GM Shabalov repeats as U.S. Open champion | GM Soltis on GM chatter

SO’s SINQUEFIELD SEQUEL GM goes from worst to first at the 2016

November 2016 | USChess.org /$#'!",, (+%0%3+, +#'(0+",,/+'(!'#.(' $'(&/&-("!##)*&/('&0(&-(''&%%*) &( 2&/)<&+)!%* !# $ +&' +((-' EGD( *=BDJ8JG +-"0+1'02-+#'! 256 pages – $24.95 ; )''+&0)!+*/)2&+)+!&!& $26*')!& + ''#!* ; !/*2'.+ /)2($*&+$!& '$)&!& &0+ !& * )$"'28< 0!+ '.+*(&!& +''%. ')+4< !(" - 4& -(&' 3!% , 0#(4-* &(&6 ))&(!7 ;$$= '*&1%($*&$)1($&,'&*)()*&+ ; +!*/)2%.*!& $20)!-&&!+0!$$*!$2!%()'/ + )'. '.++ ''#8< 2'.) **8< %*(%+&%#)*( & %&%#)&% !(" - 4& -(&' 3!%

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2 November 2016 | Chess Life Celebrating 5 Years in Saint Louis

www.uschess.org 3 Chess Life NOVEMBER

COLUMNS

12 LOOKS AT BOOKS / LONDON SYSTEM ++++++++++++++)')'+##('" By John Hartmann

16 CHESS TO ENJOY / ENTERTAINMENT ))%*+(% By GM Andy Soltis

18 BACK TO BASICS / READER ANNOTATIONS ++++++++++++++$*+ !&+)+(&**!('" By GM Lev Alburt 20 COVER STORY / 2016 SINQUEFIELD CUP 46 SOLITAIRE CHESS / INSTRUCTION +++++++++++++++++++ )%+ ('*(*#+ **# ++++++++++++++'*+ )'"+ ( Wesley So goes from worst to first at the Sinquefield Cup By Bruce Pandolfini +++++++++++++++++++BY GM Robert Hess

48 THE PRACTICAL ENDGAME / INSTRUCTION 30 US CHESS NATIONAL EVENTS / U.S. OPEN ++++++++++++++)('"+ "('%&+&$*+#) +++++++++++++++++++ +)&()'+ (&!*+ By GM Daniel Naroditsky +++++++++++++++++++$*+("$#("$&+**#+)+&$*+  +*' +++++++++++++++++++BY Pete Karagianis DEPARTMENTS GM Alexander Shabalov repeats as U.S. Open champion; we also cover the Denker, Barber, and National Girls’ 6 NOVEMBER PREVIEW / Tournament of Champions events. THIS MONTH IN CHESS LIFE AND US CHESS NEWS 42 LOOKS AT BOOKS / THE ROOKIE +++++++++++++++++++$*%%+(%+)&+!**) COUNTERPLAY / READERS RESPOND 8 !+ #* *+))&+  interviews S&*$*'+)%%, author 10 FIRST MOVES / of The Rookie: An Odyssey through Chess (and Life) and a feature CHESS NEWS FROM AROUND THE U.S. writer for The Guardian. The Rookie alternates chapters about Moss’ own chess-playing experiences with chapters of 11 FACES ACROSS THE BOARD / interviews with top chess players and chess history. BY AL LAWRENCE 14 US CHESS AFFAIRS / NEWS FOR OUR MEMBERS Above and below: 10 of the world’s strongest players convened at the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis for the 2016 edition of the 52 TOURNAMENT LIFE / NOVEMBER Sinquefield Cup, won this year by GM Wesley So. 71 CLASSIFIEDS / NOVEMBER 71 SOLUTIONS / NOVEMBER 72 MY BEST MOVE / PERSONALITIES THIS MONTH: ALEKSANDR LENDERMAN

ON THE COVER GM Wesley So certainly showed championship mettle in his rebound from last year’s Sinquefield Cup when he scored four losses against one win, finishing at the bottom of the crosstable. This year he finished in clear first; GM Robert Hess writes about the turnaround beginning on page 20. PHOTO BY AUSTIN FULLER, COURTESY OF THE CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER OF SAINT LOUIS

4 November 2016 | Chess Life 129 BIG CAATT

888.51.CHESS (512.4377) www.USCFSales.com November Preview / This month in Chess Life and US Chess News

US CHESS NEWS PREVIEW NOVEMBER

CONTRIBUTORS

GM ROBERT HESS (Cover Story) is the coach of the U.S. Women’s Olympiad Team and the 2010 Samford Fellow. A 2015 graduate of Yale University, Hess is the chief operating officer of The Sports Quotient and serves as director of business development for Chess.com.

PETE KARAGIANIS (U.S. Open) is a chess instructor and writer from Bloomington, Illinois. He can be contacted at [email protected] or via his blog nmpetek.blogspot.com.

DR. ALEXEY ROOT, WIM WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP IN (Moss Interview) is the author of seven books, including Prepare with Chess THE BIG APPLE Strategy (Mongoose Press, Newton Highlands, Massachusetts, 2016). She The - World teaches college credit courses, available worldwide via UT Dallas eLearning, Championship goes down in New York City from about chess in education. November 11-30, marking the first match of its kind in New York City since Kasparov-Anand in 1995. Look for round-by-round coverage on US Chess, including an early-rounds editor’s notebook from Chess Life Editor Dan Lucas and social media coverage on our Twitter and Facebook @USChess from Digital Editor Jennifer Shahade.

SO MUCH CHESS IN LONDON Wesley So is the big frontrunner as the heads to its final stop of the 2016 season, the (December 9-18). Follow along as So (top right) is joined in the elite competition with the other members of our “Big Three,” (middle) and (left).

CRASH COURSE ON MATCH HISTORY In a special edition of our regular articles on the US Chess School, get an inside look into a special New York session from young reporter Vanessa Sun. The camp, featuring a diverse selection of our top junior players, is concurrent with Magnus Carlsen-Sergey Karjakin and will cover historical world championship matches.

THANKS FOR CHESS DECEMBER/JANUARY CHESS LIFES As we report on big Thanksgiving Opens Over the next two months, we’ll be celebrating the incredible successes around the country including the American of our players on the international stage. In our December issue, GM Open in the Los Angeles area and the Jeffery Xiong writes about his gold medal at the World Junior Under-20 National Chess Congress in Philadelphia, championship. In January, FM Mike Klein will cover the story of our share your own experiences on social media. U.S. team’s historic gold medal at the 2016 Olympiad in , Russia.

6 November 2016 | Chess Life

Counterplay / Readers Respond

“I will ... get more girls into chess.” ~IM NAZI PAIKIDZE

      GM Naroditsky responds: I want to thank you for the August issue I was reading through the August 2016 issue Thank you for the kind words. I would argue, featuring IM Nazi Paikidze. I began a chess and something is confusing me. It says on the however, that the position after 48. ... Na8 49. Bxd8 club for homeschoolers around Plainview, cover that Nazi Paikidze is an IM. However, is completely winning for White, and the rest is Texas back in May. Of the 25 kids that have in one of her games, it says she is a WGM. simply a matter of bringing up the king (hence GM been participating, there are a couple of very Which one is it? Could you clarify that for me, Dmitry Jakovenko's rapid resignation). As you point talented young ones, including a nine-year- please? out, 45. Be7 Nc6 46. a5 would be winning as well. I old girl named Eowyn Thornhill. When the Lawrence Lepes rejected this continuation due to 46. ... Nc3! 47. a6 September Check with Tech scholastic via e-mail Nb5 when Black does stop both pawns. However, tourna ment put on by Texas Tech Chess was following 48. d8=Q Nxd8 49. Bxd8 White’s an - nounced, I asked Eowyn if she wanted We use titles at the time of the game. At the time moves to b6 and the knight is lost. to go, but she was less than enthusiastic. She of that game, she had not yet achieved the IM title, In sum, you are absolutely correct; 45. Be7 was had not had a good experience at a but held the WGM title. ~Editor objectively stronger. But having seen the forced line tournament when she first started playing after 45. a5, I did not want to risk a miscalculation. back in February because she was one of only two or three girls.    Seeing her reluctance, I took her the August  issue and told her a little about Nazi’s story and Corrections I enjoyed the August 2016 issue of Chess Life let her have the issue. Later that week, she told as I always do. her parents that she wanted to go to the In our 2016 Annual Report, we I have a question about Problem I in GM tournament. She ended up placing third in the incorrectly only listed Vignesh Naroditsky’s excellent column, “The Practical unrated K-5 division out of 22 kids with three Panchanatham as the 2016 National Endgame.” wins and a draw and led our team of two kids High School Champi on. In fact, to a second place team finish at our first team there was a five-way tie for first event. All she could talk about was how much between Vignesh Panchanatham, fun she had and how she felt like Nazi because Kesav Viswanadha, Andrew Tang, she didn’t know if she should play chess but Justus D. Williams, Kyle Haining, now she loves it. and Bryce Tiglon. If there is an opportunity, please thank Ms. Paikidze for us for sharing her story. Thanks In the June 2016 “Chess to Enjoy,” to her story and your publishing of it, we have in the final game titled “Smothered,” a very excited young girl passionate about chess. we inadvertently had the colors reversed. Kasparov should have been Robert Moore listed as white and Karpov as black. via e-mail In the 2016 Delegates Call, in the WHITE TO PLAY “Womens’ Committee report,” a Send your letters to tourna ment in northern California was He states that 45. a5! Nf6 46. a6! Nxd7 47. [email protected] or post referred to as the California Women’s a7 Nb6 48. Ba5! is better than 45. Ba5?!. I agree, Championship. Because for US Chess on the US Chess Facebook but White still has work to do after 48. … govern - ance purposes California is group or the uschess.org Na8. Wouldn’t 45. Be7! Nc6 (similarly for other divided into northern and southern Issues Forum. Letters are knight moves) 46. a5!, etc. result in promoting California, and so this event should either the a-pawn or the d-pawn? subject to editing for style, be referred to as the Northen California Women’s Cham pionship. length, and content. Imre G. Toth, MD via e-mail

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CB NEWS CHESSBASE GMBH · Osterbekstr. 90a · 22083 Hamburg · Germany The world-renowned E-Mail: [email protected] · www.chessbase.com *Available middle of chess news portal ChessBase Online-Shop: shop.chessbase.com November 2016 First Moves / Chess news from around the U.S. Chess Pets We all deal with stress in different ways. For some players, their pets make all the difference.

By DR. ALEXEY ROOT, WIM PHOTOS COURTESY OF SUBJECTS

10 November 2016 | Chess Life First Moves / Chess news from around the U.S.

elebrated in the first full week of November (this year, November 6-12), National Animal Shelter and Rescue Appreciation Week recognizes the approximately 3,500 FACES Canimal shelters across the United States which serve six-eight million homeless animals each year. The appreciation week was established by The Humane Society of the United States in 1996. For the week’s 20th anniversary, I asked chess players about their pets. ACROSS Several were from shelters or were rescues. Their pets provide companionship and inspire writing and philanthropy. THE BOARD U.S. Women’s Champion IM Nazi Paikidze adopted her cat Mark from an animal shelter in By AL LAWRENCE Baltimore. Nazi said, “He was only five months old when I adopted him and he had been at the shelter for a couple of weeks already. Due to over capacity and a lot of sick animals around the shelter, the shelter would have euthanized him soon.” Mark has become Nazi’s loving MICHAEL companion. She added, “Mark also ‘helps’ me study chess. He wants attention 24/7, so anytime CAREY I am busy working on chess, he jumps into my lap, curls up, and starts purring, which helps me stay relaxed and saves me from getting bored. I really love coming home to him and miss PROVIDENCE, him enormously when I leave for tournaments.” RHODE ISLAND Nazi wrote her first Chess.com blog posting about pets and chess and included a photo of Chess was his Mark. Although I hadn’t seen Nazi’s posting, I also wrote about chess and pets (and included a photo of my rabbit Denis, adopted from the Humane Society of North Texas) for my first passport Chess.com blog posting. I asked IM Danny Rensch, Vice President of Content & Professional These days Michael Carey, Ph.D. and clinical psy- Relations for Chess.com, what he thought about two U.S. women’s champions writing their chologist, directs a behavioral-medicine research first blog postings about chess and pets. Danny replied, “I thought it was fun and was sure center with a combined faculty and staff of 100. lots of members, especially pet lovers, would appreciate it. And I was right!” Danny would The center, housed at The Miriam Hospital, partners like to get a dog, but told me, “My wife says we aren’t getting a dog until our youngest child with Brown University, where Carey also ranks as a is no longer a baby ... so I have to wait!” full professor, to find ways for patients to prevent and cope with some of the most disabling conditions Danny’s colleague FM Mike Klein has a cat. Mike reported, “We found her in the woods at of our day, like cancer, diabetes, heart disease and about three-four weeks old by herself. We had to bottle feed her for the first few weeks.” chronic pain. Now Mike’s cat Ipso Facto “is often sleeping on my desk or in my lap while I work for Chess.com or while I play online.” But back in sixth grade, when a friend taught him the basic chess moves, he was just Mike, who GM Wesley So said that his two cats “belong to my mother Lotis (but I consider them mine). wanted to catch for the New York Yankees, and, They make me happy. They keep me company during my long hours of study and are always given his Troy, New York, neighborhood, could easily ready to cuddle. At the end of a long day we watch a movie together. They don’t mind if I win find ways to get into a scrape or two. Sidelined by a or lose, they just like the fact that the board keeps me in one place.” football injury in 1971, he played in a rated tourna- ment. He lost all five games and recalls someone Chess Without Borders (CWB) Founder Rishi Sethi’s dog inspired his efforts in chess and telling him, “You know, there are books you can read philanthropy. CWB Board of Directors member Kiran Frey wrote, “When Rishi started the to get better.” He went to the public library and sys- chess program combining chess and philanthropy, his dog Toby and his grandparents were tematically went through them all. “I learned how constantly present as his supporters. Rishi was the only one doing chess in his school in 1999. to research and how to study through chess,” he Rishi thought that if he brought his pet Toby to school he could enlist more students into the said. Mike won the New York High School Champi- chess program. The strategy worked! From then on, Toby was present at every chess activity onship in 1973 at 15. “Chess rescued me from get- organized by Rishi and his friends.” GM Yury Shulman joined CWB in 2006. CWB has ting into trouble.” donated money to many causes, including a dog shelter ($100 donation in 2009) and a pet “No one in my family had gone to college, and my therapy organization ($500 donation in 2012). For the latter fundraising tournament, “a pet parents couldn’t afford to send me.” He applied therapy dog came in to be part of the tournament.” only to St. Lawrence University because a friend mentioned it. Mike hitchhiked three hours for an in- Ph.D. Christopher F. Chabris’ cat Lolita is named after the famous novel by Vladimir Nabokov. terview and wound up with a full scholarship. He Chris wrote, “Nabokov was a skilled amateur player and a composer of chess problems, many had good grades but later found out it was his en- of which he published in a volume along with his poetry.” Lolita sits in Chris’ lap when he thusiasm for chess that had distinguished him from plays chess online. Chris added, “While en route to my lap, she sometimes stops at the other hopefuls. At St. Lawrence, he became its only keyboard and plays a move or two.” student ever to win the prestigious Fulbright Schol- arship. He arched a few academic eyebrows by turn- Though Chris is the co-author of a book titled The Invisible Gorilla, he declined to comment ing it down. Instead, he had created his own program on whether having a pet helps one become a better chess player. Research on the human- through the Thomas J. Watson Foundation to fund animal bond has shown that pets can be beneficial to health (for example, improving outcomes eight months in Europe playing chess as a “cultural for autism, cancer, and heart disease). While there has not been peer-reviewed, chess-specific exchange.” He came home master strength and pet research, the anecdotes shared by the players in this article certainly suggest that chess earned his doctorate at Vanderbilt, where, once players may benefit from having pets. again, his chess background helped separate him from 400 other applicants. Busy Dr. Mike still finds Clockwise from far left: Christopher Chabris’ cat Lolita is a fan of “The Practical Endgame” column. U.S. Women’s time for what he acknowledges was his passport to Champion IM Nazi Paikidze and Mark. GM Wesley So with one of his two cats. The author, a former U.S. women’s higher education and travel. “I absolutely love the champion herself, with one of her rabbits. Sinquefield Cup and the Hall of Fame!” Send us your chess pet photo and story! Write to [email protected]. Write to [email protected].

www.uschess.org 11 Looks at Books / London System

London Calling No longer just a shortcut to opening study, the London System is now used at the highest levels. By JOHN HARTMANN

he opening theory arms race never ends. ChessPublishing.com and Sverre Johnson and for the Londoneer. Sedlak’s book is an optimistic It used to be that a novelty played one Vlatko Kovačević in Winning with the London call to arms, quite suitable for new London Tday could be used for weeks; now, with System, today’s Londoneers play 2. Bf4 first, players. the transmission of games via the Internet, keeping Ng1-f3 in reserve. This allows them to It might be argued that the only drawback today’s hot new move is almost instantly in avoid a few problematic lines, but it does not to Sedlak’s book is his optimism. Sometimes tomorrow’s databases. So increasingly we find solve the problem of what to do against the King’s he sees advantages for White where none exist. even super-grandmasters “opting-out,” prefer - Indian, a traditional bugbear for London players. Take, for instance, one of the current main ring to play less studied variations instead. Sedlak so fears the King’s Indian that, in his lines of the London—and one recommended Nowhere do we see this phenomenon more Preface, he explains he can only recommend by Boris Avrukh in Repertoire 11: clearly than with the explosion of interest in the London after 1. d4 d5. This seems slightly Beating 1. d4 Sidelines. the London System. Once considered suitable overwrought to me. The standard London setup After 1. d4 d5 2. Bf4 Nf6 3. e3 e6 4. c3 only for amateurs with little time to study, is no worse against the King’s Indian than other c5 5. Nd2 Nc6 6. Ngf3 Bd6 7. Bg3 0-0 8. today the London is being played at the highest variations, and changing plans with an early Bd3 b6 (the key tabiya) 9. Ne5 Bb7 10. f4 levels, with Magnus Carlsen, , Nc3 could transpose to the Barry Attack or the Ne7 11. Qb1 Sedlak says this is White’s only and (among many others) cham - Pirc. Both options are covered in The Agile chance for an advantage, but there are options. pi oning its cause. London, along with heterodox lines like the Most notably, White can play 11. Qf3 Nf5 12. That the world’s elite are playing the London Jobava and Pereyra Attacks. Bf2 Be7 when Romero Holmes improves on has not escaped the notice of chess publishers. Here we see one of the main differences Sedlak’s 13. g4 with 13. 0-0!? Nd6 14. dxc5 N No less than three books and one DVD devoted between the two books. The Agile London is (Avrukh only gives 14. Rad1) 14. ... bxc5 15. to the London have appeared recently, leading encyclopedic in scope, offering readers a Qh3 Qc7 and the position is equal. one sly wag at chesspub.com to “win the Internet” complete London-style repertoire, and often 11. ... g6 12. Bf2 cxd4 when he proclaimed: with multiple options. It consists of 71 densely annotated games leavened with both game and 12. ... Nf5!? looks reasonable, and Romero ... I can no longer keep up with the deluge of chapter summaries, making the intimidating- Holmes says 12. ... a5 13. 0-0 Ba6 is equal, while dense theoretical material published on the London looking analysis slightly less frightful. 60 tactical Sedlak prefers White. System on a weekly or monthly basis. ... I have and strategic puzzles are also included. decided to cut my theoretical workload by switching 13. exd4 Nh5 14. g3 f6 15. Nef3 Winning with the Modern London System is a to the . breezier, more personal book. Sedlak plays the Following -Wang Hao, This month we look at two of these new London regularly and advocates for it here, Beijing, 2014. This position is evaluated as equal London titles: The Agile London: A Solid but using many of his own games along the way. in The Agile London; Sedlak gives the moves Dynamic Chess Opening Choice for White by GM Each chapter begins with a summary of reper - but no evaluation. Either way, it's hard to see Alfonso Romero Holmes and Oscar de Prado, toire choices, and the analysis is presented how 11. Qb1 leads to an advantage. and GM Nikola Sedlak’s Winning with the through complete games that are followed by Holmes, Alfonso Romero & Oscar de Prado Rodriguez. The Agile Modern London System: A Complete Opening “lessons to be learned.” London System: A Solid but Dynamic Chess Opening Choice Repertoire for White against 1. d4 d5. While I think both books good and useful, I for White. New in Chess: 2016. ISBN: 978-90-5691-689-3. Paperback. Some might wonder how the stodgy old suspect that different players might gravitate (Available from uscfsales.com, catalog number B0147NIC, $29.95) London could rightly be described as agile or towards one or the other. Romero Holmes and Sedlak, Nikola. Winning With the Modern London System: A Complete Opening Repertoire for White Against 1. d4 d5. Chess modern. The answer lies in the move order. de Prado Rodriguez have written an objective Evolution: 2016. ISBN: 9788394429096. 224 pages. Figurine (FAN). Following pioneering work by Eric Prié at book that maps out numerous paths forward (Available from uscfsales.com, catalog number B0022EV, $27.50)

12 November 2016 | Chess Life 8th Annual Thanksgiving Open

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14 November 2016 | Chess Life www.uschess.org 15 Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment Loose Lips Grandmasters can walk the walk, but what happens when they talk the talk?

By GM ANDY SOLTIS

FABIANO CARUANA STARED AT THE Unsolicited advice can be a weapon. Mikhail video camera in front of him. “I think it’s been Botvinnik’s nephew Igor recalled an incident about three months since I was last in this seat,” during one of the former world champion’s he said. last tournaments. Stroking his chin, he tried to put into words what was going on in his game with Vishy SIGNALING Anand. “I’m not sure if he’s improvising or GM Dragolyub Janosevic he actually has some idea what to do here,” GM he said. Belgrade, 1969 Caruana was in the “confession box,” a soundproof room a short distance from where the rest of the elite grandmasters were thinking ANALYSIS DIAGRAM AFTER 40. ... Kxg7 about moves in the first round of the 2016 Sinquefield Cup. Now 41. Rxf6 e2 or 41. Rd1 Rd6! 42. Re1 The box is a novelty in recent elite events c3! 43. fxe3 c2! lose. Better is 41. Rd7+! but that enables the players to break what actors then 41. ... Rf7!, e.g. 42. Rxf7+ Kxf7 43. exf3 c3 call the fourth wall. It’s like Hamlet stopping or 42. Rd1 exf2+ 43. Kf1 e4 and wins for Black. in the middle of the Act One throne scene, Geller’s outburst “practically told his oppo- turning to face the audience and telling them nent about the trap,” Igor said in the chess-news. how he thinks the show is going today. ru website in 2011. Of course, Anand couldn’t hear Caruana. White played: AFTER 38. Bf6 Only the thousands of online viewers listened 39. fxe3 in. They’ve gotten used to grandmasters After Botvinnik played ... confessing that they aren’t as all-knowing as ... and went on to win the game. Geller 38. ... e3! they seem. finished ahead of Botvinnik in the tournament In another round at this year’s Sinquefield ... his friend, Yefim Geller, approached him “but lost a friend,” Igor said. Cup, they listened as Maxime Vachier-Lagrave and said out loud, “Well, you’re clever!” Another verbal weapon is across-the-board said of his position, “I don’t know what’s going Both men were in contention for first prize trash talk. You might think world champions on.” In the previous year’s tournament, Magnus and Geller’s words were not intended for were above that. Think again. Carlsen briefly stepped into the “box,” shook Botvinnik but were “a ‘signal’ to Botvinnik’s his head, said “I don’t like my position,” and opponent,” Igor said. FIANCHETTO GRÜNFELD (D75) walked away. What signal? Well, White must have been These one-person admissions are also looking at 39. Rxf7. That seems to win immediately because 39. Vladas Mikenas striking because the more common form of Kemeri, 1937 tournament talk—two-person conversations ... e2 can be met by 40. Rxg7+ Kh6 41. Rxg6+! during rounds—are disappearing, at least in and 41. ... Kxg6 42. Bxe5+ and 43. Bc3, leaving 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. g3 Bg7 4. Bg2 d5 5. master tournaments. White a piece ahead. Or 41. ... Kh5! 42. Rh6+! cxd5 Nxd5 6. Nf3 0-0 7. 0-0 c5 8. e4 Conversations are not forbidden under the Kxh6 43. Bxe5+. Nf6 9. e5 Nd5 10. dxc5 Na6 11. a3 Nxc5 12. b4 Ne6 13. Bb2 a5 14. b5? Qd7 15. rules of most events. US Chess rules say you However, Geller was warning him about 39. Qe2 Rd8 16. Nbd2? Nef4! shouldn’t “solicit” advice. The world chess ... Rxf6! because then 40. Rdxf6 or 40. Rfxf6 federation (FIDE) rules don’t get specific but allows 40. ... e2 and the pawn promotes. This is based on 17. gxf4 Nxf4 18. Qd1 Nxg2 say that players are forbidden to use “sources Instead, White could try 40. Rxg7+ Kxg7: 19. Kxg2 Qh3+ 20. Kg1 Bg4 with winning of information or advice,” human or otherwise. (see diagram top of next column) pressure (21. Qb3 a4 22. Qe3 Bh6).

16 November 2016 | Chess Life Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment

PROBLEM I PROBLEM II PROBLEM III Capablanca’s David Janowski Albert Fox Edward Tennenwurzel Edward Tennenwurzel Roy Black Albert Fox streak

It was 100 years ago that José Capablanca began one of the most famous streaks in history. The Cuban lost a game in the finals of the Rice Memorial Tournament of 1916 to an American master, Oscar Chajes. Capa went on to win the

tournament—and didn’t lose again WHITE TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY BLACK TO PLAY until March 1924, an astonishing eight years later. This month’s quiz PROBLEM IV PROBLEM V PROBLEM VI features six positions from the 1916 Jacob Bernstein Abraham Kupchik David janowski José Capablanca Oscar Chajes Oscar Chajes tournament, held in New York. In each position you are asked to find the fastest winning line of play. This will usually mean the forced win of a decisive amount of materi - al, such as a rook or minor piece. For solutions, see page 71.

BLACK TO PLAY BLACK TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY

17. Qc4 Nxg2 18. Kxg2 Qh3+ 19. Kh1 Be6! hxg4 31. Nd4 e6 have dealt with today’s ethical mute button. 20. Qe4 Bf5 21. Qe2 Qg4 22. Rfe1 Rac8 Talking to other players during a round used Najdorf was notorious for getting up after 23. Ne4? to be a standard stress-killer, the chess version making a move to find someone—anyone— of chatting at the office water cooler. It was so who would give him an opinion about his routine that said one of the position. reasons he lost the first game of his first world “Was halten Sie von meinen Stellung? Spiele ich championship match was that he couldn’t relax: nicht genial?” (“What do you think about my There was a strict ban on players talking during position? Aren’t I playing ingeniously?”), he the game. would ask in German. Grandmaster J. H. What do grandmasters talk about? Petrosian Donner said Najdorf asked him that once— gave examples of his favorite subjects: “How forgetting that his opponent that day was many spectators are in today? What do you Donner. think of master X’s tie? And, of course, one Najdorf was shameless—and multilingual. simply had to share the latest sports news— During the 1954 Olympiad he got into a lively AFTER 23. Ne4 just heard, Milan 4, Santos 2,” he said. discussion with his teammate, Argentine Petrosian, like many masters, felt it was Oscar Panno, near his board. The chief arbiter, Black played: ethically acceptable to talk about someone else’s Milan Vidmar, whose own playing career 23. ... Bxe4 game. For example, he said, “Grandmaster Y began more than half a century before, knew has messed up the opening and stands badly, what suspicious activity looked like. He ... overlooking a quick win with 23. ... Rc2! and a couple of moves ago master Z could have confronted Najdorf. (24. Qxc2 Qxf3+ 25. Kg1 Bh3 and mates). won a pawn with Ng4.” It would only be “Why are you conversing in Spanish?” he According to an “ear-witness,” Salo Flohr, cheating if you talked about your own game, asked. Alekhine exclaimed, “Such a patzer!” he felt. “Panno has no knowledge of Arabic,” Najdorf “After rook c2 I would have resigned immedi - Today grandmaster conversations during deadpanned. ately,” the world champion said. rounds are disappearing. “The biggest difference Najdorf continued his “how-am-I-doing?” “You’re right, you’re right. I am a patzer,” his in the last 10 years is that we don’t talk any - routine until he asked a Dutch journalist at a opponent replied. “But, doctor, please don’t get more,” a grandmaster told me. “If you talk to tournament in the Netherlands to evaluate his upset. I’ll try to win the game a second time.” anyone, whatever strength, you could be getting position. The journalist didn’t even play chess And he did, in a long endgame after: a move from their computer.” but grimly replied, “Spurlos versunken”—You’re 24. Qxe4 Qxe4 25. Rxe4 Rc2 26. Bd4 Rc4 It’s hard to imagine how the great Polish- sunk without a bubble. And that cured Najdorf 27. Re2 g5 28. h3 h5 29. Bb2 g4 30. hxg4 Argentine grandmaster Miguel Najdorf would of his bad habit.

www.uschess.org 17 Back to Basics / Reader annotations The Art of Gambiteering Playing established gambits is fun—but so is creating your own!

By GM LEV ALBURT

THE WINNER OF THIS MONTH’S AWARD, Alas, 10. ... Qb4, pinning the queen to the Zackary Dressner, did an excellent job of king, doesn’t work because of 11. Bc5+. analyzing his game. As a chess teacher, I 11. Nbd2 Qb4 welcome in-depth analysis; as the “Back to Basics” columnist, I can’t use more than roughly Black wants that queen trade, but now my 1,000 words (as I need also space for my own knight shields his monarch. comments and for diagrams). Thus, I had to 12. Qd3 use a large, sharp knife to cut—reluctantly— over two thirds of the original. Baiting the black queen to eat another pawn Writes Mr. Dressner (my further comments and spend another tempo. are in italics): Simpler and stronger was 12. Qc2, with a small The game I’m submitting was from the first edge for White. round of a summer holiday tournament held to take advantage of a non-book move this 12. ... Qxb2 13. 0-0 Nf6 at my current institution, the Federal Medical early in the opening, but I just couldn’t find Center (FMC) in Devens, Massachusetts. I want anything. It demonstrates the limit of book to thank the staff here for making these kinds knowledge at the “club level.” One never knows of activities possible. In this game I was given when his opponent will play an “inferior” move, the white pieces against the strongest player at and proving a move is “inferior” is easier said our facility. We had played several times before than done, especially over the board. and he held a 6-2 advantage over me. (Feel free My ECO suggests 7. ... Kf8 as best. The line 7. ... to use only my first name if it suits your Ke8 8. Qh5+ Kf8 9. Qxc5+ leads to the same positions purposes. Out of deference to my antagonist, I as 7. ... Kf8. give only his first name as well.) 8. Qxc5+ Qe7?! With the black king exposed, I feel like the SCOTCH GAMBIT (C44) queen’s entering of the game is premature. I Zackary “Scott” Dressner felt like this was something I should be able to Chris 14. Nc4 FMC Devens, 2016 punish. Obviously, I don’t want to trade queens. Uncastled, Black wants to exchange queens–thus Amazingly, 14. Rfb1 doesn’t win the queen: 14. ... Ne5!. 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 exd4 4. Bc4 8. ... Qe7! 14. ... Qb4 (14. ... Qb5!—L.A.) 15. a3 I enjoy open games that follow the old 9. Qxc3 Qxe4+ 10. Be3 romantic style, so the Scotch Gambit suits Stronger is 15. Rab1. me well. 15. ... Qb5 4. ... Bc5 5. c3 dxc3 6. Bxf7+! Kxf7 7. Afterwards my opponent told me he should Qd5+ have played his queen here on move 14. I think (see diagram top of next column) I agree. Me too—see my notes to 14. ... Qb4 and 15. a3. 7. ... Kf8? 16. Rab1 Qh5 Until Black’s seventh move, I was still in the (see diagram top of next page) book. Normally, Black would play 7. ... Ke8 and the game would continue 8. Qh5+ Kf8 9. Although down two pawns, if my army Qxc5+, so Black’s choice stumped me for a strikes quickly, Black’s material advantage won’t moment. I felt like there should be some way 10. ... d6 do any good. However, if I don’t accomplish

18 November 2016 | Chess Life Back to Basics / Reader annotations

something soon, Black’s pawn majority will 26. ... Qb7 39. Kf2 h5 40. Ke3 h4 41. Ra7 Bc4 42. crush White. Perhaps 26. ... Be8 offered a better defense. Ba5 Rc8 43. Ke4 Bf1 44. g3 Rf8 45. Bb4 Rd8 46. f4! 17. Qb3?! 27. Ncxd6! The winning idea, finally. I regretted this move right away (If Black Also attractive looks 27. Nxc7. 46. ... Bc4 47. f5 Rf8? 48. f6 had replied with 17. ... Na5 I would have been 27. ... cxd6 28. Bxd6 Nf6 29. Rc7 forced to trade knights, and every piece I exchange only helps Black). 17. ... b6? I was let off the hook, and Black creates weaknesses for me. 18. Rfc1 Attacking the knight and backward c-pawn. 18. ... Be6! 19. Qa4 Ne7 20. Ng5 Bd7

48. ... Bf7? 49. Rxf7 A dream come true. Excellent! 29. ... Qd5 30 Rxe7 (30. Bxe7+ Kg8 31. Bxf6— L.A.) 30. ... Kg8 31. Rd1 Qb3 32. Qxb3 49. ... Re8+ Trading queens at this stage is fine with me. Or 49. ... Rxf7 50. Ra8+. 32. ... Bxb3 33. Rc1 a6 34. Rcc7 50. Rfe7 Rxe7 51. fxe7 Kf7 52. Ra8, Black resigned. White started with gambits and ended the game with a tactical blow.

21. Qb3 h6? More light-square weaknesses. If I could only pick off the stubborn light-square bishop! Send in your games! 22. Nf3 Be6 If you are unrated or rated 1799 or be low, then GM Lev Alburt invites you to send If I had played my knight to d4 earlier, the your most instructive game with notes to: black bishop couldn’t return to such a good square. Back to Basics, c/o Chess Life Threatening mate. 23. Nd4 PO Box 3967 Crossville, TN 34. ... Rh7 38557-3967 Better late than never. Ugly. But what else is there? Or e-mail your material to 23. ... Bf7 24. Qa4 Well, 34. ... Ne8!. [email protected] I still need to avoid the skewer along the h7- 35. Nc3 Rd8 36. Be5 Ne4 37. f3 GM Alburt will select the “most instruc - b1 diagonal. A little luft; provoking exchanges. The tive” game and Chess Life will award an 24. ... Ng4 25. Bf4! Qd5 hardest game to win is the won game, so I want autographed copy of Lev’s newest book, to take my time. Inaccuracies here won’t lose Platonov’s Chess Academy (by Lev Alburt (see diagram top of next column) me the game. Only blunders will. and Sam Palatnik) to the person submitting the most in structive game and annotations. 26. Nb5! 37. ... Nxc3 38. Bxc3 b5 www.ChessWithLev.com The c7-pawn continues to be a juicy target. (see diagram top of next column)

www.uschess.org 19 So’s Sinquef Wesley So goes from worst to first at the Sinquefield Cup By GM ROBERT HESS

equels tend to be worse than their originals. In cinema, of four events featuring the who’s who of the chess world. Players win it is exceedingly rare that a film rates higher than its prize money—tens of thou sands of dollars—and accumulate tour points predecessor. But what about in chess? It depends on for their performances in each tournament. At the end of the tour, the whom you ask: while the 2013 Sinquefield Cup was a competitor with the most tour points takes home a cool $100,000, while fascinating four-player double round-robin won by GM the runner-up pockets $50,000. SMagnus Carlsen, the 2014 version is most renowned World Champion Carlsen took home the lion’s share of GCT points thanks to GM Fabiano Caruana’s historic seven straight wins. According in Leuven, Belgium, but not before GM Hikaru Nakamura won the to GM Wesley So, the answer surely is that the 2016 Sinquefield Cup Paris, France, leg. So’s second and fourth place finishes in those events outdid the 2015 edition, which saw GM take the top left him tied with Nakamura for the tour lead with 17 points. prize after defeating all three American participants. This year’s Sinquefield Cup, held August 5-16 at the elegant Chess For the second straight year, the Sinquefield Cup served as the Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis, was deprived of some of its penultimate destination of the Grand Chess Tour (GCT), now a series star power before a move could even be played. Carlsen opted to sit out

20 November 2016 | Chess Life field Sequel

of the Grand Chess Tour classical events to best prepare for his November much the same. But their losses were offset by the meteoric rise of Maxime match with the winner of the Candidates’ tournament, Sergey Karjakin. Vachier-Lagrave (MVL), as the new world number two had skyrocketed Former World Champion Vladimir Kramnik literally backed out of the to the seventh highest rating of all time by gaining 96 points in 14 months. competition, a chronic ailment requiring treatment before the Olym - After a few days of autograph signing, convivial ribbing, and soccer piad in Baku. His compatriot, seven-time Russian champion Peter spectating, the magnitude of the event consumed the Central West End. Svidler, returned to the U.S. for the first time since 1999 in his stead. At the charming World Chess Hall of Fame, exhibitions of past champions Without two of the world’s four players rated over 2800, the tournament were temporarily shelved to make room for the bodies of current ones. still boasted an impressive 2779 average rating. The former world champion Following a pleasant opening ceremony and the drawing of lots, the sandwiched in between the two absentees, , had lost tournament was underway, with all eyes on the match between the U.S. over 40 points in a year. Fellow quadragenarian had done Olympiad team boards two and three. GM Wesley So hoisting the Sinquefield Cup. To his right is former World Champion , to his left are Dr. Jeanne Sinquefield and Rex Sinquefield. Photo by Lennart Ootes; All photos this feature courtesy of the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis.

www.uschess.org 21 Maxime Vachier-Lagrave BY LENNART OOTES BY SPECTRUM STUDIOS BY LENNART OOTES

Liren Ding Viswanathan Anand Levon Aronian BY LENNART OOTES BY SPECTRUM STUDIOS BY SPECTRUM STUDIOS

Veselin Topalov Fabiano Caruana Hikaru Nakamura BY SPECTRUM STUDIOS BY LENNART OOTES BY SPECTRUM STUDIOS Cover Story / 2016 Sinquefield Cup

OPEN CATALAN (E05) Sacrificing a second pawn to increase the 16. ... Rd7 GM Wesley So (FIDE 2771, USA) initiative. The d4-pawn is quite irrelevant. Sure, The move I was hoping to see was 16. ... GM Hikaru Nakamura (FIDE 2791, USA) it would be a nice pawn to keep, but White Rd5. It’s rare to see the material imbalance of 2016 Sinquefield Cup (1), St. Louis, needs to remain active to justify the sacrificed two minors and two pawns for two rooks. 17. Missouri, 08.05.2016 material. Bxd5 cxd5 (17. ... Rxb1+ 18. Rxb1 cxd5 19. The line 14. Rd1 c3 (14. ... e5 15. Qxe5 Nd5 At the 2015 Sinquefield Cup, Hikaru Qxa6 is the main problem for Black: the back Nakamura crushed Wesley So in a King’s Indian. is double-edged. White has the two bishops rank is left unguarded.) 18. Bxb6 cxb6 19. Qc3 A lot has changed in a year, including Hikaru’s and more central pawns, but is also underde- is just too good for White, though. The queen - opening choice against his compatriot. veloped. Black is very active, which is necessary given that the structure in the long term side will be chiseled at, and when all is said and 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 d5 4. g3 Be7 5. certainly favors White.) 15. Qxc3 Bxe2 16. Re1 done the rooks will be stronger than the minors. Bg2 0-0 6. 0-0 dxc4 7. Ne5 Qa6 17. Bg5 Qc4 is equal. (17. ... Rd6 trying to 17. Rd1 h6 7. Qa4 a6 8. Qxc4 b5 9. Qc2 Bb7 is a main keep the pawn might not be worth the trouble. line that has been played countless times. Why give White control of the b-file? 18. Rab1) A patient move, but perhaps reinforcements were necessary: 7. ... Nc6 8. Nxc6 14. ... Rxd4 15. Rfb1 N Level is 17. ... Nd5 18. e4 Nf6, but Black has The usual line is 8. Bxc6 bxc6 9. Nxc6 Qe8 The first new move, and a smart one. In the benefited from the pawn thrust. Now his knight 10. Nxe7+ Qxe7 11. Qa4 e5 12. dxe5 Qxe5 is a event of an Exchange sacrifice, White’s second has the d3-square to eventually reroute to. rook is better placed on a1 rather than f1. This well-known line. The engine slightly prefers 18. Rxd7 Nxd7 19. Bxb6 cxb6 20. Qd2 c5 White, but the opposite-colored bishops and seems to oppose typical chess logic, but the airy kingside allows Black great equalizing reason is that White will try to play a4-a5 and The line 20. ... Nc5 21. Qd6 will be somewhat opportunities. then a2-a4. similar to the game continuation, where White Previously seen was 15. Rab1 Rb6 16. Bc5 stands better. 21. ... Nxa4 22. Qxc6 Qxc6 23. 8. ... bxc6 9. Na3 Bxa3 10. bxa3 Rd5 17. Bxd5 cxd5 18. Bxb6 axb6 19. Qb4 Nd7 Bxc6 Nc5 The main difference here is that the (19. ... d4 is also tempting, opening the long players have traded one of their respective diagonal and freeing d5 for the knight.) 20. a5 doubled pawns. This is important for Black, as b5 21. Qe7 c5 22. f4 d4 23. f5 e5 24. f6 gxf6 25. it frees up the c5-square for his knight. g4 h6 26. Rf5 ½-½ (26) Efimenko, Zahar (2689)- Sakaev, Konstantin (2607) Vrnjacka Banja, 2010. 21. Rd1 Nf6 22. Kf1 Kh7 23. Qc2+ 15. ... Rb6 16. Bc5

A hilarious pawn structure arises: Black has triple, isolated c-pawns and an isolated a-pawn. White is down a little one and has double, isolated a-pawns. A truly hideous position. 10. ... Ba6 11. Qd2 Rb8 12. Qa5 Qc8 13. a4 Rd8 14. Ba3 23. ... Kg8

4TH SINQUEFIELD CUP August 5-16, 2016 | Hosted by the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis Fed. Rating 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Score 1. GM Wesley So USA 2771 x ½ ½ ½ 1 ½ 1 ½ ½ ½ 5½ 2. GM Fabiano Caruana USA 2807 ½ x ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ 1 5 3. GM Levon Aronian ARM 2792 ½ ½ x ½ ½ 0 1 ½ 1 ½ 5 4. GM Viswanathan Anand IND 2770 ½ ½ ½ x ½ 1 ½ ½ ½ ½ 5 5. GM Veselin Topalov BUL 2761 0 ½ ½ ½ x ½ ½ 1 1 ½ 5 6. GM Maxime Vachier-Lagrave FRA 2819 ½ ½ 1 0 ½ x ½ ½ ½ ½ 4½ 7. GM Hikaru Nakamura USA 2791 0 ½ 0 ½ ½ ½ x 1 ½ 1 4½ 8. GM Liren Ding CHN 2755 ½ ½ ½ ½ 0 ½ 0 x 1 ½ 4 9. GM Peter Svidler RUS 2751 ½ ½ 0 ½ 0 ½ ½ 0 x 1 3½ 10. GM Anish Giri NED 2769 ½ 0 ½ ½ ½ ½ 0 ½ 0 x 3 For more games and information, see the official website: http://grandchesstour.org/2016-sinquefield-cup/overview

www.uschess.org 23 Cover Story / 2016 Sinquefield Cup

In retrospect, Hikaru likely regrets not d4+ 36. exd4 cxd4+ 37. Kxd4 with very good Topalov fans were hoping for a renaissance. playing 23. ... g6 to keep the queens on the drawing chances. In 2015, the Bulgarian looked supercharged in board. 24. Qc3 Kg7 and it is unclear how White defeating Carlsen and Nakamura in the first 34. ... b4+ 35. Kd2 Bf1 makes progress. Any attempt forward will two rounds, only to have his batteries die down include a concession. 25. h4 Qc7 26. Kg1 e5 After 35. ... Bb5 36. Rc8 c4 looks like every - the stretch. and the fight continues, though White of course thing is covered, except 37. Rb8 threatens to Anish Giri supporters also were looking for stands better. play Rxb5. This means the bishop must move, a revival. The Dutch grandmaster had lost his 24. Qd2 Kh7 25. Qd8 which results in the loss of the b-pawn, and footing in 2016, perhaps unnerved by his string ultimately the game. of 14 consecutive draws at the Candidates’. In Wesley is playing for two results now that 36. Rc8 c4 37. Rb8 b3 38. Kc3, Black the first round, he had Maxime Vachier-Lagrave the queens are coming off the board. The a7- resigned. down a pawn and against the ropes, before pawn is a glaring weakness, and despite the erring and allowing the Frenchman to escape. approximately equal material, White is much Nakamura throws in the towel, under - Unfortu nately for the typically solid Giri, he better. A rook often dominates minor pieces standing that his bishop can’t fend off the ex changed some of those games that he would in the endgame. a-pawn. normally draw for losses rather than wins. The victory was So’s first over Nakamura in 25. ... Qxd8 The second round saw Nakamura jump back classical chess, though he had scored some to an even score, thanks to a Giri oversight 25. ... e5 26. Qxc8 Bxc8 27. Rd8 Be6 28. Ra8 points off the four-time U.S. champion in recent just after the . Nakamura said that c3 29. Ke1 is an even worse version of the game blitz and rapid encounters. So told Chess.com’s “both of us made mistakes, though Anish made for Black, since the push ... e6-e5 has loosened Mike Klein that the experience of playing many the last serious blunder, so that’s why I won.” control of the light squares. games against Hikaru helped him achieve Blunders were plentiful in round two. 26. Rxd8 c3 27. Ke1 Bc4 victory. Vachier-Lagrave suffered his first and only loss of 2016 after he missed an intermezzo and No better is 27. ... c2 28. Kd2 Bxe2 29. Kxc2 Joining So atop the leaderboard was Topalov, found himself a piece down against Anand, Kg6 30. Rb8. (Black has no time to go pawn who dispatched Svidler. In what became the who surprised his opponent by essaying a risky hunting.) 30. ... Ng4 31. Rb7 Nxf2 32. Rxa7 theme of his tournament, Svidler blundered a line in the Caro-Kann. and b6 falls next. piece away in a worse but defensible position. 28. Kd1 Bxa2 29. Kc2 Bc4 30. e3 b5 31. Kxc3 a6 32. Ra8 INTERMEZZO MISSED SVIDLER’S BLUNDER GM Maxime Vachier-Lagrave (FIDE 2819, Probably more precise was 32. a5. 32. ... Bd5 GM Veselin Topalov (FIDE 2761, BUL) FRA) 33. Bxd5 Nxd5+ and the only move that wins GM Peter Svidler (FIDE 2751, RUS) GM Viswanathan Anand (FIDE 2770, IND) is 34. Kb3 (34. Kd2 c4 35. Rd6 Nb4 the knight 2016 Sinquefield Cup (1), St. Louis, 2016 Sinquefield Cup (2), St. Louis, miraculously can’t be kicked from its defense Missouri, 08.05.2016 Missouri, 08.06.2016 of the a6-pawn. If the king comes to c3, the knight checks from a2. If the king comes to a3, the knight checks from c2. An amazing fortress.) 32. ... Nd5+ 33. Bxd5

AFTER 25. h3 AFTER 29. … Nd5

25. ... Rb4?? 30. Nxe6?? This move hangs a piece on the spot. Instead, Losing on the spot. Svidler could have fought on with 25. ... Rb3 The continuation 30. Bxd5 exd5 31. Qh3 33. ... exd5 26. Qf4 (26. Qe2 Rb5) 26. ... Rb4 27. Qxc7 Nxd4 followed by Qe3 looks very dangerous for Black. Also winning for White is 33. ... Bxd5 34. 28. Nxd4 Rxd4 29. Qc8+ Kh7 30. Qxa6 Ra4 For example 31. ... Qg7 32. Qe3 Rg6 33. g3 Rxa6 bxa4 35. Rxa4 f5 36. Ra5 c4 37. Kd4. Black’s with very good chances to hold, as rook endings keeps the game tense, but I much prefer White’s king does not enter the action in time, as the with three on two on the kingside are theoret- chances. The battery is hard to deal with. ically drawn. White king gallivants around the dark squares. 30. ... Bxe6 31. Bxd5 e3 34. a5 26. Qc3 Nxd4 27. Qxb4 Ne2+ 28. Kh1, Of course! MVL must have confused the Black resigned. The continuation 34. Rc8 bxa4 35. Rxc5 is move order, which leads him to a swift defeat. also winning, but more difficult. Here White Svidler had to tip his king, for after 28. ... The other pathway 31. ... Bxd5 32. Rxd5 e3 will have to be precise, whereas in the game Nxc1 the simple 29. Qb8+ wins the knight. If 33. Bg3 leads to a true dogfight. White is up a continuation the a-pawn ended things quickly; 29. ... Kh7, then 30. Qb1+ Nd3 31. Ne1. If 29. pawn, but his pieces are discombobulated. Black 34. axb5?! axb5 35. Rc8 would be met by 35...... Kf7, then 31. Qxc7+. has the initiative and a passed e-pawn, giving

24 November 2016 | Chess Life Cover Story / 2016 Sinquefield Cup him no less than dynamic equality. position but missed Anand’s 31. ... e3. After two rounds. Five wins in 10 games left chess 32. Bxe3 that, the game was practically over. aficionados hungry for more bloodshed. Unfor - tunately, those who tuned in daily for the Now 32. Bg3 runs right into 32. ... e2 and A few tables away, Topalov found a beautiful celebrated commentary team of GMs Yasser Black picks up a full rook. tactical sequence against Caruana which resulted Seirawan and Maurice Ashley and WGM 32. ... Bxd5 33. Bxa7+ Kxa7 in him obtaining a queen and two pawns for Jennifer Shahade remained famished for the three minor pieces, only to allow the reigning next few rounds. Something strange happened: U.S. champion to build an impenetrable fortress the next 14 games were all drawn. and survive. After a crazy opening, Svidler The final game of the fifth round lasted over equalized against Aronian before handing the seven hours. Veselin Topalov had long been Armenian a favorable minor piece ending and nursing an advantage after Ding went for a ultimately the game. And this year’s wildcard, dubious novelty. The Chinese player was closing China’s top player Liren Ding, was outplaying in on a draw when he erred, and an unforgiving last year’s wildcard So before overlooking a Topalov was set to deliver checkmate just a one-move tactic that drew immediately. move before getting mated himself.

