GM wins 2015 U.S. Open title in Phoenix, Arizona

GM 2015 Champion

November 2015 | USChess.org IFC_chess life 10/7/2015 7:34 PM Page 1 CL_10-2015_K-12_Advertisment_FB_r2.qxp_chess life 11/09/2015 04:29 Page 1

2015 NATIONAL K-12 GRADE CHAMPIONSHIPS DECEMBER 4-6, 2015

DISNEY’S CORONADO SPRINGS RESORT, 1000 WEST BUENA VISTA DR., LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL 32830 $129 single/double/triple/quad

OPENING CEREMONY 7SS, G/90 D5 13 SECTIONS Play only in your grade. November 2015 Friday: 12:30 pm rating supplement will be used. Team Score = total of top three (minimum two) finishers from each school per grade. First place individual and team, ROUNDS including ties, will be national champion for their grade. Friday: 1 pm, 6 pm Trophies to top individuals & top teams in each grade. Saturday: 10 am, 2 pm, 6 pm AWARDS Every participant receives a commemorative item! Full list of trophies Sunday: 9 am, 1 pm on tournament info page.

AWARD CEREMONIES BLITZ Trophies in K-6 and K-12 sections. Full list of trophies on Sunday: 4:30 pm (K-1) approx. tournament info page. & 5 pm approx. BUGHOUSE Top five teams. SPECIAL ROUND TIMES FOR K-1 SECTIONS Friday: 1:30 pm, 5:30 pm SIDE EVENTS Saturday: 9:30 am, 1:30 & 5:30 pm Sunday: 9:30 am, 1:30 pm BUGHOUSE Thursday: 11 am Reg. onsite only Thurs. 9-10 am. $25/team.

ON-SITE REGISTRATION BLITZ Thursday: 5 pm Reg. onsite until 4 pm. Entry in advance $15 12/3: 9 am-9:00 pm by 11/23, $20 after or at site. Register at https://secure2.uschess.org/ 12/4: 8 am-11:00 am webstore/tournament.php

Players registering late (after 11 am Friday) will not be paired for round 1, will receive a half-point bye, and will begin play with round 2. Team Rooms are limited! Contact Susan Kantor 931-787-1234 ext. 136 or by e-mail: [email protected]

NAME ______USCF ID #______RATING ______

ADDRESS ______CITY______STATE ______ZIP______

E-MAIL ADDRESS ______REGISTRATION INFORMATION: US membership is required and must SCHOOL ______GRADE ______be current. You may pay US Chess membership BYE REQUESTED: Rd. 1 2 3 4 5 6 1/2 -pt bye available if requested in advance (except rd. 7) with your entry. Adult: Please our website q q q q q q (uschess.org) for Adult and Young Adult options. USCF MEMBERSHIP DUES: Please go to www.uschess.org for appropriate membership category and rates. Advance entries must include player’s name and all fees to be accepted. Roster changes ENTRY FEES: $50/participant postmarked by 11/2, $70/participant postmarked by 11/23, $85 after 12/3 or $90 on site. are considered new entries and will be charged (Add $5 for all phone registrations.) Blitz entry: $15 until 11/23, $20 after or at site. according to date received. List name, address, phone, section, grade, school (even if no team), AMOUNT ENCLOSED: Entry Fee $ ______Blitz $ ______USCF Dues $ ______TOTAL ENCLOSED $ ______coach’s name, e-mail, birth date, US Chess ID #, USCF expiration (enclose USCF dues if nec- In advance: Make checks payable to: US Chess. On site: Make payments in cash, by money order, or credit card. essary) and rating. Players must be eligible to play in accordance with US Chess Scholastic MASTERCARD q DISCOVER q AMEX q VISA q NUMBER ______Regulations. Please bring clocks. Ent: “K-12 Championship,” c/o US Chess, PO Box 3967, EXPIRATION: ______/______V-CODE (last 3 digits on the signature line) ______Crossville, TN 38557-3967. For more info or to register online: www.uschess.org. Please make all checks payable to US Chess. SIGNATURE: ______CL_11-2015_masthead_JP_R5_chess life 10/7/2015 7:40 PM Page 2

Be a US Chess Benefactor! Benefactor Membership includes Life Membership, a special membership Main office: Crossville, TN (931) 787-1234

card, and recognition on a benefactor page of our website and periodically Advertising inquiries: (931) 787-1234, ext. 123 in . The cost is $3,000, or $1,500 to existing Life Members. Tournament Life Announcements (TLAs): All TLAs should be e-mailed to Half the funds collected will go to US Chess Life Member Assets Fund [email protected] or sent to P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557-3967 and half to assist US Chess operations. Become a Benefactor at uschess.org, by phone at 1-800-903-8723, or by mail to US Chess, PO Box 3967, Letters to the editor: Please submit to [email protected] Crossville TN 38557. Receiving Chess Life: To receive Chess Life as a Premium Member, join US Chess or enter a US , go to uschess.org or call 1-800-903-USCF (8723) SPECIAL THANKS TO Change of address: Please send to [email protected] ALL OUR BENEFACTORS! Other inquiries: [email protected], (931) 787-1234, fax (931) 787-1200

US Chess Benefactor Members as of August 10, 2014: US CHESS Chess Life EDITORIAL STAFF Jim Bedenbaugh (ok) J.E. Blackwood (fl) Joseph EXECUTIVE • • BOARD Chess Life Editor and Director Boyle (TX) • John J. Brendel (NY) • (fl) of Publications, Daniel Lucas Jonathan Crumiller (NJ) Jeffrey Davidson (CA) [email protected] • • • President Martin Dean (VA) kenneth Duffy (CA) Bill Goichberg Gary Walters Senior Digital Editor, • • [email protected] (NY) Robert E. Hux (NE) In Memory of: David kaplan Walters & Wasylyna LLC • • • Shaker Finance Chess Life for Kids Editor, Glenn Petersen David kochman (NH) Christopher lewis (wA) David C. PO Box 20554 [email protected] • • Cleveland, OH 44120 Miller (NV) • Parker Montgomery (VT) • David H. [email protected] Senior Art Director, Frankie Butler Raymond (fl) • Timothy M. Sawyier (Il) • Phillip Smith [email protected] (TN) Henry l. Terrie (NH) Thomas N. Thrush (NV) Editorial Assistant/Copy Editor, Alan Kantor • • • Vice-President [email protected] Randy Bauer Harold Torrance (PA) Charles Unruh (ok) Edward Editorial Assistant, Jo Anne Fatherly • • 10990 NW 115th Avenue [email protected] wycoff (CA) Granger, IA 50109 [email protected] Editorial Assistant, Jennifer Pearson HELP PROMOTE AMERICAN CHESS [email protected] Technical Editor, Ron Burnett VP Finance Allen Priest TLA/Advertising, Joan DuBois 220 West Main Street [email protected] Suite 2200 Louisville, KY 40202 [email protected] US CHESS STAFF Executive Director, Jean Hoffman ext. 189 [email protected] Secretary Mike Nietman Director of Events, Francisco Guadalupe 2 Boca Grande Way 713-530-7820 [email protected] Madison, WI 53719 FIDE Titles and Ratings, Tracey Vibbert [email protected] [email protected]

FIDE Youth Events, Member at Large National Education Consultant Michael Atkins & Special Projects, Jerry Nash PO Box 4894 ext. 137 [email protected] Baltimore, MD 21211 Scholastic Associate & Clubs, FIDE [email protected] Associate and OTB Ratings, Susan Kantor ext. 136 [email protected]

Computer Consultant, Mike Nolan Member at Large [email protected] Anjelina Belakovskaia 6890 E. Sunrise Dr. Director of Administration, Judy Misner Ste. 120-118 ext. 126 [email protected] Tucson, AZ 85750 Affiliate Relations Associate, Joan DuBois [email protected] ext. 123 [email protected]

Senior Accountant, Debra Robison Member at Large ext. 130 [email protected] Ruth Haring Membership Services Supervisor, Cheryle Bruce U.S. Chess Federation ext. 147 [email protected] Attn: Ruth Haring PO Box 3967 Mailing Lists/Membership Associate, Traci Lee Crossville, TN 38557- ext. 143 [email protected] 3967 Membership Associate, Jay Sabine [email protected] ext. 127 [email protected]

Correspondence Chess, Alex Dunne [email protected]

2 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_10-2015_pg5_chess life 10/9/2015 10:24 AM Page 5

ED UYINB GG UIDEE NGC LGUIDOS US CF SALESALS SPESRING SPRING BUYIN

PLAYPLAY IN THE U.S.U.S. OPENOP EN ININ ORLANDO!ORLANDO! SeeSee TLA on pages 53/54.

MAY 2014

APRIL 2014

A USCF Public

ation A USCF Publication $5.95

$5.95

www.uschess.org 3 CL_11-2015_TOC_AKF_r6.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 10:55 Page 4

Chess Life NOVEMBER

COLUMNS 14 LOOKS AT BOOKS / RISK AND BLUFF IN CHESS: THE ART OF TAKING CALCULATED RISKS Adding Some Spice By John Hartmann 16 CHESS TO ENJOY / ENTERTAINMENT Why We Like Chess By GM Andy Soltis 18 BACK TO BASICS / READER ANNOTATIONS Tactics are the Fabric of Chess By GM Lev Alburt

46 THE PRACTICAL ENDGAME / INSTRUCTION 20 COVER STORY / 2015 SINQUEFIELD CUP The Art of Liquidation By GM Sinquefield Scoreline: 3, America 0 By FM Mike Klein; annotations by GM Robert Hess GM Levon Aronian follows a ‘beat the Americans’ path to the 2015 SOLITAIRE CHESS / INSTRUCTION 48 Sinquefield Cup Championship A Straightforward Win By Bruce Pandolfini 32 US CHESS NATIONAL EVENTS / 2015 U.S. OPEN Promises Kept DEPARTMENTS by Al Lawrence GM Alexander Shabalov streaks to a win at the 116th U.S. Open 6 NOVEMBER PREVIEW / PHOTOS BY LENNART OOTES, COURTESY OF AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER SAINT LOUIS. THIS MONTH IN CHESS LIFE AND US CHESS JOURNALISM / 2015 CJA AWARDS CHESS NEWS 39 The 2015 Chess Journalists of America Awards By Joshua Anderson 8 COUNTERPLAY / READERS RESPOND 10 FIRST MOVES / 40 ENDGAMES / RBgh VERSUS Rfgh CHESS NEWS FROM AROUND THE U.S. Going Deep By GM Jim Tarjan 11 FACES ACROSS THE BOARD / Surprising resources in endings featuring //g-h pawns BY AL LAWRENCE versus rook and f-g-h pawns 12 US CHESS AFFAIRS / NEWS FOR OUR MEMBERS Above, the world champion shows the strain of the intense competition as Chief Arbiter Chris TOURNAMENT LIFE / NOVEMBER 52 Bird does some housekeeping after the game. Below, checked cell phones—as much a sign of a chess tournament now as clocks and scoresheets. 71 CLASSIFIEDS / NOVEMBER 71 SOLUTIONS / NOVEMBER 72 MY BEST MOVE / PERSONALITIES THIS MONTH: GM

ON THE COVER Mr. Nice Guy, GM Levon Aronian, wins the 2015 Sinquefield Cup by being not-so-nice in the won/loss column to the American contingent. PHOTO BY AUSTIN FULLER, COURTESY OF CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER OF SAINT LOUIS

4 November 2015 | Chess Life adpage2_trophies plus_Layout 1 10/7/2015 7:05 PM Page 1 CL_11-2015_CLO_AKF_r7.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 11:18 Page 6

November Preview / This month in Chess Life and US Chess News

US CHESS NEWS PREVIEW NOVEMBER

WORLD YOUTH AND CADETS CHAMPIONSHIPS HALKIDIKI, GREECE

Look for our coverage of the World Youth and Cadets Championships in Halkidiki, Greece from OctOber 24-NOvember 6, 2015. Our 123-player team is the largest in U.S. history and will be sporting snazzy uniforms thanks to a generous contribution from Two Sigma Investments. Top players include Maximillian Lu, who just broke ’s record for the youngest chess master in US Chess history. “Good things are about to happen,” he told US Chess after breaking the record. Look for games and updates on US Chess News, including reports from coach Alejandro Ramirez.

US CHESS SOCIAL MEDIA CONTRIBUTORS Look for more updates as we migrate news features to our FM MIKE KLEIN redesigned site at uschess.org, and follow us on (Sinquefield twitter.com/uschess, Instagram.com/US_chess and Cup) is the director of content for facebook.com/uschess for the complete US Chess experience. Chess.com. He also teaches, freelances, bikes and snowboards, though never more than any two at the same time. He is also a former chess journalist of the year.

GM JIM TARJAN (Endings) became a in 1976, worked as a librarian in California public libraries for 28 years, and currently lives in Portland, Oregon.

AL LAWRENCE (U.S. Open) is the former executive director of both US Chess and the . He is currently managing director for the U.S. Chess Trust. His latest NAKA VS. CARA book, with GM Lev Alburt, is Chess for the Gifted and Busy. Watch our top two U.S. players, and Fabiano Caruana, battle it out in a fast-paced match at the Saint Louis Chess Club.

THANKSGIVING OPENS Are you playing some chess over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend? Follow two of the biggest Opens, the National Chess Congress in Philadelphia and the American Open in Los Angeles.

6 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_10-2015_FULLpg07_JP_r1_chess life 10/7/2015 7:21 PM Page 7

Your Skills, UNCHECKED

Susan Polgar Institutetutee forf CheChChess Excellence WebsterWebster University’sUniversity’s NNo.o. 1 rrankedanked collegiatecollegiate cchesshess teamteam wonwoon its thirdthird straightstraight CollegiateCollegiate ChessChess championshipchampionship this year. UnderUnder CoachCoach SusanSusan Polgar,Polgar, tthehe wiwin cappcappeded a tthree-yearhree-year strstretchetch inin whichwhich thethe teamteam remainsremains undeundefeatedfeaatede inin allll collegecollege chesschess matches. Combine youryouro chesschess skillskills withwith widwidelyely recognizedrecognized academicacad emic progprograms.rams.

MaMakeke youryour nextnext move:move: webster.edu/spicewebster.edudu/spice CL_11-2015_Counterplay_DLF_r6.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 14:31 Page 8

Counterplay / Readers Respond

Kids Today

KIDS AND ADULTS Communications Laura Doman has addressed this issue cation to [email protected]. Previously in an article that offers helpful advice and guidance, published or unpublished games are eligible; games I am a 64-year-old US Chess member who available at http://georgiachessnews.com/2015/ played in simultaneous exhibitions, one-on-one recently played in a tournament that was heavily 10/05/tournament-etiquette-for-kids-and-their- matches or online (even if rated) are not. Games attended by young people under the age of about parents/. Here is a brief excerpt: featuring a grandmaster or international master 15. The playing hall was large, with rows of tables as the upset victim are preferred, but this is not a and chairs as you would expect. Once again, to my • Is your child mature enough to play in a tournament requirement. Each game must state both players’ disappointment, the event was spoiled by rambunc - alongside adults? Generally, kids under age ten do names and ratings and the date, location and name tious and rude children who lacked basic table best in scholastic tournaments. If they can’t show of the event where it was played. Also include manners and regard for the other players. To be proper respect to adults and other players, quietly your name and contact information. Submissions specific: occupy themselves when they’re not playing a game, that contain more than 10 games will be deleted 1. I always thought that chess is a game at which or restrain themselves from running or talking without being looked at. two players sit in chairs at opposite ends of a too loudly, then they should keep to scholastic FM Jon Jacobs . Apparently I was wrong all these years. tournaments until they can. [email protected] The kids refused to sit down and play. They were • How long can the child sit and concentrate on constantly getting up, running around, checking a game? If an hour is the limit, stick to scholastic on their friends' games, vanishing in and out of events. bathrooms and hallways where they held conver- • Is your child playing in the proper section, CARISSA YIP sations with their buddies and scampering around based on his or her rating? If a kid is greatly as though they were in an outside playground rather outmatched, then the game will be over that “Carissa Yip—Our Youngest Female Master!” than a chess tournament. The level of movement much more quickly and the child will have Not only that, she’s a great kid as well. She was around the room was incredible, noisy and dis - more time between rounds to possibly get into gracious enough to mention my win against her tracting. trouble. Also, competing in too high a section in the August 2015 Chess Life, but I want it to be 2. I tried to focus on my game and not allow any may even discourage him from wanting to play known that she was very gracious in defeat as distractions, but the kids kept bumping me and in a future tournament. well. She took the time to review the game with kicking my chair as they tried to pass up and down • At what point for your child is a day of chess me and was pretty much her usual upbeat, the row. too long? Every tournament offers at least one positive self while doing it. She and her parents 3. In one game the child at the next board kept bye, so take advantage of the opportunity and should be proud of her record-setting achieve - sneezing on me and my . let your child skip a round in favor of a break ment, but they can also be very proud of the fact 4. When the pairings were posted you took in the day. that she’s just an all-around good kid. Rock on your life in your hands if you were too close to the • Does your child have high reserves of physical Carissa! I hope to see you on the cover of . The kids rudely shoved their way to the front, energy? Use the time between rounds for a Life as world champion in the future. blocked the tables, and lingered at the table while little physical exercise outside. Dave Couture they checked with all their friends. via e-mail The tournament itself was well run, but I felt sorry for the tournament director as he tried to Mr. Couture is the author of Progressive Tactics— “herd cats.” AUTHOR INQUIRY 1002 Progressively Challenging Chess Tactics, I place a good part of the blame on a generation available on Amazon. of parents who have obviously failed to instill basic SPARKLING UPSET GAMES WANTED manners in their spawn. A chess tournament, in FOR “DAVID VERSUS GOLIATH” BOOK my outdated and grouchy opinion, should not be Send your letters to conducted in an atmosphere akin to a middle school FIDE Master and Chess Life contributor Jon cafeteria at lunchtime. Jacobs is collecting scores of entertaining chess [email protected] or post on This issue must be addressed. upsets for a forthcoming book. If you either played the US Chess Facebook group Mark Menser or know of a rated, over-the-board tournament or the uschess.org Issues Forum. via e-mail game or games that: Letters are subject to editing • was won or drawn by a 400+ points underdog for style, length, and content. Mr. Menser also posted a version of this letter on rated below 2000; uschess.org in the US Chess Forum “Running Chess • featured sparkling combinations or astute Join us on the US Chess Tournaments” under the title “Code of conduct.” There positional play; have been a number of responses and much discussion Facebook group for to Mr. Menser’s post. • was not decided by a crude . #FischerFriday! Additionally, Chess Association Director of Submit the game score(s) for possible publi -

8 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_9-2015_FULLpg11_JP_r1_chess life 10/7/2015 7:09 PM Page 7 CL_11-2015_First-Moves_AKF_r7.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 11:05 Page 10

Remembering Hurricane Katrina Ten years after he stayed through the disastrous flooding, Jude Acers holds a simul in New Orleans to help celebrate his city's resilience. Text by Michael Tisserand, photos by Cecilia Tisserand

NEW ORLEANS MAYOR MITCH LANDRIEU declared Saturday, August 29— the tenth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and the levee failures that flooded the city— a "Citywide Day of Service," and French Quarter chess player Jude Acers rose to the occasion. Acers, 72, volunteered his time to give a lesson and play 38 Louisiana and Mississippi scholastic players at a (simul) event that was part of a day of activities at the Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center, a rebuilt facility located in Broadmoor, a neighborhood that had been hit particularly hard by the flooding. To commemorate the day, the event had been billed for 29 players, but Acers found seats for everyone who showed up, eventually going undefeated. The day held particular meaning for Acers, who remained in New Orleans for 11 days after Katrina made landfall, helping his elderly landlord and hauling ice for a soup kitchen, until finally leaving the city for a camp in Tennessee. For many New Orleanians, the sight of Acers back at his card table on Decatur Street, wearing his trademark red beret, would serve as a hopeful reminder that New Orleans was returning to some degree of normalcy. Along with competing in occasional tournaments and offering simuls, Acers can still be found at his table, where he continues to play tourists for five dollars a game.

10 November 2015 | Chess Life

CL_11-2015_First-Moves_AKF_r7.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 11:06 Page 11

First Moves / Chess news from around the U.S.

at the U.S. Here and There FACES OPEN Chess News From Around the U.S. ACROSS THE BOARD By AL LAWRENCE CARLA AND JONATHAN NAYLOR ASHBURN,

VIRGINIA

Mother-son winners Carla Naylor and Jonathan, a at Stone Bridge High School, tied for the top spot in the first-ever U.S. Open mother-son team. “I was thrilled that Jonathan agreed to be my partner. He scored well and celebrated his 16th birthday during the event,” Carla said. Back in July, Carla garnered a mixed-dou- ble win at the World Open, pairing up with GM Alex Lenderman and equaling his seven-point score. “Mixed doubles are fun for !” Her namesake father Carl taught her chess when she was only four, and by 10 she was playing in the Florida State Championship. “When my kids were babies, I left chess, but got back into it when they started to play.” Older son Nicholas, a sophomore on a chess scholarship at Lindenwood University, also competed at the Open. “I’m lucky both boys like to play. And my husband Chris came to cheer us on—it was a wonderful vacation!” Maximillian Lu of Connecticut earned the national master title at a quad in Scarsdale, , 28 days shy of his 10th birthday. Accordingly to preliminary calculations, this makes Maximillian the youngest master in US Chess history, beating the record previously held by Awonder Liang. Look for a feature story in a future Chess Life. JAY STALLNGS SANTA CLARITA,

CALIFORNIA

Taught chess to 35,000

Jay was selling computer printers to Latin American customers when he saw the film Searching for . “My wife suggested I teach a chess class because she knew I loved chess and loved to teach, especially children.” Six months later, Jay quit his day job and opened a chess studio. After another year and a half, that grew into the non- profit California Youth Chess League. In 2013, Stallings published the well-received Fried Liver & Burning Pants: Curious But True Chess Stories. This year, he launched an app—Coach Jay’s Chess Academy—and also put the material into puzzle books. Coaches around the world, even international masters and grandmasters, “are using my curriculum in their programs. The kids learn new material each week, the coaches can track their progress and see who needs a little more help and who needs to Taking a break from the activities at the U.S. Open in Phoenix, Arizona, US Chess executive move up a group, and parents are happy to see board member Mike Nietman (left) and Dewain Barber played a game at one of the Grand concrete evidence that their children are learning.” Canyon’s overlook spots. The game led Barber to declare Neitman, “Undisputed Grand Canyon Write to [email protected]. PHOTO CREDIT: BOTTOM: DWIGHT BARBER; TOP: DORA LETICIA Chess Champion”—an as-yet-unrecognized title by US Chess.

www.uschess.org 11 CL_11-2015_US-Chess-Affairs_AKF_r6.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 14:37 Page 12

US Chess Affairs / News for our Members USCF “Empowering people through MISSION chess one move at a time.”

The nomination petitions must contain the Call For dated signature, printed name, and US Chess Two Sigma ID number of each signer, and should contain Nominations the following text: Sponsors World “We, the undersigned members of the US The US Chess Federation (US Chess) will hold Chess Federation, nominate _(candidate name Youth US Chess an election in 2016 for two at-large positions goes here)_ as a candidate for election to on the US Chess executive board for a term the US Chess executive board in the 2016 Delegation of three years, expiring in 2019. election. We also consent to having our names and US Chess ID numbers published as having Every year, US Chess sends the strongest Any current US Chess member who is not a signed this petition.” young chess players in the country to represent current US Chess employee or designated the United States at the World Youth Chess contractor (as defined in the US Chess bylaws) A sample nomination form will be made Championship. The 2015 team will be the may be nominated for election to the executive available on the US Chess website. largest U.S. delegation in history, with 123 board. Candidates must consent to be on the ballot, players currently registered. Thanks to a Nominations must be made by petition either by signing their own nomination petition generous sponsorship from Two Sigma containing the signatures of fifty (50) or more or by separate notice to US Chess. Investments, the 2015 team will be sporting members of US Chess who are either regis - custom designed uniforms when they travel tered or eligible to register to vote, and by A voting member for this election is any to Greece in October to compete against payment of a filing fee of $100 to the US current US Chess member (active as of May teams from around the world. Chess Federation. 4, 2016) whose membership expires on or after June 30, 2016, who will be age 16 or "A team uniform gives players and coaches The members signing the nomination petition older by June 30, 2016, and who registers to a feeling of unity, a sense of being a meaningful must include at least fifteen (15) US Chess vote by May 1, 2016. part of the group representing the United delegates representing at least five (5) states. States at the world championships," said US The petition to nominate a candidate and the Ballots will be distributed to voting members Chess Co-Head of Delegation Aviv Friedman. filing fee must be postmarked by Thursday, who are registered to vote as of May 1, 2016. "It is a source of pride for all who wear it." December 31, 2015. (Send petitions and the Ballot distribution will occur around June 10th, and returned ballots will be counted in July. "Chess is a huge part of Two Sigma's culture filing fee to: Cheryle Bruce, US Chess and we are proud to support the up-and- Federation, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN The terms will begin at the conclusion of the 2016 delegates’ meeting. coming generation of accomplished chess 38557-3967.) enthusiasts," said Kelly M. Howard, senior vice president of marketing and communications. "We believe strongly in the power of chess, and the game's ability to help build critical NEW U.S.TITLE HOLDERS thinking and analytical skills. We wish the U.S. team great success at the Championships." The following U.S. players and officials were granted the listed titles by The uniforms, custom designed by Two Sigma, the FIDE executive board in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on have already received numerous compliments from parents, players and coaches. September 7-8, 2015. "The designs look great and very professional," GRANDMASTER INTERNATIONAL WOMAN said parent Young-Kyu Yoo. "I think they'll Xiong, Jeffery ARBITER INTERNATIONAL be worth at least 100 FIDE rating points per player during the competition!" Immitt, Steve MASTER INTERNATIONAL Gorti, Akshita Founded in 2001, Two Sigma is a systematic MASTER: FIDE ARBITER investment manager that applies cutting- Bodek, Michael H Dommalapati, Anand Congratulations edge technology to the data-rich world of Gurevich, Daniel Kummer, Michael J to all from the US finance. With approximately $28 billion in Li, Ruifeng Salinas, Luis assets under management, the company has Chess community. offices in New York, Hong Kong, Houston and Rosen, Eric S London. Two Sigma was a joint sponsor of the 2014 Final Four of College Chess tournament.

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

12 November 2015 | Chess Life StLouis_FullPage_Layout 1 10/9/2015 11:23 AM Page 1 CL_11-2015_Books_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 10:33 Page 14

Looks at Books / Risk and Bluff in Chess: The Art of Taking Calculated Risks

Adding Some Spice A book for sophisticated players with a taste for complications

By JOHN HARTMANN

hess, unlike poker, is a game of Risk & Bluff in Chess is less a how-to manual complete information. All of the than it is a series of inspirational vignettes. pieces are on the board, and none We meet the hero of the tale in its first chapter. C are hidden from sight. Each player While Tukmakov sees historical antecedents has access to the same information when in and , deciding on their moves, but what is done with and contemporaries in Bent Larsen, Boris that knowledge will naturally vary from person Spassky and Leonid Stein, it is in the games of to person. that he identifies a mutation in In poker, players lack knowledge of one or how we assess risk in chess. more cards belonging to other players or the Tal possessed the unique ability to steer community. This lack of complete knowledge games towards unbalanced positions where allows players to bluff, to act as if they have his “remaining pieces acquired a completely hands that depart dramatically from what they different value, and operated with a harmony actually possess. One of the reasons that that only he could achieve.” (45) This is not to televised poker became such a fad in the ‘aughts’ say that he played incorrectly. The computer, was the introduction of the hole cam, giving as Tukmakov notes, reveals that in many cases viewers more information than the players Tal’s sacrifices were entirely sound. He brought themselves and exposing the logic (or lack an “unrepeatable magic” (47) to the game, and thereof) of betting actions. that magic brought him to the world champi- On the face of it, it would seem impossible onship. to bluff in a game of complete information In the remainder of the book, we see how like chess. Once a move is played, it is what it risk and bluff function in various situations, is, and a player cannot dissimulate its strength including the opening (chapter 2), defense or weakness. And yet, as Vladimir Tukmakov (chapter 6), and must-win games (chapter 8). shows us in Risk & Bluff in Chess: The Art of Of particular interest for the practical player Taking Calculated Risks, carefully modulated is the fourth chapter, titled “The Logic of the risk and the well-timed bluff can be powerful Irrational.” tools when used judiciously. Granting, as Tukmakov does, that not Tukmakov, who moonlights as the personal everyone can play like Tal, what might a reader Tukmakov, Vladimir. Risk & Bluff in Chess: The Art of Taking second of , is the author of two take from this chapter? In discussing positions Calculated Risks. New In Chess: 2015. ISBN: 978-9056915957. previous books. In the first, Profession: where the board seems to have been construct - 240 pages. Paperback. (Available from uscfsales.com, catalog Chessplayer (Grand master at Work), Tukmakov ed almost at random, Tukmakov offers two number B0161NIC, $26.95) tells the story of his chess career, rising from pointers. One must rely on one’s intuition as promising junior to member of the Soviet “one cannot calculate the incalculable.” (124) Olympic team and top-50 player for nearly two decades. In the second, Modern There is also a rule that Tukmakov finds useful: “non-standard positions Chess Preparation: Getting Ready for Your Opponent in the Information Age, he require non-standard decisions.” Examples are drawn from the games of Larsen, sketches the preparation and treats in fascinating detail the , and Tukmakov himself (among others) to role of the computer in contemporary preparation. illustrate these ideas, and the chapter wraps up with a ‘Conclusion’ that reads This theme—the centrality of the ‘silicon friend’ (SF) in modern chess— like a coach’s pep talk. recurs in Risk & Bluff in Chess. Risky moves are quickly debunked by even the Risk & Bluff in Chess is a fascinating study of two often misunderstood casual fan armed with the latest engine. Brilliant bluffs are ridiculed. What is themes in chess. It is not an instructional work in the usual sense of the term, forgotten is that chess remains a game played between two humans, each of but it might inspire readers to add a bit of spice to their play. Tukmakov’s whom is fallible, subject to emotion and fatigue. Tukmakov’s book reminds analysis tends towards the comprehensive, so some sophistication is required us that is that it is still possible, and in some cases necessary, to risk and bluff to take its full measure. All the same, I suspect that most players who have a our way to victory in the age of the machines. taste for complication in chess would enjoy this book.

14 November 2015 | Chess Life USCFSales_inside1_Layout 1 10/9/2015 12:58 PM Page 1 CL_11-2015_Soltis_JP_r7_chess life 10/11/2015 9:39 PM Page 16

Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment

Why We Like Chess The trouble with chess is … By GM ANDY SOLTIS

STOP ME IF YOU’VE HEARD THIS ONE Kf5 30. Rf1+ Kg4 31. Qd3! Bxg2+ 32. Kxg2 before: Three guys walk into a chess club. Qa8+ 33. Kg1 Bg5 34. Qe2+ Kh4 35. Bf2+ First guy, his name is Arthur. Dresses all in Kh3 36. Be1!, Black resigned. black. Wears an earring. Everyone calls him Art. Third guy has heard his friends argue about “The trouble with chess,” Art says, “is the this before. Too many times before. computers.” He’s wearing a San Francisco Giants cap. And “Anyone can begin a tournament game with a Tony Romo jersey. Underneath his Stephen 20 moves he memorized from his ,” he Curry hoodie. says. “It’s killing creativity.” His real name is … well, doesn’t matter. Second guy is Cy. Real name Cyrus. Behind Everyone calls him “Sport.” his back they call him “Cy-ence.” “The real problem with chess,” he says, “is the “You got that backwards,” Cy says, as he adjusts draws. We’re never gonna get millions of new his Google glasses and checks his smartwatch. fans when 90 percent of grandmaster games end ment,” he explains. “Computers help us create. Look at any GM in a . People want winners and losers.” game these days and you’ll see I’m right.” Lots of players would agree with that. Not Art replies: “Wrong again. Fans will come to Sport. see beautiful chess. Even beautiful draws like …” “The trouble with chess is that time limits are SICILAN DEFENSE (B40) too slow,” he says. “In fact, they should make all GM (FIDE 2721, CHN) SEMI- (D45) tournaments blitz chess. Then you’d see more GM Lazaro Bruzon Batista (FIDE 2677, CUB) GM (FIDE 2613, IND) great games like, well, like …” 6th Hannan Danzhou Super Grandmaster IM Marina Guseva (FIDE 2364, RUS) Chess Tournament, Danzhou, China, 2015 M. 2014, St. SEMI-SLAV DEFENSE, Petersburg, Russia 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. Nc3 a6 4. Be2 Nc6 5. BOTVINNIK SYSTEM (D44) d4 cxd4 6. Nxd4 Qc7 7. O-O Nf6 8. Be3 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. Nc3 e6 5. GM Hikaru Nakamura (FIDE 2800, USA) Be7 9. f4 d6 10. Kh1 O-O 11. Qe1 Nxd4 12. e3 Nbd7 6. Qc2 b6 7. Bd3 Bb7 8. 0-0 Be7 GM Anish Giri (FIDE 2674, NED) Bxd4 b5 13. Qg3 Bb7 14. a3 Rad8 15. Rae1 9. b3 dxc4 10. bxc4 c5 11. Ne5 cxd4 12. London 2014 Super Rapidplay Open, London, England Rd7 16. Bd3 Qd8 17. Qh3 g6 18. f5 e5 19. exd4 Nxe5! 13. dxe5 Nd7 14. Bf4 g5! 15. Be3 Re8 20. fxg6 hxg6 21. Nd5! Bg3 h5 16. h3 h4 17. Bh2 g4! 18. hxg4 Bb4 19. Ne4! h3 20. Qa4 hxg2 21. Nf6+ 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. Nf3 e6 5. Bg5 dxc4 6. e4 b5 7. e5 h6 8. Bh4 g5 9. Now 21. ... Qxf6! 22. exf6 Bd6! would have Nxg5 hxg5 10. Bxg5 Nbd7 11. g3 Bb7 12. made a candidate for best game of the year. Bg2 Qb6 13. exf6 c5 14. d5 O-O-O 15. O-O 21. ... Ke7?! 22. Qxb4+ Nc5 23. Rfd1 Rxh2! b4 16. Rb1! Qa6 17. dxe6 Bxg2 18. e7 Bxf1! 24. Kxh2 Qd4 25. Kg1 Rh8 26. Be4 Bxe4 19. Qd5! 27. Nh5 Rxh5! 28. gxh5 Qxe5 29. Qd2 Now 19. ... Bh6! 20. Bxh6 Bd3! might have Nd3 30. Qe2 held. (see diagram top of next column) 19. ... Bxe7?! 20. fxe7 Rdg8 21. Ne4! Bd3 22. Nd6+ Kc7 23. Bf4 Kb6 24. Re1! Qxa2 30. ... Qf4! 31. f3! Ne5! 32. fxe4 Qg3 33. 25. Nxf7 Qa4 Qxg2 Nf3+ 34. Kf1 Nh2+ 35. Kg1 Nf3+ 36. Kf1 Nh2+ 37. Kg1, Draw agreed. (see diagram top of next column) “Only engines could come up with the home “As usual, you’re both wrong,” says Cy. analysis that made this new move work,” Cy says. 26. b3! Qxb3 27. Qxd7 Qc3 28. Bc7+ Kb7 “Everyone knows the real trouble with chess is 29. Nd6+, Black resigned. 21. ... Nxd5 22. Rxf7! Kxf7 23. Qh7+ Ke6 the time limits. They’re too fast.” 24. exd5+ Kxd5! 25. Be4+!! Kxe4 26. Qf7 “You can’t expect someone to find the absolutely “Better yet, we should make all tournaments bullet Bf6 27. Bd2+ Kd4 28. Be3+ Ke4 29. Qb3! best move when all he has left is a 30-second incre- chess,” Sport says. “One-minute games only.”

16 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_Soltis_JP_r7_chess life 10/9/2015 2:16 PM Page 17

Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment

PROBLEM I PROBLEM II Problem III Remembering SM SM Kim Commons IM Kim Commons IM Kim Commons GM Samuel Reshevsky IM Dieter Mohriok IM John Nunn Kim Commons

Kim Commons was best known for his spectacular performance as a reserve on the gold-medal winning United States team at the 1976 Olympiade in Haifa. Commons’ 83.3 percent score was the best individ- ual result of the 286 players repre-

sent ing 48 countries. This month’s WHITE TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY quiz is devoted to Kim, who died at age 63 in June. In each of the Problem IV Problem V Problem VI six diagrams you are asked to find SM Kim Commons SM Kim Commons SM Kim Commons IM Zvonko Vranesic GM Hector Rossetto IM Peicho Peev the fastest winning line of play. This will usually mean the forced win of a decisive amount of material, such as a rook or minor piece. But look for mates as well. Solutions on page 71.

WHITE TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY

chess is that there’s another world championship White began a series of Zugzwangs with 147. every year or so. It cheapens the product.” Bh8!!. (Yes, move 147.) One of the many points “For once, you’re right—but for the wrong is that 147. ... Bb7 148. Ne6 traps the bishop at reason,” says Cy. “We should hold a 50-game f8. championship match every three years, to get the Then came 147. ... e6 148. Na8!! Kxa8 (or mathematically correct result. No bogus champs.” 148. ... Bb7 149. Nb6 Be7 150. Bf6 Bf8 151. Nd7). “What are you taking about?” replies Sport. And then 149. Kb6 Bb7 150. Kc7 Ka7 151. “ is obviously the greatest player Bf6, threatening 152. Kd7 and Ke8. ever.” So the game ended with 151. ... a5 152. bxa5 “No way,” says Cy. “Bobby Fischer is.” Ba8 153. Kd7 Bb7 154. Kxe6 Ba6 155. Kf7 “No, Philidor!” says Art. Bc4 156. Kxg6! Ka6 157. Kf7 This goes back and forth until: “Actually guys, we have to admit it. The greatest “Nonsense,” says Art. “What we should do is players of all time are today’s computers,” says make all tournament Fischerandom. It’s more Cy. “No human living or dead could play like this.” aesthetic.” “If we’re going to change rules, the only thing BATTLE OF THE MACHINES that makes sense is ,” says Sport. “Make it win, not a draw.” Komodo “And I’ll tell you what the biggest problem with World Computer Championship, 2015 chess is,” he adds. “It’s the cheating. They gotta stop it, whatever it takes: Metal detectors and polygraph tests.” “Not enough,” says Cy. “All players should pass through full body scanners.” Art sees Cy’s scanners and raises: “No, everyone 157. ... Bxc5 158. g6!!, Black resigned. should get truth serum injections. With a $10,000 “Well, one thing we can all agree on is that fine for cheaters. Plus a lifetime ban from chess makes you healthier,” says Sport. tournaments.” “No, smarter,” says Cy. “And criminal prosecutions,” Sport says. “Felony “No, more imaginative,” Answers Art. Well, fraud charges.” you get the idea. Come to the club any night and “Yeah,” Cy interjects, “But don’t you dare touch you’ll hear these guys argue. my cellphone.” Maybe that’s the real problem with chess. Art changes the subject: “The real problem with WHITE TO MOVE Or the reason we like it.

www.uschess.org 17 CL_11-2015_Alburt_JP_r8_chess life 10/11/2015 9:35 PM Page 18

Back to Basics / Reader annotations Tactics are the Fabric of Chess How to crown your attack with a decisive blow By GM LEV ALBURT

The winner of this month’s award, Mike 8. ... Bg6 Giordano, provides us with a sharp, tactically rich If 8. ... Bh7, then 9. h4, planning 10. g5. game and thoughtful comments. Writes Mike (my further comments are in italics): 9. Nge2 Richard Teichmann is credited with the phrase Here I considered 9. h4 but since the black “Chess is 99 percent tactics,” or as I like to say, was still in the center of the board, I wanted to “Tactics are the fabric of chess.” Nothing can occur open up the position and capitalize on my (small) in a chess game without first checking out the lead in development. To quote Tal, “As long as tactical possibilities. One critical aspect of tactics my opponent has not yet castled, on each move I is calculating deeply enough. seek a pretext for an offensive. Even when I realize As the game below illustrates, accurate calcu - that the king is not in danger.” I did however lation is crucial for scoring the win. As the game overlook Black’s next move, which slows White unfolds, you will see that White missed three down quite a bit. different (potential) with three 3. ... Nf6 4. Nc3 e3 5. Bxe3 Bf5 different piece sacrifices. 9. ... Bb4 10. a3 Ba5 11. Nf4 As a side note, GM Sam Palatnik was kind Developing with . I don’t think Black enough to go over this game with me at the World can allow 12. Nxg6 fxg6 with an isolated Open. He was very disappointed when I showed on the open e-file. Black’s kingside bears a him 28. Kb1. He audibly groaned and commented resemblance to the Caro-Kann. that I was like a general who “stopped his army Both observations are correct. to take a smoke before going in for the kill.” 11. ... Bh7 12. Bc4 BLACKMAR-DIEMER (D00) Mike Giordano (1446) Kipp Alexander Bynum (1488) 43rd Annual World Open (7), Arlington, Virginia, 2015

1. e4 d5 2. d4 My thought during the game was that the bishop on f5 becomes a target due to White already Being a full time professional does not leave playing f2-f3. me a lot of time for study or play. This means I That’s correct. try to keep my opening repertoire focused. 2. d4 forces my opponent out of the opening he wanted 6. Qd2 e6 7. 0-0-0 h6 to play (Scandinavian) and into the opening that Stronger was an immediate 7. ... Bb4. I wanted to play (Blackmar-Diemer gambit). Here my opponent thought for five minutes. 8. g4 12. ... Nbd7 I like Mike’s skillful opening play—as early as move I think Black’s last move helps White carry out two! his plans in the center. 2. ... dxe4 True; therefore, 12. ... c6 was called for. 13. d5 exd5 (see diagram top of next column) Opening up a game clearly favors White; thus 13. 3. f3 ... e5! And here he thought for another 15 minutes. 14. Nfxd5 0-0 15. Qg2 Kipp was right to think that long. Black has a number (see diagram top of next page) of choices, the strongest being 3. ... e5, with advantage (for Black). Thus, White usually plays 3. Nc3, and only on 3. White lines up his against the black king ... Nf6 does he play 4. f3. and prepares a g4-g5 push.

18 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_Alburt_JP_r8_chess life 10/9/2015 11:50 AM Page 19

Back to Basics / Reader annotations

Of course, there were no good reasons for giving up the ; rather White could have both extra material and attack after 22. Rg5; also strong is 22. Bxg7. And even after 22. Rxh5 Nxh5, 23. Rg1 or 23. Bxg7 are great for White. Unfortunately, Mike relied fully on 23. Re5, missing Black’s response. 22. ... Nxh5 23. Re5 Here I was not worried. After removing the defender on h5, mate is coming on g7. 23. ... Kh8 This is the move I missed. I should have 15. ... Bxc3 16. Nxc3 visualized this move before playing 21. Rd5 and 31. Qxb7 perhaps chosen a different course. Now I must Black creates a problem for himself by pinning regroup. Here we pause one last time to note that after his d7- against the rook on d1. This Even on the 22nd move, as I noted, White could 31. exf6 the queen is immune due to 31. ... Qxg2 causes Black to spend tempi moving his queen. have played stronger. 32. fxg7+ Qxg7 33. Bxg7 mate. At this point (after 16. ... Qe7 17. Rhe1 Qd8 24. Bd2 Nf6 31. ... gxf6) I believe White’s best course of action is to swap , win the c7-pawn and try to Black’s last maneuvers aren’t impressive, are they? leverage the passive position of Black’s rook on 18. g5 a8. After 31. Qxb7 Black mops up easily. Of course 31. Qxb7 is a terrible, half-a-move-deep blunder. 31. ... Qxc2+ 32. Ka2 Qb1+ 33. Kb3 Rab8 34. Qxb8 Rxb8+ 35. Ka4 Bc2+ 36. Ka5 Qg1 37. Re6 Qc5+, White resigned. Black perseverance finally paid off when White— after missing several not-so-complicated wins—finally overlooked that the c2-pawn must be protected, and blundered with 31. Qxb7.

25. Ne4 See a selection of books by GM Lev Alburt, available with a member’s discount, at uscfsales.com. Removing an important kingside defender. jen: if you need closing filler, use this: 18. ... hxg5 19. Bxg5 Qc8 25. ... Nxe4 Black’s knight was hanging on f6. Perhaps 25. ... Bxe4 26. fxe4 Qg4 offered Black better White threatens 20. Bxf6, winning a piece. defensive chances. Send in your games! 20. Bh6 Nh5 26. fxe4 Qd8 27. Bc3 Qh4 If you are unrated or rated 1799 or be low, then GM Lev Alburt invites you to send your most instructive game with notes to:

Back to Basics, c/o Chess Life PO Box 3967 Crossville, TN 38557-3967 Or e-mail your material to [email protected]

GM Alburt will select the “most instruc - tive” game and Chess Life will award an autographed copy of Lev’s newest book, Platonov’s Chess Academy (by Lev Alburt 21. Rd5 28. Kb1 and Sam Palatnik) to the person submitting Here we pause and note that after 21. Bxg7 Here again we pause to note that 28. Rh5 wins the most in structive game and annotations. Nxg7 fails to 22. Rg1. (Note that 22. ... Bg6 doesn’t for White. This was the first move that I work because the f7-pawn is pinned, allowing 23. Qxg6 considered but rejected due to 28. ... Qf4+. Make sure your game (or part of it) and —L.A.) However, … Nxg7 is not forced and after However, if I had looked deeper in the position I your notes will be of interest to other seeing this I abandoned the line. What I missed would have noted that 29. Kb1 Rg8 30. Qh3 forces readers. Writing skills are a plus, but is that if I looked deeper, 21. ... Nf4 22. Qg5 Ng6 mate on the h-file. instructiveness is a must! Do not send and now White can win . 21. Rd5 Like on move 21, Mike saw a winning move, started games with only a few notes, as they are allows Black to defend. calculating, faced an obstacle, and gave up. Continuing of little instructive value and can’t be used. 1 Yes, this would have been a relatively easy, clean calculating for just 1 /2 moves more would have made way to win the game: 21. Rg1 was equally effective. a huge difference! www.ChessWithLev.com 21. ... Ndf6 22. Rxh5 28. ... f6 29. Re7 Qh6 30. e5 Qg6

www.uschess.org 19 CL_11-2015_Sinquefield_AKF_r9.qxp_chess life 12/10/2015 11:54 Page 20

Fan favorite GM Levon Aronian took full advantage of the “land of opportunity” in winning the 2015 Sinque#ield Cup. CL_11-2015_Sinquefield_AKF_r9.qxp_chess life 12/10/2015 11:54 Page 21

Cover Story / 2015 Sinquefield Cup

Sinquefield Scoreline: Armenia 3, America 0 GM Levon Aronian follows a ‘beat the Americans’ path to the 2015 Sinquefield Cup Championship

By FM Mike Klein | Annotations by GM Robert Hess

n the recent Hollywood movie Pawn , Bobby Fischer Fans picked up on his affability right away. At the pre-tournament complains that the Soviets draw with each other to play no-holds autograph session, glad-handing with 300 eager fans didn't feel like a barred matches with him, the American. The gripe causes him to chore to Aronian. In between Sharpie strokes, he was the most talkative walk out of the in Varna, Bulgaria (never mind that of the lot, finding time to tease GM Maxime Vachier-Lagrave about his the movie got the date, location, tournament and reason all signature, give GM geography lessons, and inform wrong!). GM about the first leg of the . GM Levon Aronian, alive for only a brief period of the Soviet Also reappearing in America? Aronian's indefatigable attacks. Two I empire, proved this strategy can still be successful at the 2015 inspired games, one against last year's repatriated American marauder Sinquefield Cup in St. Louis, even without all of the nefarious machinations. GM Fabiano Caruana and the other against a seemingly overmatched GM Prior to the tournament, he suggested his poor form in the prior 12 Wesley So, preceded a more methodical win against GM Hikaru Nakamura months could all turn around in the U.S.—the “land of opportunity” was that essentially sealed the tournament. his prescient reminder of America's innumerable immigrant success stories. After dropping about 70 rating points and falling out of the top 10 (his Aronian went three-for-three versus the American contingent and drew invitation to the Grand Chess Tour came via an older rating list), Aronian the remaining six games against the internationals to win by a full point. wasted no time in returning to form. In round one, he routed last year's This time, no one was complaining. A perennial fan favorite, Aronian calculator-perfect Caruana. is one of the few players with whom it would be hard to identify a rival or Caruana won an astounding four games as black last year, but trying to even a grudge. His company was so well sought after that World Champion start this year with another run backfired. “With 7. ... Ne4 you're fighting Magnus Carlsen even trained and socialized with him at a house in the for three results,” Aronian said, “whereas in the other lines you are suffering Hamptons in the days leading up to the tournament. but then you're playing for a draw.”

