Webster University Wins Sixth Straight PanAm Intercollegiate Championship

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GM ALEXANDER SHABALOV WINS EASTERN OPEN

March 2018 | USChess.org The United States’ Largest Chess Specialty Retailer

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GM & IM norms possible, mixed doubles prizes, GM lectures & analysis! A HISTORIC SITE SPECIAL FEATURES! 4) Provisional (under 26 games) prize The World Open returns to the 1) Schedule options. 5-day is most limits in U1200 to U2000. Marriott Downtown, near many historic popular; 6-day leisurely, 4-day and 3-day 5) Unrated not allowed in U900 to landmarks including Independence Hall, save time & money. Open is 5-day only. U1800; prize limited in U2000 & U2200. Franklin Institute, Philadelphia Museum of 2) Open Section includes large class 6) Mixed Doubles: $3000-1500-700- Art, the Liberty Bell, and restaurants, prizes: $5000-2500-1500 to each of FIDE 500-300 for male/female teams. theaters, museums, shopping. Across the 2300-2449, 2200-2299, and U2200/Unr. 7) International 6/28-7/2, now in 3 street from famous Reading Terminal Play for both norms & large class prizes! sections! World Open Action 7/3 with Market with 80 food vendors. 3) Prize limit $2000 if post-event $7000 projected, many other events. $115 special room rate. See rating posted 6/30/17-6/30/18 was more 8) Free analysis by GM Palatnik 7/4-8. Tournament Life for parking info. than 30 pts over section maximum. Free GM lectures 7/6 & 7/7, 9 am.

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Reserve early! Chess rate $115-115, 215- If any post-event rating posted 6/30/17- PAST WINNERS 625-2900, may sell out by early June. 6/30/18 is more than 30 points over section Time limit: minimum, prize limit $2000. 1973 Walter Browne 1974 Bent Larsen 1975 5-day & 6-day options 40/2, SD/30, d10. Players with under 26 lifetime games Pal Benko 1976 Anatoly Lein 1977 John 4-day, rounds 1-2 G/60, d10, then merges. rated as of July 2018 official list cannot win Fedorowicz 1978 Peter Biyiasas 1979 Haukur 3-day U1200 & up, rounds 1-5 G/35, d10, over $1000 in U1200, $2000 U1400, $3000 in Angantysson 1980 Larry Christiansen 1981 then merges. U1600 through U2000. Igor Ivanov 1982 Nick de Firmian 1983 Kevin 3-day U900, 3-day Unrated: G/60, d10. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online Spraggett 1984 Joel Benjamin 1985 Maxim July official USCF ratings used (July entries posted instantly). $15 service charge for Dlugy 1986 Nick de Firmian 1987 Boris Gulko FIDE ratings used for Open Section). refunds. Special USCF dues: see Tournament 1988 Maxim Dlugy 1989 Mikhail Gurevich Open to U1800 prizes & all plaques Life or chesstour.com. awarded at site, others mailed by 7/23. Bring set, board, clock- not supplied. 1990 Igor Glek 1991 Gata Kamsky 1992 Gregory Kaidanov 1993 Alex Yermolinsky Open through U1400 entry fees: Online 5-day schedule: Wed 7 pm, Thu to Sat 11 1994 Artashes Minasian 1995 Alex at chessaction.com, $308 by 4/15, $318 by am & 6 pm, Sun 10 am & 4:30 pm. Yermolinsky 1996 Alex Yermolinsky 1997 5/15, $328 by 6/30, $350 at site to 1 1/2 hrs 6-day schedule: Tue & Wed 7 pm, then Alex Shabalov 1998 Alex Goldin 1999 before round 1 or online until 2 hrs before rd 1. merges with 5-day. Gregory Serper 2000 Joel Benjamin 2001 Alex Open Section: All $100 more if not rated 4-day schedule: Thu 11 am, 2:30 pm & 6 Goldin 2002 Kamil Miton 2003 Jaan Ehlvest pm, Fri & Sat 11 am & 6 pm, Sun 10 & 4:30. over 2199 by USCF or FIDE. 2004 Varuzhan Akobian 2005 Kamil Miton U1200 Section entry fees: All $100 less. 3-day schedule (U1200/up): Fri 11, 1:30, 2006 Gata Kamsky 2007 Varuzhan Akobian U900, Unrated Sections entry fees: $68 3:30, 6 & 8:30, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 2008 Evgeny Najer 2009 Evgeny Najer 2010 online by 6/30,$80 at site. U900 or Unrated: Fri & Sat 11 am, 2:30 Seniors 65/up: entry fee $100 less in pm & 6 pm, Sun 10 am, 1:30 pm & 4:30 pm. Viktor Laznicka 2011 Gata Kamsky 2012 Ivan U1400 & above. Half point byes OK all, limit 4 (limit 2 in Sokolov 2013 Varuzhan Akobian 2014 Ilya Mailed entries, titled player entries: see last 4 rounds). Open must commit before round Smirin 2015 Aleks Lenderman 2016 Gabor Tournament Life or chesstour.com. 3, others before round 5. Papp 2017 Tigran Petrosian

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2 March 2018 | Chess Life www.uschess.org 3 Chess Life 38 MARCH Finishing the Eastern Open with a perfect score, COLUMNS GM ALEXANDER 12 CHESS TO ENJOY / ENTERTAINMENT SHABALOV credits A Poverty of Attention the little-known By GM Andy Soltis Pirc-Nimzo hybrid 14 BACK TO BASICS / READER ANNOTATIONS for his four wins Horatius on the Bridge as black. By GM Lev Alburt

16 IN THE ARENA / PLAYER OF THE MONTH Cameron Wheeler at the North American Open By GM Robert Hess

18 LOOKS AT BOOKS / SHOULD I BUY IT? Get Off My Lawn! By John Hartmann

44 SOLITAIRE CHESS / INSTRUCTION Positional Chess Can Wait By Bruce Pandolfini

46 THE PRACTICAL ENDGAME / INSTRUCTION Move of the Year, Endgame Edition By GM Daniel Naroditsky 20 FISCHER’S LEGACY / TEN YEARS ON Searching for Fischer’s Legacy DEPARTMENTS BY MENACHEM WECKER Bobby Fischer would have turned 75 this month. Ten years MARCH PREVIEW / 6 removed from the death of the most controversial person in THIS MONTH IN CHESS LIFE AND US CHESS NEWS US Chess history, we take a sober look at his legacy. 8 COUNTERPLAY / READERS RESPOND 26 FISCHER’S LEGACY / BOBBY FISCHER 9 US CHESS AFFAIRS / TEACHES CHESS NEWS FOR OUR MEMBERS The Best Chess Book I Ever Stole 10 FIRST MOVES / BY SEAN ROBINSON CHESS NEWS FROM AROUND THE U.S. The behind-the-scenes story of Leslie Ault and the best-selling 11 FACES ACROSS THE BOARD / chess book of all time, Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess BY AL LAWRENCE 50 TOURNAMENT LIFE / MARCH 30 COLLEGE CHESS / 2017 PAN AMS Webster Staves off SLU for Another CLASSIFIEDS / MARCH 71 PanAms Title 71 SOLUTIONS / MARCH BY AL LAWRENCE SLU, Texas Tech and UT-RGV secure remaining berths in 72 MY BEST MOVE / PERSONALITIES THIS MONTH: GM ELSHAN MORADIABADI Final Four.

COVER STORY / SHABALOV WINS ON THE COVER 38 EASTERN OPEN GM Alexander Shabalov contemplates his next move after winning the Eastern Open. PHOTO THIS PAGE AND What a Piece of Work is Shabba! COVER PHOTO BY MICHAEL WILLIAMS BY TOM BECKMAN

4 March 2018 | Chess Life www.uschess.org 5 March Preview / This month in Chess Life and US Chess News

US CHESS NEWS PREVIEW MARCH CONTRIBUTORS

MENACHEM WECKER PRO CHESS LEAGUE MADNESS (Fischer’s Legacy) is a The PRO Chess League playoffs span March 13-21 to Washington, D.C. reporter who determine the ultimate contender for the second has interviewed Mel Brooks about Championship title, which will be settled on Champi- herring and has covered onship weekend, April 8-9. Will the Saint Louis everything from Einstein’s and Archbishops, featuring GM Fabiano Caruana this year, Gandhi’s footwear and the origins repeat victory? Or will another team, such as the Seattle of museum taxidermies to events Sluggers (with GM Hikaru Nakamura) or the Norway that endanger museums’ Gnomes (with GM Magnus Carlsen) take the crown? collections and Zoroastrian Look for updates on uschess.org as well as our Twitter dating. @USChess and the official league Twitter @PROChessLeague. SEAN ROBINSON (Ault) is an award-winning investigative journalist based in Tacoma, Washington, specializing in crime and courts. EASTER He has worked for the Tacoma News Tribune since 2000, and he’s GRAND mastered the Lucena position.

PRIX AL LAWRENCE Look for updates on (PanAms) is the former executive two major Swisses director of both US Chess and the held over Easter World Chess Hall of Fame. He is Weekend, the currently Managing Director for Philadelphia Open the US Chess Trust. His latest and the Reno Larry book, with GM Lev Alburt, is Evans Memorial. Chess for the Gifted and Busy.

TOM BECKMAN (Eastern Open) is a Washington, D.C.-area tournament organizer.

CANDIDATES IN BERLIN The much anticipated Candidates Tournament in Berlin goes down from March 10-28. GMs Fabiano Caruana and Wesley So will represent the U.S. in their quest to top the eight-player tournament. The victor wins the right to play Magnus Carlsen (above) for the World Championship, set for November 2018 in London. US Chess coverage will include live reports from Grandmaster Ian Rogers.

US CHESS QUEENS GET SOCIAL Follow our new social media accounts, @USChessWomen, on Twitter and Instagram. Both accounts will feature the accomplishments, games, and articles from top female players, as well as rising stars. Join our growing numbers on Recently featured: Alisa Melekhina’s article on coming back to chess after a long break for the North Facebook @USChess and Instagram at American Open and Jennifer Yu’s (above) international master/woman grandmaster norm-earning US_Chess. On Twitter, find us performance at the Charlotte Chess Center Invitational. @USChess or hashtag #USChess.

6 March 2018 | Chess Life Donate to US Chess Your Tax-Deductible Contribution Will Help US Chess Grow the Game

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Our goals are to grow the game by funding initiatives to improve diversity in chess, sending top players to compete in international events, and growing and retaining women chess players in the game.

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www.uschess.org 7 Counterplay / Readers Respond

U.S. Masters, Lombardy

MORE ON THE U.S. MASTERS In your letter titled “Correcting U.S. Masters History” from Ed Frumkin in the January issue there is a serious omission. The originator of the Midwest Masters and U.S. Masters chess tournaments was 2018 Chicago’s Helen Warren. She organized, promoted, and, with her husband (James E. Warren), financed these events, with thousands of dollars, during the 1980s and 1990s. They were major events and EXECUTIVE attracted some of the best of the day including foreign grandmasters. She also served as a US Chess BOARD executive board member, founded and ran a national postal chess tournament firm, and with James, founded a key organization promoting youth chess in Illinois. ELECTION At 85, widowed Helen lives in a retirement community in Lombard, Illinois. James A. Brotsos Four US Chess members via email submitted nomination petitions for candidacy in the 2018 Executive Board election.

The candidates for the 2018 US Chess Executive Board election are (in alphabetical order):

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Two Executive Board seats will be filled in this election and will win terms ending in 2021. All candidates will have a 150-word statement in the April Chess Life and a half-page announcement in the May and June issues.

Register to vote (or check your registration status) here: LOMBARDY HISTORY https://secure2.uschess.org/voter- registration.php. I just read Joshua Anderson’s excellent article about Bill Lombardy (“Chess In Excelsis,” January 2018). I’m sad that he has passed away. In a sense, he provided the “bookends” to my active chess playing days. In the [above] photo, Lombardy is giving a simultaneous exhibition at the downtown YMCA in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in March, 1961. (I’m the child with a flattop, studying the board with my chin on my arms.) Lombardy was authorized to assign ratings to his opponents based on the games played. I lasted 43 moves and was given my first rating of 1750. I still have the autographed score sheet. As a graduate student at Penn State, I attended a testimonial dinner for Donald Byrne at which Lombardy read a telegram from Bobby Fischer. I played very little after I graduated and moved on to family and work. Lots of good memories, though. Jerry Bergman

Send your letters to [email protected]. Letters are subject to editing for style, length, and content.

8 March 2018 | Chess Life US Chess Affairs / News for our Members

US CHESS Empowering people through MISSION chess one move at a time.

Franc Guadalupe Retires from US Chess US CHESS ASSISTS After many years of dedicated DALI MUSEUM service, Francisco (Franc) Guadalupe EXHIBIT retired from US Chess effective December 31, 2017. During his ten - US Chess is assisting the Salvador Dali ure with US Chess, Franc filled Museum in St. Petersburg, Florida during several critical positions, even step - their Dali/Duchamp exhibit that opened ping in as interim Executive Director in February, runs through May 27, and during a crucial time in the Feder - which includes a “Chess Month” in ation’s history. But he’s perhaps March. Beth Bell, the museum’s best-known—and most visible—as marketing director, tells Chess Life, a respected tournament director and “Playing games is a key theme in the Director of Events for US Chess. Dali/Duchamp exhibit, and chess specif- Franc’s baptism into tournament ically is a game both Marcel Duchamp organizing and directing was sparked and Salvador Dali thoroughly enjoyed in 2000 by two of his children, playing. In 1923, Duchamp left the world FRANC GUADALUPE, DEPUTY CHIEF ARBITER, KEEPING NOTATION Thomas and Francisco. Because of of art to devote himself to the game. He DURING A PLAYOFF GAME AT THE 2016 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP their interest, Franc started a chess MATCH IN NEW YORK CITY. once stated, ‘I have come to the personal PHOTO BY MARIA YASSACOVA, AGON, NYC2016.FIDE.COM club at their elementary school and conclusion that while all artists are not soon became a club tournament chess players, all chess players are artists.’ director. Shortly thereafter, Franc began organizing county-wide rated events. Although Thomas Duchamp joined Dali in Cadaqués, Spain, lost interest in chess, Francisco improved rapidly, winning the eighth, ninth, and 11th grade co- summering there between 1958 and his championship in three national K-12 Grade Championships and earning the US Chess death in 1968. During this time they Scholar-Chessplayer Award. visited, went on boat trips, and played Francisco’s immersion into national scholastic chess kept Franc busy as an organizer and chess together. Within the exhibit, there tournament director both locally and nationally. In 2006, US Chess invited Franc to be the is a chess set that Dali created in homage Deputy Chief Arbiter for the U.S. Championships and to serve as the Chief Tournament Director to Duchamp, featuring castings of Dali for the National K-12 Grade Championships—his first stint as chief tournament director for a fingers and teeth as chess pieces.” national US Chess event. Many national tournaments later, US Chess recognized Franc’s outstanding work by naming him the 2009 US Chess Tournament Director of the Year. At press time, the museum is still In 2010, the US Chess leadership asked Franc to assume the duties of Zonal President—a confirming some specifics of the event, position he held for almost six years—then approached him again to serve as the interim Executive but it will be held Thursday, March 29 Director in May 2013, which he did until Jean Hoffman was hired. Franc attempted to “retire,” with select activities happening but US Chess came back with a new request: this time, to become Director of Events, a position throughout the day at the museum. Franc held from June 1, 2014 until his current retirement. Events will include a lecture by Jennifer Franc recalled some interesting moments from his time with US Chess. “My most memorable Shahade, co-author of Marcel Duchamp: and challenging year as a TD was 2013, when I was the Chief TD of SuperNationals IV, the U.S. The Art of Chess and US Chess Senior Championships, and the U.S. Open! That is probably the ultimate ‘TD Trifecta,’ of sorts. As the Digital Editor; Chess Game Exhibitions Director of Events for US Chess, organizing the record-breaking SuperNationals VI was probably from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.; as well as Surreal my most challenging and rewarding event.” He also spoke fondly about being Deputy Chief Arbiter Simultaneous Games from 6-8 p.m., for the 2016 World Championship match, which, he said, “easily ranks as my biggest accomplishment featuring tables that will be led by Jennifer as a FIDE international arbiter.” Shahade, St. Petersburg Chess Club Franc promised he’s not abandoning chess completely. “Although I have retired from the President Gene Randolph, and 11-year- position of US Chess Director of Events, as long as I remain healthy, I will continue working as old player Anthony Gospodinov. Find a TD and organizer, but not as actively as before.” US Chess thanks Franc for his many years of more information at thedali.org and look service and wishes him well in his retirement. To learn more about Franc’s life and accomplishments, for a report in a future issue of Chess Life. please visit uschess.org.

Our vision is to enrich the lives of all persons US CHESS and communities through increasing the play, VISION study, and appreciation of the game of chess.

www.uschess.org 9 First Moves / Chess news from around the U.S.

Not Without Merit Boy Scouts becoming Eagle Scouts via chess projects

10 March 2018 | Chess Life First Moves / Chess news from around the U.S. DUNCAN GUTHRIE: SERVING VETS FACES By Christina Schweiss AS HIS TEN-YEAR SCHOLASTIC CHESS CAREER ENTERED ITS FINAL SEASON, US ACROSS Chess member Duncan Guthrie—my son—also searched for an appropriate Eagle Scout project to cap off his time with the Boy Scouts of America. Our initial thought was to come THE BOARD up with a project for a local chess non-profit that served underprivileged kids, so Duncan and I sat down with the director, who indicated that she would love to have a life-size custom By AL LAWRENCE mosaic tile chess board installed outside a building that had been donated for their use. As planning got underway, however, and Duncan completed the paperwork that required the beneficiary’s signature, we learned that the building would not be ready for public use for a LEROY HILL very long time, so the project was no longer needed! MANALAPAN, Then a fellow scouting family told us about an organization in our area called LZ-Grace, NEW JERSEY a veterans’ retreat center run by a Navy SEAL widow. According to their website, “This 38- acre farm is a serene, secure and confidential Landing Zone for Special Operations Forces to A veteran champ rest, renew, decompress and find individual focus for life after war.” Rather than scrap the working for vets project entirely, I took Duncan to meet with the director at LZ-Grace, who eagerly accepted Tiebreaks can be the jilt - the project … with a new twist. Each of the 64 squares would be custom-made to honor ed romance of tournament chess. Leroy Hill had members of the Armed Forces—in particular, the Special Operations Forces and first responders flirted with the Armed Forces (AF) Championship served by the center. title for nearly a decade, suffering one frustrating After pitching the project to our local chess club and homeschool cooperative, as well as rejection after another. “Losing on tiebreaks over to other friends and family, Duncan raised the money needed to purchase the supplies and so many years, so many heartbreaks,” he recalls. secured members of the community to make each individual square, providing them with material and instructions and assigning them a specific theme for their squares. The results Hill finally won the AF title last October at historic were beyond our wildest dreams. (Photos, left) West Point Military Academy, edging out Navy When the squares were finally complete, Duncan (affixing the h1-tile, center, left) led a crew Lieutenant Chase Watters on tiebreaks. “Now of boys and adults from his troop as they prepared the ground and installed the board. Part of that monkey is off my back.” the money raised for the project went to purchase giant chess pieces for the board. Our chess non-profit also donated several chess sets for the veterans to use while at the retreat center. Hill won the Armed Forces Inter-service in 2003, the year he retired from the Air Force. “To get in Duncan was able to combine his love for chess and respect for our nation’s heroes for a the Inter-service in the 1980s, you had to first unique Eagle Scout project! submit a chess resume.” But that event is no longer held. In fact, the armed forces no longer sponsor the AF Open Championship either. “Shame on the Department of Defense for not CARSON COOK: TEACHING VIDEOS funding these events,” Hill said. Leroy has riotous memories of his old military By Ken Baxter tournament roommate and fellow Airman Emory CARSON COOK IS A VERY IMPRESSIVE YOUNG Tate, who was, “known on the streets of Baltimore man whom I have known for over four years. He as E.T. or the Extra Terrestrial,” and not just because conceived the idea of doing something for the community of his initials. “He played out of this world, sacri- using chess and submitted that idea to his scoutmaster ficing, destroying even strong masters.” as a proposed Eagle Scout project. After refining—with guidance from his scoutmaster to include all the elements Hill was born in North Carolina but grew up in the scouts want to see in their future Eagle Scouts— Baltimore, Maryland, where he was one of the Carson proceeded to successfully complete the project. top scholastic players in the state and placed in Carson scripted 10 short videos. Using my equipment the top 10 in the 1982 National High School and studio and his sister’s editing skills, he produced Championship. He remains a committed Ravens these teaching videos so that Iredell-Statesville Schools fan, even though he now lives in Manalapan, could establish chess clubs and teams in any of the 31 less than an hour’s drive from MetLife Stadium, schools in the district. In addition, he organized and home to the Giants and Jets. ran fundraising tournaments, and with the net proceeds purchased 60 chess sets and 13 Digital Game Technology Leroy now commutes to D.C. to work for the Vet- (DGT) chess clocks for the school district. The leadership erans Administration as a mediator for conflict resolution and trains employees at all levels. and vision it took to make this Eagle Scout project a “Knowing that the personnel are going back fo- reality is what makes Carson a standout scout. His cused on veterans, eager to help them and are dedication to the community continues as he is now involved in organizing additional not distracted by inter-staff conflict, is the re- fundraising tournaments to support those chess kids as they compete in regional and state ward. That helps me get up every morning to do scholastic chess tournaments. Proceeds from those events go towards making it possible for my job, knowing I can make a difference for more kids to compete by supplementing the entry fees. other vets.” All that is easier without a chess Hopefully, many more scouts will imitate Carson and do similar projects to spread the monkey on his back. great game of chess to the next generation!

www.uschess.org 11 Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment A Poverty of Attention We are rich in games but forced to budget our attention time.

By GM ANDY SOLTIS

GM BOBBY FISCHER AND GM LAJOS And this is a good reason. White’s g3-bishop games, more than 3,500 Anatoly Karpov games Portisch were talking shop. “Lajos, is it true is temporarily out of the game. Paulsen’s efforts and 4,000-plus Viktor Korchnoi games. that you study eight hours a day?” Fischer asked. to exploit Black’s advances on the kingside And that’s a problem. It was best expressed “Why do you ask?” the Hungarian grand - boomerang. at the dawn of the computer age by an amateur master responded, sounding a bit defensive. chessplayer and world-class polymath named 10. h4 g4 11. Nd2 h5 12. Nd5? Nxd5 13. Herbert Simon. “A wealth of information “Don’t you study a lot?” Bxd5 Ne7 14. Bb3 f5! “Yes,” Bobby said. “But they think I’m crazy.” creates a poverty of attention,” he said. There Portisch, a top-10 player in his day, has told are simply too many great players and too many this story many times. But in a 2016 interview worthy games demanding our attention. on chesspro.ru he added what Fischer said next. We can tweak Simon. A poverty of attention Bobby wanted to know what Portisch spent forces us to spend our attention wisely. The his time on. question facing aspiring players today is: Whose “How many Steinitz games have you studied?” games should you study? Fischer asked. Here are a few study guidelines: Steinitz? Yes, Wilhelm Steinitz, who died (a) Games in which one player is a master decades before anyone appreciated what a are generally more instructive than when neither Catalan Opening or Najdorf Sicilian was. player is. But rating can’t be the only criterion. Fischer could have studied the games of any Today’s most error-free games—ac cord ing to great player. But he was giving special attention computers—are played by computers. But to Steinitz. He adopted several of the first world Black has a significant edge. Fischer—and Komodo, Stockfish, Houdini, Fritz, Rybka, and champion’s 19th century opening ideas but also Steinitz—would have smiled at the way some perhaps even AlphaZero can’t teach us. They picked up positional insights. computers say the best moves now are 15. Bh2 just show us that 17. Bf3 was best because of a f4 16. f3 g3 17. Bg1. 23-move variation of subtle retreats and feints. THREE KNIGHTS GAME (C46) 15. exf5 Nxf5 16. Nf1 c6 (b) The games of some players are more Louis Paulsen entertaining than enlightening and vice versa. Wilhelm Steinitz The game gets sloppy now, since Black would As GM Gennady Sosonko put it, you can learn Baden-Baden, Germany (16), 08.02.1870 be nearly winning after 16. ... Qc6! (17. Rg1 a lot from Reuben Fine’s games but you won’t 17. c3 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Nc3 g6 4. Bc4 Bg7 e4). Instead, his edge grew slowly after be delighted by them. On the other hand, you’ll Qc7 18. Qe2 Qb6 19. Ba2 Bd7 20. 0-0-0 5. d3 d6 6. Bg5 Qd7!? probably enjoy the games of the young Mikhail 0-0-0 21. f3 Nxg3 22. Nxg3 d5 and he even - Tal. But how much can they teach you? You’ll be hard-pressed to find another example tually won. When his career was winding down Tal opened of this position in databases. It illustrates one of In answer to Fischer’s question, Portisch said a chess school in his hometown of Riga for talented Steinitz’s—and Fischer’s—basic principles: The he had studied “about a hundred” Steinitz games. kids. At the first meeting he told them: “For “two bishops” are a significant advantage. Black “For me, it’s a thousand,” Bobby said. pleasure you can read the games collections of threatens to obtain them with 7. ... Na5. Portisch was astonished that Fischer had [Adolf] Anderssen and [Mikhail] Chigorin.” He In addition, Steinitz believed pawns shouldn’t even located that many. But today it’s easy to was referring to masters of bold attacking play. be pushed (like 6. ... f6) without very good find online databases offering nearly that many “But for benefit you should study [Siegbert] reasons. Steinitz games. They also provide well over Tarrasch, [Paul] Keres and [David] Bronstein,” 7. a3 h6 8. Bh4 g5! 9. Bg3 Nge7 2,000 Garry Kasparov or Alexander Alekhine he recalled in a book, Attack with Mikhail Tal.

12 March 2018 | Chess Life Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment

PROBLEM I PROBLEM II PROBLEM III Isle of Man Quiz GM Hikaru Nakamura GM Boris Gelfand GM Jeffery Xiong GM Helgi Olafsson IM Anna Zatonskih IM Anna Zatonskih GM Magnus Carlsen may have taken first place but Americans were the collec tive stars at the annual Isle of Man international open last fall. This month’s quiz features sparkling wins by five U.S. players, but there were other quiz-worthy puzzlers played by GM Fabiano Caruana, GM Varuzhan Akobian, GM Jim Tarjan,

and IM Michael William Brown to WHITE TO PLAY BLACK TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY name a few. In each diagram you are asked to find the fastest winning PROBLEM IV PROBLEM V PROBLEM VI line of play. This will usually mean GM Dennis Wagner GM Aleksandr Lenderman Valerio Bianco the forced win of a decisive amount GM Hikaru Nakamura GM Francisco Vallejo Pons IM John Watson of material. But watch out for forced mates. For solutions, see page 71.

BLACK TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY BLACK TO PLAY

There are several players in the Fine category. games. For the Queen’s Gambit Declined, Akiba But it’s more important to understand the You can learn from Salo Flohr and Peter Leko, Rubinstein is the go-to guy. inherent energy, the tactical flow of the KID. for example. But if you just want entertainment, What Geller, Bronstein et al taught the world 22. Nb1? b4 23. Nf4 Bb3 24. Rd6 c4 25. check out Rashid Nezhmetdinov or Alexander is that Black must have counterplay when play - Rxc6 c3 26. Nd5 Bxd5 27. exd5 Qxd5 28. Tolush. ing the King’s Indian and the only way to get it f4 Qd4+ 29. Kh1 Ra2 30. Bf3 Rb2! 31. f5 (c) Don’t agonize over what your computer’s is often by taking risks and making strange moves. Be5 32. Qe1 Rd8 33. Be4 Kg7 34. f6+ Kg8 analysis says. It will criticize 6. ... Qd7 in the 11. Be3 c6 12. Qd2 a5 13. Rad1 Ne5 14. 35. Ra6 h5 36. Ra5 h4 37. Bxg6 Rxh2+! Steinitz game and give an alternative. But that b3 a4! 38. Kxh2 Bxg3+ 39. Qxg3 hxg3+ 40. Kh3 fxg6, White resigned. won’t teach you much. If White, with his superior pawn structure, You want to get ideas out of the games. is allowed to seize the initiative wiith h2-h3 (d) You don’t have to study entire games. If and f3-f4, he will stand better. you want to improve your winning technique, look at Akiba Rubinstein and José Capablanca KING’S INDIAN DEFENSE, 15. Nde2 axb3! 16. Bxc5 Nxc4 17. Qc1 FIANCHETTO VARIATION (E68) bxa2 18. Nxa2 Qa5! 19. Qxc4 Be6 20. Qc1 games after move 40. That’s when the most Alexander Kotov dxc5 21. Nac3 b5 instructive moves are played. Viktor Korchnoi Efim Geller was already a grandmaster when he improved his USSR Championship, Moscow, Russia, winning technique by looking at late middlegame 11.12.1949 positions of Rubinstein, Vasily Smyslov, Mikhail Botvinnik, and Tigran Petrosian and seeing how 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. g3 0-0 5. they turned an advantage into a win. Bg2 d6 6. Nf3 Nbd7 7. 0-0 e5 8. e4 exd4 (e) Once you’ve become familiar with the 9. Nxd4 Nc5 10. f3 Nfd7! great games of your favorite players, try to These days the easiest way to learn how to learn what you don’t understand. When Bent play the black side of the King’s Indian Defense Larsen was young he immersed himself in the (KID) is to ask your computer to show you convoluted moves of Aron Nimzowitsch. games played by Efim Geller, Bronstein and Larsen’s advice to non-masters was: “Study Isaac Boleslavsky in the 1940s and 1950s. rather good games with good notes and learn They’ll be more instructive than most recent Your computer may criticize Black’s moves strange openings. Study something you don’t games. and prefer 17. ... b2 or 20. ... Qxc5+, for example. have in your own style.” And when you’re done The same goes for several other openings. And it will likely tell you that the game was with Nimzowitsch and Capablanca and Larsen, If you want to learn how to play the Ruy Lopez decided when White failed to play the favorable too, take a look at Steinitz. A lot of great players for either side, search for late-career Paul Keres 22. e5! and 22. ... Bxe5 23. f4 Bg7 24. Bxc6. learned a lot from him.

www.uschess.org 13 Back to Basics / Reader annotations Horatius on the Bridge Calvin versus Three Brothers

By GM LEV ALBURT

THE WINNER OF THIS MONTH’S AWARD, Calvin Roach, submitted an interesting story and three interesting games, creating for me a problem that I tried to solve by creative editing. (My further comments are in italics). Writes Calvin: Please review my games from the 33rd Emporia Open. This is my first tournament since 2012. I am rated 1744 and I beat two brothers rated 1602 and 1951, and drew against a third brother rated 1977. In the draw, I took a losing position and applied basic principles to get a draw. Small threats and a rook fork 1923 and recommends 11. Na4 Bb6 12. Qc2 Bd7, Better was 18. Bxe8. sealed the draw. with only a small edge for White. 18. ... Rxa8 19. Qe4 Rb8 20. Rfd1 11. ... Qb6 This subtle move threatens to exchange rooks TARRASCH DEFENSE (D33) I’d prefer 11. ... Bd7. (on the d8-square) or queens by playing Qh4. Calvin Roach (1744) Gideon Lohr (1602) 12. h3 ?! 20. ... g6 21. b4 Qb6 22. a3 Qb5 23. Qh4 Be6 24. Rd8+ Rxd8 25. Qxd8+ Kg7 26. 33rd Emporia Open (3), Emporia, VA, Perhaps not the best, but I did not want Black Qd4+ Kh6 27. Kg2 Qc6+ 28. e4 Bf5 29. 10.21.2017 to apply too much pressure on the a7-g1 Rh1+ Kg5 30. f4+ Kg4 31. Rh4 mate. This is the first game against three brothers diagonal. in the 2017 Emporia Open. 12. ... Re8 1. c4 c5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. g3 e6 5. A risky move. KNIGHT SACRIFICES Bg2 d5 6. cxd5 exd5 7. d4 cxd4 13. Bg5 Bd4?? DESERVE TO WIN More common here is 7. ... Be7. 13. ... Re6 is better. This loses the game. 8. Nxd4 Bc5 9. Nxc6 bxc6 10. 0-0 0-0 Yes—the c6-pawn is pinned, thus the e8-rook is ENGLISH OPENING (A25) vulnerable. Calvin Roach (1744) (see diagram top of next column) Bryant Lohr (1952) 14. Bxf6 Bxf6?! 15. Nxd5 Qd8 16. Nxf6+ 33rd Emporia Open (4), Emporia, VA, 11. Qa4 Qxf6 10.22.2017 The normal 11. e3 or 11. Bg5 might have (see diagram top of next column) been better; however, I wanted to activate my 1. c4 e5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. g3 f5 4. Bg2 Nf6 5. e3 Bb4 6. Nge2 0-0 7. Nd5 a5 8. 0-0 Kh8 pieces quickly with tempo. Black is forced to 17. Bxc6 protect the weak pawn on c6. 9. d4 exd4 10. exd4 17. Qxc6?! loses (most of) the huge advantage In my old (1987) Encyclopedia of Chess to 17. ... Be6. (see diagram top of next column) Openings, Garry Kasparov notes that 11. Bg5 led to equality in Ernst Gruenfeld-Rudolf Spielmann, 17. ... Bxh3 18. Bxa8 10. ... Nxd5 11. Bxd5

14 March 2018 | Chess Life Back to Basics / Reader annotations

20. ... Ng8 21. Be4 Qf6 22. Qh5 Nh6 23. Ne8 Qe6 24. Bc2 Qf7 25. Bg6 Qc4 26. Nxg7 Kxg7

I am not sure if 11. cxd5 (recommended by the computer) is better, but I think it is too early to destroy my pawn structure for the advantage. I think with the move played I have an equiv alent advantage. 27. Qxg5, Black resigned. I side with the computer (tempo, c-file) 11. ... Ne7? PULLING A DRAW BY Creating a subject for attack. STICKING TO BASICS 12. Bg5 c6 13. Bg2 h6 14. c5 ? EVEN WHEN A FEW Giving up the advantage. Better was 14. Bf4. PAWNS DOWN Avoid rook exchanges; 2. Don’t get the king 14. ... hxg5 15. a3 Bxc5 ? trapped on the last rank; 3. Double rooks on Missing 15. ... f4! with a small advantage. QUEEN’S PAWN OPENING (A47) the opponent’s second rank for perpetual check. After [White] recaptures the bishop with the Nathan Lohr (1977) 25. ... Re7 26. Rd8+ Kf7 27. g4 d4-pawn, Black’s queenside pieces will have a Calvin Roach (1744) hard time getting into the game. 33rd Emporia Open (5), Emporia, VA, An interesting move to make an escape 10.22.2017 16. dxc5 f4 square for the king to prevent getting mate by double rooks on the first rank and mate Better was 16. ... b6 trying to get the 1. d4 Nf6 2. Bf4 e6 3. e3 b6 4. Nf3 Ba6? 5. by Rh1. queenside pieces into play. Bxa6 Nxa6 6. 0-0 Be7 7. c4 0-0 8. Nc3 Nh5 9. Bg3 Nxg3 10. hxg3 27. ... Rc7 28. a4 Rc1+ 29. Kh2 Rxf2 30. 17. Nc3 Qe8 18. Re1 Qf7 19. Ne4 Qg6 20. Ra7+ Nd6! And now a draw is in sight. 30. ... Ke6 31. Rxg7 Rcc2 32. Rdd7 With the powerful mate threat with the powerful Rge7. 32. ... Rxg2+ 33. Kh3 Rh2+

10. ... d5 Now the queenside pieces are doomed and Calvin gives himself a very vulnerable pawn. Black must defend against a four piece attack 11. cxd5 exd5 12. Qa4 Nb8 13. Ne5 f6 14. with only three pieces. Nc6 Nxc6 15. Qxc6 Qd6 16. Qxd5+ Qxd5 17. Nxd5 Bd6 18. Rac1 c5 Send in your games! (see diagram top of next column) Defense begins. 34. Kg3 Rhg2+ 35. Kf3 Rcf2+ Back to Basics, c/o Chess Life 19. dxc5 Bxc5 20. Rfd1 a5 21. Nc7 Rab8 PO Box 3967 Crossville, TN 22. Ne6 Rfe8 23. Nxc5 bxc5 24. Rxc5 If 35. ... Rgf2+, 36. Ke4 Rc4+ 37. Rd4, and 38557-3967 Rxb2 25. Rxa5 Black has a hard fight for a draw. Or e-mail your material to (see second diagram next column) 36. Ke4 Rxg4+, Draw agreed. [email protected] Now, I am trying not to panic. I must develop And I won first place! a plan to draw this game. The plan is: 1. Well done!

www.uschess.org 15 In The Arena / Player of the Month Cameron Wheeler at the North American Open At the highest levels of the game, one inaccuracy can lead to an irreversibly bad position, which in turn can result in defeat.

By GM ROBERT HESS

THEY SAY WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS, The continuation 5. d4 b5 6. b3 Bg4 has been 9. ... Bd6 stays in Vegas. Cameron Wheeler, 17, proves seen thousands of times, including in Checa’s The try 9. ... cxd4 does not save Black a that slogan false: he has brought home oodles seventh round game where he had white. Black tempo. 10. Nxd4 Bd6. Not only is the knight of rating points from Sin City each of the past is happy to get the bishop outside the pawn well-placed on d4, but now 11. Nxc6 bxc6 is three years. The North American Open has chain and trade it for a more active piece. favorable for White, since the pawn on c6 is been kind to Wheeler, who earned his final 5. ... e6 two international master norms at the tourna - an easy target. In retrospect, this may have ments in 2015 and 2016. In 2017, he defeated Expanding on the queenside looks similar been easier to play. a whopping 5 players rated over 2400 FIDE to the analysis after 5. d4, but a vital difference 10. dxc5 Bxc5 11. Bd3 0-0 and narrowly missed out on a grandmaster is that the light-square bishop struggles to find The enticing 11. ... d4 may rid Black of his norm. Wheeler’s eighth round victory over comfort. In a rare game in this line, White isolani, but the open position favors White, fellow teenage IM Nicolas Checa is the type of crushed his opponent: 5. ... b5 6. b3 Bf5 7. Ba3 whose bishops are superiorly placed. For game that is frustratingly incomprehensible. Qa5 8. Bb2 e6 9. cxd5 cxd5 10. a4 b4 11. Nb5! example 12. exd4 Nxd4 13. 0-0 0-0 14. Ne4 Black never did anything egregious, so how 1-0 GM Vereslav Eingorn (2595) - IM Oleg (14. Na4 is also excellent.) 14. ... Nxe4 15. Bxe4 was the game so one-sided? Maiorov (2435), Swidnica 1997. and White has a large advantage. 6. b3 c5 ENGLISH OPENING (A11) 12. 0-0 This really is not a pleasant decision to make. IM Cameron Wheeler (2477) On one hand, Black gains space and can develop IM Nicolas Checa (2593) the knight to c6. However, this is the second 27th Annual North American Open (8), Las time this pawn has moved and, more importantly, Vegas, Nevada, 12.29.2017 Black gets stuck with an isolated pawn. 1. c4 Nf6 2. Nf3 c6 3. Nc3 d5 4. e3 a6 5. h3 Especially since the pawn is committed to a6, 6. ... dxc4 7. bxc4 is quite bad for Black. White’s center is strengthened and there are holes to exploit; 6. ... Bd6 was the response chosen by GM Dragan Solak against Magnus Carlsen at the 2014 Olympiad. It may result in passivity, but it forces White to bring the action. Just a dozen moves into the game and Black 7. cxd5 exd5 is in grave danger. How can this be? Material Avoiding the isolani is worse than accepting is level, no pieces are immediately hanging, and it, as after 7. ... Nxd5 8. Bb2 Black’s kingside there are no imminent checkmate threats. While development is halted. this is all true, what can Black do here? Every 8. d4 Nc6 9. Bb2 candidate move has a substantial drawback. I believe the game continuation to be a 12. ... Re8 surprisingly challenging move order for Black A good lesson in retaining the tension. to deal with, particularly if you are unfamiliar Capturing on c5 would allow Black to develop Rooks love (half) open files. This is incontro- with the nuances of the position. his bishop in one turn. vertible. Yet, given the current dynamics of

16 March 2018 | Chess Life In The Arena / Player of the Month the position, Black is better off putting his Rxf2 Bxb1 18. Rxb1 Bxe3 19. Nxd5 Bxf2+ 20. 19. Ne6 (A fantastic tactical shot is 19. Rc7! and bishop on e6, which blocks the e-file and limits Kxf2 Qa5 with a very unclear game. 19. ... Rdb8 is a decent attempt to hold every - the productivity of a black rook on e8. thing together, though 20. Ne6 Ne8 21. Ng5 f5 15. Bb1 Rd8 Connecting the rooks with 12. ... Qe7 was more 22. Rxd7 Qxd7 23. e4!! appears catastrophic for flexible. Black can figure out the rook’s square Now it is too late to play 15. ... Ne4 because Black. And 19. ... Rab8 20. Nc6! is fatal.) 19. ... of choice in the future. 13. Rc1 Be6 (A trap has White immediately wins no less than a pawn Qxe6 20. Qxf6 Qxf6 21. Bxf6 but it’s unclear been set, and Black can easily fall into it: 13. ... with either 16. Nf4 Rd8 17. Qxd5 (if 17. ... how to make progress: 21. ... Kf8 22. Rc7 Rab8 Rd8 14. Na4 Ba7 [14. ... Ba3 15. Qe2 is Qxd5 18. Nxd5 Nxf2 19. Rxc6! is a powerful and Black is holding on by a thread. promising for White.] 15. Bxa6! when White shot that secures two minors for a rook) or 16. 19. Rfd1 snags a pawn. If Black tries to counter with a Bxe4 Rxe4 17. Nc3. bishop sacrifice of his own, 15. ... Bxe3 16. The final piece has been brought into the 16. Nfd4 Bd7 17. Ng3 Rxc6!! and White earns two minor pieces for action and Black does not have a single useful a rook.) 14. Na4 (14. Ng5 is also interesting.) move. White has a plethora of strong ideas, 14. ... Bd6 favors White, but there is a lot left including Nde2-f4. to prove. In fact, this feels like the most stubborn 19. ... Ng6 20. Ndf5 Bxf5 21. Qxf5 defense. (Trading off the powerful bishop is With two bishops and an ongoing attack, more useful in theory than in practice, for 14. the end is already near. ... Ba3 15. Bxa3 Qxa3 16. Nc5 is uncomfortable for Black.); 12. ... Be6 13. Ng5 is an unwelcome 21. ... Ne5 sight from Black’s point of view. With tactics Losing on the spot. The alternative, 21. ... threatening to remove the guard of h7, Black Ne7, delayed what must have felt like the is forced to part with his bishop pair and weaken inevitable. The knockout blow, though, is not his kingside in the process. imminent. 22. Qf3 Ne8 and White can proceed 13. Rc1 with many different moves, making this a good 17. ... Ne7 position to analyze at home. Undoubtedly tempting is 13. Na4, but the offside knight helps Black obtain counterplay In effect the losing move. It is unfeasible to 22. Nh5 Ned7 in the center. White certainly remains better, withstand endless pressure when your opponent but the advantage can quickly evaporate as seems to have countless strong plans and you shown by 13. ... Ba7 14. Rc1 Ne4. have just a few non-losing moves. The continuation 17. ... Nxd4 18. Bxd4 Bxd4 13. ... Ba7 14. Ne2 19. Qxd4 is better for White, but requires a In this structure it is often best to seize control difficult grind to secure the full point. It is of the c5-square, though here 14. Na4 again common practice for players with an isolani runs into 14. ... Ne4. to jettison the weakness in order to enter a 14. ... Qd6 pawn down endgame, in which there are often decent drawing chances. Psychologically, a When left with an isolated pawn, it is nearly impossible move for a human to play is important to utilize it. Doing so generally requires 17. ... g6 with the intention of preventing a an active knight supported by that pawn. This knight jump to f5. It is not in our nature to may seem counterintuitive, since the knight was voluntarily open up the long diagonal with a 23. Rc8! previously defending the weakness. However, bishop staring down our king. Yet Wheeler Technically this move is inaccurate because sometimes the best defense is creating problems would have no means of immedi ately exploiting 23. Qg5 simply won no less than a piece, but for your opponent so that the pawn is immune. the airy kingside. Without the time to form a what a phenomenal concept. 14. ... Ne4 is certainly best. White needs to tread battery, Black gains a vital tempo compared to 23. ... Rxc8 carefully, lest the tides turn. immediately trading everything on d4 (say after The following continuation is a good example 18. Qd2 Nxd4 19. Bxd4 Bxd4 20. Qxd4 Bc6). Connecting the rooks does not help 23. ... of how Black can counterstrike with 15. Nf4 Because White needs to prevent Black from Bc7 24. Nxf6+ Nxf6 25. Bxf6 gxf6 26. Rxa8 (Nearly a century has passed since Aron playing ... d4 himself, in the line 18. Nxc6 Bxc6 Rxa8 27. Qxh7+ Kf8 28. Qh8+ Ke7 29. Qxa8. Nimzowitsch penned The Blockade, a masterful 19. Ne2 would be absolutely necessary to fight book that systematized his insights on dealing 24. Nxf6+ gxf6 25. Qxh7+ Kf8 26. Qh8+ for an advantage. However, the simple 19. ... Ke7 27. Qxc8 Qh2+ 28. Kf1 Qh1+ 29. Ke2 with various forms of pawn chains and passed Ne4 restricts White’s progress. Qxg2 30. Ba3+, Black resigned. and isolated pawns. Blockading an isolani is a well-known principle, and knights are the best 18. Qf3 Games like this are emotionally draining to piece to use. However, currently the d-pawn White’s play is too simple now. Not only lose because there is no clear blunder to pinpoint is not threatening to be pushed, so attacking it does Wheeler have full control of the board, the loss on. At the highest levels of the game, is more worthwhile than stepping in front of but Checa no longer has an opportunity to one inaccuracy can lead to an irreversibly bad it. 15. Ned4 induces a capture on d4, after which liquidate. position, which in turn can result in defeat. Black will play moves like ... Bb8 and actually The key often is to minimize your opponent’s 18. ... Bb8 gain an initiative on the kingside.) 15. ... Bf5 positives rather than to eliminate your own 16. Bb1 (16. Nh5 f6 17. Nh4 Be6 and after 18. You couldn’t pay most players enough money negatives. Not every threat can be thwarted, Nf4 or Qf3 White marches forward, though to seriously consider 18. ... g6 here. For starters, but converting is a challenge when the path Black is still very much alive.) 16. ... Nxf2! 17. the knight on f6 is en prise, inviting the “obvious” forward is less evident.

www.uschess.org 17 Look at Books / Should I Buy It?

Get Off My Lawn! Timman’s Titans is an elegy for what has been lost, for better and for worse, in modern chess.

By JOHN HARTMANN

ONCE A HAVEN FOR THE GEEKS AND destroying the next day’s play. Worst of all, the and the writing is evocative of no less than oddballs among us, chess has taken on a new post-mortem is a relic, an antiquity, offered W.G. Sebald or Teju Cole. and more positive valence in the modern social only by the aged and accepted even less Of the nine remaining champions, Karpov imagination. Chess is marketed to parents as a frequently. Those that do occur are haunted is the subject of the largest chapter, at just over gateway to academic achievement for their by a third party—the ubiquitious Stockfish app, 50 pages. This is not terribly unexpected, as children and as a source of important non- lurking, correcting, standing as the ultimate Timman faced Karpov more than anyone else cognitive skills like “grit.” The current US Chess authority. in his career—some 115 games, according to mission statement—“empowering people through (Is this the part where I tell the kids to get my database. The chapter on Vasily Smyslov chess one move at a time”—highlights the benefits off my lawn?) reveals a shared love of studies and justifies of playing more than it does the game itself. Jan Timman’s newest book, Timman’s Titans: Genna Sosonko’s claim of a stylistic affinity Today’s leading players also bear the signs My World Chess Champions, is many things at between the two men. For me, however, the of this shift. Top tournaments are broadcast once: a set of sketches of ten world champions, most interesting sections are those on Max live across the world via YouTube and Twitch, a study of their styles and games, a catalogue Euwe and Mikhail Tal. and the competitors explain their wins and of Timman’s own dreams and memories. At Euwe was a friend of Timman’s parents, having losses with sage-like equanimity, their sponsor - its heart, however, I think Timman’s Titans is taught Timman’s mother mathematics in her ship deals prominently featured on their blazers. an elegy for what has been lost, for better and youth. It was through a book of Euwe’s games— “Lesser” grandmasters and masters are riding for worse, in modern chess, and a deeply “a plain-looking book with a hard dark-blue the e-sport wave towards exclusive streaming personal remembrance of a world that no longer cover. ... The paper was thick, the letters were deals and video series. Scholastic chess has exists. As with most elegies, and here I follow large. Euwe was the hero.” (33)—that Timman become a growth industry: coaches and camps Samuel Taylor Coleridge, it reveals equally the first seriously studied “real, serious chess.” proliferate, and it seems like half the players at greatness of its subjects and its author. This is Books are a constant reference in Timman’s big tournaments are juniors. Timman’s best book to date. Titans. We learn that a book on Botvinnik Surely this newfound respectability is bene - Timman’s Titans consists of (a) personal (Botvinnik Teaches Chess by Hans Müller) was ficial for American chess. But is it an unalloyed remembrances of each of the world champions an early influence, and Euwe’s Judgment and good? Is nothing lost when the chess world is from Alexander Alekhine through Garry Planning in Chess was an introduction to transformed into a wholesome, family-friendly Kasparov, (b) a discus sion of their games and “strategic plan ning.” Later books by Alekhine environment? careers, and (c) high lights of Timman’s own (My Best Games of Chess, 1924-1937) and Smyslov I think back to my first steps in the chess games against the champion in question. The (Selected Games) were of great importance. world, back to evenings at the public library analysis is insightful and extremely well done, Euwe, whom Timman could never bring in Merrick, New York, where I was the only but the real reason to buy this book is for himself to address by his first name, is described person in the room under 40, and where I lost Timman’s memories and memorials. as bearing a “colossal authority,” as indefatigably game after game to old Russian men who Timman knew all of the champions he hard-working and (despite the odd over-the- regaled me with wonderful, unprintable jokes. discusses save Alekhine, and he played against board blunder) eminently logical. For his part, It was a space where the teenaged me wasn’t six of them in serious competition. The chapter Euwe tried to help Timman where he could, quite supposed to be, but I was there anyway, on Alekhine, despite the handicap of never setting up contacts for an early tour of the and I was learning to fit in. meeting him, is a particular highlight. We Soviet Union, and quietly contributing rather You might think about your experiences at journey with Timman to Lisbon, Portugal, large sums of money to the “Timman Commit - large tournaments like the U.S. Open. The where Alekhine spent his final years. We tee” that aimed to support an assault on the reputable players play their games, go back to accompany him on his wanderings through the world championship. their rooms, and get ready for the next round snowy town, and we are present as he stumbles It is clear that that Timman greatly admired on their computers. Gone are the days of all- upon one of Alekhine’s own chess sets in a tiny Euwe, despite some sharp differences in person - night blitz benders in the skittles room. Gone junk shop. Here, more than anywhere else in ality between the two men.Where Euwe was are the days of the pub crawl and the hangovers the book, we get a sense of Timman the flâneur, solid and respectable, the young Timman was

18 March 2018 | Chess Life Look at Books / Should I Buy It? a bon vivant, someone who “hung around in sat at the bar like all the other visitors. Young the “romance” of addiction is much withered. shabby cafes ... surrounded by shady types” (55) players who invited them to play a blitz game Luckily for Timman and for us, he seems to and who used a threadbare fur coat as a would never be turned down.” (111) have learned to moderate his vices, allowing makeshift sleeping bag. Discipline and sobriety For all of this, Timman was not blind to Tal’s him to write this book, and us to enjoy it. were not in his nature. Indeed, as Timman tells very real flaws, and in particular, his alcoholism. This review was originally meant to have us, his attempts to emulate Botvinnik’s “spartan” He tells a story of one of the first times he saw included discussion of two other books, but training methods before his first grandmaster Tal “knocked out by alcoholic excess:” Timman’s Titans is so rich, so packed with stories tournament failed horribly, and it was only and insights, that twice my alloted page space after he returned to his “trusted, unhealthy” Ischa Meijer (a well-known TV journalist at the would not have done it justice. I do not think lifestyle that he began to win. time in the Netherlands—translator’s note) had come it controversial to say that this is one of the Perhaps Timman’s admiration for Mikhail to Hastings to interview me. … Meijer described best chess books published in recent years, and Tal, “a type of romantic player that has disap - how Tal interrupted our conversation, saying: “Jan, players of all strengths would find it of great pear ed,” (111) can be traced to their similar don’t tell them about our lives.” The interviewer interest. outlook on life. He seems to take delight in reported: “A while later, he has to be carried off.” What may be more controversial are my describing his first encounters with the seventh My father, who had great respect for top chess concerns—mild as they may be—over the World Champion, how he succumbed to the players, was upset by this short sentence. How did direction of modern chess. I offer this olive famed “hypnotizing power of Tal’s eye” (110) the interviewer dare to write something like that? branch to those who disagree with me: you can, in their first game in 1971, and how he spent a But however painful this short sentence may have barring the unforseen, find me in the bar after drunken evening getting the better of Tal in a been, it was the truth. To me it was more interesting the evening rounds at this year’s U.S. Open in 1973 blitz match. what Tal said before that. I remember the look in Madison. Come visit. I’ll buy you a drink and It is hard to imagine such a thing happening his eyes—a touch of despair was visible when he we can shoot the breeze while we play some at one of today’s leading tournaments. Sure, testified to our solidarity. (114) blitz or eavesdrop on someone’s postmortem. the Chessbrahs like to have a little fun while I have to admit that I find the pathos of this Do me a favor, though. Don’t come too late. streaming, and there are videos on YouTube passage almost unbearable. It is testament to I can’t stay out all night like I used to, and I’ll of bughouse games after big events at the Saint the strength of Tal’s demons and the challenges have meetings and another round to get ready Louis Chess Club, but as Timman correctly of living under the Soviet regime, but more for in the morning. notes, “[t]oday’s top player is a teetotaller ... It than that, it is emblematic of broader societal Timman, Jan. Timman’s Titans. New In Chess, 2016. is unthinkable that he would mingle in the changes in the intervening years. Our knowledge ISBN Paperback: 9789056916725. FAN. 320 pages. social circles around the tournament the way of public health (rightly) stigmatizes smoking, (Available from uscfsales.com, catalog number Tal did. The top grandmasters of yesteryear an activity that permeates Timman’s Titans, and B0177NIC, $29.95)

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www.uschess.org 19 Fischer’s Legacy / Ten years on

Searching For Fischer’s Legacy Bobby Fischer would have turned 75 this month. Ten years removed from the death of the most controversial person in US Chess history, we take a sober look at his legacy.

