18 PCT State Dec17 Jul18 PCT State Jun17 Jul18 PCT
AR 280 338 20.7 ND 144 154 6.9 MA 1975 2026 2.6 KS 448 454 1.3
MS 382 416 8.9 MT 89 95 6.7 SD 227 231 1.8
DC 335 364 8.7 IA 721 743 3.1 WA 1295 1315 1.5

www.uschess.org 37
Membership Appreciation / MAP Winners

2017 Membership
Appreciation Program
Meet some of the top affiliates from our year-long membership drive.

US Chess’ Membership Appreciation Program (MAP) is a year-long membership drive that provides prizes and recognition for affiliates and members who sign up new
or renewing US Chess members. The following affiliates were awarded recognition in Chess Life: 

Continental Chess Association (NY).
   BayAreaChess (CA). 
  Marshall Chess Club (NY). Maryland Chess Association (MD). 
Maine Association of Chess Coaches (ME). Montana Chess Association (MT). We invited all of the above affiliates to send us
information and photos about their organization. Here are the responses we received:

MARSHALL CHESS CLUB

FOUNDED BY THE GREAT FRANK
Marshall in 1915, the Marshall Chess Club is
the second oldest chess club in the United States.
Since 1931, we have been at our present home
at 23 West 10th Street, in the Greenwich Village,
New York, NY. A lot of history has been made
here. This is where José Raúl Capablanca gave
his last exhibition, where Alexander Alekhine
visited and played speed chess, and where
thirteen-year-old Bobby Fischer defeated Donald
Byrne in “The Game of the Century.” For our
full history visit www.marshallchessclub.org/history.
Our dedicated membership of over 500 gives
us a lot to boast about. Almost any day of the
week, you can find the ironman of chess, IM
Jay Bonin, playing here, or the seven-time U.S.
women’s champion, GM Irina Krush, teaching
the future superstars in our sport. GM Hikaru
Nakamura and GM Fabiano Caruana—soon to
be World Champion!—both developed their
skills while playing at the Marshall, and many
current junior national champions are following
in their footsteps.
We host tournaments almost every day of
the month, run a variety of classes and
workshops for kids and adults—beginners and
advanced players alike—and are always adding FORMER WORLD CHAMPION ANATOLY KARPOV (HOLDING MICROPHONE), SEATED NEXT TO GM
MAXIM DLUGY, LECTURED AT THE MARSHALL CHESS CLUB IN AUGUST 2017.
new programs. We have a recurring lecture
series, a Chess-on-Film series, weekly game
analysis for members, and much more! the pilgrimage here because they want to play are constantly signing up a lot of new US
We attribute our affiliate's success in a game in our hollowed walls. And we don’t Chess members.
generating US Chess memberships to three want to let them down! So there are only a Whether you're just starting out or a
major factors: Our location, our history, and few days each month when there is not a grandmaster, the Marshall Chess Club is a warm
the number of tournaments we run. New York tournament played at the Marshall Chess Club. place to learn more about chess. Please feel free
City attracts chess players from all over the All of these factors—tourists, history, and to contact us or to drop by. We look forward
world. Each month we have guests who make quantity of events—add up to ensure that we to welcoming you!

38 September 2018 | Chess Life


CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSOCIATION
By BILL GOICHBERG
THE WORLD OPEN, ONE OF CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSOCIATION’S MOST POPULAR AND HEAVILY-
MARSHALL CHESS CLUB PHOTO: GEORGE K. WANG; ALL OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF SUBJECTS.
ATTENDED EVENTS, ORIGINATED IN 1973.
I FIRST JOINED US CHESS IN 1961,
at a time when weekend tournaments were
scarce; the Tournament Life (TLA) section of
Chess Life at times consisted of only one page.
I played in club events and anxiously awaited
each weekend Swiss in the New York City area
and elsewhere, but there were very few.
In 1962 I scored 4-2 in the New York City
Junior Championship. My last year of eligibility
for this under 21 event was to be 1963, and I
was disappointed when the event was not held.
With the idea that more tournaments of all
types were needed, I decided to try holding one
in 1964, and started with bringing back the
New York City Junior.
The Manhattan Chess Club provided a
playing site; I put a TLA in Chess Life; and the
event drew 34 players. Andrew Soltis was the
winner, with Walter Browne placing second.
I held the New York City Junior again in
1965, with more publicity and playing space.
It drew 92 players, a record for a US Chess-
rated junior event. I also began directing for
US Chess, then the major organizer of weekend
Swisses in New York City. In 1967, US Chess
stopped holding these events and I started
organizing these and others, under the name
Membership Appreciation / MAP Winners
New York City Chess Association.
At the time, scholastic (K-12) tournaments
existed in various places, but none had ever
been US Chess-rated because it was believed
that requiring membership would kill entries.
I decided to experiment with this format, with
great success. The first Greater New York
Scholastics in April 1966 drew 253 players (186
in rated sections), and the second, held that
December, had 614 entries (486 in rated
sections), bringing in 400 new US Chess
members. This was at a time when the previous
national attendance record for rated tourna-
ments was 265. Eventually all sections of all
our events became US Chess rated.
In 1967, the New York City Chess Associ-
ation held more than one open tournament
per month. The following year, events in other
metro areas were added, and our name changed
to Continental Chess Association (CCA). In
the next few years, we held open and scholastic
tournaments in Washington, Atlanta, India-
napolis, Los Angeles, Chicago, Detroit and
Cleveland, among other locations.
CCA also started the National High School
Championship in 1969, National Junior High
in 1973, National Elementary in 1976, and
National K-12 Grade Championships in 1991,
all of which are now organized by US Chess.
In 1973, CCA banned smoking in all our
tournaments, leading to complaints from
smokers and predictions of poor turnouts
from other organizers. But the idea caught
on fast, and within a few years, very few US
Chess rated events in the country allowed
smoking.
In 1973 we originated the World Open,
which has been the nation’s largest open
tournament during most years since then. Other
large open tournaments we hold annually
include the Chicago Open, North American
Open, National Chess Congress, Continental
Open, Chicago Class, Kings Island Open,
Southwest Class, Golden State Open, Mid-
America Open, Atlantic Open, Eastern Chess
Congress, Eastern Class, Manhattan Open,
Liberty Bell Open, Pacific Coast Open, Southern
Open, and returning in 2019, the Foxwoods
Open. We no longer hold many scholastics,
but our New York State Scholastics this year,
organized by Steve Immitt, drew over 1,200
players. We have held tournaments in 28 states,
including countless Swiss internationals, pro-
viding FIDE norm opportunities for U.S.
players. Currently, not counting side events,
we now hold about 40 tournaments per year
in 14 states.
Holding these events naturally produces
many US Chess memberships, but in addition,
our membership submissions are augmented
by a special offer: For events with online entry,
we offer a one-year US Chess membership that
includes Chess Life for a reduced rate: Adult
$35, Young Adult $22, and Scholastic $15. We
take a loss on each membership, but the entry
fee compensates for this and many players
renew early to take advantage of the special
price, which reduces their lapse rate.
The specials apply only to membership with
the magazine, as even in the internet era, we
believe a hard copy magazine arriving in the
mail regularly—one with a TLA section and
games—is a valuable reminder to the member
(and maybe friends/relatives) to think about
chess and to consider playing in a tournament.
Our prices are structured so that it never costs
more to receive the magazine; as a result, we
hardly ever submit a membership without a
magazine.
A side benefit to these special membership
rates is that almost all non-members who enter
our tournaments online pay for a US Chess
membership at the same time, so we almost
completely avoid the nuisance of having to
pursue dues owed during events. I believe that
many organizers should consider offering such
special rates—if necessary, a small entry fee
increase usually covers the cost.
www.uschess.org 39
Membership Appreciation / MAP Winners
BAY AREA CHESS
THE CORE TEAM AT BAY AREA CHESS BELIEVES THAT CHESS CAN BE A VEHICLE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE AND THAT THE LESSONS KIDS LEARN FROM
CHESS CAN BE APPLIED TO OTHER AREAS OF THEIR LIVES.
BAY AREA CHESS (BAC) WAS
founded in 2006 by Dr. Salman Azhar as an
after school class led by parent volunteers. The
organization quickly began growing—in classes
and in coaches—and in 2007, BAC started
running US Chess rated tournaments. Over
the next six to eight years, BAC went from
running 16 tournaments per year to 200+ per
year, which could not have been done without
the hard work of Director of Operations Zarina
Azman, who prepares tournament files and
provides amazing customer service to both
tournament and enrichment customers since
day one.
In 2011, BAC had the privilege of organizing
a national tournament for the first time, paving
the way for bringing national events to the West
Coast. From the U.S. Junior Congress, U.S.
G/30 and G/60 nationals to U.S. Class, we are
40 September 2018 | Chess Life
fortunate to have an amazing staff of
tournament directors (TDs) available for our
events, including two national TDs, NTD Tom
Langland and NTD John McCumiskey, and
several associate national tournament directors,
senior tournament directors, local and club TDs.
Dr. Judit Sztaray took over BAC in 2014 and
began framing a fresh new direction. Merging
with Castling Kids in Spring 2015, Judit brought
Abel Talamantez on board as Director of
Enrichment, growing the number of enrichment
classes to 100+. During the summer of 2015,
with the help of GM Ioan-Cristian Chirila, BAC
began offering a unique training system: the
BAC Teams, which provides serious training
classes for all levels and includes our elite team
players, who rank among the nation’s top players.
In 2015 BAC also developed a unique class:
Strategy Game Class, which targets kids who
are interested in games. The class introduces
elementary game theory, logic, and decision
making. The lead for this is James Bethany, who
is not only our Assistant Director of Enrichment,
but also is our most popular senior chess coach
and former World Online Risk Champion. He
is a game developer and constantly invents new
games for these classes as well.
In Fall 2016, BayAreaChess formed a profes-
sional team, the San Jose Hackers, and entered
the PRO Chess League for the 2017 and 2018
seasons. San Jose Hackers team members have
included grandmasters such as world #3 Shakh
Mamedyarov, Rauf Mamedov, Zviad Izoria,
Daniel Naroditsky, Ione-Cristian Chirila, and
many other titled players. BAC also organizes
a once-a-year Super GM Master Chess summer
camp that brings the team to our scholastic
players for exceptional training.
 Membership Appreciation / MAP Winners

Hard work pays off, and we are happy and

honored to be recognized: in 2017, executive MONTANA CHESS ASSOCIATION
director Judit Sztaray was recognized as the
Organizer of the Year, and a year later, in 2018,
BayAreaChess was named the Chess Club of
the Year, both by US Chess.
We are looking forward to bringing many
new events to the West coast, such as the U.S.
Junior Cadet Closed Invitational and the Pan
American Intercollegiate Championship, and
to the return of the San Francisco International
norm event. We are also proud to be offering
more FIDE-rated events and sections.
We attribute our success in generating US
Chess memberships to great customer service:
we put players and parents first and our organi-
zation second. We serve the kids, and parents,
as we develop things with them in mind. One
of our largest US Chess membership sign-ups
is our Spring State Scholastic Championship,
which now draws 1,200+ players. This, of JUST BEFORE THE MONTANA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP, THE SIX STRONGEST TOURNAMENT
course, is a great testament of the amazing PLAYERS IN MONTANA POSE FOR A GROUP PHOTO. (L-R): DORJE MCPHERRON, DANIEL MATTSON,
ANTONIUS RAELUND, WILTON STRICKLAND, DAVID DUKE, AND JAMES SKOVRON
work of the northern Californian chess com-
munity and how we all work to promote the
love of chess.
MONTANA CHESS ASSOCIATION and big on distance to the next chess event.
BAC believes that support towards new
members are equally surprised and greatly Keeping a viable chess association going on
players should be threefold: paving a path to
appreciative for the recognition US Chess those terms presents unique challenges.
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has given us with this MAP award. Family, distance, dollars, and weather are all
Chess memberships and events; and finally,
Established in 1935, the Montana Chess factors in these United States but here in Big
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Association is the state’s longest serving Sky Country, promoting a chess event is a
BAC has held a nonprofit status since 2011,
promoter of organized chess activity. Initially lot of “fingers crossed” and “hoping weather
and we are proud of the newly introduced
a loose confederation of autonomous city clubs isn’t an issue.” Tournament directors strive
Volunteer Management System, where we can
meeting for a once-a-year banquet and champi- for efficiency and player-friendly atmosphere.
offer everyone an opportunity to contribute,
onship, the organization has slowly morphed We feel that if we can make participants and
help, and be recognized for their hard work.
into a centralized federation in response to the their families feel welcome and appreciated,
We are proud to be a certified Presidential
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Volunteer Service Award organization, and
as well as in the national population. bringing in new members, but also gaining
we are eternally thankful for our dedicated
While the association is more centralized, more long-term friendships.
volunteers, ranging from chess parents and
adult players to one of the nation’s best high the necessity of “banquet collegiality” remains. Montana Chess is promoting five weekend
school players. As author Joseph Kinsey Howard wrote, events during 2018-2019, most notably a
Underlying all our growth and success is Montana is “high, wide, and handsome.” We National Chess Day event in Great Falls from
our belief that chess can be a vehicle for self- are long on geography, short on population, October 13-14.
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about social justice as it is about teaching
chess. The lessons kids learn from chess, THE MEMBERSHIP APPRECIATION PROGRAM
such as persevering through adversity, CONTINUES IN 2018
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fair play, can be applied to other areas of Be part of the 2018 Membership Appreciation Program and help to promote American chess!
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www.uschess.org 41
Grand Prix Event / U.S. Women’s Open

Sensational Sana
Saikhanchimeg (Sana) Tsogtsaikhan shines in her second
U.S. Women’s Open.
By WGM SABINA-FRANCESCA FOISOR

A
nother beautifully organized edition
of the two-day U.S. Women’s Open,
part of the Las Vegas International
Chess Festival, concluded on June 21st. With
its pleasant atmosphere, impeccable organi-
zation, and surprise gifts handed out before
each round and at the end of the tournament,
there is no other event I would rather play in
during the hot month of June. Last year, I had
to miss this event as it coincided with the
Women’s World Team Chess Championship,
in which I participated, so I was especially happy
to be in Las Vegas this year.
With multiple schedule options in the National
Open, all participants could easily compete in at
least one event, and many, like me, chose several.
Since I had never played in the Women’s Open,
I was excited that, for the first time, the schedules
allowed me to participate in both the women’s
section and the National Open.
This year’s U.S. Women’s Open was the
largest yet, attracting 44 players from five
countries, 10 who were titled. I suspect it will
continue growing every year as support for
female chess players increases.
The event was a five-round Swiss system
with a time control of 90 minutes (for the game)
with 30 seconds increment.
Aside from the top prize of $1,000, the
winner of the Women’s Open took home a
beautiful trophy. Call me old fashioned, but I
think a trophy is a nice touch and adds to the
prestige of an event. Besides, money goes, but
memories remain!
In the first round, an unexpected turn of events
almost saw a draw between two players with a
900-point difference between them. Renate
Otterbach, a 900-rated player from California AFTER COMING CLOSE TO VICTORY LAST YEAR, SAIKHANCHIMEG (SANA) TSOGTSAIKHAN ROARED
and chair of the Federation’s Chess in Education BACK IN 2018, CLINCHING FIRST PLACE WITH A PERFECT 5-0 SCORE.

42 September 2018 | Chess Life

 Grand Prix Event / U.S. Women’s Open

committee, and Adia Onyango, 1826, fought
valiantly down to the wire in a rook versus rook-
and-bishop endgame. To a connoisseur, the
endgame should have been a draw, but I think
even a top player could fail to defend having to
play only on the increment. Finally, Renate
succumbed and blundered to a mate.
In round two, top seeded WGM Carla
Heredia blundered her queen in a winning
position, losing hope of finishing first.
AN UNFORTUNATE BLUNDER
Zijun Zhou (1963)
WGM Carla Heredia (2268)
2018 U.S. Women’s Open (2), Las Vegas,
Nevada, 06.20.2018
AFTER 45. Qc2
In this position, with the e- and f-pawns
passed and connected, Black is close to winning.
Unexpectedly, Carla, wishing to start pushing
her f-pawn, allowed a fork.
45. ... Qe3??
PHOTOS: LEFT, TIM HANKS; THIS PAGE COURTESY OF THE SAINT LOUIS CHESS CLUB
AFTER 15. dxe5
15. ... Nd7?
15. ... 0-0 would have led to a normal
position.
16. f4 g6 17. Kh1 Qb6 18. e4 d4 19. Na4
Qb4 20. a3 Qb3
Probably the final mistake which traps my
queen. I would be worse even if I retreat to e7,
but at least I could try to come back into the
game.
21. Bc2 Qe3 22. Bd3
Now White’s idea is to trap my queen either
with Rc2-e2 or with Qc2 and Rce1, and I can’t
really escape ...
22. ... f5 23. exf5 gxf5 24. Qc2
The move 24. Bxf5 would have led to a faster
win for White. 24. ... Bxf5 25. Qh5+ Kd8 26.
Qxf5 and aside from the pawn down, Black’s
king is out in the open and all pieces are out of
play.
But this worked just as well and my opponent
played without giving me any chance to come
back into the game.
24. ... Bd5 25. Rce1 Qh3 26. Bxf5 d3 27.
Bxh3 dxc2 28. Rc1 b5 29. Bxd7+ Kxd7 30.
Nc5+ Kc7 31. Rxc2 Rhg8 32. Kg1 h5 33. g3
h4 34. Kf2 hxg3+ 35. hxg3 Rh8 36. Ke3
Rh3 37. Rg1 Rg8 38. Ne4 Bxe4 39. Kxe4
Rgxg3 40. Rxg3 Rxg3 41. Kf5 a5 42. e6
b4 43. axb4 axb4 44. Kf6 Re3 45. f5 b3
46. Rd2 c5 47. e7 c4 48. Kf7 c3 49. bxc3,
Black resigned.
Third-seed WFM Ramya Inapuri lost her
game as well, leaving the top-three seeded
players out of contention for first place.
Consequently, in round four, board one saw a
fight between the 12-year old rising star Rochelle
Wu, who recently moved from Alabama to
California in order to have more opportunities
for chess training, and another California
resident, Badamkhand Norovsambuu of
Mongolia.
(see next game top of next page)

2017 U.S WOMEN’S

and after ... CHAMPION AND
46. Nf5+, White resigned. AUTHOR WGM
SABINA-FRANCESCA
I have had these blind sides myself, so some FOISOR TIED FOR
advice: when winning, be sure to stay extra SECOND WITH WFM
alert! RAMYA INAPURI,
Round three found the other two leaders EACH SCORING
failing to convert against lower rated opponents FOUR POINTS.

and even losing. In my own game, I completely

destroyed my position and didn’t respect any
principles, especially to take my king to safety.

NO RESPECT FOR PRINCIPLES

Badamkhand Norovsambuu (2076)
WGM Sabina-Francesca Foisor (2391)
2018 U.S. Women’s Open (3), Las Vegas,
Nevada, 06.20.2018

(see diagram top of next column)

This position happened after a Queen’s

Gambit. Instead of following my development,
I chose to play on the queenside without proper
development and without taking care of my
king’s safety. My game from here on is a perfect
example of how not to play, so I will let you see
it until the end although it is shameful for me.

www.uschess.org 43
Grand Prix Event / U.S. Women’s Open
QUEEN’S GAMBIT DECLINED,
EXCHANGE VARIATION (D35)
Badamkhand Norovsambuu (2067)
WCM Rochelle Wu (2232)
2018 U.S. Women’s Open (4), Las Vegas,
Nevada, 06.21.2018
1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. Nf3 e6 5.
cxd5 exd5 6. Bg5 Be7 7. e3 0-0 8. Bd3
Be6 9. Qc2 h6 10. Bh4 Nbd7 11. 0-0 Rc8
12. Ne5?!
I think this is a dubious choice by White in
this position. White should instead focus on
the queenside preparing the minority attack.
Rochelle continued very well with ...
12. ... Nxe5 13. dxe5 Ng4
Now the e5-pawn is hard to protect.
14. Bg3 Bh4!
Trying to undermine the defense of the e5-
pawn as White is unable to support it with f2-
f4.
15. Bf4 g5 16. f3 gxf4 17. fxg4 Qb6 18. Rf3
This is probably the first moment where
Rochelle hurried, thinking she might be
winning an Exchange.
18. ... Bxg4
18. ... fxe3 would have given her a nail in
her opponent’s position as g4 can be captured
later or have other adverse consequences and
after 19. Ne2 Bf2+ 20. Kh1 Qc7! 21. h3 Qxe5
White’s Rf3 is stuck and Black’s central pawn
will start marching.
Following her opponent’s inaccuracy,
Badamkhand focuses on saving e3.
19. Na4! Qc7 20. Rxf4 h5 21. Bf5 Bg5 22.
Bxg4 Bxf4 23. Bxc8?!
White tries to equalize a little too soon and
fails to see a winning continuation for Black.
The line 23. exf4! hxg4 24. Qf5 would have
given White sufficient compensation as Black’s
king is weak and pieces can’t get active easily.
23. ... Bxe3+ 24. Kh1 Qxc8
While it might not seem natural, 24. ... Rxc8
was the way to go, bringing the rook to support
its majority and keeping the queen attacking
44 September 2018 | Chess Life
e5. The attempt to defend isn’t going to last
long as after 25. Qf5 (25. e6 is an attempt for
perpetual and can be stopped with 25. ... Qe7
26. exf7+ Qxf7 and again Black has an extra
pawn and much better bishop) 25. ... Re8 White
loses the e5-pawn and with an extra pawn and
much stronger bishop, Black would most likely
win the game.
25. Qe2 d4 26. Qxh5 Qe6 27. Nc5
Now White managed to bring her knight
into play.
27. ... Qg6 28. Qf3 Re8 29. Nd7 Re7 30.
Nf6+ Kg7 31. Ng4 Bg5 32. Rd1 c5 33. Rd3
Rd7
The move 33. ... f5 would have posed some
serious trouble to White.
34. b3
Rochelle played the following brilliantly.
34. ... b5! 35. Qd1 c4 36. bxc4 bxc4 37. e6
Rb7 38. Ne5 Qxe6 39. Nxc4 Qxc4 40. h4
Qxa2?
... and now unexpectedly, she gave up the
piece, probably scared of some perpetual check,
but 40. ... Be3 keeps the rook restricted and after
41. Qg4+ Kh6 the king is safe from checks, plus,
there’s no way for White to activate the rook.
41. Qg4
Badamkhand got her piece back and fought
back to save the game, leaving her countryman
and friend, Saikhanchimeg (Sana) Tsogtsaikhan,
to take the sole lead.
41. ... Qb1+?
Throws away most of Black’s advantage.
After 41. ... Qd5 42. hxg5 Rb1+ 43. Kh2
Qd6+ 44. g3 Rb4 Black’s endgame should be
winning after a few consolidating moves.
42. Rd1 Qg6 43. hxg5 Qd6 44. Qxd4+
Qxd4 45. Rxd4 Rb5 46. Rd6 a5 47. Ra6
Rxg5 48. Kg1 Rf5 49. Kh2 f6 50. Kg3 Kg6
51. Kg4 Rb5 52. Kh4 Kf5 53. g4+ Ke5 54.
Kh5 Kf4+ 55. Kh4 f5 56. g5 Rb1 57. Kh5 Rg1
No better is 57. ... Rh1+ 58. Kg6 Rg1 59.
Rxa5 Rxg5+ 60. Kf6! Rh5 61. Ra4+ Kg3 62.
Kg6.
58. Rxa5 Rxg5+ 59. Kh4 Rg4+ 60. Kh3
Kg5 61. Ra3 Rb4 62. Kg3 Rg4+ 63. Kh3
Rh4+ 64. Kg3 f4+ 65. Kg2 Kg4 66. Ra8
f3+ 67. Kf2 Rh2+ 68. Kf1 Rh4 69. Rg8+
Kf4 70. Rf8+ Kg3 71. Rg8+ Rg4 72. Rxg4+
Kxg4 73. Kf2 Kf4 74. Kf1 Ke3 75. Ke1 Kf4
76. Kf2 Kg4 77. Kf1 Kg3 78. Kg1 f2+ 79.
Kf1 Kg4 80. Kxf2, Draw agreed.
In round five, on board two Saikhanchimeg
(Sana) Tsogtsaikhan of Mongolia took on Julia
Sevilla of the United States. Sana emerged
victorious and the only player to have a perfect
score after four rounds.
I managed to come back from my disastrous
round three and won my game despite giving
some counterplay to my opponent. Ramya came
back from her loss as well, but Carla failed to
convert a slightly better rook endgame and was
out of contention for the top places.
In the final round, Sana faced Rochelle Wu,
who had 3½ points. On board two, Ramya,
who also had come back from her round three
loss, was playing against Badamkhand, the other
player who was sharing second place with 3½
points. I played Sandhya Goli from India.
Despite our losses we all fought to place as
close to the top as possible. A few other players
could have scored four points, but their games
ended in a draw, leaving the top three place
finishers being decided by the top three boards.
Ramya finished her game relatively fast,
ending the tournament with a victory. Seeing
Ramya’s win, I was even more determined to
win my last round and I was successful. This
left the last game as the one deciding the winner.
Even though Sana could win the event with a
draw, she didn’t want to miss the chance for a
perfect score, so she gave it her best shot.
NIMZO-INDIAN DEFENSE,
CLASSICAL VARIATION (E32)
WCM Rochelle Wu (2232)
Saikhanchimeg Tsogtsaikhan (2172)
2018 U.S. Women’s Open (5), Las Vegas,
Nevada, 06.21.2018
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Qc2 b6 5.
e4 Bb7
I believe 5. ... c5 is a slightly better move
order to avoid the e4-e5 lines, but Sana chose
... Bb7 first.
6. Bd3
The move 6. e5 is my personal preference
for White as it leads to a pretty comfortable
position after 6. ... Ne4 7. Nf3 f5 8. Bd3 0-0 9.
a3 Bxc3+ 10. bxc3 d6 11. 0-0 and Ne4 will
eventually be chased away and White will
remain with the pair of bishops.
Rochelle chose another interesting idea.
6. ... c5 7. d5 d6 8. Nge2 Nbd7 9. a3
Bxc3+ 10. Nxc3 Ne5 11. Be2 Bc8 12. f4
Ng6 13. 0-0 0-0 14. Be3
I would have preferred 14. dxe6 first to
leave Black with the d6 weakness 14. ... fxe6
15. Be3 followed by Rad1 and putting pressure
on the d-file.
14. ... exd5 15. cxd5 a6
... while ...
16. a4
... seems a natural approach to stop ... b6-b5.
The move 16. b4 was an interesting alter-

native for White to stop the ... b6-b5 idea by
keeping the pressure on c5 and then improving
the position by placing the rooks on the central
files and eventually pushing e4-e5 when ready.
16. ... Re8 17. Rae1 Bd7 18. Bd3 b5
After a slightly difficult opening where White
seemed to have had the advantage, Sana man-
aged to equalize.
19. axb5
The try 19. b3 seems more reasonable to not
open Black’s rook.
19. ... axb5
Now Black’s threat is ... b5-b4 and ...
20. e5
... seems the way to go, but unfortunately
White loses a pawn after the complications
end.
20. ... dxe5 21. fxe5 Rxe5 22. Bxc5 Rxe1
23. Rxe1 b4 24. Ne4 Nxd5 25. Bc4 Be6
26. Rd1
Seeking compensation by putting the
pressure on the d-file.
26. ... Qh4 27. g3 Qh5 28. Be2 Qf5 29.
Bd4 b3 30. Qb1 h6 31. Rf1 Qh3 32. Qd1
Rd8 33. Qd2 Nde7 34. Qc3 Rc8 35. Qd3
Bd5 36. Bc3 Qe6
A strange retreat by Sana.
The move 36. ... f5 would have brought her
closer to the win. After 37. Qd4 Rxc3 38. bxc3
Bxe4 39. Bf3 Bxf3 40. Rxf3 b2 the knights and
the b- pawn will carry the day.
37. Qd4 f6
Although White has to try to defend their
king after weakening it with g3, I think White
should take the chance to weaken Black’s king
as well and try the following idea.
38. Bf3
Better was 38. Nxf6+ gxf6 39. Bg4 forcing
Black to trade queens or else the attack on g7
could not be stopped 39. ... Qe4 40. Qxe4 Bxe4
41. Bxc8 Nxc8 42. Rxf6 which would likely lead
to a draw.
38. ... Rc4
At A Glance
Date: June 20-21, 2018 | Westgate Las Vegas Resort &  Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada | 44 players | Top Finishers: 1st, 5: Saikhanchimeg
Tsogtsaikhan; 2nd-3rd, 4: Sabina-Francesca Foisor, Ramya Inapuri; 1st U2000, 2nd U2000, 1st U1800, 3½: Zijun Zhou, Jennifer Acon,
Merissa Wongso; 2nd U1800, 3: Jennifer Ishee, Bria Castro, Kate Yuhua Jiang; 1st-2nd U1600, 3: Sophia Peng, Ellie Zhang; 1st U1400, 2½:
Hemma Svasti Bagley; 2nd U1400, 2: Tatiana Savchenko, Nune Khachatryan, Elena Shtykar. | Chief Tournament Director: Karen L. Pennock.


Now 38. ... Ne5 first and then ... Rc4 would
have stopped the sacrifices on f6.
39. Nc5
39. Nxf6+ was again possible. 39. ... gxf6 40.
Bxd5 Qxd5 41. Qxf6 Qc5+ 42. Rf2 and White is
threatening mate, which can only be stopped by
42. ... Rxc3, but after 43. Qf7+ White has a
perpetual.
Rochelle chose Nc5 instead, trying to trade
queens another way, but Sana could have avoided
it by playing 39. ... Qd6, instead she chose ...
39. ... Rxd4
... which led to an even position.
40. Nxe6 Rd3 41. Bxd5 Nxd5 42. Nc5 Re3
43. Bd4 Re2 44. Nxb3
After a difficult position, Rochelle was able
to recapture her pawn and was close to drawing
the game. Although Ramya had already won
her game at this point and a draw would secure
first place for Sana, she decided to continue to
fight. Last year, although Sana had a perfect
score after four rounds, she lost her last round,
and it was Nazi Paikidze who brought home
the trophy. This year, she put it in her mind
that she would be the one winning it and she
wanted to do it in style.
44. ... Ne5 45. Rf2 Re1+ 46. Kg2 Ng4 47.
Rd2 Nde3+ 48. Bxe3 Rxe3 49. Nc5 Re1
50. h3 Ne5 51. Rc2 Rb1 52. g4 Kf7 53. b3
Nc6 54. Rd2 Ne5 55. Ra2 Nc6 56. Rd2
Ne5 57. Kg3 Kg6 58. Rc2 Rg1+ 59. Kf2
Rb1 60. Rc3 Rb2+ 61. Kg3 h5 62. Ne6
hxg4 63. hxg4 Rb1 64. Nf4+ Kh6 65. Ng2
Rb2 66. Nh4 g6 67. Nf3 Nxf3 68. Kxf3
Kg5 69. Rd3 Rb1 70. Rd5+ Kh4
2018 U.S. Women’s Open
Grand Prix Event / U.S. Women’s Open
After a grueling four-plus-hours play, and
after saving the game a few times, Rochelle
succumbed to the pressure and panicked in this
position trying to save her b-pawn and not
realizing that the g-pawn is more important
to be kept on the board.
71. Rd3??
The move 71. Rd6 would have saved the
game as 71. ... Rxb3+ 72. Kg2 Kg5 73. Rd4 and
there’s no way for Black to progress in the
position unless she plays ... f6-f5, but in that
case we’ll have a simple Philidor position.
Sana answered ...
71. ... Rf1+
... immediately winning the g-pawn, the
game, and the tournament.
72. Kg2 Rf4 73. Rd6 Kxg4 74. b4 g5 75.
b5 f5 76. b6 Rb4 77. Kf2 f4 78. Kg2 Rb2+
79. Kf1 Kg3 80. Rd3+ f3 81. Rd1 Rxb6 82.
Rc1 g4 83. Rd1 Rh6 84. Kg1 f2+ 85. Kf1
Rh1+, White resigned.
Following the event, I asked Sana to share a
little bit about her life. She’s 23 years old,
originally from Mongolia, and she’s this year’s
California Women’s Chess Champion. Sana
first took chess seriously when she traveled to
Dubai for a youth chess event. She happened
to have a successful event and made it her goal
to further her chess career. After graduating
from college in Mongolia with a degree in
economics, Sana came to the United States to
pursue her degree in business administration
while working on her chess. Although this was
only her second U.S. Women’s Open, she looks
forward to coming back for many more, and
to defending her title next year.
Author WGM Sabina-Francesca Foisor kept busy
during the Las Vegas International Chess Festival.
In addtion to reporting from and participating in
the U.S. Women’s Open Championship, she
dedicated time to youth activities, including hosting
a kids’ simultaneous exhibition. She also partic-
ipated in the flagship event, the National Open. For
more on the National Open, please see page 30.



www.vegaschessfestival.com/

www.uschess.org 45
More Ways to Blunder
Contrary to popular belief, chess players’ brains
can misfire spectacularly, rendering us incapable of
performing the simplest tasks.
By DENNIS J. MCGRATH

46 September 2018 | Chess Life


I was deep into my game at the Minnesota Open when nature
called. I punched my clock and headed for the men’s restroom ...
Tactical threats and strategic possibilities occupied my mind as I
pushed open the bathroom door. I took several steps, then pulled up
short, puzzled.
Where’d the urinals go?
They were here when I visited the men’s room before the round
began. Why did they remove them? And how did they manage to rip
out the urinals and remodel the bathroom into a series of stalls so
... ignominious mental pratfalls ...
quickly, and leave everything so clean and smelling so nice ...?
Uh, oh. Suddenly, the fog of chess lifted. I realized that I was in the
women’s restroom.
Fortunately, it was empty, and I ran out before being spotted.
Playing chess, we’re assured, is a workout for the mind, a cerebral
test that sharpens cognitive skills and helps stave off Alzheimer’s disease.
Our non-chess playing friends marvel at our ability to calculate and to
bring a laser-like focus to hours-long games.
Those of us who play tournament chess, however, know better. We
know how spectacularly our brains can misfire, and how we all take
ignominious mental pratfalls.
The bathroom misadventure, for example, was pretty embarrassing,
but it wasn’t the most mortifying thing I’ve done at a tournament. And
at least no one saw me run red-faced from the women’s bathroom that
day. But a crowd—including my 11-year-old chess-playing daughter—
witnessed my mental meltdown at another Minnesota Open.
This incident involved violating THE most basic rule of chess—
allowing your opponent to make a move.
I was still pretty new to rated chess, having only begun playing
tournaments as an adult, after my daughters began playing in scholastic
events. In this game, I had a decisive advantage in a king and pawn
endgame. But I was running low on time as my opponent retreated his
king, clearly hoping for a stalemate.
I advanced my king. I thought for a few seconds more, saw my
winning plan, and made my next move. My opponent looked up at me,
disbelief written across his face.
“You moved twice!” he complained as he stopped the clock.
I was so focused that I was totally oblivious. I had no notion whatsoever
that I had committed a violation. But when I turned to the group
observing the game, which included my daughter, I could tell by the
smirk on her face that my opponent was right.
The tournament director was summoned, two minutes were added
to my opponent’s clock, my illegal move was retracted, and the game
resumed.
My opponent moved. I moved. My opponent moved. I moved. I
PHOTO: DAVID LLADA
moved.
“You did it again!”
This time I knew in a flash that I had, indeed, done it again. In my
feverish rush to deliver mate, I simply couldn’t control myself. It was
like my brain was an out of control 18-wheeler, careening down a
mountain road, and I had lost all ability to steer or apply the brakes.
Once again the clock was stopped and the tournament director was
Entertainment / Humor
summoned. And once again I had a chance to analyze the position and
calculate. I later learned that some unscrupulous players will make an
illegal move deliberately to stop the clock. I certainly had no devious
intention. But I realized that my unintentional violations were unfair
to my opponent, so I offered a draw, and he accepted. We shook hands,
and I slunk away.
My accurate-enough play had brought me to the brink of victory,
and then my adrenaline-cooked, rampaging mind had cost me the full
point and left me humiliated.
My only consolation is that mental lapses abound wherever chess is
played. At the same tournament where I went to the ladies’ restroom, I
heard a burst of laughter a few boards down from me. A player had
made his move and then punched the clock—for the board next to him.
A friend says he’s done that, too—twice in the same round.
At another tournament, I was the one responsible for the burst of
laughter at neighboring boards. Playing white against a higher-rated
opponent, and already up a bishop, I captured a pawn on c7 with my
rook, safe in the knowledge that his rook on that rank was pinned to
his king. I was ramping up a crushing attack. Or so I thought.
To my astonishment, my opponent reached out to the g3-square,
picked up his bishop—which I had completely lost track of—and snapped
off my rook. I was stunned by the capture, and once again my mind
seemed to have a mind of its own. I heard myself loudly blurting out,
“Oh, [expletive deleted]!” That vulgarity broke the dead quiet of the
playing hall and elicited peals of laughter from players around the room.
When I told fellow Minnesota player Shawn Mize that I was writing
an article about the imbecilic things I’ve done or seen at tournaments,
he said he once played an opponent who clearly had divined the secret
to chess.
In that game, Shawn attacked his opponent’s queen with a minor
piece. Without pause or thought, his opponent lifted his queen, held it
aloft for a moment and placed it back upon its original square. Then he
proceeded to think.
After the game, Shawn asked about the queen lift-and-replace, and
... thickheaded, dim-witted,
moronic all-systems
mental malfunctions...
his opponent explained that he had gotten tired of dropping his queen
by moving a different piece when his queen was under attack. By instantly
grabbing the queen, he could then invoke the touch-move rule against
himself if he once again spaced out and left his queen en prise. In short,
he was protecting himself against his own worst self. Laser focus, indeed!
That strategy shows that the smartest among us have learned the
hard truth over time: Contrary to what our non-chess playing friends
imagine, we are capable of such thickheaded, dim-witted, moronic all-
systems mental malfunctions that we sometimes cannot trust our brains
to perform the simplest tasks.
Outside of our tribe, however, don’t tell anyone. Let’s keep up
appearances.
www.uschess.org 47
Solitaire Chess / Instruction
The Strongest Chess-
playing Cab Driver?
GM Nicolas Rossolimo, a gifted raconteur, played chess and spun
tales for fifty cents an hour at his Greenwich Village shop.
By BRUCE PANDOLFINI
I REMEMBER GRANDMASTER NICOLAS
Rossolimo (1910-1975) quite well. Of Russian
ancestry, Rossolimo was indeed a charmer. In
the early days of moving to the United States,
Rossolimo worked as possibly the most gifted
chess-playing, story-telling cab driver of all time.
Later on, Nick’s entertaining took place at his
chess shop in the hub of New York’s Greenwich
Village. For 50 cents an hour, enthusiasts could
actually play Rossolimo, who often delighted
fans by spinning narratives around his brilliant
victories, one of which is the following contest
played against Paul Reissmann (Black) in Puerto
Rico in 1967. With a finish reminiscent of Frank
Marshall’s “Gold Pieces Game,” this month’s
encounter began as a Giuoco Piano.
GIUOCO PIANO (C54)
GM Nicolas Rossolimo
Paul Reissmann
Puerto Rico, 1967
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Bc5 4. c3 Nf6 5.
d4 exd4
(see diagram top of next column)
Now ensure that the above position is set up
on your chessboard. As you play through the
remaining moves in this game, use a piece of
paper to cover the article, exposing White’s next
move only after trying to guess it. If you guess
correctly, give yourself the par score. Sometimes
points are also awarded for second-best moves,
and there may be bonus points—or deductions—
for other moves and variations. Note that


means that White’s move is on the next line.


