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August on uschess.org

Chess Festival in Indiana

Look for dispatches and
blogs from the 110th U.S.
Open in Indianapolis,
Indiana from August 1-9.
CLO coverage will include
thoughts from Abby
Marshall on the Denker
and highlights from simuls
by U.S. Champion Hikaru
Nakamura and World
Womens Champion
Alexandra Kosteniuk. Also
follow the fight for the five
spots into the 2010 U.S.
Championship, preliminar-
ily scheduled for St. Louis
in spring, 2009.
U.S. Chess School in
St. Louis
The tenth edition of the
U.S. Chess School will
feature the first only all-
girls session, and
participants range from
18-year-old Amanda
Mateer from Arizona to
14-year-old Rochelle
Ballantyne (in the above
photo) of Brooklyn.
Check CLO for reports
and photos.
The Scoop continues
The U.S. Chess Scoop started in June with coverage of major
summer internationals where so many of our young talents
earned norms, including Samuel Shankland, Alex Lenderman
and Lev Milman. Go to Jennifers blog to see all the videos and
look for August Scoops on the U.S. Open and more.
Josh Friedel blogs on
the Continental
GM Josh Friedel's Samford may be over
but his exotic travel dispatches continue.
Keep your eyes open for his report on the
ContinentalChampionships in Sao
Paulo, Brazil (July 25-August 2), where
he and friends will fight it out for six cov-
eted spots into the World Cup (Khanty-
Mansiysk, Russia Nov. 20-Dec. 15).

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uschess.org Chess Life August 2009 3

August Chess Life
Columns

12 LOOKS AT BOOKS
Warrior of the Field
I really came into this
By Nelly Rosario
tournament wanting to
14 CHESS TO ENJOY
Going Ga-Ga over Gagra prove something...
By GM Andy Soltis
HIKARU
16 SOLITAIRE CHESS
First You Must Survive the
Opening
By Bruce Pandolfini

18 WHATS THE BEST MOVE?

9th Far West Open
By GM Larry Evans

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

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

Departments

3 PREVIEW
6 COUNTERPLAY
8 FIRST MOVES
10 USCF HISTORY
19 USCF AFFAIRS
44 TOURNAMENT LIFE
62 CLASSIFIEDS
63 SOLUTIONS

On The Cover
Our two-time U.S. champion has
seemingly grown up on the pages
of Chess Life; we salute that with
pictures from our archives and
one new one from St. Louis.
Cover design by Shirley Szymanek,
dog4design.co.uk; Art direction by
Frankie Butler
20 | COVER STORY
Hikaru!
By Macauley Peterson
Hikaru Nakamura has appeared to be peaking for his second
U.S. championship win much of this past year. Defeating a field
that included the world class Gata Kamsky and holding off a
surprising Robert Hess, Hikaru now joins the ranks of super GMs.
32 | 2009 CHICAGO OPEN 36 | HERE AND THERE
Stone Cold Solid Vive le Variant
By Jonathan Hilton By Lisa Suhay
GM Jaan Ehlvest rebounds from a Raising champions on and
disappointing U.S. championship off the board: Chess takes
performance to take the Chicago to and from the streets.
Open on tiebreaks.

4 Chess Life August 2009 uschess.org

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Counterplay
The hoax is on us?
Because my ten-consecutive-pawn-
move game against John Fashingbauer
has been the center of controversy both
in the U.S. and abroad, I have hereby
made a variety of efforts to highlight the
facts (re: The Hoax is on You, April
Chess to Enjoy).
First, John Fashingbauer was a real
person, whose name appears in the 1950
Milwaukee City Directory. Based on my
age at the time and Mr. Fashingbauers
appearance, he was probably in his 50s
in 1950. In 1950, he worked as a shipping
clerk at the Allen Bradley Co., which has
since been renamed: Rockwell Automa-
tion. I played a second game with Mr.
Fashingbauer, presented in my self-pub-
lished book, Chess Is An Art.
Based on my research, I have con-
cluded that Mr. Fashingbauer is now
deceased. The second game, involving
ten-consecutive-pawn moves in the Wing
Gambit, was presented by expert Averill
Powers, in his regular Sunday chess col-
umn in the Milwaukee Journal, titled The
Game of Kings on May 21, 1950. With-
out consulting me, Mr. Powers
abbreviated the game to ten moves, per-
haps seeking to equal the feat of former
U.S. Champion Frank J. Marshall, claim-
ing that Black resigned on move 10. In
reality, Fashingbauer found a way to keep
the game going, resigning on move 28.
Oddly enough, had the game been
reported accurately, there were eleven
consecutive pawn moves by White, who
played in response to 10. b6 Nxb6, 11.
cxb6 (!).
I have just completed a discussion with
Myron Katz, attorney at law in Milwaukee.
He believes that Averill Powers reported
the game as consisting of ten moves
because he was distracted by the pressure
of having to produce a weekly chess col-
umn, after tying for first place in the
1950 Wisconsin State Chess Tourna-
ment. The column was crowded by news
of Gellers victory over Botvinnik, along
with USCF ranking of local Wisconsin
chess players.
According to Myron Katz, Averill Pow-
ers presented my victory as entertaining
but just another story, of small conse-
quence. Since Mr. Powers published the
Fashingbauer game, the game has been
reprinted many times, including by
national game collections and books
printed in Russia and Europe. Grand-
master Greg Serper, who viewed Chess Is
An Art some years ago, was the first to tell
me that many chess fans regard the game
6 Chess Life August 2009
as a fantasy, because Fashingbauer in
German meant carnival pawn. Serper
accepted my support of the reality of the
game after reviewing my book, which he
thought was a good book for the non-
master.
Myron Katz does not believe that dis-
paraging the game or Averill Powers will
help bolster interest in chess. Averill Pow-
ers is now deceased but leaves behind
many relatives who revere his name. I
have continued to add to chess history,
earning plaudits a few years ago from
former USCF columnist GM Hans Kmoch
for playing the best games of any current
non-chess master.
Myron Katz told me that he is not a seer
who knows why Averill Powers did what
he did, but Myron Katz suspects that
Powers believed that most readers would
find the game entertaining, being aware
that many published games have been
shortened to meet space limitations.
Richard K. Kujoth, Ed.D
via e-mail
GM Andy Soltis responds:
In my April column I wrote, In fact,
both the playersand the moveswere
quite real, according to various American
sources ... Thanks to Mr. Kujoths research
we can add more to the historical record.
His original handwritten score of the
game shows:
Sicilian Defense (B20)
Richard Kujoth
John Fashingbauer
Wisconsin State Tourney, May 7, 1950
1. e4 c5 2. b4 cxb4 3. a3 Nc6 4. axb4 Nf6 5.
b5 Nb8 6. e5 Qc7 7. d4 Nd5 8. c4 Nb6 9. c5
Nd5 10. b6 Nxb6 11. cxb6 Qxb6 12. Nf3 e6
13. Bd2 Nc6 14. Qa4 d5 15. Bb5 Bd7 16. 0-0
Be7 17. Nc3 0-0 18. Rfb1 Qd8 19. Qd1 a6 20.
Bd3 b5 21. Ne2 Qc8 22. Ng3 b4 23. Ng5
Bxg5 24. Bxg5 a5 25. Bxh7+ Kxh7 26. Qh5+
Kg8 27. Bf6 Nxd4 28. Qg5, Black resigned.
Incidentally, Richard Kujoth won the
Wisconsin state championship in 1947-
48-49, 1952-53 and 1958.
More Soltis
In the March 2009 Chess to Enjoy col-
umn What Would Fritz Do? the move 8.
Ke2 is noted as a perfectly good move.
This carbon-based player has enjoyed
your column for years and would appre-
ciate some discussion about why this
move is good.
Don Soards
via e-mail
GM Andy Soltis responds:
Theres nothing very deep about 8. Ke2.
White wants to gain a tempo with Be3
followed eventually by Kf2, where the
king is quite safe. My point wasnt that 8.
Ke2 is a threat to the health of the Sicilian
Defense but rather that it was a move
that humans wouldnt consider at all.
Looking back
Counterplay In Chess Life, July 2009,
looks back 70 years. Scientific American,
July 2009, looks back 150 years and
finds:
Descent into ChessA pernicious
excitement to learn and play chess has
spread all over the country, and numer-
ous clubs practicing this game have been
formed in cities and villages. Why should
we regret this? It may be asked. We
answer, chess is a mere amusement of a
very inferior character, which robs the
mind of valuable time that might be
devoted to nobler acquirements, while it
affords no benefit whatever to the body.
Chess has acquired a high reputation as
being a means to discipline the mind,
but persons engaged in sedentary occu-
pations should never practice this
cheerless game; they require out-door
[sic] exercisesnot this sort of mental
gladiatorship.
Ralph Kaminsky
via e-mail
Considering that in 1859 Charles Dick-
ens published A Tale of Two Cities and in
1939 The Three Stooges released Oily to
Bed, Oily to Rise, perhaps 1859 had some-
thing over 1939. Then again, 1939 also
offered Gone With the Wind and the Wiz-
ard of Oz while in 1859 we fought the Pig
War with British authorities! ~ed.
Chess Life welcomes letters from its
readers. Letters are subject to editing
for content and length. Send your let-
ters to letters@uschess.org, and
include your full name and a tele-
phone number.
uschess.org
 First Moves

SuperNationals IV: A Coachs View

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

A
s a coach, I thought the SuperNa-
tionals went off extremely well.
Aside from minor glitches, such as
the pairings being located a floor below the
playing halls during the first couple of
rounds, the tournament kept on sched-
ule, was well directed, and I saw no
instances of controversy or poor sports-
manship. It was also a great opportunity
to network with other coaches.
From a players standpoint, its a
chance to play seven games against other
kids from around the country with a long
time control. In our state of Alabama
there are not many large scholastic tour-
naments, and my players invariably wind
up playing their teammates at such
events. In our scholastic league or local
single day tournaments, the time con-
trols are relatively short.
At SuperNationals, I saw it dawn on one
of my players who had never seemed able
to slow down before that he really could
take his time. He finally played deliber-
ately and scored six points, capturing a The Bayside Academy Chess Team.
tie for second in his section. FRONT ROW L-R: Coach Eric Nager, Andrew Smith, Richard O'Neill, Ty Kannegieter,
A beginning player had the same prob- Rebecca Pober, Trent Kannegieter, Wesley Dean, Faculty Sponsor Sally Kalaris.
lem. Instructing her to wait a certain BACK ROW L-R: Hayden Gunn, Kevin Nelson, Peyton Winstead, Scott Dahlke,
Blake Nelson, Will Runels, Eric Peterson.
amount of time between moves resulted
in her games lasting 40-plus moves
instead of 20. For the first time I took ele-
mentary school players to a national
tournament and key for them was getting
past the opening. Once we corrected a vul-
nerability to quick attack for an unrated reserve team rooms and discounted hotel a blast interacting with Susan Houston
third grader, he went on to score 3 rooms before they sell out. and her team, who were most gracious
points, including a fifth-round game that Another tip, especially if the team con- hosts.
lasted longer than some high school kids. sists of more than six-eight players, is to I have found the camaraderie built up
From a parents perspective I know reserve a team room. This provides a cen- among team members and between other
those who accompanied the team enjoyed tral meeting place to put out information players from attending national tourna-
seeing so many kids who are enthusias- to the players and analyze games between ments indispensable to team chemistry.
tic about chess. This has inspired them rounds, as well as a comfortable place for With all these benefits, its not too early
PHOTO: COURTESY OF SUBJECT

to take their own kids to more tourna-
ments. For this reason, I encourage
parents to attend.
In planning to compete at a national
tournament, Ive found logistical consid-
erations every bit as important as
preparation for over-the-board play. One
key is to commit as early as possible.
This insures participating players get the
early registration discount, and can
parents and faculty sponsors to hang out
during the day. This is especially true if
team members are staying off site from
the tournament.
Having a team room does not have to
be an expensive proposition. By network-
ing with other teams, there is the
opportunity to share such a room. We did
so at this tournament with Cumberland
County, Tennessee, and my players had
to start planning for 2010!
Eric Nager is the chess coach at Bayside
Academy in Daphne, Alabama. His team
won the K-12 U1200 section at
SuperNationals III, and this year
captured second in K-12 U800. He is
author of Checklist for Checkmate: 15
Keys to Building a Successful Team,
available at Amazon.com.

8 Chess Life August 2009 uschess.org

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uschess.org Chess Life August 2009 9

USCF History
One Word Per Week
CONFESSIONS OF A TWITTER-LIKE HISTORIAN
By Al Lawrence
Above: GM William Lombardy; Above Right: Harry Sabine
R
ecapping the seven decades
of USCF history for our
anniversary year has been
an education and a challenge.
I admire the volunteers who
with a colorful array of styles
and abilitiesshaped, pushed,
pulled, and sometimes rescued
our national organization. It
was an honor to represent them
to a generation long-removed
from their achievements. Some
now seem like titans, but surely
they made their moves with the
same care and, in most cases,
the same self-doubt, that all of
us share. My own challenge
was the tyranny of the column
10 Chess Life August 2009
inchthe ultimate reins on
freedom of expression. Each of
my articles was to cover a
decade in no more than 550
wordsabout one word per
week. Sometimes I felt was writ-
ing the history of USCF in a
series of short tweets. So here
are some all-too-brief notes
offering only a sample of the
events and people I wish I could
have written more about.
Grandmaster William Lom-
bardy was the first American to
win an official world chess
championship. He did this in
1957 by running away with the
World Junior Championship,
11-0, a score that has never
been equaled. Even Boris
Spassky had conceded two
draws (one to American second-
place finisher Edmar Mednis)
in winning the previous World
Junior in 1955. Lombardy went
on to draw a two-game match
with world champ Mikhail
Botvinnik. He soon withdrew
from chess to enter the priest-
hood, but was recalled into
worldly service by Bobby Fis-
cher to help with Bobbys 1972
world championship victory over
Boris. Ive included an enter-
taing Lombardy game at the
end of this column.
Lombardy, Fischer, Robert
Byrne (the world championship
candidate and long-time New
York Times columnist), Donald
Byrne, and Sal Matera, were
all early members of the
famous Hawthorne Chess
Club, which began meeting in
wheelchair-bound John
Collins Brooklyn apartment on
Hawthorne Street. Chess hall-
of-famers Hermann Helms,
Irving Chernev, artist Marcel
Duchamp and composer John
Cage were among the famous
regulars. Collins, with his
devoted sister Ethel, was our
organizations finest example
of selfless dedication, a siren
song attracting greatness to
the game.
Administrators and organiz-
ers need to be recognized, since
playing achievements arent
possible without them. Previous
columns mentioned every
USCF president, executive
director, and Chess Life editor
as a matter of record. But, of
course, there were and are
many more volunteers and
staffers who do the work of
USCF on a national level. And
the work of those on the state
and local level is vital to any
success weve ever been able
to claim.
As my five words per week
again come to an end, I can
only offer an example. During
my days as executive director,
one board member who never
became president won instead
the NVE, a fictional concoction
of my own: the No Visible Ego
medal. Egos can be a healthy,
driving force, of course. But
egos are the norm. The volun-
teers who work hundreds of
hours without demanding a
high-profile, and who are
always willing to make rea-
sonable compromises to get
things done, are rare. Former
Marine Harry Sabine, a Ten-
nessee attorney, has, over four
decades, served as local organ-
izer, tournament director,
USCF vice president, and vol-
unteer counsel. I remember
his size 14, Tennessee
Volunteer -orange tennis
shoes marching the aisles
of USCFs first national
scholastic tournament.
So many stories of volun-
teers like Harry. So little text
in a tweet.
Nimzo-Indian, Classical (E33)
Mathias Gerusel
William Lombardy
Toronto 1957
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4.
Qc2 Nc6 5. Nf3 d5 6. a3 Bxc3+ 7.
Qxc3 Ne4 8. Qc2 e5 9. dxe5 Bf5
PHOTOS: ARCHIVAL
10. Qa4 0-0 11. Be3 d4 12. Rd1
dxe3 13. Rxd8 exf2+ 14. Kd1
Rfxd8+ 15. Kc1 a6 16. Qb3 Nc5
17. Qc3 Na5 18. e4 Nab3+,
White resigned.
uschess.org
Looks at Books
Warrior of the Field
A painstaking work of art, scholarship,
and chess analysis
By Nelly Rosario
MARCEL DUCHAMP WAS AS MUCH
a player of words as he was of chess and,
as he saw it, of art. So for a man who
waged battles in these arenas, its
uncanny that his name literally means
little warrior of the field. Though he
opted for civilian clothes as a young man
during World War I, an 1896 photograph
shows a nine-year-old Duchamp don-
ning a French military uniform topped by
an officers cap. Appropriate livery, actu-
ally, for the latent avant-garde artist later
to be canonized as the patron saint of
modern art. But if Teresa of Avila has
already been crowned patroness saint of
chess, Marcel Duchamp: The Art of Chess
positions Duchamp as king to her queen
with its thorough if not obsessive explo-
ration of how his activities as a chess
player largely informed his life and his art
(or what he called anti-art).
12 Chess Life August 2009
Art of Chess is no doubt a labor of love
and 35 years in the making, according to
its editor, independent scholar and cura-
tor Francis M. Naumann. The only thing
that is not art is inattention, Duchamp
once said. I imagine hed pay close atten- sible, enhancing each along the way.
tion to these three unique essays by
Naumann, professor of art history Bradley
Bailey, and chess champion/Chess Life
Online editor Jennifer Shahade. Here,
theyve created painstaking works of art
and scholarship and chess analysis in
their own rights. The triptych is intro-
duced by Naumann as being neither a
book about Duchamp the artist nor a
book about Duchamp the chessplayer
rather, a book about both.
Amazon.com alone lists over 6,000 titles
by, about or relating to Marcel Duchamp.
Why, then, yet another on a figure already
so documented and lionized in the world
of art? Neither is he the only artist to
incorporate chess iconography and con-
cepts in his work. There are the paintings
and photography of his contemporary,
Man Ray; the digital art of mathematician
Layachi Hamidouche; Samuel Baks col-
lection of watercolors; Nicolas Sphicas
artistic renderings of actual matches;
and installations by Ugo Dossi and Yoko
Ono. And just two years ago, I participated
in Glenn Kainos The Burning Boards at
the Whitney Museum, an art installa-
tion/chess competition in which burning
candles served as playing pieces. Then
there are the countless chess-inspired
musicians, filmmakers, and writers ...
Art of Chess, however, is the self-avowed
first major study in English completely
devoted to exploring how chess was and
is inextricably linked to Duchamps life
and artand vice-versa. Naumanns tit-
ular essay chronicles Duchamps life,
using as motif the phases of a chess
game. In Passionate Pastimes: Duchamp,
Chess, and The Large Glass, Bailey pro-
poses that chess is a critical and largely
unrecognized thematic element of
Duchamps logic-defying The Bride
Stripped Bare by Her Bachelors, Even.
Shahade concludes with fifteen analyses
of Duchamps most revealing chess
games, laid out on paper and animated
online with Duchampian style by French
artist Jean Sabrier. Weighing in at just
148 pages, Art of Chess is nonetheless a
hearty read.
The well-researched essays excavate
far beyond their subjects, essentially
striking out the slashes between Marcel
Duchamp/artist/chessplayer. Art of
Chess also attempts to transcend the
limitations of text through quality photo-
graphs, illustrations, and animated games
online, inviting the reader to experience
the kind of fourth-dimensional thinking
that so intrigued Duchamp. Just as
Duchamp described chess to be a mech-
anistic sculpture that represents exciting
plastic values, Art of Chess brings an
additional dimension to art criticism and
serves as an elegant model of how fluid
movement between fields of study is pos-
Still, there are moments when Art of
Chess feels overzealous in claiming
Duchamp and his work from the clutches
of the art world, especially where Nau-
mann and Bailey rely on conjecture (i.e.,
it is possible, we can assume, one is
tempted to, it can be discerned). That
Duchamp writes about his serious study
of chess a year after his wunderkind
brother Raymond dies, for instance, is
enough for Bailey to speculate that mas-
tery of chess was a way for Duchamp to
satisfy his need to outshine his more
gifted sibling. And Duchamps wish that
tant donns (a tableau featuring the
uschess.org
nude of his lover, artist Maria Martins, the
wife of a Brazilian ambassador) be
revealed only after his death is creatively
interpreted by Naumann as an endgame
position that leads to victory rather
than as common tact on Duchamps part.
Perhaps the most engaging reads for the
more chess-inclined are the clever struc-
ture in Naumanns essay; Baileys
comprehensive overview of the Chess
Moralities; and the icing on the cake,
Shahades game analysis, best read while
watching Sabriers beautifully rendered
(and soundtracked) online animations.
Shahade includes a nice selection of
Duchamps games, chosen from over 100
for their quality and their importance
to Duchamp himself ... a variety of oppo-
nents, results, and stages in his career.
Her sharp analyses are peppered with
game pointers as well as interesting anec-
dotes about Duchamp, such as the fact
that he wrote out word-for-word chess
author Aron Nimzovitchs 364-page Chess
Praxis. The commentary is not as dour as
one would expect but as enjoyable to
read as watching Sunday sports with
friends over pitchers of beer.
In 1932, Duchamp co-authored Oppo-
sition and Sister Squares with Russian
chess player Vitaly Halberstadt. As Nau-
manns essay points out, the book was
a critical and commercial failure. Chess
in French is chec and, as it happens,
the same word for failure. For enthu-
siasts on either end of the art-chess
spectrum who choose to read failure in
Marcel Duchamp: The Art of Chess,
theres a caveat in Austrian chess player
and writer Ernst Strouhals analysis of
Opposition and Sister Squares: [the book]
can be understood as both an artists
book for chess players, and a chess book
for artists.
Marcel Duchamp: The Art of Chess, by Fran-
cis M. Naumann, Bradley Bailey, and
Jennifer Shahade. Readymade Press.
148 pages. $45 (hardcover).

An excerpt from Marcel Duchamp: The Art of Chess

Duchamp the chess artist
Duchamp,Marcel
Renaud,Georges
Nice, 1927
1. Nf3
This early knight advance
often transposes into lines with
Duchamps usual move, 1.d4.
1...d5 2.c4 c6 3.e3 Nf6 4.d4 Bf5
5.Nc3 e6 6.Bd3
Georges Renaud (1893-
1975), co-author of the The
Art of the Checkmate, gave
Duchamp five exclams in his
annotations of this game for
LEchiquier, including one for
6.Bd3. Although trades often
make a position more drawish,
the opposite is true in this
case. To avoid doubled pawns,
Black trades bishops but
develops Whites queen, which
from d3 supports e4, continu-
ing the initiative.
6...Bxd3 7.Qxd3 Nbd7 8.0-0 Bd6
The active Bb4 or the
solid Be7 are more logical
than Bd6, the middle
ground which turns out to
be the worst of both worlds.
Black doesnt attack anything
and has to retreat his bishop
a few moves later to defend.
9.e4
White opens the game up,
unbottling his bishop and
giving him his best chance
for an advantage.
9...dxe4 10.Nxe4 Nxe4 11.Qxe4
If only White had a light-
squared bishop, he would
have a ready-made attack.
But with only two minor
pieces (i.e., bishop and
knight), White will have to
work very hard and get some
help from Black in order to
mount a decisive attack.
Diagram #1:
11...Nf6?!
This normal-looking move
is premature. It allows the
white queen and bishop to
land on their best possible
squares. More flexible is
11...0-0 with the idea of
meeting 12.Bg5 with ...Be7.
White should only have a
small edge. Duchamp flaw-
lessly exploits Renauds
inaccurate 11...Nf6.
12. Qh4 0-0 13. Bg5 Be7 14.
Rfd1 Qb6
Black should sense the
danger and realize that des-
perate times call for ideas
like the very odd-looking
14...Kh8!, with the idea of
...Ng8, trading off one
Duchamps key attacking
pieces, the bishop on g5.
15. b3 h6
Diagram #2:
After ...h6, its starting to
become too lateWhite's
pieces are flooding in with
devastating effect; Black is
cramped and his queen just
fled the defense.
16. Rd3!
On the occasions that a
player finds time to lift a rook
into a kingside attack, it is a
tower of strength. Without
this maneuver, Whites attack
would have gone nowhere.
16...Rfe8
Capturing the bishop loses
in view of Nxg5 and Rh3.
Black could try 16...Qa5.
17. Bxh6! gxh6
In his annotations Renaud
points out that refusing the
sacrifice with Nd7 would pro-
long but not save the game.
18. Qxh6 Ng4
18...Nh7, eyeing the g5
square offers a little more
resistance but 19. Ne5 Bg5
20. Rg3 is still crushing for
White.
19. Qh5 Nf6 20. Qg5+ 1-0
Black resigns in view of
Whites unstoppable attack-
ing idea of Ne5, making way
for the rook to slide to h3 or
g3, at which point Black
will be defenseless. For
instance, 20...Kf8 21.Qh6+
Kg8 22. Ne5 with the killing
threat of Rg3, mating. After
20...Kh8 21. Ne5 immedi-
ately is the best move order,
threatening mate with both
Rh3 and Nxf7.
From an aesthetic point of
view, resignation is a sad fact
of tournament chess. Rather
than allow spectators and
fans the pleasure of seeing
the final blow, experienced
players see checkmate in the
near future, and give up. The
already abstract world of
chess becomes even more
abstract as the vision of the
finale trumps the actual
dnouement.

uschess.org Chess Life August 2009 13

 Chess to Enjoy
Going Ga-Ga over Gagra
By GM Andy Soltis
You know about Linares, Hastings, Moscow and the other famous datelines. But
youve probably never heard about Gagrabecause for decades it was the chess
worlds biggest secret.
Way back in 1953, before they were
called super-tournaments, two remark-
able events took place. One of them
became a legend, thanks to the efforts of
the players to make the tournaments
games their legacy.
The other tournament is virtually
unknown, thanks to a conspiracy of the
players to keep it secret.
The first tournament was the Candi-
dates round-robin, held at Zurich. It
inspired two great tournament books,
and the players packed their best-games
collections with its games.
The other tournament was held in
Gagra, a little-known health resort in
Soviet Georgia. It was an extraordinarily
strong event for the time: Each of the 11
players was a top grandmaster (GM)at
a time when there were only 38 GMs in
the world.
But not a word about Gagra 1953 was
printed. It was a training tournament,
held just after the death of Josef Stalin,
at a time when such events were regarded
virtually as state secrets. The games
played at Gagra were a confidential Soviet
asset.
Sicilian Defense,
Richter-Rauzer Variation (B64)
GM Vyacheslav Ragozin
GM Yefim Geller
Gagra 1953
1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5.
Nc3 d6 6. Bg5 e6 7. Qd2 Be7 8. 0-0-0 0-0 9.
f4 e5!?
(see diagram top of next column)
Blacks last move was one of Yefim
Gellers most important theoretical con-
tributions. Yet for years afterwards
Russian writers, like David Bronstein in
his celebrated tournament book, spread
14 Chess Life August 2009
r+lq rk+
pp+ lppp
+np n +
+ + p L
+ NPP +
+ N + +
PPPQ +PP
+ KR+L+R
After 9. ... e5
the myth that 9. ... e5 was played for the
first time at the Zurich tournament, three
months later.
After the fall of the USSR, GM Alexey
Suetin described the extreme secrecy in
an article in the magazine 64. Suetin was
among the few young masters who were
occasionally shown important secret
games. He was allowed to see the follow-
ing gamebut just the moves. The names
of the players and the location were kept
secret from him.
Modern Benoni Defense,
Classical Variation (A74)
GM Vassily Smyslov
GM Vyacheslav Ragozin
Gagra 1953
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 e6 4. Nc3 exd5 5.
cxd5 d6 6. e4 g6 7. Nf3 Bg7 8. Be2 0-0 9. 0-0
a6
Blacks ninth move, now standard, was
introduced at Gagra but remained more
or less unknown outside the Soviet Union
for nearly a decade.
10. a4 b6 11. Bf4 Ra7!? 12. Nd2 Re7
This is a rook shift in the style of Sha-
tranj players of a thousand years ago.
13. Bf3 Ne8 14. Nc4 Qc7
nl+nrk+
+ q rplp
pp p +p+
+ pP+ +
P+N+PL +
+ N +L+
P + PPP
R +Q+RK
After 14. ... Qc7
Black is nearly ready (... Nd7-e5) to
free his game. But ...
15. e5! dxe5 16. d6! Nxd6 17. Nd5
Black didnt like 17. ... Q-moves 18.
Nxe7+ so he sacrificed his queen with
17. ... Nxc4 18. Nxc7 Rxc7 19. Bc1 and
resigned in another 18 moves.
Gagra was held to prepare a Soviet
team for an eight-board U.S.-USSR match
that summer in New York. But a last-
minute hitch arose when the State
Department said the visiting Soviet del-
egationincluding KGB officerswould
be limited to a narrow zone centered in
Manhattan.
The Soviets were outraged at the restric-
tion and ordered their players, who were
already en route, to turn around and fly
home. The match was canceled.
So was Gagra just a remarkable waste
of effort? Hardly. Any time the worlds
best players met during this fertile period
of opening discovery they added whole
new chapters to book.
The difference is that the chapters from
Zurich were quickly published. The Gagra
chapters were not.
For example, Isaac Boleslavsky, the
wizard of the Sicilian and Kings Indian
uschess.org
 Problem I Problem II Problem III
Gagra 1953 GM Vassily Smyslov GM Vassily Smyslov GM Isaac Boleslavsky
GM Paul Keres GM Vyacheslav Ragozin GM Tigran Petrosian

The secret tournament known at + + Q + + + k r + + + +

Gagra 1953 provides our six posi- + ++ + + R + lp + + + +
tions this month. In each of the
following problems you are asked to
+ + ++ pp +Q+p+ +p+ R +
find the fastest winning line of play. + + +K+ n + + + + + + +p
Usually this will mean the forced + + +P+ P+ +p+ + + + P k
win of a decisive amount of material, + +Q+ + + + +p+P + rR+ +P
such as a rook or minor piece. But
there are at least three mates to be
+ + + + P + PPK + + PK+
found. Solutions on page 63. k q + +q + L +r+ + r + +
White to play White to play White to play

Problem IV Problem V Problem VI

GM Mark Taimanov GM Alexander Tolush GM Alexander Kotov
GM Vassily Smyslov GM Vyacheslav Ragozin GM Vyacheslav Ragozin

l +r+k+ +r+ +k+ + r r +

p + +pp +p+ +pq pl+ Nkn
Q+ + +p+ p+ +p+L+ p +q+ +
P +L+ + +l+ + + + pN+ pp
+ + +P+ + + + + +P+ + +
+ + NK+P P n R Q P +QPP+
+ R P + + + PP+ + + +PP
q + r + + + R K + + RRK
Black to play White to play White to play

defenses, came to the tournament armed
with an answer to Yuri Averbakhs new
weapon, 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4.
e4 d6 5. Be2 0-0 6. Bg5!?.
Previously Black had tried ideas such
as 6. ... c5 7. d5 a6 8. a4 e5?, which left
him without counterplay. Boleslavsky
had discovered that Black should open
the center with 8. ... Qa5! 9. Bd2 e6! and
... exd5. This opening idea survived a
test-firing at Gagra and eventually became
the main line of the Averbakhbut only
after it was played under more public
circumstances.
Also unknown outside the Soviet Union
were games like Tigran Petrosians first
and most crushing victory over Geller.
French Defense (C15)
GM Yefim Geller
GM Tigran Petrosian
Gagra 1953
1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Bd3!?
This was the latest anti-Winawer
weapon, based on a gambit.
4. ... c5 5. exd5 Qxd5 6. Bd2 Bxc3 7. Bxc3
cxd4 8. Bxd4 e5 9. Bc3
White feels he has compensation even
in the ending that follows 9. ... Qxg2 10.
Qf3 Qxf3 11. Nxf3 f6 12. Rg1. But Tigran
Now 14. Bxh7+ Kxh7 15. Rxd5 Bxd5
should favor Black.
14. gxf3 Qxa2 15. Rhg1 g6 16. Qh4 Qe6 17.
f4 Nd7 18. fxe5 Ncxe5 19. Bb5 Nf3 20. Qf4
Nxg1 21. Re1
Perhaps hoping for 21. ... Qh3 22. Bxd7
Qxd7 23. Qf6 and mates.
21. ... Qa2 22. Bc4 Ne2+! 23. Rxe2 Qa1+ 24.
Kd2 Nb6 25. Bxf7+ Rxf7 26. Qd4 Rd7!, White
resigned.
Gagra 1953 remained a secret until
the final days of the Soviet Union when
the games were finally publishedin
Rome. A joint effort by the Italian and
Soviet chess federations brought out a
series of volumes called the Soviet Tour-
nament News Review. One of the 1990
issues included all the Gagra games (but
neglected to say that the games had been
withheld until then).
In 2003 Vassily Smyslov, who won the
tournament, included one of his victo-
ries in a collection of his games. But
almost all the other Gagra players died
during the Soviet era and didnt get a
chance to show off their brilliancies. Its
time to pay tribute to one of Paul Keres
finest combinations.
The unknown Keres
klr + r
+ + qpp
ppLp + +
n pPpP+
+P+Pn p
P P +R+
+ + RPP
+ LQ+NK
After 26. Bc6
Black played 26. ... g5?, allowing 27.
fxg6! e.p. Bg4 28. g7 Rhg8 29. Rxf4!!.
The queen sacrifice was justified by
29. ... Bxd1 30. Rxf7 Nxc6 31. dxc6!.
Now on 31. ... Qe6 White wins with 32.
c7+ Kc8 33. cxd8=Q+ Kxd8 34. Bg5+ Kc8
35. Re7! followed by 36. Rxe6 or 36. Rf8+.
Also lost is 31. ... Qxf7 32. Rxf7 Rc8 33.
Ne3 Bh5 34. Rb7+ Ka8 35. Nd5. Black
gave back the queen with 31. ... Qc7 32.
Rxc7 Kxc7 but lost the endgame after
33. Ne3 Rxg7 34. Nxd1.
Besides the games it left us, Gagra
1953 should be remembered for two rea-
sons. First, it shows how far the Soviets
were ahead of the rest of the world. No
other country could have mounted a
domestic tournament half as strong as
Gagra. But, secondly, no other society

.
Petrosian had a common-sense answer. was paranoid enough to keep an event
GM Paul Keres
9. ... Nc6! 10. Qf3 Nf6 11. Qg3 0-0 12. Nf3 GM Vyacheslav Ragozin like Gagra secret from its own people and
Bg4 13. 0-0-0?! Bxf3! Gagra 1953 from the rest of the world.

uschess.org Chess Life August 2009 15

Solitaire Chess
First You Must Survive the Opening
By Bruce Pandolfini
If your goal in playing the Sicilian is to have strong middle and endgame
prospects, it is worth keeping in mind, First things first.
The Sicilian Defense (1. e4 c5) has been
an extremely popular asymmetrical
response to e-pawn openings for many
years. The Sicilian offers a number of
plausible systems, suitable to a range of
playing styles and comfort zones. Typi-
cally, White hopes to build an attack
while Black relies on his central pawn
majority to fight back. If Black can sur-
vive the early going the prospects for
actively meaningful middle and endgame
counterplay are good. But then, one does
have to survive the opening stage, and in
the case of Sidney Bernstein versus Alvin
Cass, contested in the Marshall Chess
Club Championship of 1939, Blacks
Paulsen (B40) variation didnt quite get the
job done. In fact, Black never really got
out of the opening.
Sicilian Defense (B40)
Sidney Bernstein
Alvin Cass
Marshall CC Championship, 1939
1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. d4 cxd4.
rnlqklnr
pp+p+ppp
++p++
++++
+pP++
+++N+
PPP+PPP
RNLQKL+R
Your starting position
Now make sure you have the above
position set up on your chessboard. As
you play through the remaining moves in
this game, use a piece of paper to cover
the article, exposing Whites next move
only after trying to guess it. If you guess
16 Chess Life August 2009
correctly, give yourself the par score.
Sometimes points are also rewarded for
second-best moves, and there may be
bonus pointsor deductionsfor other
moves and variations. Note that ** means
that the note to Blacks move is over and
Whites move is on the next line.**
4. Nxd4 Par Score: 4
Accept only 2 points part credit for either
4. Qxd4 Nc6, losing time, or 4. c3, an
unnecessary gambit.
4. Nf6
5. Nc3 Par Score: 5
Deduct 1 point for 5. e5?, since it drops
a pawn to 5. ... Qa5+.
5. Bb4
6. e5 Par Score: 5
The most forcing continuationand
the main reason 5. ... Bb4 is no longer in
favor. Less testing are 6. Nb5 or 6. Bd3.
Receive 4 points part credit for either.
6. Nd5
Take 3 bonus points if you knew to
answer 6. ... Qa5 with 7. exf6 Bxc3+ 8.
bxc3 Qxc3+ 9. Qd2! Qxa1 10. fxg7 Rg8 11.
c3 Qb1 (else the queen gets trapped by 12.
Nb3 Qb1 13. Bd3) 12. Bd3 Qb6 13. Qh6
and White is close to winning. On 6. ...
Ne4 there follows 7. Qg4 Nxc3.**
7. Qg4 Par Score: 5
Accept full credit for the steady and
strong 7. Bd2. By the move played Bern-
stein goes all out for the attack.
7. Nxc3
With the knight on the protected d5-
square Black has the option, found in
the late 1970s, of 7. ... 0-0 8. Bh6 g6 9.
Bxf8 Qxf8. Although White is still some-
what better, Black has definite positional
compensation for the Exchange, and in
practice, the easier game to play.**
8. Qxg7 Par Score: 5
Here is the point of 7. Qg4. White fig-
ures on recovering his sacrificed piece or
obtaining an equivalent in attack. Deduct
3 points for 8. bxc3 Bxc3+ and 9. ... Bxa1.
8. Rf8
He has to save the rook. Discovered
check with the knight is met by 9. c3 (1
bonus point).**
9. a3 Par Score: 5
9. Ba5
In the game Szabo-Mikenas (1-0),
Kemeri/Riga, 1939, play continued 9. ...
Nb5+ 10. axb4 Nxd4 11. Bg5 Qb6 12.
Bh6 Qxb4+ 13. c3 Nf5 14. cxb4 Nxg7 15.
Bxg7 Rg8 16. Bf6, and White is likely
winning. If instead 9. ... Be7, then White
answers 10. bxc3. And if 9. ... Nd5+,
White will wind up winning the Exchange
(Bc1-h6).**
10. b4 Par Score: 5
Bernstein intends Bc1-g5, but first the
enemy bishop must be driven off. Deduct
3 points for 10. Bg5? Qxg5 11. Qxg5 Ne4+
and 12. ... Nxg5. The downside of b2-b4
is that the c3-knight is no longer threat-
ened and theres a heavy premium on
finding attacking resources. Less ambi-
tious but strong is 10. Bh6 (Full credit) 10.
... Qe7 11. Nb3.
10. Bc7
Already White has in mind an upcom-
ing clever move. Theres also a case to be
made for 10. ... Bb6 11. Bg5 f6 12. Bxf6
(12. exf6 Bxd4) 12. ... Rf7. White has a
sure draw after 13. Qg8+ Rf8 14. Qg7, but
it is not certain he can try for more.**
11. Bg5 Par Score: 5
For White, theres no turning back: 11.
Bh6 Qe7 is satisfactory for Black.
uschess.org
 Problem I Problem II Problem III
ABCs of Chess Fork Trapping Getting out of check

+qk++ Q+l+kl+ +nk++

These problems are all related to
key positions in this months game.
++lppp p+q+p+ +ppp+
In each case, Black is to move. The ++n+ ++p++ ++++
answers can be found in Solutions ++++ ++n++ +L+++
on page 63. +NL+ +pP++ +N++
August Exercise: Turn to a good
+++P+ ++++ ++P+P
game collection and zero in on a +P+++ P+P++ +++q+
random position between strong ++QK+ RNLK+ ++K+R
players (say around move 20). Start
asking questions to unearth informa-
tion about the situation. A suitable Problem IV Problem V Problem VI
question should cover what youd Double threat Trapping Mating net
like to do if you could, or what youd
like to see an imagined opponent ++kl+ r++k++ ++k++
play so you could take advantage. As +p++p+ +N+pp ++++
you get more and more practice at p+N++p+ ++++ ++++
asking where all the pieces should or ++n++ ++++ ++++
shouldnt go, you gain a greater sen-
sitivity to specific possibilities, but at L++++ ++++ ++++
the same time, indirectly increase ++P+l ++++ ++p+p+
your ability to integrate the sepa- P+QPq+ P+++ +PRq+
rate themes into more strategic ++KR+ ++K+ ++QK+
thinking.

11. Bxe5 point) 16. Qc5!. 18. Nxf7 Par Score: 4

The alternative is 11. ... f6. Things turn 13. Nd5
18. Nxf7
out nicely for White after 12. exf6 Rf7
13. Qg8+ Rf8 14. f7 mate (2 bonus points). 14. Be2 Par Score: 6 If 18. ... fxg5, then 19. Nxd8+ Kxd8
But Black can try 12. ... Nd5. If 13. f7+, 20. 0-0. Accept 1 bonus point if you saw
Essentially, this is the winning move.
then 13. ... Rxf7 14. Qxf7+ (not 14. Bxd8 that 18. ... Qc3+ is answered by 19. Ke2.
The bishop aims for h5, and that will net
Rxg7 15. Bxc7 Nxc7) 14. ... Kxf7 15. Bxd8 Taking it further: 19. ... Qxa1 20. Qxh7!
the Exchange.
Bxd8, with two pieces for rook and pawn. (not 20. Rxa1 Nc3+) 20. ... Qxh1 21. Qg8+
Therefore, on 11. ... f6, White plays 12. 14. Nc6 Ke7 22. Qxd8 mate.**
Bxf6 (1 bonus point) 12. ... Rxf6 (12. ... Rf7
19. Bxf7+ Par Score: 5
is met by 13. Bxd8 Rxg7 14. Bxc7) 13. 15. Bh5+ Par Score: 5
exf6, threatening 14. Qg8 mate; and if 13.
19. Kxf7
... d5, then 14. f7+ Kd7 15. f8=Q+ Qe7 16. 15. Rf7
either Qxe7 mate. If Black in turn answers
20. Qxh7+ Par Score: 4
12. Bxf6 with 12. ... Bxe5, then 13. Bxe5 16. Qe4 Par Score: 5
(but not 13. Qxf8+ Kxf8 14. Bxd8 Bxd4, The queen backs out of danger, retain-
20. Ke8
nor 13. Bxd8 Bxg7) when White has
ing all the threats of the position. Deduct
recovered his piece and has an extra Accept 2 bonus points if you worked
2 points for the premature 16. Bxf7+ Kxf7,
pawn.** out 20. ... Kf8? 21. Bh6+ Ke8 22. Qg8+,
when Whites pieces end up in an awk-
followed by 23. Qf8 mate.**
12. Qxe5 Par Score: 5 ward tangle.
21. Qg6+ Par Score: 5
Accept 1 bonus point if you judged 12. 16. Qc7
Qxf8+ Kxf8 13. Bxd8 Bxd4 in favor of Its still possible to throw the game
If 16. ... fxg5 (or 16. ... Ne5) 17. Nd6+
Black. away. Deduct 3 points for 21. Bd2? Qe5+.
and 18. Nxf7 (1 bonus point). Stepping out
12. f6 of the pin, 16. ... Kf8 gives White a mat- 21. Ke7
ing option: 17. Bh6+ Kg8 18. Qg4+ Kh8
It looks like Black wins a piece: 13. 19. Bg7+ Kg8 20. Nh6 mate (2 bonus 22. Bxf6+ Par Score: 6
Qc5 Ne4, or 13. Qe3 Nd5. But Black has- points). The text tries to stop Nd6+.**
nt seen something, and Bernstein has.** This is merely a temporary sacrifice to
17. Nh6 Par Score: 5 avoid having to retreat the bishop.
13. Nf5 Par Score: 7
Accept only 3 points part credit for the 22. Nxf6
Three of Whites pieces are hanging, immediate 17. Bxf7+ Kxf7; White could
but its hard to take anything. The e- then play 18. Bd2, since 18. ... exf5 allows 23. Qg7+ Black resigned
pawn is pinned and 13. ... fxe5 runs into

14. Nd6 mate (1 bonus point). On 13. ...
fxg5 there follows 14. Nd6+ Ke7 15. Qxg5+
Rf6 (15. ... Kxd6? 16. Qc5 mate1 bonus
.
19. Qxd5+. The text is better as it enables On 23. ... Ke8 24. Qxf6 Qxc2 25. 0-0,
the queen to penetrate to h7. Black has nothing to show for the mate-
17. Nd8 rial deficit. Scoring box is on page 63.

uschess.org Chess Life August 2009 17

Whats The Best Move?