QUEEN’S GAMBIT DECLINED (D37) play and queenside space, but Black's structure GM Levon Aronian (FIDE 2765, ARM) is incredibly solid and there are means of GM Fabiano Caruana (FIDE 2808, USA) expansion on the kingside. 3rd Sinquefield Cup (1), 08.23.2015 10. c6 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 d5 4. Nc3 Be7 5. Also, possible is 10. cxb6, though it allows Black Bf4 0-0 6. e3 Nbd7 7. c5 Ne4 to counter with 10. ... c5, with a messy game. 10. ... c5 (10. ... cxb6 11. Qb3 is quite annoying, making The line 7. ... Nh5 8. Bd3 Nxf4 9. exf4 b6 10. it difficult for Black to fully develop on the b4 a5 11. a3 c6 12. 0-0 Qc7 13. g3 Ba6 is a queenside.) 11. Bc7 Qe8 12. Qa4 Bb7 13. bxa7 c4 variation that has been played many times at the This sample line shows that Black's activity makes elite level, including Anand-Nakamura (1-0) in up for the temporary material deficit. the Chess Challenge. White tends to apply pressure, though Black often holds tight. 10. ... Nf6 11. a3 a5 12. Bd3 Ne4 13. Rc2 f6 9. ... b6 During our commentary, GM Ben Finegold 8. Rc1 Nxc3 9. Rxc3 The continuation 9. ... f6 10. Be2 c6 11. 0-0 yelled “never play ... f7-f6!” But here it looks e5 12. Bg3 e4 13. Nd2 f5 is worth a look. White pretty reasonable, taking control of the e5-square (see diagram next column) is slightly better thanks to superior minor piece and allowing for Black’s 15th move. PHOTO CREDIT: AUSTIN FULLER

www.uschess.org 21 CL_11-2015_Sinquefield_AKF_r9.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 14:39 Page 22

Cover Story / 2015 Sinquefield Cup

The number on the photo corresponds to the crosstable on the facing page.

10 7

3 8 6

5 9 2

1 4

22 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_Sinquefield_AKF_r9.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 14:39 Page 23

Cover Story / 2015 Sinquefield Cup 14. Qe2 concerned about opening the board too quickly. Qf6-+) 22. ... Qxd6 23. Qd4 Bf5 24. Rcc1 White 18. Nd2 has a better position because of Black’s exposed kingside, but Levon probably was looking for It likely was tempting for Aronian to break more. in the center, but not at the cost of his bishop. 20. ... dxe4 For instance 18. e4 dxe4 19. Bxe4 Nxe4 20. Qxe4 Qd5 looks solid for Black. Not wise to release the tension here. Better 18. ... e5 19. e4 was 20. ... Re8. 21. fxe4 Ra5? Not very good, though tied to Black’s 20th move, which released the tension too soon. Fabiano must not have sensed the impending danger. 21. ... exd4 22. e5 Re8 23. Qh5 Nf7 24. Nf3 also looks difficult for Black. For example, 14. ... Bd6 24. ... g4 25. Nh4 Qg5 26. Qxg5+ Nxg5 27. Nxf5 The try 14. ... g5 15. Bg3 h5 looks like a lot of Bxf5 28. Bxf5 and White stands quite a bit better. fun. Caruana undoubtedly was concerned about The bishop outduels the knight on the open his king safety, but to me it appears Black is board. doing quite alright in these lines. 16. Nd2 (The 22. exf5 Nxf5 23. Bc4+ Kg7 24. d5! alternatives are a) 16. Bxe4 dxe4 17. Nd2 [17. Nxg5 fxg5 18. Qxh5 Rf7] 17. ... h4 18. Bxh4 gxh4 Shutting down the rook on a5, and allowing 19. Qg4+ Kf7 20. Qh5+ leads to a draw by 19. ... f5 Aronian to start his onslaught. Caruana can’t ; b) 16. h4 g4 17. Ng1 Nxg3 18. defend everything. fxg3;) 16. ... h4 17. Qh5 Kg7 18. Nxe4 dxe4 19. 19. ... exd4 20. Rcc1 I believe Levon mentioned 24. ... Re8 Bxe4 Rh8 20. Bxc7 Qxc7 21. Qg6+ Kf8 Who is this move in the post mortem, and it sure is better? I don’t know! Which probably means it’s tricky. White maintains the tension in the Perhaps Caruana should have chosen the just equal. center—at the temporary cost of a pawn—and safer—and least bad—option. White is up a pawn, 15. 0-0 g5!? will try to launch his attack. (20. e5 allows too but at least Black isn’t getting mated in the line much liquidation after 20. ... fxe5 21. Qxe5 Qf6 24. ... Nd6 25. Qxe5+ Qf6 26. Qxf6+ Rxf6 27. Not 15. ... Bxf4 16. exf4 Nd6 (16. ... f5 leaves 22. Qxf6 [The position is equal after 22. Qxd5+ Ne4 Nxe4 28. Rxe4! Black with a gaping hole on e5 and a lost Kg7 23. Ne4 Nxe4 24. Qxe4 Bf5 25. Qxf5 Qxf5 25. Ne4 Nd4 26. Qh5 Nxc2 position.) 17. Re1 and e6 is forever a target; 15. 26. Bxf5 Rxf5 27. Re7+ Rf7.] 22. ... Rxf6 23. Nf3 ... Kh8 might have been a reasonable waiting Bf5 24. Bxf5 Nxf5 25. Nxg5 d3 26. Rd2 Rxc6 27. No better is 26. ... Bf5 27. Rf2 when Black move. Black’s structure is very solid, so the onus Rxd3 Rd8) 20. ... Re8 21. Qh5 (21. Qf3 Qe7 22. would have no material to show for his ruined would be on White to prove he can break h3 Kg7 23. exd5 Qxe1+ 24. Rxe1 Rxe1+ 25. Kh2 kingside. through. Re5 and both sides will have chances with the 27. Nxg5 Bf5 28. Rf1 Qf6 16. Bxd6 material imbalance.) 21. ... Ba6 22. Bxa6 Rxa6 23. exd5 Rxe1+ 24. Rxe1 Ra5 25. Qf3 and White (See diagram on page 26) The drawback of playing 15. ... g5 after 14. ... has the slight advantage due to Black’s weakened Bd6. Now Levon trades bishops and doesn't have kingside. Even worse is 28. ... Bg6 29. Rf7+ Kg8 (29. ... to waste time retreating. 20. f3! Bxf7 30. Qxh7+ Kf6 31. Ne4+ Ke7 32. d6+ is 16. ... Nxd6 17. Re1 a4 deadly.) 30. Qh6 leading to mate. A very smart move, forcing Caruana to figure 29. Ne6+ . 17. ... g4 18. Nd2 e5 might have been an out whether or not to release the tension. After improvement, though Caruana may have been 20. dxe5 fxe4 21. exd6 exd3 22. Qxd3 (22. dxc7?? Continued on page 26

3RD SINQUEFIELD CUP August 21-September 3, 2015 / Hosted by the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis / cat. XXII (2795) FIDE Rating 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Score 1. GM Levon Aronian ARM 2765 x ½ ½ ½ 1 ½ ½ ½ 1 1 6 2. GM Anish Giri NED 2793 ½ x ½ ½ ½ ½ 1 ½ ½ ½ 5 3. GM Magnus Carlsen NOR 2853 ½ ½ x 1 ½ 0 0 ½ 1 1 5 4. GM Maxime Vachier-Lagrave FRA 2731 ½ ½ 0 x ½ 1 ½ ½ ½ 1 5 5. GM Hikaru Nakamura USA 2814 0 ½ ½ ½ x 0 1 1 ½ 1 5 6. GM BUL 2816 ½ ½ 1 0 1 x ½ ½ 0 ½ 4½ 7. GM Alexander Grischuk RUS 2771 ½ 0 1 ½ 0 ½ x 1 1 0 4½ 8. GM IND 2816 ½ ½ ½ ½ 0 ½ 0 x ½ ½ 3½ 9. GM Fabiano Caruana USA 2808 0 ½ 0 ½ ½ 1 0 ½ x ½ 3½ 10. GM Wesley So USA 2779 0 ½ 0 0 0 ½ 1 ½ ½ x 3 CREDIT: LENNART OOTES For more games and information, see the official website: http://grandchesstour.com/2015-sinquefield-cup/2015-sinquefield-cup. PHOTO

www.uschess.org 23 CL_11-2015_Sinquefield_AKF_r9.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 14:47 Page 24

Cover Story / 2015 Sinquefield Cup

Levon Aronian Speaks—“I am just a good player” After his win of the 2015 Sinquefield Cup, GM Levon Aronian spoke to GM Ian Rogers about his career, from his youth as the collapsed to recovering from failure at the 2014 .

The champion with (l-r): St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay, Jeanne Sinquefield, Rex Sinquefield.

Early Years—Checkers and Chess He graduated so he couldn’t stay in the university dorm. When I was born in and that’s where I live now. I learned chess the collapse of the Soviet Union started my parents told him ‘if at eight and a half. I was a sick child—not too sick; flu, small you want you can stay in our house.' My parents had been things. My older sister taught me because I was really bored. paying him as my trainer but now he stayed in the house and they didn't pay him. Melik lived with us for five years and he My maternal grandpa had tried to teach me earlier but I never was like a brother to me. liked chess because it was too complex. I liked checkers. There are pictures of me at when I was four or five, When the Soviet Union collapsed, I stopped going to school. playing checkers. I would keep on asking guests to come and My dad is from Belarus and didn’t speak good Armenian, so we play checkers with me and anybody who would visit—colleagues spoke Russian at home and I was going to Russian school. My of my dad or mum—they would have to play me. Armenian was pretty bad. Armenia needed to build a national So in 1991 I started to play; these were [still] Soviet times, ... movement but unfortunately this national movement was anti- and I went to the House of Pioneers. It was normal in Soviet Russian, as everywhere [in the ex-Soviet states]. All the Russian times to be in a Pioneer Palace. Teachers would get paid by schools were closed—there were only two Russian language the govern ment, though the salary wasn’t exciting. schools that were open and they were in the center. We lived in a poor area quite far from the center of Yerevan; in the winter At the Pioneer Palace there was a teacher who taught me how public transport was very bad and the trip to school was killing. the pieces move properly. From this lady I got to know how to So I never went to school after the break up of the Soviet Union. castle properly and the rule. I came up with these I wasn’t home schooled; I was just playing chess. I am a bookworm puzzles—mates in one—and I really thought, “I am so brilliant!” but I can’t really say this was home schooling. I didn’t know anybody else who could create such brilliancies. Not that anybody was impressed, but the kids in the group So mostly Melik and I were just working together. In the USSR were very kind to me. every city had its chess school; it comes from generations of teachers teaching students, students becoming teachers, etc. The end of the USSR You have the school [the school]. What they call the Soviet chess school doesn’t really exist. Because of the war The daughter of my teacher was about to get married to a guy we had many Armenian chessplayers from Baku coming to who was a refugee from Baku—he was a very strong player. At Yerevan, [Alexander] Shakarov’s students. that time he didn’t have any titles but he was regularly playing in the highest league of Armenia. His name was Melik Khachiyan, he was 10 years older than me and he was my trainer at the Playing Internationally time. Then something happened and they never got married. In 1992 I played in the first Armenian Championship for 10-year-

24 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_Sinquefield_AKF_r9.qxp_chess life14/10/201514:47Page25

PHOTO CREDIT: AUSTIN FULLER oraet A te 04 addts oraet n Khanty- in tournament Candidates 2014 the At tournament. family were killed [in World War II] so Germany accepted them. the on get never would I played I strongly how matter no complaint. I was on the outs with the Federation and I felt that 2000 I should have been included, so this was a long-standing Istanbul in even However Olympiad. Bled 2002 the in played The fact is that I didn’t manage to play well in the most also-ran important The 2014Candidatestournament, fromfavoriteto of Belarus was populated by Jewish... my wholepeople family andmoved tomost . of My myfather father’s is Jewish; a bigArmenian team. part Gabriel Then and team. I shared the first on place and be he said will one I of you cannot Championship go. Armenian Gabriel the win I if Federation; the of head my the with agreement an had with upset got I I team. national because our in me including not for federation national 2001 in Germany to moved I Moving toGermany student andArshak’sfamilytreatedmelikeason. and found me a team. She rooted for me becausenegotiations into got Ishe and wasGerman spoke Arshak'sSophie daughter never dream of playing, very strong players. Arshak Petrosian’s board on one so this was a chance to play against people whom I would played I but great wasn't pay The me. for deal big a was this Wattenscheid; team, Bundesliga a joined I 1999 In him. Hewasmybiggestinfluence. I kept my tactical skills and I took his positional knowledge from until even now, I learned from him. 16 of age the from learned have I ex - be changed or should not. Most of the things pieces whether placed, be should pieces where is He level. strategically class very talented; world a he feels on is player, his positionalstrong understandingvery a is he that standing under started - I but rated lower much was and me than younger is He friend. best and coach my start training with me; he became That change in attitude caused me to ask to played who players of positionally, andaddedsomesubtletytomyplay. games the appreciate to me taught Petrosian; just a month but it had a great impact on me. Arshak Then I was lucky enough to have the chance to train with Arshak material—I was alwayssacrificingthingsandnotcaring. ignoring always was I but fantasy, vision, tactical From a very early age I had very good calculation, pretty good her timetofindhelplikegettingmesponsorsandcoaches. of all dedicated mother my especially parents, My it. make to chessplayer—I a as didn’t really have it any choice. I had make no other profession so I should had I that doubts had never I There was Asrian, Mirumian and me; it was a pretty good team. Two years later I was on a youth team at the Yerevan Olympiad. onship inSzeged. a very strong coach and in 1994 I won the World U-12 Champi- I improved a lot over the two years because I was training with so muchSpriteandFantaIthinkexceededmylimits. drinking was I nuts. going were Union Soviet the from People like going to a different planet; having soft drinks and chocolate.insane, was it but badly played I Championships. Youth World the at Duisburg in play to qualified I that winning by and olds “I was ighting fromtheirst I love toplaymuchmore.” I love watchingtopgames but tournament because ofthat; game tothelast. Ienjoyedmy Karen Grigoryanisagoodplayer. through. coming players young some are Fortunate there ly satisfied—though that doesn’t include me; I am never satisfied. Armenia]. Some [for of the guys dreadful are becoming was less ambitious. Olympiad They are Tromsø getting the However give my to best buttrying something was was draggingI me and back. Itplaying happens. like feel did I year the of rest The only one person who is a permanent second—Ashot Nadanian. nowadays. You have to control things yourself more. Now I have work this way. This was a mistake and I relywas muchtrying to lessaccomplish on a I secondslotand mebut for I workingpeople have of learnedlot whole it a doesn’thad I reallytime that At for anything.Itfeltreallybad. fighting really wasn't I was when It even round chess. last the worst losing my unpleasant playing started I and me got pressure think I and winning started he equal were we when moment one at Then tournament.” this win slowly will myself, I to “OK, said I Anand. underestimated I believe I Mansiysk number one! number move from starting defend, to like don’t not—I definitely am I the because is Giri of breed. that and maybe defenders are brilliant players Giri [Anish] Some sad. me made really game against That heavenly. was won position have should I feel I but Grischuk [Alexander] against game the survived barely I +4 thought I game; would beneededtowinthetournament. first my winning after have didn’t excitement I huge So win. to here came I that honestly them told I and tournament the before questions me asking were They to gocrazybeforeatournament. sports, played some blitz, things like this. You don’t really need physical did I and Magnus teammates. as history long a share and now Baden Baden teammate Peter Nielsen invited me. We a good training session with Magnus [Carlsen]. had also MyI and WattenscheidAshot with trained I Cup Sinquefield the Before more. games much play to top love I but watching love I that; of big because a tournament is my this so tournaments super I chance. was from fighting the first game to the last. I enjoyed many Wesley so like not Guys good. play is [So] which blood, of lots had excitement we more and is there think I then players different have you when However event. strong very a was it also ago year a though course, of strong, very was year this here field The people outsidetheoperahousewaitingtogetin. were there and watching people 4,000 about had We chess. watching people many so seen never have insane—I was 2007 is a super-tournament. My match against [Vladimir] Kramnik in Armenia we have huge crowds watching chess whenever there that see can I excited. very is public the Generally U.S. the in St. Louis is great and it's fantastic to have chess at such a level The SinquefieldCup oe tr /2015SinquefieldCup Cover Story because you are concentrating. In much atmosphere the see don’t really you chess play you when though Internet, for just one not Cup Sinquefield the like with crowds, tournament a prefer also I else— anywhere people watchingonTwitter. than opinion Every my in coverage more much gets Europe. States United in the in tournament than here active more much is media and social U.S. the in popular is chess www.uschess.org 25 CL_11-2015_Sinquefield_AKF_r9.qxp_chess life 12/10/2015 11:54 Page 26

Cover Story / 2015 Sinquefield Cup

Former world champion GM was a commentator in St. Louis. "The Grand Chess Tour is a huge new moment for chess. This is the first time since 1989 that all the leading players, including the world champion, [are competing] in a circuit," he said.

Continued from page 23 Rxe5 Re8 35. Re4 Nf5 Carlsen would say later about his infrequent tournament schedule). Nakamura continued his Also losing is 35. ... Nxc6 36. Bb5 Rxe7 37. lifetime dominance over GM Viswanathan Bxc6. Anand, while Vachier-Lagrave won to keep up 36. Be6 Nd6 37. Bd7 Nxe4 38. Bxe8 Kf6 his recent form after taking Biel two weeks prior. 39. Bg6, Black resigned. The first day's five wins, which came complete with upsets and sacrificial attacks, seemed to be A beautiful finish and a fine victory. the pinnacle of what top-level chess could offer. Not so. Round two offered more. If chess was a Perhaps the most immodest action Aronian puppet show, the only way a marionettist could allows himself? Admitting that he reveled in the create more drama would be to attach his strings final moves. to the hands of a ticking clock. “It's always enjoyable when you’re attacking, The strings pulled Caruana's minute hand even when it doesn’t work sometimes,” he said. especially taut—he needed to make 12 moves in “I saw millions of wins!” a better position in less than two minutes against A prettier option was 29. Rxf5, but Levon It would be wrong to assume Aronian became Carlsen (the first lacked any incre - cared only about winning smoothly. Here’s a the man to beat early. In fact, four other players ment but produced plenty of intrigue and sample line of how nice this finish could have also won in round one. The perfect win percent - controversy). That ratio seemed leisurely when been: 29. ... Qg6 (29. ... Qxf5 30. Ne6+ Kf6 31. age eventually cooled off; at tournament's end a short time later he was reduced to only 15 Qxe8 isn’t fun for Black.) 30. Rf7+ Kg8 31. d6! 40 percent of the games produced winners, down seconds for seven moves. (31. Qh3 also is easy, but not as aesthetically slightly from 2013 (50 percent) and 2014 (47 The stakes were plain: if he makes time control pleasing!) 31. ... Qxh5 32. d7! Rb8 33. Rxh7+ percent). without squandering his advantage, the highest- Kf8 34. Ne6+ Kg8 35. Rxh5 It’s always nice to Familiar narratives abounded at the outset. rated player of all time drops to 0-2. If Caruana sacrifice your queen and not recover the lost Grischuk, a time-pressure addict, was reduced doesn’t, he falls to 0-2 himself. “It was a big material for a few moves. to seconds, and dropped his game to GM Anish mess—just too many possibilities for each side,” 29. ... Rxe6 30. Rxf5 Qg6 31. dxe6 Giri. GM Veselin Topalov beat Carlsen again in Carlsen said. the opening round and again as Black (just as in Steve Allen said comedy is tragedy plus time,

Also possible was 31. Rg5. Levon just didn’t ), although this time without the cham - but this was tragedy due to a lack of time: want to win his opponent's queen, apparently. pion mistaking the rules (“Everyone's a slow 31. ... Qxh5 32. Rxh5 Nd4 33. e7 Ra8 34. starter ... it always takes a while to get going,” (see next game top of next column)

26 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_Sinquefield_AKF_r9.qxp_chess life14/10/201514:49Page27

PHOTO CREDIT: AUSTIN FULLER is usually one of the most jovial people in the in that his was He hall. client admitted tournament people jovial most the of one usually is science.” through confusion. “It is really hard to keep to hard really calm,” he said, calling the game “more sport than is “It confusion. time up through eat to meant mostly were stretch the 40. ... Rxd2, White resigned. 39. ... Rd2 40. Rxd2 38. ... Red8 39. Rbe4 Qc2 35. ... Bxd5 36. Nxd5 Qc6 37. Nc3 Qf3 38. 33. ... Bc6 34. Ne3 Bxe4 35. Bd5 33. Qb3 3rd SinquefieldCup(2),08.24.2015 GM MagnusCarlsen(FIDE2853,NOR) GM FabianoCaruana(FIDE2808,USA) scramble.” time the watching while metro the at “shake to Carlsen Ellen sister older caused Norway, of all throughout live broadcast game, The time. of LACK OFTIME AFTER 32. ... fxg6 time” he said afterward. afterward. said he time” enough been have should “that but move, 40th his played he when left seconds three about He had number. move exact the sure for knowing resigning. before a seconds few needed only but Qa4. or Qb1 Qb3, point. whole a fine— been have would move any queen Almost maybe and half-point certain Qe4. 39. better. too. e-pawn the up picked have well may and easier, moves remaining the his of half about him seconds. 90 remaining cost it right the found continuation, Caruana though Even Qxf5. ... 33. by answered is Rb6? 33. that overlooked IM , Caruana's new IM manager, Caruana's Trent, Lawrence Carlsen admitted that some of his moves down On On the other side, also Carlsen almost ran out not was problem the of part said Caruana clock, his on hour another had now Caruana a away throws move” “reflex This Tragedy. is trading Again, piece. wrong square, Right Trading rooks with 38. Rb8 would have made Bb5!. 35. is better Even The only move. Carlsen guessed that Caruana before So was born. was So before three decades prior in Wijk aan Zee—eight years John of Nunn's crushing win againstreminded energy and structure pawn game’s burrowed The resistance. pieces much without through Armenian’s the that worm holes dark-squared several up opened g4 13. early So's Aronian. from a got in lesson field the work.” things these how not that's But year. this +3 and year last +4 was I if “Perhaps last year,” Caruana said of his seven wins in 2014. although draw, a would never with get to sniff the top half of the board tables. the on got also Anand Caruana while Topalov. drawing win by himself steadied another with contention Louis. St. in and win a 40- without up 0-2 wound to other fell Anand, only field, the The in something game). world this be the in after to two world number trying being not (despite was champion he that avow to field the in one only the certainly almost was mystery.” a it’s me For ... well this play should I think don't I training. really not I'm move. best the play to to try always not is point “The said. Topalov much,” too main the event. been have would idea inventive day, the other any On Nakamura. beat to bishops this time he offered years, a pawn to acquirethe two strong over sacrifices Exchange famous his for Known two. round in again won Bulgarian The Topalov. leader “accidental” the to thanks pushups. for gym hotel the to Caruana took Trent head, player’s his clear To loss. the after “despondent” 5. d5 0-0 6. e4 d6 7. Nge2 a6 8. a4 Ba5 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. f3 c5 3rd SinquefieldCup(4),08.26.2015 GM LevonAronian(FIDE2765,ARM) GM WesleySo(FIDE2839,USA) NIMZO-INDIAN DEFENSE(E20) side, see Anand-, Tata Steel (2011). (2011). Steel Tata Hao, Anand-Wang see side, by white the a For brilliancy Variation. Samisch to a principled line of the Nimzo-Indian Defense, leading e4 9. Qa5 dxc5 8. Nxd5 cxd5 7. c5 bxc3 The following day, the least experienced player from points to those be share “It would better into back get to round next the used Carlsen While a complete poll was not taken, Topalov complicate don't practical, be to trying “I'm year, this wire-to-wire lead didn't Aronian Another way to play is 4. ... d5 5. a3 Bxc3+ 6. Bxc3+ a3 5. d5 ... 4. is play to way Another 11. ... Nd7 12. Bg2 b5 13. g4? 9. ... exd5 10. cxd5 Nh5 11. g3 9. Bd2 17. ... Nxf3 18. Bf2 Bg4 16. ... Qf6 17. gxh5 14. ... Qh4+ 15. Kf1 Ne5 16. Be1 14. Nb1 13. ... b4 not look particularly appealing for White. White. for appealing particularly look not does which Qxh5 gxh5 the 15. Rxf3 Kd1 g4 14. on Qh4+ 13. Rxf5 exf5 attack 12. f5 Qc1 Black 11. and queenside vicious a into running 3 00 s mc sfr pin laig the activity. his with happy be leaving option, should safer Black though neutral, relatively position much a is 0-0 13. on. rages attack the now but opening, the from of dreamed have could he everything achieved Qb6 looksverypleasantforBlack. cxb5 11. Bxc3+ axb5 winning axb5 material)10. 10.(Not ... cxb5 exd5 11.10. exd5b5 Ng3 9. and weaknesses.) 11. Ng3 is a normal fighting position Nbd7cxd5 (10. 10. ... exd5 b5 Be3 11. 9. Ng3 leaves are tries Black Other with . structural novelty, as it allows Black to unleash a dangerous idea. interesting this with grandmaster super Hungarian the credits post-game his he In that Ashley Maurice told Aronian interview, Leko. Peter by discovered underdeveloped. underdeveloped. woefully is White but knight, full a down rarily rank. has no White his past own piece second because sacri the better for much pawn stands yet an knight, ficed one to has only leads Black Nh6 position. Qc1 interesting 21. e3 h3 20. fxe4 Qd2 shambles. in is structure his but lost, not he’s Sure, White. for 15. b4 Ne5. Nb1 Kf1 14. Qh4+ ... 13. after continuation This move is too much. Black had already had Black much. too is move This 0 12. f5 Qc2 11. are alternatives The the meet to way challenging most the Not novelty a be to out turns move strange This What a picturesque position. Black is tempo is tempo Black position. a picturesque What - 19. Ng4 f4 18. Qf6 Be1 17. f5 gxh5 16. After ugly is Qh4+ bxc3 15. bxc3 gxh5 14. line The game the to transpose would position The oe tr /2015SinquefieldCup Cover Story www.uschess.org -0- 0 b5 0 27 CL_11-2015_Sinquefield_AKF_r9.qxp_chess life 12/10/2015 11:54 Page 28

Cover Story / 2015 Sinquefield Cup

Despite the intense level of competition among the world’s best players, a spirit of camaraderie prevailed in St. Louis.

Another way was 18. ... Qxb2 19. Bxf3 Qxa1 The world's former 1-2 thus sat there again in leaving Black well ahead. The rook and two passed the standings. Aronian’s return to form begged the pawns on the queenside completely outmatch the question: Why did the world champion train with two passive white knights. one of his competitors before the Sinquefield Cup? 19. Qc1 “As a rule I don’t think it’s appropriate that players who are in the top 10 work together, 19. Nd2 Nd4 (19. ... Ne5) 20. e5! dxe5 21. Ne4 but now Levon’s out of the top 10, so it’s OK,” Qh6 22. N4g3 Rac8 is a clear improvement over Carlsen quipped. Perhaps Carlsen is back to being the game continuation, though it is hard to an autodidact—Aronian ended the fortnight up imagine Aronian not standing better here as well. five spots to world number seven. Too many pawns to deal with! In round six, Aronian decided to stay solid 19. ... Nd4! against his newfound training partner, drawing Carlsen in an uneventful English. Several players Even Anand remarked on how precise Levon Also, lights out is 27. Qe1 e4 28. Rd1 e3 29. used the day of renewal to get back into the mix. was. Just a beautiful move, opening the c-file Bh4 g5! 30. hxg6 e.p. Qxg6. Grischuk again put Caruana in severe time for the rook. 19. ... Ne5 20. Nf4 g5! is a wonderful 27. ... Qg5+ pressure before the time control. The American continuation, though not one for us mere mortals managed to make his 40th move on the board, —even those in the top 10 in the world! An unbelievably cool move was 27. ... d3, but but not on the clock. As he reached over to press 20. Nxd4 cxd4 21. e5 dxe5 22. Nd2 Rac8 Levon was not feeling as flashy as the fans hoped. his side, his last second ticked away. It was just as well—he was completely lost. 23. Qb1 b3! 28. Kf1 Qf4, White resigned, as the position is completely hopeless. (see diagram next column) Vachier-Lagrave's Berlin airlift came via this inventive pawn sacrifice, after which all of his Just a fabulous display of technique. The pawn The final round before the only rest day caught planes unloaded their cargo: sacrifice prevents the knight from heading to e4, up with the second-oldest player. Topalov as So can't allow the rook to penetrate via c2. faltered against Caruana, admitting a depleted 24. Nxb3 Bb6 25. a5 Ba7 supply of energy. Aronian missed a key move AN INVENTIVE SACRIFICE and echoed the same: “This is the moment you GM Maxime Vachier-Lagrave (FIDE 2731, FRA) The line 25. ... Rc2 26. Qxc2 d3 27. axb6 dxc2 know you're tired.” He could only draw Grischuk GM Veselin Topalov (FIDE 2816, BUL) 28. h3 e4 is also winning for Black, though Levon as white. This allowed Carlsen to notch his third 3rd Sinquefield Cup (6), 08.29.2015 was smart to avoid any potential complications. win in four games to supplant Topalov as a co- (see diagram top of next page) 26. Kg1 Bf5 27. Be4 leader with Aronian.

28 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_Sinquefield_AKF_r9.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 14:49 Page 29

Cover Story / 2015 Sinquefield Cup

AFTER 17. Bf5 13. Nd3 Ng6 14. c5 Nf6 15. Rc1 Rf7 16. Kh1 a whole lot of damage. In the line 21. ... Bb7 22. h5 17. cxd6 Bb6 Qf8 23. Rc7 at the very least allows White 18. e6! to trade off some of the black attackers. This brilliant move either cuts off the f5-bishop’s More accurate is 17. Nb5. An impor tant distinction 22. Rc1 Bd7 23. Rc7? protection of the seventh rank, or creates a second is that after 17. ... a6 18. Na3 ... target for the white knight coming to c5. It’s not that this move is atrocious. Rather, So needed to keep applying pressure on the 18. ... Bxe6 queenside. The rook on c7 gives White no con - The continuation 18. ... fxe6 19. Nc5 Rb8 20. crete threats, and it’s quite common for White Nxb7! Rxb7 21. Rd8+ Kf7 22. R1d7+ Kf6 23. to sacrifice an Exchange for positional domi - Bd4+ is not forced, but is the kind of thing nance. For instance: 23. Nb4 Bxc6 24. dxc6 with Topalov has to worry about now. very real . Black’s attack loses its bite without the light-squared bishop while 19. Nc5 Rh5 20. Nxb7 Rd5 21. b3 Rb8 22. White gains space. 24. ... Qc8 25. c7 Ne7 26. Bh4 Rxd5 cxd5 23. Nc5 c6 with clear compensation for the sacrificed Black’s pieces are directionless. Exchange; 23. Rb6 is also a decent attempt, keeping pressure on the d6- and a6-pawns. 24. Rd4 Bc8 25. Ra4 Ra8 26. c4 dxc4 27. 23. ... Bh6 24. Be1 h4 25. fxg4 Rxc4 Bf5 28. Nb7 Kd7 29. Rd4+ Kc7 30. Black does not have the option to play ... b7-b5, Nd6 Bb1 31. Nxf7 Re8 32. Kf2 Bxa2 33. f5 as occurred in the game. Nf8 17. ... cxd6 18. Nb5 No better is 33. ... Ne7 34. Ra4 Bxb3 35. Rxa7+ Kb8 36. Nd6 Rd8 37. Rxe7 Rxd6 38. Bf4. Around here, Hikaru took his first think. Black can immediately push forward with the move 34. Ra4 Bxb3 35. Rxa7+ Kb8 36. Nd6 Rd8 ... g4, yet at the cost of the a7-pawn. Hikaru must 37. Rxg7, Black resigned. make a concession, and chooses to weaken his queenside in order to slow down With a win on time and a resignation in round White’s queenside play. six, Nakamura won the old-fashioned way—with 18. ... a6 a ! You can likely guess the opening. Nakamura’s King’s Indian is a defense in name After 18. ... g4 19. Nxa7 Bd7 (19. ... g3 20. only—he’s now used it to beat Kramnik, Gelfand, Rxc8 Rxc8 21. Nxc8 gxf2 22. Na7 Qa5 23. Nb5 Svidler, Giri, and Anand and also register a rapid Qxb5 24. Nxe5 looks quite good for White.) 20. White takes the bait, but this is really asking win against Carlsen. Qb3 Ne8 21. Nb5 Qg5 White has an extra pawn for it. It was time for Wesley to get his knight as compared to the game, with more chances to back into the game, because judging by the resulting successfully break through on the queenside. attack, it is evident that 25. fxg4 here isn’t good. KING’S INDIAN DEFENSE, 19. Na3 b5 The best defense is 25. Nb1 Bg5 (25. ... h3 must CLASSICAL MAIN LINE (E99) always be considered.) 26. Nd2 (26. fxg4 Not 26. GM Wesley So (FIDE 2779, USA) Black could not allow the knight to enter his ... f3? [26. ... Nxe4 27. Bf3 {27. Kg1 Nf6 28. Nd2 GM Hikaru Nakamura (FIDE 2814, USA) camp on b6. e4 29. Nf2 f3 30. Bxf3 exf3 31. Qxg6+ Rg7 32. 3rd Sinquefield Cup (6), 08.29.2015 20. Rc6 Qd3 fxg2} 27. ... Ng3+ 28. hxg3 hxg3 29. Nd2 e4 {29. ... Qh6+ 30. Kg1 Qh2+ 31. Kf1 Nh4 32. Bf2 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. e4 d6 5. The move 20. Nb4 must have been tempting, gxf2 33. Nxf2 b4 34. Rc6 Re8 White’s fragile Nf3 0-0 6. Be2 e5 7. 0-0 Nc6 8. d5 Ne7 9. though it’s not very evident how much a knight position might eventually collapse. But there Ne1 Nd7 10. f3 f5 11. Be3 f4 12. Bf2 g5 on c6 actu ally helps White. currently is even material, and Black’s attack does 20. ... g4 21. Qc2 Qf8 not look very potent. White can attempt to string (see diagram top of next column) together a blockade on the light squares.} 30. Nxe4 (see diagram top of next column) Qh6+ 31. Kg1 Re8 32. Ndf2 gxf2+ 33. Nxf2 Ne5‚ Both players were blitzing out their opening and Black is pushing forward.] 27. gxf3 Nxe4 28. moves, clearly still in preparation. Hikaru likely is A very smart move. Black needs to keep his Rxd7 Rxd7 [28. ... Rxf3 29. Nd2 The rerouted the world’s most knowledgeable King’s Indian bishop on the c8-h3 diagonal, and the only way knight now comes to the rescue!] 29. fxe4 Bxc1 Defense (KID) player, so Wesley knew what he was to play ... Bc8-Bd7 is if d6 is protected. While the 30. Qxc1 The three minors will dominate the two getting himself into. Maxime Vachier-Lagrave queen no longer can reach the g5-square in the rooks in the near future.) 26. ... h3 27. gxh3 g3 28. avoided Hikaru’s KID in round four, which proved near future, the f-file is stacked. As the game Bf1 Qh6 29. Rxd7 Rxd7 30. Qc6 Rdd8 31. Qb7 to be a wise choice. demon strates, the queen and rook can do and White is at least still kicking. PHOTO CREDIT: AUSTIN FULLER

www.uschess.org 29 CL_11-2015_Sinquefield_AKF_r9.qxp_chess life 12/10/2015 11:54 Page 30

Cover Story / 2015 Sinquefield Cup

25. ... f3 26. gxf3 Nxe4 27. Rd1 Both Nakamura and his old trainer, Kasparov, Nc5 as Black against Anand. That game ended agreed that the computer evaluation can’t always in a draw, but Grischuk likely wanted to avoid I can’t even give this move a question mark, be trusted when studying these formations. repeating a line that Carlsen and his team surely since the position is already rather hopeless. Nakamura: “The computer's gonna say some - studied at length. White had other options, none of which would thing ridiculous. I suspect that somewhere around have changed the result. 27. Rxd7 Rxf3 28. Bxf3 10. Nd5 0-0 11. 0-0 Bxd5 12. exd5 Rc8 13. move 20 it’s probably like +2 maybe. It’s at least Qxf3+ 29. Qg2 Qxd3 30. Rd1 A nice attempt to c4 +1 for sure.” complicate matters, but Black coolly responds Kasparov via Twitter: “The King’s Indian White has achieved a pawn majority on the with the amazing 30. ... Bd2!! 31. Bxd2 Nf4 32. requires the courage of your convictions & queenside and two bishops, whereas Black has Be1 Nf2+! 33. Qxf2 Qe4+ 34. Kg1 Nh3+ 35. Kf1 courage to ignore machine opinions!” good control over the dark squares and a solid Nxf2 36. Bxf2 Qxg4 picking up a rook. What a When asked if his time with Kasparov un - center. A typical transformation stemming from line! earthed any King’s Indian secrets that he still a Najdorf. 27. ... Rxf3 28. Rxd7 Rf1+ 29. Kg2 Be3 harbored, Nakamura smiled and said, “I think 13. ... Ne8 14. Qd2 b6 Garry decided long ago that the King’s Indian The followup 29. ... h3+ 30. Kxh3 Rf2!! ... loses because of all his terrible losses with Here 14. ... f5 is always a move Black must Kramnik!” consider, but Grischuk probably did not want Round seven unfolded as the most crucial of to make any concessions yet. Sometimes it is the tournament. Nakamura had a chance with wisest to remain patient. the white pieces to play Aronian while Carlsen 15. Rac1 a5 16. Na1 g6 was already tied for first and also had the first move. Giri and Vachier-Lagrave, like Nakamura, The idea 16. ... f5 now is especially tempting, only trailed by a half game. since White’s pieces have retreated and Black Then, the seemingly impossible happened. has full control over the dark squares and center. The two highest-rated players in the world both But again, Grischuk did not wish to give Carlsen lost with White. Not only that, Giri and Vachier- any chances to get active. Lagrave both drew their games, suddenly giving Aronian a full point on the field. 17. b4 Ng7 For Nakamura, his light-square bishop rum - Much worse is 17. ... axb4? 18. Nc2 Ng7 19. ... is another unbelievable sequence. Black sac - maged around like a directionless tadpole, making Nxb4 when Carlsen’s knight has successfully rifices the house for checkmate after (30. ... Rg1 seven moves of the first 19 total. Aronian’s game journeyed from a1 and is intending to land on c6. 31. Bh4 Qf2 was a variation that I proudly found bore striking similarities to his final-round loss during commentary, though this isn’t quite as against Carlsen that cost him a chance at the 18. bxa5 strong as the other continuations) 31. Bxf2 Qxf2 2013 Sinquefield Cup title. He said he learned 32. Nxf2 Nf4+ 33. Kh4 Bg5 mate. some lessons from that game. After only one loss in all of a busy 2015, Nakamura had now 30. Bg3 hxg3 31. Rxf1 dropped two games in one week. Even more dramatic and no less important to 1 the standings was Carlsen’s 6 ⁄2-hour grind with Grischuk.