Text by MENACHEM WECKER

N GAME THEORY, CHESS IS CONSIDERED TO HAVE mere steps and five rows of pews away in the church graveyard. “perfect information,” which means that luck doesn’t affect outcome. Robert J. Fischer, who died an Icelandic citizen 10 years ago last It’s therefore ironic or providential that a series of coincidences January, could be the kneeling figure’s doppelgänger. In a 2005 photograph Isurround the man invariably hailed as one of history’s best players. that Einar Einarsson snapped, the chess genius wears a dark cap and In 2008, Bobby Fischer died at age 64—the number of chessboard squares. denim shirt; behind him, a framed picture suggests a cross between a The day he died, January 17, is the birthday of Icelandic politician Davíð Scrabble board and a Native American quilt. Fischer rarely agreed to be Oddsson, who helped secure Fischer’s release from a Japanese prison. photographed but made an exception at the restaurant 3 Frakkar (‘Three Oddsson grew up in Selfoss, the town where Fischer is buried, some 30 Coats’) when an old chef he knew from 1972 requested a memento. miles southeast of Reykjavik. And the single mom who raised Fischer, Einarsson, a bank executive who, with two others, flew to Japan to who was the most important “piece” in his life, was named Regina, intercede on behalf of the jailed Fischer and helped secure his citizenship Latin for queen. and extradition to Iceland, first photographed the two men before Another fluke surfaces in the painted “Sermon on the Mount” above moving the camera slightly to the left and snapping Fischer alone. “The the altar at the Selfoss Catholic church Laugardælakirkja. Haloed, goateed, result was a revealing portrait of a man in pain: psychic and perhaps and clad in biblical garb, Jesus preaches to a dozen bystanders. The physical,” writes biographer Frank Brady in the 2012 book Endgame: clichéd picture wouldn’t make the cut for a museum storage room, but Bobby Fischer’s Remarkable Rise and Fall—from America’s Brightest Prodigy it’s curious for a figure kneeling on the right, hand clutched to his heart. to the Edge of Madness. The white-bearded man, with his modern-looking cap, unruly hair, Taken together, the kneeling figure and its poetic twin, the Fischer and piercing gaze, evokes the last known photograph of Fischer, buried who emerges in Einarsson’s picture—the weight of the world on his

20 March 2018 | Chess Life Fischer’s Legacy / Ten years on shoulders Atlas-like—raise a slew of difficult questions about the legacy soundness of mind, he propelled himself, and the home country he of an elusive man. Fischer beat the Russians at their own game and put hadn’t yet renounced so uncouthly, into history. “Then Bobby Fischer America on the map eight years before the “Miracle on Ice.” But the made the most original move of all; he disappeared,” the film adds, same man who secured the world championship in 1972 in the “Match anticipating Keyser Söze’s penchant two years later. of the Century” also told a radio interviewer that he hoped the United The ominous line resonated as I surveyed the grave. Fischer was easy States would be wiped off the map as the dust had barely begun settling to track when he was already six feet under, but teasing out his reputation after the 9/11 attacks on the Twin Towers. And the boy who was born and his legacy as the 10-year anniversary of his death approached—and Jewish in Chicago, who ended up being buried on church grounds recently passed—still required a good deal of searching. perhaps under Catholic rite, nearly rivaled Hitler himself in the ugliness and paranoia of his statements about Jews. Ever thorough, Fischer wrote ICELAND’S “FRIEND” to Encyclopedia Judaica demanding he be removed from its listing. When Fischer arrived in Iceland with his newly-minted passport in Standing before Fischer’s tombstone, moved by the minimalism of 2005, it was the return of a prodigal son who had propelled Iceland the stark, bone-white marble set against the lush grass in an otherwise into the international spotlight. “Bobby Fischer is fondly remembered doldrums Icelandic palette, my mind wandered to the opening lines of here as an ‘Íslandsvinur,’ a friend of Iceland, which is a term we use for the 1993 film Searching for Bobby Fischer. The narrator deadpans about foreigners that connect well to the country,” says Ívar Pálsson, a shrimp the entire world wondering if Fischer would show up in Reykjavik. Of exporter and Reykjavik native who was 14 when he attended the Fischer- course, he did, and complained about nearly everything under the Boris Spassky match. seemingly never-setting Icelandic sun. Whatever his motivations and “We all remember Fischer’s eccentricities, which were widely published,

Laugardælir Church in Laugardælir, Iceland. Photo by Nachama Soloveichik. Fischer’s Legacy / Ten years on but everybody knew he was a genius, so that was fine!” he says. The Cold War was a foreboding presence at the time, and Fischer’s match against the Russian grandmaster Boris Spassky embodied the tension. “Icelanders were happy that Fischer won, especially since it was reported that the Russians were using all kinds of devious methods to distract him,” Pálsson remembers. “In Iceland, people tend to forgive geniuses their eccentric behavior,” agrees Gudmundur Thórarinsson, President of the Icelandic Chess Federation, which organized the 1972 match. “People looked at him as one man competing against the famous Soviet chess school.” In 1972, Icelanders saw in Fischer a David taking on the Soviet Goliath. Per 1 Samuel 17, Goliath arrived ready for battle with a massive ensemble: helmet, armor, and spear. He had a shield bearer. David, meanwhile, was too small for armor, so he met Goliath alone, humble slingshot in hand. Spassky’s Reykjavik entourage included a masseuse, personal trainer, private chef, and a team of grandmasters to help him analyze games and prepare. At most, Fischer sometimes brought a second with him and he rarely actually relied on that assistance. Thirty- three years later, Icelanders again saw an underdog in Fischer, this time aged and humbled, under assault from the U.S. government. Fischer had been a fugitive since breaking an embargo and playing Spassky in 1992 in war-torn Yugoslavia. “He was the oppressed one, and we agreed to give him cover, also as gratitude for promoting Iceland when nobody knew about it,” Pálsson says. He notes that many Icelanders see it as a source of pride that Icelandic ambassador Thor Thors helped lead the United Nations in its recognition of Israel, and Iceland was the first country to recognize the Palestinian state. It’s hard to imagine more compelling credentials for dark horse cheerleading. Icelanders deplored the hateful things that Fischer had said publicly about the United States and about Jews, explains Brady, but they felt a sense of obligation to help the man who had honored their country in 1972 and was now in trouble. “To not help him, they believed, would be a greater moral offense and act of ingratitude than even his verbal attacks of hostility and hatred,” he writes in Endgame. Just over a mile from the Selfoss gravesite, the Bobby Fischer Center, a museum and space for playing chess, contains a few hundred facsimiles of memorabilia, as well as some real items, including the chair Fischer A POSTED FACSIMILE OF BOBBY FISCHER'S ICELANDIC CITIZENSHIP used to sit on at the Reykjavik used book store Bragi’s, also known as PAPERS AT THE BOBBY FISCHER CENTER IN SELFOSS, ICELAND. PHOTO Fornbókabúð Braga or Bókin. (Among the literature he read there were BY NACHAMA SOLOVEICHIK. anti-Semitic conspiracies and neo-Nazi books.) “He didn’t like authorities in general, and I think he connected Judaism to the government in the United States,” says Aldís Sigfúsdóttir, part of the museum’s executive board. “I think he made a connection.” that to a big country,” Sigfúsdóttir says. The big country decided soon The event organizer Thórarinsson says many saw Fischer’s comments thereafter to shutter its Naval Air Station Keflavik, which it had operated as “serious wounds in his soul.” In his conversations with Fischer, since World War II, she says. (According to recent news reports, the Thórarinsson got the sense that Fischer felt that the many Jewish people U.S. will re-invest more than $14 million in the base.) who tried to help him as a child had ulterior motives of self-promotion. To the end, Fischer, still renowned for his endgame technique, was “He denied being a Jew and said that being a Jew is a religion not a thinking about his final move, which he decided wouldn’t be a Reykjavik nationality,” he says. “Traveling alone, lonely in many countries, hunting burial. “He said, ‘So many tourists will come to my gravesite. I want to him for moving wooden pieces from black squares to white squares, be buried in a small, peaceful, quiet place, because then I know that just breaking directives that were long outdated in a country that did not my real admirers will visit my gravesite,’” Sigfúsdóttir says, laughing. exist any more—his inappropriate comments have to be looked at in this light.” Historians of the future, he adds, will judge the United States CHESS IN THE AGE OF #METOO harshly for its treatment of the troubled genius. When Sharon Ellen Burtman, a woman international master and the Like Pálsson and Thórarinsson, Sigfúsdóttir is quick to forgive Fischer’s 1995 U.S. women’s co-champion, imagines a world without Fischer, “sin” of playing chess in Yugoslavia. “What did Bobby Fischer do? He she doesn’t think she’d be a chess player today if not for Fischer. Who moved chess pieces from one square to another,” she says. “Maybe he knows if her junior high would have offered chess as an extracurricular, thought it’s not their business to tell him if he could play or not.” or where she would have learned to move the pieces, or if there would Even after Iceland had extended citizenship to Fischer and issued have been local tournaments. All those were likely fueled by the “chess him a passport, the United States still tried to pressure the country to frenzy” that he created in the U.S., she says. extradite Fischer to America. “It’s pretty bold. It’s a small country saying A Massachusetts native, Burtman can’t resist a comparison of Fischer’s

22 March 2018 | Chess Life Fischer’s Legacy / Ten years on work ethic with that of New England’s football team and legendary above a light. The Marshall Chess Club ran a large tournament honoring coach Bill Belichick. “It’s kind of like the way the Patriots train,” she the 45th anni versary of Fischer’s championship win last October, but says. “They know every game is going to be a tough game, and they Brady knows that some of the club’s roughly 500 members, and others don’t take anyone for granted. If they win, it’s not a surprise; they had in the chess world at large, want nothing to do with Fischer. Some to work for it. Fischer was along the same lines.” wouldn’t go to a tournament honoring Fischer, and some would like When she considers the possibility of separating the chess player the club to remove the photograph by LIFE photographer Carl Mydans. from the man or woman, Burtman thinks of learning that Arnold “I understand that point of view,” Brady says. Schwarzenegger, the actor she had so loved in such films as The Terminator In a speech that Brady gave at the club when Fischer—unbeknownst and Conan the Barbarian, had cheated on then-wife Maria Shriver. She to Brady—was on his deathbed, Brady appealed to his longtime friend. hedged her decision: she’d see the early films, but not the ones “I ended it by saying, ‘The chess world misses you. The chess world Schwarzenegger starred in post-infidelity. But she and her husband, wants you. The chess world respects you. I respect you. Come on back who grew up watching Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids and The Cosby Show to the United States. You’re not going to go to jail. You’re going to get and who had met and secured autographs from Bill Cosby, had a tougher out. Pay your back taxes and come back and re-enter the world of chess, time with him and others who have physically harmed people. “I’m still and start playing again.’ That sort of sums out how I feel,” Brady says. grappling with that one,” she says. “It’s like what do you do with a family member who turns out to be a Donari Braxton, a filmmaker who is reportedly a master, is able to thief?” separate the man from the chess player. “As a black Jew, I learned pretty quickly in life that compartmentalizing heroic actors from their often WAS FISCHER MENTALLY ILL? less-than-heroic personas is a bit of a sine qua non, at least if you want When the Illinois Chess Association promoted its March 10, 2018 to enjoy things like art, chess, and history,” he says. Bobby Fischer Memorial (held the day after Fischer’s birthday, which Overlooking—or at least looking beyond the tortured Fischer and this writer happens to share), the association invited competitors to his mean-spirited words to eye the games he created—is easy for Braxton. “celebrate the 75th birthday of America’s greatest player!” and to “forgive “Those games kind of populate your mind like old paintings on the those things beyond his control.” The framing of that promotion of the walls of your childhood home, because you grew up with them,” he tournament, held at the University of Illinois at Chicago, raises the says. The question of whether Fischer ought to inspire young people question of whether Fischer’s controversial remarks really were beyond today is the same as whether composers his control. like the anti-Semitic Richard Wagner Brady is unconvinced, as much as he or writers like the racist Joseph Conrad [Fischer] was the oppressed wishes he could believe that Fischer can also inspire emerging artists. “One was mentally ill. “I don’t think Bobby takes what one can from those who was insane. I think he was outré. I create,” Braxton says. one, and we agreed to give detested his politics. I detested his anti- That Fischer didn’t appear to make Semitism,” Brady says. “He didn’t have anti-Semitic statements before he won him cover, also as gratitude visions. He didn’t have hallucinations. the 1972 Reykjavik match makes it He never hurt anyone or himself easier to enjoy his chess creations, say for promoting Iceland when physically.” Burtman and Brady. Fischer was more paranoid than Sitting behind a chess set in the great most, Brady allows, but that didn’t make hall of New York’s Marshall Chess Club nobody knew about it. him necessarily mentally ill. “This makes as two grandmasters, Irina Krush and it worse, as far as I’m concerned,” Brady Giorgi Kacheishvili, taught students says. “If you could say he was mentally on either side of the club, Brady pointed out where Fischer played the ill, you might be able to forgive the poor guy. He’s nuts. He didn’t know “Game of the Century” on October 17, 1956. In 1965, when Fischer what he was saying. I can’t say that. I think he turned mean.” played via teletype from the club because his visa to Cuba was blocked, So why did Fischer denounce the United States, and what drew him Brady was the referee. And he remembers coming out of the office to to read—and callously recommend subsequently that Jewish friends inform club members when John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963. read—the notorious Protocols of the Elders of Zion and other anti-Semitic “Everyone continued to play,” he says. literature? How could he deny the Holocaust when talking to chess Having known Fischer from when the latter was a child, and having friends who had fled the Nazis and to others who had lost family members been a friend of Regina’s, Brady felt betrayed when Fischer’s anti-Semitic in concentration camps? Regina wrote to her son in blunt terms of Nazi rants emerged. Brady never heard Fischer say anything anti-Semitic atrocities, and his sister Joan and her husband, Russell Targ, both Jewish, prior to the 1972 match. It’s possible Fischer knew that Brady’s wife is had to ask him to leave so he wouldn’t spew anti-Semitic vitriol around Jewish, but Brady doesn’t recall telling him. their three children. Brady too raises the question of listening to Wagner’s music. “Do In an October 2006 email exchange, Fischer’s former trainer Harry you respect Bobby Fischer’s chess even though he was a self-hating Sneider, whom he met at the Worldwide Church of God, recalled Jew?” he asks. “I went through tremendous problems with this, personally, meeting the grandmaster at the church’s Ambassador College in 1972. in my relationship with him.” Brady decided that he could listen to (Fischer later had a bad breakup with the evangelical church, which he Wagner and respect Fischer’s chess. “I was very disappointed,” he says. accused of cheating him.) When Fischer came to the college’s fitness “I considered him a friend.” center to work out, he saw Sneider, a physical education faculty member. At the club, the corner immediately to the right when visitors enter “He took one look at my arms, my blonde hair, blue eyes, and asked me the main room is a kind of shrine to Fischer. A cartoon from the cover if I was Latvian!” Sneider, who died in 2014, wrote me in 2006. “This of Chess Life, which Brady founded, hangs beside a poster from the was a shock to me because he could predict where I was from.” Iceland championship match. A lone black-and-white photo of Fischer, Fischer’s anti-Semitism saddened and perplexed his friend of nearly his left hand to his temple as he looks down upon a position, hangs 35 years. “I’m totally devastated in Bobby’s decline to his hatred for the

www.uschess.org 23 Fischer’s Legacy / Ten years on

certain times in his life, but he cautions that Fischer wasn’t a patient of his. Given that distance, the psychologist believes that chess filled a special need for Fischer, who was socially awkward and unpopular in school, and who had only a few close friends. “Chess was his companion, his refuge, a place where he felt safe and protected from the frenetic life that characterized his home,” he writes. Ponterotto’s psychological autopsy also extends to Regina, who was an impressive multilingual woman who had earned a doctorate and a medical degree, but who struggled to find work when near-continuous FBI investi- gations hindered her opportunities. “As Bobby was an underdog to the mighty Soviet chess machine in the 1960s, so too was he, unfortunately, an underdog in his chances for a stable, balanced, and happy life,” Ponterotto writes of the boy who lived in 10 homes in the first six years of his life. That Fischer couldn’t attend his mother’s or sister’s funerals when the two died within a year of each other didn’t help his psychological state. When Grandmaster Robert Byrne suggested that Fischer, then 19 years old, see a psychiatrist, Fischer responded haughtily. “A psychiatrist ought to pay him for the privilege of working on his brain,” Ponterotto writes. But amid Fischer’s paranoia—that Russians would booby- trap planes or that fillings in his teeth could register radio signals—he was right about one thing. “The Russians were cheating,” Ponterotto writes. Indeed, analyses have validated Fischer’s charge that the Soviet grandmasters were colluding by drawing early—thus the “grandmaster draw”—to save their strength and concentration for matches against him. Ponterotto records one possibility for why Fischer turned on Jews: the young Fischer’s feeling of abandonment when his single mom would host Jewish intellectuals to talk politics. Uninterested in the conver- sation, Fischer may have felt symbolically abandoned. “In some illogical way to us, but logical to Bobby, he associates his deep feelings of hurt, betrayal, and abandonment with some notion of ‘Jewishness,’” Ponterotto writes. He concludes that Fischer likely had “some genetic vulnerability to develop a mental illness, and that this predisposition, in concert with early life trauma and the burden of relentless media pressure, FISCHER'S USUAL CHAIR AT BRAGI’S SECOND HAND BOOK SHOP IN REYKJAVIK, AT coalesced into serious mental health concerns that called THE BOBBY FISCHER CENTER IN SELFOSS, ICELAND. PHOTO BY NACHAMA for early and ongoing psychological intervention.” SOLOVEICHIK. In an interview, Ponterotto resisted comparing Fischer’s situation to today’s celebrities, who have abused their Jews,” Sneider wrote. “I’m not sure when it started, if it is a psychological, power to take advantage of the less powerful. “Fischer, to my knowledge, emotional problem which can stem from imbalances in the brain never took advantage of others,” he says. And “psychological challenges chemistry or what have you.” He and Fischer had studied Bible together, and a difficult history of trauma,” including multiple arrests and jailings, and Fischer kept Yom Kippur and other Jewish holidays, tithed, and fugitive status, and a complex family history “led to vulnerability and attended Sabbath services with Sneider. “You tell me what happened. impacted his rational logic in time,” he says. It’s anyone’s guess,” Sneider wrote. “Maybe a psychiatrist can tell us “Can you be an anti-Semite without being mentally ill?” asks Burtman, both.” who also believes that Fischer was mentally ill. Having devoted her life Joseph Ponterotto, author of the 2012 book A Psychobiography of to being a role model in chess, having someone in the industry “go off Bobby Fischer: Understanding the Genius, Mystery, and Psychological Decline the deep end” doesn’t help the cause, she says. As the 10th anniversary of a World Chess Champion, is a psychologist and professor at Fordham of Fischer’s death falls during a public reckoning for many celebrities, University’s graduate school of education. The book, which Ponterotto Burtman thinks the passage of time allows for greater clarity. began a week after Fischer died, is a “psychological autopsy,” he writes. “You have time to work with all of these complex emotions and sort Various people have diagnosed Fischer with Asperger’s, paranoid them out, and you have time to make those personal decisions,” she schizophrenia, paranoid personality disorder, and delusional disorder. says. “Does it make it easier? No. It’s still very tragic and brings me Ponterotto thinks that Fischer likely suffered from mental illness at sadness to discuss it. But I’m able to move on and talk about his game.”

24 March 2018 | Chess Life BOBBY ROCKS POP!

THE FISCHER LEGACY IS COMPLEX AND OFTEN DARK. BUT HE ALSO BECAME A POP CULTURE ICON WHO INSPIRED ARTISTS ACROSS THE CREATIVE SPECTRUM. HERE ARE JUST A FEW MUSICIAL BON MOTS INFLUENCED BY HIM.

1972’s “The Ballad of Bobby IN HIS 1999 SONG, Music producer Hal Willner’s 1992 Fischer,” performed by Joe Glazer Mingus tribute album, and his Fianchettoed Bishops, “THIS LIFE FOREVER,” Weird Nightmare: featured spoken-word lines such as, “Despite his attempts to Meditations on Mingus, innovate, Larsen was bent includes “Canon (No. right out of shape.” 2),” a spoken-word IMAGE BY VECTEEZY.COM JAY-Z passage about jazz During the 1972 World Championship, THE RAPPER, CALLS HIMSELF musician Charles Soviet singer-songwriter Vladimir Vysotsky “THE BOBBY FISCHER OF RAP.” Mingus and Fischer wrote a two-song cycle, “The honor of the chess crown,” about a Soviet worker’s meeting in preparation for the match with Fischer. Bellevue Hospital. PHOTO BY FLICKR USER SULAIMAN.ELLISON

English alternative band iLiKETRAiNS’ 2006 song, “A Rook House For Bobby,” is an ode to Fischer’s PAUL WALL, 1992 match with Spassky, after which he was unable to ANOTHER RAPPER, CLAIMS, return to the U.S. “I’M BOBBY FISCHER ON THE MIC MAKING CHESS MOVES,” CHESS, WITH LYRICS BY TIM RICE AND IN HIS 2005 SONG, “MARCH ‘N’ STEP.” MUSIC BY ABBA’S PHOTO BY MIKAEL VAISANEN BJÖRN ULVAEUS Not to be outdone, another rapper, AND BENNY ANDERSSON, The Game, IS LOOSELY BASED ON THE 1972 refers to WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH himself as “the Bobby Fischer of hip- hop” in his 2005 song, “Runnin’.” PHOTO BY AVRO PHOTO BY EVA RINAL PHOTO BY BRADLEY G THE BEST CHESS BOOK I EVER STOLE

The behind-the- scenes story of  
  and the best-selling chess book of all time, Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess

By SEAN ROBINSON Fischer’s Legacy / Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess

less me chess players, for I have sinned. One friend, a fellow book hound, is sharp. The perfect book aimed at average players I have a confession to make: Years ago, He knows the game and plays well enough to is something of a Holy Grail among aspiring Bnever mind how many precisely, I give me trouble. I recommend a few obvious amateurs who seek its mystic lore, and a lure checked out a chess book from a local library classics. Then I remember Ault’s Elements of for con artists seeking a quick buck. My stack and realized I would keep it forever. Combinations, and confess my ancient theft: includes scores of volumes devoted to the I didn’t know it then, but my selfish impulse “My conscience rebels to this day,” I said, category. marked the beginning of a trivial quest that “but this one is in my all-time top 10. It still Some are earnest, some transparently cynical. bloomed into a lifelong obsession with chess goes with me on every vacation. I think I learned Noble attempts by the greats litter the literature and chess books and a nagging desire to connect more in one shot from it than any book I own. from its beginnings. Staunton, Steinitz, Lasker, with an author who taught me more about the I wrote reams in it. I gouged my blue college Capablanca, Nimzowitsch and Alekhine took game than anyone before or since—an author pen into a mistake on page 115.” their shots, but they were geniuses first, teachers who also happens to be the ghost writer for The mistake appeared in a puzzle derived second. It’s axiomatic that grandmasters, with the best-selling chess book in publishing history. from Fischer-Eliskases, Mar del Plata, 1960.1 a few notable exceptions, don’t write well for The book I checked out was called The Chess In a chapter about discoveries, Ault, asking amateurs. They simply know too much. They Tutor: Elements of Combinations. The author, readers to guess Black’s 32nd move, had over - take the obvious for granted. They’ve forgotten Leslie Ault, was a name on a dust jacket, looked a mate in two. how to play stupid moves. The best books for unknown to me at the time. Most chess authors Spotting the mistake didn’t lessen my appre - amateurs don’t come from the champs—they were unknown to me at the time. I was in ciation of the book. It enhanced it: Chess books come from the great teachers and coaches. college, a rank amateur, a fish, a rube, a weakie. could contain errors, and by god I’d found one. Potboilers by Fred Reinfeld and Irving I had two friends who played chess. Both of Yeah, yeah—cue the scoffing from stronger Chernev dominated the genre for much of the them beat me like a drum. My temper in those players. I know now that older books from the 20th century. A few of their works still stand days was mythic: I was a board-sweeper, a table- pre-computer age contain analytical errors. I’ve up. Writers such as Bruce Pandolfini and Dan pounder, a sore loser who hated being outwitted. read enough John Nunn footnotes and Edward Heisman (heartily endorsed) swim in the same My friends taunted me with the old line from Winter essays to figure that out—but 30 years waters. C.J.S. Purdy, the first World Corre - C-3PO in Star Wars: “Let the Wookiee win.” ago, I was young and dumb. spond ence Champion, wrote beautifully for Ault’s book was my antidote, my northern Over time, going through Ault’s book, I’d average players (and he praised Reinfeld’s star, one of the first chess books I ever acquired. begun to think of him as a professor, to argue diagram books as ideal learning tools). I still revere it. with him in my head. My battered copy of Jeremy Silman is the clear king of the modern Published in 1975, it’s a tactical manual and Elements of Combinations contains numerous era. I own three editions of his How to Reassess puzzle book with light commentary. That flat notes written in initial triumph and crossed your Chess, justly regarded as one of the best description fails to convey the effect it had on out in crestfallen rage after finding holes in my books of all time for players seeking common- me. It also fails to convey the curious genesis amateur analysis. Fortunately, my glorious sense advice. Silman’s later Complete Endgame and genius of the book—but more on that in a victory on page 115 remained pure, and my Course is a masterpiece of instruction. moment. affection for the book had deepened after years To my mind, Elements of Combinations belongs Fast forward to the present. I’m middle-aged, of wider chess reading. in the same category as the classics penned by an investigative journalist. Chess is my refuge Soon enough, my sharp friend acquired Ault’s the authors above, but it’s never received its from stories of murder and governmental book (a bit of a feat, since it’s rare and pricey due. While plenty of puzzle-based books exist, screwups. My mighty library approaches 800 these days) and relayed his review. Like me, the measure of instructional quality requires volumes and fills three bookcases: master games, he was hooked. more than wordless pages of mating diagrams. opening manuals, middlegame manuals, “Ault is amazing,” he said. “I keep him on The peculiar greatness of Ault’s book is its endgame manuals, scholarly history, and plenty my nightstand and do a few problems each sense of gradualism, the sweet spot of chess of crap. I’m no master and never will be, but night before bed.” instruction. Elements of Combinations divides I’m a better player, a class-C dabbler. I study The words struck me: “I keep him on my into 15 chapters, starting with basic tactics: less than I should and buy more books than I nightstand.” Not the book: him, the guy, my pins, forks, skewers, discoveries and such. need. That’s what addiction looks like. favorite guru. Thus, my friend became the Nothing new, then or now, but Ault has a knack Others know I’m a junkie—co-workers and newest member of the tiny cult. for setting the degree of difficulty just above friends. On rare occasions, they seek book I had realized over time how tiny it really the amateur’s horizon line: the mark of a great recommendations, which I give. For kids and was as I acquired more books, devoured online teacher. beginners, I buy and hand off copies of Bobby reviews, and sought the best teachers according What’s more, the book adds a fiendish Fischer Teaches Chess, which remains the cheap - to expert consensus. Naturally I wanted to wrinkle: Typically, Ault doesn’t tell you which est, fastest entry point I know: all diagrams, no improve, but I was also fascinated by chess player has the move. He asks the reader to

PHOTO CREDIT: COURTESY OF AULT theory, but you get the hang of back-rank mates. pedagogy and its masters. decide the best moves for White and Black—

www.uschess.org 27 Fischer’s Legacy / Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess

C, working toward B, pounding on my end - game knowledge—but I still return to Elements for tactical refreshment. It never disappoints. A separate factor adds serious geek value: Elements might qualify as the most neglected Fischer book ever published. Check the long lists of Fischer literature yourself. You’ll be hard- pressed to find any mention of Ault’s book —yet half of its approximately 280 puzzles are drawn from Fischer games, including a number of examples from the 1972 World Championship match with Boris Spassky. It ought to be regarded as a sequel: Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess II. As a matter of fact, that’s what it was supposed to be: Ault, a national master and former U.S. intercollegiate chess champion (1959), essentially wrote Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess (BFTC) after obtaining his Master of Arts. It doesn’t look like it on the cover, which credits Fischer, Stuart Margulies, and Donn Mosenfelder as the authors. In reality, Margulies, a chessplaying executive, obtained the contract, and Mosenfelder, another chessplaying executive, was supposed to write the book. A car accident hampered Mosenfelder; Ault was handed the editing reins. Ault recounts this story in his later book, The Genesis of Power Chess (1993), which draws on the same instruc- tional methods as BFTC: “One of the executives, Stuart Margulies, knew me from chess tournaments and figured my chess ability would transfer to instructional writing. Unknown to me, Stuart had a contract along with Donn Mosenfelder (for writing) and Bobby Fischer (for the name) to prepare a basic ‘chess program,’ covering simple mating techniques in step-by-step fashion with active responding. After Donn was slowed down by an auto accident, I was asked to help him complete the manuscript on schedule. “... I was given the job, nominally as ‘editor,’ to get it ready for publication. ... Our job was to tidy up the text, make sure all analysis was accurate, and work with Bobby Fischer in integrating some of his own positions into the text. “While I knew Fischer by sight from various tournaments in my teens, I had never met him personally. At first he was suspicious and defen - sive, but soon he became very helpful and TOP: AULT’S TWO KEY BOOKS. BELOW: THE AUTHOR’S NOTE IN ELEMENTS: “SPOTTING THE cooperative—all in all a fascinating experience MISTAKE DIDN’T LESSEN MY APPRECIATION OF THE BOOK. IT ENHANCED IT: CHESS BOOKS to work with a genius on the verge of becoming COULD CONTAIN ERRORS, AND BY GOD I’D FOUND ONE.” a household name in America. The result, of an uncommon feature in chess puzzle books, start playing chess? course, was Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess, which and a sneakily effective method of teaching I didn’t have a formal rating when I acquired continues in print today, certainly helped by defense. Ault’s book back in the day. If I had, it wouldn’t Fischer’s name but also I believe because of its For me, that element was a revelation, as have been good: maybe 900, if I want to delude unique systematic presentation for beginners.” silly as it sounds. It’s easy enough in various myself. I’d say Ault’s book was worth 400 points Ault, born in 1940, was a contemporary of puzzle books to spot three-move mates, but to my game, still the biggest single leap of Fischer’s. His older brother, Robin, was a what if you’re trying to prevent those crushers, improvement I’ve ever experienced. After that three-time U.S. Junior Champion from 1959- to save yourself? What happens if you think evolution, my old friends refused to play me 61, and rather famously lost all 11 of his games about the opponent’s moves as well as your unless I gave them knight or rook odds. in the 1961 U.S. Championship (one of them own? In short, what happens if you actually These days, I’m comfortably average, class a Fischer sparkler2).

28 March 2018 | Chess Life Fischer’s Legacy / Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess

Following the success of BFTC, Ault obtained journalist,” I wrote, in part. “I write about crime Ault recently sent me one position from his his Ph.D. in psychology and gained a profes- and courts and policing. In private, I'm a chess new project, a tricky setup featuring an apparent sorship in behavioral sciences at a college on player and book hound. This is a starstruck fan win for Black with a king + knight + knight + the East Coast. In 1972, he ventured into chess letter—forgive me.” rook versus king + rook (you should evaluate writing again with the idea for Elements of A few days later, a message hit my inbox. it as both White to play and Black to play): Combinations. “Sean: glad to hear from you.” “I was feeling that another book, written in Paydirt. It’s difficult to explain the childish a similar manner but concentrating on basic glee I felt when I saw that message. As predicted, tactics, would be much more useful for aspiring my response gushed. I told Ault his book richly players beyond the level of rank beginner,” he deserved republication: expansion, conversion wrote in the foreword to The Genesis of Power to algebraic notation, all the bells and whistles. Chess. “Originally, I was hoping to deal with I told him it was perfectly aimed at the average Fischer myself, but his subsequent withdrawal player. from public activity forced me to sell my That back and forth dates to June 2017. I’ve manuscript on my own.” been corresponding with Ault ever since. The legendary Fischer boom was over. He’s in his late 70s now, retired but still Without the famous name to sell it, Ault’s book active. He plays tennis regularly. He’s a grand - sank into undeserved obscurity. father and a caregiver for his wife, now battling “Solve it and I’ll explain,” he said. Knowing all this, and knowing my own Alzheimer’s. He’s still thinking about chess I looked at the photo, and fell into two days regard for the book, I assumed writers and instruction, and he’s got one more book in of brain-busting, swiftly realizing the puzzle players more learned than I would have cited mind, again utilizing the programmatic methods wasn’t as simple as I thought. I replied with Elements as an example of high-quality interme - he devised almost 50 years ago. He described brief analysis. diate instruction. Yet the literature and reams those methods more specifically in a recent Once more, the old professor had me. My of online reviews gave it little attention. Was note to me: assessment was off. He told me to provide more I out of my mind? “The concept of my books is a series of moves. While idly surfing online, I finally found positions, grouped in themes and progressively “Then I’ll explain further,” he said. evidence that I wasn’t. A 2007 blog entry re - more complex, for the reader to select move(s) To date, I haven’t solved the position, but I ferred to Ault as the “most underrated chess and then get feedback (an application to chess took a separate step, driven by guilt. A certain author.” of the behavioral theory of B.F. Skinner).” library in the Pacific Northwest received an “I’ve never understood why Leslie Ault's two That last tidbit was a new and personal online donation: overdue compensation for a books (three, if you count Bobby Fischer Teaches revelation. Skinner’s famous theories regarding book lost long ago. Chess—see below) never became better known,” behaviorism were well known to me. My father, (Editor’s note: Fritz’s evaluations are below.) the writer said, before praising the combinations who worked in mental-health services for a book. time, had read Skinner’s books and described FOOTNOTES I couldn’t help agreeing. That led to more his ideas to me. 1 Fischer won the game in question, but Erich surfing, and a more diligent effort to track the In later years, my research into chess peda - Eliskases (1913-1997) defeated him in another man down. Was Ault still alive? He had been gogy led me to the idea that Skinner’s methods game in Buenos Aires, 1960, placing him in a young in the Fischer years, so the chances were transferred beautifully to chess teaching—and rare club of players with wins against both decent. here was Ault, telling me that was precisely Capablanca and Fischer (Euwe, Keres and In spring 2017, a Google search led me to a what he’d intended, and already done. Reshevsky are the others.) hit that had nothing to do with chess: a traffic I mentioned that in a later note to Ault. In a column in the Bergen (New Jersey) Record3. A reply, he floored me and said he’d met Skinner 2 Robin Ault also produced a rare, privately reader named Leslie Ault had offered advice during his first days on the job with Basic published two-volume translation of Tarrasch’s about how to avoid accidents in parking lots. Systems, the company that specialized in the Dreihundert Schachpartien (300 Chess Games), as The Ault name was uncommon. Prior re - programmed instruction utilized in Bobby Fischer noted by Edward Winter in his Chess Notes search told me he had roots in the area. Could Teaches Chess: column, item 7375 (2011). this be the same guy? Taking a small risk, I “There was some personal involvement by 3 http://www.northjersey.com/story/news/ sent an email to the columnist, who agreed to Skinner; we had an office in Cambridge and I columnists/john-cichowski/2016/11/18/road- share my email address with his correspondent. met him there and the company office. Skinner warrior-reader-safety-tips/94067842/ Before long, an email arrived. My guess had had produced a primitive teaching machine been right: where a teaching ‘frame’ was shown in a “Sure, give my email to Sean, all the more window, and the correct answer choice allowed so as I have a current chess project,” Ault wrote. the paper roll to be advanced to the next frame. The author I’d admired for years, a formative ... I think Skinner would have been fascinated figure in my life, a man I’d never met, was open with the pedagogical uses for computers.” to a message. What’s more, he was still writing Here was a serious discovery: The most about chess. famous behaviorist of the 20th century had SOLUTION Oddly enough, I didn’t respond immediately. contributed in a small way to the best-selling With White to move, the position is equal after 1. Rb2+ I was afraid of sounding too gushy. I drafted a chess book of all time, envisioning the Q&A Nd2+ 2. Kxd2 Nd5 3. Rd5 Nf4 4. Ke3 Ne6 5. Rh5 Kg3 6. note, rewrote it, rewrote it again, and finally learning structure popularized in chess books Rb5 Re1+. While with Black to move, Black is clearly hit the send button a few weeks later. later refined by Leslie Ault, who was taking winning after 1. ... Ra8 2. Kc2 Rc8 3. Rb7 Kf3 4. Kd3 Rd8+ “In real life, I'm a jaded investigative the same ideas and preparing a new book. 5. Kc2 Ke3 6. Rb6 Rc8. PHOTO CREDIT: COURTESY OF AUTHOR

www.uschess.org 29 Webster Staves Off SLU for Another PanAms Title SLU, Texas Tech and UT-RGV secure remaining berths in Final Four

By AL LAWRENCE

30 March 2018 | Chess Life College Chess / 2017 PanAms

oughing and sniffing with colds, yes, but Webster University Ramirez proved to be a brilliant choice, putting together a first-year showed no signs of being “sick of winning” at the 2017 PanAms team that qualified for the 2017 Final Four and finished number three. Cin Columbus, Ohio, between Christmas and New Year’s Eve. But you have to think three is not Sinquefield’s favorite number. This But a new intracity rival—also bringing a 2700-plus team to the four- year SLU’s team was even more powerful. player tables—is inching closer to ending Webster’s dominance. This year’s lineup seemed once again to offer the strongest-ever event GM Susan Polgar’s Webster squads have finished in the top score overall. With 15 grandmasters and 29 international masters among the group at the Pan-American Intercollegiate Team Chess Championships 245 collegiate competitors, 11 of the 58 four-player teams at this year’s ever since the suburban St. Louis Division III school’s chess program event averaged a US Chess rating of over 2400. Webster “A” was again at began in 2012. True, twice Webster yielded the first-place trophy on the top of the wallchart with a 2724 average rating, and Webster brought tiebreaks. Yet Webster went on every year to win all five championships three more teams, a “B” team rated over 2600, and two more rated over at the annual Final Four, the playoff among the PanAm’s four top U.S. 2200. SLU’s lone team was close behind Webster “A” at 2702. The other finishers that determines the U.S. collegiate championship. chess scholarship programs—The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Enter Saint Louis University (SLU). From a distance, SLU may seem (UT-RGV), Texas Tech University, and University of Texas at Dallas to be just another addition to the St. Louis hegemony of nearly all things (UTD)—brought multiple teams, their top squads averaging over 2600. U.S. chess. But the rivalry inside St. Louis is intense. Webster is strictly One Webster team was comprised of four African-Americans who Polgar. SLU, where he first studied business, is the beloved alma mater grew up playing each other in the New York City area. The team’s first- of billionaire philanthropist Rex Sinquefield, the man who reinvigorated board FM Justus Williams upset UT-RGV’s GM Kamil Dragun in USA chess—both as a national power and a venue. Thursday morning’s round two. But a different round two game gave Two years ago, Sinquefield funded a SLU chess scholarship program us the ultimate individual upset winner—who overcame a 900-plus and enlisted GM Alejandro Ramirez to head the effort. Sinquefield deficit to pull off a sparkling combination. bankrolled recruitment, rumored to be the richest in college chess.

CARO-KANN, 15. ... f5?! 16. e5? THE “BRAVE” AND “MOST ADVANCE VARIATION (B12) 16. Nxc4, discovering on the black bishop, IMPORTANT GAME” Baren Gunsolus (1749, University of gives White a better game. For four rounds, Webster “A” holds its grip Minnesota Twin Cities “B”) on table one and SLU holds court on table two. Peter Gabrielides (816, Oberlin College) 16. ... Nd5! 17. Bf2 Bc5 18. Nd4 Nxf4 19. N2f3 Nxe5!! 20. Nxe5 Bxd4 Round five on Monday night sees the faceoff 2017 Pan-American Intercollegiate (2), of the 2700 intracity rivals. The match comes Columbus, Ohio, 12.28.2017 Frank Marshall or Paul Morphy would have down to one imbroglio on third board between preferred 20. ... Qg5! with the same fork-tactic two former U.S. Championship contenders. 1. e4 c6 2. d4 d5 3. f3 Nd7 4. Bd3 e5 5. used in the game: 20. ... Qg5 21. Bg3 Bxd4+ Be3 Bd6 6. Ne2 Ne7 7. Nd2 0-0 8. c4 dxc4 Who knows what happens when a Gorlok 22. Qxd4 Ne2+. 9. Bxc4 b5 10. Bb3 Bb7 11. 0-0 a6 12. f4 battles a Billiken? (Who knows even what 21. Bxd4 Qxd4+ 22. Qxd4 Ne2+ 23. Kh1 exd4 13. Nxd4 c5 14. N4f3 c4 15. Bc2 either is?) Nxd4 24. Bd1 Rad8 25. a4 Rfe8 26. Nf3 Bxf3 27. Bxf3 Nb3 28. Ra2 Nd2 29. Rf2 (a RUY LOPEZ, BERLIN DEFENSE (C65) blunder in a lost position, allowing mate in GM Ray Robson (2731, Webster U. “A”) two) 29. ... Re1+, White resigned. GM Yaro Zherebukh (2717, Saint Louis U. “A”) 2017 Pan-American Intercollegiate (5), Columbus, Ohio, 12.29.2017

1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nf6 4. d3 Bc5 5. Bxc6 dxc6 6. Nbd2 Nd7 7. Nc4 f6 8. 0-0 0-0 9. Nh4 Rf7 10. Be3 Bf8 11. Kh1 Nb6 12. Na5 Na4 13. Qe1 Qe8 14. b3 Nc5 15. g3 b6 16. Nc4 Bh3 17. Rg1 Qd7 18. f3 Be6 19. f4 exf4 20. gxf4 Bxc4 21. bxc4 Here Black could keep a small advantage Nxd3 22. cxd3 Qxd3 23. Bf2 with 15. ... Bc5 but instead pushes an impetuous (see diagram top of next page)

PHOTO CREDIT: COURTESY OF WEBSTER UNIVERSITY pawn, ironically his gateway to a brilliant finish.

WEBSTER’S “A-TEAM” PAN AM CHAMPIONS: FIGHTING OFF ILLNESS, BUT NOT SICK OF WINNING.: (LEFT-TO-RIGHT) GMS JORGE CORI, RAY ROBSON (TEAM CAPTAIN), SUSAN POLGAR, VASIF DURARBAYLI, ALEKSANDR SHIMANOV, AND TOURNAMENT ORGANIZER KELLY BLOOMFIELD.

www.uschess.org 31 College Chess / 2017 PanAms

offered a draw when all the other games had finished in half-points was brave, but of course it made us extremely nervous. And it didn’t pay off this time.”

ROUND SIX: HAS UT-D CRACKED THE CODE? Organizers never had to move the Webster logo from table one. As a result of Zherebukh’s pressing for a win, only Webster “A” boasts a perfect 5-0 score. UT-Dallas “B” stands in clear ANALYSIS AFTER 36. Qe3!! second with 4½, having given up a draw against With all three other boards on table one UT-RGV “B” in round four and beaten UT- drawn and sealed with a handshake, Robson 30. ... Bc5 31. f5 Bd4 RGV “A” in round five. Now it faces Webster also offers a draw! Webster’s team captain is on table one. Eight other teams at 4-1, six of Yaro Z. is obviously wary of 31. ... Bxg1 32. willing to go into the last round with a less them scholarship powerhouses, crack skulls, Rxg1 but perhaps it’s best: After 32. ... Rd6 33. than perfect score and tied with the new rival. scrambling for one of the spots in the Final Qf4 Qe7, both sides are still in the game. But At the PanAms, players cannot consult anyone Four to move on to New York for the Easter who can assess such a position over the board? about draw offers. Yaro declines, “Since I was weekend playoffs. better.” He disdains the tying field goal and After the exchange of dark-square bishops, however, Black is lost. goes for the touchdown. But perhaps both he Table one: UT-Dallas “B” (2560) versus Webster and Ray underestimate White’s loose-looking 32. Bxd4 Rxd4 33. fxg6 hxg6 34. Nf5! “A” (2724) position. Robson is, after all, the one with the gxf5 35. Qe3!! extra piece and an open g-file. Table two: SLU (2702) versus Harvard (2422) As in the variation after move 29, moving Table three: UT-Dallas “A” (2593) versus UT- 23. ... Re8 24. Nf5 Rd7 25. Qe3 Qxc4 the queen just so is the only clearly winning RGV “A” (2650) The continuation 25. ... Qxe4+ 26. Qxe4 blow. Table four: Webster “B” (2634) versus UT- Rxe4 27. Rad1 Rxd1 28. Nh6+ Kh8 29. Nf7+ 35. … Rd7 36. Rd1 Rg8 Dallas “C” (2529) Kg8 30. Nh6+ is a way to reach the draw Table five: U. of Illinois “A” (2088) versus Texas scorned by “Yaro Z.” Worse is 36. ... Rxd1 37. Qh6+ Qh7 38. Qxf6+ Qg7 39. Qxg7 mate. Tech “A” (2615) 26. Rae1 Qxa2 27. Qf3 Kh8 28. Bd4 Qf7 29. Ba1 37. Qh6+ Qh7 38. Qxf6+ Rdg7 39. Rd7 Remarkably, three UT-Dallas teams are still Even four (soon to be five) pawns up, it’s a in the running for the Final Four, and one team dismal plight for Black. still has a shot for clear first! That encouraging scenario is a result of UT-Dallas’ Program 39. ... fxe4 40. Rgxg7 Rxg7 41. Rd8+ Qg8 42. Qh4+ Rh7 43. Rxg8+ Kxg8 44. Qd8+ Director James Stallings’ new strategy. With a Kf7 45. Qxc7+ Kg6 46. Qxc6+ Kf5 47. Kg2 plethora of GMs at his disposal, instead of Re7 48. Kf2 e3+ 49. Ke2 Re6 50. Qd5+ loading up one team to have the highest rating, Kf6 51. h4 a5 52. h5, Black resigned. Stallings put together three teams within a few points of each other. “That way we’d have three chances to qualify.” Any of a college’s teams can win the Final Four spot for its school. Sometimes you have a great plan, you execute it well, and it all falls into place. “Hannibal” Smith, flashing that toothy grin, would be 29. ... g6 lighting-up his cigar. But his A-Team just blew stuff up—they never had to contend with After 29. ... Qe6 30. Nd4 Qc4 31. e5 Rxd4 32. tiebreaks. That is The University of Texas at Bxd4 Qxd4 33. Rd1 Qc4 34. exf6 gxf6 35. Rd7, Dallas’ problem. Stockfish 8 favors White despite the black queenside pawn mass. Many human players would agree. A notable opportunity for a SWEEPING UP TIEBREAKS brilliancy follows 35. ... Bh6?, because of 36. It’s hopeless: 52. ... a4 53. h6 Re8 54. h7, with After match points, the PanAms use the U.S. Qe3!!. the threat of Qg8, is good enough; or 52. ... Amateur Team East tiebreak, multiplying wins Ke7 53. Qg5+ Kf7 54. Qh6. against the opposing team’s final match-point (see diagram top of next column) “It was the most important game of this score. Thus, defeating a 4-2 team with a 4-0 Now 36. ... Qf7 37. Rxf7 Rxe3 38. Rxf6 Bg7 PanAms for our team, and a brilliant game by sweep would add 16 tiebreak points. That’s 39. Rf7 Bh6 and 40. Rxc7 leaves White better. Ray (Robson),” Webster’s Paul Truong said exactly what Texas Tech does against Illinois after his team had a firm grip on the big, gold- “A” for the only last-round sweep among the 30. Ng3 tinted, first-place trophy. top teams. GM Pavlo Vorontsov, on third board The continuation 30. Nh4 Bg7 31. Qh3 Kg8 SLU Coach GM Alejandro Ramirez naturally for Texas Tech A, quickly does his part by 32. f5 g5 33. e5! looks like more trouble than had a bit different, but stoical, take: “Yaro’s sacking the house against an opponent who Black could handle. decision to play on against Robson after being lets his troops stray too far from the killing

32 March 2018 | Chess Life College Chess / 2017 PanAms

zone, giving Pavlo the only individual 6-0 result.

CLOSED SICILIAN DEFENSE (B23) Nathaniel Kranjc (2155, University of Illinois “A”) GM Pavlo Vorontsov (2631, Texas Tech “A”) 2017 Pan-American Intercollegiate (6), Columbus, Ohio, 12.30.2017

1. e4 c5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. Bb5 e5 4. Bxc6 dxc6 5. d3 Bd6 6. Be3 Nf6 7. Qd2 0-0 8. h3 Nd7 9. 0-0-0 b5 10. f4 b4 11. Nce2 Qa5 12. Kb1 Nb6 13. b3 exf4 14. Nxf4 Be5 15. Nf3 Bc3 16. Qf2 Rb8 17. Qg3? Better was 17. Ne2!.

ANALYSIS AFTER 17. Ne2!

17. ... Nc4 18. dxc4 Qxa2+ 19. Kxa2 Rb6, White resigned.

TENDER TEAMMATE CARE: PHIONA MUTESI, SUBJECT OF THE MOVIE THE QUEEN OF KATWE AND NOW A MEMBER OF THE NORTHWEST UNIVERSITY SQUAD, APPLYING EYEDROPS TO TEAMMATE WALTER BORBRIDGE.

1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. Nc3 e6 5. Ke7 26. Bd3 Bf3 27. Nc3 Bxc3 28. bxc3 e3 a6 6. Bd3 dxc4 7. Bxc4 b5 8. Bd3 c5 9. Bd5 29. a3 e5 30. f4 e4 31. Be2 Bc4 32. 0-0 Bb7 10. Qe2 Nbd7 11. Rd1 cxd4 12. Bg4 e3 33. Bf5 Kd6 34. Bb1 Kc5 35. Kg2 Nxd4 Bd6 13. e4 Qe7 14. Bg5 0-0 15. Rac1 Bd5+ 36. Kf1 Kc4 37. Ba2+ Kxc3!, White Rfd8 16. Nf3 h6 resigned.

Death comes on stocking feet. After the sacrifice of a knight and a queen, Vorontsov makes a lethal “quiet move.” There’s no escaping mate after ... Ra6 and ... Ra1. With not a single friendly piece west of the d-file, the white king goes to the gallows alone. SLU’s GM Francesco Rambaldi wins a sprightly round six game as Black in his team’s 3-1 defeat of Harvard, putting the Billikens in the 5-1 group, where it will all be about tiebreaks to get into the Final Four. 17. e5 After 38. Bxd5 Kd2 39. Bf3, 39. ... a5 wins simply. QUEEN’S GAMBIT ACCEPTED, This move hands Black all the edge a grand - CLASSICAL MAIN LINE (D27) master needs. Instead, White could first use Meanwhile, Webster “A” clinches first by Bryan Hu (2305, Harvard University) his attacked bishop as a desperado: 17. Bxh6 finally giving up a “team” half-point to UT- GM Francesco Rambaldi (2610, Saint Louis gxh6 18. e5 Nxe5 19. Nxe5. Dallas “B,” which finishes as the only other University “A”) 17. ... Nxe5 18. Bxf6 Qxf6 19. Nxe5 Qxe5 unbeaten squad. On table four, Webster “B” 2017 Pan-American Intercollegiate (6), 20. Qxe5 Bxe5 21. Bf1 Rac8 22. Rxd8+ squeaks by UT-Dallas “C,” and Texas Tech Columbus, Ohio, 12.30.2017 Rxd8 23. Rd1 Rxd1 24. Nxd1 Kf8 25. g3 blanks University of Illinois “A. ” PHOTO CREDIT: AL LAWRENCE

www.uschess.org 33 College Chess / 2017 PanAms

Chess, Hijabs, and The New York Times

As a freshman in a pre-med curriculum at Saint Louis University (SLU), IM Dorsa Derakhshani (photo, right) played on her school’s powerful squad at the 2017 PanAms and won her first game on the first day of the tournament. On the third day, The New York Times (TNYT) published her op- ed, “Why I Left Iran to Play Chess in America.” In it she took issue with the exclusion of Israeli players from the world championship in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and with the chess officials in her own native country who, as she wrote in the piece, “weren’t focused on my game, but on my clothing.”

In 2016, Dorsa was the second- highest-rated girl under 18 in the world. She is the second-highest- rated female chess player in Iranian history. But her federation was more interested in what she wore on her head than what she played on the board. She followed the rules in Iran.

But even when Dorsa was studying and playing tournaments in Europe, she was banned from playing in Iran for not wearing a hijab. Her younger brother Borna, a FIDE master now IM DORSA DERAKHSHANI, FORMERLY OF IRAN: NO ONE TELLS HER WHAT TO WEAR NOW. studying in London, was banned for playing an Israeli. Dorsa said that the looking for a university where she cardiothoracic surgeon as he NYT piece won’t have repercussions could play some chess while operated at nearby Cardinal Glennon’s for her family back in Iran, chiefly pursuing her goal of being a doctor. Children’s Hospital. “I was at the because “It was not translated yet. “Alejandro (GM Alejandro Ramirez, hospital from 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.” And I never disrespected the coach of the SLU chess team) and I government.” knew each other; we’d actually She’s already playing under the U.S. played each other in a tournament.” flag. “GM Maurice Ashley gave me Brought up in Tehran, where her She learned that SLU had “an wonderful advice. The change of flags father is a physician and her mom amazing pre-med program.” So a happened very quickly.” Of course has graduate degrees in both biology meaty SLU chess scholarship met the St. Louis chess scene created by and psychology, Dorsa learned both of her goals. “The PanAms were chess philanthropist Rex Sinquefield English as a child. She and her mom pretty cool—a really good is an added benefit. “The club is so loved to watch classic American tournament. In Iran, we don’t expect much fun! And everyone is so helpful. movies in English. She studied chess players to go to college.” Rex knows so much and is so nice.” with GM Elshan Moradiabadi, who Dorsa said. “Players in St. Louis are also later came to the U.S. through a Dorsa lives on campus and hasn’t yet lucky to have Rex. The chess chess scholarship and is now an had time to check out much of St. broadcasts are amazing, organized to American citizen. Louis. Chess and her three biology the second—nothing like other chess courses keep her busy. “Everything I broadcasts I’ve seen.” Dorsa switched the flag she played need is just five minutes away. Even under from Iran to the generic FIDE the Saint Louis Chess Club is only a Even Saturday practices have banner, living for a while in five-minute drive.” Over the January become fun—and now no one tells Barcelona, Spain. Then she began break, she was able to shadow a Dorsa what to wear.