9th Far West Open

By GM Larry Evans

April In Reno 1. White moves 2. White moves

Sergey Kudrin, Enrico Sevillano
and Gergely Antal shared first in the r+ + k + r+ q r +
top section of this annual event at pp+nRpp ppp nppk
the Sands Regency Hotel-Casino that q+p+ n p + +ln p
attracted 180 players to Reno last
Easter. Jerry Weikel and his wife
+ + +p+P + + +N+
Fran, two of the most experienced +PP + + + +pLP+
organizers in America, provided + +Q+N+ + PP+ +P
snacks and a friendly atmosphere all PP L PP+ P+P+ +L+
weekend before doling out $17,280
in prizes. Many contestants return + + + K R +Q+RK
twice each year for both the spring (a) Rxd7 (b) Bb4 (c) Re2 (a) Nxe7 (b) dxe4 (c) Nxg7
and fall tournaments. The 27th
3. Black moves 4. Black moves
Western States Open is set for Octo-
ber 23-25 and this writer again will + k + + rn + rk+
conduct a free chess clinic between
rounds. + p
+lpQ +pq lpp
Solutions to this months quiz p n + + p+ p n p
positions are on page 63. + + p + + + pP+
P + + + +l+P+PP
Readers are invited to send their posi-
tions in for possible consideration in + P + + +NN + +
this column. Send to whatsthebest- +L+K+PP PPP+L+ +
move@uschess.org or mail to Chess + r + + R LQ+R+K
Life, c/o Whats The Best Move, PO (a) Bc4+ (b) e4 (c) Bg8 (a) Nxg4 (b) d5 (c) Nh7
Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.

18 Chess Life August 2009 uschess.org

USCF Affairs August
National Chess Day
On October 9, 1976 President Gerald Ford declared a National
Chess Day. As we approach that anniversary date, we encour-
age state and local clubs to commemorate the day in some
way, perhaps with a tournament or an educational program
about chess in their communities.
National Chess Day began in South Carolina. It was
created by the late Bill Dodgen, who was president of the
South Carolina Chess Association for a number of years.
It was originally a state chess day in South Carolina, but
Bill quickly expanded it to a nationwide effort and was
appointed National Chess Day chairman. Bills idea was
to encourage local and state chapters to organize events
to bring in beginners and others who played chess but
had not joined the USCF.
We can continue Bills vision by establishing special
tournaments, community awareness events, and even
contacting our local media. This is a great opportunity
to expand chess awareness.
After your National Chess Day event please send articles,
clippings, or photos to letters@uschess.org.
USCF award recipients for 2009
Chess City of the Year: St. Louis, Missouri
Chess Club of the Year: Fresno Chess Club
Chess College of the Year: University of Utah
Committee of the Year: LMA
Distinguished Service: John McCrary,
Beatriz Marinello
Frank J. Marshall: John Fedorowicz
Grandmaster of the Year: Yury Shulman
Koltanowski Medal: Gold: Rex Sinquefield
Meritorious Service: Jennifer and Mike Skidmore,
Steve Steppe
Organizer of the Year: Tony Rich
Outstanding Career Achievement: Tim Sawmiller,
Gary Fox, Tim Just
Scholastic Service: Aviv Friedman, After School
Activities Partnership
Special Services: Calvin Olsen, David Moeser
Tournament Director of the Year: Francisco Guadalupe
U.S. Chess Hall of Fame: Burt Hochberg,
John Fedorowicz
The USCF Mission
USCF is a not-for-profit membership organization devoted to extend-
ing the role of chess in American society. USCF promotes the study
and knowledge of the game of chess, for its own sake as an art and
enjoyment, but also as a means for the improvement of society. It
informs, educates, and fosters the development of players (profes-
sional and amateur) and potential players. It encourages the
development of a network of institutions devoted to enhancing the
growth of chess, from local clubs to state and regional associations,
and it promotes chess in American society. To these ends, USCF offers
uschess.org
Beatriz Marinello named U.S. Zonal president
The USCF executive board has appointed former
USCF President Beatriz Marinello as the U.S.
Zonal president in FIDE.
2nd Annual Schein-Friedman Awards Announced
The Schein-Friedman Scholastic Recognition Project is
glad to announce its second-year scholarship recipients.
The first and second place recipients were declared tied:
FM Darwin Yang and WIM Alisa Melekhina, who will each
receive a $4,000 scholarship. Third place goes to Luke
Harmon, who will receive a $2,000 scholarship.
Darwin Yang, who hails from Texas, is 12 years old and
one of the countrys leading talents. Number one for his
age group, he is a national scholastic champion, a Pan
American gold medallist, and a bronze medallist at the
recent World Youth (under age 12) championship. Over
2300, Darwins results have been stellar, and his aspira-
tions for reaching the highest title are justified!
Pennsylvanias Alisa Melekhina is a multi-time U.S.
representative and high-place finisher at many world
championships and other world events. Thanks to impres-
sive progress in recent years, she also holds a rating of
2300+, a WIM and has her first international master and
woman grandmaster norm. Alisa is the top girl for her
age group and the youngest participant at the 2007
U.S. invitational championship.
Ten-year-old Luke Harmon is an expert-level player and
Idahos highest-rated active player. A two-time national
scholastic champion, he currently ranks at number
two nationally for his age group. Luke has been working
hard on his chess, playing in challenging open tourna-
ments, and training vigorously for his goals: his immediate
one is to become a master, and long-term
goal of becoming one of the countrys top grandmasters.
This project is designed to help some of our younger
champions improve and dedicate themselves more to
chess while offsetting the financial expenses that
usually comes with this goal. Hopefully, the project
will reward youngsters who excel and help them become
tomorrows best players and grandmasters. At the same
time they would be serving as role models and be inspira-
tional to the entire scholastic community.
The program is generally designed for youngsters age 7-17.
Occasionally, in cases of unusual excellence (considerably
exceeding the programs criterions), applications by players
up to age 20 would be considered.
Congratulations to all the recipients!
a monthly magazine, as well as targeted publications to its mem-
bers and others. It supervises the organization of the U.S. Chess
Championship, an open tournament held every summer, and other
national events. It offers a wide range of books and services to its
members and others at prices consistent with the benefits of its mem-
bers. USCF serves as the governing body for chess in the United States
and as a participant in international chess organizations and
projects. It is structured to ensure effective democratic procedures
in accord with its bylaws and laws of the state of Illinois.
Chess Life August 2009 19
Cover Story

HIKARU!

HIKARU NAKAMURA WAS CLEARLY A FAVORITE AT THIS YEARS STELLAR

U.S. CHAMPIONSHIPEVEN WITH WORLD-BEATER GATA KAMSKY IN THE
FIELDBUT WHO EXPECTED THAT HIS MAIN CHALLENGE WOULD COME
FROM A 17-YEAR-OLD GM-ELECT WHOSE MOST RECENT CLAIM TO FAME
WAS WINNING A NATIONAL SCHOLASTIC EVENT?

BY MACAULEY PETERSON | Photography by Betsy Dynako

20 Chess Life August 2009 uschess.org

 Lets be realistic here. No one was
going to go 9-0. Hikaru Nakamura had
just beaten his third-round opponent,
GM-elect Robert Hess, but was annoyed
at himself for a careless oversight that
gave Hess drawing chances.
Nakamura was already out of the running
for the vaunted $64,000 Fischer Memorial
bonus prize, which was promised to any
player who could win the tournament with
a perfect score. The day before, against
Jaan Ehlvest, Hikaru essayed a queen sac-
rifice that he later called madness. Ehlvest
decided to give back an Exchange, unlike
the computer programs which basically
just say I'm an idiot, Hikaru explains in a
tournament summary on his website,
hikarunakamura.com.
Idiot or not, he managed to hold a draw
with black, and after three rounds Naka-
mura was tied for the lead alongside Gata
Kamsky, Yury Shulman and Josh Friedel.
Each had given up one draw already, but
that was no surprise for Hikaru, who
described the prospect of an unblem-
ished winning streak as probably the
equivalent of a baseball pitcher pitching
a perfect game in the World Seriesits
just not going to happen. He pondered
this a brief moment and then added,
Well, it happened once, but thats a dif-
ferent matter.
When Bobby Fischer blanked the field
at the 1963-64 U.S. Championship, he
was 20 years old and had already won five
U.S. championship titles. At the time he
was head and shoulders above the eleven
other players he faced. The round-robin
included top American grandmasters
Samuel Reshevsky, Arthur Bisguier, and
Larry Evans, but also three IMs and two
untitled players.
The situation 45 years later is quite
different. At the start of the tournament
I spoke to several grandmasters about
the Fischer prize, and they all pointed
out that the odds of someone winning it
were astronomical. The remarks of Span-
ish grandmaster Miguel Illescas, a former
trainer of Vladimir Kramnik, are represen-
tative. I think its a bit unfair to compare
different generations of players because
we have to admit that now chess is a
professional sport. It was not 30 years
ago. And of course when you check the
games of guys like Capablanca, Alekhine
and company, many times they were fac-
ing real amateurs ... In the Fischer era,
of course in the United States you had
some good opponents, but its impossible
to compare with nowadays. I mean, now
every guy can be probably second after
Fischer in all the tournaments.
Nakamura concurred, noting that he
and, in particular, Kamsky, Alexander
Onischuk and Shulman, are so close in
playing strength that there was no way
any one of them could get past all the oth-
uschess.org
ers unscathed. And in a Swiss format,
aside from perhaps one or two rounds,
there will be no free ride at the top, even
when international masters and ama-
teurs are involved.
Nakamura was determined to get out of
a spring slump and reclaim his 2008
form, even in such a tough tournament as
this. I felt like coming into this tourna-
ment there was a lot more at stake than
NAKAMURA BLENDS A REFRESHING MIX OF CANDOR,
P E R S P I C A C I T Y, A N D A L L - A M E R I C A N S WA G G E R .
last time, referring to his U.S. champi-
onship win in 2005. I really came into this
tournament wanting to prove something,
whereas in that one, there always were
expectations that I might win, but I was
never really considered a favorite.
In St. Louis, he was clearly considered
a favorite, and so no one was surprised
to see Nakamura in the lead on the final
weekend. But none expected his com-
pany to include the 17th seed, 17-year-old
Robert Hessleast of all Hess himself,
who said in our post-tournament inter-
view, I came in here just hoping to finish
with a positive score.
Hess stellar performance stole some of
Nakamuras spotlight, and his humble
demeanor won over many of the local
spectators, who were pulling for a story-
book end to his Cinderella streak.
Hess had a successful year, picking up
all three of the required norms for the
grandmaster (GM) title and over 100 USCF
rating points since Foxwoods 2008, where
he scored his first GM norm. In Foxwoods
2009, he beat Nakamura and Ehlvest, en
route to his third and final norm.
Despite earning the grandmaster title,
Robert has no aspirations to play profes-
sionally. He has managed to balance his
chess achievements with life as a stu-
dent at Stuyvesant High School in New
York City. Its really tough because I get
here, and they still give me all the home-
work I have to do and they expect me to
do it, lamented Hess. Some tourna-
ments I just havent been doing it because
Ive been trying to focus on the chess,
and heres no exception. Missing more
than a week of school isnt looked kindly
upon anywhere, let alone at one of the top
schools in the country. They gave me a
little bit of leniency, but Im pretty far
behind on that front.
On the chess front Hess jumped out
ahead, with wins over GMs Larry Chris-
tiansen and Julio Becerra.
Hess - Becerra-Rivero (Round 2)
I was happy with my position out of the
opening. He usually doesnt play Qd6 as
he [did today] he usually plays Bg4, but
I dont do the exchange Ruy Lopez so he
figured Id prepared something.
Although Hess travelled to Saint Louis
alone, he has worked with GM Miron
Sher for ten years now. During the tour-
nament they consulted by phone about
which lines to play before every game.
Naturally its harder to collaborate
remotely compared to having a second
there in person, but teacher and student
were nevertheless able to make some
solid competitive decisions together.
Against Becerra, for instance, Sher
noticed that Onischuk had taken on c6 in
a game with Becerra, so Sher recom-
mended the line to Hess.
GM Emil Sutovsky, who provided the
live analysis for Chess.FM and the on-site
spectators, and also served as Gata Kam-
skys second, explained that this sort of
insight is the mark of an experienced
trainer. [Sher] pays attention, and noticed
that Onischukwho is not a regular e4
playerhe played this opening against
Becerra a year ago, so he had something
in mind.
+ + rk+
+r+ lppp
+p+ +q+
+p+ + +
P RPL +
+ + +Q+
+ + PPP
+ R + K
White to play
22. h4I was happy with my move h4.
After that move I figured my position was
much better, I got a lot of space.
22. ... h6 23. Qh3 Rb6 24. h5 Qf6But
here he went ... Qf6 and I followed with
25. Qg3, because now if he takes the
rook here I have Be5. I wasnt sure exactly
how easily winning it would be, but after
26. ... Qxe5 27. Qxe5 Bxb4 28. Qc7
Whites much better.
25. Qg3 Ra6 26. Rcd1 Re8He went 26.
... Re8, which is a move I didnt quite
Chess Life August 2009 21
 Cover Story
understand, so I just went ahead and
went 27. Bd6 because I figured that he
has a backward pawn on c6 which is
rather weak, so I kind of forced him to
trade on d6 ... the problem is he cant go
28. ... Qe5 because I have 29. Rd8. Black
cant take the queen on g3 because his e8-
rook hangs. Sutovsky suggested 29. ...
Qe7 as a possibility, but Hess had noted
that 30. Qb8 refutes it with similar back
rank threats as in the game.
27. Bd6 Bxd6 28. Rxd6 Qg5After trad-
ing queens, I didnt think I was winning
but I thought that hes the one fighting for
a draw here after 30. R1d4. I have all my
pawns protected, his pawn on c6 is still
very weak, and now his pawn on g5 is
quite weak as well.
29. Qxg5 hxg5 30. R1d4 Ra1+ 31. Kh2 Rc1
32. Kg3 Rc2 33. Rd7Now Im trying to
double up my rooks on the seventh rank
because his pawn on f7 is quite weak. If
33. ... Rc4, 34. Rxc4 bxc4 35. Rd4 c3 36.
Rc4 (36. ... c2 37. f3) 36. ... Rb8 37. f3 and
youll get this four against three which is
not clear if its won but it has some
chances, noted Sutovsky, although I
would say its closer to a draw.
33. ... Ra8 34. Rc7 Ra3+ 35. f3 Raa2 36.
Rd8+ Kh7This is all forced. Now I think
he probably thought I was going to go 37.
Rcc8, which is not a good move because
now my king is in danger of getting
mated, after 37. ... Rxg2+ 38. Kh3 g6.
Hess noticed this trap and hit upon
37. Kg4 several moves in advance, just
after the trade of queens.
Becerra had around five minutes to
make the last three moves before time
control making his defensive task even
more difficult, and Hess figured he had a
won game. During this critical period of
the game he avoided looking at his oppo-
nent so as not to give away his own
emotional state. Unlike some of his peers,
Hess doesnt play poker, or have a prac-
ticed poker face, but he is clearly attune
to the psychological elements at play in
his chess, and tries to apply extra pres-
sure on his opponents when he senses
they are uncomfortable.
Through the vagaries of the Swiss sys-
tem, this win gave Hess his head-to-head
pairing with Nakamura in round three.
Nakamuras loss to Hess in Foxwoods
provided extra motivation for Hikaru who
wanted to, as he notes on his blog, pre-
pare a lot harder and try to crush him in
the opening. Things did not quite go as
planned, however.
Nakamura - Hess (Round 3)
(see diagram top of next column)
From this position, Hikaru played 31.
Kg3. If I had just played something else
I mean anything, practically, was
22 Chess Life August 2009
r
+ + +
+ +nk p
p+lNpp p
+ P + +
+PL PPP
+ + R +
P+ + K +
+ + + +
After 30. ... Rb8
winning thereg5 was the easiest way.
In the game, Hikaru intended to play 34.
Nd4 but after 34. ... Ba8 35. c6 he was
concerned about 35. ... Nc5. Nf5+ was
very careless of me, I completely over-
looked this variation. Things still look
good for White, however. Hikaru noted
that during the post mortem Var [Ako-
bian] actually came by and spotted this
tactic with [36.] c7 Bb7 [37.] Nc6, and
maybe its winning. Inserting 37. f5! e5
and then 38. Nc6 is even better, as 38. ...
Rxc4 is met by 39. Bxe5! and White keeps
the c7-pawn.
At that point I was already a little bit
flustered and so I didnt do that, I played
[34.] Nd6. Then Robert played quite well
and he had good chances to draw but for-
tunately he didnt play the most accurate
defense and I won.
Number-one seed Gata Kamsky, who
has been very active in 2009, was easily
keeping pace with Nakamura. His second
round win over Varuzhan Akobian was
pegged as the game of the tournament
by GM Nick de Firmian, ICC Chess.FMs
game of the day analyst.
Kamsky - Akobian (Round 2)
Akobian is known as a French special-
ist, but Kamsky put in substantial work
on the French for his February match
with Veselin Topalov [See Chess Life, May
2009]. Last fall he also worked on the
French with Shulman, another French
specialist who is a close friend and spar-
ring partner of Akobian.
rl+ k r
+ q +ppp
p+ lpn +
+pp N +
+LP L +
+ + +Q+
PPP+ PPP
+ KR+ +R
After 15. ... b5
Here Kamsky played 16. Rhe1! The
bishop cannot be taken because 16. ...
bxc4 17. dxc5 wins the material back
with interest. Through cool defense Ako-
bian was able to see through it, and avoid
the first blow, de Firmian reported. Unfor-
tunately for Akobian, 16. ... cxd4 17. Rxd4
Rb6 18. Bb3 Bb7 19. Qh3 was just too strong.
[Then 19. ... a5 and:] Of course he missed
the threat of [20.] Rxd6 and [21.] Nxf7; on the
other hand, Black is hard pressed to do
anything, Kamsky said after the game.
19. Kg8 loses to 20. Bxe6, and so the
resulting bishop crossfire creates a very
artistic finish, especially after 22. Rxe6,
which wins Blacks queen by force.
Gata was superbly stoic at the board
during this game, illustrated nicely by a
time-lapse video (which you can find on
www.USChessChamps.com) shot during
the round by the documentary team of
Randy Sinquefield and Kevin Duggin.
Kamsky sits almost perfectly motionless
for minutes at a time, while the world
zips by behind him.
Akobian was circumspect about this
setback. It looks like I got crushed, but
its only because I was playing Kamsky,
and he played like five moves in a row
which are like number one line for Rybka.
So if he makes one different move Im
fine. But he plays all the brilliant moves
and he just won.
Varuzhan nevertheless recovered nicely
and won three in a row to lead the tour-
nament at the half way mark.
Akobian - Becerra-Rivero (Round 4)
Akobian scored a nice win, thanks in no
small part to the assistance of his super
GM second, Gabriel Sargissian, who came
up with the novelty 15. Rad1 just minutes
before they left their hotel that afternoon.
r+ + rk+
plqn+ppp
+pl n +
+ + + L
p RP+ +
+ N +N+
PPQ+LPPP
+ +R+ K
After 15. Rad1
After their planned Exchange sacrifice,
Akobian noted that Black cannot play
17. ... Bd6 because of 18. Qd2 Nc5 19. e5
and if 19. ... Be7 20. Bxe7 Qxe7 21. Qxb4
and White wins immediately.
So Becerra played 15. ... Bc5 16. Rxd7
Nxd7 17. Na4 Bb6 and after 18. Be7 they
expected 18. ... Rfe8 or 18. ... c5. A likely
continuation after 18. ... c5 is 19. Bd6 Qc6
uschess.org
 T H E C H E S S C L U B A N D S C H O L A S T I C C E N T E R O F S T. L O U I S P R O V E D A N E L E G A N T,
20. Bxf8 Nxf8 21. Bc4 threatening 22.
Bd5 and if 21. ... Qxe4 then 22. Bxf7+. I
felt very confident when you have some-
thing like this prepared.
On 18. ... Rfe8 19. Bd6 Qc8 20. Bc4
Ba6 21. Bxf7+ Kxf7 22. Qb3+ Kg6 23. Nh4
mating. As a result of this preparation,
Becerra had to spend a lot of time and
Akobian had built up a forty-minute time
advantage by move 18.
(You can find this game and a video of
Akobians live analysis on Chess Life
uschess.org
C O M F O R T A B L E S E T T I N G F O R T H E C H A M P I O N S H I P.
Online. See Sidebar: U.S. Championship
flashback.)
Kamsky, meanwhile, gave up draws to
Shulman and Josh Friedel before facing
Nakamura with black in an eagerly antic-
ipated round five matchup. Spectators
around the world were waiting for this
game, the pairs first over the board
encounter in nearly five years.
IM Malcolm Pein, who publishes Chess
magazine in the U.K., remarked that
every Kamsky-Nakamura game is a won-
derful clash of styles. Here in the U.K. I
think everyone admires Nakamura
because hes a bit like some of the play-
ers that came out of Britain in the 80s
during the so-called English chess explo-
sion, not trained in the classical
stylesort of the antithesis to the Russ-
ian school of chesswhereas Kamsky, if
you like, has had a very traditional chess
upbringing and has a very correct style
of play. The game proved to be quite an
exciting draw.
Chess Life August 2009 23
Cover Story
Nakamura - Kamsky (Round 5)
Nakamura gave his perspective later
that day. Neither of us was really that
well prepared. First of all, I surprised
him by playing a sort of anti-Grnfeld
and then when he played ... a6thats not
what he normally plays, so its kind of like
we surprised each other. And then I
thought I knew the line better than him
but I wasnt really all that familiar with
this ... Be6, ... Nbd7 line. Its probably OK
for Black, but I just wasnt ready for it.
I just played what I thought was the
most practical and, you know, its a game
in the end. Theres psychology for both of
us.
(see diagram top of next column)
I heard that Emil [Sutovsky] apparently
thought I should have taken on e6 in the
opening ... whereas I played Rd1 and f3
Who is Kris
Littlejohn?
Kris Littlejohn is a 2220-rated
national master (NM) and graduate
of the University of Texas at Dallas
(UTD). He and Nakamura were intro-
duced via the Internet Chess Club by
a mutual friend, Jason Doss. They
later chatted on AOL instant messen-
ger, and met in person for the first
time at the 2005 HB Global tourna-
ment in Minneapolis. The pair has
been working together formally since
2006, and hes been the person to
prepare Nakamuras openings since
October 2007.
Littlejohn achieved his NM rating
in May 2006, ironically at a tourna-
ment organized by UTD, dubbed the
Nakamura Open, in which Hikaru
participated and went 5-0. Having
such a low rated second is unheard
of for someone of Nakamuras cal-
iber. Elite grandmasters occasionally
opt for a young IMVassily Ivanchuk
works with Mexican IM Manuel Len
Hoyos, for instancebut never an
untitled player like Littlejohn.
Nakamura says they have devel-
oped their own training methods. I
dont think it really matters what
your rating level is, Hikaru says of
his partner. If you can understand
the style and you can prepare open-
ings, thats all that matters. Just
because hes 2200 as opposed to
being 2400the only real difference
in my opinion is that his technical
skills arent as good as, say, an IM.
But if he can prepare me thats all
that matters, since Im the one play-
ing the game.
24 Chess Life August 2009
+
 q rk+
+ +npplp
p+ rlnp+
+p+ + +
+ NP+ +
+ N L +
PPQ+LPPP
+ +RK +R
After 16. Rd1
instead, and then its all just a real mess,
Nakamura told me. His second, Kris Lit-
tlejohn, had been sitting in the audience
listening to Sutovskys live account. (See
Sidebar: Who is Kris Littlejohn?) I
thought that I was better, then I was
worse, then I thought I had chances again
at the end.
After 16. ... Ng4 17. Bxg4 Bxg4 18. f3 Ne5
19. Bf2 Nc4 20. Nc6 Bxc3+ 21. bxc3 Qc7 22.
Nb4 Be6 23. 0-0 Rfd8 24. Bd4 a5 25. Nd3 b4
26. Nf4 Qd7 27. Rc1 Na3 28. Qf2, on his web-
site Nakamura points to 28. ... Nb5, as
Kamskys missed opportunity. If he had
chosen 28. ... Bc4 he would have retained
a substantial advantage. However, it is
hard to fault Gata since in most of these
lines which Rybka likes, a human would
be scared of mating threats, he writes.
After 29. Bc5 Rd2 30. Qh4 f6 31. cxb4 axb4
32. Qh6, It felt like there was something
for me, but I just couldnt seem to find it,
or else there is nothing, but I just had a
gut feeling that there should be something
there. Its really unfortunate that [33.]
Rd1 doesnt simply win. In fact, it loses.
[33. Rcd1 Qxd1 34. Nxe6 Qxf1+ 35. Kxf1
Rd1 mate]
I just didnt have much time there, so I
just took the safe route and it was a draw.
During the live Chess.FM webcast,
Sutovsky said he had expected that this line
was at least a strong possibility. When
Jennifer Shahade and I mentioned this to
Hikaru later he responded with dry sar-
casm. Well, I guess he seems to be a genius
then, as I play pretty much everything ... I
certainly havent played this in a long time,
and recently against the Grnfeldespe-
cially in the Olympiad, for instanceI
played Rb1 along with everyone else [Onis-
chuk, Shulman, Akobian], so Im a little bit
surprised that he would think thats one of
the top three things I would play consider-
ing I havent played it in a long time. But I
mean, good for him clearly it worked out
as Gata was well prepared.
Although much of Nakamuras prepara-
tion in the weeks leading up to the
championship was done by Littlejohn,
Nakamura has had ample opportunity to
study his top rivals up close. Obviously Ive
had stuff on all these guys for some time,
so its not like I was preparing last night.
After five rounds, and a half point from
the lead, Jennifer and I wondered if Naka-
mura would consider a rapid playoff
desirable. No!, was the resounding
response. I want to win the tournament
straight up. Any time you tie its OK, but
really I want to win this tournament
before that stage ... maybe Im better
than them [at rapid], but still, its rapid,
and anything can happen.
Six players were within a half point of
the leaders Shulman and Akobian. I
wondered whether Kamsky or Nakamura
might just start with a whole stream of
wins, IM Pein told the Chess.FM audi-
ence, but sooner or later when youve got
a field of this size theyre gonna have to
play each other.
For Nakamura, life didnt get any eas-
ier in round six. He faced Onischuk with
black, and felt afterward that he was
close to losing out of the opening. Alex is
so solid that I figured a draw was fine so
I wasnt really trying to play aggressively
this gameI was black. Theres no need
to play for a win in every game, at least
not now.
However, when Nakamura forced the
matters with 17. ... Bxe5, Onischuk
obtained the bishop pair and a pleasant
initiative.
I wish I could say something positive
about my game today, but I have to say
that I think it was the worst game I played
in the tournament.
An interesting endgame emerged before
the time control.
+  n ++
+ p +p+p
p + Lpk
+P+ P +
+ +rP +
+ + + +
+ + +PP
R + + K
After 31. ... Kh6
Here he played [32.] Bg5[+] which sur-
prised me, Nakamura told a packed
commentary room in the basement of the
Chess Club and Scholastic Center. I
actually thought that after [32.] Ra8 Ne6
[33.] g3 there must be a mating net here.
The idea is Kg2, h4, and Bg5 mate. And
if Black checks on the second, Kh3 threat-
ening Kg4 is strong.
I didnt see a forced win, but my gut
instinct is that it was just losing. Instead,
if 32. ... Nd7 33. Bg5+ Kg7 34. Rd8 Nc5
35. Bf6+ Kh6 36. g3 and White has ideas
of Rg8, h3, and building a mating net.
In the game, after 32. ... Kg7 33. Bf6+ Kh6
34. Bg5+ Kg7 35. Ra3 f5 White has to take,
uschess.org
 DEFENDING CHAMPION YURY SHULMAN, WITH CHIEF TOURNAMENT
DIRECTOR CAROL JARECKI IN THE BACKGROUND, PAR TICIPATES
and the point now is the bishop has no
squares; the bishops just stuck on g5,
and my knight has access to d4, c5, f4 as
well from e6. His bishop isnt really that
useful here. The pawn on f6 gives White
something, but Nakamura managed to
hang on for the half point.
Hikaru was clearly benefiting from a
more mature outlook and refined self-
awareness. The difference between
drawing and losing is huge. If I were to
have lost today I would still have an out-
side shot at winning, perhaps, but it just
makes it that much harder, and with a
draw and two whites coming up, I should
have chances.
Nakamura blends a refreshing mix of
candor, perspicacity, and all-American
uschess.org
I N T H E W I N E G L A S S D R AW I N G O F C O L O R S C E R E M O N Y.
swagger. He is certainly opinionated, and
can come across as arrogant, but its a
mistake to view him so simplistically. Its
this very brashness, combined with an
innate confidence that makes him such
a dangerous competitor.
The current Russian champion, Peter
Svidler, said it best: Were now team-
mates, so Ive had an occasion to watch
[Hikaru] closely. Svidler and Nakamura
have been playing side-by-side for the
team of Evry Grand Roque in the French
League. When we spoke by phone at the
start of the U.S. Championship, Peter
was on holiday with his family on the
Volga river north of Ivanovo, Russia, but
was keeping an occasional eye out across
the pond. There are quite a lot of people
around with great chess skills. Not very
many of them are that bloodthirstyin a
good way, the Russian remarked.
Nakamura, for his part, seems to feel
that he needs to tone down his ambitions
within any one game. After escaping with
a draw versus Onischuk, he explained
that with such a tight field at the top, he
was better off pushing for wins in the
final rounds when he would inevitably
face lower-rated players and with an extra
white coming up. So with black against
Alex I didnt see any need to play reck-
lessly. There are countless times that I
have, and its worked sometimes, but
recently it hasnt worked out well for me
when I try to win, so I just figured: Just
play solidly and see what happens.
Chess Life August 2009 25
Cover Story
On board two, Kamsky, with white, was
paired down to Robert Hess and looking
to end a spate of draws since his win over
Akobian. Hess had climbed back to +2
after dispatching Melikset Khachiyan the
day before, but reported that he was begin-
ning to tire after five grueling days of play.
Kamsky - Hess (Round 6)
1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5.
Nc3 g6 6. Be3 a6 7. f3 b5 8. a4 b4 9. Nd5
Nxd5 10. exd5 Bb7 11. Bc4 Nd7 12. Qd2 Nb6
13. Qxb4 Nxc4 14. Qxb7 Qc8 15. Qxc8+ Rxc8
16. Bf2 Nxb2 17. 0-0 Bg7 18. Rfb1 Nc4 19.
Rb7 0-0 20. Rd1 Bf6 21. Nc6 e6 22. Bd4 Kg7
23. Ne7 Bxd4+ 24. Rxd4 e5 25. Nxc8 exd4
26. Rc7 Ne3 27. Nxd6 Nxd5 28. Rc4 Rd8 29.
Nb7 Ne3 30. Rc7 Rb8 31. Nd6 Rb2 32. Rxf7+
Kg8 33. Rd7 Rxc2 34. Ne4 Rxg2+ 35. Kh1
Ra2, Draw agreed
Champion of Champions, Sam Shankland
Sam Shankland was the only partic-
ipant in the U.S. Championship, who
earned his spot through a qualification
tournament. Sam won the U.S. State
Champion of Champions event, the final
of which was held on The Internet Chess
Club on April 5th. He beat Mackenzie
Molner in the finals and was awarded a
special prize at the closing ceremony in
St. Louis to honor the achievement.
The U.S. Championship was grueling
for Sam. Every single tournament Ive
had at this length Ive often had trouble
towards the end keeping myself in good
26 Chess Life August 2009
Hess boldly chose a hybrid Dragon/
Najdorf or Dragadorf Sicilian against
Kamsky, even though he had never played
the Sicilian against a higher rated oppo-
nent before. His rationale was sound.
I know that Kamsky loves space, so
playing the Ruy Lopez against him usu-
ally isnt a good option since it usually
gives White a lot of space. I saw he usu-
ally plays Be2 after g6, but I figured he
would not go Be2 because I dont play the
Sicilian. But I had a few lines prepared
me and Miron [Sher] decided Sicilian
would be the best idea.
Sutovsky agreed with that strategic
decision, and told Hess in the commen-
tary room after the game that, as
Kamskys second, he was unhappy to see
1. ... c5. I thought your chances in the
Ruy Lopez would be significantly lower
than here.
form. Sure enough he scored only half
a point from his last five games.
Juggling school work and prepara-
tion was also a challenge. When Jennifer
asked how he was keeping up, Sam
demurred. My lawyer advised me not to
answer that question.
Shankland had some chances in the
final position of his game against
Khachiyan, but he felt he would draw
the position 98% of the time, so pre-
ferred to rest up and prepare for his next
game. I wasnt too comfortable with
the way I was playing so farI thought
Id made a couple of mistakes in the
gameand compared to most other
grandmasters in the United States Ive
had the most trouble with this man
here [gesturing to Melik], historically
... I just felt that I wasnt playing or
calculating very well and in a position
like this one I thought that the only
way that I would end up winning would
be to end up with some kind of pawn
race and I didnt think that my calcula-
tion was working for me at the moment.
Sutovsky called this some sort of
Bronstein consideration, explaining
that the legendary GM David Bronstein
once offered a draw in a nearly win-
ning position because he had missed a
direct win a few moves earlier. Bron-
steins insecurity in his own calculation
ability that day led him to call it a day.
After spending over 10 minutes with
Shankland and Khachiyan, we were
looking to get back to the top boards as
Kamsky and Nakamura were both still
playing in round four. But Sam wasnt stunned some onlookers who looked
yet ready to yield the microphone.
Can I take 30 seconds to show you
Sutovsky elucidated Kamskys approach.
8. a4 is more of a positional planbasi-
cally he wants to provoke you to play b4
and then take care of your b-pawn, but
youre just in time with this combination
which happened in the game and its pretty
forcedotherwise black is in trouble.
After 14. ... Qc8, winning the pawn
back, Hess felt he was fine, and if White
tries to play even too aggressively, he
may end up in a worse position. On 16.
Ke2, then Nxb2 anyway, and after 17.
Rhb1 Nc4, Black doesnt really have any
problems; its hard to attack the a6-pawn
and White has to get this [a1] rook out
somehow, but it takes a while.
Hess was pleased to come up with 19.
... 0-0, when White cant grab the e7-
pawn on account of 20. ... Nb6 and there
are too many loose pawns plus White
has to watch out for ... Rc4 ideas.
one trick? I put it to an audience vote,
and they were overwhelmingly in favor.
+ rrlk+
+p+ +ppp
qppln +
p n + +
P+ NP+ +
+PN + Q
LP+ PPP
+ +RRLK
After 16. ... Bf8
OK, so obviously [17. Nxe6 Nxe6] 18.
Nd5 followed by Bxf6 is good, so [17. ...]
Rxe6 is forced, now [18. e5] takes [18. ...
dxe5] [19.] Rxd8, takes [Qxd8], [20.] Bc4
Re7 is interesting after [21.] Rxe5, Nce4
but I think White is about equal at the
end. In any case he plays 20. ... Nd5 21.
Rd1 Rd6So theres a few things White
can try to do here, but [22.] Qxe5 peters
out to a draw pretty quickly, but [22.]
Bxd5 was interesting followed by [23.]
Qxe5 [trying to pressure the d5- pawn]
but here Black has this nice trick with
[23. ...] d4. And if 24. Nb5 Rd5 followed
by ... d4-d3 Blacks just going to be
better. And 24. Qxc5 runs into [24. ...]
dxc3 25. Rxd6 Bxd6 (or 25. ... cxb2)
26. Qxc3 Be5.
It was more like two minutes than
30 seconds but the speed with which
Sam rattled off the complex variations
forward to seeing more from the young
Californian international master.
uschess.org
 Robert drew quite a few chuckles from
the crowd when he wryly observed that if
the game continued 36. Nf6+, of course
if king to h8, I get checkmated, so that
wouldnt be the best option. Instead, 36.
... Kf8 37. Nh7+ Ke8, with a perpetual,
was forced.
Jennifer observed that at this stage
Hess had played the top three seeds, all
with black, making his result even a lit-
tle more impressive. No one yet
anticipated how close he would come to
winning the whole thing.

Going for broke

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

Nakamura - Akobian (Round 6)

1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 Nf6Nakamura
expected Akobian to play the 4. ... dxe4 line
like he did against Kamsky, and had spent
time before the game looking for what
Akobian's improvement might be there,
but Nakamura had also prepared for Ako-
bians ... Nf6 and ... Nd7 line as well.
4. e5 Nfd7 5. f4 c5 6. Nf3 Nc6 7. Be3 a6 8.
Qd2 b5 9. h4Kasparov has played 9. h4
so obviously it has to be the best line.
That's more or less my attitude. Anything
Kasparov plays with white you more or
less should trust it.
9. ... cxd4 10. Nxd4 Nxd4 11. Bxd4 Bc5
This [line] is probably OK, but it leads to
an unpleasant endgame after [12.] h5.
12. h5 Qb6 13. 0-0-0 0-0He probably
should play 13. ... Bxd4 here, trade every-
thing down 14. Qxd4 Qxd4 15. Rxd4 and
then play 15. ... Nb8.
14. Bxc5 Nxc5He probably should
take with the queen here is my guess, but
even after 15. Ne2 I didn't really see how
he could obtain equality here. One of
the main ideas is to play ... f6, but here
if he tries ... f6 I can go 16. Nd4 (or 16.
h6) ... either way I felt that I had an
advantage here.
15. f5Nakamura found this continua-
tion over the board15. ... Qc7 (15. ... b4
I M I R I N A K R U S H A N D S T. L O U I S R A P P E R O R E O . C O N
A T T H E O P E N I N G C E R E M O N Y.
looks like the most active and logical move, really sure how I can improve my position
but it fails spectacularly to 16. Na4! Nxa4 ... I thought from a practical point of view
17. f6 winning. E.g. 17. ... Nc3 [17. ... h6 this was his best try.
18. Rh4] 18. Qg5 Nxa2+ 19. Kd2 g6 20. 17. h6 g6 18. Nxd5 Qd8 19. Nf6+ Kh8 20.
Qh6 Qf2+ 21. Be2 Qd4+ 22. Ke1) 16. Re1. Qb4The computer prefers to force the
Emil Sutovsky suggested 16. Qd4 but queens off with 20. Qd6 Qxd6 21. exd6 Be6
Nakamura felt 16. Re1 was stronger, and 22. Re5.
in fact after 16. ... Bb7 (16. ... Nd7 17. 20. ... Ne6Akobian could keep White's
fxe6 fxe6 18. Nxd5) 17. h6 g6 Black looks advantage to a minimum with 20. ... Qc7
to be OK. 21. Rh3 Be6 22. Rc3 Rac8.
16. ... exf5 (16. ... Bb7 17. f6 with a win- 21. Rh3 Bb7 22. Rd1 Qc7 23. Rd6 Be4
ning attack. Nakamura expected 16. ... Black can still suffer on with 23. ... Rfc8
Ne4 17. Nxe4 dxe4 18. h6 g6 [18. ... Qxe5 24. Rc3 Qe7.
19. hxg7 Qxg7 20. Rxe4] 19. fxg6 fxg6 24. Nxe4 fxe4 25. Qxe4 Rad8 26. Rhd3
20. Rxe4 Bb7 21. Re3 Rad8 22. Bd3). Now the queenside pawns become too
Im up a pawn here but I wasnt really weak. 26. ... Qe7 27. Qe3 Kg8 28. Rxa6 Rxd3
convinced that this is winning, because 29. Bxd3 Qb7 30. Rd6 Qxg2 31. Bxb5
say he just plays ... Qc5 and waits, Im not
(see diagram next column, next page)

uschess.org Chess Life August 2009 27

Cover Story

GM-ELECT ROBER T HESS, AFTER A STRONG FOXWOODS PERFORMANCE AND

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

O F F A N U P S E T F O R T H E A G E S I N S T. L O U I S .

+  k+
r +
After this win Nakamura had played all take a half-point lead into the final round,
the other top contenders, and so was and left for dinner with his second.
+ + +p+p paired down to IM Michael Brooks, a

+ Rn+pP
wildcard from Kansas City, rated just
2419. Brooks was an outlier in this group, No realistic chance of winning
+L+ P + acutely awkward in the limelight, without In April, U.S. Chess League founder

+ + + +
a second or even his own computer in Greg Shahade wrote in Chess Life Online
St.Louis, yet he still managed to score that Robert Hess had almost no realistic
+ + Q + several impressive upsets over GMs chance of winning the event. (CLO, April

PPP+ +q+
+ K + +
After 31. Bxb5
... and with the way cleared on the
queenside, Nakamura cooly pushes his
pawns home to victory in 40 moves.
Alexander Shabalov, Becerra-Rivero, and
IM Ray Robson, and was on pace for a
grandmaster norm. Nakamura was not
about to be derailed, however, and won
without too much difficulty.
After Onischuk and Kamsky drew on
board one, and Shulman had a worse but
seemingly holdable queenless middlegame
against Hess, Nakamura figured he would
16, 2009). Just before the round-nine
finale, I checked in with him again for a
reaction. At first I wasnt surprised
because I was like, you know hes a young
kid, hes improvingI expect these kids to
do wellbut now its getting a little ridicu-
lous ... I knew he was a strong player, I just
didnt know he was this strong.
Hikaru arrived back at his hotel and

28 Chess Life August 2009 uschess.org

checked for the results. What? Shulman
played 43. ... Rc6?? He refreshed the
browser window in case that was some
relay error. But no, Shulman was about
to resign. Hess would need just one more
win to guarantee at least a playoff. Hikaru
went for a walk along the Gateway Arch
Riverfront to clear his head. That evening
he decided to play 1. e4 and head for
something sharpto go for a knockout
rather than be satisfied with some small
advantage that might fizzle into a draw.
He needed to beat Josh Friedel to avoid
what would likely be a multi-way playoff.
Robert was feeling pretty nervous on
Saturday night. I usually never get nerv-
ous but I was playing for the U.S.
Championship and it started getting to
me. He prepared until 1:30 a.m. or so
looking for some opening advantage.
The idea of a playoff was almost incon-
ceivable. In fact he had booked a flight
home to New York for Sunday evening
and wasnt even planning to stay for the
closing ceremony. Now he was playing
for the title!
Hess had white against Akobian, but
decided not to take risks and instead to
simply play it safe. After less than six
hours of sleep, he was up again talking to
Miron, for some last minute advice. By the
time he got to the board, for the 10:00
a.m. game, the jitters were gone.
Hikaru did not sleep well, and was up
at 5:00 a.m. worrying about how to chan-
nel Alexander Morozevich. Littlejohn had
suggested a line in the 4. Ng5 Two Knights
Defense that Morozevich tried against
Sergey Karjakin in a blitz game about a
year ago. At first he thought Kris was
kidding. But as the sun rose he decided
that Whites play was indeed promising.
The gamble worked. Nakamuras 22-
move win over Friedel was a shocker, and
Hess was naturally disappointed to see
Josh go down so quickly, after Nakamura
artfully trapped his queen. Hess would
have to win his own game, or settle for
second. I was pressing, but it was a
draw the whole way through pretty much,
so theres not much pressing to be done,
he told Jennifer and me later. If not for
his move [42. ...] b5, it actually might be
a little tough, but he found b5 and its just
a complete draw. Nakamura had won.
Hikaru praised Hess as having played
some of the best middlegame chess of
the tournament. Hess was pleased with
the compliment. Personally I dont really
like theory that much, he explained. Im
more into the creativity of the game, so I
go for tricky middlegames [rather than] 30
moves of theory. Most of his wins were
long grinds; he never had a clear edge
coming out of the opening.
Its fun to be underestimated as the
young new guy, and when Robert set out
for St. Louis, he just wanted to beat some
uschess.org
grandmasters. My huge goal was to get top than Ray, you know, some simple posi-
ten because that gets you the right to play tion, just slightly better for me.
in the Continental, the championship of Close to the time control, Robson erred
the Americas which concludes on August with 38. ... Ra2, when White wins a pawn.
2. Instead, his result in St. Louis qualifies
Hess directly for the World Cup in Russia
this November. Hes already looking for-
l
+ + +
ward to the Russian winter. You know + +k+ p
actually Im a fan of colder weather so
thats a good thing. Im just pretty excited
p + + p
to play, so I hope it goes well. For now, he +N+ +p+
just wants to reach 2600 FIDE.
At the closing ceremony, Nakamura
R + P +
had a message for Hess. Echoing words +P+K+ P
Shabalov told him when he played in his
first U.S. championship, Hikaru said:
r+ + + P
His time will come. + + + +
After 38. ... Ra2
The 2006 champion Ray calculates very well, but in the
Third place on tiebreak went to Onis- endgame its more about understand-
chuk, who is the first player since ing, not about how well you calculate
Fischer to go four consecutive champi- lines, so when I got this endgame I
onships without a loss. His last round thought I had very good chances to
win was worth $5,000, but it came at a win, actually.
cost to his young apprentice, Ray Rob- Instead of 38. ... Ra2, Robson had
son. Alex has been working with Ray the strong move 38. ... g5. Its proba-
since last fall, and Ray has been in bly a draw, I agree, but he still had to
pursuit of his first grandmaster norm find some precise moves, was Onis-
for over a year. It was an unfortunate chuks verdict.
final pairing that naturally generated Setting the prize money aside, there
just a little friction. I think we will talk was no question that Onischuk had to
tonight, but I saw how disappointed he press for a win. I always tell Ray that
was, Onischuk told me just after the norms will come, GM title will come ...
game. He missed a GM norm, so we Hell earn ithe has already earned it
didnt talk [after the game]. but you know he has to improve his
Sutovsky had thought Robson would play. He should become a strong
hold the draw until well into the second playerits not about norms, its about
time control, but Onischuk was not so how you play.
sure. I still think I was slightly better. Onischuk won the championship in
In [the] Catalan you get these kind of 2006, then took second in 2007 and
endgames and its not easy. If I were 2008, and he initially thought he would
black playing against, lets say, Kramnik, have a three-peat second place here, but
I wouldnt enjoy it at all ... you know this his modified median tiebreaks could not
kind of chess I think I play much better match Hess.
U.S. CHAMPIONSHIP
FLASHBACK!
BONUS AUDIO/VIDEO ON USCHESS.ORG!
EMIL SUTOVSKYS PERFORMANCE AT THE CLOSING CEREMONY OF
"TORNA A SURRIENTO, AN EARLY 20TH CENTURY NEAPOLITAN SONG.
VA R U Z H A N A K O B I A N S H O W S H I S W I N O V E R J U L I O B E C E R R A - R I V E R O T H A T
PUT HIM INTO A TIE FOR FIRST PLACE AFTER FOUR ROUNDS.
S A M S H A N K L A N D A N D M E L I K S E T K H A C H I YA N T A G T E A M L I V E A N A L Y S I S O F
THEIR FOUR TH ROUND GAME, IN THE U.S. CHAMPIONSHIP COMMENTARY
ROOM. IT ENDED IN A DRAW BUT EMIL SUTOVSKY THOUGHT SHANKLAND
S H O U L D H AV E P L AY E D O N . H E A R S H A N K L A N D I N T R O D U C E T H E L I V E
AUDIENCE TO DVORETSKYS CHESS TERM: THE EMERGENCY EXIT.
Chess Life August 2009 29
Cover Story

TOURNAMENT SPONSOR REX SINQUEFIELD PRESENTS THE CHAMPION WITH

HIS WINNINGS. SHOR TLY THEREAFTER, SINQUEFIELD PURCHASED BOBBY

FISCHERS LIBRARY FOR $61,000 AT AUCTION, PUTTING THE UNCLAIMED

$64,000 FISCHER PRIZE TO GOOD USE.