SICILIAN DEFENSE, NAJDORF VARIATION (B92) GM Magnus Carlsen (FIDE 2853, NOR) GM Alexander Grischuk (FIDE 2771, RUS) 3rd Sinquefield Cup (7), 08.30.2015 18. ... bxa5 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 a6 6. Be2 e5 7. Nb3 Be7 8. Be3 Grischuk took a pause before recapturing on Be6 9. Qd3 a5, weighing the benefits of the pawn sacrifice White is now up a full rook. Too bad he’s 18. ... Nf5 19. Bxb6 Nxb6 20. axb6 Rb8 (20. ... getting checkmated before he can make use of Bg5 21. Qb4 Bxc1 22. Rxc1 Nd4 23. Bd1 is it. pleasant for White; 20. ... Qxb6 21. Bg4) 21. Rb1 Rxb6 where Black is a little worse but has chances 31. ... Nh4+ 32. Kh3 Qh6 33. g5 Nxg5+ 34. to hold the balance. Compared to the game Kg4 Nhf3 35. Nf2 Qh4+ 36. Kf5 Rf8+ 37. variation, this line would have been a huge Kg6 Rf6+ downgrade. The conclusion with 37. ... Nf7 38. Kf5 Nd4+ 19. Bd3 Nc5 20. Bc2 a4 21. Rb1 e4 39. Kg6 Nh8 mate was the ending that I wanted to see! Now Grischuk entices Carlsen to give up his dark-squared bishop. White wins a pawn, but 38. Kxf6 Ne4+ 39. Kg6 Qg5 mate. Grischuk’s minor pieces become very active. Black again could have played 21. ... f5 but Nakamura questioned So’s preparation after Grischuk was understandably reluctant to commit to this advance. the game. “Wesley, frankly, just needs to learn 9. ... Nbd7 how to prepare better.” (All three Americans 22. Bxc5 Rxc5 23. Bxa4 were asked at various times if they had discussed Two rounds earlier, Maxime Vachier-Lagrave being on the same national team and all three opted for 9. ... Nc6 10. a3 d5 11. exd5 Nxd5 12. 23. Qe2 would have posed more problems for said they had not.) Nxd5 Qxd5 13. 0-0-0 Qxd3 14. Bxd3 0-0-0 15. Grischuk, who would have had trouble gaining

30 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_Sinquefield_AKF_r9.qxp_chess life 12/10/2015 11:54 Page 31

Cover Story / 2015 Sinquefield Cup

quite enough compensation for his sacrificed the draw might be as important as any win for pawn. 23. ... Qc7 (23. ... f5?!) 24. Bxa4 Rxc4 25. Nakamura’s psyche. “Everyone has come to the Bb5 Rc3 26. Qxe4 Bf6 27. Nb3?. conclusion that Magnus is human except Hikaru, 23. ... Rxc4 24. Bc6 Nf5 25. Qe2 Rc3 26. but now maybe Hikaru will come to that conclu - Qxe4 Ra3 27. Qe2 sion too.” Kasparov may not be working with Nakamura 27. Qc4 Bf6 28. Nc2 Rc3 29. Qa4 Be5 would formally anymore, but he had some advice have allowed Carlsen to remain up a pawn, but anyway: stop playing the Queen’s Gambit. “For Black is so active that it’s unclear White is even Hikaru to play the Queen’s Gambit requires a better. lot of patience,” he said. “In the King’s Indian, 27. ... Bf6 28. Nb3 Qe7 29. Qxe7 Nxe7 30. even if you go down, you will be kicking and Nd2 Rxa2 31. Nc4 Rd8 screaming. Here, you’re just screaming!” Aronian’s draw with Anand and Carlsen’s king has trouble sticking close to his . failure to win were both fine with the leader of 59. ... Re7+ 60. Re5 Re6 course. They amounted to a fast-forward button at the end of his movie. 60. ... Kc3 is winning for Grischuk according All that remained was a final-round showdown to the engines, but it’s not so simple to the human with the sputtering Topalov, a man with a sizable eye. 61. Rxe7 Bxe7 62. Nf2. career score against Aronian. The Armenian got 61. f4 Bf6 62. Rxe6 fxe6 63. Nf2?? to play an opening he knew better. He conjured “some old file I worked on” in the Ragozin. The losing move. It does not appear possible for Almost all of the time needed for the short game Black to break through after 63. Kd2 Kd5 64. Ke2 came from Topalov’s clock. Ke4 (64. ... Be7 65. Kf3) 65. Nc5+, the essential Recent neurology studies have found that point being that Black has a dark-squared bishop, long-term memories move from the hippocam - which means that it can’t help the h-pawn queen. pus to the prefrontal cortex. After nine days of In the commentary room, GM Ian Rogers and competition, Aronian’s brain was still functioning I expected the players to split the point here. just fine. His working memory was also boosted However, Carlsen got a bit too adventurous with by the fact that he renewed his study of the line 32. g4? Not quite a losing move, but unneces- before the tournament! sarily weakening. After this push, Carlsen’s Aronian had but one decision left to make— kingside pawns are more prone to attack. I blame play on in a better position or allow a forcing this move more than any other for Carlsen’s sequence that led to a draw. The situation had loss—without it, scoresheets could have been precedence. At the final round of the inaugural signed. 32. Rfd1 Nf5 33. g3=. Sinquefield Cup, Carlsen declined a draw offer 32. ... Bd4 33. Rbd1 Bc5 34. Rd2 Rxd2 35. that would have sealed first, only to go on to Nxd2 Nxc6 36. dxc6 Rc8 37. Ne4 Rxc6 beat Aronian anyway. Today, Aronian allowed 38. Rd1 a repetition in a better position. He said some of his moves came from curiosity but in the end Black has won a pawn, but the ending looks If White is able to trade his knight and two he had to be pragmatic. extremely difficult to convert. While a computer pawns for the d- and e-pawns, the game is drawn. Once, at the 1999 FIDE World Cup in Las can hold such a position, Grischuk’s technique Vegas, he declined a draw that would have was admirable. Grischuk himself said that he 63. ... Be7 64. Ng4 Kc3 65. f5 exf5 66. advanced him to the next round. “But that is evaluated this position as somewhere between Nxh6 Kc2, White resigned. when I was 16,” he said. “I don't need much ex - a win and a draw for him, with slightly more cite ment anymore. Life is already very exciting.” chances for Magnus to hold. However, he pressed Carlsen’s tribulations were nearly palpable. Perhaps he was referring back to that training until the World Champion collapsed. He turned away from the crowd and grimaced session with Carlsen on Long Island. Their time as he closed his eyes. The chance to fully avenge there had a summer camp feel, with Carlsen 38. ... h6 39. h4 Kf8 40. Kg2 Ke7 41. Rc1 posting a video on Facebook showing them Rc8 42. Kf3 Ke6 43. Rc2 Rc7 44. h5? his poor performance in Norway at the opening leg of the Grand Chess Tour was gone. racing across a pool on an inflatable dolphin and GM Rogers and I really did not like this move. “The way I lost is really shameful,” he said. pink flamingo. Aronian: “He’s a better swimmer.” It creates a target for Black to attack in resulting “It’s just incredibly frustrating ... to lose so many Aronian grinned when discussing their shared endings. games with the white pieces is ridiculous.” He preparation, where chess almost seemed a side - had now lost six games from 16 total on the tour, show. 44. ... gxh5 45. gxh5 Bb6 46. Re2 three of them as White. “There was a lot of fight, a lot of competition, especially on the basketball court,” he said. “That’s 46. Rxc7 Bxc7 would have only helped Black. His issues only deepened in the next round. Although all five games were drawn, Carlsen the secret—play a lot of basketball. It’s easier for the king to run to the h5-pawn “If we didn't compete against each other, we without the disturbance of the rooks. failed to win versus Nakamura in a position where the American “felt I could have almost would be good friends.” 46. ... Bd4 47. Kg3 d5 48. Nd2+ Kf5 49. resigned.” While Nakamura still didn’t notch his Kg2 Be5 50. Nf3 Bf6 51. Ra2 Rd7 52. Ne1 first win against the World Champion, he was Rc7 53. Kf3 Bg5 54. Ra5 Ke5 55. Ke2 Ke4 very pleased with holding the unpleasant task. 56. Ra4+ d4 57. f3+ Kd5 58. Ra5+ Kc4 59. “It’s a confidence builder certainly ... To defend Nd3 a position like that against Magnus, it’s good See more of our Sinquefield Cup coverage on US Chess News at uschess.org, August/September (see diagram top of next column) practice for the Candidates.” Nakamura already qualified for next March’s double round-robin archives. For more games and information, see the Passive defense with 59. Ra4+ Kc3 60. Ra3+ Kb4 by finishing second in the FIDE Grand Prix. official website: http://grandchesstour.com/ 61. Ra1 appears to allow White to hold, as Black’s Commentator GM Ian Rogers thought that 2015-sinquefield-cup/2015-sinquefield-cup.

www.uschess.org 31

By By AL LAWRENCE AL

streaks to a win at the 116th U.S. Open U.S. 116th the at win a to streaks

GM ALEXANDER SHABALOV SHABALOV ALEXANDER GM KEPT PROMISES PROMISES

<<<<<<<<<<<<<< CL_11-2015_US-Open_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life 13/10/2015 12:02 Page 32 Page 12:02 13/10/2015 life CL_11-2015_US-Open_AKF_r8.qxp_chess CL_11-2015_US-Open_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life 13/10/2015 12:03 Page 33

US Chess National Events / 2015 U.S. Open

hen Grandmaster Alexander Shabalov accepted his U.S. Hall of resulting playoffs, I miss my flight and I lose the spot in the invitational.” Fame plaque earlier this year, the crowd gathered in St. Louis But as black, Nyzhnyk played into an old line of the King’s Indian that may have expected a retirement speech. After all, anyone would Alexander had 20 years of experience with, and their resulting draw meant W have been happy with his career achieve ments—winning the Shabalov clinched clear first, more than $7,500—as well as that coveted U.S. Championship four times, the U.S. Open five times, along with a bundle spot in the invitational. of other firsts. But instead of a fade- Eight grandmasters finished a point away farewell, Shabalov promised to behind Shabalov, in tiebreak order: play in the U.S. Championship one more Nyzhnyk, Alejandro Ramirez, Bartlomiej time. Six months later in Phoenix, Macieja, Andrey Gorovets, last year’s Arizona, he came through on that winner Conrad Holt, Mackenzie Molner, pledge, winning a spot in the 2016 Rogelio Barenilla, and Andre Diamant. invitational with a charge-ahead win at The U.S. Open offers a lot more than yet another U.S. Open Championship. the main event—including a host of The Open allows a choice of quads, a weekend Swiss, and even a schedules, from a leisurely, nine-day bughouse championship. GM Aleksandr stroll to a hectic four-day rumble. Lenderman won the Game-15 Champi- Joining the chase as part of the in- onship. GM Holt won the Open Blitz between pack, the six-day warriors, Championship. Hometowner Manu “Shabba” notched up eight wins in a Reddy won the 64-player scholastic row. “I’m streaky. If a tournament tournament. For a complete list of win - goes well, it really goes well. If it ners see www.uschess.org/results/15/ doesn’t, it doesn’t,” he said. This one usopen/. went very well. US Chess organizes the U.S. Open. Widely known as a go-for-it-all Alan Losoff, who has directed “just about The tournament hinged on Shabalov’s last-round match up with GM Illia Nyzhnyk, crowd pleaser, he came by his every U.S. national event,” but is best but an old line in the King’s Indian led to the draw that Shaba needed. approach as a youngster of 11 in Riga, known for orchestrating the annual Latvia, where he lived two blocks National Open and Las Vegas Chess from former world champion Mikhail Tal, the greatest attacking wizard Festival, was this year’s Open chief tournament director. Shabalov summed of modern times. “After school, I’d walk over to his apartment and watch up what his 494 fellow competitors appeared to think of this year’s Open: him work on chess. I was blessed and it absolutely shaped my style.” “The venue was fantastic—and everywhere you went, there was a chess player!” Shabalov went into the ninth and final round of the Open a full point ahead of the field. But he still had to play top-rated, young GM Illia After his first three wins, Shaba ran into a tough Texas master, who as Nyzhnyk, a Ukrainian and a recent Webster University recruit. “A single late as move 62 had a draw but fell victim to a time-pressure error that loss could have negated everything,” Shabba said. “Lose the game and the Shabalov immediately exploited:

WINNING INCREMENTALLY were playing on increments, if Black GM Alexander Shabalov (2600) had played 62. … h2: 63. Kf5 Kh6!, Christopher Toolin (2344) and White cannot avoid the perpetual 116th Annual U.S. Open—2015 (4) after 64. Rxc7 h1=Q 65. b8=Q Qd5+ Notes by Shabalov. 66. Kf6 Qd6+ 67. Kf7 Qf4+, etc. There's no escape for White’s king. 63. Rd7! Now it is all over, as 63. ... h2 falls to 64. Kf5!. 63. ... Bb8 64. Rd8 h2 65. Kf5 AFTER 23. Bg5 Be5 66. b8=Q h1=Q 67. Rh8+, But in round six, as White against Black resigned. GM Bartlomiej Macieja, Shaba 23. … Bxd1 never deigns to do the double-0. (see diagram next column) After 23. Bg5, we have what has to Stockfish 6, without a nerve in be considered a Shabba shibboleth— its binary, “sees” 23. ... Qc7 24. Bf6 When there are pawn races on a grandmaster slugfest: g6 25. Rd6, with a small edge for AFTER 62. Re7 different sides of the board, a bishop Black available only after 25. … is not much worse than the rook. VINTAGE SHABBA Rab8! 26. Nxb8 Qxb8!. But all that The difference is that a rook can GM Alexander Shabalov (2600) 62. … Bd6?? seems literally inhuman. sometimes create mating threats! GM Bartlomiej Macieja (2634) The perfect run could have easily We warn beginners that if they 116th Annual U.S. Open—2015 (6) 24. Bxd8 Rxd8 25. Qd6 Ba4

PHOTO, LEFT, COURTESY OF THE WORLD CHESS HALL FAME; THIS PAGE BY AL LAWRENCE ended in here, when both players don’t castle, they’ll get into trouble. Notes by Shabalov. 26. Kf2 Kh8 27. Ra1

www.uschess.org 33 CL_11-2015_US-Open_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 14:52 Page 34

US Chess National Events / 2015 U.S. Open

Surprisingly, the only way to stop Bd1 f6 20. Bg3 Ndb6 21. Nd6+ Black's setup is the ugly 5. Nbd2 Bxd6 22. Bxd6 Kd7 23. Ba3 a5 The Innovative U.S. Open Against any other answer, Black 24. Nd2 Ra8! plays his next six moves. The U.S. Open is our historical treasure and a worldwide rarity, It seems like Black steps in White’s held annually without interruption, even by world wars, since 5. ... dxc4 6. Qxc4 b5 7. Qc2 cunning trap when he gets one of 1900. It’s 39 years older than its current parent organization, US Bb7 8. e3 the pawns back by force. Unfortu- nately for White his king is too far Chess. It’s three years older than our venerable U.S. Championship It is too late to be aggressive, as and rook plus king are unable to stop has been held in tournament format. It’s four years older than White quickly got into trouble in rook plus bishop plus pawn. what you might expect to be the titleholder of tradition, the British 8. e4 Nbd7 9. Nbd2 a6 10. a4 Bb4 Championship. The U.S. Open Championship is a democracy of 11. Bd3 c5 12. axb5 axb5 13. 0-0 c4, 25. Ne4 b4 26. Bxa4 Nxa4 27. competition, an undivided single section in which club players as in Ponomariov-Nakamura, St. Bxb4 axb4 28. Rxa4 Rxa4 29. sit in the same big room as U.S. champions. It’s a reflection of Louis, 2011. Nc5+ Kc7 30. Nxa4 American egalitarianism. And as you might guess, its continued success is a product of American innovation. 8. ... Nbd7 9. Nbd2 Rc8 10. This was White’s idea. Now he First organized by the Western Chess Association in 1900, the Qb3 (otherwise Black plays ... c6- only needs his king on d2 to be number of U.S. Open entries was so small that everyone played c5) 10. ... a6 11. a4 Qa5 12. Be2! perfectly fine. But ... everyone else, round-robin style. As it outgrew such intimacy, it An excellent concept. White sac - 30. ... b3! (This pawn will cost entered an awkward adolescence, requiring preliminary sections rifices the pawn for some very White a piece.) 31. Kf1 Ra8 32. and a final. But when in 1947, George Koltanowski directed the dangerous initiative. Nc3 b2 33. Rd1 Ra1 34. Ke1 Ba6, Open in Corpus Christi, Texas, he relied on the Swiss System for Black resigned. the first time in a U.S. tournament, each round pairing players 12. ... Nb6 13. 0-0 Nxa4 with like scores. The Swiss format became the standard for large Black needs to pick up this pawn if open events, including the Open, allowing the traditional 12- he doesn’t want to lose right away. round, two-week championship to handle a large crowd. By 1963 in Chicago, entries had grown to 266. More successful innovation continued before the turn of the century. To the chagrin of some hardcore traditionalists dedicated to the one-game-per-evening format, US Chess added a nine- day, “busy-person” option that allowed players to reduce time away from work to a week and two weekends. Those entering later played multiple rounds in one day to catch up. That nine- day schedule made so much sense that soon the main tournament was reduced to nine rounds. Then still more options were added to make the Open accessible to busy people. In the end, White is one tempo This August in Phoenix, Arizona, the 116th U.S. Open offered short: 35. Kd2 loses to 35. ... Bd3. a six-day and even a four-day version. Both groups merged with the European-paced pack in round seven to form one egalitarian IM Andrey Gorovets, a Uni versity of Texas Tech graduate student and section of nearly 500 players, from grandmasters to woodpushers 14. Rfc1?! with ratings in three digits. All the participants witnessed and A-team member, finished in a tie for became a part of American chess history as GM Alexander Shabalov The turning point of the game. second-ninth places with half a dozen won the crown for the sixth time. Alejandro spent 50 minutes here other current or former collegiate trying to find clear ways to develop chess stars. In round seven, he met the initiative ... and comes up with another student—the reigning Nation - al Elementary champion, Andrew one of the most talented American literally waste of the tempo. The Hong. The young Californian had players ever despite playing him critical position would come up after won six in a row and then drawn with when he was a kid in 2003!” 14. Nc4! Qb4 15. Qxb4 Bxb4 16. Bd6 c5 17. Nfe5, and it is super- GM Alejandro Ramirez. In a lost complicated. For example, the position, the dimunitive star sets a SLAV DEFENSE (D11) natural 17. ... Ne4 runs into trouble: sophisticated trap. GM Alejandro x (2670) 18. Rxa4 bxa4 19. Bd1. GM Alexander Shabalov (2600) NEAR FATAL DISTRACTION 116th Annual U.S. Open—2015 (7) 14. ... Qb4 IM Andrey Gorovets (2601) Notes by Shabalov. Now White’s activity gradually Andrew Hong (2251) dissipates. 116th Annual U.S. Open—2015 (7) 1. Nf3 d5 2. d4 Nf6 3. c4 c6 4. Notes by Gorovets. Qb3 15. Qc2?! If 27. … Bb5, then 28. c4!. And Black resigned at move 40, which There were times when this Much stronger was 15. Qd1!. gave Shabalov his sixth point in a row. move or 4. Qc2 was considered to White would almost trap the black be the way to avoid long lines of queen after 15. ... Nd5 16. Nc4 Nxf4 17. exf4 Be7? 18. Nfe5. POSITIONS REVERSED Slav theory. Well, this is not the “This was a clutch game of the case anymore. 15. ... Nd5 16. Be5 Qxb2 tournament,” Shabalov said. “In 4. ... e6 Grabbing this pawn effectively exactly the same situation five years ends the game. Two bishops and prior in Irvine, California, Alejandro The Slav way to play this line. Nothing wrong is with the Gruenfeld the dark squares are not enough wiped me off the board and pro - compensation for two pawns. ceeded to win the 111th U.S. Open. way: 4. ... dxc4 5. Qxc4 g6. And it was my first time beating 5. Bf4 17. Qxb2 Nxb2 18. Ne4 Na4 19. AFTER 29. Bxa2

34 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_US-Open_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 14:54 Page 35

US Chess National Events / 2015 U.S. Open 30. Rxd8+! In the final round, GM Macieja 29. Kg3 fought his way back to join the This wins, thanks to the advanced I am not happy with this move, pawn on f6. Instead, 30. Qe4? was a group tied for second-ninth with though it brought me a victory. It tempting option where White falls his victory over FM Joel Banawa of is useful to have something like Rg2 into the trickiest of traps: 30. … Nb3+ Arizona in an instructive rook-and- played before advancing the king. (30. ... Nb7? 31. Rxd8+ Rxd8 32. pawn endgame. Macieja, a former Also a5 might be worthy to be Rxd8+ Nxd8 33. Qa8 mate) 31. Kc2 Polish champ, is another grand - included. master from the college ranks. He Rxd2+ 32. Rxd2. 29. … f5?? came to the U.S. to be head coach of the University of Texas at Black uses an opportunity to get Brownsville (UT-B), one of the rid out of one of the f-pawns but strongest collegiate chess programs immediately lands in trouble. Instead, Black needs his rook on both c- in the nation. Brownsville itself was 29. … d5! was correct, opening the file and sixth rank. queenside for counterplay. US Chess’ “Chess City of the Year” 38. … Rc8 in 2014. This year, UT-B has 30. gxf5 Rxf5 31. f4! If 38. … Rf6 then the simplest is merged with the University of 39. Rf2. Texas school to form the University 39. f6! of Texas Rio Grande Valley. “The level of support for chess seems to Black’s position is indefensible. be even higher,” Macieja said. “That 39. … d3 40. cxd3, Black promises a bright future.” resigned. 32. … Bb1+!! 33. Kxb1 Nxd2+, and Black wins! WINNING IN THE END 30. … Rxd8 31. Rxd8+ Qxd8 GM Bartlomiej Macieja (2634) 32. Qe5+ Kc8 33. Bg4+ Kb7 FM Joel Banawa (2508) 34. Qe7+ Qc7 35. Bh5! 116th Annual U.S. Open—2015 (9) Notes by Macieja. White can’t capture the rook Simplest. immediately, but it doesn’t mean White can’t trap the rook! 35. … Nc6 36. Qxc7+ Kxc7 37. f7 31. … Rf6 32. f5! Rg8 If 32. … Rxf5??, then 33. exf5 Rxe2 34. Kf3+ picks off the rook. 33. Kf4+ Kf8 34. Rxg8+ Kxg8 35. Rg2+ Kh7 Read about the If 35 ... Kf8, then, after 36. h4, Denker, Barber, Black runs out of good moves quickly. and National AFTER 28. ... Re5 36. e5! Girls’ Invitational White has a better structure, but (see diagram next column) Black’s position is solid. The only Events over the real plan for White seems to be going Now White breaks in the center. next three pages. 37. … Bxf7 38. Bxf7, Black with the king to f4 and then trying 36. … dxe5+ 37. Kxe5 Rc6 38. resigned. to break with h2-h4 and g4-g5. Kd5!

At A GlAnce 116th AnnUAl U.S. Open—2015

1 Date: August 1-9, 2015 Location: Arizona Biltmore, Phoenix, Arizona 494 players | Top Finishers: 1st, 8 2⁄ : Alexander Shabalov; 2nd-

1 8th, 7 2⁄ : Illia I. Nyzhnyk, Alejandro Ramirez, Bartlomiej Macieja, Andrey Gorovets, Conrad Holt, Mackenzie S. Molner, Rogelio P. Barcenilla, Jr., Andre Diamant; 1st-4th Master, 7: Pedram Atoufi, Roland Feng, Jeffrey Haskel, Joshua Colas, Christopher J. Toolin; 1st-2nd Expert,

1 7: Nicholas Rosenthal, Truman Hoang; 3rd-4th Expert, 62⁄ : Mark W.Dejmek, Xiexin Wang, Andrew Evan Lebovitz, Chris Peterson, Srisa Changolkar, Dylan Quercia; 1st-4th Class A, 6: Kendrick D. Nguyen, Ian Aird, Justin Fink, Saumik Narayanan, Bryson Gregory, Domino

1 Paragas, Jr.; 1st Class B, 6: Christopher Tyau; 2nd Class B, 52⁄ : Kevin Clark; 3rd-4th Class B, 5: Gavin Zhang, Maclain Bonfield, David

1 Kantey, Isaac Matthew Ewing, Salvador Martinez, Jr., Charles J. Green, Jay R. Garrison, Kiana Hajiarbabi, Jake Hum; 1st-4th Class C, 42⁄ : Keshav Singh, William J. Daly, Evan Mehran Akhavan, Michael D. Weber, Lee Whipple, Langston Tillman, Ryan Duong, Neha Alisha Dias;

1 1st Class D, 5: Frederick H. Jarmuz; 2nd-3rd Class D, 4 2⁄ : Karthikeya Reddy Dubba, Peter W. Meyers; 4th Class D, 4: Nicholas Stokes,

1 Adrian H. Black, Roydon T. Livermore III, Shree Ayinala, Debs Pedigo; 1st Class E & Below, 4: Dhruv Patel; 2nd-4th Class E & Below, 32⁄ : Yuchieh Su, Eric Golf Vigil, Della Nicole Carter, Audrey Whitmer, Ahnaf Rahman; 1st Unrated, 6: Asifur Rehman Qureshi; 2nd Unrated,

1 3 2⁄ : Ashcon Hossein Akhavan, 3rd Unrated, 3: Todd Thurman. Chief Tournament Director: Alan R. Losoff. For more information and complete standings see: http://www.uschess.org/results/15/usopen/.

www.uschess.org 35 CL_11-2015_US-Open_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 14:55 Page 36

US Chess National Events / 2015 U.S. Open Premier Scholastics Denker, Barber and National Girls’ Invitational

Each year as part of the U.S. Open, three separate junior events organized by Dewain Barber feature state representatives from all over the U.S. FM Alexander Velikanov of Wisconsin took clear first in a field that included 15 masters out of 46 participants at the GM Arnold Denker Tournament of High School Champions. The Ursula Foster Award went to IM Andrew Tang for the best score of those under 16. Advait Patel of Oklahoma became the 1 first back-to-back winner of the Barber Tournament of K-8 Champions, scoring a record 5 ⁄2 out 6 to lead the 50 representatives. Four tied with 5 out of 6 to top the 46 contestants at the National Girls’ Invitational Tournament. WFM Jennifer Yu of Virginia garnered the best tiebreaks to place ahead of Anupama Rajendra of Wisconsin, Evan Xiang of Texas, and Veronika Zilajeva of Oklahoma.

Alexander Velikanov (left), the 2015 Denker Tournament of High School Champions winner, with Dylan Denker, grandson of GM Arnold Denker.

DENKER TOURNAMENT Of high schOOl chAMpiONs

Date: August 1-4, 2015 Location: Arizona Biltmore, Phoenix, Arizona 46 players | Top Finishers: 1st, 5: Alexander Velikanov (WI);

1 2nd-6th, 4 2⁄ : Andrew Tang (MN), Sean Vibbert (IN), Tianqi Wang (NC), Vignesh Panchanatham (N-CA), Noah Dennis Fields (WA); 7th-13th, 4: Mika Andrew Brattain (MA), Christopher Wu (NJ), Joshua Colas (NY), Zhaozhi Li (IL), Michael Chen (MI), Xiexin Wang (AZ), Nicky Korba (CA-S). Chief Tournament Director: Alan R. Losoff.

36 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_US-Open_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life14/10/201514:56Page37

PHOTOS BY JEFF SMITH BARBER TOURNAMENT 3rd, 5: Ryan Sowa (RI), Evan Meyer (MA); 4th-5th, 4 4th-5th, (MA); Meyer Evan (RI), Sowa Ryan 5: 3rd, Aristo S.Liu(OH), NeoEdwardOlin(WA). (KS), Kelly Michael Joey (PA), Xu Runya (IA), Wan Cheng-Yue Joseph (CA), Sam Gabriel (NJ), Burke Michael John (LA), Webster Date: Tournament events. National Girls’ Invitational of theDenker,Barber,and Trust is themajorsponsor and DewainBarber.The of theU.S.Chess Trust with HaroldWinston (left) Champions winner, Tournament ofK-8 Advait Patel,Barber August 1-4, 2015 2015 1-4, August Location: Arizona Biltmore, Phoenix, Arizona Arizona Phoenix, Biltmore, Arizona Chief Tournament Director:AlanR.Losoff. 1 2 ⁄ : Jacob Furfine (IL), Andrew Zheng (MD); 6th-14th, 4: Dennis Fan Li, Dex Li, Fan Dennis 4: 6th-14th, (MD); Zheng Andrew (IL), Furfine Jacob : 50 players 50 | SCesNtoa vns/2015U.S.Open US ChessNationalEvents Top Finishers: Top 1st, 5 1st, 1 2 ⁄ : Advait Patel (OK); 2nd- (OK); Patel Advait : www.uschess.org 37 CL_11-2015_US-Open_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life 13/10/2015 12:03 Page 38

US Chess National Events / 2015 U.S. Open

Left-right: Veronika Zilajeva, Anupama Rajendra, Jennifer Shahade (US Chess Senior Digital Editor, not a competitor), Evan Xiang, Jennifer Yu all tied for ,irst in the National Girls’ Invitational Championship.

NATIONAL GIRLS’ INVITATIONAL TOURNAMENT (NGIT)

Date: August 1-4, 2015 Location: Arizona Biltmore, Phoenix, Arizona 46 players | Top Finishers: 1st-4th, 5: Jennifer R. Yu (VA),

1 Anupama Rajendra (WI), Veronika Zilajeva (OK), Evan Xiang (TX); 5th-6th, 4 2⁄ : Saithanusri Avirneni (GA), Rachael Eng (AZ); 7th- 12th, 4: Thalia Cervantes (MO), Sangeeta Dhingra (WA), Andrea Cecilia Crist Botez (OR), Ella Sharpe Papanek (NY), Lauren Treiman (UT), Natalia Stepanova (MD). Chief Tournament Director: Alan R. Losoff.

SPECIAL PRIZES Other special prizes were awarded at the closing ceremony. Wisconsin and Oklahoma 1 both combined for 13 ⁄2/18 scores together with the three events, with the Badgers (Wisconsin) edging the Sooners (Oklahoma) out on tiebreaks (the Wisconsin team is in the photo, right, with Tournament Director Jon Haskel, far left). Washington took third. Tennessee won best state with an average rating below 1700. Maryland won best state under 1900 and Massachusetts for under 2100. The National Girls’ Invitational Tournament awarded a $500 Ursula Foster award to the best girl under the age of 13 to Thalia Cervantes of Missouri. Andrew Tang won a $500 award in the Denker for the best player under the age of 17. Steve Shutt gave a $500 award to help pay for any chess camp to Advait Patel, the best player under the age of 13 in the Barber. PHOTO CREDIT: JEFF SMITH

38 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_CJA_AKF_r10.qxp_chess life 12/10/2015 18:20 Page 39

Chess Journalism / 2015 CJA Awards The 2015 Chess Journalists of America Awards

By JOSHUA ANDERSON

From a historical match that didn’t happen to a tournament result that will go down in history; from a photo of a single child examining a game, to a drawing celebrating an entire culture; the Chess Journalists of America (CJA) once again celebrated the best in chess writing and visual arts. As always, a note of thanks must go out to the many judges who judged the multitude of entries in 19 categories. The award winners are listed below. Those interested in entering next year’s event or judging for the CJA should contact Joshua Anderson, at [email protected].

VISUAL ARTS NEWS OR FEATURES

Best Chess Magazine/ Best tournament report article Newsletter Layout “Fire and Ice” by Mike Klein, Chess Life. Chess Life, August 2014, edited by Honorable Mention: “Stop Me if You've Daniel Lucas, Senior Art Director Heard This Before” by Mike Klein, Frankie Butler, submitted by US Chess. NOVVEMBER 2014 Chess Life. Honorable Mention: Chess Life, November 2014, edited by Daniel Best Features article “Reconnecting with Caissa” by GM Lucas, Senior Art Director Frankie , Chess Life. Butler, submitted by US Chess. Honorable Mention: “How to Catch a Chess Cheater” by Howard Goldowsky, Best Chess PhotojourNaLisM Chess Life. November 2014 cover of Chess Life, photos by Austin Fuller, submitted Best instructive Lesson by US Chess. “The Browne Endgame” by IM Danny Kopec and Daniel Kostovetsky, Chess Honorable Mention: December 2014 Life. cover of Northwest Chess, Eric Holcomb. Best review Icy Challenge Leads to Hot Chhess “Unwrapping the Enigma” by John

Best Chess art Hartmann, Chess Life. A USCF Publication $5.95 “Square One,” December 2014 cover of  Chess Life, Keith Halonen. Best humorous Contribution     Honorable Mention: "Chess and the “He is Virtually Unbeatable as Black” by Blackfeet Nation," March 2015 cover of Colin Patterson, March 2015 Chess Life. TOP FIVE Chess Life, Sue Todd. Best historical article “Our Diamond Anniversary” by Al Chess journalist of the Year Mike Klein, nominated by US Chess. Lawrence, September 2014 Chess Life. NEWSPAPER MEDIA Honorable Mention: “The Match That Best story of the Year “Reconnecting with Caissa” by GM James Tarjan, Best regular Newspaper Column Wasn't” by Neil Brennen, July 2014 submitted by Chess Life. “A Knight's Tour” by Bill Cornwall. Chess Life.

Best Chess Column Best regular Newspaper article of Best analysis “The Practical Endgame” by GM Daniel Naroditsky, Local interest “July Madness” by GM Ilya Smirin, submitted by Chess Life. “Gareyev Repeats at American” by Bill Chess Life. Cornwall. Honorable Mention: “Novice Nook” by Daniel Heisman, 2015 JUDGES submitted by ChessCafe.com. ELECTRONIC MEDIA* Keith Ammann, Matt Bengtson, Neil Best state Magazine/Newsletter Brennen, J. Franklin Campbell, IM John Northwest Chess, editor: Jeffrey Roland, submitted by Eric Donaldson, Robert Ferguson, Rob Fusco, Holcomb. Best us Chess state Chapter Website Howard Goldowsky, Dov Gorman, John www.chessmaine.net, submitted by Hartmann, Dan Heisman, Peter Henner, Best Book (paper-printed only) Liquidation on the Chess Board by GM Joel Benjamin; New Daniel DeLuca. Eric Johnson, Harvey Lerman, Dan Lucas, In Chess. Peter Minear, Jim Quinn, Boyd Reed, Best Chess Blog Rodion Rubenchik, IM Anthony Saidy, GM “Chess Book Reviews” by John Honorable Mention: The Classical Era of Modern Chess by Andy Soltis, Peter Tamburro, Mark Taylor. Peter J. Monté; McFarland & Company, Inc. Hartmann.

39 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_Endgames_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life 12/10/2015 12:18 Page 40

Endgames / RBgh versus Rfgh going d

TWO RECENT GAMES CAUGHT MY EYE, Mackenzie’s chess blog where Dana analyzed the as they both came down to the same interesting endgame in some depth (www.danamackenzie.com/ endgame. blog/). Here is the position after 33 moves in the game I think it might be of some interest to review GM versus GM Hikaru these two examples, along with several others, as Nakamura, 2014 Olympiad in Tromsø. Last round, indeed this endgame has occurred before in master Surprising first board, crucial to the final standings. games, and will again. We will also profit from the discussion and examples of this same formation in Dvoretsky’s Endgame Manual (now once again resources in in print in its 4th English language edition.) The parameters of the endgame are: one side has rook (R), bishop (B), g- and h-pawns; the other endings (defending) side has rook, f, g, and h-pawns. Of course there are symmetrical possibilities with queenside pawns, but most cases occur on the kingside. Not surprising considering the featuring prevalence of short and how often the kingside pawns, guarding the respective castled kings, manage to survive into the endgame. rook/bishop/ Let’s start by jumping right into the game Mamedyarov-Nakamura. Not at the endgame point, And here is the position after 34 moves from GM but several moves earlier. Xiangzhi Bu versus GM Daniel Naroditsky, g-h pawns Millionaire Open, Las Vegas, 2014. Played in the sixth round between two of the leaders in contention versus rook for the very large cash prizes. and f-g-h pawns

By GM JIM TARJAN Mamedyarov has been better from the opening, and now must choose among very favorable possibilities, such as 29. Rb7 and simply 29. exd4. He opts to go into our featured endgame. Shortly after returning from Tromsø where he served as U.S. team captain, IM John Donaldson 29. Rxa7 dxe3 showed me a remarkable drawing resource for The unappealing alternative is 29. … Nc5 30. black in Mamedyarov-Nakamura, missed by both Bd5! d3 31. Bxf7+ Kf8 32. Bh5. players. Shortly after I learned of the similar endgame in Bu-Naroditsky, reported in Dana 30. Rxd7! Rxd7 31. a7 exf2+ 32. Kxf2

40 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_Endgames_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 14:58 Page 41

Endgames / RBgh versus Rfgh deep

Rxa7 33. Rxa7 hopeless, unless he has already exchanged off There is another winning plan for White, White’s g-pawn, leaving White with only the h- however, which, if successful, takes less time and pawn and the . (Later we will see effort. Namely, take advantage of the fact that the an exception to this rule.) Therefore, White can following pawn endgame is winning for White: push Black’s rook around by offering the exchange of rooks. Black should generally avoid pawn moves, especially the f- or g-pawns. (We will see more about h-pawn moves later.) As things stand, he has a in the corner of the board. Once Black’s pawns are moved, White should find it easier to infiltrate and force a trade of rooks and a simple win. (This harkens back to the fundamen - tals of not weakening one’s castled king position.) If White attacks f7 with his rook on the seventh, And here we are. White won in a few moves, Black must defend with his rook on the f-file, as seemingly without difficulty. As we will see, he has here at the start. If White switches his however, there is still chess to be played in this rook over to attack f7 on the f-file, Black must position. manage to get his rook back to the seventh, or White to move plays: Black must avoid back rank mate, while else accede to moving the f-pawn. White’s bishop 1. Kd5! weakening himself as little as possible. White will wants to be centrally located on d5, guarding his attack the f7-pawn with bishop and rook, and own g2, attacking f7, and eyeing other transfer Not 1. Ke5? Ke7 and with the , Black Black will just have time to get his rook to f6, squares such as b7 and a2. White’s king (K) works holds White’s king away and draws. protecting the one immediate target on f7. So, with his bishop and rook. is in the air. After 1. Kd5! however, Black is inevitably pushed let’s see a couple more moves: If White skillfully dances with R, B, and K, Black’s away from his pawn, back to g8. The interesting rook cannot be everywhere at once, and is thing is that, unlike in most other single pawn 33. … g6 34. Ke3 Rb6 35. Bd5 Rf6 eventually dominated, and at a minimum Black positions where the defender has control of the must accede to moving his f-pawn. queening square, Black cannot draw here. Right? This is the outline of the slow but methodical Move the pawns back a rank to g4 and g5, and way of winning this position for White. Leave Black holds the draw even after losing his pawn. White’s pawn on g2 where it can be guarded by Move them up a rank to g6 and g7 and it’s also a the bishop on d5. Moving the h-pawn to h3 is fine. draw, with Black’s king stalemated in the corner. White’s pawns are defended by the minimum force (With g- or h-pawns, not with center pawns.) It necessary. (Keeping White’s pawns back also makes is a unique (and surprising, in my opinion) feature it hard for Black to even think about trading pawns. of this exact pawn position (White’s pawn on the Trading off both of White’s pawns, and then holding fifth, Black’s on the sixth) that makes a loss rather R versus B and R, is Black’s main hope. Black’s other than a draw. (Only with the pawns on a rook file, hope being trading down to White’s B and wrong a or h, will Black draw.) Students, this is something color h-pawn.) Pile up on f7 with the bishop and you simply, absolutely, must know, as it comes up rook, but also possibly with the king to e7 or e8. all the time, as a possibility in all sorts of more Play to dominate Black’s rook by threatening rook complicated endings. As here. And now, how does White win? Before pro - exchanges, so eventually Black must push the f- White can combine these two plans. At the ceed ing with the game, I will outline the crucial pawn. Then the game enters a new phase, but proper moment, if Black does not accede to mov - concerns as I see them. hopefully an easier one for White, invading on the ing his f-pawn, threaten to transpose into the Without rooks, Black’s position is generally squares weakened by the f-pawn’s advance. winning king and pawn endgame. But, as we will PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

www.uschess.org 41 CL_11-2015_Endgames_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 14:59 Page 42

Endgames / RBgh versus Rfgh

see, it must all be timed correctly. If the g-pawn traded off, leading to rook plus bishop versus rook. A CRUCIAL PAWN STRUCTURE pushes forward and engages too soon, Black may Donaldson gives the variation 41. Be6 Rf1 42. Kd5 DIFFERENCE be able to escape by exchanging all the pawns off Rd1+ 43. Kc5 hxg5 44. hxg5 Rg1 45. Rxf7+ Kh8. Mark Tseitlin to reach the theoretically drawn rook plus bishop Black eliminates White’s last pawn, and even with Alexander Finkel versus rook. Black’s king so badly placed, he should hold the Beersheba, 1996 Mamedyarov proceeds straightforwardly. Push resulting rook plus bishop versus rook. his pawn to g5, sacrifice Rxf7 and transpose into the winning king and pawn endgame. There is a Earlier I mentioned Mark Dvoretsky’s classic little complication, however. The h-pawns are endgame treatise entitled Dvoretsky’s Endgame not yet traded. Manual. Russell Enterprises has recently issued a 36. g4 h6 4th English language edition. About this book, one can unequivocally state: every serious student 36. ... Kg7 is possible, allowing, even encour - of chess must not only have a copy of this, but aging 37. g5. must also actually read it. Yes, many of you will 37. Ke4 Kg7 38. h4 Rf1 39. Rb7 find it rather dry and even daunting, and would rather play another hundred games of bullet chess. Uncertain, White waits one move before the Be that as it may, there is much about all sorts of crucial g4-g5. (Or, is he timing things for the endgames that can be learned from books, and crucial 40th move, the last move of the time Dvoretsky is as good a way to learn it as you will control?) Now the game ends quickly: find. Assuming you are up to the challenge, because Dvoretsky’s final example of this endgame is an important one. He argues that this position is 39. … Rf2 40. g5 hxg5 41. hxg5 Re2+ Dvoretsky’s book is in no way watered down nor directed at anyone but the most talented. a draw, and I am not going to disagree with A desperate check before resigning. Let’s put it another way. Open the book to a Dvoretsky. The crucial point is that Black’s h- pawn is up on h5. In all his other examples, and 42. Kd4, Black resigned. random page, and start reading. Go ahead, use a real chess set; playing through it blindfold is not indeed in Mamedyarov-Nakamura, the aggressor’s And Black resigns because after 42. … Rd2+ required, especially at first. (the one with the extra bishop) h-pawn is back 43. Kc5 Rc2+ 44. Kd6 Rf2 45. Rxf7+ we have our A normal response will be “Ugh”. If you instead on his second or at most his third rank. With the winning king and pawn endgame. respond, “Wow, look at that! That’s incredible! pawn back, Black could support (the ... h7-h6 But do you see what slipped by in the last few But I wonder why he can’t go here instead; he followed by ... g7-g5-g4 plan) aiming at the simpli- moves, probably in time pressure? This plan by doesn’t really explain it ... I’ll work it out ... OK fication to a winning king and pawn endgame, White should not work so easily with the h-pawns now I see why, I think, it’s like the other line on as we have seen. set up as they are. Going back to Black’s 40th move: the previous page ...” If that is your response, I But even more to the point: with the pawn predict you have a future in chess. structure as in Tseitlin-Finkel (Black pawn on But I digress. h5) Black cannot afford a trade of rooks because Dvoretsky discusses our endgame on pages 299- White will then be able to exchange down to 300 of the new 4th edition. In the older 3rd edition, wrong bishop plus rook pawn. Without the it is on pages 266-7. possibility of a favorable trade of rooks, Black has no way to push White around and break down the fortress White has built around his pawn base on f2. As an example, Dvoretsky gives the following line which he attributes to Christopher Lutz.

69. Kg1 Bd4 70. Kg2 Rf6 71. Kg1 Rb6 72. Kg2 Rb2

40. … Rf5! The method by which Black could make As pointed out to me by John Donaldson, Naka progress, if only he still had his kingside pawns missed an extraordinary opportunity here. 41. back on or close to their original squares. Rxf7+ does not win: 73. Rxb2 Bxb2 74. g4 hxg4 75. Kg3 Bc1 41. Rxf7+ Rxf7 42. Bxf7 Kxf7 43. Kd5 (Or Dvoretsky cites two different Gufeld games from this same position. In the earlier game, 76. Kxg4 Bh6 77. f4 followed by 78. h5 with 43. Ke5 hxg5 44. hxg5 Ke7, Draw.) 43. … Ke7! a draw. 44. Ke5 Honfi-Gufeld, Kislovodsk, 1968, Gufeld patiently maneuvered until White was forced to move his If 44. gxh6 White has nothing left but h-pawns f-pawn, and eventually Black won. In the later This is what should have happened from the and Black draws by running his king back to h8. game, however, Gufeld-Rahman, Calcutta, 1994, above diagram. However, that is not what in fact He doesn’t even need to worry about losing the White prematurely advanced his g-pawn: happened in Tseitlin-Finkel. Tseitlin played: g6-pawn. 69. Kf1? Bxf2! 1. g4? hxg4 2. hxg4 Rf4 3. g5 44. … h5! Simplifying into a different sort of winning The idea 3. Rxf7+ fails, as White’s king is one king and pawn endgame! After 70. Rxf2 Ke3 71. Simple but lovely, don’t you think? The extra tempo away from where it needs to be. h-pawns give Black the tempo he needs to gain Rxf5 gxf5 72. Kg2 Ke2 White loses both his pawns the opposition, regardless of how White comes 3. … Rg4! through the magic of Zugzwang. Tseitlin instead with his king. Draw. played 70. Kg2 and resigned in a few moves. So, after 40. … Rf5, when White realizes his And now Black wins White’s last pawn, forcing plan of 41. Rxf7+ will not win, he must try to find rook plus bishop versus rook. Dvoretsky points I showed a draft of this article to my colleague some other way. However, it is rather late, as he out that 3. … Rf5 4. Rxf7+ Kh8! also draws. IM John Watson along with a query: how often has pushed his pawns up where they can all be (see next game, next column) has this endgame occurred before? And, now that

42 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_Endgames_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life 12/10/2015 12:19 Page 43

Endgames / RBgh versus Rfgh

virtually all master games are in sortable databases, Black’s rook and forcing Black to weaken his White’s king marches to e8. Note how White’s can we sort to produce a list of those games? Later kingside structure. Here is an example. bishop and rook must be used with great effec - that day, using ChessBase, John had sent me a set tiveness, looking backwards as well as forwards. of hundreds of games in which this endgame TOO MUCH TO JUGGLE If 75. … Kf8 76. Rb1! threatening 77. Rb7 and occurred. I’m going to share just a few. Zubov Black has no way to get his rook back to the f-file Danin in time: 76. … Re7+ 77. Kf6. PROVING DVORETSKY Voronezh, 2012 76. Rb1 Re7+ 77. Kd6 Re2 Yusupov Boensch 77. … Ra7 78. Rb7 Ra6+ 79. Ke7 forces the f- Bundesliga 2001 pawn to move because if 79. … Rf6, 80. Ke8. 78. Rf1 This phase of the dance has come to a close. The final dance goes by quickly as Black gets caught in a mating net. 78. … f5 79. Ra1 Kf6 80. Ra7 h6 81. h4 g5 82. Rf7+ If you are a computer you will calculate out 82. h5 g4 83. g3 to mate. But if you are a human, at the end of a long hard game, Zubov’s method is The pawns stay home. Five pieces dance around more practical. Black’s f-pawn: White’s rook, bishop and king, 82. … Kg6 83. h5+ Kxh5 84. Bf3+, Black BLACK TO MOVE. Black’s rook and king. Eventually the three triumph resigned. over the two, attacking f7 and forcing the pawn forward, breaching the walls of the fortress. The If 84. … Kg6 85. Bxe2 Kxf7 86. Ke5 Kg6 87. 34. … h5 key weapon for the offense is the threat of Bd3 g4 88. Kf4. Having seen Mamedyarov-Nakamura, I believe exchanging rooks. To avoid this, Black’s rook must dash back and forth between the f-file and the Black has more chances to defend with his h- PART II pawn back on h7 or h6. We will see an example seventh rank, while also checking White’s king Now let’s move on to Bu-Naroditsky. Before of that formation next. away from e7 or e8. No matter how skilled a juggler, the black rook cannot keep all the balls in diving into the endgame, let’s start a few moves 35. Bf3 Rd7 36. Rb2 Kg7 37. Kf2 Rd6 38. the air. (Yes, obviously I’ve played too much chess.) earlier. Rb7 Rd2+ 39. Be2 Rd6 40. Bc4 Rf6+ 41. 48. Rb4 Kg7 49. Rb7 Rd6 50. Be2 Re6+ Ke3 Kf8 42. h3 Kg7 43. g4 ENOUGH TO WIN? 51. Kf2 Rf6+ 52. Bf3 Rd6 53. Ke3 Rf6 54. Xiangzhi Bu (2784) Very similar positions are given by Dvoretsky. Bd5 Rf5 55. Be4 Rf6 56. Rd7 Kf8 57. Bd5 Daniel Naroditsky (2696) Rf5 58. Kd4 Rf4+ 59. Kc5 Kg7 60. Ra7 43. … hxg4 44. hxg4 Kf8 45. Rc7 Kg7 46. 2014 Open (6), Las Rf2 61. h3 Rf1 62. Ra3 Re1 63. Kd6 Kf8 Ke4 Rf2 Vegas, Nevada 46. … g5 lasts longer. With the pawns g4 and g5 the pawn endgame after Rxf7+ is a draw. White maneuvers to win the g5-pawn or else to force Black to play … f6, after which finally White’s pieces invade easily. 47. g5 All has been prepared. 47. … Rf5 48. Rxf7+ Rxf7 49. Bxf7 Kxf7 50. Kd5, Black resigned. Right out of Dvoretsky. After all, Yusupov wrote the introduction to his trainer’s book. WHITE TO PLAY Let’s talk about the h-pawns. We have seen from 64. Ra2 Tseitlin-Finkel that the aggressor, with the extra Quicker is to insist on bringing the king to e8: Black has the upper hand. But is it a winning bishop, must not push his h-pawn up two squares. 64. Ra8+ Kg7 65. Ra7 Rf1 66. Ke7 (intending 67. advantage? I don’t know. The two bishops are Once the pawn structure is set as in that game the Ke8 Re1+ 68. Re7) 66. … Rf5 (the rook keeps certainly attractive. The presence of queenside blockade cannot be broken, at least against careful juggling, harassing White’s bishop) 67. Rd7 Re5+ pawns clearly favors Black, who can target the a- defense, because an exchange of rooks leads to a 68. Kd8 Rf5 69. g4! and 70. Ke8 winning the f- pawn. White can trade a pair of rooks by Rbd1. draw. The analysis of Mamedyarov-Nakamura pawn. All very tricky. In our last example it was the one pressing for strongly suggests that the defending side (Black) a win, Mamedyarov, who aimed for our ending. should also keep his h-pawn back. Then White’s 64. … Rf1 65. Rd2 Rf6+ 66. Kd7 Rf1 67. Here it is the defender, Bu, who decides he has plan of g4-g5 and Rxf7+ does not quite work. Black Rd3 Rf5 68. Bb3 Ra5 69. Bd5 Ra7+ 70. better drawing chances in rook, bishop plus two has the additional defensive resource of drawing Kd8 Ra6 71. Kc7 Ra7+ 72. Kd6 Ra6+ 73. versus rook plus three than as things stand. Ke5 Kg7 74. Rf3 Ra7 75. Rf1 Rd7 the king and pawn ending with the tempo … h5! 31. Rxd4!? Rxd4 32. Rxb6 Ra4 33. Rb7+ Does that mean the position is a draw if Black White’s plan is Kd6, and, even not considering Kf6 34. Rb6 Rxa2 holds his h-pawn back? I think not. White reverts the aid of Zugzwang, White has the threat Rf2 to to the other, patient plan of eventually dominating a2 trading rooks. If Black’s rook checks on a6 (see diagram top of next page)

www.uschess.org 43 CL_11-2015_Endgames_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life 12/10/2015 12:19 Page 44