34 March 2018 | Chess Life College Chess / 2017 PanAms

THE SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY SECOND-PLACE FINISHERS: (LEFT TO RIGHT) COACH GM ALEJANDRO RAMIREZ, IM DORSA DERAKHSHANI, GMS FRANCESCO RAMBALDI, CEMIL CAN ALI MARANDI, YARO ZHEREBUKH, ALEXANDER IPATOV, DARIUSZ ŚWIERCZ, WITH TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR KELLY BLOOMFIELD.

NAIL-BITING TO THE END Qualifiers for the Final Four can send a team A STORIED HISTORY AND MANY Games over, rather than disclosing tiebreak made up of any of their student players they TO THANK order as soon as it’s calculated, Organizer Kelly choose, so rosters of the U.S. collegiate hopefuls The Pan-Am Intercollegiate Team Chess Bloomfield keeps the suspense alive to draw aren’t known. But here are the four schools, Championship has been held every year since the biggest crowd to a PanAms closing cere - with the players that clinched the spots for 1946. The PanAms are sanctioned by US Chess mony in recent years—and announces awards their schools: but depends on volunteer organizers to run in reverse order. The program directors of the WEBSTER UNIVERSITY the not-for-profit event. Chief Organizer Kelly 5-1 schools sit like kids waiting to unwrap that Bloomfield saw to it that this year’s event offered Christmas package that may not be quite the GMs Alex Shimanov, Jorge Cori, Ray Robson, Vasif Durarbayli the amenities of a first-class grandmaster right shape. tournament for all—with a collegial reception, Schools can have only one team in the Final SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY a spacious playing site, and refreshments for Four, so there are four scholarship teams GMs Alexander Ipatov, Dariusz Świercz, Yaro all the players every round. Chief Director hoping to have one of the remaining three Zherebukh, Francesco Rambaldi, Cemil Can Grant Perks ran an on-time event with the seats at the Final Four. SLU gets a berth. So Ali Marandi, IM Dorsa Derakhshani help of Bloomfield, who was Chief Assistant does Texas Tech, thanks to its last-round Tournament Director as well as Organizer, sweep. Without even a drum-roll, UT-RGV TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY Kathy Lin, Ben Tancinco, Al Valentine, and is the final qualifier, and UT-D, 10-time GMs Andrey Baryshpolets, Sergei Matsenko, Aryan Balyan. winner of the event, is the hard luck school Pavlo Vorontsov, IM Evgeny Shtembuliak of the 2017 PanAms. Despite having three The 2017 PanAms was sponsored by Ohio teams behind the ropes in the last round, UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS-RIO State University, with help from the U.S. Chess despite its “B” team’s going undefeated and GRANDE VALLEY Trust and Akuna Capital. The 2018 PanAms being the only squad to draw Webster “A,” GMs Kamil Dragun, Andrey Stukopin, will be held in San Francisco, organized by Bay

PHOTO CREDIT: AL LAWRENCE UT-D’s season is over. Vladimir Belous, Carlos Hevia Alejano Area Chess. Complete results and pairings are online at www.buckeyechess.com/2017PanAmTournament.html.

www.uschess.org 35 GM Irina KRUSH IM Anna ZATONSKIH WGM Tatev ABRAHAMYAN IM Nazi PAIKIDZE WGM Sabina FOISOR WGM Jennifer YU WIM Annie WANG FM Maggie FENG WGM Anna SHAREVICH IM Dorsa DERAKHSHANI WIM Akshita GORTI IM Rusudan GOLETIANI

36 January 2018 | Chess Life GM Fabiano CARUANA GM Hikaru NAKAMURA GM Wesley SO GM Alex ONISCHUK GM Ray ROBSON GM Sam SHANKLAND GM Varuzhan AKOBIAN (.+FôFSZXIONG GM Alex LENDERMAN GM Awonder LIANG GM Yaroslav ZHEREBUKH GM Zviad IZORIA

WATCH LIVE ON USCHESSCHAMPS.COM @STLCHESSCLUB #USCHESSCHAMPS DCE XT

www.uschess.org 37 Cover Story / Shabalov Wins Eastern Open

38 March 2018 | Chess Life Cover Story / Shabalov Wins Eastern Open What a Piece of Work is Shabba!


   Blitzes the Opposition at the 44th Eastern Open

By TOM BECKMAN

he move to Tyson’s Corner, Virginia increased the turnout to 205 players in the six-section, seven-round Eastern Open over December 27-30, 2017. GM Alexander Shabalov suffered no slings or arrows at this year’s six-section, seven-round Eastern Open, finishing the tournament with a perfect score. The decisive game came in round four when GM Shabalov downed GM Aleksandr Lenderman (last year’s winner) to take a full-point lead over the field. GM Lenderman took second with 5½ points.. In addition to the main tournament, a day-long scholastic tourney drew 54 players in three sections, and the blitz tourney consisted of 36 entrants. A lecture by Alex Lenderman on active and defensive prophylaxis showcased the event. T Due to the number of fine submissions, it was quite difficult to settle on the winners of the special prizes, the source for this article. The number of special prizes were increased in the three categories: Best Played Game/Best Fighting Spirit, Brilliancy, and Opening Innovation. A tournament e-booklet was sent out to all participants containing over 50 annotated and raw game scores, as well as brilliancies, puzzles, and an opening survey. PHOTO CREDIT:

www.uschess.org 39 Cover Story / Shabalov Wins Eastern Open

FEATURED GAMES 1) 4. cxd5 exd5 5. Nc3 c6 6. e4 (AL) 5. ... c5 6. Bg2 Nc6 7. 0-0 (AS) With simple moves, White FROM THE 2017 ([TB] 6. Bf4 may be better) cxd4 8. cxd5 Nxd5 9. Nb3 Be7 10. achieved almost a decisive advan - EASTERN OPEN 6. ... dxe4 7. Ng5 Nh6 8. Bc4 Nbxd4 Nxd4 11. Qxd4 when tage and now has to choose from All In: Both Alexs had perfect Be7 9. Ncxe4 Bf5 10. d5 0-0 White has a little pull. a bunch of good plans. 11. 0-0 cxd5 12. Bxd5 Nc6 13. (TB) Or 11. ... Be4 12. Ng5 Bxg2 scores going into round four and 6. Nxc4 b5 it was likely that this game would h3 Nb4 14. Bb3 Qd3 1/2-1/2 13. Kxg2 Qb7+ 14. Kg1 Nd5 15. determine the eventual tourna - (14) Hammer, J (2630)- (AS) There are two additional e4 Nxf4 16. gxf4 and White is ment winner. This game won the Andreikin, D (2734) chess. options: much better. second prize for Best Played Game. com INT 2017, or 1) 6. ... b6 7. Bg2 Bb7 8. Nce5 12. Bh3 2) 4. Bg5 1-0 (34) Hammer, J Ra7 9. 0-0 Bd6 10. Bg5 0-0 QUEEN’S GAMBIT (AS) The computer also likes to (2677)-Carlsen, M (2876) a) 11. Qc1 and 1-0 (37) DECLINED (D30) prepare for e2-e4, but does it more Stavanger 2015. Istratescu, A (2589)- GM Alexander Shabalov (2629) precisely with 12. Nd3! Bd5 13. Secheres, A (2332) Corund GM Aleksandr Lenderman But in the end, I decided to stick Re1. 2017 (2689) with my pregame plan: to check 12. ... Bd5 13. Nd2 Qd8 14. Qc2 44th Annual Eastern Open (4), out how Alex’s defense to the b) (TB) Slightly better is 11. Nh5 Catalan is doing. Rc1 Be7 12. Qa4 h6 13. Tyson’s Corner, Virginia, (AS) After 14. ... Ba8 15. e4 Qxd4 4. ... Nf6?! Bxf6 gxf6 14. Ng4 f5 15. 12.29.2017 16. Nxf7 Kxf7 17. Be3, White is Nge5 Be4 16. Qb3 Qd5 17. Notes by GM Alexander (AS) And this is already a mis - winning. Shabalov (AS), GM Aleksandr Qe3 with a nice edge. step. However, 4. ... c5 deserved 15. Be3 f5 16. f3 Lenderman (AL), and Tom serious attention. It is hard to 2) 6. ... c5 led to a famous Beckman (TB) believe, but the game can quickly masterpiece in 7. Bg2 Nc6 stir into uncharted territory as early 1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 a6!? a) 8. Nfe5 Nxe5 9. dxe5 as move four in a major 1. d4 Qxd1+ 10. Kxd1 Nd7 11. (AS) Wait a minute, this is opening! After 5. cxd5 ... a4 Rb8 12. a5 ([TB] Slight - exactly what I played against 1) 5. ... exd5 6. e4!? (Or 6. g3 ly better is 12. Kc2 b6 13. Lenderman a year ago at the same Nc6 7. Bg2 Nf6 8. 0-0 Be6 Rd1 Bb7 14. Bxb7 Rxb7 15. tournament with the colors with a kind of Tarrasch setup) Be3 when White has a reversed! While it is not a bad and now either: winning advantage) and 1- move itself, Alex lamented his 0 (36) Andersson, U a) 6. ... cxd4 7. exd5 with a choice after the game saying that (2640)-Lautier, J (2620) totally original and fresh inclusion of 3. ... Nf6 4. Nc3 is Biel 1996, or necessary if Black intends to play position, or b) 8. 0-0!? cxd4 9. Bf4 Nd5? (TB) Here White has several this line. This is a little extreme b) 6. ... Nf6 7. exd5 cxd4 8. 10. Nxd4 Nxd4 11. Qxd4 more promising options: statement, no doubt influenced by Bc4 b5 9. Bd3 Be7 10. Nb3 winning. game result, and a lot of strong Qxd5 11. Nbxd4 1) 16. Bg2 Nf6 17. Rfd1 a5 18. players, including Mamedyarov, Bxd5 Nxd5 2) (TB) 5. ... cxd4 6. Qa4+ b5 7. 7. Nce5 Bb7 would disagree. An out of form Qxd4 exd5 with equal 2) 16. Nb3 stops ... c7-c5 and (and out of luck) Magnus Carlsen (AS) Knowing how the game chances. puts Black in a permanent playing Black lost against his own went, it is easy to recommend 7. bind. second and good friend, Jon Ludvig (AL) Weaker is 4. ... dxc4 5. ... Bb4+ 8. Bd2 Bxd2+ 9. Qxd2 Bb7 Hammer, in the last round at Nxc4 b5 6. Nce5 f6 (6. ... Bb7 7. 10. Bg2 0-0 11. Rc1 Qd6 12. 0-0 3) 16. g4 fxg4 17. Bxg4 Nf6 18. Stavenger 2015. An unenviable a4) 7. Nd3 when White has a nice but then Black has to forever Bf3 situation for the champion. It is edge. abandon any ambitions of playing 16. ... Bd6?! therefore not a surprise that 5. g3! ... c7-c5. Carlsen now chooses to play (AS) About 40 years ago, Mark 8. Bg2 Qc8 something slightly different. ... 3. (AS) That’s the point. While 4. Dvoretsky was giving a lecture on ... Nf6 4. g3 leads to a standard Nbd2 is a program move for (AS) 8. ... Qc8 is an unfortunate methods to change the course of a Catalan after 4. ... a6 5. Bg2 dxc4, White, ... a6 without taking on c4 necessity as Nxf7 followed by Ne5+ bad/passive position during an and 4. Nc3 a6 is the move order first does not look smart for Black. was already in the air. No better annual Russian junior camp in the Black is looking for. (AL) This setup with Nbd2 and was 8. ... Bd5 9. 0-0 Be7 10. Bg5 Armenian mountains. Had Alex (AL) Black should wait for g3 is probably just good for White. h6 11. Bxf6 Bxf6 12. Qc2. Lenderman been at the camp, he White to play Nc3 before ventur - That’s why it’s more accurate if (AL) Alternatives are: would definitely choose to play ... you want to play the systems with c7-c5 now or on the next move. ing ... a7-a6. Thus, if 3. Nc3, then 1) 8. ... Bd5 9. 0-0 h6 (9. ... Nbd7 3. ... a6 is OK; or if 3. ... Nf6 4. ... a7-a6, to play it only once After 16. ... c5!? 17. dxc5, Black White’s knight is already on c3. 10. Bg5 or 10. Nxd7) 10. Bf4 can reach a reasonable position Nc3, then 4. ... a6 is OK. (10. a4) and Black is worse. 5. ... dxc4 with either: 4. Nbd2!? 2) 8. ... Be7 9. Nxf7 Kxf7 10. 1) 17. ... Bf6 18. Bd4 Nd7 19. f4 (AS) 5. ... c5 now is a bit too late Ng5+ which is awful. g5 20. c6 Rc7 (AS) Played after 20 minutes as after 6. Bg2 Nc6 7. 0-0 cxd4 8. thinking. I seriously considered cxd5 Nxd5 9. Nb3 White has a 9. 0-0 Be7 10. Bf4 0-0 11. Rc1 a) 21. Qd3 Bxe5 22. fxe5 Rxc6 active options like: pleasant advantage. Ra7 23. Rxc6 Bxc6 24. Rc1 Bb7

40 March 2018 | Chess Life Cover Story / Shabalov Wins Eastern Open

b) 21. Qd1 Bxe5 22. fxe5 Bxc6 much all of his life and in 2013 (TB) 9. h4 h5 10. 0-0-0 Nf6 11. 23. e4 g4 24. Bg2 (TB), or published a wonderful book (The Be2 Kg7 12. Rf1 is also interesting. 2) 17. ... f4 18. Bd4 fxg3 19. e3 Dark Knight System, Everyman Chess) 9. ... Kg7 10. Nge2 Nh6 11. h3 gxh2+ 20. Kxh2 Qe8 21. f4 on the subject. But because not too c6 12. 0-0-0 Bf6 (TB) many people know James outside of the state, nobody paid attention. It seems that the idea to castle long is a mistake in this structure. 17. Bf2 Qg5? Recently there were two events that hope fully will change that. White is unable to open files on (AS) Better is 17. ... c5 18. e4 First there was an article by the kingside, while Black has all Ba8 19. Rce1 (or 19. f4 cxd4 20. Jeroen Bosch in #6 New in Chess the time in the world on the Qb3) 19. ... Rc7 20. exf5 cxd4 21. magazine of 2017 that drew the opposite side. Qb1. attention of a few players (includ - 12. ... cxd5 13. cxd5 Nd7 14. g4 (AL) For better or worse, 17. ... Shabba’s Secret Sauce: Alex ing myself, and I went 4-0 with it f6 15. Rdg1 c5 18. e4 Ba8 had to be tried here had four games with Black in the at the Eastern Open! Thanks Weaker was 15. f4 Nc5 16. Kb1 to get the rook from a7 into the tournament, and he was very Jeroen!) My biggest surprise came Nxd3. game. Since I didn’t play ... c7-c5, consistent in his treatment of the when I started to analyze my games I didn’t have real chances after that. opening. However, it was a very from Tyson’s Corner and realized 15. ... Nf7 16. Ng3 Nc5 17. Bc2 obscure variation, and—to this Bd7 18. Bg2 that I was not the only one who author’s skeptical eye—it seemed took note of Bosch’s suggestions. (AS) Now it is all over. Like in dubious at best. So, I asked Shabba There were a few other guys, countless games before this one a about it, and was floored by his and—that’s right— one of them was well prepared e2-e4 wins in a 1. response: Magnus Carlsen, who employed it d4 opening. with a great success at the World 18. ... Qh6 19. e4 Bb7 20. exf5 NIMZOWITSCH DEFENSE Rapid and Blitz, occurring at the Rxf5 21. Ng4 (B00) same time as the Eastern Open. GM Alexander Shabalov (2656) GMs Viswanathan Anand and (AL) 21. g4 also wins easily of FM James Schuyler (2396) Olexandr Bortnyk escaped after course. 118th U.S. Open Championship being seriously worse and Sergei 21. ... Qg6 22. d5 Ra8 23. dxe6 (9), Norfolk, Virginia, 08.06.2017 Movsesian lost badly. What is the Qxe6 24. Rfe1 Qf7 Notes by Shabalov. main attraction of this line? In my opinion, what Black does is to draw Somewhat better was 17. ... b5! 1. e4 Nc6 2. d4 d6! opponents into a King’s Indian 18. Nxb5 Qb6 19. Nc3 Rb8 20. Nd1 I must explain a little about this structure, which is a challenge for Ba6. move order, which New in Chess many 1. e4 players. 18. Kb1 called a Pirc-Nimzo hybrid, and The following game is an nice which I believe is accurate. My illustration of this concept. My Or 18. b4 Na6 19. a3 Nc7 20. personal journey into this line opponent had a great tournament, Bd3 Rc8 21. Kb2 Na8. began in August 2017 when James beating a bunch of higher-rated (TB) White’s last chance for Schuyler played it against me in players, but in this game he just counterplay was 18. h4!? Bxg4 19. the last round of the 2017 U.S. could not get around without his f3 Bc8! 20. Nf5+ Kf8 21. Nh6 Qb6 Open. I reacted with my standard dark-square bishop. 22. Qd2 with mutual chances. three pawns attack and quickly was 18. ... a5 19. Rh2 b5 20. Bd1 worse. PIRC-NIMZO HYBRID, Qb6 21. Rhg2 b4 22. Nce2 25. Bh3! Rac8 23. Nc1 Kf8 24. h4 Ke7 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. f4 e5 5. d5 Ne7 SCHUYLER’S DARK 25. g5?! (AS) The key move that forces 6. Nf3 exf4 7. Bxf4 Ng6 8. Bg3 KNIGHT SYSTEM (B00) Black to sacrifice an Exchange Be7 9. Bb5+ Bd7 10. Bxd7+ Missaka Warusawitharana Another misstep. White creates without adequate compensation. Qxd7?! (2202) a weakness that will decide any GM Alexander Shabalov (2629) 25. ... Rxf3 26. Nxf3 Qxf3 27. The first step in a wrong endgames in Black’s favor. He 44th Annual Eastern Open (7), Qb3+ Qxb3 28. axb3 Nd7 29. direction. After 10. ... Nxd7 11. should have started bringing his Tyson’s Corner, Virginia, Nh6+! gxh6 30. Bxd7 Nf6 31. 0-0 Bf6, Black is already better. pieces to defend his king. 12.30.2017 Be6+ Kg7 32. Bc5 Kg6 33. 25. ... fxg5 26. hxg5 Na4 11. h3 0-0 12. Nd4 c6?! Notes by Shabalov. Bxd6 cxd6 34. Rc7 Be4 And this is another false step as (see diagram top of next 1. e4 Nc6 2. d4 d6! 3. c4 e5 4. (see diagram top of next page) Black helps White to get rid of his d5 Nb8 5. Nc3 g6 6. Be3 Bh6 column) e4 weakness. Slightly better was 6. ... h5! 7. 27. Qd2? (Better is 27. Nf1!.) 27. (AS) Here comes a thematic 13. 0-0 cxd5 14. exd5 Rfe8 15. Qd2 Bh6 8. Nf3 Nd7. ... Nc3+ 28. Ka1 Nxd1 29. Rxd1 finish that reminds me of the Nf5 Rac8 16. Qd4 Bd8 17. Kh1 Rc4 30. Qe1 Rhc8 31. Nf1 Bh3 Ne5 18. Rae1 Rc4 19. Qxa7!, 7. Qd2 Bxe3 8. Qxe3 Kf8 9. famous Reti-Alekhine Baden- 32. Rh2 (Also losing is 32. Rg3 Black resigned. Bd3 Baden 1925 finale. Qxf2.) 32. ... Bg4 33. f3 (No 35. Rxe4! Nxe4 36. Bd5 Re8 Everyone in Virginia knows that Or 9. c5 Nd7 10. cxd6 cxd6 11. better is 33. Ne3 Bxd1 34. Nxc4 37. Bf7+, Black resigned. James has played this opening pretty Be2. Qd4.) 33. ... Bxf3 34. Nd2 Bxd1

www.uschess.org 41 Cover Story / Shabalov Wins Eastern Open

play somewhat like T. 9. ... Nd7 10. Be2 Nge5 11. Nxe5 (TB) An interesting alternative Petrosian-Jacob Yukhtman, Nxe5 12. 0-0 b6 13. Qc2. is 16. h4 Nxg3 17. fxg3. 26th USSR Championship 9. ... Nd7 10. Qd2 16. ... Nxg3 17. hxg3 1959. Later, Petrosian played 13. Bg4 to exchange off his (TB) The non-committal 10. bad bishop, and I played 18. Be2 may be slightly better. Bg4 with similar effect. 10. ... a6 11. a4 Ngf6 12. Be2 4) 6. ... c5 (TB) is recommended Qb6?! by Stockfish and then: (TB) Here Black has two decent a) 7. d5 a6 8. a4 Ng4 9. Bg5 options: Nd7 10. Be2 1) 12. ... g5 13. Bg3 Nh5 14. 0-0 35. Nxc4 Rxc4 36. Qxd1 Nxg5 b) 7. dxc5 Qa5 8. Qd2 (8. Bd3 2) 12. ... Qa5 13. Bxf6 Nxf6 14. 37. Qd2 Qg1 38. Kb1 Ke8!, is also possible) 8. ... dxc5 0-0 Bg4 White resigned. 9. Nd5 Qxd2+ 10. Nxd2 Nxd5 11. cxd5 Bxb2 12. 13. 0-0 Rb1 Ba3 13. Nc4 17. ... e5? Old School: Please note that all (TB) Here White should throw of Larry’s post-game calculations 5) 6. ... Na6 (TB) is recommend - in 13. a5! driving the black queen This move doesn’t look right, and analyses were done without ed by John Nunn and Graham back now. but it is correct at this point. benefit of a computer to check the Burgess in The New Classical Evidently Prav properly feared the 13. ... g5 14. Bg3 Nh5 15. a5 lines. In the search for truth, some - King’s Indian to avoid the buildup with f2-f4 and later e4-e5. times the computer can take the Exchange Variation, and Besides, the fortress created is mystery out of the game. This then: difficult to breach quickly. (TB) Burying the king’s bishop game won first prize for Best a) 7. Be2 e5 (or 7. ... Ng4) 8. looks wrong, and is wrong. Black Played Game. 0-0 transposes to the should have played on the queen - Gligoric System KING’S INDIAN side with 17. ... b6! 18. f4 gxf4 19. b) 7. h3 e5 8. d5 is the main DEFENSE, CLASSICAL gxf4 bxa5 20. Rf3 Rb8 21. Rg3 Kh8 line of the Makogonov VARIATION (E90) 22. f5 Qb6 with mutual chances. System FM Larry C. Gilden (2252) 18. Bg4! IM Prav Balakrishnan (2495) c) Other ideas are 7. Qd2 or Trading off the bad bishop in 44th Annual Eastern Open (2), 7. Bd3 blocked positions is correct as Tysons Corner, Virginia, 6. ... Ng4 7. Bg5 c5 usual. 12.28.2017 I had several other possibilities Notes by Gilden and Tom In a G/45 tourney from March that I didn’t consider during the 18. ... b6 19. Nc2 Beckman (TB) 2015, Trung Nguyen tried 7. ... h6 game: I think that 19. axb6 was more 8. Bh4 Nf6! and no refutation was 1) 15. h4 Nxg3 16. fxg3 g4 17. straightforward. 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 forthcoming from me. Nh2 Ne5 18. Nd1 with com - 4. e4 d6 5. Nf3 0-0 6. Be3 (TB) Also possible was 8. Bd2 19. ... bxa5 20. Ne3 Nb6 21. pli cated play. Bxc8 Nxc8 22. Ne2 I have consistently played this e5 9. d5 f5 10. Bd3 Nf6 11. 0-0 fxe4 2) 15. Qc2 Qb4 16. a5 b5! and move from 2013 to the present. 6. 12. Nxe4 Bf5 with a slight edge for White now engages in a bit of Black stands well. Be3 serves the purpose of restrict - White. unnecessary shuffling back and forth. But eventually I got the idea ing Black’s normal King’s Indian 8. d5 15. ... Qc7! plans. Now Black has the choice that my play was on the queen-side. I considered 8. dxc5, but Black’s of several responses: (TB) Larry thought that Prav 22. ... Ne7 23. g4 8. ... h6 chases White’s bishop from could successfully play 15. ... Qb4!? 1) 6. ... e5 is the usual response attacking e7 (if 9. Bh4, then 9. ... as 16. Nxg5 Nxg3 17. hxg3 b5(!!) (TB) Also strong was 23. Qxa5 when there follows 7. dxe5 g5), and allows either 9. ... Qa5 or works, but the following sequence Qxa5 24. Rxa5 Rfb8 25. Rb1 f5 26. dxe5 8. Qxd8 (8. Qc2) 8. ... 9. ... dxc5 depending on where the would have been much better for exf5 e4 27. g4. Rxd8 9. Nd5 Nxd5?! (9. ... bishop goes. White: 18. Nf3 cxb4 19. Rfb1! Rb8 23. ... Rfb8 24. Ng3?! Rd7! is equal.) 10. cxd5 c6 11. 8. ... h6 and now a rope-a-dope with 20. Bc4 cxd5 (11. ... Bd7 is Ra4 Qb3 21. Ra3 Qb4 22. Qc1! This move allows Black play on possible) 12. Bxd5 Nc6 13. 0- (TB) And here Black has a (guarding the rook) 22. ... Qb7 23. the queenside. White should prefer 0-0 or 13. Ng5. somewhat better alternative: 8. ... Bxc4 when White is much better. 24. Nc1. Bxc3+ 9. bxc3 f6 10. Bd2 Nd7 11. 2) 6. ... Nbd7 avoiding the Black would have had to settle for 24. ... Rb4 25. Ne2 Rab8 26. Be2 Nge5. exchange of queens allows 7. 17. ... Ne5 18. Nf3 Nxc4 19. Bxc4 Ra2 Qb6 27. Rb1 Ng6 28. g3 h3 when 7. ... e5 8. dxe5 dxe5 9. Bh4 Qxc4 20. Na4 Rb8 21. Rfe1 Qb4 Ne7 29. Nc1 Qc7 30. Rba1 9. c5 has occurred in my (TB) Of course, which way to 22. e5. So, the com puter helps to Black is without counterplay as games. retreat the bishop is always the demonstrate that Prav played the White slowly makes progress. best move after all! 3) 6. ... Ng4 played by Prav in question in this variation. Here 9. Note how White makes use of the chasing the bishop creates Bd2 may be the better choice after 16. Ne1 principle of two weaknesses over

42 March 2018 | Chess Life Cover Story / Shabalov Wins Eastern Open the next 10 moves. but after 44. Qc4 Rb2 45. Nxb2 position, and Black is rather passive 21. ... Qg5! 22. g3? 30. ... Qc8 31. Nd3 R4b6 32. Qxb2 46. d6 Nc6 47. Rxc5 White and cramped, but watch what hap - If you pretend you are White, Rxa5 Kh7 33. Qc2 f6?! wins handily. pens now. you can understand cracking under (TB) Defensive fatigue sets in. 42. ... Qh8 43. Nf5 Qd8 44. Rc1 17. Nb4?! the pressure of six black pieces Kf7 45. c5 dxc5 46. Raxc5 Ra7 33. ... Bf8 is somewhat better, as focusing like lasers on your f3 and 47. Qd1 (TB) White’s first errant knight 33. ... f6 makes more holes in g2 squares. But both 22. Bf2 and 22. move. Better was 17. Nd4! Rf6 Nxe6 are better attempts to bail out. Black’s kingside. (TB) Crushing is 47. Qc4 Kg6 18. Ndb5 Nxb5 19. Nxb5 a6 20. 48. Rh1. 34. R1a3 Nc3 Rd6 21. Qe1 Rxd1 22. Rxd1 22. ... Nxg3! 47. ... a5 48. Qh1 Nxf5 49. d6 with a nice edge for White. (TB) It is safer to play 34. Kg2 Better than just taking the f- gxf5, Black resigned after 35 pawn. to cover the h3-square, so Larry more moves. 17. ... Rf8 18. Nbd5?! doesn’t have to worry about ... h6- After being in a worse position 23. hxg3 Qxg3+ 24. Kf1 h5 and ... Qh3. Errant Knights: White has a good position until his knights go for awhile, I was being very vigilant 34. ... Kg6 astray. After that, Black’s knights should my opponent go wrong in this full-bodied position with so (TB) To avoid being smothered go crazy. This game won the First many pieces on the board. My to death, the urge to do something Brilliancy Prize. opponent had just relieved the active kicks in. However, other pressure on my backward center moves aren’t much better. SICILIAN DEFENSE, MAROCZY BIND (B37) by playing the “normal” centraliz - ing move Nb4 to d5?!, which Dominique Myers (2141) allowed my pieces to start their FM Nathan Resika (2263) migration toward the black king. 44th Annual Eastern Open (4), (TB) Now the position is equal. Tysons Corner, Virginia, Again, White should have played 12.29.2017 18. Ncb5 Nxb5 19. cxb5 e6 20. The only move, considering the Notes by Resika and Tom Rxc8 Qxc8 21. Rc1 Qb7 22. Bf4 d5 hidden, nasty priest on a8. Beckman (TB) 23. Nc6 Nf7 24. Bg3 when White 24. ... Ng4!! 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 g6 3. d4 cxd4 has a tiny advantage. I had about three minutes left 4. Nxd4 Bg7 5. c4 Nc6 6. Nc2 18. ... Nf5 19. Bg5 h6 20. Be3?! Nf6 7. Nc3 0-0 8. Be2 b6!? 9. for 17 moves, but still played this 0-0 Bb7 10. Be3 Rc8 11. f3 Myers suggested 20. Bf4. move mostly on instinct. It took 35. Qa4! Ra8 36. b4! Ne8!? 12. Qd2 Nd6 13. Rfd1 f5 (TB) Better is 20. Bf4 e6 21. Ne3 Stockfish about half a minute, but 14. exf5 Rxf5 15. Rac1 Ne5 16. Nh4 22. Bg3 Rxf3! 23. Bxh4 Qxh4 it turns out to be the strongest of The culmination of White’s b3 Ba8 24. gxf3 Bxf3 25. Rf1 Qg5+ 26. Kf2 the several winning lines. It just play. The further opening of the Qh4+ 27. Kg1 with a perpetual. “can-opens” both the f-file as well queenside will expose Black’s lack as the h1-a8 diagonal for Black’s 20. ... e6! of piece activity. remaining army and threatens 24. 36. ... cxb4 37. Nxb4 h5 38. Better than snatching the bishop ... Nh2 mate. gxh5+ Kxh5 39. Kg2 Kg6 40. right away. 25. Ng2 Nd3 21. Nf4? If 25. fxg4, then 25. ... Rxf4+! (TB) 40. c5 dxc5 41. Nd3 is more 26. Bxf4 Rf8! 27. Nd5 exd5 does efficient. The final mistake. Going back to b4 was a must. the job. 40. ... Qh8 41. Ra1 Qh5 42. g4 (TB) 21. Nb4! leaves White in 25. ... Nh2+ 26. Kg1 Bxf3 27. (TB) Safest, but stronger is 42. the game after 21. ... Nxe3 22. Qxe3 Bf1 Bxd1, White resigned, while c5! dxc5 43. Rh1 Qe2 Larry was Qh4 23. Nc2 Rf7 24. Rd4 Qh5 25. his time ran out, as huge material worried about this queen intrusion, (TB) White has built a very nice Ne4 Rcf8 26. Ng3 Qg5. losses follow.

At A Glance 44th Annual Eastern Open

Date: December 27-30, 2017 | Location: Westin Hotel, Tyson’s Corner, Virginia | 203 players | Top Finishers: Open, 1st, 7: 1 Alexander Shabalov; 2nd, 5 ⁄2: Aleksandr Lenderman; 3rd-5th, 5: Gabriel N. Petesch, Justin Paul, Jeevan Karamsetty; Under 2200, 1 1 1st, 6: Ali Mirafzali; 2nd, 5 ⁄2: Isaac Chiu; 3rd-4th, 5: Jeffrey Du, Boyang Zhao; Under 1900, 1st-2nd, 5 ⁄2: Matthew Orye, Arnav Tamna Gupta; 3rd-7th, 5: Htay Aung Kyawe, Srihari Nesamani, John A. Mehler, Jonathan Naylor, Allen Merli Stern; Under 1600, 1st-2nd, 1 5 ⁄2: Carson M. Collier, Andrew Guo; 3rd-5th, 5:: Evan B. Bedor, Maxwell Ward, Oliver Alexander Heggli-Nonay; Under 1300, 1st, 5: 1 1 Sherlock Grigsby II; 2nd-3rd, 4 ⁄2: Peter J. Davis, Qirui Zhou; Under 1000, 1st, 6: Ryan Ho; 2nd-3rd, 5 ⁄2: Leo Chang, Aya Feliachi. | Chief Tournament Director: Michael Atkins.

www.uschess.org 43 Solitaire Chess / Instruction Positional Chess Can Wait Wilhelm Steinitz once said, “Chess is not for timid souls.” It is time to bravely step into the fray with the first world champion.

By BRUCE PANDOLFINI

THE FIRST OFFICIAL WORLD CHESS next move only after trying to guess it. If you On 9. ... Qc6, White would have to play it Champion was Wilhelm Steinitz (1836-1900). guess correctly, give yourself the par score. carefully as well, since 10. cxd4 cxd4 11. Qxd4 Steinitz held the title from 1886-1894, when Sometimes points are also awarded for second- would signal bad news after 11. ... Bc5, pinning he lost it to Emanuel Lasker, but probably best moves, and there may be bonus points—or the white queen (1 bonus point).

Steinitz was the best player on the planet for deductions—for other moves and variations. 10. Kh1 Par Score 5 longer than his eight official years at the top. Note that

means that White’s move is on Perhaps more importantly, Steinitz was also the next line.

By moving the king off the a7-g1 diagonal, the first player to write about the principles of 6. Nxe5 Par Score 5 White avoids some tactical tries along that line. positional chess, and for that reason it’s easy But probably more to the style of this game think of him as a stodgy materialist. But his Steinitz’s bishop was attacked, so he trades would be 10. f4-f5, pressing the attack. early games were anything but careful and knights to avoid losing a tempo. 10. … Be7 boring, as the second game of his 1860 match 6. … Qxe5 with Max Lange in Vienna shows. The fire - A better try for Black was 10. ... Ne7, tem - works began rather quickly after: The only move that makes any sense.

porarily closing the e-file and supporting ... 7. c3 Par Score 5 d7-d5.

11. f5 Par Score 6 SCOTCH GAMBIT (C44) This opens the lines for attacking chances. Wilhelm Steinitz Of course Steinitz realized his e-pawn is White’s position is beginning to look more Max Lange immune. If 7. ... Qxe4??, then 8. Re1 pins the menacing. Vienna, 1860 queen (1 bonus point). 11. … d5 7. … c5 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 exd4 4. Bc4 Qe7 Black tries to break the attack by surrendering 5. 0-0 Ne5 Defending the pawn in this way is not as the d-pawn, but a more prudent defensive idea good as simply capturing a white pawn, 7. ... was 11. ... h5, so that the king-rook could take dxc3, even though White would then develop back on h6 (if necessary) without a disrupture his knight in the act of recapturing.

to the black kingside.

8. f4 Par Score 6 12. Bxd5 Par Score 5 White is pushing for a kingside attack. Black Steinitz would later say in his life that “a must be mindful of Steinitz’s growing initiative. pawn is worth a little trouble,” but that’s not 8. … Qf6 what this capture is about. He’s simply answer - ing the threat and keeping the lines open for At least Black is consistent. He plays to keep attack. his extra pawn.

12. … Nh6 9. e5 Par Score 5 Lange is attempting to get out his pieces, Now ensure that the above position is set White expands in the center with a gain of but this development backfires. His kingside up on your chessboard. As you play through time. now gets torn apart.

the remaining moves in this game, use a piece of paper to cover the article, exposing White’s 9. … Qb6 13. f6 Par Score 6

44 March 2018 | Chess Life Solitaire Chess / Instruction

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

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

March Exercise: It’s typical for chess players to abhor certain openings. Some of us only play king-pawn, and accordingly we fear queen-pawn games. Others are fond of queen-pawn skirmishes, and, quite expectedly, run away from king-pawn PROBLEM IV PROBLEM V PROBLEM VI directness. How does one overcome such Mating net Mating net Mating net emotional obstacles? Well, if you’re Botvinnik, you play right into the teeth of your fears and troubles. To that end, in your practice sessions against software, play into and against the gambits you detest. And if you can’t stand positional crawling, do your best imitations of Petrosian and Karpov in every game. Who knows? In time, your worst weaknesses may morph into your greatest strengths.

White has a winning attack. Max Lange, 17. Qe8+ Par Score 6 Take that Steinitz!

Fritz Lang, Lang Lang, Auld Lang Syne—none Steinitz forces the black king up the board, 21. Rf4+ Par Score 5 of them could hold Black’s position. into “no man’s land.” 13. … Bf8 Forcing Black’s response. 17. … Kd5 21. … Kd3

Black’s dark-square bishop is driven back.

Occupying d5 can be important in many 22. Rd1+ Par Score 5 14. Bxh6 Par Score 6 positions, but not here.

This is strong, but just as interesting was 14. 18. cxd4 Par Score 6 22. … Kc2 e6, when 14. ... Bxe6 15. Bxe6 fxe6 (15. ... Qxe6 Steinitz has the time for this, which clears 16. Re1) 16. fxg7 Bxg7 17. Qh5+ (1 bonus point) No better was 22. ... Ke3 23. Rf3 mate (1 c3 for his knight. But a faster conclusion would wins a piece. bonus point).

have resulted from 18. c4+! (1 bonus point). For 23. Rf2 mate! Par Score 5 14. … gxh6 instance, on 18. ... Kxc4, then 19. b3+ Kd5 20. Black has a threat to b2, but White has a big Nc3+ dxc3 21. Rad1+ Ke4 22. Qh5 Qb5 23. An enjoyable game, nicely conducted by the advantage. How will he play it?

Qf3+ Kxe5 24. Qe3 mate (add 2 bonus future world champion. points more if you worked out these additional 15. Bxf7+ Par Score 7 moves ahead of time). That’s how! Heck, Paul Morphy is still around, 18. … Be6 TOTAL YOUR SCORE TO and so is Adolf Anderssen. Naturally, a young DETERMINE YOUR talent on the rise wants to play in the spirit of Attacking White’s queen, but the fun isn’t APPROXIMATE RATING the times. over yet.

BELOW: 15. … Kxf7 19. Nc3+ Par Score 5 Total Score Approx. Rating What does not kill him might make him Time to develop a new piece. 95+ 2400+ stronger. Well, perhaps that was Black’s hope.

19. … Kc4 16. Qh5+ Par Score 5 81-94 2200-2399 Should White just take the rook? No! There’s 66-80 2000-2199 Time waits for no man. Steinitz goes for better.

the kill. 51-65 1800-1999 20. d5 Par Score 7 16. … Ke6 36-50 1600-1799 This “quiet little move” has almost nothing 21-35 Steinitz would later say that his “king likes 1400-1599 to do with positional chess. No, it’s about to go for a walk.” Perhaps Lange had envisioned 06-20 1200-1399 forcing mate. the future. Add 1 bonus point if you had analyzed 0-05 under 1200 16. ... Kg8 17. Rf3.

20. … Rxe8

www.uschess.org 45 The Practical Endgame / Instruction Move of the Year, Endgame Edition For your consideration, the world champion’s defensive gem

By GM DANIEL NARODITSKY

AMONG MY FRIENDS AND RELATIVES, I After a furious ascent that included a stunning Obviously, 68. ... Kb3 meets with 69. Nc5+. am known as the proverbial alarm-snoozer. victory at the 2017 Aeroflot Open, Russian GM This is somewhat of a stopgap blockade, but it One Sunday during exam week last quarter, I Vladimir Fedoseev has established himself as gives White just enough time to bring his own slept through so many early morning alarms one of the most promising talents in Russia. monarch to the rescue. that I finally woke up to my roommate standing At the time of this game, he was leading the 68. ... a5 69. Nd2 a4 at my bedside and repeatedly stabbing me with rapid with a massive 8½/11. At first blush, it an imaginary knife. My math final that night seems that he has held his own against the did not go very well. World Champion. In fact, the time seems ripe One thing I will get up for at 5 a.m., however, for a handshake. The king is tied to the g5- is the World Rapid and Blitz Championship. pawn, the pawn ending after 65. ... Bxf3 66. This exhilarating event features almost all of Kxf3 is a dead draw, end of story. the world’s top players going at each other’s True to his ability to squeeze water from a throats to the tune of heart-stopping time rock, Magnus sees past this myopic assessment scrambles and, inevitably, tragic blunders. and plays his last trump card. This year, one of the endgames in the rapid 65. ... Kd5! championship—which I had followed live— featured one of the most beautiful defensive Why not? This move is not only a good resources that I have ever seen. At the risk of practical chance, but especially savvy given 70. Ke4 jinxing it, let me say that this motif will be Fedoseev’s acute time pressure: Fedoseev had seared in your mind for weeks to come. a minute or so left and was playing “on Fedoseev played this move almost instantly, increment.” The king’s intentions are decidedly and who can blame him? The king aims for WATER FROM A ROCK malevolent: the monarch intends to eat up d3, but the problem is that it temporarily GM Vladimir Fedoseev (FIDE 2771, RUS) White’s defenseless pawns, relegating to his deprives the knight of its rightful place on e4! GM Magnus Carlsen (FIDE 2908, NOR) subordinate the task of restraining White’s Carlsen now has a brief respite in which to World Rapid Chess Championship. Open. h-pawn. reorganize his forces and confront Fedoseev (12), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 12.28.2017 66. Nxg5 with a whole new class of problems. If Fedoseev had used Waze instead of The point of this move is not so much to Google Maps to decide on a route for the capture a pawn as to halt the king’s path with king, he would have undoubtedly sidestepped some timely gymnastics. This does the trick, the trouble with 70. Ke3!. After 70. ... Kc5, though 66. b3! was even more straightforward. White hits the king with 71. Ne4+. Black The king has to detour with 66. ... Ke4, and has a few tries, but everything fizzles out after 67. Nxg5+ Kd3 68. Ne6 Kc3 69. Nc5 White quickly: achieves his aim with a tempo to spare. The 1) 71. ... Kc4 72. Nd6+ Kb3 looks intimi- game would end following 69. ... Kxb4 70. dating, but after 73. Nxb5 Kxb2 74. Kd4 Nxa6+ Kxb3 71. Nc7 b4 72. Na6 and White Be8 75. Nc3 a3 76. Kc4 White brings the liquidates the final pawn. king to b4 and follows up with a check AFTER 65. Nf3+ 66. ... Kc4 67. Ne4 Kxb4 68. Kf4 from either d1 or a4.

46 March 2018 | Chess Life The Practical Endgame / Instruction

PROBLEM I: 1500 LEVEL PROBLEM II: 2000 LEVEL Practicum GM Erald Dervishi GM Boris Savchenko GM Gadir Guseinov GM Peter Svidler Each month GM Naroditsky will present World Rapid Chess Championship World Rapid Championship 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 WHITE TO MOVE

2) 71. ... Kd5!? would probably have been a) 74. ... a3 75. bxa3 bxa3 76. Kd2 Kc4 77. Magnus’ attempt. The “blunder” is, of course, Na5+ Kb4 78. Nc6+ Kc5 (78. ... Kb3 79. deliberate: the point is to lure the knight Na5+ leads nowhere, since 79. ... Kb2 80. offsides after 72. Nf6+ Kc4 73. Nxh5 Kb3. Nc4+ is a draw) 79. Kc3! and it is time to But following 74. Kd4 Kxb2 75. Nf4 a3 76. shake hands. Even if 79. ... Kxc6 80. Kb3 Nd3+ the knight is in time, and Black is the did not happen to win the pawn, it would one who must demon strate caution. still be a draw since Black has the incorrect 70. ... Kc5! 71. Ke3 b4 bishop for the a-pawn. b) 74. ... Kc4 75. Na5+ Kb5 76. Nb3 is prob - Er-oh. All of a sudden, Magnus has erected ably the most unconventional repetition an impassable barrier along the h7-b1 diagonal. of all time. ... Bg6 followed by ... a4-a3 looms large, when EITHER SIDE TO MOVE the king will be permanently cut off and the c) 74. ... Bc2 is useless: 75. Nd4 Bd1 76. Kd2! knight, no longer able to jump to e4, will trip board, and the fortress remains watertight. At with a draw. over its own haunches. With time running the first opportunity, White’s king wriggles its Alas, with just a few minutes left on his clock, out, Fedoseev starts to flounder. way to a1 and stays there, awaiting stalemate Fedoseev did not exploit the opportunity. 72. Ne4+ Kd5 73. Nd2 Bg6! or (with a dark-square bishop) liquidation to a However, I think it is safe to bet that a team of drawn king-and-pawn ending. 500 grandmasters with two hours on the clock This is the critical moment, and, in many Now, back to the text. At first, it may be would be quite unlikely to see it either. ways, the reason I chose this endgame. Now, difficult to understand the link between the 74. Ke2? it is not immediately clear why ... a4-a3 is a two positions. But as GM Alex Yermolinsky decisive threat: White will, after all, be able to explained to me many years ago, theoretical The king takes the long route to c1, and restrain the pawn from b3. It turns out that positions will not necessarily arise in pure form Fedoseev was relying on a cute stalemate trick the ensuing position is lost for White, and that every time; the true endgame virtuoso knows to save the day, but allowing the pawn to a2 should not be a surprise: once the knight is how to use theoretical positions as beacons of simply places too large of a burden on White’s reduced to utter passivity and the passer light, guiding his play in outwardly dissimilar pieces. positions. And in this case, just such an approach advances past the sixth rank, White’s prospects 74. ... a3 75. bxa3 bxa3 76. Kd1 a2 77. are not very promising. can be used to uncork one of the most brilliant Nb3 Kc4 78. Na1 Kc3 79. Kc1 Bf5 80. h4 But there doesn’t seem to be any conceivable ideas in recent endgame memory: Bg6! way to stop ... a4-a3, or to breach the diagonal 74. Nb3!!! No, this is not a typo. Yes, three blockade. It transpires that the first of these exclamation marks. What makes chess so attrac - Zugzwang numero uno. Get rid of the pawn. assumptions is correct, but the second, believe tive to me is that even the wildest ideas can be 81. h5 Bxh5 82. Nc2 Be8 83. Na1 Ba4 84. it or not, is false. The drawing idea—rendered understood with enough persistence and logical Nc2 all the more stunning by the fact that it is the thinking. This is just such an idea: after 74. ... only path to salvation—is so jaw-dropping that axb3 75. Kd2, we reach the exact same theoretical This was Fedoseev’s intention all along, but it took me a long, long time before I accepted position as the one shown above, with a few the king simply repositions itself. its objective value. inconsequential differences. You can even put 84. ... Kb3, White resigned. The theoretical underpinning of this idea can black pawns on b5, b6, and b7, and the situation be found in the following stem position, featured remains the same: White will push the h-pawn After 85. Na1+ Ka3 it is Zugzwang numero in Karsten Müller and Frank Lamprecht’s classic until Black is forced to take it, and voilà! dos, since 86. Nc2+ no longer works for obvious work, Fundamental Chess Endings: Skepticism is encouraged, but the fact of the reasons. OK, maybe I overhyped it. But to me, ideas (see diagram next column) matter is that 74. Nb3 is the only drawing move. Now, if Black does not take the knight, then like 74. Nb3 offer a direct refutation to the This is a draw with either side to move, and White is well in time to stop the pawns, since common endgames-are-boring trope. No, they regardless of the bishop’s color (!). See for a direct route to the queenside is now open for are not. And they’re happy to punch you in the yourself: put a bishop on any square on the White’s king. Some illustrative lines: face if necessary.

www.uschess.org 47 Grand Prix / Junior Grand Prix FINAL 2017 GRAND PRIX STANDINGS 2018 AWARDS

CONGRATULATIONS TO 2017 GRAND PRIX CHAMPION GM ELSHAN MORADIABADI! $12,500 See more about Moradiabadi on page 72 in our “My Best Move” column. IN CASH PRIZES! 2017 US CHESS GRAND PRIX STANDINGS FIRST PRIZE: $5,000! NAME STATE PTS. 1 GM ELSHAN MORADIABADI NC 313.10 2nd: $2,500 | 3rd: $1,000 2 GM RUIFENG LI TX 248.08 4th: $900 | 5th: $800 3 GM ALEXANDER IVANOV MA 262.16 6th: $700 | 7th: $600 4 GM ALEKSANDR LENDERMAN NY 245.02 8th: $500 | 9th: $300 5 GM BRYAN G. SMITH PA 220.36 10th: $200 6 GM VLADIMIR BELOUS TX 217.75 7 GM ANDREY STUKOPIN TX 216.20 8 GM SAMUEL SEVIAN MA 187.70 9 GM ILLIA I. NYZHNYK MO 168.90 The Grand Prix point totals reflect all rated event information as of February 7, 10 GM ALEXANDER SHABALOV PA 151.90 2018 for the 2017 Grand Prix.

2017 US CHESS JUNIOR GRAND PRIX FINAL STANDINGS: ALAN HUNG IS CHAMP Congratulations to Northern California’s   
who just edged out    of Virginia to win the 2017 US Chess Junior Grand Prix. Hung is awarded a Chess.com one-year Diamond membership valued at $100, a Chess.com gear/merchandise package valued at $100, a US Chess award, free entry into the 2018 U.S. Open, and $1,000 of expense money from US Chess to offset the trip. For the top five players on the overall list and to each state winner, Chess.com also awards a choice of a one-year ChessKid.com gold membership (valued at $50/annually) or a one-year Chess.com Gold membership (valued at $40/annually). US Chess gratefully acknowl edges the participation of Chess.com!

Name State Pts. State Leaders State Pts. State Leaders State Pts. HUNG, ALAN CA-N 11219 SHEPARD, RIVER ID 2766 CAO, ELTON OH 7391 PILLAI, ADITHYA VA 11197 PLOTNICK, JACOB IL 7358 PETERS, AARON OK 8981 SIVAKUMAR, SHAASHWATH CA-N 9792 KACZANOWSKI, AIDAN P IN 4208 TANG, AUSTIN OR 5007 SIVAKUMAR, SHAAKETH CA-N 9727 SHESHAPPA, SAMEETH KS 5510 FENG, ANDREW T PA 7863 LAM, KOIIP NY 8986 SHAWKAT, SAIF KY 4980 VAIJAEEPAY, VAISHNAVI RI 3318 APPLEGARTH, BRYANT LA 4193 MOORE, ELI DAVIS SC 3250 State Leaders State Pts. SU, CARAH MA 5138 TAO, ARTHUR SD 1822 KING, KENNY PAUL AK 700 GUO, BRADLEY MD 4490 RODRIGUEZ, CARLOS XAVIER TERR 2100 VELIDANDLA, SARVAGNA AL 3656 AMAR, BENJAMIN ME 3446 WU, LILLIAN TN 6059 BELLISARIO, STEVEN AR 5701 REED, HUNTER MI 5814 KUNG, THOMAS TX 5497 SELVAM, SANJAY AZ 6532 LEE, ALICE MN 3922 RAY, UJAN UT 6204 RAJARAM, ANIKA CA-N 8064 ZHENG, MERRICK MO 6704 LI, MENGYI VA 7205 HUANG, YISHI CA-S 6300 WU, RYAN BOYD MS 5931 TAYLOR, AEDAN E VT 1758 MARSH, ALEXANDER J CO 2449 CARLINO, DANIEL MT 700 LI, ALBERT WA 6676 WEBER, MADELINE L WI 6103 HATCHER, KATHERINE CT 4701 RAMESH, RAHUL NC 8661 YADAV, OMKAR WV 1506 SPASOJEVIC, NICHOLAS DC 7592 SOORI, ISAIAH C ND 652 MC LNERNEY, BRYAN C WY 2994 LUO, TERRY DE 6215 REVESZ, GREGORY NE 1210 CHEN, BENJAMIN LJ FL 5893 TIRUVEEDHULA, SUHAVI NH 5260 MYDUKUR, AMIT GA 6709 CHINNAMBETI, ABHINAV NJ 8560 WHITE, ADRIEL HI 2268 CONTRERAS, ANDRES NM 3978 CHEN, NATHAN IA 4155 NAJIBZADEH, OMID NV 1650 PORTH, DARWIN ALBERT ID 2766 YANG, JACK NATHANIEL NY 8181 Official standings for events received and processed by February 6, 2018.