OVERLOOKED TACTIC TOPALOV CLOSES GM Liren Ding (FIDE 2755, CHN) GM Veselin Topalov (FIDE 2761, BUL) GM Wesley So (FIDE 2771, USA) GM Liren Ding (FIDE 2755, CHN) 34. Qf2+ 2016 Sinquefield Cup (2), St. Louis, 2016 Sinquefield Cup (5), St. Louis, Missouri, 08.06.2016 Missouri, 08.09.2016 After 34. Rxd5 the move 34. ... Bxf4! is an important inclusion. Black picks up an impor - tant pawn, leaving White with no chances. 35. Rxd8 (35. Rxf5 Be3+ 36. Kh1 Rxf5 also is won, since the back rank mate is in play.) 35. ... Be3+ 36. Kh1 Qxd8 and the pawn on f5 is immune, because of back rank checkmate ideas. 34. ... Bc5! 35. Qxc5+ 35. bxc5 Bc6 is easily winning. White has three pawns for the piece, but they are weak pawns and Black begins a quick assault on the white king. AFTER 18. … Bc6 AFTER 51. … Bf5 35. ... Qxc5+ 36. bxc5 Rd7 37. Rfe1 h6 Objectively, Black should have very good 38. Kf2 Kb8 39. c4 Bc6 40. Rxd7 Bxd7 19. Nxb7? 41. Rb1 Ra6 42. Rb6 drawing chances. Practically speaking, though, White has done amazingly well to achieve a this is a tough position to defend. The light- substantial positional advantage. His move looks squared bishop is blunted on all diagonals and like it picks up a clean pawn, but in an attempt there are many checkmate ideas involving h4– to secure a material advantage, clearly Ding h5 for White. With every move Black has to missed the equalizing tactic. Instead, 19. Rfd1 be on the lookout for his king’s safety, whereas Qe7 20. e4 would have allowed White to White’s moves are made reflexively. strengthen his grip of the board’s important 52. Rd6 Bg6 53. Rd8 Bf5 54. Rd6 Bg6 55. squares. Black will have no counterplay on the Rc8 Rb7 56. Rdd8 Bd3 57. Ne6 Bf1 c-file thanks to the knight posted on d6. If Black plays 20. ... e5 (20. ... Bh4 21. e5 is suffocating, Maybe a bit stronger is 57. ... Bf5 58. Rh8+ but perhaps survivable yet.) 21. Nf5 Qb4 22. (58. Nf8+ is scary, but there is no good discovery Rd6 Qxe4 23. Nxh6+ gxh6 24. Qxe4 Bxe4 25. after 58. ... Kg8) 58. ... Kg6 59. Nf4+ Kg5 60. Rxf6 White will start gobbling up Black’s pawns. Rc4 Rc2 61. Ra4 Bd7 62. Rd4 Rc8 forcing a 42. ... Rxa5 pair of rooks to be exchanged which greatly 19. ... Bxb7 20. Bc7 Qe7 21. Bxb6 Bxg2 increases the drawing chances. The line 42. ... Bc6 43. Rxa6 bxa6 provides 22. Kxg2 Qb7+ 23. Qf3 Qxb6 58. Nf8+ Kg8 59. Ng6+ White unnecessary drawing chances. Note that Black is probably slightly better here, but the a-pawn’s queening square is a dark square, with precise play the game should peter out to (see diagram top of next page) meaning White merely needs to trade off the a draw. kingside pawns to draw. Not an easy feat, but 59. ... Kh7 why allow such chances? 44. g3 Kc7 45. Ke3 24. Rc6 Qb7 25. Rc2 Qxf3+ 26. Kxf3 Rfc8 27. Rfc1 Rxc2 28. Rxc2 Rb8 29. Rc6 Bg2 preventing h2-h3 makes the win trivial. The move 59. ... Kf7 is a draw on the spot. a5 30. Rc5 Ra8 31. Rb5 Ra7 32. Bc2 Kf8 60. Nh8+ (60. Nf4 Bxg2+! 61. Nxg2 Rb1+ 62. 43. Rxh6 Rxc5 44. h4 Rxc4 45. g3 Kc7 33. a4 Ke7 34. b4 Bc3 35. bxa5 Rxa5, Kh2 Rbb2 63. Rf8+ Kg6 64. Kg3 Rxg2+ is 46. h5 b5, White resigned. Draw agreed. actually quite scary for White. The tables turn Most of the participants sympathized with if Topalov kept gunning to win.) 60. ... Ke6 Vachier-Lagrave, who had achieved a great Anand, Aronian, So, and Topalov led after 61. Re8+ Kd6 62. Rcd8+ Kc6 63. Rc8+ If the

www.uschess.org 25 Cover Story / 2016 Sinquefield Cup

king runs to b6, White can protect g2 via Re6+ ensue. Here there’s no way to stop checkmate 10. ... Nd5 and Rg6. Otherwise the checks continue in without sacrificing all your pieces, so Ding put perpetuity. up the white flag. 10. ... Qd7 was Karjakin’s choice in the Candidates’ Tournament. In his game with 60. Nf8+ Kg8 61. Ne6+ Kh7 After the round, the organizers treated the Aronian, he found himself with a decent Missing his chance to draw again. Now Ding players to a Cardinals baseball game. Most of position out of the opening, but lacked space. is in huge trouble. the participants attended, though some pre - 11. b4 f6 12. Ne4 Nd5 13. Bd2 a5 14. Nc5 Bxc5 15. bxc5 a4 16. Rb1 Rfb8 17. Qc2 Nde7 18. Rb2 62. Rh8+ ferred to get a head start on the rest day. The definition of rest seemed to differ depending Bb3 19. Qb1 Kh8 20. Rc1 Na7 21. Bb4 Nb5 22. Topalov finds the right plan. on native language; some went to the St. Louis Nd2 Bf7 23. e3 Bg6 24. Ne4 Nd5 25. Be1 Nxa3 26. c6 Qe7 27. Qa2 bxc6 28. Rxc6 Bf7 29. Rc5 62. ... Kg6 63. Nf4+ Kg5 Zoo while others went to the gym. Maxime Vachier-Lagrave, ever the affable sport, took Nxe3 30. Qxa3 Rxb2 31. Qxb2 Nxg2 32. Kxg2 Safer was 63. ... Kf7 , yet still tough for Black. on Chess.com Vice President Danny Rensch in a3 33. Qb7 Qd8 34. Qxc7 Qxc7 35. Rxc7 Bd5 For example 64. Rhf8+ Ke7 65. Rce8+ Kd7 66. a giant bullet chess match in front of the Hall 36. Rc5 a2 37. Bc3 Bg8 38. Ba1 Rb8 39. Ra5 Re1 Pushing Black’s king away from the of Fame. What’s giant bullet chess? A workout Rb1 40. Bc3 Aronian, Levon (2786)-Karjakin, kingside, White has better chances to attack and a half, see it for yourself on YouTube. Sergey (2760), Moscow, 2016, ½-½ (101) the pawns there. Not yet clearly won, but Back to the chess, Aronian (3/5) still appeared 11. Nxd5 Bxd5 12. Qa4 Re8 13. Rac1 a6 certainly the advantage grows. to be reeling from the illness that caused him 14. Nd2 Bxg2 15. Kxg2 Nd4 16. Bxd4 64. Rhf8 to make a quick draw with Caruana in round exd4 four, as his pawn sacrifice was misguided and landed him a loss against Vachier-Lagrave (2/5). Note the structural change here. White’s Like in round one, Giri (2/5) failed to convert knight certainly is superior to the dark-squared a pawn-up position, this time against Anand bishop, which is a passive piece in the position. (3/5). Nakamura (2½/5) and Caruana (2½/5) It can be quite frustrating to play with Black, peacefully split the point. So (3/5) came into but objectively there is only a slight pull for round six with as many points as he scored in White. Wesley must have felt comfortable here, the entirety of his first Sinquefield Cup. He since he blitzed out the opening. was tasked with taking down Topalov, whose 17. Qb3 Rb8 3½/5 score set the pace. Their matchup changed the trajectory of the tournament. 17. ... Bg5 might have allowed Topalov to liquidate into an easily drawn endgame: 18. f4 Rxe2+ 19. Rf2 Rxf2+ 20. Kxf2 Be7 21. Qxb7 ENGLISH OPENING, 64. ... Rbb2 Rb8 22. Qxc7 Rxb2 23. Qxd8+ Bxd8 24. Rc8 FOUR KNIGHTS VARIATION (A29) 64. ... Kh4 does not allow checkmate, but it GM Wesley So (FIDE 2771, USA) Kf8 (Not 24. ... Rxd2+?? 25. Ke1 and White lets White win a second pawn. 65. Rc1 g5 (65. GM Veselin Topalov (FIDE 2761, BUL) easily wins.) 25. Rxd8+ Ke7 26. Rxd4 Rxd2+ ... Bb5 66. Kh2 g5 67. Rf6 gxf4 68. Rc5 and the 2016 Sinquefield Cup (6), St. Louis, with a relatively simple draw. The issue for only way to stop checkmate is by sacrificing Missouri, 08.11.2016 White is that in order to remain up a pawn, his 68. ... Rxg2+ 69. Kxg2 Bf1+ 70. Kxf1 but White king must sit on g1, where it is cut off from the After five rounds, Veselin Topalov was the action. 27. Kg1 (27. Ke3 Rxh2 28. Ra4 Rg2 29. is up a full rook.) 66. Rxf1 gxf4 67. Rxf4+ is surprising leader with 3½/5. Wesley So had two pawns to the good, with an easy win. Kf3 Rd2 30. Ke3 Rg2 with a draw by repetition.) four peaceful results after a smooth win over 27. ... Ke6 28. Ra4 h5 29. Rxa6+ Kf5 and despite 65. Rc7 g6 Nakamura in the first round. Despite blitzing the two pawn advantage, Black’s king activity The move 65. ... Bxg2+ is ineffective due to out an opening that did not get him any real secures a half point. And in some lines, it is even 66. Nxg2 Rxg2 67. Rxg7+ Kh4 68. Rxg2. advantage, a well-rested So struck gold when White who must be careful not to lose! 66. g3!, Black resigned. Topalov fed him a passed pawn. 18. e4 dxe3 e.p. 1. c4 e5 2. g3 Nf6 3. Bg2 d5 4. cxd5 18. ... c5 had previously been played, but (see diagram top of next column) Nxd5 5. Nc3 Nb6 6. Nf3 Nc6 7. 0-0 Be7 understandably Topalov did not want to allow This extremely calm moves ends the game 8. d3 0-0 9. a3 Be6 10. Be3 So to maintain such a promising pawn structure on the spot. Black would love to remove the after 19. Nc4 Bf8 20. Nb6 Re6 21. Nd5 b5 22. bishop from the board, as checkmate would (see diagram top of next column) Qa2 c4 23. Rfe1 Rh6 24. dxc4 Qd7 25. h4 Rxh4,

26 November 2016 | Chess Life For Wesley So, winning the Sinquefield Cup is a monumental achievement. He has neither the fame nor fortune of the other players, and he has to constantly compete for invitations with compatriots Fabiano Caruana and Hikaru Nakamura. Photo by Austin Fuller

½-½ (25), Hinz, J-Betker, J, GER e-mail, 2010. venient to protect, but the a-pawn can also be 19. fxe3 Rf8 quite annnoying to deal with. And who doesn’t love a good old rook behind a passed pawn? 22. ... c6 23. Rcf1 Qd5 24. Qc2 After 24. Qxd5 Rxd5 and the scoresheets would be signed in a few moves, since White has nothing.

24. ... g6 25. g4 Preventing ... f7-f5, but making the kingside feel a little airy. Perhaps Wesley felt that he was still better, but this is a bit much. In fact, 29. ... c5!? Black is starting to look like the better side. A more pleasant continuation for Black was So has obtained a slight edge, but nothing 25. ... Rde8 26. h3 Bd8 29. ... Qe7! 30. Qxc6 Qg5 31. Re1 Re6 32. Qc2 f5 33. Qc4 Rfe8 which is double-edged, but concrete. Topalov does not have exploitable Topalov has defended perfectly, and he is White must be careful. Neither king feels partic- weaknesses, merely some temporarily passive no longer worse. 26. ... Bh4 27. Nc3 Qc4 is ularly at home, though White is a pawn to the pieces. more active than the game continuation. good. All to say that the position is dynamically 20. Ne4 Qd7 21. Rf3 Rbd8 22. d4 27. Nc3 Qe6 equal. After 22. Qxb7 Rb8 23. Qxc7 (23. Qxa6 It’s unclear to me why Topalov did not move 30. dxc5 b5 31. Nc3 Qc6 32. Qd2 forward here with 27. ... Qc4. The position is Rxb2+ 24. Rf2 Rb6 25. Qc4 Bxa3 26. Rc3 Bd6 Protecting the pawn with 32. b4? fails to 32. equal, but perhaps he still believed he was worse. equalizes.) 23. ... Rxb2+ 24. Rf2 Rxf2+ 25. Nxf2 ... Rxe3 Qxc7 26. Rxc7 Bxa3 27. Kf3 Ra8 the position 28. Na4 b6 29. Rc1 32. ... Re5?? should not be an excep tionally challenging draw for Black. White’s pawns might be more con - (see diagram next column) The continuation 32. ... Qxc5 33. Nd5 Qa7

www.uschess.org 27 Cover Story / 2016 Sinquefield Cup

34. Rc6 Qb7 35. Qc3 Bh4 must have looked promotion, a handshake indicated a new the table throughout the tournament, played scary to Topalov, but the dark-squared bishop tournament leader. another good game. Unfor tu nately, his strong always covers all the vital squares. In fact, Black Three decisive results after the rest day put play did not net him the full point. is not worse here. In the game he had to deal the tournament back on track—or so everyone with the impossible task of stopping a passed thought. In round seven, much to So’s delight, c-pawn on the loose. all five games were drawn. Anand had a slight 33. b4 Bg5 34. Rd1! pull, but Aronian neutralized the advantage. Caruana held an edge for all 95 moves of his The pin on the rook would be scary to many, game against Ding, but objectively the draw but Wesley calmly takes control of the open was never out of reach. Another peaceful day d-file. meant that So retained his half-point lead with 34. ... Bxe3 two rounds remaining. Round eight saw Aronian increase his life - The line 34. ... Rxe3 35. Qd5 Qe8 36. Rxe3 time score against Nakamura to “plus” seven. (36. Qxg5 Rxc3 37. Rxc3 Qe2+ 38. Kg3 Qxd1 Like Aronian, Svidler first went up one pawn, 39. Qe3 is still good for White, but the king then a second, and ultimately converted against AFTER 33. Rh1 does feel a little unsafe on g3.) 36. ... Qxe3 37. Giri. Topalov held the balance in an interesting Qf3 is problematic for Black, since he can’t afford Berlin against Anand, while Ding and So hardly 33. ... Rd8 to trade queens lest he end up in a lost ending. attempted to obtain an initiative against 33. ... c4 looks to have been a necessary move. The c5-pawn is simply too strong. The game Vachier-Lagrave and Caruana, respectively. continuation looked far worse than this, though. It’s now hard to make a rook lift, lest the b- So’s decision to more or less force a draw pawn come under fire when the continuation 35. Qd7 Qa8 36. Nd5 with the white pieces was criticized by many, follows 34. Rh3 (34. Bb6 does not legitimately including some of the competitors. Caruana, attack a5 because 34. ... Rd6 35. Bxa5 Ra6 36. who had just made his eighth straight draw, Bc7 Rxa4 37. Bxe5 Ra2) 34. ... Bf6 35. Rg3 Rd6 was ambivalent, saying that “while I wouldn’t The issue here is that White can’t possibly have played like that, Wesley is on the verge infiltrate without exchanging the bishops, which of his first truly major title. This mentality may is not really possible due to ... Rb6 ideas. 36. hurt a player in the long run, but he still holds Bg5 Bg7 and this should hold. There are no the tournament lead.” If So happened to lose entry squares for White, and the black rook in round nine, as many as seven players could can always swing between b6 and d6, preventing have ended in a tie for first. What a headache the superior side from making any real progress. that would have been for the organizers. The final hurdle for So was holding off 34. Rh3 Rg8 35. Rf3+ Ke8 36. Rg3 Vachier-Lagrave with the black pieces, a feat Black can hardly afford to trade rooks on g3, Now it’s all over. Queens are the worst he accomplished with relative ease. This guar - since Topalov will create a passed h-pawn and blockaders, and the queen on a8 is running out anteed the 22-year-old at least a share of the then move his king back to the queenside. title. Now only two others could catch him, of moves. 36. ... Kf7 37. Kd3 b6 for three entered the round a half-point back, 36. ... Bg5 37. c6 Bh4 38. Rd2 and Topalov and Aronian met over the board. The trade of pawns with 37. ... Bxh4 38. Rh3 Protecting his king from any potential Anand has never lost to Svidler and has beaten helps White, because the h4-pawn is his only trouble, Wesley understands he is completely him seven times, but with black in this final weakness. Exchanging these rook pawns means won and he need not rush. round it was not meant to be. Americans that Topalov can freely move on to the queenside. Caruana and Nakamura scored fine victories 38. Kc4 Bxh4 38. ... Re1 39. Rc2 over Giri and Ding, respectively, but they were A necessity, otherwise Black gets rolled over. The hasty 39. c7 Rc1 gives Black some hope; too far back for their wins to impact the tour - and 39. Nb6? is not prepared yet, since 39. ... nament champion. 39. Rh3 Bg5 40. Bxg5 Rxg5 41. Kb5 Rg2 Qb8 40. c7 Qxb6 actually loses for White, since After six hours, Topalov’s inability to close 42. Rf3+ Ke7 43. Kxb6 Rg8 44. Rh3 c4 mate on g1 is hanging. out a winning rook ending allowed So to avoid 45. Rxh5 Rb8+ 46. Kc6 Rxb2 47. Rxe5 tiebreaks and clinch the $75,000 check. For Rc2 39. ... Kg7 40. Nb6 Qb8 41. Qd4+, Black Topalov, it was one of several regrettable resigned. mistakes that prevented him from a deserving Veselin resigned, acknowledging that he can’t tournament win. stop the pawn from queening. This game was decided by Topalov’s strange decision to allow TOPALOV DOESN’T CLOSE Wesley to keep the c-pawn. If he had taken back GM Veselin Topalov (FIDE 2761, BUL) on c5, it is hard to imagine him losing the game. GM Levon Aronian (2792, ARM) 2016 Sinquefield Cup (9), St. Louis, So wasn’t surprised by Topalov’s startling Missouri, 08.14.2016 32. ... Re5? He stated that the move was “too ambitious, but that is just how Topalov plays.” Entering the final round of the 2016 Sinquefield The American player pocketed the extra pawn, Cup, Veselin Topalov and Levon Aronian—along ultimately returning his weak e-pawn to with Viswanathan Anand—trailed Wesley So by safeguard the queenside passer. As it ap proached half a point. Topalov, who left several points on 48. Rxa5

28 November 2016 | Chess Life Cover Story / 2016 Sinquefield Cup

Best was 48. f4!, the move GM Alejandro Ne1 81. Rd8 Nf3, Draw agreed. Ramirez and I were clamoring for during our live com mentary. And the winning line is 48. ... As soon as it became apparent that Topalov Rxc3 (48. ... Kf6 49. Kd6 is an important inclu - would not win, a triumphant So returned to sion, for 49. ... Rd2+ 50. Kc5 Ra2 51. Kb5 results the Chess Club for an interview and photos. in Black losing another pawn. 51. ... Ra3 52. Rc5 He joyfully signed autographs and spoke with Rxc3 53. Rxc4 Rf3 54. e5+ Ke7 55. Kxa5 with well-wishers, a smile seemingly sewn to his an easily won game.) 49. f5 Rd3 50. Rxe6+ Kf7 lips. As fans heaped praise on his play, So 51. Kb5 c3 52. Rc6 Rd4 53. Rxc3 Rxe4 54. Kxa5 demurred, insisting he was fortunate. The (54. Rc5 snagging a second pawn for free might player who suffered such a turbulent 2015 be the preferred method for most readers.). exudes class and respect. He is the personifi- 48. ... Rxc3 49. Rc5 cation of humble. 57. Rd4+?? Stronger was 49. Kc5 Rc2 50. e5 c3 51. Kc4 At the closing ceremony, Chess Club and Rxf2 52. Kxc3 when Black’s king is cut off, Throwing away the win for good. Aronian Scholastic Center of Saint Louis Director Tony meaning the ending should be a simple win. does not falter the rest of the way. Rich congratulated So for flipping the script White merely needs to put the rook on c5 and Best was 57. Kb4 Rb7+ 58. Kc3 reverting at this year’s Sinquefield Cup, improving from push the a-pawn with the support of his king. back to the position on move 55. The difference a tie for last to clear first. So deadpanned, is a bit annoy ing for White to deal with, but it “There was no tie, I was dead last.” Donning 49. ... Rc2 is still winning: 58. ... Ra7 59. Ra4 Kc5 60. a6 an outfit that evidences his religiosity, So Returning the favor. White’s task was much Kb5 61. Ra1 e5 The king’s entrance is blocked expressed gratitude for his family, friends, chess more difficult after 49. ... Rc1 50. Kb5 c3 51. (thanks to the rook being on a7, Black can colleagues and trainers, the Chess Club, the Kb4 c2 52. Kb3 Rb1+ 53. Kxc2 Rb4 54. a5 Kd6 afford this move without allowing White to commentary teams, and the ongoing generosity Black’s king is no longer cut off, meaning the push further up the board) , but White wins of Rex and Jeanne Sinquefield. He also told drawing chances are very high. 55. Rc8 Ra4 is with a different plan. 62. Kd3 Kc5 63. Ke3 Kb6 Garry Kasparov that he inspired him, perhaps an important inclusion, forcing the white rook 64. Kf3 Rf7+ (64. ... Rxa6 65. Rxa6+ Kxa6 66. still on a high from defeating the former world to a8 and freeing up the c-file for the black Kg4 is an elementary king and pawn ending champion in the Ultimate Blitz Challenge. If king. 56. Ra8 Rxe4 is holding. win.) 65. Kg4 Rf4+ 66. Kg5 Ka7 67. Ra4 Kb8 someone had lent even a moment of their time to help the tournament run smoothly, the 50. Kb5 c3 51. Kb4 Rxf2 68. a7+ Ka8 69. Kg6 Rf8 70. Ra5 White will capture the e-pawn and cut off the black king, winner thanked them. Black trades in the c-pawn for the f-pawn. which is too far away to aid in the defense. He then joked that the event was not over, But this is an unimportant pawn, indicating 57. ... Kc5 58. Rd8 Rb7 59. Rc8+ Kd4 60. for he could not bear seeing his team lose in Aronian has made a vital mistake. a6 Re7 61. Kb5 Kxe4 62. Rc4+ Kd3 63. the Ultimate Moves, an exhibition match in 52. Rxc3 Kd6 53. Rc4 Ra4 e5 64. Ra3+ Kd4 65. a7 which Rex Sinquefield and six grandmasters There was nothing but upside to 53. a5. take on son Randy Sinquefield and his sextet of grandmaster helpers. The format is simple: 53. ... Rf8 54. a5 Rb8+ each player makes five moves before getting up and making way for the next. Despite Randy’s much improved chess skills, the progenitor led his team to match victory, 3½-2½. For Wesley So, winning the Sinquefield Cup is a monumental achievement. He has neither the fame nor fortune of the other players, and he has to constantly compete for invitations with compatriots Caruana and Nakamura. 65. ... Rb7+ His playing style is pragmatic rather than aggressive, but So pounces on opportunities The move 65. ... Rxa7?? would have been to exploit his opponents’ inaccuracies. His style lost, as the white king is too close. 66. Rxa7 e4 55. Ka3 at times may make it difficult for him to rack 67. Kb4 Kd3 68. Kb3 e3 69. Rd7+ Ke2 70. Kc2 up victories a la Carlsen, but in a tournament The wrong plan. Kf2 71. Kd3 e2 72. Rf7+ Ke1 73. Re7 scoops with only 13 decisive results in 45 games (a 55. Kc3 Ra8 56. Ra4 Kc5 57. a6 is easily up the pawn. winning thanks to the rook being behind the ridiculously high 71 percent draw rate), it 66. Kc6 Rxa7 67. Rxa7 e4 68. Ra4+ Kd3 passed pawn. The a-pawn serves as a decoy, proved enough. 69. Kd5 e3 70. Ra3+ Kd2 71. Kd4 e2 72. while the king scoops up the e-pawn. The Thanks to the 13 Grand Chess Tour points Ra2+ Kd1 73. Kd3 e1=N+ resulting king and pawn ending is straight- he earned in St. Louis, barring an absolute melt- down at the London Chess Classic in December, forward. The most likely follow-up being 57. This is the best Topalov was able to achieve So will be the 2016 Grand Chess Tour champion, ... Kb5 58. Ra1 Rxa6 (58. ... Ra7 59. Kd4) 59. after his blunder, but rook versus knight is a which will net him the $100,000 bonus. He has Rxa6 Kxa6 60. Kd4 Kb6 61. Ke5 Kc7 62. Kxe6 simple draw. Kd8 63. Kf7 when the pawn promotes. also cemented his standing among the world’s 74. Kc3 Nf3 75. Rf2 Ne1 76. Rd2+ Kc1 77. top ten players. 55. ... Ra8 56. Ka4 Ra7 Rh2 Kd1 78. Rf2 Kc1 79. Rd2 Nf3 80. Rd5 Not so bad for So’s Sinquefield sequel.

www.uschess.org 29 A Motion P The Highlight Re

“It’s the little differences. A lotta the same [stuff] we got here, they got there, but there they’re just a little different.”

—VINCENT VEGA, PULP FICTION PHOTO CREDIT: ANNE BUSKIRK

30 November 2016 | Chess Life icture: By PETE KARAGIANIS eel of the U.S. Open

Yeah, alright, this isn’t your normal, average, traditional, what-have-you U.S. Open report. I’m a fan of the Oxford comma. Not sure if relevant. In 28 years of Readers of the August 2016 Chess Life will recall my association of tournament chess, I have never played a U.S. Open. There was one in the typical American Swiss Open with a distant, cold, dystopian universe— Phoenix when I lived in Phoenix. There was one in Milwaukee when devoid of humanity, mechanical, apocalyptical in some ways. And at I was in Chicago. I could’ve probably attended the premier national the end of such events, “I’m dead,” as I tell my sister on page 30 of the event dozens of times. For one reason or another, I never did. self-same referenced issue. And that’s how I felt—dead, mortal, drained, Oops. chewed up by the system of weekend hobbyist, class-system, large open tournament chess. Utterly spent.

www.uschess.org 31 US Chess National Events / U.S. Open

LEGACIES

“Kent’s a legacy, Otter, his brother was a ‘59, Fred Dorfman.” “He said legacies usually get asked to pledge automatically.” “Oh, well, usually, unless the legacy in question turns out to be a real closet case.” —HOOVER, FLOUNDER, AND OTTER, ANIMAL HOUSE

I roll into Indianapolis, Indiana on a Sunday afternoon and check in. it’s our fourth year of running the girls event.” I’ve decided to play the six-day section of the main event in conjunction “Dewain,” I want to interrupt but don’t, “you know about Google, right?” with covering the whole shebang for Chess Life and USChess.org. OK, Instead I nod politely and listen—an under rated art in our time—to right, no big deal. I’m sure I won’t be totally wiped out at week’s end really listen without interrupting, without thinking about what you like I was in Chicago just two months and change prior, right? It’s not should say next, just sit there and listen. Maybe I had been primed by like this is a solid four days longer (for the traditional schedule) or all the Dewain-ers. Maybe I was ready for the full Dewain experience. anything, right? Oh it is? Who am I kidding? I laugh to myself in the At any rate, I’m glad I did. Dewain Barber is the human encyclopedia elevator on my way downstairs. This is going to kill me. for the national scholastic invitational championships—one of a kind, Whatever. Worse things have happened. first edition, and the only copy ever printed. So on we go, from websites I make my way through the courtyard—an open-air, sunny center of to rules to history—you know pre-Barber history. Before the young the Indianapolis Marriott East, headed towards chess control. The kids could compete, before the separate girls event, “Which,” Maureen cobblestone walkways and grassy patches of the yard are packed with adds, “we try to have a presence at every national and regional event young chess players—the Denker Tournament of High School for. Surveys and banners, boots on the ground.” Champions, Barber Tournament of K-8 Cham pions and the National I’m happy to hear this information and nod approval. I have two Girls’ Tournament of Champions (NGTOC) scholastic events are already daughters learning to play the game and recall checking statistics in the underway. What’s this? I think. Why are all of these people smiling and early 2000s when, at the time, women made up only seven percent of expending energy with nerf footballs? Shouldn’t they be passed out in the room rated players nationally. somewhere or poring over a database in secret to prepare? “Right,” Dewain continues, “Originally it was the National Girls’ Apparently, the cyborg within had already awoken the moment it Invitational Tournament, now it’s the National Girls’ Tournament of sensed my proximity to an American Swiss. Beep! Does not compute. Champions.” I find chess control and check in for a press pass. Immediately I am Seems clumsy, I think. The NGTOC is a mouthful. They need someone told, “Oh, you gotta talk to Dewain.” In fact, I hear this about five times to name it after. Short and sweet. Like the Barber, which was named in from about five different people as I am ushered from one notable to a motion proposed by David Kuhns, of Minnesota, after Dewain himself another and ultimately seated at a fine, circular wooden table in the laid out the idea for a K-8 Denker mirror event at a previous delegates hotel lobby, facing the bar. I order an iced tea and open up my notebook. meeting. “I was humbled,” Dewain admits. His wife Susan, on his left, “Oh, you’re meeting with Dewain?” Maureen Grimaud, chairwoman smiles. of the US Chess women’s committee, sitting to my right, finds out. She The whole time, Dewain can’t stop talking about the kids, like Josh assures me I’ll get the full story from him. Hernandez and the pay-it-forward program that spawned. Champi ons Good, I suppose. That’s what I’m here for. and co-champions, delegates from Hawaii, or the first pin that graced To me, the U.S. Open is Dewain Barber. his jacket, from Mississippi. I will do my best to qualify that statement. “See this one,” he says, pulling the coat around the chair, “first one. Dewain arrives, finally, around the same time as my iced tea. He This is what started the idea of giving gifts every round.” He grins. “One removes his sport jacket which, I note, is covered in a plethora of pins, year it was macadamia nuts from Hawaii. Then another, a delegation badges, and other decorations, and loops it over the back of his chair. from Georgia came up to me with a peach, which they’d brought, of He sits down. He starts off with the basics and gives me a detailed list of course, all the way from Georgia. An authentic Georgia peach.” He every website in existence that contains information on the national pauses for dramatic effect. “After that we had to put ‘no food’ in the championship events. “Of course then there’s NGITchess.com, or NGIT.com, rules. For gifts, I mean.”

Shabalov has now won or tied for first place in the U.S. Open seven times: 1993, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2008, 2015, 2016. He has also won the U.S. Championship four times: 1993, 2000, 2003, 2007 PHOTO CREDIT: FUN FONG

32 November 2016 | Chess Life GM Alexander Shabalov with the U.S. Open trophy being presented to him by Tournament Director Brian Yang. US Chess National Events / U.S. Open

TO BATTLE

“Gentlemen, you can’t fight in here! This is the War Room!” — PRESIDENT MERKIN MUFFLEY, DR. STRANGELOVE

My own battle begins Tuesday night. After two days of listening, near the schoolyard in between rounds. Farmer James—the organizer— watching, photography, awards, side-events, chess control, delegate invited anyone in need of accommodations to stay with him in his house luncheons and even a blindfold simultaneous exhibition with GM Timur and the 40 or so entrants—including two international masters and Gareyev, I’m ready. I’m more than ready. I’ve intentionally denied myself several national masters—all seemed to enjoy themselves mightily. the ... pleasure? Pain? ... of playing in any of the daily quad side events. Right, what does this all have to do with the U.S. Open? Well, before I want nothing to spoil my Open. And besides, doesn’t there come a the beginning of round five, the final battle in Franklin, Farmer James point of “too much chess?” (OK, perhaps not.) paused the tournament—half of whom smelled like smoked catfish and So, I enter the War Room, complete with banners and a stage. Add the other half no sleep and Miller Lite—to award “catfish trophies” to in a giant American flag and you’ve got a scene right out of Patton. But those who had attended the event for five or more years. The fifth year instead of George C. Scott in full military regalia, National Tournament merited a special plaque, the tenth a wooden clock. Locally hand-crafted. Director Brian Yang approaches the microphone in a black formal suit, Engraved. Worth more in sentimental value and craftsmanship than red shirt and tie. And, like some ancient jousting match, before the even the very hefty (for the size of the town and tournament, anyway) action comes the formalities. $500 first prize. It was the first time in my life I had attended a tournament In 2003, I played a tournament in a tiny elementary school library in which offered such memorabilia and, for lack of a better descriptor, it Franklin, Minnesota called “Catfish Days.” It was exactly what one might was just really cool. I could see why people kept coming back. It wasn’t expect from a tournament held in a town with a population below 400 the catfish. It was the atmosphere. in the Minnesota River valley and sporting the word “Catfish” in the As I said, it was the first time I’d ever seen such a thing at a title. Franklin was two hours or so directly west of Minneapolis or, in tournament—rewards for repeat attendance, commemoration of other words, for those not familiar with the geography of the north- dedication. It was a small touch, but it meant a lot. The second time Midwest region of America, Franklin was roughly in the middle of was at the 2016 U.S. Open. nowhere. And yes, there was a catfish festival in full swing in the small So Brian, at the podium, hands out the awards for five, ten, and yes, town of Franklin at the same time of the chess tournament itself. Just all the way up to 30 years (!) of attendance at the U.S. Open. It is a outside of town, the Minnesota River banks were lined with tents and unique moment. It fills the room with a sense of legacy, a sense of fishermen, all trying to catch the biggest catfish for the grand prize. importance, a sense of tradition, a sense of pride. This, to me, is US Meanwhile, inside the “city limits” of Franklin itself, the farmers’ daughters Chess—an ongoing story, 117-years plus in the making. And there, lined up for a beauty pageant, local “cuisinieres” lined the streets with before the first round, Tuesday night at 7 p.m., we, the competitors smokers and grills, and we watched it all from inside the school library, become part of the story. Part of the narrative. playing 10 hours of chess or so on Saturday with a grillout of our own And under the weight of that, battle is joined.

NIMZO-INDIAN DEFENSE, 13. a4 RUBINSTEIN VARIATION (E46) IM John Watson (2279) The move 13. b5 is presumably what Popov IM Ruifeng Li (2644) in tended to prevent, but it doesn’t look too 117th U.S. Open Championship (4), dangerous, e.g.: 13. ... Bd6 (13. ... Nb8 would Indianapolis, Indiana, 08.02.2016 combat the b5 strategy directly. 14. Bd2 c5 15. bxc6 e.p. Nxc6) 14. Bd2 Qe7 Black doesn’t seem If chess is a fight, perhaps the best description to have any real problems. of the sort of fight it becomes is one of attrition, as this Tuesday night encounter between IM 13. ... a5 14. bxa5 John Watson and IM Ruifeng Li demonstrates. A questionable decision, as a4 is now a Watson holds on as best he can, but Li applies potential target for the black forces. The move relentless positional pressure until he is able 14. b5 maintains a better structure and prevents to bring home the full point. 12. … g6 direct pressure from mounting on a4. 12. ... a6 was Schukin-Popov, 1997 (0-1), 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. e3 0-0 5. 14. ... Rxa5 15. Bd2 Nge2 Re8 6. a3 Bf8 7. Ng3 d5 8. Bd3 b6 9. but Li's move looks better to me, immediately 0-0 Bb7 10. cxd5 exd5 11. b4 Nbd7 12. Qb3 improving the f8-bishop. Perhaps White was relying on this move to

34 November 2016 | Chess Life US Chess National Events / U.S. Open force the push a4-a5 and have a pleasant game, but he is not quite in time. 15. … c5 16. Bb5 Ra7 17. Bxd7 c4 Securing a passed pawn with this Zwischenzug. 18. Qb5 Qxd7 A serious inaccuracy which goes unpunished. 18. ... Nxd7 was necessary. 19. Qxb6 Perhaps Watson had already decided to grab this pawn, but a look around would have 47. g4 My number-one goal for the middle game perhaps allowed for the discovery of a “petit was to try to make my queen’s bishop as combination.” 19. Qxd7 (A clearance move for The pawn cannot be taken as the queen needs influential as possible. Nb5!). to keep an eye on d5. 11. … Rc8 47. … Qd7 48. Qc4 The continuation 11. ... a5 12. Bb2 (12. bxa5 Finally, Black’s persistence pays off. It was Rxa5 13. Bb2 Rc5 14. Qb1) 12. ... axb4 13. Nxd5 important not to abandon the b-file. But after cxd5 14. axb4 seemed roughly level to me. a rugged defense, White errs. 48. Kc2 or 48. 12. Bb2 f5 13. Rac1 N5f6 14. Na4 Bc1, simply maintaining the equilibrium. 48. ... Qb7 I took a long think before this move. Ulti - mately, I played 14. Na4 intending to follow The point, now ... Qb1+or ... Qb2 are decisive the forcing sequence which follows. I didn’t invasions. see anything concrete after 14. ... b6 15. Ba6 49. Qc5 Qb1+ 50. Kc4 Nb6+ Rc7 16. Nc3, but I thought at the very least I will have jumbled up Black’s pieces and c6 could Very accurate.     , as the c- become a potential target. 19. ... Nxd7 20. Nb5 and Black cannot avoid pawn is poisonous due to 51. ... Na4+. the loss of an Exchange. 14. … b6 15. Ba6 Rc7 16. Nc3 19. ... Bc6 20. Rfb1 Rb7 21. Qa6 Ra7 22. As for my own battles, I very much enjoyed In my calculations before 14. Na4 I expected Qb6 Rea8 the relaxed schedule. The rounds at 12 and 7 16. ... Ne8 here. were a nice distance apart and, though I would The danger passed, Black now wisely decides 16. ... Nb8 to continue the game. After netting the a4- have preferred playing the one-game-per-day pawn, he should have the better of things. Euro-style 9-day format, I was decently rested On 16 ... Ne8 here I was debating between: by the time I encountered GM Kayden Troff, 17. Rfd1 (17. Be2) (17. a4). 23. Qb2 Bxa4 24. Nxa4 Rxa4 25. f3 Bd6 both of us sporting 3/3 scores, in round four. 26. Ne2 Qf5 17. Be2 Re7 18. d3 g5 19. Nb1 ENGLISH OPENING (A22) Putting pieces on good squares. Petros Karagianis (2281) I really wanted to include all my pieces in 27. Rxa4 Rxa4 28. Nc3 Rb4 29. Qc1 Qd3 GM Kayden Troff (2606) the game. The knight belongs on the d2/c4/f3 117th U.S. Open Championship (4), circuit where it will be much more effective. Using the pieces on good squares to mount Indianapolis, Indiana, 08.02.2016 Much stronger was 19. Rfd1 Nbd7 20. d4 e4 pressure. 21. b5!! 30. Rxb4 Bxb4 31. Kf2 h5 1. c4 Nf6 2. Nc3 e5 3. e3 Objectively, White can probably hold this. Specific preparation. In the database, I noticed But it is not academic—the pawn on c4 and the Troff was prone to playing ... e5 systems against activity of the black pieces create enough 1. c4. I thought I would be able to enter into a difficulty. setup where I was more comfortable than he was if I followed these paths. 32. Ke1 Qf5 33. h3 Bd6 34. Qb1 Qe6 35. Kf1 Qe7 36.e4 dxe4 37. fxe4 Bb4 38. e5 3. … Bb4 4. Nge2 0-0 5. a3 Bxc3 6. Nxc3 Bxc3 39. Bxc3 Nd5 Grabbing the two bishops, albeit at the The knight is superior to its counterpart and expense of tempo. the passed c-pawn remains. White is posed 6. … d5 7. cxd5 Nxd5 8. Qc2 Be6 with new problems. You can sense the constant A sort of Rossolimo reversed has arisen, with battle of attrition—Black probes and repositions I missed this idea, with the plan of playing a bishop-for-knight trade included. until he achieves something concrete. d5! and opening the b2-bishop, gaining space, 40. Be1 Qd7 41. Bd2 c3 42. Bh6 Kh7 43. 9. Be2 Nd7 10. 0-0 c6 etc. A strong edge to White here. Bg5 Qc8 44. Ke2 Qc6 45. Qb3 Kg7 46. 19. ... Bd5 Kd3 Qe6 (see diagram top of next column)

(see diagram top of next column) 11. b4 (see diagram next page)

www.uschess.org 35 US Chess National Events / U.S. Open

of time on this decision, trying to evaluate the implications of the resulting two-pieces versus rook position that occurs after move 29. I thought my dark square bishop would be strong enough to play for a win. But, retrospectively, I should have simply grabbed the pawn and continued with a pleasant position. 23. ... exd4 24. e5 Rxe5 A forced Exchange sacrifice, which I expected.

25. Nxe5 Qxe5 26. Rfd1 Troff expressed dissatisfaction with this The worst of my three main alternatives. move—which is likely a mistake as it plays into (see diagram top of next column) 29. Qxg5+ Bg6 30. Bxd4 Sometimes, being my plan—after the game. I agree. Maybe 19. ... Throwing away the advantage. I saw the materialistic is wise. 29. Bxd4 Nd5 (29 ... Nbd7 Qd6 is a better try. However, it’s hard to suggest correct move, but thought this forcing sequence, 30. Qxg5+ Bg6) 30. Re1 Qg4 31. h3 Qd7 32. an improvement as White’s pieces are reaching again, favored me. I played too concretely twice, Bb2 with pressure and threats looming all across their optimal squares, but maybe this would here and on move 23, and it likely cost me a the position. be a good place to start. half point. 26. Rfe1 Rd8 27. Bc4 Qd6 28. Bxf7+ 29. ... Bd5 20. Nd2 f4 21. e4 Bf7 22. Nf3 Qd6 23. d4?! Kxf7 29. Bxd4! Qxd4 30. Rcd1 is what I missed. An odd theme, but one I should have seen. A defensive move which I simply overlooked. 23. Nxg5! was my main alternative, which I 30. Rc5 almost played, and the correct choice. But I 26. ... c5 27. bxc5 bxc5 28. Qxc5 Qxe2 couldn’t resist the forcing nature of 23. d4— Here, I judged that the strong battery on the Actually, the only move to keep me in the which also achieved my main goal of finally long diagonal would be enough to win, espe - game. 30. Rc7 Nc6. breaking the b2-bishop loose. Objectively, Nxg5 cially if i could get one of my rooks to the seventh. 30. ... Nc6 31. Qd2 Qxd2 32. Rxd2 Ne7 33. is best for White. But I wanted something more Bxf6 Rxf6 34. Rdxd5 Nxd5 35. Rxd5, concrete. Again, I spent a significant amount 29. Qxd4 Draw agreed.

GARY LARSON’S THE FAR SIDE

“I’ll catch you on the flip-side.”—DAVID DEL ROCCO, T H E BOONDOCK SAINTS

When I was in grade school, I was a huge fan of Gary Larson’s The many foxes from New York and California were waiting. Though Far Side cartoons. I bought all his book-form compilations the second sometimes—many times, to my great pleasure—the fowls emerged the they came out. I even started my own fifth-grade comic strip at Father stronger. Sometimes, as they say, you eat the bear. And sometimes Sweeney Elementary School called The Other Side. It was terrible, and the bear eats you. But the first time—the first Barber or Denker a blatant ripoff of Larson’s nationally-famous work. Mostly bathroom experience for all of them—they came back a little. Different. A little humor and shark jokes (don’t ask). But that’s where I’ve been in regards ... something. I could never quite put my finger on it until I sit down to the U.S. Open—the other side. For the past 10 years or so, I’ve been with Dewain that first Sunday at the 117th U.S. Open. But now, close on the opposite partition of the curtain. I’ve been the coach to kids up and personal, it all falls into focus. coming home, never the active participant, never the “man in the My two hours with Dewain are nearly at an end. My third iced tea arena.” “Alright Kushan,” I’d say, to my first ever Barber representative sits empty, the ice melting in the bottom of the glass, which I stir with (Iowa), “let’s see your games.” But first there was always a story—hey a green straw. Dewain leans over as the rest of the table is busy with I got to keep my state flag! Look what the kid from Washington gave other discussions. “That’s the meaning of legacy,” he says, and smiles. me! Oh, in round five ... and so on. And so I experienced the U.S. “The kids don’t go home the same. Here, we send them back differently. Open, Denker, Barber, and NGTOC vicariously, through the We send them back ... as ambassadors.” He grins and sits back, folds his elementary, middle, and high schoolers I sent off via airplanes to hands and places them on his stomach. He smiles, satisfied, as if he has Texas, Arizona, Pennsylvania, etc. I felt like a mother hen sending all made some grand point, some great gesture. her chickens out into the world from the protective coop, and the And, if I’m telling the truth, he has.

Opposite: Co-champion GM Gil Popilski playing GM Joel Benjamin in the last round. Popilski lost an Armageddon playoff to Shabalov for the trophy. PHOTO CREDIT: ANNE BUSKIRK

36 November 2016 | Chess Life

US Chess National Events / U.S. Open

LIVE BY THE SWORD, DIE BY THE SWORD

“If this is to be our end, then I would have them make such an end as to be worthy of remembrance.” —KING THEODEN, THE TWO TOWERS

Was Theoden describing the final wave of Falling too far behind in the development Helm’s Deep or the end of the life of the knight, spectrum. It’s interesting that in the previous a brave warrior on the chessboard? FM Justus game, Black (with Williams as White) also lacked Williams lived by the thematic knight sacrifice in development and also fell victim to an f7- on f7 ... and died by the same steed sacrifice, as knight sacrifice. Ah, the logical nature of chess! we see in an interesting case of mirrored justice The move 7. ... d6 was fine. in chess: 8. Nb3 Bb7 9. Bg2 Nf6 10. Qd3 b4 11. Ne2 First, living by the sword: Nc6

SYMMETRICAL ENGLISH (A37) Black has caught back up in development FM Justus Williams (2410) somewhat, but White still has slightly better Matthew Fishbein (2207) deployment. 2016 Denker Tournament of HS No better is 21. ... Kxf7 22. Rxd7+. 12. 0-0 a5 Champions (2), Indianapolis, Indiana, 22. Ng5 Ne5 23. Rxd5 07.31.2016 Angling for a potential ... Ba6. Up two pawns and with better coordination, 1. Nf3 c5 2. c4 g6 3. g3 Bg7 4. Nc3 Nc6 5. White converts. 13. Rad1 Ba6 14. Qd2 Rd8 15. Be3 Qc7 16. Bg2 a6 6. 0-0 Rb8 7. e3 b5 8. d4! Nc5 Bb5 17. Nd3 d5 23. … Nc4 24. Bc1 Rb1 25. Bf4 Rxd1+ 26. Qxd1 Be5 27. Rxe5 Nxe5 28. Qd5+ Kf8 29. Ne6+ Ke7 30. Bg5+, Black resigned. Forcing the king to allow the black queen to be captured with check.