Endgames / RBgh versus Rfgh

color, White’s (the defender’s) rook is going to 41. … Rc4 42. Ra6 Kd4 43. Rd6+ have to do a lot of work, checking away Black’s Another moment for White to lash out with king, pinning the bishop, attacking g6. Black’s 43. g4. But after 43. … Be4 44. f3 Bxf3 45. Rxg6 hope will be to eventually dominate the rook and h4 is winning because White will be mated if he break down the defense, quite possibly with the goes after the h4-pawn. For example 46. Kf2 Bd5 aid of Zugzwang. 47. Rh6 Rc2+ 48. Ke1 (even running away from Add it all up, and it is clear: there is only one the corner doesn’t help at this point) 48. … Ke3 way to win this position. Invade with the king 49. Kd1 Rc3. first to e2 or e1. This will force White’s pawn to f3, if it is not there already. But then, White can 43. … Kc3 44. Rd8 Rd4 45. Ra8 Kd2 46. still attempt a fortress. Black will need to get his Re8 Kd1 47. Re7 Re4 48. Ra7 Re1+ 49. king further, to f1 or f2. The most difficult part Kh2 Ke2 is the final stage. Here we are. There is an important difference Remember that Black can use the threat of from Mamedyarov-Nakamura. The bishop is on trading rooks to open a path for his king. He must the other color. It is on the long diagonal that also use his bishop effectively, always looking in runs through White’s pawn fortress. All the all four directions, guarding his pawn on g6 and examples in Dvoretsky are with the bishop as in shielding his king from rook checks. d3 is a good Mamedyarov-Nakamura, none with the bishop square for the bishop. White tries to use his rook as here. Why? Is this an easier win, or harder? Is to prevent all this. this the rarer situation? Black’s king has to take a journey away from In any case, let’s work OUT some guidelines, his own pawns, away from the kingside, down and especially look for differences between the the middle of the board, at least over to the d- two cases. file, and then back into e2 or e1. While Black’s Here Black’s bishop is the “right one” for his king is on this journey, away from the kingside h-pawn. Trading rooks is even more hopeless for but not yet among White’s pawns, White can try Here we are, phase one achieved. Perhaps the defender here, unless both black pawns are to make a “run for it” on the kingside. He can White is being overly cooperative, perhaps he eliminated as a result. push his king and pawns up hoping to use the should play f2-f3 sooner or bring the king out to If Black can get his king, rook and bishop among absence of Black’s king to trade off all the pawns. g3. We shall see that defensive formation in the White’s pawns—in other words, if he can break However, he has very little chance of achieving next example. the blockade—White is in great danger of being this. Black’s king is never that far away, and the mated, even in the absence of black pawns. The minute White comes out of his fortress, Black’s 50. f3 Kf2 51. Ra2+ Re2 52. Ra1 bishop on the long diagonal creates mating superior forces spring into action. Trading one The final rope-a-dope defense. White’s rook patterns against White’s king at or near the corner. pair of pawns will never be enough to draw: tries valiantly and alone to stop Black from the Related to this is the importance for the defender White must force the trade of both black pawns. final assault on g2. This final stage is the most (here White) to have his g-pawn on its original Very often, the mating pattern decides, even when difficult. square. If White’s g-pawn is advanced, allowing Black or side ahead loses, or is about to lose, his Black’s bishop to sweep the long diagonal, White last pawn: Black’s rook on the second rank, Black’s 52. … Rd2 53. Ra8 Bc2 54. Ra2 will not last for long. At a minimum, a trade of bishop on the long diagonal. If White tries to anticipate Black’s later 56. … rooks will be easy to accomplish. Likely the best defense is to accede to f3, and h4 by playing 54. h4 himself, he creates a new To answer one of my own questions above, I hide. White’s king is in the fortress guarding g2, target: the pawn on h4. 54. h4? Rd4 55. Kh3 Bf5+. think the structure from Bu-Naroditsky is indeed the rook is out running back and forth trying to much rarer than that from Mamedyarov-Nakamura, prevent Black’s pileup on g2. 54. … Kf1 55. Ra1+ Bd1 56. Kh1 if we do not consider the cases where the defender’s Up to this point in the game, Naroditsky has g-pawn has already advanced. A typical scenario smoothly outplayed his noteworthy opponent Bu, would be that the bishop was fianchettoed and later one of the strongest Chinese players. Hereabouts traded off, leaving the pawn on g3 and an empty he lost the thread. He did not take his king on the hole behind on g2. To make this a fight, that cannot journey to e2. He kept his king on the kingside, be the case. The g-pawn has to be on g2. and pushed his pawns forward. All the pawns were With the Bu-Naroditsky structure, Black’s traded off and after 50 moves of rook and bishop bishop does not attack the square f2. This has two against rook a draw was agreed on move 145. This consequences. The idea of sacrificing on f7 into a was the second game of the day. Naroditsky had winning king and pawn endgame is off the table; already beaten a grandmaster in the morning. and the f2-square is not easy to pile up on. Black Instead of following the rest of the actual game, has to come up with some other approach to I will show a sample winning line, worked out by infiltrating White’s blockade, and forcing White Houdini and me. We work together; when one of us is stuck the other pushes the ball along. On to push his pawns forward. 56. … h4! In order to free up his bishop, rook, and king the web I saw an apt phrase for this: a chess centaur. for the offense, Black will probably need to put 35. Rc6 g6 36. Rb6 Ke5 37. Rb7 h5 Finally Black has a clear winning plan: ... Kf2, his pawns on g6 and eventually h5. His bishop ... Be2 and then rook to g1. White tries to go after will be on the f5 to b1 diagonal, defending the Or 37. … h6 38. Rh7 h5. Black’s pawns but it is too late. White’s fortress pawn base. This diagonal is somewhat awkward, 38. Rb6 Bf5 39. Rb4 Kd5 in the corner has turned into a tomb. because the central e4-square is not comfortable 57. Rb1 Kf2 58. Rb4 Be2 59. Rxh4 Rd1+ Or 39. … Rd2. Black’s rook comes over to the for the bishop. 60. Kh2 Rg1 61. Rg4 Bf1 Even after an eventual f2-f3 by White, there c-, d- or e-file and makes a bridge for the king. will still be problems breaking down White’s 40. Rf4 Rc2 41. Ra4 (see diagram top of next page) position, as his pawn base at g2 is hard to get at. As in the case with the bishop on the other If 41. g4 Ke5 and … Be4. White is not in time. 62. Rxg6 Bxg2 and mate. :

44 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_Endgames_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life 12/10/2015 12:19 Page 45

Endgames / RBgh versus Rfgh

the resulting formation. Igor is still resisting here, cutting off White’s 38. Rb5 Kg6 39. Bf4 h5 king and attacking the weakness on g3. White has come up with the idea of Rd5 attacking h5 and thus forcing Black’s king to stay up on g6. White only needs to jump his king over to f8, without losing g3 or letting Black’s king back to f7 or g8. Not clear how he can achieve that, though one feels there must be a way. White’s pieces get in each other’s way in this final stage. And the 50 move rule draw is coming at move 89 … . 77. Bc7 Or 62. Ra4 Rxg2+ and wins, even without Simply waiting, to force Black by Zugzwang to immediate mate as Black still has a pawn. (But give ground. Probably this position is one of not 62. … Bxg2?? 63. Ra2+). mutual Zugzwang, no? OK, I managed to win against myself. But is So what is White’s practical problem here? It 77. … Ra3? the endgame really a forced win? Or can the is that there are no more neutral pawn moves to defense, by putting his pieces on just the right be made, and White has a very long road ahead Ivanov weakens at the final stage. How many squares and dancing skillfully about, prevent the of him. He must bring his king down to e7 or hours had he played that day? If Black keeps the final break through against g2? I haven’t been able thereabouts, and then to f7 or f8 working against rook on the e-file, 77. … Re4, Houdini and I cannot to convince myself one way or the other, especially the g7-pawn. Not a simple task in its final phases, figure out a way to break the blockade, certainly after keeping myself awake analyzing the final assuming it can be done at all. And as of now, not in time to prevent the draw at move 89. For stages of the following, actual game: with Black’s 39. … h5, the 50 move rule clock example 78. Rd7 Kh7! (the point: Black gets his starts. When I first played over this game, I king back to g8, holding White’s king at bay) 79. THE CRUCIAL MOMENT wondered why Igor voluntarily pushed his pawns Re7 Rd4+ 80. Ke8 Kg8. Or in this line 79. Bb6 (2674) to … f6 and … h5. But now I see: if he waits, he Re2 80. Bc5 Re4 and if 81. Bf8 Rg4. White would Igor Ivanov (2598) will have to defend that much longer. need to regroup to attempt further progress. 22nd Annual World Open (7), On the other hand, White really should have 78. Ke8 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 1994 waited before making his pawn moves. Gotten his king up to f3 at least. Now, however, White gets his king to f8 and 40. Be3 Re2 41. Bf4 Rc2 42. Rb7 Ra2 43. the fortress crumbles. Bd6 Ra6 44. Bc5 78. … Ra8+ 79. Rd8 If 44. Bf8 Ra8! and 45. Bxg7 Rg8; or 45. Rxg7+ White’s pieces are no longer stepping on each Kh6 with a draw as the discovered checks do not other’s toes. They have won the contest, just help. Nice. before closing time. 44. … Rc6 45. Rb5 Kf5 46. Kg2 Kg4 47. 79. … Ra4 Rb4+ Kf5 48. Be3 Re6 49. Kf3 Re8 50. Rb7 Kg6 51. Rd7 Re6 52. Ke2 Re4 53. Kd3 Also, White preserves one pawn after 79. ... Ra4 54. Bf4 Rb4 55. Ra7 Kh7 56. Bd6 Rxd8 80. Bxd8! Kf5 81. Kf7 Kg4 (or 81. ... g5 82. Rb6 57. Rd7 Rb5 58. Kc4 Ra5 59. Bf8 Ra8 Bxf6) 82. Kxg7 Kxg3 83. Bxf6. 80. Kf8 Kh7 81. Rd7 Rg4 82. Bf4, Black AFTER 34. ... Rxa2 Same monkey business, even with Black’s king resigned. on h7: 60. Bxg7? Kg6 and … Rg8. White is slowly Played in round seven of this strong, nine-round making progress towards his goal of Kf8. Too Black is out of moves and Rd5 will be the end. event. In round 6 (played earlier that same day, slowly? Let’s review. In our first case, as in Mamedyarov- assuming the usual schedule of the U.S. Swiss System) 60. Bc5 Kg6 61. Kd5 Ra2 62. Bf8 Ra8 63. Nakamura with the bishop not on the crucial long Igor had beaten GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili. Van Bd6 Ra1 64. Kc6 Ra8 65. Rb7 Ra6+ 66. diagonal, White should be able to win. The Wely went on from here to tie for first. So this is Kd5 Ra2 67. Re7 Ra8 68. Ke6 Rg8 69. Bc7 exception being the pawn structure from Tseitlin- yet another example of this endgame appearing at a Rc8 70. Kd7 Ra8 71. Re4 Kf7 crucial moment, between two top players. Finkel. With the locked pawn structure as in that Black puts up the final rope-a-dope defense. game—the only difference is having the attacker’s 35. h4 h-pawn forward (h4 for White, h5 for Black)— 72. Rc4 Ra3 73. Bd6 Re3 74. Rc5 Kg6 75. the game should be a draw. In my hypothetical analysis (of the position with Kd8 Re6 76. Rd5 Re3 the superior side having his “kingside” starting What about the second structure, as in Bu- bishop) I assumed both sides should refrain from Naroditsky? I started out believing this should pawn moves unless required. White will need his always be a win, but now I am not sure. The pawns on h4 and g3, making a chain and with the attacker’s (let’s call him White) king needs to get base at g3 guarded by the bishop, once White’s to the f-file, not just to the e-file, and Black can king begins his journey to e7. So it seems that no make this difficult. My instinct is that White harm is done by 35. h4. However, there is a very should win, but every defensive setup requires real practical problem which will manifest after analysis and precise placement of White’s pieces, Black’s 39th move. in order to dominate Black’s rook. There is more work needed, but I am done. A more powerful 35. … Ra4 36. g3 Ra2 37. Rb6 f6 centaur will have to finish the job. Igor voluntarily accedes to this move and, as Dvoretsky’s Endgame Manual is available from we shall see, also to … h5, and then tries to hold uscfsales.com, catalog number B0007RE, $34.95

www.uschess.org 45 CL_11-2015_Naroditsky_JP_r7_chess life 10/11/2015 9:37 PM Page 46

The Practical Endgame / Instruction The Art of Liquidation Picking up the theme of Joel Benjamin’s recent book, we look at more examples of liquidating to a pawn endgame By GM DANIEL NARODITSKY

IT WAS WITH GREAT EAGERNESS THAT I inclination was 50. Kd3, intending Kc3-b4 and 51. ... Nf4+ perused GM Joel Benjamin’s recent work leaving the knight in the center. However, with Liquidation on the Chess Board: Mastering the the monarch busy on the queenside, I was worried Transition into the Pawn Endgame. Despite the that its vis-à-vis would somehow infiltrate through somewhat esoteric title, Benjamin tackles one of the center. After a few moments of thought, I the most important (and underappreciated) aspects saw just the way to resolve this issue: of endgame practice. Regardless of the concrete 50. Nd5+?? circumstances, entering a pawn endgame is a committal, hazardous decision that should not be On the surface, this move appears perfectly undertaken without profound reflection. In this logical. By flicking in this check, I centralize my month’s column, I analyze two games in which knight and, most importantly, drive Black’s king strong players liquidated without accurately away from the center. Yet for all of its apparent evaluating the consequences. Boy, did they pay virtues, this dreadful move is the cause of my the price! downfall. Had I replaced verbal reasoning with At the 2015 Riga Technical University Open, calculation, I would have undoubtedly perceived I faced Armenian GM Robert Hovhannisyan in a its flaw and played 50. Kd3 instead. Black has Make no mistake: I had anticipated this move crucial round five encounter. After 49 moves of several challenging options, but no way to avert when playing 50. Nd5+, and spent quite a bit of intense positional maneuvering, we reached the a draw: time assessing its consequences. It is easy to following intriguing knight ending: 1) 50. ... Nf4+ 51. Ke4 Nxg2!? is a worthy determine that 52. Nxf4 Kxf4 is utterly hopeless. attempt, but after 52. Nxg2 a3 53. Ne3 a2 54. Nc2 Using the a-pawn as a , Black’s king gradually “outshoulders” his nemesis, eventually capturing KNIGHTMARE White stops one passer with his knight, and the both of White’s queenside pawns. For example, GM Daniel Naroditsky (FIDE 2631, USA) other with his king: 54. ... Kg5 (54. ... h4?? actually 53. Kc3 Ke4 54. Kb4 Kd4 55. g3 (55. f4 h4! wins) GM Robert Hovhannisyan (FIDE 2612, ARM) loses after 55. Kf4 h3 56. Kg3 Ke5 57. Kxh3 Ke4 55. ... a3 56. Kxa3 Kxc4 57. Ka4 Kc5 and White 5th International Chess Festival RIGA 58. Kg4 and it turns out that 58. ... Kd3 is is toast. He can prolong the agony by advancing TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OPEN, Riga, impossible due to 59. Nb4+) 55. Kf3 h4 56. Na1 Latvia, 08.13.2015 Kf5 57. Nc2 and neither side can make progress. his f-pawn, but he will eventually have to remove 2) 50. ... Ke5 is the move I was concerned about, his king from a4. This position reminds me of a but it is nothing to worry about. White responds typical scene from action movies, where a with 51. Kc3 Ke4 (51. ... a3 52. Kb3 draws) 52. character is hanging on a cliff and his fingers are Nd5, and Black does not have enough firepower slowly losing purchase. After 58. f3 Kc4 59. f4 to breach the fortress. For instance, 52. ... h4 53. Kc5 White can choose between 60. Ka3 Kxb5 Nf6+ Ke5 54. Nd5 a3 55. Kb3 Kd4 56. Ne7 (there and the equally unappealing 60. f5 Kd5. is no need to rush with Kxa3; White’s most But I had calculated all of this, and found a cute important task is to eliminate the h4-pawn) 56. way to avert liquidation. Or so I thought … ... Nc5+ 57. Kxa3 Kxc4 58. Nf5 Kxb5 59. Nxh4 52. Kc3 and the two sets of connected passers cancel each other out. I had banked all of my hopes on this move, and 3) 50. ... h4 sets a vicious trap: the tempting sat back to watch my opponent admire my 51. Kc3?? falls prey to 51. ... Nf4, creating the endgame skill … WHITE TO MOVE devastating (and unstoppable) threat of … Nxg2. 52. ... Nxd5+! But 51. Nd5+ (now is the time!) 51. ... Ke5 52. Material is equal, but that far-advanced little Kc3 secures the draw. Believe it or not, this move simply escaped my field of vision. For some unfathomable reason, I beast on a4 was sending chills down my spine. 50. ... Kg5 51. Kd3 As nimble and versatile as they are, knights are considered 52. ... Nxg2 to be forced, when 53. not particularly adept at restraining passed pawns For what it’s worth, there was no turning back: Nxc7 h4 54. c5! leads to simultaneous (the toughest ones for them to stop are “rook” both 51. f4+ Nxf4! 52. Nxf4 a3 and 51. Ke5 a3 and a quick draw: 54. ... bxc5 (54. ... h3? 55. cxb6 pawns like this one), especially when their services 52. Nc3 Nf4 would have expedited White’s h2 56. b7 h1=Q 57. b8=Q and although Black are required else where. To this end, my first downfall. promotes first, he is incapable of mounting any

46 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_Naroditsky_AKF_r6_chess life 10/9/2015 1:16 PM Page 47

The Practical Endgame / Instruction

PROBLEM I: 1500 LEVEL PROBLEM II: 2000 LEVEL Liquidate, or George Gossip IM Max Cornejo (2524) William Tullidge FM Andy Lee (2392) Liqui-don’t? Adelaide, 08.26.1887 U.S. Chess League, 09.09.2015

Each month GM Naroditsky will present two problems taken from actual games that illustrate the theme of this month’s column. Your task is to find the best line of play. Problem I should be solveable by a player at roughly a 1500 rating and Problem II by a player roughly at a 2000 rating.

See the solutions on page 71. WHITE TO MOVE WHITE TO MOVE

serious offensive against White’s king) 55. b6 h3 56. b7 h2 57. b8=Q h1=Q and White delivers perpetual check with 58. Qg8+. The pawn ending, on the other hand, is com - pletely winning for Black. The slight difference in pawn structure makes zero difference: White’s pawn is just as indefensible on d5 as on c4. The rest, as they say, is pure agony. 53. cxd5 Kf4 54. d6!? A worthy last-ditch attempt, but Hovhannisyan responds with filigree accuracy. 54. ... cxd6 55. Kb4 h4 WHITE TO MOVE ANALYSIS DIAGRAM The last finesse. White’s pawns are now Prussian service,” and became one of thestrongest is that White’s king is able to restrain the passer completely immobilized, and Black’s king, free of players in New York upon his immigra tion to the and simultaneously guard the kingside. For all distractions, leads the pawn to heaven and United States. In this game, he is on the verge of instance, 42. ... Ke6 43. f4 g6 44. f5+ gxf5+ 45. beyond. holding prominent Scottish-American master gxf5+ (three checks in a row!) 45. ... Kf6 46. h5! 56. Kxa4 Ke4 57. Kb3 Kd3 58. Kb4 d5 59. George Henry Mackenzie to a draw. (but not 46. Kd5?? Kxf5 47. Kxc5 Kg4 48. Kd4 Kb3 d4, White resigned. 40. Kf4 Kxh4 49. Ke3 Kg3) 46. ... c4 47. Kd4 Kxf5 48. Kxc4 Kg5 49. Kd3 Kxh5 50. Ke2 and White is in Painful though it was, this game is tremendously There is nothing objectively wrong with this time. instructive all the same. Frequently, we are so move, but it is the precursor to a disastrous miscal- Perhaps Wernich saw this line, and simply engrossed in calculating a certain variation that culation that will cost Wernich the game. 40. Ra4 assumed that 41. Rxb4 would not change the we fail to appreciate the devastation that a simple was simpler, intending 41. Ra7(+). For instance, nature of the position. How wrong he was! trade can cause. As Hovhannisyan so ably demon - 40. ... Ke6 41. Ra7 c4 42. Kf2! g5 43. hxg5 hxg5 41. ... cxb4 42. Ke3 g5! strat ed, this kind of negligence seldom goes 44. Ke3 and a draw is inevitable. unpunished! 40. ... Rb4! A sobering blow, paralyzing White’s pawns It is not enough to foresee the possibility of and paving the way for a king march to f4. liquidation; you must also evaluate it correctly. My guess is that Wernich simply overlooked 43. hxg5 hxg5 44. Kd3 Ke6 As we have discussed several times before, pawn this move, which forces the trade of rooks. endgames are enormously deceptive. Assuming Generally speaking, a pawn ending is in Black’s With his 41st move, Wernich tasked his that a certain position is winning or drawn on favor due to his outside passer, but everything monarch with an impossible assignment (being the basis of its appearance is, quite simply, a recipe depends on the specific circumstances. White has in two places at once). The king is a powerful for disaster. To this end, consider the following an obvious choice between the immediate 41. force, but it can only move one square at time! obscure 19th-century encounter: Rxb4 and 41. Re4, intending to liquidate on his 45. Kd4 b3 46. Kc3 Ke5 47. Kxb3 Kf4 48. own terms. There is no alternative to cold-hard Kc3 Kxf3 49. Kd3 Kxg4 50. Ke4 Kg3, TO TAKE, OR NOT TO TAKE? calculation: one move draws, and the other loses! White resigned. H. Wernich 41. Rxb4?? George Mackenzie Fittingly, White resigned on move 50, the exact New York, 1869 Oh dear! The chief problem with this move is point at which I blundered against Hovhannisyan. that Black’s passer shifts to the b-file, forcing In the prologue to Liquidation on the Chess Board, (see diagram top of next column) White’s king to abandon the kingside pawns. GM Benjamin astutely points out that “Pawn Instead, the crafty 41. Re4!! (Diagram) would have endings do not arise out of nowhere; we know of Major H. Wernich had an interesting life. An saved the day. course that every pawn ending started out as an 1879 obituary, uncovered by chess historian Edward (see diagram top of next column) endgame with more pieces on the board” (10). It Winter, points out that he was “in early life ... a is the mark of a true endgame master to seamlessly gallant and meritorious officer of artillery in the After 41. ... Rxe4+ 42. Kxe4, the crucial difference transition from the latter to the former.

www.uschess.org 47 CL_11-2015_Pando_JP_r7_chess life 10/11/2015 9:38 PM Page 48

Solitaire Chess / Instruction

A Straightforward Win A consultation game against Emanuel Lasker, who held the world championship title longer than anyone By BRUCE PANDOLFINI

NOBODY RETAINED THE WORLD CHESS 4. … Bc5 With straightforward development, Lasker championship longer than Emanuel Lasker (1868- improves his position. He now eyes the annoying Black enters the Classical Defense Deferred. 1941). Winning it from in 1894, invasion 10. Nd5, and that would threaten to The consultation team is now ready to castle, and losing it to José Capablanca in 1921, Lasker though great care must be exercised in the cause disrepair in the black pawn structure. held the title for 27 years, a reign no one has quite center. 9. … Ne5 matched. He was a pragmatic player, tactically ** resourceful, with an iron will and a sure hand in 5. Nc3 Par Score 5 With this move, Black looks to trade off some the endgame. It’s often said that he played psycho- With this development, White enters into a of the pressure on his position.** logically, but the truth is, many of his games were variation of the Four Knights Opening, one of 10. a4 Par Score 6 straightforward enough. The following encounter the most common ways for introductory players played in Berne in 1919 is such an example. Lasker to begin a chess game. Lasker is comfortable in Instead of a pedestrian exchange of bishops had white in a against consulting innocuous looking situations. (10. Bb5xd7+), Lasker keeps the tension and fuels opponents, W. Henneberger and W. Rivier. his attack. Add 1 bonus point if you saw that this 5. … d6 idea also menaced the possibility of a subsequent FOUR KNIGHTS DEFENSE (C48) Black secures the e-pawn and clears the way a4-a5. Emanuel Lasker for the queen-bishop to enter the fray. To be sure, 10. … Bxb5** Walter Henneberger and Walter Rivier (in Black’s queen-knight is now in a pin and the black consultation) position is a little passive.** 11. axb5 Par Score 5 Berne, 1919 6. d4 Par Score 6 White willingly accepts doubled b-pawns, but 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nf6 White strikes first. Lasker opens the center in the bargain, gains a half-open a-file. and instills a sharpness to the game, with White 11. … h6 having a definite edge in space. 6. … exd4 Black acts to end the pin on the f6-knight. On 12. Bh4, the intention is 12. ... Ng6.** Not much choice. Black had to exchange pawns 12. Bxf6 Par Score 5 to avoid losing one.** 7. Nxd4 Par Score 5 This gains time and keeps the attack going, since taking back with ... g7xf6 ruins Black’s pawn’s The c6-knight is now doubly threatened. Black structure. White’s knights are set to invade. could reduce the immediate pressure by 7. ... Bxd4, 12. … Qxf6** but that would surrender the two bishops, with White retaining the initiative. 13. Nd5 Par Score 5 7. … Bd7 Now make sure you have the above position This forces Black’s hand. The black queen must set up on your chessboard. As you play through Black develops the queen-bishop and thereby retreat to d8, since going anywhere else allows the remaining moves in this game, use a piece of protects c6. In fact, there’s even a threat to win a White to impair the black pawn structure by 14. paper to cover the article, exposing White’s next knight.** Nxb6, when Black would have to recapture away move only after trying to guess it. If you guess 8. Nb3 Par Score 5 from the center (... c7xb6), because of the pin on correctly, give yourself the par score. Sometimes the a-pawn. Lasker suddenly menaces to get the two bishops, points are also awarded for second-best moves, 13. … Qd8** and there may be bonus ponus points—or and that transaction would also give Black doubled full credit deductions—for other moves and variations. Note c-pawns. Accept for the alternative, 8. Nf5, assailing the g7-pawn. 14. Nd4 Par Score 5 that ** means that White’s move is on the next 8. Bb6 Lasker nicely centralizes this knight. In light line.** … of what follows, Black should have considered 4. 0-0 Par Score 5 This avoids the exchange of knight for bishop exchanging bishop for knight (14. ... Bb6xd4), and the resulting . Full credit for 4. d3, 4. d4, or 4. Bxc6. After ** though White’s centered queen (15. Qd1xd4) castling, White is now ready for business. 9. Bg5 Par Score 5 would then put the a-pawn under attack.

48 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_Pando_JP_r7_chess life 10/9/2015 1:52 PM Page 49

Solitaire Chess / Instruction

PROBLEM I PROBLEM II Problem III ABCs of Chess Pin Trapping Pin

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

November Exercise: Here’s an exercise to improve your feel for various endgames. Against soft ware or a training partner, set up positions, beginning with a king and eight pawns per side, all on their original starting squares. Then play PROBLEM IV PROBLEM V PROBLEM VI games from there. Play enough times Double Threat Mating Net and you should deepen your grasp of many aspects of endgame play. To vary the competition, and the investigation, you can add the same minor piece for each side, or, for that matter, a different minor piece, as long as it starts on its original square along the home rank. It’s a great way to play and learn at the same time.

14. … 0-0 18. Nf4 Par Score 5 Black finally castles. The question is, has Black A precise pirouette, the knight is now poised castled into a strong attack?** for a number of tactical possibilities, including a 15. Nf5 Par Score 5 plausible intrusion into e6. 18. … Qd7 This is a great post for the knight. The squares g7 and h6 are now under the knight’s observation. The queen bolsters e6 and g7. But is this defense Perhaps Black should have taken this knight while good enough?** it was still possible. 19. Qh5 Par Score 5 15. … Kh7 With the queen at h5, clearly, Black is unable Black gets off the g-file, defends the h-pawn, to play ... g7-g6, since h6 would then hang with and makes g7-g6, attempting to dislodge the f5- check. knight, potentially possible. ** 19. … Rh8 16. Ra3 Par Score 7 ToTal your score To Black overprotects h6. Maybe this will hold, deTermine your Lasker plays very logically. He makes use of maybe not.** the open a-file with this neat rook lift. White approximaTe raTing below: 20. Ne6 Par Score 8 now has a fresh and unexpected attack weapon, Total Score Approx. Rating ready to be transferred into the kingside melee. This invasion essentially decides the game. 95+ 2400+ 16. … f6 Award yourself 2 bonus points for seeing 20. ... 81-94 2200-2399 Qxe6? 21. Rxg7+! Rxg7 22. Qxh6+ Kg8 23. Qxg7 66-80 2000-2199 This opens Black’s second rank, so that defense mate. of g7 becomes possible along it. Unfortunately, 51-65 1800-1999 20. … Rg8 it’s very weakening to the light squares on the 36-50 1600-1799 kingside.** The teammates try to shore up the weakness 21-35 1400-1599 17. Rg3 Par Score 5 at g7. But it doesn’t work.** 06-20 1200-1399 The threat is obvious: Black must defend g7. 21. Nfxg7 Par Score 7 0-05 under 1200 Two simple rook moves (Ra1-a3 and Ra3-g3) Crush! With the idea of 22. Rh3 followed by and Black is in real trouble. 23. Qxh6 mate, it’s hard to see how Black can Read archival copies of “Solitaire Chess” (and all 17. … Rf7 continue with any hope. Add 2 bonus points for columns and features) by going to uschess.org and seeing that 21. ... Rgxg7 (or 21. ... Rfxg7) 22. clicking on the “Archives” link below the “CHESS This defends g7, but the placement at f7 is Rxg7+ Rxg7 23. Nf8+, forking king and queen. LIFE MAGAZINE” header and you will see be taken purely for defense, and possibly quite risky, since So Black throws in the towel. to an archives page that dates to 2006. You can also White’s queen has the possibility of pressuring it download full-issue pdfs by clicking on the 21. … Black resigned from h5.** “Downloadable Files” link below the “Archives” link.

www.uschess.org 49 CL_11-2015_GP_AKF_r5.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 10:58 Page 50

2015 Trophies Plus Grand Prix Summary Trophies Plus to award $12,500 in cash prizes in the 2015 Grand Prix!

2015 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX STANDINGS

The following point totals reflect all rated event information as of October 6 for the 2015 Grand Prix. All Grand Prix updates are unofficial and subject to change during the year or until year-end tabulation is complete.

OVERALL STANDINGS

NAME STATE PTS.

1 GM NY 305.73

2 GM Alexander Ivanov MA 219.56

3 GM NY 190.09

4 GM Illia I. Nyzhnyk MO 170.77

5 IM Andrey Gorovets TX 128.39

6 GM Sergey Kudrin CT 125.03

7 GM TX 121.75

8 GM Ioan Cristian Chirila CA 115.86

9 IM Julio J. Becerra FL 111.75

10 GM Sergey Erenburg VA 111.10

11 GM Ehsan Ghaem Maghami CA 110.98

12 IM John Daniel Bryant CA 110.91

13 GM Mark Paragua NY 105.00 PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER OF SAINT LOUIS 14 GM Ruifeng Li TX 103.59 GM ALEXANDER IVANOV notched a first place finish at the 6th annual Hartford Open to maintain his second place position in 15 IM Priyadharshan Kannappan MO 96.76 the Trophies Plus Grand Prix race.

CATEGORIES AND PRIZES Trophies Plus: IT’S NOT JUST A TROPHY. $12 ,500 IT’S THE BEGINNING OF A LIFETIME OF ACHIEVEMENT. Proud sponsor of US Chess National Scholastic IN CASH PRIZES! tournament awards since 1999. FIRST PRIZE: $5,000! Proud sponsor of the US Chess 2007-2015 All-America Teams. 2nd: $2,500 | 3rd: $1,000 4th: $900 | 5th: $800 6th: $700 | 7th: $600 8th: $500 | 9th: $300 10th: $200 315 W. 1st St., Templeton, Iowa 51463 | 800.397.9993 | www.trophiesplus.com

50 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_JGP_AK_r1_chess life 10/9/2015 1:19 PM Page 51

2015 US CHESS JUNIOR GRAND PRIX TOP OVERALL STANDINGS

Official standings for events received and processed by October 6, 2015 Name State Pts. Name State Pts. are unofficial and subject to change GUO, ARTHUR GA 9128 YE, LUKE SICONG NE 5347 during the year or until year-end SINGHAL, SANAT, JR CA-S 7288 DOMMALAPATI, AASA VA 5343 tabulation is complete. SILVER, JACK NJ 7108 VALLABHANENI, SUNITH CA-N 5289 The top prize for 2015 will be a Chess.com NAIR, SIDDHANT VA 6914 PENG, ANDREW CA-N 5277 one-year Diamond membership valued at $100, a Chess.com gear/merchandise CHANG, ELIAM HUAI-YANG CA-N 6619 XU, ARTHUR ZIHAN IL 5219 package valued at $100, a US Chess plaque, ORTEGA, VALENTINA LARA FL 6556 HU, WILLIAM NY 5203 free entry into the 2016 U.S. Open, and CHINNAMBETI, ABHINAV SAI NJ 6268 ZHANG, YUANCHEN 5193 $1,000 of expense money from US Chess KUMAR, ARAVIND NJ 6112 EIDELMAN, GABRIEL CA-S 5190 to offset the trip. For the top five players KRUNZ, EYAD AZ 6106 WANG, JASON YUYANG OH 5185 on the overall list and to each state winner, GORTI, AKSHITA VA 5790 CHATTERJEE, NISHANT CA-N 5183 Chess.com will also award a choice of a one-year ChessKid.com gold membership GHATTI, SANJAY GA 5695 WU, LILLIAN TN 5161 (valued at $50/annually) or a one-year BOJJA, DINESH OH 5635 RAO, VARUN NJ 5150 Chess.com Gold membership (valued at TRIFALE, SHARVIL PA 5625 BATTULA, RAHUL TX 5118 $40/annually). US Chess gratefully acknowl - TAKAHASHI, MICHAEL JOHN IA 5601 ULRICH, RACHEL J WI 5106 edges the participation of Chess.com! JACOBSON, BRANDON NJ 5592 CAO, CLAIRE PA 5095 TANG, PATRICK Y NY 5512 YAN, KEVIN NY 5036 PINNINTI, SAHAS R NJ 5500 LI, RUIFENG TX 5020 KANAPARTI, SREYAS GA 5468 SHANBHAG, NIKHIL CA-N 5020 KONDAKOV, ADRIAN CA-N 5426 MERCHANT, ALI-ARMAAN MD 4984 PATEL, ANUJ CA-N 5401 PISINI, DAKSHIN OH 4940

CHECK OUT US CHESS RATED EVENTS!

Correspondence Chess Matches (two players) 2015 Open Correspondence Chess Golden Knights Championship TWO OR SIX-GAME OPTIONS. ENTRY FEE: $5. US CHESS $800 FIRST PRIZE qWIN A CORRESPONDENCE CHESS TROPHY th Four-player, double round-robin with class-level pairings. 68 ANNUAL (PLUS TITLE OF US CHESS GOLDEN KNIGHTS CHAMPION AND PLAQUE) 1st-place winner re ceives a trophy. ENTRY FEE: $10. 2ND PLACE $500 • 3RD $300 • 4TH THRU 10TH PLACE $100 EACH • ENTRY FEE: $25 These US Chess Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all US Chess members who reside on the North American continent, qVICTOR PALCIAUSKAS PRIZE TOURNAMENTS Seven-player class-level pairings, one game with each islands, or Hawaii, as well as those US Chess members with an APO or FPO address. US Chess members who reside outside of the North Am - of six opponents. 1st-place winner receives $130 cash prize erican continent are welcome to participate in e-mail events. Your US Chess membership must remain current for the duration of the event, and and a certificate signed by Victor Palciauskas. entry fees must be paid in U.S. dollars. Those new to US Chess Corre spond ence Chess, please estimate your strength: Class A: 1800-1999 (very ENTRY FEE: $25. strong); Class B: 1600-1799 (strong); Class C: 1400-1599 (intermediate); Class D: 1399 and below (beginner level). Note: Prize fund based on 200 entries and may be decreased proportionately per number of entries assigned. qJOHN W. COLLINS MEMORIAL CLASS TOURNAMENTS Four-player, double round-robin with class-level pairings (unrateds welcome). 1st-place winner receives a John W. Collins certificate. 2015 E-mail Correspondence Chess Electronic Knights Championship ENTRY FEE: $7. (SEVEN-PLAYER SECTIONS, ONE GAME WITH EACH OF SIX OPPONENTS.) US CHESS Email Rated Events (need email access) 12th ANNUAL $800 FIRST PRIZE (PLUS TITLE OF US CHESS ELECTRONIC KNIGHTS CHAMPION AND PLAQUE) qLIGHTNING MATCH Two players with two or six-game option. 2ND PLACE $500 • 3RD $300 • 4TH THRU 10TH PLACE $100 EACH • ENTRY FEE: $25 ENTRY FEE: $5. These US Chess Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all US Chess members with e-mail access. Your US Chess membership must remain current for the duration of the event, and entry fees must be paid in U.S. dollars. Maximum number of tournament entries allowed for the qSWIFT QUADS Four-player, double round-robin format. year for each player is ten. Note: Prize fund based on 200 entries and may be decreased proportionately per number of entries assigned. 1st-place prize US Chess CC entry credit of $30. ENTRY FEE: $10. TO ENTER: 800-903-USCF(8723) OR FAX 931-787-1200 OR ONLINE AT WWW.USCHESS.ORG Name______US CHESS ID#______qWALTER MUIR E-QUADS (WEBSERVER CHESS) Four-player, double round-robin webserver format tournament Address ______City______State ___ ZIP ______with class-level pairings. 1st-place receives a certificate. Phone ______E-mail______Est. Rating ______ENTRY FEE: $7. Credit card # (VISA, MC, Disc., AMEX) ______Exp. date ______Please check event(s) selected. V-code ______qCheck here if you do not wish to have an opponent who is incarcerated. NOTE: Except for Lightning Matches, Swift Quads, Walter Muir *Note: This may slow down your assignment. E-Quads & Electronic Knights, players will use post office mail, unless opponents agree to use e-mail. MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO US CHESS AND MAIL TO: JOAN DUBOIS, US CHESS, PO BOX 3967, CROSSVILLE, TN 38557

www.uschess.org 51 CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 4:26 PM Page 52

Tournament Life / November 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 interested in bidding for a National Event. US See TLA in this issue for details Chess recommends that bids be submitted 2015 U.S. Class Championships November 13-15 or 14-15 • Houston, Texas according to the following schedule. However, 2015 K-12 Grade Championships December 4-6 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida bids may be considered prior to these dates. US Chess reserves the right to decline all bids 2015 Pan American Intercollegiate Team Chess Championship and organize the event itself. December 27-30 • Cleveland, Ohio

2016 U.S. Junior Chess Congress January 23-24 • Livermore, California For our expanded list of national events available for bid, see: www.uschess.org/con 2016 U.S. Amateur Team Championship - South February 12-14 or 13-14 • Tampa, tent/view/12116/705/. Florida RATING SUPPLEMENTS 2016 U.S. Amateur Team Championship - West February 13-15 or 14-15 • Santa Clara, California Rating supplements will be updated EACH MONTH on the US Chess website, and each 2016 U.S. Amateur Team Championship - East February 13-15 • Parsippany, New Jersey monthly rating supplement will be used for all tournaments beginning in that month, unless 2016 U.S. Women’s Open June 22-23 • Las Vegas, Nevada otherwise announced in Chess Life. The US Chess June 24-26 • Las Vegas, Nevada 2016 National Open website at www.uschess.org also frequently lists unofficial ratings. The purpose of unofficial rat- FUTURE EVENTS (Watch for details) ings is to inform you of your progress; however, 2016 U.S. Amateur Team Championship - North February 19-21 • Schaumburg, Illinois most tournaments do not use them for pairing April 1-3 • Atlanta, Georgia or prize purposes. If you would otherwise be 2016 National High School (K-12) Championship unrated, organizers may use your unofficial rating 2016 National Junior High (K-9) Championships April 15-17 • Indianapolis, Indiana at their discretion, even without advance publicity 2016 All-Girls National Championships April 22-24 • Chicago, Illinois of such a policy. 2016 National Elementary (K-6) Championships May 6-8 • Nashville, Tennessee NOTE The TLA pages “Information for Organizers, 2016 U.S. Senior Open Championship June 16-19 • Kenner, Louisiana TDs, and Affiliates” and “Information for Play- June 17-19 • Kenner, Louisiana 2016 U.S. Junior Open Championship ers” can now be found online at main.uschess.org/ 2016 U.S. Girls Junior Championship (Closed) June 23-27 • Manchester, go/tlainfo. New Hampshire - contact: Alex Relyea [email protected] PROFESSIONAL PLAYERS HEALTH AND June 27 • Las Vegas, Nevada 2016 U.S. Game/10 Championship BENEFITS FUND 117th annual (2016) U.S. Open July 30-August 7 • Indianapolis, Indiana Many Grand Prix tournament organizers will contribute $1 per player to the Professional 2016 K-12 Grade Championships December 16-18 • Nashville, Tennessee Health & Benefits Fund. All Grand Prix tour- May 12-14 • Nashville, Tennessee 2017 SuperNationals VI naments which participate in this program are 118th annual (2017) U.S. Open July 29-August 7 • Norfolk, Virginia entitled to be promoted to the next higher December 8-10 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida Grand Prix category—for example, a six-point 2017 K-12 Grade Championships tournament would become a 10-point (Enhanced) 2018 National Elementary (K-6) Championships May 11-13 • Nashville, Tennessee tournament. Points in the top category are pro- 119th annual (2018) U.S. Open July 28-August 5 • Madison (Middleton), Wisconsin moted 50%. 2018 K-12 Grade Championships December 14-16 • Orlando, Florida ATTENTION AFFILIATES 2019 National Elementary (K-6) Championships May 10-12 • Nashville, Tennessee US Chess has partnered with R.V. Nuccio & December 13-15 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida Associates Insurance Brokers, Inc. to provide 2019 K-12 Grade Championships USCF affiliates with affordable annual liability 2020 National Elementary (K-6) Championships May 8-10 • Nashville, Tennessee and short term event insurance. The liability coverage is available for approximately $265 2020 K-12 Grade Championships December 11-13 • Orlando, Florida per year for a $1,000,000 limit of insurance. May 7-9 • Nashville, Tennessee 2021 SuperNationals VII Also available is contents property and bonding insurance. For more information, please go to www.rvnuccio.com/chess-federation.html. For event insurance, please go to www.rvnuccio.com.