48 AugustMarch 2018 2017 | | Chess Chess Life Life www.uschess.org 48

Tournament Life / March Bids Note: Organizers previously awarded options for US Chess National Events must still submit proposals (including sample budgets) for their events. National Events OVERDUE BIDS Note: Tournament memberships not valid for National events Please contact the National Office if you are See TLA in this issue for details interested in bidding for a National Event. US Chess recommends that bids be submitted .+,"6 '%'6352$6&1*//6&23$*//66March 9-11 • San Jose, California according to the following schedule. However, .+,"64)5234-6352$6516%122-6# !6&14(0523/150/66April 6-8 • Atlanta, Georgia bids may be considered prior to these dates. .+,"6-- 5$-/64)5234-6&14(0523/150/66April 20-22 • Chicago, Illinois US Chess reserves the right to decline all bids .+,"64)5234-6516%122-6# ,.!6&14(0523/15066April 27-29 • Columbus, Ohio and organize the event itself. .+,"64)5234-6-*(*3)4$6%122-6# !6&14(0523/150/66May 11-13 • Nashville, Tennessee 2$62$6*043*6-5/)62 634)5234-6**3)/ .+,"6 '%'6 2(*3/60*366June 20-21 • Las Vegas, Nevada 445-4 -*6 2$6 56/**
6www.uschess.org/con- tent/ view/12116/705/. .+,"64)5234-60*366June 21-24, 22-24 or 23-24 • Las Vegas, Nevada ,,)164334-6#.+,"!6 '%'60*366July 28-August 5, July 31-August 5 or August 2-5 • RATING SUPPLEMENTS Middleton, Wisconsin 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  66 66March 30-April 1 • New York, New York at Marshall Chess Club. tournaments beginning in that month, unless Spectators can get more info at www.marshallchessclub.org or 212-477-3716. otherwise announced in Chess Life. The US Chess .+,"6 '%'6&14(0523/1506#35)4)5234-!66April 18-29 • St. Louis, Missouri - Contact: website at www.uschess.org also frequently lists [email protected], www.uschesschamps.com, +1 (314) 361-2437 unofficial ratings. The purpose of unofficial rat- ings is to inform you of your progress; however, .+,"6 '%'6 2(*3/6&14(0523/1506#35)4)5234-!66April 18-29 • St. Louis, Missouri - most tournaments do not use them for pairing Contact: [email protected], www.uschesschamps.com, +1 (314) 361-2437 or prize purposes. If you would otherwise be .+,"6 '%'6(4)*$64/)6&14(0523/15066May 26-28 • Morristown, New Jersey unrated, organizers may use your unofficial rating .+,"6 '%'6352$60*36&14(0523/15066June 21-24 • Kenner, Lousiana at their discretion, even without advance publicity of such a policy. .+,"6 '%'6%*352$60*36&14(0523/15066June 21-24 • Kenner, Lousiana .+,"6 '%'6&4*)6#35)4)5234-!6&14(0523/15066July 12-15 • San Jose, California NOTE .+,"6 '%'6352$6&14(0523/1506#35)4)5234-!66July 13-22 • St. Louis, Missouri - Con- The TLA pages “Information for Organizers, tact: [email protected], www.uschesschamps.com, +1 (314) 361-2437 TDs, and Affiliates” and “Information for Play- ers” can now be found online at main.uschess.org/ .+,"6 '%'65$-/6352$6&14(0523/1506#35)4)5234-!66July 13-22 • St. Louis, Missouri - go/tlainfo. Contact: [email protected], www.uschesschamps.com, +1 (314) 361-2437 .+,"6 '%'64/)*$/6&1*//6&14(0523/15066August 17-21 • Greensboro, North Carolina PROFESSIONAL PLAYERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS FUND .+,"6 '%'6&-4//6&14(0523/150/66November 9-11 • Plymouth, Minnesota Many Grand Prix tournament organizers will .+,"6 ,.6$4*6&14(0523/150/66December 14-16 • Orlando, Florida contribute $1 per player to the Professional .+,"6436(*$54363)*$2--*54)*66December 27-30 • Burlingame, California Health & Benefits Fund. All Grand Prix tour- .+,64)5234-6516%122-6# ,.!6&14(0523/15066March 15-17 • Schaumburg, Illinois naments which participate in this program are entitled to be promoted to the next higher .+,64)5234-6352$6516%122-6# !6&14(0523/150/66April 26-28 • Grapevine, Texas Grand Prix category—for example, a six-point .+,64)5234-6-*(*3)4$6%122-6# !6&14(0523/150/66May 10-12 • Nashville, Tennessee tournament would become a 10-point (Enhanced) ,.+)164334-6#.+,!6 '%'60*366August 3-11 • Orlando, Florida tournament. Points in the top category are pro- .+,6 ,.6$4*6&14(0523/150/66December 13-15 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida moted 50%. .+.+64)5234-6516%122-6# ,.!6&14(0523/15066April 3-5 • Memphis, Tennessee ATTENTION AFFILIATES .+.+64)5234-6352$6516%122-6# !6&14(0523/150/66April 24-26 • Jacksonville, Florida US Chess has partnered with R.V. Nuccio & Associates Insurance Brokers, Inc. to provide .+.+64)5234-6-*(*3)4$6%122-6# !6&14(0523/150/66May 8-10 • Nashville, Tennessee US Chess affiliates with affordable annual lia- ,.,/)64334-6#.+.+!6 '%'60*366August 8-16 • Saint Charles, Missouri bility and short term event insurance. The .+.+6 ,.6$4*6&14(0523/150/66December 11-13 • Orlando, Florida liability coverage is available for approximately $265 per year for a $1,000,000 limit of insur- .+.,6%0*$4)5234-/666May 7-9 • Nashville, Tennessee ance. Also available is contents property and ,..364334-6#.+.,!6 '%'60*366July 31-August 8 • Cherry Hill, New Jersey bonding insurance. For more information, please .+.,6 ,.6$4*6&14(0523/150/66December 3-5 • Orlando, Florida go to www.rvnuccio.com/chess-federation.html. For .+..64)5234-6516%122-6# ,.!6&14(0523/15066April 8-10 • Memphis, Tennessee event insurance, please go to www.rvnuccio.com. .+..64)5234-6352$6516%122-6# !6&14(0523/150/66April 29-May 1 • Grapevine, Texas

50 March 2018 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14

email: [email protected]. Entries: U.S. Chess Federation, Attn.: The Tournament Announcements on the following pages are provided for the convenience of US Chess members and for 2018 JHS Championship, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557 or online informational purposes only. Unless expressly indicated otherwise, neither US Chess nor Chess Life warrants the accuracy of at www.uschess.org/tournaments/2018/jhs/. See web site for additional anything contained in these tournament announcements. Those interested in additional information about or having questions information about the event, advance entries, awards, meetings, team rooms, updates, corrections, and registration forms. con cerning any of these tournaments are directed to contact the organizer listed. Chess Life will exercise all due diligence in US Chess Junior Grand Prix! providing accurate typesetting of non-camera-ready copy but assumes no responsibility for errors made in such work. APR. 20-22, ILLINOIS &&4'3.#45 .3)5-5-*(.334+5/&34152#4(4155 53)45&2,,2 .05/++.3.20/,51*,4-5/%%,"5325 1/0+5$1. 2018 ALL-GIRLS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS PRESENTED BY THE KASPAROV CHESS FOUNDATION IN ASSOCIATION WITH 32*10/(403-55)45*/1/0344+5&.1-35%1.45(*-3545/35,4/-35  !5 525(21453)/052045%1.45*0+415 5(/" THE RENAISSANCE KNIGHTS CHESS FOUNDATION & US CHESS '2*03532 /1+-53)45 1/0+5$1.5%2.035323/,!55$1.4-54,2 53)45(/.(*(54031"5&445+250235'2*03532 /1+-53)4 Any player that achieves a perfect 6-0 score or wins the first 1/0+5$1.5%2.035323/,!5,-25.0',*+45&*,,53.(45'20312,5023.05.0'14(40352153.(45+4,/"54#405.&5+4,/"5.-54125
+! place trophy, in each age category, qualifies to represent the USA at the 2018 World Cadets (U/8, U10, U/12) / World Youth (U/14, 5)4--5*0.215 1/0+5$1.55*0.215 1/0+5$1.54#4035(*-35)/#45&2*15215(21412*0+-5 .3)5/53.(45'20312, U/16, U/18) Championships. 6SS, G/90 d5. Hyatt Regency McCormick 14/34153)/05 5(.0!5$,4/-45-445www.uschess.org/data page/JGP-Rules.php &215'2(%,4345 *,4-! Place, 2233 S. Martin Luther King Dr., Chicago, IL 60616, (free Wi-Fi). 6 Sections/Trophies: Age as of 1/1/2018 Under 8 top 15 individuals, SUBMISSIONS: E-mail your TLA to: [email protected] (Joan DuBois). For tla deadline schedule, formatting help and Grand top 500 – 799, top U500, top 6 schools, Under 10 top 16 individuals, Prix information check www.uschess.org/go/tlainfo and “Advertising” at uschess.org. Payment can be done online through top 700 – 999, top U700, top 6 schools, Under 12 top 16 individuals, the TD/Affiliate area or sent to: US Chess, TLA Dept., PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557. top 900 – 1199, top U900, top 6 schools, Under 14 top 12 individuals, top 1100 – 1399, top U1100, top 4 schools, Under 16 top 8 individuals, 23455)4--5*0.215 1/0+5$1.54#403-5+250235)/#4532504'4--/1.,"545')2,/-3.'5215 2*3)532*10/(403-! Top 1300 – 1599, top U1300, top 3 schools, Under 18 top 8 individuals, )4"5+25)2 4#415)/#45325)/#453)4514*.14+50*(4152&512*0+-5/0+53.(45'20312,5.0521+415&215-')2,/-3.' Top 1500 – 1799, top U1500, top 3 schools, (top 3 players added for team scores). EF: $60 mail/online by 3/19 $80 by 4/9, $95 after. Do /0+5"2*3)5%,/"41-5325/.05 $5%2.03-5&215%1.4-!5215(2145.0&21(/3.205%,4/-45-4453)45 $51*,4-5/3 not mail after 4/13. $20 fee for roster or section changes after 4/13. http://www.uschess.org/ datapage/JGP-Rules.php! $10 fee for refunds. Opening Ceremony: Fri 2:30pm. Rounds: Rd. 1 – Fri 3:00pm Rounds 2-4 – Sat 10:00am, 2:30pm, 6:30pm; Rounds 5-6 – Sun 9:00am & 1:00pm. Awards: 5:00pm. Bye: One 1/2 point bye available US Chess Junior Grand Prix! for any round, except round 6, if requested at least 2 hours before the APR. 6-8, GEORGIA start of the round 1. Side Events: Bughouse Tournament – Fri. 11:00 Nationals 2018 NATIONAL JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL (K-9) CHAMPIONSHIP am, EF $30/team. Blitz Tournament – Fri. 7pm, G/5 d0, EF $20 by US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 4/9, $25 after or on site. HR: single - quad $159 Reservations: (888) MAR. 9-11, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN 7SS, G/120 d5. Hyatt Regency Atlanta, 265 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30303. Hotel Chess Rate $129. Guest rooms may be booked, NLT 421-1442. Reserve early rate may increase / sell out. Entries: online/info 2018 U.S. JUNIOR CHESS CONGRESS 3/12/2018 by calling (888) 421-1442 or (404) 577-1234, mention “US at: www.rknights.org/allgirls or mail to RKnights, attn: All-Girls, PO Box 5-SS, G/90 d5. BASIS Independent Silicon Valley School, 1290 Parkmoor Chess” or see www.uschess.org/tournaments/2018/jhs/ to book now! 1074, Northbrook, IL 60065, include name, section, rating, USCF ID#, Ave., San Jose, CA. 95126. 7 SECTIONS (by age; as of September 1, 6 Sections: K-9 Championship, K-9 U1250, K-9 Unrated, K-8 Champi- date of birth, grade, school name city & state. 2017): 20 & under, 16 & under, 14 & under, 12 & under, 10 & under, 8 & onship, K-8 U1000 and K-8 U750. March Rating Supplement will be used. under & 6 & under. TROPHIES: Top 10 individuals and Top 5 clubs in each One 1/2-point bye available (limit one) any round (except Round 7) if US Chess Junior Grand Prix! section. (see flyer on web site for detailed rules on club eligibility) EF: $60 APR. 27-29, OHIO requested prior to the start of Rd. 1. Team score = total of top four 2018 NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL (K-12) CHAMPIONSHIP by 2/10, $70 from 2/11/18-3/4/18, $80 on 3/5/18 or after. RDS: Sat: 10- (minimum two) finishers from each school per section. K-9 Championship 1:30-5pm, Sun: 9-1. BYES: 1, 1/2 bye available with exception of last first place individual and team, including ties, will be the National Junior 7SS, G/120 d5. Greater Columbus Convention Center, 400 North High round. Irrevocable once requested. REGISTRATION: www.hanleyches- High School Champion. Schedule: Opening ceremony Fri. 12:45 pm. St., Columbus, OH 43215. Hotel: Hyatt Regency Columbus, 350 North sacademy.com. SIDE EVENTS: 1. USCF Rated Blitz 7pm-10pm on Friday Rds.: Fri. 1 pm and 7 pm, Sat. 9 am, 2 pm and 7 pm, Sun. 9 am-2 pm. High St., Columbus, OH 43215 (adjacent to GCCC). Hotel Chess Rate March 9, 2018. Sections: 12 & under & 20 & under. Trophies to top 5 in Awards Ceremony Sun., approx. 7 pm. EF: $50/participant postmarked $129. Guest rooms may be booked, NLT 3/23/2018 by calling (402) each section. $20 by 3/4/18, $25 on 3/5/18 or after. 2. Grades K/6 Non- or online by 3/12, $70 postmarked or online by 3/26, $85 online by 592-6464 or (888) 421-1442, mention “US Chess”, or online at: Rated Tournaments (Capture the King); No USCF membership required. 4/4, $90 on site; $5.00 extra for all phone registrations; $20 fee for https://aws.passkey.com/go/nshschess418. 6 Sections: K-12 Champi- Two separate tournaments with their own trophies and entry fees...one roster or section changes after 3/26 or any onsite changes. Onsite reg- onship, K-12 U1900, K-12 U1600, K-12 U1200, K-12 U800 and K-12 on Saturday and one on Sunday. For players who have never played in a istration Thurs. 9 AM - 9 PM & Fri. 8 AM -11 AM. Players who register Unrated. April Rating Supplement will be used. One 1/2-point bye chess tournament before but know how to play (see web site for all infor- or change sections after 11 am on Friday will receive a 1/2-point bye available (limit one) any round (except Round 7) if requested prior to mation). Trophies: Top 5 both Saturday and Sunday. Top Club both Saturday for Rd. 1. Players must disclose any other, non-US Chess, over-the- the start of Rd. 1. Team score = total of top four (minimum two) finishers and Sunday. 5-DSS. EF: $30 by 3/4/18, $40 on 3/5/18 or after for each board (OTB) ratings. Awards: Trophies to top individuals & top teams from each school per section. K-12 Championship first place individual tournament. 3. Tactics Problem Tournament, 8:30pm-10pm Saturday March in each section. Every player receives a commemorative item! Full list and team, including ties, will be the National High School Champion. 10, 2018. $25 by 3/4/18, $30 on 3/5/18 or after. Sections: Open & Under of trophies on tournament Info Page. Side Events: Bughouse: Thurs. Schedule: Opening ceremony Fri. 12:45 pm. Rds.: Fri. 1 pm and 7 pm, 1200. Trophies: Top 4 in each section. TEAM ROOMS: $200 from Saturday 11 am, Reg. onsite only Thurs. 9 -10 am, $25/team. K-9 Blitz: Thurs. 5 Sat. 9 am, 2 pm and 7 pm, Sun. 9 am-2 pm. Awards Ceremony Sun., morning through Sunday evening. Please call 714-925-3195 to reserve. pm, Reg. onsite until 4 pm. Blitz EF: $15 by 4/4, $20 after or at site. approx. 7 pm. EF: $50/participant postmarked or online by 3/26, $70 NEAREST AIRPORT: Mineta International in San Jose (about 10 minutes Class trophies will be awarded in main event and in Blitz. Full list of tro- postmarked or online by 4/16, $85 online by 4/25, $90 on site; $5.00 from playing site). Advanced Entries, Pairings, Standings and flyer (available phies on tournament Info Page. General questions: Contact Susan extra for all phone registrations; $20 fee for roster or section changes for download) at www.hanleychessacademy.com. QUESTIONS/INFO: Joe Kantor at 931.787.1234 ext. 136 or by email: [email protected]. after 3/26 or any onsite changes. Onsite registration Thurs. 9 AM - 9 Hanley, [email protected] or 714-925-3195. W. Team Room questions: Contact Boyd Reed at 931.787.2244 or by PM & Fri. 8 AM -11 AM. Players who register or change sections after 11 am on Friday will receive a 1/2-point bye for Rd.1. Players must dis- close any other, non-US Chess over-the-board (OTB) ratings. Awards: Trophies to top individuals & top teams in each section. Every player receives a commemorative item! Full list of trophies on tournament Info Page. Side Events: Bughouse: Thurs. 11 am, Reg. onsite only Thurs. 9 - TOURNAMENT LIFE: ABBREVIATIONS & TERMS 10 am, $25/team. K-12 Blitz: Thurs. 5 pm, Reg. onsite until 4 pm. Blitz All tournaments are non-smoking with no computers allowed unless otherwise advertised. EF: $15 by 3/26, $20 after or at site. Class trophies will be awarded in main event and in Blitz. Full list of trophies on tournament Info Page. BLZ: Blitz rated. Memb. Membership required; cost follows. Usually refers General questions: Contact Susan Kantor at 931.787.1234 ext. 136 or to state affiliate. by email: [email protected]. Team Room questions: Contact Boyd QC: Quick Chess events. req’d: Reed at 931.787.2244 or by email: [email protected]. Entries: $$Gtd: Guaranteed prizes. Open: A section open to all. Often has very strong play- U.S. Chess Federation, Attn.: 2018 HS Championship, P.O. Box 3967, ers, but some eligible for lower sections can play Crossville, TN 38557 or online at www.uschess.org/tournaments/ $$b/x: Based-on prizes, x = number of entries needed to for the learning experience. 2018/hs/. See web site for additional information about the event, payfull prize fund. At least 50% of the advertised advance entries, awards, meetings, team rooms, updates, corrections, prize fund of $501 or more must be awarded. Quad: 4-player round robin sections; similar strength and registration forms. players. Bye: Indicates which rounds players who find it incon- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! RBO: Rated Beginner’s Open. MAY 11-13, TENNESSEE venient to play may take 1⁄2-point byes instead. 2018 NATIONAL ELEMENTARY (K-6) CHAMPIONSHIP For example, Bye 1-3 means 1⁄2-point byes are Rds: Rounds; scheduled game times follow. For exam- 7SS, G/90 d5. Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, 2800 available in Rounds 1 through 3. ple, 11-5, 9-3 means games begin 11 a.m. & 5 p.m. Opryland Dr., Nashville, TN 37214. Hotel Chess Rate $166. Guest rooms CC: Chess club. on the first day, 9 a.m. & 3 p.m. on the second day. may be booked, NLT 4/12/2018 by calling (888) 777-6779 or (615) 889- Registration at site. 1000, mention “US Chess” or book online at: https://aws.passkey.com/e/ dx: Time delay, x = number of seconds. Reg: 49533585. 13 Sections: K-6 Championship, K-6 U1400, K-6 U1000, K-6 Time increment, xx = number of seconds added RR: Round robin (preceded by number of rounds). Unrated, K-5 Championship, K-5 U1200, K-5 U900, K-3 Championship, +xx: K-3 U1000, K-3 U700, K-3 Unrated, K-1 Championship, K-1 U500/UNR. after each move. SD/: Sudden-death time control (time for rest of game May Rating Supplement will be used. One 1/2-point bye available (limit EF: Entry fee. follows). For example, 30/90, SD/1 means each one) any round (except Round 7) if requested prior to the start of Rd. 1. player must make 30 moves in 90 minutes, then Team score = total of top four (minimum two) finishers from each Ent: Where to mail entries. complete the rest of the game in an hour. school per section. K-6 Championship first place individual and team, FIDE: Results submitted to FIDE for possible rating. including ties, will be the National Elementary School Champion. Opening SS: Swiss-System pairings (preceded by number of ceremony Fri. 12:45 pm. Schedule for K-3 and higher: Rds.: Fri. 1 pm G/: Game in. For instance, G/75 means each side has rounds). and 6 pm, Sat. 10 am, 2 pm and 6 pm, Sun. 10 am and 2 pm. Awards 75 minutes for the entire game. Ceremony Sun., approx. 6 pm. Special schedule for K-1 sections: Rds.: Unr: Unrated. Fri. 1:30 pm and 5:30 pm, Sat. 9:30 am, 1:30 pm and 5:30 pm, Sun. 9:30 GPP: Grand Prix Points available. W: Site is accessible to wheelchairs. am and 1:30 pm. Awards Ceremony Sun., approx. 5:30 pm. EF: $50/par- HR: Hotel rates. For example, 60-65-70-75 means $60 ticipant postmarked or online by 4/23, $70 postmarked or online by single, $65 twin, $70/3 in room, $75/4 in room. WEB: Tournaments that will use a player’s online rating. 4/30, $85 online by 5/9, $90 on site; $5.00 extra for all phone registra- tions; $20 fee for roster or section changes after 4/25 or any onsite JGP: Junior Grand Prix. changes. Onsite registration Thurs. 9 AM - 9 PM & Fri. 8 AM -11 AM. Players who register or change sections after 11 am on Friday will receive a 1/2-point bye for Rd. 1. Players must disclose any other, non-

www.uschess.org 51 Tournament Life / March

US Chess, over-the-board (OTB) ratings. Awards: Trophies to top indi- West, 1313 John Q. Hammons Dr., Middleton, WI 53582, HR: $115, Call 4SS, G/61 d5. Bergen Academy, 200 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, NJ viduals & top teams in each section. Every player receives a (608) 831-2000, mention “US Chess”. Reserve by June 30th or rate 07601. Open to All Ages With Rating above 1400. Prize Fund ($$b/40): commemorative item! Full list of trophies on tournament Info Page. may increase. $50,000 in prizes based on 500 paid entries, else 1st - 3rd $300, $250, $200, U2200, U2000, U1800, U1600 each $100 Side Events: Bughouse: Thurs. 11 am, Reg. onsite only Thurs. 9 -10 am, proportional, $40,000 (80% of each prize) minimum guaranteed. Best Under 13 Years Old $75, Best Over 55 Years Old $75. Reg ends at $25/team. Blitz Sections: K-6 and K-3, Thurs. 5 pm, Reg. onsite until 4 A one-section tournament with Class prizes. Top U.S. player not otherwise 9 AM. Only one 1/2-point bye allowed, if requested before the start of pm. Blitz EF: $15 by 4/25, $20 after or at site. Class trophies will be qualified qualifies for 2018 U.S. Championship. Choice of three sched- round two. EF: Adv (pmk. By Mar 5th) $45, AT Site $50. GMs Free Entry. awarded in main event and in Blitz. Full list of trophies on tournament ules: Traditional: 40/120 SD/60; d5. One round daily at 7 PM, except For info, call 201 797-0330, email [email protected] or visit Info Page. General questions: Contact Susan Kantor at 931.787.1234 Rd. 9, 3 PM 8/5. 6- Day Option: 40/120, SD/60 d5. 7 PM 7/31, 12 icanj.net. Prize Fund Will Not Be Reduced Below 70%. Rds.: 9:30 AM, ext. 136 or by email: [email protected]. Team Room questions: NOON & 7 PM 8/1-8/3, 7 PM 8/4, 3 PM 8/5. 4-Day Option: Rds. 1-6: 11:45 AM, 2:15 PM, 4:30 PM. Enter online at: http://www.icanj.net/ Contact Boyd Reed at 931.787.2244 or by email: [email protected]. G/60 d5; then 40/120, SD/60 d5. 12 NOON, 3 PM, 7 PM, 10 PM 8/2; 12 chess_class_in_nj/ica_chess_tournaments/ or mail information to Entries: U.S. Chess Federation, Attn.: 2018 Elementary Championship, NOON, 3 PM, 7 PM 8/3; 7 PM 8/4; 3 PM 8/5. All schedules merge after Diana Tulman, 28 Canterbury Ln., New Milford, NJ 07646. Make checks P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557 or online at www.uschess.org/tour- Round 6 & compete for same prizes. Projected prizes: Top places payable to: International Chess Academy. W. naments/2018/elem/. See web site for additional information about $8000-4000-2000-1500-1000-800- 600-500, clear or playoff winner $200 MAR. 15, NORTH CAROLINA bonus. If tie for first, top two on tiebreak play Armageddon game (White the event, advance entries, awards, meetings, team rooms, updates, US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 corrections, and registration forms. 5 minutes, 2-sec delay, Black 3 minutes, 2-sec delay and gets draw CHARLOTTE CHESS CENTER THIRD THURSDAY TRIPLE odds) for bonus and title. Class Prizes: Top Master (2200- 2399) $2500- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 1200-800-500, Expert (2000-2199) $2500-1200-800-500, Class A (1800- Third Thursday of every month! 3 rounds, G/25 d5. Charlotte Chess JUNE 20-21, NEVADA 1999) $2500-1200-800-500, Class B (1600-1799) $2500-1200-800-500, Center and Scholastic Academy, 1800 Camden Road, Suite 108, Charlotte. US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED) Class C (1400-1599) $2000-1000-600- 400, Class D (1200-1399) $1500- EF: $30 online or on-site by 6:45pm, $25 for CCCSA members. In one 2018 U.S. WOMEN’S OPEN 700-500-300, Class E or below (under 1200) $1500-700-500-300, Unrated section, prizes 100% guaranteed. OPEN: $200-100. Top U1900 $50, Top U1500/Unr $50. 5SS, G/90, +30. Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, 3000 Paradise $800-400-200. Half-Point Byes: must commit before Round 4; up to 3 US Chess Regular rated, Quick rated, and FIDE Road, Las Vegas 89109. $$3,500 Guaranteed Prize Fund. $1000-600- byes allowed for 2000/up, 2 byes for 1400-1999, one bye for Under Rapid Rated! Rounds 7:00pm, 8:00, 9:00. Info/reg: www.charlot- 400, U2000 $350-200, U1800 $250-150, U1600 $200-100, U1400 $150-100. 1400/Unr. Limit 1 bye in last two rounds. Zero-point byes are always techesscenter.org, [email protected]. EF: $99 by 5/31, $125 later. REG.: 9-9:30 a.m. RDS.: 10-2:30-7, 10- available in any round if requested at least two hours before the round(s) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 2:30. Half point bye available in any round (limit 1). HR: $69 ($92 Friday in question. Entry Fee: Online, $145 by 6/25, $165 by 7/16, $185 after MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, FLORIDA and Saturday nights) (800) 732-7117 ask for the CHESS rates. This 7/16. By mail, $147 postmarked by 6/25, $167 postmarked by 7/16, US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED) event kicks off the LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL on $187 after 7/16; do not mail after 7/23! By phone, $150 by 6/25, $170 16TH ANNUAL SOUTHERN CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS Wednesday before the National Open. ENT: Vegas Chess Festivals, by 7/16, $185 after. No phone entries after 5PM Central 7/27 (close of 5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Wyndham PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925 or online at www.Veg- business at the US Chess Office)! At site, all $190; Free entry for GMs Orlando Resort, 8001 International Dr., Orlando 32819. Special parking . FIDE. W. asChessFestival.com and WGMs for main event only. All entries must be made at least two $5; free with guest room. Prizes $15,000 guaranteed. In 7 sections. An American Classic! (2) hours prior to the player’s first game. Current US Chess membership Master (2200/up): $1400-700-400-300, clear or tiebreak winner $100 A Heritage Event! required. July Rating Supplement used; unofficial ratings (at least bonus. Expert (2000-2199): $1200-600-300-200. Class A (1800-1999): US Chess Junior Grand Prix! four games) used if otherwise unrated. CCA ratings used if above US $1200-600-300-200. Class B (1600-1799): $1200-600-300-200. Class JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, NEVADA Chess. Foreign player ratings: usually 100 points added to FIDE or FQE, C (1400-1599): $1000-500-300-200. Class D (1200-1399): $800-400- US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED) 200+ added to most foreign national ratings, no points added to CFC. 200-100. Class E (Under 1200): $500-300-200-100. Rated players may 2018 NATIONAL OPEN Highest of multiple ratings generally used. Entries: US Chess, ATTN: play up one section. Unrated may enter A through E, but may not win 7-SS, 40/90, SD/30, +30 (3-day rounds 1-2 G/60, +10, 2-day round 1- 2018 U.S. Open, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557. Online entry available, over $100 in E, $200 D, $300 C or $500 B. Mixed doubles: best 4 G/30, +5, Beginners Section G/30, +5). Westgate Resort & Casino, see website. Phone entry: 800.903.8723. Not FIDE rated, No cell male/female 2-player team combined score among all sections: $400- 3000 Paradise Road, Las Vegas 89109. $$100,000 Guaranteed Prize phones. Bring a clock — none supplied. Sets/boards supplied for tour- 200. Team must average under 2200; may play in different sections; Fund will not be reduced! In 8 sections, top 2 FIDE rated. Open: $8,000- nament but not for skittles. Many meetings, workshops and seminars, register at site (no extra fee) by 2 pm 3/17. Top 6 sections EF: $108 4,000-2,000-1,000-600-500-400-300-300-300, top under 2500 $2,500, including: US Chess Committee Meetings 8/1-8/3, US Chess Awards online at chessaction.com by 3/14, 3-day $113, 2-day $112 mailed by top under 2400 $2,400, Extra $2,500 for perfect score. The winner of Luncheon 8/4 Noon, US Chess Delegates Meeting 8/4-5. Many side 3/7, $120 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hours the Open section also receives a replica of the Edmondson Cup. Under events and other championships, including: U.S. National Blitz Cham- before rd. 1. GMs, IMs & WGMs free; $100 deducted from prize. Class 2300: $6,000-3,000-1,500-750-400-350-300-250-250-250. Under 2100: pionship 7SS Double, G/5 d0, Rd. 1 at 12 NOON 8/4; U.S. Open E EF: all $30 less than above. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually $6,000-3,000-1,500-750-400-350-300-250-250-250. Under 1900: $5,000- Weekend Swiss 5SS, G/60 d5, 12-3 Sat 7/28, 10-12:30-3 Sun 7/29; used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine 2500-1250-600-350-300-250-250-250-250. Under 1700: $4,000-2,000- U.S. Open Scholastic (see separate TLA for the Scholastic event); if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult 1,000-500-300-250-250-250-250-250. Under 1500: 3000-1500-700-350- Mon-Wed-ThuFri July 30, August 1, 2, 3 U. S. Open Quads (one- $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, 300-250-250-250-250-250. Under 1300: $2000-1,000-500-300-250-250- day events) G/30 d5. Entry fee $20. Registration 9:30-11:30 a.m., Scholastic $17. Re-entry $60; not available in Master Section. 3-day 250, top under 1000 (no provisional) $900. Beginners (unrated or rated Rounds at noon, 1:30 p.m. & 3:00 p.m. $50 to first in each quad. Tue schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. under 1000): 3 schedules with 6 rounds per day $200-125-75 each day July 31 U.S. Open Quads (Tuesday Quads Only)G/60 d5. Entry Fee 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & plus $300 overall (best 2 results). Plus Score Bonus: ($12,000 guar- $20. Registration 9 a.m.-10:00 a.m., Rounds at 10:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m. 3:15. All: Half point byes OK all, limit 2, Master must commit before rd. anteed) in addition to any other prizes, every player with 4 points or and 3:30 p.m. $50 to first in each quad. U.S. Open Bughouse Sat. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $127-127-127-127 (no resort fee), includes more wins a $50 gift certificate. Plus score certificates will be awarded 10:30 AM 7/28. 19th Annual Golf Tournament for the US Open resort fee benefits (free wireless & entertainment in room, parking, on site only. Mixed Doubles: best male/female combined 2-player Chess Players, (see tournament website for details). US Open Tennis use of fitness center, etc). 1-800-421-8001, 407-351-2420; reserve by team score: $1,500-750-350-250-150. Teammates may play in different Tournament (see tournament website for details). In addition, three 3/2 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, sections but must have average rating below 2200. The Freddie: Players other championships will also take place: the 2018 Denker Tournament or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.com or age 14 and under are eligible for best game prizes including the Freddie of HS Champions (see website for participants’ list), the 2018 Barber Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge Award and $400 in cash prizes (donated by Fred Gruenberg). Unrated Tournament of K-8 Champions (see website for participants’ list) for refunds. Questions: DirectorAtChess.us, chesstour.com, chesstour.info, players may play only in Beginners or Open Section. Provisionally rated and the 2018 National Girls’ Tournament of Champions (see website 347-201-2269. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted players may not win more than 40% of top prize in any under section; for participants’ list). Please check the U.S. Open website often for instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. balance goes to next player(s) in line. CCA minimum ratings or other updates, new information and corrections and other useful doc- uments! http://www.uschess.org/tournaments/2018/usopen/ US Chess Junior Grand Prix! ratings may be used if higher than US Chess June Supplement. EF: MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, TEXAS $199 by 1/31, $229 by 5/31, $259 by 6/19, $280 later. Add $125 for AUG. 4, WISCONSIN US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 adults rated under 2200 or juniors under 2100 playing in the Open US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 LONE STAR OPEN Section. $40 less for seniors 65 and over. Beginners section only: $125 2018 U.S. OPEN NATIONAL BLITZ CHAMPIONSHIP (BLZ) 5SS, (Open and U2000 Sections are G/90 i30, and FIDE rated; All other less for players in only 1 schedule, $60 less in 2 schedules. Reg.: 1 7 Double Round (14 games) Swiss, 1 section, G/5 d0. Blitz rated, higher p.m.-6 p.m. Thursday. Rds.: 7:30, 11-5:30, 10-4:30, 10-4:30. 3-day sched- Sections are G/120 d5). Free entry for GMs,IMs,WGMs and WIMs (EF of regular or Blitz rating used. Entry fee $40, free to Unrated players if deducted from winnings). SIDE EVENTS: (Schol. Team & Ind., 4SS, G/30 ule: Reg.: 8:30-9:30 a.m. Friday. Rds 11-2 then merge with 4-day in paying US Chess dues. Registration 9-11:30 a.m, round 1 begins at round 3 at 5:30. 2-day schedule: Reg.: 8:30-9 a.m. Saturday. Rds.: 10- d5, 1-day only, Sat. Mar. 17th); 5-min. Blitz “CAJUN KNOCK-OUT” (Sat. noon. $2000 Guaranteed Prizes!: $$400-200-150, U2200 $200-100, night after Rd. 3). Separate room for schol. Players - A trophy or medal 11:30-1-2:30 then merge with 4-day in round 4 at 4:30. Half point byes U2000 $200-100, U1800 $180-90, U1600/Unrated $140-70, U1400 $100, available in any round; round 6 or 7 byes must be requested before the will be awarded to each schol. player. DoubleTree by Hilton near IAH U1200 $70. See also http://www.uschess.org/tournaments/2018/usopen Airport (Houston North – JFK Blvd. off of Beltway 8), 15747 John F. start of round 2 and may not be cancelled. Chess sets and boards for additional details. provided for tournament play only, not for skittles. Please bring digital Kennedy Blvd., Houston, TX 77032, Ph: 281-848-4000, $89 chess rate chess clocks! The LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL fea- (reserve by 3/2 and mention Cajun Chess Tournament). Free Parking! tures the National Open, the U.S. Women’s Open, the International Free airport shuttle service! Free wireless internet in all guestrooms! Youth Championship, and other events. Many free extras and surprises! Discounted Hotel Breakfast Coupons for all hotel room guests ($12 Hot Free parking. Free raffles with great prizes. Free GM Lectures. Free Grand Prix Breakfast Buffet – Guests are responsible for tax & gratuities). Hotel GM analysis of your games. Free Daily Bulletins and free commemorative US Chess Junior Grand Prix! check-in time is 3pm; check-out time is 12 noon. For guests who need DVD for all participants. Grandmaster Simuls and Chess Camp for A State Championship Event! later check out on Sunday, you may stay in your room until 7pm for an all ages on Thursday. U.S. Women’s Open Wednesday and Thursday. MAR. 10-11, DELAWARE additional day rate of $69; otherwise, hotel will store luggage at no Walter Browne Memorial Blitz Thursday 2:00 p.m. Youth Tournaments US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 charge on Sunday afternoon for those checking out at 12 noon. 5 Sects. Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Blitz Sectionals Friday, Saturday & Sunday. DELAWARE STATE OPEN CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP PRIZES: $10,000 b/200 paid ent. OPEN: $1400-800-500-300-200; U2200: Poker Tournament Monday Morning. Don’t be shut out - make your Hilton, Christiana Hotel, 100 Continental Dr., Newark, DE 19713 (off I- $700-400; U2000: $800-400-200-100-50; U1800: $800-400-200-100-50; reservations early and be sure to ask for the CHESS rates — $69 single 95). Ask for the special price to reserve room for the chess tournament. U1600/Unr*: $8023z0-400-200-100-50; U1300: $400-300-200-100-50. or double ($92 Friday and Saturday nights) guarantees a premium room 302-454-1500. 6-SS Open, 5-SS U1600, G/90 d5. Open: $600, $300, *Unrated players may only win 50% of the prize fund except in the Open with new furniture, refrigerator, flat screen TV and more. The resort $150, U2200 $150, U2000 $150, U1800 $150, U1600 $400, $240, $140, Sect. where they must pay full EF and are eligible for full prize fund. package including access to the Fitness Center, free WI-FI, and more U1400 $140, U1200 $140, U1000 $140. Special DE Resident Prizes: Schol.Sects. (Team & Individual): K-2, K-5, K-8, K-12. Prizes: Trophies is substantially discounted for our group. Cutoff for special hotel rate Delaware State Champion: Crystal Trophy + Free entry in next year’s to top 5 individuals & top 3 teams in each section (more ind. trophies is May 31; after that rates will increase significantly and there event, Delaware State Woman’s Champion: Trophy + Free entry in depending on pre-entries). Every non-trophy winner receives a souvenir may not be any rooms available. (800) 732-7117 or www.Vegas next year’s event (may be in U1600 or open section based on perform- chess medal. Teams may have as many players as they wish from the ChessFestival.com/hotel. ENT: Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925, ance), Top DE U1600 Trophy. Top DE Junior under age 18 Trophy. Reg.: same school in the same section but must have a minimum of 3 players Henderson, NV 89009-0925, online at www.VegasChessFestival.com. Advanced reg: Delaware Chess Association, 2400 N. Broom St., Apt. to be considered a team; the top 4 scores will count for final team score. Info: (702) 930-9550 and leave a message. FIDE. W. 203, Wilmington, DE 19802. 302-893-9519. TD: William Trueman. On- Scholastic Players may play in both Scholastic and Main Tourna- ments if desired by registering for the Scholastic Tournament AND A Heritage Event! site Reg: 8am - 9am. EF: Free entry to GM’s and IM’s ($50 deducted from prizes), $65 by 3/06, $70 at the site. Rds.: Sat.10, 2, 6, Sun. 9, 1, a section in the 3-day Schedule of the Main Tournament with a US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 1/2-point Bye in the 2nd Round of the 3-Day Schedule. USCF-rec- JULY 28-AUG. 5, JULY 31-AUG. 5 OR AUG. 2-5, WISCONSIN (5 open only). Half point Byes: 2 available. $ prizes b/40 in each section. Email: [email protected] ommended computer tiebreaks will decide trophy and medal placements US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED) for winners of all schol. sections. Free chess gift to oldest player and to 119TH ANNUAL U.S. OPEN US Chess Junior Grand Prix! player who travels farthest to OPEN tourn. CAJUN BOUNTY: Defeat the Includes Traditional one game per day schedule (9 days), a 6-day slow MAR. 11, NEW JERSEY top ranked player in the OPEN sect. and win free entry to our next tour- time control option, and 4-day option. 9SS, 40/120, SD/60 d5 (4-day US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED) nament! EF: $95 by 3/9; $110 thereafter and at site; Unr. (U1600) and option, Rds. 1-6, G/60 d5; then 40/120, SD/60 d5). Madison Marriott DR. DAVID OSTFELD MEMORIAL ICA OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP Jrs. (under 19 yrs of age and playing in U1300 or U1600 Sections) $65

52 March 2018 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14

by 3/9; $80 thereafter and at site. Schol. EF: $20 by 3/9; $30 thereafter EF: $85. U1800 Section: $1100-750-450. Under 1600 $750-450. EF: reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.com or and at site; Re-Entry Fee (no Re-Entry in OPEN and U2000 Sects): $35 $70. U1400 Section: $500-300-200. Under 1200 $300-200. EF: $60. Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Questions: Director (avail. up to Rd. 4; 3 re-entries or 2 Jr. entries count as one additional U1000 Section: $400-250-160. Under 800 $200-130. EF: $50. Unrated AtChess.US, chesstour.com, chesstour.info, 347-201-2269. $15 service entry for prize fund). 3-day Sched: Reg. Fri. 5:30-7pm, Rds. Fri. 8pm; players in the U1800 section can only win $375, in U1400 $175 & U1000 charge for refunds. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries Sat. 2-7, Sun. 10-3. 2-day Sched: Reg. Sat. 7:45-8:30am, (Rds. Sat. 9-2- $125. No limit in Open. Balance to next prize winners. EF refunded and posted instantly). Blitz tournament Saturday 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. 7, Sun. 10-3. Both schedules merge at Rd. 2. Schol. Sched: (All 4 rds. $100 appearance award to all GM and IM if paid by 3/5/2018. All EF G/30 d5 - one day only, Sat., Mar. 17). Reg. Sat. 8:30am-9:30am, Rd. A Heritage Event! add $20 after 3/5/2018. NYSCA members deduct $3. All sections USCF US Chess Junior Grand Prix! one at 10am; Other Rds. will immediately follow. Byes for OPEN & U2000 rated. Ratings as in March Supplement. Bring sets, boards, and clocks MAR. 23-25, VIRGINIA Sects: Up to two 1/2-pt. byes available for any round except Round 5 (if – none provided. Food court and chess books & equipment sales available you cannot stay for Rd. 5 you must take a 0-pt. bye or simply withdraw US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 onsite. No smoking allowed on The Strong campus. Free parking. Reg.: 51ST VIRGINIA OPEN after Rd. 4); Byes for all other Sects. In Open Tourn: Up to two 1/2-pt. 8:30-9:15am. Rds.: Sat. 10-2:15-6:30, Sun. 10-2:15. One 1/2 point bye byes avail. For any Rd. and must commit before Rd. 3. Byes for SCHOL. available in rds. 1, 2, 3, or 4 if requested at entry. Optional first round 5SS, a VCF Cup Event, $$4000 Guaranteed! SITE: Washington Dulles Tourn: Only one ½-point bye allowed and must commit before Rd. 2. HR: Friday, 3/16/2018 at 7pm played at Rochester Chess Center (register Airport Marriott Hotel, 45020 Aviation Dr., Dulles, VA 20166; www.mar- $89 (281-848-4000), reserve by 3/2 and mention Cajun Chess Tournament by 6:30pm). Info: 585-442-2430. Mail entry to: Rochester Chess Center, riott.com, 703-471-9500, rooms $104 Chess Rate plus taxes, res. by to assure group rate. ENT: On-line registration, printable entry form, 221 Norris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. Web: nychess.org. Store: Fri. 3/2 at 1-800-228-9200 or 703-471-9500. Two Sections. OPEN (FIDE- and more detailed info at www.cajunchess.com, or mail entry form to chessset.com. rated): $750-475-325-230; Top X and A (based on USCF ratings) ea Cajun Chess, 12405 Hillary Step Dr., Olive Branch, MS 38654. Info or $200. FIDE Rules, 30-minute default for late arrivals. AMATEUR (U1900, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! USCF Rated): $500-300-200; Top B,C,D, ea $175, Top U1200 $165, Top Phone Ent: 504-208-9596 or 504-905-2971. Major credit cards accepted MAR. 17-18, MAINE (no checks at site). FIDE. Unr $130 (limited to $200 place award). Plaques to 1st Place in Open US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) and Amateur. Trophies to Top U1000, U800, U600 and Unrated. 5 Rds.: US Chess Junior Grand Prix! SACO OPEN Rd. 1 Fri 3/23, 7:30pm (G/90 inc/30); Rds. 2 & 3 Sat 3/24 10am (G/90 MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN Hampton Inn Saco/Biddeford, 48 Industrial Park Rd., Saco, ME 04072. Inc/30) & 3pm (40/90, SD/30 inc/30), Rds. 4 & 5 Sun 3/25 10am & US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 Both sections will use FIDE pairing rules. In 2 Sections, Open: 4SS, 4pm (40/90, SD/30 inc/30). EF: $85 if rec’d by Sat. 3/17, $100 starting CAL CHESS WOMEN’S STATE CHAMPIONSHIP 40/90, SD/30 + 30 Sec. Increment. FIDE rated. $$GTD: $500-250. Sun. 3/18 and on site. VCF Mem req. for VA Residents ($15 Adults, $8 Double Tree by Hilton Berkeley Marina, 200 Marina Blvd., Berkeley. U2250 $150, U2000 $150. No analog clocks allowed in this section. Junior under 18 yo). Byes: One 1/2 point Bye allowed Rds. 1-4, must Prizes: $1,500. 100% guar. 1st-3rd $500-300-200, u2000: 200. u1600 U1750: 4SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30 Sec. Increment, Analog clocks play commit by Sat 9:30am. Re-entry $40, start Rd2 with 1/2 pt. Checks $150, u1200/unr 150. Mar 18 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: Fri 6:30-6:45. $60 40/90, SD/60, Open to 1749 & under. $$GTD: $400-200. U1500 $100, payable to Virginia Chess Federation. REG.: On-line at www.vachess.org, Onsite. SCHED: 3Day Fri 7pm Sat 11am, 4pm Sun 11am 4pm 2 Day Sat U1250 $100, Unrated $75. ALL: EF: $52 postmarked by 3/10, $57 at mail to Mike Hoffpauir, ATTN: VA Open, 405 Hounds Chase, Yorktown, 11am 1:30pm 4:00pm Sun 11am, 4pm merges with 3 day in Round 3.1 site. Reg.: Registration 9:00-9:45. Advance entries must be postmarked VA 23693; On-Site Fri 3/23 5-6:45pm. Info: www.vachess.org, or andr- TC: G/90+30 2day Rds. 1, 2 G/60 d5 EF: 50, after 3/14 +10 WGMs, by 10 March 2018. Rds.: 10-4, 10-4. One half point bye available rounds [email protected]. WIMs WFM,s -$0 by 3/10. Info: www.Berkeleychessschool.org. FIDE 1-3. Must be requested before round 1. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49 Technology US Chess Junior Grand Prix! RATED. Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex Relyea [email protected]. MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN www.relyeachess.com. HR: $89 by 24 February. Call 207-282-7222 and mention Relyea Chess or https://secure3.hilton.com/en_US/hp/ US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 IM WALTER SHIPMAN MEMORIAL CHAMPIONSHIP CAL CHESS SENIOR STATE CHAMPIONSHIP reservation/book.htm?ctyhocn=PWMSCHX&corporateCode=000315 8308&from=lnrlink. W. Fri: BAC office 2050 Concourse Drive, #42, San Jose 95131; Sat & Sun: Double Tree by Hilton Berkeley Marina, 200 Marina Blvd., Berkeley. Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America Pkwy. Park Free! Prizes: $1,000. 100% guar. 1st-3rd $350-250-100, u2000: 100. u1600 MAR. 18, VIRGINIA 5SS, G/90 +30 2-day rds. 1-2 G/61 d5. Park free. Prize: 5,000 b/90 $75, u1400/unr 50. Mar 18 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: Fri 6:30-6:45. $60 US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 (60% guar). 3 sects: 2000+ (FIDE) $1,000-500-200, u2300: 250-125- Onsite. SCHED: 3Day Fri 7pm Sat 11am, 4pm Sun 11am 4pm 2 Day Sat DULLES MAR 2018 FIDE RAPID/USCF QUICK RATED (QC) & 100. 1600-1999: $700-300-100, u1800: 200-100, u1600: $700-300-100 11am 1:30pm 4:00pm Sun 11am, 4pm merges with 3 day in Round 3.1 U1400 SCHOLASTIC QUADS u1400: 125-100, u1200: 100. Unr max $100 exc Open. Mar 18 Supp & TC: G/90+30 2day Rds. 1, 2 G/60 d5. EF: 40, after 3/14 +10 GMs, Location: Washington Dulles Airport Marriott (Downstairs Reston Salon), TD disc. Reg.: F 6:30-6:45p & Sa 9:30-9:45a. Rds.: F 7p, Sa 10a, 3p Su IMs, FMs -$0 by 3/10. Info: www.Berkeleychessschool.org. FIDE RATED. 45020 Aviation Dr., Dulles, VA 20166. Two Sections. Open (FIDE) and 10a 2:30p. (2-day Sa 10a 12:30 & merge). EF: 109, Econ EF: 89 w 50% 5-SS, G/15;10sec inc. Open MIN 1700 to play otherwise pay US Chess Junior Grand Prix! U1800. prz, after 3/15 +20. Playup +30. GMs/IMs- $0 by 3/10 (prize - EF). MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, NORTH CAROLINA $30 addl EF. Prizes: Open $$340 GTD: $200-100 U1900 $40. U1800 Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/champs. $240 b/15: $120-60-30 U1500 $30. EF: $25-3/13, $30-3/16, $35 US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED) MAR. 24, CONNECTICUT 5TH ANNUAL RON SIMPSON MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT after/onsite, CAC $5 less. GMs/IMs Free-PrizeDedn $20. OnsiteRegn closes 9:15am. Round#1: 9:30am. Side Event U1400 Scholastic US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 5-SS, G/120 d5. Ramada Hotel & Convention Center, 2703 Ramada Rd., Quads: EF $5 less 3- RR G/40 d5, Trophy/Medals. Mailed entries: PO 2018 Greater New Haven Championships! Burlington, NC 27215, (336) 227-5541, mention chess for $74 rate until Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20151 Checks payable to ‘Capital Area Chess’. at Elm City Prep, $1000 Prize Fund! b/30, $500 b/15. Open, U1700 March 2, 2018. Full hot buffet breakfast included! $5,000 in total prizes Email information only: [email protected]. Online Info/Regn/ 4/SS, G/60 d5, Rds.: 9-11-1:30-3:30. Rds.: 1 & 2 accl’rtd prngs if nec. ALL UNCONDITIONALLY GUARANTEED! CHAMPIONSHIP: $800-400- Adv Entries: capitalareachess.com. U1200, U1000, U800/UNR: 5SS, G/30 d5. Rds.: 10am then ASAP, Open: 200-100; U2200 (class): 160-110; U2000 (class):150-105; U1800: $600-400-250-200-150-100; U1600 (class): 160-110; U1400: $400-250- MAR. 20, NEW YORK 150; U1200 (class): 160-100. EF: $79 if received by March 11th; $91 US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 thereafter. RDS.: Round 1: Friday at 7:30 pm or Saturday at 10 am (G90; MARSHALL MASTERS d/5); then Saturday 2-7, Sunday 9-2. Two byes allowed (any round) must 4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to 2000+ players. FIDE Rapid rated. $750 GTD: be requested before Round 2. Advance Entry: Online registration is $250-150-100; U2400: $125; U2300: $100; Biggest upset: $25. EF: $30; available at www.carolinaschessinitiative.com. Alternately, mail checks Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour to: CCI, 105 N. Crabtree Knoll, Chapel Hill, NC 27514. Make checks payable before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for to: Carolinas Chess Initiative (CCI). On site entry: March 16th from 5-7 Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchess- pm and March 17th from 8-9:30 am. Saturday Scholastic: Open to kids club.org/register. rated U1000. 4 Rd-SS, G/30 d5. EF: $20 by March 11th, $25 thereafter. MAR. 23, NEW YORK Rounds: 10:30 am-12:30 pm-1:45 pm-3:00 pm. Trophies: top 5 in two US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 sections. Sections based on ratings. INFO: Walter High [email protected]. MARSHALL $500 FIDE BLITZ (BLZ) No smoking or tobacco products including electronic cigarettes. 9-SS, G/3 +2. FIDE Blitz rated. USCF regular rating used for pairings & MAR. 17, MASSACHUSETTS prizes. $500 GTD: $200-100; U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50. US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person BOYLSTON CHESS FOUNDATION reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: Begin at 7pm and continue 4SS, G/60 d5. Sections: Open & U1900. Entry fee: $35, $20 for BCF ASAP. Max three byes; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar- members, $5 more if not registering online. Prizes: $400 Guaranteed: shallchessclub.org/register. Open $150-$100-50, U1900 $100. Registration: 9:15am – 9:45am. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Rounds: 10:00am, 1:00pm, 3:30pm, 6:00pm. Address: Boylston Chess MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, MISSOURI Foundation, 40 Norris St., Suite B101, Cambridge, MA 02140. Phone: US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED) 617-714-3022. E-mail:[email protected]. Register online at: 22ND ANNUAL MID-AMERICA OPEN https://boylstonchess.org/. 5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Clayton Plaza MAR. 17, NEW YORK Hotel St. Louis-Clayton, 7750 Carondelet Ave., St. Louis, MO 63105 (I- US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED) 64 W/US 40-W Exit 32B, 1.2 miles north on Hanley Rd). Free parking. 19TH ANNUAL BRUCE BOWYER MEMORIAL $$ 20,000 GUARANTEED PRIZES. In 6 sections: Major: Open to 4SS, G/45 d10. ** ESTONIAN HOUSE, 243 East 34th Street between 1800/over. $2000-1000-600-400, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak $100 Second and Third Avenues. 212.684.0336.**Note: Saturday Grand Prix bonus, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE. Under 2100: $1500-700-500-300. and Sunday Scholastic • Info@ Facebook: Bruce Bowyer Foundation Under 1900: $1500-700-500-300. Under 1700: $1400-700-500-300. or (Pat Bowyer) 516.641.4521. EF: $20. $$G: $250-$175-$125, U2200 Under 1500: $1200-600-400-300. Under 1250: $900-500-300-200. Prize $100, U2000 $75, U1800 $60. New: Mixed Doubles Bonus Prize: best limits: Unrated may not win over $200 in U1250, $400 U1500, or $600 male/female 2-player team combined score: $100. Team must average U1700. Mixed doubles: best male/female 2-player team combined U2200; register (no extra fee) onsite by 1:30 pm; teammate pairings score among all sections: $800-400-200. Team must average under avoided but possible. Reg.: 10am-10:45. Rds.: 11-1:30-3:45-5:45pm. 2200, may play in different sections, register (no extra fee) by 2 pm Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), must commit by 1:30PM. Ent: Cks or MO 3/24. Top 5 sections EF:$113 at chessaction.com by 3/21, 3-day $118, payable to Pat Bowyer (be sure to specify “Grand Prix, Saturday”), c/o 2-day $117 mailed by 3/14, $130 online until 2 hours before round 1 or APS, 3500 North State Road 7, Ste 400, Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33319. • at site. GMs free; $100 deducted from prize. U1250 Section EF: all Payment must be received by March 13 latest. NO door ents. You $20 less than above. Online EF $3 less to MCA members. No checks *MUST* bring clocks and sets, none will be provided. at site, credit cards OK. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 yr USCF dues with magazine if paid A Heritage Event! with entry: Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult MAR. 17-18, NEW YORK $25, Scholastic $17. Re-entry $60; not available in Major Section. 3- US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 40TH ANNUAL MARCHAND OPEN 3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 Dr. Erich Marchand “requested that his friends play chess in his memory.” & 3:15. Byes: OK all, limit 2; Major must commit before rd. 2, others 5SS, G/115 d5. Location: Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan before rd. 3. HR: $102-105, includes free full hot buffet breakfast. 888- Square, Rochester, NY 14607. $16,440 Gtd. Open Section: $3000- 2000- 303-1746, 314-726-5400, request chess rate, reserve by 3/9 or rate 1300-800-500-300. Under 2200 & U2000 each $750-450. FIDE Rated. may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or