6. cxd4 Par Score 5
This is the best way to recapture. It keeps
the initiative by attacking the c5-bishop.
48 September 2018 | Chess Life
Meanwhile, the threat to c5 temporarily
safeguards the e4-pawn. White also clears c3
for use, and for now has a classical pawn center.  9.
6. … Bb4+
The bishop is saved with a gain of time.
Other bishop moves, such as 6. ... Bc5-b6 or 6.
... Bc5-e7, allow White to keep the initiative,
after which White can use his center pawns
for menacing advances.


7. Bd2 Par Score 5
Blocking the check in this way is slightly
better than either 7. Nb1-c3 or 7. Nb1-d2, both
of which leave the e4-pawn capturable. As long
as Black contains the white center, he has at
least an equal game. Add 1 bonus point if you’re
familiar with the game Steinitz versus Von
Bardeleben, Hastings, 1895.
7. … Bxd2+
Exchanging bishops is the most natural way
to proceed here. Black could also play 7. ... Nf6xe4
or 7. ... d7-d5, but the text is generally preferred.


8. Nbxd2 Par Score 5
Once again, this is the most logical way to
recapture. The other reasonable tries, 8. Qd1xd2
and 8. Nf3xd2, while having their points, leave
center pawns hanging. 
8. … d5
Black prepares to develop his queenside and,
at the same time, breaks up the White center.
At move eight, Black also has the possibility of
8. ... Nf6xe4, when 9. Nd2xe4 is met by 9. ...
d7-d5.


9. exd5 Par Score 5
Of course, Rossolimo takes on d5 to keep
the initiative. Retreating, 9. Bc4-d3, is a bit too
passive for stellar cab-driving play. 
… Nxd5
The best move. Black could also have played
9. ... Nc6-e7. Add 1 bonus point if you saw that
9. ... Nc6-b4 loses a piece to 10. Qd1-a4+.


10. Qb3 Par Score 5
Accept full credit for 10. 0-0. Black must now
deal with the double attack on d5.
10. … Nce7
This holds the fort and is fine. But Black
could also have tried 10. ... Nc6-a5, when 11.
Qb3-a4+ could have been answered satisfac-
torily by 11. ... Na5-c6.


11. 0-0 Par Score 5
By castling, White removes his king from
the center and makes it possible to use the e-
file for attack. Meanwhile, White’s isolated
d-pawn provides an excellent stopping point
(e5) for posting a knight.
11. … c6
With this move, Black bolsters his d5-knight,
presently blockading the white d-pawn.


 Solitaire Chess / Instruction

PROBLEM I PROBLEM II PROBLEM III

ABCs of Chess Mating net Mating net Mating net

These problems are all related to key

positions in this month’s game. In each
case, Black is to move. The answers can
be found in Solutions on page 71.

September Exercise: For a practical-

minded chess player, some of the
hardest decisions concern opening
repertoire. How do you choose a set of
openings and defenses that work for
you as an individual, that don’t conflict PROBLEM IV PROBLEM V PROBLEM VI
with your essential spirit? A good way Mating net Mating net Mating net
to begin is to find a strong player whose
approach is appealing. It’s likely that a
grandmaster has selected systems
consistent with a style. Once you’ve
adopted his or her lines and variations,
you can modify them as you gain
experience. But even if you wind up
going elsewhere, at least you would
have gotten your bearings from a sound
place at the start.

12. Rfe1 Par Score 5 The queen-rook is developed, the square c6 20. Ra3 Par Score 6
is further supported, and now Black has a retreat
12. … 0-0 Now we see another advantage stemming
at a8 for his bishop, if he should need it.


from the advance of the white a-pawn: his
By castling, Black retains about an equal 16. Ne4 Par Score 6 queen-rook can get into the game quickly. 
position. White’s edge is minimal.


Another knight is centralized. Rossolimo, 20. … Ne6
13. a4 Par Score 6 step by step, is starting to mount real pressure With this repositioning, Black aims to keep
against Black’s position.  g7 fortified. Indeed, it does guard g7, but there’s
True, this pawn move stops the attack ... b7-
b5. But it’s also now possible to use the white 16. … Qc7 a lot happening here.


a-pawn as an attack weapon. Nevertheless, if This quiet developing move defends various 21. Bxd5 Par Score 5
you played either 13. Nd2-e4 or 13. Rac1, points and clears the back rank. For now, things
accept full credit.  A move with a direct point! White gets rid
seem to be held together.

of a key defensive piece, one that upheld the
13. … b6 17. a6 Par Score 5 square f6.
Black has to get the queen-bishop out. But Rossolimo forges ahead. The bishop must 21. … cxd5


he had other legitimate tries, such as 13. ... Ra8- retreat into the corner. 
b8. The main problem with 13. ... b7-b6 is that 22. Nf6+ Par Score 7
it weakens c6.

17. … Ba8


This forcing move is crushing. Black has
14. Ne5 Par Score 5 18. Qh3 Par Score 5 only one move.
22. … Kh8
White improves the position of his king- By way of it, White transfers the queen from
knight and does so with pressure directed the queenside to the kingside for attack against Now what? White’s f6-knight is hanging.


against c6. When you have an isolated center the enemy king. 23. Qg6 Par Score 9
pawn, it makes sense to use it as an anchor for
18. … Nf4 Here, mate is threatened at h7. If 23. ... h7xg6,
your pieces, especially knights. 
This momentary assault on the white queen then 24. Ra3-h3 is mate; if 23. ... f7xg6, then 24.
14. … Bb7 Ne5xg6+ h7xg6  25. Ra3-h3 mate; and if 23. ...
is easily dealt with.


This develops the bishop and overprotects g7xf6, then 24. Qg6xf6+ Ne6-g7 25. Ra3-g3 is
19. Qg4 Par Score 5 bad news for Black. Black could try 23. ... Ne6-g5,
the c6-pawn. Black is trying to complete his
development and instill harmony to his pieces.

White is poised to fuel his kingside attack, but that fails to 24. Qg6xg5. Accept full credit for
having two different rook-lift possibilities at 23. Qg4xe6. That also would have won. So ...
15. a5 Par Score 6
hand, Ra1-a3 and Re1-e3. 23. … Black resigned.
15. … Rc8 19. … Ned5

See scoring box on page 71.

www.uschess.org 49
The Practical Endgame / Instruction

Concrete Calculations
A curious endgame reminds us to delve past superficial
observations and form evaluations steeped in deeper thought.
By GM DANIEL NARODITSKY

A FEW DAYS AGO, I WAS ABSENT-
mindedly leafing through my copy of David
Bronstein’s heralded classic Zurich 1953 when
a curious endgame caught my eye. The game


1. Black is up a pawn. to win the pawn on a6, as Black can simply
2. Black has far-advanced, connected passed station his rook on the sixth rank.
pawns. But there’s a catch.  
I was obviously being sarcastic; these obser- 

in question was contested in the 22nd round vations take no more than a few seconds to    
   
between Bronstein himself and Swedish Grand- make. And they seem to indicate that White is      
master Gideon Stahlberg. I am in the process utterly busted. However, one of the reasons I  

of collecting material for my upcoming book, decided on this game is that 
 . This position is no exception:
so I figured that a closer look at this intriguing 
  by taking on e6, Stahlberg has left his king
endgame was worth my while. The results of  
  temporarily exposed, and this feature enables
my analysis, which I would like to share with 

  
  Bronstein to save the game with a vicious
you in this month’s column, are monumental
in both beauty and instructive value. In the
words of Los Angeles Clippers announcer Ralph
Lawler: Seat belts on and mandatory.
FASTEN YOUR SEATBELTS
GM David Bronstein
GM Gideon Stahlberg
Zurich Candidates’ Tournament (22),
Zurich, Switzerland, 10.10.1953
AFTER 54. Kxa3
Get ready for a profound remark. Two
remarks, to be more precise. Are you ready?
Here goes:

 If we put this principle into
practice, several additional factors announce
themselves. The first is that White’s pawn on
e6, advanced and under fire as it is, ties down
Black’s pieces and may become a significant
source of counterplay. In addition, Black’s far-
advanced passers do not have a clear way
forward: Black can play ... g4, but g3 is squarely
under White’s control (pun intended). More
concretely, 54. ... g4 can be met with 55. Qd6,
when there seems to be no clear way for Black
to disentangle the Gordian knot in the center.
Having observed all of this, the Swedish
grandmaster decides to change the landscape
of the position.
54. ... Rxe6?
Doing away with the scoundrel on e6 is, on
the face of it, an understandable decision. It
seems to be tactically justified as well: 55. Qxh3
fails to 55. ... Qe7+, picking up the rook, while
55. Rxh3 meets with 55. ... Re1! 56. Qc7+ (56.
Ka2 Qe6+ 57. Rb3 Re3 is curtains, as White
will quickly run out of checks) 56. ... Qe7+! 57.
Qxe7+ Rxe7, and White’s king being in
Timbuktu renders this endgame entirely
hopeless. Note that White will never be able
intermezzo.
55. Qc7+!
As Bronstein notes in Zurich 1953, Stahlberg
anticipated this check, but missed that 55. ...
Kg6 meets with a second intermezzo: 56.
Qc2+!! (not 56. Rxh3 Qe7+), transferring the
queen to an invulnerable square where it
simultaneously protects White’s king and
threatens an incursion along the h-file. After
56. ... Kf7 57. Rxh3, Black can continue to
press with 57. ... Re1, but it is clear that
White has survived the worst of the storm.
Following 58. Qh7+ Kf8 59. Qh5, Black has
nothing better than 59. ... Qe7+ (59. ... Ra1+
60. Kb3 Qe6+ 61. Kc2 leads nowhere: Black
can try to trick White with a series of checks,
but that is the best he can do) 60. Kb3 Re3+
61. Rxe3 Qxe3+ 62. Kb4!, when Black’s
winning prospects seem decidedly grim. Note
that the presence of additional queenside
pawns favors White, as Black’s queen is now
burdened with the additional task of ensuring
that the a6-pawn is not falling prey to any
double attacks. Stockfish’s evaluation of 1.85
in Black’s favor is obviously inconclusive, so
it would be great if a reader with access to

50 September 2018 | Chess Life


Practicum
Each month GM Naroditsky will present
two problems taken from actual games
that illustrate the theme of this month’s
column. Your task is to find the best line
of play. Problem I should be solveable by
a player at roughly a 1500 rating and
Problem II by a player roughly at a 2000
rating.
See the solutions on page 71.
the 7-piece Lomonosov Tablebases could
confirm my intuition.
In any case, 55. ... Kg6 was the only way to
salvage winning chances. Instead, Stahlberg
heads to the peace table:
55. ... Qf7?! 56. Qc3+
This position seems identical to the one after
55. ... Kg6 but the crucial difference is that
White’s queen controls the e1-square, making
it impossible for Black to whip up any kind of
activity against White’s king. The draw becomes
even more straightforward.
56. ... Rf6 57. Rxh3 Qe7+ 58. Ka2 Qe6+
59. Ka1 Kg8 60. Rh1 Qc6 61. Qh3 Qa4+
62. Kb1 Qe4+ 63. Ka1, Draw agreed.
As predicted, the threats along the h-file are
so powerful that Black cannot even dream of
playing on.
This, of course, is not all. Returning to the
initial diagrammed position, the real question
that the serious analyst must answer is
whether Black is, in fact, winning after 54. ...
g4 55. Qd6.
Realistically, Black has only one way to
disentangle himself: 55. ... Rb7, creating a
counter-threat against the b2-pawn. Then,
56. Re2 fails to 56. ... Qf3+, so White has no
choice but to move his queen back to d2. This
is where the party begins in earnest. The keen
tactician should notice that Black has a
seemingly decisive liquidation tactic: 56. ...
PROBLEM I: 1500 LEVEL
Robert James Fischer
Samuel Baron
Manhattan, 1956
WHITE TO MOVE
Qxb2+ 57. Qxb2 Rxb2, when Black’s passers
seem to prevail despite the presence of the
e6-pawn!
The point is that after 58. Kxb2 Kf8, the e-
pawn is useless, and so is the rook: for instance,
59. Re2 g3 60. Re1 h2, and White can resign.
The same exact thing happens after 58. e7 Rb8.
And so it seems that we have solved the mystery
of the position.
But recall, for a moment, the point we made
in the beginning. After 56. ... Qxb2+, the posi-
tion radically transforms: pieces are hanging,
pawns are being promoted; the position is in a
state of flux. As they did in the actual game,
these factors converge to make possible an
absolutely stunning idea that saves the game:
58. Re4!! Take a moment to let this move sink
in. White is two pawns down, Black is pro-
moting both of his pawns, and yet White calmly
takes his rook and moves it one square up. The
point, of course, is that White will capture on
g4 with check, and then move the rook to h4
in order to restrain Black’s remaining kingside
passer. There is nothing Black can do about
that, as he must attend to the e6-pawn to ensure
that it does not slip by. After 58. ... g3 59. Rg4+
Kf6 60. Rxg3 Rh2 (60. ... h2 61. Rh3 Rg2 62.
Rh6+! Ke7 63. Kb3 and there is no way to make
progress!) 61. Kb3 Kxe6, we reach a well-
known theoretical position called Vancura’s
Position.
(see diagram next column)
The Practical Endgame / Instruction
PROBLEM II: 2000 LEVEL
GM Anatoly Karpov
GM Garry Kasparov
Seville, 1987
WHITE TO MOVE
Obviously, we have no time to delve into
the actual drawing mechanism, but googling
Vancura will open up a wealth of articles that
explain the mechanism.
To me, this sequence is amazing because it
shows just how concrete chess really is, when
all is said and done. If a single piece was placed
on a different square, this mechanism would
fail: for instance, if White’s king were on a2,
the rook capture on b2 would come with check,
and White would have no choice but to go
capture the rook and let Black’s pawns promote.
In retrospect, then, it is important to play
56. ... Kf8, refraining from taking on b2 and
bringing the king over to e7. I analyzed this
position for quite some time and concluded
that Black is indeed winning, though he will
still have to demonstrate accurate technique.
But I find it hard to imagine that anyone playing
this position would be able to find a move like
Re4 over the board!
The moral of the story is not a new one: we
have discussed the importance of concreteness
many times in these pages. But as one of my
friends likes to remind me, sometimes it is
important to tell ourselves things that we
already know. By doing so, we can ensure that
we consistently practice what we preach, even
if the author of these words does not.
Did you know you could read archival copies of
"The Practical Endgame" (and all columns and
features)? Go to uschess.org, click on "Chess Life
Magazine," and then "Archives."
www.uschess.org 51
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 Grand Prix / Junior Grand Prix

2018 US CHESS GRAND PRIX STANDINGS

NAME STATE PTS. 2018 AWARDS
1 GM ILLIA NYZHNYK MO 220.80
2
3
GM ALEX SHIMANOV
GM FIDEL CORRALES JIMENEZ
MO
MO
181.75
169.81
$ 12,500
4 GM ALEKSANDR LENDERMAN NY 161.83
IN CASH PRIZES!
5 GM ALEXANDER SHABALOV PA 156.54 FIRST PRIZE: $5,000!
6 GM RUIFENG LI TX 111.38
7 GM TIMUR GAREYEV KS 107.57 2nd: $2,500 | 3rd: $1,000
8 GM SAMUEL SEVIAN MA 105.93 4th: $900 | 5th: $800
9 IM JOHN DANIEL BRYANT CA 103.65 6th: $700 | 7th: $600
10 GM ANTON KOVALYOV TX 102.70 8th: $500 | 9th: $300
11 GM AWONDER LIANG WI 93.98 10th: $200
12 GM SERGEY ERENBURG PA 93.00
13 GM ALEXANDER FISHBEIN NJ 91.30
14 IM DIONISIO ALDAMA CA 88.53
The Grand Prix point totals reflect all rated
15 GM PRIYADHARSHAN KANNAPPAN MO 88.16 event information as of August 8, 2018 for
the 2018 Grand Prix.

2018 US CHESS JUNIOR GRAND PRIX STANDINGS

The top prize for 2018 is a Chess.com one-year Diamond membership valued at $100, a Chess.com gear/merchandise package valued at $100, a US
Chess award, free entry into the 2019 U.S. Open, and $1,000 of expense money from US Chess to offset the trip. For the top five players on the
overall list and to each state winner, Chess.com also awards a choice of a one-year ChessKid.com gold membership (valued at $50/annually) or a
one-year Chess.com Gold membership (valued at $40/annually). US Chess gratefully acknowledges the participation of Chess.com!

Name State Pts. State Leaders State Pts. State Leaders State Pts.
BAMMIDI, RAHUL IL 7605 KACZANOWSKI, AIDAN P IN 4916 SHINKLE-STOLAR, KYLER PA 5627
GANGAVARAPU, SREEKAR IL 7440 ZENG, SHEENA KS 3683 VAIJAEEPAY, VAISHNAVI RI 2126
PHAM, LINDA IL 6940 SHAWKAT, SAIF KY 5128 HELFERICH, LUCAS TYLER SC 1832
FAN, JERRY NY 6907 MAYEUX, BENJAMIN THOMAS LA 3020 TAO, CHRISTOPHER SD 431
KUNAMNENI, MEGHANA MA 6599 HAN, HENRY YU-FENG MA 4260 VAZQUEZ MACCARINI, DANI TERR 896
GUO, ANDREW MD 4326 ZHAO, ERIC TN 3953
State Leaders State Pts. CARTWRIGHT, SAMUEL ME 2485 OBEROI, SHELEV TX 6086
STALLWORTH, JACOB AL 3006 BHARATH, ASHRITA MI 3915 RAY, UJAN UT 3862
WENG, KAYLA AR 1986 KANE STEWART, OSCAR MN 2754 TAY, BRIAN VA 5126
REMPE, JONAS JAKOB RAZA AZ 5036 ZHOU, CELINA MO 6140 COLLINS, ALEXANDER VT 2941
RAJARAM, ANIKA CA-N 5198 GRIFFIN, GABRIEL MS 4047 VEMPARALA, NIKASH WA 4237
ANDRANIGIAN, RAFI CA-S 4553 WALTHALL, THOMAS KASEY MT 2100 SHAH, MAISEM WI 3569
BHAVIKATTI, NEIL CO 2517 DURBHA, ANTARA NC 5808 ELLIS, ANYA WV 2180
SU, JASMINE ZHIXIN CT 4335 KOLLI, SAI NE 2830 MARES, ISAIAH WY 501
STEINER, ADAMSON DC 5033 TIRUVEEDHULA, SUHAVI NH 2899
LUO, TERRY DE 4793 ZHANG, SAMUEL NJ 5647
WU, DERRICK K FL 4442 LUO, DANIEL NM 2192
MYDUKUR, AMIT GA 4811 BAO, CHRIS NV 2557
CHEN, MARK YA HI 3255 YU, SICHENG NY 6424
LODH, ANISH IA 4171 SEPER, COLIN JOHN OH 4477
SHEPARD, RIVER CHARLES ID 2975 BARNES, MAXWELL OK 3280
PRAKASH, NANDINI IL 6496 SOIFFER, DUNCAN SMITH OR 3500
Official standings for events received and processed by August 8, 2018.

53 August 2017 | Chess Life www.uschess.org 53

Tournament Life / September

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3.+$8#%+38'7/8)27,16450261088December 13-15 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida
3.3.87*6457-8628&244-8 #%+3!88)27,164502618April 3-5 • Memphis, Tennessee
3.3.87*6457-8564'8628&244-8 #%$!8)27,16450261088April 24-26 • Jacksonville, Florida
3.3.87*6457-8-/,/5*7'8&244-8 #%!8)27,16450261088May 8-10 • Nashville, Tennessee
+3+0*87557-8 3.3.!8"(&(81/588August 8-16 • Saint Charles, Missouri
3.3.8#%+38'7/8)27,16450261088December 11-13 • Orlando, Florida
3.3+8&1/'7*6457-0888May 7-9 • Nashville, Tennessee
+33587557-8 3.3+!8"(&(81/588July 31-August 8 • Cherry Hill, New Jersey
3.3+8#%+38'7/8)27,16450261088December 3-5 • Orlando, Florida
3.3387*6457-8628&244-8 #%+3!8)27,1645026188April 8-10 • Memphis, Tennessee
3.3387*6457-8564'8628&244-8 #%$!8)27,16450261088April 29-May 1 • Grapevine, Texas
3.3387*6457-8-/,/5*7'8&244-8 #%!8)27,16450261088May 13-15 • Columbus, Ohio
+3'87557-8 3.33!8"(&(81/588July 29-August 7 • Rancho Mirage, California
3.338#%+38'7/8)27,16450261088December 9-11 • National Harbor, Maryland
3.38#%+38'7/8)27,16450261088December 15-17 • Washington, DC
3.3
87*6457-8-/,/5*7'8&244-8 #%!8)27,16450261088April 26-28 • Columbus, Ohio
3.3
8#%+38'7/8)27,16450261088December 6-8 • National Harbor, Maryland
3.3 8#%+38'7/8)27,16450261088December 12-14 • Washington, DC
54 September 2018 | Chess Life
776-7-/84'8680//8www.uschess.org/con
RATING SUPPLEMENTS
Rating supplements will be updated EACH
MONTH on the US Chess website, and each
monthly rating supplement will be used for all
tournaments beginning in that month, unless
otherwise announced in Chess Life. The US Chess
website at www.uschess.org also frequently lists
unofficial ratings. The purpose of unofficial rat-
ings 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.
NOTE
The TLA pages “Information for Organizers,
TDs, and Affiliates” and “Information for Play-
ers” can now be found online at main.uschess.org/
go/tlainfo.
PROFESSIONAL PLAYERS HEALTH AND
BENEFITS FUND
Many Grand Prix tournament organizers will
contribute $1 per player to the Professional
Health & Benefits Fund. All Grand Prix tour-
naments which participate in this program are
entitled to be promoted to the next higher
Grand Prix category—for example, a six-point
tournament would become a 10-point (Enhanced)
tournament. Points in the top category are pro-
moted 50%.
ATTENTION AFFILIATES
US Chess has partnered with R.V. Nuccio &
Associates Insurance Brokers, Inc. to provide
US Chess affiliates with affordable annual lia-
bility and short term event insurance. The
liability coverage is available for approximately
$265 per year for a $1,000,000 limit of insur-
ance. 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.
 See previous issue for TLAs appearing September 1-14

Nationals The Tournament Announcements on the following pages are provided for the convenience of US Chess members and for
informational purposes only. Unless expressly indicated otherwise, neither US Chess nor Chess Life warrants the accuracy of
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
DEC. 27-30, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN anything contained in these tournament announcements. Those interested in additional information about or having questions
2018 PAN-AMERICAN INTERCOLLEGIATE TEAM CHESS concerning any of these tournaments are directed to contact the organizer listed. Chess Life will exercise all due diligence in
CHAMPIONSHIP providing accurate typesetting of non-camera-ready copy but assumes no responsibility for errors made in such work.
Hyatt Regency SFO, 1333 Bayshore Hwy., Burlingame, CA 94010. 6SS,
G/90+30inc FIDE-rated. Format: intercollegiate team-tournament format: &&4'3.#45.3)5-5-*(.334+5/&34152#4(415553)45&2,,2.05/++.3.20/,51*,4-5/%%,"5325 1/0+5$1.
4-player team with up to 2 alternates. Eligibility: Open to university, college, 32*10/(403-55)45*/1/0344+5&.1-35%1.45(*-3545/35,4/-35 !5525(21453)/052045%1.45*0+4155(/"
community college and technical college teams from North, South, or Central '2*03532/1+-53)45 1/0+5$1.5%2.035323/,!55$1.4-54,253)45(/.(*(54031"5&445+250235'2*03532/1+-53)4
America including Caribbean. Teams must supply a letter from their universities
stating that the players meet eligibility requirements. For more details on eli- 1/0+5$1.5%2.035323/,!5,-25.0',*+45&*,,53.(45'20312,5023.05.0'14(40352153.(45+4,/"54#405.&5+4,/"5.-54125
+!
gibility visit www.collegechess.org or email by 12/1/18 to start the eligibility
process. Chess boards, pieces, clocks will be provided. Entry Fee: $229 per
5)4--5*0.215 1/0+5$1.55*0.215 1/0+5$1.54#4035(*-35)/#45&2*15215(214 12*0+-5.3)5/53.(45'20312,
team by 12/1/18, +$50 after. Online: www.bayareachess.com/my/panam. 14/34153)/05 5(.0!5$,4/-45-445www.uschess.org/data page/JGP-Rules.php &215'2(%,4345
*,4-!
By mail: 2050 Concourse Drive #42, San Jose, CA 95131, make check payable
to BayAreaChess. Prizes: Plaques to Top 5 teams, Top Division II, III, IV, V, SUBMISSIONS: E-mail your TLA to: tla@uschess.org (Joan DuBois). For tla deadline schedule, formatting help and Grand
International, Community College, All-Female Teams, Top Individual Boards Prix information check www.uschess.org/go/tlainfo and “Advertising” at uschess.org. Payment can be done online through
and other special prizes. Details on webpage. Schedule: Onsite reg: 12/27 the TD/Affiliate area or sent to: US Chess, TLA Dept., PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.
10a-3p; Coach meeting 4-4:30p; Opening ceremony: 4:30-6p; Rounds: 12/27
6p; 12/28 10a, 5p; 12/29 10a,.5p; 12/30: 9a; Award ceremony: 3p; College 23455)4--5*0.215 1/0+5$1.54#403-5+250235)/#4532504'4--/1.,"545')2,/-3.'5215 2*3)532*10/(403-!
Chess Committee meeting: 12/29 3-4p; Rooms @Hyatt Regency SFO: )4"5+25)24#415)/#45325)/#453)4514*.14+50*(4152&512*0+-5/0+53.(45'20312,5.0521+415&215-')2,/-3.'5/0+
$115+tax&fee; call 888-421-1442 or book.passkey.com/go/PanAm2018 Info: "2*3)5 %,/"41-5 325 /.05  $5 %2.03-5 &215 %1.4-!5 215 (2145 .0&21(/3.205 %,4/-45 -445 3)45  $5 1*,4-5 /3
www.bayareachess.com/panam Questions: ask@bayareachess.com or 408-
409-6596 to organizer Dr. Judit Sztaray. Participants are encouraged to stay http://www.uschess.org/ datapage/JGP-Rules.php!
and play at Bay Area International & Amateur, Jan 1-7, 2019. http://sfinter-
nationalchess.com. W.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 4SS, 40/90, SD/30 d5. Open to players born before 9/16/68. Best Western
SEPT. 15-16, MARYLAND Royal Plaza Hotel, 181 Boston Post Road West, Marlboro, MA (I-495, exit