52 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:55 PM Page 53

See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

The Tournament Announcements on the following pages are provided for the convenience of US Chess members and for Nationals informational purposes only. Unless expressly indicated otherwise, neither US Chess nor Chess Life warrants the accuracy US Chess Junior Grand Prix! NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, TEXAS of anything contained in these tournament announcements. Those interested in additional information about or having TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 questions con cerning any of these tournaments are directed to contact the organizer listed. Chess Life will exercise all due 2015 U.S. CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS diligence in providing accurate typesetting of non-camera-ready copy but assumes no responsibility for errors made in 5SS, G/90 i30. $16,000 Prize Fund b/250 full-paid entries, 50% guaran- such work. teed. 2-day or 3-day Schedules avail. Free entry for GMs and WGMs. No entry fee for IMs and WIMs but EF will be deducted from winnings. DoubleTree Houston North, 15747 John F. Kennedy Blvd., Houston Effective with TLAs submitted after November 10, 2010, the following additional rules apply to Grand Prix 77032, Ph: 281-848-4000, $85 chess rate! Free Parking! Free airport tournaments: 1) The guaranteed first prize must be at least $150. 2) No more than one prize under $100 may shuttle service! Free wireless internet in all guestrooms! Discounted count towards the Grand Prix point total. 3) Prizes below the maximum entry fee do not count towards the Hotel Breakfast Coupons! 8 Sects (Rated players may play up one class Grand Prix point total. Also include full time control noting increment or time delay even if delay is zero (d0). only – Master & Expert Sects. are FIDE rated and Re-Entry is not allowed in those two sects only): Master (2200/up): $1500-900-700-500; U2400: US Chess Junior Grand Prix: A Junior Grand Prix event must have four or more rounds with a time control $600-400; Expert (2000-2199): $1000-700-500-350; Class A (1800- greater than 65 min. Please see: www.uschess.org/data page/JGP-Rules.php for complete Rules. 1999): $1000-700-500-350; Class B (1600-1799): $800-600-400-200; Class C (1400-1599): $800-600-400-200; Class D (1200-1399): $400- SUBMISSIONS: E-mail your tla to: [email protected] (Joan DuBois). For tla deadline schedule, formatting help and Grand 300-200-100; Class E (Under 1200): $400-300-200-100; Unr: $200-100. Prix information see pg. 69 and 70 of the March 2014 issue or check www.uschess.org/go/tlainfo. Payment can be done National Class Champion title to each class winner(s) and plaque to online through the TD/Affiliate area or sent to: US Chess, TLA Dept., PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557. class winner on tiebreaks (MSCO), if necessary. All players must have a USCF membership to play; provisional ratings will be used based on at least a minimum of 4 games. Ratings used will be from Nov. 2015 supplement. NOTE: To protect the integrity of our Tournament and our US Chess Junior Grand Prix! online. EF: per player: $49 by 2/5, $58 later. SPECIAL EF: Team (one Players’ Games, Tournament Halls will be closed to spectators. EF: $99 DEC. 27-30, OHIO entry must be made for all players) $180 by 2/5, $210 later (any team for Classes M,X,A,B,C by 11/6; $109 at site. $59 for Classes D,E,Unr. by changes $10). Teams from outside Florida will receive $25 off team 11/6; $69 at site. Re-Entry Fee: $35 (avail. up to Rd. 4; 3 re-entries or 2015 PAN AMERICAN INTERCOLLEGIATE TEAM CHESS CHAM- PIONSHIP entry fee. Scholastic teams receive $10 off team entry fee. PRIZES: 2 reduced entries count as one additional entry for prize fund). Free Oberlin College. 6SS, G/90 + 30 sec. increment. Sheraton Cleveland Top 1-3rd place teams & Top Boards 1-4 in each section; Top teams: chess gift to oldest player and to player who travels farthest in main Airport Hotel, 5300 Riverside Dr., Cleveland, OH 44135. FIDE rated (tour- Open section: U2000 & U1800; U1500 section: Top U1300 & U1100. 3-day Sched: event. Reg. Fri. 5:30-7pm, Rds. Fri. 8pm; Sat. 2-7, Sun. nament will use FIDE rules). Intercollegiate Tournament Format: 4-Player Also in Open section: Top Senior team (all 50 & above as of 2/12), Top 2-day Sched: 10-3. Reg. Sat. 7:45 -8:30am, Rds. Sat. 9-2-7, Sun. 10-3. Teams, up to 2 alternates. Open to university, college, community college, College team (same school), Top High School team (same school). Also Both schedules merge at Rd. 2. Byes: Two 1/2pt. byes allowed – avail. and technical college teams from North and South America and the in U1500 section: Top Female team, Top Middle School team (same for any round (must commit to Byes before Rd. 3). CAJUN BOUNTY: Caribbean. Teams must supply letter from their universities stating that school, grades 6-8), Top Elementary School team (same school). Sched- Defeat the top ranked player in the main event and win free entry to the players meet eligibility requirements—for more details go online ule: 3-day: 1st Rd. Fri. 7:30, 2-Day 1st Rd. Sat. 10; Rds. 2-5 Sat. 1:30, our next tournament. SIDE EVENTS: 7SS, G/5 d0, USCF-Blitz rated to www.collegechess.org. EF: $200/team by 12/4/15, $240 thereafter 6:45, Sun. 9:30, 2:45. Blitz Tourn.: G/5 d0, Sunday at 8:00 p.m.; EF $15 “BAYOU BLITZ” (Open to All - Sat. night after Rd. 3 – uses USCF-Blitz and at site. Prizes: trophies or plaques to top 6 teams, 1st-place in for those in main event, $25 for all others. HR: $99 until cut-off date, Ratings for pairings & prizes - $10 EF - Cash Prizes – sign up on site). Divisions II (2000-2199), Division III (1800-1999), Division IV (1600-1799), 813-282-3636, ext. 0. Free parking, Internet, refrigerator & Free Airport Schol. Team & Ind., 4SS, G/30 d5, 1-day only, Sat. Nov. 14; Separate and Division V (U1600) Team, Top international team, Top Women’s team, shuttle. Ent: Boca Raton Chess Club, 2385 Executive Ctr. Dr., Ste. 100, room for schol. players - A trophy or medal will be awarded to each schol. Top alternate, Top boards 1-4, Top community college, Top four-year small Boca Raton, FL 33431. Online entry & add’l info: www.bocachess.com, player. Schol. Sects. (Team & Individual): K-2, K-5, K-8, K-12. Minimum college (under-5,000 enrollment), biggest team-upset, biggest individual 561-479-0351. of 3 players from the same school or home school district to make a upset. Reg.: Deadline 4 p.m. 12/27 Rds: Rd. 1: 12/27 6 pm, Rd. 2: team; the top 4 scores will count toward final team score. Prizes: US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 12/28 10 am, Rd. 3: 5 pm, Rd. 4: 12/29 10 am, Rd. 5: 5 pm, and Rd. 6: Trophies to top 10 individuals in each section and to top 3 teams in FEB. 13-15 OR 14-15, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN 12/30 9 am. Opening reception: 12/27 at 5:45 p.m. Closing ceremony: each section. Every non-trophy winner receives a souvenir chess medal. 12/30 at 3 pm. ENT: Progress With Chess, 12200 Fairhill Road E 293, 32ND ANNUAL U.S. AMATEUR TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP WEST Scholastic players may play in both adult and scholastic tournaments Scholastic on Feb. 13 only, Blitz on Feb. 15 only. Santa Clara Con- Cleveland, OH 44120. INFO: [email protected]. Phone (440) 775- by registering for the 3-day schedule in the main event, taking a 1/2-pt. vention Center, 5001 Great America Pkwy. Free Parking! Teams: 6752. HR: $99 + tax for single occupancy (includes hot breakfast for 1 bye for Rd. 2, and registering for the scholastic tournament. USCF-rec- Four-player teams plus optional alternate, average rating of four highest person; $106 + tax for two people, $120 + tax for three, $134 + tax ommended computer tiebreaks will decide trophy and medal placements must be under 2200, difference between ratings of board 3 & 4 must for four). FREE: Parking & WiFi. Reserve by 12/15 for chess rate. (216) for winners of all schol. sections. Schol. EF: $20 by 11/6; $30 at site. be less than 1000. January 2016 Supplement, CCA min, & TD discretion 265-3125 to reserve your team’s . Contact Becca at (216) 265- Schol. Sched: (All 4 rds G/30 d5 - one day only, Sat., Nov. 14). Reg. used to place players accurately. Main Event Prizes:Special 4 com- 3155 or [email protected] to book your Sat. 8:30am-9:30am, Rds. at 10am-12noon-1:15pm-2:30pm. Byes: One memorative clocks (trophy for the reserve) and team trophy to the team rooms. Boards and pieces provided. Bring clocks, digital only. W. 1/2-pt. bye allowed for any round (must notify TD prior to Rd. 1). HR: for Top 3 overall teams, top team u2000, u1800, u1600, u1400, and $85 + tax for single or double (281-848-4000), reserve by Oct. 25 and US Chess Junior Grand Prix! u1200. Trophies to all players of the top “industry” team (currently at mention Cajun Chess tournament to assure group rate. ENT: On-line JAN. 23 AND/OR 24, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN the same company), top “female” team, top “college” team (students/ registration, printable entry form, and more detailed info at www.cajun 2016 U.S. JUNIOR CHESS CONGRESS alumni of a college), top “high school” team (students/alumni of a 7-12 chess.com, or mail entry form to Cajun Chess, 12405 Hillary Step Dr., Livermore Community Center, 4444 East Ave., Livermore, CA 94550. school), top “elementary school” team (students/alumni of a K-6 school), Olive Branch, MS 38654. Info or Phone Ent: 504-208-9596 or 504-905- Experience Early Spring in California! 8 sections based on age: 6 & top “club” team, and top “family” team (related by blood or marriage 2971. Major credit cards accepted (no checks at site). FIDE. under, 8 & under, 10 & under, 12 & under, 14 & under, 16 & under, 18 within 3 generations). Clocks to top scorer on each board (1-4), trophy to top reserve as well as second and third scorers on each board (1-4). US Chess Junior Grand Prix! & under, 20 & under.Individual Trophies: All (6 & under), Top 20 (8 & under, 10 & under, 12 & under, 14 & under), Top 5 (16 & under, 18 & Gift certificates for best 3 team names. Main Event EF: $243/team or DEC. 4-6, FLORIDA under, 20 & under). “Super Performance” trophies to players tied for $63/player by 2/8. 2/9-11: $10 extra per player or team. Onsite or 2015 National K-12 Grade Championships last place with a trophy award and the top player(s) in each rating class after 2/11: $20 extra per player ($80 extra per team). 3-day Sched: 7SS, G/90 d5. Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, 1000 West Buena who did not get a place trophy. Winning record required for all place Onsite Registration at Sat 9:30-10:30a, Round Times at Sat & Sun 11:30a Vista Dr., Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830. Guest rooms can be booked, NLT trophies. Commemorative participation medals to all entrants. Team 5:30p, Mon 10a 3:30p. Time Control: 40/120 SD/30 d5. 2-day Sched: 11/6/2015, by calling (407) 939-4686, mention “US Chess” or online at Trophies: Top 10 (6 & under, 8 & under, 10 & under, 12 & under, 14 & Onsite Registration at Sun 8:30-9a, Round Times at Sun 10a 12:30p HR: www.mydisneymeetings.com/chess15/. $129 Single/Quad. Com- under) or Top 5 (16 & under, 18 & under, 20 & under) based on section. 2:50p 5:30p, Mon 10a 3:30p. Time Control: G/61 d5 in Rounds 1-3, plimentary self-parking! Complimentary Orlando Airport (MCO) to Time control: G/90 d5 (except G/30 d5 for Ages 6 & under and Ages 8 40/120 SD/30 d5 in Rounds 4-6 (merge in Round 4 with 3-day schedule). Coronado Springs Resort (and return) transportation! Complimentary & under) Schedule: Onsite Registration: Saturday & Sunday 7:30- Info/flyer: www.BayAreaChess.com/usatw. Scholastic Event Prizes: 13 Sections Wi-Fi in guest rooms and meeting rooms! . Play only in 8:15am. Rounds: Saturday 9am, 1pm, 5pm, and Sun 9am, 12:30pm. Trophies to each player in Top 3 teams overall, Top u800 team, u600 your grade section – No “playing up” allowed. November Rating Sup- (Ages 6 & under and Ages 8 & under: Sunday 9:00am, 10:45am, 12:30pm, team, u400 team, and u200 team. Trophies to top “female” team, top plement will be used. Only 1/2-point bye available, any round except 2pm, 3:30pm). Byes: Rd. 4&5 byes must be requested before Rd. 1. “academic” team, and top “club” team. Trophies to top two scorers on Round 7, if requested prior to the start of Rd. 1. Team score = total of Entry Fees by 1/9: 1-day sections (Ages 6/8 & under): $48, 2-day each board (1-4). Commemorative medals to all participants. Scholastic top three (minimum two) finishers from each school per grade. First sections (Ages 10/12/14/16/18/20 & under): $63, Add $5 (1/10-16), Event EF: $149/team or $39/player by 2/8. 2/9-11: $10 extra per place individual and team, including ties, will be the National Champion Add $10 (1/17-19), Add $25 (1/20-22), Add $40 (1/23 & onsite). A player or team. Onsite or after 2/11: $20 extra per player ($80 extra Schedule: for their grade. Opening ceremony Fri. 12:30 PM. Rds.: Fri. change fee equal to the late fee will apply for any changes, other than per team). Discount: $10/player ($40/team) if registering for 2-day 1 PM - 6 PM, Sat. 10 AM - 2 PM - 6 PM, Sun. 9 AM - 1 PM. Awards Cer- bye requests with less than one week before the tournament. Out of schedule and scholastic event. Sched: Onsite Registration: Sat 8:30- emony Sun., approx. 5 PM. Special round times for K-1 sections: Fri. state entries 20% off (mail entry or email [email protected] with 9a | Games at Sat 10a 11:30a 1p 2:30p 4:15p. Info/flyer: www.BayArea 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM, Sat. 9:30 AM - 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM, Sun. 9:30 AM - USCF ID for online entry coupon code). Blitz: Onsite Registration: Sunday Chess.com/usatws. Blitz Event: Registration Mon 7-8pm, Rounds 8:30- EF: 1:30 PM. K-1 Awards Ceremony Sun. approx. 4:30 PM. $50/participant 5-5:15pm, Games 5:45-7:45pm. 2 sections (10 & under, 20 & under). 10:30pm. EF: $14, $16 onsite. 75% of entry fees returned as prizes. postmarked or online by 11/2, $70 postmarked or online by 11/23, $85 Side Event Fees: Blitz $14. Onsite +$2. Side Event Prizes: Trophies Contact: Organized by Judit Sztaray. Directed by Tom Langland, John by 12/3, $90 on site; $5.00 extra for all phone registrations; $20 fee to Top 5 individual players including ties and Top 3 teams including ties McCumiskey, Jordan Langland, and others. Sponsored by Bay Area for roster or section changes after 11/29 or any onsite changes. Onsite in each section. Jan 2016 Supplement & TD discretion to place players Chess. Online entry at www.BayAreaChess.com/my/usatw or mail to registration Thurs. 9 AM to 9 PM & Fri. 8 AM to 11 AM. Players who accurately. Commemorative T-shirts: $16 pre-order, $20 onsite. Chief Bay Area Chess, 1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. For questions register or change sections after 11AM on Friday will receive a 1/2- Organizer: J. Sztaray. Organizers/TDs: , T. Langland , R. Koepcke, J. or help in forming teams email [email protected]. W. point bye for Rd. 1. Awards: Trophies to top individuals & top teams in McCumiskey, S. Mason. Sponsored by CalChess and Bay Area Chess. A Heritage Event! each grade. Every player receives a commemorative item! Full list of More info & flyer: BayAreaChess.com/usjr. Register online at BayArea Side Events: Bughouse: US Chess Junior Grand Prix! trophies on tournament info page. Thurs. 11 Chess.com/my/usjr. Mail entries to Bay Area Chess, 1639A S. Main St., Blitz: AM, Reg. onsite only Thurs. 9 -10 AM, $25/team. K-6 and K-12, Milpitas, CA 95035. Register early to save. Questions: ask@BayArea FEB. 13-15, NEW JERSEY G/5 d0, Thurs. 5 PM, Reg. onsite until 4 PM. Blitz EF: $15 by 11/23, $20 Chess.com, 408-409-6596. W. WORLD AMATEUR TEAM & U.S. TEAM EAST after or at site. Blitz Awards: Trophies in K-6 and K-12 sections. Full list CELEBRATE JAZZ AND CHESS. 6SS, 40/2, SD/1 d5. Parsippany Hilton, of trophies on tournament info page. Bughouse Awards: Top 5 Teams. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 1 Hilton Ct., Parsippany, NJ 07054. Chess Rate valid until 1/16. Team Rooms are limited. Contact Susan Kantor at 931.787.1234 ext. FEB. 12-14 OR 13-14, FLORIDA Reserve early 973-267-7373 or 1- 800-HILTONS. Morris/Essex train 136 or by email: [email protected]. Questions: Susan Kantor at 2016 U.S. AMATEUR TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP SOUTH to Morris Plains 1.5 miles. Open to 4- player teams with one optional 931.787.1234 ext. 136. Entries: U.S. Chess Federation, Attn.: 2015 K- 5SS, G/120 d5 (2-day Option Rd. 1 G/60 d5). Ramada Westshore Tampa alternate. Team average (4 highest ratings—2016 January Rating list) 12 Championship, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557 or online at https:// Airport, 1200 North Westshore Blvd., Tampa, FL 33607. 4-player teams must be under 2200. EF: $160 postmarked by 2/5/16. ALL-$200 after secure2.uschess.org/webstore/tournament.php. See website for addi- (with one optional alternate). Two sections (each paired separately & or at door.—all teams, any changes at site $25 charge. FREE ENTRY tional information about the event, advance entries, awards, meetings, with their own prizes). Team average (4 highest ratings - January Sup- TEAMS from West Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina. Check updates, corrections, and registration forms, www.uschess.org/tour plement) must be under 2200 for Open section & under 1500 for U1500 out official website www.njscf.org. Prizes: 1-5th Place teams, plaque naments/2015/k12/. section. Winning team in Open section qualifies for National playoff and 4 digital clocks; Top Team (Denis Barry Award) U2100, 2000,

www.uschess.org 53 CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:55 PM Page 54

Tournament Life / November

1900, 1800, 1700, 1600, 1500, 1400, 1300, 1200, 1000 each plaque and 6-SS, 40/90, SD/30 +30 (2-day rounds 1-3 and unrated G/40 +5). rates — $69 single or double ($89 Friday and Saturday nights) guarantees 4 Digital Clocks; Top college team (same school) 4 Digital Clocks & Westgate Resort & Casino, 3000 Paradise Rd., Las Vegas 89109. a premium room with new furniture, refrigerator, flat screen TV and plaque; Top HS team (grades 9-12 same school), Top Middle School $100,000 Guaranteed Prize Fund will not be reduced! In 8 sections, more. The optional resort package including access to the Fitness Center, (grades 5-9 same school), Top Elementary School (grades K-6 same top 2 FIDE rated. Open: $8,000-4,000-2,000-1,000-600-500-400-300- free WI-FI, and more is substantially discounted for our group. Cutoff school), Top 2 Scholastic Teams (mixed schools okay) (Collins Award), 300-300, top under 2500 $2,500, top under 2400 $2,400, EXTRA $2,500 for special hotel rate is June 3rd. (800) 732-7117 or www.VegasChess- Mixed Doubles (2 males, 2 females-no alternates), Seniors (all players for perfect score. The winner of the Open section also receives a replica Festival.com/hotel. ENT Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925, over age 50), Military, each plaque & 4 Digital Clocks to top team; of the Edmondson Cup. Under 2300: $6,000-3,000-1,500-750-400-350- Henderson, NV 89009-0925, on line at www.VegasChessFestival.com. Company Team (same employer), Family (4 family members), State 300-250-250-250. Under 2100: $6,000-3,000-1,500-750-400-350-300- Info: (702) 930-9550 and leave a message. FIDE. teams—CT, DE, MD, MA, NJ, NY (Benjamin Award), PA, VA, NC, RI 250-250-250. Under 1900: $5,000-2500-1250-600-350-300-250-250- each plaque top team; Special Plaque: Top Future team, (all players 250-250. Under 1700: $4,000-2,000-1,000-500-300-250-250-250-250-250. under age 10), Top Military College, Top Parent/Child (2 pairs, one Under 1500: 3000-1500-700-350-300-250-250-250-250-250. Under parent, one child), Best Player 1-4 and top alternate, All 6-0 scores 1300: $2000-1,000-500-300-250-250-250, top under 1000 (no provisional) Grand Prix each Digital clock. Biggest Individual upset each round Engraved Cross $900. Unrated or Provisional Under 1000: 3 schedules with 6 rounds US Chess Junior Grand Prix! pen; Entry fee refunded to team with Best “Chess related” name, Sunday per day $200-125-75 each day plus $300 overall (best 2 results). Plus NOV. 7, OHIO night— Best “Chess Related costumes or gimmick”—1st-gourmet Score Bonus ($12,000 guaranteed) in addition to any other prizes, TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 dinner for four. 2nd—Gourmet dinner for 4. Reg.: 9-12. Sat 2/14: every player with 3-1/2 points or more wins a $50 gift certificate. Plus “EARLY THANKSGIVING (19 DAYS)” XXXII Rds. 1-7:30, 11-6, 9-3:30. Special Events!! Surprises and special score certificates will be awarded on site only. Players age 14 and 4SS, G/60 d10, at Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. Fifth St., Dayton, OH 45402. give-aways each round. Sunday night—Bughouse $20 per team. Cash under are eligible for best game prizes including the Freddie Award EF: $33 to 30 Oct then $43. EF $25 to 2200 or higher. GTD Prizes: Open prizes. HR: Parsippany Hilton NEWLY RENOVATED! NEW LIGHTS! HEAT- and $400 in cash prizes (donated by Fred Gruenberg). Mixed Doubles: $300-200, U1900 $160-$50, U1600 $160-50. Reg.: 9:30-10:15. Rds.: ING AND AIR CONDITIONING! Chess rates expire 1/16/2016. Rates best male/female combined 2-player team score: $1,500-750-350-250- 10:30-1:30-4:30-7:00. OGPx Event-OCA mbrs $3 disc. DCC mbrs $3 disc. $119 (single double) $121 (Triple , Quad) 2nd hotel attached to Hilton 150. Teammates may play in different sections but must have average Mail EF to: Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH 45402 or register $126 per night (single-double) $128 (triple, Quad)-Hampton Inn—- rating below 2200. The Freddie: Players age 14 and under are eligible online at www.daytonchessclub.com/ or call 937.461.6283 for info. includes breakfast each day. For help forming teams and more information for best game prizes including the Freddie Award and $400 in cash US Chess Junior Grand Prix! contact: [email protected]. Chks payable to NJSCF, mail by prizes (donated by Fred Gruenberg). Unrated players may play only in NOV. 7-8, VIRGINIA 2/05 to: E.Steven Doyle, 17 Stonehenge Rd., Morristown, NJ 07960. Unrated or Open Section. Provisionally rated players may not win more TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (Include Team name, Captain, players full names, USCF Expiration, ID than 40% of top prize in any under section; balance goes to next player(s) 20TH ANNUAL NORTHERN VIRGINIA OPEN! numbers and ratings in board order). No team can include more than in line. CCA minimum ratings or other ratings may be used if higher 5SS. A VCF Cup Event! US Chess and FIDE-rated. Site: Executive Con- two GM’s. Include SASE for confirmation if wanted, No registered or than US Chess June Supplement. EF: $199 by 1/31, $225 by 6/3, $250 ference Center, 22685 Holiday Park Dr., Sterling, VA 20166. Hotel: Holiday certified mail accepted. W. by 6/22, $280 later. $40 less for seniors 65 and over. $125 less for Inn Dulles, 703-471-7411, more info at www.vachess.org, chess rate players in only 1 unrated schedule, $60 less for 2 schedules. Add $125 $69, reserve by Oct 16. PRIZE $$2800-GUARANTEED, $630, $350, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! for adults rated under 2200 or juniors under 2100 playing in the Open $270, $130, Top X/A-Unr/B/C/D/U1200 $220 each, Top Upset Sat & JUNE 22-23, NEVADA Section. Reg 2 p.m.-10 p.m. Thursday, 8:30-9:30 a.m. Friday. Rds.: 11- Sun $50 each. Reg.: Online at www.vachess.org, Onsite Sat 11/7 8:00- TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) 5:30, 10-4:30, 10-4:30. 2-day schedule: Reg.: 8:30-9 a.m. Saturday. 9:15. Rds.: Sat. 10-2:30-7, Sun. 10-4:30; TC: Sat G/115 d5, Sun. 40/120, 2016 U.S. WOMEN’S OPEN Rds.: 10-12-2 then merge with 3-day in round 4 at 4:30. Half point byes SD/30 d5. VCF mem required for VA residents, OSA. EF: $65 thru 11/3, 5SS, G/90 +30. Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, 3000 Paradise available in any round; round 5 or 6 byes must be requested before the $75 after 11/3 and at site. Entries: www.vachess.org, or mail to Mike Rd., 89109. $$2,000 Guaranteed Prize Fund. $500-300-200, U2000 $200, start of round 2 and may not be cancelled. Chess sets and boards Hoffpauir, ATTN: NoVA Open, 405 Hounds Chase, Yorktown, VA 23693- U1800 $200, U1600 $200, U1400 $200, U1200 $200. EF: $50 by 6/3, 3356. Contact: [email protected], info only. $70 later. REG.: 9-9:30 a.m. RDS.: 10-2:30-7, 10-2:30. 1/2 point bye provided for tournament play only, not for skittles. Please bring digital LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL available in any round (limit 1). HR $65 ($89 Friday and Saturday nights). chess clocks! The fea- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! (800) 732-7117 – be sure to ask for the CHESS rates. This event kicks tures the National Open, the U.S Game/10 Championship, the U.S. Women’s NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN off the LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL on Wednesday Open, the International Youth Championship, and other events. Many TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED) before the National Open. ENT Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925, free extras and surprises! Free parking. Free raffles with great prizes. BAY AREA CHESS NTD THOMAS LANGLAND CHAMPIONSHIP Henderson, NV 89009-0925 or www.VegasChessFestival.com. Free GM Lectures. Free GM analysis of your games. Free Daily Bulletins 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. 5SS, G/90+30 2-day rds. 1-2 G/50 and free commemorative DVD mailed to all participants. Grandmaster d5. Park free. Prize: 5,000 b/94 (70% guar). 3 sects: 2000+ (FIDE) An American Classic! Simuls and Chess Camp for all ages on Thursday. U.S. Women’s $1,000-500-200, u2300: 250-125-100. 1600-1999: $700-300-100, u1800: A Heritage Event! Open Wednesday and Thursday. Walter Browne Memorial Blitz Thurs- 200-100, u1600: $700-300-100 u1400: 125-100, u1200: 100. Unr max US Chess Junior Grand Prix! day 7:30 p.m. U.S. Game/10 Championship Monday morning. Youth $100 exc Open. Nov 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg:. F 6-6:45p & Sa 8:30- JUNE 24-26 OR 25-26, NEVADA Tournaments Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Blitz Tournaments Saturday 8:45a. Rds.: F 7p, Sa 9 1:20, Su 10 2:30. (2-day Sa 9 11:10 & merge). TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED) & Sunday. Poker Tournament Thursday afternoon. Don’t be shut out EF: 89, Econ EF: 69 w 60% prz, after 11/9 +20. Playup +20. Rated 2016 NATIONAL OPEN — make your reservations early and be sure to ask for the CHESS 2250+ $0 by 11/3 (prize - EF). Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/champs.

46th annual NATIONAL CHESS CONGRESS 6 rounds, Nov 27-29 or 28-29, 2015 at Loews Philadelphia Hotel $35,000 prize fund guaranteed, 35 trophies/plaques!

6rounds,40/110, SD/30, d10 (2-day Mixed doubles bonus prizes: Best 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 11 am, rds option, rds 1-3 G/45, d10). Trophy sections male-female 2-player combined score Fri 12 & 6, Sat 12 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:30. play separate 2-day schedule only, 11/28-29 among all sections:$2000-1000-600-400. 2-day U1200/up: Reg. Sat to 9 am, rds (G/45, d10). Student/Alumni plaques to top 5 Sat 10, 12:45, 3:30, 6; Sun 10 & 3:30. Loews Philadelphia Hotel,1200 Market teams of 4 (any sections) representing any 2-day trophy sections: Reg Sat to 9 St, Philadelphia PA 19107. 150 GPP US college, HS, or pre-HS players attend am, rds 10, 12:45 & 3:30 each day. (enhanced). In 10 sections: or have graduated from. Half point byes OK all rds, limit 3, Premier must commit before rd 2, others Premier Section: Open to 2000/over & Top 7 sections entry fee: $120 before rd 4. juniors under 18 who are 1800/over. $3000- online at chessaction.com by 11/25, $130 1500-800-400-200,clear/tiebreak win $100, phoned to 406-896-2038 by 11/23, 3-day Bring set, board, clock if possible- U2400/Unr $1600-800. FIDE rated. $128, 2-day $127 mailed by 11/17, $140 none supplied. Nov.ratings used (unofficial U2200 Unr: $2000-1000-500-300-200. at site, or online until 2 hrs before game. usually used if otherwise unrated). U2000/Unr: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Trophy sections entry fee: $41 at US Chess membership required. U1800/Unr:$2000-1000-500-300-200. chessaction.com by 11/25, $45 phoned to Hotel rates: $102-102-127, 215-627- U1600/Unr: $2000-1000-500-300-200. 406-896-2038 by 11/23 or mailed by 1200, reserve by 11/12 Parking about U1400/Unr: $1600-800-400-300-200. 11/17, $50 at site or online to 8 am 11/28. $30/day (Loews valet), $19/day (Park U1200/Unr: $1600-800-400-300-200. All: No checks at site, credit cards America, 25 S 12th St), $5/day Sat & Sun U1000/Unr: Trophies to top 10. OK. Re-entry (except Premier) $60. (1540 Spring St, near Sheraton Hotel). U800/Unr: Trophies to top 10. Special US Chess membership with Entry: chessaction.com or Continental Scholastic U600/Unr: trophies to top 10. magazine if paid online with entry fee: Chess, Box 8482, Pelham NY 10803. $15 Unrated prize limits: U1200 $300, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic charge for refunds. Entries posted at U1400 $600, U1600 $900, U1800 $1200, $15. By mail, phone or at site, Adult 440, chessaction.com (online entries posted U2000 $1500. Balance to next player in line. Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 10 pm.

54 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:55 PM Page 55

See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

US Chess Junior Grand Prix! less than above. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry $60; 2nd fl. 1 Open section. EF: $70; $50 LACC members; No prizes 1/2, NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, FLORIDA not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually spouses/siblings 1/2, new members 1/2, Free new LACC Life members. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if Reg.: Sat 10-11:30 am. Register online for a free gift. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm 14TH ANNUAL TURKEY BOWL paid with entry- online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, each day. Byes: Up to three 1/2-point byes available. 1-Day option I: 5SS, Open section G/90+30 sec. incr., All other sections but U1100 Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult Play 1 day- no 1/2 pt byes- 1/2 EF. 1-Day option II: Play 1 day & receive G/120 d5, U1100 section G/90 d5 (2-day Option all sections Rd. 1 $30, Scholastic $20. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds Fri 7 pm, three 1/2 pt byes- Full EF. Prizes: $$1,500 (b/45) $750 Gtd. 1st-3rd G/60 d5). La Quinta Inn and Suites, 3701 N. University Dr., Coral Springs. Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. $400-200-100 U2000: $100. U1800: $200-100-$50; U1600: $100–50; $$7,300 b/200 paid entries, 60% min. Gtd. Open: $800/Trophy-500- Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Byes: OK all; Open must commit by rd. 2, U1400: $100-50; U1200/unrated: $50. Info: Mick Bighamian: (310) 795- 400, U2300 $300, U2200/Unr. $200. FIDE. U2050:$700/Trophy-400-300, others by rd. 3. HR: Suite with king bed & queen couch/bed $101, suite 5710; [email protected] or www.LAChessClub.com. Parking: U1950 $200-100. U1750: $700/Trophy-400-300, U1650 $200-100. U1450: with 2 beds & queen couch/bed $111, more than 2 in room $10 more Free on streets, BoA, or basement. $600/Trophy-350-250, U1350 $200-100. U1100: Trophies for 1st to 3rd, each additional person. Rates include free hot breakfast for all room occu- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 1st U900, 1st U700, Medals to all others. Top Senior Prize (among all pants and free wifi. Up to 4 people allowed in king suite, up to 6 in larger NOV. 15, NEW JERSEY cash prize sections, must be at least 55 on November 13): $200. Unr. suite. 513-733-8900, reserve by 10/30 or rate may increase. Car rental: TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED) may enter Open, U1450 or U1100 only. EF: $79 by November 10, $10 Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through DR. DAVID OSTFELD MEMORIAL ICA OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP more later and on-site, GMs & IMs free ($79 deducted from prize). U1100 chesstour.com. Car rental is easiest & cheapest transportation from Site: Bergen Academy, 200 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, NJ 07601. Open section $39 by November 10, $10 more later and on-site. Re-entry cash Cincinnati Airport. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803 to All Ages With Rating above 1400. 4SS, G/61 d5. Prize Fund 1st - 3rd prize sections $40. Reg.: Ends 1/2 hr before 1st rd. Rds.: 3-Day 1st (chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269). $15 service charge $300, $250, $200, U2200, U2000, U1800, U1600 each $100 Best Under Rd. Fri. 7:30; 2-Day 1st Rd. Sat 10; 2nd Rd. Sat. 1:15; 3rd Rd. all for refunds. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries 13 Years Old $75, Best Over 55 Years Old $75. Reg Ends at 9 AM Only one sections but U1100 6:30, 3rd Rd. U1100 5:45; 4th Rd. Sun. 9:30; 5th posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. 1/2-point bye allowed, if requested before the start of round two. EF: Rd. all sections but U1100 2:30, 5th Rd. U1100 1:45. 2 1/2 pt. byes, if NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, TEXAS Adv (pmk. By Nov 11th) $40, AT Site $45. GMs Free Entry. INFO 201 287 req’d before rd. 2. HR: $85 by Cut-off Date, Includes free breakfast & 2015 U.S. CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS 0250 or [email protected]. $$b/40: Prize Fund Will Not Be Reduced Internet, 954-753-9000, Ext. 6. Ent: Boca Raton Chess Club, 2385 Executive TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 Below 70%. Rds.: 9:30 AM, 11:45 AM, 2:15 PM, 4:30 PM. ENT: Make EF Ctr. Dr., Ste. 100, Boca Raton, FL 33431. $10 service charge for refunds. See Nationals. payable to: International Chess Academy. Mail To: Diana Tulman, 28 Online entry & add’l info: www.bocachess.com, 561-479-0351. Canterbury Ln., New Milford, NJ 07646. INFO: www.icanj.net. W. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! NOV. 17, NEW YORK US Chess Junior Grand Prix! NOV. 14, NEW YORK TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, OHIO TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED) TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) MARSHALL MASTERS - NEW PRIZES, FIDE RAPID RATED! INAUGURAL SENECA LAKE OPEN 4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to 2000+ players. FIDE Rapid rated. $750 GTD: 24TH ANNUAL KINGS ISLAND OPEN Geneva Events Center, 35 Lakefront Dr., Geneva, NY 14456. 4 Round EF: 5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Embassy 250-150-100. Top U2400 125, Top U2300 100, Biggest upset $25. Swiss, G/60 d5 first 2 rds and G/90 d5 last 2 rds. 3 Sections: Open, $40, Mbr $30. GMs Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Suites Cincinnati Northeast, 4554 Lake Forest Dr., Blue Ash, OH 45242 U1800, U1200. EF: $40 all sections, $25 youth under 18, Add $5 at door. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. 23 W. 10th St., $$ 30,000 (I-71 to Exit 15 or I-275N to Exit 47). Free parking. based on $1000 Guaranteed. $$ Open: 250, 150, 100; U1800: 150, 100, 50; NYC. 212-477-3716, www.marshallchessclub.org. 350 paid entries (re-entries & U1000 Section count as half entries); U1200: 100, 60, 40. Rds.: 10, 12, 2:15, 5:30. Entries to Jonathan minimum $24,000 (80% of each prize) guaranteed. In 7 sections: Open: Porschet, 191 White Springs Rd., Geneva, NY 14456. Checks to Geneva NOV. 21, PENNSYLVANIA $3000-1500-700-500-300, 1st on tiebreak $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr Chess. Questions: [email protected]/. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 $1600-800. FIDE. Under 2100: $2000-1000-500-400-300. Under 1900: 8TH ANNUAL DAVID ELLIOTT MEMORIAL CUP $2000-1000-500-400-300. Under 1700: $1800-900-500-300-200. Under NOV. 14, MARYLAND 5-SS, G/30 d5. One section. EF: $30, U1600/unrated $25, players 2450 1500: $1500-800-400-300-200. Under 1250: $1200-600-400-300-200. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 and over free. Prizes ($$580 Gtd): 1st $250 + cup; 2nd $90 $; 2099- Under 1000: $800-400-250-150-100. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: MARYLAND NOVEMBER ACTION 1800 $80; 1799-1600 $80; U1600/unrated $80. Site: St. Luke’s Church, 5SS, G/45;+5: incr. Rockville Hilton, 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: 417 N. 7th St., Allentown, PA. Park in lot - enter thru gate. Reg.: 10:15 20852. All Prizes Guaranteed. 2 Sections: Open $300-$200-$100, U2000 to 11. Rds.: 11, 1:15, 2:30, 3:45; 5:00. Playoff for cup (if needed) 6:30 $1000-500-300. Team average rating must be under 2200; teammates $125. Under 1800 $250-$150-$75, U1600 $50. Sets, boards and clocks may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) by 2 PM. Meet and greet w/ Elliott family between rds. 1 and 2. See kick- provided. EF: $35 by 11/9, $40 later. Schedule: Reg. ends 10am, rds. starter.com to support event and reserve commemorative games booklet. pm 11/14; prize limits do not apply to mixed doubles. Unrated prize 11:00-1:00-3:00-5:00-7:00. More information online http://mdchess.com. limits: U1000 $200, U1250 $400, U1500 $600, U1700 $800, U1900 $1000. Questions: Eric C. Johnson 610-433-6518. No advance entries. Cash Balance goes to next player(s) in line. Top 6 sections EF: $115 online US Chess Junior Grand Prix! on site only. See www.freewebs.com/allentowncentercitychessclub for at chessaction.com by 11/11, $125 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 11/9 NOV. 14-15, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN more details — rated events every week. (entry only, no questions), 3-day $118, 2-day $117 mailed by 11/4, $130 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 A Heritage Event! at site or online until 2 hours before game. GMs $100 from prize. Online 2015 EUWE MEMORIAL US Chess Junior Grand Prix! entry fee $5 less to OCA members. Under 1000 Section EF: all $50 (A sponsored event) 6SS, G/61 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90025, NOV. 21-22, TENNESSEE

25th annual NORTH AMERICAN OPEN Dec 26-30, 26-29 or 27-29, Bally’s Las Vegas - GM/IM norms possible $120,000 projected prizes, $90,000 minimum guaranteed! Open Section: 9rds,Dec26-30, Prize limits: If under 26 games as of 5-day late reg. ends 12/26 10 am, 40/2, SD/30, d10. Other sections: 7 12/15 official, U1250 $1500, U1500 or rds 12/26-28 11 & 6, 12/29 10 & 4:30, rds, Dec 26-29, 40/2, SD/30, d10 (3-day U1700 $3000. Unr in U1250 $500, U1500 12/30 10 am. option, rds 1-2 G/60, d10), Bally's $900, U1700 $1300, U1900 $1800, U2100 4-day late reg. ends 12/26 5 pm, Casino Resort, 3645 Las Vegas Blvd So, $2500. If post-event rating posted 12/20/ Rds. 12/26 6 pm, 12/27-28 11 & 6, Las Vegas NV 89103. Free parking. 14-12/20/15 was more than 30 pts over 12/29 10 am & 4:30 pm. 7 sections. Prizes $120,000 based section maximum, limit $2000. 3-day late reg. ends 12/27 10 am, on 600 entries (senior, re-entry, GM, IM, Mixed doubles prizes: $2000-1000- Rds.12/27 11, 2:30 & 6, 12/28 11 & 6, WGM, U1250 count half), else in 500-300-200. Male/female, any sections, 12/29 10 & 4:30. proportion; minimum 75% each prize. must average under 2200. Open, only rds 1- Half-point byes: OK all, limit 4 Open Section uses FIDE ratings, other 7count.Reg.by3pm12/27(noextrafee). (limit 2 in last 4 rds). Open must commit sections December USCF ratings. before rd 2, others before rd 4. Top 6 sections entry fee: $275 at Open: $10000-5000-2500-1200- chessaction.com by 12/23, $300 until 2 Bring set, board, clock if possible- 1000-800-600-500-400-400, clear or tie- hours before game. $100 more in Open to none supplied. US Chess mem. required. break win $200, top FIDE U2400/Unr US players not FIDE or USCF 2200/over. Unofficial uschess.org ratings $2400-1200. FIDE rated, 200 GPP. Mailed or phoned entries: see usually used if otherwise unrated. Under 2300: $7000-4000-2000- Tournament Life or chesstour.com. Special room rate at Bally’s $92 1200-800-600-500-500-400-400. Entry fee at site: $300. single or twin. Reserve now at 800-833- Under 2100: $7000-4000-2000- Special entry fee: all in U1250 Section 3308 or 702-739-4111. Rooms may sell 1200-800-600-500-500-400-400. or Senior 65/over in U1500/up, $120 less. out about Nov 15. Under 1900: $7000-4000-2000- Open Section GM, IM/WGM fees & Blitz tournament 12/29 10 pm. 1200-800-600-500-500-400-400. GM, foreign IM/WGM minimum prizes: see $3000 GUARANTEED! Enter by 7 pm Under 1700: $6000-3000-1500- Tournament Life or chesstour.com. 12/29 for lowest fee. 1000-800-600-500-500-400-400. Re-entry (except Open): $120. Entry: chessaction.com or Under 1500: $5000-2500-1300- No checks at site; credit cards OK. Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury 1000-700-600-500-400-300-300. Special US Chess dues if paid online Mills NY 12577. $15 service charge for Under 1250: $3000-1500-1000- with entry: Adult $30, Young Adult $20, refunds. Advance entries posted at 800-600-500-400-400-300-300, top Scholastic $15. By mail, phone or at site: chessaction.com (online entries posted Under 1000 (no unr) $1000-500. Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. instantly).

www.uschess.org 55 CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:55 PM Page 56