Second, dying by the sword:

SICILIAN DEFENSE, KAN VARIATION (B43) Bovey Liu (2279) FM Justus Williams (2410) 2016 Denker Tournament of HS A very nice move, White plays actively in Champions (5), Indianapolis, Indiana, Opening the position while uncastled is the center before Black is developed adequately. 08.01.2016 usually unwise, and this situation proves to be no exception. Better was 17. ... Be7. 8. … bxc4 9. d5 Na7 10. Nd2 Nb5 11. Qc2 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 a6 Nxc3 12. bxc3 a5 13. d6 5. Nc3 Qc7 6. g3 b5 18. exd5 Nxd5 19. Nd4 Nxd4 20. Bxd4 Nf6 Another nice jab—White pokes holes in the Attempting to get the bishop to b7 before Trying to develop the f8-bishop, but Black black pawn structure and opens the position White can control the long diagonal. is not in time thanks to White’s excellent reply. while, again, better developed. 7. Bf4 Qb6 The try 20 ... h5!? was interesting and sort of in the spirit of Black’s setup when play could 13. … Nf6 14. Ba3 exd6 15. Nxc4 Qc7 16. continue with 21. Rfe1 (21. Qg5 Qxc2 [21... f6 Rfd1 0-0 17. Nxd6 Ba6 18. Rd2 22. Qg6+ Qf7]) 21. ... h4 22. Qg5 hxg3 23. hxg3 Preparing to maintain the grip on the d6- Qe7. square. 21. Qg5 Ba6 22. Bxf6 gxf6 23. Qxf6 Rg8 18. … Rb6 19. Rad1 Rfb8 20. e4 Ng4 21. 24. Ne5 Bd6 25. Nxf7! Nxf7! Die by the sword. Black’s position collapses (see diagram next column) with the destruction of his remaining pawn shield. Live by the sword! 25. … Be7 26. Rxd8+ Qxd8 27. Qxe6 Rg6

21. … d5 28. Nxd8, Black resigned. PHOTO CREDIT: ANNE BUSKIRK

38 November 2016 | Chess Life TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

“It’s not personal, Sonny. It’s strictly business.” —MICHAEL CORLEONE, THE GODFATHER

The tournament co-winners took care of business in round eight to set themselves up for a round nine win. First, GM Alexander Shabalov grabbed a pawn against IM John Bryant and held onto it, eventually converting the win:

RUY LOPEZ, STEINITZ DEFENSE (C66) GM Alexander Shabalov (2651) IM John Bryant (2547) 117th U.S. Open Championship (8), Indianapolis, Indiana, 08.06.2016 22. Qa4 Rxe1+ 23. Rxe1 a6 27. ... Be7! Again, tough to see from afar. 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nf6 4. 0-0 d6 Using the weak back rank to save the rook. 5. Re1 Be7 6. c3 0-0 7. d4 exd4 8. cxd4 Actually, it was better to try to save the 24. Qxa6 Bh4 25. Qa7 Bxg3 26. hxg3 d5 9. exd5 Nb4 10. Nc3 Nfxd5 11. a3 Nxc3 material. Black may have “seen a ghost” and 12. bxc3 Nd5 13. Qc2 Bf6 14. Bd3 h6 15. c4 worried he may lose the Exchange after: 23. ... And up a pawn, Shabalov was able to convert. Ne7 16. Rb1 b6 17. Bf4 Bg4 18. Be4 Bxf3 a5 24. Qc6 Qxd4 25. Qxc7 Rf8 and here, Black 19. Bxf3 Rb8 20. Rbd1 Ng6 21. Bg3 Re8 26. … Kf8 27. c5 Ne7 28. Rc1 c6 29. cxb6 may have feared: 26. Bd6 which appears to trap Qxb6 30. Qa4 Qb2 31. Rd1 g6 32. Qa7 (see diagram next column) the rook. However, he has an escape route. 26. Rb3 33. a4 Qc3 34. a5 Ra3 35. a6 Qa5 36. ... Bd8 A hard move to visualize. 27. Qc6 Be2 Nd5 37. Bf1 Kg7 38. Qb7 Nb4 39. Rb1 Shabalov’s two bishops controls the board Nxa6 40. Qxc6 Nc7 41. Rc1 Ne6 42. d5 so he launches a pawn-grabbing mission. (see diagram next column) Nf8 43. Qd6 Qa8 44. Rb1 Qa7 45. Qe5+ f6

www.uschess.org 39 US Chess National Events / U.S. Open

46. Qe4 Ra2 47. d6 Qxf2+ 48. Kh2 Qc5 common position which has been seen roughly Kf8 29. Kf2 Re7 30. Rb5 Nd6 49. Qe7+ Kg8 50. Rb5, Black resigned. 60 times, though still with a score heavily in With control of the d-file and up an Black’s favor. Exchange, Black has a strong advantage, and In an equally critical encounter, GM Gil 11. e3 Rb8 12. Nd2 Na5 White quickly throws in the towel. Popilski won the black side of a Bogo-Indian: Black intends to hold onto the pawn and ask 31. Nxd6 Rxd6 32. Rd5 Red7, White White, after an eventual ... c5, where his resigned. BOGO-INDIAN DEFENSE (E11) compensation lies. GM Melikset Khachiyan (2617) Popilski and Shabalov ultimately faced one GM Gil Popilski (2668) 13. Qa4 Qe7 14. a3 Bxc3 15. bxc3 b6 16. another in an Armageddon playoff, which 117th U.S. Open Championship (8), Rfd1 c5 17. dxc5 Qxc5 “Shaba” won, securing himself a spot in the Indianapolis, Indiana, 08.06.2016 Black has actualized his plan and, it appears 2017 U.S. Championship tournament. See more reporting by Karagianis from the U.S. 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 Bb4+ 4. Bd2 Qe7 to me, has a healthy extra pawn. Open and all the related events at uschess.org. 5. g3 Nc6 6. Nc3 d5 7. Bg2 18. Qb4 Qc7 19. Ne4 Bb7 20. Qd6 Rfc8 21. Qxc7 Rxc7 22. Rd6 The move 7. a3 scores best for White. Seemingly the idea is to force Black to relinquish Photo Opposite: the dark- square bishop before he is able to capture on c4. The top three players in each of the three premier scholastic champi- 7. ... dxc4 onships contested in conjunction And now White falls off a cliff in practical with the U.S. Open, (top, left to right, play—having won zero of eight games in my not grouped by event): Veronica database from here. Zilajeva, Anupama Rajendra, Mika 8. 0-0 0-0 9. Bg5 h6 10. Bxf6 Qxf6 Brittain (Denker Tournament Of High School Champions champion), Advait Patel; (bottom, left to right) Seemingly artificial, though Black doesn’t Jennifer Yu (National Girls’ Tourna- take immediate advantage. ment of Champions cham pion), 22. … Kf8 Brandon Jacobson (Barber Tourna - ment of K-8 Champions champion), Stronger is 22. ... Bd5 which puts the rook Andrew Zheng, Emily Nguyen and on d6 in immediate danger. 23. Nd2 Nb7 is the Bovey Liu. point—snagging the Exchange. 23. g4 Ke7 24. Rad1 Bd5 25. f4 Nb7 The rook, as it turns out, is trapped anyway. By transposition we have reached a more 26. R6xd5 exd5 27. Rxd5 Rd8 28. Re5+

At A Glance 117th Annual U.S. Open—2016

Date: July 30-August 7, 2016 | Location: Marriott Indianapolis East, Indianapolis, Indiana | 382 players | Top Finishers: 1st-2nd, 8: Gil 1 Popilski, Alexander Shabalov; 3rd-4th, 7 ⁄2: Ruifeng Li, Fidel Corrales Jimenez; 1st Master, 7: Aaron Grabinsky; 5th-8th, 7: Illia I. Nyzhnyk, Vasif Durarbayli, Aleksandr Lenderman, Yaroslav Zherebukh, Kayden W. Troff, Joel Benjamin, Akshat Chandra, Zurab Javakhadze, Keaton 1 Kiewra, Michael A. Mulyar, John P. Fedorowicz, Craig Hilby; 1st-2nd Expert, 6 ⁄2: Abhimanyu Banerjee, Jimmy Metzger; 2nd-4th Master, 1 6 ⁄2: Bryce Tiglon, Dennis Monokroussos, Gopal Menon, Chao Zhang, Walker Kyle Griggs, Nicky Korba, Gabriel Sam, Bovey Liu, Manis Davidovich; 1st-2nd Class A, 6: David Mbonu, Christopher Au; 3rd-4th Expert, 6: Rithwik Mathur, Tan Nguyen, Mark W. Dejmek, Howard Zhong, Kevin S. Yang, Julian Proleiko, Joey Michael Kelly, Maximilian Zinski, Dakota E. Dixon, Joshua Alexander, Dore A. Sheppard, Balaji Daggupati, Grant Oen, Nikhil Kumar, Blake K. Baumgartner, Tianlu Peng, Christopher Woojin Yoo, Joshua D. Bousum; 3rd-4th Class A, 1 5 ⁄2:: Daniel W. Voje, Andy Honeyu Wu, Krishna Venkatasubba, Thomas J. O’Connor, Justin Thomas Storn; 1st Class C, 5: Mohak Agarwalla; 1st Class D, 5: Gabriel White; 1st-4th Class B, 5: Jeffrey Stuart Davis, Benjamin E. Shoykhet, Mark Bjorklund, Josiah Perkins, Kevin S. 1 1 Wang, Luke X. Wang; 2nd-3rd Class D, 4 ⁄2: Rachael Li, Amit Mydukur; 2nd-4th Class C, 4 ⁄2: Christian Flood, Carl Dolson, Gatlin Scott Black, Trevin Lee Murray, Chris R. Andrews, Ben Foley; 1st Class E & Below, 4: Robert Kline; 4th Class D Tied, 4: Akshaj Mathur, David C. 1 Webster, Benjamin Webb; 2nd-4th Class E & Below, 3 ⁄2: Grant Mu, Derri Satterfield, Robert Franklin Ihle, Joshua White, Thai Nguyen, Pulak Agarwalla, Dylan Porth, Adriel White. | Chief Tournament Director: Brian Yang. For more information and complete standings see: http://www.uschess.org/results/2016/usopen/. PHOTO CREDIT: ANNE BUSKIRK

40 November 2016 | Chess Life Denker Tournament National Girls’ Barber Tournament of High School Tournament of of K-8 Champions Champions Champions

Date: July 30-August 2, 2016 | Date: July 30-August 2, 2016 | Date: July 30-August 2, 2016 | Location: Marriott Indianapolis East, Location: Marriott Indianapolis East, Location: Marriott Indianapolis East, Indianapolis, Indiana | 46 players | Indianapolis, Indiana | 44 players | Indianapolis, Indiana | 48 players | 1 1 Top Finishers: 1st, 8: Mika Brattain; Top Finishers: 1st, 5 ⁄2: Jennifer Yu; Top Finishers: 1st, 5 ⁄2: Brandon 1 1 2nd-7th, 4 ⁄2: Advait Patel, Bovey Liu, 2nd, 5: Veronika Zilajeva; 3rd-6th, Jacobson; 2nd-6th, 4 ⁄2: Emily 1 Zhaozhi Li, Alexander Velikanov, John 4 ⁄2: Anupama Rajendra, Julia Sevilla, Nguyen, Andrew Zheng, Vincent M. Burke, Aaron Grabinsky; 8th-12th, Claudia Munoz, Rochelle Wu; 7th- Jingwei Baker, Trung Q. Nguyen, Ben 4: Michael Wang, Craig Hilby, 12th, 4: Thalia Cervantes, Sasha Li; 7th-14th, 4: Andrew Titus, Carissa Jackson Wahl, Maggie Feng, Xiexin Konovalenko, Miranda Liu, Angelica Yip, Vincent Do, Joseph Wan, Justin Wang. | Chief Tournament Director: Chin, Saithanusri Avirneni, Lauren Alter, Arden Markin, Alexander Dun Brian Yang. Kleidermacher. | Chief Tournament Yin Tong, Jason Yu. | Chief Director: Brian Yang. Tournament Director: Brian Yang.

www.uschess.org 41 Looks at Books / The Rookie Chess is about Freedom #)(()&&')  interviews '(!(")&%%, author of The Rookie: An Odyssey through Chess (and Life) and a feature writer for The Guardian. The Rookie alternates chapters about Moss’s own chess-playing experiences with chapters of interviews with top chess players and chess history.

(()&&'))(%# ()& #)'!#((($#) (%')'&) #% ()'# ( ((("() ")!(%%)$")'&) # '()$& ') ') ")The Rookie Stephen Moss (SM): I’d thought previously about writing a book on sport, because I was interested in the way some men treated sport as more important than life itself. I was also interested in the way they could articulate their thoughts about sport when they were often tongue- tied about the messy realities of life. When I started thinking seriously about the chess book, I adapted that idea. My notion was that some players felt more at home on the board, those 64 squares, than they do in “real” life. By the time I signed a contract to write the book in 2011, my rating would have been about 1650, had I been playing games rated by US Chess rather than having my games graded (rated) by the English Chess Federation. My naive premise was to improve to expert in three years, and I really thought I would improve hugely. A good friend of mine, John Saunders, whose peak rating was about 2250 FIDE (that is, around 2300 under the US Chess rating system), agreed to coach me. I also co-opted Grandmaster Stuart Conquest, a former British champion residing in Spain, as a kind of long-distance guru. I intended to gut many books, and did consult a fair few, but never as systematically as I’d hoped. Saunders always berated me on that point. I would play bad blitz for days on end rather than study, which is probably why I didn’t climb the mountain to true “masterdom.” I became a much better player in the course of my three years, but that hasn’t necessarily been reflected in my ratings. My US Chess rating, based on the games I played in New York and Chicago during a research visit in 2014, is 1779. That’s probably fair, but I know I have far more all-around knowledge of the game than when I set out. Even though I’m almost 60 years old, I’m certainly stronger than I’ve been at any stage of my chess-playing life. Not quite an expert, but edging closer.

) "()&)& #)&'!(#) &$%) $%)'&)#&%()' ()&")(!$)&)$ $()'!$')!$%)% ()&)'!()#$$#)&)'!()$ "%'#($)( $  ')& #)(%# ' &"%)&)!(%%)$(#%)$")!(%%)'& #"$("'

42 November 2016 | Chess Life Looks at Books / The Rookie

' '&($#'(%"' ( $""'#! (!(#'$'#&(%(%#(%%('(! ( &!#'("%('!" '#($( '&&(" '&''&(%#("%(%%(" '($#''#& $ ($'&(%( '&&($'#& SM: I wanted to write a book that would appeal to chess players and non-chess players alike—that was what I meant by proselytizing. To show how beautiful and violent and all-con suming this game could be. But there is no denying that some pretty odd people (mainly men) play it; that it does appeal to asocial types; that asocial types are sometimes not the best-dressed or most carefully manicured; and that the places in which events are held—in the U.K. at least—can be rather unappealing. I like the 1920s idea of chess being played by philosophers and poets in Viennese cafés. In the U.K., it tends to be retired accountants in sticky- floored pubs and draughty church halls. I tried to be accurate about what I found, and also to have a bit of fun with the strange world of chess. I was a tourist—I didn’t start playing tournament chess until 10 years ago—and I was trying to learn the lingo and understand the tribal habits.

 ( %#(%%('&#!'&(" '('#!$ ($( #%$ ("%( '&&($&($ $#( %"($('$"!(!'#&!% ($ (! ! ($&(''#" !  !'('(&%'('$'&(#%(The Rookie SM: When I interviewed Grandmaster Maurice Ashley at the U.S. Championship in St. Louis, he told me American audiences expected there to be a winner—“draws were like kissing your sister,” he said— and they wanted there to be big money at stake; hence his million-dollar tournament in Las Vegas. Americans would take chess seriously as a sport, he argued, if and when the stakes were high. When I was playing in the Chicago Open, I made a point of buying a T-shirt that I thought encapsulated the American attitude to chess: “Chess is not Sport, Art, or Science ... Chess is WAR.” I wore it every day, though it didn’t really work—I scored a rather mediocre 3/7.

 ( %($&%(#%"'( (" '( ''# '#'(%(%( '&&(!&(#'&' "' Stephen Moss: “Why was I getting fat, achieving so little, $&( $ ( '$"!% $( "%%( !#&"( $ !'#&!% (%#('#' !$("!' $&"'#& being such a useless husband, father, son? I had to &'%  ( %(%'&(" $"(!"(!" (" ' !'$(%( '&&($&($#( improve, get more disciplined, conquer chess, and by SM: I was thinking of the strength of scholastic chess in the U.S. I visited I.S. conquering chess conquer life, become moral and good 318, which is a fantastic chess factory where, in a challenging environment, and on top of things, stop being a journalistic dilettante.” many good chess players are molded. I don’t think there is necessarily a contra- diction with the idea that chess is war. It comes from the same idea that guarantees poverty (outside the super-grandmaster elite), but so what? chess matters; it’s not just a pleasant pastime; it’s character forming, life- They were free. molding, can help you win the war—in life as well as on the board. I remember exactly when this crucial revela tion—that chess was about freedom and rebellion, the occupation of an alternative reality—hit me.  ( %(!&( '&&($%"(#''% I was on an Amtrak train from St. Louis to Chicago reading Arnold SM: This idea of chess being about freedom is the crucial pivot of the Denker’s book The I Knew. This passage hit me like a book—and it came to me in the U.S., in part because I loved playing the lightning bolt: “As I mentally rummage through the years and try to hustlers in the parks of New York so much. Those guys had what seemed capture with memory’s eye the great players of the last several decades, to me a pure freedom, wholly outside any system. Yes, they were horribly I find one characteristic common to almost all of them: a bitterness poor. I played for hours against one guy whose entire life possessions about and rebelliousness against the inequitable social and economic were in a nearby shopping cart. But they were also completely unencum - conditions of the real world … For them, playing the royal game was a bered by all the daily nonsense we have to deal with. purely personal statement against social injustice.” That summed up Meeting Grandmaster Ben Finegold contrib ut ed to my growing sense exactly many of the players I’d met in my journey: clever people who that chess was about freedom rather than discipline. Finegold told me didn't quite fit into the “real” world and had sought their own reality. that many of his school friends had become highly-paid executives, but Playing chess was their act of rebellion. he thought he had the better life because, though far from wealthy, he I also loved the anecdote Denker related about the chess and poker was free and devoting himself to what he loved. So many grandmasters hustler Jacob Bernstein, one of a rich cast of characters active on the told me they chose to play professionally because they hated getting up New York chess scene from the 1920s to the 1950s. Bernstein was at early. They loathed routine and the con straints of offices, and chose the a Woodrow Wilson-for-President rally. “Mr. Wilson, is it true that

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUBJECT freedom of pure abstraction over the board instead. A career in chess if you’re elected, every man will have work?” asked Bernstein. “Yes,”

www.uschess.org 43 Looks at Books / The Rookie replied Wilson. “But Mr. Wilson, I don’t want to work!” Spoken like a true chess player. It’s AN EXCERPT FROM THE ROOKIE easier for masters to opt out of the system On one of my visits to the Marshall I played a couple of blitz games (at $5 a throw) and make a living (often a pitiful one) from against New York chess legend Asa Hoffmann. Hoffmann, who was in his early seventies chess, but maybe there’s a bit of the when we met and had recently married, had been on the New York chess scene for more Washington Square rebel in all us chess than half a century. He told me he had learned to play chess at the age of three and had players. The board as our life, our reality— never stopped playing. Hoffmann also played numerous other board and card games; he that’s the metaphor that underpins the book. said he liked any game where there was no risk of personal injury. A 2300-level player and “Real” life can go hang. FIDE master, he had hustled all his life, and combined chess with book-dealing and bric-a- brac selling. When we met, he had been to some New York flea market and come back ,*,* (&' +%,' ,The Rookie!,'+&$ with an obscure 19th-century travel book which he tried to sell to me. Playing a few games (&&+&(*,Il Gioco degli Scacchi The Game of against him was a necessary New York rite of passage. I lost them both, but had a good Chess!,  )'*#+%, ' ,   , (%'*+%, #+** position in the second game and with more time might have managed a win. )("+&*,$,+(,+))!,)'+,+))!,)(",+))  Afterwards Hoffmann showed me round the club—including the famous table at which '%,"$ ,$))$,(&&+&(*,(%'+ Capablanca and Fischer both played—and talked in his rapid, rasping New York accent SM: The Rookie grew, in part, out of a midlife about his life in chess. I asked him if it was harder to earn a living now than it had been crisis. Why was I getting fat, achieving so little, 20 years before. “As a player it was always impossible,” he said. “You have to teach. I won being such a useless husband, father, son? I had a lot of money playing in streets and parks and clubs. I won all the money that I made in to improve, get more disciplined, conquer chess, chess—$5,000 at a time—playing blitz. I was a very good blitz player. I’m not playing so and by conquering chess conquer life, become much now. I’m much older than I look—two weeks older than Fischer.” Hoffmann likened moral and good and on top of things, stop being himself to a small-time professional gambler, and said the odds were poor these days as a journalistic dilettante. I discovered Pietro the competition—fueled by all the eastern European players who had come to the U.S.— Carrera’s book Il Gioco degli Scacchi early in the was very strong and the prizes very small. He said he had a dictum: “You can play against quest, and this quote in particular: “Someone strong players for big stakes, or weak players for small stakes, but never play against who has to play an important game should strong players for small stakes.” He saw the latter as a waste of time: exhausting, attritional avoid filling his stomach with heavy foods since tournaments that, even if you managed to win, would net you very little. The fall of the these are prejudicial to serious mental activity Berlin Wall was tough for chess pros in the west, producing a flood of eastern European and affect the vision. A chess player must rivals who suddenly made earning a living much more difficult. practice sobriety as far as eating is concerned. One of the many attractions of the Marshall is that it has a pleasant walled garden at I strongly commend those who use appropriate the back—a rarity in New York—and there, one evening, I spent a couple of hours talking medication to clear their heads before sitting to Grandmaster Andrew Soltis, a multiple champi on of the club and author of What It down to play ... a practice that enables them to Takes to Become a Chess Master, among many acclaimed books. Soltis never attempted to focus completely on the game and on the survive on the pittance most grandmasters earn. He spent his career working as a accuracy of their moves.” It seemed very good journalist on the New York Post, and fitted in his chess around it. “I was never tempted to advice, and I vowed to follow it. try to be a professional player,” he told me. “The money is ridiculously low, and when Unfortunately two years later I experienced the Russians started coming to the United States the competition was strong. Also I had chess in Greenwich Village: the lunacy of a position [at the Post] that I liked, so I had the best of all possible worlds.” Soltis, who is Washington Square—there was a man disarmingly sane, is one of those rare grand masters who enjoyed holding down a regular carrying a 12-foot python one day I was there; job. He doesn’t think his play suffered by not playing as a pro: “I got as far as my talent the all-human-life-is-here atmosphere at the would get me. If I’d worked harder [at chess] I might have increased my playing strength Marshall Club; and, most potent of all, post- by 50 points. If I’d gotten to be a 2550 player [his best FIDE rating] when I was starting chess absinthe drinking in the East Village. I out [in the 1960s] that would have been terrific, but by the late ’70s and early ’80s it was was never quite the same again. Freedom had nothing.” He gave up playing in tournaments in 2002, but said he missed it and was now replaced discipline in my chess lexicon; I thinking about resuming, having retired from the Post shortly before we met. craved the life of a chess hustler and wanted Soltis played Bobby Fischer once, in a rapidplay game at the Manhattan Club, and to live forever in New York. I even thought said that at one point he was winning, though eventually the legend prevailed. The last about applying to be a chess teacher there. time he saw him was shortly after the Fischer-Spassky match, when the new world Maybe that really could be another book— champion was being feted at City Hall. I asked Soltis for his take on Fischer’s disappearance publishers please feel free to get in touch! Oh from chess. “He was terrified of losing,” he said emphatically. “He was certifiable. A lot of and one other thing. Somewhere along the players are marginal, but Fischer was ...” He never quite found the word, but crazy will line I discovered that Carrera, who was a probably do. “My theory about Fischer is that in a lot of ways he was the reverse of his priest, was decidedly dodgy and had been mother. His mother was into publicity whereas he was impossible to commu nicate with; accused of fabricating religious relics. My his mother was anti-religion whereas he was always shopping around for a religion.” spiritual guide was hopelessly flawed. Absinthe Soltis was hopeful about the future of chess in the U.S., but a little worried about seemed more reliable. It certainly made the what life held for the pros, especially as they got older: “One of the problems with chess heart grow fonder. is that no one’s figured out what to do with players over the age of 40. Nobody goes into chess with the idea that they’re going to reach the age of 40. They assume they’ll become world champion and then their problems will disappear.” He paints a sad picture of Excerpted from #+,$$ '+, ,%"**+" ageing players slogging round open tournaments trying to earn a few thousand dollars: #&$ #,#+**,( %,'+ by Stephen Moss. “Chess is a great calling, but it’s a terrible job. The idea that if you don’t win this endgame Copyright © Stephen Moss 2016. Published by John you’re not going to eat is just horrible.” Wisden & Co. Ltd., an imprint of Bloomsbury Publishing. Reprinted with permission.

44 November 2016 | Chess Life

Solitaire Chess / Instruction One Among Six László Szabó exhibits his crisp technique at the 1948 .

By BRUCE PANDOLFINI

THE 1948 IN SALTSJÖBADEN, With this typical move, White begins his longer. Recapturing with the knight (... Nf6xd5) Stockholm was the event that led to determining assault against the black center. White tries to would render it more easy for White in time the challenger for Mikhail Botvinnik, who had trade off the d5-pawn, so that an eventual e2- to advance his e-pawn. just become world chess champion earlier in e4 becomes more likely. Moreover, White 10. Bf4 Par Score 5 the same year. David Bronstein won the increases his options on the c-file and along Interzonal decisively, but the second place the a4-d1 diagonal. White clears the home rank and reinforces his control over e5. Moreover, he is prepared finisher, the Hungarian, László Szabó, had an 5. … 0-0 outstanding competition as well. Indeed, he to empower his rooks. White has a slight but was the only one to make the top six not from Naturally, Black wants to get his king to safety, definite advantage. the Soviet Union. Here we see one of his crisp while continuing his general develop ment. 10. … Nfd7 wins against Eero Einar Book (Black). The 6. d4 Par Score 5 opening transposed into a Catalan (E06): Black plays very carefully. Give yourself 1 Szabó secures his hold over e5. This move bonus point if in response to 10. ... Nbd7 you also clears the way for the c1-bishop. had planned on 11. Nc6, garnering the two CLOSED CATALAN (E06) László Szabó 6. … c6 bishops. Obviously, the e5-knight is annoying Eero Einar Book and must be dealt with. In answer to 6. ... dxc4, White would have Saltsjöbaden, Stockholm 1948 11. Rc1 Par Score 4 answered 7. Ne5, opening up the long diagonal 1. Nf3 d5 2. g3 Nf6 3. Bg2 e6 4. 0-0 Be7 for the g2-bishop (1 bonus point). And so White gets to activate a rook first. 7. Nc3 Par Score 5 At c1, the queen-rook is ideally placed to fire at the black position. But there was another White continues his development, pressuring possibility here, and Szabó rejected it. White d5 and keeping an eye on e4. might have tried 11. Nxd5. If 11. ... exd5, then 7. … b6 12. Bxd5 would be worthy of consideration. Award yourself 1 bonus point if you analyzed it. Once again, 7. ... dxc4 would be answered Szabó instead played the less complicated move by 8. Ne5. Black opts to flank his queen-bishop (11. Rc1), which does improve his position. instead. 11. … Nxe5 8. Ne5 Par Score 4 With this exchange, Black hopes to relieve This is still a great post for the king-knight. some of the pressure on his position. At least White has the more active position. he can now get out his queen-knight. Now make sure you have the above position 8. … Ba6 set up on your chessboard. As you play through 12. Bxe5 Par Score 5 the remaining moves in this game, use a piece Black hopes to win a pawn (... Ba6xc4). But White has an adequate reply. Developing the There’s no point to taking back with the d- of paper to cover the article, exposing White’s pawn (d4xe5). It would only serve to close bishop to b7 was also possible. next move only after trying to guess it. If you down White’s dark-square bishop, while guess correctly, give yourself the par score. 9. cxd5 Par Score 4 spawn ing an unnecessary doubled e-pawn in Sometimes points are also awarded for second- the bargain. best moves, and there may be bonus points—or This unhangs the pawn, and it does it without deductions—for other moves and variations. wasting time. 12. … b5 9. … cxd5 Note that  means that White’s move is on This idea has several points, but much more the next line. Black takes back the safest way, making sure direct and to the point is the simple develop - 5. c4 Par Score 4 he doesn’t have to defend the c-pawn any ment, 12. ... Nd7.

46 November 2016 | Chess Life Solitaire Chess / Instruction

PROBLEM I PROBLEM II Problem III ABCs of Chess Annihilation Mating net Mating net

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

November Exercise: Here is an easy way to upgrade your defensive acumen: Take a good collection of stratagems. Play through each ex - ample to its conclusion. But then go back and, at each decisive point, PROBLEM IV PROBLEM V PROBLEM VI change sides, pretending it’s the Discovery Pin Fork defender’s move, not the attacker’s. Accordingly, then try to find a way to stop the winning idea. This may sound ridiculous, but actually, over time, as you do more of this role shifting, your defensive abilities should definitely get better. You may even come to realize that chess is not played in a vacuum. It’s a two- way game.

13. e4 Par Score 5 17. Qg4 Par Score 6 21. h4 Par Score 5 A bold move. White immediately pressures Aha! Sometimes, even though you’re taken, An aggressively useful move that puts the d5 and tries to exploit the long diagonal (a8- you don’t automatically take back. Don’t look question to the bishop. h1). Now on 13. ... dxe4, 14. Bxe4 will win the now, but the threat is mate at g7. 21. … Bxf4 Exchange (1 bonus point). 17. … g6 13. … b4 Black eliminates the pesky white knight. Stops mate. Add 1 bonus point if you saw that But Black has his own Exchange threat. 17. ... f6 would fail to 18. Bxd5+, when 18. ... 22. Bxf4 Par Score 4 White’s knight and f1-rook are both attacked. Kh8 is met by 19. Ng6+ hxg6 20. Qh4 mate. The open position favors White’s two bish - 14. Ne2 Par Score 5 18. Bxd5 Par Score 6 ops. Black also has yet to solve the problem of This puts an obstacle in the way of the a6- Okay. It’s starting to get interesting. For his knight, sleeping away on b8 ... bishop and clearly deals with the threats. Still, now, Black is up a rook. But there’s a lot 22. … Nd7 Black’s d5-pawn is vulnerable, as is the a8-h1 happening. In addition to attacking the a8- diagonal from Black’s perspective. rook, and the bishop at f1, White is threatening ... but now the a8-bishop is under fire. 19. Nxg6, when 19. ... hxg6 is busted by 20. 14. … Qa5 23. Bf3 Par Score 5 Qxg6 mate (1 bonus point). This saves the bishop, and it does so with Hitting the a2-pawn and holding up d5. He 18. … Bd3 also clears d8 for a rook. Unfortunately, his possible threats to the f5-bishop. If Black is not knight is still languishing at b8. Cute. Now on 19. Nxd3 (deduct 2 points), careful, it might get trapped. Black wins with 19. ... Qxd5. … 15. exd5 Par Score 5 23. Be6 19. Bxa8 Par Score 6 White fixes the target. This seems to position the bishop in a better White takes back the Exchange, and the d3- place, but there are still problems, as White 15. … exd5 bishop still hangs. soon demonstrates. 19. … Bf5 You get taken, usually you take back. 24. Bd6 Par Score 6 16. Nf4 Par Score 7 Black saves the bishop with a gain of time. And this is one. Give yourself 1 bonus point But White, for now, is up a pawn. Szabó shows his mettle. He offers the for seeing that 24. ... Re8 could be answered Exchange, hoping for bigger gain against the 20. Qe2 Par Score 4 by 25. d5. Add 1 bonus point more for seeing weakened d5. Saving the queen with a veiled threat to e7. that 24. ... Rd8 could be met by 25. Bc7. Seeing 16. … Bxf1 20. … Bg5 no good move for the rook, Black gave it up. … Heck, it is an Exchange, even if the gain is Black takes care of the potential e7-problem, 24. Black resigned. rather temporary. though he’s hardly out of the woods yet. See scoring box on page 71.

www.uschess.org 47 The Practical Endgame / Instruction Going Against the Flow When you find yourself in a losing endgame, you must look for defensive resources until the bitter end.

By GM DANIEL NARODITSKY

IN LIFE, WE ARE OFTEN TOLD TO “GO positional pressure and has stumbled his way knight versus bishop ending: 37. Bxd4 cxd4 with the flow” or “roll with the punches;” to into a rather one-sided endgame. With his next 38. Qxd4 Qe2+ 39. Kg1 Qd1+! 40. Qxd1 Bxd1 accept the circumstances as they are. On the move, Anand seemingly pushes White’s last and the bishop impales the entire queenside. chessboard, we often unwittingly follow the finger from the precipice: This is not the most human of lines, but it is same advice. When faced with near-imminent 35. ... Bf3 beautiful nonetheless. To see a sequence of defeat, many players assume that they cannot this sort during a game, it is important to keep change the course of the game, and they put up In Mastering Complex Endgames (MCE) I called an open mind. Just because Black’s queen is an anemic resistance aimed toward prolonging this “a terrific move which pushes the annoying better placed than its vis-à-vis, you should not the game rather than contesting the result. knight back.” That is indeed the purpose it automatically rule out variations in which the The allure of going with the flow is amplified fulfils, because 36. Bb2 now fails to 36. ... Qh8! queens are traded. Remember: in the endgame, a hundredfold in the endgame. After a long (36. ... Bxb2 37. Qxb2 Bxd5 38. cxd5 Qe8 as I concrete considerations always transcend and arduous battle that has not gone your way, gave in MCE is less accurate due to 39. Kg2! general prin ciples. it is tempting to say “this one just didn’t work Qe4+ 40. Kf2 Qxd5 41. Qe2 and Black’s 36. Ne3 Be4 out for me” and shuffle your pieces a few times vulnerable king affords White drawing chances) before resigning. We’ve all had those games in 37. Bxg7 Qxg7, and White is helpless against Now, the bishop is ideally placed and which we give up hope but continue to push the oncoming invasion of Black’s queen. For everything is in place for the decisive invasion. wood in order to build up an illusion of tenacity. instance, following 38. Qf2 Be4 39. Qe2 Kg6! Or is it? Black calmly secures all the bases and will This month we examine a fascinating end- 37. Bb2 Bxb2 38. Qxb2 Qf6! game in which one of the strongest endgame infiltrate to d4 or a1 with decisive effect. players in history—as well as several eminent In spite of its logical appearance, however, When I selected this game for MCE, I was annotators—were guilty of going with the flow. 35. ... Bf3 is actually a grave error that makes intending it to be a demonstration of the power Had found the inner strength possible a stunning turnaround. Though one of the queen-and-bishop tandem. The annota - to ignore his position’s hopeless appearance and cannot even begin to blame Anand for not tions I had consulted—GM Zoltan Ribli in actively search for defense resources, he could calculating all the way through, it is worth MegaBase and Steve Mayer in his excellent have ... well, I won’t spoil it for you. Read on! mentioning that 35. ... Qe8! was the only way work Bishop v. Knight: The Verdict—as well as to win the game. The tactical justification of the course of the game led me to believe that NO WAY? YES WAY! this move is that 36. Bb2, White’s only feasible the rest requires little explanation. All of us, GM Anatoly Karpov (2725) continuation (36. Ne3 Bd4 37. Nc2 Bc3 followed including Karpov himself, were making the GM Viswanathan Anand (2635) by ... Qe4 is curtains), loses to the admittedly mistake of going with the flow, assuming that Linares, 1991 “Stockfish-esque” 36. ... Bd4!! White has nothing left to play for. Before stopping the clocks, Karpov made a few perfunctory gestures of resistance: 39. Qxf6+ This seems forced, since withdrawing the queen will allow Black’s own queen to plant itself on d4 or c3. 39. ... Kxf6 40. Kg1 Bb1! A devastating maneuver. The bishop worms its way to a2, tying down White’s knight and paving the way for a decisive queenside ANALYSIS DIAGRAM AFTER 36. ... Bd4!! AFTER 35. Qd2 breakthrough. It has not been Karpov’s best day. After an It transpires that Black’s idea is not to deliver 41. Nf1 Bc2 42. Nd2 Ke6 43. Kf2 d5 44. off-kilter opening, he fell under massive checkmate, but to force White into a losing cxd5+ Kxd5 45. Ke3 Bd1!

48 November 2016 | Chess Life The Practical Endgame / Instruction

PROBLEM I: 1500 LEVEL PROBLEM II: 2000 LEVEL Punching Back! GM Julio Granda Zuniga (2652) GM Viktor Korchnoi (2655) GM Daniel Naroditsky (2622) GM Rafael Vaganian (2585) Each month GM Naroditsky will present Benasque, 07.09.2015 Skelleftea, 1989 two problems taken from actual games that illustrate the theme of this month’s column. Your task is to find the best line of play. Problem I should be solveable by a player at roughly a 1500 rating and Problem II by a player roughly at a 2000 rating.

See the solutions on page 71.

BLACK TO MOVE BLACK TO MOVE

The last finesse. 45. ... c4 was winning, but 43. cxd5 Qxd5 44. Qa6+ Kf5 45. Qc8+! actually calculating any variations. But take a it gave White some hope after 46. Nxc4 Bxb3 the king is unable to escape the queen’s good, hard look at the position after 46. Kf1 47. Nxa5. 45. ... Bd1 places White in Zugzwang. clutches. Qxg3. White’s kingside is no more, but—yeah, 46. Kd3 Bxb3, White resigned. B) 42. ... dxe4?! also fails to impress. that’s right—his king is stalemated. Black has Following 43. Kg2 Qc3 44. Qd1 Black is pushed White off the board to the point where For obvious reasons, the pawn endgame after unable to make any progress due to the he literally has no more squares. This makes 47. Nxb3 c4+ offers White little hope. constant threat of perpetual along the possible a fantastic, study-like blow that one d-file. rarely has the chance to execute in an actual Let us now return to the position after 38. game: 47. Qxh5+!!. I will not mar the beauty ... Qf6: C) 42. ... Qxe4! This, and only this. The idea of this recapture is that 43. Qxe4 is met of this move with excessive commentary; you not with 43. ... dxe4, when White has a can verify everything for yourself. Suffice it to fortress, but with 43. ... fxe4!, and the say that 47. ... Kxh5 is stalemate, while moving pawns break through after 44. cxd5 c4. the king allows 48. Qg5+, when the tables White must decline the trade with 43. actually turn in White’s favor. Even more Qd1 (hoping for 43. ... dxc4? 44. Qd6+), impressively, Black can do nothing to halt this but after 43. ... d4 it looks like his days mechanism. 46. ... d2 allows 47. Qe2, intending are numbered. With the passed pawn on a familiar perpetual along the e-file, whereas the d-file, Black does not have to worry moving the queen from e3 is met by 47. Kf2, about perpetual and he can simply push when the king has more than enough breathing the pawn until White runs out of board room. In a twist of irony, Black’s king is the space. The most likely continuation is 44. one responsible for his downfall. In fact, the Kg1 Qe3+ 45. Kg2 d3 (Diagram), when drawing line starting from 39. Qe2 is virtually Perhaps the only solace one can take in resigning is an enticing option. forced. It is seldom that the evaluation of such defending so dismal a position is that one has a complex position hinges on a single freak nothing to lose! This is the essence of going tactical resource, but that is indeed the case against the flow: having accepted your likely here. Simply amazing. fate, you nonetheless strive to make life as The purpose of this column is not to blame difficult as possible for your opponent. Karpov for failing to discover this resource. With that in mind, it makes sense to keep Perhaps he would have played 39. Qe2 on a the queens on the board: this is best achieved better day, but that is beside the point. Rather, by 39. Qe2, gaining a tempo by attacking h5. it is to emphasize that “not giving up” does not After 39. ... Kg6, White continues 40. Nd1!, mean “making a few more moves before maneuvering the horsey to f2 and contesting resigning.” Not giving up means actively looking the bishop’s dominance (there’s some Clinton- for chances even in the bleakest of circum- Trump going on between the knight and stances. If you bring this attitude to the board bishop—and that is my last election joke). day in and day out, Caissa might smile on you Black has no way to directly access White’s White is totally paralyzed. Moving the queen one day. queenside, so he must break through with 40. along the first rank allows ... d2, while 46. Qf3 ... d5 before White completes his regrouping. loses to the pretty 46. ... Qe4!. Of course, White Following 41. Nf2 Qd4 (41. ... dxc4?! hoping cannot move his king because it is tied down for 42. Nxe4?? Qe6! leads nowhere after 42. to the g3-pawn. When annotating this game Qxc4) 42. Nxe4, Black can recapture the bishop for MCE, I was about to move on when I noticed Note: This game is also featured in my book three different ways: something. Mastering Complex Endgames (MCE). I A) 42. ... fxe4?! leaves Black with a queenside First of all, I was going with the flow. I was occasionally refer to my earlier notes, but these superiority, but after the straightforward assuming that the king cannot move without annotations are entirely new and updated.

www.uschess.org 49 2016 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX SUMMARY Trophies Plus to award $12,500 in cash prizes in the 2016 Grand Prix!

The following point totals CATEGORIES reflect all rated event & PRIZES information as of October 5 for the 2016 Grand Prix. $12,500 All Grand Prix updates are unofficial and IN CASH PRIZES! subject to change during the year or until year-end FIRST PRIZE: $5,000! IM RUIFENG LI tabulation is complete. 2nd: $2,500 | 3rd: $1,000 Despite not adding any points to his total since last month, IM RUIFENG LI still holds a significant lead in the 4th: $900 | 5th: $800 2016 Trophies Plus Grand Prix race. 6th: $700 | 7th: $600 8th: $500 | 9th: $300 2016 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX STANDINGS 10th: $200 NAME STATE PTS. 1 IM RUIFENG LI TX 243.78 Trophies Plus: 2 GM YAROSLAV ZHEREBUKH MO 184.10 IT’S NOT JUST A TROPHY. 3 IM PRIYADHARSHAN KANNAPPAN MO 178.05 IT’S THE BEGINNING OF A 4 GM ILLIA NYZHNYK MO 175.45 LIFETIME OF ACHIEVEMENT. 5 GM SERGEY KUDRIN CT 163.56 6 GM FIDEL CORRALES JIMENEZ MO 163.00 Proud sponsor of US Chess National Scholastic 7 GM GATA KAMSKY NY 160.05 tournament awards since 1999. 8 IM JOHN DANIEL BRYANT CA 153.50 Proud sponsor of the US Chess 2007-2016 All-America Teams. 9 GM GIL POPILSKI TX 145.15 10 GM ALEXANDER IVANOV MA 145.00 11 GM TIMUR GAREYEV KS 144.40 12 GM ALEXANDER SHABALOV PA 142.05 13 GM ELSHAN MORADIABADI TX 141.66

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50 October 2016 | Chess Life 2016 US CHESS JUNIOR GRAND PRIX TOP OVERALL STANDINGS

Official standings for events received and processed by October 4, 2016 Name State Pts. Name State Pts. are unofficial and subject to change STEINER, ADAMSON DC 11569 NATH, NITISH CA-N 6038 during the year or until year-end RAO, VINAY NJ 8821 KAMATH, ATUL R CA-N 5992 tabulation is complete. PARK, EVAN PA 8804 MANU, MANAS CA-N 5822 The top prize for 2016 will be a Chess.com ARAYATH, NIKHIL NJ 8785 BELLAYARU, SAMARTH RAO GA 5795 one-year Diamond membership valued at $100, a Chess.com gear/merchandise ARAYATH, ATHIRA NJ 7947 ZHENG, MICHAEL ZIHAN MI 5778 package valued at $100, a US Chess award, XU, ARTHUR IL 7638 WANG, WILLIAM IL 5766 free entry into the 2017 U.S. Open, and LUO, RYAN DE 7507 CHINNAMBETI, ABHINAV SAI NJ 5660 $1,000 of expense money from US Chess YE, LUKE SICONG MO 7504 GUO, JONATHAN NY 5655 to offset the trip. For the top five players TSAY, VINCENT NY 7288 SANCHEZ, JOHN Y FL 5548 on the overall list and to each state winner, NATH, NAVEEN CA-N 6977 YOO, CHRISTOPHER WOOJIN CA-N 5467 Chess.com will also award a choice of a one-year ChessKid.com gold membership MATURA, MAX C IL 6813 SONG, GUANNAN 5461 (valued at $50/annually) or a one-year PARASHAR, DHEEMANT SAUMIL GA 6708 JHAVERI, ARYAN NJ 5431 Chess.com Gold membership (valued at HETMAN, JACOB JAMAL NY 6463 FERRELL, BRADEN MS 5431 $40/annually). US Chess gratefully acknowl- RAO, VARUN NJ 6348 NGO, BACH FL 5430 edges the participation of Chess.com! HUANG, EDISON NY 6337 SHRIVASTAV, KUNAL CA-N 5423 DONG, JOSHUA NY 6284 DASARI, SRIHITHA GA 5421 KUMAR, NAMAN FL 6233 EMRIKIAN, AREN C IL 5419 WANG, ELLEN NY 6223 HUA, OLIVER NY 5374 MODRAK, JASON MS 6204 GRIFFIN, REBEKAH MS 5359 PREM, PRANAV VA 6161 CHENG, MICHAEL NY NY 5333

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Correspondence Chess Matches (two players) 2016 Open Correspondence Chess Golden Knights Championship TWO OR SIX-GAME OPTIONS. ENTRY FEE: $5. US CHESS $800 FIRST PRIZE ❑WIN A CORRESPONDENCE CHESS TROPHY th Four-player, double round-robinwith class-level pairings. 69 ANNUAL (PLUS TITLE OF US CHESS GOLDEN KNIGHTS CHAMPION AND PLAQUE) 1st-place winner re ceives a trophy. ENTRY FEE: $10. 2ND PLACE $500 • 3RD $300 • 4TH THRU 10TH PLACE $100 EACH • ENTRY FEE: $25 ❑ These US Chess Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all US Chess members who reside on the North American continent, VICTOR PALCIAUSKAS PRIZE TOURNAMENTS Seven-player class-level pairings, one game with each islands, or Hawaii, as well as those US Chess members with an APO or FPO address. US Chess members who reside outside of the North Am - of six opponents. 1st-place winner receives $130 cash prize erican continent are welcome to participate in e-mail events. Your US Chess membership must remain current for the duration of the event, and and a certificate signed by Victor Palciauskas. entry fees must be paid in U.S. dollars. Those new to US Chess Corre spond ence Chess, please estimate your strength: Class A: 1800-1999 (very ENTRY FEE: $25. strong); Class B: 1600-1799 (strong); Class C: 1400-1599 (intermediate); Class D: 1399 and below (beginner level). Note: Prize fund based on 200 entries and may be decreased proportionately per number of entries assigned. ❑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. 2016 E-mail Correspondence Chess Electronic Knights Championship ENTRY FEE: $7. (SEVEN-PLAYER SECTIONS, ONE GAME WITH EACH OF SIX OPPONENTS.) US CHESS Email Rated Events (need email access) 13th ANNUAL $800 FIRST PRIZE (PLUS TITLE OF US CHESS ELECTRONIC KNIGHTS CHAMPION AND PLAQUE) ❑LIGHTNING MATCH Two players with two or six-game option. 2ND PLACE $500 • 3RD $300 • 4TH THRU 10TH PLACE $100 EACH • ENTRY FEE: $25 ENTRY FEE: $5. These US Chess Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all US Chess members with e-mail access. Your US Chess membership must remain current for the duration of the event, and entry fees must be paid in U.S. dollars. Maximum number of tournament entries allowed for the ❑SWIFT QUADS Four-player, double round-robin format. year for each player is ten. Note: Prize fund based on 200 entries and may be decreased proportionately per number of entries assigned. 1st-place prize US Chess CC entry credit of $30. ENTRY FEE: $10. TO ENTER: 800-903-USCF(8723) OR FAX 931-787-1200 OR ONLINE AT WWW.USCHESS.ORG ❑WALTER MUIR E-QUADS (WEBSERVER CHESS) Name______US CHESS ID#______Four-player, double round-robin webserver format tournament Address ______City______State ___ ZIP ______with class-level pairings. 1st-place receives a certificate. ENTRY FEE: $7. Phone ______E-mail______Est. Rating ______To pay with credit card please call US Chess. Please check event(s) selected.