www.uschess.org 53 Tournament Life / March

$300, $200, $100, $50. U1700 $150 + trophy, $100, $50, $50. Tro- 9:45 at site. Rds.: 10:00, 12:30, 2:15, 4:00. Prizes: $2000 b/ on 90 $82 mailed by 3/19, $100 at site. Online late entry after 3/27: available phies to top 5 U1200, U1000, U800/Unrated, top 3 school teams. paid entries. Open: $400, $200, U-2200 $100. U-2000: $250, $150, until 2 hours before round 1, same price as entry at site. EF $100 less EF: $40 Online, $50 by 3/18, $80 on site. EF: Educational Technologies, U1750 $100. U-1500: $250, $150, U1250 $100. U1000: $150, $75, U750 to seniors 65/over in Open through U1400. Special 1 year USCF mem- 343 Beach St. #404, West Haven, CT 06516. Online EF save $10! $75. Free pizza and drinks for all players and parents! Info: Contact: bership with magazine if paid with entry: Online at chessaction.com, www.edutechchess.com or www.CTChess.com. Mike Joelson, 216-321-7000. Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, MAR. 24, PENNSYLVANIA Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. No checks at site, credit cards OK. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Re-entry: $100, no re-entry from Open Section to Open Section. 5-day US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR. 17TH HORIZONS FOR YOUTH SPRING SCHOLASTIC RBO 31-APR. 1, PENNSYLVANIA schedule (Open only): Reg. ends Wed 6 pm, rds. Wed. 7 pm, Thu 12 & 7, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. 4-day schedule (no Open): $375 GTD. 5SS, G/30 d5. Northampton Com.College, 3835 Green Pond US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED) Reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds. Thu 7 pm, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & Rd., Main Campus, Coll. Ctr. Bldg., Bethlehem, PA 18020. Reg.: 8:30am, 12th annual Philadelphia Open 4:15. (no Open): Reg. ends Fri 10 am, rds Fri 11, 2:30 9SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10. GM & IM 3-day schedule Rds.: 9:30, ASAP. 2 Events: 1) Open and U1200,18yrs & under 2) Age- OPEN SECTION, Mar 28 - Apr 1: & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. 2-day schedule (not Open): Reg. ends Based, Non-Rated,14 yrs & under. EF: $34 by 11pm, 3/22, $39 after. norms possible, FIDE rated. OTHER SECTIONS, MAR 29 - APR 1, MAR Sat. 9 am, rds. Sat. 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. 7SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10 (3-day option, 4-day, 3-day, 2- Prizes: OPEN $200-1st +, $100-2nd+Trophys-1st,2nd, 3rd, 4th, U14; 30 - APR 1 or MAR 31-APR 1: day merge & compete for same prizes. Byes: Half point byes OK all U1200 $75-1st+Trophys 1st, 2nd, 3rd, U10, U8, U6,UNR. OpenTie (Blit- rds. 1-2 G/60 d10; 2-day option, rds. 1-4 G/30 d10). Philadelphia Mar- rounds, limit 3 byes, limit 2 in last 4 rounds. Open Section must commit zoff); Non-USCF Rated b/0 age. Ent: http://northampton.edu/noncredit/ riott Downtown, 1201 Market St., Philadelphia, PA 19107, directly before rd. 3, other sections before rd. 4. if across the street from Reading Terminal Market with 80 food vendors. Bring set, board, clock horizons-for-youth/bethlehem-school-year-programs.htm Online only. possible- none supplied. HR: $108-108-128, 215-625-2900, reserve by Info: 610-861-4120; [email protected]. Prizes $80,000 based on 500 paid entries (seniors, re-entries, GMs, 3/16 or rate may increase. (rates subject to change) Marriott IMs, WGMs count as half entries, U1100 Section as 40% entries), else Parking: A State Championship Event! valet, about $20/day (60% off regular rate) for first 100 spaces sold. MAR. 24, PENNSYLVANIA proportional, minimum $60,000 (75% of each prize) guaranteed. In 7 Gateway Garage, 1540 Spring St. (3/5 mile from Marriott, 1 block from sections: $7000-4000-2000-1000-800-600-500-500-400-400, clear Open: Sheraton Hotel), $7/day Sat & Sun, $20/day other days. Car rental: US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 or tiebreak first $200 bonus, FIDE Under 2400/Unr $2000-1000. Under 2018 PA STATE GAME/29 CHAMPIONSHIP (QC) Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633 or reserve car online at chess- 2200/Unr, Under 2000/Unr, Under 1800: each $5000-2500-1200-800- 5SS, G/29 d0. O’Hara Student Center, Univ. of Pitt., 4024 O’Hara St., tour.com. Ratings: FIDE March used for Open, USCF April official for 600-500-400-300-300-300; unrated may not win over $2000 in Under U2200 & below; note that USCF ratings after the April list (see above) Pittsburgh, PA 15213. 2 Sections: Championship: EF: $25 by 3/16, 2000. $4000-2000-1000-700-500-400-300-300-300-300. Under 1600: may result in a $1500 prize limit. Foreign player ratings: see www.chess- $35 later. $$ (690G): $200-100, U2000 $90, U1800 $80, U1600 $70, Under 1400: $3000-1500-1000-700-500-400-300-300-300-300. Under U1400 $60, U1200 $50, U1000 $40. Trophies: 1-3 U1400, 1-3 U1200, 1- tour.com/foreignratings.htm. Cellphone & anti-cheating rules: see 1100/Unr: $1000-700-500-400-300-300-200-200-100-100; unrated may www.chesstour.com/devices.htm. Players must submit to a search for 3 U1000. Scholastic: Grades K-12 unrated or U900. EF: $15 by 3/16, not win over $300. Unrated not allowed in U1800, U1600 or U1400 $25 later. Trophies to Top 7, 1-3 U600. ALL: Trophies: 1-2 Schools, 1-2 electronic devices if requested by Director. Ent: chessaction.com or sections. Mixed Doubles Bonus Prizes: best male/female combined Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge Clubs, Teams of 4-7 players from both sections. PSCF $5, OSA. Reg.: 2-player team score: $1000-500-300-200. In Open Section, only the first 10-10:30am. Rds.: 11-12:30-1:45-3-4:15. Ent: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, for refunds. Questions: DirectorAtChess.us, 347-201-2269, chesstour.com. 7 rounds are counted. Team must average under 2200; may play in dif- Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223, [email protected] ferent sections; register (no extra fee) before both players begin round instantly). Blitz tournament Sat. 10:30 pm, reg. by 10:15 pm. MAR. 24, NEW HAMPSHIRE 2. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 Prize limits: 1) If post-event rating posted 3/27/17-3/27/18 is more US Chess Junior Grand Prix! NEW HAMPSHIRE QUICK CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP (QC) than 30 points over section maximum, prize limit $1500. 2) Players with MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR. 31-APR. 1, NEVADA 8SS, G/25 d3. Holiday Inn Portsmouth, 300 Woodbury Avenue, Portsmouth, under 26 lifetime games as of April 2018 official cannot win over $500 US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED) NH 03801. EF: $22 postmarked by 17 March, $27 at site. Memb. Req’d: in U1100, $1000 in U1400, $1500 U1600, or $2000 U1800. 3) Balance of 7th Annual Reno Larry Evans Memorial - FIDE $8, Juniors $6. $10 with printed NHCJ. OSA. $$GTD: $200- 100. U2000 any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Open EF, for GMs, IMs 6SS, OPEN Section 40/2, G/55 Min-d5, (“Expert”,“A”, “B”, “C”, “D” $100. U1600 $100. Plaque and $100 bonus to top finishing NH resident. & WGMs: $128 online by 3/27, $160 at site. Minimum prize guarantees Sections 40/2, G/1-d5 - 2-Day Schedule G/1-d5) . Sands Regency Reg.: 9:00-9:45. Rds.: 10-11-1-2-3-4-5:30-6:30. Byes available rounds 1- in Open Section, to players who enter online by 3/1 and play all 9 games Hotel/Casino, 345 N. Arlington Ave., Reno, NV 89501.1-866-386-7829 7, limit two. Must be requested before round four. Hotel requests that all with no byes: US GM $300, foreign GM $700 (limited to first 6 to enter, or (775) 348-2200. $$25,500 b/275. $$15,500 Gtd. (Prizes 1-7 in Open Section Gtd. plus 1/2 of all other prizes). outside food be eaten in your sleeping rooms. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49 Tech- others $400), foreign IM/WGM $400, foreign FM/WIM $300, foreign 6 Sections. Open (FIDE (2200 & above) EF: $159, (2000-2199) EF: $200 (1999 & below) nology Drive #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFORMATION: Alex Relyea FIDE rated $200. Open EF, for US players who are not USCF or FIDE Rated) [email protected]. www.relyeachess.com. W. rated 2200/over: $358 online at chessaction.com by 1/22, $378 online EF: $300. (GMs & IMs free but must enter by (3/2) or pay late fee) by 3/27, $400 at site. Open EF, for others: $208 online at chess .$$2,000-1,000-800-600-500-300-300, (2399/below)- $1,000-500, (2299/ MAR. 24, OHIO action.com by 1/22, $228 online by 3/27, $250 at site. Open mailed below)- $1,000-500. (If there is a tie for 1st then a playoff for $100 out US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 entries: all $10 more than online entry, mail by 3/19. U2200 through of prize fund plus trophy). Expert Section (2000-2199) EF: $159; $$2,000- CWRU MARCH MAGNUS U1400 Sections EF: $208 online at chessacton.com by 1/22, $228 800-400-300-200. Sec. ”A” (1800-1999) EF: $158; $$1,800-700-400-300- 4SS, G/45 d5. Tinkham Veale University Center, 11038 Bellflower Rd., online by 3/27, $250 at site. Mailed EF: 4-day $214, 3-day $213, 2-day 300, Sec. ”B” (1600-1799) EF: $157; $$1,700-700-400-300-300, Sec. Cleveland, OH 44106. EF: $40, IMs, GMs free. Sections: Open, U2000, $212 mailed by 1/22, all $20 more mailed by 3/19. U1100/Unr Section ”C” (1400-1599) EF: $156; $$1,500-600-400-300-300, Sec. ”D”/under U1500, U1000. Registration: Online at progresswithchess.org or 9- EF: $78 online at chessaction.com by 3/27, 4-day $84, 3-day $83, 2-day (1399 & below) EF: $150; $$1,000-400-300-200; (1199 & below) - $$300;

US Chess Membership Rates: Premium (P) and Regular (R) (U.S., CANADA, MEXICO) Type 1 yr 2 yr Adult P $49 $95 Adult R $40 $75 Senior (65+) $40 $75 Young Adult P (U25)* $35 $65 Young Adult R (U25)* $26 $48 Youth P (U16)* $30 $55 Youth R (U16)* $22 $40 Scholastic P (U13)* $25 $45 Scholastic R (U13)* $17 $30

Premium membership provides a printed copy of Chess Life (monthly) or Chess Life Kids (bimonthly) plus all other benefits of regular membership. Regular membership provides online- only access to Chess Life and Chess Life Kids. Youth provides bimonthly Chess Life, Scholastic bimonthly Chess Life Kids, others listed above monthly Chess Life. See www.uschess.org for other membership categories. Dues are not refundable and 54-55 may be changed without notice. *Ages at expiration

54 March 2018 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14

2-Day EF: $155 (No Open Section). Top Senior (65+) -$200; Club Champ.- 8 rounds, G/5 d0. Charlotte Chess Center and Scholastic Academy, 1800 Re-entry $40; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org $600-300. ALL: Entries must be postmarked by 3/2 or pay late fee-$11, Camden Road, Suite 108, Charlotte. EF: $30 online or on-site by 6:45pm, ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues do not mail after 3/23 or email after 3/27, $22 at site. Trophies 1st – $25 for CCCSA members. In one section, prizes 100% guaranteed. OPEN: with paper magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult 3rd (“A” – “D” sections). Unrated players are free entry but must join $250-150-100. Top U1800 $75, Top U1400/Unr $75. US Chess and FIDE $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young USCF for 1 full year thru this tournament – Unrated not eligible for cash Blitz Rated! Regular US Chess ratings used for pairings and prizes. Rounds Adult $25, Scholastic $17. Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 3 & 7, Sun prizes. 1st Unrated = trophy + 1 yr. USCF Mem. Senior discount (65+ 7:00pm then ASAP, tournament should end by 9pm. Info/reg: www.char- 10 & 3:15. Bye: all, limit 2; must commit before rd. 2. HR: Hotels/motels yrs.) $10. Players may play up. Provisionally rated players may only win lottechesscenter.org, [email protected]. within walking distance; see travel websites. Ent: chessaction.com or ½ of 1st place money (except Open Section 1 – 7). CCA ratings may be Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge used. Note: pairings not changed for color unless 3 in a row or cause a A Heritage Event! for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! plus 3 and if the unlikely situation occurs 3 colors in a row may be APR. 6-8 OR 7-8, OHIO 201-2269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries assigned. SIDE EVENTS: Wed. (3/28) 7:00pm GM Sergey Kudrin – Clock posted instantly). Simul with game analysis ($30); Thurs. (3/29) 6-7:15pm Lecture by IM US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 John Donaldson (FREE); 7:30pm- GM Alex Yermolinsky - Simul ($20); 54TH CINCINNATI OPEN A Heritage Event! Hilton Garden Inn, 5300 Cornell Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242. 5SS; Sections: US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 7:30pm-Blitz (G/5 d0)) Tourney ($25) 80% entries = Prize Fund. Sat. APR. 7-8, ILLINOIS (3/31) (3-4:30pm) Free Game/Position Analysis - IM John Donaldson. Open, U2100, U1700, U1300. Open section FIDE rated. Players may REG.: (3/29) 5-8pm (3/30) 9-10am and (3/31) 9-10 am. RDS.: (Fri) 12- choose to play up, but only one section. Time Control: Open section US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 7, (Sat) 10-7, (Sun) 9:30-4:30. 2-Day (3/31) Rd. 1 (11:00 am), Rd. 2 40/90, SD/30, +30 except 2-day rds 1&2 G/75 d5. Other sections 54TH GREATER PEORIA OPEN (1:15 pm), Rd. 3 (3:45 pm), Rd. 4 merge with regular schedule – (7:00 G/120 d5. Prizes: Open: $800-550-400-300, top under 2200 $250-200; 5 SS, G/90 inc/30. Mark Twain Hotel, 225 NE Adams St., Peoria, IL pm). Byes available any round if requested by Rd.1 (Open Section 2 U2100: $550-400-300-200, top under 1900 $200-150; U1700: $400-300- 61602. 2 Sections: Open & Reserve (1400 & Under). EF: $40 by 4/5, byes max). ENT: make checks payable and send to: SANDS REGENCY 200-150, top under 1500 $175-125; U1300: $300-200-150-125, top under $50 at site, free to Masters. $$Gtd: $1,320 (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th & Upset (address listed above), postmarked by 3/2. $11 late fee if postmarked 1100 $150-125; prizes based on 120 paid entries, else proportional. No in Open & 1st, 2nd, 3rd & Upset in Reserve). Class prizes are b/3 for X, after 3/2. Do not mail after 3/23 or email after 3/27. $22 late fee at unrated may win more than the third-place prize amount except in Open A, B, & C for Open section & E & F for Reserve section. Open: 1st $500, site. HR: (Sun-Thurs. $54.07!) (Fri. & Sat. $76.77!) 1-866-386-7829 Reser- section. Entry fee: Advance $99, must be received by 9:00 am, April 6; 2nd $240, 3rd $120, 4th $90, X, A, B & C $90 & $60 each, Upset $50. vation Code: CHESS318 (Reserve by 3/15/18 to get Chess rate. INFO: onsite $110; re-entry $50. $10 discount for all who played in 2017 Cincin- Reserve (1400 & Under): 1st $120, 2nd $90, 3rd $60, Classes E & F Jerry Weikel, 6578 Valley Wood Dr., Reno, NV 89523, (H) 775-747-1405 nati Open, $5 discount for all others who played in any Cincinnati Open $90 & $60 each, Upset $50. Reg.: 8-8:45, Rds.: 9:30-2:00-6:30, 10:00- or (Cell) 775-354-8728, wackyykl@ aol.com or check out our website 2012-2016; $3 discount for current Ohio Chess Association members. 3:00. Bye: 1-5, www.peoriaopen.org. Ent: Greater Peoria Chess at: www.renochess.org. To verify entry check website. Free entry to GMs/IMs/WGMs/WIMs; $99 less applicable discounts Foundation, 1116 N. Parkside Dr., Peoria, IL 61606, 309-981-7210. deducted from prize. Advance registration: Mail entries to Cincinnati APR. 8, CONNECTICUT US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Open, 9180 Pinewood Dr., Loveland, OH 45140 or enter online at MAR. 30-APR. 1, ILLINOIS US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 www.chesscincinnati.com. Onsite registration: Friday, April 6 5:30- CT STATE RAPID CHAMPIONSHIPS! (QC) US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 6:30 pm; Saturday, April 7 8:00-10:00 am. Open 3-day schedule: Fri at West Haven Police Dept. Open, MIDWEST HOLIDAY CLASS 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 9 & 3. Open 2-day schedule: Sat 11 & 2, then merge $1000 Prize Fund! b/30, $500 b/15. U1700, U1200. 7/SS, G/15 d5, 1 & 2 accl’rtd prngs if nec. Rds.: 10am 7-SS, in 6 Sections. T/L: G/90 + 30 sec increment. Sheraton Chicago with 3-day. U2100, U1700 and U1300 sections: Fri 7, Sat 9, 2 & 7, O’Hare Airport Hotel, corner of Higgins & Mannheim, Rosemont, IL. Sun 9 & 2; six rounds are scheduled; every player in these sections then ASAP, Open: $300, $200, $100, $50, U1700 $150, $100, $50, Just 1 block north of the O’Hare Metra train stop. Prizes ($10,000 must select one zero-point bye round so that all players play a five- $50. Trophies to 1st Place Open, U1700, top 3 U1200. EF: $40 EF: Educational Technologies, 343 b/160): M $950-550-300, U2300 $200. X $750-400-225, U2100 $175. A round schedule. Half-point Byes: Up to two optional half-point byes, Online, $50 by 3/18, $80 on site. Beach St. #404, West Haven, CT 06516. Online EF save $10! $750-400-225, U1900 $175. B $750-400-225, U1700 $175. C $750- 400- additional to zero-point bye, must commit before 5:00 pm Sat. HR: 225, U1500 $175. D & below $700-375-200, U1100 $175, U800 $150. $99/king bed, $110/two queen beds, rate includes breakfast for two. www.edutechchess.com or www.CTChess.com. Upset prize Sections X-C $50. Unr may play in any section, but $400 Reserve by Thursday, March 22, 2018 to ensure rate and room. For US Chess Junior Grand Prix! prize limit & is ineligible for upset or under prize. ALL: RAFFLE PRIZES, reservations, call 513-469-6900, or use link on our website to book APR. 14-15, TEXAS Including prize of free entry to 2018 Chicago Open, and prize of free online. Bring sets and clock. Complete information, including online and US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) entry to 2018 US Open. EF: $92 by 3/16, 104 by 3/29, 120 at site. GM mail registration forms, at www.chesscincinnati.com. Questions: 2018 DCC FIDE OPEN IV Free. Play up 1 section $10. ReEntry $60. Reg.: 12:30-1 pm. Rds.: 1:30- [email protected] or call/text Alan at 513-600-9915. 5SS, G/90 inc/30. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S. Cottonwood Dr. #C, Richard- 6:30, 9:30-2-7, 10:30-3. MAX of 2 Half Point byes, which should be son, TX 75080. Two sections: Open and Reserve. Open: $$875G. FIDE requested at registration & Round 7 byes are irrevocable. Hotel Rate of US Chess Junior Grand Prix! APR. 6-8, MISSOURI and US Chess rated but uses FIDE rules. Use US Chess ratings and $99 per night (plus taxes) available until March 16, 2018. Payment and US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 rules for pairings and for awarding prizes. Default late forfeiture time registration online at kingregistration.com/Midwest holiday class. NO is one hour. TD may extend this time at TD’s discretion. Note that Credit cards accepted at site! Mail entry (payable to) Lawrence Cohen, BILL WRIGHT SAINT LOUIS OPEN (FIDE RATED) $10K EVENT 5SS, G/90 + 30 second increment. Chess Club & Scholastic Center of Foreign players must disclose their FIDE ID number before 1st round PO Box 6632, Villa Park, IL 60181. Additional info via e-mail at allamer- in order to play. Note that USA Players with no FIDE ID must disclose [email protected]. W. Saint Louis, 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108. Free entries for GMs and IMs. EF: $100, $80 if registered by 4/3. Two Sections: their email address. $$ $500-$250-$125. EF: 2400+ $125, 2000-2399 MAR. 31, MISSOURI Open (FIDE Rated) & U2000. Prize Fund: $10,000 UNCONDITIONALLY $90, 1600 -1999 $99, U1600 $125, Senior/Birthday during tournament/ US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 GUARANTEED!! Open Section: $1,500-$1,000-$800-$650-$300. Under Additional Family Member $55. Dallas Chess Club membership required SATURDAY NIGHT SPECIAL (QC) 2250: $600-$400-$250. Under 2150: $350-$200. Under 2000 Section: or pay $20 non-member fee. Small Minimum prize to the First three 4SS, G/15 + 2 second increment. Chess Club & Scholastic Center of $1,000-$600-$350-$200. U1800: $500-$250. U1600: $400-$200. U1400: GM/IM’s who apply. GM/IM must play all rounds to get minimum prize Saint Louis, 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108. Free entries $300-$150. Reg.: 3:00-6:30 on Friday Afternoon. Rounds: Friday: 7:00 (entry fee may be deducted from prize). Reserve: Open to players rated for GMs and IMs. EF: $25. One Section. Prize Fund: $1,800 Uncondi- pm. Saturday 12:00 pm, 5:00 pm Sunday 11:00 am, 4:00 pm. Two half below 2000 USCF. This section is not Fide Rated but is US Chess rated tionally Guaranteed!! 1st-$500 2nd-$400 3rd-$300 All Players below the point byes available in any round if declared before Round 2. MCA Mem- and uses US Chess rules. EF: $40. 10$ non Dallas Chess Club membership top 1/3 compete for $150-$100-$50. Players in the bottom 1/3 also bership required from $5. OSA. Ent: 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, fee. The Reserve give back 10% in prizes and if at least 8 paid entries compete for $110-$60-$30. Biggest Upset: $100. Reg.: 5-5:45. Rounds: MO 63108, or online at saintlouischessclub.org Info: 314-361-CHESS, and if there is a clear winner, then that winner receives free entry to 6, 6:50, 7:45, 8:45. One 1/2 point bye available in any round if declared [email protected]. next DCC Fide Open. In the reserve section, Tournament reserves the before round 1. Quick ratings will be used for Pairing and Prize Purposes. right to use Fide rules on electronic devices and on starting White’s US Chess Junior Grand Prix! clock at start of a round and to use FIDE pairing rules. Also clocks will TD has discretion to appoint ratings. Ent: 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint APR. 7, WISCONSIN Louis, MO 63108, or online at saintlouischessclub.org Info: 314-361- be set to ‘halt at end’. Both: Reg.: Saturday from 9:45–10:15 am. Rds.: CHESS, [email protected]. US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 Sat 10:45 am-3:10pm-7:16pm, Sun 9:45 am- 2:10pm. One half point Bye HALES CORNERS CHALLENGE XXVII allowed if requested before end of round 2 and before getting full point US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 4SS, G/60 d6. 2 Sections: Open & Reserve (under 1600). Hilton Garden bye. Withdrawals and zero point last round byes are not eligible for MAR. 31-APR. 1, GEORGIA Inn Oshkosh, 1355 W. 20th Ave., Oshkosh, WI 54902, (920) 966-1300. prizes. Note that house players (if required) must pay $5 per round and US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 EF: $40-Open, $30 Reserve, both $10 more after April 5. Comp EF for be US Chess members. ENT: Make/mail Checks payable to Dallas Chess 1ST ANNUAL RON FINEGOLD MEMORIAL USCF 2200+. $$GTD: Open: 1st-$325, 2nd-$175, A-$100, B & below- Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036- Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Atlanta, 2500 Old Alabama Rd., $75; Reserve: 1st $100, 2nd $75, D-$50, E & below $40. Goddesschess 4719. Info: 214-632-9000. FIDE . Suite 11, Roswell, GA 30076. 3 sections: Open, U1800, U1400. 5 rounds, prizes for females in addition to above prizes. Reg.: 8:30-9:30. Rds.: G/90 d5. Registration: 8:00am-9:30am, March 31, or call (678) 628- 10-1-3:30-6. Questions to: Chris Wainscott (414-839-5232, after 5:30 A Heritage Event! 5615 by March 30 to register by phone. https://atlchessclub.com/ for pm), or e-mail: [email protected]. Entries to: Robin J. A State Championship Event! online registration. Rounds: Sat rounds: 10AM-2PM-6PM, Sun rounds: Grochowski, 3835 E. Morris Ave., Cudahy, WI 53110, (414-861-2745), APR. 15, MASSACHUSETTS 10AM-2PM. EF: $55 for CCSCATL members if entered by March 30, $5 e-mail: [email protected]. US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED) 28TH MASSACHUSETTS G/60 CHAMPIONSHIP more at site. Non-Members pay $10 more each. (this means $65 non- APR. 7, CONNECTICUT members paid by March 30, and $70 day of event). $2500 total prizes 4SS, G/60 d5. Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel, 181 Boston Post Road US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 West, Marlboro, MA 01752 (I-495, exit 24B, Rt. 20W, one mile from Guaranteed. Open Section prizes: 1st -$600, 2nd -$400, 3rd-$200. 1st CT STATE QUICK CHAMPIONSHIPS! (QC) U2000-$150. 1st-$300, 2nd-$175, 3rd-$100, 1st exit). 508-460-0700 or 888-543-9500. $$ 2,500 b/100 paid entries U1800 Section prizes: at West Haven Police Dept. Open, U1600-$75. U1400 Section prizes: 1st-$250, 2nd-$125, 3rd-$75, 1st $1000 Prize Fund! b/30, $500 b/15. (U1200 counts 70%), $2,000 minimum (80% each prize). 6 sects. Open: U1000/UNR -$50. *Any player can play in the Open Section* *Any U1700, U1200. 5/SS, G/25 d5, 1 & 2 accl’rtd prngs if nec. Rds.: 10am $300-175, top Under 2400 $150, top Under 2200 $150. Under 2000: player Unrated-1799 can play in the U1800 section* USCF RATED. Sets then ASAP, Open: $300, $200, $100, $50. U1700 $150, $100, $50 , $250-125. Under 1800: $250-125. Under 1600: $200-125. Under 1400: and Clocks provided for all of our events!! GM and Senior TD Ben Finegold $50. Trophies to 1st Place Open, U1700, top 3 U1200. EF: $40 $200-100. Under 1200: $150-100, top Under 1000 $100. Unrated prize EF: Educational Technologies, 343 will be the Chief TD. Visit our website: https://atlchessclub.com/. Online, $50 by 3/18, $80 on site. limits: $75 in U1200, $100 in U1400, $125 in U1600, $150 in U1800, Beach St. #404, West Haven, CT 06516. Online EF save $10! $175 in U2000. EF: $34 if mailed by 4/10 or online by 4/13, $45 at site. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! www.edutechchess.com or www.CTChess.com. $10 discount to players in U1200 Section. GMs and IMs free. Reg.: 8-9 APR. 2, 9, 16, 23, NEW YORK US Chess Junior Grand Prix! a.m. Rds: 10-1-3:30-6. Other: Bye 1-4 with entry, limit 1, must commit US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 APR. 7-8, NEW YORK before round 2, no half point byes for players receiving full point byes. 111TH NASSAU GRAND PRIX US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED) MACA memb. required for Mass. residents ($12 adult, $6 jr. U18, add 4-SS, 45/90, SD/30 d5. 1st Presbyterian Church, 1st & Main Sts., Mineola. 2ND ANNUAL BILL LITTLE MEMORIAL $8 for Chess Horizons subscription). Ent: Robert Messenger, 4 Hamlett 3 sections. Open: EF: $40 by 3/30. $$ (540 b/15, top 2 G) 180-120, 5SS, rds. 1-3 G/90 d10, rds. 4-5 40/100, SD/30 d10. Proctors Theatre, Dr., Apt. 12, Nashua, NH 03062 or online (PayPal) at www.MassChess.org. U2200, 2000 each 120. open to U1800/UR. EF: $30 by 3/30. Booster: 432 State St., Schenectady, NY 12305 (free parking in Broadway Garage). Make checks payable to MACA. Info: 603-891-2484 or send email to $$ (390 b/15) 165, 105, U1600 120. open to U1400/UR. EF: Novice: prize fund. In 3 sections. $300-150-90, top [email protected]. Day of the tournament call 603-557-1732. W. $20 by 3/30. $$ (240 b/15) 100, U1200, U1000/UR each 70. 2 byes $1700 guaranteed Open: All: U2050/Unr $140-70. $200-100-50, top U1650 (no unr) APR. 17, NEW YORK 1-4 (Last rd bye must be req before rd. 3 and is irrevocable). $10 more Under 1850: for non-memb. EF $7 more at site. Reg ends 7:15 PM. Rds.: 7:15 each $120-60. Under 1450: $120-70-40, top U1250 (no unr) $60-30. Unrated US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 MARSHALL MASTERS Mon. Info only: [email protected]. Ent: Harold Stenzel, 80 Amy may not win over $70 in U1450. Mixed doubles: best male/female Dr., Sayville, NY 11782. combined scores among all sections: $100. Must average under 2200; 4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to 2000+ players. FIDE Rapid rated. $750 GTD: may play in different sections; register by 3 pm 4/7. Top 2 sections $250-150-100; U2400: $125; U2300: $100; Biggest upset: $25. EF: $30; APR. 5, NORTH CAROLINA EF: $62 online at chessaction.com by 4/5 or mailed by 3/30, $80 at site Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 or online until 9 am 4/7. Online entry $5 less to NYSCA members (may before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for CHARLOTTE CHESS CENTER FIRST THURSDAY FIDE BLITZ - join with entry). U1450 Section EF: all $20 less than above. No checks Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchess- MARNZELL HAND MEMORIAL (BLZ) at site, credit cards OK. GMs, IMs & WGMs free, $50 from prize. All: club.org/register.

www.uschess.org 55 Tournament Life / March

US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Booster: 4SS, G/120 d5, Open to 1499 & under. $$GTD: $150-100. Unr. A Heritage Event! APR. 19, 26, MAY 3, 10, 17, 24, NEW YORK must play in Booster Section. Unrated players winning prizes will only US Chess Junior Grand Prix! US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 receive half of the prize. ALL: EF: $35 advance until 4/19, $45 at site. APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, FLORIDA 3RD ANNUAL LI CHESS CLUB ILAN KREITNER MEMORIAL No phone or e-mail entries. $10 fee to play up a section. Reg.: 04/21 US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 Open to all. $1500 GTD PRIZE FUND! 6SS, G/90 d5. United Methodist 8:30am - 9:30am. Rds.: Sat 10, 3; Sun 10, 3. ENT: Paul Stagnoli, 4233 25TH SPACE COAST OPEN Church, 470 East Meadow Ave., East Meadow, NY 11554. Open to all: Kintyre Rd., Santa Rosa, CA 95409- 4127. INFO: (707) 478-4385 5SS, Top section FIDE rated (USCF ratings used for pairings & prizes) $1500 GTD: $500-$300. Top U-2000, U-1750, U-1500, U-1250/unr. $175 [email protected]. http://pstagnol.users.sonic. net/tournaments. Bring at G/90+30 sec. incr., All other sections but Class E/U1200 G/120 d5, ea. EF: $50 LICC Members, $60 Non-LICC members. Reg.: 6:45 – 7:15 your own equipment, none provided. No Cell phones allowed. W. Class E/U1200 G/90 d5 (2-day Rd. 1 for all sections G/60 d5). Interna- PM. Adv. Ent: in person at the LICC any Thursday evening prior to rd. 1. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! tional Palms Resort, 1300 N. Atlantic Ave. (Hwy A1A), Cocoa Beach, FL Rds.: 7:30 PM SHARP ea. Thursday. 2 byes 1-6 (rd. 6 bye decl. before APR. 21-23, IOWA 32931. $$20,000 b/240 pd., $15,000 Gtd. 6 Sections: Master/Expert: Open to 2000/over. $2000+trophy-1000-500-400, U2400 $1500+tro- rd. 3). Info:www.lichessclub.com. US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) 12TH ANNUAL OKOBOJI OPEN (IASCA GP QUALIFIER) phy-750, U2200 $1400+trophy-700-400. Draw offers not permitted A Heritage Event! before move 30 (Master/Expert section only). Class A: Open to 1600- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 1405 Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center. 1405 Highway 71 S. 1999. $1200+trophy-600-300-200. Class B: Open to 1400-1799. A State Championship Event! Okaboji, IA 51355. TD Eric Vigil. 5 Rd Swiss, G/120 d5 in 3 day option. Rds.: $1100+trophy-500-300-200. Class C: Open to 1200-1599. $1000+tro- APR. 20-22 OR 21-22, INDIANA Friday 6:00 PM; Saturday 10:00 AM, 4:30 PM; Sunday 9:00 AM, 2:30 PM. 2 phy-500-300-200. Class D: Open to 800-1399. $900+trophy-450-200-100. US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 day option has G/90 d5 for rds. 1 and 2. Sections merge at Rd. 3. On site Class E/U1200: Open to U1200. $800+trophy-400-200, U1000 $500+tro- 77TH ANNUAL INDIANA STATE CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP registration 5:00-5:45 PM on 4-21 (3 day option) Rds.: 9:00 AM, 1:00 PM phy-300, U800 $400+trophy-200, trophies to top Brevard County OPEN: 3day 5/SS, 30/90, SD/60 d5, 2day Rd. 1 & 2 G/90 d5. RESERVE 4:30 PM; Sunday 9:00 AM, 2:30 PM. Entry fee: $55, if received by April 13, scholastics players in K-3, K-5, K-8, K-12. Top Senior Prizes: Among (U1800): 5/SS, G/90 d5. Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Airport, 2501 S. High 2018. On site: $65 cash or $70 check. USCF membership required. On-site all sections, must be at least 55 on Apr. 27. $250+trophy-150-100. All: School Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46241. HR: $112 by 3/21. Ph: 317-244-6861. available. IASCA membership required: $10. Other states accepted. Prize Unr. may enter any section. Unr. may not win over $300 or trophy unless PRIZES: $$3,000(b/80) Open: 1st, $500+plaque (plaque - IN. res. only), info: Top 3 (guaranteed) $500 + Trophy, $300 & $150. U2000,U1800,U1600 place prize in Master/Expert section. Prizes for 1st-3rd brilliancy & $400, Top X, A $300ea.; Reserve: 1st $500+plaque (plaque - IN. res. - $100 (b/30). Make checks payable: Sibley Chess Club. 934 6th St., Sibley, biggest upset rds. 1-4. EF: $114 by 4/22, $20 more later & onsite; $20 only), $400, Top C, D/Under $300ea. REG.: 3day Fri.6-6:30PM, 2day IA 51249, (712) 330-8254 or email [email protected] or pay on-line by less if Unr. or under age 18. Re-entry $60 by rd. 3 (1/2 pt. byes for Sat.8:30-9:30AM. ROUNDS: 3day Rd.1 Fri. 7PM, Sat.10, 4, Sun. 9:30, 4; April 13. Onlineregistration.cc Additional info: $79 Hotel rate, if reserved earlier rds.). GM/IM free entry available online until 3/31, else $114 2day Sat. 9, 12:30 then merge, 1/2pt bye available Rd. 1-4, request before by March 21, call 1-800-727-4561. SIDE EVENT: Blitz Friday Night at 9:30 from prize. Special EF for Brevard County students in any section: $25 Rd. 2. Top bd. per section broadcast live at indianachess.org. $55 by or 30 min after last game first round of Open: 5SS, G/5 d0. Rds.: ASAP. online by 4/22, $30 online by 5 pm on 4/26 or at site (counts as 1/4 EF: Half pt bye any one rd. Prize info: $50 b/10 players. 1st-$25, (U1300) $20. 4/13, $70 onsite, Reentry $25, player 13yrs and under $30 by 4/13, $45 entry for based on prize fund). Reg.: Ends 1/2 hr. before 1st rd. Rds.: EF: $10 if recieved by April 13, $15 on site. onsite, $5 discount to ISCA members. ENTRIES: indianachess.org OR Rd. 1 7:30 pm Fri. (2-day 10 am Sat. at G/60 d5); Rd. 2 Sat. 1:15; Rd. 3 Mail to: Mathew Leach, 4010 Parkwood Circle, Apt. 2A, Mishawaka, IN APR. 22, NEW JERSEY all sections but Class E/U1200 6:30, Class E/U1200 5:45; Rd. 4 Sun. 46545. ISCA MEMBERSHIP MTG: Sun. 2:30PM. US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 9:30; Rd. 5 all sections but Class E/U1200 2:30, Class E/U1200 1:45. APR. 21, PENNSYLVANIA WESTFIELD GRAND PRIX Up to 2 half point byes if req’d before rd. 2. Side events: Space Coast 4-SS. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. Open Blitz. G/5 d0. Prizes: Cash prizes based on entries. EF: $20. Blitz US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 3 Sections: Open, U1800, U1200. Open: EF $40, $30 members, GM free (-$30 from starts at 10:15 pm Sat. Other events: see www.spacecoastchessfoun- 4TH ANNUAL LVCA BRUCE ALBERSTON MEMORIAL $1500 dation.org. HR: $109, Oceanside $129, Loft $149. Resort fee waived. GTD-RBO prize). Prize Fund: $900 b/30 paid section entries. 70% guaranteed. Prizes: $240-200-160. U2400 $120, U2200 $100, U2000 $80. U1800: EF 800-206-2747 or 321-392-1647, reserve by 4/6. Group code SCC18. Ent: 5SS, G/30 d5. College Hill Moravian Church, 72 W. Laurel St., Bethlehem, $25, $20 members. Prizes, b/14: $80-60, U1600 $50, U1400 $40. U1200: Payable to: Space Coast Chess Foundation, c/o Jon Haskel, 2385 NW PA. 2 Sections: Open: $350 $250-$150, U2100/Unr-U1900-U1700- U1500- EF $25, $20 members. Prizes, b/14: $80-60, U1000 $50, U800 $40. Executive Center Dr., #100, Boca Raton, FL 33431. Online entry and $75 ea. U1200:1st-$100, 2nd-3rd-U900-Unr-$50 ea. Mixed/Fam. Doubles: Register: 11:15 a.m. -12 noon. Rounds: 12:15, 2:00, 3:45, 5:30 p.m. add’l info:www.spacecoastchessfoundation.org, [email protected], $75 ea. EF: $30 by 4/16, $35 CASH on site. GM/IM free; $30 from prize. Byes: 1 per player allowed. Must declare before round 3. Info: westfield- 561-302-4377. Reg: ends 10:45 am. Rds.: Sat-11,12:30, 2:30, 4, 5:30. 1/2 pt byes: limit [email protected], www.westfieldchessclub.org/Events.html 2. www.lehighvalleychesscub.org, 484-866-3045. A Heritage Event! Info: Checks payable APR. 27, NEW YORK to: Bruce Davis, 1208 Linden St., Fl. 1, Bethlehem, PA 18018. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, MASSACHUSETTS US Chess Junior Grand Prix! MARSHALL $500 FIDE BLITZ (BLZ) US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED) APR. 21-22, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN 9-SS, G/3 +2. FIDE Blitz rated. USCF regular rating used for pairings & 27TH ANNUAL EASTERN CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 prizes. $500 GTD: $200-100; U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50. 5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Host Hotel 2018 ANNUAL FRANK DOYLE OPEN EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person at Cedar Lake, 366 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01566 (I-84 Exit 3, near I- Exchange Bank, 444 Aviation Blvd., Santa Rosa, CA 95401. 4 Round reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: Begin at 7pm and continue 90). Free parking. $$20,000 guaranteed prizes. In 7 sections: Master Swiss, G/120 d5. In 3 Sections, Open: 4SS, G/120 d5, $$GTD: $250- ASAP. Max three byes; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar- (2200/up): $2000-1000-500-300, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak $100 175. Reserve: 4SS, G/120 d5, Open to 1899 & under. $$GTD: $200-125. shallchessclub.org/register. bonus, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE. Expert (2000-2199): $1500-700-400- GOLD & SILVER AFFILIATES

Bay Area Chess Continental Chess GOLD Any affiliate that has submitted at least 50 US Chess memberships during the 2050 Concourse Drive #42 Association current or previous calendar year, or is the recognized State Affiliate, is eligible to become San Jose, CA 95131 P.O. Box 8482 a Gold Affiliate. Gold Affiliates are honored in a special list in larger type in Tournament Life 408-409-6596 Pelham, NY 10803 each month, giving the affiliate name, address, phone number, e-mail address, and website. [email protected] [email protected] Gold Affiliation costs $350 per year, and existing affiliates may subtract $3 for each month www.bayareachess.com www.chesstour.com remaining on their regular affiliation, or $20 for each month remaining on their Silver Af- Berkeley Chess School Marshall Chess Club filiation. By paying an annual payment of $500 (instead of $350), Gold Affiliate status 1845 Berkeley Way 23 West 10th Street may be obtained with no minimum requirement for memberships submitted. Berkeley, CA 94703 New York, NY 10011 510-843-0150 212-477-3716 [email protected] SILVER Any affiliate that has submitted at least 25 US Chess [email protected] Advanced Chess www.berkeleychessschool.org memberships during the current or previous calendar year, or is the www.marshallchessclub.org Organization Cajun Chess recognized State Affiliate, is eligible to become a Silver Affiliate. These 12405 Hillary Step Drive Oak Hall School Chess Club affiliates will be recognized in a special list in Tournament Life each 7339 Varna Avenue Olive Branch, MS 38654 7257 NW 4th Boulevard, Suite 21 month, giving the affiliate name, state, and choice of either phone North Hollywood, CA 91605 818-793-6302 504-208-9596 Gainesville, FL 32607 number, e-mail address, or website. Silver Affiliation costs $150 per [email protected] 352-316-1199 [email protected] year, and existing affiliates may subtract $3 for each month remaining www.cajunchess.com [email protected] on their regular affiliation. Alternatively, for an annual payment of Chess Club and PaperClip Pairings $250.00 (instead of $150), the requirement for a minimum number Scholastic Center of US Chess members will be waived. of Saint Louis c/o Remy Ferrari 4 Jalapa Court 4657 Maryland Avenue Brownsville, TX 78526 Dallas Chess Club (TX) Little House of Chess, Inc. (NY) Rochester Chess Center (NY) St. Louis, MO 63108 www.dallaschess.com littlehouseofchess.com http://www.chessset.com 314-361-CHESS 956-621-0377 En Passant Chess Club (TX) [email protected] [email protected] Los Angeles Chess Club (CA) Rocks & Rooks Chess Club (TX) [email protected] www.saintlouischessclub.org San Diego Chess Club www.LAChessClub.com 512-426-7841 Evangel Chess Club (AL) ChessNYC.com 2225 Sixth Avenue www.evangelchurch.me Michigan Chess Association Michael Propper (MI) Sparta Chess Club (NJ) San Diego, CA 92101 Foot Hill Chess Club (CA) P.O. Box 189, 1710 1st Avenue 619-752-4377 www.michess.org www.spartachessclub.org [email protected] New York, NY 10128 [email protected] Jersey Shore HS Chess League Oklahoma Chess Foundation Western PA Youth Chess Club 212-475-8130 www.sandiegochessclub.org (NJ) (OK) (PA) [email protected] [email protected] www.OCFchess.org www.youthchess.net www.chessnyc.com UPDATED 12-07-2017

56 March 2018 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14

300. Class A (1800-1999/Unr): $1500-700-400-300. Class B (1600- EF deducted from prize.) NO RE-ENTRIES IN OPEN SECTION. U1800 223582, Chantilly, VA 20151 Checks payable to ‘Capital Area Chess’. 1799/ Unr): $1500-700-400-300. Class C(1400-1599/Unr): $1300-700- Section: 3-DAY, $66. 2-DAY, $65. Re-Entries, $50. U1400 Section: 3- Email information only: [email protected]. Online Information/ 400-300. Class D (1200-1399/Unr): $700-400-200-100. Class E (Under DAY, $46. 2-DAY, $45. Re-Entries $35. TIME LIMIT: 3-DAY: G/115 d5. Registration/Adv Entries: capitalareachess.com. 1200/Unr): $600-300-200-100, plaques to top 3, 1st U1000, U800, U600, 2-DAY: Rds.: 1-2, G-45 d5. Rds.: 3-5, G/115 d5. ROUNDS: 3-DAY: Fri: Unr. Rated players may play up one section. Prize limits: Unrated A Heritage Event! 7pm. Sat: 12, 4. Sun: 10, 3. 2-DAY: Sat: 11:30, 1:30, 4:00. Sun: 10, 3. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! may not win over $100 in E, $200 D, $400 C or $600 B. Mixed doubles REGISTRATION: ON SITE: 3-DAY, Fri 4–6pm. 2-DAY, Sat 8:30–10am. MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, MARYLAND bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player team combined score among ONLINE at http://www.onlineregistration.cc until MIDNIGHT, THURS- all sections: $600-300. Team must average under 2200; may play in dif- US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 DAY, APRIL 26TH! MAIL-IN by Tues, April 24th: Holly Munsch, 64TH ANNUAL MARYLAND OPEN ferent sections; register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 4/28. Top 5 sections Battle Creek Community Foundation, 34 W. Michigan (Not Jackson) EF: $115 online at chessaction.com by 4/25, 3-day $118, 2-day $117 St., Suite 1, Battle Creek, MI 49017. $$: $5,600 Prize Fund (65% 5SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30” incr, (Rnd. 1 G/90 +30” incr) (2-day schedule: mailed by 4/18, $130 at site, or online until 2 hours before round 1. Guar). OPEN: $2,600 (b/40, min. 5 per section): 1st, 2nd, 3rd: $800, rds. 1-2 G/45+30”incr) U1300 & U1000 G/120 d5 (rds 1-2 G/60 d5), GMs free, $100 deducted from prize. Class D or E EF: All $50 less than $450; $300. 1st, 2nd Top X, A, U1800/UNR: $200, $150 each. U1800: (U1300 3-day option rds. 1&2 G/120 d5) Rockville Hilton, 1750 Rockville top 5 sections EF. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Online EF $5 $1,800 (b/40, min. 5 per section): 1st, 2nd, 3rd: $600, $350, $250. 1st, Pike, Rockville, MD 20852. $$Based on score. 7 sections: Championship less to MACA members; may join/renew at masschess.org. Unofficial 2nd, TOP C, U1400/UNR: $175, $125 each. U1400: $1,200 (b/40, min. (min. rating of 2000) FIDE rated: 5.0 =$1600, 4.5 =$800, 4.0=$450, uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 yr 5 per section): 1st, 2nd, 3rd: $500, $300, $200 each. TOP E, UI000/UNR: 3.5=$175, 3.0=$50 [min $1500 payout, top score group raised if less USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry: Online at chessaction.com, $100 each. UNR eligible for Top or UNRATED Prizes ONLY. LODGING: than $1500]. U2200 FIDE Rated: 5.0 =$1500, 4.5 =$700, 4.0=$350, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or paid at site, Adult This AAA Four-Diamond Hotel is located in Downtown Battle Creek. Call 3.5=$150, 3.0=$40. U2000: 5.0 =$1200, 4.5 =$650, 4.0=$325, $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. Re-entry $60; not available in Toll-Free 1-888-622-2659 for Reservations or go online at http://www. 3.5=$125. U1800: 5.0= $1200, 4.5 = $600, 4.0= $300, 3.5= $100. Master Section. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat mccamlyplaza.com. Ask for the Great Lakes Open chess rate ($99/night)– U1600: 5.0= $1000, 4.5= $500, 4.0= $250, 3.5= $100. U1300: 5.0= 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat must reserve by April 6th for this great rate! Parking $8, unlimited in $500, 4.5= $250, 4.0= $125, 3.5= $50. U1000 (no adult UNR): 5.0= 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. Byes: OK all, limit 2; Master must commit and out privileges. Free parking in nearby areas on weekends. For direc- $250, 4.5= $125, 4.0= $50, 3.5= $20. Trophies to top 10 & U800 in before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $98-98-108, 800-582-3232, 508- tions to hotel, go online to http://www.mapquest.com or http://www. U1000. If no 5-0 in section, then sole 1st @ 4.5 or shared 1st at 347-7393, request chess rate, reserve by 4/6 or rate may increase. yahoo.com/maps. reg. Info: Holly Munsch, (269) 962-2181. Email, lower score receive bonus (added to score prize) - Championship: Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car [email protected]. CHESS INFO: Ed Mandell, (248) 635-2375. $300; U2200 $200, U2000 $150, U1800 & U1600: $100; U1300 & U1000: online through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Email, [email protected]. $50. Unrated limited to $100 in U1000, $200 in U1300, and $400 in Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Questions: DirectorAtChess.us, U1600. Sets and boards provided. Clocks provided in the Champi- chesstour.com, chesstour.info, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge for US Chess Junior Grand Prix! onship, U2200, U2000, U1800, and U1600 sections. Optionally, refunds. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted APR. 28-29, WISCONSIN pairings can be texted/emailed to your phone. Free Sunday morning instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 continental breakfast for players. Free parking for day guests. EF: ARPAD ELO OPEN US Chess Junior Grand Prix! $99 by 4/20, $109 by 5/1, and $114 online only by 5/5, $120 later. APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, MICHIGAN Chula Vista Resort, 2501 River Rd., Wisconsin Dells, WI. HR: $99 866- Special EFs: $55 less for U1000, $35 less for U1300, GMs free, $50 320-7982 mention G22584. Reserve by March 28. 5SS. Open: EF $45 deducted from prize, IMs $45 off EF, $20 deducted from prize, HR: $119, US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) 15TH ANNUAL GREAT LAKES OPEN received by April 26, $50 at site. $$b/25: $400,$250, A $150, U1800 ($5 EF discount if staying at hotel). Rooms may not be avail after 4/20. $140. Reserve (U1800): EF $30 received by April 26, $35 at site. $$b/25: 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 7pm, rds. Fri 8, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 9:30 & Held at McCamly Plaza Hotel, 50 Capital Avenue SW, Battle Creek, MI $125, $100, C $75, D $75, U1200 $75. TC: Rd1: G/90 d5. Rds. 2-5: 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10am rds. 11, 2:15 & 6, Sun 9:30 & 49017 (See Lodging below). Prize Fund: $5,600 (65% Guar.). FORMAT: 30/90. SD/60, d5. Rds.: 10, 2, 7:30; 10, 3:30. Registration: 9-9:30. 3:30. U1300 & U1000 schedule Reg. ends Sat 10am rds. 11, 1:15 & 5-SS. 3 Sections: OPEN, U1800 U1400. 2-Day and 3-Day Schedules. Ent: Guy Hoffman, 1305 D Tompkins Dr., Madison, WI 53716-3279. Info: 4:00, Sun 9:30 & 1:30. U1300 3-day schedule Reg. ends Fri 7 pm, rds. OPEN Section USCF and FIDE-rated. OPEN Section participants must 920-279-0701, www.wischess.org, [email protected]. A WI Fri 8, Sat 11 & 4:00, Sun 9:30 &1:30. Ent: MCA, 1827 Thornton Ridge have USCF and FIDE memberships in addition to a State membership; Tour event. W. Rd., Towson, MD 21204. Detailed rules, more information and registration can be purchased on site or at online registration at http://www.online at http://themdopen.com. registration.cc. (FIDE membership is free). USCF rating is used for PAIR- APR. 29, VIRGINIA ING and PRIZES. Up to two 1/2-point byes allowed; must be requested US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! prior to start of RD 2. SCHEDULES MERGE AFTER RD. 2. NO RE- DULLES APR 2018 FIDE RAPID/USCF QUICK RATED (QC) & MAY 5-6, ILLINOIS ENTRIES IN OPEN SECTION. Re-Entries in U1800, $50; U1400, $35. U1600 OPEN QUADS US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED) USCF and a STATE Membership Required – can be purchased on site or Location: Washington Dulles Airport Marriott (Downstairs Reston Salon), CHICAGO CHESS CENTER 2ND HAYMARKET MEMORIAL online at registration! Online registration available at http://www.online 45020 Aviation Dr., Dulles, VA 20166. Open (FIDE) 5-SS, G/15;10sec Make class warfare nonviolent again! Student Center East, Univ. of registration.cc. NOTE: ONLINE REGISTRATION CLOSES AT MIDNIGHT, inc. Open MIN 1500 to play otherwise pay $30 addl EF. Prizes: Open Illinois at Chicago, 750 S. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60607. $6,000 guar- THURSDAY, APRIL 26TH! CHIEF TD: NA and Senior TD Bradley Rogers $$380 GTD: $200-100 U1900 $40 U1700 $40. EF: $25-4/24, $30-4/27, anteed! 4SS, 40/90, SD/30, +30 from move one. Accelerated possible. ([email protected]. Cell Phone and Headset Rules firmly apply; $35 after/onsite, CAC $5 less. GMs/IMs Free-PrizeDedn $20. OnsiteRegn 1/2-byes available all rounds; must commit before rd.2. (Max. two byes; Rules posted on site. ENTRY FEE: By April 20th (add $10 after, add $15 closes 9:15am. Round#1: 9:30am. Side Event U1600 Open Quads: for prize purposes, second bye on Sun. counts as 0.4 points). Rds.: 10- on site): OPEN Section: 3-DAY, $86. 2-DAY, $85. IM’s/GM’s Free! ($80 EF $5 less 3- RR G/40 d5, Trophy/Medals. Mailed entries: PO Box 4 Sat., 10-4 Sun. Three Sections: OPEN SECTION FIDE Rated! EF: $69