Tournament Life / November

TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 under 2000 playing in Open. All: SCCF membership required for So Cal Scholastic Center of Saint Louis, 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 56TH MID-SOUTH OPEN residents ($18 adults, $13 youth with print mag, $3 youth without mag). 63108. Free entries for GMs and IMs. EF: $110, $90 if registered by 5SS, G/120 d5. $Guaranteed $2000 Prize fund. Site: Hyatt Place Memphis Re-entry $100. No checks at door - cash only, credit card accepted for 11/23. Two Sections: Open (FIDE Rated) & U2000. Prize Fund: $10,000 - Wolfchase Galleria - 7905 Giacosa Pl., Memphis, TN USA, 38133, The a $10 fee. Schedule: 4-day schedule Reg. closes 11am on 11/26, UNCONDITIONALLY GUARANTEED!! Open: $1500-$1000-$800-$650- rate is $109.00 per night King or Double, Both room types have a sofa (Rounds 12:30-7:30, 12:30-7:30, 10-4:30, 10-4:30). 3-day schedule: $300. Under 2300-$600-$400-$250. Under 2100-$350-$200. Under 2000 that lets out to a sleeper. Reservations will be submitted via individual Reg. closes 9:30am on 11/27, Rounds. 11-2:30-5-8pm (G/60 min), sched- Section: $1000-$600-$350-$200. U1800: $500-$250. U1600: $400-$200. call in. Group is listed as: Memphis Chess Club. Group may call the ules merge in Rd. 5 and compete for common prizes. Bye: Two half U1400: $300-$150. Reg.: 11 am - 12:30m Friday 11/27. Rds.: Fri:1 pm, hotel direct at 901-371-0010 or 1-888-492-8847, listen for New reservation point byes OK for all round may be requested in advance. Lectures and 6 pm Sat: 1 pm, 6 pm Sunday: 10:30 am, 4 pm Two 1/2 point byes if and touch # 2, Group Code G-CHES (can be used to book on line). Hotel videos. LOW room rates! Five minutes away from Disneyland Theme declared before round 2. Ent: 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO website: http://memphiswolfchasegalleria.place.hyatt.com/. Three Park. HR: Mention SCC for $105 single or double, rates may go up after. 63108, or online at saintlouischessclub.org Info: info@saintlouischess Sections: Open $325-225-125, 1st 2000-2199 $125, Top U2000 $100, Call Doubletree (714) 634-4500. Request chess rates by mentioning club.org, 314-361-CHESS. U1800 $225-125-75, 1500-1599 $100, Top U1500 $75 U1400 $150-100- “CHESS” Cutoff is Oct 31st. Parking: $7 per day. Ratings: November US US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 75, 1000-1199 $75, Top U1000 $50, Top UNR $50. EF: $50 by 11/17($60 Chess Rating Supplement used. CCA minimum ratings and TD discretion at site, MCC members $50 anytime), On site registration begins Saturday, are used to protect you from improperly rated players. Info: organizing NOV. 27-29, NORTH CAROLINA 8:00-9:15 CST. Rounds: Sat. 10:00, 2:30, 7:00, Sun. 9:00, 2:00. Email club - Chess Palace 714-899-3421, [email protected]. Entry: TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 contact: [email protected]. Join online: http://memphischessclub. American Open, 5246 Lampson Ave., Garden Grove, CA 92845 or www. TOBACCO ROAD FIDE OPEN homestead.com/midsouth56.html, Mail entries to: Memphis Chess Club AmericanOpen.org. W. FIDE Triangle Chess Center, 5920 S. Miami Blvd. Ste 203. Durham, NC 27560. HR: Inc., P.O. Box 17864, Memphis, TN 38187-0864. Comfort Suites, 5219 Page Rd. Durham, NC 27703. $69-79 (919)314- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 1200. 5-SS, G/105 i/30. Reg.: Rds.: Fri 7pm or Sat. 9:30am (G/75 d5) NOV. 22, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN NOV. 26-29 OR 27-29, TEXAS / Sat. 1pm - 7pm / Sun. 9am - 3pm. Open only to players with a USCF TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) rating of 1800+ or with a FIDE rating. EF: $70 by Nov. 20 / $80 on site. CUPERTINO GRAND PRIX DUPERSWISS75 (3SS, G/75 D5) 2015 DCC FIDE OPEN XIII Prizes: $1600 b/32. $$500GTD - $$250 GTD - $$150 GTD - $$100 GTD Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Prizes: $1,500 b/55. 60% 7SS, G/90 with 30 sec inc. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S Cottonwood Dr. #C, , X , u2000 USCF $200-$100 ea. Up to two half point byes available any guar. 1900+: $300-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100-50, Richardson, TX 75080. Two sections: Open and Reserve. Two Schedules, round, must request upon entry. http://chesspig.com/Tobacco_Road_ u1600 50-50. u1500: $200-100-50, u1200 50-50. Nov 15 Supp & TD 4 day or 3 day. Open Section $$875G. FIDE and US Chess rated but uses FIDE_Open.html. Make checks to RTCC, send to the Chess Center. Info: disc. Reg.: 8-8:45. Rds.: 9-11:45-2:40. EF: 47, Econ 32 w 1/2 prz. after FIDE rules. Use US Chess ratings and rules for awarding prizes. Default Jeff Jones (919)270-9948 , [email protected] 11/19 +15, playup +15, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 11/12. Info: BayAreaChess. late forfeiture time is one hour. TD may extend this time at TD’s discretion. com/grandprix. W. Note that Foreign players must disclose their FIDE ID number before US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 1st round in order to play. Note that USA Players with no FIDE ID must NOV. 27-29, OHIO A State Championship Event! disclose their email address. Open: $500-$250-$125. EF: $80, Senior/ TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 NOV. 22, PENNSYLVANIA Hcap/Additional Family Member $55. Small appearance fee to the First CLEVELAND CLASSIC TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 three GM/IM’s who apply. GM/IM must play all rounds to get appearance 5 Rounds, 30/90, SD/60 d5. At Sheraton Cleveland Airport Hotel, 5300 2015 PA STATE GAME/15 CHAMPIONSHIP (QC) fee. Reserve: Open to US Chess U2000. This section is not Fide Rated Riverside Drive (inside Cleveland Airport), Cleveland, OH 44135. Free 7SS, G/15 d3. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pitt., 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh but is US Chess rated and uses US Chess rules. EF: $40. The Reserve parking. All Prizes ($6000) Guaranteed in 5 Sections. Open: $2000- PA 15213. 2 Sections: Champ: EF: $25 by 11/14, $35 later. $$ (690G): give back 10% in prizes and if at least 8 paid entries and if there is a 700, top U2300/Unrated $500. U-2100, U1800, U1500: $500-$200. $200-100, U2000 $90, U1800 $80, U1600 $70, U1400 $60, U1200 $50, clear winner, then that winner receives free entry to next DCC Fide U-1200: $400-200 (top U1000 $100). EF: $90 by 11/23, $100 at site. U1000 $40. Trophies: Top 3 U1400, Top 3 U1200, Top 3 U1000. Scholas- Open. In the reserve section, Tournament reserves the right to use Free to GMs, IMs & WGMs, no prize deduction. Re-entry: $40. Register tic: Grades K-12 unrated or U900. EF: $15 by 11/14, $25 later. Trophies Fide rules on electronic devices and on starting White’s clock at start online at www.progresswithchess.org Schedule: Reg. Ends Fri 10:45 to Top 7, Top 3 U600. ALL: Trophies: Top 2 Schools, Top 2 Clubs. PSCF of a round and to use FIDE pairing rules. Both: Registration: 4 day am. Rds. Fri 11- 5, Sat 10- 4, Sun 9 am. All: Half point byes OK, excluding $5, OSA. Reg.: 11-11:30am. Rds.: 12-12:45-1:30-2:15-3-3:45-4:30. 4:45 - 5:30 on Thurs 11/26. Rds.: Thurs 6 pm, Friday 2:30 pm, 7:00 pm, round 5, limit 1, must commit before Rd. 2. HR: $74, 216-267-1500, request Ent/Info: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA Sat 11am -4:30pm, Sun 9:00am-2pm. Reg 3 day on Friday 9 am - 9:30 chess rate. Contact: Michael Joelson, 216-321-7000, mdjoelson@pro 15223-2245, 412-908-0286, W. am, Rd 1 at 10 am then merge with 4 day. Two half point Bye allowed if gresswithchess.org An American Classic! requested before end of round rd. 2 and before getting full point bye, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! A Heritage Event! but half point byes for both rounds 6 AND 7 is not allowed. Withdrawals NOV. 27-29, WISCONSIN US Chess Junior Grand Prix! and zero point last round byes are not eligible for prizes. ENT: Make/mail TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 NOV. 26-29 OR 27-29, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN Checks payable to Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Long- WM. MARTZ MEMORIAL/NORTH CENTRAL OPEN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) horn Trail, Crowley, TX, 76036-4719. Info: 214-632-9000, info@dallas 6-SS. TC: Rds. 1-4, 6 45/2, SD/1 d5; Rd. 5 G/120 d5. America’s Best 51ST ANNUAL AMERICAN OPEN chess.com. FIDE. Value Inn, 809 Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire, WI 54701 715-834-6611. City of Orange. 8 rounds, 40/120, SD/55 d5. (3-day option, rounds 1-4, NOV. 27, NEW YORK HR: $54.95 one bed, $64.95 two beds. Reg.: 10:30-11:30. Rds.: 12-6, G/60 d5). Site: Doubletree Hotel, 100 City Dr., Orange, CA 92868. Prizes: TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 10-5, 10-3. EF: $40 if received by 11/25, $45 at site. $$ b/50 1st $400, 2nd $250, 3rd $160, A $140, B $130, C $120, D $110, E $100, U1000 $$50,000 based on 500 entries, $25,000 guaranteed. In 6 sections: Open MARSHALL $500 FIDE BLITZ (BLZ) section: $5000-2500-1200-800-600-300, U2450/Unr. $1500-700-500, 9-SS, G/3 d2. FIDE Blitz rated. $500: $200-100, top U2400/unr, U2200, $90. Ent: Guy Hoffman, 1305 D Tompkins Dr., Madison, WI 53716-3279. top U2300/Unr. $800-400. Under 2200 section: $3000-1500-1000-500- U2000, U1800: $50. Highest rating (regular, quick or blitz) used for Checks payable to WCA. 920-279-0701. [email protected] A 400-300. Under 2000 section: $3000-1500-1000-500-400-300. Under 1800 pairings & prizes. EF: $30, MCC Mbrs $20, GMs $20. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Wisconsin Tour event. section: $3000-1500-1000-500-400-300. Under 1600 section: $3000-1500- Rds.: 7-7:30-7:50-8:10-8:40-9-9:20-9:40-10pm. Max three byes. Request US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 700-500-400-300. Under 1400/Unr: $2000-1000-500-300-200-100, U1200 at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, MICHIGAN $1000-500-300 (not a separate section; U1200s also eligible for U1400 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED) prizes), Unrated: $300-200-100 (Unrateds in this section eligible for these US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 2015 MOTOR CITY OPEN prizes only). Plus score bonus every player who finishes with 4-1/2 NOV. 27-29, MISSOURI with Co-Sponsorship from Michigan Chess Festival, LLC. 6-SS, points or better who didn’t place in the money prize wins a $20 gift cer- TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 4-SS in NOVICE (U1000) Section. 4 Sections: OPEN, U1800, U1400, EF: tificate towards chess store - redeemable only onsite. $200 by Nov. THANKSGIVING OPEN (FIDE RATED) NOVICE (U1000). OK to play up. Top Section FIDE-Rated. IM or FM 26th, register register by 11/25 save $15, $50 more for players rated 10K Prize Fund. 6SS, G/90 + 30 second increment. Chess Club & LECTURE on Fri, 11/27, 5-6pm ($10) and Sat, 11/28, 5-6pm ($10). Prize Fund: $10,000. 80% Guar. (b/50 per section). SITE: Regency- Dearborn Hotel and Convention Center, 600 Town Center Dr., Dearborn, MI 48126 (Dir/Lodg below). All Sections except U1000 have 2-Day & 3-Day Schedules. No Re-Entries in OPEN or NOVICE Sec- tions. Up to three 1/2-pt. byes available (2 in NOVICE Sect.); must be requested before start of RD. 4 (RD. 3 in NOVICE Sect.). Sections merge 34th annual EMPIRE CITY OPEN after RD. 3. Unrated eligible for Overall prizes ONLY in all sections; can play in any section. USCF and a STATE memberships required; can be purchased on site. EF by Mon., 11/16 (add $10 after; add $20 after Dec 26-28 or 27-28, Hotel Pennsylvania Mon, 11/23): OPEN SECTION: IM’s and GM’s Free ($100 EF deducted from prize): 3-DAY: $113. 2-DAY: $112. No Re-Entries Allowed. 6 rounds, $13,000 GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND! U1800 SECTION: 3-DAY: $83. 2-DAY: $82. Re-Entries: $50. U1400 SECTION: 3-DAY: $63. 2-DAY: $62. Re-Entries: $40. NOVICE (U1000) SECTION (1-Day 0nly): $30. No Re-Entries Allowed. TL: OPEN, 7th Ave & 32nd-33rd St, across from Penn Station, NYC. Choice U1800, U1400 SECTIONS: 3-Day Schedule: RDS. 1-6, 40/120 d5, SD/30. 2-Day Schedule: RDS. 1-3, G-40 d5.RD. 4-6, 40/120 d5, SD/30. of 3-day or 2-day schedule. Plays Sat-Mon or Sun-Mon. In 6 sections: NOVICE (U1000) SECTION: 1-Day Schedule (Sat. only): G/45 d5. REG: 3-Day Schedule: Fri, 11/27, 8-10am. 2-Day Schedule: Sat, Open Section: Prizes $1200-600-300-200, clear/tiebreak win $50 bonus, 11/28, 8-9:30am. 1-Day Schedule: Sat, 11/28, 8-9am. RDS: 3-Day Schedules: Fri, 11am, 6pm. Sat, 11am, 6pm. Sun, 10am, 3:30pm. 2- top U2300/Unr $500-250. 80 GPP (enhanced). Day Schedules: Sat, 10:30, 12:30, 2:30, 6. Sun, 10am, 3:30pm. 1-Day Schedule (4-SS): Sat, 10, 12, 2, 4. $$10,000 OVERALL (80% guar. Under 2200 Section: $1000-500-250-125, top U2000/Unr $500-250. b/50 each section): OPEN: $4,400 1st-2nd-3rd, $1,500-$800-$500; TOP U2400, U2200, U2000, U1800/UNR: $400 each. U1800: $3,300: 1st- Under 1900 Section: $1000-500-250-125, top U1700 $400-200. 2nd-3rd, $1,200-$700-$400; 1st-2nd, TOP U1600, U1400/UNR: $300-$200. Under 1600 Section: $800-400-200-100, top U1400 $300-150. U1400: $2,300: 1st-2nd-3rd, $700-$450-$350; 1st-2nd TOP U1200, U1000/ UNR, $250-$150. NOVICE: Large Trophies for TOP 5 Overall and Trophies Under 1300 Section: $500-250-125-75, top U1100 $200-100. for 1st, 2nd: TOP U800, U600, U500, and UNR. Medals to all non-Trophy winners in U1000 section scoring 2.5 pts or more! Biggest Upset in Under 1000 Section: $200-100-60-40 and 9 trophies. OPEN, U1800 and U1400 sections win choice of Mechanical or Quartz Unrated limits: U1000 $100, U1300 $200, U1600 $350, U1900 $500. Clock! Chief Sr. TD: Dr. Ed Mandell. Bring boards, pieces, clocks! None supplied except for Novice section; sets/supplies will be available for sale by Book Vendor on site. Cell phones must be turned off or in MIXED DOUBLES BONUS PRIZES: $600-400-200. silent mode while in tournament rooms. INFRACTION: deduct 1/2 the remaining time or game forfeiture if less than 10 minutes remaining on FULL DETAILS: see “Grand Prix” in this issue or chesstour.com. clock; automatic forfeiture for 2nd infraction. Spectators will be subjected to expulsion for the remainder of the event for any offense. Headphones cannot be used if opponent objects for any reason and cannot be used in the last round by players with a plus score. Player must be willing to

56 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:55 PM Page 57

See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

present same to TDs for examination at any time. Failure to do so will 500-200-150-120. Unr max $200 exc in Open. EF by 11/26: 109. Econ: 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Prizes: $1,500 b/55. 60% guar. result in removal from tournament without refund. Rules Posted at 89 & 70% calc prize (not avail in Open). Onsite +20, Playup +20. r/e 1900+: $300-100-100, u2100 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100-50, u1700 Site. LODG, DIR: Regency-Dearborn Hotel and Convention Center, 40. Rfnd fee 20. GMs/IMs free by 11/19: prize-EF. Nov 15 Supp, CCA 50-50. u1500: $200-100-50, u1250 50-50. Dec 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg. 600 Town Center Dr., Dearborn, MI 48126. Located N of Michigan min, & TD disc to place players. Sched: 3-day Reg. F 10-11, Rds. F/Sa 9-9:15. Rds. 9:30 11:50 2:30 5 EF: 43, Ecn 29 w 1/2 prz. after 12/3 Ave., S of Hubbard St., E of Evergreen Rd., W of Southfield Rd. For 11:30 5:30, Su 10 3:30; 2-day Reg. Sa 9-9:30, Rds. Sa 10 12:30 2:50 +15, playup +15, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 11/26. Info: BayAreaChess.com/ maps, go online to: www.mapquest.com or www.yahoo.com and click 5:30, Su 10 3:30. Any # 1/2-pt byes, Rd. 5, 6 byes must comn bef rd. 1. grandprix. on Maps. Reservations: Go online to www.adobadearborn.com or Ent: Online or mail. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/tg. E: ask@BayArea call (313) 592-3622. Ask for the MOTOR CITY OPEN Chess rate ($92) Chess.com. T: 408.409.6596. W. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! by Nov. 13, 2015. Entries & Info: Dr. Ed Mandell, All The King’s Men. DEC. 11-13, MISSOURI (586) 558-4790. Email: [email protected]. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 NOV. 28-29, NEW YORK 2015 CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP (FIDE RATED) An American Classic! TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 5/SS, G/90 + 30 second increment. Chess Club & Scholastic Center of A Heritage Event! MARSHALL NO-DRAWS THANKSGIVING - NEW! Saint Louis, 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108. Free entries US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 6-SS, G/75 d10. No Draws! If a game ends in a draw by any means, for GMs, IMs and those that successfully qualified in 2015. EF: $50, NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, PENNSYLVANIA the players will switch colors and play another game with the remaining $40 for annual members of the club if registered by 12/10. PF: $3,075 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) time on the clock. This continues until there is a winner. *Only the first Unconditionally Guaranteed!! $750-$500-$350. Top U2200: $300. Top 46TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CHESS CONGRESS game will be counted for US Chess rating* $1,500 Gtd: $700-350, U2000: $275. Top U1800 $240. Top U1600 $225. Top U1400 $200. Top 6SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-3 G/45 d10). Trophy U2300: $150, U2000: $150, U1700: $150. EF: $90, MCC Mbrs $60. GMs U1200 $160 Biggest Upset: $75. Reg.: Fri 3pm - 6pm. Round Times: sections play separate 2-day schedule only, 11/28-29, G/45 d10. Loews Free, Mbr EF reduced from prizes. Reg.: Ends 15 min before round Friday: 7 Saturday: 11, 5. Sunday: 10, 3:30. Two 1/2 point byes if Philadelphia Hotel, 1200 Market St., Philadelphia, PA 19107. $35,000 start. Rds.: Sat. & Sun. 12:30-3:45-7:00pm. Two byes available, request declared before round 2. Winner of event will have name engraved on GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND. In 10 sections. Premier, open to all rated at entry. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716, www.marshallchessclub.org. Club Championship Trophy that is displayed in Club year round. Ent: 2000/above and juniors under 18 rated 1800/above. $3000-1500-800- 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108, or online at saintlouis- 400-200, clear win or 1st on tiebreak $100, U2400/Unr $1600-800. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! chessclub.org. Information: 314-361-CHESS, info@saintlouischess FIDE. Under 2200: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 2000: $2000-1000- NOV. 28-29, TEXAS club.org. 500-300-200. Under 1800: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1600: TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1400: $1600-800-400-300-200. Under SAN ANTONIO TURKEY SHOOT DEC. 12, CONNECTICUT 1200: $1600-800-400-300-200. Under 1000: Trophies to top 10. Under Hornbeak Bldg, 4450 Medical Dr., San Antonio, TX 78229. 5SS, Rd. 1 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 800: Trophies to top 10. Scholastic Under 600: K-12 only, trophies to and 2. G/90 d5, Rds. 3-5 40/2 S/D1 d5. $$(1500 b/40): Open Section: 2015 GREATER NEW HAVEN OPEN! top 10. Unrated may not win over $300 in U1200, $600 in U1400, $900 $300-150-125-100, Under 1800 $200-125-100-75, Under 1400/UNR at Foote School, $$1000 Prize Fund b/30. Open, U1700: 4/SS, G/60 d5. in U1600, $1200 in U1800, or $1500 in U2000. Mixed doubles prizes: $100-75-50-25. UNR $50. EF: $45 if rec’d by 11/26, $50 at site ($40 Rds.: 9-11-1:30-3:30, Rds. 1 & 2 accl’rtd pairings if necessary. U1200, best male-female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: SACC members if received by 11/26: Option play for 1/2 prizes: $23. U1000, U800/UNR: 5SS, G/30 d5, Rds.: 10am then ASAP. Prizes: Open: $2000-1000-600-400. Team average must be under 2200; teamates by 11/26, $28 at the door.) EF: Jr U19 entry $23 if rec’d by 11/26 or $300 + trophy, $200, $100, $100, 2 x $50. U1700 $100 + trophy, $50, may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) before $28 at site. Option play and Jr U19 entry count 2/3 toward “based $50 b/30. Trophies to top 5 U1200, U1000, U800/Unrated, top 3 school both players begin round 2. Student/Alumni plaques to top 5 teams on”. Reg.: 9:00-9:45. Rds.: 10-1:30-5; 9-3; Half-pt bye any 1 rd before teams. EF: $40 Online, $50 by 12/4, $80 on site. Reg.: 8:30-9:30 or EF of 4 (regardless of section) representing any U.S. college, HS or pre-HS Rd. 2 is paired, Swap and shop used books, equip, 8:30-9:30 Ent: SACC, to: Educational Technologies, 343 Beach St. #404, West Haven, CT. players attend or have graduated from. Top 7 sections entry fee: PO BOX 690576, San Antonio, TX 78269-0576. Info: sanantoniochess.com, 06516. Online EF www.edutechchess.com or www.CTChess.com $120 online at chessaction.com by 11/25, $130 phoned to 406-896- Ph: 210-384-4797, E-mail: [email protected]. W. 2038 by 11/23 (entry only, no questions), 3-day $128, 2-day $127 mailed DEC. 12, MARYLAND by 11/17, $140 at site, or online until 2 hours before game. GMs free, A Heritage Event! TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 $100 deducted from prize. Re-entry $60, not available in Premier. Under DEC. 6, MASSACHUSETTS MARYLAND DECEMBER ACTION 1000, Under 800, Under 600 entry fee: $41 online at chessaction.com TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) 5SS, G/45;+5: incr. Rockville Hilton, 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD by 11/25, $45 phoned by 11/23 (406-896-2038, no questions) or mailed HARRY NELSON PILLSBURY MEMORIAL 20852. All Prizes Guaranteed. 2 Sections: Open $300-$200-$100, U2000 by 11/17, $50 at site. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. No mailed 4SS, G/60 d5. Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel, 181 Boston Post Road $125. Under 1800 $250-$150-$75, U1600 $50. Sets, boards and clocks credit card entries. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper magazine if West, Marlboro MA (I-495, exit 24B, Rt. 20W, one mile from exit). 508- provided. EF: $35 by 11/9, $40 later. Schedule: Reg. ends 10am, rds. paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, 460-0700 or 888-543-9500. $$ 1,400 b/55 paid entries ($20 off entries 11:00-1:00-3:00-5:00-7:00. More information online http://mdchess.com. Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult count half), 60% G. 3 sects. Open: $350-150, top U2110 $150. Under US Chess Junior Grand Prix! $30, Scholastic $20. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 11 am, rds. Fri 12 1910: $200-100, top U1710 $100. Under 1510: $150-100, top U1310 $100. Trophies to top U1100, U900, Unrated. All: Unrated can play in DEC. 12-13, TEXAS & 6, Sat 12 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day top 7 sections schedule: Reg. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) ends Sat. 9 am, rds. Sat 10, 12:45, 3:30 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day any sect. but can’t win more than $50 in U1510 or $100 in U1910. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. EF: 2015 DCC FIDE OPEN XIV Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600 schedule: Reg. ends Sat 9 am, 5SS, G/90 inc/30. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S Cottonwood Dr. #C, Richard- rds. Sat 10, 12:45 & 3:30 each day. Half point byes OK all rounds; limit $39 if mailed by 12/1 or online by 12/4, $45 at site. $20 discount to players in U1510 sect. rated under 1100 or unrated. GMs and IMs free. son, TX 75080. Two sections: Open and Reserve. Open: $$875G. FIDE 3, Premier must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 4. HR: $102- and US Chess rated but uses FIDE rules. Use US Chess ratings and 102-127, 215-627-1200, reserve by 11/12 or rate may increase. Parking: Reg.: 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Rds.: 10-1-3:30-6. Bye: O.K. all, limit 1, must commit before rd. 2, no half point byes for players receiving full point rules for pairings and for awarding prizes. Default late forfeiture time Hotel has valet parking only, with a special chess rate of $30/day. Park is one hour. TD may extend this time at TD’s discretion. Note that America, 25 S. 12th St (12th & Clover), 1 block from Loews, about byes. Ent.: payable to MACA and mail to Robert Messenger, 4 Hamlett Dr., Apt. 12, Nashua, NH 03062 or enter online at www.MassChess.org. Foreign players must disclose their FIDE ID number before 1st round $19/day each day, or $10/12 hrs Sat & Sun. Gateway Garage, 1540 in order to play. Note that USA Players with no FIDE ID must disclose Spring St. (3/5 mile from Loews, 1 block from Sheraton Hotel), about Info: email to [email protected] or phone 603-891-2484. Day of the tournament phone 603-557-1732. W. their email address.$$ $500-$250-$125. EF: $80, Senior/Hcap/Birthday $5/day Sat & Sun, $18/day other days. Car rental: 800-331-1600, use during tournament/Additional Family Member $55. Small appearance AWD D657633 or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: ches- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! fee to the First three GM/IM’s who apply. GM/IM must play all rounds saction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 DEC. 6, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN to get appearance fee (appearance fee might be deducted from prize). service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, chesstour.info, TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) Reserve: Open to players rated below 2000 US Chess. This section is 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com. (online BAY AREA CHESS GRAND PRIX SUPER SWISS (4SS, G/61 D5) not Fide Rated but is US Chess rated and uses US Chess rules. EF: $40. entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 10 pm; enter by 9:45 pm. US Chess Junior Grand Prix for top 7 sections only. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, WASHINGTON TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 42nd Annual Eastern Open WASHINGTON CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS 6SS, 40/120, SD/30 d10, 2-Day Option, Rds. 1-3, G/60 d10. North Seattle Over $14,000 in prizes! Over 50 prizes awarded! Special Prizes! Community College, 9600 College Way North, Seattle, WA 98103. $6,000/b150. Medal only entry fee count as half entries. 7 Sections, December 26-29, 27-29, 26 or 27, 2015 MASTER (2200/up), $500-350-175 (U2300: $100-75), EXPERT (2000- 7 Rd. Swiss in 5 Sections: Open section prizes guaranteed. 2199), $400-275-150 (U2100: $100-75), CLASS A (1800-1999), $300-200-125 (U1900: $100-75), CLASS B (1600-1799), $300-200-125 Other section prizes based on 40 paid entries in each section. (U1700: $100-75), CLASS C (1400-1599), $300-200-125 (U1500: $100- 75), CLASS D (1200-1399), $300-200-125 (U1300: $100-75), CLASS E Open: $2,000-1,000-500 U2350: $500 FIDE rated GPP 100 (1000-1199), $200-125-100, (U1000: $100, U800/Unr: $75). Unrated players may only win 1st-3rd in MASTER or Unrated prize in CLASS E. Under 2200: $1,000-500-250 U2050: $400 Foreign ratings used for players with no USCF rating. EF: MASTER $135, EXPERT $125, CLASS A to D $115, Class E $105. Deduct $15 if postmarked Under 1900: $1,000-500-250 U1750: $400 or online by 11/22. Deduct $25 if postmarked or online by 10/31. Rated players may play up one class only, add $30 to EF. Special Medal Only Under 1600: $1,000-500-250 U1450: $400 EF (Juniors U21): $55 by 10/31, $60 by 11/22, $65 at site. Free entry Under 1300: $750-400-200 U1150: $300 for GMs, IMs, WGMs. 3-Day Schedule: Registration Fri (11/27) 8:30- 9:30 am. Rds.: Fri 10:30 am & 5 pm, Sat 10:30 am & 5:30 pm, Sun 9 am Under 1000 New: 12/26 - 5 rds. $400-200-100, Upsets U800: $100 & 3:30 pm. 2-Day Schedule: Registration Sat (11/28) 8-8:30 am. Rds.: Sat 9:00 am, 11:45 am, 2:30 pm then merges with 3-Day Schedule. Bye: Scholastic New (Open, U1000, U700): 12/27 4 rds. Trophies, book prizes, memb. limit 2, request before end of Rd. 2. ENT: Checks payable to Washington Chess Federation. Mail to: Dan Mathews, 749 Somerset Lane, Edmonds, Blitz Championship: Sat 12/26 -- 1-4:30 pm. 75% payout from paid entries. WA 98020-2646. Info: [email protected], 425-218-7529. Enter online: www.nwchess.com/onlineregistration. W. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! CONVENIENT LOCATION: Doubletree Hotel, Bethesda MD 8120 Wisconsin Ave NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED) Only $79/night!! (2 mi. S from I-495; 4 blks N of Bethesda Metro) 1-888-370-0998 CLASS WARFARE CHAMPIONSHIP 6SS 40/120 SD/30 d5 (2-day rd.1-3 G/61 d5 merge in rd.4). Santa Clara Parking: Hotel valet is $10 if overnight or $5 if day! Free pkg nearby on wkend! Convention Center, 5001 Great America Pkwy., Santa Clara, CA 95054. Restaurants: Pizza, deli, burgers, brew pub, kabob, Mexican, Chinese, Indian, etc. Park free Prize: $14,000 b/187 (70% guar). 6 sects: Open (2100+FIDE rated): $2,000 1,000 500 200, u2300 300 150. 1900-2099: $1000-500- Full Details: See TLA Grand Prix section this issue or easternopenchess.com. 200-150-120. 1700-1899:$1000-500-200-150-120. 1500-1699: $1000- 500-200-150-120. 1300-1499: $1000-500-200-150-120.u1300: $1000-

www.uschess.org 57 CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:55 PM Page 58

Tournament Life / November

The Reserve give back 10% in prizes and if at least 8 paid entries and if players can pay a $10 tournament membership. Note that highest walk from site is Wyndam New Yorker Hotel, HR $278-296 as of Sep- there is a clear winner, then that winner receives free entry to next finishing Dallas Chess Club member is Club Champion. $$b/25: 70% tember (may increase), www.newyorkerhotel.com. 3/10 mile walk from DCC Fide Open. In the reserve section, Tournament reserves the right Guaranteed. $1600-800-400-200. U2400 $500. Reg.: 12/19: 11:00am- site is Wyndham New Yorker Hotel, HR $278-296 as of September (may to use Fide rules on electronic devices and on starting White’s clock at 12:01 pm. Rds.: 12/19 12:30pm, 5:30 pm. 12/20: 11am, 4:30 pm. 12/21 increase), www.newyorkerhotel.com.Ent: chess action.com or Continental start of a round and to use FIDE pairing rules. Both: Reg.: 12/12 from 9:30 am. 1 bye if requested before end of round 2. Players who withdraw Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: chesstour.com, 9:45–10:15am. Rds.: Sat 10:45 am-3:10pm-7:16pm, Sun 9:45 am-2:10pm. or take a last round zero point bye are ineligible for prizes. ENT: DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge for refunds. One half point Bye allowed if requested before end of round rd. 2 and Make/mail Checks payable to Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, Advance entries posted at www.chessaction.com (online entries posted before getting full point bye. Withdrawals and zero point last round 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX, 76036-4719. INFO: Barb Swafford, instantly). Blitz tournament Sunday 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. byes are not eligible for prizes. Note that house players (if required) 214-632-9000 [email protected], www.dallaschess.com. FIDE. must pay $2 per round and be US Chess members. ENT: Make/mail A Heritage Event! Checks payable to Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Long- A Heritage Event! US Chess Junior Grand Prix! horn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036-4719. Info: 214-632-9000, info@dallas US Chess Junior Grand Prix! DEC. 26-28, GEORGIA chess.com. FIDE. DEC. 26-28 OR 27-28, NEW YORK TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 (ENHANCED) 45TH ANNUAL ATLANTA OPEN DEC. 15, NEW YORK 34TH ANNUAL EMPIRE CITY OPEN 6-SS. Interactive College of Technology, 5227 New Peachtree Rd., Cham- TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 6SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-3 G/40 d10). Hotel Penn- blee, GA 30341. $10,000 b/160, 55% Guaranteed. In 7 sections: MARSHALL MASTERS sylvania, 401 Seventh Ave. (32nd-33rd St., across from Penn Station), Championship: FIDE and US Chess rated. Must be 2000 and above to 4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to 2000+ players. $725 GTD: 250-150-100. Top New York 10001. $13,000 guaranteed prize fund. In 6 sections. Open: enter. $1000-600-500, u2200- $700-300-150-100. Under 2000: FIDE U2400 100, Top U2300 75, Biggest upset $50. EF: $40, Mbr $30. GMs $1200-600-300-200, clear or tiebreak win $50 bonus, top Under 2300/Unr and US Chess rated. Must be 1750 to enter. $700-300-150-100, u1900- Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for $500-250. Under 2200: $1000-500-250-125, top U2000/Unr $500-250. $150. Under 1800: $700-300-150-100, u1700- $150. Under 1600: $600- round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. Under 1900: $1000-500-250-125, top U1700 (no unr) $400-200. Under 300-150-100, u1500- $150. Under 1400: $600-300-150-100, u1300- 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. 1600: $800-400-200-100, top U1400 (no unr) $300-150. Under 1300: $150. Under 1200: $600-300-150-100, u1100- $100. Unrated: (not part US Chess Junior Grand Prix! $500-250-125-75, top U1100 (no unr) $200-100. Under 1000: $200-100- of base). Trophies to top 7. Time Controls: Championship and Under DEC. 18-20 OR 19-20, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN 60-40, trophies to first 5, top Under 800, Under 600, Under 400, Unrated. 2000: G/100 w/30 sec. inc. Other sections: G/120 d5. Entry Fees: $81 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED) Unrated may not win over $100 in U1000, $200 in U1300, $350 U1600, if received by 12/23; $87 at site, GMs an IMS free. Juniors under 19 $6 BAY AREA CHESS GM SAM SEVIAN CHAMPIONSHIP or $500 U1900. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2- less. Unrateds: $30. Reentry except Championship section $40. Bye all 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. 5SS, G/90+30, 2-day rds. 1-2 player “team” combined score among all sections: $600-400-200. Team rounds (limit 2), must commit before 1st round. May play up one section G/50 d5. Park free. Prize: 5,000 b/94 (70% guar). 3 sects: 2000+ average must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; except Championship or Under 2000. Registration: ends11 am. Rounds: (FIDE) $1,000-500-200, u2300: 250-125-100. 1600-1999: $700-300- teams must register at site (no extra fee) before both players begin 12 - 4, 10 - 3, 10 -3. Blitz Championship: 5-rd. Double Swiss. Registration: 100, u1800: 200-100, u1600: $700-300-100 u1400: 125-100, u1200: round 2; teammate pairings avoided but possible. Top 4 sections EF: Up to 8:15 pm - starts Sunday 12/27 - 1st round 8:30 pm, then as soon 100. Unr max $100 exc Open. Dec 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: F 6-6:45p & $105 online at www.chessaction.com by 12/24, $115 phoned by 12/22 as possible. $850 b/39 paid entries TC: G/7 d0. Advance Entry; $30; Sa 8:30-8:45a. Rds.: F 7p, Sa 9 1:20, Su 10 2:30. (2-day Sa 9 11:10 & (406-896-2038, no questions), 3-day $113, 2-day $112 if check mailed $35 at door. 1st- $200, 2nd- $150; u2000, u1800, u1600, u1400 each merge). EF: 89, Econ EF: 69 w 60% prz, after 12/15 +20. Playup +20. by 12/17, all $120 at site, or online until 2 hours before rd. 1. GMs free; $125. Other events will happen. Info: americanchesspromotions.com Rated 2250+ $0 by 12/4 (prize - EF). Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/ $90 from prize. Under 1300 Section EF: All $30 less than top 4 sections or (478)-973-9389. Enter: American Chess Promotions, 3055 General champs. EF. Under 1000 Section EF: All $60 less than top 4 sections EF. All: Lee Rd., Macon, GA 31204 or preferred Register Online. Re-entry $50, not available in Open. Online EF $5 less to NYSCA members; US Chess Junior Grand Prix! $12 NYSCA dues may be paid with entry fee. No checks at site, credit A Heritage Event! DEC. 19-21, TEXAS cards OK. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise US Chess Junior Grand Prix! TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED) unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. DEC. 26-29, 27-29, 26 OR 27, MARYLAND 2015 DALLAS ABSOLUTE Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED) 5SS, G/90 with 30 sec increment. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S. Cottonwood Mailed, phoned or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. 42ND ANNUAL EASTERN OPEN Dr. #C, Richardson, TX 75080. FIDE and US Chess rated but uses FIDE 3-Day Schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am. Rds. Sat 11 & 5, Sun 11 & 5, 7-Rd SS in 5 Sections + New U1000 and Scholastic Sections! Over rules. Use US Chess ratings and rules for awarding prizes. Note that Mon 10 & 3:30. 2-Day Schedule: Reg. ends Sun 9 am. Rds. Sun 10, $14,000 prize fund! Over 50 prizes! Class prizes at 150-point Foreign players must disclose their FIDE ID number before 1st round 12:15, 2:30 & 5, Mon 10 & 3:30. Half point byes available all rounds, interval within each section! Convenient Location: Doubletree in order to play. Note that USA Players with no FIDE ID must disclose limit 2 byes, Open must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 4. HR: Hotel, 8120 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda MD (just 2 mi. S from I-495 their email address. Default late forfeiture time is one hour. TD may $159-169-179 plus required $15/night facility fee, 1-800-223-8585, 212- and 4 blks N of Metro). Open: $2,000-1,000-500; U2350: $500. FIDE extend this time at TD’s discretion. EF: US Chess +2400 $90, US Chess 736-5000, reserve by 12/7 (earlier is better) or rate will increase, ask Rated. Open section prizes guaranteed. Other section prizes based on 2200-2400(or if you ever been rated 2200 US Chess) $105, Fide rated for Continental Chess Association rate. Facility fee includes high speed 40 paid entries for each section. Under 2200: $1,000-500-250; U2050: 2000 and above is $120, U2200 US Chess/U2000Fide $150. US Chess wireless in room, unlimited local & long distance calling, and unlimited $400. Under 1900: $1,000-500-250; U1750: $400. Under 1600: $1,000- Membership Required. Dallas Chess Club membership required, but use of Ballys Total Fitness located next door to the hotel. 3/10 mile 500-250; U1450: $400. Under 1300: $750-400-200 & Upsets; U1150:

58 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:55 PM Page 59

See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

$300; UR max: $150. Under 1000: $400-200-100 & Upsets, U800: $100. devices rules used; see www.chesstour.com/devices.htm. Blitz 12/29 DEC. 30-31, TEXAS Unr max: $100. Scholastic: Trophies, book prizes, and memberships. 10 pm. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED) Special Prizes: Best Fighting Spirit/Best Played Game: $200-100. Bril- Mills, NY 12577 (DirectorAtChess.us, www.chesstour.com, 347-201- DCC NEW YEAR’S EVE INSANITY liancy: $100-50. Opening Innovation: $100-50. Selected winning games, 2269). $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at 10 Rd. 2-SS (Play white and black against each opponent) G/30 d5. positions, and openings must be annotated and will be submitted for chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Dallas Chess Club, 200 S. Cottonwood Dr, #C, Richardson, TX 75080. publication in Chess Life. Upset: For U1300, Rds. 1-6, $25 book credit US Chess Junior Grand Prix! EF: $40. $25 Junior/Senior/Hcap. Limited number of House players prize. For U1000, Rds. 1-4, $25 book credit prize. Max 2 prizes per welcome for $1 per game. Dallas Chess Club membership required or player. 4-day Schedule for Open, U2200, U1900, U1600, U1300: DEC. 27-29, LOUISIANA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) pay $10 non member fee. $$GTD: $200-100. Class prizes (if any) depend 12/26-12/29 Rd. 1: Sat 12/26 at 6 pm; Rds. 2-3, 4-5, 6-7: Sun 12/27 - on entries. Reg.: 12/30 at 5pm – 5:45 pm. Rds.: Round 1 at 6:05 pm Tue 12/29 at 11 am & 5:30 pm. On-Site Reg: Sat 12/26 at 4-5:30. TC: NEW ORLEANS OPEN 5SS, (Open Sect: G/90 i30; Other Sects.: G/120 d5). Open Sect is FIDE rest ASAP with hour breaks at around 12:30 am, 7:30 am and 12:30 40/120, SD/30 d10. 3-day Schedule for U2200, U1900, U1600, U1300: rated using FIDE rules. No Entry Fee for GMs, WGMs, IMs and WIMs. pm. 4 points of 1/2 point Byes allowed. Byes for round 9 and 10 must 12/27-12/29 Rds. 1-3: Sun 12/27 at 12, 4, 8 pm. On-Site Reg: Sun SIDE EVENTS: Sun., 12/27: Scholastic Tourn. (K-12), Bughouse Tourn. be requested before round 6. ENT: Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara 12/27: 10-11:30 am. TC: G/90 d10. Players join 4-day schedule in Rd. & Blitz Tourn. (Bug & Blitz open to all). Hilton New Orleans Airport, 901 Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036. INFO: Barbara Swaf- 4. Byes for Open-U1300 Sections: 1/2-pt byes available for any round, Airline Dr., Kenner, LA 70062 (504-469-5000). Main Event Mon. & Tues., ford, 214-632-9000, [email protected]. www.dallaschess.com. but Rds. 5-7 must commit before Rd. 4. Limit 2 byes for class prizes. Dec. 28-29: 3 Sects. with Class PRIZES: $6,000 b/140 full-pd. ent. OPEN: *New* U1000 Section (Sat 12/26 in 5 rds): Rds. 1-5 at 12, 2, 4, 6, 8 JAN. 1, NEW YORK $1000+plaque-800-500; top U2000: $400-200; U1800: $600+plaque- pm. On-Site Reg: Sat 12/26: 11-11:45 pm. TC: G/45 d10. *New* 400-250; top U1600: $200-100; U1400/Unr*: $600+plaque-400-250; MARSHALL NEW YEAR’S RIDICULOUSNESS INSANE PERSON Scholastic Tourney (Sun 12/27 in 4 rds) in 3 sections: K-12 Open, top U1200: $200-100;. *Unrated players may only win 50% of the prize CHAMPIONSHIP! K-8 U1000, K-5 U700. Rds. 1-4 at 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm. On-Site 10-SS, G/25 d5. $1,317 Gtd: $546-219-17-2-1, U2237: $173, U1926: fund unless playing in the Open Sect. where they must pay full EF and Reg: Sun 12/26: 10-10:45 pm. TC: G/45 d10. Blitz Championship $154, U1624: $121. “Brilliancy Prize?!”: $84 to the player scoring best are eligible for full prize fund. Plaque winners determined by USCF-rec- (new time): 5-Rd Dbl Swiss. Sat 12/26 at 1-4:30 pm. 75% of paid entries ommended computer tiebreaks. Byes: Avail. all Rds., must commit overall in games where they open 1.g4 or 1…g5. (Bonus Prize: “Shoot returned in prizes. TC: G/7 d0. Advance EF: $30; on-site EF: $40. See before Rd. 3. Reg. Sun. 12 noon-10pm and Mon. 8-8:30am. Rds: Mon. the Moon”: $179 to the player who draws all 10 games; only 1 prize!) Web site for details. Free Lecture: 12/26 at 4-5:30 pm. HR: Amazing, EF: 9-2-7; Tues. 10-3. EF: $69 by 12/20; Unr. (in U1400) and Jrs. (in U1400): $79, MCC Mbrs $48. GMs Free, $23 reduced from prizes. (Re-entry: only $79!! To reserve online, go to easternopenchess.com or call 301- $45 by 12/20. All EFs for main event $10 more after 12/20. Re-Entry $31.) Reg.: 10:15-10:45am. Rds.: 11am-12:15-1:30-3:00-4:15-5:30- 652-2000 or 888-370-0998 by 12/20 request chess rate. Pkg: Hotel Fee: $20, avail. up to Rd. 3 in all sects. 3 Re-entries or 2 Jr. entries 7:00-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. 4 byes available, request at entry. Proper valet is $10 if overnight or $5 if for day! Free pkg on wkend 1 blk away count as one additional entry for prize fund. CAJUN BOUNTY: Defeat attire appreciated. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. in garage or lot! Entries: If postmarked by Dec. 19: Open: $125; U2200: the top ranked player in the Open Sect. and win free entry to our next 212-477-3716. $120; U1900 & U1600: $110; U1300: $100; U1000: $60; Scholastic: $30. tournament! FREEGIFT to oldest player and to player who travels Entries after 12/19: $25 more for Open-U1300; $15 more for U1000; US Chess Junior Grand Prix! farthest to Main Event! NEW ORLEANS OPEN SCHOLASTIC INDIVIDUAL $10 more for Scholastic! Reentry $100 and limited to rounds 1-4. GMs: JAN. 1-3 OR 2-3, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN CHESS CHAMPIONSHIPS, Sun., 12/27: Open to all K-12 individual free entry, but $125 deducted from prize; IMs: $65 advance entry, but TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED) players; 4SS, G/30 d5. Sects: OPEN, U900, U500. Reg: 9:30-10:30am; $60 deducted. FMs: $90 advance entry, but $35 deducted; $10 service 2016 NEW YEAR OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP Rd. 1 at 11am – other rds. will immed. follow. Prizes: Trophies to top 5 charge for refunds. Please make checks or money orders payable 6SS, 40/120 sd30 d5 (2-day rd.1-3 G/61 d5 merge rd.4). Oakland City individuals in each section (no team awards). All non-trophy winners to: Eastern Open. Mail entries to Tom Beckman, 3731 Kanawha St. NW, Center Marriott, 1001 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94607. Rooms $119. Prize receive a souvenir chess medal. US Chess-recommended computer Washington, DC 20015-1809. For entry forms and info, easternopen $14,000 b/187 60% guar. 2000+: $2,500-1000-600-300 u2300: 300- tiebreaks will decide trophy and medal placements for winners of all chess.com or [email protected]. 150. 1800-1999: 1,200-700-300-150. 1600-1799: 1,200-600-300-150. schol. sections. EF for Schol. Tourn: $20 by 12/20; $25 thereafter and 1400-1599: 1,200-700-300-150. u15000: 1,000-500-200-150. u1200: An American Classic! at site. BUGHOUSE TOURN: 5pm, Open to All. 5SS, G/5 d0. Reg. Sun. 300-100. Unr max $200 exc Open. Jan ’16 Supp, CCA min & TD disc. EF: A Heritage Event! until 4:30pm. Prizes: Trophies to top 3 teams. Bughouse EF: $20 per US Chess Junior Grand Prix! $119 by 12/29, Onsite +25 Playup +20. Econ: $89 w 60% prize. team. BLITZ TOURN (USCF-rated using Blitz ratings): 8pm, Open to GMs/IMs $0 by 12/21: prize-EF. Sched: 3-day Reg. F 10 11, Rds. F/Sa DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, NEVADA All. 9SS, G/5 d0; sections determined by number of players. Reg. Sun. 11:30 5:30, Su 10 3:30; 2day Reg. Sa 9-9:30, Rds. Sa 10-12:30-2:50- TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED) Prizes: Blitz EF: until 7:30pm. 70% of EFs returned as cash prizes. $20. 5:30, Su 10-3:30. Bye for Rd. 5&6 must com bef rd. 1. Ent: Online or 25TH ANNUAL NORTH AMERICAN OPEN Hotel Rate: $95 (sing-dbl-trip-quad), Hilton New Orleans Airport, 504- Open Section, Dec 26-30: 9SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10. GM & IM norms mail to Bay Area Chess, 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Rfnd fee 469-5000, mention Cajun Chess tourn. and reserve by Dec. 10th to $20. Info: BayAreaChess.com/ny. E: [email protected]. T: possible. Other sections, Dec 26-29 or 27-29: 7SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10 assure group rate. Free Airport Shuttle & Free Hotel Parking! ENT: On- 408.409.6596. W. (3-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Bally’s Casino Resort, 3645 Las line registration and printable entry form at www.cajunchess.com click Vegas Blvd. S, Las Vegas, NV 89103. Prizes $120,000 based on 600 on “Tournaments,” or mail entry form to Cajun Chess, 12405 Hillary US Chess Junior Grand Prix! paid entries (seniors, re-entries, GMs, IMs, WGMs & U1250 Section Step Dr., Olive Branch, MS 38654. Info or Phone Ent: 504-208-9596 or JAN. 2-3, MAINE count as half entries), else in proportion; $90,000 minimum (75% each 504-905-2971. Email: [email protected]. Major credit cards TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) prize) guaranteed. In 7 sections. Open: $10000-5000-2500-1200-1000- accepted (no checks at site). FIDE. 800-600-500-400-400, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak bonus $200, top BANGOR OPEN FIDE Under 2400/Unr $2400-1200. FIDE rated, GM & IM norms possible. DEC. 29, NEVADA Hilton Garden Inn Bangor, 250 Haskell Rd., Bangor, ME 04401. In 2 Open: Under 2300: $7000-4000-2000-1200-800-600-500-500-400-400. Under TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) Sections, 4SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30 Sec. Increment. Analog clocks 2100: $7000-4000-2000-1200-800-600-500-500-400-400, no unrated NORTH AMERICAN OPEN BLITZ (BLZ) not allowed in this section. FIDE rated. $$GTD: $500-250. U2250 $150, may win over $2500. Under 1900: $7000-4000-2000-1200-800-600- 5SS, G/5 d0, double round, 10 games. Ballys Casino Resort (see North U2000 $150. U1750: 4SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30 Sec. Increment, Analog 500-500-400-400, no unrated may win over $1800. Under 1700: American Open). $3000 guaranteed prizes. In 2 sections. Open: $500- clocks play 40/90, SD/60, Open to 1749 & under. $$GTD: $400-200. $6000-3000-1500-1000-800-600-500-500-400-400, no unrated may win 300-200, U2300/Unr $230-120, U2100/Unr $220-110. Under 1900: U1500 $100, U1250 $100. ALL: EF: $50 in advance, $55 at site. Reg.: over $1300. Under 1500: $5000-2500-1300-1000-700-600-500-400-300- $400-200-100, U1700 $220-110, U1500 $140-70, U1300 $80. EF (at site Registration 9:00-9:45. Advance entries must be postmarked by 12/26/ 300, no unrated may win over $900. Under 1250: $3000-1500-1000-800- only, no checks): $40 by 7 pm 12/29, $50 after 7 pm 12/29. GMs free; 2015. Rds.: 10-4, 10-4. Accelerated pairings may be used. ENT: Alex 600-500-400-400-300-300, top Under 1000 (no unr) $1000-500, no $40 deducted from prize. Reg. ends 9:30 pm, rds. 10 pm, 10:45, 11:15, Relyea, 49 Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex Relyea unrated may win over $500. No separate U1000 section; players under 11:45, 12:15. Bye: 1. Blitz rated, but higher of regular or blitz used for [email protected]. www.relyeachess.com. HR: $129 until 11 1000 in U1250 play for both U1250 and U1000 prizes; receive larger if pairings & prizes. December, (207) 262-0099, mention Relyea Chess. W. winning both. Prize limits: 1) Players with under 26 games played as of 12/15 list may not win over $1500 U1250, $3000 U1500 or U1700. Games rated too late for 12/15 list not counted. 2) If post-event rating posted 12/20/14-12/20/15 was more than 30 points over section max- imum, prize limit $2000. 3) Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female com- bined 2-player “team” score: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Only rounds 4th annual BOSTON CHESS CONGRESS 1-7 of Open Section counted. Team average must be under 2200; team- mates may play in different sections; teams must register (no exta fee) by 3 pm 12/27; prize limits do not apply to mixed doubles. Top 6 Jan 8-10 or 9-10 at luxurious Hyatt Boston Harbor sections EF: Online at chessaction.com: $245 by 9/15, $275 by 12/23. Phoned to 406-896-2038 (no questions, entry only): $285 by 12/21. No $12,000 projected prize fund, $8000 minimum phone entry after 12/21. Mailed by 12/15: 5-day $280, 4-day $279, 3- day $278. Do not mail entry after 12/15. Online 12/24 to 2 hours before Special $99 room rates, free parking, free airport shuttle! your first game, or at site 12/26 to 1 hour before your first game: $300. Open Section EF $100 more to US players if not USCF or FIDE rated Beautiful view of Boston harbor and downtown! In 6 sections: 2200/over. Under 1250 Section EF: All $120 less than above. Seniors 65/over in U1500/over: All $120 less than above. Re-entry $120; not available in Open Section. Open Section GMs, IMs, WGMs: entry fee Premier: Open to 1900/over. Prizes $1200-600-400, clear/tiebreak 1st $100 $150 online at chessaction.com by 9/15, $175 by 12/23, $200 after bonus, top Under 2300 $500-250. 12/23 or at site; $100 additional EF deducted from prize (deduction cannot reduce prize to below minimum). Open Section minimum Under 2100/Unr: $1000-500-300. prizes for players who play all 9 games (no byes): Foreign GMs $300, US GMs, foreign IMs, foreign WGMs $200. All: No checks at site, credit Under 1900/Unr: $1000-500-300. cards OK. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic Under 1700/Unr: $900-500-300. Unrated limit $600. $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic Under 1500/Unr: $800-400-300. Unrated limit $400. $20. 5-day reg. ends 12/26 10 am, rds. 12/26-28 11 & 6, 12/29 10 & 4:30, 12/30 10 am. 4-day reg. ends 12/26 5 pm, rds. 12/26 6 pm, Under 1300/Unr: $400-200-150. Unrated limit $200. 12/27-28 11 & 6, 12/29 10 & 4:30. 3-day reg. ends 12/27 10 am, rds. 12/27 11, 2:30 & 6, 12/28 11 & 6, 12/29 10 & 4:30. Bye: all, limit 4, MIXED DOUBLES BONUS PRIZES: best male/female 2-player “team” limit 2 in last 4 rounds; Open must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 4. HR: $92-92, 800-833-3308, 702-739-4111, rate may increase or combined score among all sections: $800-400-200. Team average must be chess block sell out about 11/15. Free parking (garage at adjacent under 2200; teammates may play in different sections. Las Vegas Hotel is most convenient). Car rental: for special Avis rate reserve car through chesstour.com or call 800-331-1600, use AWD BLITZ TOURNAMENT Saturday 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. #657633. Ratings: FIDE used in Open, Dec 2015 official USCF in others. For foreign in U2300 & below, see www.chesstour.com/ foreignratings. FULL DETAILS: see “Grand Prix” in this issue or chesstour.com. htm; highest of multiple ratings usually used. Players who fail to disclose foreign or FIDE ratings may be expelled. Special rules: CCA electronic

www.uschess.org 59 CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:55 PM Page 60