Grand Prix US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15

US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 14-16, WASHINGTON
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
WASHINGTON WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP
5SS, G/90, +30. Seattle Chess Club, 2150 North 107th St., Seattle, WA 98133.
FIDE Rated. $$1,000/b25. $300-200-100, U1800 $80, U1600 $80, U1400 $80,
U1200 $80, U1000/Unrated $80. Foreign ratings used for players with no
USCF rating. EF: $50 if postmarked or online by 09/09, $60 at site. Free entry
for WGMs, WIMs. Registration: 6:00-6:45pm. Rds.: Fri. 7:00pm, Sat. 11am
& 5pm, Sun. 11am & 5pm. Bye: limit 2, request before end of Rd. 2. Memb.
Req’d: $30 ($24 juniors, $12 tournament). OSA. ENT: Checks payable to Wash-
ington Chess Federation. Mail to: Joshua Sinanan, 3610 218th Street SW,
Brier, WA 98036-8087. Info: joshsinanan@gmail.com, (206) 769-3757. Enter
online: www.nwchess.com/onlineregistration. W.
SEPT. 15, TENNESSEE
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
ORAN QUINTRELL MEMORIAL
Site: IBEW, 1870 Madison Ave., Memphis, TN 38104. 4SS; G/60 d5. Two
sections: Open and U1600 Prizes: ($1000 Guaranteed!) Open: $300-200-100,
U1600: $200-125-75; Rounds: 9-12:30-3-5:30. Open and U1600 Entry Fee:
$40 by 09/08, $50 at door, MCC members $40 anytime, Masters: free (EF
deducted from winnings); Special U1000 Trophy Section: 4SS, G/45 d5;
Entry Fee: $15. Trophies for top 3 overall, top U800 and top U600. Round 1 at
9am, next rounds ASAP. On site Registration: 09/15: 7:30am - 8:45am. You
can pay the early entry fee with PayPal until registration end time on Saturday.
gpylant@gmail.com. Join online: http://memphischessclub.homestead.com/
Quintrell_Memorial.html
SEPT. 15, MAINE
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
SACO QUICK CHESS (QC)
6SS, G/25 d3. Hampton Inn Saco-Biddeford, 48 Industrial Park Rd., Saco, ME
04072. EF: $25 postmarked by 8 Sept. $30 at site. $$GTD: $200-100. U2000
$100, U1600 $100, U1100/Unrated $100. Reg.: Registration 9:00-9:45. Rds.:
10-11-1-2-3-4. 2 ½ point byes rounds 1-5, must request by round 3. ENT:
Alex Relyea, 49 Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex Relyea
relyea@operamail.com. www.relyeachess.com.
SEPT. 15, PENNSYLVANIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15
3RD ANNUAL LVCA RUBEN SHOCRON MEMORIAL $1050 GTD-
RBO
5SS, G/30 d5. College Hill Moravian Church, 72 W. Laurel St., Bethlehem, PA
2 Sections: Open: $350-$250-$150, U2100/Unr-U1900-U1600-U1300 $75
each. U1200 Scholastic: Trophies: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, U900, Unr. EF: $30 by
9/10, $35 CASH onsite, GM/IM free; $30 off prize, Schedule: Reg ends-
10:45 am, Rds.: Sat-11, 12:30, 2:30, 4,5 :30. 1/2 point byes: limit 2, Info:
www.lehighvalleychesscub.org, 484-866-3045. Checks payable to: Bruce
Davis, 1208 Linden St., Fl. 1, Bethlehem, PA 18018.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 15-16, SOUTH DAKOTA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED)
PAUL SALEM SIOUX FALLS OPEN
5 Rds., G/90 d5. Ramkota Hotel, 3200 West Maple St., (I-29 S, Exit 81) Sioux
Falls, SD, (605) 336-0650. $4,000 GTD. Two sections: Open & Reserve (Under
1400). $$: Open: $650-500-350; Under 2000 $350-175; Under 1800 $350-
175; Under 1600 $350-175. Reserve (Under 1400): $350-175-90; Under
1000/Unrated $175-90. Upset prize: $45. Rds.: Saturday 9:00 AM, 1:00 PM,
5:00 PM; Sunday 9:00 AM, 1:00 PM. Byes: One 1/2 point bye is available and
must be requested before round 2; however, 1/2 point byes may not be
requested for the last round. EF: $20 entry fee if postmarked by September
11; $40 on site. USCF membership required. SDCA membership required
(OSA). SDCA membership rates: Youth (19 years and under) - $10, Adult -
$15, Family - $20. Reg.: Entries should be sent to Destiny Jorenby, 2049 1st
St., Brookings, SD 57006. On-site 8:00-8:30 AM. Free entry for grandmasters
and international masters. Checks should be made out to the Paul Salem
Sioux Falls Open. Include your USCF # and indicate what section you wish to
enter. Questions: (605) 651-9426 or destiny.jorenby@jacks.sdstate.edu.
Bring your own boards, sets, and clocks, if possible.
UMBC CHAMPIONSHIP
5SS, G/90, +30incr. University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 1000 Hilltop
Circle, Baltimore (in Commons, 3rd floor). Open: (All) $$1260: $400-300-
200 Gtd., Class prizes $120 ea. to top U2300, U2100, U1900. Top UMBC
student awarded trophy & title of 2018-2019 UMBC Chess Champion. Cer-
tificates & UMBC Class titles to top UMBC students U2200, U2000, U1800,
U1600, U1400, U1200, & Unr. All prospective members of any UMBC Chess
Team for academic year 2018-2019 must play in this section. Free ent. to
GMs, $50 deducted from any prizes. U1800: (U1800/Unr.) $$1080 b/40:
$350-250-150, Class prizes $110 ea. to top U1600, U1400. No Unr. player
may win more than $250 in this section. See separate TLA for rated beginners
tournament held 9/16. All: EF: $50 if postmarked by 9/1, $60 later, $10
less if under age 20. Reg.: 8:30-9:30am Sat., Rds.: 10- 3-7:30pm Sat, 10:30-
3:30pm Sun. Byes: Up to three 1/2-pt. byes avail. in Rds. 1-5 if req’d at
least 1 hr. before Rd. (before Rd. 2 for any Rd. 4-5 bye), but only at most
one 1/2-point bye in Rds. 4-5. HR: La Quinta Inn and Suites, 1734 West
Nursery Rd., Linthicum, MD 21090, 410-859-2333, www.lq.com (From I-95,
take Exit 47A onto I-195 towards BWI Airport. Take Exit 2A onto 295 north
towards Baltimore; take first exit, bearing right onto West Nursery Road.)
Directions to UMBC: Take Exit 47B off I- 95 & follow signs to UMBC. Park
in Commons Drive garage. Ent: Register online at http://mdchess.com
(email questions to dewyerj@umbc.edu), or mail to Dr. Alan T. Sherman,
Dept. of CSEE, UMBC, Attn: Championship, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore,
MD 21250. Make out check to Maryland Chess Associaton. For more infor-
mation: ChessClub@umbc.edu, www.umbc.edu/chess. W.
SEPT. 15-16, MASSACHUSETTS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)
3RD MASSACHUSETTS SENIOR OPEN
TOURNAMENT LIFE: ABBREVIATIONS & TERMS
All tournaments are non-smoking with no computers allowed unless otherwise advertised.
BLZ: Blitz rated.
QC: Quick Chess events.
$$Gtd: Guaranteed prizes.
$$b/x: Based-on prizes, x = number of entries needed to
payfull prize fund. At least 50% of the advertised
prize fund of $501 or more must be awarded.
Bye: Indicates which rounds players who find it incon-
venient to play may take 1⁄2-point byes instead.
For example, Bye 1-3 means 1⁄2-point byes are
available in Rounds 1 through 3.
CC: Chess club.
dx: Time delay, x = number of seconds.
+xx: Time increment, xx = number of seconds added
after each move.
EF: Entry fee.
Ent: Where to mail entries.
FIDE: Results submitted to FIDE for possible rating.
G/: Game in. For instance, G/75 means each side has
75 minutes for the entire game.
GPP: Grand Prix Points available.
HR: Hotel rates. For example, 60-65-70-75 means $60
single, $65 twin, $70/3 in room, $75/4 in room.
JGP: Junior Grand Prix.
24B, Rt. 20W, one mile from exit). 508-460-0700. $$ 1,100 b/30 fully paid
entries ($20 off entries count 60%), 80% G. 2 sects. Open: $250-125, top
U2210 $100, top U2010 $100. Under 1810: $200-125, top U1610 $100, top
U1410 $100. All: Unrated can play in either sect. but can’t win more than
$100 in U1810. EF: $49 if mailed by 9/10 or online by 9/13, $60 at site. $20
discount to players in U1810 sect. rated under 1200 or unrated. GMs and IMs
free. Reg.: Sat.8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Rds.: 10 am and 3 pm each day. Bye: O.K.
all, limit 1, must commit before rd. 2, no half point byes to players receiving
full point byes. Ent.: payable to MACA and mail to Robert Messenger, 4 Hamlett
Dr., Apt. 12, Nashua, NH 03062 or enter online at www.MassChess.org. HR:
$149-149, reserve by 8/16. 508-460-0700 or 888-543-9500. Info: email to
info@masschess.org or phone 603-891-2484. Day of the tournament phone
603-557-1732. W.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
A State Championship Event!
SEPT. 15-16, MISSOURI
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15
2018 MISSOURI OPEN
$2500 Guaranteed Prize Fund. 5SS, G/115 d5. Parkade Center, 601 Business
Loop 70 W, Columbia, MO 65203. 2-sections: OPEN: Overall Prizes: $400-1st
$300-2nd, $200-3rd. Class Prizes: $150-1st in each: Master (2200-2399), X,
A, B. RESERVE (U1600): Overall Prizes: $250-1st, $200-2nd, $150-3rd. Class
Prizes: $100-1st in each C, D, E, U1000/Unr. Upset Prizes: $50 for highest
upset in each section. EF: $50 by 9/8, $60 on site. Special Discounts: $10
off entry fee for: Seniors (50+), New/Unrated, and Players traveling 100+
mi one-way, only 1 special discount can be applied. Reg.: Sat-9-9:45am.
Rounds: Sat-10/2:30/7, Sun-9:30/2. Max one 1/2-pt bye if declared by Rd. 2.
State Championship plaques to highest finishing Missouri resident in each
section. MCA membership req’d, available on site from $5, OSA. Entries/Info:
Memb. Membership required; cost follows. Usually refers
req’d: to state affiliate.
Open: A section open to all. Often has very strong play-
ers, but some eligible for lower sections can play
for the learning experience.
Quad: 4-player round robin sections; similar strength
players.
RBO: Rated Beginner’s Open.
Rds: Rounds; scheduled game times follow. For exam-
ple, 11-5, 9-3 means games begin 11 a.m. & 5 p.m.
on the first day, 9 a.m. & 3 p.m. on the second day.
Registration at site.
Reg:
RR: Round robin (preceded by number of rounds).
Sudden-death time control (time for rest of game
SD/:
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.
SS: Swiss-System pairings (preceded by number of
rounds).
Unr: Unrated.
W: Site is accessible to wheelchairs.
WEB:
Tournaments that will use a player’s online rating.

www.uschess.org 55
Tournament Life / September

Thomas Rehmeier, 34 Aspen Pointe Dr., St. Peters, MO 63376. JCChess89@
yahoo.com, 573-291-0852.
SEPT. 15-16, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
2018 BOTVINNIK MEMORIAL
(A sponsored event) 1 open Section. 6SS, G/60 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd.,
LA 90025, 2nd fl. EF: $75; $55 LACC members; No-prize players& spouses/sib-
lings& new members 1/2 EF. Reg.: Sat 10-11:45 Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day.
Byes: Up to three 1/2-point byes. Last Rd. bye before Rd. 5. 1-Day option I:
Play 1 day- no 1/2 pt byes- 1/2 EF. 1-Day option II: Play 1 day & get three
1/2 pt byes- Full EF. Prizes: $1,500 (b/40, $750 Gtd) 1st-3rd $400-200-100.
U2000: $100. U1800: $200-100-$50; U1600: $100-50; U1400: $100-50; U1200:
Book prize. Best attack: $25; Biggest upset: $25. 3 door raffles to players
playing both days. Info: (310) 795-5710; Mick@LAChessClub.com or
www.LAChessClub.com. Parking: Free on streets, BoA, or basement. Use
Pirq app for a free tourney.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 15-16, GEORGIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30
CCSCATL 1ST BIRTHDAY BASH — $4000 GUARANTEED!
Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Atlanta, 2500 Old Alabama Rd., Suite 11,
Roswell, GA 30076. Come party and play at the 1st Birthday Bash of the
CCSCATL! In addition to our traditional tournament donuts and coffee, we
will also be serving light snacks to celebrate our first birthday! In 4 Sections,
Open: 5SS, G/90 d5, Open to Minimum Rating 1700. $$GTD: $1000-600-350.
1st U2000-$250. U1800: 5SS, G/90 d5, Open to 1799 & under. Open to
Minimum Rating 1300. $$GTD: $500-250-150. 1st U1600-$100. U1400: 5SS,
G/90 d5, Open to 1399 & under. Open to Minimum Rating 700. $$GTD: $350-
150-100. 1st U1000/Unr -$75. U800: 5SS, G/90 d5, Open to 799 & under.
$$GTD: $55-40-30. ALL: EF: Entry Fee - (Open, U1800, and U1400) $65
CCSCATL members if paid online, by phone or mailed check, or in person by
August 15; $70 CCSCATL members if paid online, by phone or mailed check,
or in person by September 14, $80 day of event. $10 more each for non-
members (this means $75 non-members paid by August 15, $80 non-members
paid by September 14, and $90 day of event). U800 Section Entry Fee - $35
CCSCATL members if paid online, by phone or mailed check, or in person by
August 15, $40 CCSCATL members if paid online, by phone or mailed check,
or in person by September 14, $50 day of event. $5 more each for non-
members (this means $40 non-members paid by August 15, $45 non-members
paid by September 14, and $55 day of event). GMs, IMs, and WGMs get free
entry, no deduction from prize! Moms of players registered in the tournament
play free (you pay for USCF membership, tournament is free)! Reg.: Registration
8:00am-9:30am day of event, or call (678) 628-5615 by September 14 to
register by phone. Rds.: Sat rounds: 10AM-2PM-6PM Sun rounds: 10AM-
2PM. Half point byes available any round. Must request before the start of
round 2! ENT: Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Atlanta, 2500 Old Alabama
Rd., Suite 11, Roswell, GA 30076 (678) 628-5615 https://atlchessclub.com/even-
tregistration-list/. INFO: Karen Boyd karen@atlchessclub.com. https://atl
chessclub.com/. W.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 15-16, TEXAS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20
DCC FIDE OPEN IX
5SS, G/90 inc/30. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S. Cottonwood Dr. #C, Richardson,
TX 75080. Two sections: Open and Reserve. Open: $$875G. FIDE and US
Chess rated but uses FIDE rules. Use US Chess ratings and rules for pairings
and for awarding prizes. Default late forfeiture time is one hour. TD may
extend this time at TD’s discretion. Note that Foreign players must disclose
their FIDE ID number before 1st round in order to play. Note that USA Players
with no FIDE ID must disclose their email address. $$ $500-$250-$125. EF:
2400+ $125, 2000-2399 $90, 1600 -1999 $99, U1600 $125, Senior/Birthday
during tournament/Additional Family Member $55. Dallas Chess Club mem-
bership required or pay $20 non-member fee. Small Minimum prize to the
First three GM/IM’s who apply. GM/IM must play all rounds to get minimum
prize (entry fee may be deducted from prize). Reserve: Open to players rated
below 2000 USCF. This section is not Fide Rated but is US Chess rated and
uses US Chess rules. EF: $40. 10$ non Dallas Chess Club membership fee.
The Reserve give back 10% in prizes and if at least 8 paid entries and if there
is a clear winner, then that winner receives free entry to next DCC Fide Open.
In the reserve section, Tournament reserves the right to use Fide rules on
electronic devices and on starting White’s clock at start of a round and to
use FIDE pairing rules. Also clocks will be set to ‘halt at end’. Both: Reg.: Sat-
urday from 9:45–10:15 am. Rds.: Sat 10:45 am-3:10pm-7:16pm, Sun 9:45 am-
2:10pm. One half point Bye allowed if requested before end of round 2 and
before getting full point bye. Withdrawals and zero point last round byes are
not eligible for prizes. Note that house players (if required) must pay $5 per
round and be US Chess members. ENT: Make/mail Checks payable to Dallas
Chess Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036-
4719. Info: 214-632-9000. FIDE.
SEPT. 16, MASSACHUSETTS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15
3RD BOSTON ELITE CHESS TOURNAMENT
Four Points by Sheraton Norwood, 1125 Boston-Providence Turnpike, Norwood,
MA 02062. In 3 Sections, Master: 3SS, G/90 d5, Open to 1950+. EF: $60.
$$GTD: $400-200-100. Minimum prize for GM/IM: $100. U2050: 3SS, G/90
d5, Open to 2050 & under. Open to 1650+. EF: $50. $$GTD: $250-150-80.
U1750: 3SS, G/90 d5, Open to 1750 & under. Open to 1300+. EF: $50. $$GTD:
$250-150-80. ALL: First time players for Boston Elite Tournament $20 off.
Reg.: 9/16, 9am-9: 30am, $5 more. by 8/15, $10 discount; by 09/08, $5
discount. GM/IM/WGM free. Rds.: 10am/1:45pm/5:30pm. All byes declared
before round 1; last round 0 point bye only. ENT: BostonEliteChess.org. INFO:
Yi Wang, BostonEliteChess@gmail.com. http://BostonEliteChess.org.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23, CONNECTICUT
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED)
9TH ANNUAL HARTFORD OPEN
5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Sheraton Hartford
Hotel, 1 Bradley Airport (visible at airport entrance), Windsor Locks, CT 06096
(I-91 Exit 40 to Rt 20). Free parking. $6500 guaranteed prize fund. 4 sections.
Major: Open to 1800/up. $1000-500-300, U2210 $400-200. Under 2010: $700-
380-200, top U1810/Unr $400-200. Under 1610: $500-300-150, top U1410
(no Unr) $280-140. Under 1210: $300-150-100, plaques to first 3, top U1000,
U800, U600, Unrated. Unrated may not win over $100 in U1210 or $200 in
U1610. Mixed doubles: $200-100 bonus to best male/female combined score
among all sections. Must average under 2200; may play in different sections;
register by 2 pm 9/22. Top 3 sections EF: $78 online at chessaction.com by
9/19, 3-day $83, 2-day $82 if check mailed by 9/13, $90 at site, or online until
2 hours before round 1. U1210 Section EF: all $20 less than above. No checks
at site, credit cards OK. GMs, IMs & WGMs free, $60 deducted from prize.
Online EF $3 less to CSCA or WMCA members. Re-entry (no Major Section)
$40. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special
1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com,
Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young
Adult $25, Scholastic $17. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm,
Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11,
2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. Bye: all, limit 2; must commit before rd. 2. HR: $107-107,
860-627-5311; reserve by 9/8 or rate may increase. Ent: chessaction.com or
Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds.
Questions: www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. Entries
posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament
Saturday 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 21-23, FLORIDA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80
1ST ANNUAL FREDERICK DOUGLASS MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT
Come spend a weekend in paradise! 5SS, G/90 + 30 sec. increment. 24 North
Hotel, 3820 North Roosevelt Blvd., Key West, FL 33040. Telephone (866) 238-
4218. Please ask the resort for special tournament rate. World-renowned
GM Maurice Ashley will kick off the event! $25,000 (b/200 entries) ($12,500
Unconditionally Guaranteed) 4 sections: Open Section: $3,000-$2,000-$1,000-
$500 Top Senior: $400 Top U2400 $1,500-$750-$350 Top U2200 $1,200-$600-
$300 U2000 Section: $2,000-$1,000-$500-$250 Top Senior: $200 Top U1800:
$900-$450 U1600 Section: $1,600-$800-$400-$200 Top Senior: $150 Top
U1400: $700-$350 U1200 Section: $1,200-$600-$300-$200 Top Senior: $150.
Top U900: $800-$400. Top Unrated: $250. Unrated players may enter either
Open or U1200 section, but are only eligible for Place Prizes in Open Section
and Top Unrated prize in U1200 Section. Must be at least 55 on 9/21/18 to
compete for Top Senior prize. USCF September supplement used for pairing
and prize purposes. If provisionally rated, arbiter may assign rating. All
sections: Arbiter has discretion to appoint ratings. EF: $114 by 9/5, $144 by
9/15. $164 after or on site. Re-entry: $100 by Saturday 5:30 PM (1/2 pt byes
for earlier rounds.). GM/IM free entry available until 9/5, else $114 deducted
from prize. Special entry fee for Monroe County public or private school
students in any section. $25 online by 9/5, $60 after or at site. Reg.: Friday
4:00-6:30 PM. Rounds: Friday: 7:30 PM. Saturday 1:15 PM & 6:30 PM Sunday:
10:15 AM & 3:30 PM. Up to 2 irrevocable half point byes if requested by
Saturday 12:00 PM. Entry fees payable to Brian Priester. Online entry available
@ onlineregistration.cc If you cannot register online then you can mail your

GOLD & SILVER AFFILIATES

Berkeley Chess School Continental Chess
GOLD Any affiliate that has submitted at least 50 US Chess memberships during the
1845 Berkeley Way Association
current or previous calendar year, or is the recognized State Affiliate, is eligible to become
Berkeley, CA 94703 P.O. Box 8482
a Gold Affiliate. Gold Affiliates are honored in a special list in larger type in Tournament Life 510-843-0150 Pelham, NY 10803
each month, giving the affiliate name, address, phone number, e-mail address, and website. tournaments@berkeleychessschool.org director@chess.us
Gold Affiliation costs $350 per year, and existing affiliates may subtract $3 for each month www.berkeleychessschool.org www.chesstour.com
remaining on their regular affiliation, or $20 for each month remaining on their Silver Af-
filiation. By paying an annual payment of $500 (instead of $350), Gold Affiliate status Marshall Chess Club
may be obtained with no minimum requirement for memberships submitted. 23 West 10th Street
Cajun Chess
New York, NY 10011
12405 Hillary Step Drive
212-477-3716
SILVER Any affiliate that has submitted at least 25 US Chess
Bay Area Chess
Olive Branch, MS 38654
504-208-9596
admin@marshallchessclub.org
memberships during the current or previous calendar year, or is the www.marshallchessclub.org
2050 Concourse Drive #42 cajunchess@yahoo.com
recognized State Affiliate, is eligible to become a Silver Affiliate. These San Jose, CA 95131 www.cajunchess.com Oak Hall School Chess Club
affiliates will be recognized in a special list in Tournament Life each 408-409-6596 7257 NW 4th Boulevard, Suite 21
month, giving the affiliate name, state, and choice of either phone ask@bayareachess.com Gainesville, FL 32607
number, e-mail address, or website. Silver Affiliation costs $150 per www.bayareachess.com Chess Club and 352-316-1199
year, and existing affiliates may subtract $3 for each month remaining Scholastic Center timtusing@gmail.com
on their regular affiliation. Alternatively, for an annual payment of of Saint Louis
$250.00 (instead of $150), the requirement for a minimum number 4657 Maryland Avenue PaperClip Pairings
of US Chess members will be waived. St. Louis, MO 63108 c/o Remy Ferrari
314-361-CHESS 4 Jalapa Court
Dallas Chess Club (TX) Jersey Shore HS Chess League Oklahoma Chess Foundation info@saintlouischessclub.org Brownsville, TX 78526
www.dallaschess.com (NJ) (OK) www.saintlouischessclub.org 956-621-0377
shorehschessleague@yahoo.com www.OCFchess.org rrferrari@bisd.us
En Passant Chess Club (TX) Little House of Chess, Inc. (NY) Rochester Chess Center (NY) San Diego Chess Club
td_edg@twc.com littlehouseofchess.com ChessNYC.com
http://www.chessset.com 2225 Sixth Avenue
Michael Propper San Diego, CA 92101
Evangel Chess Club (AL) Los Angeles Chess Club (CA) P.O. Box 189, 1710 1st Avenue
www.LAChessClub.com Sparta Chess Club (NJ) 619-752-4377
www.evangelchurch.me www.spartachessclub.org New York, NY 10128 chucnglo@aol.com
Michigan Chess Association 212-475-8130 www.sandiegochessclub.org
Foot Hill Chess Club (CA) (MI) Success Chess School (CA) info@chessnyc.com
wade_tavorn@khsd.k12.ca.us www.michess.org www.successchess.com www.chessnyc.com UPDATED 08-06-2018

56 September 2018 | Chess Life

 See previous issue for TLAs appearing September 1-14

registration to: Brian Priester, PO Box 2565, Key West, FL 33045 or call 305-
942-0529 using paypal. Membership in the US Chess Federation may be
obtained by mail, telephoone with B. Priester or onsite. Please bring boards,
sets and clocks. None provided. GM Maurice Ashley and WGM Nazi Paikidze,
United States Women’s Champion will conduct separate Simuls Saturday
morning - time to be announced by Chief TD. Entry in the simuls may not
be accomplished by online registration, but only by mail. $35 by 9/5, $55 by
9/15, $75 after or if still available at site. 50 player max. Proceeds from GM
Ashley’s Simul to benefit the Florida Keys SPCA. Proceeds from WGM Paikidze
to benefit Zonta International of Key West. Proceeds will be presented to
representatives of both organizations. Additional info: Chief TD International
Arbiter Mike Kummer mkummer@saintlouischessclub.org
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED)
GM GEORGE KOLTANOWSKI MEMORIAL
“New Milpitas” 372 Turquoise St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Park Free! 5SS, G/90
+30 2-day rds, 1-2 G/61 d5. Prizes: 5,000 b/90 (60% guar). 3 sects: 2000+
(FIDE): $1,000-500-200, u2300: 250-125-100. 1600-1999 (FIDE): $700-300-
100, u1800: 200-100, u1600: $700-300-100 u1400: 125-100, u1200: 100. Unr
max $100 exc Open. Sept 18 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: F 6:30-6:45p & Sa 9:30-
9:45a. Rds.: F 7p, Sa 10a, 3p Su 10a 2:30p. (2-day Sa 10a 12:30 & merge).
EF: 99, Econ EF: 79 w 50% prz, after 9/14+20. Playup +25. GMs/IMs- $0 by
9/7 (prize - EF). Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/champs.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23 OR 1-DAY FOR U800, MICHIGAN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED)
2018 ANNUAL HAROLD STEEN MEMORIAL CUP SWISS
3 Sections: OPEN, U1700, U800. 5-SS (4-SS in U800 Section). SITE: EDWARD
HOTEL-DEARBORN, 600 Town Center Dr., Dearborn, MI 48126 (Dirs/Lodg
below). 3- 2- and 1-Day Schedules. TOP Section FIDE-Rated. Prize Fund
$5,400. 30 Grand Prix Points (Enhanced). USCF and MCA (or any State)
memberships required—can be purchased on site. Sections merge after
RD. 2. Up to TWO 1/2-point byes available—must be requested prior to start
of RD. 3. Bring boards, pieces, clocks! None supplied except for U800 section.
Online registration (preferred) available at www.onlineregistration.cc.
Strict Cell Phone/Headset Rules in effect. Rules posted on site. EF: By
Mon, Sept.17th (add $10 after): 3-Day Schedules: OPEN $105. IMs/GMs/FMs
FREE! ($100 EF deducted from prize). U1700: $75. 2-Day Schedules: OPEN:
$106. U1700: $76. 1-Day Schedule (U800): $25. Register online (preferred)
at www.onlineregistration.cc. TL: OPEN and RESERVE (U1700) Sections:
3-Day Schedules: G/115 d5. 2-Day Schedules: Rds. 1-2, G/55 d5. Rds.: 3-
5, G/115 d5. U800 Section (1 Day Only): G/25 d5. RDS.: 3-Day Schedules:
Fri, 7 PM. Sat, 11:30, 7. Sun, 10, 3. 2-Day Schedules: Sat, 12, 3, 7. Sun, 10,
3. 1-Day Schedule (U800): Sat, 11:15, 1:10, 2:30, 3:50. REG.: 3-Day Sched-
ules: Fri, 4-6pm. 2-Day Schedules: Sat, 8:30-10:30am. 1-Day Schedule
(U800): Sat, 8:30-10:30am. REGISTRATION ONLINE PREFERRED AT
www.onlineregistration.cc. $$: $5,400 (b/50 per section; b/min. 6 per
prize section). 65% Guar. each section. 30 Grand Prix Points (Enhanced):
OPEN: $3,200: 1st-2nd-3rd-4th: $800-$600-$450-$350; TOP 1st, 2nd: X, A,
U1800/UNR: $300 each. RESERVE (1700): $2,200: 1st-2nd-3rd-4th: $600-
$400-$300-$200; TOP C, D, E, U1000/UNR: $175 each. NOVICE (U800):
Trophies for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, Top U600, U400, UNR. LODG/DIRS: EDWARD
HOTEL, 600 Town Center Dr., Dearborn, MI 48126. Located N of Michigan
Ave., S of Hubbard St., E of Evergreen Rd., W of Southfield Rd. For maps,
go online to: www.mapquest.com or www.yahoo.com and click on Maps.
Room Rate: $105 by MON, SEPT. 17th. AFTER only if rooms are available.
FOR RESERVATIONS: Call (313) 592-3622. Ask for the STEEN Chess Rate or
go online to www.reservationsdearborn@hotel-dearborn.com. Entries/Info:
Mrs. Marcie Kahn, (586) 558-4790, Dr. Ed Mandell, (248) 635-2375
(Cell), Email Jack Kahn at atkm.chess@gmail.com, or Patsy Mandell
at allthekingsmench@aol.com.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 21-23, 22-23 OR 22, MINNESOTA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60
4TH GOLDEN GOPHER OPEN
GMs Alex Yermolinsky, Ashwin Jayaram, Denes Boros, Fidel Corrales, Timur
Gareyev have confirmed to play! 5SS, G/90+30 (2-day option, rd-1 G/60 d5).
1-day U1000 section G/45 d5. University of Minnesota St. Paul Student Center,
2017 Buford Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108. Prizes: $10,000 (b/180, $5700 Guar-
anteed). Open (FIDE): (b/50) $1400-700-500-400. (1st prize fully guaranteed).
U2300, U2200, U2100, U2000, U1900 each $400. U1800: (b/40) $650-325.
U1700, U1600, U1500 each $325. U1400: (b/40) $500-250. U1300, U1200,
U1100 each $250. U1000 (1-day): (b/50) $300- 150-75. U800, U600, U400
each $150. Top unrated: $150-100-75-50. Mixed doubles: $200 to top
male/female team across sections. Unrated players are only eligible for
unrated prizes in U1000 section. EF: Open-$100, U1800-$65, U1400-$50,
U1000-$30. $10 late fee for registrations after 9/1/18. Online registration
available at https://onlineregistration. cc/UMTC/GGO18.Free entry for current
University of Minnesota Students, Faculty, and Staff. Free entries deducted
from prizes. Reg.: 3-day Friday 6-7pm. 2-day Saturday 8-9am. 1-day Saturday
8-9:30am. Rounds: Friday: 7:30pm; Saturday 12pm, 5:30pm; Sunday: 10am,
3:30pm. (2-day rd-1: Saturday 9:30am, merge in rd-2). U1000 1-day section:
Saturday 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm. Limit two half-point byes, none in rd-
5. Class prizes based on 5 per class. Nearby hotels available at https://
admissions. tc.umn.edu/visit/hotel.html. Contact Saumik Narayanan at
chess@umn.edu with any questions.
A State Championship Event!
SEPT. 23, PENNSYLVANIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
2018 PA STATE GAME/60 CHAMPIONSHIP
4SS, G/60 d5. O’Hara Student Center, Univ. of Pitt., 4024 O’Hara St., Pittsburgh,
PA 15213. 3 Sections, $$ (695G): Champ: EF: $30 by 9/15, $40 later. $200-
100, U2000 $75, U1800 $50. Premier: U1600. EF: $25 by 9/15, $35 later.
$90-60, U1400 $50, U1200 $40, U1000 $30. Trophies to Top 2, Top 2 U1400,
Top 2 U1200, Top 2 U1000. Scholastic: Grades K-12 U900. EF: $15 by 9/15,
$25 later. Trophies to Top 7, Top 3 U600. All: Trophies: Top 2 Schools, Top 2
Clubs. PSCF $5, OSA. Reg ends 10am. Rds.: 10:30-1-3:15-5:45. Ent/Info: PSCF,
c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223, 412-908-0286, mar-
tinak_tom_m@hotmail.com. W.
SEPT. 25, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
MARSHALL MASTERS
4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to players rated 2000+. FIDE Rapid rated. $1,100 GTD:
$400-200; top U2400, U2300, U2200: $150; Biggest upset: $50. EF: $30; Non-
MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd.
1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for Rd. 1 or 4 only;
request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
SEPT. 28, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
MARSHALL $500 FIDE BLITZ (BLZ)
9-SS, G/3 +2. FIDE Blitz rated. USCF regular rating used for pairings & prizes.
$500 GTD: $200-100; U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50. EF: $20; Non-
MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd.
1.) GMs Free. Rds.: Begin at 7pm and continue ASAP. Max three byes; request
at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 28-30 OR 29-30, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80
1ST ANNUAL BROOKLYN CLASSICAL CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP
7SS, G/90 d5, (3-day schedule); rds. 1-3 G/60 d5, rds. 4-7 G/90 d5 (2-day
schedule); rds. 1-3 G/25 d5, rds. 4-7 G/90 d5 (2-day schedule). 8 sections.
STEWART HOTEL, 371 7TH AVE., NEW YORK, NY, 10001. $21000 prize
fund GUARANTEED: Open: $2200+trophy-1100-650-350-200, clear on
tiebreak $100; U2200: $1600+tr-800-400-200; U2000: $1400+tr-700-350-
200; U1800: $1200+tr-600-300-200; U1600: $1100+tr-550-300-200; U1400:
$1000+tr-500-300-150; U1200: $900+tr-450-250-150; U1000: $800+tr-
400-250-150; $800 random prizes give away! CHESS BOARDS AND CLOCKS
ARE PROVIDED! EF: $149 by 07/20; EF: $169 by 08/27; EF: $189 by 09/27;
EF: $200 on site. GMs: free, $100 deducted from prize. Re-entries: $100 by
round 3. Additional events: tandem simul with 2 GMs: Fri, 3-5pm. EF:
$30; Bughouse tournament: 6SS, G/5 d0. Fri, 4pm-5:30pm, EF: $25 per 2-
player team. Blitz Championship: 7SS, G/5 d0. Sat, 9pm – 11pm. EF: $15 by
9/28; $20 on site. Register at: usachesstour.com, info@usachesstour.com,
Mailed entries: Payable to USA Chess Tour, Murray Hill station PO Box 61,
NEW YORK, NY 10156. Hotel rates: 15% discount from a regular rate. Use
code: wework
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 28-30 OR 29-30, FLORIDA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20
CFCC ORLANDO AUTUMN OPEN & SCHOLASTIC
5SS, G/120 d5 (2-day: Rd.1 G/60 d5). Wyndham Orlando Resort, 8001 Inter-
national Dr., Orlando, FL 32819. $$8,500/b150 (Scholastic = 1/2-entry), 60%
Guaranteed. 5 Sections: Premier $1000-500-400-200. Under 2000 $900-600-
300-200. Under 1700 $900-600-300-200. Under 1400 $800-400-300-200.
Scholastic Under 1200 $300-200, U1000 $100, U800 $100. Trophies in Scholas-

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66, G/90 d5, (3-day schedule); rds. 1- GD\V schedule: $GGLWLRQDOHYHQWV

3 G/60 d5, rds. 4-7 G/90 d5 (2-day Fri: 6pm; Sat & Sun: 9am & *0WDQGHPVLPXOwith John
schedule); rds. 1-3 G25 d5, rds. 4-7 1:30pm & 6pm (7SS, G/90, d5) Fedorowicz & Vladimir Romanenko
G/90 d5 (2-day schedule). All merge
GD\V schedule (2 options!): Friday: 3 – 5pm, entry fee ($30);
after rd. 3 and complete for same
1) Sat: 9am & 12pm & 3pm (G/60, Come and play, learn and have fun!
prizes.
d5) & 6pm (G/90, d5) %XJKRXVHWRXUQDPHQWFriday:
8 Sections: 4:00 - 5:30pm, 66, G/5,d0
2SHQ $2,200 + trophy - $1,100 - $650 Sun: 9am & 1:30pm & 6pm (G/90,
- $350 - $200, clear on tiebreak $100; d5) Entry fee $25 per 2-player team
8 $1,600 + trophy - $800 - $400 - 2) Sat: 1pm & 2:30pm & 4pm %OLW]&KDPSLRQVKLS 66, G/5, d0;
(G/25, d5) & 6pm (G/90, d5) Saturday: 9pm – 9:15 – 9:30 – 9:45 –
$200
Sun: 9am & 1:30pm & 6pm (G/90, 10 – 10:15 – 10:30 – 10:45pm
8 $1,400+tr - $700 - $350 - $200 5HJLVWHU: usachesstour.com,
8 $1,200+tr - $600 - $300 - $200 d5)
Byes: limit 2, must commit before rd. 3 info@usachesstour.com
8 $1,100+tr - $550 - $300 - $200 0DLOHGHQWULHV: Payable to USA Chess
()$149 by ; $169 by 
8 $1,000+tr - $500 - $300 - $150 Tour, Murray Hill station PO box 61,
8 $900 + tr - $450 - $250 - $150 $189 by ; $200 RQVLWH New York, NY, 10156
8 $800 + tr - $400 - $250 - $150 *0VIUHH; $100 deducted from prize. $20 service charge for any refunds.
Re-entries: $100 by round 3. +RWHO UDWHV: 15% discount from a
$800 random prizes give away!
regular rate, use code: wework