An American super-GM
Nakamuras performance rating in St.
Louis was 2807 (USCF), and his FIDE ELO
is back over 2700. The U.S. title, plus his
regained super GM rating, should ensure
Nakamura plenty of choices on the global
chess circuit in the coming year. Already he
competed in a high-class round-robin in San
Sebastian, Spain. This month well see him
in action in Amsterdams NH tournament,
where rising stars battle experience. In playing each other in the national
December he will play in a new elite tour-
nament in London, alongside Magnus
Carlsen and Vladimir Kramnik.
That event is organized by Malcolm
Pein, who said Nakamura was his first
choice for an invitation. He was quite
excited to follow the chess over here in
the colonies. I think that everybody
should stop and think for a minute
about how lucky we are that we can
watch all of Americas best players
U.S. champion. [Hikaru] gets better as
championship, because when you look
around the world and particularly
here [in the U.K.] thats not a privi-
lege to which people are accustomed to
a lot of the time.
In Amsterdam, Nakamura will face,
among others, his new French League
teammate Peter Svidler. The Russian
champion will be trying to use his vast
experience to his advantage, but he
shares a certain admiration for the new
time goes on. The things that make him

30 Chess Life August 2009 uschess.org

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

Final Results
Place Points Name
1 7 Hikaru Nakamura
2-3 6 Robert Hess, Alexander Onischuk
4-5 6 Gata Kamsky, Varuzhan Akobian
6-9 5 Yury Shulman, Josh Friedel, Ildar Ibragimov, Larry Christiansen
10-15 4 Jaan Ehlvest, Ray Robson, Gregory Kaidanov, Joel Benjamin, Alexander Shabalov, Boris Gulko
16-19 4 Michael Brooks, Tyler Hughes, Enrico Sevillano, Julio Becerra-Rivero
20 3 Irina Krush
21-22 3 Samuel Shankland, Melikset Khachiyan
23 2 Doug Eckert
24 1 Charles Lawton
25 Anna Zatonskih

special are things that, for instance, I
wish I had more of myself, such as the
desire to play every game for a win
which I find, lets say, not every dayand
an absolutely amazing self-belief. This is
not to say that he has no chess attributes
which are enviableof course notbut to
me, at the moment, things that set him
apart from most of the other chess play-
mura on his achievement the day after the
last round, he was, in some sense, already
downplaying his effort. He thanked me
and then simply said, Seven more to go
til I pass Fischer.
As for the Fischer memorial prize, a
few weeks later, Rex Sinquefield, the
chief sponsor of this years champi-
onship, took the $64,000 he saved and
The USCF and the Chess Club and
Scholastic Center of St. Louis are
grateful for the sponsorship provided
by the Internet Chess Club (ICC) and
MonRoi, as well as all of the financial
and in-kind sponsors.
See more U.S. Championship reporting
on Chess Life Online at uschess.org,
May archives. Download a pgn file of

.
ers are things to do with his natural bought Fischers library at a New York all the games from the U.S. Champi-
desire to win everything. auction house. He even had a bit of onship at the St. Louis Chess Club
When I personally congratulated Naka- change to spare. website, www.saintlouischessclub.org.

uschess.org Chess Life August 2009 31

 JAAN EHLVEST

STONE
COLD
SOLID
GABRIEL SARGISSIAN

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

By Jonathan Hilton

32 Chess Life August 2009 uschess.org

 2009 Chicago Open

Ladies and gentlemen, Ehlvest has left the building, one bystander remarked as the 46-
year-old Estonian grandmaster seized his $6,300 check and started running. After having defeated
top-seeded GM Gabriel Sargissian handily in their Armageddon playoff matchwith the black pieces,
no lessGM Jaan Ehlvest was ready to disappear. No one knew what caused him to hurry. Did he have
a plane flight to catch? Was he off to go celebrate? One spectator thought the latter: as the new Chicago
Open champion darted past the many grandmasters still standing in line to collect their prizes, a voice
called out after him, Not the whole check, Jaan! Not the whole check!
Ehlvests tournament victory reminds us of what this former world top five player is capable of achiev-
ing. Six of his seven games yielded a decisive result, and he scored wins over GMs Timur Gareev, Zviad
Izoria, and Alexander Shabalov on his way to the magical 5/7 score often required to win the Chicago
Open. After what must have been a disappointing plus zero performance in the U.S. Championship
which, despite solid draws against fellow world-class players Nakamura, Onischuk, and Kamsky, was tainted
by risky play that ultimately backfired against Akobian and Friedel Ehlvest came to the Windy City resolved
to play structured, disciplined chess. His stone cold face proved unreadable over the chessboard, and
his positions were consistently rock solid. After beating IM Bryan Smith from the black side of a Berlin
Defense in the Ruy Lopez, Ehlvest took on Shabalov in this critical sixth-round battle:

+ + + +
English Opening (A10) for the ambitious Shabalov to err.
GM Jaan Ehlvest (2667)
pl+k+rp
15. cxd5 exd5 16. Bf2 Rhf8
GM Alexander Shabalov (2613)

Chicago Open (Round 6), 05.25.2009
1. c4 b6!?
This kind of unconventional defense
for Black is a hallmark of Shabalov's
style.
2. Nc3 Bb7 3. e4 e6 4. d3
Ehlvest had himself played the black
side of this position against Evgeny Agrest
in 2001. That game continued with the
weird-looking 4. Nf3 Bb4 5. Bd3 Ne7 6.
Ne2 Nbc6 7. a3 Bd6, but Ehlvest has an
entirely different interpretation of the
position for White.
4. ... Bb4 5. Qg4!?
When you're a grandmaster, you can
bring your queen out early. The queen
sortie proves surprisingly solid.
5. ... Qf6 6. Nge2 Qg6 7. Qh3 Ne7 8. a3
Bxc3+ 9. Nxc3 f5 10. Qg3
White has acquired the two bishops, so
he decides its time to call his opening a
PHOTOS: CHRIS BIRD
16. ... d4 17. Ne2 leaves Black slightly
uncomfortable, for instance, 17. ... Rhe8
18. Rh5 would allow White to continue
applying pressure. With the text, Black
coaxes White into relieving some of the
central tension.
17. exf5 d4
17. ... Nxf5 would allow 18. d4, after
which White's kingside pressure is annoy-
ing: 18. ... Rfe8 19. g4 Ne3 20. Bxe3 Rxe3
21. Rh5 Ne7 22. Bd3 with the idea of an
eventual g4-g5.
18. Ne4 Nxf5 19. Re1 Na5 20. g4 Nd6 21. Nd2
White had other options, notably 21.
b4, but he is still aiming to play solidly.
21. ... c5 22. Rh5 Rf7 23. Bg3 Kd7 24. b3 Re8
25. Rxe8 Nxe8 26. b4
At a snails pace, White improves. The
trade of one set of rooks means the newly-
opened c-file will not afford Black
counterplay.
26. ... Nf6?!
p + n p
n p + +R
P p +P+
P +P+PL
+ N +P+
+ K +L+
After 26. ... Nf6
27. Rh1!?
White declines Blacks sacrifice and
instead insists on playing solid moves
Ehlvest seeks to convert a slight
advantage rather than hedge his bets on
a larger one. 27. bxa5 Nxh5 28. gxh5 is
a substantial material advantage for
White, and may even be winning after
28. ... Rf5 (28. ... b5 29. Bb8 a6 30. f4
with the idea of Bb8-e5 and g2-g4) 29.
axb6 axb6 30. Nc4 Rg5!? (30. ... Kc6 31.
f4 Rxh5 32. Be2 Rh1+ 33. Kd2 b5 34.
Bf3+ Kd7 35. Bxb7 bxc4 36. dxc4 looks
winning for White) 31. Bf4 Rf5 32. Bb8 b5

success and head for the endgame.

10. ... Qxg3 11. hxg3 Nbc6 12. Be3 0-0-0 13.
0-0-0 h6 14. f3 d5
This two-pronged attack on Whites
center nearly equalizes for Black, but
Ehlvest continues to play solidly, waiting
(see diagram top of next column)
26. ... cxb4 27. axb4 Nc6 28. b5 may
not have appealed to Black, but after 28.
... Nb4 29. Nc4 (29. Nb3 Bxf3! saves the
day) 29. ... Re7 he at least has the plan
of ... Nb4-d5-e3.
33. Ne5+ Ke6 34. Ng6!, when Black is at
his wits end to avoid getting his king
and rook forked.
27. ... cxb4 28. axb4 Nc6 29. b5 Nd8
On 29. ... Nb4, 30. Nb3 simply wins

uschess.org Chess Life August 2009 33

 2009 Chicago Open
Black's d4-pawn. Black no longer has
the idea of ... Bb7xf3, as in the note to
White's 27th move, since he inserted ...
Ne8-f6 first.
30. Nc4 Re7 31. Nd6 Ke6 32. Nf5 Rd7 33. Bf2
Ke5 34. Be2 g6 35. Bg3+ Kd5
+ n + +
pl+r+ +
p + npp
+P+k+N+
+ p +P+
+ +P+PL
+ +L+P+
+ K + +R
After 35. ... Kd5
36. Nxh6
White is playing around Blacks king.
As the players move toward the time con-
trol, play becomes increasingly complex.
36. Rxh6!? gxf5 37. Rxf6 fxg4 38. fxg4 Kc5
gives up the solidity of Whites pawn for-
mation prematurely.
36. ... Kc5 37. Kd2 Ne6
37. ... Kxb5 gives White a free hand to
unleash first-rank checks against Blacks
king, but it is difficult to prove anything
more than a draw. 38. Rb1+ Kc6 39.
Rc1+ Kb5 (39. ... Kd5? 40. f4) 40. Be5
might be the way for White to go.
38. Be5 Nd5 39. Ng8
White is encircling the g6-pawn.
39. ... Nef4 40. Nf6 Nxf6 41. Bxf4 Nd5 42. Be5
Nc3 43. Rh6 Kxb5
Black is also struggling after 43. ...
Re7 44. f4 Nxe2 (44. ... Re6 45. Bf1 Nxb5
46. Bg7 with the idea of f4-f5 looks impos-
ing) 45. Kxe2 Re6 46. Rh7 Bxg2 47. Kf2
Bd5 48. Rxa7 Kxb5 49. Bxd4.
44. Rxg6 Nxe2 45. Kxe2 a5
Black is a pawn down but looks to gen-
erate fast play with his a-pawn.
46. Rg7!
White knows that this opposite-color
bishop endgame is anything but drawn.
46. ... Rxg7 47. Bxg7 Kc5 48. g5 Kd5 49. g6
b5 50. Bf6 Bc8 51. Bd8
Whites first task is to render Blacks
queenside duo immobile. Then, all White
need do is begin pushing his own pawns.
51. ... a4 52. g7 Be6 53. Be7 Bg8 54. g4 Ke5
55. Kf2 Ke6 56. Bf8 Kf6 57. f4 Bd5 58. Bc5
Kxg7 59. Bxd4+ Kg6 60. Bc5 Bb3 61. d4 Bd1
62. Kg3, Black resigned.
Tying for first with Ehlvest was GM
34 Chess Life August 2009
Gabriel Sargissian, ranked number 63
in the world on the latest official FIDE
chart. Sargissian, who hails from Arme-
nia, started off as the favorite and lived up
to that expectation throughout. After two
initial wins over GMs Mesgen Amanov
and Gildardo Garcia, he switched to a
win every other game mode with a draw,
then a win, then a draw again, even con-
tinuing the pattern with his last-round
grandmaster draw encounter with
Ehlvest. This had nothing to do with what
color pieces he had each round, how-
ever: his path to the top included wins
with both black and white. One of his
crowning achievements was winning the
following 80-move slugfest with GM Dar-
men Sadvakasov:
Closed Ruy Lopez (C88)
GM Darmen Sadvakasov (2645)
GM Gabriel Sargissian (2736)
Chicago Open (Round 6), 05.25.2009
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 Nf6 5.
0-0 Be7 6. Re1 b5 7. Bb3 0-0 8. a4 b4 9. d3
d6 10. a5 Be6 11. Nbd2 Rb8
r q
rk+
+ p lppp
p+npln +
P + p +
p +P+ +
+L+P+N+
PPN PPP
R LQR K
After 11. ... Rb8
12. h3
A rare move, but these kinds of Ruy
positions are played more on feel than by
memory. White prevents the continua-
tion 12. Nc4 Bg4 from Black, as in the
draw Kasparov-Grischuk, 2002. 13. Be3
Nd7 14. h3 Bxf3 15. Qxf3 Bg5 took some
of the sting out of White's position.
12. ... h6 13. Qe2 Qc8 14. Nc4 Rd8 15. Be3
Qb7 16. Qf1!?
Here White embarks on a journey with
his queen, gaining kingside space but
giving Black a free hand to finish his
maneuvering. White often focuses more
on stirring up action in the center.
16. ... Bf8 17. g3 Re8 18. Kh2 g6 19. Qg2 Bg7
20. Ba4
A typical idea for White. In this case,
Black is allowed to initiate structural
changes on the queenside that may favor
him.
20. ... Bxc4 21. dxc4 Rf8
21. ... Nxe4? would of course be refuted
by 22. Nd2.
22. Bxc6 Qxc6 23. Nd2 Nd7
r + rk+
+ pn+pl
p+qp +pp
P + p +
pP+P+ +
+ + L PP
PPN PQK
R + R +
After 23. ... Nd7
24. g4!?
White is fighting for space, but the
dark-square holes in his pawn formation
resemble Swiss cheese.
24. ... Nc5 25. b3 Ne6 26. Rg1 Kh7 27. h4 Nf4
Given the course of the game, one won-
ders whether Black disliked 27. ... Nd4!?
immediately. 28. Bxd4 exd4 29. f4 Rbe8
is unclear, though Whites a-pawn will
always need defense.
28. Qf3 Qe8 29. Rae1 Qe7 30. Qg3 Rg8 31.
Nf3 Ne6 32. Qh3
White has done well over the past few
moves and his attack is growing, so Black
makes the practical decision to cash
out of subtle maneuvering and create
further imbalances.
32. ... Nd4 33. Bxd4 exd4 34. Ng5+ Kh8 35. f4
Rge8 36. Nf3 Qf6 37. f5!?
37. Qg3 was more cautious. Then 37.
... d3 could be met with 38. e5 dxe5 39.
fxe5 Qd8 40. Rd1.
37. ... d3!
Taking up the challenge. This is an
effective breakthrough, but Whites spa-
tial advantage gives him plenty of
resources for counterplay.
38. cxd3 Qb2+ 39. Kh1 Qxb3 40. f6?
The final move to make time control.
White wrestles for the initiative, but it is
not clear how Black proceeds after 40.
Rd1, since 40. ... Qa4!? 41. g5 Qd7 (41.
... h5 42. f6 Bf8 43. Ra1 looks fine for
White) 42. gxh6 Bxh6 43. Rdf1 b3 44. Qg2
b2 45. fxg6 fxg6 46. Qxg6 Qh7 47. Rb1
leaves Black with no obvious route to an
advantage. 40. ... gxf5 41. gxf5 Qc3, keep-
ing a slight pull, may be the best try.
40. ... Bxf6 41. g5 Qxd3!
Black gives up a piece to quash the
attack; Whites material is not enough.
42. gxf6 Rxe4 43. Rxe4 Qxe4 44. Qg4 Re8 45.
uschess.org
Qxe4 Rxe4 46. Rc1 Rf4 47. Kg2 Rxf6 48. c5
Rf5 49. cxd6 cxd6 50. Rc4 b3 51. Rb4 Rxa5
52. Rxb3
Whites pawns have fallen, but he man-
ages to set Black a few challenges yet.
52. ... Rd5 53. Kg3 Kg7 54. Kf4 a5 55. Ke4 a4
56. Ra3 Ra5 57. Nd4 f5+ 58. Kd3 Kf6 59. Kc4
g5 60. hxg5+ hxg5 61. Kb4 Ra8 62. Kc4 g4
63. Kd3 Ke5 64. Ra1 a3 65. Rf1 Rf8!?
65. ... f4 runs into 66. Nc6+ Kf5 67.
Nd4+ Kg5 68. Ne6+, though after 68. ...
Kh4 69. Nxf4 a2 70. Ra1 Kg3 71. Ne2+
Kf2 Black should still win.
66. Re1+ Kf6
On 66. ... Kd5, White has 67. Rb1! Rc8
(67. ... Ke5 68. Re1+) 68. Rf1 Rf8 69.
Rb1, forcing the game continuation.
67. Nxf5!
Resourceful play from White.
67. ... a2 68. Ne3 Ra8 69. Nc2 Kg5 70. Kc3 g3
71. Kb2 Kf4 72. Ka1 Rg8 73. Nd4 g2 74. Kxa2
Kg3 75. Rd1 Kf2 76. Nf5 d5 77. Ne7 Rg5 78.
Kb3 Re5
+ + + +
+ N + + in this ad hoc five points club. Joining
+
+ + +
+ +pr +
+ + + +
+K+ + +
+ + kp+
+ +R+ +
After 78. ... Re5
79. Nxd5
White can play the tricky 79. Ng6, hop-
ing for 79. ... Re1?? 80. Rd2+ Kf1 81.
Rxg2 Kxg2 82. Nf4+, drawing. 79. ... Re3+!
80. Kc2 g1=Q 81. Rxg1 Kxg1 leaves Black
with a well-known winning position, how-
ever. There is no fortress, for instance: 82.
Nf4 d4 83. Nd3 Kg2 84. Kd2 Kf3 85. Nc5
Ra3 86. Nd7 (86. Nd3 Ra2+) 86. ... Kf4 87.
Nc5 Ra5 88. Nd3+ Kf3 89. Nb2 (89. Nb4
Ke4) 89. ... Ra2 90. Kc2 Rxb2+ 91. Kxb2
Ke2 wins.
79. ... Rxd5 80. Rxd5 g1=Q, White resigned.
Although not physically imposing in
stature, Sargissian has intense, dark
eyes. His thick black eyebrows, light facial
hair, and pointy ears give him a unique
physiognomy. As a hero, he is dashing; as
an adversary, he is dangerous. One would
expect Sargissians opponents to occa-
sionally cower in fear. One can only
imagine what was going through Blacks
head as he played the following move:
uschess.org
Oops
GM Gabriel Sargissian (2736)
GM Gildardo Garcia (2499)
Chicago Open (Round 2), 05.23.2009
+R+ l +
+ +n+p+
+ + Lpk
+ +pP +p
+ N + +
+ + + PP
r+ + PK+
+ + + +
After 32. Rc8
Sargissian has just played his rook to
c8. Black now reached for his bishop and
played 32. ... Bc5??, ending the game in
light of 33. Rh8, checkmate.
After the finish of the last round, the
line of those awaiting their prize checks
was filled with the numerous GMs who
split third through eighth with 5/7. While
in line myself, I met up with GMs Loek
Van Wely, Yury Shulman, Varuzhan Ako-
bian, and Shabalovall of whom were
in at the head of the line was last years
co-champion, the good-natured GM
Tigran Petrosian. How did you do this
year, Mr. Petrosian? I asked politely.
Badly! he exclaimed. I drew five games.
Shulman then jokingly asked the obvious
question: What are you doing here? The
ever-witty Petrosian grabbed his good
friend Varuzhan Akobian. Im this mans
body guard! he exclaimed.
Although Petrosians plus two per-
formancewhich included a round four
win over Ehlvest himselfonly netted
him 4/7, he did use his final provi-
sionally rated tournament to notch his
USCF over 2700. GM Dashzegve Shar-
avdorj, FM Jake Kleiman, and FM Carl
Boor, Jr., tied with Petrosians score but
split the U2500 money amongst them-
selves. Also notable was the 4/7
performance of FM Darwin Yang, who
drew with IM Benjamin Finegold in the
first round and (like Sargissian) defeated
GMs Mesgen Amanov and Gildardo Gar-
cia. This was by no means the first time
the 12-year-old had beaten a grandmas-
ter, however most notably, he also beat
GM Josh Friedel at the 2008 World Open.
Of the 50 players competing in the
Open Section, there were 19 grandmas-
ters, making it easy for up-and-coming
players to get multiple opportunities to
play grandmasters over the course of
seven rounds. Those who chose to play in
the 2-day programwhich kicks off the
first day with four Game/45swere in for
an especially rough time, though: six out
of the eight who entered this schedule
were grandmasters! British master-level
player John Burgess explained to me that
this kind of dense field is not at all
unusual. In 2004, I played in my first
Chicago Open, he noted. I played Shul-
man in the first round and I didnt know
he was a grandmaster, so I beat him.
After that, it felt like I was playing GMs
the rest of the tournament. Burgess
manifold losses over the following six
rounds included one to Ehlvest, who tied
for first that year as well. These days I
play in the U2300 section, added
Burgess. Im happier now.
On a closing note, in last years report
Jerry Hanken stated he felt the price of
gas would peak at about five bucks and
then come crashing down. That predic-
tion was certainly a fair one. Hanken also
predicted that turnout at the Chicago
Open would not drop below 750, and he
was again correct. Thanks to the hard
work of the organizers, Bill and Brenda
Goichberg, and the entire Continental
Chess Association staff, the tournament
continued to prosper for its second year
in its new locationthe tranquil North
Shore Westin in the trendy suburb of
Wheeling. Its a hotel sterile enough to
assuage even the most passionate germa-
phobe, and with its high ceiling and wide
corridors, calling it merely capacious
.
is an understatement. Ehlvest may have
left the building, but I suspect that next
year hell be back.
2009 Chicago Open
At A Glance
Date: May 22-25, 2009
Location: Westin North Shore
Hotel, Wheeling, Illinois
Top Finishers: Open, 1st-2nd:
Gabriel Sargissian, Jaan Ehlvest,
5. 3rd-8th: Loek Van Wely, Yury
Shulman, Varuzhan Akobian,
Giorgi Kacheishvili, Alexander
Shabalov, Benjamin Finegold, 5.
9th: Tigran Petrosian, 4. Under
2500: Dashzegve Sharavdorj, Jake
Kleiman, Carl Boor, Jr, 4. Under
2300, 1st: Tyler Hughes, Yaacov
Norowitz, 6. Under 2100, 1st:
Evgeny Shver, 6. Under 1900,
1st: Jordan Cohen, 6. Under
1700, 1st: Sarkis Toneryan, 7.
Under 1500, 1st: Jeffrey DiOrio,
6. Under 1300, 1st: Shaogang
Bian, 6. Under 900, 1st: Taofiki
Lasisi, Adil Dzelilovic, 6.
Chief Tournament Director: Bill
Goichberg.
Chess Life August 2009 35
Here and There
Raising champions on and off the board,
chess takes to and from the streets.
Vive le Variant!
F
rom the day I began using chess as
a method for teaching high school
academics, instead of as a rated pur-
suit, I have been given the stinkeye by
many real players who think its worthy to
teach students chess, but only as long as
the setting conforms to the hushed, hard-
wood environs which include the deadly
passions those dedicated only to the win.
Some greet teaching traditional chess as
an information and self-esteem delivery
system much the way players did the ini-
tial introduction of The Mad Queen. That
old girl and the new life chess is living in
my classroom (and the others schools
coordinated by The Hip-Hop Chess Feder-
ation) have a lot in common since they were
either lionized as addictive and exciting or
resisted as unwelcome variants. Like Her
Highness, the new chess life is here to
stay along with: Hip-Hop stars, celebrity
players and students bopping through
non-competitive chess in education.
Prompting me to write are the words of
a dedicated, local chess parent who intends
to have non-serious players forced from
a school chess club. Not a team, but an
after-school club which could be used by
teachers and parents to build self-esteem,
diminish teen violence, and boost stan-
dardized test scores. The fear is that these
free radicals would take eyes off the prize.
The fact is the prize has moved and its time
to look around and get our bearings.
This isolationism might be an under-
standable reaction if chess had sprung
into being as it is today, with a queen,
bishop and knight, rather than as it was in
36 Chess Life August 2009
L I F E S T R AT E G I E S :
By Lisa Suhay
500 A.D. when the kingdom was male and
elephants roamed the red squares teach-
ing princes how to guide a battle. Once
the Mad Queens skirts swept in, it was any-
bodys game and so it should be today.
More important is the fact you cant beat
em, stalemate is killing the games reach
so lets join em. What is often reduced to
the label chess marketing is really a nat-
ural progression destined to free chess
from being relegated as an underfunded,
sparsely attended, insular, afterschool activ-
ity, by infusing it back into the daily culture
as it was in the days of the kings and
queens who birthed the game.
Luckily, I have no formal chess titles or
credentials to be stripped for this hereti-
cal belief. I am a living variant: veteran
journalist, childrens book author, mother
of four chess fanatics (ages 5, 10, 13 and
15), turned high school English and Amer-
ican government teacher. One can be a
serious player and be a variant like: Pres-
ident Barack Obama, Eleanor of Aquitaine,
Isabella of Spain, Bobby Fischer, Hip-Hop
Artist RZA and my every student I teach.
I was neither a teacher, nor a very accom-
plished chess player before last fall. I stepped
onto the board much as Alice did through
the looking glass, via a combination of
chance and curiosity. I was asked to fill a
teaching position at a private, inner city
high school. There I found students adrift,
disengaged from achievement, drive and
hard thought. Many had lived such troubled
lives theyd become anesthetized to the
world, taught only to test well. In their
minds, thinking was the variant.
The muse struck when I paused in ready-
ing lesson plans to watch my husband,
Robert, play chess against our then four-
year-old son Quinten. They were seeing
moves and strategy. I was reading the board
as an ever-changing, mesmerizing story.
I scrapped my traditional lesson for-
mats and introduced chess as a knowledge
delivery system. The first lesson was British
literature, Eleanor of Aquitaines Court of
Love and it progressed to chess in litera-
ture, art, history, society and psychology.
I added to my teaching library three
master works: Birth of the Chess Queen by
Marilyn Yalom; The Art of Learning by
Josh Waitzkin and The U.S. Chess Feder-
ation rule book. Much of my strategy and
coaching came from Adisa Banjoko, CEO
of the Hip-Hop Chess Federation, San-
Francisco, California.
Seeing our improvised program, Banjoko
took our school under his wing as part of
a pilot program that is using chess, music
and martial arts to curb school violence.
Banjoko teaches at-risk children, stop
and think before you make a potentially
life-changing move.
I have talked to many kids in jail who tell
me they would not be there if they had
just stopped to think, he explained. In this
economy we can expect to see violence on
the rise, but if we hip these kids to chess
as a power, control, they can have, we have
a better chance of stopping the violence in
our schools and neighborhoods.
The Norfolk Police Department, Oppor-
tunity Inc., Career Start Foundation and
Old Dominion University have all come
uschess.org
 DEVIN NELSON (LEFT) AND DREW HORNBACK, AS PART OF THEIR ENGLISH
COMPOSITION CLASS, PLAY A GAME AND THEN TELL THE STORY OF THE GAME.
together to partner with my students and
their parents to create an ongoing com-
munity Hip-Hop Chess program which
will travel to various locations around
the city teaching, playing, challenging
and offering help across the 64-squares
to teens and young adults in need of life
strategies and coaching.
That these unorthodox variations on tra-
ditional tournaments is succeeding in
growing media and public acceptance of
chess takes nothing away from the grandeur
or intensity of those who pursue it as a
passion or profession. It is an excellent rea-
son to embrace it as a starving man on an
island might when a cruise ship anchors
nearby and invites him aboard. To him it
should matter little that he is a serious
sailor bent on circumnavigation because he
is starving to death in isolation. Given the
amount of economic strain our world faces
can chess tournaments, tutors, chess-
based commerce, federations and aspirants
afford to ignore the path to this new mate?
The resistance is on both sides. Tradi-
tional teachers and administrators trying
to drive up student performance on stan-
dardized tests have as great a fear and
resentment of classroom chess, as do some
chess professionals of what they perceive
as dumbing-down the game.
This page in a magazine named for the
PHOTO: LISA SUHAY
two sides of our shared coin: chess/life, is
the perfect place to inspire unity. For the
international grandmaster and a strug-
gling inner city teen alike, chess and life are
fused as a force of nature which drives
them up the ladder.
uschess.org
Teachers cant play this out alone
because we are not credentialed players
and are not pretending to hold status or
rank. This is an outreach. The Hip-Hop
Chess Federation and local schools are
reaching for the stars and so few have
come from the heavens to help. Josh Wait-
zkin from one side and Recording Artist
RZA have stepped up.
Instead of creating chess stunts, at-risk
students need to witness the social infusion
continue. They need to see President Obama
play a match against a D student, NBA
stars learning from short, stocky, rapper-
kids in a setting where needy children can
win a game and a non-academic scholarship.
To that end, learning to play chess is
mandatory for all my classes, no matter
what the subject being covered or their
expected skill level at the game. Students
learn chess is a story rewritten with every
game. They learn chess history and vari-
ants thereof. Chess serves in teaching
metaphor, allegory, coping skills and life
strategies, creative writing topics (aka
ChEssays) and ever-changing models for
how governments rise and fall.
Shown a pre-press draft of this piece
GM Yasser Seirawan added, Indeed, while
in junior high school (Meany Middle School
in Seattle) the principal asked me to teach
a chess class which I did ... It was a reward-
ing experience. It was NOT that I taught
future world champion contenders rather
my classes were about: problem solving,
critical thinking, reasoning, comprehen-
sion and of course reading and writing.
Chess can be used in a myriad number of
ways as a teaching tool: history, literature,
mapping, pattern recognition and a host of
ways of thinking. Expanding beyond just
the rules of play opens up exciting vistas
of thought.
Results in my classes were immediate
and dramatic; disciplinary issues evapo-
rated. Students with ADD, ADHD, OCD
and dyslexia were transformed into hyper-
focused and driven chess-a-holics. Reading
comprehension and test scores improved.
The U.S. Chess Trust and the Virginia
Scholastic Chess Association supplied
tournament sets. House of Staunton pro-
vided a top-of-the-line, tournament
sanctioned game clock and Seirawan-vari-
ant pieces to spice things up.
In his videos, Yasser Seirawan explains
that he and Bruce Harper added the hawk
and pachyderm to both give back to the
game some lost attributes and to curtail the
boredom of stalemate among grandmas-
ters. The same can be said of the social
variants so many try to ignore or defend
against today. My suggestion is to embrace
these newcomers of all skill levels, for they
come bearing fresh hope and enthusiasm.
In chess, as in life, the variants often
become the game. Some think that is
what we fear most. I think the fear is of
being passed, left orphaned in our own
kingdom. If that is the case, take heart:
The Mad Queen ascended to stately grace.
The new elephant stands by his King as
of old. The hawk spies the opening. And
in this royal processional, no child shall
be left behind.
See www.lisasuhay.blogspot.com for more.
Chess Life August 2009 37
 Back to Basics

The Knight In Jeopardy

By GM Lev Alburt

With a knight on rook four, beware your opponents pawn move to knight four!

rnlqkl r
This months most instructive game c6 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. Nf3 dxc4 5. e4 b5.
and notes award goes to 14-year-old
Jacob Heybey. As youll see, he played pp+ pppp rnlqkl r
overalla good game, and provided us
with thoughtful comments. + + n + p + pppp
Still, both at the board and at home + Pp+ + +p+ n +
analyzing, Jacob on several occasions
missed a simple knight-winning pawn + + + + +p+ + +
move (his opponent, obviously, also + P +N+ +pPP+ +
missed it). So, there is a useful new tac-
tic for Jacob to learn, and also for his PP +PPPP + N +N+
opponent, Christian Hauze, and for some RNLQKL+R PP + PPP
readers as well. (My future comments will
be in italics). After 4. dxc5 R LQKL+R
Analysis diagram after 5. ... b5
It might have been better to continue
Christian Hauze (Unrated)
with the Slav idea with 4. ... a5. White got two tempi, namely g3 and
Jacob Heybey (1025)
Both moves are fineand likely to lead then Bg2. The second tempo is there when
PA Scholastic Championship, March
2009 to similar (even the same) positions. Black played ... e7-e5 in two moves.
5. g3 Nc6 7. Bg2 Be7 8. 0-0 e4
1. d4 d5 2. c3!?
This moveallowing White to protect
rnlqklnr the c5-pawnis okay, but why not simply r+lqk+ r
ppp pppp
take the pawn with 5. ... Bxc5, with a pp+ lppp
+ + + +
good game?
+n+ n +
+ +p+ +
6. b4 e5
+ Pp+ +
+ P + + r+lqkl r P +p+ +
+ P + + pp+ +ppp + P +NP
PP +PPPP +n+ n + P+ +PPLP
RNLQKLNR + Ppp + RNLQ+RK
After 2. c3 P + + + After 8. ... e4

This move threw me off for a moment. + P +NP 9. Nh4?

I was expecting 2. c4 or 2. Nf3.
Fortunately, only for a moment.
2. ... Nf6 3. Nf3 c5
Turning the game into a Reversed Slav.
A very good observation.
4. dxc5
(see diagram top of next column)
4. ... e6!?
P+ +PP P A definite mistake. Knights belong in
RNLQKL+R the center, not on the edge of the board.
Correct was 9. Nd4.
After 6. ... e5
Besides, placing the knight on h4 here
is asking for trouble.
Now the game is a reversed Slav gam-
bit. In this gambit, Black grabs a pawn in 9. ... Be6
return for giving up control of the center.
Giving more support to the backwards
In this reversed position, White has used
d5-pawn.
his extra tempo to play g3.
Compare with a line like 1. d4 d5 2. c4 10. Nd2

38 Chess Life August 2009 uschess.org

r+ qk+ r
(?L.A.) a1-rook is immobilized due to the ... c3-
Compounding his troubles. The move c2 fork, and his d1-rook has no more
pp+ lppp Nxg2 would have gotten the knight back than four squares. Blacks knight is eye-

+n+ln +
into play quicker. ing the c4, d3, and f3 squares.

+ Pp+ +
16. ... dxc4 21. a4 Nc4

P +p+ N
The last chance to play ... g7-g5 and win
Whites knight. r+ r +k+
+ P + P 17. Qxd7?! Nxd7 pp+ +ppp
P+ NPPLP + + + +
R LQ+RK r+ + rk+ P l + +
After 10. Nd2 pp+n+ppp P+nNp+ +
Big blunder number one. Whites last + + + + + p P P
move blocks his c1-bishop and thus allows P l + + + + PKP
10. ... g5, winning the h4-knight (for a
pawn). Jacob misses this opportunity.
+p+p+ N R LR+ +
10. ... 0-0 11. Nb3 Qd7 12. Na5?!
+ + P P After 21. ... Nc4

This blunder allows me to win the pawn

P+ + PKP Clamping down on the bishops bid for
back and wreck his pawn structure in two R L +R+ freedom.
easy moves. Also winning is 21. ... Nf3.
After 17. ... Nxd7
12. ... Nxa5 13. bxa5 Bxc5 22. Ba3
18. Rd1 White goes down in flames.
Black now has complete control of the
center, better pawn structure, and better Stronger was 18. Bb2an idea noted by After 22. Ra2, planning 23. Rc2, Black
minor pieces. (The knight on h4 cant Jacob on the next move. still would have to labor in order to win.
[safely] move.) Now, its all over.
18. ... Rfd8

.
14. e3 22. ... Nxa3 23. Nb5 Nxb5 24. Rxd8+ Rxd8 25.
Black should play 18. ... Ne5, with a big axb5 c2 26. Rc1 Rd2 27. a6 bxa6 28. bxa6
advantage (a pawn plus a better position),
r+ + rk+
Ba3, White resigned.
before White plays the developmental 19.
pp+q+ppp Bb2 and prevents it. View this issue of Chess Life Online via
our new pdf viewer. Go to uschess.org,
+ +ln + 19. Nf5?
click on Chess Life Magazine and then
P lp+ + This allows Black to completely entomb
Whites bishop. Better is 19. Bb2.
Online Viewer. You will need your login
ID and password.
+ +p+ N 19. ... c3!
+ P P P
P+ + PLP Send in your games!
r+ r +k+ If you are unrated or were rated
R LQ+RK pp+n+ppp 1799 or below on your Chess Life
After 14. e3 + + + + label, then GM Lev Alburt invites
you to send your instructive games
The idea is to prevent ... d5-d4 after P l +N+ with notes to:
White plays c3-c4. However this closes in + +p+ + Back to Basics, c/o Chess Life

his dark-squared bishop.
Again, both opponents overlook 14. ...
g5!and keep overlooking this typical
blow for a few more moves.
14. ... Bh3 15. c4 Bxg2 16. Kxg2
After 19. ... c3
+ p P P
PO Box 3967 Crossville, TN
38557-3967
P+ + PKP Or e-mail your material to
R LR+ + backtobasics@uschess.org
GM Alburt will select the most
instructive game and Chess Life

r+ + rk+ Because of this bind, Whites rooks will

will award an autographed copy of
Levs newest book, Chess Training
pp+q+ppp
never get connected and Whites bishop
Pocket Book II (by Lev Alburt and Al
will never get free. The knight is the only
+ + n + piece free.
Lawrence) to the person submitting
the most instructive game and anno-
P lp+ +
A truly great movewell explained.
tations.

+P+p+ N
20. Nd4 Do not send games with only a
few notes, as they are of little instruc-
+ + P P
The only other try is 20. a4, which is
tive value and cant be used. Writing
answered with 20. ... Ne5!
P+ + PKP 20. ... Ne5
skills are a plus, but instructiveness
is a must! Make sure your game (or
R LQ+R+ A remarkable position. Whites bishop
part of it) and your notes will be of
interest to other readers.
After 16. Kxg2 is entombed, his knight is pinned, his

uschess.org Chess Life August 2009 39

 Endgame Lab
Kamsky at the 4th Grand Prix, Nalchik 2009
By GM Pal Benko
In the country of his birth, our top player played a number of instructive endgames
against some of the best players in the world.
The Nalchik Grand Prix event was one
of the strongest Russian events in years
the average rating was over 2700. The
American representative, Kamsky, had
only an average performance, but he
played the most interesting endgames.
Blockade!
GM Peter Leko (FIDE 2751)
GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2720)
+ k + q
p + pn+p
p +Q+p+
+ + + +
+ r L +
+ + + +P
PP + PPK
+ R + +
After 32. Rc1
White has a better position but the
black side is still defendable.
32. ... Rxf4?!
A surprising decision; better instead
is the simple 32. ... Qd7 (or 32. ... Qd5)
when after 33. Rc8+ Kg7 34. Be5+ Nxe5
35. Qxe5+ Kh6 it does not look pretty but
the position can be held.
33. Rc8 Rxf2 34. Rxd8+ Nxd8 35. Qd5 Nf7 36.
b4 Kg7 37. a3 Rf6
The material is still about equal but the
agile white queen should soon snag a
pawn. So here 37. ... Nd6 38. Qa8 b5
may have been a more effective defense,
building a blockade.
38. Qa8 e5 39. Qxa7 Re6 40. Kg1 e4
Black trusted in his passed pawn but
the king will block it.
41. Kf1 e3 42. Ke2 b5 43. Qd7
Loss of a tempo. The immediate 43.
a4! bxa4 44. b5 would win the knight,
40 Chess Life August 2009
though victory would require long and
accurate technical play.
43. ... Re5 44. a4 bxa4 45. Qxa4 Kf6 46. Qd7
Ng5 47. Qd8+ Kf5 48. Qd3+ Kf6 49. Qd8+
Kf5 50. Qf8+ Ke4 51. Qa8+ Kf4 52. Qf8+
Ke4 53. Qa8+ Kf4 54. b5 Ne4
Winning for White is 54. ... Rxb5?! 55.
Qa4+ Ne4 56. g3+ Kxg3 57. Qxe4.
55. b6
Stronger was 55. Qf8+ Rf5 56. Qb8+
Re5 and then 57. b6. In the next stage
White misses several winning moves.
55. ... Nc3+ 56. Ke1
Worth a try is 56. Kd3!?
56. ... Rb5 57. Qf3+ Ke5 58. Qxe3+ Ne4 59.
Ke2 Rb1 60. Qa3 Nd6
+ + + + This trade changes nothing. White
+ + + +p
P n +p+
+ + k +
+ + + +
Q + + +P
+ +K+P+
+r+ + +
After 60. ... Nd6
The b-pawn has been blockaded. White
should get the g- and h-pawns in
exchange for the b- one; not too difficult
a task, but he fails to execute despite
multiple opportunities.
61. Qc5+ Ke6 62. Qc6 Rb2+ 63. Kd3 Rb3+
64. Kc2 Rb4 65. Kc1 Rb3 66. Qc5 h6
Black is now in Zugzwang. Now 67.
Qc2 effects the desired exchange of two for
one. Instead White tries to force the rook
away from the b-file.
67. Qd4 g5 68. Qc5 Kd7 69. Kc2 Rb5 70.
Qc7+ Ke6 71. Qc6 Rb4 72. Kc1 Rb3 73. Qc5
Kd7 74. g4
Unnecessary. It was time to grab the
pawns by playing 74. Qc7+ Ke6 75. Qg7.
74. ... Ke6 75. Qc7?
75. Qd4 was still very strong.
75. ... Kd5 76. Qa7 Kc6 77. Qc7+ Kd5 78. Kc2
Rb5 79. Qh7 Rxb6 80. Qxh6 Rc6+ 81. Kd3
Nf7 82. Qh7 Rf6
White has obviously missed the tar-
get. He got only one pawn for the b6 one
and Black can create a firm defensive
position. Further winning attempts by
White will be fruitless.
83. Qg8 Kd6 84. Qe8 Rf3+ 85. Kd4 Rf4+ 86.
Kc3 Rf3+ 87. Kb4 Rf6 88. Kb5 Kd5 89. Qa8+
Ke6 90. Kc5 Ke7 91. Qa7+ Kf8 92. Qa3 Kg8
93. Kd5 Kg7 94. Qg3 Kg6 95. h4 gxh4 96.
Qxh4
makes 25 more boring moves and agreed
to a Draw.
The above game reminded me of one of
mine, played in New York City years ago
against IM Jay Bonin. The following posi-
tion occurred:
+
+k+ +
+ + n +
+r+ + +
+ P Q PK
+ + + +
+ + + +
+ + + +
+ + + +
Game drawn
I realized much sooner than Leko that
all efforts would be in vain despite being
two pawns up because the blockade is
unbreakable.
Daredevil
After the previous game, Gata again
uschess.org
 Benkos Bafflers Problem I
Richard Becker 2008
Problem II
Arpad Rusz 2008

Most of the time these studies

+ + +Q+ + +
+ +
resemble positions that could actu- +R+ + + q +
rp +
ally occur over-the-board. You must + + + p + P + +
simply reach a theoretically won + + + + +p+ + +P
position for White. Solutions can be
found on page 63.
+ + + + kP + + +
+ + + + Pp+ + +
Please e-mail submissions for + + + P P + + +
Benkos Bafflers to: pbenko@ K k rq+ KL+R+ +
uschess.org
White to play and win White to play and draw

+ + + +
could not resist to the opportunity to sac- properly preparing the theoretical win.
rifice his queen.
+ + + +
67. Ka5 Rc8 68. Rb4+ Ka8 69. Rb5 Re8 70.
GM Vassily Ivanchuk (FIDE 2696) Bd4 Rc8 71. Rd5 Kb7 72. Bb6 Rg8 73. Kb5
GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2720) + + k + Re8 74. a8=Q+ Kxa8 75. Kc6?

l+ q r k R + p + 75. Rd7 was natural and good.