❑Check here if you do not wish to have an opponent who is incarcerated. NOTE: Except for Lightning Matches, Swift Quads, Walter Muir *Note: This may slow down your assignment. E-Quads & Electronic Knights, players will use post office mail, unless opponents agree to use e-mail. MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO US CHESS AND MAIL TO: JOAN DUBOIS, US CHESS, PO BOX 3967, CROSSVILLE, TN 38557

www.uschess.org 51 Tournament Life / November Bids Note: Organizers previously awarded options for US Chess National Events must still submit proposals (including sample budgets) for their National Events events. OVERDUE BIDS Note: Tournament memberships not valid for National events Please contact the National Office if you are interested in bidding for a National Event. US See TLA in this issue for details Chess recommends that bids be submitted -(,6 ,-6*526%.5+04/31.40166December 16-18 • Nashville, Tennessee according to the following schedule. However, -(,6536+2*4 5363)2* /''245)2625+6%.2116%.5+04/31.4066 bids may be considered prior to these dates. December 27-30 • Kenner, Louisiana US Chess reserves the right to decline all bids and organize the event itself. -(,#6!&$&6+5)2"*625+6$/").6%.5+04/31.4066February 17-19 or 18-19 • Kissimmee, Florida /*6/"*6205326'41)6/ 635)4/35'62 23)1 /*'6+5)2"*625+66!&$&625+651)66February 18-20 • Parsippany, New Jersey 5 54'5 '26 /*6 461226www.uschess.org/con tent/view/12116/705/. -(,#6!&$&6/+231602366June 14-15 • Las Vegas, Nevada -(,#6 5)4/35'602366June 16-18 or 17-18 • Las Vegas, Nevada RATING SUPPLEMENTS Rating supplements will be updated EACH MONTH on the US Chess website, and each FUTURE EVENTS (Watch for details) monthly rating supplement will be used for all -(,#6!&$&6"34/*6%.2116%/3*21166January 21-22 • Livermore, California tournaments beginning in that month, unless -(,#6!&$&6+5)2"*625+6 /*).6%.5+04/31.4066February 17-19 • Schaumburg, Illinois otherwise announced in Chess Life. The US Chess website at www.uschess.org also frequently lists February 17-20 • Santa Clara, California -(,#6!&$&6+5)2"*625+621)6%.5+04/31.4066 unofficial ratings. The purpose of unofficial rat- -(,#6'' 4*'16 5)4/35'6%.5+04/31.40166April 7-9 • Chicago, Illinois ings is to inform you of your progress; however, -(,#6$"02* 5)4/35'16 66May 12-14 • Nashville, Tennessee most tournaments do not use them for pairing or prize purposes. If you would otherwise be -(,#6!&$&6$234/*602366July 21-23 • Northfield, Minnesota unrated, organizers may use your unofficial rating -(,#6!&$&6"34/*602366July 21-23 • Northfield, Minnesota at their discretion, even without advance publicity ,,).6533"5'6-(,#6!&$&602366July 29-August 6 • Norfolk, Virginia of such a policy. -(,#6!&$&6%'5116%.5+04/31.4066November 10-12 • Houston, Texas NOTE The TLA pages “Information for Organizers, -(,#6 ,-6*526%.5+04/31.40166December 8-10 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida TDs, and Affiliates” and “Information for Play- -(,6 5)4/35'6"34/*64.6 6%.5+04/31.40166April 6-8 • Atlanta, Georgia ers” can now be found online at main.uschess.org/ -(,6 5)4/35'6'2+23)5*6 6%.5+04/31.40166May 11-13 • Nashville, go/tlainfo. Tennessee PROFESSIONAL PLAYERS HEALTH AND ,,).6533"5'6-(,6!&$&602366July 28-August 5 • Middleton, Wisconsin BENEFITS FUND -(,6 ,-6*526%.5+04/31.40166December 14-16 • Orlando, Florida Many Grand Prix tournament organizers will contribute $1 per player to the Professional -(,6 5)4/35'6'2+23)5*6 6%.5+04/31.40166May 10-12 • Nashville, Health & Benefits Fund. All Grand Prix tour- Tennessee naments which participate in this program are -(,6 ,-6*526%.5+04/31.40166December 13-15 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida entitled to be promoted to the next higher -(-(6 5)4/35'6'2+23)5*6 6%.5+04/31.40166May 8-10 • Nashville, Grand Prix category—for example, a six-point Tennessee tournament would become a 10-point (Enhanced) tournament. Points in the top category are pro- -(-(6 ,-6*526%.5+04/31.40166December 11-13 • Orlando, Florida moted 50%. -(-,6$"02* 5)4/35'16 66May 7-9 • Nashville, Tennessee ATTENTION AFFILIATES US Chess has partnered with R.V. Nuccio & Associates Insurance Brokers, Inc. to provide US Chess affiliates with affordable annual lia- bility and short term event insurance. The liability coverage is available for approximately $265 per year for a $1,000,000 limit of insur- ance. Also available is contents property and bonding insurance. For more information, please go to www.rvnuccio.com/chess-federation.html. For event insurance, please go to www.rvnuccio.com.

52 November 2016 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

Nationals The Tournament Announcements on the following pages are provided for the convenience of US Chess members and for US Chess Junior Grand Prix! informational purposes only. Unless expressly indicated otherwise, neither US Chess nor Chess Life warrants the accuracy DEC. 16-18, TENNESSEE of anything contained in these tournament announcements. Those interested in additional information about or having 2016 NATIONAL K-12 GRADE CHAMPIONSHIPS questions con cerning any of these tournaments are directed to contact the organizer listed. Chess Life will exercise all due 7SS, G/90 d5. Gaylord Opryland Resort & Conference Center, 2800 diligence in providing accurate typesetting of non-camera-ready copy but assumes no responsibility for errors made in Opryland Dr., Nashville, TN 37214. Guest rooms can be booked, NLT 11/18/2016, by calling (615) 889-1000 or (888) 777-6779, mention “US such work. Chess” or online at https://resweb.passkey.com/Resweb.do?mode=wel- come_gi_new&groupID=66637323. HR: $148 Single/Quad. 13 Sections. ''5&4/"56#/4*6 .6.,)/445+60'45263"5)5266 64*56'3--3#/160++/4/310-62,-5.60((-!6436 201+6$2/ Play only in your grade section – No “playing up” allowed. December 43,210)514.66*56,0201455+6'/2.46(2/56),.4656046-50.46  %6 636)32564*0163156(2/56,1+526 6)0! Rating Supplement will be used. Only one 1/2-point bye available, any &3,14643#02+.64*56 201+6$2/ 6(3/1464340-%66$2/5.65-3#64*56)0 /),)65142!6'556+361346&3,14643#02+.64*5 round except Round 7, if requested prior to the start of Rd. 1. Team 201+6$2/ 6(3/1464340-%6-.36/1&-,+56',--64/)56&31423-6134/16/1&25)51463264/)56+5-0!65"516/'6+5-0!6/.65236+% score = total of top three (minimum two) finishers from each school per grade. First place individual and team, including ties, will be the 6*5..6,1/326 201+6$2/ 66,1/326 201+6$2/ 65"5146),.46*0"56'3,26326)325 23,1+.6#/4*6064/)56&31423- National Champion for their grade. Schedule: Opening ceremony Fri. 25045264*016 6)/1%6$-50.56.556www.uschess.org/data page/JGP-Rules.php '326&3)(-5456,-5.% 12:45 PM. Rds.: Fri. 1 PM - 6 PM, Sat. 10 AM - 2 PM - 6 PM, Sun. 9 AM - 1 PM. Awards Ceremony Sun., approx. 5 PM. Special round times for K- SUBMISSIONS: E-mail your tla to: [email protected] (Joan DuBois). For tla deadline schedule, formatting help and Grand 1 sections: Fri. 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM, Sat. 9:30 AM - 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM, Prix information check www.uschess.org/go/tlainfo and “Advertising” at uschess.org. Payment can be done online through Sun. 9:30 AM - 1:30 PM. K-1 Awards Ceremony Sun. approx. 4:30 PM. EF: $50/participant postmarked or online by 11/21, $70 postmarked or the TD/Affiliate area or sent to: US Chess, TLA Dept., PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557. online by 12/5, $85 by 12/15, $90 on site; $5.00 extra for all phone registrations; $20 fee for roster or section changes after 12/9 or any 345666*5..6,1/326 201+6$2/ 65"514.6+361346*0"5643615&5..02/-!656&*3-0.4/&63263,4*643,210)514.%66*5! onsite changes. Onsite registration Thurs. 9 AM to 9 PM & Fri. 8 AM to +36*3#5"526*0"56436*0"564*5625,/25+61,)5263'623,1+.601+6/)5631423-6/1632+526'326.&*3-0.4/&601+6!3,4* 11 AM. Players who register or change sections after 11AM on Friday (-0!52.64360/16  $ 6(3/14.6'326(2/5.%66326)3256/1'32)04/316(-50.56.5564*56 $62,-5.6046*44(###%,.&*5..%32 will receive a 1/2-point bye for Rd. 1. Awards: Trophies to top individuals +040(05 $,-5.%(*(% & top teams in each grade. Every player receives a commemorative item! Full list of trophies on tournament info page. Side Events: Bug- Thurs. 11 AM, Reg. onsite only Thurs. 9-10 AM, $25/team. house: Blitz: – for more details go to www.collegechess.org. Boards and Pieces ICAN SCHOLASTIC INDIVIDUAL CHESS CHAMPIONSHIPS, Tue., K-6 and K-12, G/5 d0, Thurs. 5 PM, Reg. onsite until 4 PM. Blitz EF: $15 provided, please bring clocks (digital only with increment feature). 12/27: Open to all K-12 individual players (not a team event); 4SS, by 12/5, $20 after or at site. Blitz Awards: Trophies in K-6 and K-12 SIDE EVENTS: Tue., 12/27: Pan-Am Scholastic Champ. (K-12) & Pan- G/30 d5. Sects: OPEN, U900, U500/Unr. Reg: 8-8:30am; Rd. 1 at 9am sections. Full list of trophies on tournament info page. Bughouse Awards: Am Blitz Champ. (Blitz open to All). Hilton New Orleans Airport, 901 – other rds. will immed. follow. Prizes: Trophies to top 5 individuals in Top 5 Teams. Team Rooms are limited. Contact Boyd Reed at 931-787- Airline Dr., Kenner, LA 70062 (504-469-5000). Main Event Tues/ each section. All non-trophy winners receive a souvenir chess medal. 2244 or by email: [email protected]. Questions: Susan Kantor Wed./Thurs./Fri., Dec. 27-30: PRIZES: Trophies or plaques to top 5 USCF-recommended computer tiebreaks will decide trophy and medal at 931.787.1234 ext. 136. Entries: U.S. Chess Federation, Attn.: 2016 teams, 1st place team in Divisions II (2000-2199), Division III (1800- placements for winners of all schol. sections. EF for Schol. Tourn: K-12 Championship, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557 or online at 1999), Division IV (1600-1799), and Division V (U1600); Top International $20 by 12/20; $25 thereafter and at site. Hotel Rate: $95-95-110-110 https://secure2.uschess.org/webstore/tournament.php. See website team, Top Women’s team, Top Louisiana team, Top Community College, (sgl-dbl-trip-quad – hot breakfast in hotel restaurant (Cafe LaSalle) about the event, advance entries, awards, for additional information Top 4-year Small College (under 5,000 enrollment), Biggest team upset. included for up to 2 people with dbl rate and up to 4 people with quad meetings, updates, corrections, and registration forms, www.uschess.org/ rate), Hilton New Orleans Airport, 504-469-5000, mention Cajun Chess tournaments/2016/k12/. Clock Prizes to Top alternate, Top boards 1-4, and Biggest individual upset. On-site Reg./Check-in Tues (12/27), 10am-3pm. Rds: Tues. tourn. and reserve by Dec. 10th to receive group rate. Free Airport US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 6pm; Wed. 10-5; Thurs. 10-5; Fri. 9am. COACHES MEETING: Tues. 4- Shuttle & Free Hotel Parking! ENT: On-line registration and printable DEC. 27-30, LOUISIANA 4:30pm; OPENING RECEPTION: Tues. 4:30-5:30pm. OPENING entry form at www.cajunchess.com click on “Tournaments” or mail 2016 PAN-AMERICAN INTERCOLLEGIATE TEAM CHESS CHAM- CEREMONY: Tues. 5:30-6pm. COLLEGE CHESS COMMITTEE MEETING: entry form to Cajun Chess, 12405 Hillary Step Dr., Olive Branch, MS PIONSHIP Thurs. 3-4pm. AWARDS CEREMONY: Fri. 3pm. TEAM EF: $225 if post- 38654. Info or Phone Ent: 504-208-9596 or 504-905-2971. Email: 6SS, G/90 i30; rated using FIDE rules. Intercollegiate tournament marked by 12/1; $275 thereafter and at site. [email protected]. Major credit cards accepted (no checks at FIDE PAN-AMERICAN BLITZ site). FIDE. format is a 4-player team with up to 2 alternates. Open to university, CHAMPIONSHIPS (USCF-rated using Regular ratings for pairing): college, community college, and technical college teams from North Tues. 1pm, Open to All. 9SS, G/5 d0; sections determined by number US Chess Junior Grand Prix! and South America and the Caribbean. Teams must supply letter from of players. Reg. Tue. until 12:30pm. Prizes: 70% of EFs returned as FEB. 17-19 OR 18-19, FLORIDA their universities stating that the players meet eligibility requirements cash prizes. Blitz EF: $25. SCHOLASTIC TOURNAMENT: PAN-AMER- 2017 U.S. AMATEUR TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP - SOUTH

www.uschess.org 53 Tournament Life / November

5SS, G/120 d5 (2-day Option Rd. 1 G/60 d5). Holiday Inn Orlando SW GAMES DAILY!!! HR: Parsippany Hilton NEWLY RENOVATED! NEW 6/14, $280 later. Add $125 for adults rated under 2200 or juniors under Celebration Area, 5711 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy., Kissimmee, FL LIGHTS! HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING! Chess rates expire 2100 playing in the Open Section. $40 less for seniors 65 and over. 34746. 4-player teams (with one optional alternate). Minutes away 1/17/2017. Rates $119 (single double) $121 (Triple, Quad) 2nd hotel Unrated section only: $125 less for players in only 1 schedule, $60 less from Disney, Universal, etc. Temperature mid-70’s. Two sections attached to Hilton $126 per night (single-double) $128 (triple, Quad)- for 2 schedules. Reg.: 2 p.m.-10 p.m. Thursday, 8:30-9:30 a.m. Friday. (each paired separately & with their own prizes). Team average (4 Hampton Inn—-includes breakfast each day. For help forming teams Rds.: 11-5:30, 10-4:30, 10-4:30. 2-day schedule: Reg.: 8:30-9 a.m. Sat- highest ratings - January Supplement) must be under 2200 for Open and more information contact: [email protected]. Chks urday. Rds.: 10-12-2 then merge with 3-day in round 4 at 4:30. Half section & under 1500 for U1500 section. Winning team in Open section payable to NJSCF, mail by 2/05/17 to: E.Steven Doyle, 17 Stonehenge point byes available in any round; round 5 or 6 byes must be requested qualifies for National playoff online. EF: Per player: $49 by 2/12, $59 Rd., Morristown, NJ 07960. (Include Team name, Captain, players before the start of round 2 and may not be cancelled. Chess sets and later. SPECIAL EF: Team (one entry must be made for all players) $180 full names, USCF Expiration, ID numbers and ratings in board order). boards provided for tournament play only, not for skittles. Please bring by 2/12, $210 later (any team changes $10). Teams from outside Florida No team can include more than two GM’s. Include SASE for confirmation digital chess clocks! The LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL will receive $25 off team entry fee. Scholastic teams receive $10 off if wanted, No registered or certified mail accepted. W features the National Open, the U.S. Women’s Open, the International team entry fee. PRIZES: Top 1-3rd place teams & Top Boards 1-4 in Youth Championship, and other events. Many free extras and surprises! each section; Top teams: Open section: U2000 & U1800; U1500 section: US Chess Junior Grand Prix! parking. raffles with great prizes. GM Lectures. JUNE 14-15, NEVADA Free Free Free Free Top U1300 & U1000. Also in Open section: Top Senior team (all 50 & GM analysis of your games. Free Daily Bulletins and free commemorative TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED) above as of 2/17), Top College team (same school), Top High School DVD mailed to all participants. Grandmaster Simuls and Chess Camp team (same school). Also in U1500 section: Top Female team, Top 2017 U.S. WOMEN’S OPEN for all ages on Thursday. U.S. Women’s Open Wednesday and Thursday. 5SS, G/90 +30. Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, 3000 Paradise Middle School team (same school, grades 6-8), Top Elementary School Walter Browne Memorial Blitz Thursday 7:30 p.m. Youth Tournaments Rd., 89109. $1000-600-400, U2000 team (same school). Schedule: 3-day: 1st Rd. Fri. 7:30, 2-Day 1st Rd. $$3,500 Guaranteed Prize Fund. Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Blitz Sectionals Friday, Saturday & Sunday. $350-200, U1800 $250-150, U1600 $200-100, U1400 $150-100. $99 Sat. 10; Rds. 2-5 Sat. 1:30, 6:45, Sun. 9:30, 2:45. Blitz Tourn.: G/5 d0, EF: Poker Tournament Monday Morning. Don’t be shut out - make your by 5/26, $125 later. 9-9:30 a.m. 10-2:30-7, 10-2:30. 1/2 Sunday at 8:00 p.m.; EF $15 for those in main event, $25 for all others. REG.: RDS.: reservations early and be sure to ask for the CHESS rates — $69 single HR: $75 until cut-off date, Reservations can be made online (link on point bye available in any round (limit 1). HR: $69 ($89 Friday and or double ($89 Friday and Saturday nights) guarantees a premium room website) or by calling 800-465-4359 (group code “CHE”). Free parking, Saturday nights) (800) 732-7117 ask for the CHESS rates. This event with new furniture, refrigerator, flat screen TV and more. The optional Internet & refrigerator. $15 resort fee has been waived. Full breakfast kicks off the LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL on resort package including access to the Fitness Center, free WI-FI, and Wednesday before the . Vegas Chess Festivals, buffet $6 (must email organizer for this special deal). Ent: Boca Raton National Open ENT: more is substantially discounted for our group. Cutoff for special hotel PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925 or Chess Club, 2385 Executive Ctr. Dr., Ste. 100, Boca Raton, FL 33431. www.VegasChessFes- rate is May 26; after that rates will increase significantly and . FIDE. Online entry & add’l info: www.bocachess.com, 561-479-0351. tival.com there may not be any rooms available. (800) 732-7117 or www.Veg- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! An American Classic! asChessFestival.com/hotel. ENT: Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box FEB. 18-20, NEW JERSEY A Heritage Event! 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925, on line at www.VegasChessFes- WORLD AMATEUR TEAM & U.S. TEAM EAST US Chess Junior Grand Prix! tival.com. Info: (702) 930-9550 and leave a message. FIDE. 6SS, 40/2, SD/1. Parsippany Hilton, 1 Hilton Ct., Parsippany, NJ 07054. JUNE 16-18 OR 17-18, NEVADA Chess Rate valid until 1/17. Reserve early 973-267-7373 or 1- 800- TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED) HILTONS. Morris/Essex train to Morris Plains 1.5 miles. Open to 4- 2017 NATIONAL OPEN player teams with one optional alternate. Team average (4 highest rat- 6-SS, 40/90, SD/30 +30 (2-day rounds 1-3 and Unrated Section G/40 Grand Prix ings—2017 January Rating list) must be under 2200. EF: $170 postmarked +5). Westgate Resort & Casino, 3000 Paradise Rd., Las Vegas 89109. A Heritage Event! by 2/5/17. ALL-$210 after or at door.—all teams, any changes at site $100,000 Guaranteed Prize Fund will not be reduced! In 8 sections, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! $25 charge. Check out official website www.njscf.org. Prizes: 1-5th top 2 FIDE rated. Open: $8,000-4,000-2,000-1,000-600-500-400-300- NOV. 11-13 OR 12-13, OHIO Place teams, plaque and 4 digital clocks; Top Team (Denis Barry 300-300, top under 2500 $2,500, top under 2400 $2,400, EXTRA $2,500 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) Award) U2100, 2000, 1900, 1800, 1700, 1600, 1500, 1400, 1300, 1200, for perfect score. The winner of the Open section also receives a replica 25TH ANNUAL KINGS ISLAND OPEN 1000 each plaque and 4 Digital Clocks; Top college team (same school) of the Edmondson Cup. Under 2300: $6,000-3,000-1,500-750-400-350- 5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Embassy 4 Digital Clocks & plaque; Top HS team (grades 9-12 same school), 300-250-250-250. Under 2100: $6,000-3,000-1,500-750-400-350- Suites Cincinnati Northeast, 4554 Lake Forest Dr., Blue Ash, OH 45242 Top Middle School (grades 5-9 same school), Top Elementary School 300-250-250-250. Under 1900: $5,000-2500-1250-600-350-300-250- (I-71 to Exit 15 or I-275N to Exit 47). Free parking. $$ 30,000 based on (grades K-6 same school), Top 2 Scholastic Teams (mixed schools okay) 250-250-250. Under 1700: $4,000-2,000-1,000-500-300-250-250- 350 paid entries (GMs, re-entries & U1000 Section count as half entries); (Collins Award), Mixed Doubles (2 males, 2 females-no alternates), 250-250-250. Under 1500: 3000-1500-700-350-300-250-250-250-250- minimum $22,500 (75% of each prize) guaranteed. In 7 sections: Open: Seniors (all players over age 50), Military, each plaque & 4 Digital 250. Under 1300: $2000-1,000-500-300-250-250-250, top under 1000 $3000-1500-700-500-300, 1st on tiebreak $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr Clocks to top team; Company Team (same employer), Family (4 family (no provisional) $900. Unrated/Under 1000: 3 schedules with 5 rounds $1600-800. FIDE. Under 2100: $2000-1000-500-400-300. Under 1900: members), State teams—CT, DE, MD, MA, NJ, NY (Benjamin Award), per day $200-125-75 each day plus $300 overall (best 2 results). Plus $2000-1000-500-400-300. Under 1700: $1800-900-500-300-200. Under PA, VA, NC, RI each plaque top team ; Special Plaque: Top Future Score Bonus: ($12,000 guaranteed) in addition to any other prizes, 1500: $1500-800-400-300-200. Under 1250: $1200-600-400-300-200. team, (all players under age 10), Top Military College, Top Parent/Child every player with 3-1/2 points or more wins a $50 gift certificate. Plus Under 1000: $800-400-250-150-100. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: (2 pairs, one parent, one child), Best Player 1-4 and top alternate, score certificates will be awarded on site only. Mixed Doubles: best best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: All 6-0 scores each Digital clock. Biggest Individual upset each round male/female combined 2-player team score: $1,500-750-350-250-150. $1000-500-300. Team average rating must be under 2200; teammates Engraved Cross pen; Entry fee refunded to team with Best “Chess Teammates may play in different sections but must have average rating may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) by 2 related” name, Sunday night— Best “Chess Related costumes or gim- below 2200. The Freddie: Players age 14 and under are eligible for pm 11/12; prize limits do not apply to mixed doubles. Unrated prize mick”—1st-gourmet dinner for four. 2nd—Gourmet dinner for 4. Reg. best game prizes including the Freddie Award and $400 in cash prizes limits: U1000 $150, U1250 $300, U1500 $450, U1700 $600, U1900 $750. 9-12. Sat 2/18: Rds. 1-7:30, 11-6, 9-3:30. Surprises and special (donated by Fred Gruenberg). Unrated players may play only in Unrated Balance goes to next player(s) in line. Top 6 sections EF: $118 online give-aways each round. Sunday night—Bughouse $20 per team. Cash or Open Section. Provisionally rated players may not win more than at chessaction.com by 11/9, $125 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 11/7 prizes. Classical Chess-Best game awards to Vienna, Queen and 40% of top prize in any under section; balance goes to next player(s) in (entry only, no questions), 3-day $123, 2-day $122 mailed by 11/2, $130 King Gambits, Ruy Lopez, and Petroff and Durkin Attack! FREE line. CCA minimum ratings or other ratings may be used if higher than at site or online until 2 hours before round 1. GMs free, $100 deducted LECTURES LOBBY DAILY!! TITLED PLAYER IN LOBBY TO REVIEW YOUR US Chess June Supplement. EF: $199 by 1/31, $225 by 5/26, $250 by from prize. Under 1000 Section EF: all $40 less than above. All: Online EF $5 less to OCA members. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re- entry $60; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry- online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, ABBREVIATIONS & TERMS Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, TOURNAMENT LIFE: rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat All tournaments are non-smoking with no computers allowed unless otherwise advertised. 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. Byes: OK all; Open must commit by rd. 2, others by rd. 3. HR: Suite with king bed & queen BLZ: Blitz rated. Memb. Membership required; cost follows. Usually refers couch/bed $105, suite with 2 beds & queen couch/bed $115, more than Quick Chess events. req’d: to state affiliate. 2 in room $10 more each additional person. Rates include free hot QC: breakfast for all room occupants and free wifi. Up to 4 people allowed $$Gtd: Guaranteed prizes. Open: A section open to all. Often has very strong play- in king suite, up to 6 in larger suite. 513-733-8900, reserve by 11/1 or ers, but some eligible for lower sections can play rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, $$b/x: Based-on prizes, x = number of entries needed to for the learning experience. or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Car rental is easiest & payfull prize fund. At least 50% of the advertised cheapest transportation from Cincinnati Airport. Ent: Continental Chess, prize fund of $501 or more must be awarded. Quad: 4-player round robin sections; similar strength Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803 (chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347- players. 201-2269). $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at Bye: Indicates which rounds players who find it incon- Rated Beginner’s Open. chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament venient to play may take 1⁄2-point byes instead. RBO: Sat 9:30 pm, reg. by 9:15 pm. For example, Bye 1-3 means 1⁄2-point byes are Rounds; scheduled game times follow. For exam- Rds: NOV. 12, CONNECTICUT available in Rounds 1 through 3. ple, 11-5, 9-3 means games begin 11 a.m. & 5 p.m. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 CC: Chess club. on the first day, 9 a.m. & 3 p.m. on the second day. 2016 GREATER NEW HAVEN OPEN! Registration at site. at Elm City Prep, $1000 Prize Fund b/30. Open, U1700: 4SS, G/60 d5, dx: Time delay, x = number of seconds. Reg: Rds.: 9-11-1:30-3:30, Rds. 1 & 2 accl’rtd prngs if nec. U1200, U1000, +xx: Time increment, xx = number of seconds added RR: Round robin (preceded by number of rounds). U800/UNR: 5SS, G/30 d5, Rds.: 10am then ASAP, Open: $300, $200, after each move. Sudden-death time control (time for rest of game $100, $100, 2 x $50. U1700 $100 + trophy, $50, $50. Trophies to top 5 SD/: U1200, U1000, U800/Unrated, top 3 school teams. $40 Online, $50 follows). For example, 30/90, SD/1 means each EF: EF: Entry fee. by 11/7, $80 on site. Reg.: 8:30-9:30. EF: Educational Technologies, player must make 30 moves in 90 minutes, then Where to mail entries. 343 Beach St. #404, West Haven, CT 06516. Online EF save $10! Ent: complete the rest of the game in an hour. www.edutechchess.com or www.CTChess.com Results submitted to FIDE for possible rating. FIDE: SS: Swiss-System pairings (preceded by number of NOV. 12, MARYLAND G/: Game in. For instance, G/75 means each side has rounds). TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 75 minutes for the entire game. MARYLAND NOVEMBER ACTION Unr: Unrated. 5SS, G/45;+5: incr. Rockville Hilton, 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD GPP: Grand Prix Points available. 20852. All Prizes Guaranteed. 2 Sections: Championship (min 1600 W: Site is accessible to wheelchairs. HR: Hotel rates. For example, 60-65-70-75 means $60 rating): $350-$225-$125-$75, U2000 $150. Under 1800: $275-$175- single, $65 twin, $70/3 in room, $75/4 in room. WEB: Tournaments that will use a player’s online rating. $100-$50, U1600 $75, U1400 $50. Sets, boards and clocks provided. EF: $35 by 11/8, $40 later. Schedule: Reg. ends 10am, rds. 10:30- JGP: Junior Grand Prix. 12:30-3:00-5:00-7:00. More information & online: http://mdchess.com US Chess Junior Grand Prix! NOV. 12-13, IOWA

54 November 2016 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 of one-third of the total field will be permitted to be U2200 FIDE. May prizes by score. Open: $$500 min: 4 points $240 minimum each, 3½ 2016 DES MOINES FALL CLASSIC (NOTE VENUE CHANGE) use accelerated pairings if in the opinion of the Chief Arbiter, it would - $120, 3 - $60, 2½ - $30. U1600: 4 points - $160 each, 3½ - $80, 3 - 5SS, G/90 i30. USCF and FIDE rated. Site: NOTE VENUE CHANGE: improve norm chances. See www.utdallas.edu/chess for more rules $40, 2½ - $30. EF: $35 advance, $45 onsite. U1600 playing up, add Ramada Inn, 1810 Army Post Rd., Des Moines, IA 50315 NOT Hotel (such as max. tournament size) and information. If Monroi Units are $15. Reg.: 9 to 9:45 a.m. ENT: Chicago Chess Center NFP Inc., P.O. 1400, 1400 S. Dayton Pl., Ames, IA 50010. EF: $50 online at provided, they must be used. Schedule: Onsite registration if not full, Box 180095, Chicago, IL 60618. chichess.org/events INFO: 773-294- www.onlineregistration.cc by November 10, $60 on-site. Home state 11/18 at 3pm-3:30 pm. Opening Ceremony at 5:30 pm. Rds.: Rd on 1709. W. 11/18 at 6 pm; 11/19 at 10 am and 5 pm; 11/20 at 10 am and 5 pm; membership required. Prizes: $200+trophy, $150, U1900 $100, U1700 NOV. 19, PENNSYLVANIA $100. Reg.: 9:00-9:45. Rds.: Sat. 10:00-2:30-7:00 Sun. 10:00-2:30. Visit 11/21 at 5 pm; 11/22 at 10 am and 5pm; 11/23 at 9 am. Chief Arbiter: TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 iowa-chess.org for complete information. IA Boyd Reed. HR: $105-$105-$105-$105 includes free breakfast, 972- 234-3300 mention UTD to get $105 rate. Reserve by 11/1 or rate may 9TH ANNUAL DAVID ELLIOTT MEMORIAL CUP NOV. 15, NEW YORK 5-SS, G/30 d5. St. Luke’s Church, 417 N. 7th St., Allentown, PA 18102. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 go up. Hotel will provide guests free rides (base on availability) to any- where within 3 miles. Make checks payable to Dallas Chess Club. ENT: Park in the lot — enter thru the red gate. 2 Sections: OPEN $550 $$Gtd. MARSHALL MASTERS - WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP ADDITION! Dallas Chess Club, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036. 214.632.9000. EF: $30, U1800 $20, 2450+ free. Prizes: $300 1st + Elliott Cup; $100 4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to 2000+ players. FIDE Rapid rated. $1,500 GTD: INFO: Barb Swafford or Luis Salinas, [email protected] or Luis.Sali- 2nd; Top 2099-1800 $90; Top U1800 $60. RESERVE (U1600/UNR) $100 500-300-200. Top U2400 250, Top U2300 200, Biggest upset: $50. EF: [email protected]. www.utdallas.edu/chess. FIDE $$Gtd. EF: $20, U1000/UNR $10. Prizes: $100 1st + Reserve Trophy. $40, MCC Mbrs $30. GMs Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30- Both Sections: Registration 10 AM - 11 AM, opening ceremony 11 10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. 23 W. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! AM, Rounds 11:15-1:15-2:30-3:45-5. Playoff for trophies (if needed) 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. www.marshallchessclub.org. NOV. 19, MAINE 6:30 PM. Lunch break included after round 1. Random book prize drawing TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 after round 3. Players may request one half-pt bye — none for last US Chess Junior Grand Prix! IM DANNY KOPEC UMAINE MEMORIAL round. No advance entries. TD: Eric C. Johnson. Questions: 484-547- NOV. 18-23, TEXAS 6103. USCF-rated events every Saturday — see www.freewebs.com/ TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) Bangor Room, Memorial Union, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469. In 3 Sections, Open: 4SS, G/65 d5, $$GTD: $200-100. U2000: 4SS, allentowncentercitychessclub. 2016 UT DALLAS FALL FIDE OPEN G/65 d5, Open to 1999 & under. $200 100. 4SS, G/65 $$GTD: U1550: US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 9SS. G/90 +30sec from move 1. Embassy Suites Dallas - Park Central, d5, Open to 1549 & under. $$GTD: $200 100. U1100 $100. ALL: EF: 13131 North Central Expressway, Dallas, TX 75243. GM & IM norms NOV. 19-20, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN $25 by 12 Nov. $30 at site. Reg.: 9-9:45 AM. Advance entries must be TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 possible! Min. 2000 FIDE or 2200 USCF required. Prizes $7,500 G: postmarked by 12 Nov. Rds.: 10:00 AM 1:00 PM 3:30 PM 6:00 PM. One $$3000-1500-1000, U2500 $$1000, U2300 $$1000. EF: GMs, foreign 1/2 point bye in rounds 1-3. ENT: Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, 2016 EUWE MEMORIAL IMs, 2500+: Free; 2450-2499: $100; 2400-2449 $150; 2350-2399: $200; c/o Alex Relyea, 49 Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: (A sponsored event) 6SS, G/61 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90025, 2300-2349 $250; 2250-2299: $300; 2200-2249 $350; 2100-2199: $400; Alex Relyea [email protected]. www.relyeachess.com. All proceeds 2nd fl. EF: $75; $55 LACC members; No prizes 1/2, spouses/siblings 2000-2099 $450; U2000: $500; Unr: $700; $75 discount to all non-US benefit Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. Please make checks 1/2, new members 1/2, Free new LACC Life members. Reg.: Sat 10- Federation players. FIDE ratings used for EF/pairings/prizes. Tournament payable to it. NS. 11:45 am. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day. Byes: Up to three 1/2-point byes will be run using FIDE Rules. Non-US Federation players must have/pro- available. Last Rd bye before 2 pm. 1-Day option I: Play 1 day- no 1/2 vide a FIDE ID number or they cannot play. (New players can get a US Chess Junior Grand Prix! pt byes- 1/2 EF. 1-Day option II: Play 1 day & get three 1/2 pt byes- FIDE ID number for their Country’s Federation.) This tournament is NOV. 19, ILLINOIS Full EF. Prizes: $$1,500 (b/45) $750 Gtd. 1st-3rd $400-200-100; U2000: open to players with FIDE Ratings above 2000 (a few special exceptions TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 $100; U1800: $200-100-$50; U1600: $100-50; U1400: $100-50; U1200: may be made at the discretion of the Organizers.) Note that anyone CHICAGO CHESS CENTER PRE-OPENING PLUS-SCORE #5 Book prize. Best attack: $25; Biggest upset: $25. Info: (310) 795-5710; rated USCF 2200 is also eligible to play but must pay Entry Fees according Rm. 605, UIC Student Center East, 750 S. Halsted, Chicago, IL 60607. [email protected] or www.LAChessClub.com. Parking: Free on to their FIDE Ratings. To improve chances to make GM Norms, a maximum 4SS, G/65 d5. Rds.: 10-1-3:30-6. Accelerated possible. Two Sections, streets, BoA or basement.

Membership Appreciation Program (MAP) The MAP program continues in 2016. See details at main.uschess.org/go/MAP. Top standings will appear every two months in Chess Life.

Overall Affiliate Standings Adult Membership Standings Name State Count Name State Count CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN NY 997 CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN NY 801 BAY AREA CHESS CA 537 MARSHALL CHESS CLUB NY 151 PAPERCLIP PAIRINGS TX 430 CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CTR MO 109 THE BERKELEY CHESS SCHOOL CA 260 SAN DIEGO CHESS CLUB CA 89 WESTERN PA YOUTH CHESS CLUB PA 213 DALLAS CHESS CLUB TX 71 ROCKS & ROOKS CHESS CLUB TX 212 LOS ANGELES CHESS CLUB CA 66 BOCA RATON CHESS CLUB FL 205 BAY AREA CHESS CA 64 CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CTR MO 189 ROCHESTER CHESS CENTER NY 63 MARSHALL CHESS CLUB NY 173 CHESS CASTLE OF MINNESOTA MN 59 FOOTHILL HS CHESS CLUB CA 152 SUDBURY RIVER CHESS ASSOC MA 54 DALLAS CHESS CLUB TX 152 Scholastic and Youth Membership Standings Name State Count Small State Affiliate Standings BAY AREA CHESS CA 473 Name State Count PAPERCLIP PAIRINGS TX 392 MAINE ASSOC OF CHESS COACHES ME 73 THE BERKELEY CHESS SCHOOL CA 226 ALL SAINTS CATHOLIC SCHOOL CC ME 54 WESTERN PA YOUTH CHESS CLUB PA 205 NEW MEXICO SCHOL CHESS ORG NM 43 CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN NY 196 WVSCA WV 33 ROCKS & ROOKS CHESS CLUB TX 190 RELYEA CHESS NH 15 BOCA RATON CHESS CLUB FL 156 AIRLINE COMMUNITY SCHOOL ME 14 FOOTHILL HS CHESS CLUB CA 142 OMAHA CHESS COMMUNITY NE 11 SACRAMENTO VALLEY SCH CL CA 123 KNIGHTS CHESS CLUB NH 10 BEYOND CHESS CA 118 TOURNAMENT IN A BOX NH 10 Member Standings DELAWARE YOUTH CHESS ORG DE 10 Name State Count MESA CHESS CLUB NM 10 NAVARRO, DANIEL A TX 19 SOSO, VAUGHN JONATIN NY 17 State Chapter Affiliate Standings KRANICH RITTER, TANIA FL 13 Name State Count TUSING, TIMOTHY A FL 12 MARYLAND CHESS ASSOCIATION MD 339 CLARK, MIKE MO 11 MICHIGAN CHESS ASSOCIATION MI 166 WAGUESPACK, GARY PHILLIP MD 9 PENNSYLVANIA ST CHESS FED PA 119 SPENCER, ALEC CA 5 WASHINGTON CHESS FEDERATION WA 85 SLAVIN, DANIEL JOSHUA NY 5 MASSACHUSETTS CHESS ASSOC MA 63 BRACKENRIDGE, KEITH OH 5 MINNESOTA ST CHESS ASSN MN 41 STALLINGS, JAY CA 4 TENNESSEE CHESS ASSOCIATION TN 41 SHAEFFER, JAY CO 4 IOWA STATE CHESS ASSOCIATION IA 35 MOY, BOBBY NY 4 NEVADA CHESS INC NV 28 SETSER, BRADY SC 4 NEW HAMPSHIRE CHESS ASSN NH 24 ALVAREZ, WAYLON TX 4 PCT Gain Standings State Dec15 Sep16 PCT State Dec15 Sep16 PCT State Dec15 Sep16 PCT State Dec15 Sep16 PCT TERR 50 74 48.0 NV 897 993 10.7 FL 4459 4759 6.7 TX 10781 11303 4.8 UT 634 762 20.2 DE 258 278 7.8 AR 221 234 5.9 GA 2284 2537 11.1 SD 230 247 7.4 OK 375 396 5.6

www.uschess.org 55 Tournament Life / November

A State Championship Event! $3000-1500-1000-500-400-300. Under 1800 section: $3000-1500-1000- 6SS, 40/120 SD30 d5 (2-day rds1-3 G/61 d5 merge in rd4). San Jose Con- NOV. 20, PENNSYLVANIA 500-400-300. Under 1600 section: $3000-1500-700-500-400-300. Under vention Center, 150 W. San Carlos St., San Jose, CA 95113. Prize: $13,000 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 1400/Unr: $2000-1000-500-300-200-100, U1200 $1000-500-300 (not a b/249 (60% guar). 6 sects: Open (2100+ FIDE rated): $2,000 1,000 500 2016 PA STATE GAME/15 CHAMPIONSHIP (QC) separate section; U1200s also eligible for U1400 prizes), Unrated: $300- 250, 100 u2300 300 100. 1900-2099: $1000-500-200-150-100. 1700-1899: 7SS, G/15 d3. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pitt., 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, 200-100 (Unrateds in this section eligible for these prizes only). Plus $1000-500-200-150-100. 1500-1699: $1000-500-200-150-100. 1300-1499: PA 15213. 2 Sections: Champ: EF: $25 by 11/12, $35 later. $$ (690G): score bonus every player who finishes with 4-1/2 points or better who $900-300-200-100-50. u1300: $800-300-200-100-50. Unr max $200 exc in $200-100, U2000 $90, U1800 $80, U1600 $70, U1400 $60, U1200 $50, didn’t place in the money prize wins a $20 gift certificate towards chess Open. EF by 11/26: 119. Econ: 99 & 60% calc prize (not avail in Open). U1000 $40. Trophies: Top 3 U1400, Top 3 U1200, Top 3 U1000. Scholas- store - redeemable only onsite. EF: $215 by Nov. 24th, register by 11/16 Onsite +25, Playup +25. r/e 40. Rfnd fee 20. GMs/IMs free by 11/10: tic: Grades K-12 unrated or U900. EF: $15 by 11/12, $25 later. Trophies save $15, $50 more for players rated under 2000 playing in Open. All: prize-EF. Nov 16 Supp, CCA min, & TD disc to place players. Sched: 3-day to Top 7, Top 3 U600. ALL: Trophies: Top 2 Schools, Top 2 Clubs. PSCF SCCF membership required for So Cal residents ($18 adults, $13 youth Reg. F 10-11, Rds. F/Sa 11a 5p, Su 10a 3:30p; 2-day Reg. Sa 8:30-9, Rds. $5, OSA. Reg.: 11-11:30am. Rds.: 12-12:45-1:30-2:15-3-3:45-4:30. with print mag, $3 youth without mag). Re-entry $100. No checks at Sa 9:30a 12n 2:30p 5p, Su 10a 3:30p. Any # 1/2-pt byes, Rds. 5,6 byes Ent/Info: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA door - cash only, credit card accepted for a $10 fee. Schedule: 4-day must comn bef rd. 1. Ent: Online or mail. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/tg. 15223-2245, 412-908-0286. W. schedule Reg. closes 11am on 11/24, (Rounds 12:30-7:30, 12:30-7:30, E: [email protected]. T: 408.409.6596. W. 10-4:30, 10-4:30). 3-day schedule: Reg. closes 9:30am on 11/25, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Rounds. 11-2:30-5-8pm (G/60 min;d5), schedules merge in Rd. 5 and US Chess Junior Grand Prix! A State Championship Event! NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, ILLINOIS compete for common prizes. Bye: Two half point byes OK for all round TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 NOV. 20, ILLINOIS may be requested in advance. Lectures and videos. LOW room rates! TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 Few minutes away from JWA. Complimentary shuttle to/from John 1ST ANNUAL SEVAN MURADIAN MEMORIAL 2016 ILLINOIS CLASS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP Wayne Airport. HR: Group code “AAOCT” to reduce regular rate of Come help us celebrate the memory of one of the truly unique person- An Illinois Chess Tour Event. 4SS. Hilton Lisle/Naperville, 3003 Cor- $214 to a discounted rate $119/day single or double, rates may go up alities of chess! Proceeds benefit Sevan’s family. Hyatt Regency porate West Dr., Lisle, IL 60532, (630) 505-0900. Seven Sections: after. Call Hilton (714) 540-7000. Request chess rates by mentioning Schaumburg, 1800 E. Golf Rd., Schaumburg, IL 60173. 5SS. G/90+30 Master/Expert, Class A,B,C,D, U1200, U800. Prizes: Master/Expert: “CHESS PALACE”. Cutoff is Oct 31st. Parking: $25 $10 per day. Ratings: inc. 2-day G/60 d5 for rounds 1-2. $12,500 b/220 paid. 3 Sections: $500-200-50; Classes A,B,C,D: $150-75-40; U1200: Trophies to top 3 November USCF Rating Supplement used. CCA minimum ratings and TD Premier: $1500-800-400-250, U2400: $500 U2200: $750-400-200; U2000: plus medal for top 2 under 1000; U800: Trophies to top 3 plus medal discretion are used to protect you from improperly rated players. Info: 750-400-200; Reserve U1800: $1000-500-250; U1600: $750-400-200; for top 2 under 600. Schedule: M/X and Class A-D (G/60 d5) – 10:00am, organizing club - Chess Palace 714-899-3421, [email protected]. Unrated $200; U1400: $750-400-200; Booster U1200: $400-200-100. 12:30pm, 3:00pm, 5:30pm. U1200 and U800 (G/45 d5) – 10:00am, Entry: American Open, 5246 Lampson Ave., Garden Grove, CA 92845 or U1000 $200 Special Prizes: Mixed Doubles 600-400. Board/sets/clocks 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 4:00pm. One 1/2-point bye any round, must commit www.AmericanOpen.org. W. FIDE. provided. Entry Fee: $95 early mail-in or online by 11/11. $110 entry by end of Round 2. EF: $45 (M/X,A-D) and $25 (Under 1200/800). $10 available online only till 9pm Wednesday, 11/25. $120 onsite. $20 addi- increase after 11/13. $5 discount to ICA members. $10 extra to play US Chess Junior Grand Prix! tional to play up a section. $60 U1200 section (counts as 1/2 entry up any class. Free entry to Illinois GMs, WGMs, IMs, WIMs, FMs, NOV. 24-27 OR 25-27, TEXAS towards based-on number). GM and IM free if registered by 11/20. WFMs. Register online at www.kingregistration.com/tournaments/ TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) Reentries $50 available. https://www.onlineregistration.cc. Rounds: 3- event/ilclass2016 or mail checks postmarked by 11/13/16 to Illinois 2016 DCC FIDE OPEN XIV day schedule, Friday 6pm, Saturday 10am and 4pm, Sunday 10 am and Chess Association, P.O. Box 180177, Chicago, IL 60618. Onsite regis- 7SS, G/90 with 30 sec inc. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S. Cottonwood Dr. 3:30 pm, 2-day Saturday 10am, 1pm, 4pm, Sunday 10am and 3:30 pm. tration available until 9:30am. No phone entries. Boards, sets, and #C, Richardson, TX 75080. Two sections: Open and Reserve. Two Side Event: Sevan’s Blitz Chess Championship (USCF and FIDE Blitz clocks provided by The Illinois Chess Association. All special rules, Schedules, 4 day or 3 day. Open Section $$875G. FIDE and USCF rated rated). 5SS (2 games per round), G/3+ 2. Prizes: $1000 based on 75 details, and tournament conditions subject to change without notice; but uses FIDE rules. Will use USCF ratings and rules for awarding paid entries, EF $25 (enter online by 11/25) $30 at the door. Saturday changes will be posted ASAP at the site & online. INFO: president@il- prizes. Default late forfeiture time is one hour. TD may extend this time 8pm start. Mail in Entries to: Chess Weekend, 21694 Doud Ct., Frankfort, chess.org. HR: $89 room rate if reserved by 10/29. (630) 505-0900. at TD’s discretion. Contact us or USCF about registering for Fide before IL 60423. Please no phone or email entries. Credit Card entries available Mention Illinois Class. the event starts. $500-$250-$125. EF: 2400+ $125, 2000-2399 $90, online only. General Info: Glenn Panner (815) 955-4793, glenn@chess- 1600 -1999 $99, U1600 $125, Senior/Birthday during tournament/Addi- weekend.com. An American Classic! tional Family Member/Birthday during tournament: $55. For DFW area A Heritage Event! players, Dallas Chess Club membership required or pay $20 non member US Chess Junior Grand Prix! US Chess Junior Grand Prix! fee. Small Minimum prize to the First three GM/IM’s who apply. GM/IM NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, MICHIGAN NOV. 24-27 OR 25-27, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN must play all rounds to get minimum prize (entry fee may be deducted TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED) TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) from prize). Reserve: Open to USCF U1800. This section is not Fide 2016 MOTOR CITY OPEN 52ND ANNUAL AMERICAN OPEN Rated but is USCF rated and uses USCF rules. EF: $50. The Reserve with Co-Sponsorship from Michigan Chess Festival, LLC. 6-SS, 4-SS in Costa Mesa. 8 rounds, 40/120, SD/55 d5. (3-day option, rounds 1-4, give back 10% in prizes and if at least 8 paid entries and if there is a NOVICE Section. 4 Sections: OPEN, U1800, U1400, Novice (U1000). OK G/60 d5). Site: Hilton Hotel, 3050 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, CA 92626. clear winner, then that winner receives free entry to next DCC Fide to play up. Top Section FIDE-Rated. Prize Fund: $10,000. 80% Guar. Prizes: $$50,000 based on 500 entries, $25,000 guaranteed. In 6 Open. Tournament reserves the right to use Fide rules on electronic (b/50 per section). IM or FM LECTURE on Fri, 11/25, 5-6pm ($10) sections: Open section: $5000-2500-1200-800-600-300, U2450/Unr. devices and on starting White’s clock at start of a round and to use and Sat, 11/26, 5-6pm ($10). SITE: Edward Village Hotel (formerly $1500-700-500, top U2300/Unr. $800-400 - FIDE Rated. Under 2200 FIDE pairing rules. Both: Registration: 4 day 5:00 - 5:45 on Thurs the Hyatt Regency and the Adoba), 600 Town Center Dr., Dearborn, MI section: $3000-1500-1000-500-400-300 - FIDE Rated. Under 2000 section: 11/24. Rds.: Thurs 6 pm, Friday 2:30 pm, 7:00 pm, Sat 11am -4:30pm, 48126 (Dir/Lodg below). All Sections except NOVICE have 2-Day & 3- Sun 9:00am-2pm. Reg 3 day on Friday 9 am - 9:45 am, Rd. 1 at 10 am Day Schedules. No Re-Entries in OPEN or NOVICE Sections. Up to three then merge with 4 day. Two half point Bye allowed if requested before 1/2-pt. byes available (2 in NOVICE Sect.); must be requested before end of round rd. 2 and before getting full point bye, but half point byes start of RD. 4 (RD. 3 in NOVICE). Sections merge after RD. 3. Unrated CONTINENTAL CHESS SCHEDULE for both rounds 6 AND 7 is not allowed. Withdrawals and zero point eligible for Overall prizes ONLY in all sections; can play in any section. Visit www.chesstour.com for late news, hotel last round byes are not eligible for prizes. ENT: Make/mail Checks USCF and a STATE memberships required; can be purchased on site. availability, results, games, minimum ratings, etc. payable to Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn EF by Mon., 11/16 (add $10 after; add $20 after Mon, 11/23): OPEN: Enter tournaments at chessaction.com. Trail, Crowley, TX 76036-4719. 214.632.9000. Info: 214-632-9000, IM’s and GM’s Free ($100 EF deducted from prize): 3-DAY: $113. 2- To receive our free email newsletter, see [email protected]. FIDE. DAY: $112. No Re-Entries Allowed. U1800: 3-DAY: $83. 2-DAY: $82. chess calendar.com or chesstour.com. Re-Entries: $50. U1400: 3-DAY: $63. 2-DAY: $62. Re-Entries: $40. NOV. 25, NEW YORK NOVICE (U1000): 1-Day: $30. No Re-Entries Allowed. TL: OPEN, U1800, TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 Most tournaments have alternate schedules U1400 Sections: 3-Day Schedule: RDS. 1-6, G/115 d5, SD/30. 2-Day with less or more days than below. MARSHALL $500 FIDE BLITZ (BLZ) Schedule: RDS. 1-3, G/40 d5. RDS. 4-6, G/115 d5. NOVICE Section: 1- Asterisk means full details in this issue- 9-SS, G/3 +2. FIDE Blitz rated. $500: $200-100, top U2400/unr, U2200, Day Schedule (Sat. only): G/45 d5. REG.: 3-Day Schedule: Fri, 11/26, otherwise, see future issues or our website. U2000, U1800: $50. USCF regular rating used for pairings & prizes. EF: 8-10am. 2-Day Schedule: Sat, 11/27, 8-9:30am. 1-Day Schedule: Sat, Events in red offer FIDE norm chances. $30, MCC Mbrs $20. GMs Free. Reg:. 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-7:30-7:50-8:10- 11/26, 8-9am. RDS.: 3-Day Schedules: Fri, 11am, 6pm. Sat, 11am, 8:40-9-9:20-9:40-10pm. Max three byes. Request at entry. 23 W. 10th 6pm. Sun, 10am, 3:30pm. 2-Day Schedules: Sat, 10:30, 12:30, 2:30, 6. 11/11-13: Kings Island Open, Blue Ash OH* St., NYC. 212-477-3716. www.marshallchessclub.org. 11/25-27: National Chess Congress, Philadelphia PA* Sun, 10am, 3:30pm. 1-Day Schedule (4-SS): Sat, 10, 12, 2, 4. $$10,000 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! OVERALL (80% guar. b/50 each section): OPEN: $4,400 1st-2nd-3rd, 12/26-29: North American Open, Las Vegas NV* $1,500-$800-$500; TOP U2400, U2200, U2000, U1800/UNR: $400 each. 12/27-29: Empire City Open, New York NY* NOV. 25-27, MISSOURI TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 U1800: $3,300: 1st-2nd-3rd, $1,200-$700-$400; 1st-2nd, TOP U1600, 1/6-8: Boston Chess Congress, Boston MA* THANKSGIVING OPEN (FIDE RATED) 10K PRIZE FUND U1400/UNR: $300-$200. U1400: $2,300: 1st-2nd-3rd, $700-$450-$350; 1/13-16: Liberty Bell Open, Philadelphia PA* 1st-2nd TOP U1200, U1000/UNR, $250-$150. NOVICE: Large Trophies 1/13-16: Golden State Open, Concord CA* 6SS, G/90 + 30 second increment. Chess Club & Scholastic Center of Saint Louis, 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108. Free entries for TOP 5 Overall and Trophies for 1st, 2nd: TOP U800, U600, U500, 2/10-12: George Washington Open, Falls Church VA* for GMs and IMs. EF: $100, $80 if registered by 11/22. Two Sections: and UNR. Medals to all non-Trophy winners in U1000 section scoring 2/16-20: Southwest Class, Fort Worth TX* Open (FIDE Rated) & U2000. Prize Fund: $10,000 UNCONDITIONALLY 2.5 pts or more! Biggest Upset in OPEN, U1800 and U1400 sections win 2/24-26: George Washington Open, Falls Church VA* GUARANTEED!! Open: $1500-$1000-$800-$650-$300. Under 2300- choice of Mechanical or Quartz Clock! Chief Sr. TD: Dr. Ed Mandell. 3/3-5: Pittsburgh Open, Pittsburgh PA* $600-$400-$250. Under 2100-$350-$200. Under 2000 Section: Bring boards, pieces, clocks! None supplied except for Novice section; 3/11-12: New York State Scholastics, Saratoga Springs* $1000-$600- $350-$200. U1800: $500-$250. U1600: $400-$200. U1400: sets/supplies will be available for sale by Book Vendor on site. CELL 3/24-26: Mid-America Open, St Louis MO $300-$150. Reg.: 11 am - 12:30pm Friday 11/25. Rds.: Fri: 1 pm, 6 PHONE/HEADSET RULES: CELL PHONES cannot be on your person 3/24-26: Southern Class Championships, Orlando FL pm Sat: 1 pm, 6 pm Sunday: 11 am, 4 pm Two 1/2 point byes if declared while in tournament room. They may be in your closed bag or backpack before round 2. Ent: 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108, or in off or in silent mode. INFRACTION: deduct 1/2 the remaining time or 4/12-16: Philadelphia Open, Philadelphia PA game forfeiture if less than 10 minutes remaining on clock; automatic 4/28-30: Eastern Class Championships, Sturbridge MA online at saintlouischessclub.org. Info: 314-361-CHESS, info@saint- louischessclub.org. forfeiture for 2nd infraction. Spectators will be subjected to expulsion 5/25-29: Chicago Open, Wheeling IL for the remainder of the event for any offense. HEADPHONES cannot 6/9-11: Northeast Open, Stamford CT US Chess Junior Grand Prix! be used if opponent objects for any reason and cannot be used in the 6/16-18: Continental Class, Falls Church VA NOV. 25-27, WISCONSIN last round by players with a plus score. Player must be willing to present 6/24-29: Philadelphia International, Philadelphia PA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 same to TDs for examination at any time. Failure to do so will result in 6/29-7/4: World Open, Philadelphia PA 2016 NORTH CENTRAL OPEN/MARTZ MEMORIAL removal from tournament without refund. CELL PHONE/HEADSET RULES 7/14-16: Chicago Class, Wheeling IL 6-SS. TC: Rds. 1-4, 6 45/2, SD/1 d5 Rd. 5 G/120 d5. Best Western Plus Posted at Site. LODG, DIR: Edward Village Hotel, 600 Town Center Dr., 7/21-23: Southern Open, Orlando FL Eau Claire Conference Center, 3340 Mondovi Rd., Eau Claire, WI 54701, Dearborn, MI 48126. Located N of Michigan Ave., S of Hubbard St., E of 8/11-13: Continental Open, Sturbridge MA 715-838-9989. HR: $69.99 standard rooms, $99.99 suites Reg.: 10:30- Evergreen Rd., W of Southfield Rd. For maps, go online to: 11:30. 12-6, 10-5, 10-3. $40 if received by 11/23, $45 at site. 8/11-13: Cleveland Open, Cleveland OH Rds.: EF: www.mapquest.com or www.yahoo.com and click on Maps. Room reser- $$ b/50 1st $400, 2nd $250, 3rd $160, A $140, B $130, C $120, D $110, E 8/25-27: Atlantic Open, Arlington VA vations: Go online to www.edwardvillagedearborn.hotelsone.com or $100, U1000 $90. Ent: Guy Hoffman, 1305 D Tompkins Dr., Madison, WI call (313) 592-3622. Ask for the MOTOR CITY OPEN Chess rate ($109) 8/25-27: Indianapolis Open, Indianapolis IN 53716-3279. Checks payable to WCA. 920-279-0701. schachfuhrer@hot- by Nov. 11, 2016. Entries, All The King’s Men: Mrs. Marcie Kahn (586) 9/2-4: New York State Championship, Albany mail.com A Wisconsin Tour event. 558-4790 and Info: Dr. Ed Mandell (248) 634-2375. Email: allthekings- 10/6-9: Washington Chess Congress, Arlington VA [email protected]. 10/6-8: Midwest Class Championships, Wheeling IL US Chess Junior Grand Prix! NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN An American Classic! For later events, see chesstour.com. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED) A Heritage Event! CLASS WARFARE CHAMPIONSHIP US Chess Junior Grand Prix!