27th annual EASTERN CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS April 27-29 or 28-29, 2018 - $20,000 guaranteed prizes! 5 rounds, Host Hotel at Cedar Lake, Sturbridge, Massachusetts 5 rounds, Host Hotel at Cedar Lake, Class E: $600-300-200-100,plaques to 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 6 pm, rds 366 Main St (Rt 20 west), Sturbridge MA first 3, top U1000, U800, U600, Unrated.. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 am & 5 pm, Sun 10 & 3:15. 01566 (I-84 Exit 3, near I-90). Free parking. Unrated may enter A to E with prize 2-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 10 am, rds Experience 1790-1840 America at Old limits: E $100, D $200, C $400, B $600. Sat 11 am, 2 pm & 5 pm, Sun 10 & 3:15. Sturbridge Village (www.osv.org), visit Mixed doubles: Optional male/female Half-pt byes OK all rds (limit 2); Master shops, galleries & restaurants. 2-player “team” (average under 2200) must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. Two schedule options: 3-day Apr 27-29, combined score among all sections: $600- 40/100, SD/30, d10, or 2-day, Apr 28-29, 300. May be in different sections; enter (no Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess rounds 1-2 G/60, d10, then merges with 3- extra fee) by 2 pm 4/28. Life: see Chess Life or chesstour.com. day and competes for same prizes. USCF membership required.. Top 5 sections entry fee: $115 online Hotel rates: $98-98, 800-582-3232, In 7 sections (rated players may play up at chessaction.com by 4/25, 3-day $118, 2- 508-347-7393, reserve by 4/6. one section). day $117 mailed by 4/18, $130 (no checks, Entry: chessaction.com or Continental Master: $2000-1000-500-300, clear or credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hrs Chess, Box 8482, Pelham NY 10803. $15 tiebreak win $100 bonus, top U2300 $800- before game. Re-entry (Expert/below) $60. service charge for refunds. Questions: 400. FIDE rated, 120 GPP (enhanced). Class D or E Section entry fee: all $50 chesstour.com, [email protected], 347-201- Expert: $1500-700-400-300. less than top 5 sections entry fee. 2269. Entries posted at chessaction.com Class A: $1500-700-400-300. Online entry fee $5 less to MACA (online entries posted instantly). Bring set, Class B: $1500-700-400-300. members; may join/renew at masschess.org board, clock if possible- none supplied. Class C: $1300-700-400-300. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by Class D: $700-400-200-100. used if otherwise unrated. 9:15 pm.

www.uschess.org 57 Tournament Life / March

by 4/21; $79 by 5/4, $90 onsite. U2000 may play up for additional $15. Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour Online entries per PayPal are accepted until registration end time on GMs and IMs play for free; no prize reduction! $1200-600-300. Under before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for Saturday at 8:45am. Website for pre-entries: www.memphischess.com 2300 $400. UNDER 2000 SECTION: Open to 1999 & under or unrated. Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchess- Rounds: Saturday: 9am-2pm-7pm; Sunday: 9am-2pm. U1000 Trophy EF: $68 by 4/21; $78 by 5/4, $90 onsite. U1600 may play up for additional club.org/register. Section: 4SS, G/45 d5; Saturday only; Entry Fee: $15. Trophies for top $15. $600- 300-150. Under 1800 $400-200-120. Unrated may not win 3 overall, top U800 and top U600. Round 1 at 9am, next rounds ASAP more than $200. $59 by 4/21; $69 by 5/4, A Heritage Event! (as soon as possible). May 19, 2018 - 7:30am- UNDER 1600 SECTION EF: US Chess Junior Grand Prix! On-site Registration: $80 onsite. $600-300-150. Under 1400: $250-130-100 Under 1200: $200. MAY 18-20 OR 19-20, NEW YORK 8:45am. Send mail entries to: MCC, P.O. Box 17864, Memphis, TN Unrated may not win more than $100. ENT: www.chichess.org/events/ 38187. Email: [email protected]. or mail to Chicago Chess Center NFP Inc., P.O. Box 180095, Chicago, IL US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) 26TH ANNUAL NEW YORK STATE OPEN AND SENIOR 60618. REG.: 8:30-9:30 a.m. No phone entries. 20% discount for CCC An American Classic! members. INFO: Bill Brock, 773-294-1709, [email protected]. Sets & 5SS, 40/100, SD/30, d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Tiki Resort, A Heritage Event! clocks provided. All-day parking at 760 W. Taylor available for $7. W. 2 Canada St., Lake George, NY 12845. $$G 3300. In 4 sections. Open: US Chess Junior Grand Prix! $$ 400-200-150, top Under 2010/Unr $240-120, top Under 1810 $200- MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, ILLINOIS US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 100. Senior: open to under 1910 or unrated born before 5/20/68. $$ US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED) MAY 5-6, TEXAS 300-150- 100, top Under 1710/Unr $140-70. Under 1610: $$ 240-120- 27TH ANNUAL CHICAGO OPEN US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) 70, Under 1410 $120-60, unrated limit $160. Under 1210: $120-60-40, Open Section, May 24-28: 9SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10, GM & IM norms 2018 DCC FIDE OPEN V unrated limit $80, plaques to top 3, 1st U1000, U800, U600, Unr. Mixed possible, FIDE rated. Other Sections, May 25-28, 26-28 or 27-28: 5SS, G/90 inc/30. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S. Cottonwood Dr. #C, Richard- doubles: best male/female 2-player combined score among all sections: 7SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10 (3-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10; 2-day option, son, TX 75080. Two sections: Open and Reserve. Open: $$875G. FIDE $200-100. Team must average under 2200; may play in different sections; rds. 1-4 G/30 d10). Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel, 601 North and US Chess rated but uses FIDE rules. Use US Chess ratings and register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 5/19. Top 3 sections EF: $79 online at Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling, IL 60090 (from Chicago, I-294 north to US- rules for pairings and for awarding prizes. Default late forfeiture time chessaction.com by 5/16, 3-day $83, 2-day $82 mailed by 5/10, $90 45 north; from Milwaukee, I-94 east to Lake Cook Rd to US-45 south.) is one hour. TD may extend this time at TD’s discretion. Note that online until 2 hours before round 1 or at site. Under 1210 Section EF: Free parking. Free lectures and analysis of your games by GM John Foreign players must disclose their FIDE ID number before 1st round all $30 less than top 3 sections EF. All: Online entry $7 less to NYSCA Fedorowicz. $100,000 guaranteed prize fund. In 8 sections (unrated in order to play. Note that USA Players with no FIDE ID must disclose members (dues $12/year with 2 issues Empire Chess, $20/year with 4 allowed only in Open, U2300, U2100 or U1000). Open: Open to players their email address. $$ $500-$250-$125. EF: 2400+ $125, 2000-2399 issues, may be paid with entry fee). No checks at site, credit cards OK. who are rated 2200/over by USCF or FIDE or pay $100 extra. $10000- $90, 1600 -1999 $99, U1600 $125, Senior/Birthday during tournament/ Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry- online at 5000-2500-1300-1000-800-600-500-400-400, clear or tiebreak winner Additional Family Member $55. Dallas Chess Club membership required chesstour.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or bonus $300, top FIDE Under 2400/Unr $2000-1000. FIDE rated, GM or pay $20 non-member fee. Small Minimum prize to the First three at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. Re-entry $40, not and IM norms possible. Under 2300: $5000-2500-1200-800-600-500- GM/IM’s who apply. GM/IM must play all rounds to get minimum prize available in Open Section. GMs, IMs, WGMs free, $60 deducted from 400-300-300-300. Under 2100: $5000-2500-1200-800-600-500-400- (entry fee may be deducted from prize). Reserve: Open to players rated prize. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 300-300-300; unrated limit $1000. Under 1900: $5000-2500-1200-800- below 2000 USCF. This section is not Fide Rated but is US Chess rated 10 & 3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, 600-500-400-300-300-300. Under 1700: $5000-2500-1200-800-600-500- and uses US Chess rules. EF: $40. 10$ non Dallas Chess Club membership Sun 10 & 3:15. Half point byes OK all, must commit before rd. 2; limit 2 400-300-300-300. Under 1500: $4000-2000-1000-700-500-400-300-300- fee. The Reserve give back 10% in prizes and if at least 8 paid entries byes (limit 1 bye if under 1810/unr in Open). HR: $80-80, call 518-668- 300-300. Under 1300: $4000-2000-1000-700-500-400-300-300-300-300. and if there is a clear winner, then that winner receives free entry to 5744 Mon-Fri 9 am-5pm, reserve by 4/28 or rate may increase. Car Under 1000: $1000-500-300-200-200-150-150-100-100-100, unrated next DCC Fide Open. In the reserve section, Tournament reserves the rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online limit $200, trophies to first 10, top U800, U600, Unrated. Prize limits: right to use Fide rules on electronic devices and on starting White’s through chesstour.com. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if 1) If any post-event rating posted 5/22/17-5/22/18 was more than 30 clock at start of a round and to use FIDE pairing rules. Also clocks will otherwise unrated. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box points over section maximum, prize limit $1500. 2) Players with under be set to ‘halt at end’. Both: Reg.: Saturday from 9:45–10:15 am. Rds.: 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Questions: www.chesstour.com, Direc- 26 lifetime games rated as of May 2018 official list cannot win over Sat 10:45 am-3:10pm-7:16pm, Sun 9:45 am- 2:10pm. One half point Bye torAtChess.us, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance $500 in U1000, $1000 U1300, $1500 U1500, $2000 U1700, or $2500 allowed if requested before end of round 2 and before getting full point entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz U1900. 3) Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. bye. Withdrawals and zero point last round byes are not eligible for tournament Sat 9:30 pm, reg. ends 9:15 pm. Mixed Doubles Bonus Prizes: best male/female combined 2-player prizes. Note that house players (if required) must pay $5 per round and team score: $2000-1000-500-400-300. For Open Section, only rounds US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 1-7 counted towards mixed doubles. Team must average under 2200; be US Chess members. ENT: Make/mail Checks payable to Dallas Chess MAY 19-20, TENNESSEE Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036- may play in different sections; register (no extra fee) before both players 4719. Info: 214-632-9000. FIDE. US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 begin round 2; teams including an unrated limited to $500. Open through BLUFF CITY OPEN U1300 entry fee: $207 online at chessaction.com by 3/20, $227 by MAY 15, NEW YORK 5ss, G/120 d5. Site: IBEW Local 474, 1870 Madison Ave., Memphis, TN 5/23. 5-day $215, 4-day $214, 3-day $213, 2-day $212 mailed by 3/20, US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 38104. Three Sections: Open, U1700, and U1000. $1700 Prizes are all $20 more mailed by 5/12. All $250 online until 2 hours before round MARSHALL MASTERS based on 35 paid entries in top 2 sections. Open: $550, $300, $200. 1 or at site until 1 hour before round 1. No checks at site, credit cards 4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to 2000+ players. FIDE Rapid rated. $750 GTD: U1700: $350, $200, $100. Entry Fee: $50 early by May 12, $60 late. OK. Do not mail entry after 5/12. Open EF for titled players: GMs $250-150-100; U2400: $125; U2300: $100; Biggest upset: $25. EF: $30; MCC Members $50 anytime; Masters: free (EF deducted from winnings). free; $200 deducted from prize. IMs/WGMs $100, also $100 deducted 27th annual CHICAGO OPEN May 24-28 (GM/IM norms possible), 25-28, 26-28 or 27-28, Memorial Day weekend 8 sections, prizes $100,000 unconditionally guaranteed! Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel, Wheeling IL - free parking, free lectures by GM John Fedorowicz Open section, 5/24-28: 9 rounds, 40/2, SD/30, d10. Entry fee: $207 at chessaction.com by 3/20, $227 by 5/23, U2300 to U1000 section: 7 rounds, 5/25-28, 40/2, SD/30, $250 until 2 hrs before rd 1 or at site 1 hr before. Open Sect d10 (3-day option 5/26-28, rds 1-2 G/60, d10; 2-day option $100 more for US players not rated 2200/over by USCF or 5/27-28, rds 1-4 G/30, d10). All merge & play for same prizes. FIDE. Senior 65/up $100 less, except U1000. Online $5 less to ICA memb. Mail or titled entry: see chesstour.com or TLA. Open: $10000-5000-2500-1300-1000-800-600-500-400- Under 1000 Section: $67 at chessaction.com by 5/23, 400, clear or tiebreak first $300 bonus, top FIDE U2400/unr $90 online by 2 hours before rd 1 or at site until 1 hour before. $2000-1000. FIDE rated, GM and IM norms possible. Under 2300, Under 2100, Under 1900, Under 1700: Each 5-day schedule (Open only): enter Thu to 6 pm, rds Thu $5000-2500-1200-800-600-500-400-300-300-300. 7 pm, Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:15. Under 1500, Under 1300: Each $4000-2000-1000-700- 4-day schedule (U2300 to U1500): enter Fri to 6, rds Fri 500-400-300-300-300-300. 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:15. Under 1000: $1000-500-300-200-200-150-150-100-100- 3-day schedule (U2300 to U1500): enter Sat to 10 am, 100, unr max $200, trophy 1st 10, top u800, u600, Unrated. rds Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:15. Unrateds allowed only in Open, Under 2300, Under 2100 2-day schedule (U2300 to U1500): enter Sun to 9 am, rds or Under 1000 sections. Unrated prize limit $1000 in U2100. Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:15. Under 1300, Under 1000 sections: same as Under 2300 FIDE ratings used for Open, May official USCF for others. to Under 1500 (4-day, 3-day, 2-day options), except last round Unofficial web ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Monday is 3:15 pm. If any post-event rating posted 5/22/17-5/22/18 was Half point byes OK all, limit 4 (2 last 4 rds). Open must more than 30 pts over section maximum, prize limit $1500. commit before rd 3, others rd 4. Under 26 games prize limit as of May list: U1000 $500, U1300 $1000, U1500 $1500, U1700 $2000, U1900 $2500. Hotel rates: 1-4/rm $113, 800-937-8461, reserve by 5/10. Mixed Doubles: Best male/female 2-player team Full details: see TLA or chesstour.com. USCF memb. combined score among all sections:$2000-1000-500-400-300. required, see TLA or chesstour.com for special rates. Must average under 2200. Only rds 1-7 of Open Section Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied. counted. Enter before both players begin round 2. $2500 guaranteed blitz tournament, Sunday 10:30 pm.

58 March 2018 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14

from prize. EF $100 less to seniors age 65/over, except U1000 Section. Area Chess) to CHERRY BLOSSOM CLASSIC/ Attn. Capital Area Chess, $15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. 3- Under 1000 Section EF: $67 online at chessaction.com by 5/23, 4-day PO Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20171. Email info only: Anand Dommalapati, day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. $74, 3-day $73, 2-day $72 mailed by 5/12, all $90 online until 2 hours [email protected]. Boards and sets provided in ALL sec- 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & before round 1 or at site until 1 hour before round 1. No checks at tions. Clocks supplied in the Open section. Four Side Events: Fri May 3:15. Bye: all, limit 2; must commit before rd. 2. HR: $105-105, 800- site, credit cards OK. Online EF $5 less to ICA members; join at il- 25th 8pm - Open Quick Rated; Sat May 26th - 6th Cherry Blossom 408-7640, 203-358-8400; reserve by 6/1 or rate may increase. Ent: chess.org. An ICA Tour Event. Special 1 yr US Chess dues with Classic Scholastic 10am, Scholastic Blitz 5pm & Open (FIDE)/Ama- chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. magazine if paid with entry: Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young teur Blitz Tournament at 10pm. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: Chesstour.com, Direc- Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, A Heritage Event! torAtChess.us, 347-201-2269. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. Re-entry: $100, no re-entry from Open entries posted instantly). Blitz Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. to Open. 5-day schedule (Open only): Reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds Thu 7 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! A State Championship Event! US Chess Junior Grand Prix! pm, Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:15. 4-day schedule MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, TEXAS (U2300 to U1500): Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, Rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, VIRGINIA & 6, Mon 10 & 4:15. 3-day schedule (U2300 to U1500): Reg. ends Sat US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED) 10 am, Rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:15. 2-day schedule 73RD ANNUAL TEXAS STATE AND AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS 7TH ANNUAL CONTINENTAL CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS (U2300 to U1500): Reg. ends Sun 9 am, Rds. Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, 7SS. DFW Airport Marriott South, 4151 Centreport Dr., Fort Worth, TX 5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Westin Tysons Mon 10 & 4:15. Under 1300 & Under 1000 schedules: Same as U2300 76155. $$ 8,350G. Championship: This section is FIDE rated and uses Corner, 7801 Leesburg Pike (VA-7), Falls Church, VA 22043. Free parking, to U1500 (4-day, 3-day, 2-day options), except last round Mon is 3:15. FIDE rules. The tournament will use USCF ratings for pairings and prize free shuttle to Tysons Corner Center and Metro. $20,000 guaranteed. 7 4-day, 3-day & 2-day schedules merge & compete for same prizes. purposes. Must be rated 2000 or above regular (not quick, blitz or rapid) sections: Master (2200/up): $2000-1000-500-300, clear win or 1st on Byes: OK all, limit 4 (limit 2 in last 4 rds), Open must commit before rd by either USCF or Fide to play in this section or have had a provable 2000 tiebreak $100, top U2400 $800-400. FIDE. Expert (2000-2199): $1400- 3, others before rd 4. Hotel rates: $113-113-113-113, 800-937-8461, or higher regular rating in the past. Defending Texas State Amateur Cham- 700- 400-200. Class A (1800-1999/Unr): $1400-700-400-200. Class B 847-777-6500, reserve by 5/10 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, pion may also play in this section. Texas Scholastic High School Champions (1600- 1799/Unr): $1400-700-400-200.Class C (1400-1599/Unr): $1300- 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through (either South or North/Central) may also play in this section. Foreign 700-400- 200. Class D (1200-1399/Unr): $800-400-200-100. Class E chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings: See www.chesstour.com/for- unrateds may play in this section and at TDs discretion may be required (Under 1200/Unr): $800-400-200-100, plaques to top 3, 1st U1000, U800, eignratings.htm. US player ratings: May official ratings used; FIDE to play in Championship section. G/90 with 30 sec. increment. Foreign Unr. Rated players may play up one section. Unrated limits: E $150, D ratings used for Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually players must disclose their FIDE ID number before 1st round in order to $250, C $350, B $500. Mixed doubles prizes: best male/female 2-player used if otherwise unrated. Special rules: Players must submit to a play in Championship section. Default late forfeiture time is one hour. TD team combined score among all sections: $800-400. Must average under search for electronic devices if requested by Director. See also may extend this time at TD’s discretion. $$ 1,000-500-250, 2200-2399 2200; may play different sections; register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 6/16. chesstour.com/devices.htm. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, $750, U2200 $750. Amateur: U2000 & unrated. Rds. 1-7 G/90 with 30 sec Top 5 sections EF: $118 at chessaction.com by 6/13, 3-day $123, 2-day NY 10803. Questions: chesstour.com, chesstour.info, DirectorAtChess.US, increment. $$ 800-400-200. B $$ 600-300-150, C 500-250-125, U1400 $122 mailed by 6/6, $130 at site, or online until 2 hrs before rd. 1. GMs, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge for refunds. Entries posted at ches- $500- 250-125, U1200 $400, U1000 $300 Unrated $200. Both: TCA mem- IMs & WGMs free in Master; $100 deducted from prize. Class D or E saction.com (online entries posted instantly). Bring set, board, clock bership required. Other states accepted. EF: $89 if received by 5/16, else Section EF: all $40 less than above. No checks at site, credit cards OK. if possible- none supplied. $99. $80 Junior (U19) if received by 5/16 else $90, Senior (over 65)/Hand- Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special US Chess Junior Grand Prix! icapped/ additional family participant $53 if receive by 5/16 else $65. Add 1 yr USCF with magazine if paid with entry. At chessaction.com, Adult MAY 25-28, 26-28, PENNSYLVANIA $5 for CC phone entries; pre-reg. requires pre-payment. After 5/23 all $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young registration and changes on site only; all changes including withdrawals, Adult $25, Scholastic $17. Re-entry $50 (no Master Section). 3-day sched- US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 EAST COAST OPEN $10 after 5/23. 4 day: Reg. Friday 5/25, 6:15 pm-7:15. Rds. Fri: 7:45, Sat: ule: Reg. Fri to 6 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. 2-day schedule: 2:45 pm - 7:30, Sun: 11:30 am - 5:15 pm, Mon: 9:30 am - 2:15 pm. 3 day: Reg. Sat to 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. Bye: all, limit 2; 7SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30” incr, (Rnd 1 G/90 +30” incr) (3-day schedule: Reg. Sat. 5/26, 9-9:30 am, Rd. 1 at 10 am then merge with 4 day. Foreign Master must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $104-104, 1- rds. 1-2 G/45+30”incr); U1300 & U1000 G/120 d5 (rds. 1&2 G/60 d5) Unrated must play in Championship section. Registrations that do not 866- 716-8108, reserve by 6/1 or rate may increase. Ent: chessaction.com (2-day schedule, rds. 1-4 G/30 d5) Philadelphia Marriott West, 111 indicate 4 or 3 day schedule will be put in the 3 day. HR: $109/109/109/109, or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Refunds, $15 service Crawford Ave., West Conshohocken, PA 19428. $$ Based on score. 7 817-358- 1700 or 800-228-9290 reserve by 5/13 and ask for Chess rate. charge. Questions: [email protected], chesstour.com, 347-201-2269. sections: Championship (min. rating of 2000) FIDE: 7.0 =$3300, 6.5 Rate includes breakfast for up to 4 hotel guests. Free Parking. Up to two Entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz =$2100, 6.0=$1500, 5.5=$1000, 5.0=$500, 4.5=$175, 4.0=$70 [min 1/2 pt byes available if requested before end of rd. 2 and before receiving Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. $1500 payout, top score group raised if less than $1500]. U2200 (min. full point bye, but byes for both rounds 6 AND 7 is not permitted. K-12 rating of 1800) FIDE: 7.0 =$3000, 6.5 =$2000, 6.0=$1300, 5.5=$800, JUNE 20-21, NEVADA Scholastic on Saturday, 5/26. 5-SS, Rds. G/30 d5, EF: $29 by 5/16, $45 5.0=$450, 4.5=$150, 4.0=$50. U2000: 7.0 =$3000, 6.5 =$1900, US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED) after; Pre-reg. requires pre-payment. After 5/23 all registration and 2018 U.S. WOMEN’S OPEN 6.0=$1200, 5.5=$750, 5.0=$400, 4.5=$150. U1800: 7.0= $3000, 6.5 changes on site only; all changes $10 after 5/23. No refunds after 5/24, = $1800, 6.0= $1100, 5.5= $650, 5.0=$350, 4.5=$150. U1600: 7.0= $10 handling fee for refunds before 5/24. Registration 8:15-8:45 am, Rd. See Nationals. $2700, 6.5= $1500, 6.0= $900, 5.5= $550, 5.0=$300, 4.5=$125. 1 at 9:30 am, rest ASAP with small lunch break. Sections: K-12 Champi- JUNE 21, NEVADA U1300: 7.0= $1200, 6.5= $700, 6.0= $350, 5.5= $225, 5.0=$120, onship and K- 12 U1000. Prizes: Trophies to top 12 individuals, top five US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED) 4.5=$50. U1000 (no adult UNR): 7.0=$500, 6.5=$325, 6.0=$175, teams in each section. K-12 U1000 also top three unrateds. Medals to WALTER BROWNE MEMORIAL NATIONAL OPEN BLITZ 5.5=$100, 5.0=$55, 4.5=$30. Trophies to top 10 & top U800 in U1000. those who do not win a trophy. Ent: Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara CHAMPIONSHIP (BLZ) Additional prizes to clear 1st place, if no 7-0 in section (added to Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036. Info: Barb Swafford, 7 D-SS (14 games), G/3, +2. Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, score prize) - Championship: $600; U2200 $450, U2000 $375, U1800 & 214-632-9000, [email protected] www.dallaschess.com. W. FIDE. U1600: $300; U1300 $100, U1000 $50. Unrated may not win over $100 3000 Paradise Road, Las Vegas 89109. $5,000 Guaranteed Prize fund! in U1000, $200 U1300, or $400 in U1600. Boards and pieces provided MAY 26, VIRGINIA Open: $1000-500-300. U2400 300, U2300 275, U2200 250, U2100 225, in all sections. Clocks provided in the Championship – U1600 sec- US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) U2000 200. Reserve (U1900): $500-300-150, U1800 250, U1700 200, tions. Optionally, pairings can be texted or emailed. Free Monday 6TH CHERRY BLOSSOM CLASSIC FIDE BLITZ! (BLZ) U1600 175, U1500 150, U1400 125, U1200 100. Open section FIDE blitz rated. Must be 3 players eligible for each prize awarded. Unrated eligible morning continental breakfast for players. Free parking for day Side Event to the 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (May 25-28). Wash- guests. EF: $149 by 5/11, $159 by 5/22, and $164 online only by 5/24, ington Dulles Airport Marriott, 45020 Aviation Dr., Dulles, VA 20166. 2 for under prizes in open section only. EF: $50 by 5/31, $60 later. REG.: by 1 p.m. Rd. 1 at 2 p.m. . FIDE. $170 after 5/24. Special EFs: $75 less for U1300, $100 less for U1000; Sections - Open (FIDE) and Amatuer/U1800. Open: G/3;+2; 5-SS www.VegasChessFestival.com GMs free, no deduction from prize; IMs $45 less. HR: $99, ($5 EF Double. $$500 GTD $200-100 Top U2200/U2000 $100 each. Amateur/ JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, NEVADA discount if staying at hotel). Rooms may not be avail after 5/11. 4-day U1800 (b/16; Section maybe combined with Open): $100-$50 Top US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED) schedule (Champ-U1600): Reg. ends Fri 7pm, rds. Fri 8, Sat 11 & 6, Sun U1400/U1200 $50 each. EF: $25 by May 25th online, Onsite. $30 by 2018 NATIONAL OPEN 11 & 6, Mon 9:30 & 3:30. 3-day schedule (Champ-U1600): Reg. ends 9:45pm. Rounds start 10pm. Max 1 byes allowed at entry. More infor- See Nationals. Sat 10am rds. 11, 2:15 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 9:30 & 3:30. U1300 & mation/Online registration: www.cherryblossomchess.com. Mail checks U1000 3-day schedule Reg. ends Sat 10am. Rds. 11, 1:15 & 4:00, Sun US Chess Junior Grand Prix! (payable to Capital Area Chess) to Cherry Blossom Classic, Attn. Capital JUNE 28-JULY 2, PENNSYLVANIA 11 & 4:00, Mon 9:30&1:30. U1300 & U1000 2-day schedule: reg ends Area Chess, PO Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20151. Email info only: Anand Sun 10am. Rds. Sun 11, 12:15, 1:30, 2:45, 4:00, Mon 9:30&1:30 Ent: Dommalapati, [email protected]. US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED) 12TH ANNUAL PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL Michael Regan, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd., Towson, MD 21204. Detailed MAY 27, ILLINOIS rules, more information and registration at http://theeastcoastopen.com. 9SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10. Philadelphia Marriott Downtown (see World US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) Open for location, rates, parking). $25,000 guaranteed prizes, in 3 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 7TH ANNUAL CHICAGO OPEN BLITZ (BLZ) sections. Only Premier is FIDE rated. US sections are not open to players MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, VIRGINIA 5SS, G/5 d0, double round, 10 games. Westin North Shore Hotel (see listed as foreign by FIDE. Premier uses June FIDE ratings for pairngs & US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED) Chicago Open). In 2 sections with $2500 guaranteed. Open: $400-250- prizes, US sections use July official USCF ratings. Premier: open to 6TH CHERRY BLOSSOM CLASSIC 150, U2300/Unr $220-110, U2100/Unr $200-100. Under 1900/Unr: , FIDE1900/over or USCF 2000/over and all FIDE rated foreign players. Washington Dulles Airport Marriott, 45020 Aviation Dr., Dulles, VA $300-150-90, U1700/Unr $180-90, U1500 $120-60, U1300 $80. EF: $40 GM & IM norms possible. Prizes $5000-2500-1300-800-600-400-300-300, 20166. A VCF Cup Event. $$12,500 GUARANTEED Prizes in 5 Sections by 7 pm 5/27, $50 by 10 pm 5/27. GMs free; $40 from prize. Enter at top FIDE under 2300 or unrated $1200-600. US Under 2100/Unr: $2500- ($$2,500 increase in Prize Fund from 2017 - 4th straight year with site only, no checks. $20 service charge for refunds. Reg.: ends 10 pm, 1300-700-500-400. US Under 1900/Unr: $2500-1300-700-500-400, unrated an increase in prizes !!!). Open: $2000-1000-500-300 U2350 $400- rds. 10:30, 11, 11:30, 12, 12:30. 1 bye allowed (1 point out of 2), must limit $1000, top U1700 (no unrated) $800-400. Premier minimum prize 200. Clear 1st/Tiebreaker $100 bonus. U2200: $1300-700-400 U2050 give notice before rd. 2. Blitz rated, but higher of regular or blitz used guarantees: $600 to foreign GMs, $300 to foreign IMs/WGMs (all must $300- 150. U1900: $1000-500-250 U1750 $300-150 U1600: $800-400- for pairings & prizes. complete all 9 games with no byes; limited to first 6 foreign GMs & first 200, U1450 $200-100 U1300: $500-300-150 U1150 $200-100 Unrated 6 foreign IMs/WGMs to enter by 5/25 at chessaction.com). Minimum prize limits in all sections except Open. 7-SS in 4 sections (4-day or 3- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! prize $300 to other GMs (including US) who enter at chessaction.com by JUNE 8-10 OR 9-10, CONNECTICUT day): Open/U2200 (FIDE Rated), U1900 and U1600. 6-SS in U1300 (2-day 5/25 and complete all 9 games with no byes. Premier EF: GMs, IMs, only – Sat and Sun). GMs, IMs & WGMs free, deduct $50 from prize US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED) WGMs, foreign FIDE rated players: $50 online at chessaction.com by winnings; Addl conditions offered to the first 6 GMs/IMs who reg- 24TH ANNUAL NORTHEAST OPEN 5/25, $75 online at chessaction.com by 6/25, $100 at site; $100 deducted ister by May 5th. Contact Organizer by the deadline. Min Rating in 5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Sheraton from prize (no deduction from minimum prize). US FIDE Masters: $200 Open & U2200: 2000 for Open and 1750 for U2200 else pay $50 more. Hotel, 700 Main St., Stamford 06901. Parking $10. $10,000 guaranteed. online by 5/25, $225 online by 6/25, $250 at site. US players USCF or EF: Top 4 sections $98 (Eary Bird rate) by Apr 8th, $105 by May 8th, 4 sections. Major: Open to 1800/above. $1200-700-400, U2250 $600- FIDE rated 2100/up:$300 online by 5/25, $325 online by 6/25, $350 at $110 by May 22nd, $115 by May 24th, $125 after and onsite. U1300 300. Under 2050: $1000-600-300, U1850 $500-250. Under 1650: site. US players USCF or FIDE rated 2000-2099: $400 online by 5/25, Section $15 less. Re-entry $60 for all players, no re-entry in Open. $800-500-300, U1450 $400-200. Under 1250: $600-400-200, U1050 $425 online by 6/25, $450 at site. Others: $500 online by 5/25, $525 T/C: Top 4 Sections: 4-day: Rd1 G/90;+30; Rds2-7 40/90;SD/ 30;+30. $150, plaque to top 3, 1st U1000, U800, U600, Unr. Unrated limit $100 online by 6/25, $550 at site. US sections EF: $250 online by 5/25, $275 3-day: Rd1 G/45;+30, Rds2-3 G/90;+30, Rds4-7 40/90;SD/ 30;+30. in U1250, $300 U1650. Mixed doubles prizes: best male/female 2- online by 6/25, $300 at site. All: Mailed entry all $10 more; do not mail U1300 only Sat & Sun G/90 d5. Rounds: 4-day: Reg. ends Fri 7 pm, player combined score among all sections: $400-200. Must average entry after 6/15. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Special 1 year USCF Rds. Fri 8pm, Sat/Sun 11am- 5:30pm, Mon 9:30am-3:30pm. 3-day: Reg. under 2200; may play different sections; register (no extra fee) by 2 dues with magazine: see World Open. Schedule: Late reg. ends Thu 6 ends Sat 10am, Rds. 1-3 Sat 11am-2pm-7pm and Rds. 4-7 follows 4- pm 6/9. Top 3 sections EF: $95 at chessaction.com by 6/6, 3-day $98, pm, rds. Thu 7 pm, Fri 1 & 7, Sat-Mon 11 & 5. Two half point byes available; day. (U1300 only 2-day Rds. Sat 11am-3pm-7pm, Sun 10am-2pm-6pm.) 2-day $97 mailed by 5/31, $110 at site, or online until 2 hrs before rd 1. must commit before rd. 3; FIDE norm in Premier not possible if taking Byes: Up to two 1/2pt byes available in all sections, must commit 1 U1250 Section EF: all $30 less than above. No checks at site, credit bye. HR: see World Open. Bring set, board, clock if possible- none sup- hour before start of rd. 4 (by Sun 8:30am). HR $99/night if reserved by cards OK. GMs $90 from prize. CSCA members, online EF $3 less. Re- plied. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY May 10th. Reservations call 1-800- 228-9290 or 703-471-6700, mention entry $50, except Major Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, Cherry Blossom Chess Tournament. More information/ Online regis- used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 yr USCF with magazine if paid DirectorAtChess.us, 347-201- 2269. Entry list: see chessaction.com; online tration: www.cherryblossomchess.com. Mail checks (payable to Capital with entry. At chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic entries posted instantly. Invitations: [email protected].

www.uschess.org 59 Tournament Life / March

US Chess Junior Grand Prix! spaces sold. Gateway Garage, 1540 Spring St. (3/5 mile from Marriott, 1 MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open (TX) JULY 2-3, PENNSYLVANIA block from Sheraton Hotel), about $7/day Sat & Sun, $20/day other days. See Grand Prix. US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED) Special car rental rates: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633, or reserve 7TH ANNUAL WORLD OPEN WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP car online through chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings: See www.chess- A State Championship Event! MAR. 24-25, Alabama State Scholastic Chess Championship 6SS, G/90 d10. Philadelphia Marriott Downtown (see World Open for tour.com/foreignratings.htm. US player ratings: Official July USCF ratings used; July FIDE ratings used for Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org March 24th, Saturday Team: 4SS, Game/45 + 5 second delay for location, rates, parking). Open to all females. $2500 guaranteed prizes: Open & Jr. High Championship, All other sections 4SS, Game/30 + 5 $1000-500-250, top U2000/Unr $300, U1700 $250, U1400 $200, plaques ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special rules: Players must submit to a search for electronic devices if requested by Director. See second delay. March 25th, Sunday Individual: 4SS, Game/45 + 5 to 1st, top U1200/Unr, U1000, U800. EF: $88 online at chessaction.com second delay for Open & Jr. High Championship, All other sections 5SS, by 6/30, $92 mailed by 6/15, $100 at site, or online until 8 am 7/2. also chesstour.com/devices.htm. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Questions: chesstour.com, chess Game/30 + 5 second delay. Location: University of South Alabama, GMs, IMs, WGMs free; $80 from prize. Reg. ends 9 am 7/2, rds. 10, 2, Student Center, 307 N. University Blvd., Mobile, AL 36688. Round times: 6 each day. Half point byes OK all rounds, limit 2 byes (limit 1 bye if tour.info, DirectorAtChess.US. $15 service charge for refunds. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Awards: Open & Jr. High 10:00, 12:45, 2:30, 4:15. All other sections 10:00, 11:15, under 1400), must commit before rd 3. Special USCF dues: see World 1:30, 2:45, 4:00 (5th round Sunday Only). Sections: TEAM - Primary(K- Open. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box 8482, Pelham, Open through U1800 prizes awarded 7/8, others mailed by 7/23. Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied. 3), Primary Club, Elementary(K-6), Elementary Club, Jr. High(K-9) and NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Entries posted at chess Open (K-12). INDIVIDUAL - Primary (K-3), Elementary (4-6) Under 600, action.com (online entries posted instantly). JULY 4, PENNSYLVANIA Elementary (K-6), Jr. High Under-800, Jr. High (K-8), Open Under 1000, JULY 3, PENNSYLVANIA US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED) Open (K-12). USCF and ACF required. EF: Team $50 by March 15th, US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED) 7TH ANNUAL WORLD OPEN GAME/7 CHAMPIONSHIP (BLZ) $100 thereafter, Individual $25 ($55 family) by March 15th, $35 by 6TH ANNUAL WORLD OPEN ACTION CHAMPIONSHIP 5-SS, double round (10 games), G/7 d2. Marriott Philadelphia Downtown March 20th, $60 thereafter. For online Registration and Payment refer 6SS, G/30 d5. Philadelphia Marriott Downtown (see World Open for (see World Open). Prizes $1000 guaranteed: $300-150-70, U2100 $130- to https://alabamachess.org starting February 01,2018. Questions: location, rates, parking). Prizes $7000 based on 100 entries, otherwise 70, U1800 $120-60, U1500/Unr $100. EF: $40, at site only, no checks. [email protected] raised or lowered in proportion; minimum guarantee $4667 (2/3 of GMs $40 from prize. Reg. ends 10:30 am, rds. 11, 12, 1, 2, 3. One pair each prize). GMs count as half entries. In 4 sections. Premier, open to of 1/2 pt byes available, must commit before rd. 2. Blitz rated (will not ARIZONA 1900/above. Prizes $1000-500-300, top Under 2400 $600-300. Under affect regular ratings), but higher of regular or blitz used for pairings & prizes. $20 service charge for refunds. 2200/Unr: Prizes $600-300-200, top Under 2000/Unr $400-200. Under UNITY CHESS CLUB 1800/Unr: Prizes $600-300-200, unrated limit $350, top Under 1600 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Dedicated to cultivating a sense of unity and learning through (no Unr) $320-160. Under 1400/Unr: Prizes $400-200-100, unrated JULY 6-8, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN limit $200, top Under 1200 (no unr) $210-110. $96 chess! Contact Pedram Atoufi, President. (602)326-2727. 1660 Top 3 sections EF: US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED) S. Alma School Rd., #207, Mesa, AZ 85210, info@unity chess.com; online at chessaction.com by 7/1, $100 mailed by 6/15, $110 at site. PACIFIC SOUTHWEST OPEN GMs free, $90 from prize. Under 1400/Unr section EF: all $20 less Monthly 4-round rated G/55; +5 Saturday tournaments. Weekly 5-SS, G/90 + 30 sec inc. At the Hilton Irvine/Orange County Airport, Sunday rated G/30;+5 tournaments from 3-7pm. Monday night than above. Reg. ends 10 am 7/3, rounds 11, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9. Half point Irvine, CA 92612. $10,000 in Guaranteed Prizes, 6 Sections. Prizes: byes OK all rounds, limit 2, must commit before rd. 3. Special USCF tournaments G/90;+5 sec increment; play one round every Mon- Open Sec 1st $1,600-1,000-600-300-100, plus BU2300 $400-200; U2200, day night for the whole month. The strongest tournament in dues: see World Open. $15 service charge for refunds. Entries posted U2000, U1800 ALL: $700-300-200-100; U1600: $600-300-100 U1400: at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Arizona is the 6th Annual Phoenix Open from November 24th- $300-200, plus BU1200 $200-100, Book prize for Best unrated in each 26th! Group classes every Sunday on Tactics, Strategy, and more. An American Classic! section, if any. Not FIDE rated. Reg.: 6:30 - 7:45 PM Friday, July official Private lessons and online lessons available with master coaches. A Heritage Event! rating list used. No “fast” schedule or re-entries. One 1/2 point bye All ages and levels of playing welcome! See website for more US Chess Junior Grand Prix! available, but must commit before Rd. 4. Rds.: 8 PM on Friday, 10 AM details. JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, PENNSYLVANIA & 3 PM Sat and Sun. EF: $90 Early Bird Special if received by 5/31, MAY 5-6 US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED) $100 from 6/1 to 7/01, $120 from 7/01 -7/05, $140 on event day. No , 13th Susan Polgar Foundation National Open for Boys 46TH ANNUAL WORLD OPEN credit cards at door, checks or cash only. Special rate of only $60 if and Girls (CA-N) 9SS. Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 1201 Market St., Philadelphia, PA U1400 or unrated. GMs, IMs, WGMs and WIMs all have free entry, but See California, Northern. 19107, directly across the street from the world famous Reading Terminal $100 deducted from any prize winnings. SCCF membership req’d ($18 JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) Market with over 80 food vendors. In 9 sections. $225,000 guaranteed Adult; $13 Jr or $3 Jr w/o mag,) for all So Cal residents. Entries: SDCC, See Nationals. Unrated may enter only Open, U2200, U2000, or Unrated Sections. PO Box 120162, San Diego, CA 92112 or enter online at www.scchess.com. prizes. JUNE 21 Free analysis of your games by GM Sam Palatnik 7/4-8, free GM lectures For more info call Chuck at 858-432-8006, or email me at chucnglo , Walter Browne Memorial National Open Blitz 9 am 7/6 & 7/7. Open Section, July 4-8 only: Open to all rated 2200/over @aol.com Hotel Rates: $139, 800-445-8667, if booked by 6/06/18. Championship (BLZ) (NV) USCF or FIDE, or must pay $100 more. 40/2, SD/30 d10. Under 2200 to This event is a State Championship Qualifier. See Grand Prix. Under 1200 Sections, July 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 or 6-8: 40/2, SD/30 d10 (4- JULY 7, PENNSYLVANIA JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV) day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10; 3-day option, rds. 1-5 G/35 d10). Under US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) See Nationals. 900 Section & Unrated Section, July 6-8 only: G/60 d10, play separate WORLD OPEN G/10 CHAMPIONSHIP (QC) JUNE 23-24 schedule. Open: $20000-10000-5000-2500-1300-1000-800-700-600-500, , International Youth Championship (NV) 5SS, G/10 d2. Marriott Philadelphia Downtown (see World Open). $1700 See Nevada. clear winner bonus $500, top FIDE 2300-2449 $5000-2500-1500, top FIDE guaranteed prizes. In 2 sections. Open Section: $300-200-100, top 2200-2299 $5000-2500-1500. Top FIDE U2200/Unr $5000-2500-1500. If U2300 $220, U2100/Unr $200. Under 1900 Section: $200-100-50, top tie for first, top 2 on tiebreak play speed game 10 pm 7/8 for title & U1700 $130, U1500 $110, U1300 $90. EF: $40, at site only, no checks. ARKANSAS bonus prize. GM & IM norms possible. FIDE rated. Under 2200/Unr: GMs $40 from prize. Reg: 6-9 pm, rounds 9:30, 10:10, 10:50, 11:30, MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18 $12000-6000-3000-1500-1000-800-600-500-400-400, top U2100 (no unr) 12:10. 1 half point bye available, must commit before rd. 2. Quick-rated , Lone Star Open (TX) $2000-1000, unrated limit $2000. Under 2000/Unr: $12000-6000-3000- (will not affect regular ratings); higher of regular or quick used for See Grand Prix. 1500-1000-800-600-500-400-400, top U1900 (no unr) $2000-1000, unrated pairings & prizes. $20 service charge for refunds. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! limit $1000. Under 1800: $12000-6000-3000-1500-1000-800-600-500- MAR. 24-25, Arkansas Open 400-400, top U1700 $2000-1000. Under 1600: $10000-5000-2500-1300-900- JULY 8, PENNSYLVANIA 700-600-500-400-400, top U1500 $2000-1000. $8000-4000- US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) 5SS, G/90;+30. Mt. Sequoyah Retreat Center, 150 N. Skyline Dr., Fayet- Under 1400: teville, AR. (479) 443-4531 or (800) 760-8126, M-F 9-5. Cottage Cabins: 2000-1300-900-700-600-500-400-400, top U1300 $1600-800. Under 1200: WORLD OPEN BLITZ CHAMPIONSHIP (BLZ) $4000-2000-1000-800-600-500-400-400-300-300, top U1000 $1000-500. 5SS, G/5 d0 (double round, 10 games). Marriott Philadelphia Downtown 1 King or 2 Queens $75 (no tax). Reserve by Mar. 16! EF: Open: $40 by $600-400-300-200-100, plaques to top 10. $600- (see World Open). $3000 guaranteed prizes. In 2 sections: Open Section: 3/23; $50 at site; Reserve (U1600): $30 by 3/23; $35 at site. $$ Prizes Under 900: Unrated: Open: $225-125; U1800 $125; Reserve: $150-75; U1400 $100; 400-300-200-100, plaques to top 10. 1) If any post-event $500-300-200, top U2400 $220-110, U2200/Unr $200-100. Under 2000 (b/40): Prize limits: U1000 $50; Upset $50. 8:15-9:15 Sat AM. 9:30-2-6:30; 9- rating posted 6/30/17-6/30/18 was more than 30 points over section Section: $400-200-100, top U1800/Unr $220-110, U1600 $160-80, U1400 Reg.: Rds.: 1:15. One 1/2-pt bye Rds. 1-5 commit before Rd. 3 pairings. maximum, prize limit $2000. 2) Players with under 26 lifetime games $100, unrated limit $200. EF (at site only, no checks): $40 by 7 pm 7/4, Byes: Les Kline, 801 N. Rush Dr., Fayetteville, AR 72701. rated as of July 2018 official list cannot win over $1000 in U1200, $2000 $50 after 7 pm 7/4. GMs $40 from prize. Reg. ends 9:30 pm, rounds Entries: Info: U1400, $3000 U1600 through U2000. Games rated too late for July official 10, 10:45, 11:20, 11:55, 12:30. Half point bye available (1 point out of [email protected]; (479) 595-5720. ACA (OSA). list not counted toward 26 game total. 3) Balance of any limited prize 2); must commit before rd. 2. Blitz rated (will not affect regular ratings); goes to next player(s) in line. Mixed Doubles Bonus Prizes: best higher of regular or blitz used for pairings & prizes. $20 service charge CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN male/female combined 2-player team score: $3000-1500-700-500-300. for refunds. MAR. 9-11, 2018 U.S. Junior Chess Congress Team must average under 2200; may play in different sections; register JULY 28-29, WISCONSIN (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2; teams including an See Nationals. US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 unrated limited to $500. Entry fee for Open through U1400 sections: 2018 U.S. OPEN WEEKEND SWISS MAR. 10, Foster City Luper$wiss90 (3SS, G/90 d5) Online at chessaction.com: $308 by 4/15, $318 by 5/15, $328 by 6/30, Foster City Courtyard Marriott, 550 Shell Blvd., 94404. Prizes: $1,300 $350 at site until 1 1/2 hours before round 1, or online until 2 hours 5SS, G/60 d5. $1,150 Guaranteed Prizes: $200-100-50, U2200/Unrated $160, U2000 $150, U1800 $140, U1600 $120, U1400 $100, U1200 $80, b/50. 60% guar. 1900+: $200-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899: $200- before. Mailed by 5/15: 6-day $326, 5-day $325, 4-day $324, 3-day $323. 100, u1600 50-50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Mar 18 Supp & TD Mailed by 6/15: all $10 more. All $100 more for Open Section if not Unrated $50. Entry fee $40, Unrated players free if paying US Chess dues. On-site Registration 10:00-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Rounds at noon & 3:00 disc. Reg.: 8:30-8:45. Rds.: 9-1-4:30. EF: 49, Econ 39 w 1/2 prz. after rated 2200/over by USCF or FIDE. Do not mail entry after 6/15. No 3/3 +20, playup +20, GMs/IMs/NMs- $0 by 2/25. Info: http://BayArea checks at site, credit cards OK. GMs in Open: free; $200 deducted from p.m. Saturday, 10:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m. & 3:00 p.m. Sunday. See http:// www.uschess.org/tournaments/2018/usopen/ for additional details. Chess.com/grandprix. W. prize. IMs, WGMs in Open: EF $100 less. Under 1200 Section EF: all MAR. 10 $100 less than above. Seniors 65/up: all EF $100 less in U1400 or above JULY 28-AUG. 5, JULY 31-AUG. 5 OR AUG. 2-5, WISCONSIN , Fremont DuperSwiss75 (3SS, G/75 d5) sections. U900 Section or Unrated Section EF: $68 online at Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Prizes: $1,300 b/50. 60% guar. US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED) 1900+: $200-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100, u1600 50- chessaction.com by 6/30, $73 mailed by 6/15, $80 at site until 9:30 am 119TH ANNUAL U.S. OPEN 50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Mar 18 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 8:30-8:45. 7/6 or online until 9 am 7/6. No checks at site; credit cards OK. Re- See Nationals. entry: $160, no re-entry from Open to Open. $20 fee for switching Rds.: 9-12-3. EF: 49, Econ 39 w 1/2 prz. after 3/4 +20, playup +20, Rtd section after 7/2. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with AUG. 4, WISCONSIN 2200+ $0 by 2/25. Info: BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W. entry: Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Cal Chess Women’s State Championship $15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. 6-day 2018 U.S. OPEN NATIONAL BLITZ CHAMPIONSHIP (BLZ) See Grand Prix. See Nationals. schedule: Tue/Wed 7 pm, Thu 6 pm, Fri/Sat 11 am & 6 pm, Sun 10 am & MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Cal Chess Senior State Championship 4:30 pm. 5-day schedule: Wed 7 pm, Thu-Sat 11 am & 6 pm, Sun 10 am See Grand Prix. & 4:30 pm. 4-day schedule: Thu 11, 2:30 & 6, Fri/Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 3-day schedule: Fri 11, 1:30, 3:30, 6 & 8:30, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 4:30. U900 Section, Unrated Section schedule: Fri 11, 2:30 & 6, Sat Regional MAR. 18, Palo Alto $uper$wiss61 (4SS, G/61 d5) 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 10, 1:30 & 4:30. All schedules merge & compete for *NEW Location* Crown Plaza Palo Alto, 4290 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, same prizes. Half point byes OK all, limit 4 (limit 2 in last 4 rds), Open ALABAMA CA 94306. Prizes: $1,300 b/50. 60% guar. 1900+: $200-100-100, u2000 must commit before rd. 3, others before rd. 5. Entries, re-entries close 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100, u1600 50-50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50- 90 minutes before round 1. HR: $115-115-135, 215-625-2900, reserve MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class 50. Feb 18 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 8:30-8:45. Rds.: 9-11:30-2-4:30. EF: early, chess block may sell out by early June. Parking: Marriott valet Championships (FL) 49, Econ 39 w 1/2 prz. after 3/10 +20, playup +20 GMs/IMs/NMs - parking, about $20/day (60% off regular rate) for first 100 valet parking See Grand Prix. $0 by 3/3. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W.