%2$5'6$1'&/2&.6$5(3529,'('

www.uschess.org 57
Tournament Life / September
tic to top U1200, U1000, and U800. Rated players may play up one section
only. Unrateds limited to $100 unless Place prize in Premier. EF: $90 (Scholastic
U1200 $45), after Sep 18 EF $100 (Schol $55); plus $5 if paid on-site. CFCC
Memb discount: $10 ($5 for Jr/Sr memb). Re-entry $50. Reg.: ends 1/2 hr
before 1st rd. Rd.1: 7pm Fri (2-day and Scholastic: 10am Sat at G/60 d5).
Rds.: 2-5: Sat 1 & 6, Sun 9 & 2. Byes: 1/2 pt. must commit before rd 2 paired
(max 2). HR: $113 (No Resort Fee) (407) 351-2420; Reserve ASAP (Mention
“Chess” or CFCC); or online http://tinyurl.com/septemberx2018hotel (72-
hr Cancellation fee). EF Quick link is https://onlineregistration.cc/CFCC/OAO2018
Free Parking & WiFi for all. Ent: CFCC, c/o Larry Storch, 95 Orense Way,
Oviedo, FL 32765 or online: http://onlineregistration.cc by Sep 22, or $5 extra
onsite. Info: Call 407-629-6946 or www.centralflchess.org. After 4pm Sep
28, call (321)297-7087 or (407)670-9304 for onsite cell.
SEPT. 29, VERMONT
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
TWIN STATE G/50
5SS, G/50 d5. Bugbee Senior Center, 262 N. Main St., White River Junction,
VT 05001. EF: $29.50 if rec’d by Sept 27 or $35 at site, except $16/$20 for
unrated player. $$Gtd: 260-160-100, U2010 140, U1760 120, U1510 100,
U1260 80, U960 60, Unr 40. Reg.: 8:45-9:35 a.m., Rds.: 10-12-2:50-4:50-6:50.
H-bye okay. Ent: Parker Montgomery, PO Box 831, Middlebury, VT 05753-
0831; vermonty64@earthlink.net, 802-349-7739.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, VIRGINIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED)
10TH ANNUAL WASHINGTON CHESS CONGRESS
Premier Section, 9SS, Oct 4-8, 40/100, SD/30 d10; GM & IM norms possible,
FIDE rated. Other Sections, 7SS, Oct 5-8 or 6-8, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (3-day
option, rounds 1-2 G/60 d10). Westin Tysons Corner, 7801 Leesburg Pike
(VA-7), Falls Church, VA 22043. Free parking, free shuttle to Tysons Corner
Center and Metro. $26,000 guaranteed prizes. In 4 sections: Premier: Open
to FIDE 1900/over, USCF 2000/over, and all foreign FIDE rated players. $4000-
2000-1000-600-500-400-300-200, clear or tiebreak first bonus $100, top FIDE
Under 2300/Unr $1400-700. FIDE. Minimum prize $600 to first 5 foreign GMs
to enter online by 9/21 who play all 9 rounds with no byes, minimum prize
$400 to first 5 foreign IMs to enter online by 9/21 who play all 9 rounds with
no byes, minimum prize $300 to the following who enter online by 9/21 and
play all 9 rounds with no byes: other foreign GMs, foreign WGMs, US GMs.
Under 2100: $2000-1000-500-300-200, top Under 1900 (no Unr) $1200-600.
Under 1700: $1700-900-500-300-200, top Under 1500 (no Unr) $800-400. Under
1300: $1000-500-300-200-100, top Under 1100 (no Unr) $400-200. Prize limits:
Unrated cannot win over $200 in U1300, $400 in U1700, or $600 in U2100.
Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player team combined
score among all sections: $1000-500. Only first 7 rounds of Premier counted.
Team must average under 2200; may play in different sections; register (no
extra fee) before both players begin round 2. Ratings: October FIDE ratings
used in Premier, USCF October official in other sections. Unofficial web ratings
usually used if otherwise unrated, Top 3 sections EF: $158 online at
chessaction.com by 10/3, 5-day $155, 4-day $154, 3-day $153 if check mailed
10th annual WASHINGTON CHESS CONGRESS
Oct 4-8, 5-8 or 6-8, 2018 - Columbus weekend - Westin Tysons Corner, Falls Church VA
Premier 9 rounds (norms possible), other sections 7 rounds, $26,000 guaranteed prizes
Westin Tysons Corner, 7801
Leesburg Pike (VA-7), Falls Church VA
22043. Free parking, free shuttle to
Tysons Corner Center and Metro.
Rooms $104-104-104, 866-716-8108,
reserve by 9/20. In 4 sections.
Premier, Oct 4-8: Open to
1900/up FIDE, 2000/up USCF and all
foreign FIDE. 40/100, SD/30, d10.
FIDE rated, 200 GPP.
Premier prizes $4000-2000-1000-
600-500-400-300-200, clear/tiebreak
1st bonus $100, top FIDE Under
2300/Unr $1400-700. Minimum prizes
for GMs & foreign IMs/WGMs: see
chesstour.com or Chess Life magazine.
Other sections, Oct 5-8 or 6-8:
Choice of 4-day schedule, 40/100,
SD/30 d10, or 3-day, rounds 1-2 G/60
d10, then merges with 4-day.
Under 2100: $2000-1000-500-300-
200, top U1900 (no unr) $1200-600.
58 September 2018 | Chess Life
by 9/25, all $180 at site until 1 hour before rd. 1, or online at chessaction.com
until 2 hours before rd. 1. U1300 Section: all EF $60 less than top 3 sections
EF. Premier Section GMs, IMs, WGMs, foreign FMs: free, $150 deducted
from prize; no deduction from minimum prize. Premier Section FIDE rated
foreign players: EF $60 less than top 3 sections EF. Special 1 yr USCF dues
with magazine if paid with entry: Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young
Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic
$17. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry: $80, no re-entry from
Premier to Premier. 5-day schedule (Premier only): Reg. ends Thu 6 pm,
rds. Thu 7 pm, Fri 1 pm & 7 pm, Sat 11 am & 5 pm, Sun 11 am & 5 pm, Mon 10
am & 3:15 pm. 4-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm. Sat 11 & 5,
Sun 11 & 5, Mon 10 & 3:15. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11,
2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 5, Mon 10 & 3:15. Byes: OK all including last rd; limit 3 (limit
2 in last 4 rds), must commit before rd. 4. Bring set, board, clock if possible-
none supplied. HR: $104-104-104, 866-716-8108, reserve by 9/20 or rate may
increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633 or reserve car
online at chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803.
Questions: DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269, www.chesstour.com. $15 service
charge for refunds. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted
instantly). Blitz tournament Sun. 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 5, 12, 19, 26, NOV. 2, 9, 16, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)
2018 QUEENS CHESS CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
7-SS, G/90 d5. All Saints Lutheran Church, 164-02 Goethals Ave., Jamaica,
NY 11432. EF: $55 advance, $60 at site, $900 Gtd: $300- $180-$120, U2100
$108, U1800 $90, U1500 $72, upset $30. Prizes may be increased depending
on number of entries. QCC membership required ($25 for 6 mos, $20
U19/65+/female). Up to three 1/2 pt byes permitted (request prior to Rd.
4). Mail advance entries by 09/28/18 to: Joseph J. Felber, 76 Union Ave.,
Apt. 1-W, Amityville, NY 11701-3033. Rounds at 7:45 each Friday.
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, ILLINOIS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED)
27TH ANNUAL MIDWEST CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS
5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Westin Chicago
North Shore Hotel, 601 North Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling, IL 60090 (from
Chicago, I-294 north to US-45 north; from Milwaukee, I-94 to Lake Cook Rd
to US-45 south). Free parking. $20,000 guaranteed prizes.. In 7 sections.
Premier (1900/up): $2000-1000-500-300, clear win or 1st on tiebreak $100,
top U2300 $800-400. FIDE. 1700-2099: $1400-700-400-200. 1500-1899/Unr:
$1400-700-400-200. 1300-1699/Unr: $1300-700-400-200. 1100-1499/Unr:
$1200-600-400-200. Under 1300/Unr: $1000-500-300-200. Under 1100/Unr:
$500-300-200-100, plaques to top 3, top U900, U700, U500, Unrated. Mixed
doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player combined score among
all sections: $800-400-200. Must average under 2200; may play in different
sections; register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 10/6. Unrated prize limits: $100
U1100, $200 U1300, $300 1100-1499, $400 1300-1699, $600 1500-1899. Top
Under 1700: $1700-900-500-300-
200, top U1500 (no Unr) $800-400.
Under 1300: $1000-500-300-200-
100, top U1100 (no Unr) $400-200.
Prize limits: Unrated limit $200 in
U1300, $400 U1700, or $600 U2100.
Mixed Doubles bonus prizes:
best male/female 2-player team
combined score among all sections:
$1000-500. Must average under 2200;
same section not required; register (no
extra fee) before both begin rd 2. Only
rds 1-7 in Premier count for doubles.
Top 3 sections entry fee: $158
at chessaction.com by 10/3, 5-day
$165, 4-day $164, 3-day $163 mailed
by 9/25, all $180 online to 2 hours
before rd 1, or at site to 1 hour before.
Premier special fees: GMs, IMs,
WGMs, foreign FMs free; $150 from
prize. FIDE rated foreign, $60 less.
6 sections EF: $113 online at chessaction.com by 10/3, 3-day $118, 2-day
$117 mailed by 9/26, all $130 at site, or online until 2 hrs before round 1.
Under 1100 EF: all $50 less than above. All: No checks at site, credit cards
OK. Online EF $5 less to ICA members; join/renew at il-chess.org. Unofficial
uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF
dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35,
Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or paid at site, Adult $40, Young
Adult $25, Scholastic $17. Re-entry $50; not available in Premier. GMs $100
from prize. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun
10 & 3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10
& 3:15. Bye: all, limit 2; Premier must commit before rd. 2, others before rd.
3. HR: $113-113-113-113, 800-937-8461,847-777-6500, reserve by 9/21 or
rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633.
Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803.
Questions: chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. $15 service
charge for refunds. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted
instantly). Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, FLORIDA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20
1ST GULF COAST AFTER SUMMER OPEN
(Sponsored by ChessRegister.com) 5SS, Premier section (FIDE-rated)
G/90+30 sec incr., All other sections but U1100 G/120 d5, U1100 section
G/90 d5 (2-day Option all sections Rd. 1 G/60 d5). Embassy Suites Fort Myers-
Estero, 10450 Corkscrew Commons Drive, Estero 33928. $$7,000 b/170 paid
entries, 60% min. Gtd. Premier: $800/Trophy-500-400, U2300 $300. U2100:
$700/Trophy-400-300, U1950 $200. U1800: $700/Trophy-400-300, U1650
$200. U1500: $700/Trophy-400-300, U1350/Unr. $200. U1100: Trophies for
1st to 3rd & 1st U900, 1st U700, Medals to all others. Top Senior Prize
(among all cash prize sections, must be at least 55 on Oct. 5) $200. Unr. may
enter U1500 or U1100 only. In U1500, Unr. only eligible for Unr. prize. Min.
USCF or FIDE rating of 1800 required for premier section. EF: $85 by Oct. 2,
$10 more later, $15 more on-site, GMs & IMs free ($85 deducted from prize).
U1100 section $44 by Oct. 2, $10 more later, $15 more onsite. Re-entry cash
prize sections $45. Reg.: Ends 1/2 hr before 1st rd. Rds.: 3-Day 1st Rd. Fri.
7:30; 2-Day 1st Rd. Sat 10; 2nd Rd. Sat. 1:15; 3rd Rd. all sections but U1100
6:30, 3rd Rd. U1100 5:45; 4th Rd. Sun. 9:30; 5th Rd. all sections but U1100
2:30, 5th Rd. U1100 1:45. With incr. Premier section start times could be
delayed. 2 1/2 pt. byes, if reqd before rd. 2. HR: $134 with complimentary
cooked-to-order breakfast, two-hour beverage reception nightly, Internet,
refrigerator & microwave, free airport shuttle, free parking for all, 239-949-
4222. Ent: Boca Raton Chess Club, 2385 NW Executive Ctr. Dr., Ste. 100, Boca
Raton, FL 33431. $10 service charge for refunds. Online entry & add’l info:
www.bocachess.com, 561-302-4377.
OCT. 6, MASSACHUSETTS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
WESTFORD OCTOBER BLITZ (BLZ)
8SS, G/5;+2. Westford Regency Inn & Conference Center, 219 Littleton Rd.,
Westford, MA 01886. EF: $20 to players in any Westford October Open section,
5-day schedule: Thu 7 pm, Fri 1
& 7, Sat/Sun 11 & 5, Mon 10 & 3:15.
4-day schedule: Fri 7 pm,
Sat/Sun 11 & 5, Mon 10 & 3:15.
3-day schedule: Sat 11 am, 2
pm & 5 pm; merges with 4-day at 5.
Byes: OK all, limit 3 (limit 2 in last
4 rounds), must commit before rd 3.
All: FIDE ratings used in Premier,
Oct official USCF in others; unofficial
usually used if otherwise unr. Bring
set, board, clock if possible.
USCF membership required.
For special USCF dues see Chess Life
or chesstour.com.
Entry: chessaction.com or
Continental Chess, PO Box 8482,
Pelham NY 10803. $15 service charge
for refunds.
Entries posted at chessaction.com
(click “entry list” after entering).
Blitz Sun 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15.
 See previous issue for TLAs appearing September 1-14

$25 otherwise. $$GTD: $200-100. U2000 $100, U1600 $100. Reg.: 8:00-8:45
PM. Rds.: Round 1 at 9 PM, rest ASAP. If fewer than 9 entries, will play 4
DBLSS. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49 Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO:
Alex Relyea relyea@operamail.com. www.relyeachess.com.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 6-7, MASSACHUSETTS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED)
WESTFORD OCTOBER OPEN
Westford Regency Inn & Conference Center, 219 Littleton Rd., Westford, MA
01886. In 4 Sections, Championship: 4SS, 40/90, SD/30;+30, Open to
players rated 1800/above. FIDE rated. $$GTD: $600-300-250. U2400 $250
U2200 $250. U2000: 4SS, 40/90, SD/30;+30, Open to 1999 & under. FIDE
rated. $$GTD: $400-200-150. U1800: 4SS, 40/90, SD/30;+30, Open to 1799
& under. $$GTD: $400-200-150. U1600: 4SS, 40/90, SD/30;+30, Open to
1599 & under. Open to Adult unrated not allowed in section. $$GTD: $300-
150-100. U1400 $150 U1200 $150. ALL: EF: $70 postmarked 29 September,
$80 at site. $30 discount to players in U1600 sect. rated U1000 or unrated.
Reg.: 8:30-9:30 on Saturday. Rds.: 10-4, 10-4. 1 ½ point byes rounds 1-3.
ENT: Alex Relyea, 49 Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex
Relyea relyea@operamail.com. Website: www.relyeachess.com. HR $129 by
6 September. (978) 692-8200 mention Westford October Open.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 7, NEW JERSEY
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)
DR. DAVID OSTFELD MEMORIAL ICA OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP
4SS, G/61 d5. Bergen Academy, 200 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, NJ 07601.
Open to All Ages With Rating above 1400. Prize Fund ($$b/40) 1st - 3rd
$300, $250, $200, U2200, U2000, U1800, U1600 each $100 Best Under 13
Years Old $75, Best Over 55 Years Old $75. Reg ends at 9 AM. Only one 1/2-
point bye allowed, if requested before the start of round two. EF: Adv (pmk.
By Sep 25th) $45, AT Site $50. GMs Free Entry. For info, call 201 797-0330,
email chessdirector@icanj.net or visit icanj.net. Prize Fund Will Not Be
Reduced Below 70%. Rds.: 9:30 AM, 11:45 AM, 2:15 PM, 4:30 PM. ENT: Make
EF payable to: International Chess Academy Mail To: Diana Tulman, 28 Can-
terbury Ln., New Milford, NJ 07646. W.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 13, WISCONSIN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
HALES CORNERS CHALLENGE XXVIII - NATIONAL CHESS DAY!
4SS, G/60 d6. 2 Sections: Open & Reserve (under 1600). Hilton Garden Inn,
1355 W. 20th Ave., Oshkosh, WI 54902, 920-966-1300. EF: $40-Open, $30
Reserve, both $10 more after October 11. Comp EF for USCF 2200+. On-line
registration at: https://onlineregistration.cc/WICA/HCChallengeOctober2018
$$GTD: Open: 1st-$325, 2nd-$175, A-$1000, B & below-$75; Reserve: 1st $100,
2nd $75, D-$50, E & below $40. Goddesschess prizes for females/males in
addition to above prizes. Reg.: 8:30-9:30. Rds.: 10-1-3:30-6. Questions to Chris
Wainscott (414-839-5232, after 5:30 pm), or e-mail: chris.wainscott13@
outlook.com. Entries to: Robin J. Grochowski, 3835 E. Morris Ave., Cudahy, WI
53110, (414-861-2745), e-mail: rgrochowski@wi.rr.com.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 13-14, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED)
5TH ANNUAL CENTRAL NEW YORK OPEN
5SS, rounds 1-2 G/90 d10, rds. 3-5 40/100, SD/30 d10. Hall of Languages,
Syracuse University, S. Crouse Ave., Syracuse 13210. $2500 guaranteed prizes.
In 3 sections. Open: $500-300-200, top U2100/Unr $210. Under 1900: $300-
150-70, top U1700 (no unr) $160. Under 1500: $200-100-50, top U1300 (no
unr) $110. Unrated may not win over $140 in U1500. Mixed doubles: $150
bonus to best male/female combined score among all sections. Team must
average under 2200; may enter different sections; register by 2 pm 10/13.
College team prizes: Plaques to first 3 teams based on top 3 scorers from
school among all sections. Top 2 sections EF: $68 online at chessaction.com
by 10/10, $72 mailed by 10/4, $80 at site, or online until 8 am 10/13. Online
entry $5 less to NYSCA members (may join with entry). U1500 Section EF: all
$20 less. No checks at site, credit cards OK. GMs, IMs & WGMs: $60 from
prize. Re-entry (no Open Section) $40. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually
used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF with magazine if paid with
entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15.
Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. Reg. ends Sat 9
am, rds. Sat 10, 2 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:15. Bye: all, limit 2; must commit before rd.
2. HR: See travel websites. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box
8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chess-
tour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. Entries posted at chessaction.com
(online entries posted instantly).
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
A State Championship Event!
OCT. 13-14, PENNSYLVANIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
2018 IRA LEE RIDDLE MEMORIAL PA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
5SS, G/120 d5. O’Hara Student Center, Univ. of Pitt., 4024 O’Hara St., Pittsburgh,
PA 15213. $$(2025 b/72, 2/3 gtd.) 3 Sections: Open: $500-250, U2000 $125.
U1800: $300-150, U1600 $125. U1400: $300-150, U1200 $125. Trophies to
Top PA & Top PA Junior in each section. Teams of 4 to 7 players from all
three sections: Trophies to top 2 schools & top 2 clubs. EF: $40 by 10/5, $50
later. PSCF req’d, OSA. Reg.: ends Sat. 9:30am. Rds.: Sat. 10-2:30-7, Sun.
10-2:30. Info: 412-908-0286, martinak_tom_m@hotmail.com. Ent: PSCF, c/o
Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 13-14, PENNSYLVANIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15
MASTERMINDS NATIONAL CHESS DAY
Esperanza Academy 421 W. Bristol St., Phila., PA 19140. 5SS sections
Open, U1800, U1400 G/85 d5. Prize Fund: $3875b/100 paid entries. Open:
$800, $500, $300, $200, 150, U2000 $150. U1800: $300, $200, $150, $125,
$100, U1600 $100. U1400: $250, $175, $125, $100, $75, U1200 $75. Bye
1-3 requested by end of 2nd rd. Rds.: 9:30-1-4:30, 10-2. EF: $60 by 10/1/18,
$80 by 10/10/18, after $100. Reg.: 8-9 AM. 10/13/18 Scholastic only 4SS
sections K-12 Open, K-8 U1100, K-6 U800, K-3 U500 G/40 d5, EF Free,
Bye 1-2 requested in advance. Reg.: 8-9AM. Rds.: 10, 12, 2, 4. Trophies
Top 5 each section, Team 1-3 cross sections. ENT Mail Ent: MasterMinds
CC, 36 E. Hortter St., Philadelphia, PA 19119 or email to brad@master-
mindschess.org. Info: mastermindschess.org
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 13-14, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)
NATIONAL CHESS DAY SENIOR/JUNIOR OPEN
at the San Diego Chess Club, 2225 Sixth Ave., San Diego, CA 92101. $9,000
prize fund, based on 90 entries, 6 Rd. SS, 2 Divisions with 2 Sections each:
Senior Division is for players 50 years or older, Junior Division is under 50
years old. Both divisions have Open and Reserve (U1800) sections. All
games are G/60 with 30 second increment each move. Rds. are 10:30 AM,
2 PM & 5:30 PM Saturday and Sunday, two byes available, any round,
please request 1 hour before round, last round before Rd. 3. EF: $90 if
rcvd by 8/31 (early bird rate), $100 from 9/01 to 10/07, $110 from 10/08
to 10/13, $120 on event day. U1600 or Unr is only $80. Book prize only for
unrated players. SCCF membership Req’d, ($18 Adult/$13 Jr), this is a
State Championship Qualifier. Reg.: 9 - 10 AM on 10/13, or call in to SDCC
619-752-4377. Prizes: Open Section: $500-200-100, BU2200: $400-200-
100, BU2000 $400-200-100. Reserve Section (under 1800): $500-200-100,
BU1600: $300-200-100, BU1400: $300-200-100 Age based Prizes (for those
who don’t win a bigger place prize): $50 each for Best over 60, 70 and 80
years old, plus $50 each for best under 20, 16 and 12 years old. Age based
pries for all 4 sections. Ent: SDCC, POB 120162, San Diego, CA 92112.
Info: call Chuck Ensey (858) 432-8006, or see the SDCC website at
https://www.sandiegochessclub.org
OCT. 13-14, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
2018 NATIONAL CHESS DAY WEEKENDER
(A sponsored event) 1 open Section. 6SS, G/60 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd.,
LA 90025, 2nd fl. EF: $75; $55 LACC members; No prizes 1/2, spouses/siblings
1/2, new members 1/2. Reg.: Sat 10-11:45. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day.
Byes: Up to three 1/2-point byes. Last Rd. bye before Rd. 5. 1-Day option I:
Play 1 day- no 1/2 pt byes- 1/2 EF. 1-Day option II: Play 1 day & get three
1/2 pt byes- Full EF. Prizes: $$1,500 (b/45) $750 Gtd. 1st-3rd $400-200-100
U2000: $100. U1800: $200-100-$50; U1600: $100-50; U1400: $100-50; U1200:
Book prize. Best attack: $25; Biggest upset: $25. 3 door raffles to players
playing both days. Info: (310) 795-5710; Mick@LAChessClub.com or
www.LAChessClub.com. Parking: Free on streets, BoA, or basement. Use
Pirq app for a free tourney.
OCT. 16, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
MARSHALL MASTERS
4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to players rated 2000+. FIDE Rapid rated. $1,100 GTD:
$400-200; top U2400, U2300, U2200: $150; Biggest upset: $50. EF: $30; Non-
MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd.
1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for Rd. 1 or 4 only;
request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.

US Chess Membership Rates:

Premium (P) and Regular (R)
36th Annual Sands Regency
(U.S., CANADA, MEXICO) Reno - Western States Open
Type 1 yr 2 yr
An American Classic & Heritage Event!!!
Adult P $49 $95 A Weikel Tournament
Adult R $40 $75 • October 19 - 21 & October 20 - 21, 2018 •
Senior (65+) $40 $75 NEW ADDITION - 2 DAY SCHEDULE!
Young Adult P (U25)* $35 $65 US Chess 120 Grand Prix Pts. (Enhanced) • F.I.D.E. Rated
Young Adult R (U25)* $26 $48
Youth P (U16)* $30 $55 $25,500 (b/275) $15,500 Guaranteed
Youth R (U16)* $22 $40 6 Sections • Entry Fee $159 or less
Scholastic P (U13)* $25 $45 - Room Rates: $58.61 Sun-Thu / $88.12 Fri-Sat
Scholastic R (U13)* $17 $30 Reservation Code: CHESS1018
Premium membership provides a printed copy of Chess Life Wednesday October 17th
(monthly) or Chess Life Kids (bimonthly) plus all other benefits • GM Sergey Kudrin Clock Simul/Analysis - $30 •
of regular membership. Regular membership provides online- Thursday October 18th
only access to Chess Life and Chess Life Kids. Youth provides • GM Melikset Khachiyan - Simul - $20 •
bimonthly Chess Life, Scholastic bimonthly Chess Life Kids, • FREE Lecture by IM John Donaldson •
others listed above monthly Chess Life. See www.uschess.org • Blitz Tourney (G/5 d0) - $25 (80% = Prize Fund) •
for other membership categories. Dues are not refundable and Saturday October 20th
may be changed without notice. • FREE Game / Position Analysis by IM John Donaldson •
*Ages at expiration For more info email wackyykl@aol.com
60
SEE TLA on page _______

www.uschess.org 59
Tournament Life / September

An American Classic!
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 19-21 OR 20-21, NEVADA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED)
36TH ANNUAL SANDS REGENCY RENO - WESTERN STATES
OPEN - FIDE - NEVADA
6SS, OPEN Section 40/2, G/55 Min-d5, (“X”,“A”, “B”, “C”, “D” Sections 40/2,
G/1-d5 - 2-Day Schedule G/1-d5) . Sands Regency Hotel/Casino, 345 N. Arlington
Ave., Reno, NV 89501.1-866-386-7829 or (775) 348-2200. $$25,500 b/275.
$$15,500 Gtd. (Prizes 1-7 in Open Section Gtd. plus 1/2 of all other prizes). 6
Sections. Open (2200 & above) EF: $159, (2000-2199) EF: $200 (1999 & below)
EF: $300) (GMs & IMs free but must enter by (9/19) or pay late fee). $$2,000-
1,000-800-600-500-300-300, (2399/below)- $1,000-500, (2299/below)- $1,000-500.
(If there is a tie for 1st then a playoff for $100 out of prize fund plus trophy).
Expert Section (2000-2199) EF: $159; $$2,000-800-400-300-200. Sec. ”A”
(1800-1999) EF: $158; $$1,800-700-400-300-300, Sec. ”B” (1600-1799) EF:
$157; $$1,700-700-400-300-300, Sec. ”C” (1400-1599) EF: $156; $$1,500-600-
400-300-300, Sec. ”D”/under (1399 & below) EF: $150; $$1,000-400-300-200;
(1199 & below) - $$300; 2-Day EF: $155 (No Open Section). Top Senior (65+) -
$200; Club Champ.-$600-300. ALL: Entries must be postmarked by 9/19 or pay
late fee-$11, do not mail after 10/12 or email after 10/16, $22 at site. Trophies
1st – 3rd (“A” – “D” sections). Unrated players are free entry but not eligible
for cash prizes- must join USCF for 1 full year thru this tournament. 1st Unrated
= trophy + 1 yr. USCF Mem. Senior discount (65+ yrs.) $10. Players may play
up. Provisionally rated players may only win 1/2 of 1st place money (except
Open Section 1 – 7). CCA ratings may be used. Note: pairings not changed for
color unless 3 in a row or cause a plus 3 and if the unlikely situation occurs 3
colors in a row may be assigned. SIDE EVENTS: Wed. (10/17) 7:00pm GM
Sergey Kudrin – Clock Simul with game analysis ($30); Thurs. (10/18) 6-7:15pm
Lecture by IM John Donaldson (FREE); 7:30pm- GM TBA - Simul ($20); 7:30pm-
Blitz (G/5 d0)) Tourney ($25) 80% entries = Prize Fund. Sat. (10/20) (3-4:30pm)
Free Game/Position Analysis - IM John Donaldson. REG.: (10/18) 5-8pm (10/19)
9-10am and (10/20) 9-10 am. RDS.: (Fri) 12-7, (Sat) 10-7, (Sun) 9:30-4:30. 2-Day
(10/20) Rd. 1 (11:00 am), Rd. 2 (1:15 pm), Rd. 3 (3:45 pm), Rd. 4 merge with
regular schedule – (7:00 pm). Byes available any round if requested by Rd.1
(Open Section 2 byes max). ENT: make checks payable and send to: SANDS
REGENCY (address listed above), postmarked by 9/19. $11 late fee if postmarked
after 9/19. Do not mail after 10/12 or email after 10/16. $22 late fee at site.
HR: (Sun-Thurs. $58.61!) (Fri. & Sat. $88.12!) 1-866-386-7829 Reservation Code:
CHESS1018 (Reserve by 10/1/18 to get Chess rate. INFO: Jerry Weikel, 6578
Valley Wood Dr., Reno, NV 89523, (H) 775-747-1405 or (Cell) 775-354-8728
wackyykl@aol.com or check out our website at: www.renochess.org. To verify
entry check website.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 20-21, MISSOURI
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40
SAINT LOUIS DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP (FIDE RATED)
4SS, G/90 +30 second increment. Chess Club & Scholastic Center of Saint
Louis, 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108. Free entries for GMs and
IMs. EF: $80, $60 if registered by 10/16. Three Sections: Championship (FIDE
Rated), U2000, U1500 Prize Fund: $4,000 UNCONDITIONALLY GUARANTEED!!
Championship: $1,000-$500-$300 Under 2300: $200-$100 Biggest Upset:
$50. U2000 Section: $500-$250-$200 Under 1700: $150-$100 Biggest Upset:
$50. U1500 Section: $250-$150-$100 U1100: $75-$50. Biggest Upset: $25.
Reg.: 10:00-11:30 Rounds: Sat: 12:00-5:00 Sun: 11:00-4:00 One 1/2 point
bye available in any round if declared before round 2. Ent: 4657 Maryland
Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108, or online at saintlouischessclub.org Info: 314-
361-CHESS, info@saintlouischessclub. org.
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 20-21, VIRGINIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
34TH EMPORIA OPEN
VCF Cup Tour. 5SS. Rd. 1 G/75 d5; Rds. 2-5 G/90 d5. Holiday Inn Express,
1350 West Atlantic, Emporia, VA. $1,095 b/o minimum of 24 players. 1st
place $400 Guaranteed. Other prizes b/o 24 paid players, 2nd $275, 3rd $150;
Top U1700/Unrated $100, Top U1200 $90, Top Junior $80. EF: $60 if rec’d by
10/13, $75 starting 10/14 and on site. Re-Entry $25 after Rd 1 with half-point
bye. Rds.: Sat. 10am, 2pm, 7pm; Sun. 9:30am, 1:30pm. One half-point bye
allowed if req. by 1:30pm 10/20. US Chess and VA Chess Fed memb. req’d
for VA residents, avail. at site; other state memberships honored. Ent.: Online
www.vachess.org, or on-site Fri. 6-9pm, Sat 7:30-9:15am. Send mail-in entries
to Mike Hoffpauir, ATTN: Emporia Open, 405 Hounds Chase, Yorktown, VA
23693. Hotel rooms and other Info: www.vachess.org or mhoffpauir@aol.com
OCT. 21, CONNECTICUT
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
2018 INTERNATIONAL CELEBRATION OF THE MIND DAY/
GREATER NEW HAVEN FALL OPEN!
at University of New Haven, $1000 Prize Fund! b/30. $500/b15; Open,
U1700: 4/SS, G/60 d5, Rds.: 9-11-1:30-3:30; U1200, U1000, U800/UNR: 5SS,
G/30 d5, Rds.: 10am then ASAP, Open: $300, $200, $100, $50. U1700 $150
+ trophy, $100, $50, $50. Trophies to top 3 U1200, U1000, U800/Unrated,
top 3 school teams. EF: $40 Online, $50 by 10/13, $80 on site. EF: Educational
Technologies, 343 Beach St. #404, West Haven, CT. 06516. Online EF save
$10! www.edutechchess.com or www.CTChess.com
OCT. 26, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
MARSHALL $500 FIDE BLITZ (BLZ)
9-SS, G/3 +2. FIDE Blitz rated. USCF regular rating used for pairings & prizes.
$500 GTD: $200-100; U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50. EF: $20; Non-
MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd.
1.) GMs Free. Rds.: Begin at 7pm and continue ASAP. Max three byes; request
at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 26-28 OR 27-28, NEW JERSEY
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED)
22ND ANNUAL EASTERN CHESS CONGRESS
5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Hyatt Regency
Princeton, 102 Carnegie Center, Princeton, NJ 08540. Free parking, wireless
& fitness center, 10% discount in hotel restaurant (except alcohol). $$ 20,000
guaranteed. In 6 sections. Premier (1900/up): $2000-1000-500-300, clear
win or 1st on tiebreak $100, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE. Under 2100: $1500-
800-400-300. Under 1900: $1500-800-400-300. Under 1700: $1400-700-
400-300. Under 1500: $1300-700-400-300. Under 1250: $1000-500-300-200.
Mixed doubles: best male/female 2-player combined score among all sections:
$800-400-200. Must average under 2200; may play in different sections;
register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 10/27. Unrated prize limits: $100 U1250,
$200 U1500, $300 U1700, $500 U1900. Top 5 sections EF: $123 online at
chessaction.com by 10/24, 3-day $128, 2-day $127 mailed by 10/17, all $140
at site, or online until 2 hours before round 1. Under 1250 EF: all $40 less
than above. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Unofficial uschess.org
ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with
magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young
Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young
Adult $25, Scholastic $17. Re-entry $50; not available in Premier. GMs $100
from prize. 3-day schedule:Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10
& 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 &
3:30. Bye: all, limit 2; Premier must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3.
HR: $115-115, 609-987-1234 or use link at chesstour.com, reserve by 10/11
or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633.
Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803.
Questions: chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. $15 service
charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries
posted instantly). Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied. Blitz tour-
nament Sat. 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm.
A Heritage Event!
OCT. 28, MASSACHUSETTS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)
85TH GREATER BOSTON OPEN
4SS, G/60 d5. Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel, 181 Boston Post Road West,
Marlboro, MA (I-495, exit 24B, Rt. 20W, one mile from exit). 508- 460-0700 or
888-543-9500. $$ 2,500 b/110 paid entries (U1200 counts 75%), $2,000 min-
imum (80% of each prize). 6 sects. Open Section: $400-200, top U2300 $200.
Under 2100 Section: $300-150. Under 1900 Section: $275-125. Under 1700
Section: $225-100. Under 1500 Section: $200-100. Under 1200 Sec-
tion:$150-75, trophies to top 3, top Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600,
Unrated. All: Unrated can play in any sect. but can’t win more than $75 in
U1200, $100 in U1500, $125 in U1700, $150 in U1900, $200 in U2100. Unpub-
lished uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. EF: $39 if mailed
by 10/23 or online by 10/26, $50 at site. GMs and IMs free. $10 discount for
U1200 sect. MACA memb. req’d for Mass. residents ($12 adult, $6 junior
U18). Reg.:8:30 to 9:30 am. Rds.: 10 am, 1 pm, 3:30 pm, 6 pm. Bye: all, limit
1, must commit before round 2. No half point byes for players receiving full
point byes. Ent: payable to MACA and mail to Robert Messenger, 4 Hamlett
Dr., Apt. 12, Nashua, NH 03062, or enter online at www.MassChess.org. Info:
email to info@masschess.org or phone 603-891-2484. Day of the tournament
phone 603-557-1732. Please bring chess set and clock. W.