Tournament Life / November

US Chess Junior Grand Prix! U2400 $600, U2300 $500, U2200/Unr. $400. FIDE. U2050:$1100/Tro- 2016 DCC FIDE OPEN I JAN. 8-10 OR 9-10, MASSACHUSETTS phy-700-600, U1950 $500-300. U1750:$1100/Trophy-700-600, U1650 5SS, G/90 inc/30. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S Cottonwood Dr. #C, Richard- TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED) $500-300. U1450: $1000/Trophy-600-500, U1350/Unr. $400-200. U1100: son, TX 75080. Two sections: Open and Reserve. Open: $$875G. FIDE 4TH ANNUAL BOSTON CHESS CONGRESS Trophies for 1st to 3rd & 1st U900, 1st U700, Medals to all others. Top and US Chess rated but uses FIDE rules. Use US Chess ratings and 5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Hyatt Boston Senior Prize (among all cash prize sections, must be at least 55 on rules for pairings and for awarding prizes. Default late forfeiture time Harbor, 101 Harborside Dr., Boston, MA 02128. Free parking, free Jan. 8) $200. Unr. may enter Open, U1450 or U1100 only. Unr. only is one hour. TD may extend this time at TD’s discretion. Note that airport shuttle. Prizes $12,000 based on 220 paid entries (U1300 & eligible for Unr. Prizes in Open & U1450. EF: $99 by Jan. 5, $10 more Foreign players must disclose their FIDE ID number before 1st round re-entries count 60%), minimum $8000 (2/3 each prize) guaranteed. In later and on-site, GMs & IMs free ($99 deducted from prize). U1100 in order to play. Note that USA Players with no FIDE ID must disclose 6 sections. Premier: Open to 1900/over. $1200-600-400, clear or section $39 by Jan. 5, $10 more later and onsite. Re-entry cash prize their email address.$$ $500-$250-$125. EF: $80, Senior/Hcap/Birthday tiebreak 1st $100 bonus, top U2300 $500-250. Under 2100: $1000- sections $49. Reg.: Ends 1/2 hr before 1st rd. Rds.: 3-Day 1st Rd. Fri. during tournament/Additional Family Member $55. Small appearance 500-300. Under 1900: $1000-500-300. Under 1700: $900-500-300. 7:30; 2-Day 1st Rd. Sat 10; 2nd Rd. Sat. 1:15; 3rd Rd. all sections but fee to the First three GM/IM’s who apply. GM/IM must play all rounds Under 1500: $800-400-300. Under 1300: $400-200-150. Unrated may U1100 6:30, 3rd Rd. U1100 5:45; 4th Rd. Sun. 9:30; 5th Rd. all sections to get appearance fee (appearance fee might be deducted from prize). not win over $200 in U1300, $400 U1500 or $600 U1700. Top 5 sections but U1100 2:30, 5th Rd. U1100 1:45. With incr. Open section start Reserve: Open to players rated below 2000 USCF. This section is not EF: $87 online at chessaction.com by 1/6, $95 phoned to 406-896-2038 times could be delayed. 2 1/2 pt. byes, if req’d before rd. 2. Blitz Tourn: Fide Rated but is US Chess rated and uses US Chess rules. EF: $40. The by 1/4, 3-day $93, 2-day $92 if check mailed by 12/29, $100 at site, or G/5 d0, Sunday at 8:00 p.m.; EF $15 for those in main tourn., $25 for all Reserve give back 10% in prizes and if at least 8 paid entries and if online until 2 hours before round 1. GMs free; $80 from prize. Under others. HR: $99, $109 with breakfast, reserve by 12/20 or rate may there is a clear winner, then that winner receives free entry to next 1300 Section EF: All $40 less than above. Mixed doubles bonus increase, includes free Internet, refrigerator & microwave, free airport DCC Fide Open. In the reserve section, Tournament reserves the right prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all shuttle, free parking for all, 239-561-1550. Ent: Boca Raton Chess Club, to use Fide rules on electronic devices and on starting White’s clock at sections: $800-400-200. Team average must be under 2200; teammates 2385 Executive Ctr. Dr., Ste. 100, Boca Raton, FL 33431. $10 service start of a round and to use FIDE pairing rules. Both: Reg.: 1/9 from may play in different sections; teams must register at site (no extra charge for refunds. Online entry & add’l info: www.bocachess.com, 9:45–10:15am. Rds.: Sat 10:45 am-3:10pm-7:16pm, Sun 9:45 am-2:10pm. fee) by 2 pm 1/9. All: Online EF $5 less to MACA members; may 561-479-0351. One half point Bye allowed if requested before end of round rd. 2 and join/renew at masschess.org. Re-entry $50, not available in Premier. before getting full point bye. Withdrawals and zero point last round US Chess Junior Grand Prix! byes are not eligible for prizes. Note that house players (if required) No checks at site, credit cards OK. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually JAN. 8-10 OR 9-10, TEXAS used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 must pay $2 per round and be US Chess members. ENT: Make/mail Checks payable to Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Long- paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com by 12/31, Adult $30, Young 6TH ANNUAL AUSTIN CHESS CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Online after 12/31, Adult $35, Young Adult 100% GUARANTEED Prize Fund! Bridge Center of Austin, 6700 Middle horn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036-4719. Info: 214-632-9000, info@dallas $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult Fiskville Rd., Austin, TX 78752. Entries are limited to the first 150 par- chess.com. FIDE. $25, Scholastic $17. 3-Day Schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm. Rds. Fri 7, ticipants rated U2200. No limit on players rated 2200+. Championship: US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-Day Schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am. Rds. Open to players 1800 and above. EF: $55 received or online by 12/01, Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Half point byes available all rounds, limit JAN. 15-18, 16-18 OR 17-18, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN $65 thereafter/site. $$: $600-400-200. U2200 - $275 $125, U2000 - TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) 2 byes, Premier must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $99- $250 $100. Must be ACC member or have played in at least one ACC 99, 617-568-1234, request chess rate, reserve by 12/25 or rate may 7TH ANNUAL GOLDEN STATE OPEN 2015 slow event to be crowned club champion. Reserve: Open to Ratings 7SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (3-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10, 2-day option increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #657633. Ent: ches- 1400-1799. EF: $50 received or online by 12/01, $60 thereafter/site. saction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. except in Open Section, rds. 1-4 G/30 d10). Crowne Plaza Hotel, 45 $$: $400-200. U1600 - $200 $100. Novice: Open to Ratings under 1400. John Glenn Dr., Concord, CA 94520 (free BART shuttle often available). $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, Direc- EF: $45 received or online by 12/01, $55 thereafter/site. $$: $250-100. torAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at www.chesstour. Free parking. $25,000 prize fund unconditionally guaranteed. In 7 U1200 - $100 $50, U1000 - $50. ALL: 5SS, G/90 +60. No”playing up”. sections. Open, open to all. $3000-1500-800-500-300, clear or tiebreak com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat. 9:30 pm, Unrateds may only win place prizes. Unrateds placed at TD’s discretion. enter by 9:15 pm. winner $100, top U2300/Unr $1000-500. FIDE. Under 2200: $1500- Online Registration preferred. One 1/2 pt. bye if requested before end 800-400-300-200. Under 2000: $1500-800-400-300-200. Under 1800: US Chess Junior Grand Prix! of Rd. 2. 3-day schedule: Onsite reg: Fri, 01/08: 6-7pm Rds: 01/08: $1500-800-400-300-200. Under 1600: $1300-700-400-300-200. Under JAN. 8-10 OR 9-10, FLORIDA 7:30pm, 01/09: 1pm, 7pm, 01/04: 9:30am, 3:30pm, Schedules merge 1400: $900-450-300-200-100. Under 1200: $500-250-150-100-50. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED) in round 2. 2-day schedule: Onsite reg: Sat, 01/09: 8-8:40am. rds: 2- Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) may enter any section, with maximum day Rd 1 - Saturday, 01/09 9am, Schedules merge in round 2. Rd. 1 of 2ND GULF COAST NEW YEAR’S OPEN prize U1200 $200, U1400 $350, U1600 $500, U1800 $700, U2000 $900. (In honor of Eric Rosenthal, a charismatic, beloved young expert 2/day schedule is G/90 with 5 second delay. ENT: AustinChessTourna- Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” com- from South Florida, whose delight in the game was infectious ments.com, P.O. Box 1386, Round Rock, TX 78680, 512-417-9008, bined score among all sections: $1000-500-300. Team average must and who left us much too soon.) 5SS, Open section G/90+30 sec www.AustinChessTournaments.com. INFO: Lori Balkum - Lori.Balkum@ be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must incr., All sections but U1100 G/120 d5, U1100 section G/90 d5 (2- AustinChessTournaments.com, www.AustinChessClub.com. W. register at site (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2; day Option all sections Rd. 1 G/60 d5). Holiday Inn Fort Myers Airport US Chess Junior Grand Prix! teammate pairings avoided but possible. Top 5 sections EF: $133 at Town Center, 9931 Interstate Commerce Dr., Fort Myers. $$15,000 JAN. 9-10, TEXAS online at chessaction.com by 1/13, $140 phoned to 406-896-2038 by b/200 paid entries, 50% min. Gtd. Open: $2000/Trophy-1200-1000, TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) 1/11 (entry only, no questions), 4-day $139, 3-day $138, 2-day $137

7th annual GOLDEN STATE OPEN Jan 15-18, 16-18 or 17-18, Martin Luther King weekend, Concord, CA 7ROUNDS,$25,000GUARANTEEDPRIZES!

7rounds,40/110,SD/30,d10(3- Under 1200: $500-250-150-100- 4-day reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri day option, rds 1-2 G/60, d10; 2-day 50. Unrated limit $200. 7pm,Sat12noon&6pm,Sun12 option except Open Section, rds 1-4 Mixed doubles: $1000-500-300. noon & 6 pm, Mon 10 am & 3:30 pm. G/30, d10). Blitz tmt. 1/17 10 pm. See TLA or chesstour.com. 3-day reg ends Sat 11 am, rds Sat Crowne Plaza, 45 John Glenn 12 noon, 3 pm & 6 pm, Sun 12 noon Dr, Concord CA 94520 (I-680 to Top 5 sections entry fee: $133 &6pm,Mon10am&3:30pm. Exit 52). Free parking. Free BART online at chessaction.com by 1/13, 2-day reg ends Sun 9 am, rds Sun shuttle often available. $140 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:30. 1/11 (entry only, no questions), all Byes: OK all, limit 2, Open must In 7 sections. $150 at site, or online until 2 hrs commit before rd 2, other before rd 4. Open: $3000-1500-800-500- before rd 1. 300, clear/tiebreak win $100, top Under 1400 Section entry fee: January official USCF ratings U2300/Unr $1000-500. FIDE rated, $40 less than top 5 sections entry fee. used; unofficial uschess.org ratings 150 GPP (enhanced). Under 1200 Section entry fee: usually used if otherwise unrated. Under 2200: $1500-800-400- $80 less than top 5 sections entry fee. Bring set, board, clock if 300-200. All: Online entry $5 less to possible- none supplied. Under 2000: $1500-800-400- CalChess members. No checks at site; Hotel rates: $109-109-119, 877- 300-200. Unrated limit $900. credit cards OK. Re-entry $60 (no 286-8389, 925-825-7700, reserve by Under 1800: $1500-800-400- Open). Special USCF dues: see TLA Jan 1 or rate may increase. 300-200. Unrated limit $700. or chesstour.com. US Chess memb. Entry: chessaction.com or Under 1600: $1300-700-400- required. Mailed entries: see TLA. Continental Chess, Box 249, 300-200. Unrated limit $500. Salisbury Mills NY 12577. Entry list: Under 1400: $900-450-300-200- Choice of schedules: All merge & chessaction.com (online entries post 100. Unrated limit $350. compete for same prizes. instantly). $15 charge for refunds.

60 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:55 PM Page 61

See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

mailed by 1/6, all $150 at site, or online until 2 hours before game. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED) rated players in Master Section, EF $50 less. Class C or D Section GMs free; $120 deducted from prize. U1400 Section EF: $40 less than TEXAS MASTERS EF: All $60 less than top 4 sections EF. Class E Section EF: All $100 top 5 sections entry fee. U1200 Section EF: $80 less than top 5 sections 5SS, G/90 inc/30. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S. Cottonwood Dr. #C, Richard- less than top 4 sections EF. Re-entry (no Master to Master) $50. All: entry fee. All: Special 1 yr USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with son, TX 75080. FIDE and US Chess rated but uses FIDE rules. Will use Special 1 yr USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online at ches- entry. Online at chessaction.com by 12/31, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, US Chess ratings and rules for awarding prizes. Default late forfeiture saction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned Scholastic $15. Online after 12/31, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic time is one hour. TD may extend this time at TD’s discretion. EF: US or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. 5-day sched- $15. Mailed, phoned or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic Chess +2400 $90, US Chess 2200-2400(or if you ever been rated 2200 ule: Late reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds. Thu 7, Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 $17. Re-entry (except Open) $60. Online EF $5 less to CalChess members. US Chess) $105, Fide rated 2000 and above is $140, U2200US & 6, Mon 10 & 4. 4-day schedule: Late reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 4-day schedule: Late reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 12 & 6, Sun Chess/U2000Fide $175. US Chess Membership Required. $$b/25: 70% pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4. 3-day schedule: Late reg. 12 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:30. 3-day schedule: Late reg. ends Sat 11 am, rds. Guaranteed. $1600-800-400-200. U2400 $500. Reg.: 1/16: 10:00-10:55 ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4. 2-day Sat 12, 3 & 6, Sun 12 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Late reg. am. Rds.: Sat 11:30am, 5 pm ; Sun 11:30am, 5 pm; Mon 10 am. One schedule: Late reg. ends Sun 9 am, rds. Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Mon ends Sun 9 am, rds. Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:30. Byes: OK bye if requested before end of round 2 and before given a full point bye 10 & 4. Byes: OK all, limit 2; Master must commit before rd. 2, others all, limit 2; Open must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 4. Unofficial or forfeit win. Players who withdraw or take a last round zero point bye before rd. 4. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Foreign player are ineligible for prizes. ENT: Make/mail Checks payable to Dallas Chess unrated. Foreign player ratings (Expert & below): See chesstour.com/ ratings: See chesstour.com/foreignratings.htm. HR: $109-109-119, Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036- foreignratings.htm. HR: $100-100, 817-358-1700, reserve by 1/29 or 877-286-8389, 925-825-7700, reserve by 1/1 or rate may increase. Car 4719. INFO: Barb Swafford, 214-632-9000, [email protected], rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Ent: Continental Chess, www.dallaschess.com. FIDE. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: chesstour.com, Direc- chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge torAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge for refunds. Bring A Heritage Event! for refunds. Bring set, board, clock if possible; none supplied. Advance set, board, clock if possible; none supplied. Advance entries posted at US Chess Junior Grand Prix! entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament JAN. 29-31, NORTH CAROLINA Blitz tournament Sun 10 pm, enter by 9:45 pm. Sun 10 pm, enter by 9:45 pm. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED) LAND OF THE SKY XXIX US Chess Junior Grand Prix! A Heritage Event! 5SS, 40/120, SD/30 d5 (U12 is G/90 d5). Crowne Plaza Resort Asheville, FEB. 26-28 OR 27-28, VIRGINIA US Chess Junior Grand Prix! One Resort Dr., Asheville, NC 28806. Weekend before Super Bowl. TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED) JAN. 15-18, 16-18 OR 17-18, PENNSYLVANIA $14,000 b/225 fully paid, $9,000 gtd. Open (FIDE-rated, 100% gtd): GEORGE WASHINGTON OPEN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED) $1600-750-400-300-250. U2300 $450-250. Asheville (FIDE-rated, Under 5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Hyatt Dulles, 48TH ANNUAL LIBERTY BELL OPEN 2200): $1000-500-250. 1999-1900,1899-1800, U1800 $ 450-250 each; 2300 Dulles Corner Blvd., Herndon, VA 20171. Free parking, free airport 7SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (3 day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10, 2-day option Unrated: $100. Buncombe (Under 1700): $1000-500-250. 1599-1500, shuttle, indoor pool, free wireless in guest room. From north or east, in U2100 to U1250, rds. 1-4 G/30 d10). Sonesta Hotel, 1800 Market 1499-1400, 1399-1300, Under 1300 $450-250 each; Unrated: $100. U12 VA-267 to VA-657 to Sunrise Valley Drive; from south or west, VA-28 to St., Philadelphia 19103. $$20,000 b/320 paid entries (re-entries, GMs (Under 1200): $500-250-125. U900: $225-125 Unrated: $100. Biggest Frying Pan Rd to Sunrise Valley Drive. 35 minutes drive from Washington, & U1250 section count 70%), else in proportion, except minimum 75% Upset in Tmnt: $50-25. EF (Open, Asheville, Buncombe): $84 by 1/22. 1 hour from Baltimore, 2 hours from Harrisburg. $13,000 guaranteed of each prize guaranteed. In 2006 to 2015, the tournament had over GMs/IMs free ($94 deducted from prize). EF: (U12): $42 by 1/22. “No- prizes. In 5 sections. Open: $1500-800-500-300, clear/tiebreak win $100 320 paid entries each year and the $20,000 projected prize fund was prize” EF for under age 18 in Asheville, Buncombe, U12: $21 (no bonus, top Under 2300/Unr $600-300. Under 2100: $1200-600-300- increased in proportion. In 6 sections. Open: $2000-1000-600-400-300, discounts). Unrated EF in Asheville, Buncombe, U12: $21 (no discounts, 200, top U1900/Unr $500-250. Under 1800: $1000-500-300-200, top 1st clear or on tiebreak $100 bonus, top Under 2300/Unr $800-400. eligible for unrated prize only). ALL: On-site entries $10 more. Discounts U1600 (no unr) $400-200. Under 1500: $600-300-200-100, top U1300 Under 2100: $1200-600-400-300-200. Under 1900: $1200-600-400- (pre-reg or on-site, one per player): $10 off for players new to Land of (no unr) $240-120. Under 1200: $300-150-100-50, top U1000 (no unr) 300-200. Under 1700: $1200-600-400-300-200. Under 1500: the Sky, 2nd family member, or Under 18. Add $42 to play in a section $120-70, plaques to top 3, 1st U800, U600, Unr. Mixed doubles bonus $1000-600-400-300-200. Under 1250: $700-500-300-200-100. Unrated more than 200 points above your rating, 1 section max. Rds.: 1st rd. prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all may enter any section, but may not win over $300 in U1250, $600 U1500, either Fri 7pm or Sat 9am (G/90 d5), then Sat 1pm - 7pm, Sun 9am - sections: $600-300. Team average rating must be under 2200; teammates or $900 U1700. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2- 3pm. One 1/2 pt bye avail rds. 1-4, declare by rd. 2. BLITZ: Sat 10 am may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) by 2 player “team” combined score among all sections: $1000-600-400. EF: $20. 100% of entry fees paid in prizes. ENT: WW, PO Box 1123, pm 2/27. Unrated may enter any section, with prize limit U1800 $500, Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play in different Weaverville, NC 28787, 828-645-4215, fax: 828-645-4216. HR: $92 dbl. U1500 $300, U1200 $150; balance goes to next player(s) in line. Top 3 sections; teams must register at site (no extra fee) before both players Reserve early at 828-254-3211 or 800-733-3211 and mention tournament. sections EF: $98 at chessaction.com by 2/24, $110 phoned to 406- begin round 2. Top 5 sections EF: $108 online at chessaction.com by INFO: Wilder Wadford, [email protected] www.ncchess.org 896-2038 (no questions) by 2/22, 3-day $108, 2-day $107 if check mailed 1/13, $120 phoned by 1/11 (406-896-2038, entry only, no questions), by 2/17, all $120 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 4-day $114, 3-day $113, 2-day $112 if check mailed by 1/6, $130 (no A Heritage Event! hours before game. GMs free; $90 from prize. Under 1500 Section checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hours before rd 1. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! EF: all $30 less than top 3 sections EF. Under 1200 Section EF: all $60 GMs free, $100 deducted from prize. U1250 Section EF: All $30 less JAN. 29-31 OR 30-31, OHIO less than top 3 sections EF. Re-entry $50, not available in Open. No than top 5 sections EF. All: Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 (ENHANCED) checks at site, credit cards OK. Unofficial uschess.org ratings if otherwise unrated. Special 1 yr USCF dues with magazine if paid 39TH CARDINAL OPEN, COLUMBUS with entry: Online at chessaction.com by 12/31, Adult $30, Young Adult 5-SS, 40/110 SD/30 d10 (2-day rds. 1&2 G/75 d10). Sets provided, $20, Scholastic $15. Online after 12/31, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, bring clocks. 1 bye any round. Open section FIDE rated & Laws of Chess, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, others US Chess only. Re-entry any section. $10,000 in 5 sections, top Scholastic $17. Re-entry (no Open to Open) $70. 4-day schedule: Reg 4 prizes guaranteed, rest b/200 paid entries, prizes added if more! ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 12 & 6, Sun 12 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:30. 3- OCA Grand Prix. Open $1200-800-500-350, $100 bonus clear 1st or on day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 12 & 6, tiebreak, all gtd; U2300 $450-300; U2100 $900-450-200-100; U1800 CONTINENTAL CHESS SCHEDULE Mon 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule (no Open Section): Reg. ends Sun. 9 $900-450-200-100; U1500 $700-350-170-100; U1200 $700-350-170- Visit www.chesstour.com for late news, hotel am, rds. Sun 10-12-2-3:45-6, Mon 10-3:30. Bye: all, limit 3, Open must 100; top female any section $110; upset $50/section. Unrateds limited availability, results, games, minimum ratings, etc. commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 4. HR: $101-101-101-101, 1-800- to 3rd prize except in Open. EF $90 if recd by 1/21, then $100 in advance Enter tournaments at chessaction.com. SONESTA, 215-561-7500, request Continental Chess rate, reserve by or $105 on site; no checks onsite. Free to IM/GM, $90 deducted from To receive our free email newsletter, see Jan 1 or rate may increase. Parking: Chess rate at Sonesta approx. winnings. OH residents OCA membership reqd. 3-day: Reg Fri 5-6:30pm, chess calendar.com or chesstour.com. $20/day (half of normal rate). Much lower rates Fri night & all day Sat Rds. 7:15; Sat 10-5; Sun 9-3:15. 2-day: Reg Sat 8:15-9:15, Rds. 10- Most tournaments have alternate schedules & Sun at 1818 Market, 1815 JFK Blvd. & 1540 Spring. Car rental: Avis, 1:30 then merge w/3-day. Blitz Sat eve, G/5 d0, FIDE rated! Enter with less or more days than below. 800-331-1600, use AWD#D657633 or reserve through chesstour.com. online or FOTK Chess Club, 2720 Airport Dr., Columbus, OH 43219. Asterisk means full details in this issue- Ent: Embassy Suites Hotel, 2886 Airport Dr., Columbus, OH 43219, 614- chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, otherwise, see future issues or our website. NY 12577. Questions: DirectorAtChess.US, www.chesstour.com, 347- 536-0500, $114/night chess rate thru Jan 22. Full details, entry form 201-2269. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries will be posted and online entry at website: http://neilley.com/chess/. Info: Events in red offer FIDE chances. at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament [email protected], 614-314-1102. W. 11/13-15: Kings Island Open, Blue Ash OH* Sun. 10 pm, enter by 9:45 pm. 11/27-29: National Chess Congress, Philadelphia PA* US Chess Junior Grand Prix! US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 12/26-28: Empire City Open, New York NY* FEB. 11-15, 12-15, 13-15 OR 14-15, TEXAS 12/26-29: North American Open, Las Vegas NV* A State Championship Event! TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED) 1/8-10: Boston Chess Congress, Boston MA* JAN. 16-17, MICHIGAN 7TH ANNUAL SOUTHWEST CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 9SS (Master Section), 7SS (other sections), DFW Airport Marriott South, 1/15-18: Liberty Bell Open, Philadelphia PA* 2016 MICHIGAN MASTER/EXPERT & CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS 4151 Centreport Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76165. Free parking, free airport 1/15-18: Golden State Open, Concord CA* 5-SS. Radisson Hotel Lansing, 111 N. Grand Ave., (517) 482-0188. HR: shuttle. 5-day schedule, Feb 11-15: Master Section only, GM & IM 2/12-15: Southwest Class, Fort Worth TX* $108.95+tax by 1/4/16, after if space available. www.radisson.com/lans norms possible, 40/2, SD/30 d10. 4-day schedule, Feb 12-15: Expert 2/26-28: George Washington Open, Herndon VA* ingmi - Code: CHES16. 8 Sections: M/X, A, B, C, D, E (U1200), Novice through Class E, 40/2, SD/30 d10. 3-day schedule: Expert through 3/4-6: Western Class Championships, Ontario CA* (Sat)/Fun Swiss (Sun): Both U1000/Unr. M/X Section will be FIDE rated. Class E, Feb 13-15, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10, then merges with 4-day. 2-day 3/11-13: Pittsburgh Open, Pittsburgh PA* Most recent USCF rating supplement used for ratings. Players must schedule: Class B through E, Feb 14-15, rds. 1-4 G/30 d10, then merges 3/12-13: NY State Scholastics, Saratoga Springs NY* play in class of their rating. Unrated players must play in Novice sect. with others. $30,000 prize fund unconditionally guaranteed. FIDE 3/18-20: Mid-America Open, Saint Louis MO* Players may request to play up in class (or unrated players may request ratings used in Master Section, USCF February official in others. In 7 3/25-27: Philadelphia Open, Philadelphia PA* being seeded into a class) if their recent tournament history shows sections; rated players may play up one section; foreign FIDE rated 4/22-24: Eastern Class Championships, Sturbridge MA achievement into that class. TD must approve all requests and will 1800/up may enter Master. Master (2200/up): $3000-1500-1000-600- 5/26-30: Chicago Open, Wheeling IL assign a rating to the player within the rating window of that class. EF: 400, clear or tiebreak winner $200, top FIDE U2300 $1400-700. FIDE. 6/17-19: Continental Class, Herndon VA M/X $45 (U18 $5 off), Free entry to GM, IM, FM, & 2200+, advanced Expert (2000-2199): $2000-1000-500-300-200. Class A (1800-1999/Unr): 6/30-7/4: World Open, Philadelphia PA entry fee deducted from prize. A, B, C, D, E: $42 (U18 $5 off); Novice: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Class B (1600-1799/Unr): $2000-1000-500- 7/5-10: Philadelphia International, Philadelphia PA $25. Advance entries must be received by 1/14/16, after $10 more. 300-200. Class C (1400-1599/Unr): $1200-600-400-300-200. Class D 7/15-17: Chicago Class, Wheeling IL Fun Swiss: $15. Make checks payable to MCA. MCA memb req’d for (1200-1399/Unr): $1200-600-400-300-200. Class E (Under 1200/Unr): 7/22-24: Southern Open, Orlando FL Michigan residents, other states OK. TL: M/X & Class: G/115 d5, $800-400-300-200-100. Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) may enter 7/22-24: Bradley Open, Windsor Locks CT Novice/Fun Swiss: G/30 d5. Reg.: Online: https://onlineregistration.cc/. A through E, with maximum prize E $200, D $300, C $400, B $600, A 8/12-14: Continental Open, Sturbridge MA Rds.: Sat, 8-9am; Fun Swiss: Sun, 8:30-9:30am. Sat 10am-2:30pm-7pm; $800. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” 8/12-14: Cleveland Open, Cleveland OH Sun 10am-2:30pm. $$Gtd: $2850; M/X: $300-$200, X: $230 U2100: combined score among all sections after 7 rounds: $1000-600-400. $120; Class A, B, C, D, E: $180-$120; U1900/U1700/U1500: $100; 8/12-14: Pacific Coast Open, Ontario CA Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play in different 8/26-28: Atlantic Open, Arlington VA Novice/Fun Swiss: Trophies to Top 5 Overall, Top U800, Top U700, Top sections; teams must register (no extra fee) before both players begin 600, Top Unr. State Champions (Top Michigan Resident): Master/Expert, 10/7-9: Midwest Class, Wheeling IL round 2; prize limits do not apply to mixed doubles. Top 4 sections EF: 10/28-30: North Jersey Open, Basking Ridge NJ Expert, and Each Class plus Novice. Trophies for all place-winners listed $158 online at chessaction.com by 2/10, $180 at site, or online until 2 above. Ent & Info: Jeff Aldrich, P.O. Box 40, Flint, MI 48501; jef- hours before game. $170 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 2/8 (entry only, For later events, see chesstour.com. [email protected]; (810) 955-7271. no questions); no phone entry after 2/8. 5-day $165, 4-day $164, 3-day US Chess Junior Grand Prix! $163, 2-day $162 mailed by 2/3. GMs, foreign IMs, foreign WGMs in JAN. 16-18, TEXAS Master Section free; $150 deducted from prize. US IMs, foreign FIDE

www.uschess.org 61 CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:55 PM Page 62

Tournament Life / November

usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic late entry after 3/21: available until 2 hours before your first game, magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young $17. Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. 3-day schedule: same price as entry at site. EF $100 less to seniors 65/over in Open Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or at site, Adult $40, Young Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. 2-day through U1400. Special 1 year USCF membership with magazine if Adult $25, Scholastic $17. 3-Day Schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm. Rds. schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. All: paid with entry: Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-Day Schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 Half point byes OK all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd. 2, others Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult am. Rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Half point byes available all before rd. 3. HR: $99-99, 1-800-996-3426, 724-695-0002; reserve by 2/26 $25, Scholastic $17. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry: rounds, limit 2 byes, Open must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, $100, no re-entry from Open Section to Open Section. 5-day schedule 3. HR: $95-95, 1-800-223-8585, reserve by 2/12 or rate may increase, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction. com or (Open only): Reg. ends Wed 6 pm, rds. Wed. 7 pm, Thu 11 & 6, Fri 11 & chess block may sell out before 2/12. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4. 4-day schedule (except Open): Reg. ends Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201- Thu 6 pm, rds. Thu 7 pm, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4. 3-day Questions: chesstour.com, chesstour.info, DirectorAtChess.US, 347- 2269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted schedule (except Open): Reg. ends Fri 10 am, rds. Fri 11, 2:30 & 6, Sat 201-2269. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (Online entries instantly). Blitz tournament Saturday 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4. 2-day schedule (except Open): Reg. ends Sat. 9 posted instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. am, rds. Sat. 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 4. 4-day, 3-day, & 2-day US Chess Junior Grand Prix! merge & compete for same prizes. Byes: Half point byes OK all rounds, US Chess Junior Grand Prix! MAR. 18-20 OR 19-20, MISSOURI limit 3 byes, limit 2 in last 4 rounds. Open Section must commit before MAR. 4-6 OR 5-6, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED) rd. 2, other sections before rd. 4. Bring sets, boards, clocks if possi- TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED) 20TH ANNUAL MID-AMERICA OPEN ble- none supplied. HR: $104-104-124, 215-625-2900, reserve by 3/11 23RD ANNUAL WESTERN CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS 5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Crowne or rate may increase. Parking: Marriott valet parking, about $20/day 5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10),.Ontario Plaza Hotel St. Louis-Clayton, 7750 Carondelet Ave., St. Louis, MO 63105 (60% off regular rate) for first 100 valet parking spaces sold. Park Airport Hotel & Conference Center, 700 N. Haven Ave., Ontario, CA (I-64 W/US 40-W Exit 32B, 1.2 miles north on Hanley Rd). $$ 20,000 America, 25 S. 12th St (12th & Clover), 1 block from Marriott, about 91764 (I-10 to N. Haven Ave). Free parking, free shuttle to Ontario GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND. In 7 sections: Open: $2000-1000-500-300, $19/day each day, or $10 for 12 hrs Sat & Sun. Gateway Garage, 1540 Airport or Ontario Mills Mall, free wireless, heated pool, restaurants clear winner or 1st on tiebreak $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr $800-400. Spring St. (3/5 mile from Marriott, 1 block from Sheraton Hotel), about within walking distance. $16,000 guaranteed prizes. 7 sections. Master FIDE. Under 2100: $1400-700-400-200. Under 1900: $1400-700-400- $5/day Sat & Sun, $18/day other days. Car rentals: Avis, 800-331- (over 2199): $1500-800-500-300, clear or tiebreak winner $100 bonus, 200. Under 1700: $1400-700-400-200. Under 1500: $1200-600-300-200. 1600, use AWD #D657633 or reserve car online at chesstour.com. top U2300 $600-300. Expert (2000-2199): $1200-600-400-200. Class Under 1300: $1000-500-300-200. Under 1000: $500-300-200-100, Ratings: FIDE March used for Open, USCF March official for U2200 & A (1800-1999/Unr): $1200-600-400-200. Class B (1600-1799/Unr): plaques to first 3, top U800, U600, Unrated Prize limits: Unrated may below; note that USCF ratings after the March list (see above) may $1200-600-400-200. Class C (1400-1599/Unr): $800-400-200-100. Class not win over $200 in U1000, $300 U1300, $500 U1500, or $700 U1700. result in a $1500 prize limit. Foreign player ratings: see www.chesstour. D (1200-1399/Unr): $800-400-200-100. Class E (Under 1200/Unr): Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” com- com/foreignratings.htm. Cellphone & anti-cheating rules: see $400-200-120-80, plaques to first 3, top U1000, U800, U600, Unr. Rated bined score among all sections: $800-400-200. Team average must be www.chesstour.com/devices.htm. Players must submit to a search for players may play up one section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must reg- electronic devices if requested by Director. Ent: chessaction.com or usually used if otherwise unrated. Prize limits: Unrated may not win ister at site (no extra fee) before 2 pm 3/19; teammate pairings avoided Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge over $100 in E, $200 D, $300 C, $500 B, or $700 A. Mixed doubles but possible. Top 6 sections EF: $109 online at chessaction.com by for refunds. Questions: DirectorAtChess.us, 347-201-2269, chesstour.com. bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score 3/16, $115 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 3/14 (entry only, no questions), Advance entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted among all sections: $600-300. Team average must be under 2200; team- 3-day $113, 2-day $112 mailed by 3/9, $130 online until 2 hours before instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 10 pm, enter by 9:45 pm. mates may play in different sections; teams must register at site (no game or at site. GMs free; $100 deducted from prize. U1000 Section extra fee) by 2 pm 3/5, prize limits do not apply to mixed doubles. Top EF: all $50 less than above. Online EF $3 less to MCA members. No JUNE 22-23, NEVADA 4 sections EF: $115 online at chessaction.com by 3/2, $120 phoned to checks at site, credit cards OK. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED) 406-896-2038 by 2/29, 3-day $118, 2-day $117 mailed by 2/24, $130 used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 yr USCF dues with magazine if 2016 U.S. WOMEN’S OPEN online until 2 hours before game or at site. Class C or D EF: all $30 paid with entry: Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, See Nationals. less than top 4 sections EF. Class E EF: all $60 less than top 4 sections Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult JUNE 24-26 OR 25-26, NEVADA EF. GMs free; $100 deducted from prize. No checks at site; credit $25, Scholastic $17. Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. 3- TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED) cards OK. SCCF memb. ($18, under 18 $13 with magazine, $3 without) day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 2016 NATIONAL OPEN required for rated Southern CA residents; join/renew at scchess.com. See Nationals. All: Special 1 yr USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry: Online at & 3:15. Byes: OK all, limit 2; Open must commit before rd. 2, others chessaction.com. Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed, before rd. 3. HR: $97-100-105-110, includes free full hot buffet breakfast phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. Re- and free parking, 888-303-1746, 314-726-5400, request chess rate, entry (except Master) $60. 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 6 pm, rds. Fri reserve by 3/4 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 10 am, rds. use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Regional Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. Byes: OK all rds., limit 2; Master must chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $95-95, 909-980-0400, Questions: DirectorAtChess.US, chesstour.com, chesstour.info, 347- ALABAMA reserve by 2/19 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, 201-2269. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 2015 U.S. Class Championships (TX) use AWD #D657633. Questions: chesstour.com, 347-201-2269, Direc- chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz tournament See Nationals. torAtChess.US. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box Saturday 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm. 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for withdrawals. Advance DEC. 27-29, New Orleans Open (LA) entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). US Chess Junior Grand Prix! See Grand Prix. MAR. 23-27, 24-27, 25-27 OR 26-27, PENNSYLVANIA US Chess Junior Grand Prix! TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED) MAR. 11-13 OR 12-13, PENNSYLVANIA 10TH ANNUAL PHILADELPHIA OPEN ARIZONA TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 (ENHANCED) OPEN SECTION, MAR 23-27: 9SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10. GM & IM norms possible, FIDE rated. OTHER SECTIONS, MAR 24-27, 25-27 OR 26- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 17TH ANNUAL PITTSBURGH OPEN Tuesday Night Open 5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Wyndham 27: 7SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10 (3-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10; 2-day option, Garden Pittsburgh Airport Hotel, One Industry Ln., Pittsburgh 15275. rds. 1-4 G/30 d10). At the luxurious Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 4 or 5 round, USCF rated tournament; ROUND TIMES: 7:00pm One game Free parking, free airport shuttle, free internet in guest rooms and skittles 1201 Market St., Philadelphia, PA 19107, directly across the street from every Tuesday of the month: Time Control: 40/120,SD/60 d5 PRIZES: room. $10,000 guaranteed prizes. In 5 sections. Open: $1400-700-400, the world famous Reading Terminal Market with over 100 food vendors. 1st Place and Class Prizes based on number of entries; ENTRY FEE: clear or tiebreak winner $100 bonus, top Under 2300/Unr $500. Under Prizes $80,000 based on 500 paid entries (seniors, re-entries, GMs, $45; TO REGISTER: chessemporium.com, call 602-482-4867. SITE: 10801 2100: $1000-500-300, top Under 1900/Unr $400. Under 1800: $1000- IMs, WGMs count as half entries, U1100 Section as 40% entries), else N. 32nd St., Suite 6, Phoenix, AZ 85028. 500-300, top Under 1600 (no unr) $300. Under 1500: $600-400-200, proportional, minimum $60,000 (75% of each prize) guaranteed. In 7 NOV. 26-29 OR 27-29, 51st Annual American Open (CA-S) top Under 1300 (no unr) $200. Under 1200: $300-200-100. Mixed dou- sections: Open: $7000-4000-2000-1000-800-600-500-500-400-400, clear See Grand Prix. bles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score or tiebreak first $200 bonus, FIDE Under 2400/Unr $2000-1000. Under DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 25th annual North American among all sections: $400-200. Team average must be under 2200; team- 2200/Unr, Under 2000/Unr, Under 1800: each $5000-2500-1200-800- Open (NV) mates may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra fee) 600-500-400-300-300-300. Unrated may not win over $2000 in U2000 See Grand Prix. by 2 pm 3/12; teammate pairings avoided but possible. Unrated may Section. Under 1600: $4000-2000-1000-700-500-400-300-300-300-300. not win over $200 in U1200, $400 U1500 or $600 U1800. Top 3 sections Under 1400: $3000-1500-1000-700-500-400-300-300-300-300. Under DEC. 29, North American Open Blitz (BLZ) (NV) EF: $95 online at chessaction.com by 3/9, $100 phoned to 406-896- 1100/Unr: $1000-700-500-400-300-300-200-200-100-100. Unrated may See Grand Prix. 2038 by 3/7, 3-day $103, 2-day $102 mailed by 3/2, all $110 (no checks, not win over $300 in U1100 Section. Unrated not allowed in U1800, JAN. 1-3 OR 2-3, 2016 New Year Open Championship (CA-N) credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hours before game. GMs, IMs U1600 or U1400 sections. Mixed Doubles Bonus Prizes: best See Grand Prix. & WGMs free; $90 deducted from prize. U1500 Section EF: all $30 male/female combined 2-player team score: $1000-500-300-200. In less than top 3 sections EF. U1200 Section EF: all $60 less than top 3 Open Section, only the first 7 rounds are counted. Team average must JAN. 15-18, 16-18 OR 17-18, 7th annual Golden State Open sections EF. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must (CA-N) unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with register (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2; prize limits See Grand Prix. entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic do not apply to mixed doubles. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually JAN. 23 AND/OR 24, 2016 U.S. Junior Chess Congress (CA-N) used if otherwise unrated. Prize limits: 1) If post-event rating posted See Nationals. 3/22/15-3/22/16 is more than 30 points over section maximum, prize limit $1500. 2) Players with under 26 lifetime games as of 3/16 official FEB. 11-15, 12-15, 13-15 OR 14-15, 7th annual Southwest cannot win over $500 in U1100, $1000 in U1400, $1500 U1600, or $2000 Class Championships (TX) U1800. 3) Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. See Grand Prix. Open EF, for GMs, IMs & WGMs: $125 online by 3/21, $150 at site. WARNING! MAR. 4-6 OR 5-6, 23rd annual Western Class Championships Minimum prize guarantees in Open Section, to players who play all 9 (CA-S) games with no byes: US GM $300, foreign GM $600 (limited to first 5 to See Grand Prix. The use of a cell phone in the tour- enter, others $300), foreign IM/WGM $300, foreign FM/WIM $200, nament room is prohibited! at foreign FIDE rated $100. Open EF, for US players who are not USCF JUNE 22-23, 2016 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) or FIDE rated 2200/over: $355 online at chessaction.com by 1/14, See Nationals. most tournaments! If your cell $375 online by 3/21, $400 at site. Open EF, for others: $205 online at JUNE 24-26 OR 25-26, 2016 National Open (NV) chessaction.com by 1/14, $225 online by 3/21, $250 at site. Open See Nationals. phone rings in a room with games mailed or phoned entries: all $10 more than online entry, mail by in progress, you could be severely 3/14, phone to 406-896-2038 by 3/18. U2200 through U1400 Sections EF: $205 online at chessacton.com by 1/14, $225 online by 3/21, $250 ARKANSAS penalized, maybe even forfeited! at site. Mailed EF: 4-day $214, 3-day $213, 2-day $212 mailed by 1/14, all $20 more mailed by 3/14. U1100/Unr Section EF: $75 online at NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 2015 U.S. Class Championships (TX) chessaction.com by 3/21, 4-day $84, 3-day $83, 2-day $82 mailed by See Nationals. TURN IT OFF! 3/14, $100 at site. Phoned EF: All $10 more than online EF, 406-896- DEC. 27-29, New Orleans Open (LA) 2038 (entry only, no questions), available only through 3/18. Online See Grand Prix.