+ + lppp + +nlLp 75. ... Re6+ 76. Kc7 Re7+ 77. Kd6

+ + + + + + p +P If 77. Kc8? Re5! 78. Rd3 Re3! etc. can

+ + +P+
play for stalemate.
+p+ P +Q
+ +K+ +
77. ... Rh7 78. Kc6 Rh6+ 79. Kc7 Rh7+ 80.
+ +p+ + Kc8

+LP + +P
After 64. ... Ne4
k+K+ + +
+ + PP+ 65. Ke2? + + + +r
+ L R K This natural move allows a positional L + + +
+ +R+ +
After 22. Qh5 draw. To realize the advantage of the
exchange requires the kings help. 65. ...
The position is quite balanced so here Nf2!! would have excluded the white king + + + +
+ + + +
was even less reason to show bravado. from assisting his pieces, thus 65. Kc2!
was the right track.
22. ... Bd5?!
65. ... Nd6? 66. Kd3 Ke7 67. Kd4 Kf6 68. Kd5 + + + +
The modest 22. ... Qe8 or 22. ... g6
even the more venturous 22. ... Qd3 or 22.
Ke7 69. Ra7+ Kf6 70. Ra6 Ke7 71. Ra7+ Kf6
72. Bh5 Be5 73. Ra6 Kf5 74. Bg4+, Black
+ + + +
... Bc5 were possible alternatives. resigned. After 80. Kc8

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

It seems that White was surprised by
the sac and failed to play 25. Qe2
winning a pawn because of the weakness
of the Black back rank.
Here we go again
I have written about this frequent
endgame several times saying that it is
worthy of study.
80. ... Rh8+?
Another chase with 80. ... Rh5! 81.
Rd3 Rh3! 82. Be3 Rh8+ 83. Kc7 Rh7+ 84.
Kc6 Rc7+! And the draw can be held.

25. ... Bxg5 26. Qxg5 Rd1+
More careful was either 26. ... Re8 or
26. ... Rc8.
27. Kh2 h6 28. Qe7
Misses the last opportunity to win a
pawn by 28. Qe3! and if 28. ... Rf1 29. Kg3
Bd5 30. Qc5 Bc4 31. Qc8+! Kh7 32. Qf5+
Kg8 33. Qxe4.
28. ... Bc4 29. Qb7 Re1 30. Qc8+ Kh7 31.
Qf5+ Kg8 32. Qc8+ Kh7, Draw agreed.
GM Vladimir Akopian (FIDE 2696) 81. Bd8 Rh7 82. Ra5+ Ra7 83. Rb5 Rb7 84.
GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2720) Rh5 Rf7 85. Ra5+ Ra7 86. Rb5 Rb7 87. Re5
Rh7 88. Re1 Rb7 89. Ra1+ Ra7 90. Rb1 Rb7
+ + +r+ 91. Re1 Rh7 92. Re2 Rb7 93. Be7??
Pk+ + + The right way to win is 93. Rc2 Rg7 94.
Rc1 Rh7 (94. ... Rb7 95. Bc7 Rb8+ 96.
+ + + + Kd7 wins.) 95. Bc7 Rh8+ 96. Kd7 Kb7 97.
+ L + + Rb1+ Ka6 98. Kc6 Rh6+ 99. Bd6 Rh5
100. Rb8 Rh7 101. Bf8 Ka7 102. Rb4
K+R+ + + Ka8 103. Rd4 Rb7 104. Re4 but of course
+ + + + it is not easy to do in practice.

Everything is defended so there is no + + + + 93. ... Rb8+??

point in playing on. + + + + A pity he missed 93. ... Rxe7! 94. Rxe7

Exchange up
GM Gata Kamsky (FIDE 2720)
GM Peter Svidler (FIDE 2726)
.
stalemate.
After 66. ... Kb7
94. Kc7 Rb7+ 95. Kc6 Ra7 96. Bd8 Rh7 97.
This is a winning position but White Bc7 Rh6+ 98. Bd6, Black resigned.
must force the taking of the a7-pawn,

uschess.org Chess Life August 2009 41

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

Welcome,
Welcome to World Chess Live (WCL), a new family-friendly serv-
ice with special benefits for USCF members. Once again, WCL is
pleased to sponsor USCFs 2009 Grand Prix (GP) and 2009 Junior
Grand Prix (JGP). Were providing prize funds of $25,080 and $10,200
(cash, merchandise, and memberships), and will also be running
online grand prize satellite events throughout the year.
Hot, hot, hot! No matter where you are in the USA, August
brings with it the peak of summers heat. Unfortunately, it also
serves to remind us that summer is coming to an end, so while
we're just past the halfway point for the Grand Prix this year, there
is still time to earn points.
The ever-inspiring New York IM Alex Lenderman, continues to
show us how best to maximize Grand Prix points effectively. The
Members!
defending GP champion is holding strong to first place, with a 72
point lead over his nearest rival, GM Alexander Ivanov. Ivanov
moved up the standings from fifth place last month while IM
Enrico Sevillano rose from fourth to third. This knocked GM Sergey
Kudrin, former second place holder, down to fourth.
This months spotlight is shared between GP leader Lenderman, and
a young man who is new to the standings, Conrad Holt from
Kansas. Both players are still in their teens and have their eyes set
on becoming grandmasters. Lenderman, who is 19 years old, took
a major step towards his goal when he earned his first grandmas-
ter norm last month at the Copper State International. To celebrate
his norm and 5/6 score, he danced the Lenderman Boogie,
which has been preserved for us all to enjoy on Chess Life Online.
At age 16, Holt is still a relatively unknown name, but he has
declared he would be a grandmaster within two years. IM Ben
Finegold agrees with the prediction saying, I have played Holt
three times. He knows his openings very well, plays for a win
against everyone, and has very few draws, unless they are all
the way till the end. He has great talent and is an imagina-
tive player. Holt may be an imaginative player because of his
unusual way of studying the game. He has no coach and
instead studies by playing on the Internet Chess Club (usually
blitz) and didnt start tournament play until just four years
ago. In fact, he is currently listed as having only played in 52
USCF-rated events.
~Betsy Dynako (WCL)

2009 WORLD CHESS LIVE GRAND PRIX STANDINGS

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

OVERALL STANDINGS JUNIOR CATEGORIES

NAME STATE PTS. NAME STATE PTS.
1 IM Alex Lenderman NY 187.60 Players born between 1986 and 1988 inclusive:
2 GM Alexander Ivanov MA 115.64 1 GM Alejandro Ramirez TX 42.00
3 IM Enrico Sevillano CA 113.66 2 IM Oliver Barbosa NY 29.75
4 GM Sergey Kudrin CT 113.09 3 IM Kirill Kuderinov GA 27.33
5 GM Giorgi Kacheishvili NY 109.28 Players born between 1989 and 1991 inclusive:
6 GM Jaan Ehlvest NY 103.71 1 IM Alex Lenderman NY 187.60
7 IM Jay Bonin NY 83.04 2 John Daniel Bryant CA 29.66
8 IM Bryan Smith PA 75.60 3 Matt Parry NY 26.00
9 GM Alexander Shabalov PA 71.69
Players born between 1992 and 1993 inclusive:
10 IM Ben Finegold MI 66.95
1 Conrad Holt KS 57.64
11 GM Varuzhan Akobian CA 66.34
2 Toby Boas FL 12.83
12 GM Yury Shulman IL 61.20
3 Steven Zierk CA 12.66
13 Conrad Holt KS 57.64
Players born between 1994 and 1995 inclusive:
14 GM Michael Rohde NY 57.41 1 FM Daniel Naroditsky CA 30.33
15 IM Andranik Matikozyan CA 46.50 2 Deepak Aaron NY 12.77
3-4 Richard Ding AZ 10.00
SENIOR CATEGORY 3-4 Daniel Rozovsky CT 10.00
Players born 1944 and before:
Players born 1996 and after:
1 FM Alex Dunne PA 26.00
1 David Adelberg AZ 26.00
The up-and-coming Conrad Holt makes 2 FM Isay Golyak NY 14.80
2 Luke Harmon-Vellotti ID 19.14
his mark on the Grand Prix circuit. 3 Klaus Pohl SC 11.00
3 FM Darwin Yang TX 14.00

CATEGORIES AND PRIZES

$10,000 IN CASH PRIZES! SENIOR CATEGORY: MERCHADISE PRIZES $10,200 IN JUNIOR GRAND PRIX PRIZES!
FIRST PRIZE: $5,000 ! 1944 / before 1st: $300 2nd: $200 3rd: $100 FIRST PRIZE: $1,000 !
2nd: $2,500 3rd: $1,000 4th: $750 2nd: $500 3rd: $250 4th: $150
JUNIOR CATEGORIES: MERCHANDISE PRIZES
5th: $500 6th: $250 5th: $100 6th: $100
(according to date of birth)
1986-88 1st: $250 2nd: $150 3rd: $100 The first place JGP winner will also receive U.S. Open entry and
$4,900 IN MERCHANDISE PRIZES! 1989-91 1st: $250 2nd: $150 3rd: $100 a trophy from the USCF. 1st-10th place winners will receive 2-year
WCL junior and USCF Young Adult memberships; 11th-20th place
1992-93 1st: $250 2nd: $150 3rd: $100
PHOTO BY FRANK J. BERRY

7th: $250 8th: $225 9th: $200 winners will receive 1-year WCL junior and USCF Young Adult
10th: $175 11th: $150 12th: $125 1994-95 1st: $250 2nd: $150 3rd: $100 memberships. Each state JGP winner will receive 1-year WCL jun-
ior and USCF Young Adult memberships and a special prize
13th: $100 14th: $75 15th: $50 1996/after 1st: $250 2nd: $150 3rd: $100
valued at $60.
16th-25th: $200 26th-50th: $250 For all of the above junior categories: 1st place is also awarded a
3-year WCL junior membership ($75 value); 2nd-5th places are
Top 40 non-titled players: 1-year WCL membership worth $50. awarded a 2-year WCL junior membership ($50 value); 6th-10th
(FIDE-titled players are always free on WCL) places awarded 1-year WCL junior memberships ($25 value). Addi-
tionally, all GP/JGP place prize winners will receive a special prize
valued at $60.

www.worldchesslive.com Real chess. Real people. Real fun!

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

2009 World Chess Live

Junior Grand Prix Top Overall Standings

Name State Pts. Name State Pts.

WINTER, CURTIS A MD 160 KUMAR, ARAVIND NJ 85
DOMMALAPATI, ABHINAY VA 145 ROBINSON, DARRIAN NY 85
SREENIVASAN, RAMANUJA MD 130 VEECH, JOHN WI 80
SHETTY, ATULYA ARYA MI 125 FU, JASON TN 80
PISANI, PAUL WA 120 MCVAY, KIERNAN ROBERT NJ 80
PISANI, NICHOLAS WA 105 SELDEN, ALEX EVEN NY 80
CHEN, JEREMY NJ 105 KELLY, JACOB PA 75
ZHOU, JASON MO 105 CHALLA, RUSHI TX 75
TROFF, KAYDEN WILLIAM UT 100 HILTON, JONATHAN OH 75
RICHMAN, JONATHAN TYLER NY 100 KOGEN, JONATHAN S IL 75
BRETON, ALEX NJ 95 RAJASEKARAN, VIKAS VA 75
KORLEY, KASSA NY 95 JOHNSTON, DANIEL F NY 75
SWAN, CHARLES IL 95 GADSON, ISAIAH MO 75
PILLAI, KADHIR ANDRES NY 90 SINGH, REVA SHREE NY 75
GURCZAK, JOHN AZ 90 ELKIN, JOSHUA NY 70
CAO, MINDI IL 90 HUA, MARGARET M MO 70
DANG, MICHAEL MI 90 ZHANG, STEPHEN J MO 70
DALY, TROY FL 90 GUPTA, KARTIK VA 70
HARMON-VELLOTTI, LUKE ID 85 LATHAM, ANDREW KS 70
TUHRIM, RICHARD J NY 85 TALWAR, JAMES V NY 70

Prepare to make your best move

since joining the USCF...

Dont miss one of this years top

benefits of USCF membership.

Claim your six-month free trial now at World Chess Live, the only online
chess service offering:
Weekly USCF quick-rated tournaments
Chances to earn both Grand Prix and Junior Grand Prix points
Many other tournament prizes
Free videos from top instructors
A welcoming atmosphere for players of all levels

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

uschess.org Chess Life August 2009 43

 Tournament Life

Information for Players

USCF MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EVENTS.
If not a member, add dues to advance
entry fee or pay them with entry fee at
site.
U.S. Championship Qualifier. Tournament
in which qualification spots for the U.S.
Championship are awarded.
American Classic. Generally, an event that
has been held by one organizer for the
last three years and has attracted more
than 400 players each year.
Heritage Event. Tournament held for at
least 25 years.
Quick Chess. Tournaments with time con-
trols of G/5 to G/29. There is a separate
quick or overall rating system that
includes these events, and games played
in these tournaments will not affect a
player's regular rating. Games played with
a time control of G/30 through G/60 will
be rated in both the quick/overall system
and the regular system.
Rating Classes
In most events, you dont have to win the
tournament to win a prizeyou can win a
class prize as a top scorer of your rating
group, or a section prize in a section
restricted to your rating group. These rat-
ing groups are:
Senior Master - 2400 & up
Master 2200-2399 Class C 1400-1599
Expert 2000-2199 Class D 1200-1399
Class A 1800-1999 Class E 1000-1199
Class B 1600-1799 Class F 800-999
Some tournaments use different groups
such as 1900-2099, and some have
under prizes or sections including all
below a specified level.
Ratings Information
You never lose your rating, no matter
how long it has been since you last played.
If you return after a long absence, please
tell the director and USCF your approxi-
mate rating and last year of play.
rejected or have adjustment points added. TLA ads for entering options. Along with
If details are not announced, players wish- entry fee, send full name, address, USCF
ing to use such ratings should contact ID number, expiration date, and section
the organizer in advance. desired (if any). Also, give your last official
For foreign players with multiple rat- USCF rating from your magazine label
ings (USCF, FIDE, CFC, FQE, other (first 4 numbers on top row). If you are
foreign), the highest rating is used, with unrated, or have a rating from many years
possible adjustment points added, unless ago, be sure to indicate this. Your official
otherwise announced. USCF rating is on the top line of your
Ratings based on 4-25 games are called mailing label: Regular, Quick, and Corre-
provisional ratings to indicate they are spondence.
less reliable than established ratings. How- Mailed entries are usually not acknowl-
ever, such ratings are valid for pairing edged unless you enclose a self-addressed
and prize purposes at all USCF-rated postcard. If entering online, print confirma-
events, unless otherwise stated. tion of entry. They are refundable if you
A Director may assign an estimated rat- withdraw before Round 1 is paired, unless
ing to any player, and may expel an otherwise stated.
improperly rated player from an event. For National Events, refund requests
must be submitted in writing no later than
Hotel-Motel Rates
30 days after the tournament ends. Any
Rates listed are often special chess
requests made after this date may not be
ratesyou must request chess rates or
honored.
you will be charged more. The chess rates
may be unavailable if not reserved sev- If You Must Withdraw
eral weeks in advance, or if the block of If you enter by mail and cannot attend,
chess rooms is used up. Hotel-desk per- or must drop out of a tournament in
sonnel are often poorly informed about progress, it is important you give notice
chess ratesif that is the case, ask for the before pairings are started, so no one is
Sales Office or contact the tournament deprived of a game. Mail entrants should
organizer. send withdrawal notices at least a week
beforehand phone any later than this.
What to Take to a Tournament To withdraw by phone on tournament day,
Class G 600-799 Along with a pen or pencil and your call the site and ask specifically for the
Class H 400-599 USCF ID card (or current Chess Life), take chess tournament. E-mail withdrawals
Class I 200-399 a chessboard, set, and clock if you have several days in advance are acceptable if
Class J 199/below them. the TDs e-mail address is listed. Any later
For prizes of $600 or more, bring your than this, both e-mail your withdrawal
U.S. Social Security card. If you have no and call the tournament site as the TD
Social Security number, the organizer might not have access to his (her) e-mail
must deduct 30% from your prize for the account. If you forfeit without notice, you
IRS (this includes foreigners). may be fined up to the amount of the
Warning! The use of a cell phone in the entry fee.
tournament room is prohibited at most
tournaments. If your cell phone rings in a Tournament Directors
Tournament Director Certification is an
room with games in progress, you could be
endorsement of professional competence
penalized, or even forfeited.
only. Such certification does not in itself

If you have a FIDE rating, or a rating or
category from any other country, no mat-
ter how many years ago, you are not
unrated. FIDE or foreign ratings may be
.
How to Enter in Advance render any Tournament Director an agent
Entering by mail or online (if available) of the USCF, nor is any Affiliate an agent
is easier for both you and the tournament of the USCF.
organizer and often costs less. Check the

Tournament Life Abbreviations & Terms

All tournaments are non-smoking with no comput-
ers allowed unless otherwise advertised by S
and/or C (see below for explanations).
QC: Quick Chess events.
$$Gtd: Guaranteed prizes.
$$b/x: Based-on prizes, x = number of entries
needed to pay full prize fund. At least 50% of the
advertised prize fund of $501 or more must be
awarded.
Bye: Indicates which rounds players who find it
inconvenient to play may take -point byes instead.
For example, Bye 1-3 means -point byes are avail-
able in Rounds 1 through 3.
C: Computers allowed.
CC: Chess club.
EF: Entry fee.
Enhanced Grand Prix points (see previous
page).
Ent: Where to mail entries.
FIDE: Results submitted to FIDE for possible rat-
ing.
G/: Game in. For instance, G/75 means each side
has 75 minutes for the entire game.
GPP: Grand Prix Points available.
HR: Hotel rates. For example, 60-65-70-75 means
$60 single, $65 twin, $70/3 in room, $75/4 in room.
JGP: Junior Grand Prix
Memb. reqd: Membership required; cost fol-
lows. Usually refers to state affiliate.
Open: A section open to all. Often has very strong
players, but some eligible for lower sections can
play for the learning experience.
OSA: Other states accepted. Refers to state dues.
PPHBF: Professional Players Health and Benefits
Fund.
Quad: 4-player round robin sections; similar
strength players.
RBO: Rated Beginners Open.
Rds: Rounds; scheduled game times follow. For
example, 11-5, 9-3 means games begin 11 a.m. &
5 p.m. on the first day, 9 a.m. & 3 p.m. on the sec-
ond day.
Reg: Registration at site.
RR: Round robin (preceded by number of rounds).
S: Smoking allowed.
SASE: For more info, send self-addressed stamped
envelope.
SD/: Sudden-death time control (time for rest of
game follows). For example, 30/90, SD/1 means
each player must make 30 moves in 90 minutes,
then complete the rest of the game in an hour.
Section: A division of a tournament, usually exclud-
ing players above a specified rating. Players in a
section face only each other, not those in other
sections.
SS: Swiss-System pairings (preceded by number of
rounds).
T/Dx: Time delay, x = number of seconds.
Unr: Unrated.
USEF: Combined entry fee & USCF dues.
W: Site is accessible to wheelchairs.
WEB: Tournaments that will use a players on-line
rating.

44 Chess Life August 2009 uschess.org

Tournament Life

USCF National Events Note: Organizers previously awarded options for ATTENTION AFFILIATES
USCF National Events must still submit proposals
See TLA in this issue for details: The United States Chess Federation has
(including sample budgets) for their events.
partnered with R.V. Nuccio & Associates
2009 U.S. Game/60 Championship 2012 Senior High Championship
August 22 Skokie, Illinois Insurance Brokers, Inc. to provide USCF
April 13-15 Minneapolis, Minnesota
2009 U.S. Game/30 Championship affiliates with affordable annual liability
2012 National Elementary (K-6)
August 23 Skokie, Illinois Championship and short term event insurance. The lia-
1st U.S. Womens Open (NEW) May 11-13 Nashville, Tennessee bility coverage is available for
September 5-7 Tulsa, Oklahoma 2012 National Scholastic (K-12) approximately $265 per year for a
2009 U.S. Senior Open Nov. 30-Dec. 2 Orlando, Florida $1,000,000 limit of insurance. Also avail-
September 5-7 Tulsa, Oklahoma 2013 SuperNationals V able is contents property and bonding
50th Annual U.S. Armed Forces Open TBA Nashville, Tennessee insurance. For more information, please go
Oct. 10-12 Gettysburg, Pennsylvania 2013 National Scholastic (K-12) to www.rvnuccio.com/chess-federation.
2009 National Youth Action Dec. 13-15 Lake Buena Vista, Florida
November 20-22 Oak Brook, Illinois html. For event insurance, please go to
Overdue Bids www.rvnuccio.com.
Future Events (Watch for details) Bids on the following tournaments are
2009 U.S. Womens Championship past deadline and will be considered
October 2-12 St. Louis, Missouri immediately: TheTournament Announcements on the following pages are provided
2009 National Scholastic (K-12) 2009 U.S. Masters for the convenience of USCF members and for informational pur-
poses only. Unless expressly indicated otherwise, neither the U.S.
December 11-13 Dallas, Texas 2009 Collegiate Final Four Chess Federation nor Chess Life warrants the accuracy of anything
2009 Pan Am Intercollegiate 2010 U.S. Masters contained in these Tournament Announcements. Those interested
December 27-30 South Padre Island, 2010 U.S. Amateur Team in additional information about or having questions concerning any
of these tournaments are directed to contact the organizer listed.
Texas (East, North) Chess Life will exercise all due diligence in providing accurate
2010 U.S. Amateur Team - South 2010 U.S. Class Championship typesetting of non-camera-ready copy but assumes no responsibil-
2010 U.S. Amateur ity for errors made in such work.
Feb. 12-14 Orlando, Florida
2010 U.S. Amateur Team - West (East, North, South, West) SUBMISSIONS: If possible e-mail your tla to: tla@uschess.org
Feb. 13-15 Woodland Hills, California 2010 U.S. Game/60 (Joan DuBois). For tla deadline schedule, formatting help and Grand
2010 U.S. Game/30 Prix information see April 2009 pg. 50-51 or check www.
2010 National Junior High uschess.org/tla/grprixstdarc.php and click on a WCL GP Summary.
Championship 2010 U.S. Game/10 (QC) Payment can be done online through the TD/Affiliate area or sent
2010 U.S. Game/15 (QC) to: U.S. Chess, TLA Dept., PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.
April 9-11 Minneapolis, Minnesota
2010 U.S. Junior Chess Congress
2010 Senior High Championship
April 16-18 Columbus, Ohio
2010 U.S. Junior Closed
2010 U.S. Junior Open
Nationals
2010 National Elementary (K-6) All tournaments listed in Tournament Life are USCF
2010 National Youth Action rated. USCF MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED FOR ALL
Championship 2011 U.S. Open* EVENTS. If not a member, add dues to advance en-
May 7-9 Atlanta, Georgia try fee or pay them with entry at site.
2010 U.S. Open Bidding Deadlines Aug. 22, Illinois
July 31-Aug. 8 Irvine, California Please contact the National Office if you World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10
2009 U.S. Game/60 Championship
2010 U.S. Senior Open are interested in bidding for a National 4R-SS, G/60 - $5000 b/150 fully paid entries. Holiday Inn Chicago - North Shore.
August 22-27 Boca Raton, Florida Event. The USCF recommends that bids 5300 W. Touhy Ave., Skokie, IL 60077 (see tournament website for directions).
2010 National Scholastic (K-12) be submitted according to the following Free Parking. In 6 sections: M/X: $500-300-200-100Top U2400, U2300, U2200
each $150, Class A: $350-250-150-75, Class B: $350-250-150-75, Class C:
Dec. 10-12 Lake Buena Vista, Florida schedule. However, bids may be consid- $300-200-100-50, Class D: $300-200-100-50, Class E/F/U: $200-100-50-25,
2011 National Junior High ered prior to these dates. Unrated Prize - Book Prize Only. Unrated must play in M/X or Class E/F/U sec-
Championship *USCF reserves the right to decline all tions. Trophies for 1st - 3rd place, scholastic players with non-cash prize entry
fee. $10 extra to play 1 class up. Entry Fee: $80 adult, $40 scholastic (K-12),
April 15-17 Columbus, Ohio bids and organize the event itself. $20 anyone but not eligible for cash prizes thru 6pm 8/21. Onsite $100 adults,
2011 National Elementary (K-6) $60 scholastic (K-12), $20 anyone but not eligible for cash prizes. $5 refund
at tournament with proof of ICA membership (Scholastic entries count as 1/2
Championship entry, No-cash prize entry does not count towards based on) - non-cash prize
May 6-8 Dallas, Texas entry fee not eligible for any discounts. SPECIAL COMBINED ENTRY FEES:
2011 National Scholastic (K-12) Discounted Entry fees available for registering for the US G/60 & US G/30 ($5
off each tournament) - non-cash prize entry fee not eligible for any discounts.
Dec. 9-11 Dallas, Texas SPECIAL OFFER FOR ILLINOIS OPEN STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS: Enter either
the US G/60 or US G/30 and receive a $5 rebate for your early registration
to the 2009 Illinois Open State Championships. For more information visit
www.chessforlife.com. Mail payments (made payable to) and registration
information to: North American Chess Association, 2516 North Waukegan Road
Tournament memberships not valid for National events Suite 342, Glenview, IL 60025. Byes: One 1/2 pt bye allowed. Rd 4 bye must
commit by start of Rd 2. Re-enter with 1/2pt bye in Rd 1 for $50. August Sup-
plement used. Schedule: Reg: 8:15am - 9:15am, Rds 10, 12:30, 3, 5:30.
Hotel rates: $99+tax, 847-679-8900. Mention North American Chess Asso-
ciation rate. Reserve by 8/7 or as available only. Car rental: Hertz,
Junior Tournament Memberships (JTMs) Available 800-654-3131, Hertz CDP#178693. BRING BOARDS, SETS, CLOCKS - NONE PRO-
USCFs Tournament Membership (TM) program, which allows players the option of joining for only VIDED. USCF membership required. NS,NC,W. Information: Sevan A. Muradian
one event at a greatly reduced rate, has been modified. Junior TMs for age 24 or below may be 888.80.CHESS or info@nachess.org. For further information, online regis-
purchased from affiliates and are now available to them for $7 online with rating report submis- tration and payment please visit www.nachess.org/g60. Checkmate Chess
sions. They include one issue of Chess Life or Chess Life for Kids, and $5 of this fee may be applied Supply Co will be bookseller onsite. Support local Illinois Organizers.
to a full membership within 60 days. JTMs not valid for National events. Aug. 23, Illinois
Many scholastic tournaments exist that are not USCF-rated, and the USCF is concerned that the World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
reason is that organizers fear losing players unwilling or unable to pay entry fee plus dues. The 2009 U.S. Game/30 Championship
5R-SS, G/30 - $2500 b/150 fully paid entries. Holiday Inn Chicago - North Shore.
availability of a $7 option should cause some of these events to switch to being USCF-rated, pro- 5300 W. Touhy Ave., Skokie, IL 60077 (see tournament website for directions).
moting membership. The idea behind the TMs is not to sign up a lot of them, but rather to cause Free Parking. In 6 sections: M/X: $250-150-100-50 Top U2400, U2300, U2200
more USCF-rated tournaments to be held. each $75, Class A: $175-125-75-40, Class B: $175-125-75-40, Class C: $150-
More details on uschess.org. 100-50-25, Class D: $$150-100-50-25, Class E/F/U: $100-50-25-25, Unrated
Prize - Book Prize Only. Unrated must play in M/X or Class E/F/U sections.Tro-
phies for 1st - 3rd place, scholastic players with non-cash prize entry fee. $10
Rating supplements will be updated EACH MONTH on the USCF website, and each extra to play 1 class up. Entry Fee: $60 adult, $40 scholastic (K-12), $20 any-
monthly rating supplement will be used for all tournaments beginning in that month, one but not eligible for cash prizes thru 6pm 8/22. Onsite $80 adults, $60
unless otherwise announced in Chess Life. The USCF website at www.uschess.org also scholastic (K-12), $20 anyone but not eligible for cash prizes. $5 refund at tour-
frequently lists unofficial ratings.The purpose of unofficial ratings is to inform you of nament with proof of ICA membership (Scholastic entries count as 1/2 entry,
your progress; however, most tournaments do not use them for pairing or prize pur- No-cash prize entry does not count towards based on) - non-cash prize entry
poses. If you would otherwise be unrated, organizers may use your unofficial rating at fee not eligible for any discounts. SPECIAL COMBINED ENTRY FEES: Dis-
their discretion, even without advance publicity of such a policy. counted Entry fees available for registering for the US G/60 & US G/30 ($5 off