22nd annual Eastern Chess Congress

October 26-28 or 27-28, 2018 - 6 sections, Hyatt Regency Princeton
$20,000 GUARANTEED PRIZES
5 rounds, Hyatt Regency, Mixed doubles: best 3-day schedule: Reg. to Fri
102 Carnegie Center, Princeton male/female 2-player team (average 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 am &
NJ 08540 40/100, SD/30, d10 under 2200) combined score: $800- 5 pm, Sun. 10 am & 3:30 pm.
(2-day option, rds 1-2 G/60, d10, 400-200. May play in different 2-day: Reg to Sat 10 am, rds
merges with 3-day after rd 2). sections; register by 2 pm Oct 27. Sat 11, 2 & 5; Sun 10 & 3:30.
Free parking, free wireless & use 1/2 pt bye OK all (limit 2),
of fitness center. Top 5 sections entry fee: Premier must commit by rd 2,
$123 at chessaction.com by 10/24, other by rd 3.
Premier (1900/up): $2000- 3-day $128, 2-day $127 mailed by Bring set, board, & clock if
1000-500-300, clear or tiebreak 10/17, $140 (no checks, credit possible- none supplied.
1st $100 bonus, top Under 2300 cards OK) at site, or online until 2 Re-entry (no Premier): $50.
$800-400. FIDE rated, 120 GPP. hours before round 1.
U2100: $1500-800-400-300. Under 1250 Section fee: all Hotel rates: $115-115, 609-
U1900: $1500-800-400-300. $40 less than top 5 sections. 987-1234 or use link at chesstour.
U1700: $1400-700-400-300. Unofficial uschess.org ratings com, reserve by 10/11.
U1500: $1300-700-400-300. usually used if otherwise unrated. Entry: chessaction.com or
U1250: $1000-500-300-200. Special USCF dues online with Continental Chess, Box 8482,
entry: Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Pelham NY 10803. $15 service
Unrated prize limits: U1250 Scholastic $15. Mail or site: Adult charge for refunds. Entries
$100, U1500 $200, U1700 $300, $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic posted at chessaction.com (click
U1900 $500. $17. USCF membership required. “entry list” after entering).

60 September 2018 | Chess Life


US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
NOV. 2-4 OR 3-4, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 (ENHANCED)
13TH ANNUAL LOS ANGELES OPEN
5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Airtel Plaza Hotel,
7277 Valjean Ave., Van Nuys, CA 91406. Parking $8/day, $12 including overnight.
Flyaway bus from LAX to Van Nuys about $10 each way; free shuttle to bus and
train station. Free wireless, gym, indoor pool, hot tubs; restaurants within
walking distance. $15,000 guaranteed prizes. 6 sections. Major: Open to
1800/up. $1500-700-500-300, clear or tiebreak winner $100 bonus, top U2250
$600-300. Under 2050: $1200-600-300- 200. Under 1850: $1200-600-300-200.
Under 1650: $1000-500-300-200. Under 1450: $1000-500-300-200. Under
1200: $800-400-200-100. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if oth-
erwise unrated. Unrated prize limits: U1200 $100, U1450 $200, U1650 $300,
or U1850 $500. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player
team combined score among all sections: $600-300. Team must average under
2200; may play in different sections; register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 11/3. Top
5 sections EF: $108 online at chessaction.com by 10/31, 3-day $113, 2-day
$112 mailed by 10/24, $120 online until 2 hours before round 1 or at site.
Under 1200 EF: all $40 less than top 5 sections EF. GMs free; $100 deducted
from prize. No checks at site; credit cards OK. Online EF $5 less to SCCF
members; join/renew at scchess.com. All: Special 1 yr USCF dues with magazine
if paid with entry: Online at chessaction. com. Adult $35, Young Adult $22,
Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25,
Scholastic $17. Re-entry (except Major) $60. 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 6
pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 10 am,
rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Byes: OK all rds, limit 2; Major must commit
before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $109-109, 818-997-7676, reserve by 10/19
or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633.
Questions: chesstour.com, Director@Chess.US, 347-201-2269. Ent: chessaction.
com or Continental Chess, PO Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge
for refunds. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly).
Blitz tournament Saturday 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
NOV. 2-4 OR 3-4, CONNECTICUT
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED)
4TH ANNUAL STAMFORD OPEN
5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Sheraton Hotel,
700 Main St., Stamford, CT 06901. Parking $10. $9000 guaranteed prizes.
In 5 sections. Major (1800/up): $1000-600-400, top Under 2210 $400-200.
Under 2010: $800-400-200, top U1810 $300-150. Under 1710: $700-400-
200, top U1510 $300-150. Under 1410: $600-400-200, top U1210 $200-100.
Under 1110: $400-200-100, plaques to first 3, top Under 900, Under 700,
Unrated. Unrated prize limits: U1110 $100, U1410 $200, U1710 $300. Mixed
doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player team combined score
among all sections: $400-200. Must average under 2200; may play in different
sections; must register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 11/3. Top 4 sections EF: $88
online at chessaction.com by 10/31, 3-day $93, 2-day $92 if check mailed by
10/24, $100 at site, or online until 2 hours before round 1. Under 1110
Section EF: All $30 less than above. No checks at site, credit cards OK.
27th annual KINGS ISLAND OPEN
EMBASSY SUITES CINCINNATI NORTHEAST, Blue Ash, Ohio
5-round Swiss, November 9-11 or 10-11, 2018
PRIZES $30,000 PROJECTED, $24,000 MINIMUM GUARANTEED
5 rounds, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day
option, rds 1-2 G/60 d10), Embassy Suites
Cincinnati Northeast, 4554 Lake Forest
Drive (1 mile from I-71 Exit 15), Blue Ash,
Ohio 45242. Free parking.
Prizes $30,000 based on 350 paid
entries (re-entries, GMs & U1000 count
50%), else proportional; minimum 80%
each prize guaranteed.
In 7 sections:
Major: Open to 1800/up. Prizes $3000-
1500-700-500-300, clear/tiebreak 1st
bonus $100, Under 2300 $1600-800.
FIDE, 150 GPP (enhanced).
U2100: $2000-1000-500-400-300.
U1900: $2000-1000-500-400-300.
U1700: $1800-900-500-300-200.
U1500: $1500-800-400-300-200.
U1250: $1200-600-400-300-200.
U1000: $800-400-250-150-100.
Unrated prize limits: U1000 $100,
U1250 $200, U1500 $300, U1700 $400,
U1900 $600.
See previous issue for TLAs appearing September 1-14
GMs free, $80 deducted from prize. Online EF $3 less to CSCA members. Re-
entry $40; not available in Major Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually
used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid
with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic
$15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. 3-day
schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day
schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Bye: all,
limit 2; must commit before rd. 2. HR: $105-105, 800-408-7640, 203-358-
8400; reserve by 10/19 or rate may increase. Ent: chessaction.com or
Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Refunds, $15 service charge.
Questions: DirectorAtChess.us, www.chesstour.com, 347-201-2269. Advance
entries posted at chessaction.com (click “entry list” after entering). Blitz
tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
NOV. 9-11 OR 10-11, FLORIDA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30
17TH ANNUAL TURKEY BOWL
5SS, Open section (FIDE-rated) G/90+30 sec. incr., All other sections
but U1100 G/120 d5, U1100 section G/90 d5 (2-day Option all sections Rd.
1 G/60 d5). Embassy Suites, 4350 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410.
$$10,000 b/200 paid entries, 65% min. Gtd. Open: $1000/Turkey Bowl-700-
500, U2300/Unr. $400-300. U2100: $800/Trophy-500-400, U1950 $300-250,
U1850 $150. U1750: $800/Trophy-500-400, U1650 $300-250. U1450:$800/Tro-
phy-500-400, U1350/Unr. $300-250. U1100: Trophies for 1st to 3rd, 1st U900,
1st U700, Medals to all others. Top Senior Prize (among all cash prize
sections, must be at least 55 on November 9) $200. Unr. may enter Open,
U1450 or U1100 only. Unr. only eligible for Unr. Prizes in Open & U1450. EF:
All but U1100 $89 by November 6, $10 more later, $15 more on-site, GMs &
IMs free ($89 deducted from prize). U1100 section $44 by November 6, $10
more later, $15 more on-site. Re-entry cash prize sections $45. Reg.: Ends
1/2 hr before 1st rd. Rds.: 3-Day 1st Rd. Fri. 7:30; 2-Day 1st Rd. Sat 10; 2nd
Rd. Sat. 1:15; 3rd Rd. all sections but U1100 6:30, 3rd Rd. U1100 5:45; 4th
Rd. Sun. all sections but U1100 9:30, 4th Rd. U1100 10:00; 5th Rd. 2:30. 2
1/2 pt. byes, if req’d before rd. 2. HR: $139 by cut-off date, includes compli-
mentary cooked-to-order breakfast, two-hour beverage reception nightly,
Internet, refrigerator & microwave, free parking. Call 561-622-1000 and
mention group code “ATB”. Each suite also comes with a sleeper sofa. Ent:
Boca Raton Chess Club, 2385 NW Executive Ctr. Dr., Ste. 100, Boca Raton, FL
33431. $10 service charge for refunds. Online entry & add’l info:
www.bocachess.com, 561-302-4377.
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
NOV. 9-11 OR 10-11, OHIO
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED)
27TH ANNUAL KINGS ISLAND OPEN
5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Embassy Suites
Cincinnati NE, 4554 Lake Forest Dr., Blue Ash, OH 45242 (I-71 to Exit 15 or I-
275N to Exit 47). Free parking. $$ 30,000 based on 350 paid entries (GMs,
re-entries & U1000 Section count as half entries); minimum $24,000 (80%
Mixed Doubles bonus prizes: best
male/female 2-player combined score
among all sections: $1000-500-300. Team
must average under 2200; teammates may
play in different sections; must register (no
extra fee) by 2 pm 11/10.
Top 6 sections entry fee: $118
online at chessaction.com by 11/7, 3-day
$123, 2-day $122 mailed by 10/31. $140
at site, or online until 2 hours before round
1. Re-entry $60, not available to go from
Major to Major Section.
Under 1000 Section entry fee: all
$40 less than top 6 sections entry fee.
No checks at site, credit cards OK.
OCA members: Online EF $5 less.
Special 1 year USCF dues with
magazine if paid with entry: at
chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult
$22, Scholastic $15. By mail or at site,
Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic
$17.
USCF membership required.
each prize) guaranteed. 7 sections: Major (1800/up): $3000-1500-700-500-
300, clear/tiebreak 1st $100 bonus, top U2300 $1600-800. FIDE. Under
2100:$2000-1000-500-400-300. Under 1900: $2000-1000-500-400-300. Under
1700: $1800-900-500-300-200. Under 1500: $1500-800-400-300-200. Under
1250: $1200-600-400-300-200. Under 1000: $800-400-250-150-100. Mixed
doubles: best male/female 2-player team combined score among all sections:
$1000-500-300. Must average under 2200; may play in different sections;
register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 11/10; prize limits do not apply to mixed
doubles. Unrated prize limits: U1000 $100, U1250 $200, U1500 $300, U1700
$400, U1900 $600. Balance goes to next player(s) in line. Top 6 sections EF:
$118 online at chessaction.com by 11/7, 3-day $123, 2-day $122 mailed by
10/31, $140 at site or online until 2 hrs before rd. 1. GMs, $100 from prize.
Under 1000 Section EF: all $40 less than above. OCA members: online EF
$5 less.. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry $60; not available in
Major. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special
1 yr USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry- online at chessaction.com,
Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young
Adult $25, Scholastic $17. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm,
Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11,
2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Byes: OK all; limit 2, Major must commit by rd. 2, others
by rd. 3. HR: Suite with king bed & queen couch/bed $107, suite with 2 beds
& queen couch/bed $117, more than 2 in room $10 more each additional.
Free hot breakfast for all room occupants, free wifi. Up to 4 allowed in king
suite, to 6 in larger suite. 513-733-8900, reserve by 11/1 or rate may increase.
Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve through
chesstour.com. Car rental is easiest & cheapest transportation from Cincinnati
Airport. Ent: Chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY
10803. Chesstour.com, Director@Chess.US, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge
for refunds. Entries posted at chessaction.com (click on “entry list” after
entry). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, reg. by 9:15 pm.
NOV. 13, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
MARSHALL MASTERS
4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to players rated 2000+. FIDE Rapid rated. $1,100 GTD:
$400-200; top U2400, U2300, U2200: $150; Biggest upset: $50. EF: $30; Non-
MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd.
1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for Rd. 1 or 4 only;
request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
NOV. 17-18, TENNESSEE
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
59TH MID-SOUTH OPEN
5SS, G/120 d5. Site: IBEW Local 474, 1870 Madison Ave., Memphis, TN 38104.
Three Sections: Open, U1700, and U1000. $1700 Prizes are based on 35
paid entries in top 2 sections. Open: $550, $300, $200. U1700: $350, $200,
$100. Entry Fee: $50 early by Nov 10, $60 late. MCC Members $50 anytime;
Masters: free (EF deducted from winnings). Use PayPal to pay early EF up to
registration time on Saturday! www.memphischess.com/midsouth59.html
3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm,
rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 am & 5 pm, Sun 10
am & 3:30 pm.
2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat. 10
am, rds. Sat 11 am, 2 pm & 5 pm, Sun 10
am & 3:30 pm.
All: Half point byes OK all, limit 2;
Major must commit before rd 2, others
before rd 3. Bring set, board, clock if
possible- none supplied.
Hotel rates: Suite $107 with king bed
& queen couch/bed, $117 with two beds &
queen couch/bed, over 2 in room $10
each, all include free hot breakfast. 513-
733-8900, reserve by 10/31.
Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600,
#D657633, or reserve at chesstour.com.
Entry: chessaction.com or Continental
Chess, PO Box 8482, Pelham NY 10803.
$15 service charge for refunds. Entries
posted at chessaction.com (click on “entry
list” after entering). Blitz tournament Sat
9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm.
www.uschess.org 61
Tournament Life / September
Rounds: 9-2-7; 9-2. U1000 Trophy Section: 4SS, G/45 d5; Saturday only;
Entry Fee: $15. Trophies for top 3 overall, top U800 and top U600. Round 1 at
9am, next rounds ASAP (as soon as possible). On-site Registration: November
17, 2018 - 7:30am-8:45am. Send mail entries to: MCC, P.O. Box 17864,
Memphis, TN 38187. Email: gpylant@gmail.com.
An American Classic!
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
NOV. 22-25 OR 23-25, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED)
54TH ANNUAL AMERICAN OPEN
Costa Mesa. 8 rounds, 40/120, SD/55 d5. (3-day option, rounds 1-4, G/60
d5). Site: Hilton Hotel, 3050 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, CA 92626. Prizes: $25,000
guaranteed. In 6 sections: Open section: $2500-1250-600-400-300-150,
U2450/Unr. $750-350-250, top U2300/Unr. $400-200. FIDE Rated. Under 2200
section: $1500-750-500-250-200-150. FIDE Rated. Under 2000 section: $1500-
750-500-250-200-150. Under 1800 section: $1500-750-500-250-200-150. Under
1600 section: $1500-750-350-250-200-150. Under 1400/Unr: $1000-500-250-
150-100-50, U1200 $500-250-150 (not a separate section; U1200s also eligible
for U1400 prizes), Unrated: $150-100-50 (Unrated players in this section are
eligible for these prizes only). Mixed Doubles: Top 3 best male and female
team $500-250-125. Plus-score bonus for every player who finishes with 4-
1/2 points or better who didn’t place in the money prize wins a $25 gift
certificate towards chess store - redeemable onsite only. EF: $185 by Nov.
10, $15 more after. Onsite $220. Re-entry $100. Membership required USCF
and SCCF. No checks at door – cash or credit card only. Schedule: 4-day
schedule Reg. closes 9:30 am on 11/22, (Rounds 11-6, 10:30-5:30, 10-5,
9:30-4:00). 3-day schedule: Reg. closes 9:30am on 11/23, Rounds. 11-2:30-
5-8pm (G/60 min d5), schedules merge in Rd. 5 and compete for common
prizes. Bye: Two half-point byes may be requested in advance. Lectures and
videos playing throughout the weekend. HR: Reduced rate of $127/day single
or double for our group. Group Code “CHESSP”. Call Hilton (714) 540-7000.
Cutoff is Nov. 1st. Best to reserve through online link in our website. Parking:
>$10 $5 per day. Ratings: November USCF Rating Supplement used. CCA
minimum ratings and TD discretion are used to protect you from improperly
rated players. Info:organizing club - Chess Palace 714-899-3421, play@amer-
icanopen.org. Mail Entry: American Open, 5246 Lampson Ave., Garden Grove,
CA 92845 or Online Entry: www.AmericanOpen.org. W. FIDE.
An American Classic!
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
NOV. 23-25 OR 24-25, PENNSYLVANIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED)
49TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CHESS CONGRESS
6SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-3 G/40 d10). Trophy sections
play separate 2-day schedule only, 11/24-25, G/40 d10. Sheraton Philadelphia
Downtown, 201 N. 17th S., Philadelphia, PA 19103. $35,000 GUARANTEED
PRIZE FUND. In 10 sections. Premier, open to 1900/above. $3000-1500-
700-400-200, clear win or 1st on tiebreak $200, U2400 $1600-800. FIDE.
CONTINENTAL CHESS SCHEDULE
More details at chesstour.com. For late
news, hotel availability, lectures, results,
games, etc, sign up for free CCA Newsletter at
chesscalendar.com or chesstour.com.
Most tournaments have alternate schedules
with less or more days than below.
Asterisk means full details in this issue-
otherwise, see future issues or chesstour.com.
Events in red offer FIDE norm chances.
9/21-23: Hartford Open, Windsor Locks CT*
10/4-8: Washington Congress, Falls Church VA*
10/5-7: Midwest Class, Wheeling IL*
10/13-14: Central New York Open, Syracuse NY*
10/26-28: Eastern Chess Congress, Princeton NJ*
11/2-4: Los Angeles Open, Van Nuys CA*
11/2-4: Stamford Open, Stamford CT*
11/9-11: Kings Island Open, Blue Ash OH*
11/23-25: National Chess Congress, Philadelphia*
12/26-30: North American Open, Las Vegas NV*
12/27-29: Empire City Open, New York NY*
1/4-6: Boston Chess Congress, Boston MA*
1/18-21: Golden State Open, Concird CA
1/18-21: Liberty Bell Open, Philadelphia PA
2/14-18: Southwest Class, Fort Worth TX
2/22-24: Geo Washington Open, Falls Church VA
3/1-3: Western Class, Van Nuys CA
3/9-10: NY State Scholastics, Saratoga Springs
3/22-24: Mid-America Open, Saint Louis MO
4/5-7: Eastern Class Champs, Sturbridge MA
4/17-21: Foxwoods Open, Mashantucket CT
5/17-19: New York State Open, Lake George NY
5/23-27: Chicago Open, Wheeling IL
6/14-16: Continental Class, Falls Church VA
6/27-7/1: Philadelphia International, Phila PA
7/3-7: World Open, Philadelphia PA
7/19-21: Chicago Class, Wheeling IL
7/19-21: Pacific Coast Open, Van Nuys CA
For later events, see chesstour.com.
62 September 2018 | Chess Life
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: $1600-800-400-300-200. Under 1200: $1600-800-400-
300-200. Under 1000: Trophies to top 10. Under 800: Trophies to top 10.
Under 600: Trophies to top 10. Unrated may not win over $200 in U1200,
$400 U1400, $600 U1600, $800 U1800, or $1000 U2000. Mixed doubles
prizes: best male-female 2-player team combined score among all sections:
$2000-1000-600-400. Must average under 2200; may play in different sections;
register (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2, teams including an
unrated limited to $400. Top 7 sections entry fee: $120 online at
chessaction.com by 11/21, 3-day $128, 2-day $127 mailed by 11/14, $150 at
site, or online until 2 hours before rd. 1. GMs $100 from prize. Re-entry $60,
not available in Premier. Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600 entry fee:
$42 online at chessaction.com by 11/21, $47 mailed by 11/14, $60 at site.
All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Special 1 year USCF dues with mag-
azine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult
$22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic
$17. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 11 am, rds. Fri 12 & 6, Sat 12 & 6, Sun 10
& 3:30. 2-day top 7 sections schedule: Reg. ends Sat. 9 am, rds. Sat 10,
12:45, 3:30 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600
schedule: Reg. ends Sat 9 am, rds. 10, 12:45 & 3:30 each day. Half point
byes OK all rounds; limit 3, Premier must commit before rd. 3, others before
rd. 4. HR: $108-108-128, 215-448-2000, reserve by 11/9 or rate may increase.
Parking: Hotel parking chess rate 50% off regular rate (about $20). Gateway
Garage, 1540 Spring St/1540 Vine St (1 block from site), about $7/day Sat &
Sun, $20/day other days. Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633 or
reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental
Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Refunds, $15 service charge. Questions:
chesstour.com, chesstour.info, 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at
chesstour.com (click “entry list” after entering). Blitz tournament Sat 10
pm; enter by 9:45 pm. US Chess Junior Grand Prix for Top 7 sections only.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
DEC. 20-23 OR 21-23, NORTH CAROLINA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED)
2018 CHARLOTTE OPEN
7SS, G/120 d5 (3-day option, rds. 1-2 G/75 d5). Hilton University Place
Charlotte, 8629 JM Keynes Dr., Charlotte, NC. $17,500 guaranteed prize
fund in 5 sections. Championship (1900+): $2400-1200-800, top U2300
$500-300, top U2150 $500. FIDE. Under 2000 $1600-800-400-200. Under
1800 $1600-800-400-200. Under 1600 $1600-800-400-200. Under 1400
$1200-600-300-200, top U1200 $300, top U1000 $200. Unrateds must enter
U1400 and are eligible for place prizes. Must be 1900+ to play Championship.
EF: $145 online at www.charlottechesscenter.org or mailed to CCCSA, 1800
Camden Rd, Ste 108, Charlotte, NC 28203 by 12/13, $165 after or on-site.
GM/IM free, $120 from prize. Re-entry $50, no Champ to Champ. $10 EF
discount if staying at Hilton until room block expires, up to 2 discounts per
room. Hotel: $101, free parking, free wifi, reserve early! 4-day schedule:
Reg Thurs 5-6:15pm, rds Thu 7pm, Fri 12 & 6, Sat 12 & 6, Sun 10 & 3. 3-day:
rds. 1-2 G/75 d5, Reg Fri 8am-9am, rds. Fri 10am, 2pm, then merge. Byes:
Up to 3 half points byes available, commit before round 3. Chess sets
provided, bring clocks. Co-organized by the Charlotte Chess Center and
Carolinas Chess Initiative. Info/reg: www.charlottechesscenter.org,
grant@charlottechesscenter.org.
An American Classic!
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, NEVADA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED)
28TH ANNUAL NORTH AMERICAN OPEN
Open Section, Dec 26-30: 9SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10. GM & IM norms possible.
Other sections, Dec 26-29 or 27-29: 7SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10 (3-day option,
rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Bally’s Casino Resort, 3645 Las Vegas Blvd. S, Las
Vegas, NV 89103. $120,000 guaranteed prizes. In 7 sections. Open: $10000-
5000-2500-1200-1000-800-600-500-400-400, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak
bonus $200, top FIDE Under 2400/Unr $2400-1200. FIDE rated, GM & IM
norms possible. Under 2300: $7000-4000-2000-1200-800-600-500-500-400-
400. Under 2100: $7000-4000-2000-1200-800-600-500-500-400-400. Under
1900: $7000-4000-2000-1200-800-600-500-500-400-400. Under 1700: $6000-
3000-1500-1000-800-600-500-500-400-400. Under 1500: $5000-2500-1300-
1000-700-600-500-400-300-300. Under 1250: $3000-1500-1000-800-600-500-
400-400-300-300, top Under 1000 (no unr) $1000-500. No separate U1000
section; under 1000 in U1250 play for both U1250 and U1000 prizes; receive
larger if winning both. Prize limits: 1) Unrated limit $500 in U1250, $1000
U1500, $1300 U1700, $1600 U1900, $2000 U2100. 2) Under 26 games played
as of Dec 2018 list may not win over $1500 U1250, $3000 U1500 or U1700.
Games rated too late for Dec 2018 list not counted. 3) If post-event rating
posted 12/20/17-12/20/18 was more than 30 points over section maximum,
prize limit $2000. 4) Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line.
Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female combined 2-player team
score: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Only rounds 1-7 of Open Section counted.
Team must average under 2200; may play in different sections; register (no
exta fee) by 3 pm 12/27; prize limits do not apply to doubles. Top 6 sections
EF: Online at chessaction.com: $245 by 9/15, $275 by 12/23. Mailed by 12/15:
5-day $280, 4-day $279, 3-day $278. Do not mail entry after 12/15. Online
12/24 to 2 hours before round 1, or at site 12/26 to 1 hour before round 1:
$300. Open Section EF $100 more to US players if not USCF or FIDE rated
2200/over. Under 1250 Section EF: All $120 less than above. Seniors
65/over in U1500/over: All $120 less than above. Re-entry $120; not available
in Open Section. GM, foreign IM/WGM/WIM in Open Section: Free; minimum
prize $250 if playing all 9 games with no byes; $200 EF deducted from prize
(cannot lower prize to under $250). US IM/WGM, foreign FM/WFM in Open
Section: Entry fees $100 less than above. All: No checks at site, credit cards
OK. Special 1 yr USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online at chess-
action.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or at site,
Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. 5-day reg. ends 12/26 10 am,
rds. 12/26-28 11 & 6, 12/29 10 & 4:30, 12/30 10 am. 4-day reg. ends 12/26
5 pm, rds. 12/26 6 pm, 12/27-28 11 & 6, 12/29 10 & 4:30. 3-day reg. ends
12/27 10 am, rd.s 12/27 11, 2:30 & 6, 12/28 11 & 6, 12/29 10 & 4:30. Bye:
all, limit 4, limit 2 in last 4 rounds; Open must commit before rd. 3, others
before rd. 4. HR: $99-99, 800-833-3308, 702-739-4111, rate may increase or
chess block sell out about 11/15. Free parking if guest room at Ballys. Car
rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #657633. Ratings: December FIDE
used in Open, December official USCF in others. For foreign players in U2300
& below, see www.chesstour.com/foreignratings.htm; highest of multiple
ratings usually used. Players who fail to disclose foreign or FIDE ratings may
be expelled. Special rules: CCA electronic devices rules used; see www.chess-
tour.com/devices.htm. Blitz 12/29 10 pm. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental
Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577 (DirectorAtChess.us, www.chess
tour.com, 347-201-2269). $15 service charge for refunds. Entries posted at
chessaction.com (Click on “entry list” after entry).
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
DEC. 27-29 OR 28-29, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED)
37TH ANNUAL EMPIRE CITY OPEN
6SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-3 G/40 d10). Hotel Pennsylvania,
401 Seventh Ave. (32nd-33rd St, across from Penn Station), New York 10001.
FOOD NOT PURCHASED FROM THE HOTEL IS NOT ALLOWED IN THE HOTEL.
$15,000 guaranteed prize fund. In 6 sections. Major (1800/up): $1500-
800-500-300, clear/tiebreak win $100 bonus, top U2300 $600-300. Under
2100: $1000-500-300-200. Under 1900: $1000-500-300-200. Under 1700:
$1000-500-300-200. Under 1500: $900-500-300-200. Under 1200: $800-500-
300-200. Unrated limits:U1200 $200, U1500 $300, U1700 $400, U1900 $600.
Mixed doubles: best male/female 2-player team combined score among all
sections: $600-400-200. Must average under 2200; may play different sections;
register before both begin rd 2. Top 6 sections EF: $118 online at www.ches-
saction.com by 12/24, 3-day $123, 2-day $122 mailed by 12/17, all $140 at
site, or online until 2 hrs before rd 1. GMs $100 from prize. All: Re-entry $50
(no Major to Major). Online EF $5 less to NYSCA members; $12 NYSCA dues
may be paid with EF. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Unofficial uschess.org
ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with
magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young
Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25,
Scholastic $17. 3-Day Schedule: Reg. ends Thu 10 am. Rds. Thu 11 & 5, Fri
11 & 5, Sat 10 & 3:30. 2-Day Schedule: Reg. ends Fri 9 am. Rds. Fri 10,
12:15, 2:30 & 5, Sat 10 & 3:30. Half point byes available all rounds, limit 2
byes, Major must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 4. HR: Upgraded
Penn 5000 rooms $189-199, regular rooms $169-179, plus required $20/night
facility fee for both, reserve at chesstour.com or call 1-800-223-8585 or 212-
736-5000, reserve by 12/5 or rate may increase. Facility fee includes breakfast,
wireless, use of Ballys Total Fitness next door to hotel. Ent: chessaction.com
or Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions:
chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge for
refunds. Entries posted at chessaction.com (click “entry list” after entering).
Blitz tournament 12/28 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 1-7, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED)
BAY AREA INTERNATIONAL & AMATEUR
Hyatt Regency SFO, 1333 Bayshore Hwy., Burlingame, CA 94010. International
Section (minimum 2000 FIDE or 2200 USCF to play, FIDE Ratings used
for pairings and prizes): 9SS, 40/90, SD/30 +30inc. Prizes: $5000-$3000-
$2000-$1000, U2450 $1000, U2250 $1000. All prizes guaranteed with GM
and IM norms possible! Entry Fees (Based on FIDE Ratings): Free to
GMs, foreign IMs, and 2500+; 2450-2499: $75; 2400- 2449 $125; 2350-2399:
$175; 2300-2349 $225; 2250-2299: $275; 2200- 2249 $325; 2100-2199: $375;
2000-2099 $425; U2000: $500; Unrated: $700; All $50 more after 9/15, $100
more after 11/15. Non-US Federation players who complete all nine rounds
are guaranteed a $100 minimum prize. Schedule: Rds. 1/1, 1/3, 1/5: 6p;
1/3, 1/5: 10a, 1/2, 1/4, 1/6: 2p, 1/7: 10a. For more information, including
advance entries, visit http://sfinternationalchess. com Amateur Sections:
Jan 4-6 or Jan 5-6; 6SS, 40/120, SD/30 d5, 2-Day option: Rds. 1-3 G/61
d5. USCF Ratings used. Four Sections, Total Prizes $8,000 b/120, 60% guar-
anteed! XA (1900-2199 USCF & U2000 FIDE): $1400-$800-$400-$200. AB
(1600-1899): $1100-$600-$300-$100. C (1400-1599): $800-$500-$300-$100.
DE (U1400): $700-$400-$200-$100. Top two sections FIDE Rated. Entry Fee:
$119 by 1/1, $149 onsite, $30 Playup Fee. Reg.: Fri 10-11, Sat 8:30- 9. Sched-
ule: Rds. Fri/Sat: 11a, 5p; Sun: 10a, 3:30p; 2-Day: Sat: 9a, 11:30a, 2p, 5p;
Sun: 10a, 3:30p. 3 & 2-day schedule compete for the same prizes. For more
information visit http://bayareachess.com/ny HR: $109, cutoff 12/10/18.
For entry contact Arun Sharma asharma18@berkeley.edu and Dr. Judit
Sztaray judit@bayareachess.com
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 4-6 OR 5-6, MASSACHUSETTS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED)
7TH ANNUAL BOSTON CHESS CONGRESS
5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Hyatt Boston Harbor,
101 Harborside Dr., Boston, MA 02128. Free parking, free airport shuttle. Prizes
$12,000 based on 220 entries (U1250 & re-entries count 60%), min. guarantee
$8000 (2/3 each prize). 6 sections. Premier (1900/over): $1200-600-400, clear/
tiebreak 1st $100 bonus, top U2300 $500-250. Under 2100: $1000-500-300.
Under 1900: $1000-500-300. Under 1700: $900-500-300. Under 1500: $800-
400-300. Under 1250: $400- 200-150. Unrated limit $100 in U1250, $200 U1500,
$300 U1700. Mixed doubles: best male/female 2-player team combined score
among all sections: $800-400-200. Must average under 2200; may play different
sections; register at site (no extra fee) by 2 pm 1/5. Top 5 sections EF: $87 at
chessaction.com by 1/2, 3-day $93, 2-day $92 if check mailed by 12/24, $100 at
site, or online until 2 hours before rd. 1. GMs $80 from prize. U1250 Section
EF: All $40 less than above. All: OnlineEF $5 less to MACA members; join/renew
at masschess.org. Re-entry $50 (no Premier to Premier). No checks at site,
credit cards OK. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unr.
Special 1 year USCF dues if paid with entry: online at chesstour.com, Adult $35,
Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25,
Scholastic $17. 3-Day Schedule: Reg. Fri to 6 pm. Rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10
& 3:30. 2-Day Schedule: Reg. Sat to 10 am. Rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30.
Half point byes available all rounds, limit 2 byes, Premier must commit before
rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $109-109, link at chesstour.com or 617-568-1234,
request chess rate, reserve by 12/21 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis,
800-331-1600, use AWD #657633. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess,
PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions:
 See previous issue for TLAs appearing September 1-14

chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201- 2269. Entries posted at www.chess-
tour.com (Click “entry list” after entering). Blitz Sat. 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 19-21 OR 20-21, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED)
5TH ANNUAL DREAMING KING OPEN
6-SS, 5 Sections, G/100, +30 (2-day schedule rds. 1 - 3 are G/45 d5). Marriott
San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, 2592 Laning Rd., San Diego, CA 92106
(www.marriott.com/sanal). $$13,000 Guaranteed prize fund. Prizes: Open
Section: $1,800-1,300-900-600-400-200, U2300 $800-500. U2100, U1900,
U1700 Sections, all $800-500-300-200, U1500 Section: $300-200, BU1300
$300-150, BU1100 $100, Book Prize for Best Unr in each section. Plus Best
Game Prize: $50. Jan. official rating list will be used. Fines: $5 for cell phone
violations and possible $25 for forfeits at TD discretion. Reg.: 3-day: 8:30 -
9:30 AM on Sat, 2-day: 8 - 9 AM on Sunday. Rds.: 3 day: 10 AM & 4 PM all 3
days. 2- day: 9:30 AM, 11:30, 1:30 PM & 4:00 PM (merged) on Sunday, then 10
AM & 4 PM on Monday (Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday). EF: $90 if received by
11/30/18 (Early Bird Special), or $100 between 12/01/18 and 1/10/19, $120
after 1/10/19 and $140 late registration at door on 1/19/19. No credit cards
at door, checks or cash only. Special rate of only $75 if U1500 or unrated. GMs,
WGMs, IMs and WIMs all play for free, but $100 deducted from any prize
winnings. Re-entry from 3-day to 2-day: $75, for players rated U2300 only. This
event will NOT be FIDE rated, sorry. SCCF membership req’d ($18 Adult, $13
Jr, or $3 for Jr w/o mag) for all So Cal residents. Two byes allowed, but must
be requested at least 1 hour before rd. and last round byes must be requested
before Rd. 3 & are irrevocable. Jan. rating list used. Ent: SDCC, PO Box 120162,
San Diego, CA 92112 or enter online at www.scchess.com. For more info call
Chuck Ensey at (858) 432-8006, or email me at chucnglo@aol.com. Hotel Rates:
book online or call 619-221-1900, Special rate of $135 if booked by 12/15, but
rates will rise and rooms will sell out at this small hotel so please book early.
d5. Primary (K-3), Elementary (4-6), Open (K-12). EF: $40 before 11/01. Trophies:
K-3, 1st- 6th. 4-6, 1st-10th. K-12, 1st-6th. Rds.: Tentatively 4:00, 4:50, 6:40,
7:30. 1200 and Above Rated Blitz: 4SS, G/3 i7. EF: $20 before 11/01. Trophies:
1st -3rd. Under 1600 1st-3rd. Rds.: TBA starting 9:30 PM. Discount tour passes
available on entry website. All check in times announced via email to coordinate
tours. Cathedral Caverns State Park, 637 Cave Rd., Woodville, AL 35769. Ent &
Info: www.huntsvillecc.com/cavechess2018 Addition Inquiries: huntsville-
cavechess@gmail.com / David Hayes: 256.348.0044
ALASKA
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 28th annual North American
Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
ARIZONA
NOV. 2-4 OR 3-4, 13th annual Los Angeles Open (CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 22-25 OR 23-25, 54th Annual American Open (CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 28th annual North American
Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN
SEPT. 8, Sacramento Kids Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Trophies: players w + score.
Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 29, 44 after 9/4. Info:
10:15, Rounds 2-5 paired and commencing immediately following the preceding
round. Entry includes lunch starting at 1:00 pm. Round 6 at 2:30, Rounds 7-10
paired and commencing immediately following the preceding round. TIME CONTROL:
G/13, no delay (analog clocks only – digital clocks not allowed) SECTIONS: One
Open section. ENTRY FEES: $20 postmarked by 9/10. $30 postmarked after 9/10
and on-site. Entry Fee includes lunch, beverages, and snacks. Players rated over
2400 who complete the playing schedule will have their entry fee refunded plus
and additional $20 for gas. PRIZES: $1000 guaranteed. 1st Place $500, 2nd Place
$200, 3rd Place $100, 1st 2000-2199 $100 (based on OTB rating), 1st 1700-1999
$100 (based on OTB rating). Generous wine prizes donated by the Michael David
Winery will also be available. ADVANCE ENTRIES & INFO: Tournament Director
NTD John McCumiskey. Info: Stewart Katz: stewartkatzpersonal@gmail.com,
(916) 444-5678 or (916) 548-8128. Send entry information including name, date of
birth, USCF ID# and e-mail address plus entry fee check payable to Sacramento
Chess Club and mailed to 6700 50th St., Sacramento, CA 95823-1306. Full flyer
and advance entries: http://sacramentochessclub.org under Weekend Events.
OTHER INFO: Must have a minimum rating of 1700 (quick or OTB) AND be at least
25 years old. Clocks, sets, and boards provided. No Smoking, No Computers,
Wheelchair Access. 9/18 rating list only. E-mail address required for entries.
Modest appearance fees possible for IMs/GMs (contact Stewart Katz).
SEPT. 16, Bay Area San Ramon Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, 18090 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon, CA 94583.
Trophies: players w + score. Sched: 9-9:15a. Games: 9:30a - 1:30p. EF:
34, 42 after 9/11. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
SEPT. 16, Bay Area San Ramon Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, 18090 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon, CA 94583.
Trophies: Players w + score. Sched: Reqrd Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:15-
5p. EF: 29, 44 after 9/11. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
SEPT. 16, Palo Alto LuperSwiss90 (3SS, G/90 d5)
Crowne Plaza Palo Alto, 4290 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306. Prizes:
$1,300 b/50. 60% guar. 1900+: $200-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899:
$200-100, u1600 50-50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Sep 18 Supp & TD