56 November 2016 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, PENNSYLVANIA US Chess Junior Grand Prix! U1200: $200, 125, 75. EF: $50 early by Nov 15, $60 late. MCC Members TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, WASHINGTON $50 anytime; Rds.: 9-2-7; 9-2. Onsite Registration Nov 26: 7:30am- 47TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CHESS CONGRESS TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 8:45am. [email protected]; Online entries: www.memphischess.com; 6SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-3 G/45 d10). Trophy WASHINGTON CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS Send mail entries to: MCC, P.O. Box 17864, Memphis,TN 38187. (NOTE: sections play separate 2-day schedule only, 11/26-27, G/45 d10. Sher- 6SS, 40/120, SD/30 d10, 2-Day Option, Rds. 1-3, G/60 d10. Embassy this version updates what appeared in October CL issue.) aton Philadelphia Downtown Hotel, 201 North 17th St., Philadelphia, Suites Seattle North/Lynnwood, 20610 44th Avenue West, Lynnwood, A State Championship Event! PA 19103. $35,000 GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND. In 10 sections. Pre- WA 98036. 425-775-2500. HR: $129 run of the house until 11/11. $$6,000 DEC. 3-4, NORTH CAROLINA mier, open to all rated 2000/above and juniors under 18 rated Gtd. 7 Sections, MASTER (2200/up), FIDE Rated, $500-350-175 (U2300: TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 1800/above. $3000-1500-700-400-200, clear win or 1st on tiebreak $100-75), (2000-2199), FIDE Rated, $400-275-150 (U2100: EXPERT NORTH CAROLINA SENIOR OPEN $200, U2400 $1600-800. FIDE. Under 2200: $2000-1000-500-300-200. $100-75), CLASS A (1800-1999), FIDE Rated, $300-200-125 (U1900: 4SS, G/120 d5. 708 South Grove, Hendersonville, NC. Age 50+. Cham- Under 2000: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1800: $2000-1000- $100-75), CLASS B (1600-1799), $300-200-125 (U1700: $100-75), CLASS pionship: $225-100 U1800 $50. Amateur (U1600): $200-75 U1400 500-300-200. Under 1600: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1400: C (1400-1599), $300-200-125 (U1500: $100-75), CLASS D (1200-1399), $50. EF: $50 by 11/26, $60 after. Rds.: Sat 10am - 3pm, Sun 9:30am - $1600-800-400-300-200. Under 1200: $1600-800-400-300-200. Under $300-200-125 (U1300: $100-75), CLASS E (1199 & Under), $200-125- Trophies to top 10. Trophies to top 10. 100, (U1000: $100, U800/Unr: $75). Unrated players may only win 2pm. ENT: Wayne Spon, 112 Glenbrook Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28739. 1000: Under 800: Scholastic [email protected], 301-787-6479, www.ncchess.org. Under 600: K-12 only, trophies to top 10. Unrated may not win over 1st-3rd in MASTER or Unrated prize in CLASS E. Foreign ratings used INFO: $200 in U1200, $400 in U1400, $600 in U1600, $800 in U1800, or $1000 for players with no USCF rating. EF: MASTER $130, EXPERT $120, CLASS A Heritage Event! in U2000. Mixed doubles prizes: best male-female 2-player “team” A to D $110, Class E $100. Deduct $10 if postmarked or online by 11/19. DEC. 4, MASSACHUSETTS combined score among all sections: $2000-1000-600-400. Team average Deduct $20 if postmarked or online by 10/29. Rated players may play TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams up one class only, add $45 to EF. Special Medal Only EF (Juniors U21): HARRY NELSON PILLSBURY MEMORIAL must register (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2, teams $55 by 10/29, $65 by 11/19, $75 at site. Free entry for GMs, IMs, 4SS, G/60 d5. Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel, 181 Boston Post Road including an unrated limited to $400. Student/Alumni plaques to WGMs. 3-Day Schedule: Registration Fri (11/25) 9-10 am. Rds.: Fri West, Marlboro, MA (I-495, exit 24B, Rt. 20W, one mile from exit). 508- top 5 teams of 4 (regardless of section) representing any U.S. college, 11 am & 5:30 pm, Sat 11 am & 5:30 pm, Sun 9:30 am & 3:30 pm. 2-Day 460-0700 or 888-543-9500. $$ 1,500 b/70 paid entries ($20 off entries HS or pre-HS players attend or have graduated from. Top 7 sections Schedule: Registration Sat (11/26) 8-8:30 am. Rds.: Sat 9:00 am, 11:45 count half), 60% G. 4 sects. Open: $350-150, top U2110 $150. Under entry fee: $120 online at chessaction.com by 11/23, $130 phoned to am, 2:30 pm then merges with 3-Day Schedule. Bye: limit 2, request 1910: $200-100, top U1760 $100. Under 1610: $150-75, top U1460 406-896-2038 by 11/21 (entry only, no questions), 3-day $128, 2-day before end of Rd. 2. ENT: Checks payable to Washington Chess Federation. $75. Under 1310: $100-50, trophies to top U1100, U900, Unrated. All: $127 mailed by 11/15, $140 at site, or online until 2 hours before rd. Mail to: Dan Mathews, 749 Somerset Ln., Edmonds, WA 98020-2646. Unrated can play in any sect. but can’t win more than $50 in U1310, 1. GMs free, $100 deducted from prize. Re-entry $60, not available in Info: [email protected], 425-218-7529. Enter online: $75 in U1610, or $100 in U1910. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually Premier. Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600 entry fee: $42 online www.nwchess.com/onlineregistration. W. used if otherwise unrated. MACA memb. required for Mass. residents at chessaction.com by 11/23, $45 phoned by 11/21 (406-896-2038, NOV. 26, OHIO ($12 adult, $6 junior U18, add $8 for Chess Horizons subscription). EF: no questions) or mailed by 11/15, $50 at site. All: No checks at site, TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 $39 if mailed by 11/29 or online by 12/2, $45 at site. $20 discount to credit cards OK. No mailed credit card entries. Special 1 year USCF SOLON MONSTER TURKEY SHOOT players in U1310 sect. GMs and IMs free. Reg.: 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Rds.: with paper magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, dues 4SS, G/45 d5. 6025 Kruse Dr., Solon, OH 44139. EF: $50 for all sections 10-1-3:30-6. Bye: O.K. all, limit 1, must commit before rd. 2, no half Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at except U1000 ($30), IMs, GMs free. Sections: Open, U2000, U1500, point byes for players receiving full point byes. Ent.: payable to MACA site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. 3-day schedule: U1000. Registration: 9-9:45 at site. Rds.: 10:00, 12:00, 2:00, 4:00, U- and mail to Robert Messenger, 4 Hamlett Dr., Apt. 12, Nashua, NH Reg. ends Fri 11 am, rds. Fri 12 & 6, Sat 12 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:15. 2-day 1000 ASAP. Prizes: $1500 Guaranteed!! Open: $300, $100, U-2200 03062 or enter online at [email protected] W. top 7 sections schedule: Reg. ends Sat. 9 am, rds Sat 10, 12:45, $100. U-2000: $200, $100, U1750 $100. U-1500: $200, $100, U1250 3:15 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:15. 2-day Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! $100. U1000: $80, $40, U750 $40, U500 $40. Free healthy box lunch to A State Championship Event! schedule: Reg. ends Sat 9 am, rds. Sat 10, 12:45 & 3:15 each day. Convenient Online Registration at www.progresswith- ALL players! DEC. 9-11, MISSOURI Half point byes OK all rounds; limit 3, Premier must commit before chess.org. Info: Contact: Mike Joelson, 216-321-7000. rd. 2, others before rd. 4. HR: $104-104-124, 215-448-2000, reserve TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 by 11/10 or rate may increase. Parking: Hotel parking chess rate A Heritage Event! THE MISSOURI OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP 50% off regular rate (about $20). Gateway Garage, 1540 Spring St/1540 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 2016 MISSOURI OPEN: $3000 Guaranteed Prize Fund. 5SS, G/115 Vine St (1 block from Sheraton Hotel), about $7/day Sat & Sun, $20/day NOV. 26-27, TENNESSEE d5. 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108. 2-sections: OPEN: other days. Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633 or reserve TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 Overall Prizes: $500-1st $400-2nd, $300-3rd. Class Prizes: $150-1st in car online through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental 57TH MID-SOUTH OPEN each: Master (2200-2399), X, A, B. RESERVE (U1600): Overall Prizes: Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. 5SS, G/120 d5. Site: Hyatt Place Memphis - Wolfchase Galleria - 7905 $250-1st, $200-2nd, $150-3rd. Class Prizes: $125-1st in each C, D, E, Questions: chesstour.com, chesstour.info, 347-201-2269. Advance Giacosa Pl., Memphis, TN 38133.Tel: +1 901-371-0010 (ask for chess U1000/Unr. Upset Prizes: $50 for highest upset in each section. Entry entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). hotel rates); Three Sections: Open, U1700, U1200. $1700 Prizes are Fee: $50 pre-registered, $60 on site. Special Discounts: $10 off entry Blitz tournament Sat 10 pm; enter by 9:45 pm. based on 35 entries. Open: $400, 250, 150. U1700: $250, 150, 100. fee for: Seniors (50+), New/Unrateds, and Players traveling 100+ mi

Categories  Added    

RUN AN ADDITIONAL TOURNAMENT THIS WINTER! Each affiliate is entitled to one TLA per month of  Chess Life up to 8 lines and up to 2 issues of Chess Life, for any tournament between January and March 2017, if no TLA for such an event appeared in 2016, and the TLA is e-mailed by the appropriate deadline. The 8 free lines cannot be applied to longer TLAs. Only $49 for Premium Membership, which includes a copy of Chess Life SPECIAL CATEGORIES QUALIFY FOR FREE TLAS! Each affiliate is entitled to one TLA per month of up to 8 lines for events in the following categories, if submitted by e-mail. The free lines cannot be applied to longer TLAs: every month. Regular Memberships are available for $40 and give online-only access to Chess Life. SENIOR For age 50 or above, or a CHESS CLUB SPECIAL A tourna- COLLEGIATE A tournament limited to higher minimum age. ment playing only on one or more college students. (Note to affiliates: If you collect a weekday evenings. $49 membership, you may submit UNRATEDS FREE Any tournament JUNIOR For age 20/below (age 20 it online to US Chess for $46.) that offers free entry to unrated players. must be eligible). RBO Open to Under 1200/ Unr or If your prizes are based on entries, say Under 1000/ Unr. Tournament name “paid entries.” NON-SCHOLASTIC WITH SCHOLASTIC must include “Rated Beginners Open” A tournament for all ages held concur- US CHESS BOOSTER TOURNAMENT or “RBO.” rent (same location) with a scholastic A tournament that offers at least two tournament that in its previous year US Chess membership renewal BLITZ Time control of Game/5. TLAs drew at least 50 players. We encourage prizes, or a quad that offers at least such as “USCF-rated Blitz every Friday organizers of scholastics to hold open one per section. 7 pm” are accepted. or collegiate events on the side.

SPECIAL RATES FOR CLUB ADS. Up to 5 lines $180 per year, $100 for 6 months for unchanged club ads in the TLA section. Announce meeting dates & times, activities, contact info, etc. US CHESS DISCUSSION GROUPS. See www.uschess.org/forums for four groups: Tournament Organization, Chess Club Organization, Tournament Direction, US Chess Issues.

www.uschess.org 57 Tournament Life / November

one-way, only 1 special discount can be applied, Registration: Sat-9- paid entries and if there is a clear winner, then that winner receives rules. Will use USCF ratings and rules for awarding prizes. Default late 9:30am. Rounds: Sat-10/2:30/7, Sun-10:00/2:30. Max one ½-pt bye if free entry to next DCC Fide Open. In the reserve section, Tournament forfeiture time is one hour. TD may extend this time at TD’s discretion. declared by Rd. 2. MISSOURI QUICK CHAMPIONSHIP: 4SS, G/29 d0 reserves the right to use Fide rules on electronic devices and on EF: USCF +2400 $90, USCF 2200-2400 (or if you ever been rated 2200 (QR). Prizes: b/20, $100-1st Overall, $50-2nd, $50-1st U1600. Reg.: starting White’s clock at start of a round and to use FIDE pairing USCF) $105, Fide rated 2000 and above is $120, U2200 USCF/U2000Fide 6:30-7pm Friday. Rounds: 7/8/9/10pm. EF: $10. Entries/Info: Bob rules. Both: Reg.: Saturday from 9:45–10:15 am. Rds.: Sat 10:45 am- $150. USCF Membership Required. Dallas Chess Club membership Howe, 210 N. Olive, Pacific, MO 63069. [email protected], 636-234- 3:10pm-7:16pm, Sun 9:45 am-2:10pm. One half point Bye allowed if required, but players can pay a $10 tournament membership. Note that 7928. Email for Online payment options. requested before end of round 2 and before getting full point bye. highest finishing Dallas Chess Club member is Club Champion. $$b/25: Withdrawals and zero point last round byes are not eligible for prizes. 70% Guaranteed. $1600-800-400-200. U2400 $500. Reg.: 12/17: 11:00am- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Note that house players (if required) must pay $5 per round and be 12:01 pm. Rds.: 12/17 12:30, 5:30 pm. 12/18: 11am, 4:30 pm. 12/19 DEC. 10, ILLINOIS 9:30 am. 1 bye if requested before end of round 2. Players who withdraw TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 US Chess members. ENT: Make/mail Checks payable to Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036- or take a last round zero point bye are ineligible for prizes. ENT: Chicago Chess Center Pre-Opening Plus-Score #6 4719. Info: 214-632-9000. FIDE Make/mail Checks payable to Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 3rd Floor Conference Center, UIC Student Center East, 750 S. Halsted, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley TX, 76036-4719. INFO: Barb Swafford, Chicago, IL 60607. 4SS, G/65 d5. Rds.: 10-1-3:30-6. Accelerated possible. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 214-632-9000, [email protected], www.dallaschess.com. FIDE. Two Sections, prizes by score. Open: $$500 min: 4 points $240 minimum DEC. 16-18 OR 17-18, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN each, 3½ - $120, 3 - $60, 2½ - $30. U1700: 4 points - $160 each, 3½ - TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) DEC. 20, NEW YORK $80, 3 - $40, 2½ - $30. EF: $34 advance, $45 onsite. U1700 playing up, BAY AREA CHESS FALL CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 add $15. Reg.: 9 to 9:45 a.m. ENT: Chicago Chess Center NFP Inc., P.O. 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. 5SS, G/90+30 2-day rds 1-2 G/60 MARSHALL MASTERS Box 180095, Chicago, IL 60618. chichess.org/events INFO: 773-294- d5. Park free. Prize: 5,000 b/90 (60% guar). 3 sects: 2000+ (FIDE) 4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to 2000+ players. $725 GTD: 250-150-100. Top 1709. W. $1,000-500-200, u2300: 250-125-100. 1600-1999: $700-300-100, u1800: U2400 100, Top U2300 75, Biggest upset $50. EF: $40, Mbr $30. GMs 200-100, u1600: $700-300-100 u1400: 125-100, u1200: 100. Unr max Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for DEC. 10, MARYLAND round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 $100 exc Open. Dec 16 Supp & TD disc. Reg:. F 6:30-6:45p & Sa 9:30- 9:45a. Rds.: F 7p, Sa 10a, 3p Su 10a 2:30p. (2-day Sa 10a 12:30 & merge). 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. MARYLAND DECEMBER ACTION 99, Econ EF: 79 w 60% prz, after 12/9 +20. Playup +35. Rated 5SS, G/45;+5: incr. Rockville Hilton, 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD EF: An American Classic! 2250+ $0 by 12/5 (prize - EF). http://BayAreaChess.com/champs. 20852. All Prizes Guaranteed. 2 Sections: Championship (min 1600 Info: A Heritage Event! rating): $350-$225-$125-$75, U2000 $150. Under 1800: $275-$175- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! US Chess Junior Grand Prix! $100-$50, U1600 $75, U1400 $50. Sets, boards and clocks provided. DEC. 17-18, MASSACHUSETTS DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, NEVADA EF: $35 by 12/6, $40 later. Schedule: Reg. ends 10am, rds. 10:30- TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED) 12:30-3:00-5:00-7:00. More information & online: http://mdchess.com BACK BAY OPEN 26TH ANNUAL NORTH AMERICAN OPEN Open Section, Dec 26-30: 9SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10. GM & IM norms US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Hilton Boston Back Bay, 40 Dalton St., Boston, MA 02115. Garage parking $43 per day with in & out privileges. One block from Prudential T stop. In possible. Other sections, Dec 26-29 or 27-29: 7SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10 DEC. 10-11, TEXAS (3-day option, rds 1-2 G/60 d10). Bally’s Casino Resort, 3645 Las TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) 4 Sections, Championship: 4SS, 40/90, SD/30;+30, Open to players rated 1800/above. FIDE rated. $$GTD: $600-300-250. U2400 $250 U2200 Vegas Blvd. S, Las Vegas, NV 89103. $120,000 guaranteed prizes. In 2016 DCC FIDE OPEN XV $250. 4SS, 40/90, SD/30;+30, Open to 1999 & under. FIDE rated. 7 sections. Open: $10000-5000-2500-1200-1000-800-600-500-400-400, 5SS, G/90 inc/30. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S. Cottonwood Dr. #C, U2000: $$GTD: $400-200-150. U1800: 4SS, 40/90, SD/30; +30, Open to 1799 & clear winner or 1st on tiebreak bonus $200, top FIDE Under 2400/Unr Richardson, TX 75080. Two sections: Open and Reserve. $$875G. Open: under. $$GTD: $400-200-150. U1600: 4SS, 40/90, SD/30;+30, Open to $2400-1200. FIDE rated, GM & IM norms possible. Under 2300: $7000- FIDE and US Chess rated but uses FIDE rules. Use US Chess ratings 1599 & under. Adult unrated not allowed in section. $$GTD: $300-150- 4000-2000-1200-800-600-500-500-400-400. Under 2100: $7000-4000- and rules for pairings and for awarding prizes. Default late forfeiture 100. U1400 $150 U1200 $150. ALL: EF: $70 postmarked 10 December, 2000-1200-800-600-500-500-400-400, no unrated may win over $2500. time is one hour. TD may extend this time at TD’s discretion. Note $80 at site. $30 discount to players in U1600 sect. rated U1000 or unrated. Under 1900: $7000-4000-2000-1200-800-600-500-500-400-400, no that Foreign players must disclose their FIDE ID number before 1st Reg.: 8:30-9:30 on Saturday. Rds.: 10-4, 10-4. 1 ½ point byes rounds 1- unrated may win over $1800. Under 1700: $6000-3000-1500-1000-800- round in order to play. Note that USA Players with no FIDE ID must 3. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49 Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: 600-500-500-400-400, no unrated may win over $1300. Under 1500: disclose their email address. $$ $500-$250-$125. EF: 2400+ $125, Alex Relyea [email protected]. www.relyeachess.com. HR $109 $5000-2500-1300-1000-700-600-500-400-300-300, no unrated may win 2000-2399 $90, 1600 -1999 $99, U1600 $125, Senior/Birthday during by 16 November. 617-236-1100 mention Back Bay Open. over $900. Under 1250: $3000-1500-1000-800-600-500-400-400-300- tournament/Additional Family Member $55. For DFW area players, 300, top Under 1000 (no unr) $1000-500, no unrated may win over $500. Dallas Chess Club membership required or pay $20 non member fee. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! No separate U1000 section; players under 1000 in U1250 play for both Small Minimum prize to the First three GM/IM’s who apply. GM/IM DEC. 17-19, TEXAS U1250 and U1000 prizes; receive larger if winning both. Prize limits: must play all rounds to get minimum prize (entry fee may be deducted TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED) 1) Players with under 26 games played as of 12/16 list may not win from prize). Reserve: Open to players rated below 2000 USCF. This DALLAS ABSOLUTE over $1500 U1250, $3000 U1500 or U1700. Games rated too late for section is not Fide Rated but is US Chess rated and uses US Chess 5SS, G/90 with 30 sec increment. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S. Cottonwood 12/16 list not counted. 2) If post-event rating posted 12/20/15-12/20/16 rules. EF: $40. The Reserve give back 10% in prizes and if at least 8 Dr. #C, Richardson, TX 75080. FIDE and USCF rated but uses FIDE was more than 30 points over section maximum, prize limit $2000. 3)

26th annual NORTH AMERICAN OPEN Dec 26-30, 26-29 or 27-29, Bally’s Las Vegas - GM & IM norms possible $120,000 PRIZE FUND UNCONDITIONALLY GUARANTEED!

Open Section: 9 rounds, Dec 26- Prize limits: If under 26 games as of 5-day late reg. ends 12/26 10 am, 30, 40/2, SD/30, d10. Dec 2016 official, U1250 $1500, U1500 or rds 12/26-28 11 & 6, 12/29 10 & 4:30, Other sections: 7 rounds, Dec 26- U1700 $3000. Unr in U1250 $500, U1500 12/30 10 am. 29, 40/2, SD/30, d10 (3-day option, Dec $900, U1700 $1300, U1900 $1800, U2100 4-day late reg. ends 12/26 5 pm, 27-29, rds 1-2 G/60, d10). $2500. If post-event rating posted 12/20/ Rds. 12/26 6 pm, 12/27-28 11 & 6, At Bally's Casino Resort, 3645 15-12/20/16 was more than 30 pts over 12/29 10 am & 4:30 pm. Las Vegas Blvd So, Las Vegas NV 89103. section maximum, limit $2000. 3-day late reg. ends 12/27 10 am, Free parking. Mixed doubles prizes: $2000-1000- Rds.12/27 11, 2:30 & 6, 12/28 11 & 6, In 7 sections. Open Section uses 500-300-200. Male/female, any sections, 12/29 10 & 4:30. December FIDE ratings, other sections must average under 2200. Open, only rds 1- Half-point byes: OK all, limit 4 December official USCF ratings. 7 count. Reg. by 3 pm 12/27 (no extra fee). (limit 2 in last 4 rds). Open must commit Teams including an unrated limited to $500. before rd 2, others before rd 4. Open: $10000-5000-2500-1200- 1000-800-600-500-400-400, clear or tie- Top 6 sections entry fee: $275 at Bring set, board, clock if possible- break win $200 bonus, top FIDE chessaction.com by 12/23, $300 online until none supplied. USCF mem. required. U2400/Unr $2400-1200. FIDE rated, 2 hours before round 1 or at site until 1 Unofficial uschess.org ratings 200 GPP. hour before. $100 more in Open to US usually used if otherwise unrated. Under 2300: $7000-4000-2000- players not FIDE or USCF 2200/over. Special room rate at Bally’s $94 1200-800-600-500-500-400-400. Mailed or phoned entries: see single or twin. Reserve now at 800-833- Under 2100: $7000-4000-2000- Tournament Life or chesstour.com. 3308 or 702-739-4111. Rooms may sell 1200-800-600-500-500-400-400. Special entry fee: all in U1250 Section out about Nov 15. Under 1900: $7000-4000-2000- or Senior 65/over in U1500/up, $120 less. Blitz tournament 12/29 10 pm. 1200-800-600-500-500-400-400. Re-entry (no Open to Open): $120. $3000 GUARANTEED! Enter by 7 pm Under 1700: $6000-3000-1500- GMs, foreign IMs in Open free, $200 12/29 for lowest fee. 1000-800-600-500-500-400-400. from prize. US IMs, all WGMs, foreign Entry: chessaction.com or Under 1500: $5000-2500-1300- FMs in Open $100 less; $100 from prize. Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury 1000-700-600-500-400-300-300. No checks at site; credit cards OK. Mills NY 12577. $15 service charge for Under 1250: $3000-1500-1000- Special USCF dues with magazine if refunds. Advance entries posted at 800-600-500-400-400-300-300, top paid online with entry: Adult $35, Young chessaction.com (online entries posted Under 1000 (no unr) $1000-500. Adult $22, Scholastic $15. instantly).

58 November 2016 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Mixed doubles $100-50. Opening Innovation: $100-50. Selected winning games, positions, reserve by Dec. 10th to receive chess rate, which is available 2 days bonus prizes: best male/female combined 2-player “team” score: and openings must be annotated and will be submitted for publication pre-tournament and 1-day post tournament. Free Airport Shuttle & Free $2000-1000-500-300-200. Only rounds 1-7 of Open Section counted. in Chess Life. Upset: For U1600 & U1300, Rds 1-5, $25 book credit prize; Hotel Parking! ENT: More detailed info, Online registration and printable Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play in different max 2 prizes per player. 4-day Schedule for Open, U2200, U1900: entry form at www.cajunchess.com click on “Tournaments” or mail sections; teams must register (no exta fee) by 3 pm 12/27; teams 12/27-12/30 Rd. 1: Tue12/27 at 6 pm; Rds. 2-3, 4-5, 6-7: Wed 12/28 - entry form to Cajun Chess, 12405 Hillary Step Dr., Olive Branch, MS including an unrated limited to $500. Top 6 sections EF: Online at Fri 12/30 at 11 am & 5:30 pm. On-Site Reg: Tue 12/27 at 4-5:30. TC: 38654. Info or Phone Ent: 504-208-9596 or 504-905-2971. Email: chessaction.com: $245 by 9/15, $275 by 12/23. Phoned to 406-896- 40/120, SD/30 d10. 3-day Schedule for U2200, U1900: 12/28-12/30 [email protected]. Major credit cards accepted (no checks at 2038 (no questions, entry only): $285 by 12/21. No phone entry after Rds. 1-3: Wed 12/28 at 5, 7, 9 pm. On-Site Reg: Wed 12/28: 4-4:45 site). FIDE. 12/21. Mailed by 12/15: 5-day $280, 4-day $279, 3-day $278. Do not pm. TC: G/45 d10. Join 4-day in Rd. 4. Open Section Rules: FIDE Rules mail entry after 12/15. Online 12/24 to 2 hours before round 1, or at used, with regular US Chess 1-hr lateness/default rule in effect. If no A Heritage Event! site 12/26 to 1 hour before round 1: $300. Open Section EF $100 US Chess rating, use FIDE rating + 100 pts. If no US or FIDE rating, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! then rating assigned for other countries per US Chess rulebook. Foreign DEC. 28-30 OR 29-30, GEORGIA more to US players if not USCF or FIDE rated 2200/over. Under 1250 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 Section EF: All $120 less than above. Seniors 65/over in U1500/over: players with no FIDE ID, MUST pre-register by no later than Dec. 15th All $120 less than above. Re-entry $120; not available in Open Section. so that country can properly register player with FIDE. 4-day schedule 46TH ANNUAL ATLANTA OPEN GMs, foreign IMs in Open Section: Free; $200 deducted from prize. only & no re-entries. Byes: 1/2-pt byes available for any round, but 5-SS, Interactive College of Technology, 5227 New Peachtree Rd., Cham- US IMs, all WGMs, foreign FMs in Open Section: Entry fees $100 Rds. 5-7 must commit before Rd. 4. Limit 2 byes. 2-day Schedule for blee, GA 30341. $8,000 b/130, 70% Guaranteed. In 6 sections: less than above; $100 deducted from prize. All: No checks at site, credit U1600, U1300: Thu-Fri 12/29-12/30 Rds. 1-3 & 4-6 at 10 am, 2 pm, 6 Championship: $1,000-500-300; under 2100: $400-200. FIDE rated. cards OK. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with pm. On-Site Reg: Thu12/29: 9-9:45 am. TC: G/90 d10. Scholastic Must be 1950! Under 1950: $800-400-200. Under 1700: $800-400-200. entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic Tourney (Tue 12/27 in 4 rds) in 3 sections: K-12 Open, K-8 U1000, Under 1500: $800-400-200. Under 1300: $600-300-200; u1100- $200- $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic K-5 U700. Rds. 1-4 at 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm. On-Site Reg: Tue 100. Under 1000: (12/30th only, not part of base!) Trophies to top 10. $17. 5-day reg. ends 12/26 10 am, rds. 12/26-28 11 & 6, 12/29 10 & 12/27: 10-10:45 pm. TC: G/45 d10. Blitz Championship: 5-Rd Dbl Time Controls: Championship: G/90, Inc. 30, U1950, U1700, U1500, 4:30, 12/30 10 am. 4-day reg. ends 12/26 5 pm, rds. 12/26 6 pm, Swiss. Tue 12/27 at 1-4:30 pm. Prizes: $850 in prizes based on 40 U1300 G/120 d5. U1000: G/30 d5. 2-day option: G/90 d5. 3-day schedule: 12/27-28 11 & 6, 12/29 10 & 4:30. 3-day reg. ends 12/27 10 am, rds. entries: 1st/2nd: $250/150, U2100: $150/75; U1800: $150/75. TC: Reg.: ends 6:15 p.m. Rounds: Wed. 7 p.m.; Thur. 2:30 and 7 p.m.; Fri. 10 12/27 11, 2:30 & 6, 12/28 11 & 6, 12/29 10 & 4:30. Bye: all, limit 4, G/6, i3. Site Reg: Tue 12/27: 12-12:45 pm. EF: Advance EF: $35; on- a.m. and 3:30 p.m. 2-day schedule: Reg.: ends Thur. 10 a.m. Rounds: limit 2 in last 4 rounds; Open must commit before rd. 2, others before site EF: $45. Free Lecture: 12/27 at 4-5:30 pm. HR: Amazing, only 10:30 a.m. then merges with 3-day. Under 1000: Reg.: ends 6 p.m. rd. 4. HR: $94-94, 800-333-3308, 702-739-4111, rate may increase or $79!! To reserve online, go to easternopenchess.com or call 301-652- 12/29! No On site. Rounds: 11 - 12:45, then as soon as possible. All: chess block sell out about 11/15. Free parking (garage at adjacent Paris 2000 or 888-370-0998 by 12/20 request chess rate. Pkg: Hotel valet is Unofficial uschess.org ratings used if otherwise unrated. Unrated limited Las Vegas Hotel is most convenient). Car rental: for special Avis rate $10 if overnight or $5 if for day! Entries: If postmarked by Dec 20: to 2nd place in each section. Players may play up one section. Byes: reserve car through chesstour.com or call 800-331-1600, use AWD Open: $125; U2200: $120; U1900 & U1600: $110; U1300: $100; Scholastic: Available in all rounds (limit 2), must commit before 1st round. No cell- #657633. Ratings: FIDE used in Open, Dec 2016 official USCF in others. $35. Entries after 12/20: $25 more for Open-U1300; $10 more for phones in playing rooms. Entry Fees: $79 3-day, $78 2-day if received For foreign players in U2300 & below, see www.chesstour.com/for- Scholastic! Reentry $100 and limited to rounds 1-4. GMs: free entry, by 12/27; $85 at site. GM’s and IM’s free ($40 subtracted from prize) eignratings.htm; highest of multiple ratings usually used. Players who but $125 deducted from prize; IMs: $65 advance entry, but $60 deducted. Unrated: $60. Under 1000: $30. Juniors $5 less except in Under 1000. fail to disclose foreign or FIDE ratings may be expelled. Special rules: FMs: $90 advance entry, but $35 deducted; $10 service charge for Info: (478)-973-9389 or [email protected]. Enter: CCA electronic devices rules used; see www.chesstour.com/devices.htm. refunds. Please make checks or money orders payable to Eastern americanchesspromotions.com. FIDE. Open. Mail entries to Tom Beckman, 3731 Kanawha St. NW, Washington, Blitz 12/29 10 pm. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box DEC. 29, NEVADA 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577 (DirectorAtChess.us, www.chesstour.com, DC 20015-1809. For entry forms and info, easternopenchess.com or TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) 347-201-2269). $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted [email protected]. at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). NORTH AMERICAN OPEN BLITZ (BLZ) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 5SS, G/5 d0, double round, 10 games. Ballys Casino Resort (see North A Heritage Event! DEC. 28-30, LOUISIANA American Open). $3000 guaranteed prizes. In 2 sections. Open: $500- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) 300-200, U2300/Unr $230-120, U2100/Unr $220-110. Under 1900: DEC. 27-29 OR 28-29, NEW YORK NEW ORLEANS OPEN $400-200-100, U1700 $220-110, U1500 $140-70, U1300 $80. EF (at site TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 (ENHANCED) 5SS, (Open Sect: G/90 i30; Other Sects.: G/120 d5). Open Sect is FIDE only, no checks): $40 by 7 pm 12/29, $50 after 7 pm 12/29. GMs free; 35TH ANNUAL EMPIRE CITY OPEN rated using FIDE rules. No Entry Fee for GMs, WGMs, IMs and WIMs $40 deducted from prize. Reg. ends 9:30 pm, rds. 10 pm, 10:45, 11:15, 6SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-3 G/40 d10). Hotel Penn- (EF will NOT be deducted from winnings). SIDE EVENTS: Tue., 12/27: 11:45, 12:15. Bye: 1. Blitz rated, but higher of regular or blitz used for sylvania, 401 Seventh Ave. (32nd-33rd St., across from Penn Station), Scholastic Tourn. (K-12) & Blitz Tourn. (Blitz open to all). Hilton New pairings & prizes. Orleans Airport, 901 Airline Dr., Kenner, LA 70062 (504-469-5000). Main New York 10001. $15,000 guaranteed prize fund. In 7 sections. Open: DEC. 30, NEW YORK $1300-700-400-200, clear or tiebreak win $100 bonus, top Under Event Wed./Thurs./Fri., Dec. 28-30: 3 Sects. With Class PRIZES: $6,000 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 2300/Unr $600-300. Under 2100: $1000-500-300-200. Under 1900: b/140 full-pd. ent. OPEN: $1000+plaque-800-500; top U2000: $400- $1000-500-300-200. $900-500-300-200. $800- 200; U1800: $600+plaque-400-250; top U1600: $200-100; U1400/Unr*: MARSHALL $500 FIDE BLITZ (BLZ) Under 1700: Under 1500: 9-SS, G/3 +2. FIDE Blitz rated. $200-100, top U2400/unr, U2200, 400-250-150. Under 1300: $800-400-250-150. Under 1100: $500-300- $600+plaque-400-250; top U1200: $200-100;. *Unrated players may $500: 200-100, plaques to top 3, 1st Under 900, Under 700, Under 500, Unrated. only win 50% of the prize fund unless playing in the Open Sect. where U2000, U1800: $50. USCF regular rating used for pairings & prizes. EF: Unrated may not win over $100 in U1100, $200 U1300, $300 U1500, they must pay full EF and are eligible for full prize fund. Plaque winners $30, MCC Mbrs $20. GMs Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-7:30-7:50-8:10- $400 U1700, or $500 U1900. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best determined by USCF-recommended computer tiebreaks. Byes: Avail. 8:40-9-9:20-9:40-10pm. Max three byes. Request at entry. www.marshall male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: $600- all Rds., must commit before Rd. 3. Reg. Wed. 8:30-9am. Rds: Wed. 10- chessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. 400-200. Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play in 5; Thur. 10-5, Fri. 9am. EF: $69 by 12/20; Unr. (in U1400) and Jrs. (in DEC. 31-JAN. 1, TEXAS different sections; must register at site (no extra fee) before both U1400): $49 by 12/20. All EFs for main event $10 more after 12/20. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) players begin round 2. Top 6 sections EF: $105 online at www.chess- Re-Entry Fee: $20, avail. up to Rd. 3 in U1800/U1400. 3 Re-entries or DCC NEW YEAR INSANITY action.com by 12/24, $115 phoned by 12/22 (406-896-2038, no questions), 2 Jr. entries count as one additional entry for prize fund. CAJUN 10 Rd. G/30 d5. 2-SS (Play white and black against each opponent), 3-day $113, 2-day $112 if check mailed by 12/17, all $120 at site, or BOUNTY: Defeat the top ranked player in the Open Sect. and win free Dallas Chess Club, 200 S. Cottonwood Dr, #C, Richardson, TX 75080. online until 2 hours before rd 1. GMs free; $100 deducted from prize. entry to our next tournament! FREE GIFT to oldest player and to player EF: $40. $25 Junior/Senior/Hcapp. Limited number of House players Under 1100 Section EF: All $40 less than top 6 sections EF. All: Re- who travels farthest to Main Event! Scholastic Event: PAN-AMERICAN welcome for $1 per game. Dallas Chess Club membership required or entry $50, not available in Open. Online EF $5 less to NYSCA members; SCHOLASTIC INDIVIDUAL CHESS CHAMPIONSHIPS, Tue., 12/27: pay $10 non member fee. $$GTD: $200-100. Class prizes (if any) depends $12 NYSCA dues may be paid with entry fee. No checks at site, credit Open to all K-12 individual players; 4SS, G/30 d5. Sects: OPEN, U900, on entries. Reg.: 12/31 at 5pm – 5:45 pm. Rds.: Round 1 at 6:05 pm cards OK. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise U500/Unr. Reg: 8-8:30am; Rd. 1 at 9am – other rds. will immed. follow. rest ASAP with hour breaks at around 12:30 am, 7:30 am and 12:30 unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. Prizes: Trophies to top 5 individuals in each section (no team awards). pm. 4 points of 1/2 point Byes allowed. Byes for round 9 and 10 must Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. All non-trophy winners receive a souvenir chess medal. USCF-recom- be requested before round 6. ENT: Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara Mailed, phoned or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. mended computer tiebreaks will decide trophy and medal placements Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036. INFO: Barbara Swaf- 3-Day Schedule: Reg. ends Tue 10 am. Rds. Tue 11 & 5, Wed 11 & 5, for winners of all schol. sections. EF for Schol. Tourn: $20 by 12/20; ford, 214-632-9000, [email protected]. www.dallaschess.com. Thu 10 & 3:15. 2-Day Schedule: Reg. ends Wed 9 am. Rds. Wed 10, $25 thereafter and at site. PAN-AMERICAN BLITZ CHAMPIONSHIP 12:15, 2:30 & 5, Thu 10 & 3:15. Half point byes available all rounds, (USCF-rated using Regular ratings for pairing): Tue. 12/27, 1pm, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! limit 2 byes, Open must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 4. HR: Open to All. 9SS, G/5 d0; sections determined by number of players. JAN. 6-8, TENNESSEE $139-149-159 plus required $15/night facility fee, reservations link at Reg. Tue. until 12:30pm. Prizes: 70% of EFs returned as cash prizes. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) chesstour.com/eco16.htm or call 1-800-223-8585 or 212-736-5000, Blitz EF: $25. Hotel Rate: $95-95-110-110 (sing-dbl-trip-quad - $95 2ND ANNUAL SMOKY MOUNTAIN CHESS TOURNAMENT reserve by 12/6 (earlier is better) or rate may increase, ask for chess room rate comes with comp. hot breakfast for up to 2 people; $110 DreamMore Resort, 2525 DreamMore Way, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. rate. Facility fee includes high speed wireless in room, unlimited local room rate comes with comp. hot breakfast for up to 4 people). Hilton $$GTD $5000. In 3 Sections, Open: 5SS, G/120 d5, $$GTD: $600-300- & long distance calling, and unlimited use of Ballys Total Fitness located New Orleans Airport, 504-469-5000, mention Cajun Chess tourn. and 200. Expert, A and Below - $350, 150, 100. Amateur: 5SS, G/90 d5, next door to the hotel. 3/10 mile walk from site is New Yorker Hotel, HR $338-355 as of July (may increase), www.newyorkerhotel.com. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at www.chess- action.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Wednesday 25th annual 12/28 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. A Heritage Event! US Chess Junior Grand Prix! EMPIRE CITY OPEN - 6 rounds DEC. 27-30, 28-30, 29-30 OR 27, MARYLAND TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED) December 27-29 or 28-29, Hotel Pennsylvania 43RD ANNUAL EASTERN OPEN 6 Sections: Open, U2200, & U1900 Sections (7-Rd SS in 4- or 3- days); U1600 & U1300 Sections (6-Rd SS in 2-days); Scholastic Section (4-Rd SS in 1-day). Over $13,000 prize fund! Over 40 32nd-33rd St & 7th Avenue, New York City prizes! Class prizes at 150-point interval within each section! Convenient Location: Doubletree Hotel, 8120 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda, MD (just 2 mi. S from I-495 and 4 blks N of Metro) Open: $15,000 GUARANTEED PRIZES $2,000-1,000-500; U2350: $500. FIDE Rated. Open section prizes guar- anteed. Other section prizes based on 40 paid entries for each section. Under 2200: $1,000-500-250; U2050: $500. Under 1900: $1,000-500- For full details see “Grand Prix” in this issue. 250; U1750: $500. Under 1600: $800-400-200; U1450: $400; UR max $250. Under 1300: $700-350-200; U1150: $300; U1000 $250; UR max: $100. Scholastic: Trophies, book prizes, and memberships. Special Prizes! Best Fighting Spirit/Best Played Game: $200-100. Brilliancy:

www.uschess.org 59 Tournament Life / November

Open to U1800. $$GTD: $300-150-100. C, D and Below - $300, 150, Under 1500: $800-400-300. Under 1250: $400-200-150. Unrated may TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) 100. Novice: 5SS, G/90 d5, Open to U1200. $$GTD: $250-100-50. F, G not win over $100 in U1250, $200 U1500 or $300 U1700. Top 5 sections 8TH ANNUAL GOLDEN STATE OPEN and Below - $150, 75, 50 Unrated - $100 (unrated eligible for unrated EF: $87 online at chessaction.com by 1/4, $95 phoned to 406-896-2038 7SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (3-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10, 2-day option prize only). ALL: Memb. Req’d: TCA $10.00, Tennessee residents by 1/2, 3-day $93, 2-day $92 if check mailed by 12/27, $100 at site, or except in Open Section, rds. 1-4 G/30 d10). Crowne Plaza Hotel, 45 only. ENT: online at tnchess.us or Harry D. Sabine, PO Box 381, online until 2 hours before round 1. GMs free; $80 from prize. Under John Glenn Dr., Concord, CA 94520 (free BART shuttle often available). Crossville, TN 38557. INFO: Harry Sabine (931) 484-9593 or (931) 261- 1250 Section EF: All $40 less than above. Mixed doubles bonus $25,000 prize fund unconditionally guaranteed. In 5 sections. Open, 8440, [email protected]. www.tnchess.us. Other Prizes - over prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all open to all. $3000-1500-800-500-300, clear or tiebreak winner $100, $2000 in door prizes furnished by DreamMore Resorts that include sections: $800-400-200. Team average must be under 2200; teammates top U2300/Unr $1000-500. FIDE. Under 2100: $1700-900-500-300-200, Dollywood Tickets, Dixie Stampede Tickets and DreamMore Gift may play in different sections; teams must register at site (no extra top U1900 $800-400 . Under 1800: $1700-900-500-300-200, top U1600 Certificates! W. fee) by 2 pm 1/7. All: Online EF $5 less to MACA members; may $600-300. Under 1500: $1400-800-400-300-200, top U1300 $400-200. $800-500-400-300-200, top U1000 $200-100. (0- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! join/renew at masschess.org. Re-entry $50, not available in Premier. Under 1200: Unrated No checks at site, credit cards OK. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually 3 lifetime games rated) may enter any section, with maximum prize JAN. 6-8 OR 7-8, FLORIDA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED) used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if U1200 $200, U1400 $350, U1600 $500, U1800 $700, U2000 $900. Mixed paid with entry. Online at chesstour.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined 3RD GULF COAST NEW YEAR’S OPEN Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, score among all sections: $1000-500-300. Team average must be under (Sponsored by ChessRegister.com) G/90+30 sec 5SS, Open section Scholastic $17. 3-Day Schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm. Rds. Fri 7, Sat 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must register incr., All sections but U1100 G/120 d5, U1100 section G/90 d5 (2- 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. Reg. ends Sat 10 am. Rds. at site (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2; teammate day Option all sections Rd. 1 G/60 d5). Holiday Inn Fort Myers Airport 2-Day Schedule: Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. Half point byes available all rounds, pairings avoided but possible. Top 4 sections EF: $133 online at ches- at Town Center, 9931 Interstate Commerce Dr., Fort Myers. $$10,000 limit 2 byes, Premier must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. saction.com by 1/13, $140 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 1/9 (entry only, b/180 paid entries, 55% min. Gtd. $1000/Trophy-700-500-400, Open: HR: $99-99, 617-568-1234, request chess rate, reserve by 12/23 or no questions), 4-day $139, 3-day $138, 2-day $137 mailed by 1/4, all U2300/Unr. $350. FIDE. U2100: $900/Trophy-600-500, U1950 $300- rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #657633. $150 at site, or online until 2 hours before round 1. GMs free; $120 250. $800/Trophy-500-400, U1650 $250-200. $800/ U1750: U1450: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, deducted from prize. U1200 Section EF: $50 less than top 4 sections Trophy-500-400, U1350/Unr. $250-200. Trophies for 1st to 3rd Ent: U1100: NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, entry fees. All: Special 1 yr USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with & 1st U900, 1st U700, Medals to all others. (among Top Senior Prize DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at www.ches- entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic all cash prize sections, must be at least 55 on Jan. 6) $200. Unr. may saction.com (online entries posted instantly). Sat. $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic enter Open, U1450 or U1100 only. Unr. only eligible for Unr. Prizes in Blitz tournament 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. $17. Re-entry (no Open to Open) $60. Online EF $5 less to CalChess Open & U1450. EF: $99 by Jan. 3, $10 more later and on-site, GMs & members. 4-day schedule: Late reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat IMs free ($99 deducted from prize). U1100 section $39 by Jan. 3, $10 A Heritage Event! 12 & 6, Sun 12 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:15. 3-day schedule: Late reg. ends Sat more later and onsite. Re-entry cash prize sections $49. Reg.: Ends US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 11 am, rds. Sat 12, 3 & 6, Sun 12 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:15. 2-day schedule: 1/2 hr before 1st rd. Rds.: 3-Day 1st Rd. Fri. 7:30; 2-Day 1st Rd. Sat JAN. 7-8, ILLINOIS Late reg. ends Sun 9 am, rds. Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:15. 10; 2nd Rd. Sat. 1:15; 3rd Rd. all sections but U1100 6:30, 3rd Rd. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 No 2-day Open Section. Byes: OK all, limit 2; Open must commit before U1100 5:45; 4th Rd. Sun. 9:30; 5th Rd. all sections but U1100 2:30, TIM JUST WINTER OPEN XXXIV rd. 2, others before rd. 4. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used 5th Rd. U1100 1:45. With incr. Open section start times could be delayed. An Illinois Chess Tour Event. 5SS. G/90 inc 30. Hyatt Regency Schaum- if otherwise unrated. Foreign player ratings: See chesstour.com/for- 2 1/2 pt. byes, if req’d before rd. 2. HR: $99, $109 with breakfast, burg, 1800 East Golf Rd., Schaumburg, IL 60173, (847) 605-1234. $89 if eignratings.htm. HR: $112-112-122, 877-286-8389, 925-825-7700, reserve reserve by 12/16 or rate may increase, includes free Internet, refrigerator reserved by 12/16 at https://resweb.passkey.com/go/timjustwinteropen. by 12/30 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use & microwave, free airport shuttle, free parking for all, 239-561-1550. $4,175 (b/125) in prizes. Two Sections plus Winter Scholastic on Jan AWD #D657633. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY Ent: Boca Raton Chess Club, 2385 Executive Ctr. Dr., Ste. 100, Boca 7. Open Section: open to all (FIDE rated!). Open Prizes: $700-300-200; 12577. Questions: chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. Raton, FL 33431. $10 service charge for refunds. Online entry & add’l U2200: $300-150; U2000: $300-125. Reserve Section: open to Under $15 service charge for refunds. Bring set, board, clock if possible; none info: www.bocachess.com, 561-479-0351. 1800. Reserve Prizes: $700-300-200; U1600: $225-150; U1400: $200- supplied. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 100; U1200: $150-75. Unrated qualify for top prizes only. EF: $72 on-line posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sun 10 pm, enter by 9:45 pm. JAN. 6-8 OR 7-8, MASSACHUSETTS by 1/6/2017. $90 after that or onsite. Add $10 if playing up from Reserve An American Classic! TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED) into Open section. Schedule: Sat. 9am, 2pm, 7pm; Sun. 10am, 3pm. Re- A Heritage Event! entry: $45 with 1/2pt Bye round 1. Byes OK all rounds must commit by 5TH ANNUAL BOSTON CHESS CONGRESS US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Hyatt Boston end of round 2. Register online at www.kingregistration.com/tournaments/ JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, PENNSYLVANIA Harbor, 101 Harborside Dr., Boston, MA 02128. Free parking, free event/winteropen. Winter scholastic on Jan 7. G/25 d0. Two sections: TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED) airport shuttle. based on 220 paid entries (U1250 & Under 1200 and Under 700. Trophies to top 10 in each section. Schedule: Prizes $12,000 12pm, 1, 2, 3, 4. $25 by 1/6/2017. $30 onsite. Register online at 49TH ANNUAL LIBERTY BELL OPEN re-entries count 60%), minimum $8000 (2/3 each prize) guaranteed. EF: 7SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (3 day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10, 2-day option www.kingregistration.com/tournaments/event/winterscholastic. In 6 sections. Premier: Open to 1900/over. $1200-600-400, clear or in U2100 to U1250, rds. 1-4 G/30 d10). Sonesta Hotel, 1800 Market tiebreak 1st $100 bonus, top U2300 $500-250. Under 2100: $1000- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! St., Philadelphia 19103. $$20,000 b/320 paid entries (re-entries, GMs 500-300. Under 1900: $1000-500-300. Under 1700: $900-500-300. JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN & U1250 section count 70%), else in proportion, except minimum 75%