uschess.org Chess Life August 2009 45

 Tournament Life
each tournament) - non-cash prize entry fee not eligible for any discounts. SPE-
CIAL OFFER FOR ILLINOIS OPEN STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS: Enter either
the US G/60 or US G/30 and receive a $5 rebate for your early registration
to the 2009 Illinois Open State Championships. For more information visit
www.chessforlife.com. Mail payments (made payable to) and registration
information to: North American Chess Association, 2516 North Waukegan Road
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING AUGUST 1-14
Suite 342, Glenview, IL 60025. Byes: One 1/2 pt bye allowed. Rd 4 bye must
commit by start of Rd 2. Re-enter with 1/2pt bye in Rd 1 for $50. August Sup-
plement used. Schedule: Reg: 8:15am - 9:15am, Rds: 10, 12:30, 3, 5:30. Hotel
rates: $99+tax, 847-679-8900. Mention North American Chess Association rate.
Reserve by 8/7 or as available only. Car rental: Hertz, 800-654-3131, Hertz
CDP#178693. BRING BOARDS, SETS, CLOCKS - NONE PROVIDED. USCF mem-
bership required. NS,NC,W. Information: Sevan A. Muradian 888.80.CHESS or
info@nachess.org. For further information, online registration and payment
please visit www.nachess.org/g30. Checkmate Chess Supply Co will be book-
seller onsite. Support local Illinois Organizers.
Sept. 5-7, Oklahoma
1st U.S. Womens Open
$$1600 Gtd. plus class prizes based on entries. G/90(+30). 6-SS. Tulsa Best
WesternTrade Winds Central, 3141 E. Skelly Dr.,Tulsa, OK 74105. (918)749-5561.
Prizes: $1600 (Gtd): 1st- $800 + trophy + probable invitation to 2010 U.S.
Womens Championship; 2nd - $500, 3rd - $300, class prizes as entries per-
mit. Eligibility: Open to all female USCF members. EF: $80 if recd by 8/30;
$90 at site. Reg.: 9:00-10:15am. Rds.: 10:30-3, 9-2, 9-2.Tiebreaks after round
6 if necessary. Byes: One 1/2-point bye available if req. by rd 3. HR: $55, (800)
685-4564. Free wireless. www.tradewindstulsa.com. Side Events: Sat: Blitz
Fischer-Random Pizza Bash. Sun: River Spirit Casino. Info: FKimBerry@
AOL.com. Website: www.geocities.com/okiechessfestival Adv Entry: Cks
payable to: Frank K. Berry, 402 S. Willis, Stillwater, OK 74074. FIDE rated. NS.
W. WCL JGP.
Sept. 5-7, Oklahoma
2009 U.S. Senior Open
$$4000 Gtd. G/90(+30). 6-SS. Tulsa Best Western Trade Winds Central, 3141
E. Skelly Dr.,Tulsa, OK 74105. (918)749-5561. Eligibility: Open to all USCF mem-
bers born before Sept. 5, 1959. Prizes: $4000 (Gtd): 1st-$1200
(+trophy+invitation into 2010 U.S. Championship, if eligible.) 2nd-$700, 3rd-
$400, 4th-$300, 5th-$200. U2100: $200-100, U1900: $200-100, U1700 $200-100,
U1500/UNR: $200-100. Trophies:Trophies for 1st, 2nd, and each champion for
ages 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74 and over 75. World Senior Entrant:
Top finisher born on or before January 1, 1949 receives: 1) official USCF
entrant in the World Senior Championship, and 2) a $500.00 USCF stipend toward
expenses there (Condino, Italy from Oct 27 to Nov 8) which includes room and
board by host country. EF: $90 if recd by 8/30; $105 at site. Reg.: 9:00-
10:15am. Rds.: 10:30-3, 9-2, 9-2. Tiebreaks after round 6 if necessary. Byes:
One 1/2-point bye available if req. by rd 3. HR: $55, (800) 685-4564. Free wire-
less. www.tradewindstulsa.com. Side Events: Sat: Blitz Fischer-Random Pizza
Bash. Sun: River Spirit Casino. Info: FKimBerry@aol.com. Website:
www.geocities.com/okiechessfestival. Adv Entry: Cks payable to: Frank K. Berry,
402 S. Willis, Stillwater, OK 74074. FIDE rated. NS.W.
46 Chess Life August 2009
A Heritage Event!
Oct. 10-12, 50th Annual U.S. Armed Forces Open
6SS, Rds 1-2 G/90, Rds 3-4 G/2, Rds 5-6 30/90 SD/1 Site: American Civil War
Museum, 297 Steinwehr Ave., Gettysburg, PA. EF: FREE! Must check in by
0845 on Sat. to be paired. Reg.: Sat. 0800-0845, Rds.: Sat. 0900-1230-1600,
Sun. 0900-1400, Mon. 0900. Two half-point byes available. Open to all Active
Duty, Reserve, Military Retirees, Cadets, Midshipmen, and ROTC (with DOD ID)
who have a USCF Membership. Prizes: Trophies & Plaques to Top Service
Team,Top 3 overall players,Top player of each DoD Service on Active Duty,Top
Reservist, Top Retiree, Top 3 Cadets/Midshipmen/ROTC, Top 2 each Class A-
D and below, Biggest Upset, and other prizes. Awards Ceremony: Monday Oct.
12 after Rd 6. HR: 2 choices, must call hotels directly by Sep. 9 and ask for Chess
Tournament Rate. Comfort Inn, 3301 Black Gap Rd., Chambersburg, PA 717-
263-6655, $59.40 per night. Or, Days Inn, 865 York Road, Gettysburg, PA
717-334-0030, $111.60 per night. Use website to enter www.usmilitarychess.org,
or mail to Mike Hoffpauir, ATTN: USAFO, 405 Hounds Chase, Yorktown, VA 23693
with Rank, Name, USCF ID#, Branch of Service. Send all questions to: Mike
Hoffpauir, mhoffpauir@aol.com, 757-846-4805.
Nov. 20-22, Illinois
2009 National Youth Action
9SS, G/30, DoubleTree Hotel, 1909 Spring Road, Oak Brook, Illinois, 60523,Tel:
1-630-472-6000 (1.800.222.TREE); $89 single/double/triple/quad. Four Sec-
tions K-3, K-6, K-9, K-12. Entry Fee: $40 by 10/25/09 USPS (or $40 on-line
by 10/25, 6 pm); $60 by 11/13/09 USPS (or $60 on-line 10/25/09, after 6 pm
- 11/13/09, 6 pm); $75 USPS 11/13 11/17 (or $75 on-line 11/13/09, 6:01 pm
11/19, 6 pm); $75 by 11/20/09 6 PM on site (on-site entries after 11/20/09
6 PM can not be guaranteed pairing for round 1, instead they may receive
point bye round 1). Checks payable only to Chess Central. Awards: Indi-
vidual: 1st 20th Place in each section (K-3, K-6, K-9, K-12). Class Awards:
1st-3rd Place, K-3: U800, U600, U400, Unr. K-6: U1000, U800, U600, Unr. K-9:
U1200, U1000, U800, Unr. K-12: U1400, U1200, U1000, Unr. Teams: 1st-10th
Place in each section. Special Sportsmanship trophy! Schedule: Opening Cer-
emony Sat., Nov 21 at 9:30 am. Rds. 1-5 Sat., 10 am, 12 noon, 2 pm, 3:30 pm
& 5 pm. Rds. 6-9 Sun., 10 am, 12 noon, 2 pm & 3:30 pm. Side Events: Bug-
house Tournament Fri, Nov 20, 6:30 pm. EF $20 per team ($10 for individuals
and we help you create a team). On site registration only. Registration closes
at 5 pm, Fri, Nov 20. One section only, K-12. Bughouse Awards: 1st-10th Place.
Blitz Tournament Sat, Nov 21, K-6 & K-12, 6:30 pm, EF $15 USPS/on-line
by 10/25, 6 pm, $20 USPS from10/26 11/17; $20 on-line 10/26, 6:01 pm -
11/19, 6pm; $25 on site. Registration closes at 5 pm, Sat, Nov 21. Blitz
Awards: Individual: 1st-20th in each section. Team: 1st-10th in each section.
Awards Ceremony for Blitz and Bughouse: Sun, 9 am. NYA Awards Cer-
emony: Sun, Nov 22, 5:30-7 pm. Club Teams allowed! Master simuls and
analysis scheduled. Hotel Info: DoubleTree Hotel, Oakbrook, IL (hotel regis-
tration code: NYA) www.doubletreeoakbrook.com, or http://doubletree.hilton.
com/en/dt/groups/personalized/CHIOADT-NYA-20091120/index.jhtml (630)
472-6020 or 630 472-6000 (1.800.222.TREE), HR single/double/triple/quad $89.
Enter on line (except Bughouse) at http://nya2009.com. Checks payable
only to Chess Central (no checks to USCF or Mike Zacate): Mail registra-
tions with name-contact info-grade-birthday-team/school-uscf ID & exp.-
address-city-zip-e-mail address-coach name & contact info to Mike Zacate
(Please, no checks payable to Mike or USCF), 9401 Birch, Mokena, IL
60448. Updated info/Hotels/On-Line Entries: http://nya2009.com. $10 serv-
ice charge for on-site section/roster changes, and all refunds. Bookdealers
scheduled.
Grand Prix
A State Championship Event!
Aug. 14-16 or 15-16, Arkansas
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10
Arkansas State Championship
6 SS. Clarion Inn, 1255 S. Shiloh Dr. (= I-540 & 6th St.), Fayetteville, AR. EF:
$45 (rcvd by 8/13), $50 at door. 2 Schedules: I. Reg.: Fri. 5-5:45 p.m. Rds.:
Fri. 6; Sat. 9-2-6:30; Sun. 9-1:30. G/120. II. Reg.: Sat. 8:30-9:15 a.m. Rds.: 9:30-
11:45, G/60; then merge with Sched. I (Rds. 3-6). Prizes (b. 40): $400-250(Top
2 prizes gtd. $300-$200); A,B,C,D $200 each class (min. 3/class or prize = $75);
E & below $100; Unr $50; Upset $50. Plaques to Ark. winners. 1/2 pt. bye avail
Rds 1-5 (commit before Rd. 3 pairings). Hotel: Clarion Inn (479) 521-1166, $72
(1-4). USCF & ACA memb. OSA. NS, NC, W. TD & Ent: Les Kline, 801 Rush Dr.,
Fayetteville, AR 72701; email: cl_kline@sbcglobal.net. WCL JPG.
Aug. 15, Georgia
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
2009 Atlanta August G/45 Championship
4-SS, G/45, Atlanta Chess Center, 3155A East Ponce de Leon Avenue, Scottdale,
Georgia 30079. In 2 sections: Open: EF: $22 if received by 8/13; $25 at site.
$500 GUARANTEED. $150-100-70, u1900, u1700, u1500 each $60. Under
1300: EF: $16 if received by 8/13; $19 at site. Unrateds play for FREE!Trophies
to top 3, top 2 under 1100, under 900, top Unrated. Reg.: Ends 10:30 a.m.
Rounds: 11-1-3-5. Info: (404)-377-4400 or atlantachess@yahoo.com. Enter:
Same as above. NS.
Aug. 15, New Jersey
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30
2nd Annual Greater Pitman Open Chess Championship
4SS, G/60 t/d5, Pitman Manor, 535 N. Oak Ave., Pitman, NJ 08071. Free park-
ing! EF: $39 via mail by 8/8, $41 online (www.atkmchesssets.com/pitmanopen)
by 8/14, $49 cash or $51 for Visa/MC onsite. GMs/IMs/WIMs/WGMs free;
$39 from prize. Prizes guaranteed: $425-250-225-200-175-150-100. $100
clear-cut winner bonus. Min. guarantee of $100, to top Expert, A, B, C, $50 to
top D, E/below. Top only No duplicates, No Pooling. Win larger of duplicate
prizes. Players with less than 26 rated games are NOT eligible for class prizes.
Trophy to top under 13 years old. Rds.: 10am, then ASAP. Lunch break after rd.
#2.Two 1/2 pt. byes allowed (rds 1-3) if reqstd with EF. ENT: All the Kings Men,
62 S. Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08071, 856-582-8222. INFO: Stephen Dick,
cs@atkmchesssets.com. MUST BRING YOUR OWN EQUIPMENT! WCL JGP.
Aug. 15, New York
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
New York Summer Game/45!
5-SS, G/45, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W 10 St., bet. 5-6 Ave., NYC:
uschess.org
845-569-9969. EF: $40, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), specified
Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free! $$ 840 b/42 paid entries, minimum
half each prize Gtd: $$ 300-200-115, top U2200/unr. $125, U2000 $100. Limit
2 byes, commit by 2 pm. Re-entry $20. CCA ratings may be used. Rds.: 12-2-
3:45-5:30-7:15 pm. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Online entry at
www.chesscenter.cc thru 8/13; $10 extra to enter by phone!
A State Championship Event!
Aug. 15, Oklahoma
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
Oklahoma Quick Chess Championship (QC)
GTD $450. 6SS, One Section, G/25. Owasso Rejoice Christian School, NE cor-
ner of Hwy 169 & 106th Street North, Owasso, OK (10 miles north of Tulsa).
Reg.: 9-9:30am. Rds.: 10, 11:15, 1:30, 3:00, 4:30, 6:00. One 1/2 point bye in
Rds 1-5. Prizes: $$GTD 150-125-100-75, 1st Place Championship Plaque &Title,
$75 Special Performance place prize (see OCA website for details). EF: $25 at
door, Oklahoma Chess Assn membership included. Contact: Chuck Unruh, PO
Box 340, Collinsville, OK 74021, 918-371-2978 or 800-460-2794, chunruh@
aol.com. Info: www.ochess.org.
Aug. 15, Virginia
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
2009 Bill Bochman Memorial
ROUNDS: 3-Round Swiss System Game/90. SITE: St. Johns Lutheran Church,
4608 Brambleton Ave. SW, Roanoke, VA 24018. GUARANTEED PRIZES:Top Sec-
tion: $125-$100-$75. Additional Sections: If Octagonals, Each is guaranteed
$125-$100, If Hexagonals, Each is guaranteed $100-$75, If Quads, Each is guar-
anteed $100. ENTRY FEE: If received by Aug 14, $30.00. At site, $40.00.
REGISTRATION: 6-9 pm on 8/14; 8:30-9:30 am on 8/15. ROUNDS: 10-2-6. BYES:
One only per tournament; must request before 1st round begins. ADVANCE
ENTRIES: Roanoke Valley Chess Club, P.O. Box 14143, Roanoke, VA 24038.
PHONE: (540) 725-9525 or (276) 632-2850. E-MAIL: info@roanokechess.com.
WEB PAGE: roanokechess.com. NO SMOKING. NO COMPUTERS.
Aug. 18, New York
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced)
St. Johns Masters at the Marshall Chess Club
4SS, G/30.ThirdTues. of every month. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open
to players rated over 2100 (plus all players scoring 2.5 or more at any CCNY
at MCCThursday 4 Rated GamesTonight! since the prior months SJM) EF: $40,
members $30, GMs $10 (returned on completion of tournament). For each event,
money added to prize fund by the sponsors, St. Johns University, and other gen-
erous patrons. Top three prizes guaranteed. $$G 300-200-100. Top U2400 and
Top U2300 prizes. Special prize for biggest upset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-
9:30-10:45pm. One bye available, rd. 1 or 4 only; declare at registration.
Aug. 21-23 or 22-23, California Northern
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 60 (enhanced)
Central California Open
5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75), Ramada University Hotel, 324
E. Shaw Ave., Fresno, CA 93710 (CA-99 to CA-41 to Shaw Ave). Cosponsored
by Fresno Chess Club. $$ 15,000 based on 150 paid entries (re-entries count
half), minimum $10,000 (2/3 of each prize) guaranteed. In 4 sections: Open:
uschess.org
$2000-1000-500-300, top U2200 $800-400. FIDE. Under 2000: $1500-700-400-
200, top U1800 $800-400. Under 1600: $1200-700-400-200, top U1400
$600-300. Under 1200: $1000-500-300-200, top U1000 $400-200. Unrated may
enter any section, with prize limits: U1200 $100, U1600 $300, U2000 $500. Bal-
ance goes to next player(s) in line. EF: 3-day $113, 2-day $112 mailed by
8/13, all $115 online at chesstour.com by 8/18, $120 phoned to 406-896-2038
by 8/18 (entry only, no questions), $130 at site. Mailed EF $10 less to Fresno
Chess Club members. FREE TO UNRATED in U1200 section if paying 1 year USCF
dues with entry. GMs free, $100 deducted from prize. All: Unofficial uschess.org
ratings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year
USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: online at chesstour.com $30, mailed,
phoned or paid at site $40. Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. No
checks at site, credit cards OK. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds Fri 7
pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds Sat 11-
2:30-6, Sun 9-3:15. Byes: OK all; must commit before rd 2. HR: $89-89,
800-241-0756, 559-224-4040, request chess rate, reserve by 8/7 or rate may
increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car
online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury
Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chess-
tour.com. WCL JGP.
Aug. 22, Illinois
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10
2009 U.S. Game/60 Championship
See Nationals.
Aug. 22, Pennsylvania
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
2009 Lehigh Valley LVCA Aug Championship
4SS, G/90. St. James Church, 11th & Tilghman Sts., Allentown, PA 18102. EF:
$40, LVCA Members $30. $$200-100 guaranteed to top 2, more per entries. Up
to two 1/2 pt byes with advanced notice (if declared before round 3). REG.:
Ends 10am. RDS.: 10-1:30-4:45-7:45. Ent/Info: Checks payable to: Bruce
Davis, 1208 Linden St., Fl 1, Bethlehem, PA 18018. 610-625-0467 or
bdavis@lehighvalleychess.org or www.lehighvalleychess.org/. Reg by mail
by 8/17 to enter to win a Saitek Competition Chess Clock. WCL JGP.
Aug. 22, Tennessee
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
17th Battle of Murfreesboro
5-SS, rd.1 G/30, rd.2 G/60, rds.3, 4, 5 G/75. Grace Lutheran Church, 811 E. Clark
Blvd., Murfreesboro, TN. EF: $25 by 8/20, $30 at site. $$ (1160, top 2 G, class
prizes b/6 entries per class, else proportional): $200-120, X, A, B, C, D,
E/below, Unr. each $120. Reg.: 8:00-8:45am. Rds.: 9:00-10:00-12:30-3:00-5:30.
Ent: Rutherford County Chess Club, P.O. Box 1593, Murfreesboro, TN 37133.
http://rccc.us/ (with map to site), rccc@rccc.us 615-895-7989 NS. NC. W. WCL
JGP for Rd. 5 games only.
Aug. 23, Illinois
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
2009 U.S. Game/30 Championship
See Nationals.
Aug. 23, New York
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced)
Grandmaster Challenge (QC)
6-SS G/25 (G/20, D/5), Marshall CC, 23 W 10th St, NYC: 212-477-3716, lim-
ited to first 64 entries. EF: $35 over 55/under 18, $45 others, $10 less to
Marshall members (free buffet for participants.) GMs free, $25 deducted from
prize. Reg. ends 11:45 am. G$$350-250-150-100-75-50, $100 U2400, $100
U2200, $75 U2000, $50 U1800, top over 55$=age, top under 18 $=3x age, top
scoring female ($=# of players.) Rds.: 12-1:15-2:30-4:00-5:15-6:30. Byes:
limit 2, request before Round 3. Quick rated; regular ratings used for pairing
and prize purposes. Additional class prize $500 2800+, $250 2700+.
A Heritage Event!
Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, District of Columbia
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 120 (enhanced)
41st annual Atlantic Open
5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75), Washington Westin Hotel, 1400
M St NW atThomas Circle, Washington, DC 20005. $$G 20,000 GUARANTEED
PRIZE FUND. In 7 sections. Open: $2000-1000-500-300, clear or tiebreak 1st
$100 bonus, top U2300/Unr $1200-600. FIDE. Under 2100: $1500-700-400-
200. Under 1900: $1500-700-400-200. Under 1700: $1500-700-400-200.
Under 1500: $1300-700-400-200. Under 1300: $1200-600-300-200. Under
1000: $400-300-200-100. Unrated may not win over $100 in U1000, $200 U1300,
$400 U1500, $500 U1700, $600 U1900, or $700 U2100. Top 6 sections EF: 3-
day $103, 2-day $102 mailed by 8/20, all $104 online at chesstour.com by 8/25,
$110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 8/25 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site.
Under 1000 EF: All $60 less. All sections: No checks at site, credit cards OK.
Re-entry $60, not available in Open Section. GMs free, $90 deducted from prize.
FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED in U1000 or U1300 Section if paid with 1 year USCF
dues. All: Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games used if oth-
erwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry-
online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. 3-day sched-
ule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 10-4:15. 2-day schedule:
Reg. ends Sat. 10 am, rds Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 10-4:15. Bye: all, limit 2, Open
must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $96-96, 202-429-1700,
reserve by 8/7 or rate may increase. Regular rate at this luxury hotel is over
$200! Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633, or reserve car online
through chesstour.com. Parking: $8/day to 2 am or $16/day overnight; garage
has limited space. Ent: Continental Chess Association, Box 249, Salisbury
Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com,
845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, Georgia
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
2009 Atlanta Chess Center Open
5-SS, Rd. 1 G/2 hours, Rds. 2-5 30/90, SD/1. (2-day Rd. 1 G/90). Atlanta
Chess Center, 3155A East Ponce de Leon Avenue, Scottdale, Georgia 30079.
$2700 b/89, 50% GTD. In 3 sections: Open: $350-250; u2200- $200-100,
u2000- $200-100. Under 1800: $300-200; u1600- $200-100. Under 1400:
$300-200; u1200- $200. All, EF: $42 if recd. by 8/26; $46 at site. Re-entry: $25.
Bye, all rounds (limit 2), must commit before 1st round. 3-day schedule: Reg.:
ends 7:15 p.m. Rds.: 7:45, 2-7:30, 10-3:45. 2-day schedule: Reg.: ends 10 a.m.
Chess Life August 2009 47
 Tournament Life
Rds.: 1st at 10:30 a.m., then merges with 3-day. Hotel/Info: (404)-377-4400
or atlantachess@yahoo.com. Enter: Same as above. NS. WCL JGP.
Aug. 29-30 or 30, New York
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
Marshall CC August GP!
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING AUGUST 1-14
4SS, 30/90, SD/1; Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $45, Mem-
bers $25. $$625 Gtd: 250-100-75, U2200/Unrated $100, U2000 $100. Reg. ends
15 min. before game. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2-day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day;
1-day, (rds 1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun; both merge rd 3. Limit
2 byes, request at entry. NO RE-ENTRY. May be limited to first 60 players. WCL
JGP.
Aug. 29-30, Texas
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced)
DFW FIDE Open V
5SS, G/90 with 30 second increment. Dallas Chess Club, 212 S Cottonwood Dr.
#A, Richardson, TX 75080. One Section $$550G. Open: This section is FIDE
rated but uses USCF Rules. $400-$100-$50. EF: $50, Juniors (U19)/Senior/Hcap
$30, plus $5 non-DCC membership fee if applicable. Registration: 9:45 -10:15
am. Rds.: Sat 10:45 - 3:10 - 7:16, Sun 10:45-3:10. One Bye allowed if requested
before rd 2, withdrawals are not eligible for prizes. Ent: Dallas Chess Club, see
address above. Info: 214-632-9000, info@dallaschess.com NS. NC. FIDE.
WCL JGP.
Sept. 3, New York
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
10 Grand Prix Points Tonight!
4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 West 10 St., bet. 5-6 Ave., NYC:
212-477-3716. EF: $35, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), may be
limited to 1st 36 entries. $$ 560 Gtd: $$ 200-110-50, Top U2200/unr $105,
U2000 $95. Limit 2 byes (1 bye for U2000), commit by 8:15. Reentry $15. CCA
ratings may be used. Class pairings OK rd. 4. Rds 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm.
Phone entry often impossible. EFs $5 EXTRA IF UNDER 10 MINUTES
BEFORE GAME!
A State Championship Event!
Sept. 4-7 or 5-7, Louisiana
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20
2009 Louisiana State Championship
7SS, G/150. Web: Complete details at www.louisianachess.org. Site: Drury Inn,
7939 Essen Park, Baton Rouge, LA 70809-7438. 4-day schedule: Reg. Fri. 5:30-
6:45pm. Rounds: Fri. 7:00pm, Sat. 11am & 6pm, Sun. 10am & 6pm, Mon. 10am
& 6pm. Business meeting: Mon. 3:30pm. 3-day schedule: Reg. Sat. 8:30-
9:45am. Rounds: Sat. 10am & 1:30pm, G/90. Merge with 4-day in Round 3. Byes:
Up to two 1/2 pt byes available if requested before rd 2, but byes for both rd
6 AND 7 is not permitted. Prizes: $4500 b/80, 50% Gtd. Open: $1000-600-400,
U2000: $375-225; U1800: $350-200; U1600: $300-150; U1400: $250-125;
U1200: $200-$100; Unrated: $150-75. EF: $60 if received by 8/31, $70 at
site. LCA membership required ($10 adult/$5 scholastic), OSA. Louisiana
State Blitz Championship: 5SS, G/5. Play each opponent twice. Sun. 3:30pm.
$10 EF. Prizes: $250 b/40. $100-75-50-25. HR: $79 king x1, $84 queen x2. Free
parking, free continental breakfast, and free evening cocktails. Reserve by 8/20
48 Chess Life August 2009
or rates may increase. Reserve online at www.druryhotels.com, click on Book
it Fast, then enter group number 2066526; to reserve by phone, call 1-800-325-
0720, specify the Baton Rouge location, and reference Louisiana Chess
Association. Entry/Info: Entry forms at www.louisianachess.org. Checks
payable to Alex Steger, 14946 Currency Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70817, ste-
geralex@hotmail.com, (225) 933-9548. NS, NC. WCL JGP.
A State Championship Event!
Sept. 4-7, Michigan
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15
2009 Michigan Open
$$3775 GTD. 7-SS. Best Western Lansing West, 7711 West Saginaw Highway,
Lansing, MI 48917. Saginaw Hwy M-43 at I-96. Rooms: $80.99+tax by Aug 5,
517-627-8471 or 877-772-6100 and specify MCA room block. Where were you
20 years ago? Prizes for best combined scores (1989 + 2009) 3 Sections:
OPEN (anyone), RESERVE (U1800), BOOSTER (U1400). Rds.: (4-day) Fri, Sep
4: 7:30pm; Sat 11am, 6pm; Sun 10am, 7pm; Mon 10am, 4:30pm. (3-day) Sat,
Sep 5: 11:30am, 2:30pm. (2-day) Sun, Sep 6: 10am, 11:30am, 1pm, 2:30pm.
Up to 2 1/2-point byes available in rds 1-6, must request prior to rd 4. TC: (4-
day) 40/2, SD1; (3-day) rds 1, 2: G/75 (merge w/4-day for rounds 3-7);
(2-day) rds 1-4: G/30 (merge w/ 4-day for rounds 5-7). EF: Masters are
free; Advance (by Mon, Aug 31) OPEN: 4-day $54, 3-day $53, 2-day $52, site
$65. RESERVE: 4-day $44, 3-day $43, 2-day $42, site $55. BOOSTER: 4-day
$34, 3-day $33, 2-day $32, site $45. Juniors (U18) $10 off. Participants of the
1989 event $5 off. Re-entry allowed for 2-day advanced price. Please make
checks payable to MCA. USCF memb reqd. MCA memb reqd for Michigan res-
idents. www.michess.org. Reg.: Advance Jennifer Skidmore, 4151 Chester Dr.,
Apt. 211, Ypsilanti, MI 48197. jmscamelot@gmail.com. 734-678-0463. Site (4-
day) Fri 5:30-6:29pm. (3-day) Sat 9:30-10:29am. (2-day) Sun 8:30-9:29am.
PRIZES: $$: $3775 GTD. Trophies to all place-winners. OPEN: 1st $500, 2nd
$250, 3rd $175, U2200: $150-$100, U2100: $150-$100, U2000: $125-$75,
U1900: $125-$75. RESERVE: 1st $350, 2nd $200, 3rd $125, U1700: $100-
$50, U1600: $100-$50, U1500: $100-$50. BOOSTER: 1st $200, 2nd $150, 3rd
$100, U1300: $75-$50, U1200: $75-$50, U700+UNR $75-$50. MCA Member-
ship Meeting: 4pm Sun, Sep 6. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event!
A State Championship Event!
Sept. 4-7, 5-7 or 6-7, New York
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 80 (enhanced)
131st annual NY State Championship
Out of state welcome. 6SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option except in Open Section,
rds 1-3 G/45), Albany Marriott, 189 Wolf Road, Albany 12205 (Thruway Exit 24,
I-87 north to Wolf Rd, Exit 4). Luxurious hotel with indoor/outdoor pool, sauna,
fitness center, free parking, free airport shuttle, many restaurants in area. $$G
13,000. In 4 sections. Open: $1600-800-400-200, top U2300/Unr $700, U2200
$600, U2100 $500. FIDE. Under 2000: $1200-600-300-200, top U1800 $700-
350. Under 1600: $1000-500-300-150, top U1400 $600-300. Under 1200:
$800-400-200-100, top U1000 $300-150. Unrated may not win over $100 in
U1200, $300 in U1600, or $500 in U2000. All: 1 year NYSCA membership to NY
residents paying EF who are not members. EF: 4-day $99, 3-day $98, 2-day $97
mailed by 8/27, all $100 online at chesstour.com by 9/2, $105 phoned to 406-
896-2038 by 9/2 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. FREE ENTRY TO
UNRATED in U1200 if paying 1 year USCF dues. All: Unofficial uschess.org rat-
ings based on 4 or more games used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF
dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com $30, mailed,
phoned or paid at site $40. Re-entry $70, all sections but Open. GMs free, $80
deducted from prize. No checks at site, credit cards OK. 3-day schedule: Reg.
ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11-6, Sun 11-6, Mon 9-3:15. 4-day schedule: Reg.
ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 6 pm, Sun 11-6, Mon 9-3:15. 2-day sched-
ule: Reg. ends Sun. 10:30 am, rds Sun 11-1:30-3:30-6, Mon 9-3:15, no 2-day
schedule in Open. Bye: all, limit 2, must commit before rd 2. HR: $96-96, 800-
443-8952, 518-458-8444, reserve by 8/21 or rate may increase. NYSCA meeting
9 am Sun. Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633, or reserve car online
through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY
12577. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted
at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event!
Sept. 4-7 or 5-7, Texas
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 80 (enhanced)
75th Annual Southwest Open
7SS, DFW Marriott Airport South, 4151 Centreport Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas,
76155. $$ 10,000 GTD, 3 Sections and scholastic side events: Open (This sec-
tion is FIDE rated but uses USCF rules.) Rds. 1-3 G/90 with 30 sec. increment,
rds. 4-7 G/120 with 30 sec. increment: $$ 1,500-800-400, 2300-2399 $500,
U2200 $700-300. Reserve: Opened Under 2000 & unrated. Rds.: 1-7 30/90
SD/1, rd. 1 of three day is G/120 (deduct 5 min. for delay). $$ 1000-500-250.
B $$ 600-300-150, C 600-300-150, Unrated $200. Unrateds only eligible for
unrated prize. Novice: Open to Under 1400. Rds.: 1-7 30/90 SD/1, rd. 1 of three
day is G/120 (deduct 5 min. for delay). $600-300-150, U1200 $400, U1000 $300.
ALL: TCA membership required. Other states accepted. . EF: $79 if received by
8/26, $89 at site. $68 Junior(U19) if received by 8/26 else $78, Senior(over
65)/Handicapped/ additional family participant $48 if receive by 8/26 else $60.
Re-entry $50 not available in Open section. Add $5 for CC phone entries; pre-
reg requires pre-paymt. After 9/2/09 all registration and changes on site
only; all changes including withdrawals, $10 after 9/2/09. Online registration:
www.active.com/event_detail.cfm?event_id=1754751. Note that
Active.com charges a small fee. 4 day: Reg.: Friday 9/4, 6:15 pm-7:15. Rds.:
Fri.: 7:45, Sat: 2:30 pm & 8:00, Sun.: 12:30 pm & 6:15, Mon.: 9 am & 2:45 pm.
3 day: Reg. Sat. 9/5 9-9:30 am, Rd. 1 at 10 am then merge with 4 day. Foreign
Unrated must play in Championship section. Registrations that do not indicate
4 or 3 day schedule will be put in the 3 day. HR: $89/89/89/89. 800-228-9290
reserve by 8/14 and ask for Southwest Open Chess rate. Free Parking. Up to
two 1/2 pt byes available if requested before end of rd. 2, but byes for both
rd. 6 AND 7 not permitted.TCA Meeting at 10 am on 9/6 in the Centreport Ball-
room. K-12 Scholastic on Saturday, 9/5. 5-SS, Rds. 1-3 G/30, rds. 4-5 G/45,
EF: $29 by 8/26, $40 after; Pre-reg. requires pre-payment. After 9/2/09 all reg-
istration and changes on site only; all changes $10 after 8/26/09. No refunds
after 9/2/09, $10 handling fee for refunds before 8/26/09. Entries do not count
toward base in Championship and Amateur. Registration 8:00-8:40 am, Rd. 1
at 9:30 am, rest ASAP with small lunch break. Sections: K-12 Championship
and K-12 U750. Prizes: Trophies to top 12 individuals, five teams in each sec-
uschess.org
tion. K-12 U750 also top three unrateds. Medals to plus scores who do not win
a trophy. Ent: Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail,
Crowley,TX 76036. Info: Barb Swafford, 214-632-9000, info@dallaschess.com
www.swchess.com NS. NC. W. FIDE. WCL JGP.
Sept. 5, New Hampshire
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
New England Blitz Championship (QC)
A NH Grand Prix Event. 5 Rd. DBLSS, Holiday Inn Nashua, 9 Northeastern Blvd.,
Nashua NH 03062. Blitz rule #3A is in effect. EF: $20 for players in any NEO
section, $25 otherwise. $$GTD: $200-100. U2000 $100, U1600 $100. Reg.: Reg-
istration 8:00-8:45 PM. Rds.: Round 1 9 PM then ASAP. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49
Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex Relyea relyea@opera
mail.com. www.relyeachess.com. NS W.
Sept. 5-6, Minnesota
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
Region 6 Open Championship
Oak Ridge Hotel, 1 Oak Ridge Drive, Chaska, MN 55318. In 2 Sections, Premier:
4SS, G/90, inc/30, EF: $50 by 8/28/2009, $60 at site. $$b/30: $500-250.
U2200 $100, U2000 $100. Reserve: 4SS, G/90, inc/30, Open to 1699 & under.
$40 by 8/28/2009, $50 at site. $$b/55: $350-175. U1600 $60, U1400 $60, U1200
$60, U1000 $60. ALL: Memb. Reqd: $18. OSA. Any Region 6 state acceptable
(MN, WI, ND, SD). Class prizes based on 5 per class. ENT: MSCA, PO Box 582754,
MPLS, MN 55458-2754. INFO: www.minnesotachess.org. HR: $79 1.952.
368.3100 Oak Ridge Hotel, 1 Oak Ridge Drive, Chaska, MN 55318. WCL JGP.
Sept. 5-6, Missouri
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20
Saint Louis District Championship
5SS, G/120, Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO
63108. EF: $60, $50 for annual members of the club. MCA Membership Reqd
from $5. OSA. PF $$GTD $2500: 1st overall $650, 2nd overall $475, 1st each
A, B, C, D, U1200 $275. Reg: 9-9:50, Rds: Sat 10, 2, 6 Sun 10, 2. Accelerated
pairings used. One 1/2 point bye if declared before round 1. Ent: 4657 Mary-
land Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108 314-361-CHESS, info@saintlouischessclub.org.
WCL JGP.
Sept. 5-7, California Northern
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15
Labor Day Chess Festival
6-SS, 30/90, SD/1 (2-day option rds 1-3 G/60); Golden Gateway Holiday Inn.
Van Ness at Pine, San Francisco. $$B 160 paid entries (not counting free or
unrated entries). Six Sections: Master $700-$400-$250 U2400 $250; Expert
$380-$200-$150. A $380-$200-$150. B $380-$200-$150. C $380-200- Sept. 5-7 or 6-7, Illinois
150. D/E $380-$200-$150 U1200 $150. Unr: Trophy First. Trophy to top
finisher (State Champion) in each section. All, EF: postmarked by 8/31 $70 (Jrs.
$60). $80 at site (Jrs. $70). Unrateds $20 in the D/E section or may play up to
the Master section for the regular fee. $5 discount to CalChess members. USCF
memb. reqd. May play up one section for addl $10 (Jrs $5). GM/IM free entry.
Reg.: Sat 9/5 8-9:30am, Sun 9/6 8:15-9:15am. RDS: Choice of schedules- 3-
day, 2-day merge at round 4, all compete for the same prizes. 3-day schedule:
Sat 10:00-4:00; Sun 11:00-4:45; Mon 10:00-3:30. 2-day schedule: Sun 9:30-
uschess.org
11:45-2:00-4:45; Mon 10:00-3:30. 1/2 pt bye(s) any round(s) if requested in
advance (byes rds 5-6 must be requested before rd 1). 2009 August Ratings
List, CCA minimums and Directors discretion will be used to place players as
accurately as possible. Please bring clocks and equipment. HR: Golden Gate-
way Holiday Inn (415)-441-4000. INFO: Richard Koepcke (650)-224-4938. Ent:
Richard Koepcke, P.O. Box 1432, Mountain View, CA 94042. No Phone entries.
Master Section FIDE Rated. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event!
Sept. 5-7, California Southern
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 120 (enhanced)
31st Annual Southern California Open
6-SS, 40/2, SD/1. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2270 Hotel Circle North, San Diego, CA
92108. $20,000 prize fund based on 200 players, 60% of each prize is guaran-
teed. 5 Sections. Prizes: Open Sec 1st $2,600-1,800-1,200-900-600-500-400,
BU2300 $800-400, BU2200 $1,000-600-400-200; Premier Section (U2000):
$1,000-600-400-200; Amateur Section (U1800) $1,000-600-400-200; Reserve
Section (U1600) $1,000-600-400-200; Booster Section (U1400) $600-400-200-
100, BU1200 $300-150, Best Unrated $100. Plus Best Game Prizes: $75-50-25,
one reserved for non-open sections. Reg.: 8 to 9:30 AM, Sept official rating
list used. Rds.: 10 AM & 5 PM on Sat and Sun, 9 AM and 4 PM on Mon. No re-
entries, no fast schedule, only quality chess. EF: $120 if received by 8/14,
$140 by 8/28, $160 after 8/28 or at door. Only $75 if U1400 or unrated. Free
entry for GMs and IMs (EF deducted from winnings). Open section will be FIDE
rated. Unrated must play in Open (eligible for place prizes only) or U1400 (eli-
gible for Unrated prize only). SCCF membership reqd ($18 Adult, $10 Jr) for
all So Cal residents. Two half point byes OK in rds 1-6, must be requested at
least one hour before round, but a last round bye must be requested at reg-
istration and is irrevocable. Ent: SCCF, c/o John Hillery, 835 Wilton Pl. #1, Los
Angeles, CA 90038 or enter online at www.westernchess.com. For more info
call Bruce Baker of SDCC at (619) 239-7166 or see our website at sdchess-
club.multiply.com. SCCF Annual Membership Meeting: Sunday 3 PM. Hotel
Rates: Special rate of only $130 single or double, 619-297-1101, or 1-800-227-
6963 if booked by 8/14/09, must reserve at least 2 nights, book ASAP, as rates
will go up and rooms may sell out by mid-August. Great tropical themed hotel
is in the heart of Mission Valley, close to airport, great attractions such as Sea
World, the SD Zoo, the lively Gaslamp District for night life, Seaport Village and
Fashion Valley for shopping.The Crown Plaza Hotel (see www.cp-sandiego.com)
has a great restaurant and sushi bar, a heated pool, a fitness room, Whirlpool
spa, free shuttle service and is next to the excellent Riverwalk golf course. NS,
NC, W. State Championship Qualifier. WCL JGP.
A State Championship Event!
2009 New Jersey State Championship
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30
2009 Illinois Open Championship
6SS, 2 Schedules, 2 Sections, New Site: DoubleTree Hotel: 1909 Spring Road,
Oakbrook, Illinois 60523, (630) 472-6020, (630) 472-6000, $89 room rate lim-
ited availability (group code CHS). $10,000 B/200 paid players, $5,000 Gtd., $$$
increased to maximum as attendance increases! Open (open to all/FIDE
rated for Classic schedule): $1200-800-600; U2400: $500-400-375; U2200:
$350-325-300; U2000: $275-250-200, Un can win top 3 only. Reserve (U1800):
$1000-700-550; U1600: $450-400-350; U1400: $300-250; U1200: $225-$200,
Un can win top 3 only. Classic Schedule G/120 inc 30 or G/150: Sat-Sun: 11-
5, Mon. 10-4. Busy Person Schedule: Sun (rnds 1-3) G/45: 11-1-3, Sun 5 pm
(rnd 4, merged), Mon. 10-4. EF: Early $80, $5 rebate on site for pre-entries
upon request for current or renewing ICA members. $5 rebate on site for pre-
entries upon request for USCF G/30 and/or G/60 Championship players, ($10
extra to play up from Reserve to Open section) if postmarked by August 31,
no e-mail/phone entries available (check Web page for extended on-line CC entry
deadline), Include: USCF id #, current USCF & ICA, Section, Schedule. EF ALL:
$90 at door ($10 to play up): 9/5 or 9/6, 9:30-10:30 AM, $100 after 10:30
AM 9/5 or 9/6. No phone or e-mail entries available, please use USPS and on-
line entries. Re-entry: $50 with 1/2 point bye rnd 1 or alternate schedule with
no byes. Entries (checks payable only to Chess For Life, LLC):Tim Just, 37165
Willow, Gurnee, IL 60031. Info: 847-244-7954 (before 6 PM), 2 side events!
U1000TrophyTournament, Sat. daytime & G/25 Quick Chess, Sat. PM (look for
our TLAs or go to our web page for more info). http://chessforlife.com. Book
Dealer on site. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event!
Sept. 5-7, 6-7 or 7, New Hampshire
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20 (enhanced)
69th New England Open
Holiday Inn Nashua, 9 Northeastern Blvd., Nashua, NH 03062. $$2500 GTD. A
NH Grand Prix Event. Main event: In 4 sections. 6-SS GAME/105 + 30 sec.,
analog clocks play GAME/120. 2-day schedule: Rounds 1-3 GAME/60. Open:
FIDE rated $$GTD $500-250-100, U2250 $125. U2000: $$GTD $300-125-75.
U1800: $$GTD $300-125-75. U1600: $$GTD $250-125-75, U1400 $75. All EF:
3-Day schedule $49, 2-Day schedule $48 if postmarked by 1 September, all $60
at site. Unrated may enter any section but may only win 50% of place prizes
in under sections. Registration: Saturday 10:00-10:45 AM, Rounds: Sat.
11:30-5:00, Sun. 11-5:30, Mon. 10-4 (3-Day), Sunday 9:00-9:45 AM Rounds:
Sun. 10-1-3:15-5:30, Mon. 10-4 (2-Day). Monday Swiss: In 2 sections. 4-SS
GAME/60. U2100 and U1700. Prizes based on entries. 7 Sept. Registration:
9:00-9:45. Rounds: at 10-1-3:15-5:30. EF: $20 by 1 September, $25 at site.
Scholastic sections also available. Please see Chess Life for Kids or flyer. HR:
$80 (603) 888-1551 ENT: Alex Relyea, 49Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110.
INFO: Alex Relyea relyea@operamail.com. www.relyeachess.com. NS W. WCL
JGP for Main event.
A Heritage Event!
A State Championship Event!
Sept. 5-7 or 6-7, New Jersey
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 50 (enhanced)
Somerset Ramada Inn, 60 Cottontail Lane, Somerset, NJ, Exit 12 off I-287
(Weston Canal Road). In 4 Sections: Open, Gold U1900 Silver U1600 &
Booster U1300. 6SS,TC: 40/2, SD/1, Playing Schedules: 3-day, 9/5-7, 2-day,
9/6-7. All prizes guaranteed. Open: $500-400-300-200-200-200-200.Top Expert
& Class A, $100 each. U1900: $500-300-200.Top B $100. U1600: $500-300-200.
Top D $100. U1300: $500-300-200. Trophies: Top 3 each section. NJ Champion,
Exp, A, B, D, E & Unr. New players may win first prize only in Open Section. Early
EF: Open: $71 / lower sections $66. (Former NJ Champs, see below). Entry must
Chess Life August 2009 49
 Tournament Life
be mailed by 9/01 or paid online by 9/04, Open $85 /lower sections $80 at site.
All Reentrys $45, but cant be NJ Champ. Join at website entryfeesrus.com
via PayPal. Playing site Reg 3-day: 9/05, 9am-11am. Rds. Sat. 12-7, Sun 11-
6, Mon. 9-4. Reg 2-day: 9/06, 9am-10:30am, Round 1-3 (G/45) starts 11am
then ASAP. Both schedules merge in Rd 4. Byes: 2 byes allowed, 1-5. Hotel Rates
$79 with free continental Breakfast. (732) 560-9880. Mention NJ Chess to
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING AUGUST 1-14
receive this special hotel rate. SPECIAL PRIZES will be awarded by drawing
to early online entries. NOTICE-Former NJ Champs get early EF of $35. Late
EF is $70. Former NJ Champs for multiple yrs get early EF of $1 (ONE DOL-
LAR). Late EF is $70. No exceptions. Only early EFs get discount. Ent: Ken
Thomas, 115 West Moore St., Hackettstown, NJ 07840. Make checks payable
to NJSCF. Info: Ken, acn@goes.com or (908) 763-6468. Players and specta-
tors, no ear covering allowed, especially cell phones attached to the ear. NS,
No NC, W. NYC players will be shuttled to/from the Bound Brook Station. Call
Kens cell. 908-763-6468. FIDE. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event!
Sept. 5-7, Ohio
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30
65th Ohio Chess Congress
Four Sections OPEN, U2000, U1700, U1400. 6 roundsSwiss System, USCF
rated,Time Control 40/2, SD/60. OPEN, U2000, and U1700 all FIDE rated. Loca-
tion: Dayton Chess Club, 18 West Fifth Street, Dayton, OH 45402 (less than 1
block from hotel). PRIZES: $$7,000 (80% guaranteed, prizes based on 125,
last year 130) OPEN: $1,000-700-400 & U2200: $400-200; U2000: $800-
500-300, U1700: $750-450-300, U1400: $750-450. EF: $75 if by Sep 4, then
$85, $10 less if under 18 FREE to GM/IM who complete schedule, $75 deducted
from prize. OCA Membership required of all Ohio residents - $15, $10 junior.
Early Registration: Friday, Sep 4, 8 p.m. to midnight all sections - Regular Reg-
istration Saturday, Sep 5 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. both at Dayton Chess Club.
Rounds: Saturday 12:00 (noon) & 6:30, Sunday 9:30 & 4:00, Monday 9:30 &
4:00. Byes (1/2 pt): limit 2, must declare by start of round 3. Side Events: Ohio
Blitz Championship Sunday Night, OCA Members Meeting Sunday at 3:15, OCA
Trustees Meeting Monday at 3:15. Hotel: Crown Plaza (Super Hotel,
pool/park/great restaurant less than 1 block from playing site) $79 (1-
4), 33 East Fifth Street, Dayton, OH 45402. Call 1-877-227-6963 and refer to
group code DCQ or go on line to www.cpdayton.com and refer to group code
DCQ. Reserve early as hotel is expected to sell out. Other Hotels: See
www.daytonchessclub.com website for list of other nearby hotels. Advance
Entries: Make checks payable to Dayton Chess Club mail to: Ohio Chess Con-
gress, C/O Dayton Chess Club, 18 West 5th Street, Dayton, OH 45402. Need
More Information: call 937.461.6283, or email dcc.18w5@sbcglobal.net.
NS, NC, WCL JGP.
Sept. 5-7, Oklahoma
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20
5th Okie Chess Festival (GPP: 20 for Okie Open only)
$$5,400 Gtd., in two events. G/90 +30 sec. Tulsa Best Western Trade Winds
Central, 3141 E Skelly Dr.,Tulsa, OK 74105. (918)749-5561. OKIE MASTER INVI-
TATIONAL: 8-RR FIDE (7 rounds). (Invitation from Tom Braunlich only). $2800
(Gtd): $800-500-300-300-225-225-225-225. OKIE OPEN: (20 USCF GP pts) 7-
SS. (Open to all). $2400(Gtd): $500-400-200 U1800: $450 (250-200) U1600: $450
50 Chess Life August 2009
(250-200) U1300: $400 (200-100-100).Two 1/2-point byes available if requested
before rd=2 03. EF for Open: $45 for FIDE-rated players, $50 all others if recd
by 8/30; all $10 more at site. Reg.: 9:00-10:15am. OCF mem required ($10).
Rds.: 10:30-3, 9-2-7, 9-2. HR: $55 (800) 685-4564 Free wireless, free parking;
www.tradewindstulsa.com. Side Events: Fischer-Random Blitz; Pizza party.
Questions: FKimBerry@AOL.com. Website: www.geocities.com/okiechess
festival Adv Entry: Cks payable to: Frank K. Berry, 402 S. Willis St., Stillwater,
OK 74074, FIDE rated. NS. W. WCL JGP in Okie Open only.
A Heritage Event!
A State Championship Event!
Sept. 11-13, Alabama
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
56th Annual Alabama State Chess Championship
6SS, G/100 (i.e. G/95 with t/d 5), Indian Springs School, 190 Woodward Drive,
Indian Springs, AL 35124. CHAMPIONSHIP (1500+; $1,275 $$b/40): $400-
300-225, A: 200,U1800: 150. RESERVE (UNR-1499; $1,100 $$b/35):
$350-250-200, E: 175, U1000: 125. EF: $40, if mailed by SEP 4th, 2009.
Onsite Reg: $50. GMs/IMs Free Entry! Rds.: FRI: 7:15; SAT: 9:30-2-6:30;
SUN: 8:30-2. 2-Day Option: SAT: Rds. 1-2 @ G/75, 8-11and then schedules
merge. Byes: Rds. 1-5; request before Rd 2. SCHOLASTIC (U1200): 5 Sec-
tions, Trophies: Top 4 Individuals; Medals 5th-7th. EF: $20/$10, at Site
$30/$20, Rds.: 9:30-10:45-12:30-1:45, 3. Checks payable to: Caesar Lawrence.
ENT: Caesar Lawrence, 882 McAllister Dr., Calera, AL 35040. Info: Cae-
sarChess@yahoo.com. ACF: www.alabamachess.com. WCL JGP.
Sept. 11-13 or 12-13, North Carolina
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20
2009 North Carolina Class Championship
5-SS, 30/90, SD/1. (2-day option Round 1 G/80). Hilton Charlotte University
Place, 8629 J. M. Keynes Drive, Charlotte, North Carolina 28262. 1-(704)-547-
7444. ($10,000 b/195 full paid entries) $5,000 GUARANTEED. In 9 sections:
Open: $700-500-425, u2300-$425-200. Under 2200: $650-400-300, u2100- $200.
Under 2000: $650-400-300, u1900-$200. Under 1800: $650-400-300, u1700-
$200. Under 1600: $650-400-300, u1500- $200. Under 1400: $650-400-300,
u1200- $200. Under 1000:Trophies to top 7. Under 800:Trophies to top 9, top
3 under 600. Unrated: Trophies to top 9. Entry Fee: $83 3-day, $82 2-day if
received by 9/07; $90 at site GMs and IMs for Free: $70 deducted from any
prize. Re-entry: $45, none in Open Section. Juniors: (counts 2/3 towards base)
EF: $48 if playing for trophy, $69 playing for cash; $10 more at site. Unrated,
Under 1000, Under 800 (counts 1/4 toward base; scholastic players wel-
come): EF: $23 3-day, $22 2-day if received by 9/07; $25 at site. NCCA
membership required $5 (adults only), other states ok. Half-point byes avail-
able in first 4 rounds, limit 2, must commit before 1st round. 3-day schedule:
Reg.: ends 7 p.m. 9/11. Rounds: 7:45, 2-7:30, 10-3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg.:
ends 9:30 a.m. Rounds: 1st at 10 a.m., then merges with 3-day. Hotel: $89-$89.
Reserve early to make sure you have one. Mention: American Chess. Info:Thad
Rogers (478)-742-5607, Atlanta Chess Center (404)-377-4400, or
atlantachess@yahoo.com. Enter: American Chess Promotions, 3055 General
Lee Road, Macon, Georgia 31204. NS. FIDE. WCL JGP.
Sept. 12, Georgia
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
2009 Atlanta September G/45 Championship
4-SS, G/45. Atlanta Chess Center, 3155A East Ponce de Leon Avenue, Scottdale,
Georgia 30079. $500 GUARANTEED. In 2 sections: Open: EF: $22 if received
by 9/10; $25 at site. $200-120; u1900, u1700, u1500 each $60. Under 1300:
$16 if received by 9/10; $19 at site. Unrateds play for FREE! Trophies to top
3, top 2 under 1100, under 900, top unrated. Reg.: ends 10:30 a.m. Rounds:
11-1-3-5. Info: (404)-377-4400 or atlantachess@yahoo.com. Enter: Same as
above. NS.
Sept. 12, New York
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
Jenifer Woods Memorial Grand Prix
4SS RDS. 1 & 2 G/60, RDS. 3 & 4 G/90 @RCC (GTD) $150-90-60 class $80. Reg.:
8:30-9:15. RDS.: 9:30-12-2:15-5:30 EF: $30 Adv Ent/Info: Rochester Chess Cen-
ter, 221 Norris Drive, Rochester, NY 14610. (585)442-2430. WCL JGP for Rds.
3 & 4.
Sept. 12, Pennsylvania
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
Lackawanna County Open
Clarion Hotel, 300 Meadow Ave., Scranton, PA (Exit 184 off I-81). 4R SS, Rds.:
1&2: Gm/50, Rds.: 3&4: Gm/70. $$425Gtd: 200-100, U1800-$75, U1400/unr-
$50 and trophies to 1st, and top in ea catg. EF: $25 mailed or rec. by 9/5, $30
online thru PayPal by 9/11, $35 at site. Reg.: 8:30-9:45. Rds.: 10-12- 2 & 4:30.
Entries/Info: Bernie Sporko, 127 S. Main St., Carbondale, PA 18407. 570-282-
2793, Cell: 570-604-2461. E-mail: basp0529@verizon.net. WCL JGP for Rds.
3 & 4.
WARNING!
THE USE OF A
CELL PHONE
IN THE TOURNAMENT ROOM IS
PROHIBITED!
AT MOST TOURNAMENTS!
IF YOUR CELL PHONE RINGS IN A ROOM WITH
GAMES IN PROGRESS, YOU COULD BE SEVERELY
PENALIZED, MAYBE EVEN FORFEITED!
TURN IT OFF!
Sept. 15, New York
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced)
St. Johns Masters at the Marshall Chess Club
4SS, G/30.ThirdTues. of every month. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open
to players rated over 2100 (plus all players scoring 2.5 or more at any CCNY
at MCCThursday 4 Rated GamesTonight! since the prior months SJM) EF: $40,
members $30, GMs $10 (returned on completion of tournament). For each event,
money added to prize fund by the sponsors, St. Johns University, and other gen-
erous patrons.Top three prizes guaranteed. $$G 300-200-100. Top U2400 and
Top U2300 prizes. Special prize for biggest upset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-
9:30-10:45pm. One bye available, rds. 1 or 4 only; declare at registration.
Sept. 19, Pennsylvania
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
Allentown School Days Swiss
4SS, G/90, St James Church, 11th & Tilghman Sts., Allentown, PA 18102. EF:
$40, LVCA Members $30, $$200-100 guaranteed to top 2, more per entries. Up
to two 1/2 pt byes with advanced notice (if declared before round 3). REG.:
Ends 10am. RDS.: 10:30-1:30-4:45-7:45. Ent/Info: Checks payable to: Bruce
Davis, 1208 Linden St. Fl 1, Bethlehem, PA 18018. 610-625-0467 or bdavis@
lehighvalleychess.org or www.lehighvalleychess.org/. Reg by mail by 9/14
to enter to win a Saitek Competition Chess Clock. WCL JGP.
Sept. 20, New York
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced)
Grandmaster Challenge (QC)
6-SS G/25 (G/20, D/5), Marshall CC, 23 W 10th St., NYC: 212-477-3716, lim-
ited to first 64 entries. EF: $35 over 55/under 18, $45 others, $10 less to
Marshall members (free buffet for participants.) GMs free, $25 deducted from
prize. Reg. ends: 11:45 am. G$$350-250-150-100-75-50, $100 U2400, $100
U2200, $75 U2000, $50 U1800, top over 55$=age, top under 18 $=3x age, top
scoring female ($=# of players.) Rds.: 12-1:15-2:30-4:00-5:15-6:30. Byes:
limit 2, request before Round 3. Quick rated; regular ratings used for pairing
and prize purposes. Additional class prize $500 2800+, $250 2700+.
Sept. 24, New York
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
10 Grand Prix Points Tonight!
4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 West 10 St., bet. 5-6 Ave.,
NYC: 212-477-3716. EF: $35, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), spec-
ified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$560 b/32 paid entries (may
be limited to 1st 36 to enter), top 2 Gtd: $$ 200-110-50, Top U2200/unr $105,
U2000 $95. Limit 2 byes (1 bye for U2000), commit by 8:15. Reentry $15. CCA
ratings may be used. Class pairings OK rd. 4. Reg ends 10 min before game.
Rds 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible!
Sept. 26, New York
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
New York Indian Summer Game/45!
5-SS, G/45, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W 10 St., bet. 5-6 Ave., NYC:
845-569-9969. EF: $40, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), specified
Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free! $$ 840 b/42 paid entries, minimum
half each prize Gtd: $$ 300-200-115, top U2200/unr. $125, U2000 $100. Limit
2 byes, commit by 2 pm. Re-entry $20. CCA ratings may be used. Rds. 12-2-
3:45-5:30-7:15 pm. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Online entry at
www.chesscenter.cc thru 9/24; $10 extra to enter by phone!
Sept. 26-27, California Northern
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
1st Annual Exchange Bank Open
Exchange Bank, 444 Aviation Blvd., Santa Rosa, CA 95403. 4 round Swiss,
G/120. In 3 Sections Open: $$GTD: $250-175. Reserve: Open to 1899 &
under. $$GTD: $200-125. Booster: Open to 1499 & under. $$GTD: $150-100.
Unr. must play in Open Section. ALL: EF: $35 advance until 9/21, $45 at site.
Reg.: 09/26 8:30am - 9:30am. Rds.: Sat 10, 3; Sun 10, 3. ENT: Paul Stagnoli,
4233 Kintyre Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95409 (707) 539-6368. INFO: paulgs@
sonic.net. No phone or e-mail entries. Bring equipment, none provided. No cell
phones allowed. NS NC W. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event!
A State Championship Event!
Oct. 2-4 or 3-4, Indiana
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced)
68th Indiana State Chess Championship
5SS, 40/2 SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75) Clarion Hotel & Conference Cen-
ter, 2930 Waterfront Pkwy., West Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46214. $$2800 b/90. In
2 Sections, Championship: EF: $70 rcvd by 9/29, $80 at site. $$: $500-250.
U2300 $245, U2200 $240, U2000 $235, Upset $50. $100 State Champion
Award. 1st Place Guaranteed. Reserve: Open to 1799 & under. EF: $55 rcvd
by 9/29, $65 at site. $$: $300-215-210. Class C $205, Class D & Under $200,
Upset $50. ALL: Memb. Reqd: ISCA. OSA. Reg.: Ends Fri. 6:30pm (2-day option:
Regs. ends Sat. 9:30am). Rds.: Fri. 7pm, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 9-3:30 (2-day option:
Sat. 10-1:30-5, Sun. 9-3:30). Annual Meeting 2:30pm Sunday. Car load discount,
sign up in groups of 4 and receive 10% off adv EF, rcvd by 9/8. ENT: Gary J Fox,
134 Wheatland Ave., Logansport, IN 46947. INFO: 574-722-4965, info@donley
chess.org. HR: $72, 317-299-8400, www.indiananchess.org. NS NC W. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event!
Oct. 2-4, 3-4, Maryland
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 40
49th Maryland Open
5SS, 30/90, SD/1 (Rnd 1 G/120) (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75) Rockville Hilton,
1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852. All prizes guaranteed. 3 sec-
tions: Open $1000-500-300-200, top U2100 $200 Amateur Section (U1900)
$700-400-300-100, top U1700 $150, top U1550 $150 Reserve Section (U1400)
$600-350-250-100, top U1200 $100, top U1000 $100. Unrated may not win over
$200 in U1100 or $400 in U1900. EF: $60 by 9/18 mail or online, $65 by 10/1
online, and $70 at the door. Special EFs: GM&IMs free; $60 deducted from
prize. Special HR: $69, may not be avail after 9/18, reserve at
http://tinyurl.com/mdopenrooms. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 7pm, rds
Fri 8, Sat 12-6, Sun 9-2:15. 2-day schedule: reg ends Sat 10am rds 11-2-6,
9-2:15 Ent: MCA, c/o Michael Regan, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd., Towson, MD
21204. Online entry @ http://mdopen.eventbrite.com. Questions:
matkins2@cox.net or mregan@baltimorechess.org FIDE. WCL JGP.
uschess.org
Oct. 3, New York
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
14th Annual Arkport Open
4SS, Rds. 1 & 2 G/60, Rds 3 & 4 G/90. Arkport Village Hall, 6 Park Ave., Ark-
port, NY 14807. $GTD: $200 - 100, $B/25: U1800 and U1600 each $100 50.
EF: $30 cash at site. Reg.: 9 9:45 a.m., 10/3/09, Rds.: 10, 12, 2:15, 5:30.
Director: Ronald Lohrman. Info: 607 295 9858. Ent: F. K. Harris, 1 Northridge
Dr., Arkport, NY 14807. WCL JGP for Rds. 3 & 4.
Oct. 3-4 or 4, New York
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
New York October Open!
4-SS, 30/90, SD/1, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W 10 St., bet. 5th-
6th Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. $$ 1,200 b/60 paid entries, minimum half each
prize Gtd. May be limited to 1st 62 entries! 2 sections, Open. $$ 400-200-
100, U2200/unr. $100. FIDE. Under 2000. $$ 200-100, U1800 $100, $100 unr.
prize limit. Both, EF: $45, Club membs $30, GMs free ($25 from prize), spec-
ified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. Online entry at www.chess
center.cc thru 10/1. 2 options: 2-Day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day; 1-day (rds
1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun., merge rd 3. 2 byes max, commit