60 March 2018 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14

MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, IM Walter Shipman Memorial MAR. 24, 2018 Greater New Haven Championships! Championship CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. THE LOS ANGELES CHESS CLUB MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR. MAR. 24-25, 2018 CalChess State Scholastic Team vs. Team The Most Active Club on the West Coast! (310) 795-5710. * 31-APR. 1, 12th annual Philadelphia Open (PA) Championship LACC: www.LAChessClub.com; VCC: www.ValleyChess See Grand Prix. G/30 d5. Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America Pkwy. Club.com; Contact: [email protected]; Saturday & Sun- APR. 7, CT State Quick Championships! (QC) Park Free! Teams: Four-player teams plus optional alternate. Mar 2018 days: 10 am-9 pm (Beginner/Novice & Intermediate classes + See Grand Prix. Supplement, CCA min, & TD discretion used to place players accurately. 3 Tournaments each day – Details on our web site. Tuesdays: APR. 7-8 Sections: Elementary School Teams (K-Gr6) on Saturday only, Middle 7:30-9:30 pm (Advance lecture). 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., , 2nd annual Bill Little Memorial (NY) School Teams (K-Gr8) & High School Teams (K-Gr12) on Sunday Los Angeles, CA 90025. (4 blocks W of 405, SW corner of See Grand Prix. only. All three sections are one-day events. Sched: Saturday only Santa Monica & Butler * 2nd Floor – above Javan Restaurant) APR. 8, CT State Rapid Championships! (QC) section: Onsite Registration @ Sat 9-9:30a, Round Times @ Sat 10a- Group Classes * Tournaments * Private (1:1) Lessons. Note See Grand Prix. 11:30a-1p-2:15p-3:30p. Sunday only section: Onsite Registration @ our monthly major tournaments. Also, we have the best Weekly APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class Sun 9-9:30a, Round Times @ Sun 10a-11:30a-1p-2:15p-3:30p. Prizes: BLITZ tournament on Saturday nights at 6:30 pm!! Special 4 commemorative clocks and team trophy to the team for Top 3 Championships (MA) overall teams. Clocks to top scorer on each board (1-4) in each section. VELLOTTI’S CHESS SCHOOL See Grand Prix. Event EF: $149/team or $39/player by 3/15. Late Fee: after 3/15: $10 Beginners Welcome! Now offering online lessons, Vellotti’s Chess MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD) extra per player or $40 per team. Onsite: $20 extra per player, $80 School makes chess FUN for both boys & girls from PreK thru See Grand Prix. extra per team. Info:www.bayareachess.com/scholasticteam. Online 8th grade. Our Award-Winning Enchanted Chess adventure- MAY 18-20 OR 19-20 entry at http://www.BayAreaChess.com/my/scholasticteam or mail based system is currently used to train & develop thousands of , 26th annual New York State Open and to Bay Area Chess, 2050 Concourse Drive #42, San Jose, CA 95131. students into state and national champions. Super star International Senior (NY) For questions: [email protected]. W. Master Luke Vellotti supervises the development of lesson plans See Grand Prix. MAY 25-28 OR 26-28 MAR. 31, Bay Area Cupertino Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) and also coaches more advanced students and titled players. Now , 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: Players w + score. in two locations- Idaho and Southern CA. For more info about See Grand Prix. Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:15-5p. EF: 29, 44 after 3/24. Classes, Camps, and Tournaments, call (208) 713-2486 or email MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open (PA) Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. [email protected]. Visit us online at SuccessInChess.com See Grand Prix. or SoCalChess.com to register for a FREE class today! MAR. 31, Bay Area Cupertino Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) JUNE 8-10 OR 9-10, 24th Annual Northeast Open Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: players w + score. MAR. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 31, Every Saturday & Sun- See Grand Prix. Sched: Reg.: 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a -1:30p. EF: 34, 49 after 3/24. day Chess 4 Juniors JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8 Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. , 46th Annual World Open (PA) 9 separate events- 5SS, G/30 d0. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd. & Butler See Grand Prix. LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blocks West of 405. $30 ($20 LACC memb, No A State Championship Event! EF: APR. 6-8 prize 1/2 EF, siblings 1/2, Free new LACC members). Reg.: 12-1 pm. , 2018 CalChess State Scholastic Championship Rds.: 1pm & asap; done by 4; Prizes: Trophies & medals; All players Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America Pkwy., CA 95054. DELAWARE receive prizes! Parking: Free on streets & BoA. Free healthy refreshments. Park free. Huge Trophies to top 20 players w + score & top 5 Prizes: Info: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com or [email protected]. MAR. 10-11, Delaware State Open Chess Championship teams and top 5 clubs (in ea section). Medals to all others. In case of See Grand Prix. ties, tiebreaks will determine trophies. Sections based on grades AND MAR. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, LACC - Sat Nite Blitzathon G/5 (BLZ) rating. Sched: 1-day event for all u800 sections: KG, K-Gr3 Rookie(unr), 5 separate events- 7DSS, G/5 d0 (Blitz,14 Games). 11514 Santa Monica MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR. K-Gr3 Beginner(u500), K-Gr3 JV(500-799): Saturday only 5SSxG/30 d5: Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blks W of 405. EF: $20 ($15 LACC memb). No 31-APR. 1, 12th annual Philadelphia Open (PA) Rounds: 9:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm, 3pm, 4:30pm. K-Gr6 Rookie(unr), K- prizes 1/2 EF. Reg.: 6-6:30 pm. Register at LAChessClub.com and receive See Grand Prix. a free gift. 6:30, 6:55, 7:20, 7:45, 8:10, 8:35, 9 pm. 1/2 Gr6 Beginner(u500), K-Gr6 JV(500-799), K-Gr8 Beginner(u800), K-Gr12 Rds.: Prizes: MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD) Beginner(u800): Sunday only 5SSxG/30 d5: Rounds: 9:30am, 11:30am, collections. Parking: Free on streets & BoA. Info: 310/795-5710 or See Grand Prix. 1:30pm, 3pm, 4:30pm. for sections: K-Gr3 Champ (800+), www.LAChessClub.com. 2-day event MAY 25-28 OR 26-28 K-Gr5 Champ (800+), K-Gr6 Champ (800+), K-Gr8 JV (800-1199), K- MAR. 3, 10, 24, 31 , 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) , LACC Saturday G/60 See Grand Prix. Gr8 Champ (1200+), K-Gr12 JV (800-1599): Sat+Sun 6SSxG/75 d5. 4 separate events- 1 open section, 6SS, G/60 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Rounds: Sat & Sun 9am, 12n, 3pm. 3-day event for K-Gr12 Champ(1600+) Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. EF: $30/ ($20 LACC memb; No prizes 1/2 EF). MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open (PA) FIDE rated: 5SSxG/90+30: Fri 6pm, Sat 11am, 3pm, Sun 10am, 2pm Reg.: 11-12 noon. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day. Prizes: 1/2 collections. See Grand Prix. Side-event: Blitz: KG-Gr3, Gr4-6, Gr 6-8, Gr 9-12: G/5 d0; Sat 6-8p. Parking: Free at BoA, streets, & basement. Info: 310/795-5710 or JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17 (G/5 d0) Fri 6-8p. by 3/20: 1-day $53, 2-day $67. Playup , 7th annual Continental Class Bughouse EF www.LAChessClub.com. Championships (VA) (by grade): +20, Late Fee: +10 after 3/20, +20 after 3/25, 4/3 & MAR. 4, 11, 25, LACC Sunday G/60 See Grand Prix. Onsite +$40. Change Fee: $10 after 3/25, $20 after 4/3, $30 onsite. 1 open section, 6SS, G/60 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blitz/Bughouse: $12. 4 separate events- Register: Online: until Friday 4/6 noon! Onsite Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. EF: $30/ ($20 LACC memb; No prizes 1/2 EF). CalChess & USCF mem- 7:30-8am! No on-site Registration after 8AM. Reg.: 11-12 noon. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day. Prizes: 1/2 collections. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA bership reqrd. Apr 18 Supp & TD disc to place players. Info/Reg: Parking: Free at BoA, streets, & basement. Info: 310/795-5710 or MAY 4-6 OR 5-6 bayareachess.com/states. Quest: [email protected]. W. www.LAChessClub.com , 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD) See Grand Prix. APR. 21-22, 2018 Annual Frank Doyle Open MAR. 17-18 , 2018 Smyslov Memorial - U1800 only MAY 25-28 OR 26-28 See Grand Prix. (A sponsored event) 1 open Section. 6SS, G/60 d5. 11514 Santa Monica , 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) See Grand Prix. MAY 5-6, 13th Susan Polgar Foundation National Open for Boys Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. EF: $75; $55 LACC members; No-prize players, and Girls spouses/siblings, new members 1/2 EF. Reg.: Sat 10-11:45. Rds.: 12, MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open (PA) Livermore Community Center, 4444 East Ave., Livermore, CA 94550. 10 2, 4 pm each day. Byes: Up to three 1/2-point byes. Last Rd. bye before See Grand Prix. Rd. 5. Play 1 day- no 1/2 pt byes- 1/2 EF. Championship sections based on age and gender: Under8, Under10, 1-Day option I: 1-Day option JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class Under12, Under14, Under 16 &18 separate sections for Girls & Boys. II: Play 1 day & get three 1/2 pt byes- Full EF. Prizes: $$1,000 (b/40) Championships (VA) $500 Gtd. U1800: $200-100-$25; U1600: $200-100-25; U1400: $150- Individual Trophies: Top 15 players. “Super Performance” trophies to See Grand Prix. players tied for last place with a trophy award and the top player(s) in 75-25; U1200: $50 in book prizes. Best attack: $25; Biggest upset: $25. each rating class who did not get a place trophy. Commemorative partic- Info: (310) 795-5710; [email protected] or www.LAChessClub.com. ipation medals to all others. Team Trophies: Top 3 Schools and Clubs in Parking: Free on streets, BoA, or basement. FLORIDA each sections. Time control: G/60 d5. Schedule: Onsite Registration: MAY 5-6, 13th Susan Polgar Foundation National Open for Boys Saturday 8-8:30am. Rounds: Saturday 9:30am, 12:30pm, 3:30pm, and Boca Raton Chess Club and Girls (CA-N) Friday night tournament games, one game a week for 4 weeks. Sun 9:30am, 12pm, 2:30pm. Byes: Rds. 4&5 byes must be requested See California, Northern. before Rd. 1. $54, Add $15 (4/23- www.bocachess.com, 561-302-4377. Entry Fee for 2-day event by 4/22: JUNE 20-21 5/1), Add $30 (5/2-4), Add $40 for onsite. Side Events: 2 sections based , 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class on grade and rating: K-Grade4 under500, K-Grade8 under800. Individual See Nationals. Championships Trophies: Top 10 players, medals to all others. Team Trophies: Top 3 JUNE 21, Walter Browne Memorial National Open Blitz See Grand Prix. Schools and Clubs in each sections. Time control: G/30 d5. Schedule: Championship (BLZ) (NV) MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18 Onsite Registration: Saturday 8-8:30am. Rounds: Saturday only: 9:30am, , Lone Star Open (TX) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. 11am, 12:30pm, 2pm, 3:30pm. Entry Fee for side event by 4/22: $47, JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24 Add $15 (4/23-5/1), Add $30 (5/2-4), Add $40 for onsite. Other Special , 2018 National Open (NV) MAR. 24, Village Quads Side Events: Q&A & 25-board Simul, Puzzle Solving Competition, Blitz See Nationals. Open to all*. 3 round Quad G/60 d5. Captiva Rec Center, 658 Pinellas Pl., Championship. May 2018 supplemental for all sections. Change fee equal JUNE 23-24, International Youth Championship (NV) The Villages, FL 32163. Rds.: 10AM, 1PM, 3:15PM. EF: $5, prizes based to the late fee will apply for any changes, other than bye requests with See Nevada. on entries. Unrateds free. Booster: $12, Prize 1-year membership in USCF, nonrated. 9AM at site. online at: https://www.chess- less than one week before the tournament. Out of state entries 20% off JULY 6-8, Pacific Southwest Open Reg.: Adv. Reg.: (mail entry or email [email protected] with USCF ID for online See Grand Prix. register.com or mail to Herbert Menendez, 3133 Jemima Ave., The Villages, entry coupon code). Chief Organizer: J. Sztaray. Organizers/TDs:, T. Lang- FL 32163. Email: [email protected]. Note: * Lake, Sumter land, J. McCumiskey. Sponsored by Susan Polgar Foundation. More info and Marion county residents must reside in The Villages. & flyer: www.spfno.com. Register online at www.spfno.com/registration. COLORADO APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 25th Space Coast Open Mail entries to Bay Area Chess, 2050 Concourse Drive #42, San Jose, JUNE 20-21 See Grand Prix. CA 95131. Register early to save. Questions: [email protected], , 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) 408-409-6596. W. See Nationals. MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago JUNE 20-21 JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV) Open (IL) , 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Grand Prix. See Nationals. See Nationals. JUNE 23-24 MAY 25-28 OR 26-28 JUNE 21 , International Youth Championship (NV) , 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) , Walter Browne Memorial National Open Blitz See Nevada. See Grand Prix. Championship (BLZ) (NV) See Grand Prix. CONNECTICUT GEORGIA JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV) See Nationals. MAR. 10-11, 51st annual New York State Scholastic MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class JUNE 23-24, International Youth Championship (NV) Championships (out of state welcome) (NY) Championships (FL) See Nevada. See New York. See Grand Prix.

www.uschess.org 61 Tournament Life / March

MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open (TX) MAY 5-6, Chicago Chess Center 2nd Haymarket Memorial online at “louisvillechess.wix.com/play” (see calendar page) or mail to See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. the chess center, attn: Richard Williams. MAR. 31-APR. 1, 1st Annual Ron Finegold Memorial MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago Open MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. Open (IL) APR. 6-8, 2018 National Junior High School (K-9) Championship MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) See Grand Prix. See Nationals. See Grand Prix. MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 25th Space Coast Open (FL) MAY 27, 7th annual Chicago Open Blitz (BLZ) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. MAY 12, GrayKnight May 2018 Scholastic LOUISIANA 5SS, G/30 d0. Frederica Academy, 200 Murray Way, St. Simons Island, INDIANA GA 31522. Prizes: Trophies to 1st, 2nd, 3rd, Team, & Upset in each of MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class the four sections: Section #1 – Primary – K-3; Section #2 – Elementary MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, 22nd annual Mid-America Open (MO) Championships (FL) – 4-5; Section #3 – Middle School – 6-8; Section #4 – High School 9- See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. 12. USCF Membership Required. Other States Ok. Entry Fee: $18 If APR. 20-22 OR 21-22 MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open (TX) before 05/10/18, $20 the day of the tournament. Registration: 8:30- , 77th Annual Indiana State Chess Championship See Grand Prix. 9:30a.m. Round 1 starts at 10:15a.m then each following round starts See Grand Prix. 25 minutes after the previous round ends. Pre-Register to: Donny Gray, 8601 Beach Blvd. #923, Jacksonville, FL 32216, (706) 589-8131, A State Championship Event! MAINE [email protected]. APR. 21 , Indiana State Blitz Championship (BLZ) MAR. 17-18 Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Airport, 2501 S. High School Rd., Indianapolis, , Saco Open MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. IN 46241. 7/SS, G/3+2s incr. PRIZES: $$600 (b/32), $200, $100, U2000, U1700, U1400 $100 ea. EF: $25 by 4/13 at indianachess.org OR by mail APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class (Mathew Leach, 4010 Parkwood Circle, Apt. 2A, Mishawaka, IN 46545), Championships (MA) IDAHO $30 onsite until 8:30PM Sat., $5 discount to ISCA members. Rd.1 9PM, See Grand Prix. following rds. ASAP. JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Nationals. APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 15th Annual Great Lakes Open (MI) MARYLAND See Grand Prix. JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV) MARYLAND CHESS TOURNAMENTS See Nationals. MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago Open (IL) MD Chess runs scholastic tournaments 2 Saturdays per month See Grand Prix. from September through June & open tournaments 2 Saturdays ILLINOIS or weekends per month throughout the year. Visit www.MD MAY 27, 7th annual Chicago Open Blitz (BLZ) (IL) Chess.org to find tournament announcements, tutors, coaches, MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, 22nd annual Mid-America Open (MO) See Grand Prix. & camps; register online for tournaments; & subscribe to See Grand Prix. scholastic and/or open e-newsletters. MD scholastic players MAR. 30-APR. 1, Midwest Holiday Class IOWA who compete in the Varsity section (exclusively for players See Grand Prix. rated 1600+) of a MD-Sweet-16 Qualifier can qualify for the US Chess Junior Grand Prix! $45,000 scholarship to UMBC awarded annually. The Uni- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! MAR. 17, 2018 Iowa Class Championships versity of Maryland, Baltimore County’s chess team is a APR. 7, Chicago Chess Center Plus-Score #19 4-SS, Divided into Classes: M-X-A, B, C, & D and under. Players may 4SS, G/65 d5. Student Center East, Univ. of Illinois at Chicago, 750 S. perennial top-10 contender for the national championship. play up one class. Some sections may be combined. G/75 d5. Where: MAR. 10-11 Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60607. Two sections: OPEN: Each player with 4 Physician Clinic of Iowa, Community Room, 202 10th Street SE, 3rd , Delaware State Open Chess Championship (DE) points wins $240, 3½ = $120, 3 = $60, 2½ = $30. UNDER 1800: Open Floor, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402. Reg.: 8:15 to 9:00 am. On-line registration See Grand Prix. to 1799 & under or unrated. Each player with 4 points wins $160, 3½ = at www.onlineregistration.cc Rounds: M-X-A, B, C, & D, 9:30 am- MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR. $80, 3 = $40, 2½ = $20. ALL: EF: $36 by 4/1, $42 by 4/6, $49 onsite. 2:30-5:00-7:30 pm. Entry Fee: $25 if postmarked by March 12th, $30 31-APR. 1, 12th annual Philadelphia Open (PA) $15 play-up for under 1700 in Open. 20% discount for CCC members. on site. On-site available. IASCA membership required, $10.00. Prize See Grand Prix. Rds.: 10-1-3:30-6. Accelerated possible. ENT: www.chichess.org/events Info: Class prizes, 1st place $50 + trophy, 2nd place $30 US Chess MAY 4-6 OR 5-6 or mail to Chicago Chess Center NFP Inc., P.O. Box 180095, Chicago, IL Federation (USCF) membership required. On Site Available. IASCA , 64th Annual Maryland Open 60618. REG.: 9-9:30 a.m. No phone entries. 1/2-pt. bye any round: membership required, $15, $10 Jr. or Sr. On-Site Available. Send See Grand Prix. request before rd. 2. INFO: 773-294-1709, [email protected]. Sets & Entry Fee to: Checks payable to Eric Vigil, 445 Galway Dr., Iowa City, MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) clocks provided. All-day parking at 760 W. Taylor available for $7. W. IA 52246. Include name, USCF ID, Section, phone #, email address. See Grand Prix. APR. 7, Chicago Chess Center Rated Beginners’ Open #16 Additional Info: Annual meeting at 1 pm. March 17, 2017. MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open (PA) 5-SS. G/30 d5. Student Center East, Univ. of Illinois at Chicago, 750 S. APR. 21-23, 12th Annual Okoboji Open (IASCA GP Qualifier) See Grand Prix. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60607. Two Sections: Under 1200 & Unrated , See Grand Prix. Under 800 & Unrated. EF: $22 by 3/31, $28 by 4/6, $35 onsite. Prizes: JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class First place (or all scoring 4½ points or more): chess clock and book, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Championships (VA) 3½ points or more: two books. All players who compete the event will APR. 21-23 OR 22-23, 12th Annual Okoboji Reserve U1600 See Grand Prix. 1405 Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center. 1405 Highway 71 S. receive a book! Free entry & US Chess membership available to a limited JUNE 27-JULY 1 OR JUNE 29-JULY 1, 8th annual World Open number of City of Chicago scholastic players with financial need (honor Okaboji, IA 51355. 5 Rd. Swiss, G/120 d5 in 3-day option. Rds.: Friday 6:00 PM; Saturday 10:00 AM, 4:30 PM; Sunday 9:00 AM, 2:30 PM. 2- Senior Amateur (PA) system). [email protected] for details. ENT: www.chichess.org/events/. See Pennsylvania. REG.: 9-9:30 a.m. No phone entries. Rds.: 10-11:15-1:15-2:30-3:45. day option has G/90 d5 for rds. 1 and 2. Sections merge at Rd. 3. On 1/2-pt. bye any round: request before rd. 2. INFO: 773-294-1709 or site reg: 5:00-5:45 PM on 4-21 (3-day option) Rds.: 9:00 AM, 1:00 PM JUNE 28-JULY 2, 12th annual Philadelphia International (PA) [email protected]. Sets & clocks provided. All-day parking at 760 W. 4:30 PM; Sunday 9:00 AM, 2:30 PM. Entry fee: $35, if received by April See Grand Prix. Taylor available for $7. W. 13, 2018. On site: $45 cash or $50 check. Prize info: Top 3 (guaranteed) JUNE 30-JULY 1, World Open Warmup (PA) APR. 7-8 $300 + Trophy, $100 & $50. U1400, U1250 $80. U1000 $50 (b/20). See Pennsylvania. , 54th Greater Peoria Open Make checks payable: Sibley Chess Club. 934 6th St., Sibley, IA 51249, See Grand Prix. (712) 330-8254 or email [email protected] or pay on-line by April JULY 2-3, 7th annual World Open Women’s Championship (PA) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 15. Additional info: $79 Hotel rate, if reserved by March 21, call 1-800- See Grand Prix. APR. 15, Chicago Chess Center Plus-Score #20 727-4561. Onlineregistration.cc JULY 3, 6th annual World Open Action Championship (PA) 4SS, G/65 d5. Student Center East, Univ. of Illinois at Chicago, 750 S. MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago See Grand Prix. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60607. Two sections: OPEN: Each player with 4 Open (IL) JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8 points wins , 3½ = , 3 = , 2½ = . , 46th Annual World Open (PA) $240 $120 $60 $30 UNDER 1600: See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. Open to 1599 & under or unrated. $$ Each player with 4 points wins $160, 3½ = $80, 3 = $40, 2½ = $20. ALL: EF: $35 by 4/8, $42 by 4/14, $49 onsite. 20% discount for CCC members. $15 play-up for under KANSAS MASSACHUSETTS 1700 in Open. Rounds: 10-1-3:30-6. Accelerated possible. ENT: www.chichess.org/events/ or mail to Chicago Chess Center NFP Inc., MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, 22nd annual Mid-America Open (MO) MAR. 10-11, 51st annual New York State Scholastic P.O. Box 180095, Chicago, IL 60618. REG.: 9-9:30 a.m. No phone entries. See Grand Prix. Championships (out of state welcome) (NY) 1/2-pt. bye any round: request before rd. 2. INFO: Bill Brock, 773-294- MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago See New York. 1709, [email protected]. Sets & clocks provided. All-day parking at Open (IL) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 760 W. Taylor available for $7. W. See Grand Prix. MAR. 14, 21, 28, APR. 4, 11, Evert Siiskonen Memorial APR. 15, Chicago Chess Center Rated Beginners’ Open #17 MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) 5SS, G/100 d5. Wachusett CC, McKay Complex, Room C159, Fitchburg 5-SS. G/30 d5. Student Center East, Univ. of Illinois at Chicago, 750 S. See Grand Prix. State University, 67 Rindge Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420. EF: $20 annual club Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60607. Two Sections: Under 1200 & Unrated , dues or $1 per game. Reg.: 6:30-7 p.m. Rds.: 7:15 p.m. each Wed. Byes: Under 800 & Unrated. ALL: EF: $20 by 4/8, $27 by 4/14, $35 onsite. 1-4, limit two. Prizes: chess books to 1st-2nd, top U1900, U1700, U1500, Prizes: First place (or all scoring at or above 4½ points): chess clock KENTUCKY U1300. Info: George Mirijanian, 176 Oak Hill Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420, and book, 3½ points: two books. All players who compete the event APR. 14 [email protected], 978-345-5011. Website: www.wachusettchess.org. will receive a book! Free entry & US Chess membership available to a , 2018 Green Grass WEB: 3/14. Free parking. W. Cafe facilities. WiFi. limited number of City of Chicago scholastic players with financial need College Park Annex Building, 30 Wheeler Ave., Winchester, KY 40391. In 2 Sections, Open: 4SS, G/45 d5, EF: $10. Unr: FREE. $$90% Rtd. MAR. 17, Boylston Chess Foundation (honor system): [email protected] for details. ENT: www.chichess.org/ See Grand Prix. events. REG.: 9-9:30 AM. INFO: [email protected] or 773-294-1709. 60% 1st,40% 2nd. Reg.: 9:15. Rds.: R1 9:45 am. Scholastic (Winchester Rds.: 10-11:15-1:15-2:30-3:45. Sets & clocks provided. All-day parking Scholastic Chess League): 5SS, G/30 d5, EF: $5 cash. Prizes: Trophies MAR. 24, 2018 Greater New Haven Championships! (CT) at 760 W. Taylor available for $7. W. to Scholastic 1st-3rd place in each section: K3, K5, K12. Reg.: 8:30. See Grand Prix. Rds.: 9:15. Season end; Grand Trophies to teams and individuals. Ent: APR. 20-22, 2018 All-Girls National Championships presented Frank Walls [email protected]. www.Winchesster.com. MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR. 31-APR. 1, 12th annual Philadelphia Open (PA) by the Kasparov Chess Foundation in association with the APR. 21, 3rd Greater Louisville Open Renaissance Knights Chess Foundation & US Chess 4-SS, G/60 d5. Yussman Chess Center, 173 Sears Ave., Louisville, KY See Grand Prix. See Nationals. 40207. Entry Fee: $30 (by 4/18), $40 at site. Prize Fund: $800, based MAR. 31, WN Winter 2018 RBO APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 15th Annual Great Lakes Open (MI) on 40 entries;1st $180, 2nd $140; A, B, C, D/E each $75, $45. Regis- No refreshments available onsite. Bring your own snacks. Map for dining See Grand Prix. tration: 8:00-8:45 a.m., rounds at 9:00, 12:00, 2:30, 5:00. Entries: pay provided. 5SS, G/30 d5. West Newbury Town Hall Annex, 381 Main St.,

62 March 2018 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14

West Newbury, MA 01985. Open to under 1200 or unrated. EF: $20 by 24 MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) bye if requested before round 3 Ent: [email protected] with March, $25 on site. Prizes: Trophies for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, U900, U600, U300 See Grand Prix. cash on-site or mailed to Joplin Chess Club, 2609 New Hampshire, and top unrated. Reg.: 9:15-9:45. Rds.: 10-11:15-1:15-2:30-3:45. 1 1/2 Joplin, MO 64804. Checks payable to Martin Stahl. Parking: See www.mis- point bye rounds 1-4, must request by round 3. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49 souristate.edu/visitors/parking.htm or contact TD. Info: joplinchess.org, Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: [email protected]. MINNESOTA [email protected], 417-483-1554 www.relyeachess.com. MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago APR. 28, The Kansas City Chess Club Championship APR. 7, Chess Fool’s Day Open Open (IL) Liberty United Methodist Church, 2 S. Water St., Liberty, MO 64068. 4SS, G/60 d5. The Alumni House - Amherst College, 75 Churchill St., See Grand Prix. (Free Parking) 3SS. G/60 d5. EF: $25 at Reg4Chess.com. $35 onsite. Amherst, MA 01002. EF: $30 on-site; $25 if postmarked by 4/2/2018; Reg.: 10AM. Rd. 1 @10:30AM. USCF & KCCA Memb Req. Info: Ken at $2 WMCA discount; Unrated FREE; USCF membership required. [email protected]. Free Entry For ALL New and Unrated Players USCF $$450b/30 paying entries. Open 1st: $100; Top A: $90; Top B: $80; Top MISSISSIPPI Players! C: $70; Top Under 1400: $60; Top Unrated: $50. REG.: 8:30-9:15am MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28 Saturday 4/7/2018. RNDS.: 9:30am, 12:30pm, 3:00, 5:30. ENT: WMCA, MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class , 27th annual Chicago c/o Ed Kostreba, 45 Fairview, Palmer, MA 01069. INFO: Ron Gist (413) Championships (FL) Open (IL) 695-7689 [email protected]. USCF Membership required. Please See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. bring set and clock. W. MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open (TX) APR. 7, CT State Quick Championships! (QC) (CT) See Grand Prix. MONTANA See Grand Prix. APR. 7-8, 2nd annual Bill Little Memorial (NY) MISSOURI A Heritage Event! See Grand Prix. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! APR. 7-8, 83rd Montana Open APR. 8 Friday Improve Your USCF Rating Night , CT State Rapid Championships! (QC) (CT) The Kansas City Chess Club, 2 S. Water St., Liberty, MO 64068. 3SS, DoubleTree, Billings, MT. 5SS, G/105 d5. $$$ based on entries. Details See Grand Prix. G/30 d5 at 7PM - every Friday evening. Free Parking! Free Coffee! EF: at www.MontanaChess.org or [email protected]. APR. 15, 28th Massachusetts G/60 Championship $10. Flyer at: www.kansascitychessclub.com. JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Grand Prix. MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open (TX) See Nationals. APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class Championships See Grand Prix. JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV) See Grand Prix. MAR. 17, Saint Patrick’s Day G/60 Play for Rating Event! See Nationals. MAY 18-20 OR 19-20, 26th annual New York State Open and The Kansas City Chess Club, 2 S. Water St., Liberty, MO 64068. (Free Senior (NY) Parking) 3SS. G/60 d5. EF: $25 at Reg4Chess.com. $35 onsite. Reg.: NEBRASKA See Grand Prix. 10AM. Rd. 1 @10:30AM. USCF & KCCA Memb Req. Info: Ken at [email protected]. Free Entry For ALL New and Unrated Players USCF MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) Players! See Grand Prix. Open (IL) MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, 22nd annual Mid-America Open See Grand Prix. MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open (PA) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. MAR. 31, Saturday Night Special (QC) NEVADA JUNE 8-10 OR 9-10, 24th Annual Northeast Open (CT) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. APR. 6-8, Bill Wright Saint Louis Open (FIDE Rated) $10K Event A State Championship Event! JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 46th Annual World Open (PA) See Grand Prix. MAR. 10, Nevada State Scholastic Girls’ Championship See Grand Prix. 5-SS, G/25 d5 round 1-3, G/45 d5 round 4-5. Las Vegas Chess Academy, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! APR. 7-8 2560 Montessouri St., Suite 206, Las Vegas, NV 89117. Open to any MICHIGAN , 2018 Missouri State University Open Nevada school age girl. Trophies for top players and teams. Every player Co-hosted by the MSU and Joplin Chess Clubs. 5-SS, G/90, +30. Plaster wins a medal! Winner represents Nevada in National Tournaments of Student Union Room 315, 1110 E. Madison St., Springfield, MO 65897. 1 APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 15th Annual Great Lakes Open Champions. EF $30 if received by 3/5, $40 later. Reg.: Address above or See Grand Prix. Section, Open: $200-150, Class A, B, C, D, U1200/UNR $100 each. www.lasvegaschesscenter.com. On site by 8:30. Late registrants may 5.0 Bonus: $40. Prizes: b/25 non-scholastic entries. EF: $30 by 4/6, not be paired in round 1. Round 1 at 9:30. [email protected]. MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago $40 at door. Scholastic (rating only) $15 by 4/6, $25 at door. Email INFO: Open (IL) entry accepted for lower rate. MCA membership required, OSA Reg.: A State Championship Event! See Grand Prix. 8-9:30. Rounds: Sat 10, 2:30, 7; Sun 9:30, 2:30. Byes: One 1/2 point MAR. 17, Nevada State Scholastic Championship

22nd annual MID-AMERICA OPEN March 23-25 or 24-25, 2018 - Clayton (Saint Louis), Missouri $20,000 GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND! CLAYTON PLAZA HOTEL (formerly Crowne Plaza) in the upscale suburb of Clayton, near Saint Louis

5 rounds, 40/100, SD/30, d10 Mixed doubles bonus prizes: 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 6 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/60, d10). best male/female 2-player combined pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 Clayton Plaza Hotel, 7750 score among all sections: $800-400- & 3:15. Carondelet Ave, Clayton MO 63105 (I- 200. Team must average under 2200; 2-day schedule: Reg. Sat. to 10 64 W/US 40-W Exit 32B, 1.2 miles N may play in different sections; register am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. on Hanley Rd). at site (no extra fee) by 2 pm 3/24. Half point byes OK all, limit 2; Prizes $20,000 unconditionally Major must commit before round 2, guaranteed. Top 5 sections entry fee: $113 others before round 3. online at chessaction.com by 3/21, 3- In 6 sections- you face only those day $118, 2-day $117 mailed by 3/14, All: Bring set, board, clock if in your section. Unrated will obtain $130 at site or online until 2 hrs before possible- none supplied. ratings. rd 1. No check at site, credit card OK. Hotel rates: $102-105, includes Major: Open to 1800/up. $2000- Under 1250 Section entry fee: All free full hot buffet breakfast & free 1000-600-400, clear/tiebrk 1st $100, $20 less than above. parking, 888-303-1746, 314-726-5400, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE, 120 GPP. Online entry fee $3 less to reserve by 3/9 or rate may increase. Under 2100: $1500-700-500-300. Missouri Chess Association members. Entry: chessaction.com or Under 1900: $1500-700-500-300. Re-entry (except Major) $60. Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham Under 1700: $1400-700-500-300. Special 1 yr USCF mem. with NY 10803. $15 service charge for Under 1500: $1200-600-400-300. magazine if paid with online entry, refunds. Questions: [email protected], Under 1250: $900-500-300-200. Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic chesstour.com, 347-201-2269. Unrated prize limits: U1250 $200, $15. USCF membership required. Entries posted at chessaction. U1500 $400, U1700 $600. Balance Unofficial web ratings usually com (online entries posted instantly). goes to next player(s) in line. used if othrerwise unrated. Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm.

www.uschess.org 63 Tournament Life / March

K-3 and K5: 6-SS, G/25 d5. K-8 and K-12: 5-SS, G/25 d5 round 1-2, 1st - 3rd $200, $150, $100, TU1400 $50, TU1200 $50, Call 201 797- fieldchessclub.org/Events.html. G/45 d5 round 3-5. Las Vegas Day School, 3275 Red Rock, Las Vegas. 0330, email [email protected] or visit icanj.net for more info. APR. 14, Princeton Charter School Open to any Nevada school age resident. Trophies for top players, top ADV EF (pmk by Mar 5th): $40. At Site $45. Reg ends 1/2 hr before TOURNAMENT LOCATION: Princeton Charter School at:100 Bunn Dr., teams, and more. Every player wins a medal! Winners of K-8 and K-12 1st rd. Late entrants will receive a 1/2 pt bye for rd. 1. Rds.: 9:30 AM, Princeton, NJ 08540. TIME CONTROL: G/30 d0; Swiss to 4 rounds. SEC- represent Nevada in National Tournaments of Champions. EF $40 11:45 AM, 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM. Enter online at: http://www.icanj.net/ TIONS: Open above 1000; U1000; U700; U300/Unrated. (sections will received by 3/5, $50 by 3/16, $70 on site. Reg.: Las Vegas Chess Acad- chess_class_in_nj/ica_chess_tournaments or mail to: Diana Tulman, be combined. Awards will be given to the top 3 in each section) Parental emy, 2560 Montessouri St., Suite 206, Las Vegas, NV 89117 or 28 Canterbury Ln., New Milford, NJ 07646. Make checks payable to: Supervision Required: The parents or another adult must be designated www.nevadachess.org. On site by 8:30. Late registrants may not be International Chess Academy. W. to supervise the student player between rounds. Schedule (will be paired in round 1. Round 1 at 9:30. INFO: [email protected]. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! accelerated if possible) First Round: 12:01 PM. Second Round: ASAP. MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR. 31-APR. 1, 7th Annual Reno Larry MAR. 15, 22, 29, APR. 5, Kenilworth Spring Swiss Third Round: ASAP. Fourth Round: ASAP. Award Ceremony: ASAP Evans Memorial - FIDE 4-SS. G/61 d5. Kenilworth Recreation Center, 575 Boulevard, Kenilworth, (4:05 the latest). Schedule will be accelerated if possible. (*) Online See Grand Prix. NJ 07033. EF: $12, $10 Kenilworth CC members. Prizes, b/16: $50-40, Registration $30 Only if register one week before: www.ChessKid- sNY.com/PCSChessProgram.htm. (*) Fee will increase automatically MAY 5-6 U1900 $30, U1600 $20. Reg.: 8:00-8:25 p.m. Rds.: 8:30 p.m. on 3/15, , 13th Susan Polgar Foundation National Open for Boys 3/22, 3/29 & 4/5. Byes: 1 allowed, any round. Info: kenilworthchess- to $35 if register later. On site registration the date of the event: and Girls (CA-N) [email protected]. $40 from 11:45 am to 12:00 noon. Information: email to Miguel Iniguez See California, Northern. MAR. 17 at: [email protected] Results will be posted online the same day JUNE 20-21 , ICA Super Saturday Quads of the event! , 2018 U.S. Women’s Open 354 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS, See Nationals. G/45 d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tour- APR. 14, Saint Joseph Spring Scholastic JUNE 21, Walter Browne Memorial National Open Blitz nament. Entry Fee: $25 all sections. Rounds: 1:30 and ASAP. Prize: St. Joseph HS, 145 Plainfield Rd., Metuchen. Drive to cafeteria in rear Championship (BLZ) $60 1st place (each quad). Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@ of school. K-8 (Current SJHS Students are eligible to play but not eligible See Grand Prix. icanj.net for more information. for prizes) 2 Sections: Open, Novice. Open: USCF Membership Required. MAR. 18 Novice: USCF Membership Not Required – perfect for newer players. JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open , Westfield G/50 Quads Time Control: 5-SS, G/25 d5. Rounds: 1st Round 10:00 then immediately 3-RR. G/45 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. $25, See Nationals. EF: following. EF: $20. Prizes: Trophies to Top 3 players in each section. $20 Members. $60 to first in each section. 12:45- JUNE 23-24 Prizes: Register: Tiebreaks used. USCF Rule 34E. Register: 9:30 – 9:50. Lunch provided , International Youth Championship 1:20 p.m. Those registering after 1:20 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds: 6-SS, G/60 +5. Westgate Las Vegas Resort, 3000 Paradise Road, 89109. on site for parents/students (included in reg. fee). Information: 1:30, 3:25, 5:20 p.m. Info: [email protected], www.west- [email protected]. PLEASE BRING EQUIPMENT! In 4 Sections by age: 14 & Under Open, 14 & Under Reserve (under fieldchessclub.org/Events.html 1000), 9 & Under Open, 9 & Under Reserve (under 800). Trophies to APR. 15 MAR. 24 , Westfield Spring Scholastic top 10 in each section plus class and team trophies. 1st Place in each , 90th Central Jersey Chess Tournament Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. K-12. 3 Sections: Open, Princeton Academy, 1128 Great Road, Princeton. 3 rated sections – section wins a Computer loaded with valuable Chess Software and U1250, U750. Open: 3-SS. G/40 d5. Rounds: 2:00, 3:45, 5:30 p.m. U1250 , , – each K-12, 4 rounds, G/25 d5. 2 unrated sections hundreds of Videos, 2nd-4th win chess prizes valued at 250-150-100. Open U1000 U600 & U750: 4-SS. G/25 d5. Rounds: 2:00, 3:15, 4:30, 5:45 p.m. Prizes: Unrated players may not win 1st in Reserve sections. EF $89 by 5/31, – Intermediate (K-8), Beginners (K-2): 4 rounds. Trophies to 1st-3rd Trophies to Top 5 in each section. Tiebreaks used. See USCF Rule 34E. & top team per section, medals to all! $35 pre-reg online by 3/22. $45 $99 by 6/20, $120 later. Half point bye in any round (limit 2) if requested EF: $25, $20 members. Register: 1:15-1:50 p.m. Info: westfieldchess- in advance. Reg.: 8:30-9 a.m. Rds.: 10-1-3:30, 10-1-3:30. Youth Blitz: on-site 1:15-1:45. Round 1 begins at 2:00pm. Register online: [email protected], www.westfieldchessclub.org/Events.html www.njchess.com, Info: Grant Oen, [email protected]. 6/22 6:30 p.m. ($20 by 5/31 $25 later). HR: $69, $92 Friday and Saturday APR. 22 (800) 732-7117 Cutoff for special hotel rate is May 31; after that MAR. 24 , Westfield Grand Prix , ICA Super Saturday Quads See Grand Prix. rates will increase significantly and there may not be any rooms 354 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS, available. ENT: Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV G/45 d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tour- APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class 89009-0925 or www.VegasChessFestival.com. nament. Entry Fee: $25 all sections. Rounds: 1:30 and ASAP. Prize: Championships (MA) $60 1st place (each quad). Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@ See Grand Prix. icanj.net for more information. NEW HAMPSHIRE APR. 29, Westfield G/45 Quads MAR. 25, Westfield G/60 Quads 3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, MAR. 17, Middlebury Quick Chess for U1810 (QC) (VT) 3-RR. G/55 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, $20 Members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 1:15-1:50 See Vermont. $20 members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 11:45 p.m. Those registering after 1:50 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds: MAR. 24, New Hampshire Quick Chess Championship (QC) a.m.-12:20 p.m. Those registering after 12:20 will be charged $5 extra. 2:00, 3:45, 5:30 p.m. Info: [email protected], www.west- See Grand Prix. Rounds: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00 p.m. Info: [email protected], fieldchessclub.org/Events.html www.westfieldchessclub.org/Events.html. Note: 3/18 event TBA. We’re MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD) APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class closed on 4/1. Championships (MA) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR. MAY 6, Westfield G/45 Quads 31-APR. 1, 12th annual Philadelphia Open (PA) MAY 25-28 OR 26-28 3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, , 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. $20 Members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 1:15-1:50 MAR. 31, Hamilton Chess Club Quads p.m. Those registering after 1:50 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds: 3RR, 40/80 15/30 15/30 d0. Full K. McManimon Hall, 320 Scully Ave., 2:00, 3:45, 5:30 p.m. Info: [email protected], www.west- NEW JERSEY Hamilton Twp., NJ 08610. Quads open to all. EF: $10. Prizes: $25 per fieldchessclub.org/Events.html Quad. 9-10:30am. 10:30am-1:30pm-4:30pm. OSA. More MAY 13 MAR. 3, ICA Super Saturday Quads Reg.: Rds.: , Mother’s Day Blitz (BLZ) 354 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS, information: hamiltonchessclub.com or 609-758-2326 leave message G/5 d2. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. 2 Sections: or text 609-351-2437. W. G/45 d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tour- Premier (8 highest-rated players), Quads (all others). Premier: 7-RR. nament. Entry Fee: $25 all sections. Rounds: 1:30 and ASAP. Prize: MAR. 31, ICA Super Saturday Quads Prizes: $50-30-20. Quads: DRR (6 games). Prizes: $50 to 1st in each $60 1st place (each quad). Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@ 354 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS, section. Register: 1:15-1:50 p.m. EF: $21, $16 members. Rounds: All icanj.net for more information. G/45 d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tour- sections 2:00, 2:20, 2:40, 3:00, 3:20 & 3:40 p.m. Final round of Premier nament. $25 all sections. 1:30 and ASAP. 4:00 p.m. Info: http://www.westfieldchessclub.org/Events.html MAR. 10, ICA Super Saturday Quads Entry Fee: Rounds: Prize: 354 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS, $60 1st place (each quad). Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@ MAY 18-20 OR 19-20, 26th annual New York State Open and icanj.net for more information. G/45 d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tour- Senior (NY) nament. Entry Fee: $25 all sections. Rounds: 1:30 and ASAP. Prize: APR. 1, NJ Children’s Chess School Open See Grand Prix. $60 1st place (each quad). Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@ New Jersey Children’s Chess School, 862 Degraw Ave., Forest Hill MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open (PA) icanj.net for more information. (Newark), NJ 07104. 3-RR, G/45 d0, K-6, Reg.: 2-2:50PM. Awards: Tro- See Grand Prix. MAR. 10-11 phies to ALL. EF: $25 for registration by mail one week in advance, $30 MAY 25-28 OR 26-28 , 51st annual New York State Scholastic at door Chess classes meet every Sunday 3-5:30PM. Info: Arkady Geller , 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) Championships (out of state welcome) (NY) 973-483-7927 or [email protected]. Website: www.chesskidsnj.com. See Grand Prix. See New York. First round begins at 3:00PM. JUNE 8-10 OR 9-10, 24th Annual Northeast Open (CT) MAR. 10-11 , Delaware State Open Chess Championship (DE) APR. 7, ICA Super Saturday Quads See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. 354 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS, JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class MAR. 11, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA Championship in 5 G/45 d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tour- Championships (VA) Sections nament. Entry Fee: $25 all sections. Rounds: 1:30 and ASAP. Prize: See Grand Prix. $60 1st place (each quad). Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@ 4SS. Bergen Academy, 200 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, NJ 07601. All JUNE 27-JULY 1 OR JUNE 29-JULY 1 players with 2.5 points or more will receive a trophy! USCF Memb Req’d icanj.net for more information. , 8th annual World Open Senior Amateur (PA) For Sections 3, 4 AND 5. For info, call 201 797 0330, email APR. 7, Princeton Day School See Pennsylvania. [email protected] or visit icanj.net. ADV EF (pmk by Mar 5th) $35 At 650 The Great Road. Sections for OVER 1000 rated players begin at Site $40. Reg ends 1/2 hr before 1st rd. Late entrants will receive a 1/2 pt 10:15 and must preregister: 3 rds. G/55 d5: ALL AFTERNOON SECTIONS JUNE 28-JULY 2, 12th annual Philadelphia International (PA) bye for rd. 1. In 5 Sections: Section 1 Junior Novice (not USCF rated): for unrated to 1000 rated players: G/25 d5 4 rds, beginning at 12:00 See Grand Prix. Open to unr players K thru 2nd grade. Rds.: First Round 10:15 AM then noon (round times will be accelerated if possible): OPEN (Players K-12 JUNE 30-JULY 1, World Open Warmup (PA) ASAP. Section 2 Novice (not USCF rated): Open to unr players K thru 4th U-1000), RESERVE (K-12 U-800), NOVICE II (K-8 U-600), NOVICE I See Pennsylvania. grade. Rds.: First Round 10:00 AM then ASAP. Section 3 G/45 d5 U800: (unrated K-8), K-1 (unrated) NO SCORE K-1 (beginner). MORNING Open to players rated below 800 and unrated players K thru 12th grade. JULY 2-3, 7th annual World Open Women’s Championship (PA) SECTIONS are for OVER 1000 rated players, begin at 10:15 and must See Grand Prix. Rds.: 9:45 AM, 11:30, 1:15, 3:00 PM. Section 4 G/45 d5 U1200: Open to preregister: 3 rds. G/55 d5: NEAR MASTERS (K-12 OVER 1400), FUTURE players rated below 1200 and unrated players K thru 12th grade. Rds.: MASTERS (K-12 1200-1400), CLOSED (K-12 1000-1200). PARENTS OF JULY 2-3, 10th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (PA) 9:45 AM, 11:30, 1:15, 3:00 PM. Section 5 G/60 d5 U1400: Open to All PLAYERS rated G/25 d5 3rds. Parents play free. Plaques to top 3 school See Pennsylvania. Ages rated below 1400 or unrated. Rds.: 9:30 AM, 11:45, 2:00, 4:30 PM. teams and top 8 in each section under 1000, top 3 over 1000. Medals to JULY 3 Enter online at: http://www.icanj.net/chess_class_in_nj/ica_chess_tour- , 6th annual World Open Action Championship (PA) all players. Pre-registration online, $35 pay at the door: www.pds.org/ See Grand Prix. naments/ or mail checks to Diana Tulman, 28 Canterbury Ln., New Milford, chess. On site registration $45. Inquiries to Bonnie Waitzkin Chessteach@ JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8 NJ 07646. Make checks payable to: International Chess Academy. W. gmail.com. , 46th Annual World Open (PA) See Grand Prix. MAR. 11, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA Open Championship APR. 8 , Westfield G/50 Quads JULY 4 See Grand Prix. 3-RR. G/45 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, , 7th annual World Open Game/7 Championship (BLZ) (PA) See Grand Prix. MAR. 11, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA U1600 Championship $20 members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 12:45- 4SS, G/60 d5. Bergen Academy, 200 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, NJ 1:20 p.m. Those registering after 1:20 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds: JULY 7, World Open G/10 Championship (QC) (PA) 07601. Open to all ages with rating below 1600. Prize Fund ($$ b/25): 1:30, 3:25, 5:20 p.m. Info: [email protected], www.west- See Grand Prix.

64 March 2018 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14

JULY 8, World Open Blitz Championship (BLZ) (PA) An American Classic! extra fee; enter at Marriott by Sat 2 pm. Schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, See Grand Prix. A Heritage Event! rds Sat 11, 2, 5, Sun 9, 12, 3. Awards 5:30 pm. Half point byes OK all, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! limit 2, must commit before rd. 2. HR: $135-135 at Hilton, two nights min- NEW MEXICO A State Championship Event! imum, 888-999-4711, 518-584-4000, or use link at chesstour.com. Backup MAR. 10-11, 51st annual New York State Scholastic hotel: Courtyard by Marriott, two nights minimum, $135-135, 866-210- JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) Championships (out of state welcome) 9325 or use link at chesstour.com. 7 days notice required for room See Nationals. 6SS, G/60 d10, open to grades K-12; top NYS player & team each section cancellations. Both hotels are likely to sell out 3-4 months before the tournament, but may again have availability in the final week before the JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24 are NY champions. In 14 sections. High School Sections at Courtyard , 2018 National Open (NV) by Marriott, 11 Excelsior Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (2/5 mile from event due to late cancellations. For other backup hotels see chesstour.com. See Nationals. Saratoga Hilton). Other 11 sections at Saratoga Hilton and adjacent Free parking at Courtyard; free parking for overnight guests at Hilton. 7 JUNE 23-24, International Youth Championship (NV) Saratoga City Center (connected by indoor walkway), 534 Broadway (I- days notice required for room cancellation at both. Special car rentals: See Nevada. 87 Exit 13-N, 4 miles north on US 9), Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Sections Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #657633. Online entry: www.chess at Hilton/City Center are limited to a total of 1100 players, sections at action.com. Mail entry: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, Marriott 300 players. Team prizes based on top 4 scores from same NY 12577. Include name, rating, USCF ID, USCF expiration (non-members NEW YORK school; no combined school teams allowed even if one school “feeds” include dues), section, school, grade, birth date, address of each player. OCT. 15, NOV. 19, DEC. 17, JAN. 28, FEB. 11, MAR. 4 another. Teams of 2 or 3 players allowed, but are at a disadvantage. Checks payable to Continental Chess. $15 per player service charge for (MAKEUP DATE: MAY 6), 5th Annual Magnus High School and Online entry fee at chessaction.com, all sections: $59 by 2/15, $69 refunds. $10 extra to switch sections, all substitutions from advance Junior High Chess League 2/16-3/2, $90 3/3 to 3/9. Entry fee at site, all sections: $90. High list charged $90. Questions: [email protected], 347-201-2269 (leave message, email is better). Bring clock if possible- none supplied. Bring Columbia Grammar and Prep. High School Cafeteria, 36 W. 93rd St. School Championship (all K-12 born after 9/1/98): EF $65.30 mailed (bet. Central Park West & Columbus Ave., near 96th St. subways), NYC. by 2/15. Top NYS grade 9-12 qualifies for Denker Tournament of HS set & board for HS sections; set & board supplied for other sections, but 12-SS, G/60 d10, open to grades 7-12 born after 3/4/98. 3 sections: Champions. High School Intermediate (K-12 under 1800/unr): EF not for skittles. March official ratings used (except unofficial web 1. ratings usually used if otherwise unrated). TD reserves right to assign Premier (over 1799), 2. Under 1800, 3. Under 1200. Plaques to top 3 $65.20 mailed by 2/15. High School Reserve (K-12 under 1200/unr): each section, top U1900 (Premier), top U1500 (Sec. 2), top U800, Unr. (Sec. EF $65.10 mailed by 2/15. Junior High Championship (all K-9): EF $65 estimated rating to players with non-USCF ratings. 3). May be limited to 1st 60 players to register for each date. Individual mailed by 2/15. Top NYS grade K-8 born after 9/1/02 qualifies for Barber MAR. 15, Marshall Thursday Action free entry prizes: free entry to 2 specified Continental Chess tmts. thru tournament of K-8 Champions. Middle School Intermediate (K-8 under 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100; U2200: $75; U1900: $50. EF: 12/31/18 to 1st each section. Team prizes: free entry to 1 CCA tmt. thru 1600/unr): EF $64.90 mailed by 2/15.Middle School Reserve (K-8 $25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg 12/31/18 to the 4-top-scoring players from same school across all 3 sec- under 1000/unr): EF $64.80 mailed by 2/15. Elementary Championship hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, tions, plaques to top 3 overall team scores, limit 2 teams per school. Mixed (all K-6): EF $64.70 mailed by 2/15. Elementary Intermediate (K-6 for Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchess Doubles (2-player male/female team, avg. rating U2200, may be in different under 1400/unr): EF $64.60 mailed by 2/15. K-5 Intermediate (K-5 club.org/register. sections and from different schools, must sign-up before 1/28) Bonus under 1100/unr): EF $64.50 mailed by 2/15. K-5 Reserve (K-5 under Prize: free entry to 1 CCA tmt. thru 12/31/18 to 1st Mixed Doubles team, 800/unr): EF $64.40 mailed by 2/15. Primary Championship (all K-3): US Chess Junior Grand Prix! chess sets to top 3 overall Mixed Doubles. Free entries courtesy of EF $64 mailed by 2/15. Primary Reserve (K-3 under 600/unr): EF: MAR. 15, 22, 29, APR. 5, 12, 10th Long Island CC March Open Continental Chess and are valid for CCA tmts. with 100% guaranteed prizes; $63.90 mailed by 2/15. K-1 Championship (all K-1): EF $63.80 mailed 5SS, G/90 d5. United Methodist Church, 470 East Meadow Ave., East see www.magnusleague.org, www.chesscenter.cc or www.chesstour.com by 2/15. K-1 Reserve (K-1 under 400/unr): EF $63.70 mailed by 2/15. Meadow, NY 11554. Open to all. $(b/20 pd. ent.): $110-90. Top U- for details and restrictions. Rds.: 10 am-12:30 pm (earlier if feasible) each Postmarked 2/16-27: All EF $10 more. Do not mail entry after 2/27. 2000, U-1500/unr. $60 ea. EF(cash only): $35. Non-LICC members date. Ent: Applications and EF accepted online, may be paid by school. All: Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online at +$10. UNRATED FREE! Reg.: 6:45 - 7:15 PM, no adv. ent., Rds.: 7:30 Each date’s games submitted for rating prior to next date’s games. Players chessaction.com, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or paid at site, PM ea. Thursday. 2 byes 1-5. Info: www.lichessclub.com. Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. to top 10 players and top 7 must re-register before each date; official USCF rating list in effect on Trophies US Chess Junior Grand Prix! each date used for that date (unofficial ratings usually used if otherwise teams each section, top 2 unrated in each reserve section, and top 2 MAR. 15, 22, 29, APR. 5, 12, 19 each U1900, U1700 (HS), U1600, U1400 (HS Intermediate), U1000, U800, , Marshall Thursday Open unrated or if requesting to play in Premier). Unr. may enter section 2 or 3 6-SS, G/90 +30. ($600 b/25): $250-150-$75; U1900: $125. $40; (or Premier by TD permission). Limit 6 byes (2 byes max. rds. 9-12), commit U600 (HS Reserve), U1800, U1600, U1400 (JHS), U1400, U1200 (MS Inter- EF: NonMCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Jan. 28. Teammate pairings avoided but possible. Ties for free mediate), U800, U600, U400 (MS Reserve), U1700, U1500 (Elem), U1200, entries decided by tiebreak except playoff May 6 between top 2 on tiebreak U1000 (K-6 Intermediate), U900, U800 (K-5 Intermediate), U700, U600, before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7pm each Thurs. Max two byes; request (may be fast game). Special Bonus Points may be awarded each date! U500, U400, U300 (Elem Reserve), U1400, U1200, U1000 (Primary), U500, by Rd. 4. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register. Bring clocks! Info: [email protected], chesscentr@ gmail.com, U400, U300, U200 (Primary Reserve), U800, U600, U400 (K-1), U300, MAR. 16, Marshall Quick Chess (QC) online entry thru 4 pm the day before each rd. at Magnus League U200 (K-1 Reserve). Speed playoff if perfect score tie. Free entry to NY 6-SS, G/10 +3. ($250 b/25): $125-75; U1700: $50. EF: $15; Non-MCC website: www.magnusleague.org. Reg. on-site by 9:30 am. Make school State Championship, Labor Day weekend 2018 (Albany), to top player Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before purchase orders payable to: Chess Center of NY, PO Box 4615, New each section, if not already qualified for free entry from another event. Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-7:30-8:00-8:45-9:15-9:45pm. Max two byes; Windsor, NY 12553. W. Mixed doubles prizes (chess sets) for three HS sections combined; no request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.