60 November 2016 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

of each prize guaranteed. From 2006 to 2016, the tournament had over 400-200, U2300 $800-500. U2100, U1900, U1700 Sections, all $800- Lerman, 921 N. Thistle Ln., Maitland, FL 32751; or online: https://online 320 paid entries each year and the $20,000 projected prize fund was 500-300-200, U1500 Section: $300-200, BU1300 $300-150, BU1100 registration.cc/CFCC/CFCL17 by Jan 26. Info: Call 407-629-6946, increased to over $20,000 in proportion. In 6 sections. Open: $2000- $100, Book Prize for Best Unr in each section. Plus Best Game Prize: (after Jan 27 3pm 407-670-9304 for onsite cell) or www.central 1000-600-400-300, 1st clear or on tiebreak $100 bonus, top Under $50. Jan. official rating list will be used. Fines: $5 for cell phone violations flchess.org 2300/Unr $900-500. FIDE. Under 2100: $1200-600-400-300-200. Under and possible $25 for forfeits. Reg.: 3-day: 8:30 - 9:30 AM on Sat, 2- 1900: $1200-600-400-300-200. Under 1700: $1000-600-400-300-200. day: 8 - 9 AM on Sunday. Rds.: 3 day: 10 AM & 4 PM all 3 days. 2- day: US Chess Junior Grand Prix! FEB. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, TEXAS Under 1500: $1000-600-400-300-200. Under 1250: $800-400-300-200- 9:30 AM, 11:30, 1:30 PM & 4:00 PM (merged) on Sunday, then 10 AM & TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) 100. Unrated may enter any section, but may not win over $150 in 4 PM on Monday (Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday). EF: $90 if received U1250, $300 U1500, or $450 U1700. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: by 11/30/16 (Early Bird Special), or $100 between 12/01/16 and 8TH ANNUAL SOUTHWEST CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: 1/08/17; $120 after 1/08/17 and late registration at door is $140. No 9SS (Master Section), 7SS (other sections). DFW Airport Marriott South, $1000-600-400. Team average must be under 2200; teammates may credit cards at door, checks or cash only. Special rate of only $75 if 4151 Centreport Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76155. Free parking, free airport play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) before U1500 or unrated. GMs, WGMs, IMs and WIMs all play for free, but shuttle. 5-day schedule, Feb 16-20: Master Section only, GM & IM norms both players begin round 2. Top 5 sections EF: $108 online at chess- $100 deducted from any prize winnings. Re-entry from 3-day to 2-day: possible, 40/2, SD/30 d10. 4-day schedule, Feb 17-20: Expert through action.com by 1/11, $120 phoned by 1/9 (406-896-2038, entry only, no $75, for players rated U2300 only. This event will NOT be FIDE rated, Class E, 40/2, SD/30 d10. 3-day schedule: Expert through Class E, Feb questions), 4-day $114, 3-day $113, 2-day $112 if check mailed by 1/4, sorry. SCCF membership req’d ($18 Adult, $13 Jr, or $3 for Jr w/o mag) 18-20, rds 1-2 G/60 d10, then merges with 4-day. 2-day schedule: Class $130 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hours before for all So Cal residents. Two byes allowed, but must be requested at B through E only, Feb 19-20, rds. 1-4 G/30 d10, then merges with others. rd 1. GMs free, $100 deducted from prize. U1250 Section EF: All $30 least 1 hour before round and last round byes must be requested before $30,000 prize fund unconditionally guaranteed. FIDE ratings used in less than top 5 sections EF. All: Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually round 2 and are irrevocable. Ent: SDCC, PO Box 120162, San Diego, CA Master Section, USCF February official in others. In 7 sections; rated used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 yr USCF dues with magazine if 92112 or enter online at www.scchess.com. For more info call Chuck players may play up one section; foreign FIDE rated may enter Master paid with entry: Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Ensey at (858) 432-8006, or email me at [email protected] Hotel Section. Master (2200/up): $3000-1500-1000-600-400, clear or tiebreak Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult Rates: Special rate of only $135 if booked by 12/15/16. Rates may be winner $200, top FIDE U2300 $1400-700. FIDE. Expert (2000-2199): $25, Scholastic $17. Re-entry (no Open to Open) $70. 4-day schedule: cheaper if booked early, but rooms will sometimes sell out or rates $2000-1000-500-300-200. Class A (1800-1999/Unr): $2000-1000-500- Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 12 & 6, Sun 12 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:30. may go up. Phone: 858-277-8888, website is fourpoints.com/sandiego. 300-200. Class B (1600-1799/Unr): $2000-1000-500-300-200. Class C 3-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 12 & Parking is $8 a day. (1400-1599/Unr): $1700-900-500-300-200. Class D (1200-1399/Unr): 6, Mon 10 & 3:15. 2-day schedule (no Open Section): Reg. ends Sun. $800-400-300-200-100. Class E (Under 1200/Unr): $800-400-300-200- 9 am, rds. Sun 10-12-2-3:45-6, Mon 10-3:15. Bye: all, limit 3, Open must A Heritage Event! 100. Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) may enter A through E, with commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 4. HR: $103-103-103-103, 1-800- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! maximum prize E $150, D $300, C $450, B $600, A $750. Mixed doubles SONESTA, 215-561-7500, request Continental Chess rate, reserve by JAN. 20-22 OR 21-22, ARIZONA bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED) 1/2 or rate may increase. Parking: Chess rate at Sonesta approx. all sections: $1000-600-400. Team average must be under 2200; team- $20/day (half of normal rate). 1540 Spring St, 12 minutes walk, is about TUCSON OPEN AND SCHOLASTICS mates may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra $7/day Sat & Sun, $20 other days; 1815 JFK Blvd, 3 minutes walk, is Tucson Hilton East, 7600 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85710, 520-721- fee) before both players begin round 2; prize limits do not apply to about $10/day Sat & Sun. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use 5600. SECTIONS: Championship (FIDE rated), Reserve (U1800), & mixed doubles. Top 5 sections EF: $158 online at chessaction.com by AWD#D657633 or reserve through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.com Booster (U1400). Scholastic tournament held the same weekend (K- 2/15, $180 at site, or online until 2 hours before round 1. $170 phoned or Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 6/U1000) & (K-6/U600) visit sazchess.org for more info! SCHEDULE: to 406-896-2038 by 2/13 (entry only, no questions); no phone entry DirectorAtChess.US, www.chesstour.com, 347-201-2269. $15 service (3-day) 5/SS, 40/90 SD/30 + 30 inc. Reg.: 1/20 5:30-6:30 PM; Rds.: 7, after 2/13. 5-day $165, 4-day $164, 3-day $163, 2-day $162 mailed by charge for refunds. Advance entries will be posted at chessaction.com 10-5, 9:30-3:30. (2-day) 5/SS, Rds.: 1-2 G/60 + 30 inc. Rds: 3-5 40/90 2/7. GMs, foreign IMs, foreign WGMs in Master Section free; $150 (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sun. 10 pm, enter SD/30 + 30 inc. Reg.: 1/21 8:30-9:30 AM; Rds: 10-1:30-5, 9:30-3:30. deducted from prize. Minimum prize $300 to foreign GMs who play all 9 by 9:45 pm. (Booster 2-day only) 5/SS, G/90; d/5. Reg.: 1/21 8:30-9:30 AM; Rds: games with no byes; deduction cannot lower prize to below the minimum 10-1:30-5, 9:30-1. PRIZES: (Championship) $$Gtd: $700+Plaque-500- US IMs, foreign FIDE rated players in Master Section, EF $80 less. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 300; $$b/4 X, A, B/below $150 ea. $25 SACA gift certificate to Top Jr. Class D or E Section EF: All $80 less than top 5 sections EF. Re-entry JAN. 13-16 OR 14-16, MARYLAND U18, Sr. 50+; (Reserve) $$b/38: $250-150; $$b/4 C, D/below $100 ea. (no Master to Master) $60. All: Special 1 yr USCF dues with magazine TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 $25 SACA gift certificate to Top UNR, Jr. U14, Sr. 50+; (Booster) Trophy if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult 9TH ANNUAL CHESAPEAKE OPEN + $50 SACA gift certificate to 1st Place, Trophy to 2nd - 5th Place, Top $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young 7SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30” incr, (Rnd. 1 G/90 +30” incr) (3-day schedule: E, U1000/Unr. EF: GM, IM, FM, WGM, WIM, WFM FREE! USCF 2200 & Adult $25, Scholastic $17. 5-day schedule: Late reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds. 1-2 G/45+30”incr); U1300 & U1000 G/120 d5 (rds. 1&2 G/60 d5) above entry fee returned upon completion of schedule. (Championship) rds. Thu 7, Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4. 4-day (U1300 4-day schedule all rds G120 d5)(U1000 2-day schedule, rds. 1-4 $65, additional $20 if U1800; (Reserve) $45, additional $20 if U1400; schedule: Late reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & G/30 d/5). Rockville Hilton, 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852. (Booster) $30. LATE FEE: Additional $10 if entry received after 1/12, $20 6, Mon 10 & 4. 3-day schedule: Late reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, $$Based on score. 7 sections: Championship (min. rating of 2000) FIDE: after 1/19. ALL: 1/2 pt. byes all rounds but must be requested prior to 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4. 2-day schedule: Late reg. ends Sun 7.0 =$2200, 6.5 =$1600, 6.0=$1100, 5.5=$700, 5.0=$350, 4.5=$125, start of Round 2 (max 2). Re-entries $40. HR: $98 must reserve by 1/3, 9 am, rds. Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Mon 10 & 4. Byes: OK all, limit 2; 4.0=$50 [min $1500 payout, top score group raised if less than $1500]. breakfast for up to four included, use code “CHESS”. Info: Martha Open must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 4. Unofficial U2200 FIDE: 7.0 =$2100, 6.5 =$1400, 6.0=$1000, 5.5=$600, Underwood, 520-990-6765, email: [email protected] Ent: uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Foreign player 5.0=$300, 4.5=$100, 4.0=$30. U2000: 7.0 =$2000, 6.5 =$1300, Events4Chess.com; postal registration available if postmarked by 1/13 ratings (Expert & below): See chesstour.com/ foreignratings.htm. HR: 6.0=$800, 5.5=$500, 5.0=$275, 4.5=$100. U1800: 7.0= $2000, 6.5 (checks payable to SACA) to SACA, Attn: 2017 Tucson Open, PO Box $100-100, 817-358-1700, reserve by 2/3 or rate may increase. Car = $1200, 6.0= $750, 5.5= $450, 5.0=$225, 4.5=$100. U1600: 7.0= 40663, Tucson, AZ 85717. W. rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Ent: Continental Chess, $1800, 6.5= $1000, 6.0= $600, 5.5= $400, 5.0=$200, 4.5=$80. Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: chesstour.com, Direc- U1300: 7.0= $1200, 6.5= $700, 6.0= $350, 5.5= $225, 5.0=$120, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! torAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge for refunds. Bring 4.5=$50. U1000 (no adult UNR): 7.0=$500, 6.5=$350, 6.0=$175, JAN. 27-29 OR 28-29, FLORIDA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 set, board, clock if possible; none supplied. Advance entries posted 5.5=$100, 5.0=$55, 4.5=$30. Trophies to top 10 & top U800 in U1000. at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Additional prizes to clear 1st place, if no 7.0 in section (added to CENTRAL FLORIDA CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS Sun 10:30 pm, enter by 10:15 pm. score prize) - Championship: $400; U2200 $300, U2000 $250, U1800 & 5SS, G/120 d5 (2-day: Rd.1 G/60 d5). International Palms Resort, 6515 U1600: $200; U1300 $150, U1000 $50. Unrated may not win over $100 International Dr., Orlando, FL 32819. $$7,500 b/150, 70% Guaranteed. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! in U1000, $200 U1300, or $400 in U1600. Boards and pieces provided. 6 Sections: Mast/Exp: $1000-400-200,U2200 $350. Class A (1999- FEB. 24-26 OR 25-26, VIRGINIA Clocks provided in the Championship – U1800 sections. Optionally, 1800): $700-300, U1900 $150. Class B (1799-1600): $700-300, U1700 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED) pairings can be texted to your phone. Free Monday morning con- $150. Class C (1599-1400): $700-300, U1500 $150. Class D (1399- 2ND ANNUAL GEORGE WASHINGTON OPEN tinental breakfast for players. Free parking for day guests. EF: $109 1200): $700-300, U1300 $150. U1200: $500-300, U1000 $100, U800 5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Westin by 12/30, $119 by 1/10, and $124 online only by 1/12, $130 at the $50. Rated players may play up one class only. Unrateds limited to $100 Tysons Corner, 7801 Leesburg Pike (VA-7), Falls Church, VA 20171 (from door. Special EFs: $35 less for U1300, $60 less for U1000; GMs free, unless Place prize in Mast/Exp. Event part of CFCC GP with $600 the east, take, I-66W to VA-7, from other directions, take I-495 to VA- $50 deducted from prize; IMs $45 less, $20 deducted from prize. HR: additional prizes for year. Trophies to top in each section (& Class X), 7). Free parking, free shuttle to Tysons Corner Center and Metro. 25 $99, ($5 EF discount if staying at hotel). Rooms may not be avail after also Class F, G, H, I, J & Unr in U1200 having more than one entry. Tro- minutes drive from Washington, 50 minutes from Baltimore. $13,000 12/30. 4-day schedule (Champ-U1600): Reg. ends Fri 7pm, rds. Fri 8, phies to Rated Florida residents. EF: $80 by Jan 22, $90 later; plus $5 guaranteed prizes. In 5 sections. Open: Open to players who are/were Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 9:30 & 3:30. 3-day schedule (Champ- if paid on-site; $20 less to students in grades K-8 in U1200 section. 1800/over or pay $100 more. $1500-700-500-300, clear/tiebreak win U1600): Reg. ends Sat 10am rds. 11, 2:15 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 9:30 & CFCC memb discount: $10 ($5 for Jr/Sr memb). Re-entry $40. Reg.: $100 bonus, top Under 2300/Unr $600-300. Under 2100: $1000-500- 3:30. U1300 4-day schedule Reg. ends Fri 7 pm, rds. Fri 8, Sat 11 & ends 1/2 hr before 1st rd. Rd.1: 7pm Fri (2-day: 10am Sat at G/60 d5). 300-200, top U1900/Unr $500-250. Under 1800: $1000-500-300-200, 4:00, Sun 11 & 4, Mon 9:30 & 1:30 U1300 & U1000 3-day schedule Reg. Rds.: 2-5: Sat 1 & 6, Sun 9 & 2. 1/2-pt. byes if commited before rd. 2 top U1600 (no unr) $400-200. Under 1500: $800-400-200-100, top ends Sat 10am rds. 11, 1:15 & 4:00, Sun 11 & 4:00, Mon 9:30 & 1:30. (max 2). HR: $89 (No Resort Fee) (407) 351-3500; (Mention “Chess”); U1300 (no unr) $280-140. Under 1200: $300-200-100-50, top U1000 U1000 2-day schedule: reg ends Sun 10am rds Sun 11, 12:15, 1:30, or at http://tinyurl.com/Jan2017Hotel.(72-hr 1-day Cancellation fee.) (no unr) $120-60. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2- 2:45, 4:00, Mon 9:30 & 1:30 Ent: Michael Regan, 1827 Thornton Ridge Reserve by Jan 6. Free Parking & WiFi for all. Ent: CFCC, c/o Harvey player “team” combined score among all sections: $600-300. Team Rd., Towson, MD 21204. Detailed rules, more information and registration at http://thechesapeakeopen.com. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! JAN. 14-15, NEW HAMPSHIRE TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) 5th annual PORTSMOUTH OPEN Holiday Inn Portsmouth, 300 Woodbury Ave., Portsmouth, NH 03801. In 2 Sections, Open: 4SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30 Sec. Increment. Analog BOSTON CHESS CONGRESS clocks not allowed in this section. FIDE rated. $$GTD: $550-300. U2250 $125, U2000 $125. U1750: 4SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30 Sec. Increment, Analog clocks play 40/90, SD/60, Open to 1749 & under. $$GTD: $500- January 6-8 or 7-8, Hyatt Boston Harbor 250. U1500 $100, U1250 $100. ALL: EF: $60 in advance, $65 at site. Reg.: Registration 9:00-9:45. Advance entries must be postmarked by 1/7/2017. Rds.: 10-4, 10-4. Accelerated pairings may be used. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49 Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex $99 room rates, free parking, free airport shuttle Relyea [email protected]. www.relyeachess.com. HR: $89 until 15 December, (603) 431-8000, mention Relyea Chess. W. $12,000 projected prizes, $8,000 minimum guaranteed US Chess Junior Grand Prix! JAN. 14-16 OR 15-16, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) For full details see “Grand Prix” in this issue. 3RD ANNUAL DREAMING KING OPEN 6-SS, 5 Sections, G/100, +30 (2-day schedule rds. 1 - 3 are G/45 d5). Four Points by Sheraton at 8110 Aero Dr., San Diego, CA 92123. $$13,000 Guaranteed prize fund. Prizes: Open Section: $1,800-1,300-900-600-

www.uschess.org 61 Tournament Life / November

average rating must be under 2200; teammates may play in different Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. Re-entry $60 (not Open to Open). 3- DEC. 29, North American Open Blitz (BLZ) (NV) sections; teams must register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 2/25. Unrated day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & See Grand Prix. may enter any section, with prize limit U1800 $400, U1500 $200, U1200 3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 8th annual Golden State Open $100; balance goes to next player(s) in line. Top 4 sections EF: $98 at 3:15. All: Half point byes OK all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd. 2, (CA-N) chessaction.com by 2/22, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 (no questions) others before rd. 3. HR: $102-102, 1-800-996-3426, 724-695-0002; reserve See Grand Prix. by 2/20, 3-day $108, 2-day $107 if check mailed by 2/15, all $120 (no by 2/17 or rate may increase. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hours before round 1. Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: JAN. 20-22 OR 21-22, Tucson Open and Scholastics GMs free; $90 from prize. Under 1200 Section EF: all $50 less than www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. Entries posted See Grand Prix. top 4 sections EF. Re-entry $50, not available in Open. No checks at at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament FEB. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 8th annual Southwest site, credit cards OK. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if Saturday 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. Class Championships (TX) otherwise unrated. with magazine if paid Special 1 year USCF dues JUNE 14-15, NEVADA See Grand Prix. with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED) Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, JUNE 14-15, 2017 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) Scholastic $17. 3-Day Schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm. Rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 2017 U.S. WOMEN’S OPEN See Nationals. See Nationals. & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. 2-Day Schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am. Rds. Sat JUNE 16-18 OR 17-18, 2017 National Open (NV) 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. Half point byes available all rounds, limit 2 JUNE 16-18 OR 17-18, NEVADA See Nationals. byes, Open must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $99-99, TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED) 1-866-716-8108, reserve by 2/3 or rate may increase, chess block may 2017 NATIONAL OPEN sell out before 2/3. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box See Nationals. ARKANSAS 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, chesstour.info, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. DEC. 28-30, New Orleans Open (LA) See Grand Prix. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (Online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. Regional FEB. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 8th annual Southwest Class Championships (TX) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! See Grand Prix. MAR. 3-5 OR 4-5, PENNSYLVANIA ALABAMA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED) DEC. 28-30, New Orleans Open (LA) 18TH ANNUAL PITTSBURGH OPEN See Grand Prix. CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN 5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Wyndham Garden Pittsburgh Airport Hotel, One Industry Ln., Pittsburgh 15275. DEC. 28-30 OR 29-30, 46th Annual Atlanta Open (GA) NOV. 20, Bay Area Cupertino Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) Free parking, free airport shuttle, free internet in guest rooms and See Grand Prix. Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: Players w + score. skittles room. Hotel restaurant is expected to be open most of the time Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:15-5p. EF: 29, 44 after 11/14. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. this year; many other restaurants are 1 to 1.5 miles away (free shuttle). ARIZONA Prizes $10,000 based on 140 paid entries (U1200 & re-entries count NOV. 20, Bay Area Cupertino Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) half), $7000 (70% each prize) minimum guaranteed. In 5 sections. Open: NOV. 26, Last of the Bookseller Quads Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: players w + score. Open to players who are/were 1800/up or pay $100 extra. $1400-700- HUGE Book Sale!!! 3 Rd. RR, 40/60, 40/60 d0. No Sudden Death! Pan Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 34, 49 after 11/14. 350, top Under 2300/Unr $500. Under 2100: $1000-500-300, top Under Asian Community Center, 940 S. Craycroft, Tucson, AZ 85711. Open to Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. 1900/Unr $400. Under 1800: $1000-500-300, top Under 1600 (no unr) Must be 18 years old or older to play in this tournament. EF: $20. Prizes: $300. Under 1500: $800-400-200, top Under 1300 (no unr) $200. Under NOV. 20, Milpitas Luper$wiss (3SS, G/90 d5) $50 1st Place EACH Quad! Reg.: Registration 9 - 9:45 AM. Rds.: 10AM, 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. $1,300 b/50. 60% guar. 1200: $400-200-100. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female Prizes: 2PM, 5PM. Rds. earlier as available. INFO: Ed Yetman at Desertpar- 1900+: $200-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100, u1600 50- 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: $300-150. Team [email protected] or Morry Holland (520) 358-5841. average must be under 2200; may play in different sections; must register 50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Nov 16 Supp & TD disc. Sched: Reg. (no extra fee) by 2 pm 3/4. prize limits: $100 in U1200, $200 DEC. 17, Last of the Bookseller Quads #2 9-9:15. Rds. 9:30-1-4:30. EF: 48, Econ 33 w 1/2 prz. after 11/12 +15, Unrated HUGE Book Sale!!! 3 Rd. RR, 40/60, 40/60 d0. No Sudden Death! Pan U1500, $400 U1800. $95 online at chessaction.com playup +25, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 11/9. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/ Top 4 sections EF: Asian Community Center, 940 S. Craycroft, Tucson, AZ 85711. Must be by 3/1, $100 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 2/27, 3-day $103, 2-day $102 grandprix. 18 years old or older to play. $20. $50. 9 - 9:45 AM. mailed by 2/22, all $110 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online EF: $$GTD: Reg.: NOV. 25, California Kids Class Championship (PK-12) Rds.: 10AM then as available. INFO: Ed Yetman at Desertparadise@hot- 5SS, G/30 d5. San Jose Convention Center, 150 W. San Carlos St., San until 2 hours before rd 1. GMs, IMs & WGMs free; $90 from prize. U1200 mail.com or Morry Holland (520) 358-5841. Section EF: all $50 less than top 4 sections EF. Unofficial uschess.org Jose, CA 95113. Prizes: Top 10 players in each section & Top 10 teams ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 26th annual North American & Top 10 clubs all sections combined. 4 Sections b/rating: 900-1199, with magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Open (NV) 600-899, 300-599, under300. Sched: Reg. 9-9:30. Games 10 11:30 1 Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or at site, Adult $40, See Grand Prix. 2:20 3:45. EF: 44 by 11/19, Onsite +15, Playup +10. Nov 16 Supp &

8th annual GOLDEN STATE OPEN Jan 13-16, 14-16 or 15-16, Martin Luther King weekend, Concord, CA 7 ROUNDS, $25,000 GUARANTEED PRIZES!

7 rounds, 40/100, SD/30, d10 (3- Unrated prize limits: U1200 4-day reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri day option, rds 1-2 G/60, d10; 2-day $200, U1500 $350, U1800 $500. 7 pm, Sat 12 noon & 6 pm, Sun 12 option except Open Section, rds 1-4 noon & 6 pm, Mon 10 am & 3:15 pm. G/30, d10). Blitz tmt. 1/15 10 pm. Top 4 sections entry fee: $133 3-day reg ends Sat 11 am, rds Sat Crowne Plaza, 45 John Glenn online at chessaction.com by 1/11, 12 noon, 3 pm & 6 pm, Sun 12 noon Dr, Concord CA 94520 (I-680 to $140 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 1/9 & 6 pm, Mon 10 am & 3:15 pm. Exit 52). Free parking. Free BART (entry only, no questions), 4-day 2-day reg ends Sun 9 am, rds Sun shuttle often available. $139, 3-day $138, 2-day $137 if 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:15. mailed by 1/4, all $150 at site, or Byes: OK all, limit 2, Open must In 7 sections. online until 2 hrs before rd 1. commit before rd 2, other before rd 4. Open: $3000-1500-800-500- Under 1200 Section entry fee: 300, clear/tiebreak win $100, top $50 less than top 4 sections entry fee. January official USCF ratings U2300/Unr $1000-500. FIDE rated, All: Online entry $5 less to used; unofficial uschess.org ratings 150 GPP. No 2-day Open. CalChess members. No checks at usually used if otherwise unrated. Under 2100: $1700-900-500- site; credit cards OK. Re-entry $60 Bring set, board, clock if 300-200, top U1900 $800-400. (no Open). possible- none supplied. Under 1800: $1700-900-500- Special 1 year USCF dues with Hotel rates: $112-112-122, 877- 300-200, top U1600 $600-300. paper magazine if paid with entry: 286-8389, 925-825-7700, reserve by Under 1500: $1400-800-400- online at chessaction.com, Adult Jan 1 or rate may increase. 300-200, top U1300 $400-200. $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic Entry: chessaction.com or Under 1200: $800-500-400- $15. Mailed, phoned or at site, Adult Continental Chess, Box 249, 300-200, top U1000 $200-100. $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic Salisbury Mills NY 12577. Entry list: Mixed doubles: $1000-500-300. $17. US Chess membership chessaction.com (online entries post See TLA or chesstour.com. required. instantly). $15 charge for refunds.

62 November 2016 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

FEB. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 8th annual Southwest TD disc to place players. Ent: Online or mail. Rfnd fee 20. T:408.409.6596. Club.com; Contact email: [email protected]; Saturdays: Class Championships (TX) Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/tgs. E: [email protected], W. 10am-10 pm (Beg & Interm. classes + 3 Tournaments). Sundays: See Grand Prix. NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, Class Warfare Championship 11 am -7 pm (Junior class + 2 Tournaments) – Details on our JUNE 14-15, 2017 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Grand Prix. web site. Tuesdays: 7:30-9:30 pm (Advance Lecture). 11514 See Nationals. Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025. (4 blocks W of NOV. 27, Bay Area San Ramon Quads (PK-12; xG/30 d5) JUNE 16-18 OR 17-18, 2017 National Open (NV) 405, SW corner of Santa Monica & Butler * 2nd Floor – above See Nationals. Courtyard Marriott, 18090 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon, CA Javan Restaurant) Group Classes * Tournaments * Private (1:1) 94583. Trophies: Players w + score. Sched: Reqrd Check-in 1:30-2p. Lessons. Note: We added a new club in the valley! Games: 2:15-5p. EF: 29, 44 after 11/22. Info: http://BayArea Chess.com/signature. W. Alec’s Chess Club CONNECTICUT www.alecschessclub.com 818-220-0257 Tournaments for KIDS on NOV. 27, Bay Area San Ramon Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) NOV. 12, 2016 Greater New Haven Open! Saturdays or Sundays 12-4pm weekly. Includes free class! YOUR See Grand Prix. Courtyard Marriott, 18090 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon, CA FIRST TOURNAMENT IS FREE! (Applies to KIDS Tournaments only) 94583. Trophies: players w + score. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: Tournaments for ADULTS on Saturdays 5-9pm (4 Rounds, G/30 d5). NOV. 19, 2016 Eastern Connecticut Open 10a - 1:30p. EF: 34, 42 after 11/22. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/sig- ADULTS: please connect with us on www.meetup.com/alecschess 3-SS. G/60 d10. Cash Prizes: 1st-$240, 2nd-$120, Top U2000-$120 b/12 nature. W. club/. Private Classes available by appointment. Located at 4418 entries, more per entries. Rob Roy Chess Center, 3111 South St., Coventry, A State Championship Event! Simpson Ave., #5, Valley Village, CA 91607. Please contact Alec with CT 06238. EF: $60 cash only. Reg: 9:30-10:30 am at site only. No adv. DEC. 3-4, CalChess State Grade Level Championship any questions at [email protected] or on our website at entry. Rd. 1 - 11 am. Rds. 2-3 asap. Adults Only, No Spectators. Free food Alameda Fairground, 4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton, CA 94566. Park www.alecschessclub.com and drinks. Free Lecture 10 am. Rapid-Chess 5 pm. http://Connecti- cutChess.blogspot.com. (860) 742-5562, [email protected] free. Trophies: Top 15 players w + score (Top 3 in Gr 9-12) & Top 5 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! teams and Top 5 clubs in ea section K-8 (Top 3 in Gr 9-12). Medals to NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, 47th annual National Chess Congress (PA) NOV. 5&6, 12&13, 26&27, LACC - Saturday & Sunday G/61 others. 13 sect based on grade (K-12). Sa 8-8:30a or Su 8-8:30a. See Grand Prix. Reg.: 3 separate events- 6SS, G/61 d5.11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90025, 1-day event: Sunday 5SS, G/30 d5, Sun 9a, 10:30a, 12:30p, 2p, K-3: 2nd fl. EF: $30/$55 ($20/$35 LACC memb; No prizes 1/2; second child DEC. 27-29 OR 28-29, 35th annual Empire City Open (NY) 3:30p. 2-day events: 6SS, G/60 d5 Sa/Su 9a, 12p, 3p. Grade 4-12: Blitz: 1/2). Reg.: 11-12 noon. Register at LAChessClub.com and receive a free See Grand Prix. 8xG/5 d0 Sa 6-8p, 3 sects (K-3, 4-6, 7-12). EF: by 11/25 K-3 $44, 4-12 gift. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day. Prizes: 1/2 collections. Parking: Free at JAN. 6-8 OR 7-8, 5th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA) $57, 11/26-12/1 +$20, 12/2 & onsite +$40. Blitz $14. USCF & CalChess BoA, streets & basement. Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com. Mem reqd. Dec 16 Supp. Info: www.bayareachess.com/grades. W. See Grand Prix. NOV. 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27 DEC. 4, Milpitas Luper$wiss (3SS, G/90 d5) , LACC - Every Saturday & JAN. 7, 2017 Nathan Hale Winter Open Sunday Chess 4 JRS 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Prizes: $1,300 b/50. 60% guar. 3-SS. G/60 d10. Cash Prizes: 1st-$240, 2nd-$120, Top U2000-$120 b/12 1900+: $200-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100, u1600 50- 8 separate events- 5SS, G/30 d0. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd. & Butler, entries, more per entries. Rob Roy Chess Center, 3111 South St., Coventry, LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blocks West of 405. $30 ($20 LACC memb, No 50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Dec 16 Supp & TD disc. Sched: Reg. EF: CT 06238. Enter at site 9:30-10:30 am $50 cash only. Rd. 1 - 11 am. Rds.: 9-9:15. Rds. 9:30-1-4:30. 48, Econ 33 w 1/2 prz. after 11/27 +15, prize 1/2, siblings 1/2, Free new LACC members). Reg.: 12-1 pm. Rds.: 2-3 asap. http://ConnecticutChess.blogspot.com. Adults Only. No Spec- EF: 1pm & asap; done by 4; Trophies & medals; All players receive playup +25, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 11/22. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/ Prizes: tators. Free drinks and snacks. Free Lecture 10 am. Rapid-Chess 5 pm. grandprix. prizes! Parking: Free on streets & BoA. Free healthy refreshments. Info: Snow date: Sunday Jan 8. (860) 742-5562, [email protected]. (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com or [email protected]. DEC. 10, Foster City LuperSwiss90 (3SS, G/90 d5) JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 49th annual Liberty Bell Open (PA) Foster City Courtyard Marriott, 550 Shell Blvd., 94404. Prizes: $1,300 NOV. 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27, LACC - Sat & Sun Nite See Grand Prix. Blitzathon (BLZ) b/50. 60% guar. 1900+: $200-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899: MAR. 11-12, 50th annual New York State Scholastic $200-100, u1600 50-50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Dec 16 Supp 8 separate events- 7DSS, G/5 d0 (Blitz,14 Games). 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blks W of 405. EF: $20 ($15 LACC memb). No Championships (out of state welcome) (NY) & TD disc. Reg.: 9-9:15. Rds. 9:30-1-4:30. EF: 48, Econ 33 w 1/2 prz. See New York. after 12/2 +15, playup +25, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 11/28. Info: prizes 1/2. Reg.: 6-6:30 pm. Rds.: 6:30, 6:55, 7:20, 7:45, 8:10, 8:35, 9 http://BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W. pm. Prizes: 1/2 collections. Parking: Free on streets & BoA. Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com DEC. 10, Sacramento Chess4Less Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) DELAWARE Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Trophies: players w NOV. 19-20, 2016 Euwe Memorial See Grand Prix. NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, 47th annual National Chess Congress (PA) + score. Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 24, 39 See Grand Prix. after 12/5. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. NOV. 24-27 OR 25-27, 52nd Annual American Open DEC. 10, Sacramento LuperSwiss (3SS, G/90 d5) See Grand Prix. JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 49th annual Liberty Bell Open (PA) See Grand Prix. Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Prize: $600 b/36. DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 26th annual North American 1700+: $150-100, u1900 50. u1700: $150-100, u1600 50. Dec16 Supp Open (NV) FEB. 24-26 OR 25-26, 2nd annual George Washington Open (VA) & TD disc. Reg.: 9-9:15. Rds. 9:30-12:50-4:15 EF: 45, Econ 29 1/2 prz., See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. after 12/2 +15, playup +15, Rated 2200+ $0 by 11/28. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W. DEC. 29, North American Open Blitz (BLZ) (NV) See Grand Prix. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA DEC. 10, Weibel Fall Scholastic Chess Quads #3 Weibel Elementary School, 45135 S. Grimmer Blvd., Fremont, CA. Info JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 8th annual Golden State Open FEB. 24-26 OR 25-26, 2nd annual George Washington Open (VA) & Entry at www.calnorthyouthchess.org/Applications/FallQuads16-GP/ (CA-N) See Grand Prix. 2 Sections: U900 (G/30 d0) & 900 + (G/45 d5). Open to all scholastic See Grand Prix. players who are USCF members. Trophies to winners of each Quad. JAN. 14-16 OR 15-16, 3rd Annual Dreaming King Open Chess medals to all who do not win a trophy. Organizer: Alan M. See Grand Prix. FLORIDA Kirshner, Ph.D., [email protected], (510) 659-0358. JUNE 14-15, 2017 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) Boca Raton Chess Club DEC. 11, Bay Area Fremont Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) See Nationals. Friday night tournament games, one game a week for 4 weeks. Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Trophies: Players w + score. www.bocachess.com, 561-479-0351. Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. 2:15-5p. 29, 44 after 12/6. JUNE 16-18 OR 17-18, 2017 National Open (NV) Sched: Games: EF: See Nationals. DEC. 28-30, New Orleans Open (LA) Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. See Grand Prix. DEC. 11, Bay Area Fremont Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) DEC. 28-30 OR 29-30, 46th Annual Atlanta Open (GA) Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Trophies: players w + score. COLORADO See Grand Prix. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 34, 49 after 12/6. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! JAN. 6-8 OR 7-8, 3rd Gulf Coast New Year’s Open NOV. 12 & 13, 19 & 20, Tom Nelson’s First Colorado FIDE See Grand Prix. DEC. 11, Fremont DuperSwiss75 (3SS, G/75 d5) Round Robin Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Prizes: $1,300 b/50. 60% guar. USCF membership required. FIDE rated. Time Control: G/90; inc/30 (30 JAN. 27-29 OR 28-29, Central Florida Class Championships 1900+: $200-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100, u1600 50- minute tolerance). Round Times: Nov 12, 2016 Round 1: 10 a.m. Round See Grand Prix. 50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Dec 16 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 8:30-8:45. 2: 3 p.m. Nov 13, 2016 Round 3: 10 a.m. Round 4: 3 p.m. Nov 19, 2016 FEB. 17-19 OR 18-19, 2017 U.S. Amateur Team Championship Rds. 9-11:45-2:40. EF: 49, Econ 33 w 1/2 prz. after 12/4 +15, playup Round 5: 10 a.m. Round 6: 3 p.m. Nov 20, 2016 Round 7: 10 a.m.; Number - South +15, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 12/1. Info: BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W. of Players: 8 (must be over 1600 USCF rating) (4 must be FIDE rated). See Nationals. DEC. 11, San Jose Kids Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) Number of Rounds: 7. No norms available. Chief Arbiter and USCF TD: 2050 Concord Drive #42, San Jose, CA 95131. Trophies: players w + Tom Nelson. Organizer: Brian Wall. Location: Stoney Brook Clubhouse, score. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 34, 49 after 4601 Yosemite St., Denver ,CO 80237. Entry Fee: $150. Prize Fund: 1st GEORGIA Place: $350, 2nd Place: $250, 3rd Place: $200, 4th Place: $150, 5th Place: 12/7. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. $50. To Enter: Please contact Brian Wall: [email protected]. Georgia Chess - Every Friday Knight Face-Off DEC. 16-18 OR 17-18, Bay Area Chess Fall Championship 3SS, G/30 d5. Georgia Chess Club - Hampton Inn & Suites, 16785 Old See Grand Prix. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Morris Rd., Alpharetta, GA 30004. Registration: Online $15.00 GCC Mem- NOV. 12 & 13, 19 & 20,Tom Nelson’s Second Colorado FIDE bers; $20.00 Non-Members. www.GeorgiaChess.Club. Onsite 6:00PM DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 26th annual North American Round Robin to 6:45PM $5.00 more. Sections: Open/Reserve (may change at TD’s Open (NV) USCF membership required. FIDE rated. Time Control: G/90; inc/30 discretion). Rds.: 7:00, 2nd and 3rd round will start immediately after, See Grand Prix. (30 minute tolerance). Round Times: Nov 12, 2016 Round 1: 10 a.m. (1/2 point byes available). DEC. 29, North American Open Blitz (BLZ) (NV) Round 2: 3 p.m. Nov 13, 2016 Round 3: 10 a.m. Round 4: 3 p.m. Nov 19, See Grand Prix. 2016 Round 5: 10 a.m. Round 6: 3 p.m. Nov 20, 2016 Round 7: 10 a.m.; US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Number of Players: 8 (must be over 1600 USCF rating) (4 must be FIDE NOV. 18-20 OR 19-20, 2016 Georgia Class Championships JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 8th annual Golden State Open rated). Number of Rounds: 7. No norms available. Chief Arbiter and 5-SS, G/90 +30. Emory University, Cox Hall Ballroom, 569 Asbury See Grand Prix. USCF TD: Tom Nelson. Organizer: Brian Wall. Location: Stoney Brook Cir., Atlanta, GA 30322. Park free, allow 15 min to park and walk. Open JUNE 14-15, 2017 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) Clubhouse, 4601 Yosemite St., Denver ,CO 80237. Entry Fee: $150. to all USCF members. GA residents require GCA memberships. Prizes: See Nationals. Prize Fund: 1st Place: $350, 2nd Place: $250, 3rd Place: $200, 4th $4,000 based on 90 entries, 65% of paid registration fees Premier- Place: $150, 5th Place: $50. To Enter: Please contact Brian Wall: bri- Class E. All players must compete within their ratings class per the JUNE 16-18 OR 17-18, 2017 National Open (NV) [email protected]. November ratings supplements - No Exceptions. In 7 sections: Premier See Nationals. DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 26th annual North American (2000 and above (USCF)): $500-300-200. Class A (1800-1999): Open (NV) $300-200-100. Class B (1600-1799): $300-200-100. Class C (1400- CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN See Grand Prix. 1599): $300-200-100. Class D (1200-1399): $300-200-100. Class E (1000-1199): $300-200-100. U1000/Unrated: Trophies for 1st THE LOS ANGELES CHESS CLUB JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 8th annual Golden State Open 2nd, 3rd place. Trophy to top Georgia resident each section. EF: The Most Active Club on the West Coast! (310) 795-5710. * (CA-N) $69 online, $ 75 on-site. Free entry to IM/GM/WIM/WGM. Entry for LACC: www.LAChessClub.com; VCC: www.ValleyChess- See Grand Prix. U1000/Unrated section $30 on-line; $35 on-site. Online registration