by rd 2. Reg. ends 15 min. before game. Re-entry $20, counts half. Foreign unr.
must enter Open. CCA Ratings may be used. EF $10 extra by phone! WCL JGP.
A State Championship Event!
Oct. 4, Pennsylvania
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
2009 PA State Game/60 Championship
4SS, G/60. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pitt., 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA 15213.
3 Sections, $$ (695G): Championship: EF: $30 by 9/26, $40 later. $200-100,
U2000 $75, U1800 $50. Premier: U1600. EF: $25 by 9/26, $35 later. $90-60,
U1400 $50, U1200 $40, U1000 $30;Trophies toTop 2,Top 2 U1400,Top 2 U1200,
Top 2 U1000. Scholastic: Grades K-12 U900. EF: $15 by 9/26, $25 later. Tro-
phies to Top 7, 1-3 U600. ALL: Teams of 4 to 7 combined from all sections,
Trophies 1st-2nd schools, clubs. PSCF $5, OSA. Reg ends 10am. Rds.: 10:30-
1-3:15-5:45. Ent/Info: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA
15223, 412-908-0286, martinak_tom_m@hotmail.com. W.
Oct. 9-11 or 10-11, Illinois
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 120 (enhanced)
18th annual Midwest Class Championships
5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Under 1000 & Under 700 Sec-
tions: 6SS, G/75, 10/10-11 only. Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel, 601 North
Milwaukee Avenue, Wheeling, IL 60090 (from Chicago, I-294 north to US-45
north; from Milwaukee, I-94 to Lake Cook Rd to US-45 south). Free parking.
$20,000 guaranteed prizes and trophies. In 9 sections; no unrated allowed
in Master or Expert, unrated allowed in Under 700 only if age 15 or below. Mas-
ter (2200/up): $2000-1000-500-300, clear win or 1st on tiebreak $100, top
U2300 $800-400. FIDE. Expert (2000-2199): $1300-700-400-300. Class A
(1800-1999/Unr): $1300-700-400-300. Class B (1600-1799/Unr): $1300-700-
400-300. Class C (1400-1599/Unr): $1200-600-400-200. Class D
(1200-1399/Unr): $1000-500-300-200. Class E (Under 1200/Unr): $1000-
500-300-200. Under 1000: $200-100-60-40, trophies to top 7. Under 700:
Trophies to top 7. Rated players may play up one section. Unrated prize limit
$70 U1000, $110 E, $150 D, $250 C, $350 B, $500 A. Top 7 sections EF: 3-day
$103, 2-day $102 mailed by 10/1, all $105 online at chesstour.com by 10/6, $110
phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10/6 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. No
checks at site, credit cards OK. U1000 & U700 EF: $27 mailed by 10/1, $28
online at chesstour.com by 10/6, $30 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10/6 (entry
only, no questions), $40 at site. All: ICA memb. ($15, scholastic $10) required
for rated Illinois residents. FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED in Class D or lower if
paid with 1 year USCF dues. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or
more games used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess
Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at
site $40. Re-entry $60; not available in Master Section. GMs $80 from prize.
3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day
schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 9-3:15. U1000 & U700
schedule: Reg. ends 9:30 am, rds. Sat 10-1:30-5, Sun 9-12:30-3:15. Bye: all,
Master must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $94-94-94-94, 800-
937-8461, 847-777-6500, reserve by 9/25 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis,
800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salis-
bury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com,
845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
Oct. 9-Dec. 4, New York
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced)
2009 Queens Chess Club Championship
8-SS, G/120, All Saints Lutheran Church, 164-02 Goethals Avenue, Jamaica, NY
11432. EF: $55, $60 at site. $$500-$300-$200 guaranteed to top 3, more per
entries. Up to three 1/2 pt byes ok with advance notice (byes for rounds 6, 7
and/or 8 must be declared before round 5). REG.: 7:30-8:00. RDS.: 8:15 each
Friday. ENT (mail by 10/2): Ed Frumkin, 445 E 14th St #10D, NYC 10009 (212-
677-3224 before 10pm and before 5pm on Fri). No round on November 13. QCC
membership required (U19 y/o, female, 65 & older $20 for six months, others
$25/6 months). WCL JGP.
An American Classic!
A Heritage Event!
Oct. 23-25, Nevada
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced)
27th Annual Sands Regency Reno-Western States Open
6SS.40/2,20/1,G 1/2. Sands Regency Hotel/Casino, 345 N. Arlington Ave.,
Reno, NV 89501. 1-800-648-3553 or (775) 348-2200. $$43,500 b/425, Gtd.
$$28,750-$3500-2500-2000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500 in Open Sec-
tion plus 1/2 of all other prizes. 7 Sections: OPEN: EF: GMs & IMs free (enter
by 10/1 or pay late fees), Masters $149, (2000-2199)-$175, (1999-below)-$201.
$$ Prizes 1-10 listed above, (2399-below) $1500-500, (2299-below) $1500-500.
If a tie for 1st overall then 2 (G/10) playoff for $100 from prize fund. (Note:
GM/IM w/free entry not eligible for class prizes 2399 and below; may elect
to pay entry fee and become eligible). EXPERT: (2000-2199) EF: $148. $$2000-
1000-500-400-300-200 (under 2100)- $600.A Sec. (1800-1999) EF: $147,
$$1800-900-500-400-300-200-100-100-100-100-100-100.B Sec. (1600-1799)
EF: $146, $$1,600-800-500-400-300-200-100-100-100-100-100-100. C Sec.
(1400-1599) EF: $145, $$ 1,400-700-500-400-300-200-100-100-100-100-100-
100. D Sec. (1200-1399) EF: $144, $$1,200-600-500-400-300-200-
100-100-100-100-100-100.E Sec. (1199-below) EF: $75 (E Sect. entries count
uschess.org
as 1/2 paid player toward prize fund), $$500-400-300-200-100-100-50-50- rds Fri 7 pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds
50-50. (Unrated Players) EF: Free + must join USCF or increase membership Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 9-3:15. Byes: OK all; Open must commit by rd 2, others by
for 1 additional year thru this tournament($49 adults,$25 juniors) Prizes: Top rd 3. HR: $73-73, 800-727-3050, 513-398-0115, reserve by 10/30 or rate may
unrated in D & E Sections wins 1 yr. USCF membership plus trophy. Note: increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car
Adult unrated will be put in D Sect., Junior unrated in E, unless request online through chesstour.com. Car rental is easiest & cheapest transportation
to play up. Seniors additional prizes (65+) $$300 (Srs not eligible: provision- from Cincinnati Airport. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY
ally rated, unrated, masters & E Sect); Club Championship $$800-400-200 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658. Advance entries will be posted at chess-
decided by total score of 10 (and only 10) players from one club or area (not tour.com. WCL JGP.
eligible GMs, IMs, E Sec., or unrated).Trophies toTop 3 (A-E Sections). ALL:
Nov. 27-29, Michigan
EF $11 more if postmarked after 10/1 and $22 more if postmarked after
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20
10/16 or at site. Do not mail after 10/16 or phone or email after 10/20. $20
2009 Motor City Open
off EF to Srs (65+) and Jrs 19/under (E sect. not eligible). Players may play
6-SS. 3 Sections: OPEN, U1800, U1400.Top section FIDE-rated. Prize Fund:
up. Unrated players not eligible for cash prizes except Open 1-10. Provision-
$8,500 OVERALL. 70% Guaranteed. Held at New Detroits FABULOUS
ally rated players may win up to 50% of 1st place money except open Section
MOTOR CITY CASINO HOTEL, 2901 Grand River Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201
1-10. CCA ratings may be used. Note pairings not changed for color alter-
(Directions and Lodging Info below). 2-Day & 3-Day Schedules available.
nation unless 3 in a row or a plus 3 and if the unlikely situation occurs 3 colors
EF by Mon., 11/23 (add $10 after), IMs and GMs Free ($100 EF deducted from
in a row may be assigned. Reg.: (10/22) 5-8 pm, (10/23) 8:30-10 am. Rds.: 12-
prize): 3-DAY: OPEN $103 ($93 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). U1800: $83 ($73
7, 10-6, 9:30-4. Byes available any round, if requested before 1st round (Open
for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). U1400: $63 ($53 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR).
Section 2 byes max.). SIDE EVENTS: Wed. (10/21) 7pm Clock Simul,
2-Day Open: $102 ($92 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). U1800: $82 ($72 for
[40/2, G/1] (Including an analysis of YOUR game. GM Sergey Kudrin $30
Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). U1400: $62 ($52 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR).
(A great value!). Thurs (10/22) 6-7:30 pm GM Larry Evans lecture -Free,
Re-Entries: NO Re-Entries in OPEN Section. U1800, U1400: $40, $30 (Up to
7:30 Simul TBA (only $15!), 7:30 Blitz (5 min) Tourney ($20-80% to prize
fund). Sat 10/24 (3-4:30pm)GM Larry Evans Clinic(Game/Position Analysis) two 1/2-pt. byes allowed from previous RDS). TL: 3-Day Schedule: G-120. 2-
Free. Sun. (10/25) Quick Tourney (G/25) 5 Rd. Swiss ($20) [12 (Noon)- Day Schedule: RDS 1-3, G-50; RDS 4-6, G-120. REG: 3-Day Schedule: Fri,
5pm] 80% to prize fund. ENT: Make checks payable and send to: SANDS 11/27, 9:00-11:00am. 2-Day Schedule: Sat, 11/28, 8:30-9:45am. RDS: 3-Day
REGENCY (address above) HR: $34! (Sun-Thurs) & $54! (Fri-Sat) + 13.5% Schedule: Fri, 12, 6; Sat, 12:30, 6; Sun, 10, 2:30. 2-Day Schedule: Sat, 10:30,
tax. (mention CHESS 1022 & reserve by 10/5/09 to guarantee room rates.) 12:45, 3, 6; Sun, 10, 2:30. Up to three 1/2-pt. byes available; must be requested
INFO: Jerry Weikel wackyykl@aol.com, (775) 747 1405, or website: before start of RD 3. All sections merge after RD 3. Unrated eligible only for
www.renochess.org/wso (also go here to verify entry). FIDE .W. WCL JGP. UNR and Overall prizes in ALL sections, can play in ANY section. USCF and MCA
memberships required; can be purchased on site. IM Ben Finegold Lecture
Oct. 23-25 or 24-25, Ohio
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 80 (enhanced) on Fri, 11/27, 4:00-5:00pm ($10). Cell phones must be turned off or in silent
Cleveland Open mode while in tournament room. INFRACTION: deduct 1/2 the remaining time
5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option rds 1-2 G/75, U1200 & U1000 are Oct 24-25 only or game forfeiture if less than 10 minutes remaining on clock; automatic for-
with all rds G/75), Sheraton Cleveland Airport Hotel, 5300 Riverside Drive (inside feiture for 2nd infraction. Spectators will be subjected to expulsion for the
Cleveland Hopkins Airport with free shuttle, near junction of I-71 and I-480), remainder of the event for any offense. Headphones cannot be used if oppo-
Cleveland, OH 44135. Free parking. $$G 13,000. In 7 sections: Open: $1200- nent objects for any reason and cannot be used in the last round by players
600-400-200, top U2300 $700, U2200 $600, U2100/Unr $500. FIDE. Under 2000: with a plus score. Player must be willing to present same to TDs for examina-
$1000-500-300-200. Under 1800: $1000-500-300-200. Under 1600: $1000-500- tion at any time. Failure to do so will result in removal from tournament
300-200. Under 1400: $800-400-300-200. Under 1200: $300-200-120-80. without refund. $$8,500 OVERALL (70% guar.): OPEN: $3,600 (b/48): 1st-2nd-
Under 1000: $200-100-60-40. Unrated may enter any section, with prize lim- 3rd, $1,200-$600-$400; 1st U2400, $350; 1st U2200, $350; 1st U2000, $350;
its: U1000 $80, U1200 $150, U1400 $300, U1600 $400, U1800 $500, U2000 $600. 1st U1800/UNR, $350. U1800: $2,550 (b/42): 1st-2nd-3rd, $800-$400-$350;
Balance goes to next player(s) in line. EF: 3-day $98, 2-day $97 mailed by 10/15, 1st-2nd, U1600, $300-$200; 1st-2nd U1400/UNR, $300-$200. U1400: $2,350
all $99 online at chesstour.com by 10/20, $105 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10/20 (b/50): 1st-2nd-3rd, $500-$350-$300; 1st-2nd U1300, $250-$150; 1st-2nd
(entry only, no questions), $120 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Under
U1100, $250-$150; 1st-2nd U900/UNR, $250-$150. Mechanical or Quartz Clock
1200 or Under 1000 EF: all $60 less. Special EF: FREE TO UNRATED in
for Biggest Upset in each section! Chief Sr. TD: IM Ben Finegold; Asst. Sr. TD:
U1000 or U1200 if paid with 1 year USCF dues. Re-entry $60; not available in
Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usu- Ed Mandell. Bring boards, pieces, clocks! Directions & Lodging: MOTOR
ally used if otherwise unrated. Special USCF dues if paid with entry: online CITY CASINO HOTEL, 2901 Grand River Ave., Detroit, MI 48201, (313) 237-1589.
at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. 3-day schedule: Reg Easy access to Grand River Exit from I-94, I-96, I-75 and M-10 (Lodge Free-
ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds Fri 7:30 pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg way). See www.mapquest.com for directions. Reservations: MCO Chess Rate
ends Sat 10 am, rds Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 9-3:15, U1200 & U1000 Sun 9-12:30. $99 (reg. $249!) by Nov. 7th for this great rate! Reserve online at
Byes: OK all; Open must commit by rd 2, others by rd 3. HR: $83-83, 216-267- www.motorcitycasino.com OR call toll-free, 1-866-STAY-MCC (866-782-9622).
1500, request chess rate, reserve by 10/9 or rate may increase. Car rental: Info, Ent: Ed Mandell, (586) 558-4790, All The Kings Men Chess Supplies and
Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chess- Brain Games, 27170 Dequindre Rd, Warren, MI 48092,Toll-Free, (866) 538-7890.
tour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: Fax, (586) 558-2046. Email: allthekingsmench@aol.com, Web: www.allthe
845-496-9658. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries will be posted kingsmenchess.com. WCL JGP for 3-day and 2-day rds. 4-6.
at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
Nov. 13-15 or 14-15, Ohio
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 120 (enhanced)
18th Annual Kings Island Open USCF Membership Rates
5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75), Kings Island Resort, 5691 Kings Premium (P) and Regular (R)
Island Drive (I-71, 6 mi north of I-275), Mason, OH 45040. Free parking. $$
(U.S., CANADA, MEXICO)
25,000 based on 360 paid entries (re-entries count as 60% entries, U1000 Sec-
tion EF 40% entries, unrated not counted); minimum $20,000 (80% of each prize)
Type 1 yr 2yr 3yr
guaranteed. Free analysis of your games by GM Arthur Bisguier. In 8 sections:
Open: $2500-1200-600-300-200, 1st on tiebreak $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr Adult P $49 $85 $120
$1400-700. FIDE. Under 2100: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1900: $2000-
Adult P ** $42 $78 $113
1000-500-300-200. Under 1700: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1500:
$1500-700-400-200-100. Under 1300: $1200-600-300-200-100. Under Adult R $36 $59 $81
1000/Unr: $300-200-100-60-40. Unrated prize limits: U1000 $80, U1300 $130,
U1500 $300, U1700 $400, U1900 $500. Balance goes to next player(s) in line. Adult R ** $29 $52 $74
EF: 3-day $103, 2-day $102 mailed by 11/5, all $105 online at chesstour.com Senior (65+) ** $36 $65 $93
by 11/10, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 11/10 (entry only, no questions),
$120 at site. Under 1000 Section EF: 3-day $43, 2-day $42 if mailed by 11/5, Young Adult P (U25)* $32 $59 $85
$44 online at chesstour.com by 11/10, $46 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 11/10, Youth P (U16)* $27 $49 $70
$50 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry $60; not available in
Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Scholastic P (U13)* $23 $42 $60
All: FREE ENTRYTO UNRATED in U1000 or U1300 if paying 1 yr USCF dues. Spe- Young Adult R (U25)* $24 $43 $61
cial 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com
$30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm,
Youth R (U16)* $20 $36 $51
Scholastic R (U13)* $16 $28 $39
Premium membership provides a printed
copy of Chess Life (monthly) or Chess Life for
DROPPING OUT? Kids (bimonthly) plus all other benefits of
regular membership. Regular membership
Have to miss a round? provides online-only access to Chess Life
and Chess Life for Kids; TLA Bulletin will be
mailed to adults bimonthly and to scholas-
It is very important that you
tic members three times per year. Youth
NOTIFY THE DIRECTOR provides bimonthly Chess Life, Scholastic
bimonthly Chess Life for Kids, others listed
before pairings are made, so no one above monthly Chess Life. See www.us
is deprived of a game! If you forfeit chess.org for other membership categories.
without notice, you may be FINED up Dues are not refundable and may be
to the amount of the entry fee! changed without notice.
*Ages at expiration **Purchased online only
Chess Life August 2009 51
 Tournament Life
An American Classic!
A Heritage Event!
Nov. 27-29 or 28-29, Pennsylvania
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 150 (enhanced)
40th annual National Chess Congress
6SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-3 G/50). Trophy sections play separate
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING AUGUST 1-14
2-day schedule only, 11/29-30, G/50. Sheraton Hotel Philadelphia City Center,
17th & Race Sts., Philadelphia 19103. $30,000 GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND. Free
analysis of your games by GM Arthur Bisguier. In 11 sections. Premier, open
to all rated 2000/above and juniors under 18 rated 1800/above. $3000-1500-
700-400-200, clear win or 1st on tiebreak $100, U2400/Unr $1400-700. FIDE.
Under 2200: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 2000: $2000-1000-500-300-200.
Under 1800: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1600: $2000-1000-500-300-200.
Under 1400: $1400-700-400-300-200. Under 1200: $1400-700-400-300-200.
Unrated may not win over $100 in U1200, $200 in U1400, $300 in U1600, $500
in U1800, or $700 in U2000. Top 7 sections entry fee: 3-day $108, 2-day $107
mailed by 11/19, all $109 online at chesstour.com by 11/24, $115 phoned by
11/24 (406-896-2038, no questions), $130 at site. GMs free, $100 deducted from
prize. Re-entry $60, not available in Premier. Mailed EF $3 less to PSCF mem-
bers. No checks at site, credit cards OK. 3-day late entry ends Fri 11 am, rounds
Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 2-day late entry ends Sat 9 am, rounds
Sat 10, 12:45, 3:30 and 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. Trophy Sections: Under 1000, Under
800, Under 600. Unrateds age 15/over may not enter Under 600. Trophies to
top 8 players in each section. Entry fee: $27 mailed by 11/19, $28 online at
chesstour.com by 11/24, $35 phoned by 11/24 (406-896-2038, no questions),
$40 at tmt. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Late entry ends Sat 9 am, rounds
10 am, 12:45 pm, 3:30 pm each day. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess
Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at
site $40. Student/Alumni trophies to top 5 teams of 4 (regardless of section)
representing any U.S. college, HS or pre-HS players attend or have graduated
from. Half point byes OK all rounds; limit 3, Premier must commit before rd
2, others before rd 4. HR: $93-93-93-93, reserve by 11/13 or rate may increase.
Parking at hotel $5/day with guest room, $12 without; garage next to hotel is
about $10. Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633 or reserve car online
through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY
12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, ccaguide.com,
845-496-9658. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP (top
7 sections).
An American Classic!
Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, Nevada
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced)
18th annual North American Open
7SS, 40/2, SD/1 (3-day option, rds 1-4 G/75), Ballys Casino Resort, 3645 Las
Vegas Blvd. S, Las Vegas, NV 89103. $$ 120,000 based on 600 paid entries
(seniors count as 3/4 entries, re-entries & GMs as half entries, U1000/Unr Sec-
tion as 1/5, else in proportion; $90,000 minimum (75% each prize) guaranteed.
No unrateds in U1300, U1500, or U1700 sections. In 7 sections. Open: $10000-
5000-2500-1200-1000-800-600-500-400-400, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak
bonus $200, 2300-2499 $2500-1200, U2300/Unr $2500-1200. FIDE. Under
2100/Unr: $8000-4000-2000-1500-1000-800-600-500-400-400, no unrated
may win over $2000. Under 1900/Unr: $8000-4000-2000-1500-1000-800-
600-500-400-400, no unrated may win over $1000. Under 1700: $8000-4000-
2000-1500-1000-800-600-500-400-400. Under 1500: $6000-3000-1500-1000-
800-700-600-500-400-400. Under 1300: $6000-3000-1500-1000-800-700-
600-500-400-400. Under 1000/Unr: $1000-600-500-400-300-200, no unrated
may win over $200. Prize limits: 1) Players with under 26 games played as
of 12/09 list may not win over $1500 U1300, $2500 U1500 or U1700. Games
rated too late for 12/09 list not counted. 2) If more than 30 points over sec-
tion maximum on any list 12/08-11/09, prize limit $1500. 3) Balance of any
limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Mailed EF: 4-day $244, 3-day $243
mailed by 10/15, 4-day $274, 3-day $273 mailed by 12/12. Online EF: $245
online at chesstour.com by 10/15, $275 by 12/19, $300 12/20 until two hours
before round=2 01. Phoned EF: $250 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10/15 (no
questions), $280 by 12/19. No phone entry after 12/19. EF at site: $300. Spe-
cial EF: Seniors over 65 in Under 1300 or above, $70 less. Re-entry $120; not
available in Open Section. GMs $150 from prize. U1000/Unr Section EF: 4-day
$64, 3-day $63 if mailed by 12/12, $65 online at chesstour.com by 12/19, $70
phoned by 12/19 (406-896-2038, entry only, no questions), $80 at site. $30 less
to unrated. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Special 1 year USCF dues
with Chess Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned
or paid at site $40. 4-day reg. ends 12/26 5 pm, rds 12/26 6 pm, 12/27 11-
6, 12/28 11-6, 12/29 10-4:30. 3-day reg. ends 12/27 4 pm, rds 12/27 5-8:30,
12/28 11-2:30-6, 12/29 10-4:30. Bye: all, limit 4, limit 2 in last 4 rounds;
Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 4. HR: $96-96, 800-833-
3308, 702-739-4111, rate may increase if not reserved by 11/22, all rooms in
chess block may sell out about 11/1. Free parking (garage at adjacent Paris
Las Vegas Hotel is most convenient). Car rental: for special Avis rate reserve
car through chesstour.com or call 800-331-1600, use AWD #657633. Foreign
player ratings: Usually 100 points added to FIDE, 100 to FQE, 200/more to
most other foreign, no pts added to CFC or Jamaica. Some foreign ratings not
ONCE RATED,
ALWAYS RATED
You never lose your rating, no matter how
long it has been since you last played.
If you return to tournament play after a long
absence, please tell the director your
approximate rating and year of play.
If you rejoin USCF after many years with-
out being a member, please provide this
information to the TD and to USCF as well.
52 Chess Life August 2009
accepted for U1900 or below. Highest of multiple ratings usually used. Play-
ers who fail to disclose foreign or FIDE ratings may be expelled. US player
ratings: December list used; FIDE ratings not used. Special rules: In round
3 or after, players with scores of 80% or more and their opponents may not
use headphones, earphones, or cellphones or go to a different floor of the hotel
without Director permission, and must submit to a search for electronic
devices if requested by Director. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills,
NY 12577. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries
posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
Jan. 15-18, 16-18 or 17-18, California Northern
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced)
Golden State Open
7SS, 40/2, SD/1 (3-day option rds. 1-2 G/75, 2-day option rds. 1-4 G/35, no
2-day Open Section.) Under 900 Section plays separate 2-day schedule Jan
17-18 only, G/35. At Concord Hilton Hotel, 1970 Diamond Blvd., Concord, CA
94520 (I-680 Willow Pass Rd exit). Free shuttle between hotel and Concord BART
station. Free parking. $$60,000 based on 450 paid entries (re-entries &
U900 Section count as 1/3 entries), minimum guarantee $40,000 (2/3 each
prize). Open, open to all. $$4000-2200-1300-1000-800-700-600-500-400-400,
clear or tiebreak winner $300, top U2400 $2000-1000. FIDE. Under 2200: $3000-
1500-800-700-600-500-400-300-200-200. Under 2000: $3000-1500-800-700-
600-500-400-300-200-200. Under 1800: $3000-1500-800-700-600-500-400-300-
200-200. Under 1600: $2500-1300-700-600-500-400-300-300-200-200. Under
1400: $2000-1000-700-500-400- 300-200-200. Under 1200: $2000-1000-700-
500-400-300-200-200. Under 900: $800-400-200-150-100-80-70. Prize limits:
1) Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) may enter any section, with maximum
prize U900 $200, U1200 $400, U1400 $600, U1600 $900, U1800 $1200, U2000
$1500. 2) Players with under 26 lifetime games rated may not win over $400
in U900, $800 in U1200 or $1200 in U1400. 3) If more than 30 points above sec-
tion maximum on any list 1/09-12/09, prize limit $1000. 4) Balance of any limited
prize goes to next player(s) in line. Top 7 sections EF: 4-day $174, 3-day $173,
2-day $172 mailed by 1/7, all $175 online at chesstour.com by 1/12, $180 phoned
to 406-896-2038 by 1/12 (entry only, no questions), $200 at site. GMs free; $150
deducted from prize. Under 900 Section EF: $52 mailed by 1/7, $55 online
at chesstour.com by 1/12 (entry only, no questions), $60 phoned to 406-896-
2038 by 1/12, $70 at site. All: Special 1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if paid
with entry: online at chesstour.com $30; mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Re-
entry (except Master) $60. Mailed EF $5 less to rated CalChess members. 4-day
schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6:15 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon
10 & 4:30. 3-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 10:15 am, rds Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun
11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30. 2-day schedule: Reg Sun to 9:15 am, rds Sun 10-12-
2-4-6, Sun 10-4:30, not available for Open Section. Under 900 schedule:
Reg. Sun to 9:15 am, rds. Sun. 10-12-2-4, Mon. 10-12-2. Byes: OK all; Open must
commit before rd 2, others before rd 4; limit 3 byes in Open. Unofficial
uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise
unrated. Foreign player ratings: See chesstour.com. HR: $99-99-109, 925-827-
2000, reserve by 1/1 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use
AWD #D657633. Questions: chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Ent: Continental
Chess, c/o Goichberg, Box 661776, Arcadia, CA 91066. $15 service charge for
withdrawals. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
Regional
Alabama
Bham C. C.
Meets Mon. nites each wk., 2116 Columbiana Rd. (Columbiana Crossing Shopg.
Ctr.), Bham 35226. All skills & levels welcome! W. N.S. USCF rtd tourns.
planned in 09. Mon. Quads by request. Vulcan Open-May; Bham City Cships-
Aug.; Magic City Open-Nov. SS 4rd G/60 2d Sat.ea. mo. Details & flyers: R.W.
Ellis 205-979-6068, kee@bellsouth.net.
Sept. 11-13, 56th Annual Alabama State Chess Championship
See Grand Prix.
Arizona
Aug. 22, 2009 Utah Amateur Championship (UT)
See Utah.
Arkansas
Aug. 14-16 or 15-16, Arkansas State Championship
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 25-27, Majeed Nahas Memorial Open
5-SS G/2. Quapaw Community Center, 500 Quapaw Ave., Hot Springs, Arkansas
71901. EF: $35 adv, $40 at site. Prizes: b/40 1st 500 +T, 2nd 200, A, B, C.
D/below/Unr 1st in ea 150 +T. Must have 3 in class $50 Upset - $50 for best
Budapest (black) Smith Morra Gambit (white). Reg.: 7-9 am 9/26. Rds.: 9:15
- 2:15 - 7:30, 9 -2. Half point byes rds 1-4 ok. Special Friday night Nahas quick
G/15, e.f. 10, prizes per entries same site. 1st guaranteed $75, more per
entries. Reg.: 6-7 pm 9/25, Rds. 7 then asap all games must start as Smith Morra
or Budapest variations (whites choice) clocks start atTD direction. Entry: Kirk
Petty, 200 Brumley Trail, Lot O, Hot Springs, AR 71901. WCL JGP for Open.
California Northern
Aug. 21-23 or 22-23, Central California Open
See Grand Prix.
Aug. 22, 2009 Utah Amateur Championship (UT)
See Utah.
Sept. 5-7, Labor Day Chess Festival
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 12-13, 4th Ursula Foster Memorial Open
5 round swiss. TIME CONTROLS: rds 1-3 g/90 rds 4-5 G/2. SITE: Doctors Med-
ical Center (cafeteria), 1441 Florida Ave., Modesto, CA 95352. PRIZE FUND 70%
returned in prizes 1st 50% plus plaque 2nd 20% and 1st U 1700 30%. ENTRY
FEE: $30.00 if recd by Sept 8th, $35.00 at site. REGISTRATION: 9 am-9.45.
ROUNDS: Sept 12th 10am, 1:30, 4:45 Sun Sept 13th 10am 2:15. Byes up to two
if requested before round 2. ADVANCE ENTRY: Please, write checks to Don
Tiffin, 128 Palm Ave., Modesto, CA 95350. Phone (209 524-2901). E-Mail _tif-
fin34@sbcglobal.net. WCL JGP.
Sept. 26-27, 1st Annual Exchange Bank Open
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, 18th annual North American Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
Jan. 15-18, 16-18 or 17-18, Golden State Open
See Grand Prix.
California Southern
LA CHESS CLUB * www.LaChessClub.com
Fridays: 8 PM-10 PM (Blitz Tournament) Saturdays:
10AM-10 PM (Class & 2 Tournaments) Sundays: 12 PM-
6 PM (Tournament) Tuesdays: 7:30 PM-9:30 PM
(Intermediate/Advanced Lecture) 11514 Santa Monica
Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025 * (310) 795-5710 (4 blocks
West of 405, Santa Monica & Butler * Second Floor) Pri-
vate (1:1) Lessons * Group Classes * Tournaments.
Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, LACC LA Masters
4SS, G/30. LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405.
EF: $30 ($20 LACC memb). Reg.: 5:30-6. Rds.: 6, 7, 8, 9. Prizes: 75% EF. 2 Free
lots SW of S Monica/ Purdue; or underground ($3). Inf: (310) 795-5710 or
www.LAChessClub.com.
Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, LACC Saturday Open
4SS, G/30. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405. EF: $20
($15 LACC memb). Reg.: 11:30-12. Rds.: 12, 1, 2, 3. Prizes: 1/2 EF. 2 Free lots
SW of S. Monica/ Purdue; or underground ($3). Inf: (310) 795-5710 or
www.LAChessClub.com.
Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, LACC Sunday Open
3SS, G/60. LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405.
EF: $20 ($15 LACC memb). Reg.: 11:30-12. Rds.: 12, 2, 4. Prizes: 1/2 EF. Free
parking on streets. Inf: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.
Aug. 2, 16, LACC August Scholastics I & II
5SS, G/30 LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405.
EF: $25 ($20 LACC memb). 2 Sections: Over 1000 and U1000. Reg.: 1:30-2. Rds.:
2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Prizes:Trophies, Medals, and special prizes (every player receives
a prize!). Free street parking, refreshments, and class 1-2 pm. Inf: (310) 795-
5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.
Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28, LACC Friday Nite Blitz (QC)
5SS, G/5 (10 Games). LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks
W 405. EF: $10. Q-rated. Reg.: 7:30-8. Rds.: 8-8:30-9-9:30,10. 2 Free Parking
lots SW of S Monica/ Purdue; or underground ($3). Prizes: 1/2 EF. Inf: (310)
795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.
Aug. 21-23 or 22-23, Central California Open (Northern CA)
See Grand Prix.
Aug. 22, 2009 Utah Amateur Championship (UT)
See Utah.
Aug. 23, 2009 California G/30 Championship
6-SS, G/30. Los Angeles Chess Club, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, CA 90025,
2nd fl. (4 blks W 405). $$1,000 (b/30). In two sections, Open: $300-150-50,
U2200: $100, U2000: $75. Reserve: (U1800) $$150-75, U1600 $100, Under
1400/unrated $75, U1200Trophy. EF: $45 if recd by 8/19; $50 at the door ($35
LACC members if recd by 8/19; $40 at the door; $25 new LACC members) -
$2 off SCCF members. Up to 2 half-point byes available. Free refreshments! Reg.:
11:00 - 11:45 a.m. Rds.: 12, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 pm. Free Parking on the streets, or
in the building underground ($3). Inf: (310) 795-5710 or Mick@ LAChess-
Club.com. URL: www.LAChessClub.com. Ent: LACC - P.O. Box 251774, Los
Angeles, CA 90025.
Sept. 5-7, 31st Annual Southern California Open
See Grand Prix.
Jan. 15-18, 16-18 or 17-18, Golden State Open (Northern CA)
See Grand Prix.
Colorado
Aug. 15, G/29 Super Saturday #2 - Boulder (QC)
Part of the CO & WY G/29 Grand Prix, not a USCF GP Event. 6-SS, G/29, no delay.
One section. EF: $12, $9 for Jr/Sr/Unr. Prizes: 100% minus USCF rating fee.
(60% for tourney prizes, rest to GP prize fund.) Reg.: 830-930am. Rds.: 930,
1045, 100, 215, 330, 445. Site: University Memorial Center, Room 415, CU cam-
pus, Boulder, CO 80309. Info/Entries: Klaus Johnson, 3605 Endicott Drive,
Boulder, CO 80305, Email: boulderchessclub@yahoo.com.
Aug. 22, 2009 Utah Amateur Championship (UT)
See Utah.
Aug. 22-23, Monument Open
6 round Swiss system tournament. Time Control: All Rounds: G/120. Site: Sun-
dance Mountain Lodge, 1865 Woodmoor Drive, Monument, CO 80132.
Directions: If coming from north of Monument Hill:Take I-25 South to exit 161
(State Highway 105 / Monument). Head east (away from the mountains) on S.H.
105, then make a left onto Woodmoor Drive (1st traffic light). The Lodge is 1/3
of a mile on your right. If coming from south of Monument Hill: Take I-25 North
to exit 161 (State Highway 105 / Monument). Head west (toward the moun-
tains) on S.H. 105, then make a right onto Woodmoor Drive (1st traffic light).
The Lodge is 1/3 of a mile on your right. Restaurant, bar and lodging on site.
Call early to reserve a room. Phone number for the lodge is 719-481-6000. Men-
tion youre with the chess tournament. Check out their website:
www.sundancemountainlodge.com. Sections: Open (open to all) and Reserve
(U1500). On Site Entry fee: $40; Sr, Jr, Unr $32. Pre-registration entry fee:
$35; Sr, Jr, Unr $27 which must be paid at the time of pre-registration and
received by August 20, 2009. Please include email address for confirmation of
prepayment received. USCF & CSCA membership required: See
www.uschess.org/ for USCF membership rates. CSCA Membership rates are
Adults (age 21-64) $15 for one year or $5 per tournament. Youth (under 21)
and Seniors (65 or older) are $10. Family memberships available for $3 off reg-
ular dues with only one magazine (Colorado Chess Informant) delivered to the
family address. More information at www.colorado-chess.com/. Prizes: Cash
prizes per entries paid at end of event. Registration: 8:30 - 9:30 AM Satur-
uschess.org
51
 Tournament Life
day. Rounds: 8/22 Saturday - 10:00 AM, 2:30 PM, 7:00 PM; 8/23 Sunday - 9:00
AM, 1:30 PM, 6:00 PM. Entries: Jerry Maier, 229 Hargrove Court, Colorado
Springs, CO 80919. Phone: (719) 660-5531. E-mail: pmjer77@aim.com. CSCA
& USCF required, OSA. Memberships available on site. Final round byes must
be requested before the start of Round 3, and are irrevocable. Wheelchair Acces-
sible. Mon Roi friendly! COLORADO TOUR EVENT. WCL JGP.
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING AUGUST 1-14
Aug. 25, August 2009 G/29 Grand Prix Event - Fort Collins (QC)
Part of the CO & WY G/29 Grand Prix, not a USCF GP Event. 3SS, G/29, no delay.
One Section, Accelerated Pairings with more than 12 entries. EF: $3. Prizes:
100% minus USCF rating fee. (60% for tourney prizes, rest to Grand Prix Prize
Fund.) Reg.: 630-700pm onsite only, e-mail if you intend to come. Rds.: 7pm,
8pm, 9pm. Site: Lory Student Center, 2nd Floor Food Court, Colorado State Uni-
versity campus, Fort Collins, CO 80525. For Info: Lee Lahti, Phone: 970-372-8590,
E-Mail: fc-chess@comcast.net.
Sept. 5-6, 2009 Colorado Open
5-SS Rd 1: G/90, Rds 2-5 40/90 G/60. $2000 b/80. Indigo Room, DoubleTree
Hotel, 7801 E. Orchard Rd., Greenwood Village, CO 80111. $2000 b/80. Two
Sections. Open: $300-$180-$120, U2000/U1800 $120-$60. Reserve
(U1600/unrated): $240-$160-$120, U1400/U1200 $120-$60, U1000 $80,
Unrated $80. EF: $40, $10 less for Jr/Sr/Unrated, $5 more if recd after 9/2.
Reg.: 8-9 AM, Rds.: Sat: 9:00, 12:30, 6:00, Sun: 9:30, 4:00 (Member meeting
at 3:00). Hotel # 1-303-779-6161, ask for chess rate. Entries: Richard
Buchanan, 1 Sutherland Rd., Manitou Springs, CO 80829. Email: buck-
peace@pcisys.net. Website: www.colorado-chess.com. CSCA reqd ($15, $10
for Jr/Sr), OSA. A CO Tour Event. WCL JGP.
Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, 18th annual North American Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
Connecticut
A Heritage Event!
Aug. 22-23, 30th Townsend Cup
4-SS, 40/2, SD/1. Comfort Suites, 64 Knotter Dr., Southington, CT. Three sec-
tions: OPEN, EF $40, $$50%-30%-20%, RESERVE (Under 1800), EF $25,
trophies 1-2-3. ONE DAY, on Sat., 4/SS, G/1, EF $20, trophies 1-2-3. ALL: EF
$10 more at door. Reg.: 8:30-9, Rds. 9-2, 9-2. (One Day, 9-11-2-4). HR: $89. Ent:
Fred Townsend, 11 Cole Dr., Wolcott, CT 06716. ftownsend@snet.net, (203)-
879-2009. NS. NC. WCL JGP for Open and Reserve.
A Heritage Event!
Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 29th Willimantic Fall Open
5-SS, G/90. UCONN Castleman Building, Room 204, 261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs,
CT 06269. EF: $20 at site, students free. Reg.: 7-7:30 PM. Rds.: 7:30 PM. $$
35%-30%, Top U-1600 20%-15%. Info: Tom Hartmayer, 860-989-5394,
tomhart3@charter.net. WCL JGP.
Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 6th annual New England Scholastic Championships
7SS, G/45, Sheraton Hotel, 1 Bradley Airport (visible at airport entrance), Wind-
sor Locks, CT 06096 (I-91 Exit 40 to Rt 20). Free parking, free airport shuttle.
Open to all K-12 students; New England titles and free entry prizes limited to
players & teams from schools in CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, or VT. Team prizes based
on top 4 scores from school combined. Teams of 2 or 3 players allowed, but
are at a disadvantage. In 4 sections: High School (K-12), Middle School (K-8),
Elementary (K-5), Primary (K-2). Players face only those in their section. EF for
USCF members: HS $38.75, Middle School $38.50, Elem $38.25, Primary $38
if mailed by 10/31, all $38 online at chesstour.com by 11/4, $50 at site. EF for
non-USCF members (fees include membership): HS $48.75, Middle School
$48.50, Elem $48.25, Primary $48 if mailed by 10/31, all $48 online at chess-
tour.com by 11/4, $60 at site. Memberships include magazine for players
scoring at least 3 pts. Trophies to top 10 players, top 7 teams, top 3 unrated
in each section, top E, U1000, U800 (HS), U1000, U800, U600 (MS), U800, U600,
U400 (Elem), U600, U400, U200 (Primary). Free entry in all Continental Chess
Association Swiss tournaments until 5/31/10 to top New England player each
section. Late reg. ends Sat 9 am, rds Sat 10-1-3-5:30 pm, Sun 9-11-1:30. Awards
Sun 3:30 pm. Half point byes allowed rds 1-4 only, with at least 1 hour notice.
HR: $93-93, 860-627-5311, reserve by 10/17 or rate may increase. Car rental:
54 Chess Life August 2009
800-331-1600, use AWD D657633 or reserve car online through chesstour.com.
Ent: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. November rat-
ings used. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Include school,
grade, birth date, USCF ID, address of each player. Advance entries will be posted
at chesstour.com.
Delaware
Aug. 22, 4th Sat. of the Month Quad
Howard Johnsons Hotel, 1119 S. College Avenue, Newark, DE 19713. (time con-
trols: 40/75, s/d 30). EF: $20. $$GTD: $40. Reg.: 9-9:30. Rds.: 9:45 1:45 5:30.
ENT: Kevin Pytel, 604 N. Walnut St., Newport, DE 19804-2624. 302-753-6877.
kevinjpytel@aol.com. INFO: Kevin Pytel 302-753-6877. NS W.
District of Columbia
Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, 41st annual Atlantic Open
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 13, Metro Sunday Quads
3-RR, G/90. U.S. Chess Center, 1501 M St. NW. EF: $20 $$ $40 each quad.
Scholastic sections. EF: $10, Trophy prizes. Both: Reg.: 9:15 - 9:50. Rds.: 10
- 1 - 4. (202) 857-4922. www.chessctr.org./quads.php.
Florida
South Florida Chess Club
Wednesdays 6:30-10:30pm. Rated G/90 Tournaments
and skittles. Most tournaments are 4+ rounds to with
a time control slower than G/60, those events would
qualify for WCL JGP. www.SouthFloridaChessClub.com.
Aug. 22, CFCC Orlando Bonus Tornado
4-SS, G/75, Orlando Chess & Games Ctr, 8751 Commodity Cir., Suite 9, Orlando,
32819. EF: $30, CFCC/OCG mbr: $25, Masters free-EF deducted from prize.
$$605 b/30: 200-100-80, U1800, U1600, U1400 $75 ea. Prize increased 50%
for 4-0 score. Reg.: 9:30am. Rds.: 10-12:30-3-5:30. Info: (407) 629-6946,
centralflchess.org. W, WCL JGP.
Sept. 5, First Saturday Quads
3RR, 40/80 15/30 15/30. Palatka Bridge & Chess Center, 521 13th St., Palatka,
FL. Quads open to all. EF: $12. Trophy to 1st. Each Quad. Reg.: 8:30-9:30/am.
Rds.: 10-1-4. Ben Cody (386) 329-1173. www.palatkachessclub.com. NS NC W.
Oct. 10, DBCC Club Championship Open
Schnebly Recreation Center, 1101 N. Atlantic Ave (A1A), Daytona Beach, FL
32118. 2 Sections: Open & Scholastic. 5SS, G45, EF: Open $25. Scholastic
$5. Open: $$ ($350/b15): $125-100. U1600: $75-50. Scholastic:Trophy. Rds.:
10-11:35-2-3:35-5:10. Open: Trophy to highest DBCC Club Member. Scholastic:
Trophy & Club Scholastic Champion (all Scholastic eligible). Reg.: 9-9:45. ENT:
Paul B. Tomaino, 575 N. Williamson Bl #116, Daytona Beach, FL 32114. 386-
239-9485. INFO: pibit@cfl.rr.com www.daytonabchcc.org. NS NC W.
Georgia
Aug. 15, 2009 Atlanta August G/45 Championship
See Grand Prix.
Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, 2009 Atlanta Chess Center Open
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 12, 2009 Atlanta September G/45 Championship
See Grand Prix.
Idaho
Aug. 22, 2009 Utah Amateur Championship (UT)
See Utah.
Sept. 26-27, 2009 Eastern Idaho Open
5SS, G/120. 2 Sections: Open and Reserve (U1400). Site: ISU, Student Un Bldg,
Salmon River Suites, 1065 S. 8th St., Pocatello, Idaho. EF: USCF mem req., $30
(U18 & 60+ $25), ISU Chess Club $10, by 9/19/09. $40 (all) after. Reg & Ck
in: 7:30-8:30 AM 09/26. RNDS.: 9,2,7,9,2. 1/2 pt byes: Max 1, Rd 1-4 only. Com-
mit by end of rd 2. Prizes: $$ b/30 non ISU; Open: $200-100-75; Reserve:
$100-75-50. HR/ENT/INFO: ICA % Jay Simonson, 391 Carol Ave., Idaho Falls,
ID 83401, 208-206-7667, rooknjay@yahoo.com, www.idahochessassociation.org
NC, NS, W. WCL JGP.
Illinois
North American Chess Association
Tournaments for kids and adults of all playing strength.
Creators of the electronic scoresheet, eNotate. Monthly
FIDE title tournaments (WIM, WGM, IM). Sevan A.
Muradian, FIDE Arbiter & International Organizer.
www.nachess.org | info@nachess.org | 888.80.CHESS.
Renaissance Knights Chess Foundation
Illinois Premier Chess Organization - We organize
monthly scholastic & adult tournaments throughout the
Chicago area; sponsor chess activates at community
events, i.e. Taste of Chicago; provide in-school & after-
school programs, workshops & summer camps. Players
of all skill levels, from beginners to Masters, attend our
events. For dates & locations: visit our website
www.rknights.org; Tel: 773-844-0701; Email: ren
knights@aol.com.
Aug. 15, Quad Tournament
3 rounds, G/80. Holiday Inn Hotel, 495 Airport Road, Elgin, IL 60123. (Inter-
section of I-90 & Rt. 31.) Entry fee is $20 (cash or check only). Cash prizes
of $40 for first and $20 for second in each Quad. Registration begins at 8:30
A.M. First round starts at 9:30, and this single day event ends by 6:30. For
more information see: www.mchenryareachess.org, or call Bob at 815-519-
3323.
Aug. 22, 2009 U.S. Game/60 Championship
See Nationals.
A Heritage Event!
Aug. 22, 45th Bradley Summer Open
4 Rds., Swiss, regular rating system. G/80 with 5 second delay, Robert Michel
Student Center, 915 N. Elmwood Ave., Peoria, IL 61625, $14 if recd by 8-20-
09, $17 at site, $2 disct to ICA members, $2 disct to GPCF members, free to
Masters. Prize fund: 75% of EFs, 1st: 25%, 2nd: 15%, A/B, C/D, under 1200:
10% each, Upset 5%, Registration: 8-8:45 AM. Rds.: 9, 12, 2:45, 5:30, no State
membership required. Other information: half-point bye in any 1 round, but
a bye in Rd. 4 must be elected before the start of Rd. 3, www.gpcf.net. Advance
entries: Wayne Zimmerle, 514 W. Loucks, #2, Peoria, IL 61604, 309-692-
4480 day, 309-686-0192 night, wzim@sbcglobal.net. NS, NC. WCL JGP.
Aug. 23, 2009 U.S. Game/30 Championship
See Nationals.
Sept. 5, Il. Open Saturday PM G/25 (QC)
DoubleTree Hotel, 1909 Spring Road, Oakbrook, Illinois 60523. 5SS, G/25, $$
150-125, U2000 $100, U1600 $75, U1400 $50, Un=top prizes only. Rnds.: 6-
7-8-9-10. USPS $25 by 8/31 ($25 On-Line until 9/4, 6 pm), $30 on site until 5:30
PM. Entries. (checks payable only to Chess For Life, LLC): Tim Just , 37165
Willow, Gurnee, Il 60031. Info: 847-244-7954 (before 6 PM), On Line
Entries/info: http://chessforlife.com.
Sept. 5, Il. Open Under 1000 Trophy Tournament (QC)
Open to all players rated Under 1000, DoubleTree Hotel, 1909 Spring Road, Oak-
brook, Illinois 60523. 5SS, Trophies to top 7. G/25, Rnds.: 10:30-11:30-1-2-3.
USPS $25 by 8/31 ($25 on-line by 9/4, 6 pm), $30 on site until 10 AM. Entries.
(checks payable only to Chess For Life, LLC):Tim Just , 37165 Willow, Gurnee,
IL 60031. Info: 847-244-7954 (before 6 PM), On Line Entries/info:
http://chessforlife.com.
Sept. 5-7 or 6-7, 2009 Illinois Open Championship
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 26, 2009 St. Matthew Chess Tournament
held by the 2008 US Champion, and 2008 Olympiad Bronze medal winner GM
YURY SHULMAN, at 24500 Old McHenry Rd., Hawthorn Woods, IL 60047
Tel.847-438-7709 G/30 5rds, EF: $25 postmarked by 9/1, $30 after, on site $35
before 9:15 REG.: begins at 9:00, Rd 1 begins 10:00am, no elimination. 4 Sec-
tions: Primary K-3, Elementary 4-5, Middle 6-8, HS 9-12 and adults, Nonrated
(all grades and adults). TROPHY awards to top 5 individuals in each section,
top 3 individuals in each grade K-5, top individuals grade 6-12, top 3 team tro-
phies, top 5 in unrated. Trophy awards at 3:00. ENT: checks payable to Yury
Shulman International Chess School, mail w/registration form to 428 Waverly
Rd., Barrington, IL 60010. INFO: email chesswob@gmail.com or
www.shulmanchess.com, Kiran Frey 847-382-5410, GM Yury Shulman 312-
375-7475.
Oct. 9-11 or 10-11, 18th annual Midwest Class Championships
See Grand Prix.
Oct. 11, Rated Beginners Open
5SS, G/30, open to under 900 or unrated. Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel,
601 North Milwaukee Avenue, Wheeling, IL 60090 (from Chicago, I-294 north
to US-45 north; from Milwaukee, I-94 to Lake Cook Rd to US-45 south). Free
parking. EF: $20. Special 1 year USCF dues if paid with EF, including paper mag-
azine: Adult $30, Senior or Young Adult $25, Scholastic $15. Trophies to top 5.
3 year USCF membership extension to 1st, 2 years 2nd, 1 year 3rd. Reg. ends
9:30 am, rds. 10, 11:30, 1, 2:30, 4. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4
or more games used if otherwise unrated. Half point bye available rd 1. Ent:
at site only. Questions: chesstour.com, 845-496-9658.
Nov. 13-15 or 14-15, 18th Annual Kings Island Open (OH)
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 20-22, 2009 National Youth Action
See Nationals.
Indiana
Chess Club Friday Night Blitz (QC)
NOTE: No event Aug. 7 so as not to conflict with US OPEN. 2302 West Morris
uschess.org
St. at the West Morris St. Free Methodist Church. Entrance is in the back, down
the stairs by the office. When: Starts Every Friday except the Fri before the
second Sat doors open at 6:00 P.M. tournament starts at 6:30 P.M. Type: 3
Rounds, Game/5, Round Robin Quad, U.S.C.F. Rated. EF: $7.00 if received one
week before tournament starting date, $8.00 at the door. Prizes: Based on 4
full Pd. entries per quad, First in each quad: $20.00, Second in each quad: chess
merchandise. Send advance entries to: Donald Urquhart, 501 N. East St. #802,
Indianapolis, IN 46204-1629. For more info: call Don at (317) 634-6259 or e-
mail akakarpov1@mw.net.
FREE ENTRY: Quad Quick Chess Tournament (QC) Fri. before the sec-
ond Sat. of the Month
NOTE: No event Aug. 7 so as not to conflict with US OPEN. G/15, U.S.C.F. rated.
Located at 2302 West Morris St. at the West Morris St. Free Methodist Church
in the Ellis Hall Room. Entrance in back, down stairs, by office. Late Ent. 6-
6:25pm. Rd 1, 6:30pm. Prizes: First in each quad gets choice of 50% off
entry fee for Sat. Monthly a $15.00 value certificate, or chess merchandise. A
cash buyback option is available on the certificate, call for details. Second gets
the prize not chosen by First EF: Free. Adv. ENT: Donald Urquhart, 501 N. East
St. # 802, Indianapolis, IN 46204-1629. Info: call Don at 317-634-6259 or e-
mail akakarpov1@mw.net. A ORANGE CRUSH EVENT.
Every SECOND Sat. of the Month. OPEN CHESS TOURNAMENT
NOTE: No event Aug. 8 so as not to conflict with US OPEN. 5 Round, G/61, U.S.C.F.
rated. 2302 West Morris St. at the West Morris St. Free Methodist Church in
the Ellis Hall Room. Entrance in back, down stairs, by office. Late Ent. 8-9am,
Rd 1, 9:30am. Prizes: $465.00 b/o 20 full pd. Ent. 1st $150; 2nd $75; Class
A, B, C, (D, E, Unr) $60 each. Prizes increased if entries allow. EF: $25 if recd
one week before tournament date, $30 at door, $5.00 discount for your birth-
day month, FIDE Titled Players Free. + Free Snack Bar Adv. ENT: Donald
Urquhart, 501 N. East St. # 802, Indianapolis, IN 46204-1629. Info: call Don
at 317-634-6259 or e-mail akakarpov1@mw.net. Note: there must be at least
3 entries in a class for that class prize to be awarded. If two adjoining class
prizes are vacant, a combo prize will be awarded. News Flash!!! OCCC Has won
the bid for 09 US Open. All Sat Monthlys will offer Orange Points that may
be used for FREE ENTRY to US Open in 09. WCL JGP.
Irvington Chess Club 1st Wed. Tournament (QC)
3SS, G/15, Irvington Public Library - Community Room, 5625 E Washington St.,
Indianapolis, IN 46219. Held on the first Wednesday of each month. Open to
All. EF: $5. Unr: Free. Reg.: Anytime between 5:30pm and 5:45pm. Rds.: 6p,
6:35p, 7:10p. An outreach of the Our Lady of Lourdes Chess club
(www.ollchessclub.org). ENT: http://jotform.com/form/90231349169. INFO:
Kieron Mitchell, 317-430-5254 info@ollchessclub.org. Some clocks and boards
provided - bring them if you have them! NS NC W.
Oct. 2-4 or 3-4, 68th Indiana State Chess Championship
See Grand Prix.
Oct. 9-11 or 10-11, 18th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL)
See Grand Prix.
Oct. 23-25 or 24-25, Cleveland Open (OH)
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 13-15 or 14-15, 18th Annual Kings Island Open (OH)
See Grand Prix.
Iowa
Sept. 5, Iowa Reserve Championship (U1600)
Kirkwood Community College, Iowa Hall, Iowa Room, 6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW,
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. Campus Map: www.kirkwood.edu/maincampus. REG.:
8-9:30, 4-SS Rds.: 10, 12:30, 2:45, 5:00. G/60T/D5. PRIZES: $245 b/20 90+T-
75-50 U1200-$30. EF: $29 postmarked 8/29, $35 at site, Juniors $5 off. IASCA
membership required ($15 Reg, $10 Jr.) or OSA. ENT: James Hodina, 3411 Blue
Pt. Ct. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. INFO: 319-390-6525 or james.hodina@
mchsi.com. Visit http://sites.google.com/site/chessiniowa for flyers and hotel
info. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event!
Sept. 5 & 6, 55th Iowa Open Championship
IASCA Super GP Qualifier. Kirkwood Community College, Iowa Hall, Iowa
Room, 6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. Campus Map:
www.kirkwood.edu/maincampus. REG.: 8-9:30, 5-SS Rds.: 10-2:30-7, 9-1:30.
G/135 T/D15 deducted time. PRIZES: $830 b/25, 250+T-150-100, U2000 &
U1800 90/75 each. EF: $49 postmarked 8/29, $55at site, Juniors $5 off.
IASCA membership required ($15 Reg, $10 Jr.) or OSA. ENT: James Hodina,
3411 Blue Pt. Ct. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. INFO: 319-390-6525 or
james.hodina@mchsi.com. Visit http://sites.google.com/site/chessiniowa
for flyers and hotel info. WCL JGP.
Louisiana
Sept. 4-7 or 5-7, 2009 Louisiana State Championship
See Grand Prix.
Maryland
Aug. 21, Sept. 11, Catonsville Friday Knight Quick #87, #88 (QC)
5SS, G/15, Catonsville Chess Club, Bloomsbury Community Center, 106 Blooms-
bury Ave., Catonsville, MD 21228. EF: $8, club members $5. Reg.: 7:30pm. Rds.:
8, 8:30, 9, 9:30, 10. Prizes based on entries with 65% returned in prize fund.
Info: Joe Summers, josephas2@verizon.net or 410-788-1009. Website:
http://mysite.verizon.net/vze12d59q/. Dir: 695 to exit 13 West, left at second
light, 3 blocks on right.
Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, 41st annual Atlantic Open (DC)
See Grand Prix.
Oct. 2-4, 3-4, 49th Maryland Open
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 27-29 or 28-29, 40th annual National Chess Congress (PA)
See Grand Prix.
Massachusetts
Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26, Sept. 2, Tigran Petrosian Memorial
5SS, G/110, Wachusett Chess Club, McKay Campus School, Room C199, Fitch-
burg State College, 67 Rindge Road, Fitchburg, MA 01420. EF: $1 per game
played; free to Wachusett CC members. Reg.: 7-7:10 p.m. Rds.: 7:15 p.m. Byes:
1-4, limit two. Prizes: chess books plus photos of Petrosians Feb. 1982 simul
in Fitchburg. Info: George Mirijanian, 176 Oak Hill Road, Fitchburg, MA 01420,
miriling@aol.com, 978-345-5011. Website: www.wachusettchess.org. Online
ratings as of Aug. 5 will be used. NC. NS. W. WCL JGP.
Aug. 16, Legends of Chess: Karl Falkbeer
4SS, G/65. Boylston C.F., 240B Elm St., Suite B9, Somerville, MA, 02144. Open
& U1800. EF: $27, $17; BCC members; $$b/entries. Reg.: 9:15-9:55AM.
Rounds: 10:00, 12:40, 3:00, 5:15. NS, NC, W. Tel. 617-629-3933. WCL JGP.
Aug. 22, 12th Western Mass Open
3SS, G/90, The Kittredge Center at H.C.C., 303 Homestead Ave. (route 202),
Holyoke, MA. EF: $28, New & Unr $15, Rated 2200+ FREE ($28 deducted from
prize won), all recd by 8-17-09. New & Unr can enter ANY section, but eligi-
ble to win 50% of prize. EF ALL: $35 at site. $$650 b/30 (1/2-off fee counts
as 1/2 entry, Free Entries not counted). Sections: Open: 1st $180, 2nd $100.
U1800: 1st $130, 2nd $80. U1400: 1st $100, 2nd $60. Reg.: 8:30-9:15. Rds.:
9:30, 1 & 4:15. Ent: W.M.C.A., 119 Brunswick St., Springfield, MA 01108. Call
Ed at 413-967-3242 or e-mail cadcamsv@bellatlantic.net www.wmass-chess.us,
NS, NC.
Aug. 22, 16th Charles Drafts Open
Boylston C.F., 240B Elm St., Suite B9, Somerville, MA, 02144. 4SS, G/60. Open
& U1900. $$400G: 100-50-50 in both sections. EF: $25, $20; BCC members if
received by 8/20/09, $5 more at door. Reg.: 9:15-9:55AM. Rounds: 10:00,
12:40, 3:00 & 5:10. Send entries payable to Boylston C.F. at above address. NS,
NC, W. Tel. 617-629-3933.
Aug. 22-23, 30th Townsend Cup
See Connecticut.
Aug. 23, BCF Sunday Scholastic Quads
3RR, G/30. Boylston CC, 240B Elm St., Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. Sec-
tions: Groups of four according to rating. EF: $15; $10 BCC members. Prizes:
$20 1st & Medal 2nd per Quad. Reg.: 9:30 10:00 AM. Rounds: 10:15, 11:20,
12:40. Tel. 617-629-3933. More information: 617-417-8800.
Aug. 29, BCF Swiss #24
4SS, G/65. Boylston C.C., 240B Elm St., Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. Open
& U1800. EF: $27, $17 BCF members. $$b/entries. Reg.: 9:15-9:55 am.
Rounds: 10, 12:40, 3:00, 5:15. NS, NC, W. Tel. 617-629-3933. WCL JGP.
Sept. 2, 16, Early Bird Rapids Quads
3RR, G/30. Boylston C.F., 240B Elm St., Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. EF: $27,
$17 BCC members; $$50 1st per Quad. Reg.: 6:00- 6:15 PM. Round: 6:20, ASAP.
NS, NC, W. Tel. 617-629-3933.