Regional
ALABAMA
OCT. 13, National Chess Day Scholastic - A Charity Event!
5SS, TC: G/30 d5. Brookwood Village. 780 Brookwood Village, Birmingham,
AL 35209. Rated: Rook (K-12), EF: $20. Not Rated: Novice (6th-12th) and
Primary (K-5th): EF: $20, if mailed by OCT 6th. Trophy: 1st-3rd, Medals 4th –
6th. Late REG.: OCT 13th at 8AM; Late Fee: Add $10 more. Rds.: 9-10-11-1-
2. Checks payable to: Caesar Chess. Proceeds goes to Children’s of Alabama.
ENT: Caesar Chess, LLC 5184 Caldwell Mill Road, Suite 204-202, Birmingham,
AL 35244. Info: CaesarChess@gmail.com; www.AlabamaChess.org.
NOV. 3, Second Annual Chess in a Cave Tournament! Make History!
First rated adult blitz tournament (after scholastic tournament) in a natural
cave. All entries include a headlamp. Optional 90 minute cave tour before tour-
nament. Register now as space is limited. Scholastic: Dual Rated 4SS, G/20
http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
SEPT. 15, Bay Area Foster City Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
NEW OFFERING
Foster City Courtyard Marriott, 550 Shell Blvd., 94404. Trophies: players w
+ score. Sched: 9-9:15a. Games: 9:30a - 1:30p. EF: 34, 42 after 9/10. Info:
http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
SEPT. 15, Bay Area Foster City Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) NEW
OFFERING
Foster City Courtyard Marriott, 550 Shell Blvd., 94404. Trophies: Players w
+ score. Sched: Reqrd Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:15-5p. EF: 29, 44 after
9/10. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
SEPT. 15, 2nd Annual Sacramento Outdoor Adult Analog Clock
G/13 Quick Chess Championship with the Sponsorship of
Michael David Winery and the Law Office of Stewart Katz (QC)
ROUNDS: 10. FORMAT: Swiss. RATING: Full-K. SITE: 5024 Keane Dr., Carmichael,
CA. ON-SITE REGISTRATION: 9/15 - 9:30 – 10:00 am. ROUNDS: Round 1 at
disc. Reg.: 8:30-8:45. Rds.: 9-1-4:30. EF: 49, Econ 39 w 1/2 prz. after 8/21+20,
playup +20, GMs/IMs - $0 by 9/2. Info: BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23, GM George Koltanowski Memorial
See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 23, San Jose Kids Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
2050 Concourse Drive #42, San Jose, CA 95131. Trophies: players w +
score. Sched: Reg. 9-9:30a. Games: 9:30a - 1:30p. EF: 34, 49 after 9/18.
Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
SEPT. 23, San Jose Kids Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
2050 Concourse Drive #42, San Jose, CA 95131. Trophies: players w +
score. Sched: Required Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:15-5p. EF: 29, 44 after
9/18. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
SEPT. 30, Bay Area Cupertino Swiss (PK-12; 4Ss, G/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: players w + score.
Sched: 9-9:15a. Games: 9:30a - 1:30p. EF: 34, 42 after 9/25. Info:
http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.

CHECK OUT US CHESS CORRESPONDENCE CHESS RATED EVENTS!

Correspondence Chess Matches (two players)
2018 Open Correspondence Chess Golden Knights Championship TWO OR SIX-GAME OPTIONS. ENTRY FEE: $5.

US CHESS $800 FIRST PRIZE ❑ WIN A CORRESPONDENCE CHESS TROPHY

71st ANNUAL
Four-player, double round-robin with rating-level (0000-1499;
(PLUS TITLE OF US CHESS GOLDEN KNIGHTS CHAMPION AND PLAQUE) 1500-1799; 1800-2000+) pairings. 1st-place winner receives a
trophy.
2ND PLACE $500 • 3RD $300 • 4TH THRU 10TH PLACE $100 EACH • ENTRY FEE: $25 ENTRY FEE: $10.
These US Chess Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all US Chess members who reside on the North American continent, islands,
or Hawaii, as well as those US Chess members with an APO or FPO address. US Chess members who reside outside of the North American con- ❑ VICTOR PALCIAUSKAS PRIZE TOURNAMENTS
Seven-player class-level pairings, one game with each
tinent are welcome to participate in e-mail events. Your US Chess membership must remain current for the duration of the event, and entry fees of six opponents. 1st-place winner receives $130 cash prize
must be paid in U.S. dollars. Those new to US Chess Correspondence Chess, please estimate your strength: Class A: 1800-1999 (very strong); and a certificate signed by Victor Palciauskas.
Class B: 1600-1799 (strong); Class C: 1400-1599 (intermediate); Class D: 1399 and below (beginner level). Note: Prize fund based on 200 ENTRY FEE: $25.
entries and may be decreased proportionately per number of entries assigned.
❑ JOHN W. COLLINS MEMORIAL CLASS TOURNAMENTS
Four-player, double round-robin with rating-level (0000-1499;
1500-1799; 1800-2000+) pairings (unrateds welcome). 1st-place
2018 E-mail Correspondence Chess Electronic Knights Championship winner receives a John W. Collins certificate.
(SEVEN-PLAYER SECTIONS, ONE GAME WITH EACH OF SIX OPPONENTS.) ENTRY FEE: $7.
US CHESS
15th ANNUAL
$800 FIRST PRIZE Email Rated Events (need email access)
(PLUS TITLE OF US CHESS ELECTRONIC KNIGHTS CHAMPION AND PLAQUE)
❑ LIGHTNING MATCH
2ND PLACE $500 • 3RD $300 • 4TH THRU 10TH PLACE $100 EACH • ENTRY FEE: $25 Two players with two or six-game option.
ENTRY FEE: $5.
These US Chess Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all US Chess members with e-mail access. Your US Chess 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 ❑ SWIFT QUADS
year for each player is ten. Note: Prize fund based on 200 entries and may be decreased proportionately per number of entries assigned. Four-player, double round-robin format.
1st-place prize US Chess CC entry credit of $30.
Rating-Levels 0000-1499; 1500-1799; 1800-2000+.
TO ENTER: 800-903-USCF(8723) OR FAX 931-787-1200 OR ONLINE AT WWW.USCHESS.ORG ENTRY FEE: $10.
Name_________________________________________ US CHESS ID#____________________________________
❑ WALTER MUIR E-QUADS (WEBSERVER CHESS)
Address _______________________________________ City___________________ State ___ ZIP _____________ Four-player, double round-robin webserver format tournament
with class-level pairings. 1st-place receives a certificate.
Phone __________________________ E-mail____________________________________ Est. Rating __________
ENTRY FEE: $7.
To pay with credit card please call US Chess.
Please check event(s) selected.
❑ Check here if you do not wish to have an opponent who is incarcerated.
*Note: This may slow down your assignment. NOTE: Except for Lightning Matches, Swift Quads, Walter Muir
E-Quads & Electronic Knights, players will use post office mail,
MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO US CHESS AND MAIL TO: JOAN DUBOIS, US CHESS, PO BOX 3967, CROSSVILLE, TN 38557 unless opponents agree to use e-mail.

www.uschess.org 63
Tournament Life / September
SEPT. 30, Bay Area Cupertino Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: Players w + score.
Sched: Reqrd Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:15-5p. EF: 29, 44 after 9/25. Info:
http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
OCT. 6, Cupertino Luper$wiss90 (3SS, G/90 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Prizes: $1,300 b/50. 60% guar.
1900+: $200-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100, u1600 50-50.
u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Oct 18 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 8:30-8:45. Rds.:
9-1-4:30. EF: 49, Econ 39 w 1/2 prz. after 10/1+20, playup +20, GMs/IMs -
$0 by 9/23. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W.
OCT. 7, San Jose Kids Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
2050 Concourse Drive #42, San Jose, CA 95131. Trophies: players w +
score. Sched: Required Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:15-5p. EF: 29, 44 after
10/3. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
OCT. 7, Palo Alto $uperSwiss60 (4SS, G/60 d5)
Crowne Plaza Palo Alto, 4290 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306. Prizes:
$1,300 b/50. 60% guar. 1900+: $200-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899:
$200-100, u1600 50-50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Oct 18 Supp & TD
disc. Reg.: 8:30-8:45. Rds.: 9-11:30-2-4:30. EF: 49, Econ 39 w 1/2 prz. after
10/2+20, playup +20, GMs/IMs - $0 by 9/24. Info: BayAreaChess.com/grand-
prix. W.
OCT. 13, Weibel Fall Youth Quads #1 - National Chess Day
UNDER 900 G/30 d0, OVER 900 G/45 d5. Weibel Elementary School, 45135 S.
Grimmer, Fremont, CA 94539. AWARDS: Trophy for first place in each Quad
including ties, medals to all others. SCHED: Check-in by 9:30 AM, Under 900
RDS: 10:15, 11:30, 1:00, Over 900 RDS: 10:15, 12:15, 2:15. INFO/REG: www.cal-
northyouthchess.org/Applications/FallQuads18-GP/ CONTACT: Alan Kirshner,
WeibelChess@comcast.net (510) 659-0358.
OCT. 13, Foster City Luper$wiss90 (3SS, G/90 d5)
Foster City Courtyard Marriott, 550 Shell Blvd., 94404. Prizes: $1,300 b/50.
60% guar. 1900+: $200-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100, u1600
50-50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Oct 18 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 8:30-
8:45. Rds.: 9-1-4:30. EF: 49, Econ 39 w 1/2 prz. after 10/8 +20, playup +20,
GMs/IMs- $0 by 9/30. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W.
OCT. 13, Sacramento Luper$wiss (3SS, G/90 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Prizes: $600 b/40. 50% guar.
1700+: $150-100, u1900 50. u1700: $150-100, u1600 50. Oct 18 Supp & TD
disc. Reg.: 8:30-8:45. Rds.: 9-1-4:30. EF: 43, Econ 33 w 1/2 prz. after 10/7 +15,
playup +15, GMs/IMs-$0 by 9/30. Info: BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W.
OCT. 13, Sacramento Kids Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Trophies: players w + score.
Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 29, 44 after 10/9. Info:
http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
OCT. 14, Bay Area Fremont Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
Fremont Marriott, 46100 Landing Pkwy., Fremont, CA 94538. Trophies: players
w + score. Sched: Reg. 9-9:15a. Games: 9:30a - 1:30p. EF: 34, 49 after
10/9. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
OCT. 14, Bay Area Fremont Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Fremont Marriott, 46100 Landing Pkwy., Fremont, CA 94538. Trophies: Players
w + score. Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:15-5p. EF: 29, 44
after 10/9. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
OCT. 14, Fremont Quick$wiss (4xG/45 d5)
Fremont Marriott, 46100 Landing Pkwy., Fremont, CA 94538. Prizes: $1,300
b/50. 60% guar. 1900+: $200-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100,
u1600 50-50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Oct 18 Supp & TD disc. Reg.:
8:30-8:45. Rds.: 9-11-12:45-2:30. EF: 49, Econ 39 w 1/2 prz. after 10/9 +20,
playup +20, GMs/IMs-$0 by 10/1. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/grandprix.
NOV. 2-4 OR 3-4, 13th annual Los Angeles Open (CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 3, Weibel Fall Youth Quads #2
UNDER 900 G/30 d0, OVER 900 G/45 d5. Weibel Elementary School, 45135 S.
Grimmer, Fremont, CA 94539. AWARDS: Trophy for first place in each Quad
including ties, medals to all others. SCHED: Check-in by 9:30 AM, Under 900
RDS: 10:15, 11:30, 1:00, Over 900 RDS: 10:15, 12:15, 2:15. INFO/REG: www.cal-
northyouthchess.org/Applications/FallQuads18-GP/ CONTACT: Alan Kirshner,
WeibelChess@comcast.net (510) 659-0358.
NOV. 22-25 OR 23-25, 54th Annual American Open (CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 1, Weibel Fall Youth Quads #3
UNDER 900 G/30 d0, OVER 900 G/45 d5. Weibel Elementary School, 45135 S.
Grimmer, Fremont, CA 94539. AWARDS: Trophy for first place in each Quad
including ties, medals to all others. SCHED: Check-in by 9:30 AM, Under 900
RDS: 10:15, 11:30, 1:00, Over 900 RDS: 10:15, 12:15, 2:15. INFO/REG: www.cal-
northyouthchess.org/Applications/FallQuads18-GP/ CONTACT: Alan Kirshner,
WeibelChess@comcast.net (510) 659-0358.
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 28th annual North American
Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 27-30, 2018 Pan-American Intercollegiate Team Chess
Championship
See Nationals.
JAN. 1-7, Bay Area International & Amateur
See Grand Prix.
CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN
THE LOS ANGELES CHESS CLUB
The Most Active Club on the West Coast! (310) 795-5710. *
LACC: www.LAChessClub.com; VCC: www.ValleyChess
Club.com; Contact: Mick@LAChessClub.com; Saturday & Sun-
days: 10 am-9 pm (Beginner/Novice & Intermediate classes + 3
Tournaments each day – Details on our web site. Tuesdays:
7:30-9:30 pm (Advance lecture). 11514 Santa Monica Blvd.,
Los Angeles, CA 90025. (4 blocks W of 405, SW corner of
64 September 2018 | Chess Life
Santa Monica & Butler * 2nd Floor – above Javan Restaurant)
Group Classes * Tournaments * Private (1:1) Lessons. Note
our monthly major tournaments. Also, we have the best Weekly
BLITZ tournament on Saturday nights at 6:30 pm!!
SEPT. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30, Every Saturday & Sun-
day Chess 4 Juniors
10 separate events- 5SS, G/30 d0. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd. & Butler, LA,
90025, 2nd fl. 4 blocks West of 405. EF: $30 ($20 LACC memb, No prize 1/2 EF,
siblings 1/2, Free new LACC members). Reg.: 12-1 pm. Rds.: 1pm & asap;
done by 4. FREE BUGHOUSE afterwards; Prizes: Trophies & medals; All players
receive prizes! Parking: Free on streets& BoA. Free healthy refreshments.
Info: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com orMick@LAChessClub.com.
SEPT. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, LACC - Sat Nite Blitzathon G/5 (BLZ)
5 separate events- 7DSS, G/5 d0 (Blitz,14 Games). 11514 Santa Monica
Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blks W of 405. EF: $20 ($15 LACC memb). No prizes
1/2 EF. Reg.: 6-6:30 pm. Register at LAChessClub.com and receive a free
gift. Rds.: 6:30, 6:55, 7:20, 7:45, 8:10, 8:35, 9 pm. Prizes: 1/2 collections.
Parking: Free on streets & BoA. Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.
Use Pirq app for a free tourney.
SEPT. 1, 8, 22, 29, LACC Saturday G/60
3 separate events- 1 open section, 6SS, G/60 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd.,
LA 90025, 2nd fl. EF: $30/ ($20 LACC memb; No prizes 1/2 EF). Reg.: 11-12
noon. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day. Prizes: 1/2 collections. Parking: Free at
BoA, streets, & basement. Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.
Use Pirq app for a free tourney.
SEPT. 2, 9, 23, 30, LACC Sunday G/60
3 separate events- 1 open section, 6SS, G/60 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd.,
LA 90025, 2nd fl. EF: $30/ ($20 LACC memb; No prizes 1/2 EF). Reg.: 11-12
noon. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day. Prizes: 1/2 collections. Parking: Free at
BoA, streets, & basement. Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.
Use Pirq app for a free tourney.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 4, 11, 18, 25, (NEW EVENT) LACC Tuesday Nite Open G/90
1 open section, 4SS, G/90 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl.
EF: $40/ ($20 LACC memb). Reg.: 6 pm of first Tuesday, Rds.: 1 game/Tuesday
@ 6:30 pm. Prizes: 1/2 collections. Parking: Free in basement. Info: 310/795-
5710 or www.LAChessClub.com. Use Pirq app for a free tourney.
SEPT. 15-16, 2018 Botvinnik Memorial
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 13-14, National Chess Day Senior/Junior Open
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 13-14, 2018 National Chess Day Weekender
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 2-4 OR 3-4, 13th annual Los Angeles Open
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 22-25 OR 23-25, 54th Annual American Open
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 28th annual North American
Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 19-21 OR 20-21, 5th Annual Dreaming King Open
See Grand Prix.
COLORADO
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 54th Annual Colorado Springs City Chess
Championship
5SS. TC: G/90+30. Site: Ballroom in the Acacia Apartment Bldg., 104 E.
Platte, Colorado Springs, CO 80903. Open: USCF membership required EF:
$15 (1 game / week); $5 discount for CSCC Supporting Members. Prizes:
Cash prizes TBA. Reg.: About 6:00pm until 6:45pm each week. Rounds:
7:00pm. Ent.: Paul Anderson. Phone: (719) 459-9612 SMS. E-mail:
cschess@juno.com. Players must check-in by 6:45pm each week.
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 28th annual North American
Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
CONNECTICUT
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23, 9th Annual Hartford Open
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 21, 2018 International Celebration of the Mind Day/Greater
New Haven Fall Open!
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 26-28 OR 27-28, 22nd annual Eastern Chess Congress (NJ)
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 2-4 OR 3-4, 4th annual Stamford Open
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 23-25 OR 24-25, 49th annual National Chess Congress (PA)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 27-29 OR 28-29, 37th annual Empire City Open (NY)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 4-6 OR 5-6, 7th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA)
See Grand Prix.
DELAWARE
OCT. 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 10th annual Washington Chess Congress
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 26-28 OR 27-28, 22nd annual Eastern Chess Congress (NJ)
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 23-25 OR 24-25, 49th annual National Chess Congress (PA)
See Grand Prix.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
OCT. 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 10th annual Washington Chess Congress
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 26-28 OR 27-28, 22nd annual Eastern Chess Congress (NJ)
See Grand Prix.
FLORIDA
Boca Raton Chess Club
Friday night tournament games, one game a week for 4 weeks. www.boca
chess.com, 561-302-4377.
The Stormont Kings Chess Center in Miami, FL
We have a beautiful office with multiple rooms located in the Kendall/Falls/
Pinecrest Area. We offer Private and Group Lessons, Homeschool Activities,
Tournaments, Camps, Family Game Nights, Parents Night Out, Casual
Chess Play TSK Rated and more! Chess Sets and equipment for sale. Com-
plimentary Bottled Water, Ample Parking, Comfortable Waiting Room with
legos, and other activities for siblings while waiting. Located at 8353 SW
124 St, Suite 201-A, Miami, FL 33156. Contact Chris Stormont, Phone: 786-
303-2437, E-mail: chris@stormontkingschess.com, Web: www.Stormont
KingsChess.com
SEPT. 21-23, 1st Annual Frederick Douglass Memorial Tournament
See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 28-30 OR 29-30, CFCC Orlando Autumn Open &
Scholastic
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 10th annual Washington Chess Congress
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 1st Gulf Coast After Summer Open
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 13, 2018 Jacksonville - National Chess Day Tournament
MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND HISTORY, 1025 MUSEUM CIR., JACKSONVILLE,
FL 32207. K2, K5, K8 & K12 Prizes: Trophies For Top Five Places In Each
Section; Trophies For Top Three Teams In Each Section; T-Shirts For Each
Participant. 4 Rd SWISS, G/25 d5. Entry Fees: $30.00 (USCF Membership
REQUIRED TO PARTICIPATE) ENTRIES TO: Online Entries to Chess
register.com; After registering, email us with t-shirt size at t-shirt@scholas-
ticchess.org. Entry fee at the MOSH is free for all participants, parents are
required to pay BUGHOUSE TOURNAMENT PRIZES; Trophies For Top Three
Teams; FORMAT; 4 Round BUGHOUSE TOURNAMENT, G/5 d0; ENTRY FEES:
$35.00 PER TEAM; ENTRIES TO: Online Entries to Chessregister.com FOR
MORE INFO: GEORGE JOSEPH FOOTE; EMAIL: george@scholasticchess.org.
OCT. 13, National Chess Day Tournament G/25 Scholastic
(K-12) 5SS, G/25 d5
Hialeah Gardens Senior High School, 11700 Hialeah Gardens Blvd., Hialeah
Gardens, FL 33018. Entry Fees: $20 by 10/5/18 per person, $25 onsite.
Onsite Registration 8:00-8:45 a.m. Rounds: 9:00, 10:20, 11:45, 1:15, 2:30
pm. Prizes: Team & Individual Trophies (Top 3 each section). Medals for all
participants. Mail entries to: Online at www.fsclchess.org or FSCL, P.O. Box
22629, Hialeah, FL 33002. Checks payable to: FSCL. Questions: tejada@
fsclchess.org, evelyne@fsclchess.org or 786 444- 2467. Advanced entries
posted at www.fsclchess.org
NOV. 9-11 OR 10-11, 17th Annual Turkey Bowl
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 20-23 OR 21-23, 2018 Charlotte Open (NC)
See Grand Prix.
GEORGIA
SEPT. 15-16, CCSCATL 1st Birthday Bash—$4000 Guaranteed!
See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 28-30 OR 29-30, CFCC Orlando Autumn Open &
Scholastic (FL)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 10th annual Washington Chess Congress
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 1st Gulf Coast After Summer Open (FL)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 13, Metro Atlanta Chess Partners’ - 3rd Annual National
Chess Day Scholastic Tournament
Perkerson Park, 770 Deckner Ave., SW, Atlanta, GA 30310. Register @
www.macpchess.org; $50 fee. Opening ceremony will begin at 9:30 am. This
will be a 5 round G/30 d5 tournament. 2 rated sections: K-3rd 800 and under,
K-12th 1100 and under ***Must be a member of the United States Chess Fed-
eration (uschess.org)*** Prizes- Individual Cash Prizes & Medals for Top 3
Players in Both Sections, Trophies for Top 3 Teams. *50 player maximum-no
onsite registration*. Coach Thomas Clem, 404-600-2062, www.macpchess.org,
Metro Atlanta Chess Partners, Inc.
NOV. 9-11 OR 10-11, 17th Annual Turkey Bowl (FL)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 20-23 OR 21-23, 2018 Charlotte Open (NC)
See Grand Prix.
 See previous issue for TLAs appearing September 1-14

available in Rd. 1-3 requested before the start of rd. 2. EF: $50 by 9/9, $65 onsite. OCT. 13, Brewer Community School Chess Tourney - National
HAWAII DISCOUNTS: players 13yrs and under $25 by 9/9, $35 onsite, $5 discount to ISCA Chess Day
members.Only 1 discount may be applied. ADV ENTRIES: visit www.indianachess.org Quads: G/60 d5; U-1000, 4 rd/SS, G/45 d5; Unrated K-6, 4 rd/SS G/45 d0.
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 28th annual North American
Open (NV) SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23 OR 1-DAY FOR U800, 2018 Annual EF: $15 by Oct 11, 2018, $20 at the door. Prizes: Quads: $20, rest trophies
Harold Steen Memorial Cup Swiss (MI) for top two. Reg.: 8 am. – 9 am. EF payable to: Steve Wong, 54 Wilson St.,
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix. Brewer, ME 04412. Information: 207-945-3969 or email: wongiestev@aol.com.
Location: Machias Savings Bank, 581 Wilson St., Brewer, ME 04412 (across
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 27th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL)
IDAHO See Grand Prix.
the street from Mardens). No concessions, but many within a two minute
walk. Parking in back, but use front entrance.
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 28th annual North American NOV. 9-11 OR 10-11, 27th annual Kings Island Open (OH) JAN. 4-6 OR 5-6, 7th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA)
Open (NV) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.

ILLINOIS
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23 OR 1-DAY FOR U800, 2018 Annual
Harold Steen Memorial Cup Swiss (MI)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 27th annual Midwest Class Championships
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 13, Springfield National Chess Day Open
4SS, G/60 d5. Douglas United Methodist Church, 501 S. Douglas, Springfield.
Reg.: 9-9:45. Rds.: 10-12:45-3:00-5:15. Lunch break at 12:15. EF: $17 by
10/10, $20 at site, $2 less to SCC members. Prizes: $$400 b/30. 140-80,
1600-1999 60, 1200-1599 50, Under 1200 40, Unrated 30. Ent/Info: David
Long, 401 S. Illinois St., Springfield 62704. 217-726-2584. Information and
directions available at www.springfieldchessclub.com.
NOV. 9-11 OR 10-11, 27th annual Kings Island Open (OH)
See Grand Prix.
INDIANA
SEPT. 8-9, Golden Buckeye Senior & Adult Open (OH)
See Ohio.
SEPT. 15, 2018 IN Quick Championship (QC)
5/SS, G/15 d0. Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Airport, 2501 S. High School Rd.,
Indianapolis, IN 46241. HR Rate: $112, Ph: 317-244-6861. PRIZES: $$650
(b/35) $200, $150, Top U2000, U1700, U1400 $100 ea. EF: $25 by 9/9, $35
onsite until 7:30PM, $5 discount to ISCA members. Rd.1 8PM, following rds.
ASAP. ADV ENTRIES: www.indianachess.org
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 15-16, 2018 IN Class Championship
4/SS, G/120 d5. Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Airport, 2501 S. High School Rd., Indi-
anapolis, IN 46241. HR Rate: $112, Ph: 317-244-6861. PRIZES: $$1,800(b/60)
M/X $200, $125, Top X $175, Class A, B, C, D/Under $200, $125 ea. Classes:
M/X, A, B, C, D/Under, may play up one section. The TD reserves the right to
combine classes and modify prize funds if there are less than 6 players in a section.
REGISTRATION: Sat. 9-9:45am. Rnds.: Sat. 10, 3, Sun. 10, 3, with 1/2pt bye
IOWA MARYLAND
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 27th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL) MARYLAND CHESS TOURNAMENTS
See Grand Prix.
MD Chess runs scholastic tournaments 2 Saturdays per month
from September through June & open tournaments 2 Saturdays
KANSAS or weekends per month throughout the year. Visit www.MD
Chess.org to find tournament announcements, tutors, coaches,
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 27th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL) & camps; register online for tournaments; & subscribe to
See Grand Prix. scholastic and/or open e-newsletters. MD scholastic players
who compete in the Varsity section (exclusively for players
KENTUCKY rated 1600+) of a MD-Sweet-16 Qualifier can qualify for the
$45,000 scholarship to UMBC awarded annually. The Uni-
SEPT. 8-9, Golden Buckeye Senior & Adult Open (OH) versity of Maryland, Baltimore County’s chess team is a
See Ohio. perennial top-10 contender for the national championship.
NOV. 9-11 OR 10-11, 27th annual Kings Island Open (OH) SEPT. 15, UMBC Rated Beginner’s Championship (RBO)
See Grand Prix. 5SS, G/25 d5. UMBC, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore (in Commons, 3rd floor).
Open to U1200/Unr. USCF membership required. Free USCF memb. to anyone
scoring at least 3.5 pts. Certificate to anyone completing 5 rds. Top UMBC
LOUISIANA student awarded trophy & title of 2017-2018 UMBC Amateur Chess Champ.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix! EF: $20 if postmarked by 9/1, $25 later. Reg.: 8:30- 9:30am. Rds.: 10-11:30-
1:30-3-4:30 Sat. 1/2 pt. bye avail. in any rd. if req’d before rd. 1. Held
OCT. 6-7, 2018 Lafayette Open - James Patrick MacManus
concurrently w/UMBC Champ. 9/15-16 (see separate TLA). Ent: Register
Memorial
online at http://mdchess.com (email questions to dewyerj@umbc.edu), or
5SS, G/90 i30. SITE: Best Western Plus, 125 E. Kaliste Saloom Rd., Lafayette,
LA 70508. Free parking. To reserve by phone, call 337-235-1367 and reference
mail to Dr. Alan T. Sherman, Dept. of CSEE, UMBC, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore,
MD 21250, ATTN: Beginners Champ. Cks payable to Maryland Chess Association.
Lafayette Chess Club and Lafayette Open. RR: $70 + tax. REG.: Sat. 8:00-
Dir: Exit 47B off I95 & follow signs to UMBC. Park in Commons Drive garage.
9:15. Rounds: Sat. 9:30am, 2:30pm, 7:30pm. Sun. 9:00, and 2:00pm. Byes:
For more info: ChessClub@umbc.edu, www.umbc.edu/chess. W.
One ½ pt. available if requested before 2nd rd. Prizes: 70% returned. 1st
200; 2nd 150. 3 person in each class or combined. EF: $70. Entry/Info: Checks SEPT. 15-16, UMBC Championship
payable to Lafayette Chess Club. No electronic devices of any kind in Tournament See Grand Prix.
Hall; no mon roi, no Ipad/Ipod Touch. Medically approved hearing aids may OCT. 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 10th annual Washington Chess Congress
be used; bring supporting Medical documentation. Contact: Thomas C. Leblanc, (VA)
337-981-1821, wildwolftcl@att.net See Grand Prix.
OCT. 26-28 OR 27-28, 22nd annual Eastern Chess Congress (NJ)
MAINE See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 15, Saco Quick Chess (QC) NOV. 23-25 OR 24-25, 49th annual National Chess Congress (PA)
See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix.