www.uschess.org 63 Tournament Life / November

deadline Nov. 16 (Wed). Registration cap is 120. On-site registration: JAN. 7-8, Tim Just Winter Open XXXIV tration at www.MDChess.org. Maryland scholastic players who Nov 18 (Fri) 6-6:30pm for 3-day, Nov 19 (Sat) 9:00-9:30 am for 2-day. See Grand Prix. compete in the Varsity section (which has a floor of 1600) of a Rounds: 3 day schedule: Fri-7pm, Sat-2:30pm, 7pm, Sun-10am, 3pm. 2 FEB. 4, Greater Chicago K-12 Championships! Presented by Maryland-Sweet-16 Qualifier can qualify for the $44,000 schol- day schedule: Sat-10am, 2:30pm, 7pm, Sun-10am, 3pm. Byes: One 1/2 arship to UMBC (University of Maryland, Baltimore County) point bye available in rounds 1-4. Zero point bye available in round 5. Kasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights - Sponsored by SBB Global Research Group awarded each year. Must declare 1/2 pt byes when entering and no changes permitted after commencement of Round 1. “Zero point” bye available any round. Chicago’s Official Scholastic Championship - Open to all grades 12 & NOV. 12, Maryland November Action below. McCormick Place - West Building, 2301 S. Dr. Martin Luther King See Grand Prix. www.georgiachess.org, [email protected], Info: Jr. Dr., Chicago, IL. DETAILS: 5-SS, G/30 (G/25 d5). Rounds: 10:00, DEC. 26, Georgia Chess Festival Scholastic 12:00, 1:30, 3:00 & 4:30. Awards Ceremony: 6:00 pm. Entry Fee: $40 NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, 47th annual National Chess Congress (PA) 4-SS, G/30 d5. Interactive College of Technology, 5227 New Peachtree by 1/16; $50 by 1/30; $60 after 1/30. On-site entry receives 1/2 point See Grand Prix. Rd., Chamblee, GA 30341. In 3 sections: Middle School: K-8; Elementary: 1st round bye. $5 off to siblings & team members when registering DEC. 10, Maryland December Action K-6; and Primary: K-3. Entry Fee: $28 by 12/25; $32 at site. Trophies together. Byes: One 1/2-pt bye available, any round except last, if See Grand Prix. to top 7, top unrated, top girl each section. Medals to every participant requested before Rd. 1. Online Entries/info: www.rknights.org/tourna- who didn’t get a trophy. Registration: ends 10:30 a.m. sharp!! Rounds: ments. open to all. DEC. 27-30, 28-30, 29-30 OR 27, 43rd Annual Eastern Open SECTIONS/AWARDS: PRIMARY (K-3): Varsity: See Grand Prix. 1st at 11 a.m.- 12:30, then as soon as possible. Should be over by 6 Trophies: top 5 players, top rated Under 800, top 2 schools. Junior p.m. Special: Master or Expert will be on hand for FREE analysis. Info: Varsity: open to Under 600. Trophies: top 15 players, top Unrated & top JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 49th annual Liberty Bell Open (PA) [email protected] or (478)-973-9389. Enter: amer- kindergartner, top 4 schools. ELEMENTARY (K-6): Varsity: open to all. See Grand Prix. icanchesspromotions.com. Trophies: top 5 players, top rated Under 1000, top 2 schools. Junior JAN. 13-16 OR 14-16, 9th Annual Chesapeake Open US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Varsity: open to Under 800. Trophies: top 15 players, top Unrated, top 4 schools. JUNIOR HIGH (K-9): Varsity: open to all. Trophies: top 4 See Grand Prix. DEC. 27, 14th Annual Time Control Open players, top rated Under 1200, top school. Junior Varsity: open to Under 4-SS, Rd. 1 G/30 d5; Rd. 2 G/45 d5; Rd. 3 G/60 d5. and Rd. 4 G/75 d5. FEB. 24-26 OR 25-26, 2nd annual George Washington Open (VA) 1000. Trophies: top 8 players, top Unrated, top 2 schools. HIGH SCHOOL See Grand Prix. Interactive College of Technology, 5227 New Peachtree Rd., Chamblee, (K-12): Varsity: open to all. Trophies: top 4 players, top rated Under GA 30341. In 2 sections: Championship: Entry Fee: $30 if received by 1400, top school. open to Under 1200. Trophies: top 8 MAR. 3-5 OR 4-5, 18th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA) Junior Varsity: See Grand Prix. 12/26; $35 at site. $1,000, b/45, 60% Guaranteed, more per entries. players, top Unrated, top 2 schools. Any player who scores 4 or more $250-150, u2000, u1800, u1600, u1400 each $150. Under 1200: (not points and doesn’t win a trophy will receive a medal! The City of Chicago part of base). Entry Fees: $25 if received by 12/26; $30 at site. Trophies will recognize the top individual & team from Chicago in each MASSACHUSETTS to top 7, top 2 under 1000, top 2 under 800, top unrated, top girl. Reg- Varsity Section as the City Champion. istration: ends 10 a.m. Rounds: 10:45-12:15-2:15-4:45. Byes: Limited NOV. 12, 2016 Greater New Haven Open! (CT) 1, must tell before 1st round. Info: [email protected] See Grand Prix. or (478)-973-9389. Enter: americanchesspromotions.com. No cellphones INDIANA in playing area. NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, 47th annual National Chess Congress (PA) NOV. 11-13 OR 12-13, 25th annual Kings Island Open (OH) See Grand Prix. DEC. 28-30, New Orleans Open (LA) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, 2016 Motor City Open (MI) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! DEC. 28-30 OR 29-30, 46th Annual Atlanta Open See Grand Prix. NOV. 30, DEC. 7, 14, 21, 28, George Sturgis Memorial See Grand Prix. 5SS, G/100 d5. Wachusett CC, McKay Complex, Room C192, Fitchburg DEC. 17-21, Universal 5-Day 9-Round 10-Person Round Robin (MI) State University, 67 Rindge Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420. EF: $1 per game JAN. 6-8 OR 7-8, 3rd Gulf Coast New Year’s Open (FL) See Michigan. played; free to club members. Reg.: 6:30-7:00 p.m. Rds.: 7:15 p.m. See Grand Prix. each Wed. Byes: 1-4, limit two. Prizes: books to 1st, 2nd, top U1800, U1650, U1500, U1350. Info: George Mirijanian, 176 Oak Hill Rd., Fitch- IOWA burg, MA 01420, [email protected], 978-345-5011. Website: IDAHO NOV. 12-13, 2016 Des Moines Fall Classic (Note Venue Change) www.wachusettchess.org. WEB: 11/30. Free parking. W. NOV. 12, Southern Idaho Open See Grand Prix. DEC. 3, 7th St. Nick Quick (QC) 4SS, Time Control: G/60 d5. Northwest Chess Grand Prix. 2 Sections: 4SS, G/60 d5. Florence Civic Center, 90 Park St., Florence, MA 01062. Open and Reserve (U1400) (Sections may be combined based on entries). EF: $30, $25 if postmarked by 11/28/2016, $2 WMCA discount, Unr: Site: Shilo Inn, 1586 Blue Lakes Blvd. N., Twin Falls, ID 83301. US Chess KANSAS FREE. $$500 b/30 paying entries. Top Open $100; Top A: $100; Top mem req. ICA Mem req. OSA. EF: by 11/6 $30 (U18 & 60+ $25), Special FEB. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 8th annual Southwest B: $90; Top C: $80; Under 1400: $70; Top Unrated: $60. Reg.: 8:30- family rate $60. $5 more for all if after 11/6. Register & check in: 8- Class Championships (TX) 9:15am Saturday 12/3/2016. Rds.: 9:30am, 11:45, 2:45pm, 5:00. ENT: 8:30am 11/12. Rd. times: 9am, 11am, 3pm, 5pm. 1/2 pt bye avail: Max See Grand Prix. WMCA, c/o Ed Kostreba, 45 Fairview Palmer, MA 01069. INFO: Ron 1, Rds. 1-3 only. 1st Rd. byes must notify TD before rd. is paired; all others, Gist (413) 695-7689, [email protected]. W. before Rd. 2 is paired. $$ (based on 30) Open: $150-125-100-75. Reserve DEC. 4, Harry Nelson Pillsbury Memorial (U1400): $100-75-50. ENT/INFO: ICA, Contact: Barry Eacker, 963 Delmar KENTUCKY See Grand Prix. Dr., Twin Falls, ID 83301. 208-733-6186 or E-mail: [email protected], Online NOV. 11-13 OR 12-13 registration at www.idahochessassociation.org, W. , 25th annual Kings Island Open (OH) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! See Grand Prix. DEC. 10, WN U2400 Class Clash US Chess Junior Grand Prix! NOV. 19-20, 12th SPF World Open for Girls and Boys In Memory Open to U2400. Town Hall Annex, 381 Main St., West Newbury, MA DEC. 10-11, Western Idaho Open of Steve Dillard 01985. In 2 Sections, U2400: 4SS, G/65 d5, Open to 2399 & under. 5SS. Game/120 d5. Northwest Chess Grand Prix. Open and 2 Sections: $100,000+ in prizes (lots of trophies, chess prizes & scholarships) All $$GTD: $250-125. U2100 $60. U1900: 4SS, G/65 d5, Open to 1899 & Reserve (U1400). La Quinta Inn & Suites, 7965 W. Emerald St., Site: details on www.SPFWO.com 5SS, G/60 d5. The Brown Hotel, Louisville, under. $$GTD: $120-90-75-60. U1600 $60. ALL: EF: $35 by 3 Dec. $39 Boise, ID 83704. US Chess mem req. ICA mem req. OSA. by 12/5 $30 EF: 335 West Broadway, Louisville, KY 40202. HOTEL: Special Room Rate at site. No refreshments available onsite Bring your own snacks/drinks (U18 & 60+ $25), Special family rate $60. $5 more for all if after 12/5. $129. 335 W. Broadway, Louisville, KY. Call (502) 583-1234 for reserva- Maps for dining provided. Reg.: 9:00-9:45. Advance entries must be 8-8:45am 12/10. 9:00, 1:30, 6:00, Register & check in: Rd. Times: tions. EF: 49, $89 onsite Discounts availible for Side Event Participation postmarked by 12/3/2016. Rds.: 10-1:00-3:30-6:00. ENT: Alex Relyea, 9:00, 1:30. 1/2 pt bye available in any round (max 1). Those not checked (See www.SPFWO.com). Prizes: Top Boy and Top Girl will receive a 49 Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex Relyea relyea@ in by 8:45 a.m. may not be paired in first round. Players arriving before Scholarship to Webster University! Rds.: Sat 9:30am, 12:30am, 3:30pm operamail.com. www.relyeachess.com. 1:15 p.m. on 12/10 may take a retroactive first round 1/2 pt bye regardless and Sun 9:30am, 12:30am. ENT: Chess Performance, 179 Sears Ave., DEC. 17-18, Back Bay Open of whether notice was given or not. (based on 30). $200, $100, $$ Open Suite 079, Louisville, KY 40207, 502-240-9325. www.SPFWO.com. INFO: See Grand Prix. $75. Reserve $100, $75, $50. Register online at www.idahochessassoci- Organizer - Ryan Velez 502-240-9325, [email protected]. ation.org. INFO: Chief TD Jeffrey Roland at [email protected]. WC. JAN. 6-8 OR 7-8, 5th annual Boston Chess Congress www.SPFWO.com. See Grand Prix. JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 8th annual Golden State Open DEC. 28-30 OR 29-30, 46th Annual Atlanta Open (GA) (CA-N) See Grand Prix. A Heritage Event! See Grand Prix. JAN. 28, 26th Mid-Winter Classic 3SS, G/90 d5. Florence Congregational Church, 130 Pine St., Florence, LOUISIANA MA 01063. EF: $30 on-site; $25 if postmarked by 1/23/2017; WMCA $2 ILLINOIS discount; Unrated FREE. $$500 b/30 paying entries. 1st $150, 2nd $75. DEC. 27-30, 2016 Pan-American Intercollegiate Team Chess U1800 1st $100, 2nd $50; U1400 1st $50, 2nd $25; Top Unrated $50. NOV. 11-13 OR 12-13, 25th annual Kings Island Open (OH) Championship Reg: 8:30-9:15 Saturday 1/ 28/2017. Rds.: 9:30am, 1:30pm, 5:00. Limit See Grand Prix. See Nationals. of one 1/2 point bye, specify round with entry. ENT: WMCA, c/o Ed Kostreba, 45 Fairview, Palmer, MA 01069. Ron Gist (413) 695- NOV. 19, Chicago Chess Center Pre-Opening Plus-Score #5 DEC. 28-30, New Orleans Open INFO: See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. 7689, [email protected]. W. NOV. 20, 2016 Illinois Class State Championship DEC. 28-30 OR 29-30, 46th Annual Atlanta Open (GA) MAR. 11-12, 50th annual New York State Scholastic See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. Championships (out of state welcome) (NY) NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, 1st Annual Sevan Muradian Memorial See New York. See Grand Prix. FEB. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 8th annual Southwest Class Championships (TX) NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, 2016 Motor City Open (MI) See Grand Prix. MICHIGAN See Grand Prix. NOV. 11-13 OR 12-13, 25th annual Kings Island Open (OH) DEC. 10, CCC Rated Beginners’ Open #3 See Grand Prix. 5SS, G/30 d5. 3rd Floor Conference Center, UIC Student Center East, MAINE NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27 750 S. Halsted, Chicago, IL 60607. Open to U1200 & unrated. Financial NOV. 19, IM Danny Kopec UMaine Memorial , 2016 Motor City Open assistance & US Chess memberships available to Chicago public school See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. students: contact [email protected]. REG.: www.chichess.org/events/ US Chess Junior Grand Prix! or onsite 9-9:45 a.m. 10-11:15-1-2:15-3:30. $10 advance, JAN. 6-8 OR 7-8, 5th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA) Rounds: EF: See Grand Prix. DEC. 17-21, Universal 5-Day 9-Round 10-Person Round Robin $20 onsite. Prizes: 1st: clock + book, 2nd: two books, 3rd: book. ENT: Two 10-Person Sections: OPEN and Ladies’ Only. Fide- and USCF- Chicago Chess Center NFP Inc., P.O. Box 180095, Chicago, IL 60618. Rated. Tournament held at All The King’s Men, 26640 Gratiot Ave., INFO: 773-294-1709. W. MARYLAND Roseville, MI 48066. (See below for Dir/Lodg.) FORMAT: Two rounds DEC. 10, Chicago Chess Center Pre-Opening Plus-Score #6 per day for 4 days; one on 5th day. Unrated not eligible for play. Tourna- See Grand Prix. MARYLAND CHESS ASSOCIATION TOURNAMENTS ment for rating and cash prizes; no norms possible. FIDE and USCF MCA runs scholastic tournaments (almost every other Saturday memberships required; can be purchased on site (FIDE is free). OPEN DEC. 17-21, Universal 5-Day 9-Round 10-Person Round Robin (MI) from mid-September to late May) & open tournaments (usually players must be rated 2000+. Ladies Only players must be rated See Michigan. 10+ annually) throughout Maryland. Listings & online regis- 1600+. Only 10 players allowed per section, so register early. Online

64 November 2016 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

registration available at www.onlineregistration.cc. Tournament 4SS, G/70 d5. SEMO Campus, University Center, 3rd Floor. 388 N. entries closed once 10 players per section are registered. FIDE Henderson Ave., Cape Girardeau, MO 63701; Sections: Open and NEW JERSEY rules apply; 30-minute forfeit. EF: By Tues., 12/13: $125. TL: All rounds U/1400: Prizes: Each Section: $100 1st, $70 2nd Reg.: 9-9:45am; NOV. 6, Children’s Chess - First Sunday Quads 40/90, SD/30, Inc/30. RDS.: BOTH Sections: Two Rds. Sat-Tues, one Round times: 10, 1, 3:30, 6:30 EF: $20 pre-registered, $25 on site. 3-RR, G/35 d0. NJ Children’s Chess School, 862 DeGraw Ave., Newark, Rd. Wed: Sat, 10am, 3:30pm. Sun, 10am, 3:30pm. Mon, 10am, 3:30pm. Site entries cash only. Max 1 half bye; MCA required, O.S.A., available NJ 07104. Rds.: 3-4:15-5:30. EF: $20, free to members. Prizes: Tues, 10am, 3:30pm. Wed, 10am. REG.: Advance registration required. on site. Entries/Info: Bob Howe, [email protected]. 210 N. Olive Trophies to ALL. Reg.: 2-2:50. Info: Arkady Geller 973-483-7927, chess- Contact Dr. Ed Mandell at (248) 635-2375 OR register online at St., Pacific, MO 63069: (636) 234.7928. [email protected], kidschesscamp.com. www.onlineregistration.cc. $$: $1,400 OVERALL: OPEN Section: NOV. 25-27 , Thanksgiving Open (FIDE Rated) 10K Prize Fund NOV. 12, Princeton Day School $700: 1st $300, 2nd $200, TOP U2200 $200. LADIES ONLY Section: See Grand Prix. $700: 1st $300, 2nd $200, TOP U1800 $200. All players completing 650 The Great Road. Plaques to top 3 school teams and top 8 in each tournament will receive a $25 refund. NA and Chief SR.TD: Dr. Ed DEC. 9-11, The Missouri Open Championship section. Medals to all players. Sections for OVER 1000 rated players Mandell. Boards, pieces and clocks provided and must be used. See Grand Prix. begin at 10:15 and must preregister: 3 rds. G/55 d5: NEAR MASTERS (players K-12 OVER 1400), FUTURE MASTERS (players K-12 1200- DIRS: All The King’s Men Chess, 26640 Gratiot Ave., Roseville, MI FEB. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 8th annual Southwest 48066. We are located on the East side of Gratiot in the Metro PCS/Gib- 1400), CLOSED (K-12 1000-1200). ALL AFTERNOON SECTIONS. G/25 Class Championships (TX) d5 4 rds. Beginning at 12:00 noon. (round times will be accelerated if son’s ABL TV/All The King’s Men Building, directly across the street See Grand Prix. from the Shell Gas Station on the West side, which is just South of possible):OPEN (Players K-12 U-1000), RESERVE (K-12 U-800), NOVICE the East-Bound Gratiot Exit of I-696 in the City of Roseville, MI. For II (K-8 U-600), NOVICE I (unrated K-8),K-1 (unrated) NO SCORE K-1 maps, go online to www.yahoo.com and click on Maps or NEVADA (novice). PARENTS OF PLAYERS rated G/25 d5 3rds. Parents play www.mapquest.com. LODG: Many motels in the area. Hotels within free. Pre-registration online, $35 pay at the door. Info and register 4-6 miles. Call Marcie Kahn (586) 558-4790 or Dr. Ed for information/help Reno Scholastic Chess Quadz online: www.pds.org/chess. On-site 11-12 noon $45. Inquiries to Bonnie Waitzkin [email protected]. with reservations. ENT/INFO: Dr. Ed Mandell, (248) 635-2375 (Cell) or University of Nevada, Reno FH19 PK-College. G/30 d5. Sched: 12:00- Marcie Kahn (586) 558-4790, All The King’s Men. Email: allthekings- 3pm. EF: 10. Weekly event on designated Saturdays. Info: www.chess NOV. 17, 3rd Thursday Quads [email protected]. kidz.org/quadz.html or [email protected] 3 RR, G/30 d10. Effects Quick/Reg Rating. Quads grouped by Reg Rating. All the King’s Men Chess & Games Center (Just 22 mins. from Phila/NJ MAR. 3-5 OR 4-5 DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 26th annual North American Open , 18th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA) bridges), 62 S. Broadway, Pitman, NJ. 856-582-8222. $25 1st See Grand Prix. Prizes: See Grand Prix. per quad. Unr. cannot win more than $10. EF: $12.50, members $10. DEC. 29, North American Open Blitz (BLZ) Reg.: 6 -7:15 pm. Rds.: 7:30-8:30-9:30 pm. All: Visa/MC/Disc/Amex MINNESOTA See Grand Prix. OK w/$1surcharge. Info: . Bring a clock! NOV. 19 NOV. 25-27 JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 8th annual Golden State Open , Princeton Charter School , 2016 North Central Open/Martz Memorial (WI) TOURNAMENT LOCATION: Princeton Charter School at 100 Bunn Dr., See Grand Prix. (CA-N) See Grand Prix. Princeton, NJ 08540. TIME CONTROL: G/30 d0 Swiss to 4 rounds. SECTIONS: Open above 1000; U1000; U700; U300/Unrated (sections JUNE 14-15 MISSISSIPPI , 2017 U.S. Women’s Open might be combined when necessary for pairings). Parental Super- See Nationals. vision Required: The parents or another adult must be designated DEC. 28-30, New Orleans Open (LA) JUNE 16-18 OR 17-18, 2017 National Open to supervise the student player between rounds. Schedule (will lbe See Grand Prix. See Nationals. acceleerated if possible): First Round: 12:01 PM; Second thru DEC. 28-30 OR 29-30, 46th Annual Atlanta Open (GA) Fourth Rounds ASAP. Award Ceremony: ASAP (4:05 latest). (*) See Grand Prix. Online Registration $30 Only if register one week before: NEW HAMPSHIRE www.ChessKidsNY.com/PCSChessProgram.htm (*) Fee will DEC. 3 increase automatically to $35 if register later. On site registration , QuickChess in Middlebury (QC) (VT) the date of the event: $40 from 11:45 am to 12:00 noon. Information: MISSOURI See Vermont. email to Miguel Iniguez at: [email protected]. Results will be NOV. 11-13 OR 12-13, 25th annual Kings Island Open (OH) JAN. 6-8 OR 7-8, 5th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA) posted online the same day of the event! See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. NOV. 19, Central Jersey Chess Tournament US Chess Junior Grand Prix! JAN. 14-15, Portsmouth Open Princeton Academy, 1128 Great Rd., Princeton. 4 rated & 2 unrated NOV. 12, Cape Girardeau Open See Grand Prix. sections. Open, U1200: K-12, 3 rds., G/40 d5. U900, U600: K-12, 4 GOLD & SILVER AFFILIATES

ChessIQ Marshall Chess Club GOLD Any affiliate that has submitted at least 50 US Chess memberships during 4957 Oakton Street, Suite 113 23 West 10th Street the current or previous calendar year, or is the recognized State Affiliate, is eligible to Skokie, IL 60077 New York, NY 10011 become a Gold Affiliate. Gold Affiliates are honored in a special list in larger type in 847-423-8626 212-477-3716 Tournament Life each month, giving the affiliate name, address, phone number, e-mail [email protected] [email protected] address, and website. Gold Affiliation costs $350 per year, and existing affiliates may www.chessiq.com www.marshallchessclub.org subtract $3 for each month remaining on their regular affiliation, or $20 for each month remaining on their Silver Affiliation. By paying an annual payment of $500 (in- Chesskidz Tournaments Oak Hall School Chess Club stead of $350), Gold Affiliate status may be obtained with no minimum requirement P.O. Box 34722 7257 NW 4th Boulevard, Suite 21 for memberships submitted. Reno, NV 89533 Gainesville, FL 32607 775-223-9644 352-316-1199 Bay Area Chess [email protected] [email protected] 1639A South Main Street www.chesskidz.org Any affiliate that has submitted at least 25 US SILVER Milpitas, CA 95035 PaperClip Pairings Chess memberships during the current or previous calendar ChessNYC.com 408-409-6598 c/o Remy Ferrari year, or is the recognized State Affiliate, is eligible to become c/o Russell Makofsky [email protected] 4 Jalapa Court &Michael Propper a Silver Affiliate. These affiliates will be recognized in a spe- www.bayareachess.com Brownsville, TX 78526 P.O. Box 189, 1710 1st Avenue cial list in Tournament Life each month, giving the affiliate 956-621-0377 New York, NY 10012 name, state, and choice of either phone number, e-mail ad- [email protected] dress, or website. Silver Affiliation costs $150 per year, and Cajun Chess 212-475-8130 existing affiliates may subtract $3 for each month remaining 12405 Hillary Step Drive [email protected] San Diego Chess Club www.chessnyc.com on their regular affiliation. Alternatively, for an annual pay- Olive Branch, MS 38654 2225 Sixth Avenue ment of $250.00 (instead of $150), the requirement for a 504-208-9596 Continental Chess San Diego, CA 92101 minimum number of US Chess members will be waived. [email protected] Association 619-752-4377 www.cajunchess.com P.O. Box 8482 [email protected] Boca Raton Chess Club (FL) Michigan Chess Association (MI) Pelham, NY 10803 www.sandiegochessclub.org www.bocachess.com www.michess.org [email protected] Chess Club and Silver Knights Chess Dallas Chess Club (TX) Oklahoma Chess Foundation (OK) www.chesstour.com Scholastic Center www.dallaschess.com www.OCFchess.org 8500 Executive Park Avenue #404 Sparta Chess Club (NJ) of Saint Louis Eagle Chess Academy, Inc. Fairfax, VA 22031 Jersey Shore HS www.spartachessclub.org 4657 Maryland Avenue PO Box 6141 703-574-2070 Chess League (NJ) Success Chess School (CA) St. Louis, MO 63108 Largo, MD 20774 [email protected] [email protected] www.successchess.com 314-361-CHESS 301-467-5024 www.silverknightschess.com Little House of Chess, Inc. (NY) The Berkeley Chess School (CA) [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.berkeleychessschool.org www.saintlouischessclub.org www.eaglechessacademy.com UPDATED 09-13-2016

www.uschess.org 65 Tournament Life / November

rds., G/25 d5. Intermediate (K-6), Beginners (K-2): 4 rds., not rated. $35 pre-reg online by 12/8. $45 on-site 1:15-1:45. Rd.1 2:00. Trophies to 1st-3rd & top school/club team per section, medals to all! njchess.com NEW MEXICO $35 pre-reg online by 11/17. $45 on-site 1:15-1:45. Rd.1 2:00. DEC. 10, Hamilton Chess Club Quads DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 26th annual North American njchess.com 3RR, 40/80 15/30 15/30 d0. Full K. McManimon Hall, 320 Scully Ave., Open (NV) NOV. 20, Westfield G/75 Quads Hamilton Twp., NJ 08610. Quads open to all. EF: $10. Prizes: $25 per See Grand Prix. 3-RR. G/70 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. $25, Quad. Reg.: 9-10:30am. Rds.: 10:30am-1:30pm-4:30pm. OSA. Contact EF: FEB. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20 $20 members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 10:15- email: hamiltonchessclub.com. W. , 8th annual Southwest 10:50 a.m. Rounds: 11:00, 1:45, 4:30 p.m. Information: email John DEC. 10 Class Championships (TX) , Princeton Charter School See Grand Prix. Moldovan [email protected] or visit www.westfieldchess- TOURNAMENT LOCATION: Princeton Charter School at 100 Bunn Dr., club.com/Events.html Princeton, NJ 08540. TIME CONTROL: G/30 d0 Swiss to 4 rounds. NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, 47th annual National Chess Congress (PA) SECTIONS: Open above 1000; U1000; U700; U300/Unrated (sections NEW YORK See Grand Prix. might be combined when necessary for pairings). Parental Super- vision Required: The parents or another adult must be designated NOV. 12, 2016 Greater New Haven Open! (CT) NOV. 26, Hamilton Chess Club Quads to supervise the student player between rounds. Schedule (will lbe See Grand Prix. 3RR, 40/80 15/30 15/30 d0. Full K. McManimon Hall, 320 Scully Ave., acceleerated if possible): First Round: 12:01 PM; Second thru NOV. 15 Hamilton Twp., NJ 08610. Quads open to all. $10. $25 per , Marshall Masters - World Championship Addition! EF: Prizes: Fourth Rounds ASAP. Award Ceremony: ASAP (4:05 latest). (*) See Grand Prix. Quad. Reg.: 9-10:30am. Rds.: 10:30am-1:30pm-4:30pm. OSA. Contact Online Registration $30 Only if register one week before: email: hamiltonchessclub.com. W. www.ChessKidsNY.com/PCSChessProgram.htm (*) Fee will NOV. 17, Marshall Thursday Action! NOV. 27 increase automatically to $35 if register later. On site registration 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100, U2200: $75, U1900: $50. EF: , Westfield G/45 Quads $40, MCC Mbrs $25. GMs Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30- 3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: the date of the event: $40 from 11:45 am to 12:00 noon. Information: email to Miguel Iniguez at: [email protected]. Results will be 10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. 23 W. $25, $20 members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. www.marshallchessclub.org. 1:15-2:05 p.m. Rounds: 2:15, 4:00, 5:45 p.m. Information: email John posted online the same day of the event! Moldovan [email protected] or visit www.westfield- DEC. 18, Westfield G/45 Quads US Chess Junior Grand Prix! chessclub.com/Events.html 3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, NOV. 17, DEC. 1, 8, 15, 22, 8th Long Island CC Winter Open DEC. 3 $20 members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 1:15-2:05 5SS, G/90 d5. United Methodist Church, 470 East Meadow Ave., East , The Greater Princeton Championship, Princeton Day p.m. 2:15, 4:00, 5:45 p.m. Members-only Blitz 11 Meadow, NY 11554. $110-90. Top U- School Rounds: Side Event: Open to all. $(b/20 pd. ent.): 650 The Great Road. Trophies to top 8 in each U1000 section, top 3 in a.m. Information: email John Moldovan [email protected] 2000, U-1500/unr. $60 ea. EF(cash only): $35. Non-LICC members Over 1000. Plaques to top 3 school teams. Trophies to all players. or visit www.westfieldchessclub.com/Events.html +$10. UNRATED FREE! Reg.: 6:45 - 7:15 PM, no adv. ent., Rds.: 7:30 Sections for OVER 1000 rated players begin at 10:15 and must preregister: DEC. 27-29 OR 28-29, 35th annual Empire City Open (NY) PM ea. Thursday. 2 byes 1-5. No game 11/24. Skittles rm. Info: 3 rds. G/55 d5: NEAR MASTERS (players K-12 OVER 1400), FUTURE See Grand Prix. www.lichessclub.com. MASTERS (players K-12 1200-1400), CLOSED (K-12 1000-1200). Ties JAN. 6-8 OR 7-8, 5th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! will be resolved by a blitz playoff. ALL AFTERNOON SECTIONS. G/25 See Grand Prix. NOV. 18-20, 19-20 OR 20, Marshall Monthly U2300 d5 4 rds. Beginning at 12:00 noon. (round times will be accelerated if JAN. 8 5-SS, 40/90 SD30 +30. Open to players rated below 2300 USCF. $800 possible): OPEN (Players K-12 U-1000), RESERVE (K-12 U-800), NOVICE , Westfield G/45 Quads Gtd: $300-150-100. U2100: $125; U1800 $125. EF: $60, MCC Mbrs $40. 3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. II (K-8 U-600), NOVICE I (unrated K-8), K-1 (unrated) NO SCORE K-1 EF: Reg.: Ends 15 min before round start. Rds.: 3-day: Fri. 6pm, Sat. & Sun. (novice). PARENTS OF PLAYERS rated G/25 d5 3rds. Parents play $25, $20 members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 12:30 & 5:30pm. 2-day: Sat. 11:00am (G/25 d5) then merge with 3-day in 1:15-2:05 p.m. 2:15, 4:00, 5:45 p.m. email John free. Pre-registration online, $40 pay at the door. Info and register Rounds: Information: round 2. 1-day: Sun. 9-10:10-11:20am (G/25 d5) then merge in round 4. online: www.pds.org/chess. On-site 11-12 noon $45. Inquiries to Bonnie Moldovan [email protected] or visit www.westfield- chessclub.com/Events.html Max two byes, request at entry. SIDE EVENT: November 18, Marshall Waitzkin [email protected]. Bughouse Tournament! 5-SS, G/5 d0. Bughouse. Not rated. Players DEC. 4, Children’s Chess - First Sunday Quads JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 49th annual Liberty Bell Open (PA) register in teams of two. Each round is a 2 game match. ($450 b/35 3-RR, G/35 d0. NJ Children’s Chess School, 862 DeGraw Ave., Newark, See Grand Prix. players): $200-100, top U2200/unr & U1900 team average: $75. USCF NJ 07104. Rds.: 3-4:15-5:30. EF: $20, free to members. Prizes: FEB. 18-20, World Amateur Team & U.S. Team East regular rating used for pairings & prizes. EF: $30, MCC Mbrs & GMs $20. Trophies to ALL. Reg.: 2-2:50. Info: Arkady Geller 973-483-7927, chess- See Nationals. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-7:40-8:10-8:40-9:10pm. Max one bye, Request [email protected], kidschesscamp.com. at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. FEB. 24-26 OR 25-26 DEC. 10 , 2nd annual George Washington Open (VA) NOV. 19 , Central Jersey Chess Tournament See Grand Prix. , Marshall Saturday U1800 Princeton Academy, 1128 Great Rd., Princeton. 4 rated & 2 unrated 4-SS, G/40 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1500: $75. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs sections. Open, U1200: K-12, 3 rds., G/40 d5. U900, U600: K-12, 4 MAR. 11-12, 50th annual New York State Scholastic $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45am. Rds.: 12-1:45-4:00-5:45pm. One bye available, rds., G/25 d5. Intermediate (K-6), Beginners (K-2): 4 rds., not rated. Championships (out of state welcome) (NY) request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212- Trophies to 1st-3rd & top school/club team per section, medals to all! See New York. 477-3716.

47th annual NATIONAL CHESS CONGRESS 6 rounds, Nov 25-27 or 26-27, 2016, Sheraton Philadelphia Hotel $35,000 prize fund guaranteed, 35 trophies/plaques! 6 rounds, 40/100, SD/30, d10 (2-day Mixed doubles bonus prizes: Best 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 11 am, rds option, rds 1-3 G/45, d10). Trophy sections male-female 2-player combined score Fri 12 & 6, Sat 12 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:15. play separate 2-day schedule only, 11/26-27 among all sections: $2000-1000-600-400. 2-day U1200/up: Reg. Sat to 9 am, rds (G/45, d10). Student/Alumni plaques to top 5 Sat 10, 12:45, 3:15, 6; Sun 10 & 3:15. Sheraton Philadelphia Hotel, 201 teams of 4 (any sections) representing any 2-day trophy sections: Reg Sat to 9 North 17th St, Philadelphia PA 19103. 150 US college, HS, or pre-HS players attend am, rds 10, 12:45 & 3:15 each day. GPP (enhanced). In 10 sections: or have graduated from. Half point byes OK all rds, limit 3, Premier must commit before rd 2, others Premier Section: Open to 2000/over & Top 7 sections entry fee: $120 before rd 4. juniors under 18 who are 1800/over. $3000- online at chessaction.com by 11/23, $130 1500-700-400-200, clear/tiebreak win $200, phoned to 406-896-2038 by 11/21, 3-day Bring set, board, clock if possible- U2400/Unr $1600-800. FIDE rated. $128, 2-day $127 mailed by 11/15, $140 none supplied. Nov. ratings used (unofficial U2200 Unr: $2000-1000-500-300-200. at site, or online until 2 hrs before rd 1. usually used if otherwise unrated). U2000/Unr: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Trophy sections entry fee: $42 at US Chess membership required. U1800/Unr: $2000-1000-500-300-200. chessaction.com by 11/23, $45 phoned to Hotel rates: $104-104-124, 215-448- U1600/Unr: $2000-1000-500-300-200. 406-896-2038 by 11/21 or mailed by 2000, reserve by 11/10 Parking about U1400/Unr: $1600-800-400-300-200. 11/15, $50 at site or online to 8 am 11/26. $20/day (Sheraton), $7/day Sat & Sun, $20 U1200/Unr: $1600-800-400-300-200. All: No checks at site, credit cards weekdays (1540 Spring St, one block from U1000/Unr: Trophies to top 10. OK. Re-entry (except Premier) $60. hotel). U800/Unr: Trophies to top 10. Special US Chess membership with Entry: chessaction.com or Continental Scholastic U600/Unr: trophies to top 10. magazine if paid online with entry fee: Chess, Box 8482, Pelham NY 10803. $15 Unrated prize limits: U1200 $200, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic charge for refunds. Entries posted at U1400 $400, U1600 $600, U1800 $800, $15. By mail, phone or at site, Adult 440, chessaction.com (online entries posted U2000 $1000. Balance to next player in line. Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 10 pm.

66 November 2016 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

US Chess Junior Grand Prix! playoffs (G/3 +2) and an Armageddon game (bidding for time) if necessary. DEC. 30, Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz (BLZ) NOV. 20, 70th Binghamton Open Entry Fee: $200. GMs/Foreign IMs: Free. Local IMs: $125. $25 less for See Grand Prix. NEW ENTRY FEE - $5.00 - YES $5.00! 4SS, G/65 d5. Cordisco’s Chess MCC members. $25 more if received on or after 12/9. Foreign players DEC. 31-JAN. 1 Center, 308 Chenango St., Binghamton, NY 13901, (607) 772-8782. who play all 9 rounds receive $75. Schedule: Fri 12/9: 7pm, Sat 12/10: , Marshall New Year’s Ridiculousness Insane EF: Person Championship! $5.Two sections: Open & U1700. REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE. Schedule: 12pm & 6pm, Sun 12/11: 12 & 6pm, Fri 12/16: 7pm, Sat 12/17: 12 & 12-SS, G/25 d5. $513-242-67-17-3, U2256: $179, U1983: Reg. on site 8:45-9:15AM. Rounds: 9:30-12Noon-2:30-4:45. Please 6pm, Sun 12/18: 12p, Blitz Playoff (if necessary) 6pm. Byes: 2 byes avail- $1,416 Gtd: bring clocks, none supplied. able, must commit before round 3; limit 1 bye in rounds 8-9. FIDE GM/IM $148, U1628: $156. “Brilliancy(?) Prize”: $91 to player scoring best in tournament with 1.g4 and/or 1…g5. “Shoot the Moon Prize”: $127 to Norms possible; must play all rounds. Registration: Call MCC with credit US Chess Junior Grand Prix! card, mail check, or online. Register early! the player who draws all 10 games (Only 1 prize!) EF: $82, MCC Mbrs NOV. 21, 28, DEC. 5, 12, 19 Limited to 70 players! $49. GMs Free, $37 reduced from prizes. (Re-entry: $28.50.) , 29th Nassau Amateur www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Reg.: 5SS, 45/90, SD/30 d5. 1st Presbyterian Church, 1st & Main Sts., Mineola. 11:15-11:45am. Rds.: 12-1:15-2:30-4:00-5:15-6:30pm each day. 4 byes 2 sections. Amateur: U2000/UR. EF: $33 by 11/18. $$ (435 b/15) 195, DEC. 15, Marshall Thursday Action! available, request at entry. Proper attire appreciated. 23 W. 10th St., U1800, 1600 each 120. Booster: U1400/UR. EF: $18 by 11/18. $$ (140 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100, U2200: $75, U1900: $50. EF: NYC. 212-477-3716. www.marshallchessclub.org. $40, MCC Mbrs $25. GMs Free. 6:15-6:45pm. 7-8:15-9:30- b/10) 80, U1200/UR 60. All: EF: Non memb $11 more. All $8 more at Reg.: Rds.: JAN. 5, Marshall $15 Special Action! - NEW site. 2 byes 1-5. Reg to 7:15 PM. Rds: 7:15 each Mon. Ent: Harold 10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. 23 W. 4-SS, G/25 d5. $350 GTD: $125-75, U2200: $75, U1900: $75. EF: $40, Stenzel, 80 Amy Dr., Sayville, NY 11782. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. www.marshallchessclub.org. MCC Mbrs: Only $15!!! GMs Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15- NOV. 25, Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz (BLZ) DEC. 20, Marshall Masters 9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, 47th annual National Chess Congress (PA) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! JAN. 6, Marshall U2200 Friday Night Action! See Grand Prix. DEC. 21, 28, JAN. 4, 11, 18, 25, Marshall Weekly Wednesdays 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($300 b/25): $150-75, U1900: $75. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs 6-SS, G/90 +30. Two sections. ($600 b/25) $250-150-100. $20. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for NOV. 26, Marshall Saturday G/60 (Open & U1700) U2000: U1700: $100. ($600 b/25) $250-150-100. U1100: $100. $60, round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 4-SS, G/55 d5. Two sections: Open: ($450 b/35): $175-125, U2300: U1400: EF: MCC Mbrs $40. 6:15-6:45pm. 7pm each Wed. Limit two 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. $75, U2000: $75. U1700 ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1400: $75. EF: $40, Reg.: Rds.: MCC Mbrs $20. GMs Free. Reg.: 11:15-11:45am. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45- byes; request by rd. 4. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 7pm. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. NYC. 212-477-3716. JAN. 6-8, Marshall Weekend FIDE 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. DEC. 22, Marshall Thursday Action! 5-SS, 40/90 SD/30 +30. FIDE Rated. ($600 b/25): $250-125. U2200: $125; U1900 $100. $60, MCC Mbrs $40. GMs Free. Ends 15 NOV. 27, Marshall Scholastic Action! (3 Rounds) 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100, U2200: $75, U1900: $50. EF: EF: Reg.: 3-SS, G/25 d5. Open to youth K-12. ($225 b/25): $100-50, U1000: $40, MCC Mbrs $25. GMs Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30- min before round start. Rds.: Fri. 6pm, Sat. & Sun. 12 & 5:30pm. Max 2 byes, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., $75. $30, MCC Mbrs: $15. 8:15-8:45am. 9-10:10- 10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. 23 W. EF: Reg.: Rds.: NYC. 212-477-3716. 11:20am. No byes. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. www.marshallchessclub.org. 212-477-3716. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! JAN. 6-8 OR 7-8, 3rd Gulf Coast New Year’s Open (FL) See Grand Prix. NOV. 27, Marshall Sunday G/45 (Open & U1500) DEC. 22, 29, JAN. 5, 12, 19, 26, Marshall Thursday Open 4-SS, G/40 d5. Two sections: Open: ($450 b/35): $175-125, U2100: 6-SS, G/90 +30. ($600 b/25): $250-150, U2100: $100. U1800: $100 JAN. 6-8 OR 7-8, 5th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA) $75, U1800: $75. U1500: ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1200: $75. EF: $40, EF: $60, MCC Mbrs $40. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7pm each Thurs. See Grand Prix. Limit two byes; request by rd. 4. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. MCC Mbrs $20. GMs Free. Reg.: 12:15-12:45pm. Rds.: 1-2:45-5:00- JAN. 7, Marshall Morning U1700 Action 6:45pm. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1400: $75. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. DEC. 23, Marshall U2200 Friday Night Action! $20. Reg:. 8:15-8:45am. Rds.: 9am-10:15-11:30-12:45pm. One bye avail- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($300 b/25): $150-75, U1900: $75. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs able, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NOV. 28, DEC. 5, 12, 19, 26, JAN. 2, Marshall FIDE $20. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for NYC. 212-477-3716. Mondays/U1800 round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. JAN. 8, Marshall Morning Action! (4 Rounds) 6-SS, G/90 +30. Two sections. Open: Open to all players 1600+. FIDE 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1800: $75. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs Rated. ($600 b/25) $200-150-100. U2000: $100-50. U1800: ($600 b/25) DEC. 27-29 OR 28-29, 35th annual Empire City Open $20. Reg.: 8:15-8:45am. Rds:. 9-10:15-11:30am-12:45pm. One bye avail- $200-150-100. U1500: $100-50. EF: $60, MCC Mbrs $40. Reg.: 6:15- See Grand Prix. able, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., 6:45pm. Rd.: 7pm each Mon. Limit two byes; request by rd. 4. 23 W. DEC. 29 NYC. 212-477-3716. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. www.marshallchessclub.org. , Marshall Thursday Action! 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100, U2200: $75, U1900: $50. EF: US Chess Junior Grand Prix! DEC. 1, Marshall $15 Special Action! - NEW $40, MCC Mbrs $25. GMs Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30- JAN. 9, 16, 23, 30, FEB. 6, 13, Marshall FIDE Mondays/U1800 4-SS, G/25 d5. $350 GTD $125-75, U2200: $75, U1900: $75. EF: $40, 10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. 6-SS, G/90 +30. Two sections. Open: Open to all players 1600+. FIDE MCC Mbrs: Only $15!!! GMs Free. Reg:. 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15- www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Rated. ($600 b/25) $200-150-100. U2000: $100-50. U1800: ($600 b/25) 9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! DEC. 2-4, Marshall Amateur Championship/Jerry Simon Memorial 5-SS, 40/90, SD/30 +30. Open to all player U2200 and unrated. No FIDE ratings over 2200. USCF ratings used for pairings and prizes. FIDE Rated. Prizes: 1st-3rd place, Top U1900: Free Entry into the NO TOURNAMENTS 100th MCC Championship! 4th-10th place finishers (plus ties): Eligible for paid entry into the 100th MCC Championship! EF: $75, MCC Mbrs $50. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: Fri: 7pm, Sat-Sun: 12:30 & 6pm. 1 bye IN YOUR AREA? available, request by Rd. 3. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. DEC. 3, QuickChess in Middlebury (QC) (VT) WHY NOT ORGANIZE ONE? See Vermont. DEC. 3, TRM 111 at ML King MS, 918 Stanley St., Schenectady 12307. 4SS, G/30 d5. EF: Free. Pre-register required by 8:00 PM Thurs. Details: www.chesstrm.org. Do you need to go out of town for tournament play? Would you DEC. 3, 10, 17, Rochester Chess Center Saturday Tournaments! and others in your area like the convenience of an occasional event 3-SS, G/60 d5. Rochester CC, 221 Norris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. 585- 442-2430. Prizes based on entries. EF: $15, RCC members $13. $2 less closer to home? Organize one! for HS and Pre-HS. Reg.: 1-1:45 pm. Rds.: 2-4-6. One bye available, request at entry. www.nychess.org. Also, Youth tournament, G/30 d5, It’s not much work to hold a small tournament, and there is little every Saturday morning 10am-1pm, trophies and prizes. EF: $5. risk if you use a low-cost site and avoid guaranteed prizes. You DEC. 4, TRM 219 at Riverbank State Park, 145 St. & Riverside Dr., NYC, 10025. 4SS, G/30 might even make a profit! Either a based-on Swiss with projected d5. EF: FREE Scholastic, free parking. Pre-Register required by 8:00 prizes up to $500, a Quad format, or a trophy tournament will vir- PM Fri. Check-in at site by 9:15 required. Details: www.therightmove.org. tually guarantee taking in more in fees than you pay out in prizes. DEC. 7, 14, 21, 28, Community Chess Club of Rochester Wed Night Chess! Note: 1 game rated per night, G/80 d5. Rochester Chess Center, 221 The affiliation fee is just $40 a year. You will receive the annual Norris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. 585-442-2430. EF: $5, CCCR members rating supplement and have access to the TD/Affiliate area of our $3. Reg.: 6:30-7:20 pm. Rd.: 7:30pm. www.rochesterchessclub.org. DEC. 8, Marshall U2400 Action website. 4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to players rated below 2400 USCF. ($375 b/25): $150-100, U2100: $75 U1800: $50. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $25. Reg.: 6:15- Remember, you can both run and play in a small event. Many of 6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. them wouldn’t be held if the organizer/TD couldn’t play. 212-477-3716. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! DEC. 9-11, 16-18, 100th Annual Edward Lasker Memorial/MCC Championship! Want to know more? 9-SS, 40/90, SD/30 +30. Open to MCC Members and Non-members rated 2200+ USCF or FIDE, FIDE Title Holders, Special Invitees & Qualifiers Contact Joan Du Bois at [email protected]. We’ll be from the Marshall Amateur Championship Dec 2-4. FIDE ratings used for glad to help you be part of the promotion of American chess! pairings and prizes. FIDE rated. Prizes: $10,000 unconditionally guar- anteed! $4000-2000-1000, U2400 FIDE: $1500-500, U2300 FIDE: $1000. Title of “2016 Marshall Chess Club Champion” goes to highest-scoring MCC Member. Tie break for the title and 1st prize will be decided by blitz

www.uschess.org 67 Tournament Life / November

$200-150-100. U1500: $100-50. EF: $60, MCC Mbrs $40. Reg:. 6:15- $70 1/21-1/30, $80 1/31-2/2. For details on mail or phone entries Bonus Prizes (best male/female 2-player “team” combined score 6:45pm. Rd: 7pm each Mon. Limit two byes; request by rd. 4. 23 W. see www.gnyscc.com or www.chesscenter.cc. On-site entry fee: among all 3 High School sections after 5 rounds): free entry to specified 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. www.marshallchessclub.org. $100 the day before your game (starting 7pm 2/3), $120 on day of CCA tmts. thru 8/20/17 to 1st team, thru 6/15 to 2nd, thru 4/15 to 3rd. JAN. 12, Marshall U2400 Action event until 90 minutes before 1st game. In 14 sections! Each section Team average must be U2200; Mixed Doubles teammates may play in 4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to players rated below 2400 USCF. ($375 b/25): has its own age, grade and rating requirements (Championship sections different sections and may attend different schools; teams must register $150-100, U2100: $75 U1800: $50. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $25. Reg.: 6:15- open to all who are under grade and age limits; unrated allowed all on-site (no extra charge!) before rd. 3; teammate pairings avoided but 6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. sections). The 5 Championship sections are each 2 days (High School possible. All: February 2017 official ratings used, except unofficial Request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. Championship, Junior High Championship, Elementary Championship, ratings at uschess.org usually used if otherwise unrated. TD reserves 212-477-3716. Primary Championship and K1 Championship): 6-SS, G/60 d10. Rounds: right to assign estimated ratings to players with non-USCF ratings. All 10 am-1-4 pm Sat; 9 am-12-2:45 pm Sun. Awards ceremonies about substitutions from advance entry list charged late fee. Section switches JAN. 13, Marshall Friday Night Blitz (BLZ) 5:30 pm Sun. The 9 non-Championship sections are each 1-day, 5- subject to $10 extra charge per player after 1/30, $20 extra 2/2-2/3. 9-SS, G/3 +2. ($500 b/35): $200-100, top U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, SS, G/30 d5. Important Note: Playing on Saturday this year are: $15 service charge for each player refund. TD reserves right to reassign U1800: $50. USCF regular rating used for pairings & prizes. EF: $30, High School Under 1900, High School Under 1200, Elementary Under sections for advance entries with incorrect or unclear registrations. MCC Mbrs $20. GMs Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-7:30-7:50-8:10- 1500, Elementary Under 1100, Elementary Under 700: 10 am-12-1:30- Limit 2 byes (limit 3 in Championship), commit before rd. 3. HR $169, 8:40-9-9:20-9:40-10pm. Max three byes. Request at entry. Blitz rated. 3-4:30 pm, Awards about 6 pm. Now playing on Sunday with earlier call 877-513-6305 or 718-246-7000 by 1/13 (rooms may sell out early), 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. www.marshallchessclub.org. starting times are: Junior High Under 1300, Primary Under 1000, mention chess. Help with entries, parking, etc: www.gnyscc.com Ques- JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 49th annual Liberty Bell Open (PA) Primary Under 600 and K1 Under 400: 9-11 am-12:30-2-3:30 pm Sun. tions: [email protected] or 347-201-2269, 917-691-1729 (leave See Grand Prix. Awards about 5 pm. Both K-1 sections open to grade 1/below born message, but email is better; on Feb 4-5 only call 718-246-7000.). after 2/5/09. All 3 Primary sections open to grades 3/below born Team rooms: [email protected]. Sets provided by Little House JAN. 14, Marshall Morning U1800 Action after 2/5/07. All 4 Elementary sections open to grades 6/below born of Chess— bring clocks! W. Info: www.gnyscc.com. To contact us 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1500: $75. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs after 2/5/04. Both Junior High sections open to grades 9/below born by mail: Chess Center of NY, PO Box 4615, New Windsor, NY 12553. $20. Reg.: 8:15-8:45am. Rds.: 9-10:15-11:30am-12:45pm. One bye avail- after 2/5/01. All 3 High School sections open to grades 12/below Note: US Chess Junior Grand Prix (Championship sections only). able, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., born after 2/5/97. Trophies to top 15 in all Championship plus Ele- FEB. 24-26 OR 25-26 NYC. 212-477-3716. , 2nd annual George Washington Open (VA) mentary, Primary and K1 sections; to top 10 in each High School and See Grand Prix. JAN. 14 Junior High 1-day section, top 3 U1500 in High School U1900, Top 3 , Marshall Saturday G/60 Open MAR. 3-5 OR 4-5 4-SS, G/55 d5. Open: ($450 b/35): $175-125, U2400: $75, U2100: $75. U900/Unr in High School U1200 and Junior High U1300; Top 3 U1300 in , 18th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA) EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $20. GMs Free. Reg.: 11:15-11:45am. Rds.: 12- Elementary U1500; top 3 U900 in Elementary U1100; top 3 U800 in See Grand Prix. 2:30-4:45-7pm. One bye available, request at entry. 23 W. 10th St., Primary U1000; top 3 Unr. in Elementary U700, Primary U600 and K1 An American Classic! NYC. 212-477-3716. www.marshallchessclub.org. U400. Trophies also to top 6 teams each section (top 4 scores from A Heritage Event! JAN. 15 same school = team, all on team must attend same school: no combined US Chess Junior Grand Prix! , Marshall Sunday G/45 (Open & U1600) teams, even if one school “feeds” another). Grade plaques: top 3 4-SS, G/40 d5. Two sections: Open: ($450 b/35): $175-125, U2200: A State Championship Event! Kindergartners in each K1 section, top 3 scorers below 7th Grade in MAR. 11-12, 50th annual New York State Scholastic $75, U1900: $75. U1600: ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1300: $75. EF: $40, Junior High U1300, Top 3 below 9th grade in High School U1200 (you MCC Mbrs $20. GMs Free. Reg.: 11:15-11:45am. Rds.: 12-1:45-4:00- Championships (out of state welcome) can win both plaque + trophy). All players scoring 4 or more (5 or 6SS, G/60 d10, open to grades K-12; top NYS player & team in each 5:45pm. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. more in Championship) who don’t win a trophy receive a medal! Speed 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. section are NY champions. In 11 sections. HS Championship and HS playoff for 5-0 or 6-0. Individual free entry prizes (each Championship Reserve at Courtyard by Marriott, 11 Excelsior Ave., Saratoga Springs, An American Classic! section): Free entry to specified Continental Chess tournaments thru NY 12866. Other 9 sections 2/5 mile away at Saratoga Hilton and A Heritage Event! 1/20/18 to 1st, thru 10/10/17 to 2nd, thru 8/20 to 3rd, thru 6/15 to adjacent Saratoga City Center (connected by indoor walkway), 534 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! (Championship Sections) 4th. Individual free entry prizes (each non-Championship section): Broadway (I-87 Exit 13-N, 4 miles north on US 9), Saratoga Springs, NY FEB. 4 OR 5 OR 4-5, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the Free entry to specified Continental Chess tmts. thru 11/15/17 to 1st, 12866. Team prizes based on top 4 scores from same school; no com- 51st Annual Greater NY Scholastic Championships - Since 1966, thru 8/20 to 2nd, thru 6/15 to 3rd, thru 4/25 to 4th. Team free entry bined school teams allowed even if one school “feeds” another. Teams US Chess Longest-Running Scholastic! prizes: free entry to specified CCA tmts. thru 8/20/17 to 1st team, thru of 2 or 3 players allowed, but are at a disadvantage. Online entry fee NOTE IMPORTANT CHANGES FROM PREVIOUS YEARS! 6/15 to 2nd team each section! Free entries courtesy of Continental at chessaction.com, all sections: $45 by 2/18, $55 2/19-3/4, $70 Beautiful hotel site: NY Marriott Hotel At Brooklyn Bridge, 333 Chess and are valid for CCA tmts. with 100% unconditionally guaranteed 3/5 to 3/10. Entry fee at site, all sections: $70. High School, open to Adams Street (near Borough Hall), Brooklyn, NY. Nearby subway sta- prize funds. Free entries do not include NYS Scholastics in Saratoga. grades K-12 born after 9/1/97. EF $48.20 mailed by 2/18. Top NYS tions: Jay Street Metrotech (A, C, F & R trains), Borough Hall (2, 3, See www.chesscenter.cc or www.gnyscc.com or www.chesstour.com grade 9-12 qualifies for Denker Tournament of HS Champions, top NYS 4 & 5 trains). Online entries at www.gnyscc.com: $60 thru 1/20/17, for complete details and restrictions. High School Mixed Doubles grade K-12 girl qualifies for National Girls Tournament of Champions.