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NEW CATEGORY! UNRATEDS FREE. Any tournament
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SPECIAL RATES FOR CLUB ADS. Up to 5 lines $180 per
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uschess.org Chess Life August 2009 55

 Tournament Life

Sept. 3, 10, 17, 24, Thursday Night Swiss Nov. 27-29, 2009 Motor City Open Reg.: 9:30-10:15. Rds.: 10:30, 1:15, 4:00. EF: $1, no prizes just the satis-
4SS; 40/90, G/20. Open & U1800. Boylston C.F., 240B Elm St., Suite B9, See Grand Prix. faction of playing well. Info: Charles Ward, 573-443-6685, czar8196@
Somerville, MA 02144. EF: $27, $17 BCC members; $$(240:b/20 entries): tranquility.net. W.
Open & U1800: $80 - 40. Reg.: 6:30- 6:55 PM. Rd.: 7:00 NS, NC, W. Tel. 617- Minnesota Sept. 2, September Knights
629-3933. WCL JGP.
Sept. 5-6, Region 6 Open Championship 5SS, G/90 Reg. Wednesday, Sept. 2nd, 6:00 - 6:45pm. Rounds (one per week)
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING AUGUST 1-14

Sept. 4, 11, 18, 25, Billerica Friday Swiss
4 Rds. 40/90, SD/30. Billerica COA, 25 Concord Rd., Billerica, MA. EF: $12. Reg.:
7:30pm. Cash prizes minimal b/entries. For info, call Brad Ryan, (978) 369-8533.
NS, NC. WCL JGP.
Sept. 12, BCF Quads 9-9
3RR, G/60. Boylston C.C., 240B Elm St., Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. EF:
$27, $17; BCF members; $$50 1st per Quad. Reg.: 9:15-9:55AM. Rounds: 10:00,
12:40, 3:00. NS, NC, W.Tel. 617-629-3933. Website: www.boylstonchessclub.org.
Sept. 13, BCF Sunday Scholastic
Sections: 8, 11, 14 years old & under. 3RR, G/40. Boylston CC, 240B Elm St.,
Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. EF: $15; $10 BCC members. Prizes: Trophies
to top two in each section. Reg.: 9:30 10:00 AM. Rounds: 10:15, 11:20, 12:40,
1:45. Tel. 617-629-3933.
Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 6th annual New England Scholastic Championships
(CT)
See Connecticut.
Michigan
Aug. 15-16, 2009 U. P. Open
Location: Masonic Building, 128 W. Washington St., Marquette, MI (parking and
entrance in rear of building). 5SS/G 2 hr. Entry fee: $30 ($20 for juniors 19 or
under)$5 more at site. Prizes: First Place $200 guaranteed, others based
on entries. Trophy to top U. P. resident and top U. P. junior. Reg.: 9-9:30 Sat.
Rounds: Sat. 10:00, 2:30, 7:00; Sun. 9:30, 2:00all times EDT. Byes available
in all rounds, but must be requested before registration ends. Info and early
entries: Robert John, 315 E. Prospect St., Marquette, MI 49855, 906-228-8126,
rjjjr@chartermi.net. WCL JGP.
Sept. 4-7, 2009 Michigan Open
See Grand Prix.
Oct. 9-11 or 10-11, 18th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL)
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Missouri
Friday Action Quads - Every Friday Night (QC)
3RR, G/29 QR, Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis
MO 63108. EF: $10. Prize fund $36 first in each quad. Club membership reqd.
available from $1. Reg.: 6:30 - 6:45. Rounds begin at 7:00. Site entries only.
Info: 314-361-CHESS info@saintlouischessclub.org.
Saint Louis Blitz Series - Every Saturday night (QC)
5SS, G/5 QR, Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis,
MO 63108. EF: $5. Prize fund 100% payout! First overall will take home 75%
of all entry fees, and the highest scoring player in the bottom half takes 25%.
Club membership reqd. available from $1. Reg.: 6:30 - 7. Rds.: 7, 7:15, 7:30,
7:45, 8. Site entries only. Info: 314-361-CHESS. info@saintlouischessclub.org.
Aug. 8, Dog Days Open
4SS, G/60, Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO
63108. EF: $25, $20 for annual members of the club. MCA Membership Reqd
from $5. OSA. PF (b/40): $750: $100 1st/ $25 2nd in each M/X, A, B, C, D, U1200.
Reg: 9 - 9:50. Rds: 10, 12:15, 2:30, 4:30. One 1/2 point bye if declared before
round 1. Ent: 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108 314-361-CHESS,
info@saintlouischessclub.org.
Aug. 15, Columbia Open
4SS, G/75; Best Western Inn, 3100 I-70 Dr. SE, Columbia, MO 65201; Prizes:
$500 b/30: $150 1st, $100 2nd, $75 each U1800, U1500, U1200, Upset prize,
$25. Reg.: 9-9:45am; Round times: 10, 1, 3:30, 6:30. EF: $20 recd by 8/8,
$25 on site. Site entries cash only. Max 1 half bye; MCA required, O.S.A., avail-
able on site from $5. Entries/Info: Bob Howe, 4403 Gage Pl., Columbia, MO
65203, (636) 234.7928. (if 20+ participants, winner qualifies for MO Invitational!)
WCL JGP.
Aug. 29, Jose Capablanca Open
3SS, G/75. UMC Memorial Union, Room N208, 518 Hitt St., Columbia, MO. Direc-
tions: From I-70 exit 126, south on Providence, east on Rollins, north on Hitt.
7pm 9/2, 9, 16, 23, 30. Check in withTD by 6:45 to be paired each week/round.
No advanced entries. EF: $10. Prize fund is 90% payout, with 1st place getting
1/3 of the total prize fund and first A, B, C, D, E and U1000/unrated each take
1/9 of the prize fund. One 1/2 point bye if declared by round 1. Annual club
memb. reqd. MCA memb. reqd from $5 OSA. Info: 314-361-CHESS.
info@saintlouischessclub.org. WCL JGP.
Sept. 5-6, Saint Louis District Championship
See Grand Prix.
A State Championship Event!
Sept. 25-27, Missouri Chess Festival
Best Western Columbia Inn, 3100 I-70 Dr. SE, Columbia, MO 65201 (intersec-
tion of US-63 & I-70). 2009 MISSOURI OPEN: 5SS, G/120. $$b/40: $250-1st
Overall + Plaque, Class Prizes: 120-1st in each M/X, A, B, C, D, E, U1000/Unr.
EF: $42 by 9/19, $50 on site. Site entries cash only. Reg.: 10-10:45am. Rds.:
Sat-11/3:30/8, Sun-10:30/3. Max one 1/2-pt bye. MISSOURI STATE INVITA -
TIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP: By invitation only. Concurrent with Missouri Open.
EF: $40. $$b/20: $500-1st, $250-2nd, $125-3rd. See www.mochess.org for info
on eligibility. MO QUICK CHAMPIONSHIP: 4SS, G/29 (QR). $$b/20: $75-1st
Overall + Plaque, $50-1st U1600. Reg.: 6:30-7pm Friday. Rds.: 7/8/9/10pm.
EF: $10 by 9/19, $15 on site. MO BUGHOUSE CHAMPIONSHIP: 5-Dbl Rds, G/5.
$$b/12 teams: $50-1st Team + Plaques, $30-2nd Team. (Both players must
be MO residents to receive title.) Reg.: 8-8:15am Sat. Rds paired ASAP, end-
ing by 10am. EF: $10/team, on site only. MO BLITZ CHAMPIONSHIP: 5SS, G/5
(QR). Prizes: $75-1st + plaque, $50-2nd, $25-3rd. EF: $10. Reg.: 8-8:15am Sun-
day. Rds paired ASAP, ending by 9:30am. MCA SCHOLASTIC: 5SS, G/30.
Prizes: Trophies to top 3 in each section: HS, K-8, K-6, K-3. EF: $10 by 9/19,
$15 on site. Reg.: 9-10am Saturday. Rds.: 10:30/11:45/1:15/2:30/3:45.
Awards: 5:15pm.To receive Championship titles/plaques you must be a MO res-
ident. MCA memb. reqd except for MCA Scholastic & Bughouse, available on
site from $5, OSA. HR: $74.95/night, free Wi-Fi & Hot breakfast, 573-474-6161,
mention CHESS. Entries/Info: Thomas Rehmeier, 5217 Denice St., Jefferson
City, MO 65109. JCChess89@yahoo.com, 573-291-0852. WCL JGP for 2009
Missouri Open.

GOLD AFFILIATES GOLD & SILVER

Cajun Chess New Jersey State Chess Federation SPICE
7230 Chadbourne Drive c/o Roger Inglis Box 45080, Lubbock, TX 79409 AFFILIATES
New Orleans, LA 70126 49-A Mara Rd. 806-742-7742, SPICE@ttu.edu
504-208-9596 Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034 www.SPICE.ttu.edu GOLD
cajunchess@yahoo.com 973-263-8696, rwij@njoychess.com
www.cajunchess.com www.njscf.org Tri-State Chess Any affiliate that has submitted at least 50
288 Third Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215 USCF memberships during the current or
Chess Club and Scholastic North American Chess 1-888-CHESS-35 previous calendar year, or is the recognized
Center of St. Louis Association MKurtzman@TriStateChess.com, State Affiliate, is eligible to become a Gold
4657 Maryland Avenue 2516 North Waukegan Road www.TriStateChess.com Affiliate. Gold Affiliates are honored in a
St. Louis, MO 63108. 314-361-CHESS Suite 342,Glenview, IL 60025
special list in larger type in Tournament
info@stlouischessclub.org 888-80-CHESS, info@nachess.org Unity Chess Club
9375 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 100 Life each month, giving the affiliate name,
www.stlouischessclub.org www.nachess.org
Office 136, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 address, phone number, e-mail address,
Continental Chess PaperClip Pairings 480-949-5464 (KING) and website. Gold Affiliation costs $350 per
Association c/o J. Houghtaling Jr & Remy Ferrari info@unitychess.com, unitychess.com year, and existing affiliates may substract $3
PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, 6005 Forest Blvd for each month remaining on their regular
NY 12577. 845-496-9658 Brownsville, TX 78526 Western PA Youth Chess Club affiliation, or $20 for each month remaining
chesstour@aol.com 956-459-2421 Attn: Jerry Myers on their Silver Affiliation. As of August 6,
www.chesstour.com jejrhoughtaling@bisd.us 4101 Windsor Street 2007, by paying an annual payment of $500
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
En Passant Chess Club San Diego Chess Club (instead of $350), Gold Affiliate status may
412-422-1770
1301 North Shore Drive 2225 Sixth Avenue be obtained with no minimum requirement
catnipper99@yahoo.com
San Benito, TX 78586 San Diego, CA 92101 for memberships submitted.
www.youthchess.net
956-399-9724 619-239-7166
edguetzow@sbcglobal.net chucnglo@aol.com
http://sdchessclub.multiply.com
SILVER
Jersey Shore High School Any affiliate that has submitted at least 25
Chess League USCF memberships during the current or
PO Box 773, Lincroft, NJ 07738
previous calendar year, or is the recognized
jbart1517@yahoo.com
State Affiliate, is eligible to become a Silver
Affiliate. These affiliates will be recognized
in a special list in Tournament Life each
SILVER AFFILIATES month, giving the affiliate name, state, and
choice of either phone number, e-mail
Chess Center of New York (NY) Long Island Chess Nuts (NY) Orange Crush Chess Club (IN) address, or website. Silver Affiliation costs
www.chesscenter.cc 516-739-3907 akakarpov1@mw.net $150 per year, and existing affiliates may
subtract $3 for each month remaining on
Indiana State Chess Association Marshall Chess Club (NY) Sparta Chess Club (NJ)
their regular affiliation. As of August 6,
www.indianachess.org www.marshallchessclub.org www.spartachessclub.org
2007, by paying an annual payment of
International Chess Academy (NJ) Michigan Chess Association Renaissance Knights (IL) $250.00 (instead of $150), Silver Affiliate
www.icanj.net www.michess.org www.RKnights.org status may be obtained with no minimum
requirement for memberships submitted.
Oklahoma Chess Foundation
www.OKchess.org

56 Chess Life August 2009 uschess.org

Nevada
Aug. 22, 2009 Utah Amateur Championship (UT)
See Utah.
Oct. 23-25, 27th Annual Sands Regency Reno-Western States Open
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, 18th annual North American Open
See Grand Prix.
Jan. 15-18, 16-18 or 17-18, Golden State Open (Northern CA)
See Grand Prix.
New Hampshire
Aug. 22, Kopecs Camp - Brewster Academy Camp - NH Open
4SS, G/60. Brewster Academy, Wolfeboro, NH, Rt. 28. 2 sections: Open:
$$b/10 entries, 1st $150, 2nd $75, Top B $60. Reserve: (U1600/Unr.) $$b/10
entries, 1st $75 & trophy, top junior, C, D, E, and Unrated receive trophies, Kopec
Products. EF: $35 if received by 8/14, $40 if received after 8/14 through pay-
pal at www.kopecchess.com,$42 if paid at site. Reg.: 8:30-9:30 am. Rds.:
10-1-3:30-7 or Rds.: 10-2- Barbeque dinner at 6pm included in EF. Info:
Kopecs Chess Camp, 516-782-5285. E-Mail info: DrK2501@aol.com. Ents:
Kopecs Chess Services, 42 Hamilton Road, Merrick, NY 11566.
Sept. 5, New England Blitz Championship (QC)
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 5-7, 6-7 or 7, 69th New England Open
See Grand Prix.
New Jersey
Geller Quads - First Friday Every Month!
New Jersey Childrens Chess School, 862 DeGraw Ave.,
Forest Hill (Newark), NJ 07104. Open to K-8. 3 RR,
G/35. Reg.: 6PM. Rds.: 6:30-7:40-8:40PM. Chess classes
in NJCCS meet every Friday 6:30-9PM. Chess camp
Geller Kids meets July & August, day & overnight. Web-
site: www.kidschesscamp.com. Email: chesscamp@hot
mail.com. Phone: 973-483-7927.
The Newark Sleepless Knights Chess Club
Boylan Recreation Center of Newark, 916 So. Orange Ave., Newark, New Jer-
sey 07103. Meets 1st and 2nd Saturdays of every months from 2-6pm. USCF
rated tournaments and free chess lessons available.
Aug. 15, 2nd Annual Greater Pitman Open Chess Championship
See Grand Prix.
Aug. 16, Monmouth Chess School and Club August Swiss
4SS, G/30. 51 Monmouth St., Red Bank, NJ directions www.monmouthchess.
com. EF: $25/20 members. Prizes per entries OPEN, U1500, U1200, U900,
U600. Reg.: 12:00-12:45. Rds.: 1, 2:15, 3:30, 4:45. Info: learnchess@optonline.
net, 732-219-0916 Dr. Koblentz.. Boards/sets provided, bring your clocks!
Aug. 16, Westfield Swiss #60 (QC)
5 SS game/15 (QC) full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. Prizes:
$500 Guaranteed $125, $85, $50. U2100, U1850, U1600, U1350 $60 each.
Entrance Fee: $35, $25 members. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45-
3:25-4:05-4:45-5:30 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna www.westfieldchessclub.com.
Aug. 20, ATKM 3rd Thursday Quads
3 RR G/30 t/d5, Quads are grouped by rating. All the Kings Men Chess Shop,
62 S Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08071. Prizes: $25 1st per quad. Unrated cannot
win more than $10. EF: $12, $10 ATKMCC members. Unrated (i.e. players
with NO rating whatsoever, provisional or otherwise) $7, $5 ATKMCC members.
Reg.: 6:15 - 6:45 PM. Rds.: 7-8-9 pm. INFO: Stephen Dick, cs@ATKMchessSets.
com, 856-582-8222. All: Visa/MC/Disc OK w/$1 paid surcharge. Bring a clock!
Aug. 22, Hamilton Chess Club Quads
3RR 40/80 15/30 15/30. Full K. Ray Dwier Recreation Center, Bldg. 392,
Groveville, NJ 08620. Quads open to all EF: $10. $25 per Quad. Reg.: 9-
10:30/am. Rds.: 10:30/am-1:30/pm-4:30/pm NJ State Chess Federation, no
dues magazine Subscription per year, OSA NS NC W.
Aug. 23, ATKM 4th Sunday G/60 Quads/Swiss
For info. and registration, go to www.YourChessSet.com/quads4. For more info.
E-mail Stephen at cs@ATKMchessSets.com or call 856-582-8222.
Aug. 23, Garden State Quads
3RR 40/80 G/30. Full K. Prevention First, 1405 Route 35, Ocean, NJ 07712.
Quads open to all. EF: $20. 1st Place $50. Reg.: 9-10:00/am. Rds.: 10:00/am-
1:00/pm-4:00/pm. NS NC W. Info: Hal Sprechman 732 259-3881.
Aug. 23, Westfield Quads
3 RR game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. Prizes $50
to first in each section. Entry Fee: $20, $15 Members. Registration: 2-2:15
p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-946-7379,
www.westfieldchessclub.com.
Aug. 30, Kens Last Sunday Quads
Holiday Inn Express, Howard Boulevard, Mt. Arlington, NJ. Take exit #30 off
US Route #80. In 4 player Quads. G/90. Regs.: before 10am. First Round 10am,
then ASAP with lunch break. EF: $20, Prizes: Choice of $40 or Trophy & EF
refund. Current Chess students of Ken may play for half EF & half prize. Info:
Ken Thomas, acn@goes.com / cell 908-763-6468. NS NC W.
Aug. 30, Red Bank Open Championship
4SS G/30. 51 Monmouth St., Red Bank, NJ. EF: $25/20 members if received
by 8/27, on site 35/30. Prizes based on 30 entries: OPEN: $100, 50, 35;
U1600: $80, 40; U1300: $75, 35: U1000: $70, 30. Reg.: 12:00-12:45. Rds.: 1,
2:15, 3:30, 4:45. Boards/sets provided, bring clocks! Info: learnchess@
optonline.net, 732-219-0916. Mail checks to MCS&C, c/o Dr. Koblentz, 9 Rim-
wood Lane, Colts Neck, NJ 07722.
Aug. 30, Westfield Quads
3 RR game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. Prizes $50
to first in each section. Entry Fee: $20, $15 Members. Registration: 2-2:15
p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-946-7379,
www.westfieldchessclub.com.
uschess.org
A State Championship Event!
Sept. 5, New Jersey U1300 K-8 State Championship
Somerset Ramada Inn, 60 Cottontail Lane, Somerset, Exit 12 off I-287 at
Weston Canal Road. (732) 560-9880, Fax (732) 356-7455. In three rated & one
unrated Section. Hot Shots: U1300, Check Mates: U900 & Rising Stars: U500
& Chess Bandits: Unrated/Beginner event. (note-U200 may play in) All Sec-
tions: 5-SS, G/30, G$$ 100 to winner each section plusTrophies toTop 10, Others
get choice of chess medallions or grab bag prizes. Registration: Saturday 9/05,
11am-12pm. Rounds: 12:30pm, then ASAP with lunch break after round #2.
EF: $25 if mailed by 9/1 or paid online by 9/4 on website EntryFeesRus.com,
$35 at site. Early EF: Special Combined EF: Pay $69 for both Saturday K-8
and NJ Open (2-day) Sunday and Monday. Not available at site. Half-point bye
allowed in rounds 1-4 if requested with EF. August Rating supplement used. Mail
entries to: KenThomas, 115 West Moore Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07840-2233.
Checks payable to NJSCF. Indicate section desired and your grade level. Infor-
mation: Call 908-763-6468 or acn@goes.com. NS NC W.
Sept. 5-7 or 6-7, 2009 New Jersey State Championship
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 12, Garden State Scholastic
Prevention First, 1405 Route 35, Ocean, NJ 07712. Primary: open to K-3: 4 SS,
G/30.Trophies to 1st-5th place; Medals to all others. Scholastic Swiss: open
to K-12; 4 SS, G/30. Trophies to 1st - 5th place; Scholastic Quads: open to
K-12 G/60 Quads. Trophies to 1st and 2nd each quad. All EF: $15 if recd by
September 5th, $20 on site. Reg.: 9-9:45 am. Rds.: 10 and ASAP. Info: Hal
Sprechman, 732 259-3881, hsprechman@characterkings.org. Ent: Please
make checks payable to Character Kings and send to Hal Sprechman, P.O Box
1511, Jackson, NJ 08527. Please indicate section.
Sept. 13, Westfield Quads
3 RR game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. Prizes $50
to first in each section. Entry Fee: $20, $15 Members. Registration: 2-2:15
p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-946-7379,
www.westfieldchessclub.com.
Sept. 17, ATKM 3rd Thursday Quads
3 RR G/30 t/d5, Quads are grouped by rating. All the Kings Men Chess Shop,
62 S Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08071. Prizes: $25 1st per quad. Unrated cannot
win more than $10. EF: $12, $10 ATKMCC members. Unrated (i.e. players
with NO rating whatsoever, provisional or otherwise) $7, $5 ATKMCC members.
Reg.: 6:15 - 6:45 PM. Rds.: 7-8-9 pm. INFO: Stephen Dick, cs@ATKMchess
Sets.com, 856-582-8222. All: Visa/MC/Disc OK w/$1 paid surcharge. Bring a
clock!
Sept. 19, Jersey Shore K-12 Regionals
The Academy at Grace and Peace, 1563 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River, NJ
08755. All Sections open to K-12. Section A: U500, Section B: 500-1000,
Section C: 1000-1500, Section D: 1500+. Section A, B, C 4SS, G/30. Sec-
tion D: 3 Rounds, G/60. Trophies to Top 5 in each section, Medals to all
others. EF: $25 if recd by 9/12, $30 on site. Reg.: 9:00-9:45 AM. Rds.: 10:00
AM and ASAP. Info: John Burke, 732-714-1544 or johnpburke@yahoo.com. Ent:
Make checks payable toThe Academy at Grace and Peace. Please indicate USCF
ID# and section.
Sept. 20, Westfield Fall Scholastic
Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. 4 sections: k-12 full k Open, U1250,
U750, unrated. Open Section: 3 SS game/45. Trophies to top five players in
each section. Entrance fee: $20, $15 members at site $30, $25 members. Reg-
istration: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45 - 4:15- 6:00. U 1250: 4 SS game/30.
Trophies to top five players in each section. Entrance fee: $20, $15 members
at site $30, $25 members. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45-4:00-5:15-
6:30p.m. U750: 4 SS game/30. Trophies to top five players in each section.
Entrance fee: $20, $15 members, at site $30, $25 members. Registration: 2-
2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45-4:00-5:15-6:30 p.m. Tiebreaks for trophies. Unrated
section: 3 SS, k-2, 3-5, 6-12. $5 registration, 2-2:30 p.m. Gold medal to first,
Silver medal to second, Bronze medal to third. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m.
Rounds: 2:45-4:00-5:15 p.m. Todd Lunna, 732-946-7379. lunnaco@aol.com,
www.westfieldchessclub.com. Send advance entries to: Todd Lunna, 36
Maple Drive, Colts Neck, New Jersey 07722, by Sept. 17.
Sept. 26, 3rd Annual Greater Pocono Scholastic Championships (PA)
4SS, G/45. Pocono Mountain East HS, 200 Pocono Mountain School Rd., Swift-
water, PA 18370. Sections: K-12 U/1000, K-12 Champ. EF: $20 online by
9/23; $30 on-site 9:00-9:30. Rds.: 10:30-12:30-2:00-3:30. Prizes: trophies to
top individuals & schools. Free game analysis by NM Adam Weissbarth. See
www.silverknightschess.com to register.
Sept. 27, ATKM 4th Sunday G/60 Quads/Swiss
For info. and registration, go to www.YourChessSet.com/quads4. For more info.
E-mail Stephen at cs@ATKMchessSets.com or call 856-582-8222.
FOREIGN RATING?
NOT UNRATED!
If you have no USCF rating, but do have
a rating or category from any other coun-
try, no matter how many years ago, you
are not unrated.
If you have a FIDE rating, you are also not
unrated.
Tell the Director of any event you enter
about your foreign rating or category or
your FIDE rating, so that you can be
paired appropriately.
Chess Life August 2009 57
 Tournament Life
Sept. 27, Garden State Quads
3RR 40/80 G/30. Full K. Prevention First, 1405 Route 35, Ocean, NJ 07712.
Quads open to all. EF: $20. 1st Place $50. Reg.: 9-10:00/am. Rds.: 10:00/am-
1:00/pm-4:00/pm NS NC W. Info: Hal Sprechman 732-259-3881.
Sept. 27, Kens Last Sunday Quads
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING AUGUST 1-14
Holiday Inn Express, Howard Boulevard, Mt. Arlington, NJ. Take exit #30 off
US Route #80. In 4 player Quads. G/90. Regs.: before 10am. First Round 10am,
then ASAP with lunch break. EF: $20, Prizes: Choice of $40 or Trophy & EF
refund. Current Chess students of Ken may play for half EF & half prize. Info:
Ken Thomas, acn@goes.com / cell 908-763-6468. NS NC W.
Sept. 27, Westfield Swiss #61
5 SS game/15 (QC) full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ. Prizes:
$500 Guaranteed $125, $85, $50. U2100, U1850, U1600, U1350 $60 each.
Entrance Fee: $35, $25 Members. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m. Rounds: 2:45-
3:25-4:05-4:45-5:30 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna www.westfieldchessclub.com.
Oct. 3, ATKM 1st Saturday Kids G/30 Swiss (K-8)
For info. and registration, go to YourChessSet.com/KidsSwiss. For more info
e-mail Stephen at cs@ATKMchessSets.com or call 856-582-8222.
Oct. 17, Jersey Shore K-12 Regionals
The Academy at Grace and Peace, 1563 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River, NJ
08755. All Sections open to K-12. Section A: U500, Section B: 500-1000,
Section C: 1000-1500, Section D: 1500+. Section A, B, C 4SS, G/30. Sec-
tion D: 3 Rounds, G/60. Trophies to Top 5 in each section, Medals to all
others. EF: $25 if recd by 10/10, $30 on site. Reg.: 9:00-9:45 AM. Rds.:
10:00 AM and ASAP. Info: John Burke, 732-714-1544 or johnpburke@yahoo.com.
Ent: Make checks payable to The Academy at Grace and Peace. Please indi-
cate USCF ID# and section.
Oct. 25, Kens Last Sunday Quads
Holiday Inn Express, Howard Boulevard, Mt. Arlington, NJ. Take exit #30 off
US Route #80. In 4 player Quads. G/90. Regs.: before 10am. First Round 10am,
then ASAP with lunch break. EF: $20, Prizes: Choice of $40 or Trophy & EF
refund. Current Chess students of Ken may play for half EF & half prize. Info:
Ken Thomas, acn@goes.com / cell 908-763-6468. NS NC W.
Nov. 14, Jersey Shore K-12 Regionals
The Academy at Grace and Peace, 1563 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River, NJ
08755. All Sections open to K-12. Section A: U500, Section B: 500-1000,
Section C: 1000-1500, Section D: 1500+. Section A, B, C 4SS, G/30. Sec-
tion D: 3 Rounds, G/60. Trophies to Top 5 in each section, Medals to all
others. EF: $25 if recd by 11/7, $30 on site. Reg.: 9:00-9:45 AM. Rds.: 10:00
AM and ASAP. Info: John Burke, 732-714-1544 or johnpburke@yahoo.com. Ent:
Make checks payable toThe Academy at Grace and Peace. Please indicate USCF
ID# and section.
Nov. 29, Kens Last Sunday Quads
Holiday Inn Express, Howard Boulevard, Mt. Arlington, NJ. Take exit #30 off
US Route #80. In 4 player Quads. G/90. Regs.: before 10am. First Round 10am,
then ASAP with lunch break. EF: $20, Prizes: Choice of $40 or Trophy & EF
refund. Current Chess students of Ken may play for half EF & half prize. Info:
Ken Thomas, acn@goes.com / cell 908-763-6468. NS NC W.
58 Chess Life August 2009
New Mexico
Aug. 22, 2009 Utah Amateur Championship (UT)
See Utah.
A State Championship Event!
Sept. 5, New Mexico Speed Chess State Championship (QC)
Sponsored by the Wired Kings CC and the New Mexico Chess Organization. Main
Library, 501 Copper, NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102. W. Community Room (lower
level) 7-DSS G/5 $10 Entry Fee - No Onsite Entries. One section. Prizes: $$b/40:
$150-$50-$25; 1st U1500, U1200 all $25. No byes allowed - Entries must be
received by 9/2/09. USCF membership required but not available on site.
N/S - No food or beverage on site. Check In: 10:00. Rds.: 10:30, 11:00,
11:30, 12:00, 1:30, 2:00, 2:30. Checks payable to Chad Schneider, 12004
Prospect Ave., NE, Albuq., NM 87112. Info: Chad Schneider (505)550-4654.
WiredKingsCC@gmail.com. Website: http://wiredkingscc.blogspot.com.
Sept. 12, Santa Fe Open
4/SS G/60, Santa Fe Womens Club, 1616 Old PecosTrail, Santa Fe. EF: $15.00,
$5 discount each addl family member after one full price entry. Sections: OPEN,
U1700, U1400, U1100. Rds.: 9-11:30-2:30 -5:00. Prize fund: $500 b/60. One
1/2 pt bye request before 1st Rd pairing. Mail Reg. must be received by 9/10,
checks payable to: NMCO, P.O. Box 4215, Albuquerque, NM 87196. On Site reg.
8-8:30, late fee $5. Info & entry form, directions with map: nmchess.org.
New York
Aug. 15, New York Summer Game/45!
See Grand Prix.
Aug. 16, Binghamton Monthly Tourney
4 Round SS, Game/60, REG.: 8:45 to 9:00 AM. ENTRY: $35. Cash only at site.
(Checks payable to: Cordiscos Corner Store) ROUNDS: 9:15-11:45-2:15-4:30.
PRIZES: 1st $175 -2nd $75 -3rd $30. Trophies 1st - 3rd. Under 1700 1st $40 -
2nd $20.Trophies 1st - 3rd. Guaranteed. Please bring clocks. Cordiscos Chess
Center, 308 Chenango St., Binghamton, NY 13901. (607) 772-8782. jcordisco@
stny.rr.com.
Aug. 16, NEW Sunday Sliding Scale Quads!
3-RR, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St., NYC: 212-477-
3716. EF: Master $35, Expert $30, A $25, U1800 $20. $$ (all EFs returned less
$36 per quad). Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds. 7:30-8:30-9:30. NO FREE ENTRIES!!
No phone entry!
Aug. 16, NY Summer Under 1800!
4-SS, G/50, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave.,
NYC: 845-569-9969. EF $40, Club members $30, $5 less if also entering 8/15
Summer G/45, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. Online
entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 8/13. $$ (480 b/32 paid entries): 150-
100-50, top U1600 $95, top U1400 $85. Limit 2 byes, commit by 2 pm. Reg. ends
15 min before game. Rds. 12-2-4-6 pm. CCA Ratings may be used. $10 extra
to enter by phone!
Aug. 17-Sept. 21, Marshall CC Under-1600 Monday Swiss
5SS, G/90. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300
b/20: $120-70-50, U1300 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Monday. Byes
ok, limit 2, request by rd. 3. No game September 7 (Labor Day).
Aug. 18, St. Johns Masters at the Marshall Chess Club
See Grand Prix.
Aug. 20, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC:
212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20,
specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-100-
50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by
8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:15-
9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under
10 min. before game.
Aug. 22, Marshall CC Saturday G/60
4SS, G/60. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($360 b/24) $120-
70-50, 1700-1999/unr $60, U1700 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.:
11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. Note: Only one bye available, request at entry.
Aug. 22-23, 30th Townsend Cup
See Connecticut.
Aug. 23, Grandmaster Challenge (QC)
See Grand Prix.
Aug. 23, Studio August Quad
3RR Game in 2. Reg.: 9:00 am Rds.: 10-2-6. Studio of Bridge and Games, 1639
Eastern Pkwy., Schenectady, NY 12309-6011.
Aug. 27, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC:
212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20,
specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-100-
50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by
8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:15-
9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under
10 min. before game.
Aug. 29, Syracuse Monthly Open
4SS, Rds 1 & 2 G/60, Rds. 3 & 4 G/90. Courtyard by Marriot, 6415 Yorktown
Circle, E. Syracuse (exit 35 I-90, Carrier Circle, 298 E, left at Holiday Inn).
$(b/14): $100-50, Class: $30. Reg.: 8:30-9:15, Rds.: 9:30-12-2:15-5:30. EF: $30.
Ent: Joe Ball, 310 Helfer Lane, Mineola, NY 13116. WCL JGP for rds. 3 & 4.
Aug. 29-30 or 30, Marshall CC August GP!
See Grand Prix.
Aug. 31, 19th Nassau G/10 (QC)
7SS, G/10, 1st Presbyterian Church, 1st & Main Sts., Mineola. EF: $20 by 8/24,
$27 at site, non-memb $5 more. $$ (400 b/25) 100, U2100, 1900, 1700, 1500,
1300/UR 60 each. 3 byes 1-7. Reg to 7:15 PM. Rds.: 7:15-7:45-8:15-8:45-9:15-
9:45-10:15. Rule 14H not used. Sept ratings used. Ent: Harold Stenzel, 80 Amy
Dr., Sayville, NY 11782 captnhal@optonline.net.
uschess.org
Sept. 1, Marshall CC New York Experts
Open to U2200. 4SS, G/30. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF:
$40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1800 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45.
Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. One bye available, request at entry.
Sept. 3, 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight!
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 3, 14th Annual Chess Center Thursday End-of-Summer
Scholastic Novice!
4-SS, G/30, age 17/below, Under 1400 or unrated, Marshall Chess Club, 23 W.
10 St., bet. 5-6th Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. EF: $20, Club members $10.Trophies:
top 4, top Unr. Reg. by 12:45 pm. Rds. 1-2:30-3:45-5 pm. Limit 2 byes, commit
by 2:30. No advance entries. Phone entry often impossible!
Sept. 4-7, 5-7 or 6-7, 131st annual NY State Championship
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 5, Marshall CC Saturday G/60
4SS, G/60. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($360 b/24) $120-
70-50, 1700-1999/unr $60, U1700 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.:
11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. Note: Only one bye available, request at entry.
Sept. 6, Marshall CC Sunday Action
5SS, G/30, Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members
$20. ($$ 360 b/24): 120-70-50, U2200/unr $65, U2000 $55. Rds.: 12-1:30-2:45-
4-5:20pm. One bye available, request at entry.
Sept. 6, The Chess Exchange Monthly Trophy Quads
3-RR, G/30,The Chess Exchange: Chess & Games Club, 288Third Ave., Between
Carroll and President, Brooklyn, 718-645-5896. EF: $15 $$: Trophies to top 2
in each quad. Reg.: ends 10 minutes before rd. 1. Rds.: 3-4:15-5:30.
Sept. 9 - Oct. 7, Marshall CC Under-2000 Wednesday Swiss
5SS, 30/90, SD/60. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20.
$$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1700 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Wednes-
day. Byes ok, limit 2, request by round 3.WCL JGP.
Sept. 10, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC:
212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20,
specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-100-
50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by
8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:15-
9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under
10 min. before game.
Sept. 10-Oct. 15, FIDE Thursdays!!
6SS, G/120. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open to all players rated
1600 or above. EF: $50, $30 members. $$500 b/20: $175-125-100, U2000 $100;
2 byes OK, commit before Round 4. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm eachThursday;
FIDE Rated. WCL JGP.
Sept. 12, Jenifer Woods Memorial Grand Prix
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 12, NY September Under 1600!
4-SS, G/50, open to U1600 or unr., Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23
W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. EF $40, Club members $25,
specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. May be limited to 1st 26
entries. $$ (300 b/20 paid): 150-70-30, top U1300 $50, $70 limit to unr. Limit
2 byes, commit by 2:30. Reg. ends 15 min before game. Rds. 12:30-2:30-4:30-
6:30 pm. CCA Ratings may be used. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru
9/10. $10 extra to enter by phone! Sept. 20, Grandmaster Challenge (QC)
Sept. 12, Prove Your Point!
3-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St., NYC: 212-477-
3716. EF $20. 3-0 wins $40, 2.5 wins $20, 2 wins $10. Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds.
7:30-8:30-9:30.
Sept. 12, Utica Four Seasons Summer
4SS Rds. 1-2: G/60, Rds. 3-4: G/90. Mohawk Valley Community College, Exit
31, I-90, bear left, South on E. Genesee, (2.6 miles), left on Memorial Highway
(2.3 miles), left Sherman, right into MVCC, IT Building (not Cafeteria Room 16).
EF: $30. Prizes (b/20): $200, 125, 75, Class 100. Reg.: 8:30-9:15. Rds.: 9:30-
12:00-2:15-5:30. Ent: Joe Ball, 310 Helfer Lane, Minoa, NY 13116.WCL JGP
for rds. 3 & 4.
Sept. 12-13 or 13, NY September Under 2300!
4-SS, 30/90, SD/1, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St., bet
5-6 Ave., NYC: 845-569-9969. EF $40, Club members $25, specified Greater NY
Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-100-50, top U2000 $95,
U1800 $85. Reg. ends 15 min. before game. 2 schedules: 2-day, rds 12:30-5:30
pm each day; 1-day, (rds 1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun; both merge
rd 3. Limit 2 byes, commit by rd 2. Re-entry $20, counts half. Class pairings OK
rd 4. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 9/10. $10 extra to enter
by phone! WCL JGP.
Sept. 12-Oct. 3, 3rd Farmingdale CC Sept. Swiss
4SS, G/140. Farmingdale Public Library, 116 Merritts Rd., Farmingdale, NY 11735.
Open to all U-2300/unr.: $(b/20): $105-85.Top U-1800, U-1500 $55 each. EF:
$20. Reg.: 9:15-9:45 AM. No adv. ent. Rds.: 10:00 AM SHARP each Saturday.
2 byes 1-4. Info: www.farmcc.webs.com. NS, W.
Sept. 13, NEW Sunday Sliding Scale Quads!
3-RR, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St., NYC: 212-477-
3716. EF: Master $35, Expert $30, A $25, U1800 $20. $$ (all EFs returned less
$36 per quad). Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds. 7:30-8:30-9:30. NO FREE ENTRIES!!
No phone entry!
Sept. 15, St. Johns Masters at the Marshall Chess Club
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 17, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC:
212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20,
specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-100-
50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by
8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:15-
9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under
10 min. before game.
Sept. 19, Marshall CC Saturday G/60
4SS, G/60. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($360 b/24)
$120-70-50, 1700-1999/unr $60, U1700 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.:
11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. Note: Only one bye available, request at entry.
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 24, 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight!
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 26, New York Indian Summer Game/45!
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 27, NEW Sunday Sliding Scale Quads!
3-RR, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St., NYC: 212-477-
3716. EF: Master $35, Expert $30, A $25, U1800 $20. $$ (all EFs returned less
$36 per quad). Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds. 7:30-8:30-9:30. NO FREE ENTRIES!!
No phone entry!
Sept. 27, NY Indian Summer Under 1800!
4-SS, G/50, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave.,
NYC: 845-569-9969. EF $40, Club members $30, $10 less if also entering 9/26
Indian Summer G/45, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free.
Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 9/24. $$ (480 b/32 paid entries):
150-100-50, top U1600 $95, top U1400 $85. Limit 2 byes, commit by 2 pm. Reg.
ends 15 min before game. Rds. 12-2-4-6 pm. CCA Ratings may be used. $10
extra to enter by phone!
Sept. 28-Oct. 26, Marshall CC Under-1600 Monday Swiss
5SS, G/90. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20. $$300
b/20: $120-70-50, U1300 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Monday. Byes
ok, limit 2, request by rd. 3. WCL JGP.
Oct. 1, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC:
212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20,
specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-100-
50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by
8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:15-
9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under
10 min. before game.
Oct. 3, 14th Annual Arkport Open
See Grand Prix.
Oct. 3, Prove Your Point!
3-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St., NYC: 212-477-
3716. EF $20. 3-0 wins $40, 2.5 wins $20, 2 wins $10. Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds.
7:30-8:30-9:30.
Oct. 3-4 or 4, New York October Open!
See Grand Prix.