12th annual PHILADELPHIA OPEN Mar 28-Apr 1, Mar 29-Apr 1, Mar 30-Apr 1 or Mar 31-Apr 1, Easter weekend Prizes $80,000 based on 500 paid entries, $60,000 minimum, IM and GM norms possible! Open: 9SS, 40/2, SD/30, d10. Under 1100 Section: $1000-700- Online late entry: available until 2 Other sections: 7SS, 40/2, SD/30, 500-400-300-300-200-200-100-100. hours before round 1; same fee as at site. d10 (3-day option, rds 1-2 G/60, d10; 2- Unrated not allowed in U1400, U1600 Mailed entry: see Chess Life or chesstour. day option, rds 1-4 G/30, d10). All or U1800. Maximum prize for unrated in com. merge & play for same prizes. U1100 Section $300, in U2000 Section Senior 65/over in U1400/up, $100 Marriott Hotel, 1201 Market St, $2000. less. directly across street from famous Mixed doubles: $1000-500-300-200. Re-entry (no Open to Open) $100. Reading Terminal Market (over 80 food 2-player male/female teams averaging vendors). Chess rates $108-108-128, under 2200, may play in different sections; 5-day Open schedule: Reg. ends 215-625-2900, reserve by 3/16. see TLA or chesstour.com. Wed 6 pm, rds. Wed 7, Thu 12 & 7, Fri 11 Parking: Marriott valet about $20 Prize limits: 1) If post-event rating & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. (limited to first 100 cars). Gateway posted 3/27/17-3/27/18 is more than 30 4-day: Reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds. Thu Garage, 1540 Spring St (3/5 mile from pts above section max, limit $1500. 2) 7, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. Marriott, 1 block from Sheraton Hotel) Players with under 26 lifetime games as of 3-day: Reg. ends Fri 10 am, rds. Fri about $7 Sat & Sun, $20/day other days. April 2018 official list cannot win over $500 11, 2:30 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. in U1100, $1000 in U1400, $1500 in 2-day: Reg. ends Sat 9 am, rds Sat 7 sections. Prizes based on 500 paid U1600, or $2000 in U1800. 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. entries, else proportional (seniors, re- Half point bye OK all, limit 3 (limit 2 entries, GMs, IMs, WGMs count half, Open entry fee: last 4 rounds). Open must commit before U1100 Section 40%), with 75% minimum GMs/IMs/WGM $128 online by 3/27, round 3, others round 4. ($60,000) guaranteed. $160 at site. Open: $7000-4000-2000-1000-800- US player not FIDE or USCF 2200/ All: FIDE ratings used for Open, April 600-500-500-400-400, clear/tiebreak 1st over: $378 online at chessaction.com by USCF for others, unofficial usually used if $200, FIDE U2400/Unr $2000-1000. FIDE 3/27, $400 at site. otherwise unrated. Bring set, board, clock rated, 200 Grand Prix points. Other: $228 at chessaction.com by if possible- not supplied. USCF Under 2200, Under 2000, Under 3/27, $250 at site. membership required; see Chess Life or 1800 Sections: Each $5000-2500-1200- MINIMUM PRIZE guarantees for GMs chesstour.com for special dues rates. 800-600-500-400-300-300-300. & foreign FIDE: see TLA or chesstour.com. Entries posted at chessaction.com Under 1600 Section: $4000-2000- U2200 to U1400 Section: $228 (online entries posted instantly). $15 1000-700-500-400-300-300-300-300. online by 3/27, $250 at site. charge for refunds. Under 1400 Section: $3000-1500- U1100 Section entry fee: $78 online Blitz tournament Sat 10:30 pm, 1000-700-500-400-300-300-300-300. by 3/27, $100 at site. enter by 10:15 pm.

www.uschess.org 65 Tournament Life / March

US Chess Junior Grand Prix! MAR. 22, Marshall Thursday Action APR. 2, 9, 16, 23, 111th Nassau Grand Prix MAR. 16-18 OR 18, Marshall Monthly U2400 - 3-Day 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100; U2200: $75; U1900: $50. EF: See Grand Prix. 5-SS, G/90 +30. Open to players rated below 2400 USCF. $1,000 GTD: $25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg APR. 4, 11, 18, 25 hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, , Community Chess Club of Rochester Wed $500-200; U2100: $150; U1800: $150. EF: $50; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional Night Chess! $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: 3- for Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshall day: Fri. 6pm, Sat. & Sun. 12:30 & 5:30pm. 1-day: Sun. 9-10-11am (G/25 chessclub.org/register. Note: 1 game rated per night, G/80 d5. Rochester Chess Center, 221 Norris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. 585-442-2430. EF: $5, CCCR members d5) then merge in round 4. Max two byes; request at entry. Register MAR. 23 , Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz (BLZ) $3. Reg.: 6:30-7:20 pm. Rd.: 7:30pm. www.rochesterchessclub.org. Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register. See Grand Prix. APR. 5, Marshall Guaranteed Action! MAR. 17, 19th Annual Bruce Bowyer Memorial MAR. 24, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1800) See Grand Prix. 4-SS, G/25 d5. $350 GTD: $125-75; U2200, U1900: $75. EF: $15; NonMCC 4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2200: Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before MAR. 17, Marshall G/50 (U1700) $75. U1800: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1600: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for Rd. 1 or 4-SS, G/45 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1500: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/ Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. register. Rd. 1.) Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Register Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register. Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register. MAR. 24 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! , 2018 Greater New Haven Championships! (CT) APR. 6-8 MAR. 17 See Grand Prix. , Marshall PREMIER FIDE OPEN , Middlebury Quick Chess for U1810 (QC) (VT) 5-SS, G/90 +30.Two Sections: FIDE: FIDE Rated. Only open to players See Vermont. MAR. 25, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1500) with a current published rating 2000+ (USCF or FIDE); NO exceptions. MAR. 17-18, 40th Annual Marchand Open 4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1900: Limited to 30 players. $1,750 GTD: $1,000-500. U2300: $250. EF: $100; See Grand Prix. $75. U1500: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1300: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $50 Mbr + service fee. ($5 service fee for in- Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before MAR. 18, 19th Annual Bruce Bowyer Memorial SCHOLASTIC person reg hour before Rd. 1.) First 5 GMs Free. U2000: Limited to 40 Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. players. ($1,000 b/40): $500-200; U1750: $150, U1500: $150. EF: $50; 5SS, G/30 d10. Open to all students thru grade 12. EF: $10. *** ESTON- Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register. IAN HOUSE, 243 East 34th Street between Second and Third Avenues. Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 service fee for in-person 212.684.0336. Note: Saturday Grand Prix and Sunday Scholastic. MAR. 25, Marshall Rated Beginner (3 Rounds) reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Fri. 6pm, Sat. & Sun. 12:30 & 5:30pm. Info@Facebook: Bruce Bowyer Foundation or (Pat Bowyer) 516.641.4521. 3-SS, G/25 d5. Only open to players without a rating or rated U1200. Max two byes; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchess $$G: $200-$125-$75, U1800 $50, U1600 $40, U1400 $30, U1200 $25. ($225 b/25): $150-75. EF: $15; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. club.org/register. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Begin at 9am & New: Mixed Doubles Bonus Prize: best male/female 2-player team com- Rds.: US Chess Junior Grand Prix! bined score: $50. Team must average U2200; register (no extra fee) continue ASAP. No byes. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/ APR. 6, 13, 20, 27 register. , 18th Annual Queens Team Championship onsite by 1 pm; teammate pairings avoided but possible. Speed playoff 4-SS, G/120 d5. All Saints Lutheran Church, 164-02 Goethals Ave., for 5-0. Reg.: 10:15-10:45. Rds.: 11am-1pm-2:30-4pm-5:30. Limit 2 MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR. Jamaica, NY 11432. Open to two player teams with April ratings averaging byes, commit by 1PM. Ck/MO payable to Pat Bowyer (be sure to specify 31-APR. 1, 12th annual Philadelphia Open (PA) under 2000. $100-$50 to top 2 teams, $60 each to top U1700 team, top Scholastic) c/o APS, 3500 North State Road 7, Ste 400, Lauderdale See Grand Prix. mixed doubles or all female team, top scorer Board 1, top scorer Board Lakes, FL 33319. Note: Limit 60 players, no door ents. Payment$/Entries MAR. 29 2 (based on 10 paid teams (prizes raised/lowered proportionally)). One must be received by MAR 13 latest. Provide name,school, USCF rating, , Marshall Thursday Action 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100; U2200: $75; U1900: $50. EF: 1/2 point team bye permitted, which must be requested at entry. If one ID#, & exp date. Note: You *MUST* bring clocks and sets, none will $25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg player on team is unavailable, replacement player must be rated lower be provided. hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, and occupy board of player replaced. EF: $35 per player, $25 QCC mem- MAR. 20, Marshall Masters for Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshall bers. Reg.: 7:00-7:30 pm. Rds.: 7:45 each Friday. Mail advance entries See Grand Prix. chessclub.org/register. by 3/31/18 to Joseph Felber, 76 Union Ave. #1W, Amityville, NY 11701.

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

Overall Affiliate Standings Adult Membership Standings Name State Count Name State Count CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN NY 1389 CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN NY 1082 PAPERCLIP PAIRINGS TX 934 MARSHALL CHESS CLUB NY 201 BAY AREA CHESS CA 931 SAN DIEGO CHESS CLUB CA 154 BOCA RATON CHESS CLUB FL 295 CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CTR MO 153 EN PASSANT CHESS CLUB TX 291 JERSEY SHORE HS CHESS LEAGUE NJ 140 THE BERKELEY CHESS SCHOOL CA 288 BAY AREA CHESS CA 96 NEW YORK CITY CHESS INC NY 285 ROCHESTER CHESS CENTER NY 82 SUCCESS CHESS SCHOOL CA 271 BOCA RATON CHESS CLUB TX 78 FOOTHILL HS CHESS CLUB CA 232 LOS ANGELES CHESS CLUB CA 71 PARKWAY CHESS TX 220 PAPERCLIP PAIRINGS TX 62 Small State Affiliate Standings Scholastic and Youth Membership Standings Name State Count Name State Count MAINE ASSOC OF CHESS COACHES ME 143 PAPERCLIP PAIRINGS TX 872 ALL SAINTS CATHOLIC SCHOOL CC ME 55 BAY AREA CHESS CA 835 JOHN BAPST MHS CHESS CLUB ME 32 CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN NY 307 NEW MEXICO SCHOL CHESS ORG NM 28 NEW YORK CITY CHESS INC CA 276 TOURNAMENT IN A BOX NH 26 SUCCESS CHESS SCHOOL CA 270 RELYEA CHESS NH 25 THE BERKELEY CHESS SCHOOL CA 265 ENDGAME CHESS CLUB NM 21 EN PASSANT CHESS CLUB TX 259 DELAWARE YOUTH CHESS ORG DE 19 FOOTHILL HS CHESS CLUB CA 223 WVSCA WV 13 BOCA RATON CHESS CLUB FL 217 SPENCE CHESS CLUB NE 13 WESTERN PA YOUTH CHESS CLUB PA 208 State Chapter Affiliate Standings Member Standings Name State Count Name State Count MARYLAND CHESS ASSOCIATION MD 470 HAYES, SELTMAN B MI 6 WASHINGTON CHESS FEDERATION WA 176 HONG, ERNEST C NV 5 PENNSYLVANIA ST CHESS FED PA 134 MASSACHUSETTS CHESS ASSOC MA 88 NEVADA CHESS INC NV 57 MINNESOTA ST CHESS ASSN MN 39 NEW JERSEY ST CHESS FED NJ 38 TENNESSEE CHESS ASSOCIATION TN 28 DELAWARE CHESS ASSOCIATION NH 24 IOWA STATE CHESS ASSOCIATION IA 23 PCT Gain Standings State Dec16 Dec17 PCT State Dec16 Dec17 PCT State Dec16 Dec17 PCT State Dec16 Dec17 PCT MT 67 89 32.8 AR 218 280 28.4 ME 407 476 17.0 UT 806 890 10.4 ID 237 314 32.5 MN 1054 1352 28.3 RI 224 261 16.5 AK 64 84 31.2 MO 1720 2014 17.1 VT 228 261 14.5

66 March 2018 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14

APR. 7, CT State Quick Championships! (QC) (CT) charge per player after 4/12. $15 service charge for each player refund. Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for Rd. 1 or See Grand Prix. TD reserves right to reassign sections for advance entries with incorrect 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/ or unclear registrations. Limit 2 byes, commit before rd. 3. see travel register. APR. 7-8, 2nd annual Bill Little Memorial HR: websites for nearby hotels in NYC. help with entries, parking, etc: See Grand Prix. Info, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! www.chessgirls.win. Questions: [email protected], chess- MAY 4-6 APR. 7, 14, 21, 28, Rochester Chess Center Saturday Tourna- [email protected] or 646-232-3155 (or 347-201-2269: leave message, , Marshall PREMIER 5-SS, G/90 +30.Two Sections: FIDE Rated. Only open to players ments! email is better). Team rooms: [email protected]. Sets provided FIDE: with a current published rating 2000+ (USCF or FIDE); NO exceptions. 3-SS, G/60 d5. Rochester CC, 221 Norris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. 585- by Little House of Chess— bring clocks! School purchase orders payable Limited to 30 players. $1,000-500. U2300: $250. $100; 442-2430. Prizes based on entries. EF: $15, RCC members $13. $2 less to:Chess Center of NY, PO Box 4615, New Windsor, NY 12553. (Note: $1,750 GTD: EF: for HS and Pre-HS. Reg.: 1-1:45 pm. Rds.: 2-4-6. One bye available, US Chess Junior Grand Prix for Top 3 Championship Sections only.) Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $50 Mbr + service fee. ($5 service fee for in- person reg hour before Rd. 1.) First 5 GMs Free. U2000: Limited to 40 request at entry. www.nychess.org. Also, Youth tournament, G/30 d5, APR. 15, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1600) every Saturday morning 10am-1pm, trophies and prizes. EF: $5. players. ($1,000 b/40): $500-200; U1750: $150, U1500: $150. EF: $50; 4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2000: Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 service fee for in-person APR. 8, Marshall Rated Beginner (3 Rounds) $75. U1600: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1400: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Fri. 6pm, Sat. & Sun. 12:30 & 5:30pm. 3-SS, G/25 d5. Only open to players without a rating or rated U1200. Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Max two byes; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchess ($225 b/25): $150-75. EF: $15; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. club.org/register. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Begin at 9am & www.marshallchessclub.org/register. Rds.: Register Online: MAY 4-6 OR 5-6 continue ASAP. No byes. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/ , 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD) APR. 17, Marshall Masters See Grand Prix. register. See Grand Prix. MAY 10 APR. 8, TRM232 , Marshall Thursday Action APR. 19, Marshall Thursday Action 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100; U2200: $75; U1900: $50. EF: Riverbank State Park Theater, 145th St. & Riverside Dr., NYC 10025. 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100; U2200: $75; U1900: $50. EF: Preregister www.chesstrm.org/NYC/ 4/SS, G/30 d5. Check in by 9:15. $25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg $25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, APR. 8 Rds.: , CT State Rapid Championships! (QC) (CT) hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar- See Grand Prix. for Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshall shallchessclub.org/register. chessclub.org/register. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! MAY 11, Marshall Friday Night Blitz (BLZ) APR. 11, 18, 25, MAY 2, 9, 16, Marshall Weekly Wednesday APR. 19, 26, MAY 3, 10, 17, 24, 3rd Annual LI Chess Club Ilan 9-SS, G/3 +2. USCF regular rating used for pairings & prizes. ($500 6-SS, G/90 +30. Two Sections: U2000: ($600 b/25) $250-150-100; Kreitner Memorial b/35): $200-100; U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50. EF: $20; Non- U1700: $100. U1400: ($600 b/25) $250-150-100; U1100: $100. EF: $40; See Grand Prix. MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour NonMCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour APR. 20, Marshall Quick Chess (QC) before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: Begin at 7pm and continue ASAP. Max before Rd. 1.) 7pm each Wed. Max two byes; request by Rd. 4. Rds.: 6-SS, G/10 +3. ($250 b/25): $125-75; U1700: $50. EF: $15; Non-MCC three byes; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/ Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register. Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before register. APR. 12 , Marshall Thursday Action Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-7:30-8:00-8:45-9:15-9:45pm. Max two byes; MAY 12, Marshall G/50 Open 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100; U2200: $75; U1900: $50. EF: request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register. 4-SS, G/45 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2100: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC $25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! APR. 20-22, Marshall Monthly U2400 Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. for Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar- Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register. shallchessclub.org/register. 5-SS, G/90 +30. Open to players rated below 2400 USCF. $1,000 GTD: $500-200; U2100: $150; U1800: $150. EF: $50; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional MAY 12 APR. 13 , Marshall U1900 Morning Action , Marshall Friday Night Blitz (BLZ) $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: 3- 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1700: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC 9-SS, G/3 +2. USCF regular rating used for pairings & prizes. ($500 day: Fri. 6pm, Sat. & Sun. 12:30 & 5:30pm. 1-day: Sun. 9-10-11am (G/25 Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before b/35): $200-100; U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50. EF: $20; Non- d5) then merge in round 4. Max two byes; request at entry. Register Rd. 1.) Rds.: 9-10-11am-12:15pm. Max one bye; request at entry. MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: Begin at 7pm and continue ASAP. Max APR. 21 three byes; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/ , Marshall G/50 (U1700) MAY 13, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1600) register. 4-SS, G/45 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1500: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC 4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2000: Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before APR. 14 $75. U1600: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1400: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC , Marshall G/50 Open Rd. 1.) Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Register Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before 4-SS, G/45 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2100: $75. $20; Non-MCC EF: Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register. Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register. Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register. APR. 23, 30, MAY 7, 14, 21, 28, Marshall FIDE Monday/U1800 MAY 15, Marshall Masters 6-SS, G/90 +30. Two Sections: Open: Open to all players 1600+. FIDE See Grand Prix. APR. 14, Marshall U1900 Morning Action Rated. ($600 b/25) $200-150-100; U2000: $100-50. ($600 b/25) U1800: MAY 18-20 OR 19-20 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1700: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC $200-150-100; U1500: $100-50. EF: $40; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 , 26th annual New York State Open and Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: Senior Rd. 1.) Rds.: 9-10-11am-12:15pm. Max one bye; request at entry. 7pm each Mon. Max two byes; request by Rd. 4. Register Online: See Grand Prix. www.marshallchessclub.org/register. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register. MAY 20, 1st Annual Grace Church School Scholastic Tourna- APR. 14 NOT APRIL 7 , TRM124 APR. 26, Marshall Thursday Action ment ML King MS, 918 Stanley St., Schenectady 12307. Free. Preregister 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100; U2200: $75; U1900: $50. EF: Format: 4-SS, G/40 d5. Sections: Rookie- Pre K- 1 (unrated, no clock), www.chesstrm.org. 4/SS, G/30 d5. Rd. 1 10:00. $25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg Primary- K-3 U600, Elementary- K-6 U1000, Championship- K-12 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, EF: $40 postmarked by May 1, $50 if postmarked by May 13 $50 by A State Championship Event! for Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshall 12:00 PM on May 19th or onsite, Time: 2:00 PM-6:00 PM. Trophies to top 10 individuals and one team in each section. Grace Church High APR. 14-15 OR 15, 2nd Annual NY State Girls Championship! chessclub.org/register. School, 46 Cooper Sq., New York, NY 10003. www.premierchess.com, Open to all girls, out of state welcome, the NEST+m School, 111 Columbia US Chess Junior Grand Prix! www.facebook.com/premierchess. Inquiries to Evan Rabin at erabin66@ Street (between Delancey and E. Houston St), NYC. Subways: Delancey APR. 26, MAY 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Marshall Thursday Open gmail.com. Street (F train), 2nd Ave. Station (F, M trains). Online entries at 6-SS, G/90 +30. ($600 b/25): $250-150-$75; U1900: $125. EF: $40; www.chessgirls.win: $55 thru 4/9/18, $65 4/10-12, $80 later or at site, NonMCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago at least 1 hour before game ($5 less per player if 3 or more from same before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7pm each Thurs. Max two byes; request Open (IL) school enter together online by 4/9). For details on mail or phone by Rd. 4. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register. See Grand Prix. entries see www.chessgirls.win or www.chesscenter.cc. In 7 sections. APR. 27 MAY 25-28, 26-28 Each section has its own age, (grade) and rating requirements (Championship , Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz (BLZ) , East Coast Open (PA) See Grand Prix. sections open to all who are under age (and grade) limits; unrated allowed See Grand Prix. all sections). Open Championship, open to all girls born after 4/15/98 APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 25th Space Coast Open (FL) MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) (top NYS K-12 girl qualifies for National Girls Tournament of Champions in See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. Wisconsin), K-6 Championship and K-3 Championship are each 2- APR. 27-29 OR 28-29 JUNE 8-10 OR 9-10, 24th Annual Northeast Open (CT) days: 6-SS, G/60 d10. Rounds: 10 am-1-4 pm each day. K-12 Under , 27th annual Eastern Class Championships (MA) See Grand Prix. 1200, K-6 Under 900, K-3 Under 600 and K-1 Championship are each 5-SS, G/30 d5. Rounds: 10 am-12-1:30-3-4:45 pm Sunday. K-1 open to See Grand Prix. JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class grades 1/below born after 4/15/10. Both K-3 sections open to grades APR. 28, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1800) Championships (VA) 3/below born after 4/15/08. Both K-6 sections open to grades 6/below 4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2200: See Grand Prix. born after 4/15/05. K-12 Under 1200 section open to grades 12/below $75. U1800: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1600: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC JUNE 27-JULY 1 OR JUNE 29-JULY 1, 8th annual World Open born after 4/15/98. Trophies to top 12 each section and top 3 Unr. in Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Senior Amateur (PA) each 1-Day section. Grade plaques: top 3 K/below in K-1 section, top 3 Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. See Pennsylvania. scorers below 9th Grade in K-12 U1200, top 3 below 4th grade in K-6 Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register. JUNE 28-JULY 2 U900, and top 3 below 2nd grade in K-3 U600 (you can win both plaque + APR. 29 , 12th annual Philadelphia International (PA) , Marshall G/50 (Open & U1500) See Grand Prix. trophy). All players scoring 4 or more (5 or more in 2-Day sections) who 4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1900: don’t win a trophy receive a medal! Speed playoff for 5-0 or 6-0. Plaques $75. U1500: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1300: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC JUNE 30-JULY 1, World Open Warmup (PA) also to top 4 teams each section (top 3 scorers from same school = Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before See Pennsylvania. team, all on team must attend same school: no combined teams, even if Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. JULY 2-3 one school “feeds” another). (in each 2-Day , 7th annual World Open Women’s Championship (PA) Individual free entry prizes Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register. See Grand Prix. Championship section): Free entry to 2 specified Continental Chess tour- naments thru 12/31/18 to 1st! Free entries courtesy of Continental Chess APR. 29, Marshall Rated Beginner (3 Rounds) JULY 2-3, 10th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (PA) and are valid for CCA tmts. with 100% unconditionally guaranteed prize 3-SS, G/25 d5. Only open to players without a rating or rated U1200. See Pennsylvania. ($225 b/25): $150-75. $15; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. funds. Free entries do not include NYS Scholastics in Saratoga. See EF: JULY 3 ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Begin at 9am & , 6th annual World Open Action Championship (PA) www.chesscenter.cc for complete details and restrictions. All: Out-of- See Grand Prix. state eligible for prizes but top NYS player and team each section are NY continue ASAP. No byes. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/ Champions. April 2018 official ratings used, except unofficial ratings at register. JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 46th Annual World Open (PA) uschess.org usually used if otherwise unrated. TD reserves right to assign MAY 3, Marshall Guaranteed Action! See Grand Prix. estimated ratings to players with non-USCF ratings. All substitutions from 4-SS, G/25 d5. $350 GTD: $125-75; U2200, U1900: $75. EF: $15; NonMCC JULY 4, 7th annual World Open Game/7 Championship (BLZ) (PA) advance entry list charged late fee. Section switches subject to $10 extra Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before See Grand Prix.

www.uschess.org 67 Tournament Life / March

JULY 7, World Open G/10 Championship (QC) (PA) MAR. 23, DCC Friday Nite Quick (QC) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! See Grand Prix. 4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: MAY 12, Toledo May Swiss 7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. based on entries. JULY 8, World Open Blitz Championship (BLZ) (PA) Prizes: EF:$15 ($10 Open, 4SS, Rnd. 1 G/75 d5, Rnds. 2-4 G/85 d5. University of Toledo See Grand Prix. DCC mbr). Info: [email protected], 937-461-6283. Health Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Cafe, 3000 Arlington MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, 22nd annual Mid-America Open (MO) Ave., Toledo, OH 43614. Can split into multiple sections if enough players. See Grand Prix. EF: $20 by 5/10, $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: NORTH CAROLINA $450 b/25, $100-50, Class prizes TBD based on split. Ent: jagz47@hot- MAR. 24, CWRU March Magnus mail.com. 7031 Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450. MAR. 15, Charlotte Chess Center Third Thursday Triple See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Open (IL) MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 5th Annual Ron Simpson Memorial MAR. 24-25, MOTCF: Midwest Open Team Chess Festival See Grand Prix. Tournament 5SS, Rd.1 G/90 +10, Rds. 2-5 are 40/90, SD/30 +10. Four players/team MAY 25-28 OR 26-28 See Grand Prix. plus one alternate. LIMIT 36 teams. Location: Dayton Chess Club - 18 West , 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) See Grand Prix. MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class Fifth St – Dayton, OH 45402. Team (March) ratings for pairings determined Championships (FL) by average of highest four ratings with imputed ratings for players rated JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class See Grand Prix. more than 400 points below team avg. Reg.: Fri Mar 10, 8pm-11pm & Sat Championships (VA) Mar 11, 9-10am. Rds.: Sat 10:30, 2:30, 7:00, Sun 10 & 3:30. EF: $272/team See Grand Prix. APR. 5, Charlotte Chess Center First Thursday FIDE Blitz - if mailed or online prior to Mar 20, then $300/team including Fri/Sat at site. Marnzell Hand Memorial (BLZ) Prizes (b/24 teams): 1st $1,600, 2nd $1,200, U2000: $1100, U1800: $1000, OKLAHOMA See Grand Prix. U1600 $900. Top boards (1-4) $100. Hotel: TBD. Registration Form: Include MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD) all team members, ratings, ID numbers, and board order (switches limited MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open (TX) See Grand Prix. to 50 rating points), please use online entry form at DaytonChessClub.com See Grand Prix. MAY 25-28 OR 26-28 if mailing entry. If registering at www.DaytonChessClub.com use online , 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) entry form provided. MC/V online and at site, no cks at site. Individuals may See Grand Prix. sign up for “ad hoc” teams. Information call 937.461.6283 or email OREGON JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17 [email protected] or check www.DaytonChessClub.com. , 7th annual Continental Class MAR. 18, Portland Chess Club Sunday Quads Championships (VA) MAR. 30, DCC Friday Nite Quick (QC) PCC, 8205 SW 24th Ave., Portland, OR 97219. The live regular ratings See Grand Prix. 4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: are usually used. G/50;inc15. EF: 15, 5 discount for PCC members and 7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF:$15 ($10 each extra family member in the same household, free entry if it’s your NORTH DAKOTA DCC mbr). Info: [email protected], 937-461-6283. first US Chess rated tournament (must pay for US Chess membership). APR. 6 US Chess membership required. Prizes: discounted entries, books, and MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28 , DCC Friday Nite Quick (QC) , 27th annual Chicago 4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: bonus trophy or medal for scholastics. Reg.: 9-9:45am. Rds.: 10am, Open (IL) 7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF:$15 ($10 12: 30pm, 3pm. See more info. and rule variations used at pdxchess.org. See Grand Prix. DCC mbr). Info: [email protected], 937-461-6283. APR. 7, Southern Oregon Chess Tournament APR. 6-8 OR 7-8, 54th Cincinnati Open Entry Fee: $25 if received in advance; $35 if registered on site (must OHIO See Grand Prix. register at least 10 minutes prior to round 1). Prizes: 1st: $100-$50 and 2d $75-$25; under 1800 $50-$25 (prize winnings based on the MAR. 2, DCC Friday Nite Quick (QC) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! number of players) Schedule and Time Control: 3 Rounds/Game in 4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: APR. 20-21 & 27-28, Dayton Chess Club’s 58th Championship 60 (5 second delay) 9:30am, 12pm, 2:30pm Please bring your own clock 7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF:$15 ($10 6SS, 40/90, SD/60 +30. USCF/FIDE rated Open Tournament. Reg.: and board Tournament Location: Diamond Medical Maintenance, 1020 DCC mbr). Info: [email protected], 937-461-6283. Ends Apr 20, 7:45 p.m. EF: $40 adv/$60 after Apr 18th. Rds.: 1-3: Apr Knutson, Medford, OR. Registration: US Chess Membership Required MAR. 9, DCC Friday Nite Quick (QC) 20/21 – 8pm Fri, 10:30am, 5:30pm Sat.. Apr 27/28 Rds.: 4-6: 8pm Fri, Send entrance fees, USCF ID, rating, full name to: Ed Battistella, PO 10:30am, 5:30pm Sat. Must be registered DCC member for minimum of Box 1081, Ashland, OR 97520. For more information contact Ed Battistella 4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: 3+ months. (b/20):1st $200, 2nd $160; u2000 $140; u1600:$100. at 541-552-0743 and [email protected] 7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF:$15 ($10 Prizes Register online today! (Under REGISTRATION tab) DCC mbr). Info: [email protected], 937-461-6283. MAY 5-6, 13th Susan Polgar Foundation National Open for Boys MAR. 16 APR. 27-29, 2018 National High School (K-12) Championship and Girls (CA-N) , DCC Friday Nite Quick (QC) See Nationals. 4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: See California, Northern. 7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF:$15 ($10 APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 15th Annual Great Lakes Open (MI) JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) DCC mbr). Info: [email protected], 937-461-6283. See Grand Prix. See Nationals. CHECK OUT US CHESS CORRESPONDENCE CHESS RATED EVENTS!

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

68 March 2018 | Chess Life See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14

JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago See Nationals. JULY 2-3, 10th annual World Open Under 13 Championship Open (IL) JUNE 23-24, International Youth Championship (NV) 6SS, G/60 d10. Philadelphia Marriott Downtown (see World Open for See Grand Prix. See Nevada. location, rates). Open to all born after 7/3/05. In 4 sections. Open MAY 25-28 OR 26-28 Section: Trophies to top 7, top 2 Under 1600/Unr; free entry in all CCA , 73rd Annual Texas State and Amateur tournaments 7/13/18-12/31/18 to 1st. Under 1400 Section: Trophies Championships PENNSYLVANIA to top 7, top 2 Under 1200, free entry in all CCA tournaments 7/13/18- See Grand Prix. 9/30/18 to 1st. Under 1000 Section: Trophies to top 7, top 2 Under JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) North Penn Chess Club 800, free entry in all CCA tournaments 7/13/18-9/30/18 to 1st. Under Main & Richardson, Lansdale, PA. See www.northpennchessclub.org See Nationals. 600 Section: Trophies to top 7, top 2 Under 400, top Unrated; free JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24 for schedules & info or 215-699-8418. entry in all CCA tournaments 7/13/18-9/30/18 to 1st. EF: $48 online at , 2018 National Open (NV) MAR. 10-11, Delaware State Open Chess Championship (DE) chessaction.com by 6/30, $51 mailed by 6/15, $60 at site. Late reg. See Nationals. See Grand Prix. 7/2 to 10 am, rds. Mon 11-2-5, Tue 10-1-4. Up to 2 half point byes JUNE 23-24, International Youth Championship (NV) MAR. 18, PCL March Quick Quads (QC) allowed, must commit before rd. 3. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental See Nevada. 3RR, G/15 d3. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow Chess, PO Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Questions: chesstour.com, chesstour.info, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11- UTAH 11:15am. Info: [email protected], 412-908-0286. W. for refunds. JULY 3 MAR. 24, 17th Horizons for Youth Spring Scholastic RBO , 6th annual World Open Action Championship MAY 5-6, 13th Susan Polgar Foundation National Open for Boys See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. and Girls (CA-N) JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8 MAR. 24, 2018 PA State Game/29 Championship (QC) , 46th Annual World Open See California, Northern. See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) JULY 4 MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR. , 7th annual World Open Game/7 Championship (BLZ) See Nationals. See Grand Prix. 31-APR. 1, 12th annual Philadelphia Open JUNE 21, Walter Browne Memorial National Open Blitz See Grand Prix. JULY 5, 6, 7, 8, World Open Daily 2 pm Blitz (BLZ) Championship (BLZ) (NV) APR. 7 4 separate tournaments at Marriott Philadelphia Downtown (see World See Grand Prix. , W. Chester 1st Sat Quads Open). Each is a 4-SS, double round (8 games), G/5 d0. Prizes $$300 Our 29th year! 3RR, Game/80 d5. 2nd Presbyterian Church, 114 S. Walnut guaranteed: $100-50, U2100 $60, U1800 $50, U1500/Unr $40. EF: $20, JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV) St., West Chester, PA. $20; $40, $50 for 3-0. 9am. 9:40, EF: Reg.: Rds.: at site only, no checks. Reg. ends 1:45 pm, rds. 2, 2:45, 3:15, 3:45. One See Nationals. 1:00, 4:00. Info: [email protected] pair of 1/2 pt byes available, must commit before rd. 2. Blitz rated (will JUNE 23-24, International Youth Championship (NV) APR. 14, MasterMinds CC Swiss/Quads not affect regular ratings), but higher of regular or blitz used for pairings See Nevada. Esperanza Academy, 421 W. Bristol St., Phila., PA 19140. Quads: 3RR, & prizes. $10 service charge for refunds. G/85 d5. EF: $30 cash; winner $100. Reg. ends 9AM. Rds.: 9:30, 1, 4. JULY 7, World Open G/10 Championship (QC) Scholastic: 4SS K-12 Open, K-8 U1100, K-6 U800, K-3 U500 G/40 d5, EF See Grand Prix. VERMONT $10 rec’d by Thurs. before, $25 on site. Reg. ends 9AM. Rd. 1 10AM then asap. Mail Ent: payable to MasterMinds CC, 36 E. Hortter St., Philadelphia, JULY 8, World Open Blitz Championship (BLZ) MAR. 10-11, 51st annual New York State Scholastic PA 19119. Info: mastermindschess.org or brad@master mindschess.org. See Grand Prix. Championships (out of state welcome) (NY) See New York. APR. 15, PCL April Quick Quads (QC) 3RR, G/15 d3. O’Hara Student Center, Univ. of Pitt., 4024 O’Hara St., RHODE ISLAND MAR. 17, Middlebury Quick Chess for U1810 (QC) Pittsburgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11- 6SS, G/25 d3. Recreation Center, 154 Creek Rd., Middlebury, VT 05753. 11:15am. Info: [email protected], 412-908-0286. W. MAR. 24, 2018 Greater New Haven Championships! (CT) Open to U1810/Unr. (Quick) except if Regular rating is above 1949. EF: See Grand Prix. APR. 21 $29 if rec’d by 3/15 or $35 at site; both $12 less for non-Vermonter or , 4th Annual LVCA Bruce Alberston Memorial $1500 new USCF member. $$ b/32: 200-130, U1610 120, U1410 100, U1160 Gtd-RBO APR. 7, CT State Quick Championships! (QC) (CT) 80, U910 70. Reg.: 9-9:45 a.m., Rds.: 10:10-11:40-1:40-3:00-4:30-5:50. See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. APR. 8 H-bye OK if requested by 1:15. Ent: Parker Montgomery, PO Box 831, APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 15th Annual Great Lakes Open (MI) , CT State Rapid Championships! (QC) (CT) Middlebury, VT 05753-0831; [email protected], mobile 802- See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. 349-7739. APR. 27-29 OR 28-29 APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class , 27th annual Eastern Class APR. 7-8, 2nd annual Bill Little Memorial (NY) Championships (MA) Championships (MA) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD) See Grand Prix. SOUTH CAROLINA MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class NO TOURNAMENTS IN Open (IL) Championships (FL) YOUR AREA? See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. WHY NOT ORGANIZE MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) ONE? See Grand Prix. SOUTH DAKOTA JUNE 8-10 OR 9-10, 24th Annual Northeast Open (CT) Do you need to go out of town for tournament See Grand Prix. MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17 Open (IL) play? Would you and others in your area like , 7th annual Continental Class See Grand Prix. Championships (VA) the convenience of an occasional event closer See Grand Prix. to home? Organize one! JUNE 27-JULY 1 OR JUNE 29-JULY 1, 8th annual World Open TENNESSEE Senior Amateur MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class It’s not much work to hold a small tournament, 6SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10. Marriott Philadelphia Downtown (see World Championships (FL) and there is little risk if you use a low-cost site Open for location, rates, parking). Open to all born before 7/1/68 and See Grand Prix. rated under 2210 or unrated. $3000 guaranteed prizes. In 2 sections. and avoid guaranteed prizes. You might even MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18 Under 2210/Unr: $600-300-200, top U2010/Unr $350-200. Under , Lone Star Open (TX) make a profit! Either a based-on Swiss with pro- 1810/Unr: $500-250-150, top U1610 (no unr) $300-150, unr limit $200. See Grand Prix. EF: $88 online at chessaction.com by 6/25, $93 mailed by 6/15, $100 MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, 22nd annual Mid-America Open (MO) jected prizes up to $500, a Quad format, or a at site, or online until 2 hours before rd. 1. 5-day reg. ends 6 pm 6/27, See Grand Prix. trophy tournament will virtually guarantee taking Wed-Fri 7 pm, Sat 5 pm, Sun 10 & 3:15. ends 12 noon rds. 3-day reg. MAY 11-13 6/29, rds. Fri. 1 & 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. Half point byes OK , 2018 National Elementary (K-6) Championship in more in fees than you pay out in prizes. all rounds, limit 2 byes, must commit before rd. 3. Special USCF dues: See Nationals. see World Open. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box MAY 19-20, Bluff City Open The affiliation fee is just $40 a year. You will 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Entries posted See Grand Prix. receive the annual rating supplement and have at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). July official USCF MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28 ratings used. , 27th annual Chicago access to the TD/Affiliate area of our website. Open (IL) JUNE 28-JULY 2, 12th annual Philadelphia International See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. Remember, you can both run and play in a small MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! See Grand Prix. event. Many of them wouldn’t be held if the JUNE 30-JULY 1, World Open Warmup organizer/TD couldn’t play. 5SS, G/90 d10. Marriott Philadelphia Downtown (see World Open). Open to under 2100 or unrated (July official ratings used). Prizes $800 TEXAS Want to know more? guaranteed: $200-100-50, U1900/Unr $120-60, U1700 $100-50, U1500 MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18 $80-40. EF: $40, at site only, no checks. Reg. ends 9 am 6/30, rds. Sat , Lone Star Open 10, 2, 6, Sun 10, 2. One half point bye allowed if under 1700, otherwise See Grand Prix. Contact Joan Du Bois at two byes allowed; must commit before rd. 2. MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, 22nd annual Mid-America Open (MO) [email protected]. We’ll be JULY 2, World Open Monday Quad See Grand Prix. 3RR, G/90 d10. Marriott Philadelphia Downtown (see World Open). EF APR. 14-15, 2018 DCC FIDE Open IV glad to help you be part of the $25 (no checks). $60 1st each section. Reg. ends 9 am, rounds 10, 2, 6. See Grand Prix. promotion of American chess! JULY 2-3, 7th annual World Open Women’s Championship MAY 5-6, 2018 DCC FIDE Open V See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix.

www.uschess.org 69 Tournament Life / March

APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class MAY 26, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic FIDE Blitz! (BLZ) APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 15th Annual Great Lakes Open (MI) Championships (MA) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class APR. 28-29, Arpad Elo Open MAY 18-20 OR 19-20, 26th annual New York State Open and Championships See Grand Prix. Senior (NY) See Grand Prix. MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28 See Grand Prix. , 27th annual Chicago JUNE 27-JULY 1 OR JUNE 29-JULY 1, 8th annual World Open Open (IL) Senior Amateur (PA) See Grand Prix. See Pennsylvania. VIRGINIA MAY 27, 7th annual Chicago Open Blitz (BLZ) (IL) JUNE 28-JULY 2 MAR. 18, Dulles Mar 2018 FIDE Rapid/USCF Quick Rated (QC) & , 12th annual Philadelphia International (PA) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. U1400 Scholastic Quads JULY 28-29, 2018 U.S. Open Weekend Swiss See Grand Prix. JUNE 30-JULY 1, World Open Warmup (PA) See Grand Prix. See Pennsylvania. MAR. 23-25, 51st Virginia Open JULY 28-AUG. 5, JULY 31-AUG. 5 OR AUG. 2-5, 119th Annual See Grand Prix. JULY 2-3, 7th annual World Open Women’s Championship (PA) U.S. Open MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR. See Grand Prix. See Nationals. 31-APR. 1, 12th annual Philadelphia Open (PA) JULY 2-3, 10th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (PA) JULY 29, 2018 U.S. Open Scholastic Championships See Grand Prix. See Pennsylvania. Open to all US Chess members entering Grade 12 and below [includ- APR. 29, Dulles Apr 2018 FIDE Rapid/USCF Quick Rated (QC) & JULY 3, 6th annual World Open Action Championship (PA) ing new members]. 4 Round Swiss in Four Sections: Junior U1600 Open Quads See Grand Prix. High - High School Championship: Open to players entering Kindergarten through the 12th Grade in the fall. Open to all ratings. See Grand Prix. JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 46th Annual World Open (PA) MAY 4-6 OR 5-6 See Grand Prix. Junior High - High School Under 1200: Open to players entering , 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD) Kindergarten through the 12th Grade in the fall. Open to players See Grand Prix. rated below 1200. No Unrateds! Elementary Championship: Open MAY 25, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic Rapid! (QC) WASHINGTON to players entering Kindergarten through the 6th Grade in the fall. Side Event to the 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (May 25-28). Wash- Open to all ratings. Elementary Under 1000: Open to players enter- ington Dulles Airport Marriott, 45020 Aviation Dr., Dulles, VA 20166. MAY 5-6, 13th Susan Polgar Foundation National Open for Boys ing Kindergarten through the 6th Grade in the fall. Open to players One Section - Open: 5-SS, G/15 d10. $400 b/25 $180-90-50 TopU1400/ and Girls (CA-N) rated below 1000. No Unrateds! If the sections are larger than TopU1200 $40 each. EF: $20 by May 24th online, Onsite $25 by 7pm. See California, Northern. expected, they may be split into multiple sections. Prizes: Trophies Rounds start 8pm and ASAP. Max 1 byes allowed at entry. More infor- JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) to the Top 3 in each section. The number of trophies may increase mation/Online registration: www.cherryblossomchess.com. Mail checks See Nationals. based on the number of entries. Schedule: Championship Sec- (payable to Capital Area Chess) to Cherry Blossom Classic, Attn. Capital tions:Round One at 12 NOON. Round Two at 1:30 PM. Round Three Area Chess, PO Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20151. Email info only: Anand JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV) See Nationals. at 3:00 PM. Round Four at 4:30 PM. Awards Ceremony at 6:00 PM. Dommalapati, [email protected]. Game/30 d5. Online, $25 by 7/9, $35 JUNE 23-24 Time Control: Entry Fee: MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open (PA) , International Youth Championship (NV) after. By mail, $27 postmarked by 7/9; $37 postmarked by 7/16. See Grand Prix. See Nevada. Do not mail after 7/16 - it will not be received! By phone, $30 by MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic 7/9, $40 after until 7/20 by 5 PM CDT. Onsite, $40 until 7/29 by 10 See Grand Prix. WEST VIRGINIA AM EDT. See http://www.uschess.org/tournaments/ 2018/usopen/ for additional details. MAY 26, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic Scholastic MAY 25-28 OR 26-28 , 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) AUG. 4 Side Event to the 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (May 25-28). Wash- See Grand Prix. , 2018 U.S. Open National Blitz Championship (BLZ) ington Dulles Airport Marriott, 45020 Aviation Dr., Dulles, VA 20166. See Nationals. 4-or-5-SS. Sections: K-12 Open, K-8 U1000, K-5 U800, K-3 U600. K-12/K- JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class 8: 4-SS, G/45 d5; K-5/K-3: 5-SS, G/30 d5. $32 by May 21st, $37 by May Championships (VA) 25th, $45 onsite. Trophies to Top 5, Other Class Trophies and Medals. See Grand Prix. WYOMING Onsite Reg. closes 9:30am. Rounds 10am and ASAP. More information/ JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) Online registration: www.cherryblossomchess.com. Mail checks (payable WISCONSIN See Nationals. to Capital Area Chess) to Cherry Blossom Classic, Attn. Capital Area Chess, PO Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20151. Email info only: Anand Dom- APR. 7, Hales Corners Challenge XXVII JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV) malapati, [email protected]. See Grand Prix. See Nationals.

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70 March 2018 | Chess Life Classifieds / Solutions / March Classifieds Solutions Donate Chess Life accepts classified advertising in these cat- PAGE 13 / ISLE OF MAN QUIZ egories: Activities, For Rent, For Sale, Games, Instruction, Miscellaneous, Services, Tournaments, PROBLEM I. 34. Rb8+, Black resigned (34. ... Bf8 Wanted. Only typed or e-mailed copy is accepted. to US Chess!ss! 35. Nf6+ and wins; 34. ... Kh7 35. Ng5+ and Nxe4). Absolutely no telephone orders. Rates (per word, per insertion): 1-2 insertions $1.50, 3-6 insertions $1.25, 7 PROBLEM II. 35. ... Rc5! and ... Qc6+ wins the + insertions $1.00. Affiliates pay $1.00 per word regard- knight. PROBLEM III. 40. Bd2+ mates in four YYoour TTaax-Deductible less of insertion frequency. No other discounts available. moves, e.g. 40. ... Kh5 41. Rf5+ g5 42. Rxg5+ Kh6 Advertisements with less than 15 words will cost a Donation Will Help PROBLEM IV. 40. ... Rc2! minimum of $15 per issue. Post office boxes count as 43. Nf5. 41. 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WHY NOT ORGANIZE *Website: www.houseofstaunton.com; phone: (256) 2. Nxf3 exf3 mate. 858-8070; email: [email protected] ONE? PAGE 47 / PRACTICUM Instruction Do you need to go out of town for tournament play? Would you and others in your area like PROBLEM I. Albanian GM Erald Dervishi appears to TOP-QUALITY BARGAIN CHESS LESSONS BY PHONE the convenience of an occasional event closer With more than 40 years of experience teaching be close to eking out a draw, but the wily Guseinov to home? Organize one! chess, the Mid-Atlantic Chess Instruction Center is ends his hopes with a cute tactical sequence: 49. ... the best in the business. We specialize in adult stu- Ra3+ 50. Kf2 Ra2+ 51. Kg3 Rxg2+! 52. Kxg2 Bc6+ It’s not much work to hold a small tournament, dents. We offer 35 different courses as well as individual game analysis. Center Director: Life Master 53. Kg3 Bxa8 54. Kxg4 Kf6!, White resigned. Black and there is little risk if you use a low-cost site Russell Potter. 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www.uschess.org 71 
 

GM Elshan Moradiabadi 2001 Iranian Champion 2017 US Chess PHOTO CREDIT: COURTESY OF SUBJECT Grand Prix Champion

ver since I became a grandmaster (back in 2005) I have been asked about my best Ecombination, best endgame, or even my best game. My response to all of these requests has always been the following: “They are yet to be played!” My best move, however, has never been a topic of a discussion before. I have had a long, but inconsistent, career as a grandmaster (13 years now!). I have quit chess three times, but never could I stay away from the royal game for long. Thus, in search of my best move ever, I spent a long time reviewing my games from different periods in my career. Surprisingly, several of the games I had always considered among my most memorable and beautiful now seem rather average or prosaic, while others that I had I have quit chess three times but never could considered to be simple, clear-cut victories appealed to me more than before. I stay away from the royal game for long. I eventually convinced myself that my win from the 2004 Dubai Open against the strong Russian GM Mikhail Ulibin includes the best move I have SEEING POSSIBILITIES 27. b4! My Best Move. ever played. I had just earned my international master IM Elshan Moradiabadi (2436) title after taking a two-years hiatus from tournaments GM Mikhail Ulybin (2579) 27. ... cxb4 28. d4 Rb8? in order to pass the entrance exam to my university. Dubai op 6th Dubai (2), 04.20.2004 The last mistake. After 28. ... Kf7 29. c5 I played a dubious opening on the white side of 1. Ke6 30. d5+ Kd7 31. c6+ Kc7 32. Na5 Bc5 33. Nf3 and Ulibin, who has a narrow but deep Rc1 Bd6 34. Kxf2 and Black may be able to repertoire, managed to equalize comfortably. save this in theory—but not over the board. In the ensuing tactical battle we entered a sharp clash where a lot of pieces got traded accurately. 29. Na5!? Following the exchanges, an odd endgame arose The knight blocks Black’s counterplay while where Black had a very active bishop and a nicely White’s pawn will roll with the support of placed pawn on f2, but all of his pawns were doubled his rook and the knight on a5. and White’s knight had several good squares and 29. ... Kf7 30. c5 f4 31. c6 Ke7 32. d5? a target. A draw seemed like the reasonable outcome, but after 26. ... c5? by Ulibin, I immediately A time-pressure blunder. The d-pawn is answered with 27. b4!, a positional pawn sacrifice, unstoppable after 32. Nb7. after which the position was practically winning. AFTER 25. ... Bxe3 32. ... Bc5? Ulibin collapsed 10 moves after his blunder. Returns the favor! 32. ... Kd6 33. Nc4+ Kc7 I chose this move due to the fact that I saw this 26. Nxb7 c5? possibility before we reached the actual position. and White has a hard time pushing his pawns further. It always feels great to show that you understand After 26. ... Rb8 27. Na5 c5 28. Rb1 Kf7 29. a position better than a seasoned grandmaster a3 Rb6 30. b4 cxb4 31. axb4 f4 32. b5 h5 the 33. Nb7 Bd6 34. Kxf2 Bc7 35. d6+ Bxd6 when you are not one! position is dynamically balanced. 36. Re1+, Black resigned.

72 March 2018 | Chess Life Mastering Chess Middlegames Chess Training for Candidate Masters Lectures from the All-Russian School of Grandmasters Accelerate Your Progress by Thinking for Yourself Alexander Panchenko 272 pages - $24.95 Alexander Kalinin 208 pages - $19.95 ͞dŚĞĚĞĞƉĞƌ/ǁĞŶƚŝŶƚŽƚŚĞŬ͕ƚŚĞŵŽƌĞĨƌĞƐŚĂŶĚ ͞^ĂƐŚĂ<ĂůŝŶŝŶŚĂƐĂŶĂĐƵƚĞƵŶĚĞƌƐƚĂŶĚŝŶŐŽĨǁŚĂƚŵŽĚĞƌŶ ĨĂƐĐŝŶĂƟŶŐŵĂƚĞƌŝĂů/ĨŽƵŶĚ͘͟ chess players struggle with and what they must do in order Sean March, CHESS Magazine to improve.” – GM Daniel Naroditsky ͞ǀĞƌLJƐLJƐƚĞŵĂƟĐǁĂLJŽĨůŽŽŬŝŶŐĂƚĐŚĞƐƐŵŝĚĚůĞŐĂŵĞƐ͘ ͞<ĂůŝŶŝŶǁƌŝƚĞƐƚŚĂƚƚŚĞƚĂƌŐĞƚĂƵĚŝĞŶĐĞŽĨŚŝƐŬŝƐƵƉ džƚƌĞŵĞůLJŝŶƐƚƌƵĐƟǀĞ͕ǁŝƚŚŵĂŶLJĨƌĞƐŚĞdžĂŵƉůĞƐ͘͟ ƚŽĂďŽƵƚϮϮϬϬůŽŝŶƌĂƟŶŐ͕ďƵƚŝƚĞŵďƌĂĐĞƐŵƵĐŚŵŽƌĞ GM Daniel King ƚŚĂŶƚŚĂƚ͘/ƚŝƐĂŐŽŽĚŬĨŽƌďŽƚŚĐůƵďƉůĂLJĞƌƐE grandmasters!” – GM Simen Agdestein, VG Daily Newspaper Chess for Hawks Dismantling the Sicilian – NEW EDITION /ŵƉƌŽǀĞLJŽƵƌǀŝƐŝŽŶ͕ƐŚĂƌƉĞŶLJŽƵƌƚĂůŽŶƐ͕ĨŽƌŐĞƚLJŽƵƌĨĞĂƌ A Complete Modern Repertoire for White Cyrus Lakdawala 288 pages - $24.95 Jesus de la Villa / Max Illingworth 368 pages - $29.95 WINNER: Best Instructional Book ĐŽŵƉůĞƚĞƌĞƉĞƌƚŽŝƌĞĨŽƌtŚŝƚĞŝŶƚŚĞKƉĞŶ^ŝĐŝůŝĂŶƐ Chess Journalists of America ǁŝƚŚϭ͘ĞϰĐϱϮ͘EĨϯ͘ĐŽŵƉůĞƚĞůLJŶĞǁ͕ƵƉĚĂƚĞĚĂŶĚ ͞ǀĞƌLJŐŽŽĚŵĂŶƵĂůĨŽƌƚŚŽƐĞǁŚŽĨĞĞůƚŚĞLJŐŽƚƐƚƵĐŬĂƚĂ ĞdžƚĞŶĚĞĚĞĚŝƟŽŶ͘/ŶĐůƵĚĞƐŝŵƉŽƌƚĂŶƚĐŚĂŶŐĞƐŝŶƚŚĞďĂƐŝĐ ĐĞƌƚĂŝŶůĞǀĞůĂŶĚĐĂŶ͛ƚƋƵŝƚĞĮŶĚƚŚĞǁĂLJƚŽďƌĞĂŬƚŚƌŽƵŐŚ ĨƌĂŵĞǁŽƌŬŽĨƚŚĞƌĞƉĞƌƚŽŝƌĞĂŶĚƉƌĞƐĞŶƚƐůŽƚƐŽĨŶĞǁ to the next level.” ŝĚĞĂƐĂŶĚŚƵŶĚƌĞĚƐŽĨŶŽǀĞůƟĞƐ͘ ĂƌƐƚĞŶ,ĂŶƐĞŶ͕ĂƵƚŚŽƌŽĨ͚dŚĞŚĂŵĞůĞŽŶsĂƌŝĂƟŽŶ͛ ͞ƚŽƚĂůŬŶŽĐŬŽƵƚ͘͟ʹChessVibes

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LEARN FROM THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP PLAYERS

“My heart, for years, has belonged to Grandmaster Lev Alburt, three-time U.S. Tal’s match book on his victory over Champion, is one of the world’s most Botvinnik. That has now changed. sought-after chess teachers and publisher This is the best match book I’ve ever of Comprehensive Chess Course. seen. Anyone who loves chess should have this on their bookshelf.” – Pete National Master Jon Crumiller is an expert Tamburro, Managing Editor, American in the use of computer chess analysis. Chess Magazine, Issue #5 Former World Champion Vladimir Kramnik, “Vladimir Kramnik [provides] the most one of the all-time greatest chess players, candid analysis of a championship match provides in-depth commentary and ever made by a former champ.”– GM insights into the minds of the players and Andy Soltis, New York Post 10/22/17 their critical moves of the match.

ORDER YOUR AUTOGRAPHED COPY TODAY! Send a check for $29 (this special price includes priority mail shipping within the USA) to GM Lev Alburt · P.O. Box 534 · Gracie Station New York, NY 10028-0005 GM Alburt’s books are also available from USCF Sales or online at chesswithlev.com. To inquire about chess instruction with GM Lev Alburt and/or his books, please call 212-794-8706 or email [email protected].