US Chess Membership Rates: ADVERTISE Premium (P) and Regular (R) WITH US CHESS (U.S., CANADA, MEXICO) Type 1 yr 2 yr US Chess accepts advertising in Chess Adult P $49 $95 Life, Chess Life Kids, and banner ads Adult R $40 $75 on uschess.org. Senior (65+) $40 $75 Young Adult P (U25)* $35 $65 The US Chess Federation has 85,000 Young Adult R (U25)* $26 $48 Youth P (U16)* $30 $55 members, of whom 35,000 are adults Youth R (U16)* $22 $40 and 50,000 are youth or scholastic Scholastic P (U13)* $25 $45 members. The population is Scholastic R (U13)* $17 $30 predominantly male. Adult members Premium membership provides a printed copy of Chess are generally college-educated and Life (monthly) or Chess Life Kids (bimonthly) plus all affluent. other benefits of regular membership. Regular membership provides online-only access to Chess Life and Chess Life Kids. Youth provides bimonthly Chess Life, Scholastic Want to know more? bimonthly Chess Life Kids, others listed above monthly For more information and Chess Life. See www.uschess.org for other membership rates, see new.uschess.org/ categories. Dues are not refundable and may be changed about/advertise/ without notice. *Ages at expiration

68 November 2016 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

High School Reserve, open to K-12 under 1200 or unrated. EF $48 site. OCA deduct $3. Masters above 2200 EF only $20. Open b/15: $150- NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, 2016 Motor City Open (MI) mailed by 2/18. Junior High, open to all in grades K-9. EF $47.90 mailed $75; Class Prizes based on entries. Master Bounty Prize: Best Upset See Grand Prix. by 2/18. Top NYS grade K-8 born after 9/1/01 qualifies for Barber tour- against 1# Rated Master pays $100 for win/$50 draw. $100 for perfect DEC. 3 score to 1# Rated Master. UNDER 1600 b/15: $150-$75; Class Prizes , W.Chester 1st Sat. Quads nament of K-8 Champions. Middle School Reserve, open to K-8 under Our 27th year! 3RR, Game/80 d5. 2nd Presbyterian Church, 114 S. 1000 or unrated. EF $47.80 mailed by 2/18. Elementary, open to all in based on entries. First Baptist Church, 11195 Winton Rd., Cincinnati, Walnut St., West Chester, PA. $20; $40, $50 for 3-0. 9am. OH 45218. Award Winning Chili. HOT FOOD. CHESS VENDOR ON SITE. EF: Reg.: grades K-6. EF $47.60 mailed by 2/18. Elementary Intermediate, open Rds.: 9:40, 1:00, 4:00. Info: [email protected]. to grades K-6 under 1200 or unrated. EF $47.50 mailed by 2/18. Elementary Email: [email protected], www.chessearth.com. DEC. 4 Reserve, open to grades K-5 under 800 or unrated. EF $47.40 mailed by NOV. 26 , PCL December Quick Quads (QC) , Solon Monster Turkey Shoot 3RR, G/15 d3. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow 2/18. Primary, open to grades K-3. EF $47.30 mailed by 2/18. Primary See Grand Prix. Reserve, open to grades K-3 under 600 or unrated. EF: $47.20 mailed by Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11- 2/18. K-1, open to grades K-1. EF $47.10 mailed by 2/18. K-1 Reserve, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 11:15am. Info: [email protected], 412-908-0286. W. DEC. 10 open to grades K-1 under 400 or unrated. EF $47 mailed by 2/18. Post- , Toledo December Swiss DEC. 10, MasterMinds CC Swiss/Quads marked 2/19-3/1: All EF $10 more. Do not mail entry after 3/1. Special Open, 4SS, Rnd. 1 G/75 d5, Rnds. 2-4 G/85 d5. The University of Toledo Lenfest Center, 3890 N. 10th St., Philadelphia, PA 19140. Quads: 3RR, 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online at Health Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Cafe, 3000 Arlington G/85 d5. EF: $30 cash; winner $100. Reg. ends 9AM. Rd. 9:30, 1, 4. Ave., Toledo, OH 43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. chessaction.com, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid EF: Scholastic: 4SS, K-12 Open, K-8 U1200, K-6 U800, K-3 U500 G/40 d5, at site, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. Trophies to top 10 players and $20 by 12/8, $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: EF: $10 rec’d by Thurs. before, $25 on site. Reg. ends 9AM. Rd. 1 10AM top 7 teams each section, top 2 unrated in each reserve section, and top $360 b/20, $100-50, 1st A,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James then asap. payable to MasterMinds CC, 36 E. Hortter St., Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450. Mail Ent: 2 each U1900, U1700, U1500, U1300 (HS), U1000, U800, U600 (HS Reserve), Philadelphia, PA 19119. Info: mastermindschess.org or brad@master- U1800, U1600, U1400 (JHS), U900, U800, U600, U400 (MS Reserve), DEC. 17-21, Universal 5-Day 9-Round 10-Person Round Robin (MI) mindschess.org U1700, U1500, U1300 (Elem), U1100, U1000, U900, U800 (Elem Interme- See Michigan. DEC. 17-21 diate), U700, U600, U500, U400, U300 (Elem Reserve), U1400, U1200, , Universal 5-Day 9-Round 10-Person Round Robin (MI) U1000 (Primary), U500, U400, U300, U200 (Primary Reserve), U800, U600, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! See Michigan. JAN. 14 U400 (K-1), U300, U200 (K-1 Reserve). Speed playoff if perfect score tie. , Toledo January Swiss DEC. 27-29 OR 28-29, 35th annual Empire City Open (NY) Free entry to NY State Championship, Labor Day weekend 2017 (Albany), Open, 4SS, Rnd. 1 G/75 d5, Rnds. 2-4 G/85 d5. The University of Toledo See Grand Prix. Health Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Cafe, 3000 Arlington to top player each section, if not already qualified for free entry from JAN. 7 another event. Mixed doubles prizes for HS Championship/Reserve Ave., Toledo, OH 43614. Can split into 2 or 3 sections if enough players. , LVCA $1000 Scholarships K-12 Championships 5-SS, G/30 d5. $35, $45 CASH ONLY after 1/3/17 AT SITE. combined. Schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2, 5, Sun 9, 12, 3. EF: $20 by 1/12, $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: EF: $$1000 to 1st-$400, 2nd-$200, 3rd-$100, $100 each top 3 Awards 5:30 pm. Half point byes OK all, limit 2, must commit before rd. $450 b/25, $100-50, Class prizes TBD based on split. Ent: James.Jagodzin- in Scholarships Lehigh Valley players. to 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, Top U1400, 2. HR: Hilton $129-129, 888-999-4711, 518-584-4000, or use link at chess- [email protected]. 419-367-9450. Trophy’s tour.com. Courtyard $132-132, 866-210-9325, or use link at chesstour.com. MAR. 3-5 OR 4-5, 18th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA) U1200, U1000, U800, U600, U400, UNR, $15-$20 in Random Prizes Two nights minimum at both hotels. 7 days notice required for room can- See Grand Prix. to every player. Rds.: 1:10pm then ASAP. Reg.: Ends 1pm. Site: cellations. Both hotels will sell out a few months before the tournament, College Hill Moravian Church, 72 W. Laurel St., Bethlehem, PA 18018. but may again have availability in the final week before the event due to Ent: Bruce Davis, 1208 Linden St., Bethlehem, PA 18018, 484-866- late cancellations. For other backup hotels see chesstour.com. Free OKLAHOMA 3045, Email: [email protected], Info:www.lehigh valleychessclub.org/. parking at Courtyard; free parking for overnight guests at Hilton. 7 days DEC. 28-30, New Orleans Open (LA) notice required for room cancellation at both. Special car rentals: Avis, See Grand Prix. JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 49th annual Liberty Bell Open 800-331-1600, use AWD #657633. Online entry: www.chessaction.com. See Grand Prix. Mail entry: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. A Heritage Event! DEC. 31, 26th OCF Holiday Open FEB. 24-26 OR 25-26, 2nd annual George Washington Open (VA) Include name, rating, USCF ID, USCF expiration (non-members include See Grand Prix. dues), section, school, grade, birth date, address of each player. Checks 4-SS, G/50 + 15 spm. (Dual rated) Hwy Express Inn & Suites-Stillwater, 2313 West 6th Ave (hwy-51), Stillwater, OK 74074. 1-405-372-2425. payable to Continental Chess. $15 per player service charge for refunds. MAR. 3-5 OR 4-5, 18th annual Pittsburgh Open HR: 1b-$40, 2b-$50, suite-$60. Free Parking. $$100-1st, other $ per $10 extra to switch sections, all substitutions from advance list charged See Grand Prix. entries. REG.: 9-9:45 AM. RDS.: 10-12:30-3-5:30 PM. EF: $20. (1) half $60. Questions: DirectorAtChess.US (At = @)), 347-201-2269. Bring pt bye Rds. 1 2 or 3. Jim Berry, P O Box 351, Stillwater, OK 74076. LS. MAR. 11-12, 50th annual New York State Scholastic clock if possible- none supplied. Bring set & board for HS Championship, W. Email: [email protected]. Championships (out of state welcome) (NY) HS Reserve & JHS Championship; set & board supplied for other sections. See New York. March official ratings used (except unofficial web ratings usually used FEB. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 8th annual Southwest if otherwise unrated). TD reserves right to assign estimated rating to Class Championships (TX) players with non-USCF ratings. See Grand Prix. RHODE ISLAND NOV. 12, 2016 Greater New Haven Open! (CT) NORTH CAROLINA OREGON See Grand Prix. NOV. 12, ACC $uper$wiss (3SS, G/75 d5) DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 26th annual North American JAN. 6-8 OR 7-8, 5th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA) Courtyard Durham RTP, 301 Residence Inn Blvd., Durham, NC 27713. Open (NV) See Grand Prix. Prizes: $500 b/50. 50% guar. Open: $100-50-25, u1800 50-25. u1500: See Grand Prix. $100-50-25, u1200 50-25. Nov 16 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 10-10:15a. Rds.: JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16 10:30a-1p-after Rd2. 29, Econ 19 w 50% prize, Rtd 2200+ $0 by , 8th annual Golden State Open SOUTH CAROLINA EF: (CA-N) 11/2. Info: http://bachess.org/durham. W. See Grand Prix. DEC. 28-30 OR 29-30, 46th Annual Atlanta Open (GA) DEC. 3-4 See Grand Prix. , North Carolina Senior Open JUNE 14-15 See Grand Prix. , 2017 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Nationals. DEC. 10 , ACC All-star Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) JUNE 16-18 OR 17-18 TENNESSEE Courtyard Durham RTP, 301 Residence Inn Blvd., Durham, NC 27713. , 2017 National Open (NV) Trophies: Players w plus score. Check-in: Reqrd 10-10:15a. Games See Nationals. NOV. 11-13 OR 12-13, 25th annual Kings Island Open (OH) 10:30a-4p. EF: 11, 14 onsite. Info: http://bachess.org/durham. W. See Grand Prix. DEC. 28-30 OR 29-30, 46th Annual Atlanta Open (GA) PENNSYLVANIA NOV. 26-27, 57th Mid-South Open See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. Every Friday - LVCA 7 & 9pm Blitz Events Open/U1200 (BLZ) FEB. 24-26 OR 25-26, 2nd annual George Washington Open (VA) 8SS, G/5 d2. St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church, 140 So. Ott St., Allentown, DEC. 16-18, 2016 National K-12 Grade Championships See Grand Prix. PA 18104. EF: $5, Prizes: Open and U1200, Minimum 50% Returned. See Nationals. 1st-70%, 2nd-30% AND will ADD PRIZES if 12 or more players per DEC. 28-30, New Orleans Open (LA) OHIO section, FREE Coffee For All Entrants. REG.: Ends 6:55pm, Cash on site See Grand Prix. only. RDS.:7 pm, then ASAP. On Site: 484-866-3045 or bdavis@lehigh- DEC. 28-30 OR 29-30 NOV. 11-13 OR 12-13 valleychessclub.org,www.lehighvalleychessclub.org/ , 46th Annual Atlanta Open (GA) , 25th annual Kings Island Open See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. MLC & G Sunday Quads JAN. 6-8 3RR, Game/60 d5. Main Line Chess and Games, 7 South Valley Rd., , 2nd Annual Smoky Mountain Chess Tournament A State Championship Event! See Grand Prix. NOV. 19, Ohio Grade Level State Championship Paoli, PA 19301. EF: $20; $40, $50 for 3-0. Reg.: 12pm. Rds.: 12:15, Site: Newark High School, 314 Granville St., Newark, OH 43055. Food 2:30, 4:45 Info: [email protected] service on site. 13 sections, 1 per grade K-12. 5-SS, time controls vary North Penn Chess Club TEXAS by section and round, see website for details. Accelerated pairings possible. Main & Richardson, Lansdale, PA. See www.northpennchessclub.org One 1/2-pt bye rounds 1-4. Check in 8:30-9:30am, rounds begin 10am. for schedules & info or 215-699-8418. A State Championship Event! NOV. 11-13, 20th Annual Texas Grade Championships Trophies to all scoring 3.5+ and top 3 teams each section, medals to all NOV. 19 others. EF: $30 postmarked by 11/5, $35 after, final deadline 11/17; , 9th Annual David Elliott Memorial Cup Hilton Houston North, 12400 Greenspoint Dr., Houston, TX 77060. HR: limited number of $15/$20 EFs for low income students, call for availability. See Grand Prix. $95/$95/$95/$95, 713-943-7979. Mention DACH to get rate. Room comes Refund less $7 admin fee if w/d by noon 11/17, no refunds after. Advance NOV. 20, 2016 PA State Game/15 Championship (QC) with 2 breakfast coupons. Reserve by Oct 26 or rate may not be honored. registration only. neilley.com/chess for entry form, hotel info and complete See Grand Prix. Each grade is Open to TX residents or players attending Texas details. Contact: Tim Beltz, [email protected] or 740-745-2875. NOV. 20, Main Line Chess & Games Sunday Quads NOV. 19, Parma Open 3 RR, Game/60 d5. Main Line Chess and Games, 7 South Valley Rd., 4SS, G/45 d5. German Central Organization, 7863 York Rd. (1/4 mi. N Paoli, PA 19301. EF: $20. $40 to first, $50 to 3-0 result. Reg.: 11:45- FOREIGN RATING? of Sprague), Parma, OH. Sections: Open, U2000, U1600. Reg.: 8-9:15AM. 12:15 p.m. Rounds: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00 p.m. Info: Bring a chess clock. NOT UNRATED! Rds.: 9:30-11:15-1:30-3:15. Prizes (b/50): Open 1st $160, 2nd $80; [email protected], mainlinechessandgames.com, U2000 1st $120, 2nd $60; U1600 1st $120, 2nd $60; U1200 1st $60. Tom Bartell 610-240-8900. If you have no US CHESS rating, but do have a Ent: $20. Info & entries: William Wright, 19121 Wheelers Ln., Strongsville, NOV. 20, Tri-County National Warm-Up OH 44149. Phone: (440) 572-9565. E-mail: [email protected]. Web rating or category from any other country, no 4 ROUND SWISS SCHOLASTIC & AWARD BANQUET FREE. Yoder’s matter how many years ago, you are not unrated. www.parmachessclub.org/ Buffet Restaurant, New Holland, PA. G/25 d5. 3 Sections: U400, U750, NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, 2016 Motor City Open (MI) Over 750. Games: Sunday 11 am, Noon, 1pm, 2 pm. EF: $30 by 11/19 If you have a FIDE rating, you are also not unrated. See Grand Prix. No same day entry, Buffet extra. Register Online at http://woodser- Tell the Director of any event you enter about NOV. 26, Cincy Tornado - Thanksgiving Chess 3rd Year vices.org. PRIZES: Trophies 1st- 4th, Class and Wild Card Awards. your foreign rating or category or your FIDE rat- Last Saturday of Month. 2 Sections: OPEN & Under 1600. 4-SS, G/60 NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, 47th annual National Chess Congress ing, so that you can be paired appropriately. d5. Reg. ends 9:45am. 1st Round: 10am. EF: $33 if paid online/$38 at See Grand Prix.

www.uschess.org 69 Tournament Life / November

schools. Note that a new rule has been past where players cannot MAR. 3-5 OR 4-5, 18th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA) play in two separate closed scholastic state championship in different See Grand Prix. U.S. Postal Service. Statement of Ownership, states. Players must play in their own grade. Note that small sections Management, and Circulation (required by 39 U.S.C. may be merged with another section. Also if sections are small you may 3685). (1) Title of publication: Chess Life. (1) Publi- have to play a teammate or play someone twice. One 1/2 pt bye available, WASHINGTON cation number: 102-840. (3) Date of filing: September any round, if requested before end of rd. 2 and if player has not received NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27 23, 2016 (4) Frequency of issue: Monthly. (5) No. , Washington Class Championships of issues published annually: 12. (6) Annual sub- a full point bye. Team pairings may be turn off for later rounds. Trophies See Grand Prix. to top 10 ind. & top 5 teams (top three players added for team scores, no scription price: $50. (7) Complete mailing address more than 2 teams per school in each grade.) EF: $35 if postmarked by DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 26th annual North American of known office of publication (street, city, county, 11/4/16, $59 thereafter or on site. Do not mail after 11/4 as your entry Open (NV) state, and ZIP code) (Not printers): P.O. Box 3967, See Grand Prix. 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557 (8) Complete may not be received on time. NOTE that this is the last Texas Grade before mailing address of the headquarters of general busi- the split to a North/Central and South Texas Grade. Grades 6-12: 6SS, JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16, 8th annual Golden State Open ness office of the publisher (Not printers): PO Box G/60 d5. Schedule: Reg: Fri 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Rd. 1 Fri. 7:45 pm, Sat (CA-N) 3967, 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557. (9) Full 10am-1:00pm-4pm, Sun. 10 am and 1:00 pm. Grades K-6: Nov 11 – Nov See Grand Prix. names/complete mailing addresses of publisher, 13. 6SS, Rds. 1 G/45 d5; Rds. 2-6 G/60 d5. Schedule: Reg: Fri 6:30 pm – editor, and managing editor (this item must not be 7:30 pm. Rd. 1 Fri. 7:45 pm, Sat 10am-1:00pm-4pm, Sun. 10 am and 1:00 JUNE 14-15, 2017 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) blank). Publisher (name/complete mailing address): pm. All: Entries to: Dallas Chess Club, c/o Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn See Nationals. Jean Hoffman, US Chess, PO Box 3967, 137 Obrien Trail, Crowley, TX 76036. Entry must include Name, USCF ID (or new/pend- JUNE 16-18 OR 17-18, 2017 National Open (NV) Dr., Crossville, TN 38557. Editor (name/complete ing), grade & school and school location. Incomplete entries will be charged See Nationals. mailing address): Daniel Lucas, P.O. Box 3967, 137 at site entry fee. No refunds after 11/9. Email: [email protected] Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557. Managing Editor 214-632-9000. Do not call after 11/9 as we are traveling. Online registration (name and complete mailing address): same as and team room information on website at www.dallaschess.com. Side WEST VIRGINIA above. (10) Owner. (If owned by a corporation, its name and address must be stated and also imme- events: Unrated Blitz open tournament on 11/11 at 7:00pm. EF: $15, NOV. 11-13 OR 12-13 Trophy prizes. Bughouse Open Tournament Sat. 8:35 pm. EF: $20/team. , 25th annual Kings Island Open (OH) diately there under the names and addresses of See Grand Prix. stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more Trophy prizes. Registration for side events online or onsite only. W. of total amount of stock. If not owned by a corpo- NOV. 18-23 A State Championship Event! ration, the names and addresses of the individual , 2016 UT Dallas Fall FIDE Open NOV. 12 See Grand Prix. , WVCA Junior Championship owners must be given. If owned by a partnership 4SS, G/60 d0. Notre Dame High School, 127 E. Pike St., Clarksburg, WV NOV. 24-27 OR 25-27 or other incorporated firm, its name and address, , 2016 DCC FIDE Open XIV 26301. Three Sections: Championship (Over 900), Intermediate (500- as well as that of each individual must be given. If See Grand Prix. 899), Beginner (Under 500). Prizes: Trophy to top 3 in each section and the publication is published by a nonprofit organi- DEC. 10-11, 2016 DCC FIDE Open XV top school. Top placed WVCA member in Championship section will be zation, its name and address must be stated.) (Do See Grand Prix. 2016 WV Junior Champion. EF: $10 by 11/1, $15 at site. WVCA Memb. not leave blank.): United States Chess Federation, PO Box 3967, 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557. DEC. 17-19 req’d ($5), OSA. Reg.: 9-9:30. Rds.: 10-ASAP. Entries: Harrison County , Dallas Absolute Chess Club, c/o Robert Greer, P.O. Box 4338, Clarksburg, WV 26302. (11) Known bondholders, mortgagees, and other See Grand Prix. Checks payable to Harrison County Chess Club. Info: 304-641-9241. security holders owning or holding 1 percent or DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29 more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other , 26th annual North American A State Championship Event! securities (if there are none, so state): none. (12) Open (NV) DEC. 17-18, WVCA Senior Open For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized See Grand Prix. 5SS, G/90 d10 (Rds. 1-2 G/75 d10). Comfort Suites, 285 White Oaks Blvd., to mail at special rates section 423.12, DMM only). DEC. 28-30, New Orleans Open (LA) Bridgeport, WV 26330. Two Sections: Senior (Age 50+ by 12/31/16), The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this See Grand Prix. Young’uns (21-49). Prizes: Trophy to top 3 in each section. $$ prizes organization and tax exempt status for Federal income tax purposes (check one): þ has not changed DEC. 31-JAN. 1, DCC New Year INSANITY b/20 in each section: Open: $100-75-25. U1600: $50-25. Top placed WVCA member and WV resident will be 2016 WV Senior Champion. during preceding 12 months; ¨ has changed during See Grand Prix. EF: preceding 12 months. (If changed, publisher must $40 by 12/10, $50 at site. $3 discount for WVCA members. Reg.: 9:30- FEB. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20 submit explanation of change with this statement.) , 8th annual Southwest 10:30. Rds.: Sat. 11-2:45-7, Sun. 10-2:30. Entries: Harrison County Chess (13) Publication Name: Chess Life. (14) Issue Date Class Championships Club, c/o Robert Greer, P.O. Box 4338, Clarksburg, WV 26302. Checks for Circulation Data Below: September 2016. (15) See Grand Prix. payable to Harrison County Chess Club. Info: 304-641-9241. Extent and nature of circulation. (a) Total number JUNE 14-15, 2017 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) FEB. 24-26 OR 25-26, 2nd annual George Washington Open (VA) copies printed (net press run): average number See Nationals. See Grand Prix. copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 26,225; actual number copies of single issue pub- JUNE 16-18 OR 17-18, 2017 National Open (NV) MAR. 3-5 OR 4-5, 18th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA) lished nearest to filing date, 23,747 (b) Paid and/or See Nationals. See Grand Prix. requested circulation: (1) Paid/requested outside- county mail subscriptions: average number copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 24,129; UTAH WISCONSIN actual number copies of single issue published near- JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16 NOV. 25-27 est to filing date, 23,028. (2) Paid in-county , 8th annual Golden State Open , 2016 North Central Open/Martz Memorial subscriptions (include advertiser’s proof copies/ex - (CA-N) See Grand Prix. change copies): average number copies each issue See Grand Prix. NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, 2016 Motor City Open (MI) during preceding 12 months, 0; actual number copies JUNE 14-15, 2017 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Grand Prix. of single issue published nearest to filing date, 0. See Nationals. (3) Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! and counter sales (not mailed): average number JUNE 16-18 OR 17-18, 2017 National Open (NV) DEC. 10-11, The Wisconsin Memorial copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 299; See Nationals. 5SS, Rds. 1-3 G/120 d5. Rds. 4-5 40/120, SD/60 d5. Madison Marriott actual number copies of single issue published near- West, 1313 John Q. Hammons Dr., Middleton, WI 53562. HR: $89. EF: $30 est to filing date, 0. (4) Paid distribution by other (Juniors $25) by Dec. 6. $5 more later or on site. $$b/50 and 4 per class: classes of mail through the USPS (e.g. First Class VERMONT $160-110. A - $90, B - $80, C - $70, D - $60, E - $50, U1000 - $40, Unr - $40. Mail): average number copies each issue during DEC. 3 Upset $50. Reg.: 9-9:30 AM 12/10. Rds.: 10-2:30-7; 10-3:30. ENT: Dennis preceding 12 months, 361; actual number copies of , QuickChess in Middlebury (QC) single issue published nearest to filing date, 355. 6SS, G/25 d3. Courtyard Marriott, 309 Court St. (Route 7), Middlebury, VT Kosterman, 28 Singleton Ct., Madison, WI 53711 608-770-3133. INFO: [email protected]. www.wischess.org. WI Chess Tour Event. W. (C) Total paid distribution (sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), 05753. Open to all. EF: $30 if rec’d by 12/1 or $36 at site; both 50% less if and (4),: average number copies each issue during U900/Unr. $$ 1000 b/30: 250-150-100, A/B/C/D/E 100 each. Reg.: 9- DEC. 17-21, Universal 5-Day 9-Round 10-Person Round Robin (MI) preceding 12 months, 24,789; actual number copies 9:40 a.m., Rds.: 10:10-11:30-1:30-3-4:30-6. Half-point bye OK for any one See Michigan. of single issue published nearest to filing date, round if requested before noon. Ent: Parker Montgomery, PO Box 831, 23,383. Free or nominal rate distribution; (15d (1), Middlebury, VT 05753-0831; [email protected], mobile 802-349- A Heritage Event! (2), (3); average number copies each issue during 7739. Advance EF may be paid via PayPal; contact Parker to learn more. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! preceding 12 months, 0; actual number copies of JAN. 14-15 JAN. 6-8 OR 7-8, 5th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA) , 52nd Northeastern Open single issue published nearest to filing date, 0. 15d See Grand Prix. Riverwalk Hotel Downtown Neenah, 123 E. Wisconsin Ave., Neenah, (4); average number of copies each issue during WI 54956. HR: $83 (1-bed king or 2-bed double) 920-725-8441 (Mention preceding 12 months, 200; actual number of copies MAR. 11-12, 50th annual New York State Scholastic Chess-Reserve Early). In 3 Sections, Open: 5SS, 35/90, SD/60 d5, EF: of single published nearest to filing date, 200. (e) Championships (out of state welcome) (NY) $40 by 1/10; $47 at site. $$b/30: $200-125. 1900-$110, 1800-$100, Total free or nominal rate distribution (sum of 15d See New York. 1700-$100, 1600-$90, U1600-$75. 10-2:30-7:30;10-3. (1), (2), (3), and (4): 200; actual number copies of Rds.: Reserve: single issue published nearest to filing date, 200. 5SS, 35/90, SD/60 d5, Open to U1500. EF: $25 by 1/10; $32 on site. (f) Total distribution (sum of 15c and 15e): average VIRGINIA $$b/20: $70-50. 1200-$40 U1200-$40. Rds.: 10-2:30-7:30;10-3. Novice: number copies each issue during preceding 12 6SS, G/60 d5, Open to U1000. EF: $15 by 1/10; $22 at site. Prizes: Tro- months, 24,989; actual number copies of single US Chess Junior Grand Prix! phies to 1st-5th. Rds.: 10-1-3:30-6:30;10-1. ALL: Reg: 1/14 - 8:45-9:30 issue published nearest to filing date, 23,583. (g) NOV. 19-20, 24th Annual David Zofchak Memorial am. One 1/2-point any Rd. Full-pt bye to 2100+ in Rd.1 if requested Copies not distributed: average number copies each 5SS, G/2 d5. Site: Sleep Inn Lake Wright, 6280 Northampton Blvd., before Late Reg ends. Checks payable to Mike Nietman. ENT: Mike Niet- issue during preceding 12 months, 1,236; actual num- Norfolk, VA 23502, 757-461-6251 EF: $50 if rec’d. by 11/17, else $60. man-Organizer, 2 Boca Grande Way, Madison, WI 53719, 608-467-8510 ber copies of single issue published nearest to filing $1200 b/o 40 2 Sections - OPEN $160-$140-$120 - Top A $110 - Top B (before 1/13). INFO: [email protected]. NEWCA Procedural date, 164. (h) Total (sum of 15f and 15g) average $100. U1600 $120-$110 - $100 - Top D/Unr $90 - Top E $80 - U1000 Rules. W. number copies each issue during preceding 12 $70. A VCF Cup event. Reg.: 9-9:30. Rds.: Sat: 9:45-2:15-7, Sun: 9:30- months, 26,225; actual number copies of single issue 2:00. Mbr: VCF $10/$5. Req. for VA residents HR: $74 w/Free breakfast. published nearest to filing date, 23,747. (i) Percent WYOMING paid. 15c divided by 15f × 100), per cent on average Please reserve by 11/1. Entry & checks: Virginia Chess, 1370 S. Braden no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months, Cres., Norfolk, VA 23502. Info only: [email protected], (757)853- 99.2; per cent on actual no. copies of single issue 5296. On-line entry and details www.vachess.org. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! NOV. 4-5, 2016 Wyoming Open published nearest filing date, 99.2. 16. Publication NOV. 25-27 OR 26-27, 47th annual National Chess Congress (PA) 4SS, Friday, Rd1 G/60 d5, Saturday, Rds 2-5 35/90 d5 SD/1 d5. LCCC of Statement of Ownership. Publication of this See Grand Prix. Conference Center, Room 112, training room, 1400 E. College Dr., statement will be printed in the November 2016 Cheyenne, WY 82001. Open to all and Under 1700. issue of this publication. 17. I certify that the state- JAN. 13-16, 14-16 OR 15-16 Sections: Prizes: ments made by me above are correct and complete , 49th annual Liberty Bell Open (PA) b/entries. EF: $20 Pre-entry, $25 at door, Reg.: Friday 5:00pm-6:00pm. See Grand Prix. (signature and title of editor, publisher, business Rds.: Fri 7:00 pm, Sat 9:00 am, 12:30 pm, 5:30 pm. First Rd Byes manager, or owner): Jean Hoffman (sig.), Publisher. FEB. 24-26 OR 25-26, 2nd annual George Washington Open Available. Ent: Brian Walker, 2835 Forest Dr., Cheyenne, WY 82001. P.S. Form 3526, July 2014. See Grand Prix. Email: [email protected]. W.

70 November 2016 | Chess Life Classifieds / Solutions / November Classifieds Solutions

Chess Life accepts classified advertising in these categories: PAGE 17 / CHESS TO ENJOY PAGE 49 / PUNCHING BACK! Activities, For Rent, For Sale, Games, Instruction, Miscel- laneous, Services, Tournaments, Wanted. Only typed or PROBLEM I. 57. Bg5+! Kxg5 58. Qf4 mate. Or 57. PROBLEM I. In this hopeless-looking position, I e-mailed copy is accepted. Absolutely no telephone orders. Rates (per word, per insertion): 1-2 insertions $1.50, 3-6 ... Kh7 58. Qg8 mate. PROBLEM II. 39. Re6! threat- was able to find a sudden defensive resource to insertions $1.25, 7 + insertions $1.00. Affiliates pay $1.00 ens to win with 40. Rxg6!, or 39. ... Qe8 40. f5!. escape with a draw: 47. ... Qxd5! This gives White per word regardless of insertion frequency. No other dis- PROBLEM III. 39. ... Nxf5! 40. gxf5 Rh1+ and 41. two connected passers, but they will go nowhere counts available. Advertisements with less than 15 words will cost a minimum of $15 per issue. Post office boxes ... Qxb2+, e.g. 41. Kf2 Qxb2+ 42. Re2 R1h2+. PROB- in the ensuing opposite-colored bishop endgame. count as two words, telephone numbers as one, ZIP code LEM IV. 28. ... Rxe3! 29. fxe3 Qc4 threatens both 48. cxd5 Rg2 49. Bb6 Kb7 50. Be3 Be4 The is free. Full payment must accompany all advertising. All 30. ... Qxe4+ and 30. ... Rf1, e.g. 30. Qg6 Qf1+ 31. point. White’s passers will be blockaded on the advertising published in Chess Life is subject to the appli- Qg1 Qf3+ 32. Qg2 Qd1 33. Qg1 Rf1 (or 33. ... Qxh5). white squares by the king and bishop. 51. d6 cable rate card, available from the Advertising Department. Chess Life reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s PROBLEM V. 34. ... f6! wins the knight because of Rxf2+ 52. Bxf2 Bd5 53. b4 Kc6 54. Kc3 Be6 55. order. Only publication of an advertisement constitutes 35. Qf4 Ng6 36. Qe4 Qxf5 37. Qxf5 Nh4+ and 38. Kd4 Bf5 56. Bg3 Be6 57. Ke3 Bd5 58. Kf4 Kd7 final acceptance. For a copy of these complete set of reg- ... Nxf5. Also good is 34. ... Rh2+ 35. Kg3 f6 36. 59. Kg4 Be6+ 60. Kxf3 Kc6 61. Kf4 Kd7 62. Bf2 ulations & a schedule of deadlines, send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: Chess Life Classifieds, PO Box Qf4 Rh5 37. e4 Qc8 38. Kg2 Qh8. PROBLEM VI. Kc6 63. Kg5 Kd7, Draw agreed. PROBLEM II. 3967, Crossville, TN 38557. Ads are due two months prior 23. Ng5+ Kh6 (23. ... Kh8 24. Qh5+ Kg8 25. Qh7+ Vaganian is on the brink of defeat, and after 35. (by the 10th) of the issue cover date you want your ad to and mates) 24. g4! threatens 25. Qh5 mate. The ... Qxc2+?? 36. Kh3 he managed to valiantly appear in. (For example: October CL ads MUST be sub- game ended with 24. ... g6 25. h4 Rh8 26. Qh7+ resist for another 26 moves. But he had an mitted no later than August 10th). You can e-mail your classified ad to Joan DuBois, [email protected]. and mates. absolutely incredible stalemate trick to save this outwardly hopeless position: 35. ... b6!! The prel- ude, giving up the bishop and stalemating his For Sale PAGE 47 / ABCs OF CHESS * WORLD’S FINEST CHESS SETS * king. 36. Qxc6 Forced, since 36. Rxc6?? loses *The House of Staunton, produces unquestionably PROBLEM I. Annihilation: Black pilfers material by to 36. ... Ne3+ and 36. Qf8 Nd2 is unclear. 36. ... the finest Staunton Chess sets. *Pay-Pal and all Major Ne3+! Let the fun begin. 37. Rxe3 Qe2+!! Classic, Credit Cards accepted. The House of Staunton, Inc.; 1. ... Nxd4, since 2. exd4 is crushed by 2. ... Bxd4+. 1021 Production Court; Suite 100; Madison, AL 35758. PROBLEM II. Mating net: Black forces mate by 1. ... but this never gets old. 38. Rxe2, Stalemate. Or *Website: www.houseofstaunton.com; phone: (256) Ng3+ 2. hxg3 Qh5 (or 2. ... Qh6) mate. PROBLEM 38. Kh3 Qh5+ and the king must return. 858-8070; email: [email protected] III. Mating net: It’s mate on the move: 1. ... Qxg3 ONLY $5.00 for 5 issues of “Chess Secrets.” mate. PROBLEM IV. Discovery: Black wins a piece Books. Need e-mail address. 1524 Leclaire St., Dav- with 1. ... Bxb1. If 2. Qxb1, then 2. ... Qxe2. PROBLEM enport, Iowa 52803. US CHESS SPECIAL V. Pin: Black wins a piece by 1. ... d4. PROBLEM VI. REFEREE PROGRAM Wanted Fork: Black has a devastating fork, 1. ... Bc2. * CHESS-PLAYER SCHOLARS * Are you a TD in need of help in top 10% of high school class with USCF > 2000 at a tournament with a rules, and SAT (math + critical reading + writing) > 2150    prize or other problem? for possible college scholarships to UMBC. Prof. Alan Sherman, Dept. of Computer Science and Electrical     Our Special Referees are experi- Engineering, Univ. of Maryland, Baltimore County,      21250. [email protected] enced NTDs who can function Total Score Approx. Rating as an Appeals Committee or Instruction 95+ 2400+ answer rule issues. 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YOU’LL SEE REAL PROGRESS by Studying with 3- Time U.S. Champ GM Lev Alburt! Private lessons (incl. by mail and phone) from $80/hr. CHESS LIFE USPS # 102-840 (ISSN 0197-260X). Volume 71 No. 11. PRINTED IN THE USA. Chess Life, formerly Chess Life & Review, is published Autographed seven-volume, self-study Comprehen- monthly by the United States Chess Federation, 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557-3967. Chess Life & Review and Chess Life remain the property of USCF. Annual subscription (without membership): $50. Periodical postage paid at Crossville, TN 38557-3967 and additional mailing offices. sive Chess Course-only $134 postpaid! P.O. Box 534, POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chess Life (USCF), PO Box 3967, Crossville, Tennessee 38557-3967. Entire contents ©2016 by the United Gracie Station, NY, NY 10028. (212) 794-8706. States Chess Federation. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise without the prior written permission of USCF. Note: Unsolicited materials are EVERY SUNDAY YOUNG MASTERS submitted at the sender's risk and Chess Life accepts no responsibility for them. Materials will not be returned unless accompanied by appropriate Highest USCF titled (Sr. Master) Mick Bighamian has postage and packaging. Address all submissions to Chess Life, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557-3967. The opinions expressed are strictly those 30+ yrs. of teaching youngsters. 4-Sunday monthly of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Chess Federation. Send all address changes to: U.S. Chess, program (via Skype @ 10-11 am PST) covers Opening, Membership Services, PO Box 3967, Crossville, Tennessee 38557-3967. Include your USCF I.D. number and a recent mailing label if possible. This information may be e-mailed to [email protected]. Please give us eight weeks advance notice. PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. Middle Game, Endgame, and Tactics. Fee is $100 + 41473530 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO EXPRESS MESSENGER INTERNATIONAL P.O. BOX 25058 LONDON BRC, ONTARIO, $20 Binder (optional). Info: @ [email protected] CANADA N6C 6A8 or 310.795-5710.

www.uschess.org 71    

GM ALEKSANDR LENDERMAN 2nd Board Gold Medalist, 2015 World Team Championship 2005 World U16 Champion

have played chess since I was 10 years old and have been a chess professional for about seven Iyears now. After all these years it is very hard to choose a “best move,” as I might easily be forgetting some very good moves from early in my career. But ultimately I chose a move from the last I knew a win, and only a win, round of the prestigious 2015 tour nament. Playing black against the 2700-rated would get me into the final four. GM Ray Robson, I knew a win, and only a win, would get me into the final four (Millionaire Monday). Therefore, I chose an opening that would lead to a very interesting battle. very“ complex battle. positions is you have to not worry about 17. ... Ba6 18. f5 material but try to open up the enemy’s king FRENCH DEFENSE, shelter as soon as possible. In a game with CLASSICAL SYSTEM (C11) less on the line the continuation” may have GM Ray Robson (2766) been acceptable. 18. ... Nd7? 19. Qxb6 Nxb6 GM Aleksandr Lenderman (2712) 20. fxe6 fxe6 21. Ned4. Millionaire Chess Open 2 (7), Las Vegas, Nevada, 10.11.2015 19. cxb3 The other lines aren’t effective for White 1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. e5 Nfd7 5. f4 either. 19. axb3 d4; 19. Bxa6 bxc2+; 19. Qg5 c5 6. Nf3 Nc6 7. Be3 a6 8. Qd2 b5 9. dxc5 bxa2+ 20. Ka1 Rab8. Bxc5 10. Bd3 0-0!? This is all known theory, but now comes an 19. ... d4 20. Qg5 h6 21. Qh5 Bxd3+ 22. interesting twist. Castling allows a very interesting Rxd3 possibility but I had previously worked out And now I was fortunate to come up with working with my chess team when we were And now the moment of truth. During the the important clincher, which I hadn’t seen preparing a friend six months previously, and it game I wasn't feeling well and was having a hard earlier. But if you play logical and fighting ended up paying huge dividends here. time calculating variations. And now I was actually chess, things can sometimes go your way. worried about my position. White has menacing 11. 0-0-0 threats like f6 followed by Qg5 and I was actually 22. ... Qb5! A critical test is 11. Bxh7+ Kxh7 12. Ng5+ Kg8 doubting my previous couple of moves. Suddenly Now I’m winning and never let go. After 13. Qd3 Qxg5 14. fxg5 Ndxe5 15. Qe2 Bxe3 16. the right idea struck me. Once I saw the idea, I 22. ... Nxd3? 23. g5 the position is a huge mess. Qxe3 d4 17. Qg3 dxc3 18. Qxc3 b4, and the just realized that I have to go for it. If you don’t 23. Rd2 Ne4 24. Rgd1 Nxd2+ 25. Rxd2 position is complex enough that it might be go for it, the regrets can be forever. Qd5 26. g5 Qe4+ 27. Ka1 Nxe5 28. Nxe5 playable at least for one game. 18. ... b3!! Qxe5 29. gxh6 g6 30. Qh4 exf5 31. a3 d3 32. Nf4 Rd4 33. Nxd3 Qd6 34. Qg5 Kh7! 11. ... Qb6 12. Bg1 Bxg1 13. Rhxg1 Nc5 14.  not only because it was a 35. Qe3 Rd8 36. Ne5 Rxd2 37. Nxf7 Qf6 Kb1 b4 15. Ne2 a5 16. Qe3 Rd8 17. g4 good move, but also because of the huge 38. Ng5+ Kh8, White resigned. The continuation 17. Bxh7+!? Kxh7 18. Ng5+ importance of this game. The important thing Whose Best Move would you like to see? Write to Kg8 19. Qh3 is interesting and would lead to a to remember in opposite-side castled “race” us at [email protected]. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER SAINT LOUIS

72 November 2016 | Chess Life

8th annual Southwest Class Championships DFW Airport Marriott South, Fort Worth, Texas Feb 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 or 19-20, 2017 (Presidents Day weekend) $30,000 guaranteed, GM & IM norms possible!

Master Section: 9 rounds, Feb 16-20. Mailed entries: 5-day $165, 4-day $164, 40/2, SD/30, d10. 3-day $163, 2-day $162 mailed by 2/7. Do Other sections: 7 rounds, 40/2, SD/30, not mail entry after 2/7. d10 (3-day option, rds 1-2 G/60, d10; 2-day Class D or E entry fee: $80 less than top option in B through E, rds 1-4 G/30, d10). All 4 sections entry fee. schedules merge & play for same prizes. Master Section: GM, foreign IM/WGM DFW Airport Marriott South, 4151 free; $150 from prize. US IM/WGM & FIDE Centreport Blvd, Fort Worth TX 76155. foreign: entry fee $80 less. Minimum prize Special room rates $100-$100, 817-358- $300 to foreign GMs who play all 9 games; ef 1700, reserve by 2/3 or rate may increase. deduction cannot lower prize to below $300. Free parking, free airport shuttle Re-entry (no Master to Master): $50. In 7 sections. Rated players may play up USCF memb. required. Special 1 yr dues one section. Unrated may enter A through E. with magazine: see TLA or chesstour.com. Master (2200/up): $3000-1500-1000-600- 400, clear/tiebreak win $200, top FIDE 5-day schedule (Master only): Reg. Thu U2300 $1400-700. FIDE rated, 150 GPP. to 6 pm, rds Thu 7, Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 & 6, Expert (2000-2199): $2000-1000-500- Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4. 300-200. 4-day schedule (Expert & below): Reg. Class A (1800-1999): $2000-1000-500- Fri to 6 pm, rds Fri 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 300-200. Unrated limit $750. 6, Mon 10 & 4. Class B (1600-1799): $2000-1000-500- 3-day schedule (Expert & below): Reg. 300-200. Unrated limit $600. Sat to 10 am, rds Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & Class C (1400-1599): $1700-900-500- 6, Mon 10 & 4. 300-200. Unrated limit $450. 2-day schedule (B, C, D, E only): Reg. Class D (1200-1399): $800-400-300-200- ends Sun 9 am, rds Sun. 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6; 100. Unrated limit $300. Mon 10 & 4. Class E (Under 1200): $800-400-300- Half-point byes available all rounds, limit 200-100. Unrated limit $150. 2; Master must commit before rd 2, others Mixed Doubles bonus prizes: Best before rd 4. male-female 2-player combined score among all sections: $1000-600-400. Team Bring set, board, clock if possible- none average must be under 2200; teammates supplied. FIDE ratings used in Master, Feb may be in different sections; must register USCF in others, except unofficial USCF (no extra fee) before both players begin ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. round 2. $15 service charge for refunds. Entries are posted at chessaction.com Top 5 sections entry fees: $158 online (online entries posted instantly). at chessaction.com by 2/15, $170 phoned to Entry: chessaction.com or Continental 406-896-2038 by 2/13, $180 at site, or Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills NY 12577. online until 2 hours before first game. Blitz: starts Sun 10 pm, enter by 9:45.