CHECK OUT USCFS CORRESPONDENCE CHESS RATED EVENTS

USCFs 62nd ANNUAL USCFs 6th ANNUAL

2009 Open Correspondence Chess 2009 E-mail Correspondence Chess
Golden Knights Championship Electronic Knights Championship
$1,000 First Prize (Seven-player sections, one game with each of six opponents.)
(plus title of USCFs Golden Knights Champion and plaque) $700 First Prize
2nd place $600 3rd place $400 4th place $300 5th place (plus title of USCFs Electronic Knights Champion and plaque)
$200 6th thru 10th place $100 each. Entry fee: $25. 2nd place $400 3rd place $300 4th thru 10th place $100
The entry deadline is November 30, 2009. each. Entry fee: $25.
These USCF Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all USCF The entry deadline is November 30, 2009.
members who reside on the North American continent, islands, or Hawaii, These USCF Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all USCF
as well as those USCF members with an APO or FPO address. USCF members with e-mail access. Your USCF membership must remain
members who reside outside of the North American continent are welcome current for the duration of the event, and entry fees must be paid in U.S.
to participate in e-mail events. Your USCF membership must remain dollars.
current for the duration of the event, and entry fees must be paid in U.S. Maximum number of tournament entries allowed for the year for each
dollars. Those new to USCF Correspondence Chess, please estimate your player is ten.
strength: Class A: 1800-1999 (very strong); Class B: 1600-1799 (strong); Note: Prize fund based on 200 entries and may be decreased propor-
Class C: 1400-1599 (intermediate); Class D: 1399 and below (beginner level).
tionately per number of entries assigned.
Note: Prize fund based on 300 entries and may be decreased proportion-
ately per number of entries assigned.

Correspondence Chess Matches (two players)
$5 entry fee per person with two, four or six-
game options.
Win A Correspondence Chess Trophy
Four-player, double round-robin with class-level
pairings. 1st-place winner receives a trophy.
Entry fee: $10.
Victor Palciauskas Prize Tournaments
Seven-player class-level pairings, one game with
each of six opponents. Players must have a USCF
CC rating to enter. 1st-place winner receives
$130 cash prize and a certificate signed by Victor
Palciauskas.
Entry fee: $25.
John W. Collins Memorial Class Tournaments
Four-player, double round-robin with class-level
pairings (unrateds welcome). 1st-place winner
receives a John W. Collins certificate.
Entry fee: $7.
E-mail Rated Events (need e-mail access):
Lightning Match Two players with two, four or To Enter: 800903USCF (8723), Fax 9317871200
six-game option. Entry fee $5 per person. or on-line www.uschess.org
Swift Quads Four-player, double round-robin
Name_________________________________________
format. 1st-place prize merchandise credit of $30.
Entry fee: $10. USCF ID# ____________________________________
Walter Muir E-Quads (webserver chess) Address ________________ City _________________
Four-player, double round-robin e-mail format
tournament with class-level pairings. 1st-place State ___ ZIP __________Phone _________________
receives a certificate.
Entry fee: $7. E-mail___________________ Est. Rating _________
Credit card # (VISA, MC, Discover, AMEX)
Express Tournament
Seven-player events, one game with each of six __________________________ Exp. date __________
opponents.
Prizes: 1st place $30 merchandise credit, 2nd If using VISA, need V-code ___________________
place $20 credit.
Entry fee: $15. Check here if you do not wish to have an
Please circle event(s) selected.
opponent who is incarcerated. *Note: This may
slow down your assignment.
NOTE: Except for Lightning Matches, Swift Quads,
Walter Muir E-Quads, Electronic Knights & Express
Tournaments, players will use post office mail, Make checks payable to U.S. Chess and mail to: Joan
unless opponents agree to use e-mail. DuBois, USCF , PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557

uschess.org Chess Life August 2009 59

 Tournament Life
Oct. 4, The Chess Exchange Monthly Trophy Quads
3-RR, G/30,The Chess Exchange: Chess & Games Club, 288Third Ave., Between
Carroll and President, Brooklyn, 718-645-5896. EF: $15 $$: Trophies to top 2
in each quad. Reg.: ends 10 minutes before rd. 1. Rds.: 3-4:15-5:30.
Oct. 6, Marshall CC New York Experts
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING AUGUST 1-14
Open to U2200 4SS, G/30. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF:
$40, members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1800 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.:
7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. One bye available, request at entry.
Oct. 8, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC:
212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20,
specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-100-
50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by
8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:15-
9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under
10 min. before game.
Oct. 9-Dec. 4, 2009 Queens Chess Club Championship
See Grand Prix.
Oct. 10-11 or 11, Marshall CC October U2300
4SS, 30/90, SD1; Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $45,
Members $25. ($360 b/24) $120-70-50, U2000/unr $65, U1700 $55. Reg.: ends
12:15 pm. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2-day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day; 1-day, (rds
1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun; both merge rd 3. Limit 2 byes,
request at entry. NO RE-ENTRY. May be limited to first 60 players. WCL JGP.
Oct. 14-Nov. 11, Marshall CC Under-2000 Wednesday Swiss
5SS, 30/90, SD/60. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20.
$$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1700 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Wednes-
day. Byes ok, limit 2, request by round 3. WCL JGP.
Oct. 23-25 or 24-25, Cleveland Open (OH)
See Grand Prix.
North Carolina
Sept. 11-13 or 12-13, 2009 North Carolina Class Championship
See Grand Prix.
Ohio
Aug. 22, House of Chess Open
4SS, G/45 House of Chess, Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, OH (W of JC
Penny). Sections: Open, U1600. Reg.: 11-11:25 AM. Rds.: 11:30-1:15-3:30-
5:15. Prizes (b/25): Open 1st: $200, 2nd $100; U1900 1st $100;
Reserve(U1600): 1st $100 Ent: $25, Club members $20. Info & entries: House
of Chess, Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, OH 44070. Phone: (440) 979-
1133. E-mail: info@houseofchess.com. Web www.thehouseofchess.com/.
Sept. 5-7, 65th Ohio Chess Congress
See Grand Prix.
60 Chess Life August 2009
A State Championship Event!
Sept. 12, Ohio Senior Championship
Open to anyone born before 1960. 2 sections, Open and U1600. 4SS, Rnd 1 G/75,
Rnds 2-4 G/90. The University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Mulford
Library Basement Caf, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, Ohio 43614. See web site
for campus map: www.toledochess.org/ EF: $30 by 9/10 $35 at site, $2 off
for OCA members. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $1000 b/30, $200-
150-100, 1st Class A ,B, $100, 1st U1600 $150, 1st Class C,D/under, $100.Trophy
to Open and U1600 winners. Ent: Jonathan Doran, 4120 Walker Ave., Toledo,
OH 43612. 419-350-1971. E-mail: admin@toledochess.org.
Sept. 12, Toledo Sep Swiss
Open, 4SS, Rnd 1 G/75, Rnds 2-4 G/90.The University ofToledo Health Science
Campus, Mulford Library Basement Caf, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, Ohio
43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF: $20 by 9/10 $25 at site.
Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360 b/20, $100-50, 1st Class A
,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd.,
Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450. WCL JGP.
Oct. 10, Toledo Oct Swiss
Open, 4SS, Rnd 1 G/75, Rnds 2-4 G/90.The University ofToledo Health Science
Campus, Mulford Library Basement Caf, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, Ohio
43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF: $20 by 10/8 $25 at site.
Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360 b/20, $100-50, 1st Class A
,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd.,
Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450
Oct. 23-25 or 24-25, Cleveland Open
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 13-15 or 14-15, 18th Annual Kings Island Open
See Grand Prix.
Oklahoma
Aug. 15, Oklahoma Quick Chess Championship (QC)
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 5-7, 1st U.S. Womens Open
See Nationals.
Sept. 5-7, 2009 U.S. Senior Open
See Nationals.
Sept. 5-7, 5th Okie Chess Festival (GPP: 20 for Okie Open only)
See Grand Prix.
Pennsylvania
Every 2nd Saturday. Allentown 2nd Saturday Quads
3RR, G/40. St. Lukes Ev. Luth. Church, 417 N. 7th St.,
Allentown, PA 18102. Quads open to all. EF: $12.
$$24/quad. Reg.: 12-1, Rds.: 1:15-2:45-4:15. No adv.
ent. Info: 610-433-6518. Other rated events every week!
North Penn Chess Club
Main & Richardson, Lansdale, PA. See www.npchess
club.org for schedules & info or call 215-699-8418.
Every 1st Saturday Lehigh Valley Super Quads
3-RR, St James Church, 11th & Tilghman Sts., Allentown, PA 18102. EF: $10.
$30 Perfect Score, else $25 1st. Reg.: 12:30-1:15. Rds.: 1:30-3-4:30. Info: 610-
821-4320, bdavis@lehighvalleychess.org, www.lehighvalleychess.org/.
Aug. 21, Friday Night Action #8
4SS, G/30. Bryn Mawr Community Center, 9 S. Bryn Mawr Ave., Bryn Mawr, PA
19010. Sections: Open, U/1400. EF: $30 online; $15 for players under 18; $10
more on-site 6:30-6:45. Open to first 40 players who register. Rds.: 7:00,
then ASAP. Prizes: $100 guaranteed 1st, others per entries. See
www.silverknightschess.com to register.
Aug. 22, 2009 Lehigh Valley LVCA Aug Championship
See Grand Prix.
Aug. 22, 2009 LVCA Scholastic K-12 Championship
(10 Trophies) 5-SS, G/30. EF: $30, $35 CASH ONLY after 8/19/09 AT SITE.Tro-
phys to 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, Top U1400, U1200, U1000, U800, U600, UNR, FREE
ENTRY TO UNRATEDS, if paying 1 year USCF Dues, Free Door Prizes, Coffee
& Donuts. Rds.: 10-11:30-12:45-2-3:30. Reg.: ends 9:30am. Site: St. James
Church, 11th & Tilghman Sts., Allentown, PA 18102. Ent: Mail to - Bruce
Davis, 1208 Linden St., Bethlehem, PA 18018, Ph. 610-625-0467, E-mail:
bdavis@lehighvalleychess.org. Info: www.lehighvalleychess.org/.
A Heritage Event!
Aug. 30, 33rd Pittsburgh Summer Open
3SS, G/90. Pittsburgh Chess Club, 5604 Solway St., Suite 209, Pittsburgh, PA
15217. EF: $28 by 8/25, $38 later. $3 discount to PCC members. Players
organized into Octos (8-player sections) by ratings. Last section may have more
than 8. Late entries receive 0-point byes and are placed in last section. $$ 100-
50 to each section. Reg.: 9-9:45am. Rds.: 10-1:30-5. Info: 412-421-1881,
www.pittsburghcc.org. Ent: Attn: Clyde Kapinos, Pittsburgh Chess Club, 5604
Solway St., Suite 209, Pittsburgh, PA 15217. Make checks payable to Pittsburgh
Chess Club. NS, NC, W.
Sept. 5, W.Chester 1st Sat. Quads
Our 20th Year! 3RR, 40/80,sd/30. United Methodist Church, 129 S. High St., West
Chester, PA. EF: $20; every tenth quad free $$40, $50 for 3-0, $5 for 3rd rd win
if not 3-0. Reg.: 9am; Rds.: 9:30,1,4:30. Info: Jim White 484-678-3164.
Sept. 12, Lackawanna County Open
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 13, 50th Pittsburgh Chess League
30/90, SD/1. Wm Pitt Union, Univ. of Pitt., 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA 15213.
Monthly 4-player team event from Sept. to Apr. EF: $50/team by 9/10. Rds.:
2pm. Ent/Info: Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223-2245,
martinak_tom_m@hotmail.com, www.pitt.edu/~schach/ W.
Sept. 13, MasterMinds CC 2nd Sunday Summer Quads
Blair Christian Academy, Philadelphia, Pa., 220 W. Upsal St. Quads: 3RR,
uschess.org

40/80, SD/30. EF: $20 Perfect score winner $60 else $50. Rds.: 10-2-5. Reg.
ends 9:30am. Info: Bradley Crable, 215-844-3881, www.mastermindschess.org.
Sept. 19, Allentown School Days Swiss
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 26, 3rd Annual Greater Pocono Scholastic Championships
4SS, G/45. Pocono Mountain East HS, 200 Pocono Mountain School Rd., Swift-
water, PA 18370. Sections: K-12 U/1000, K-12 Champ. EF: $20 online by
9/23; $30 on-site 9:00-9:30. Rds.: 10:30-12:30-2:00-3:30. Prizes: trophies to
top individuals & schools. Free game analysis by NM Adam Weissbarth. See
www.silverknightschess.com to register.
Oct. 4, 2009 PA State Game/60 Championship
See Grand Prix.
Oct. 10-12, 50th Annual U.S. Armed Forces Open
See Nationals.
Oct. 11, PCL October Quick Quads (QC)
3RR, G/15. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA
15213. EF: $10, $7 juniors. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am. Rds.: 11:30am-
Noon-12:30pm. Info: martinak_tom_m@hotmail.com. 412-908-0286. W.
Nov. 27-29 or 28-29, 40th annual National Chess Congress
See Grand Prix.
Rhode Island
Cranston-Warwick CC Monthly
Every Tuesday. 4SS, 40/75, SD/30. Garden City Center, Cranston. EF: $3/game
(club mbrs: $2/game). Reg.: 6:30-6:50pm; email preferred. Rds.: 1st 4 Tues-
days of the month, 7pm sharp! 5thTuesday extra rated games and events. One
bye rd 1-3; if notified in advance. Prizes based on entries. Info: www.cran
stonchess.org, 401-575-1520. WCL JGP.
Tennessee
Aug. 22, 17th Battle of Murfreesboro
See Grand Prix.
Texas
Aug. 22-23, Summer Slammer
Hornbeak Bldg, 2nd floor, 4450 Medical Dr., San Antonio, TX 78229. 7-SS,
G/60. $$1,100 b/40: $250-150; A, B, U1600, U1400/unr. ea. $100-$75. EF:
$30 if recd by 8/20, $35 at site. Junior (18/under) or Senior (65+) entry (count
Virginia
Aug. 7, 14, 21, Arlington Chess Club Friday Night USCF Rating
Ladder
30/90 SD/1. Lyon Village Community House, 1920 N Highland Rd., Arlington,
VA. Player with most monthly points - $50 and most total points March -
December wins $100. Must Join Club to play ($50 Adult, $40 U18) check web
to make sure we are open each week - members.cox.net/arlingtonchessclub/-
ladder.htm. Ladder has been running for over 45 years, now win money too!
Contact: Adam Chrisney for info: Chrisney2@gmail.com. No advance entries,
sign up for ladder weekly by 8pm, games start 8:15pm. Future monthly events
will appear a month in advance here. WCL JGP.
Aug. 15, 2009 Bill Bochman Memorial
See Grand Prix.
Aug. 28-30 or 29-30, 41st annual Atlantic Open (DC)
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 4, VA Closed Friday Night Blitz (QC)
Event is open to all USCF members, not just VA residents. Same location as VA
Closed. 4 or 5-DblSS depending on number of players. EF: $25 if received by
Sep 1, $35 thereafter and at door.Two sections, Open and Amateur (U1800).
$$500 b/30 paid entries. Rd 1 at 7:30 PM. Ent: Mail with payment to Mike Hoff-
pauir, ATTN: VA Closed, 405 Hounds Chase, Yorktown, VA 23693. Checks to
VIRGINIA CHESS. Info: e-mail mhoffpauir@aol.com, 757-846-4805 or
www.vachess.org/2009closed.htm. W, NS, NC.
Sept. 4, 11, 18, 25, Arlington Chess Club Friday Night USCF Rating
Ladder
30/90 SD/1. Lyon Village Community House, 1920 N. Highland Rd., Arlington,
VA. Player with most monthly points - $50 and most total points March -
December wins $100. Must Join Club to play ($50 Adult, $40 U18) check web
to make sure we are open each week - members.cox.net/arlingtonchessclub/-
ladder.htm. Ladder has been running for over 45 years, now win money too!
Contact: Adam Chrisney for info: Chrisney2@gmail.com No advance entries,
sign up for ladder weekly by 8pm, games start 8:15pm. Future monthly events
will appear a month in advance here. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event!
A State Championship Event!
Sept. 5-7, 73rd Annual Virginia Closed State Championship
6-SS, 30/90, SD/1. Hilton Garden Inn Richmond-Innsbrook, 4050 Cox Rd.,
Glen Allen, VA (804) 521-2900. Conveniently located just off I-295. Ask for chess
rate and mention the tournament. Reserve before 8/15 for chess rate
(http://hiltongardeninn.hilton.com). Open to VA residents, military stationed
NC. Event honors the VA Tech students who died in the campus shootings of
April 16, 2007.
Nov. 27-29 or 28-29, 40th annual National Chess Congress (PA)
See Grand Prix.
West Virginia
Aug. 23, 17th Annual Parkersburg Homecoming Chess Tourna-
ment
4SS, G/60. Parkersburg Municipal Building, 2nd & Market Streets, Parkersburg,
WV 26101. 2 Sections: Open EF: $15 postmarked by 8/16, $20 at site, Tro-
phy to First, $$ Based on Entries. Non-Rated EF: $7, Trophies to 1st & 2nd.
ALL: Reg. ends 9-9:45. Rds.: 10-12:45-3-5:15. Ent/Info: Patrick Kelly, 104 Iro-
quois Drive, Marietta, OH 45750, (740)374-0538, pkelly03@sprynet.com, NS,
NC, W.
Wisconsin
Sept. 5-7, Marshall Rohland Memorial/Wisconsin Closed Champi-
onship
Ramada Conference Center, 6331 S. 13th St., Milwaukee, WI 53221. In 3 Sec-
tions: Premier: 6SS, 40/2, SD/1, EF: $38 if received by 09/01, $45 after.
Junior(U21) $33 if received by 09/01, $45 after. Comp entry 2200+ Comp entry
past WI State Champions. No Credit Cards onsite. $$GTD: $400-200-150.
Class A: $125, U1800: $125. Reg.: 9:30 am -10:30 am. Rds.: 11-7,10-7, 10-4.
One bye for rounds 1-5. Reserve(U1800): 6SS, 40/2, SD/1, Open to 1799 &
under. EF: $23 if received by 09/01, $30 after. Juniors $5 discount. $$GTD: $250-
200.Trophies for Best C,D,U1200, UNR. Rds.: 11-7, 10-7, 10-4. One bye rounds
1-5. Scholastic- 09/05/2009 only: 6SS, G/30, EF: $15 if received before 09/01,
$25 after. Prizes: Trophies: 1st-5th, Medals 6th-20th. Trophies Best HS, Best
MS 1st-3rd, Best Elem 1st-3rd, Top HS Team, Top two MS Team, Top two Elem
Team. Reg.: 7:45 am - 8:30 am. Rds.: 9 am - 10:30 am - 12 pm - 1:30 pm - 3
pm - 4:30 pm. One bye available rounds 1-5. ALL: Open to current state resi-
dents, students of state schools or past champions. Largest Upset Any Section:
$50. ENT: 6822 N. Crestwood Dr., Glendale, WI 53209, 414.234.1005. INFO:
Ashish Vaja Info@VajaChess.com. HR: $79 414-764-1500. NS NC. WCL JGP
for Premier and Reserve only.
Oct. 9-11 or 10-11, 18th annual Midwest Class Championships (IL)
See Grand Prix.

2/3 toward based-on): $20 by 8/20, $25 at site. Reg.: 9:30-10:30 a.m., Rds.:
11-1:30-4-7, 10-12:30-3. Half-pt. bye any 2 rds. (except BOTH 6 & 7), notice
before rd. 2. Entries: SACC, POB 501, Helotes, TX 78023. Info:
www.sanantoniochess.com, 210-695-2324. NS. NC. W.
Aug. 29-30, DFW FIDE Open V
See Grand Prix.
Sept. 4-7 or 5-7, 75th Annual Southwest Open
See Grand Prix.
Utah
A State Championship Event!
Aug. 22, 2009 Utah Amateur Championship
5SS, Univ. of Utah, Student Union Bldg. Panorama Rm. and Den., SLC, UT
84112. TWO Sections: U-1800 & U-1000. Winner of U-1800 is Utah Amateur
Champion. EF: U-1800 $20 U-1000 $10. Both if by Aug 20, $5 more on-site. Time
Controls: U-1800 G/60 td/5. U-1000 Rd 1-2 G/35 td/5. Rd 3-5 G/55 td/5. Rds:
U-1800 10AM, 12:15, 3, 5:15, 7:30. U-1000 10AM, 11:15, 1, 3, 5. $$U-1800 B/32
100+Plaque, 80+Trophy, 70+Medal $$U-1000 B/32 50+Trophy, 40+Plaque,
35+Medal. Reg.: Sat 9AM-9:40.Two 1/2 pt. Byes available. Non-cash awards&
Amateur Title to top Utah Residents. Tourney flyer w/more info: www.utah
chess.com. ENT: Mochess@comcast.net or call Morry Holland 801-562-0156.
SEE
in VA, and students attending any VA school, College or University (must show
valid ID or other proof of Fall 2009 VA school enrollment). Annual VCF Busi-
ness Meeting Saturday Sep 5 10am-12 noon. $$2,350 b/75 paid entries. Two
ALL OF YOUR
sections, Open and Amateur (U1800). Open $500-300-200, Top Expert & A $100
ea. Trophy to 1st, Top Exp & A. Amateur $400-200-150. Top C, D, U1200, Unr
$100 each. Trophy to 1st, Top C, D, U1200. Trophies to top Senior (60+), Jun-
ior (U18) and Woman with 1pt added to their Open section scores. Reg.: Fri
Sep 4, 4PM-7PM and Sat Sep 5, 10:30AM-12:30PM. Rds.: Sat 1 & 7; Sun 11 & USCF
5; Mon 10 & 3:30. Two 1/2 pt byes available, must declare before start of Rd
2. EF: $55 if received by Sep 1, $65 thereafter and on site. Re-entry allowed
for Rd.2 only @ $30 with 1/2 pt bye. Ent: Mail payment to Mike Hoffpauir, ATTN:
MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS
ON PAGE 5
VA Closed, 405 Hounds Chase, Yorktown, VA 23693. Checks to VIRGINIA
CHESS. Info: e-mail mhoffpauir@aol.com, 757-846-4805, or www.vachess.
org/2009closed.htm. W, NS, NC, FIDE.
Oct. 17, 3rd Annual VA Tech Hokie Memorial
3/4-SS, G60. VATech Univ, locationTBD. $$400 b/20 paid entries.Two sections,
Open & Amateur (U1600). Open $125-75-50, Amateur $75-50-25. Reg.: 8-9:30
Sat Oct 17 on site. One 1/2 pt bye, must declare before reg closes. Rds.: 10,
12:30, 3 & 5:30. EF: $25 if entry info received by Oct 13, then pay on site. Late
OF THIS ISSUE
Reg is $35 on site. Ent: Email players name, section, USCF ID to Mike Hoff-
pauir (mhoffpauir@aol.com), ATTN: Hokie Memorial. Pay entry fee on site only.
Scholastic tournament (K-8) also being held at same time. Info: mhoff-
pauir@aol.com, 757-846-4805, or www.vachess.org/hokie-09.htm. W, NS,

PROFESSIONAL PLAYERS NO TOURNAMENTS IN YOUR AREA?

HEALTH AND BENEFITS WHY NOT ORGANIZE ONE?
FUND (PPHBF) 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!
Many Grand Prix tournament organ-
Its not much work to hold a small tournament, and there is little risk if you use a low-
izers will contribute $1 per player to cost site and avoid guaranteed prizes. You might even make a profit! Either a based-on
the Professional Health & Benefits Swiss with projected prizes up to $500, a Quad format, or a trophy tournament will vir-
Fund. All Grand Prix tournaments tually guarantee taking in more in fees than you pay out in prizes.
which participate in this program The affiliation fee is just $40 a year. You will receive the annual rating supplement and
are entitled to be promoted to the have access to the TD/Affiliate area of our website.
next higher Grand Prix categoryfor Remember, you can both run and play in a small event. Many of them wouldnt be held
if the organizer/TD couldnt play.
example, a six-point tournament
would become a 10-point tourna- WANT TO KNOW MORE?
ment. Points in the top category Contact Joan DuBois at joandubois@uschess.org.
are promoted 50%. Well be glad to help you be part of the promotion of American chess!

uschess.org Chess Life August 2009 61

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Activities
THE CHESS EXCHANGE: Chess & Games Club
FULL-TIME CHESS CLUB, Backgammon, Scrabble, etc. Hours: MON-
THURS 12pm-9pm, FRI 12pm-11pm, SAT 12pm-11pm, SUN 12pm-6pm. Club
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5896. www.TriStateChess.com, MKurtzman@TriStateChess.com.
Correspondence Chess Club:
Candidate Master, 1071 N. Grand Ave., Suite 210, Nogales, AZ 85621. candi-
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GMs Giorgi Kacheishvili and Zviad Izoria are available for par-
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FIDE MASTER Seeks NYer with a computer and printer to co-author
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For Sale
WHOLESALE LIST OF CHESS BOOKS
Three pages. Send SASE. Thinkers' Press, 1101 West 4th, Davenport, IOWA
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BOOK COMPARING CHESS960 (FRC) AND CHESS1,
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For a FREE copy of Confidential Chess Lessons
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Attractive Chess Art Portraits, done in chalk pastels, prints or orig-
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The House of Staunton, sole U.S. distributor for Jaques of London, pro-
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Visit WWW.ITALIANGAMBIT.COM
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ANTIQUARIAN AND OUT OF PRINT CHESS BOOKS For sale.
Free catalog. Kramer-books, PO Box 243, Whitehall, PA 18052-0243.
TREASURE CHESS: rare, used and new books bought and sold, bargains.
650-856-2346; chess316@aol.com; members.aol.com/chess316
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NEW BOOK: Bronstein: Fifty Great Short GamesIM Minev. Free tourna-
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I CHECK THEREFORE I AM
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62 Chess Life August 2009
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Worlds largest collection of scanned chess books, magazines, check-
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 Solutions

Chess to Enjoy uncorked 1. Nxg7! Ng6 (curtains is 1. ... Kxg7 2. 15. Kc2 (positional draw-blockade); 1. ... Rxd7 2.
Problem I. Be5! Neg8 3. g5! hxg5 4. Qh5) 2. Bxh6! Kxh6 3. h6? Rd4! 3. Rf1 Rxb4 4. Rd1 Rf4 5. Rf1 Rf2 6. Re1
1. Qf6+ (or 1. Qg7+) 1. ... Ka2 2. Qfa6+ Kb2 3. Qaa3 g5+! Kxg7 4. gxf6+ Kh6 5. Bxe4 Qd6 6. Qd2+ Rxb2 and Black is better.
mate. Kh7 7. Qg5 Rh8 8. Rf4! Kg8 9. Bxg6 Kf8 10. Bxf7! 2. h6! Rf7 3. Rf1 Re7 4. Re1
Problem II. and soon won. (Positional draw. Perpetual attack/stalemate.)
1. Qe7 Rg8 2. Bh6! mates. 3. C. Vladimir Mezentsev - Dana Mackenzie.
A. Shun moves that aid the opponent such as 1. ... Solitaire Chess ABCs of Chess
Problem III.
Bc4+? 2. Kd2. Problem I.
1. Rg3! threatens 2. Rg4+! hxg4 3. Rh6 mate. Black
Fork: Black has the immediate 1. ... e5, since 2.
resigned after 1. ... Rc5 2. Rh6! in view of 3. Rg4 B. No help either is 1. ... e4? 2. Kd2.
Bxe5 is met by 2Qa5+.
mate. C. The saving grace is 1. ... Bg8! White dumped his
Problem II.
Problem IV. queen by 2. Qd3?? Bc4 instead of forcing a draw
Trapping: Whites queen falls to 1. ... Nb6 2. Qb8
1. ... Qe5! threatens 2. ... Qf4+ 3. Kg2 Qh2+ 4. Kf3 by 2. Qg6 Bf7 3. Qh7.
Bd6.
Qxh3 mate. After 2. Nf1 Qf4+ 3. Kg2 Rxf1! 4. Re2 4. B. Samuel Sevian - George Trammell.
and Black won. Problem III.
A. Black ultimately lost after 1. ... Nxg4?! 2. Bxg4
Getting out of check: With 1. ... c6 White must
Problem V. Bxf1 3. Qxf1 Bxh4 4. f6 Bxf6 5. Nd5 Qd8 6.
lose something.
1. Bxf7+! Kxf7 2. Rf3+ Kg8 3. Qh3 threatens 4. Rg3 Nxf6+ Qxf6 7. Qxf6 gxf6 8. Bxh6.
Problem IV.
as well as 4. Qxe6+. Black also loses after 1. ... Kf8 B. The thematic 1. ... d5! solves Blacks problems. If Double threat: The best move is 1. ... Nb6 (1. ...
2. Qd6+; 1. ... Kh8 2. Qh4+ Qh7 3. Qf6+ Qg7 4. Rh3 2. exd5 Rd8. Qxf1+ doesnt do quite as well), and White drops
mate, and 1. ... Kh7 2. Qh4+ Qh6 3. Bg6+! Kg7 4. C. Defensible but passive is 1. ... Nh7 2. Bxc4 Qxc4 material.
Qe7+. 3. Nd2. Problem V.
Problem VI.
Endgame Lab Benkos Bafflers Trapping: After 1. ... Kd7 2. Nxa8 Kc6, the knight
1. f4! threatens 2. fxg5+. The game went 1. ... g4 2.
is trapped and the resulting ending is won for Black.
f5! Qxe7 3. f6! Qe5 4. Qh7 Rg8 5. fxg7+ Ke6 6. Problem I.
Problem VI.
Qg6+ Kd7 7. Rf7+ Kc8 8. Ne7+ Kb8 9. Nc6+, Black 1. Qa2
Mating net: The game comes to an end with 1. ...
resigned. 1. Rb2? Qa6+ 2. Qa2 Qxa2+ is even; 1. Rb1+? Kd2 2.
Qg1+ 2. Rf1 f2 mate.
Qa2+ Ke3 3. Qe6+ Kf2
Whats The Best Move? 1. ... Qf5
1. A. GM Sergey Kudrin - GM Melikset 1. ... Qd3 2. Rb2! h5 Zugzwang 3. h4 Rd1 4. Qa5 Rd2
Khachiyan. 5. Qc5+ Rc2 6. Qg5+ Kd1 7. Qxh5+ Kd2 8. Qg5+ and Solitaire Chess scores:
A. White won a long game after 1. Rxd7! Nxd7 2. White is better. Total your score to determine
Qxf5 Rd8 (if 2. ... Nf6 3. Bxh6!) 3. Qh7 Qxc4 4. 2. Rc7+! Kd1 3. Rc3 Qe4 4. Qb2 Qa4+ 5. Kb1 Qe4+ your approximate rating below:
Qh8+ Ke7 5. Qxg7 Re8 6. Bxh6. 6. Rc2 Qe3 7. Qb5 Re2 8. Qd5+ Ke1 9. Rc1+ Kf2 10.
B. Unsound is 1. Bb4? c5! 2. dxc5 Kxe7 3. c6+ Kd8. Qf5+ Kg2 11. Qf1+ Kxh2 12. Qh1+ Kg3 13. Rg1+ Total Score Approx. Rating
Kf4 14. Qxh6+ wins. 95+ 2400+
C. Black is hoping for 1. Re2 Qxa2. 81-94 2200-2399
2. C. Gergely Antal - Ricardo DeGuzman. 66-80 2000-2199
Problem II.
A. The edge evaporates on 1. Nxe7 Qxe7 2. Be5 51-65 1800-1999
1. d7 Qxd7!?
Nd7 3. Bxe4+ g6. 36-50 1600-1799
1. ... Rxd7 2. Rxd7 Qxd7 3. h6 Qc7 4. Bxh7 Qc1+ 5. 21-35 1400-1599
B. Ditto 1. dxe4 Nxf5 2. gxf5 Bc4 3. Qxd8 Rfxd8 4. Bb1 Qxh6 6. Be4 Qc1+ 7. Bb1 Qc2 8. Bxc2 bxc2 9. 06-20 1200-1399
Rfd1. Ka2 c1=N+ 10. Kb1 Ne2 11. Kc2 Nf4 12. Kc3 Ne6 0-05 under 1200
C. IM Antal, a Hungarian student at Texas Tech, 13. Kc2 (mutual Zugzwang) 13. ... Nd8 14. Kc3 Nc6

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