27th annual Midwest Class Championships

October 5-7 or 6-7, 2018 - Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel
$20,000 GUAR ANTEED P R I ZES, ODD CLASS CUTOFFS
5 rounds, 40/100, SD/30, d10 Mixed doubles bonus prizes: 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6
(2-day option, rds 1-2 G/60, d10). Best male/female 2-player team pm, rounds Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 am & 5
Westin Chicago North Shore combined score among all sections: pm, Sun 10 am & 3:15 pm.
Hotel, 601 N Milwaukee Av, Wheeling $800-400-200. Must average under 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat
IL 60090 (from Chicago, I-294 N to 2200; may play in different sections; 10 am, rds. Sat 11 am, 2 pm & 5 pm;
Milwaukee Ave N; from Milwaukee, I- register by 2 pm 10/6, prize limits do Sun. 10 am & 3:15 pm
94 to Lake Cook Rd to Milwaukee Ave not apply. Half point byes OK all, limit 2,
South.) Free parking. In 7 sections. Top 6 sections entry fee: $113 Premier must commit before rd 2,
online at chessaction.com by 10/3, 3- other sections before rd 3.
Premier (1900/up): $2000-1000- day $118, 2-day $117 mailed by 9/26,
500-300, clear or tiebreak win $100, all $130 (no checks, credit cards OK) All: Bring board, clock, set if
U2300 $800-400. FIDE rated, 120 at site until 1 hour before rd 1, or possible- none supplied. Unofficial web
Grand Prix Points (enhanced). online until 2 hours before. ratings usually used if otherwise
1700-2099: $1400-700-400-200. Under 1100 entry fee: All $50 unrated.
1500-1899: $1400-700-400-200. less than above. Hotel rates: $113-113-113-113,
1300-1699: $1300-700-400-200. Special 1 year USCF dues with 800-937-8461, 847-777-6500, reserve
1100-1499: $1200-600-400-200. magazine if paid with entry: see TLA, by 9/21 or rate may increase.
Under 1300: $1000-500-300-200. chesstour.com or chessaction.com. Entry: www.chessaction.com or
Under 1100: $500-300-200-100, USCF membership required. Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham
plaques to top 3, top Under 900, NY 10803. Refunds, $15 service
Under 700, Under 500, Unrated. Advance entry fee $5 less to charge. Entries posted at
Unrated prize limits: U1100 ICA members; join at il-chess.org. chessaction.com (click on “entry list”
$100, U1300 $200, 1100-1499 $300, Re-entry: $50 (not available to go after entering).
1300-1699 $400, 1500-1899 $600. from Premier to Premier). Blitz Sat 9:30 pm, reg. by 9:15.

www.uschess.org 65
Tournament Life / September
DEC. 20-23 OR 21-23, 2018 Charlotte Open (NC)
See Grand Prix.
MASSACHUSETTS
SEPT. 15-16, 3rd Massachusetts Senior Open
See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 16, WN Fall 2018 RBO
No refreshments available onsite. Bring your own snacks. Map for dining pro-
vided. 5SS, G/30 d5. West Newbury Town Hall Annex, 381 Main St., West
Newbury, MA 01985. Open to under 1200 or unrated. EF: $20 by 9 September,
$28 on site. Prizes: Trophies for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, U900, U600, U300 and top
unrated. Reg.: 8:45-9:15. Rds.: 9:30-10:45-12:45-2:00-3:15. 1 ½ point bye
rounds 1-4, must request by round 3. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49 Technology Dr.
#89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: relyea@operamail.com. www.relyeachess.com.
SEPT. 16, 3rd Boston Elite Chess Tournament
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 19, 26, OCT. 3, 10, Rocco R. Pasquale Memorial
4SS, G/100 d5. Wachusett CC, McKay Complex, Room C159,Fitchburg State
University, 67 Rindge Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420. EF: $20 annual club dues or
$1 per game. Reg.: 6:30-7 p.m. Rds.: 7:15 p.m. each Wed. Byes: 1-3, limit
one. Prizes: chess books to 1st-2nd, top U1850, U1700, U1550, U1400. Info:
George Mirijanian, 176 Oak Hill Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420, miriling2@aol.com,
978-345-5011. Website: www.wachusettchess.org. WEB: 9/19. Free parking,
“Chess Chat” DVDs shown. W.
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23, 9th Annual Hartford Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 6, Westford October Blitz (BLZ)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 6-7, Westford October Open
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 21, 2018 International Celebration of the Mind Day/Greater
New Haven Fall Open! (CT)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 21, 2nd Leaf Blower Open
3SS, G/90 d5. The Alumni House - Amherst College, 75 Churchill St., Amherst,
MA 01002. EF: $30 on-site; WMCA $2 discount; Unrated FREE. USCF membership
required. $$450b/30 paying entries: Open 1st: $100; Top A: $90; Top B:
$80; Top C: $70; Top U1400: $60; Top Unrated; $50. REG.: 8:30-9:15 Sunday
10/21/2018. $25 if postmarked by 10/15/2018. RDS.: 9:30am, 1:30pm, 5:00.
Limit of one 1/2 point bye, specify round with entry. ENT: WMCA c/o Ed
Kostreba, 45 Fairview, Palmer, MA 01069. INFO: Ron Gist (413) 695-7689
RonGist@ComCast.net. Please bring set and clock. W.
OCT. 26-28 OR 27-28, 22nd annual Eastern Chess Congress (NJ)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 28, 85th Greater Boston Open
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 23-25 OR 24-25, 49th annual National Chess Congress (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 4-6 OR 5-6, 7th annual Boston Chess Congress
See Grand Prix.
MICHIGAN
SEPT. 8-9, Golden Buckeye Senior & Adult Open (OH)
See Ohio.
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23 OR 1-DAY FOR U800, 2018 Annual
Harold Steen Memorial Cup Swiss
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 27th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL)
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 9-11 OR 10-11, 27th annual Kings Island Open (OH)
See Grand Prix.
MINNESOTA
SEPT. 21-23, 22-23 OR 22, 4th Golden Gopher Open
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 27th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL)
See Grand Prix.
MISSOURI
Wednesday Monthly Marathon
The Kansas City Chess Club, 2 S. Water St., Liberty, MO 64068. 2 Games Per
Week (8-10 Games Per Month) G/30 d5 7PM Free Parking! Free Coffee and
Snacks! EF: $5 per week. Flyer at: www.kansascitychessclub.com.
SEPT. 15-16, 2018 Missouri Open
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 27th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 13, National Chess Day Blitz Tournament (BLZ)
Hosted by the Springfield Park Board Chess Club. 7-SS, G/10 d0. Southside
Senior Center, 2215 S. Freemont Ave., Springfield, MO 65804. 1 section, Open.
Prizes to top 3 finishers. EF: $5 (or more as donation to benefit the Southside
Senior Center). USCF membership required. On Site Reg.: 9-9:30. Rounds:
10, 10:30, 11:00, 11:30, 12:30, 1:00, 1:30. Byes: One 1/2 point bye available
if requested before round 3. Advance entry and information: brevcamp@
yahoo.com and https://www.facebook.com/Springfield-Park-Board-Chess-
Club-296790461565/
66 September 2018 | Chess Life
OCT. 13-14, Drury University’s National Chess Day Open
Drury University, 900 North Benton Ave., Springfield, MO. 65802. Lay Hall
Room 310. 4SS. G/60 d0. Round times: Sat. 4:30/ Sun. 10:00/12:45/3:00.
EF: $1. Winner takes all and their name will be engraved on the DUCC plaque.
Contact: Adam Whitaker at CleverChess1@gmail.com.
OCT. 20-21, Saint Louis District Championship (FIDE Rated)
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 27-28, 2018 Springfield Open
Co-hosted by the MSU and Joplin Chess Clubs. 5-SS, G/90, +30. Plaster
Student Union Room 308/312, 1110 E. Madison St., Springfield, MO 65897. 1
Section, Open: $160, $125, U1600 $100, U1400 $75, U1200 $50. 5.0 Bonus:
$40. Prizes: b/25 non-scholastic entries. EF: $30 by 10/26, $40 at door.
Scholastic (rating only) $15 by 10/26, $25 at door. Email entry accepted for
lower rate. MCA membership required, OSA. Reg.: 8-9:30. Rounds: Sat 10,
2:30, 7; Sun 10:00, 2:30. Byes: One 1/2 point bye if requested before round
3. Ent: martin.stahl@joplinchess.org with cash on-site or mailed to Joplin
Chess Club, 2609 New Hampshire, Joplin, MO 64804. Checks payable to Martin
Stahl. Parking: See www.missouristate.edu/visitors/parking.htm or contact
TD. Info: joplinchess.org, martin.stahl@joplinchess.org, 417-483-1554 .
NOV. 9-11 OR 10-11, 27th annual Kings Island Open (OH)
See Grand Prix.
MONTANA
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 15-16, Big Sky Country Open - MCA Grand Prix Event
Finlen Hotel, Butte, MT. 5SS, G/105 d5. $$$ based on entries. Details at
www.MontanaChess.org or mca@montanachess.org.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 13-14, Great Falls National Chess Day Chinook Open
5SS, G/105 d5. Holiday Inn, 1100 5th St. South, Great Falls, MT, 406-727-
7200. REG.: 8:00-8:30am Sat. Rds.: 9am, 1:30, 6:30, 8:30, 12:30 or ASAP.
$$$ b/25, $75, $50, $25. Biggest Upset (non-prov) $30. EF: $25 by Oct 12, $5
more at site, Jrs $13. MCA $15, OSA, MCA free to unrated players. Entries:
Jim Skovron, 1312 Camas Dr., Great Falls, MT 59404. Info: skovron5@
hotmail.com, 406-781-7898. Misc: Updates and more info: www.mon-
tanachess.org. Hotel discount available until Sept 28, mention chess. Montana
Grand Prix event.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
NOV. 3-4, Turkey Open - MCA Grand Prix Event
Grant Creek Inn, Missoula, MT. 5SS, G/105 d5. $$$ based on entries. Details
at: www.MontanaChess.org or mca@montanachess.org.
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 28th annual North American
Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
NEBRASKA
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 27th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL)
See Grand Prix.
NEVADA
OCT. 19-21 OR 20-21, 36th Annual Sands Regency Reno -
Western States Open - FIDE - Nevada
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 2-4 OR 3-4, 13th annual Los Angeles Open (CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 22-25 OR 23-25, 54th Annual American Open (CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 28th annual North American Open
See Grand Prix.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23, 9th Annual Hartford Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 29, Twin State G/50 (VT)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 4-6 OR 5-6, 7th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA)
See Grand Prix.
NEW JERSEY
SEPT. 8, ICA Super Saturday Quads
354 Rock Road, Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS,
G/45 d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tournament.
Entry Fee: $25 all sections. Rounds: 1:30 and ASAP. Prize: $60 1st place
(each quad). Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@icanj.net for more
information.
SEPT. 15, ICA Super Saturday Quads
354 Rock Road, Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS,
G/45 d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tournament.
Entry Fee: $25 all sections. Rounds: 1:30 and ASAP. Prize: $60 1st place
(each quad). Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@icanj.net for more
information.
SEPT. 15, Princeton Charter School
TOURNAMENT LOCATION: Princeton Charter School at:100 Bunn Dr., Princeton,
NJ 08540. TIME CONTROL: G/30 d0; Swiss to 4 rounds. SECTIONS: Open above
1000; U1000; U700; U300/Unrated. (sections will be combined. Awards will be
given to the top 3 in each section) Parental Supervision Required: The parents
or another adult must be designated to supervise the student player between
rounds. Schedule (will be accelerated if possible) First Round: 12:01 PM.
Second Round: ASAP. Third Round: ASAP. Fourth Round: ASAP. Award Cer-
emony: ASAP (4:05 the latest). Schedule will be accelerated if possible. (*)
Online Registration $30 Only if register one week before: www.ChessKid-
sNY.com/PCSChessProgram.htm. (*) Fee will increase automatically to
$35 if register later. On site registration the date of the event: $40 from
11:45 am to 12:00 noon. Information: email to Miguel Iniguez at: migini@
gmail.com Results will be posted online the same day of the event!
SEPT. 16, Westfield G/60 Quads
3-RR. G/55 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, $20
members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 11:45 a.m.-12:20
p.m. Those registering after 12:20 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds: 12:30,
2:45, 5:00 p.m. Info: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, www.westfieldchess
club.org/Events.html
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23, 9th Annual Hartford Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 22, 96th Central Jersey Chess Tournament
Princeton Academy, 1128 Great Rd., Princeton. 3 rated sections – Open,
U1000, U600 – each K-12, 4 rounds, G/25 d5. 2 unrated sections – Interme-
diate (K-8), Beginners (K-2): 4 rounds. Trophies to 1st-3rd & top team per
section, medals to all! $35 pre-reg online by 9/20. $45 on-site 1:15-1:45.
Round 1 begins at 2:00pm. Register online: www.njchess.com, Info: Grant
Oen, newjerseychess@gmail.com
SEPT. 22, ICA Super Saturday Quads
354 Rock Road, Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS, G/45
d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tournament. Entry
Fee: $25 all sections. Rounds: 1:30 and ASAP. Prize: $60 1st place (each quad).
Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@icanj.net for more information.
SEPT. 23, Westfield G/45 Quads
3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, $20
members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 11:45 a.m.-12:20
p.m. Those registering after 12:20 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds: 12:30,
2:15, 4:00 p.m. Info: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, www.westfieldchess
club.org/Events.html
SEPT. 29, Hamilton Chess Club Quads
3RR, 40/80 15/30 15/30 d0. Full K. McManimon Hall, 320 Scully Ave., Hamilton
Twp., NJ 08610. Quads open to all. EF: $10. Prizes: $25 per Quad. Reg.: 9-10:30am.
Rds.: 10:30am-1:30pm-4:30pm. OSA. More information: hamiltonchessclub.com
or 609-758-2326 leave message or text 609-351-2437. W.
SEPT. 29, ICA Super Saturday Quads
354 Rock Road, Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS, G/45
d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tournament. Entry
Fee: $25 all sections. Rounds: 1:30 and ASAP. Prize: $60 1st place (each quad).
Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@icanj.net for more information.
SEPT. 30, Westfield G/50 Quads
3-RR. G/45 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, $20
members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 11:45 a.m.-12:20
p.m. Those registering after 12:20 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds: 12:30,
2:25, 4:20 p.m. Info: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, www.westfieldchess
club.org/Events.html
OCT. 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 10th annual Washington Chess Congress
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 6, Princeton Day School
650 The Great Road. Plaques to top 3 school teams under 1000, top 8 in each
section under 1000, and to top 3 in each section over 1000. Medals to all players.
MORNING SECTIONS: 3 rds. G/55 d5, Sections for OVER 1000 rated players
begin at 10:15 and must preregister: NEAR MASTERS (players K-12 OVER 1400),
FUTURE MASTERS (players K-12 1200- 1400), CLOSED (K-12 1000-1200). AFTER-
NOON SECTIONS: 4 rds. G/25 d5, Beginning at 12 noon (round times will be
accelerated if possible): OPEN (Players K-12 U-1000), RESERVE (K-12 U-800),
NOVICE II (K-8 U-600), NOVICE I (unrated K-8), K-1 (unrated), NO SCORE K-1
(novice). Pre-registration online, $35 pay at the door. Info and online registration
at https://www.pds.org/school-life/chess-tournaments On-site 11-12 noon $45.
Inquiries to Bonnie Waitzkin at chessteach2@gmail.com.
OCT. 7, Westfield G/60 Octos
3-SS. G/55 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, $20
members. Prizes per 8-player section: $60-40-20. Register: 11:45 a.m.-
12:20 p.m. Those registering after 12:20 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds:
12:30, 2:45, 5:00 p.m. Info: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, www.westfield-
chessclub.org/Events.html
OCT. 7, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA Open Championship
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 7, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA Championship in 5 Sections
4SS. Bergen Academy, 200 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, NJ 07601. All
players with 2.5 points or more will receive a trophy! USCF Memb Req’d For
Sections 3, 4 AND 5. For info, call 201-797-0330, email chessdirector@icanj.net
or visit icanj.net. ADV EF (pmk by Oct 1st) $35 At Site $40 Reg ends 1/2 hr
before 1st rd. Late entrants will receive a 1/2 pt bye for rd. 1. In 5 Sections:
Section 1 Junior Novice (not USCF rated): Open to unr players K thru 2nd
grade. Rds.: First Round 10:15 AM then ASAP. Section 2 Novice (not USCF
rated): Open to unr players K thru 4th grade. Rds.: First Round 10:00 AM
then ASAP. Section 3 G/45 d5 U800: Open to players rated below 800 and
unrated players K thru 12th grade. Rds.: 9:45 AM, 11:30, 1:15, 3:00 PM.
Section 4 G/45 d5 U1200: Open to players rated below 1200 and unrated
players K thru 12th grade. Rds.: 9:45 AM, 11:30, 1:15, 3:00 PM. Section 5
G/60 d5 U1400: Open to All Ages rated below 1400 or unrated. Rds.: 9:30
AM, 11:45, 2:00, 4:30 PM. ENT: Enter online at https://ica.jumbula.com/#/
ica_tournaments or mail checks to Diana Tulman, 28 Canterbury Ln., New
Milford, NJ 07646. Make checks payable to International Chess Academy. W.
OCT. 7, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA U1600 Championship
4SS, G/60 d5. Bergen Academy, 200 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, NJ 07601.
Open to all ages with rating below 1600. Prize Fund ($$ b/25) 1st - 3rd $200,
$150, $100, TU1400 $50, TU1200 $50, Call 201 797-0330, email chessdirector@
icanj.net or visit icanj.net for more info. ADV EF (pmk by Oct 1st) $40. At Site

$45 Reg ends 1/2 hr before 1st rd. Late entrants will receive a 1/2 pt bye for
rd. 1. Rds.: 9:30 AM, 11:45 AM, 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM. Enter online at
https://ica.jumbula.com/#/ica_tournaments or mail to Diana Tulman, 28
Canterbury Ln., New Milford, NJ 07646. Make checks payable to International
Chess Academy. W.
OCT. 14, Westfield Fall Scholastic
Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. K-12. 3 Sections: Open,
U1250, U750. Open: 3-SS. G/40 d5. Rounds: 12:30, 2:15, 4:00 p.m. U1250 &
U750: 4-SS. G/25 d5. Rounds: 12:30, 1:45, 3:00, 4:15 p.m. Prizes: Trophies
to Top 5 in each section. Tiebreaks used. See USCF Rule 34E. EF: $25, $20
members. Register: 11:45 a.m.-12:20 p.m. Info: westfieldchessclub@
gmail.com, www.westfieldchessclub.org/Events.html
OCT. 21, Westfield G/45 Quads
3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, $20
members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 11:45 a.m.-12:20
p.m. Those registering after 12:20 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds: 12:30,
2:15, 4:00 p.m. Info: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, www.westfieldchess
club.org/Events.html
OCT. 26-28 OR 27-28, 22nd annual Eastern Chess Congress
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 28, Westfield G/50 Quads
3-RR. G/45 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, $20
members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 11:45 a.m.-12:20
p.m. Those registering after 12:20 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds: 12:30,
2:25, 4:20 p.m. Info: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, www.westfieldchess
club.org/Events.html
NOV. 2-4 OR 3-4, 4th annual Stamford Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 4, Westfield G/60 Quads
3-RR. G/55 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, $20
members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 11:45 a.m.-12:20
p.m. Those registering after 12:20 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds: 12:30,
2:45, 5:00 p.m. Info: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, www.westfieldchess
club.org/Events.html
NOV. 11, Westfield G/45 Quads
3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, $20
members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 11:45 a.m.-12:20
p.m. Those registering after 12:20 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds: 12:30,
2:15, 4:00 p.m. Info: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, www.westfieldchess
club.org/Events.html
A State Championship Event!
NOV. 18, New Jersey K-12 Grade Championship
5SS, G/30 d5. Brookdale College, 765 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, NJ 07738.
Student Life Center, use Parking Lot #7 or #6; 4 miles from Garden State
Parkway exit 109. 13 Sections: Play only in your grade! Grades K- 12:
Trophies to top 10 individuals, top 3 teams - top 3 from each school/grade;
50% of players receive trophy or medal!; Rds.: 10am and ASAP. EF: $35 by
11/11, $55 at site. USCF mem req’d. Reg.: 8-9:00am After 9:00am 1/2 pt bye
rd. 1. Info: 732 259-3881 Halsprechman@gmail.com Ent: Please make checks
payable to NJSCF and send to Hal Sprechman, 66 Cromwell Lane, Jackson,
NJ 08527. Entries must include name, grade school, date of birth, USCF ID #
& expiration, mailing address, phone number & entry fee, please include email
address. Register online at: www.njscf.org until midnight 11/16.
NOV. 23-25 OR 24-25, 49th annual National Chess Congress (PA)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 20-23 OR 21-23, 2018 Charlotte Open (NC)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 27-29 OR 28-29, 37th annual Empire City Open (NY)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 4-6 OR 5-6, 7th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA)
See Grand Prix.
NEW MEXICO
NOV. 22-25 OR 23-25, 54th Annual American Open (CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 28th annual North American
Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
NEW YORK
SEPT. 4 (TUES), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 6:10 P.M.-8:10 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 6, 13, 20, 27, OCT. 4, 9th Long Island CC Sept. Open
5SS, G/90 d5. United Methodist Church, 470 East Meadow Ave., East Meadow,
NY 11554. Open to all. $(b/20 pd. ent.): $110-90. Top U-2000, U-1500/unr.
$60 ea. EF(cash only): $35. Non-LICC members +$10. UNRATED FREE! Reg.:
6:45 - 7:15 PM, no adv. ent., Rds.: 7:30 PM ea. Thursday. 2 byes 1-5. Info:
www.lichessclub.com.
SEPT. 7 (FRI), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 7:40 P.M.-9:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
SEPT. 8 (SAT), G/60 d5 Quads: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $50, 3-0 winners win $100. Rds.: 12-12:15 P.M.–4:30 P.M. Limited
to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
See previous issue for TLAs appearing September 1-14
SEPT. 9 (SUN), Rapid 5SS, G/25 d5 Tournament: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$50. Prizes: $200-$100, Under 1800 $50 plus Free Entry. Rds.: 12-2 P.M.-
3:10 P.M.-4:20 P.M.-5:30 P.M. Limited to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840.
Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
SEPT. 11 (TUES), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 6:10 P.M.-8:10 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
SEPT. 14 (FRI), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 7:40 P.M.-9:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
SEPT. 15, Marshall U1900 Morning Action
4-SS, G/25 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1700: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr:
Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.:
Begin at 9am & continue ASAP. Max one bye; request at entry. Register
Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
SEPT. 15, Marshall G/50 Open
4-SS, G/45 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2100: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr:
Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs
Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Register Online:
www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
SEPT. 15 (SAT), G/60 d5 Quads: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $50, 3-0 winners win $100. Rds.: 12-12:15 P.M.–4:30 P.M. Limited
to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
SEPT. 16, Marshall Rated Beginner (RBO)
3-SS, G/25 d5. Only open to players without a rating or rated U1200. ($225
b/25): $150-75. EF: $15; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee:
in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Begin at 9am & continue ASAP. No
byes. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
SEPT. 16, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1600)
4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2000: $75.
U1600: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1400: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional
$25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.:
12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
SEPT. 16 (SUN), Rapid 5SS, G/25 d5 Tournament: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$50. Prizes: $200-$100, Under 1800 $50 plus Free Entry. Rds.: 12-2 P.M.-
3:10 P.M.-4:20 P.M.-5:30 P.M. Limited to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840.
Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
SEPT. 18 (TUES), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 6:10 P.M.-8:10 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
SEPT. 20, Marshall Thursday Action
4-SS, G/25 d5. ($400 b/25): $150-75; U2200, U1900: $75; Biggest upset: $25.
EF: $25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg
hour before Rd 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for
Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchess
club.org/register.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 20, 27, OCT. 4, 11, 18, 25, Marshall Thursday Open
6-SS, G/90 +30. ($600 b/25): $250-150-$75; U1900: $125. EF: $40; Non-
MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd.
1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7pm each Thurs. Max two byes; request by Rd. 4. Register
Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
SEPT. 21, Marshall Quick Chess (QC)
6-SS, G/10 +3. ($250 b/25): $125-75; U1700: $50. EF: $15; Non-MCC Mbr:
Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs
Free. Rds.: 7-7:30-8:00-8:45-9:15-9:45pm. Max two byes; request at entry.
Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
SEPT. 21 (FRI), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 7:40 P.M.-9:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23, 9th Annual Hartford Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 21-23, Marshall Monthly U2400
5-SS, G/90 +30. Open to players rated below 2400 USCF. $1,000 GTD: $500-
200; U2100: $150; U1800: $150. EF: $50; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr
fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Fri. 7pm, Sat. & Sun.
12:30 & 5:30pm. Max two byes; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
SEPT. 22, Marshall G/50 (U1700)
4-SS, G/45 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1500: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr:
Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.:
12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
SEPT. 22 (SAT), G/60 d5 Quads: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $50, 3-0 winners win $100. Rds.: 12-12:15 P.M.–4:30 P.M. Limited
to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
SEPT. 23, Marshall Rated Beginner (RBO)
3-SS, G/25 d5. Only open to players without a rating or rated U1200. ($225
b/25): $150-75. EF: $15; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee:
in-person reg hour before Rd 1.) Rds.: Begin at 9am & continue ASAP. No
byes. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
SEPT. 23 (SUN), Rapid 5SS, G/25 d5 Tournament: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$50. Prizes: $200-$100, Under 1800 $50 plus Free Entry. Rds.: 12-2 P.M.-
3:10 P.M.-4:20 P.M.-5:30 P.M. Limited to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840.
Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
SEPT. 25, Marshall Masters
See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 25 (TUES), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 6:10 P.M.-8:10 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
SEPT. 27, Marshall Thursday Action
4-SS, G/25 d5. ($400 b/25): $150-75; U2200, U1900: $75; Biggest upset: $25.
EF: $25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg
hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for
Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchess
club.org/register.
SEPT. 28, Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz (BLZ)
See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 28 (FRI), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 7:40 P.M.-9:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
SEPT. 28-30 OR 29-30, 1st Annual Brooklyn Classical Chess
Championship
See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 29, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1800)
4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2200: $75.
U1800: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1600: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional
$25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.:
12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
SEPT. 29 (SAT), G/60 d5 Quads: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $50, 3-0 winners win $100. Rds.: 12-12:15 P.M.–4:30 P.M. Limited
to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
SEPT. 30, Marshall Rated Beginner (RBO)
3-SS, G/25 d5. Only open to players without a rating or rated U1200. ($225
b/25): $150-75. EF: $15; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee:
in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Begin at 9am & continue ASAP. No
byes. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
SEPT. 30, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1500)
4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1900: $75.
U1500: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1300: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional
$25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.:
12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
SEPT. 30 (SUN), Rapid 5SS, G/25 d5 Tournament: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$50. Prizes: $200-$100, Under 1800 $50 plus Free Entry. Rds.: 12-2 P.M.-
3:10 P.M.-4:20 P.M.-5:30 P.M. Limited to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840.
Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 2 (TUES), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 6:10 P.M.-8:10 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Community Chess Club of Rochester
Wed Night Chess!
Note: 1 game rated per night, G/80 d5. Rochester Chess Center, 221 Norris
Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. 585-442-2430. EF: $5, CCCR members $3. Reg.:
6:30-7:20 pm. Rd.: 7:30pm. www.rochesterchessclub.org.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, NOV. 7, Marshall Weekly Wednesday
6-SS, G/90 +30. Two Sections: U2000: ($600 b/25) $250-150-100; U1700:
$100. U1400: ($600 b/25) $250-150-100; U1100: $100. EF: $40; Non- MCC
Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.)
Rds.: 7pm each Wed. Max two byes; request by Rd. 4. Register Online:
www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 4, Marshall Guaranteed Action!
4-SS, G/25 d5. $350 GTD: $125-75; U2200, U1900: $75. EF: $15; Non- MCC
Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.)
GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for Rd. 1 or 4 only;
request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 10th annual Washington Chess Congress
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 5 (FRI), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament (BLZ):
7:40 P.M.-9:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 5, 12, 19, 26, NOV. 2, 9, 16, 2018 Queens Chess Club
Championship
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 5-7, Marshall PREMIER
www.uschess.org 67
Tournament Life / September
5-SS, G/90 +30.Two Sections: FIDE: FIDE Rated. Only open to players with
a current published rating 2000+ (USCF or FIDE); NO exceptions. Limited to
34 players. $1,750 GTD: $1,000-500. U2300: $250. EF: $100; Non-MCC Mbr:
Additional $50 Mbr + service fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd.
1.) First 5 GMs Free. U2000: Limited to 40 players. ($1,000 b/40): $500-200;
U1750: $150, U1500: $150. EF: $50; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee.
($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Fri. 7pm, Sat. & Sun.
12:30 & 5:30pm. Max two byes; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 1st Gulf Coast After Summer Open (FL)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 6 (SAT), G/60 d5 Quads: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $50, 3-0 winners win $100. Rds.: 12-12:15 P.M.–4:30 P.M. Limited
to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 6, 13, 20, 27, Rochester Chess Center Saturday
Tournaments!
3-SS, G/60 d5. Rochester CC, 221 Norris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. 585-442-
2430. Prizes based on entries. EF: $15, RCC members $13. $2 less for HS and
Pre-HS. Reg.: 1-1:45 pm. Rds.: 2-4-6. One bye available, request at entry.
www.nychess.org. Also, Youth tournament, G/30 d5, every Saturday morning
10am-1pm, trophies and prizes. EF: $5.
OCT. 7, Marshall Rated Beginner (RBO)
3-SS, G/25 d5. Only open to players without a rating or rated U1200. ($225
b/25): $150-75. EF: $15; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee:
in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Begin at 9am & continue ASAP. No
byes. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 7 (SUN), Rapid 5SS, G/25 d5 Tournament: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$50. Prizes: $200-$100, Under 1800 $50 plus Free Entry. Rds.: 12-2 P.M.-
3:10 P.M.-4:20 P.M.-5:30 P.M. Limited to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840.
Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 8, Marshall Columbus Day Action!
6-SS, G/25 d5. ($525 b/25): $200-100; U2300, U2000, U1700: $75. EF: $30;
Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before
Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 11am-12:15-1:30-3:00-4:15-5:30pm. Max two byes;
request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 8, 15, 22, 29, NOV. 5, 12, Marshall FIDE Monday/U1800
6-SS, G/90 +30. Two Sections: Open: Open to all players 1600+. FIDE Rated.
($600 b/25) $200-150-100; U2000: $100-50. U1800: ($600 b/25) $200-150-100;
U1500: $100-50. EF: $40; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-
person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7pm each Mon. Max two byes;
request by Rd. 4. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 9 (TUES), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 6:10 P.M.-8:10 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 11, Marshall Thursday Action
4-SS, G/25 d5. ($400 b/25): $150-75; U2200, U1900: $75; Biggest upset: $25.
EF: $25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg
hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for
Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/
register.
OCT. 12, Marshall Friday Night Blitz (BLZ)
9-SS, G/3 +2. USCF regular rating used for pairings & prizes. ($500 b/35):
$200-100; U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr:
Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs
Free. Rds.: Begin at 7pm and continue ASAP. Max three byes; request at
entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 12 (FRI), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 7:40 P.M.-9:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 13, Marshall U1900 Morning Action
4-SS, G/25 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1700: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr:
Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.:
Begin at 9am & continue ASAP. Max one bye; request at entry. Register
Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
5th annual
CENTRAL NEW YORK OPEN
October 13-14 at Syracuse University
$2500 GUARANTEED PRIZES
For full details see “Grand Prix” in this issue.
68 September 2018 | Chess Life
OCT. 13, Marshall G/50 Open
4-SS, G/45 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2100: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr:
Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs
Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Register Online:
www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 13 (SAT), G/60 d5 Quads: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $50, 3-0 winners win $100. Rds.: 12-12:15 P.M.–4:30 P.M. Limited
to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 13-14, 5th annual Central New York Open
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 14, Marshall Rated Beginner (3 Rounds) (RBO)
3-SS, G/25 d5. Only open to players without a rating or rated U1200. ($225
b/25): $150-75. EF: $15; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee:
in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Begin at 9am & continue ASAP. No
byes. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 14, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1600)
4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2000: $75.
U1600: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1400: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional
$25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.:
12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 14 (SUN), Rapid 5SS, G/25 d5 Tournament: 12 P.M.-6:30
P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$50. Prizes: $200-$100, Under 1800 $50 plus Free Entry. Rds.: 12-2 P.M.-
3:10 P.M.-4:20 P.M.-5:30 P.M. Limited to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840.
Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 16, Marshall Masters
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 16 (TUES), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 6:10 P.M.-8:10 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 18, Marshall Thursday Action
4-SS, G/25 d5. ($400 b/25): $150-75; U2200, U1900: $75; Biggest upset: $25.
EF: $25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg
hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for
Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/
register.
OCT. 19, Marshall Quick Chess (QC)
6-SS, G/10 +3. ($250 b/25): $125-75; U1700: $50. EF: $15; Non-MCC Mbr:
Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs
Free. Rds.: 7-7:30-8:00-8:45-9:15-9:45pm. Max two byes; request at entry.
Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 19 (FRI), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 7:40 P.M.-9:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 19-21, Marshall Monthly U2400
5-SS, G/90 +30. Open to players rated below 2400 USCF. $1,000 GTD: $500-
200; U2100: $150; U1800: $150. EF: $50; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr
fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Fri. 7pm, Sat. & Sun.
12:30 & 5:30pm. Max two byes; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 20, Marshall G/50 (U1700)
4-SS, G/45 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1500: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr:
Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.:
12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 20 (SAT), G/60 d5 Quads: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $50, 3-0 winners win $100. Rds.: 12-12:15 P.M.–4:30 P.M. Limited
to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 21, 2018 International Celebration of the Mind Day/Greater
New Haven Fall Open! (CT)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 21, Marshall Rated Beginner
3-SS, G/25 d5. Only open to players without a rating or rated U1200. ($225
b/25): $150-75. EF: $15; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee:
in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Begin at 9am & continue ASAP. No
byes. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 21 (SUN), Rapid 5SS, G/25 d5 Tournament: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$50. Prizes: $200-$100, Under 1800 $50 plus Free Entry. Rds.: 12-2 P.M.-
3:10 P.M.-4:20 P.M.-5:30 P.M. Limited to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840.
Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 23 (TUES), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 6:10 P.M.-8:10 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 25, Marshall Thursday Action
4-SS, G/25 d5. ($400 b/25): $150-75; U2200, U1900: $75; Biggest upset: $25.
EF: $25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg
hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for
Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/
register.
OCT. 26, Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz (BLZ)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 26 (FRI), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 7:40 P.M.-9:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 26-28 OR 27-28, 22nd annual Eastern Chess Congress (NJ)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 27, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1800)
4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2200: $75.
U1800: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1600: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional
$25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.:
12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 27 (SAT), G/60 d5 Quads: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $50, 3-0 winners win $100. Rds.: 12-12:15 P.M.–4:30 P.M. Limited
to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 28, Marshall Rated Beginner
3-SS, G/25 d5. Only open to players without a rating or rated U1200. ($225
b/25): $150-75. EF: $15; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee:
in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Begin at 9am & continue ASAP. No
byes. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 28, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1500)
4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1900: $75.
U1500: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1300: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional
$25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.:
12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
OCT. 28 (SUN), Rapid 5SS, G/25 d5 Tournament: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$50. Prizes: $200-$100, Under 1800 $50 plus Free Entry. Rds.: 12-2 P.M.-
3:10 P.M.-4:20 P.M.-5:30 P.M. Limited to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840.
Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
OCT. 30 (TUES), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 6:10 P.M.-8:10 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
NOV. 1, Marshall Guaranteed Action!
4-SS, G/25 d5. $350 GTD: $125-75; U2200, U1900: $75. EF: $15; Non- MCC
Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.)
GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for Rd. 1 or 4 only;
request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
NOV. 1, 8, 15, 29, DEC. 6, 13, Marshall Thursday Open
6-SS, G/90 +30. ($600 b/25): $250-150-$75; U1900: $125. EF: $40; Non-
MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd.
1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7pm each Thurs. Max two byes; request by Rd. 4. Register
Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
NOV. 2 (FRI), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 7:40 P.M.-9:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
NOV. 2-4 OR 3-4, 4th annual Stamford Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
NOV. 2-4, Marshall PREMIER
5-SS, G/90 +30.Two Sections: FIDE: FIDE Rated. Only open to players with
a current published rating 2000+ (USCF or FIDE); NO exceptions. Limited to
34 players. $1,750 GTD: $1,000-500. U2300: $250. EF: $100; Non-MCC Mbr:
Additional $50 Mbr + service fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd.
1.) First 5 GMs Free. U2000: Limited to 40 players. ($1,000 b/40): $500-200;
U1750: $150, U1500: $150. EF: $50; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee.
($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Fri. 7pm, Sat. & Sun.
12:30 & 5:30pm. Max two byes; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
NOV. 3, 2018 Vermont Amateur Championship in Middlebury (VT)
See Vermont.

NOV. 3 (SAT), G/60 d5 Quads: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075.
EF: $40. 1st: $50, 3-0 winners win $100. Rds.: 12-12:15 P.M.–4:30 P.M.
Limited to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@
gmail.com
NOV. 4, Marshall Rated Beginner
3-SS, G/25 d5. Only open to players without a rating or rated U1200. ($225
b/25): $150-75. EF: $15; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee:
in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Begin at 9am & continue ASAP. No
byes. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
NOV. 4 (SUN), Rapid 5SS, G/25 d5 Tournament: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$50. Prizes: $200-$100, Under 1800 $50 plus Free Entry. Rds.: 12-2 P.M.-
3:10 P.M.-4:20 P.M.-5:30 P.M. Limited to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840.
Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
NOV. 6 (TUES), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 6:10 P.M.-8:10 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
NOV. 9, Marshall Friday Night Blitz (BLZ)
9-SS, G/3 +2. USCF regular rating used for pairings & prizes. ($500 b/35):
$200-100; U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr:
Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs
Free. Rds.: Begin at 7pm and continue ASAP. Max three byes; request at
entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
NOV. 9 (FRI), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 7:40 P.M.-9:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
NOV. 9-11 OR 10-11, 17th Annual Turkey Bowl (FL)
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 10, Marshall U1900 Morning Action
4-SS, G/25 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1700: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr:
Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.:
Begin at 9am & continue ASAP. Max one bye; request at entry. Register
Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
NOV. 10, Marshall G/50 Open
4-SS, G/45 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2100: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr:
Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs
Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Register Online:
www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
NOV. 10 (SAT), G/60 d5 Quads: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $50, 3-0 winners win $100. Rds.: 12-12:15 P.M.–4:30 P.M. Limited
to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
NOV. 11, Marshall Rated Beginner (3 Rounds)
3-SS, G/25 d5. Only open to players without a rating or rated U1200.
($225 b/25): $150-75. EF: $15; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee.
($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Begin at 9am & con-
tinue ASAP. No byes. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/
register.
NOV. 11, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1600)
4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2000: $75.
U1600: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1400: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional
$25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.:
12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
NOV. 11, Rapid 5SS, G/25 d5 Tournament: 12 P.M.-6:30 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$50. Prizes: $200-$100, Under 1800 $50 plus Free Entry. Rds.: 12-2 P.M.-
3:10 P.M.-4:20 P.M.-5:30 P.M. Limited to first 50 players. Info: 917-930-8840.
Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
NOV. 13, Marshall Masters
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 13 (TUES), Double Round 4SS, G/5 d0 Blitz Tournament
(BLZ): 6:10 P.M.-8:10 P.M.
Chess Max Academy, 1470 1st Avenue Storefront, New York, NY 10075. EF:
$40. 1st: $100-50, Under 1600 Free book + Free Entry. Limited to first 50
players. Info: 917-930-8840. Email: chessmaxinc@gmail.com
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
NOV. 14, 28, DEC. 5, 12, 19, 26, Marshall Weekly Wednesday
6-SS, G/90 +30. Two Sections: U2000: ($600 b/25) $250-150-100; U1700:
$100. U1400: ($600 b/25) $250-150-100; U1100: $100. EF: $40; Non- MCC
Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.)
Rds.: 7pm each Wed. Max two byes; request by Rd. 4. Register Online:
www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
NOV. 15, Marshall Thursday Action
4-SS, G/25 d5. ($400 b/25): $150-75; U2200, U1900: $75; Biggest upset: $25.
EF: $25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg
hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for
Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/
register.
NOV. 23-25 OR 24-25, 49th annual National Chess Congress (PA)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 20-23 OR 21-23, 2018 Charlotte Open (NC)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 27-29 OR 28-29, 37th annual Empire City Open
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 4-6 OR 5-6, 7th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA)
See Grand Prix.
See previous issue for TLAs appearing September 1-14
NORTH CAROLINA
Marion Monthly (1st, 2nd) Tuesday Free Rated Game Nights Open
2-SS, G/60 d0. Marion Senior Center (next to YMCA), 100 Spaulding Rd.,
Marion, NC 28752. EF: $0, Reg.: 5:15. Rnds: 5:30. Prizes: $0. USCF membership
required. Section/s based on number of entries. Side Event: Match play is
welcome. Info: email dgmyers1234@gmail.com
OCT. 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 10th annual Washington Chess Congress
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 13, Battle of National Chess Day
3SS, G/60 d5. Henderson County Athletics and Activity Center, 708 South
Grove St., Hendersonville, NC. Part of Second Saturday series, September
through April. EF: $5. 80% returned. Rds.: 9:30 - 11:45 - 2:00. INFO: Wayne
Spon, whspon@gmail.com, 301-787-6479.
OCT. 13, National Chess Day 2nd Annual Phoenix Classic
Presented by Mt. Mourne School—1431 Mecklenburg Hwy., Mooresville, NC
28115. 9:00am - 3:00pm. 4SS, G/30 d0 (no delay). Open non-Rated section
and Scholastic (K-12) with two sections: U700 and U1200. Individual Trophies
- Top 3 each section. Entry fees: $12 non-Rated section; $25 Rated sections
(pay cash or check at the door) Email registration info to: mtmournechess@
gmail.com (include preferred section, name, address, & email (USCF rating,
school, and grade for rated section) or if you have any questions. Snacks,
drinks, and pizza will be available to purchase.
DEC. 20-23 OR 21-23, 2018 Charlotte Open
See Grand Prix.
NORTH DAKOTA
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 27th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL)
See Grand Prix.
OHIO
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 8, Toledo September Swiss
Open, 4SS, Rnd. 1 G/75 d5, Rnds. 2-4 G/85 d5. University of Toledo Health
Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Cafe, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo,
OH 43614. Can split into multiple sections if enough players. EF: $20 by 9/6,
$25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $450 b/25, $100-50,
Class prizes TBD based on split. Ent: jagz47@hotmail.com. 7031 Willowyck
Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450.
SEPT. 8, House of Chess Challenge #7
4SS, G/45 d5. House Of Chess, 4954 Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, OH
44070. EF: $30, Sections: Open, U2000, U1600, U1200. Registration: Online
at thehouseofchess.com or 12-1:pm at site. Rds.: 1:00,3:00, 5:00 7:00. Prizes:
$975 b/50. Open: $250, $125. U2000: $150, $75. U1600: $150, $75. U1200
$100, U1000 $50, Sections may be merged if low number in sections. Info:
Contact Lary Rust, 216-926-9502 or info@thehouseofchess.com.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
SEPT. 8-9, Golden Buckeye Senior & Adult Open
Salt Fork State Park Lodge, Cambridge, OH. Ages 18 & up as of 12/31/18. A
relaxed schedule, rustic secluded venue and natural setting make for a mem-
orable weekend! 2 sections: Senior (age 50+), Adult U1700 (18+). 5SS,
G/75 d10. Reg. Sat 9:30-10, Rnds. 10:15-2-6:30 Sun 9:30-1:30. Side blitz
tourney Fri eve. EF: $45 thru 8/27 then $55; OCA members $2 less. Trophy
prizes, 1st place OH resident is 2018 OH Sr Champ! Fellowship of the King
group rate $114/night, 800-ATA-PARK, reserve early! More info:
neilley.com/chess, grant@neilley.com, or 614-314-1102.
SEPT. 15, House of Chess Challenge #8
4SS, G/45 d5. House Of Chess, 4954 Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, OH
44070. EF: $30, Sections: Open, U2000, U1600, U1200. Registration: Online
at thehouseofchess.com or 12-1:pm at site. Rds.: 1:00,3:00, 5:00 7:00. Prizes:
$975 b/50. Open: $250, $125. U2000: $150, $75. U1600: $150, $75. U1200
$100, U1000 $50, Sections may be merged if low number in sections. Info:
Contact Lary Rust, 216-926-9502 or info@thehouseofchess.com.
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23 OR 1-DAY FOR U800, 2018 Annual
Harold Steen Memorial Cup Swiss (MI)
See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 29, Solon Kickoff Classic
4SS, G/30 d5. Mustard Seed Market, 6025 Kruse Dr., Solon, OH 44139. EF:
$30, IMs, GMs free. Sections: Open, U2000, U1500, U1000. Registration:
Online preferred at progresswithchess.org or 9-9:45 at site. Rds.: 10:00,
11:30, 1:00, 2:30, U-1000 ASAP. Prizes: $800 Guaranteed!! Open: $150,
$50, U-2200 $50. U-2000: $100, $50, U1750 $50. U-1500: $100, $50, U1250
$50. U1000: $60, $30, U750 $30, U500 $30. Free healthy box lunch to ALL
players!Contact: Mike Joelson, 216-321-7000, mdjoelson@progresswith-
chess.org
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 27th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL)
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
OCT. 7, NOV. 4, DEC. 2, Columbus Chess League
1 Open Section. 6SS, G/75 d5. 2 rounds/day @ OSU Campus Donatos. EF:
$80/team, 4-board teams + 2 alternates. Trophies top 2 teams, U1700 team
& indl boards. Advance entries only by 9/29. Full details neilley.com/chess,
grant@neilley.com, 614-314-1102.
NOV. 9-11 OR 10-11, 27th annual Kings Island Open
See Grand Prix.
OREGON
NOV. 22-25 OR 23-25, 54th Annual American Open (CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 28th annual North American
Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
PENNSYLVANIA
Chaturanga Chess Club
Trinity Orthodox Presbyterian Church, Hatboro, PA. Visit www.chaturanga
chessclub.org/ or email chaturanga@verizon.net.
MasterMinds Scholastic Summer League
Info at: www.mastermindschess.org.
North Penn Chess Club
Main & Richardson, Lansdale, PA. See www.northpennchessclub.org for
schedules & info or 215-699-8418.
SEPT. 8-9, Golden Buckeye Senior & Adult Open (OH)
See Ohio.
SEPT. 15, 3rd Annual LVCA Ruben Shocron Memorial $1050
Gtd-RBO
See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23 OR 1-DAY FOR U800, 2018 Annual
Harold Steen Memorial Cup Swiss (MI)
See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 23, 2018 PA State Game/60 Championship
See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 30, 59th Annual Pittsburgh Chess League
30/90, SD/60 d5. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow
Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15213. Monthly 4-player team event from Sept. to Apr.
EF: $50/team by 9/27. Rds.: 2pm. Info: 412-908-0286, martinak_tom_m@hot-
mail.com, www.pitt.edu/~schach/. W.
OCT. 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 10th annual Washington Chess Congress
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 1st Gulf Coast After Summer Open (FL)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 6, W. Chester 1st Sat Quads
Our 29th year! 3RR, Game/80 d5. 2nd Presbyterian Church, 114 S. Walnut
St., West Chester, PA. EF: $20; $40, $50 for 3-0. Reg.: 9am. Rds.: 9:40, 1:00,
4:00. Info: WCCC1975@gmail.com
OCT. 13, PA State Championship Scholastics
5SS, G/40 d5. O’Hara Student Center, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 4024 O’Hara St.,
Pittsburgh, PA 15213. 2 Sections, open to grades K-12: Premier: U1100 & unr.
in grades 8-12. Reserve: U700 & unr. in grades K-7. All: Trophies to top 7 in
each section. Teams of 4 to 7 players from both sections: Trophies to top 2
schools & top 2 clubs. EF: $15 by 10/5, $25 later. PSCF req’d, OSA. Reg.: ends
9:30 am. Rds.: 10-11:30-1-2:30-4. Info: martinak_tom_m@hotmail.com, 412-
908-0286. Ent: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223.
OCT. 13, 2nd Annual Free Pizza Party Chess Tournament on
National Chess Day
4-SS, G/30 d5. EF: $25,$35 CASH ONLY after 10/8 AT SITE. $$300 GTD in
Open: 1st-$100, U2000-$100, U1600-$100, U1200 Scholastic: Trophy’s-
U1200-1st, 2nd, 3rd;U900-1st, 2nd, 3rd; 1st-U600, 1st-U400, 1st-UNR. FREE
PIZZA PARTY for every player. Rds.: 1p-2:45-4-5:15p; Reg.: Ends 12:45
pm. Site:College Hill Moravian Church, 72 W Laurel St., Bethlehem, PA 18018.
Entry Payable: Bruce Davis,1208 Linden St., Bethlehem, PA 18018; 484-866-
3045; Email: bdavis@lehighvalleychessclub.org. More Info: www.lehighvalley
chessclub.org/.
OCT. 13-14, 5th annual Central New York Open (NY)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 13-14, 2018 Ira Lee Riddle Memorial PA State Championship
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 13-14, MasterMinds National Chess Day
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 18, Chaturanga Halloween Quick Chess (QC)
3-RR or SS, G/26 d3. Trinity Orthodox Presbyterian Church, 151 W. County
Line Rd., Hatboro 19040. Prizes: Quads: First place $20; Swiss: First place
50% of total EF, second place 25%. EF: Chaturanga CC members $7, non-
members $10. Reg.: 7:20-7:40pm. Rds.: 7:45-8:45-9:45pm. Byes: limit 1, any
round, request last-round bye before Round 2 starts. Ent/Info: Stan Ward,
text (215) 285-2593, stanwc21@gmail.com. W.
OCT. 21, PCL October Quick Quads (QC)
3RR, G/15 d3. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow Blvd.,
Pittsburgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am.
Info: martinak_tom_m@hotmail.com, 412-908-0286. W.
OCT. 26-28 OR 27-28, 22nd annual Eastern Chess Congress (NJ)
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 2-4 OR 3-4, 4th annual Stamford Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 3, 1st Annual NEW HORIZONS LVCA Fall Scholastic RBO
$375 GTD. 5SS, G/30 d5.College Hill Moravian Church, 72 W. Laurel St., Beth-
lehem, PA 18018. Reg.: 10 am, Rds: 11 am, ASAP. 2 Events:1) Open, 2)
U1200; EF: $40 by 10/29, $45 after. Prizes: OPEN $200-1st, + $100-2nd;+Tro-
phys-1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, U14; U1200 $75-1st+Trophys 1st, 2nd, 3rd, U10, U8,
U6, UNR. If Open Tie (Blitzoff).1/2 point byes: limit 2. Info: www.lehighvall-
eychessclub.org, 484-866-3045. Entry payable to: “Bruce Davis”, 1208 Linden
St., Fl. 1, Bethlehem, PA 18018.
NOV. 9-11 OR 10-11, 17th Annual Turkey Bowl (FL)
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 10, Greater Pocono 12th Annual K-12 RBO
5-SS, G/30 d5 EF: $25,$30 after 11/1, 2 Sections,10 Trophy’s, K-12 OPEN-
1st (Blitzoff if tie 1st Open Sect), 2nd, 3rd, Top U1400; K-12 U1000-1st, 2nd,
3rd, Top U800, Top U600, Top Unr; Food Onsite, Rds.: 9:30-10:45-12:30-
www.uschess.org 69
Tournament Life / September
1:45-3. Reg.: 8-9:15 am, Site: Pocono Mountain East High School, 231 Pocono
Mountain School Rd., Swiftwater, PA. Ent: Check payable to: PMECPA, c/o
Crystal Malyszko, 202 Oak Hill Rd., Tannersville,18372, (570) 977-5276. Info:
www.pmechess.com
NOV. 11, PCL November Quick Quads (QC)
3RR, G/15 d3. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow Blvd.,
Pittsburgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am.
Info: martinak_tom_m@hotmail.com, 412-908-0286. W.
NOV. 23-25 OR 24-25, 49th annual National Chess Congress
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 20-23 OR 21-23, 2018 Charlotte Open (NC)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 27-29 OR 28-29, 37th annual Empire City Open (NY)
See Grand Prix.
RHODE ISLAND
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23, 9th Annual Hartford Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 21, 2018 International Celebration of the Mind Day/Greater
New Haven Fall Open! (CT)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 4-6 OR 5-6, 7th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA)
See Grand Prix.
SOUTH CAROLINA
DEC. 20-23 OR 21-23, 2018 Charlotte Open (NC)
See Grand Prix.
SOUTH DAKOTA
SEPT. 15-16, Paul Salem Sioux Falls Open
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 27th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL)
See Grand Prix.
TENNESSEE
SEPT. 15, Oran Quintrell Memorial
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 13, 2018 Cumberland County Fall Open - National Chess Day
Cumberland Co. Community Complex, 1398 Livingston Rd., Crossville, TN
38555. $420 guaranteed prize fund. In 2 Sections, Open: 4SS, G/60 d5, $$:
$75. $30-X,A,B,C,D/Below. Amateur: 4SS, G/60 d5, Open to U1200 & under.
$$: $75. $30-F,G,H/Below,UNR UNR eligible for unrated prize only. ALL: EF:
$15 if mailed by 10/8, $20 later or at site. Memb. Req’d: TCA $10 TN residents
only. ENT: Harry D. Sabine, P. O. Box 381, Crossville, TN 38557. www.cum-
berlandcountychess.org/tournaments. INFO: www.cumberlandcountychess.org
or Harry at 931-261-8440. W.
OCT. 13, 2018 National Chess Day Buffet!
Three Tournaments – Pick one or pick all. Memphis University School, 6191
Park Ave., Memphis, TN 38119. A) Action – G/30 d0, 3RR Quads; B) Blitz –
G/5 d0, 4DS Double Swiss; C) “Cwic” (Quick in Old English) – G/15 d0, 4SS.
Reg.: 9-9:30 am. Action runs from 10am until 1pm. Blitz runs from 1pm until
3pm. Cwic runs from 3pm until 5pm. EF: $15 for any one tournament, $25 for
any two, $30 for all three. Gift cards and assorted prizes for top scorers in
each event. Additional details and Online Entry at www.shelbycountychess.com.
Info: Email Arlene Kleiman at midsouthchess@hotmail.com.
NOV. 9-11 OR 10-11, 27th annual Kings Island Open (OH)
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 17-18, 59th Mid-South Open
See Grand Prix.
TEXAS
SEPT. 15-16, DCC FIDE Open IX
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 13, National Chess Day Houston Scholastic
5SS, G/25 d5 (Advanced Players >1200 4SS, G/45 d5) at Chavez High School,
8501 Howard Dr., Houston, TX 77017. K-12 Scholastic Only. Trophies to positive
scores. Sections based on advance entries received. Sections combined for
School Team Trophies 1st to 3rd. EF: $19 by mail postmarked by 10/9, or $20
by PayPal by 10/11, or $30 at site. Reg.: 8:30- 8:45; Rd. 1 at 9:00, others
ASAP. Information/Entries: James Liptrap, PO Box 12053, Spring, TX 77391,
832-492-7154. Flier: http://chess.jliptrap.us/hca18chav.htm (with link for
entering.) W.
NOV. 2-4, 22nd Annual North/Central Texas Grade Championships
Hilton Houston North, 12400 Greenspoint Dr., Houston, TX 77060. HR:
$95/$95/$95/$95, 281-875-2222 or 866-577-1154. Mention “NTGC” group
code to get rate. Room comes with 2 breakfast coupons. Reserve by Oct 12
or rate may not be honored. Each grade is Open to TX residents or players
attending Texas schools. Note a recent rule change passed where players
cannot play in two separate closed scholastic state championships in different
states. Players must play in their own grade. Note that small sections may be
merged with another section. Also if sections are small you may have to play
a teammate or play someone twice. One 1/2 pt bye available, any round, if
requested before end of rd. 2 and if player has not received a full point bye or
forfeit win. Team pairings may be turn off for later rounds. Trophies to top 10
ind. & top 5 teams (top three players added for team scores, no more than 2
teams per school in each grade.) EF: $35 if postmarked by 10/14/18, $49 if
postmark by 10/27, $63 thereafter or on site. Do not mail after 10/29 as
your entry may not be received on time. Grades 6-12: 6SS, G/60 d5. Schedule:
Reg: Fri 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Rd. 1 Fri. 7:45 pm, Sat 10am-1:00pm-4pm, Sun.
70 September 2018 | Chess Life
10 am and 1:00 pm. Grades K- 5: 6SS, Rds. 1 G/45 d5; Rds. 2-6 G/60 d5.
Schedule: Reg: Fri 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Rd. 1 Fri. 7:45 pm, Sat 10am-1:00pm-
4pm, Sun. 10 am and 1:00 pm. All: Entries to: Dallas Chess Club, c/o Barbara
Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036. Entry must include Name,
USCF ID (or new/pending), grade & school and school location. Incomplete
entries will be charged at site entry fee. No refunds after 11/1. Email:
info@dallaschess.com, 214-632-9000. Do not call after 10/31 as we are trav-
eling. Online registration and team room information on website at
www.dallaschess. com/2018TexasGrade/index.htm Side events: Unrated Blitz
open tournament on Saturday at 7 pm. EF: $15, Trophy prizes. Bughouse
Open Tournament Sat. 8:35 pm. EF: $20/team. Trophy prizes. Registration
for side events onsite only. W.
NOV. 22-25 OR 23-25, 54th Annual American Open (CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 28th annual North American
Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
UTAH
OCT. 13, National Chess Day Scholastic Kickoff
4 games (Swiss), G/30 d5. AISU – 4998 Galleria Dr., Murray, UT. Pre-K through
12th grade, several sections based on grades. Individual and team trophies
and participation prizes. Will use rule variations in the Utah Scholastic Chess
Handbook. Detailed flyer and link to online registration available at utahchess.com
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 28th annual North American
Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
VERMONT
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23, 9th Annual Hartford Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
SEPT. 29, Twin State G/50
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
NOV. 3, 2018 Vermont Amateur Championship in Middlebury
4SS, G/65 d5. Recreation Center, 154 Creek Rd., Middlebury, VT 05753. Three
sections. Under 2110: EF $34 if rec’d by Nov 1 or $39 at site. $$b/14: 200-
130, U1910 125. Under 1710: EF: $29 if rec’d by Nov 1 or $34 at site, except
$21/$25 for unrated player. $$b/14: 150-100, U1510 95. No unrated player
may win more than $60. Under 1410: EF: $24 if rec’d by Nov 1 or $29 at site,
except $16/$20 for unrated player. $$b/14: 100-65, U1210 60, U1010 40. No
unrated player may win more than $40. All sections: Reg.: 8:45-9:35 a.m.,
Rds.: 10-1-4-6:50. H-bye okay except for Rd 4 of Under 2110. Ent: Parker
Montgomery, PO Box 831, Middlebury, VT 05753-0831; vermonty64@
earthlink.net, 802-349-7739.
JAN. 4-6 OR 5-6, 7th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA)
See Grand Prix.
VIRGINIA
OCT. 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 10th annual Washington Chess Congress
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 13, 2018 Shenandoah Valley National Chess Day Open
4SS, G/45 d0. Lord Fairfax Community College - Corron Building (Exit 302 RT
81), 173 Skirmisher Ln., Middletown, VA 22645. Sections: Open, U1500,
U1000, Scholastic K-8 (G/30 d0). Prizes: Open $150 $75 $50 - U1500 $75,
$50, $25 - U1000, Scholastic Awarded Trophies & Medals. Reg.: 8:30 to 9:00.
Round times: 9:15, 11:00, 1:30, then ASAP. Fees: $25 Open, $20 U1500,
U1000, $15 Scholastic before 10/11 via PayPal. Add $5 Site entries. Max 1/2
half bye. Must be announced by Rd. 2. Entries/Contact: www.winchester
chess.com, David Hubbard, winchesterchess@gmail.com, 973-280-7189.
Online reg. at http://events.winchesterchess.com/register
OCT. 20-21, 34th Emporia Open
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 26-28 OR 27-28, 22nd annual Eastern Chess Congress (NJ)
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 23-25 OR 24-25, 49th annual National Chess Congress (PA)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 20-23 OR 21-23, 2018 Charlotte Open (NC)
See Grand Prix.
WASHINGTON
SEPT. 14-16, Washington Women’s Championship
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 22-25 OR 23-25, 54th Annual American Open (CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 28th annual North American
Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
WEST VIRGINIA
SEPT. 8-9, Golden Buckeye Senior & Adult Open (OH)
See Ohio.
OCT. 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 10th annual Washington Chess Congress
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 26-28 OR 27-28, 22nd annual Eastern Chess Congress (NJ)
See Grand Prix.
NOV. 9-11 OR 10-11, 27th annual Kings Island Open (OH)
See Grand Prix.
WISCONSIN
SEPT. 15, 8th Annual BC Open!
4SS. G/60 d5. USCF rated (Dual rated).; to obtain USCF membership, see
www.uschess.org. Country Inn & Suites, 1250 S. Moorland RD., Brookfield,
WI. $$Prizes Non-monetary; Books, DVD’s. 4 Sections, Open, U1800, U1400,
U1000. EF: (All) $20 by 9/13 ($25 at site). $5 more if moving up a section.
Reg.: 8:30-9:30; 1/2 point bye if registered after 9:30; Rds.: 10:00; 1:00;
3:30; 6:00. Mail entries to Benjamin Corcoran. 2711 N. University Dr. #64,
Waukesha, WI 53188. Q&A’s (262)506-4203 and ask for Ben or benzochess@
gmail.com Info: benzochess.com.
SEPT. 21-23 OR 22-23 OR 1-DAY FOR U800, 2018 Annual
Harold Steen Memorial Cup Swiss (MI)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 5-7 OR 6-7, 27th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL)
See Grand Prix.
OCT. 13, Hales Corners Challenge XXVIII - National Chess Day!
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
NOV. 3-4, WCA Veteran’s Tournament
5SS, G/120 d5. Gruenhagen Conference Center, UW-Oshkosh, Corner of High
and Osceola St., Oshkosh, WI 54901. HR: $40 (dorm room) 920-424- 1106. Open
to Age 18 and over. 2019 Nat’l Senior Tournament of Champions qualifier. EF:
$30 by 10/30; $40 at site. $$b/40 and 3 per class: $200-130. A-$95; B-$85; C-
$70; D-$60; E/Unr-$60. Reg.: 11/3 8:45-9:30 A.M. Rds.: 10:15-2:30-7:15;
10:00-3:00. Held in conjunction with the WI Junior Open but in a separate room.
ENT: Mike Nietman, 2 Boca Grande Way, Madison, WI 53719. INFO: Mike
Nietman, 608-467- 8510 (evenings before 11/2) mike.nietman@charter.net.
www.wischess.org. W. Online registration at https://onlineregistration.cc/.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
A State Championship Event!
NOV. 3-4, 2018-2019 Wisconsin Junior Open
Gruenhagen Conference Center, UW-Oshkosh, Corner of High and Osceola St.,
Oshkosh, WI 54901. HR: $40 Full Service, $30 Student Service; (dorm room)
920-424-1106. 2019 Denker/Barber/NGTOC qualifier; Open to youth born after
11/3/1997. In 5 Sections, Open: EF: $17 in advance by 10/30; $22 at site.
Trophies: Top 5, Top 2 each 1600, 1500, 1400, 1300, 1200, 1100 and top 3
Under 1100 and Unrated. Girl’s Junior Open: EF: $17 in advance by 10/30;
$22 at site. Trophies: Top 6. Reserve (U1100 or Unrated): EF: $17 in advance
by 10/30; $22 at site. Trophies: Top 5, Top 2 each 900, 800, 700, 600, 500 and
Under 500 and top 3 Unrated. Non-Rated Beginner’s Grade 7-12: Open to
Grades 7-12. EF: $16 in advance by 10/30; $21 at site. Trophies: Top 5 and top
3 Grade 7-9. Non- Rated Beginner’s Grade K-6: Open to Grades K-6. EF: $16
in advance by 10/30; $21 at site. Trophies: Top 5 and top 3 Grade K-3. ALL:
5SS, G/120 d5. Reg.: 11/3 8:45-9:30 A.M. Rds.: 10:15-2:30-7:15; 10:00-3:00.
ENT: Mike Nietman, 2 Boca Grande Way, Madison, WI 53719. INFO: Mike
Nietman, 608-467-8510 (before 11/2) mike.nietman@charter.net. www.wis-
chess.org. W. Online registration at https://onlineregistration.cc/.
WYOMING
DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 28th annual North American
Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
NO TOURNAMENTS IN
YOUR AREA?
WHY NOT ORGANIZE ONE?
Do you need to go out of town for tournament
play? Would you and others in your area like
the convenience of an occasional event closer
to home? Organize one!
It’s not much work to hold a small tournament,
and there is little risk if you use a low-cost site
and avoid guaranteed prizes. You might even
make a profit! Either a based-on Swiss with pro-
jected 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 joandubois@
uschess.org. We’ll be glad to help you be
part of the promotion of American chess!

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Solutions
PAGE 15 / QUIZ FOR SEPTEMBER
PROBLEM I. 21. Qxg7+! Kxg7 22. Nxf5+ Kg8 23.
Nh6 mate. PROBLEM II. 134. Rd5+! Qxd5 135. Rg5+
or 134. ... Kxd5 135. f8=Q is a bit faster than 134.
Ra6 Qc4 135. Rgg6 and Rge6+. PROBLEM III. 16.
Nxe6! fxe6 17. Bxe4!, Black resigned (17. ... Rxd2
18. Bg6 mate). Also 16. ... Nxd2 17. Ndc7+. PROBLEM
IV. 20. Rc1! Qb8 21. Nc6! Nxc6 22. dxc6 threatening
23. c7 or 23. cxb7. Also 21. ... Bxc6 22. dxc6 Qc7
23. f4! Bh6 24 Qc3. PROBLEM V. 17. Nc7+ and
18. Qd2! followed by 19. Bxe5 20. Rfd1, e.g. 17. ...
Kd8 18. Qd2 Rc5 19. Bxe5 Rxe5 20. Rfd1. PROB-
LEM VI. 15. Rad1! Qxb2 16. Rxd8+ Bxd8 17. Qd1!
wins at least a piece (18. Qxd8 mate or 18. Qxa4).
The game ended with 17. ... Bd7 18. Qxd7 Qxa3?
19. Qe8 mate.
PAGE 49 / ABCs OF CHESS
PROBLEM I. Mating net: It’s mate by 1. ... Qxh2+
2. Kxh2 Rh8 mate. PROBLEM II. Mating net:
Black wins with 1. ... Qxf3+ 2. Kg1 Rg4 mate.
PROBLEM III. Mating net: It’s mate in 3: 1. ...
Ne2+ 2. Kh1 N4g3+ 3. hxg3 Rh8 mate (Anas-
tasia’s mate). PROBLEM IV. Mating net: Mate
results from 1. ... Nb3+. If 2. axb3, then 2. ... Ra5
mate; if 2. Kb1, then 2. ... Rf1 mate. PROBLEM V.
Mating net: Black mates by 1. ... Rh1+ 2. Kxh1
Rh8+ 3. Kg1 Rh1+ 4. Kxh1 Qh8+ 5. Kg1 Qh2
mate. PROBLEM VI. Mating net: Black mates
after 1. ... Ne3+. If 2. Kh2 (2. Kh1 allows 2. ...
Qxh3 mate), then 2. ... Qxh3+ 3. Kxh3 Rh8 mate.
 

Classifieds / Solutions / September
PAGE 51 / PRACTICUM
PROBLEM I. Here’s a classic example of Bobby
killing it in his preteen years. It appears that Black
is on the cusp of consolidating, but a vicious rejoinder
ends his hopes: 44. Bc4!! In one fell swoop, White
traps the rook, threatens Rxf6+, and threatens Bd3.
There is no way to stop all of these threats, so Black
has to give up material. 44. ... Rxe3+ 45. Kxe3, and
after a few more meaningless moves, Baron threw
in the towel. PROBLEM II. Kasparov has just sacri-
ficed a full rook for an attack. He was undoubtedly
expecting 52. Qe2 Rxh3+ 53. Kg2 Rg3+ and 54. ...
d3, but a monster liquidation tactic sent him packing:
52. Rc7+ Kh8 53. Bh6!! Now there is a way to go
into an endgame! 53. ... Rxd3. A sad necessity, since
53. ... Qf6 54. Bg7+ Qxg7 55. Qxf3 offered no succor.
54. Bxf8 Rxh3+ 55. Kg2 Rg3+ 56. Kh2 Rxg1 57.
Bxc5! Accurate to the end. 57. Kxg1 Bxf8 was far
less clear. 57. ... d3, and Black resigned. After 58.
Bb4 it is all over.
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www.uschess.org 71
 PHOTO: AUSTIN FULLER
 
 

GM Robert Hess
U.S. Women’s
Olympiad coach
Chess Life columnist

T
he single best chess decision I ever made was
telling my parents that I wanted GM Miron
Sher to be my coach. Not only is Miron a
phenomenal trainer, but he also is an exceptionally
kind and generous man who was fully dedicated to
my growth as both a player and a person. One of
my earliest memories of working with Miron
involves him explaining to seven-year-old me that
plans—not moves—are the essence of chess. Tactics
undoubtedly can be challenging, but finding a strong
plan in a seemingly docile position is among the
most difficult tasks the game has to offer. There is
an inherent psychological component; you are trying
to outdance your opponent when you might have
the same vision with a different evaluation.
Throughout my career I have had a number of
flashy tactics and important victories, but none of

“ My best move attacks nothing,

them compare to the highlight win of my career.

A SIMPLE PAWN PUSH

GM Hikaru Nakamura (2736) sacrifices nothing, and has no

IM Robert Hess (2588)
11th Annual Foxwoods Open (5),
Mashantucket, Connecticut, 04.10.2009
immediate menancing threat.
The move 25. ... Qc7 didn’t pose the same
challenges for White, who can then swap on
d8 and play Qb4.
26. Bh5+
The continuation 26. Qxa5 Rxd6 27. cxd6
Qxd6 28. Qc3. If anyone is slightly better here,
it’s Black. An extremely tough move to play
is 26. Bc4 as it voluntarily creates an ugly pawn
structure. 26. ... Bxc4 27. bxc4 Qc7 (27. ... e4!?
AFTER 25. c5 28. Qxa5 Rxd6 with chances for both sides.)
28. Qd3 Rxd6 29. cxd6 Qc5 with a draw. A
25. ... a5! perpetual will ensue, as White can’t afford to

 attacks nothing, sacrifices nothing, trade queens.
and has no immediate menacing threat. So why am 26. ... g6 27. Bf3 Qc7
I so fond of this simple pawn push? After parrying Now White is in huge trouble, since the
Hikaru’s aggressive opening, I knew he was still threat is to play ... Rxd6 followed by ... Qb6.
searching for a win. His intention was to play Qb4
and then poke and prod at my queenside. I felt that 28. Rxd8 Qxd8 29. Kc1 Bf5 30. b4?
I could not be any worse, but suddenly I realized I Greedy. White seeks to win material, but
could be the one playing for more. his king is so unsafe.
”
30. g4 Qd3 (30. ... Bd3 should cost White a
pawn to protect his king. For example: 31.
Qa4 Qc7 32. Kd2 Ba6 33. Bd5+ Kf8 34. c6
Qd8 35. Qa3+ Ke8 36. Qc5 b6) 31. gxf5 Qc3+
32. Kb1 Qxf3 is good for Black, but a long
way yet from winning; 30. Qa4 Qd3 31. Qc4+
Qxc4+ 32. bxc4 e4 with an obvious edge for
Black.
30. ... Qd4 31. bxa5 Qxf2 32. Qb3+ Kg7
33. Qxb7+ Kh6 34. Qb2 Qxc5+ 35. Kd1 e4
Not the imprecise 35. ... Qxa5? 36. Qd2+
Qxd2+ 37. Kxd2 when White’s outside passed
pawn should compensate for Black’s two extra
kingside pawns.
36. Be2 e3 37. Ke1 Qxa5+ 38. Kf1 Qc7
39. Qd4 Qc1+ 40. Qd1 Qb2 41. a4 Qb4
42. Kg1 Bd7 43. Qa1 Qf4 44. Qf1 Qxf1+
45. Kxf1 Bxa4 46. Bd3 Bd1 47. Be2 Bc2
48. Bb5 f5 49. g3 g5, White resigned.

72 September 2018 | Chess Life

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