62 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:55 PM Page 63

See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

MAR. 18-20 OR 19-20, 20th annual Mid-America Open (MO) NOV. 29, Bay Area Cupertino Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) DEC. 13, Bay Area Fremont Quads (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) See Grand Prix. Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies to players w + Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Trophies: Players w/plus score. score & all teams. Sched: Reg 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: 34, Sched: Required Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 27, 42 after Info: Info: CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN 49 after 11/27. http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. 12/10. http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. A State Championship Event! DEC. 13, Bay Area Fremont Swiss (PK-12; 3SS, G/30 d5) NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, Bay Area Chess NTD Thomas Langland DEC. 5-6, 2015-16 CalChess State Grade Level Championship Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Trophies: Players Championship Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America Pkwy., Santa Clara, w/plus score. Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: See Grand Prix. CA 95054. Park free .Trophies: Top 15 players w + score (all in K, 3 in 22, 37 after 12/9. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W NOV. 15, Bay Area Cupertino Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) Gr9-12) & Top 5 teams and Top 5 clubs in ea section K-8 (Top 3 in Gr 9- DEC. 13, Fremont DuperSwiss75 (3SS, G/75 d5) Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: Players w/plus 12). Medals to others. 13 sect based on grade (K-12). Reg.: Sa 8-8:30a. Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Prizes: $1,250 b/40. 60% guar. score. Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 27, 42 K-3: 5SS, G/30 d5, Sa 9 10:30a 12 1:30 3p. 4-12: 6SS, G/60 d5 Sa/Su 1900+: $200-100-50, u2100 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100, u1700 50- after 11/13. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. 9 11:45 2:30. Blitz: 8xG/5 d0 Sa 5:30-7p, 3 sects (K-3, 4-6, 7-12). EF: 50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Dec 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg. 8:30-8:45. by 11/28, K-3 $39, 4-12 $53, 11/28-12/3 +$20, 12/4&onsite +$40. Rds. 9-11:45-2:40. EF: 47, Econ 32 w 1/2 prz. after 12/10 +15, playup NOV. 15, Bay Area Cupertino Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) Blitz $14. US Chess & CalChess Mem reqd. Dec 15 Supp. Info: www.bay +15, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 12/3. Info: BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W. Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies to players w + areachess.com/grades. W. score & all teams. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: DEC. 18-20 OR 19-20, Bay Area Chess GM Sam Sevian Cham- 34, 49 after 11/13. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. DEC. 6, Bay Area Chess Grand Prix Super Swiss (4SS, G/61 d5) pionship See Grand Prix. NOV. 21, Chess4Less Kids Quads (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) See Grand Prix. New Location: 2050 Concord Drive #42, San Jose, CA 95131. Trophies: DEC. 12, Foster City Luper$wiss (3SS, G/90 d5) DEC. 20, Bay Area Cupertino Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) Players w/plus score. Sched: New Time: Required Check-in 12:30-1p. Courtyard Marriott, Foster City, CA 94404. Prizes: $1,250 b40. 60% guar. Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: Players w/plus Games: 1-4p. EF: 22, 37 after 11/18 Info: BayAreaChess.com/signature. 1900+: $200-100-50, u2100 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100, u1700 50- score. Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 27, 42 50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Dec15 Supp & TD disc. Reg. 9-9:15. after 12/17. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. NOV. 22, Chess4Less Kids Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) Rds. 9:30 12:50 4:15. EF: 43, Ecn 29 w 1/2 prz. after 12/9 +15, playup 1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies to players w + +15, Rtd 2200+ $0 by 12/2. Info: BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W. DEC. 20, Bay Area Cupertino Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) score & all teams. Sched NEW Time: Reg. 9-9:15a. Games: 9:30a - Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies to players w + 1:30p. EF: 22, 37 after 11/19. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. DEC. 12, Sacramento Chess4Less Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) score & all teams. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Prize: $900 b36. 1700+: Cupertino Grand Prix DuperSwiss75 (3SS, G/75 d5) 34, 49 after 12/17. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. NOV. 22, $200-100, u1900 100-50. u1700: $200-100, u1600 100, u1400 50. Dec See Grand Prix. 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg. 9-9:15. Rds. 9:30 11:50 2:40 5. EF: 43, Econ 29 DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 25th annual North American NOV. 26-29 OR 27-29, 51st Annual American Open (CA-S) 1/2 prz., after 12/9 +15, playup +15, Rated 2200+ $0 by 12/2. Info: Open (NV) See Grand Prix. http://BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W See Grand Prix. NOV. 27, California Kids Class Championship (PK-12) DEC. 27, Bay Area Cupertino Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: Players w/plus 5SS, G/30 d5. Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America DEC. 12, Sacramento Junior Grand Prix Super Swiss (4SS, G/61 Pkwy., Santa Clara, CA 95054. Park free. Prizes: Top 10 players in each score. Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 27, 42 d5) after 12/24. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. section & Top 5 teams & Top 5 clubs all sections combined. 5 Sections Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Prize: $900 b/36. b/rating: 800-999, 600-799, 400-599, 200-399, <200. Sched: Reg. 9- 1700+: $200-100, u1900 100-50. u1700: $200-100, u1600 100, u1400 DEC. 27, Bay Area Cupertino Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5) 9:30. Games 10 11:30 1 2:20 3:45. EF: 37 by 11/23, Onsite +20, Playup 50. Dec 15 Supp & TD disc. Reg. 9-9:15. Rds. 9:30 11:50 2:40 5. EF: 43, Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies to players w + +10. Nov 15 Supp & TD disc to place players. Ent: Online or mail. Rfnd Econ 29 1/2 prz., after 12/9 +15, playup +15, Rated 2200+ $0 by score & all teams. Sched: Reg. 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a - 1:30p. EF: fee 20. T:408.409.6596. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/tgs. E: ask@ 12/2. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W. 34, 49 after 12/24. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. BayAreaChess.com, W. DEC. 12, Weibel Fall Scholastic Chess Quads #3 DEC. 29, North American Open Blitz (BLZ) (NV) NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, Class Warfare Championship Weibel Elementary School, 45135 S. Grimmer Blvd., Fremont, CA. Two See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. Sections: U900 G/30 d0; Over 900 G/45 d5. Info & Entry Form at: JAN. 1, New Year Youth Championship NOV. 29, Bay Area Cupertino Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5) www.CalNorthYouthChess.org/Applications/FallQuads15-GP Open to 5SS, G/30 d5. Oakland City Center Marriott, 1001 Broadway, Oakland, Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: Players w/plus all scholastic players who are USCF members. Trophies to winners of CA 94607. Room $119. Prizes: Top 10 w/plus score in ea sec, Top 5 score. Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:30-5p. EF: 27, 42 each Quad. Chess medals to all who do not win a trophy. Info: Alan M. schools & clubs (combined). 5 Secs: 800-999, 600-799, 400-599, 200- after 11/27. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W. Kirshner, Ph.D., [email protected], (510) 659-0358. 399, u200. Sched: Reg. 9-9:15. Games 10 11:30 1 2:20 3:40. EF: 39,

Gold & Silver Affiliates

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

Cajun Chess Dallas Chess Club ChessIQ Shore HS Chess League 12405 Hillary Step Drive, Olive Branch, 200 S. Cottonwood Dr. Suite C, Richardson, 4957 Oakton Street, Suite 113, Skokie, IL 60077, PO Box 773, Lincroft, NJ 07738 MS 38654 504-208-9596 TX 75080 972-231-2065 847.423.8626 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.cajunchess.com [email protected] www.dallaschess.com www.chessiq.com Shining Knights, Ltd. P.O. Box 545, Glenmoore, PA 19343 PaperClip Pairings Chess Club and Scholastic Center of St. Louis 484-228-8457 [email protected] 4657 Maryland Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63108. 23 W. 10th St., New York, NY 10011 c/o J. Houghtaling Jr & Remy Ferrari, 314-361-CHESS [email protected] 212-477-3716 [email protected] 6005 Forest Blvd., Brownsville, TX 78526 www.shiningknights.com www.stlouischessclub.org www.marshallchessclub.org 956-459-2421 [email protected] Silver Knights Chess 701 W. Broad Street, Suite 308 ChessNYC.com San Diego Chess Club Continental Chess Association c/o Russell Makofsky &Michael Propper 2225 6th Ave., San Diego, CA 92101 Falls Church, VA 22406, 703-574-2070 PO Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. 201-347-2269 [email protected] [email protected] www.chesstour.com PO Box 189, 1710 1st Ave, New York, 619-239-7166 [email protected] NY 10012, 212-475-8130 [email protected] www.sandiegochessclub.org www.silverknightschess.com www.chessnyc.com

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

Bay Area Chess (CA) En Passant Chess Club (TX) Los Angeles Chess Club (CA) Oklahoma Chess Foundation Success Chess School (CA) www.BayAreaChess.com [email protected] www.LAChessClub.com OCFChess.org www.successchess.com

The Berkeley Chess School (CA) Long Island Chess Nuts (NY) Michigan Chess Association Sparta Chess Club (NJ) www.berkeleychessschool.org 516-739-3907 www.michess.org www.spartachessclub.org

www.uschess.org 63 CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:56 PM Page 64

Tournament Life / November

after 12/28 +15, Playup +10. Jan 16 Supp. Rfnd fee 15. Info/Flyer/Reg: LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blocks West of 405. EF: $30 ($20 LACC memb, No DEC. 12, 2015 Greater New Haven Open! http://BayAreaChess.com/nykids. E: [email protected]. T: prize 1/2, siblings 1/2, Free new LACC members). Reg.: 12-1 pm. Rds.: See Grand Prix. 408.409.6596. W. 1pm & asap; done by 4:30. Prizes: Trophies & medals; All players 34th annual Empire City Open (NY) receive prizes! Parking: Free on streets & BoA. Free pizzas & juices. DEC. 26-28 OR 27-28, JAN. 1-3 OR 2-3, 2016 New Year Open Championship See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. Info: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com or Mick@LAChess Club.com. JAN. 8-10 OR 9-10, 4th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA) JAN. 15-18, 16-18 OR 17-18, 7th annual Golden State Open See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. NOV. 8, 15, 29, LACC - Every Sunday Chess 4 JRS 3 separate events- 5SS, G/30 d0. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd. & Butler JAN. 9 OR 10 OR 9-10, Foundation presents JAN. 23 AND/OR 24, 2016 U.S. Junior Chess Congress LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blocks West of 405. EF: $30 ($20 LACC memb, No the 50th Annual Greater NY Scholastic Championships - Since See Nationals. prize 1/2, siblings 1/2, Free new LACC members). Reg.: 12-1 pm. Rds.: 1966, US Chess Longest-Running Scholastic! (NY) FEB. 13-15 OR 14-15, 32nd Annual U.S. Amateur Team Cham- 1pm & asap; done by 4:30. Prizes: Trophies & medals; All players See New York. receive prizes! Parking: Free on streets & BoA. Free pizzas & juices. pionship West MAR. 12-13, 49th annual New York State Scholastic Champi- See Nationals. Info: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com or Mick@LAChess onships (out of state welcome) (NY) Club.com. FEB. 27 OR 27-28, 11th SPF Nationwide Open for Girls and See New York. Boys NOV. 14-15, 2015 Euwe Memorial See Grand Prix. MAR. 23-27, 24-27, 25-27 OR 26-27, 10th annual Philadel- 6SS, G/60 d5. Official Qualifier for the SPF Girls’ Invitational & FIDE phia Open (PA) World Youth 2016. MAIN EVENT: San Mateo Event Center, 1346 Saratoga NOV. 21-22, 1st Winter Chess Camp & Tournament See Grand Prix. Dr., San Mateo. Free Parking. $100,000+ in prizes (lots of trophies, 3 Sections: >1000, <1000, <500. EF: 2 days $199 ($145 LACC memb); chess prizes & scholarships). $1,000 Triple Crown Bonus! – All details 1 day $100 ($75 LACC memb) ; second child 1/2, 25% off new LACC on www.SPFNO.com. CHAMPIONSHIP SECTIONS: U8, U10, U12, U14, members; $10 off if preregistered for 2 days by 11/20; $5 for 1 day. DELAWARE U16/18 in separate sections for Girls and Boys. TIME CONTROLS: All Reg.: Sat 10-11 am; Register online for a free gift. Schedule: Day 1 games will be G/60 d5. ROUND TIMES: Sat & Sun 9am, 11:30am, (Beginner/ Intermediate): 12-1: Tactics I; 1-2: Tourney (Rd. 1, G/30 JAN. 9 OR 10 OR 9-10, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents 2:30pm. EF: $39 UNTIL 12/1, $59 until 1/20, $69 until 2/20, $89 after. d0); 2-2:30: Pizza & juice break (free); 2:30-3:30: Tourney (Rd. 2, G/30 the 50th Annual Greater NY Scholastic Championships - Since Unrated Reserve Sections: K-2 < 500 or UNR / 3-6 < 800 or UNR d0); 3:30-4:30: Tourney Rd. 3, G/30 d0); 4:30-5:30: Analyzing games. 1966, US Chess Longest-Running Scholastic! (NY) Rds. 2/27: 9, 10:30, 1, 3:30 & 5. Reserve Sections Time Control: Schedule: Day 2 (Intermediate/ Advanced): 12-1: Tactics II; 1-2: See New York. Tourney (Rd. 4, G/30 d0); 2-2:30: Pizza & juice break (free); 2:30-3:30: G/25 d5 EF: $29 UNTIL 2/20, $49 after. ADDITIONAL EVENTS: Q & A JAN. 15-18, 16-18 OR 17-18, 48th annual Liberty Bell Open and 25 board Simul against GM 2/26 6:30pm (venue Tourney (Rd. 5, G/30 d0); 3:30-4:30: Tourney Rd. 6, G/30 d0. 4:30-5:30: (PA) Ent: Prizes: TBA) EF $29 UNTIL 12/1, $49 after. 2/27- Puzzle Solving Championship Analyzing games. LACC- Box 251774, LA, CA 90025. Certificate See Grand Prix. (one section) 5-5:30pm. EF $19 UNTIL 12/1, $29 until 2/20, $39 after. of Completion and an advance chess book! Info: Mick Bighamian: (310) Blitz Championship. G/5+0 starts at 5:45pm. EF $19 UNTIL 12/1, $29 795-5710; [email protected] or www.LAChessClub.com. Parking: MAR. 23-27, 24-27, 25-27 OR 26-27, 10th annual Philadel- until 2/20, $39 after. USCF Membership required for all championship Free in basement. phia Open (PA) sections & blitz. January 2016 Supplement used. TD discretion to place NOV. 26-29 OR 27-29, 51st Annual American Open See Grand Prix. players accurately. HOTEL: Special Room Rate. Sofitel San Francisco See Grand Prix. Bay, 223 Twin Dolphin Dr., Redwood City. Call (650) 598-9000 for reser- vations. ORGANIZER: Chris Torres [email protected] Or mail to: NOV. 30, DEC. 7, 14, Santa Monica Bay Chess Club DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA MONDAY QUADS; (3-RR, G/1:55 d5). Cash prizes. St. Andrew’s Church, TCAMA 16691 Colonial Trail, Lathrop, CA 95330. More Info & Flyer FEB. 26-28 OR 27-28, George Washington Open (VA) or Register Online: www.SPFNO.com 11555 National Blvd., WLA, 90064. EF: $10 - Club members, $20 - non- members. Reg.: 7-7:10 p.m. Rds.: 7:10-11:00 p.m., USCF rated. Free See Grand Prix. parking. Free coffee. INFO: 310/827-2789. NOTE: Players who qualify for the World Youth Championship but represent a FIDE Academy are not included in the official US DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 25th annual North American FLORIDA Open (NV) Chess Federation Delegation. South Florida Grand Prix Series See Grand Prix. This is the former Epicure Grand Prix that took place at Miami Country MAR. 4-6 OR 5-6, 23rd annual Western Class Championships DEC. 29, North American Open Blitz (BLZ) (NV) Day. Scholastic and Non-Scholastic sections. More information at website: (CA-S) See Grand Prix. www.bocachess.com or call 561-479-0351. See Grand Prix. JAN. 1-3 OR 2-3, 2016 New Year Open Championship (CA-N) The Stormont Kings Chess Center in Miami, FL JUNE 22-23, 2016 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Grand Prix. Conducts Private and Group Lessons, Homeschool Activities, Tournaments, See Nationals. 7th annual Golden State Open Camps, Family Game Nights, Parents Night Out, Casual Chess Play and JAN. 15-18, 16-18 OR 17-18, more! Complimentary Refreshments, Ample Parking, Comfortable Waiting JUNE 24-26 OR 25-26, 2016 National Open (NV) (CA-N) See Nationals. Room, and more! Located at 8353 SW 124 St., Suite 201-A, Miami, FL See Grand Prix. 33156. Contact Chris Stormont, Phone: 786-303-2437, Email: chris@stor- JAN. 23 AND/OR 24, 2016 U.S. Junior Chess Congress (CA-N) montkingschess.com, Web: www.StormontKingsChess.com. See Nationals. CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 14th Annual Turkey Bowl MAR. 4-6 OR 5-6, 23rd annual Western Class Championships See Grand Prix. THE LOS ANGELES CHESS CLUB See Grand Prix. The Most Active Club on the West Coast! (310) 795-5710. * NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 2015 U.S. Class Championships (TX) www.LAChessClub.com; Contact: Mick@LAChess Club.com; JUNE 22-23, 2016 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Nationals. See Nationals. Saturdays: 10am-10 pm (Beg & Interm. classes + 2 Tourna- DEC. 4-6, 2015 National K-12 Grade Championships ments). Sundays: 11-7 & 1-5 pm (Junior class + 2 Tournaments) JUNE 24-26 OR 25-26, 2016 National Open (NV) See Nationals. See Nationals. – Details on our web site. Tuesdays: 7:30-9:30 pm (Advance DEC. 26-28, 45th Annual Atlanta Open (GA) Lecture). 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025. See Grand Prix. (4 blocks W of 405, SW corner of Santa Monica & Butler * 2nd Floor – above Javan Restaurant) Group Classes * Tourna- COLORADO DEC. 27-29, New Orleans Open (LA) See Grand Prix. ments * Private (1:1) Lessons. NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 2015 U.S. Class Championships (TX) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! See Nationals. JAN. 8-10 OR 9-10, 2nd Gulf Coast New Year’s Open See Grand Prix. NOV. 7 & 8, 21 & 22, 28 & 29, LACC - Saturday & Sunday G/61 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 6SS, G/61 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. EF: $55 ($35 DEC. 5-6, Winter Springs Open FEB. 12-14 OR 13-14, 2016 U.S. Amateur Team Championship LACC memb; No prizes 1/2; second child 1/2). Reg.: 11-12 pm. Rds.: 4-SS. Time Control: G/90 with 30 seconds increment. Manitou Art South 12, 2, 4 pm each day. 1-day option: $30/20. Prizes: 1/2 collections. Center, 513 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, CO. Sections: June (open), See Nationals. Parking: Free at BoA & basement. Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChess- July (U 1800), August (U1400). EF: $35 if rec’d by 12/2, $40 at site. $5 Club.com. discount for juniors, seniors, unrateds. Additional $5 discount for Sup- GEORGIA NOV. 7, 14, 21, 28, LACC - Sat Nite Blitzathon (BLZ) porting Members of Colorado Springs Chess Club. Cash prizes per entries. Register: 8:30–9:30 AM. Rounds: 10 AM, 4 PM Saturday; 9 4 separate events- 7DSS, G/5 d0 (14 Games). 11514 Santa Monica NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 14th Annual Turkey Bowl (FL) Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blks W of 405. EF: $20 ($15 LACC memb). AM, 3 PM Sunday. Entries to: Richard Buchanan, 1 Sutherland Rd., See Grand Prix. Blitz-rated. No prizes $10. Reg.: 6-6:30 pm. Rds.: 6:30, 6:55, 7:20, 7:45, Manitou Springs, CO 80829. Information: (719) 685 1984 or buck- 8:10, 8:35, 9 pm. Prizes: 1/2 collections. Parking: Free on streets & [email protected]. CSCA membership required: $15, juniors & seniors NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 2015 U.S. Class Championships (TX) BoA. Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com. $10. OSA Colorado Tour Event. See Nationals. NOV. 7, 14, 28, LACC - Every Saturday Chess 4 JRS DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 25th annual North American DEC. 26-28, 45th Annual Atlanta Open 3 separate events- 5SS, G/30 d0. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd. & Butler Open (NV) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. DEC. 27-29, New Orleans Open (LA) JAN. 15-18, 16-18 OR 17-18, 7th annual Golden State Open See Grand Prix. (CA-N) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! See Grand Prix. DROPPING OUT? DEC. 29, 13th Annual Time Control Open FEB. 11-15, 12-15, 13-15 OR 14-15, 7th annual Southwest 4-SS. Rd. 1 G/30 d5, Rd. 2 G/45 d5, Rd. 3 G/60 d5, Rd. 4 G/75 d5. Inter- Class Championships (TX) active College of Technology, 5227 New Peachtree Rd., Chamblee, GA Have to miss a round? See Grand Prix. 30341. In 2 sections: $30 if received by 12/27; $35 at site. $1,000 b/45, 60% Guaranteed. Championship: $250-150, u2000, u1800, u1600, 2016 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) It is very important that you NOTIFY JUNE 22-23, u1400 each $150. Under 1200: (not part of base). Entry Fee: $25 if THE DIRECTOR before pairings are See Nationals. received by 12/27; $28 at site. Trophies to top 7, top 2 under 1000, JUNE 24-26 OR 25-26, 2016 National Open (NV) under 800. Registration: ends 10:30 a.m. Rounds: 11-12:30-2:30-5. made, so no one is deprived of a game! See Nationals. Info: americanchesspromotions.com or (478)-973-9389. Enter: American If you forfeit without notice, you may Chess Promotions, 3055 General Lee Rd., Macon, GA 31204 or preferred CONNECTICUT Register Online. be FINED up to the amount of the DEC. 30, Georgia Chess Festival Scholastic NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, 46th annual National Chess Congress 4-SS, G/30 d5. Interactive College of Technology, 5227 New Peachtree entry fee! (PA) Rd., Chamblee, GA 30341. In 3 sections: Middle School: K-8, Elementary: See Grand Prix. K-6, and Primary: K-3. Entry Fee: $23 if received by 12/28; $28 at site.

64 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 4:22 PM Page 65

See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

Trophies to top 5, top girl, top unrated, top team of 3 same school. paid entries in sections M/X through D. EF: M/X through D $45, U1200 Medals to every participant who doesn’t get a trophy. Registration: $25, plus $10 after Nov. 15th, $5 discount for ICA members (ICA mem- INDIANA 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Rounds: 1st at 11 a.m., then as soon as possible. bership $15 Regular, $10 Scholastic at http://il-chess.org/index.php/ NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 24th annual Kings Island Open (OH) Awards right after last round is completed. Should be over by 6:00 p.m. membership-x-42.) Play-up fee of $20 payable on site. Free entry to See Grand Prix. Special: A master or expert will be on hand for FREE analysis. Info: GMs, WGMs, IMs, WIMs, FMs, WFMs listing Illinois as their state of americanchesspromotions.com or (478)-973-9389. Enter: American residence with the USCF. Contact Carl Dolson ([email protected]) NOV. 27-29, Cleveland Classic (OH) Chess Promotions, 3055 General Lee Rd., Macon, GA 31204 or preferred to register. Registration: On-site 8:30 – 9:30 am; Online registration See Grand Prix. Register Online. at http://shop.il-chess.org (ends 9:00 pm, Nov 21st); Or mail check, NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, 2015 Motor City Open (MI) name, USCF #, e-mail address, and phone # to: Class Championship, JAN. 8-10 OR 9-10, 2nd Gulf Coast New Year’s Open (FL) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. Illinois Chess Association, P.O. Box 180177, Chicago, IL 60618 (must arrive by Nov 15th). Round Times: 10:00 am, 12:30 pm, 3:00 pm, 5:30 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! FEB. 12-14 OR 13-14, 2016 U.S. Amateur Team Championship pm. One half-point bye ok any round, must commit by end of round 2. DEC. 5, Deadwood Chess Club Open 2015 South (FL) Other: Boards, sets and clocks provided by ChessIQ. All special 4SS, G/60 d10. Church of The Nativity, 7300 N. Lantern Rd., Indianapolis, See Nationals. rules, details, and tournament conditions are subject to change without IN 46256. (Note: Best access to Lantern is from Sargent Rd. or Fall notice and will be posted ASAP at the site or on-line. Creek Rd.) In 2 Sections: OPEN and Reserve (U1800), EF: $30 if by 12/1, at site $40, $$1150, based on 40 entries, OPEN: 1st $250, 2nd IDAHO NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, 2015 Motor City Open (MI) $150, U1900 $125, Reserve (U1800): 1st $225, 2nd $150, U1600, U1400 See Grand Prix. each $125, Max prize for Unrated in either Open/Reserve $100. Regis- NOV. 14, Southern Idaho Open DEC. 27-29, New Orleans Open (LA) tration: 7:45-8:30 AM, Rds. 9:00, 11:30, 2:00, 4:30. Entries: Advance: 4SS, Time Control: G/60 d5. Northwest Chess Grand Prix. 2 Sections: See Grand Prix. Indianachess.org or mail to: Craig Hines, 613 North Park Dr., Evansville, Open and Reserve (U1400) (Sections may be combined based on entries). Greater Chicago K-12 Championship! IN, 47710. Email:[email protected] or Phone: 812-423-2996, Site: Best Western Twin Falls, 1377 Blue Lakes Blvd. No., Twin Falls, FEB. 6, cell: 812-618-8700, ISCA membership Required, OSA, NO BYES. ID. Contact Amy Perkins for room rates 208-736-8000 DO NOT RESERVE Chicago’s Official Scholastic Championship* 5-SS, G/30 (G/25 d5), open ROOMS ONLINE OR NO ROOM RATE DISCOUNT. US Chess mem req. EF to all grades 12 & below. McCormick Place - West Building 2301 S. Dr. MAR. 18-20 OR 19-20, 20th annual Mid-America Open (MO) by 11/8 $30 (U18 & 60+ $25), Special family rate $60. $5 more for all Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Chicago, IL. PRIMARY (K-3): Varsity: open See Grand Prix. if after 11/8. Email entries OK to lock in lower rate. Register & check to all. Trophies: top 5 players, top rated Under 800, top 2 schools. Junior in: 8-8:30am 11/14. Rd. times: 9am, 11am, 3pm, 5pm. 1/2 pt bye avail: Varsity: open to Under 600. Trophies: top 15 players, top Unrated & top IOWA Max 1, Rds. 1-3 only. 1st Rd. byes must notify TD before rd. is paired; kindergartner, top 4 schools. ELEMENTARY (K-6): Varsity: open to all. all others, before Rd. 2 is paired. $$ (based on 30) Open: $150-125- Trophies: top 5 players, top rated Under 1000, top 2 schools. Junior DEC. 28, Anti Hungar Games III 100-75. Reserve (U1400): $100-75-50. ENT/INFO: ICA, Contact: Barry Varsity: open to Under 800. Trophies: top 15 players, top Unrated, top 2 sections Open, RBO. Time Control: Open G/45 d5, RBO G/30d5. Eacker, 963 Delmar Dr., Twin Falls, ID 83301. 208-733-6186 or E-mail: 4 schools. JUNIOR HIGH (K-9): Varsity: open to all. Trophies: top 4 Location: Christ the King Lutheran Church, 325 Melrose Ave., Iowa [email protected], www.idahochessassociation.org. W. players, top rated Under 1200, top school. Junior Varsity: open to Under City, IA 52246. Prizes: Medals Only 1st thru 3rd , Open, 1st through 1000. Trophies: top 8 players, top Unrated, top 2 schools. HIGH SCHOOL 5th, RBO. Reg.: Ends 15 min before round 1. Rds.: Open 10:00am (K-12): Varsity: open to all. Trophies: top 4 players, top rated Under 12:30pm then ASAP RBO 10:00am,12:00noon, then ASAP. EF: $10 all ILLINOIS 1400, top school. Junior Varsity: open to Under 1200. Trophies: top 8 sections. ENT: Eric Vigil, 445 Galway Dr., Iowa City, IA 52246. players, top Unrated, top 2 schools. Entry Fee: $40 by 1/18; $50 by [email protected],319-621-3116. Special Info: All proceeds above costs NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 24th annual Kings Island Open (OH) 2/1; $60 after 2/1. On-site entries receive 1/2 point bye for round 1. See Grand Prix. go to the Johnson Country Crisis Center to feed the homeless. Bring a All entries $5 off when siblings & team members register together. Can if you Can, and if under 8 entrants in the Open Section Time will A State Championship Event! Check-In/Onsite Reg.: 8:30 - 9:15. RDS.: 10:00, 11:30, 1:00, 2:30 & change to 3 Rd. SS G/60 d5. Awards Ceremony: Byes: NOV. 22, 2015 Illinois Class State Chess Championships 4:00. 5:30pm. One 1/2-pt bye available, any round, if requested before end of Rd.2 and if player has not received a MAR. 18-20 OR 19-20, 20th annual Mid-America Open (MO) An Illinois Chess Tour Event! 4SS: G/60 d5. Location: Hilton Lisle/ See Grand Prix. Naperville, 3003 Corporate West Dr., Lisle, IL 60532, (630) 505-0900, full-point bye. Entries: mail to RKnights, PO Box 1074, Northbrook, IL $89 + tax room rate if reserved by 11/13/15, mention Illinois Chess 60065, include name, section, rating, USCF ID#, grade, school name Assn when registering. Six Sections: M/X, A, B, C, D, U1200. For $20 city & state. Online/ Info at: www.rknights.org/greaterchicago. Ques- KANSAS play-up fee, players may play up one class. Only Class E players may tions: [email protected] or 773.844.0701. * The City of Chicago play up to Section D. November rating supplement determines section will recognize the top individual & team from Chicago in each Varsity NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 2015 U.S. Class Championships (TX) eligibility. Prizes: M/X: $500-$200-$50 A through D $150-$75-$40 each section as the City Champions. See Nationals. section U1200 Trophy-Medal-Medal for top finishers in each Classes E, MAR. 18-20 OR 19-20, 20th annual Mid-America Open (MO) MAR. 18-20 OR 19-20, 20th annual Mid-America Open (MO) F, and U800 (no cash prizes, tiebreaks apply). Cash prizes based on 90 See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. ACTIVITY MEANS MEMBERS Free 8-Line Tournament Life Announcements (TLAs)! Ages 21-24 dues lower than Adult dues! The membership category once called “Youth” has been renamed “Young Adult,” and eligibility has Adult Dues Options! >> changed from under 21 to under 25. Annual dues F R E E T L A C A T E G O R I E S for this category are only $33 with paper Chess Life or $26 with the online version! RUN AN ADDITIONAL TOURNAMENT THIS RBO. Open to Under 1200/Unr or Under 1000/Unr. Tour- WINTER! Each affiliate is entitled to one TLA per month nament name must include “Rated Beginners Open” or One-year membership of up to 8 lines and up to 2 issues of Chess Life, for any “RBO.” tournament between January and March 2015, if no TLA BLITZ. Time control of Game/5. TLAs such as “USCF- with Chess Life: for such an event appeared in 2014, and the TLA is e-mailed rated Blitz every Friday 7 pm” are accepted. by the appropriate deadline. The 8 free lines cannot be Only $46 for Premium Membership, which includes applied to longer TLAs. COLLEGIATE. A tournament limited to college students. a copy of Chess Life every month. Regular Mem- SPECIAL CATEGORIES QUALIFY FOR FREE JUNIOR. For age 20/below (age 20 must be eligible). berships are available for $40 and give online-only TLAS! Each affiliate is entitled to one TLA per month of up NON-SCHOLASTIC WITH SCHOLASTIC. A tour- access to Chess Life. (Note to affiliates: If you collect to 8 lines for events in the following categories, if submitted nament for all ages held concurrent (same location) with a a $46 membership, you may submit it online to USCF by e-mail. The free lines cannot be applied to longer TLAs: scholastic tournament that in its previous year drew at least SENIOR. For age 50 or above, or a higher minimum 50 players. We encourage organizers of scholastics to hold for $43.) age. open or collegiate events on the side. UNRATEDS FREE. Any tournament that offers free SPECIAL RATES FOR CLUB ADS. Up to 5 lines entry to unrated players. If your prizes are based on $180 per year, $100 for 6 months for unchanged club ads entries, say “paid entries.” in the TLA section. Announce meeting dates & times, activities, contact info, etc. US CHESS BOOSTER TOURNAMENT. A tourna- ment that offers at least two US Chess membership renewal US CHESS DISCUSSION GROUPS. See www. prizes, or a quad that offers at least one per section. uschess.org/forums for four groups: Tournament Organization, CHESS CLUB SPECIAL. A tournament playing only Chess Club Organization, Tournament Direction, US Chess on one or more weekday evenings. Issues.

www.uschess.org 65 CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:56 PM Page 66

Tournament Life / November

Affects Quick rating only. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49 Technology Dr. #89, KENTUCKY Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex Relyea [email protected]. NEVADA www.relyeachess.com. W. NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 24th annual Kings Island Open (OH) NOV. 26-29 OR 27-29, 51st Annual American Open (CA-S) See Grand Prix. DEC. 6, Harry Nelson Pillsbury Memorial See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. NOV. 21-22, 11th SPF World Open for Girls and Boys in Memory DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 25th annual North American of Steve Dillard DEC. 12, 2015 Greater New Haven Open! (CT) Open $100,000+ in prizes (lots of trophies, chess prizes & scholarships) All See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. details on www.SPFWO.com. 6SS, G/45 d5. The Brown Hotel, Louisville, JAN. 8-10 OR 9-10, 4th annual Boston Chess Congress DEC. 29, North American Open Blitz (BLZ) 335 West Broadway, Louisville, KY 40202. HOTEL: Special Room Rate See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. $129. 335 W. Broadway, Louisville, KY. Call (502) 583-1234 for reserva- tions. EF: $39 UNTIL 9/30, $59 until 10/15, $69 until 11/16, $89 after. MAR. 12-13, 49th annual New York State Scholastic Champi- JAN. 1-3 OR 2-3, 2016 New Year Open Championship (CA-N) Prizes: Top Boy and Top Girl will receive a Scholarship to Webster Uni- onships (out of state welcome) (NY) See Grand Prix. See New York. versity! Rds.: Sat & Sun 9am, 11:30am, 2:30pm. ENT: Chess Performance JAN. 15-18, 16-18 OR 17-18, 7th annual Golden State Open #187, 9462 BROWNSBORO RD., Louisville, KY 502-240-9325. INFO: MAR. 23-27, 24-27, 25-27 OR 26-27, 10th annual Philadel- (CA-N) Organizer - Ryan Velez 502-240-9325, [email protected]. phia Open (PA) See Grand Prix. www.SPFWO.com. Chief TD - Frank Niro. See Grand Prix. JAN. 23 AND/OR 24, 2016 U.S. Junior Chess Congress (CA-N) DEC. 27-29, New Orleans Open (LA) See Nationals. See Grand Prix. MICHIGAN MAR. 4-6 OR 5-6, 23rd annual Western Class Championships MAR. 18-20 OR 19-20, 20th annual Mid-America Open (MO) (CA-S) See Grand Prix. NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 24th annual Kings Island Open (OH) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. 2016 U.S. Women’s Open NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, 2015 Motor City Open JUNE 22-23, LOUISIANA See Grand Prix. See Nationals. 2016 National Open NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 2015 U.S. Class Championships (TX) NOV. 27-29, Cleveland Classic (OH) JUNE 24-26 OR 25-26, See Nationals. See Grand Prix. See Nationals. New Orleans Open DEC. 27-29, JAN. 16-17, 2016 Michigan Master/Expert & Class Champi- See Grand Prix. onships NEW HAMPSHIRE FEB. 11-15, 12-15, 13-15 OR 14-15, 7th annual Southwest See Grand Prix. Class Championships (TX) A Heritage Event! MAR. 11-13 OR 12-13, 17th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA) 40th New Hampshire Amateur Championship See Grand Prix. NOV. 14, See Grand Prix. 4SS, G/60 d5. Holiday Inn, 9 Northeastern Blvd. (exit 4 off Everett Tnpk/Rte. 3), Nashua, NH. 3 Sections: Championship, open to U2100 MAINE or Unr. EF: $34 if rec’d by 11/12, $39 at site.$$G: $150-100-50; trophies MINNESOTA to top 3, top 3 U1850. Intermediate, open to U1750 or Unr. EF: $34 if JAN. 2-3, Bangor Open NOV. 27-29, Wm. Martz Memorial/North Central Open (WI) rec’d by 11/12, $39 at site. $$G: $120-60-40; trophies to top 3, top 3 See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. U1500. Novice, open to U1300 or Unr. EF: $29 ($24 to jrs. U21) if rec’d by 11/12, $34 at site ($29 jrs. U21). Trophies to top 3, top 3 U1100, top JAN. 8-10 OR 9-10, 4th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA) MAR. 18-20 OR 19-20, 20th annual Mid-America Open (MO) See Grand Prix. Unr. All, NHCA membership req’d of rated NH residents; dues $8 adult, See Grand Prix. $6 under 19. Reg.: 8:30-9:35am Sat. 11/14, Rds.: 10-1:00-3:30-6:00. Bye: All Rds., limit 1, must commit before Rd. 2. No half-point byes for MARYLAND MISSISSIPPI players receiving full-point byes. Online advance entry available at www.nhchess.org until 11/13 6 PM. Ent: NHCA, c/o Hal Terrie, 377 MARYLAND CHESS ASSOCIATION TOURNAMENTS NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 2015 U.S. Class Championships (TX) Huse Rd. #23, Manchester, NH 03103. Info: [email protected] MCA runs scholastic tournaments (almost every other Saturday See Nationals. or (603) 668-8368. from mid-September to late May) & open tournaments (usually DEC. 27-29, New Orleans Open (LA) JAN. 8-10 OR 9-10, 4th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA) 10+ annually) throughout Maryland. Listings & online regis- See Grand Prix. tration at www.MDChess.org. Maryland scholastic players who See Grand Prix. compete in the Varsity section (which has a floor of 1600) of a Maryland-Sweet-16 Qualifier can qualify for the $44,000 schol- MISSOURI NEW JERSEY arship to UMBC (University of Maryland, Baltimore County) awarded each year. FAQ (Friday Action Quad) (QC) NOV. 13, FCA Friday Night Blitz-O-Mania (BLZ) 3RR, G/20 d3 Quick Rated. Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland RR G/5 d2. 271 Fort Lee Rd., Leonia, NJ 07605. Prizes(b/20): $125, NOV. 14, Maryland November Action Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108. EF: $10. Prize fund $36 first in each quad. Class prize based on entries. EF: $10. Reg.: 7:00-7:30pm. Rd. 1: 7:45, See Grand Prix. Club membership req’d. available from $3. Reg: 6:30 - 6:50. Rounds Separate junior section. Info: [email protected], 201-961-4029. NOV. 21, Waldorf Quad #7 begin at 7. The FAQ is held every Friday in 2015 except on November NOV. 14, Princeton Day School 3 Rd. Quad, G/90 d5. Waldorf Chess Club, 2932 Mattawoman Beantown 27th and December 25th. Site entries only. Info: 314-361-CHESS 650 The Great Road. Plaques to top 3 school teams and top 8 in each U- Rd., Waldorf, MD 20601. EF: $20. $$GTD: $50. 1st each Quad. Reg.: www.saintlouischessclub.org. W. 1000 section, top 6 Over 1000. Medals to all players. Sections for Over 8:30 - 9:45 AM. Rds.: 10:00, 2:00, and 5:30. INFO: Roland Thorpe, 301- OCT. 31, Halloween Open 1000 rated players begin at 10:15 and must preregister: 3 rds. G/55 752-5169, [email protected]. DIR: 1/2 mile north of Waldorf Liberty United Methodist Church, 1001 Sunset Ave., Liberty, MO 64068. d5: NEAR MASTERS (players K-12 <1400, FUTURE MASTERS (players Park & Ride. Waldorf Chess Club meets regularly from 6-9 pm on Friday Reg.: 10:30AM. Rd. 1 11AM. 3SS, G/60 d5. EF: $20 by Oct 30th. Reg. K-12 1200-1400), CLOSED (K-12 1000-1200). ALL AFTERNOON SEC- evenings. at www.Reg4chess.com. $25 Onsite. Q: Ken Fee, 1537 Baker St., Liberty, TIONS. G/25 d5 4 rds. Beginning at noon (round times will be accelerated NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, 46th annual National Chess Congress MO 64068. 816-399-3703. Req. Memb: US Chess & KC Chess Assoc. if possible): OPEN (Players K-12 U-1000), RESERVE (K-12 U-800), (PA) Sold onsite. Free Entry For ALL Unrated Players! Flyer at website: NOVICE II (K-8 U-600), NOVICE I (unrated K-8), K-1 (unrated) NO SCORE See Grand Prix. www.kansascitychessclub.com. K-1 (beginner). PARENTS OF PLAYERS rated G/25 d5 3rds. Parents Info and register 2015 U.S. Class Championships (TX) play free. Pre-registration online $35 pay at the door. DEC. 12, Maryland December Action NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, online: www.pds.org/chess. On-site 11 to noon $45. Inquiries to Bonnie See Nationals. See Grand Prix. Waitzkin [email protected]. DEC. 26-29, 27-29, 26 OR 27, 42nd Annual Eastern Open NOV. 27-29, Thanksgiving Open (FIDE Rated) See Grand Prix. NOV. 15, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA Championship in 5 See Grand Prix. Sections JAN. 15-18, 16-18 OR 17-18, 48th annual Liberty Bell Open NOV. 28, Thanksgiving Open & Youth Cash Prize SITE: BERGEN ACADEMY, 200 HACKENSACK AVE., HACKENSACK, NJ (PA) Liberty United Methodist Church, 1001 Sunset Ave., Liberty, MO 64068. 07601. 4SS, EVERYONE PLAYS 4 GAMES, ALL PLAYERS WITH 2.5 PTS See Grand Prix. Reg.: 10:30AM. Rd. 1 11AM. Open 3SS, G/60 d5.Youth Cash Prize OR MORE WILL RECEIVE A TROPHY! US Chess Memb Req’d For Sections U1300 3SS, G/30 d5 1st $50/U1000 1st $50. EF: $20 by Nov 27th. Reg. 3, 4 AND 5. Info: 201 287 0250 or [email protected]. ADV EF FEB. 26-28 OR 27-28, George Washington Open (VA) at www.Reg4chess.com. $25 Onsite. Q: Ken Fee, 816-446-3550. Req. (pmk by Nov 11th) $25 At Site $30. Reg ends 1/2 hr before 1st rd Late See Grand Prix. Memb: US Chess & KC Chess Assoc. Sold onsite. Free Entry For ALL entrants will receive a 1/2 pt bye for rd. 1. In 5 Sections, Section 1 Unrated Players! MAR. 11-13 OR 12-13, 17th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA) Flyer at: www.kansascitychessclub.com. Junior Novice (not US Chess rated): Open to unr players K thru 2nd See Grand Prix. DEC. 11-13, 2015 Club Championship (FIDE Rated) grade. Rds.: First Round 10:15 AM then ASAP. Section 2 Novice (not See Grand Prix. US Chess rated): Open to unr players K thru 4th grade. Rds.: First MAR. 23-27, 24-27, 25-27 OR 26-27, 10th annual Philadel- Section 3 G/45;d5 U800: Holiday Chess Round 10:00 AM then ASAP. Open to players phia Open (PA) DEC. 19, rated below 800 and unr players K thru 12th grade. Rds.: 9:45 AM, 5/SS, G/45 d5. Chess Club & Scholastic Center of Saint Louis, 4657 See Grand Prix. 11:30, 1:15, 3:00 PM. Section 4 G/45 d5 U1200: Open to players rated Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108. Free entries for GMs and IMs. below 1200 and unr players K thru 12th grade. Rds.: 9:45 AM, 11:30, EF: $10, $5 for annual members of the club if registered by 12/18. 1:15, 3:00 PM. Section 5 G/60 d5 U1400: Open to All Ages rated below Reg.: 10-10:45. Rds.: 11, 12:45, 3, 4:45, 6:30. $200 Unconditionally MASSACHUSETTS 1400 or unrated. Rds.: 9:30 AM, 11:45, 2:00, 4:30 PM. ENT: Make EF Guaranteed!! $50-$40-$30-$25. Top U1800-$20. Top U1500-$15. Biggest payable To: International Chess Academy. Mail To: Diana Tulman, 28 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Upset-$20. Event is dual rated. Two 1/2 point byes if declared before Canterbury Ln., New Milford, NJ 07646 . INFO: www.icanj.net. W. DEC. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, George Sturgis Memorial round 2. Ent: 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108 or saintlouis- 5SS, G/100 d5. Wachusett CC, McKay Complex, Fitchburg State University, chessclub.org Info: 314-361-CHESS, [email protected]. NOV. 15, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA Open Championship 67 Rindge Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420. EF: $1 per game played. Reg.: 6- See Grand Prix. 7:10 p.m. Rds.: 7:15 p.m. each Wed. Byes: 1-4, limit 2. Prizes: Chess DEC. 27-29, New Orleans Open (LA) See Grand Prix. NOV. 15, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA U1600 Championship books to 1st, 2nd, top U1850, U1650, U1450, U1250. Info: George Mir- Site: Bergen Academy, 200 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, NJ 07601. ijanian, 176 Oak Hill Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420, [email protected], MAR. 18-20 OR 19-20, 20th annual Mid-America Open Open To All Ages With Rating below 1600. 4SS, G/60 d5. Prize Fund ($$ 978-345-5011. Website: www.wachusettchess.org. W. Free parking. See Grand Prix. b/25) 1st - 3rd $200, $150, $100, TU1400 $50, TU1200 $50. INFO 201 DEC. 5, Wilkes-Barre Thematic (QC) 287 0250 or [email protected] ADV EF (pmk by Nov 11th) $30, A Thematic Event! 4 Rd. 2SS, G/25 d3. Town Hall Annex, 381 Main St., NEBRASKA At Site $35. Reg ends 1/2 hr before 1st rd. Late entrants will receive a West Newbury, MA 01985. All games must begin 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 1/2 pt bye for rd. 1. Rds.: 9:30 AM, 11:45 AM, 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM. ENT: 3.Bc4 Nf6 4.Ng5 Bc5. Prizes: 80% returned. EF: $20 postmarked by 28 MAR. 18-20 OR 19-20, 20th annual Mid-America Open (MO) Make EF payable to: International Chess Academy. Mail To: Diana Tulman, Nov. $25 at site. Reg.: Registration 10:00-10:45. Rds.: 11-2-4:15-6:30. See Grand Prix. 28 Canterbury Ln., New Milford, NJ 07646. INFO: www.icanj.net. W.

66 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:57 PM Page 67

See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

NOV. 15, Westfield G/45 Quads all! $35 pre-reg online by 12/3, $45 on-site. Reg.: 1:15-1:45, sections EF: $30, MCC Mbrs & GMs $15. Reg.: 8:15-8:45am. Rds.: 9-10:10- 3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25, end between 4-6pm. Full details & pre-reg at njchess.com. 11:20am. No byes. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. $20 Members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 1:15-1:45 DEC. 12, Princeton Charter School 212-477-3716. Rounds: Information: p.m. 2:00, 3:45, 5:30 p.m. email John Moldovan Princeton Charter School at: 100 Bunn Dr., Princeton, NJ 08540. TIME NOV. 15, Marshall Sunday G/45 (Open & U1600) [email protected], Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-219- CONTROL: G/30 d0 Swiss to 4 rounds. SECTIONS: Open above 1000; 4-SS, G/40 d5. Two sections: Open: ($450 b/35): $200-125, U2200: 1358, www.westfieldchessclub.com and westfieldchessclub.blogspot.com. U1000; U700; U500/Unrated (sections might be combined when necessary $75, U1900: $50. U1600: ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1300: $75. EF: $40, A Heritage Event! for pairings). Parental Supervision Required: The parents or another MCC Mbrs $20. GMs Free. Reg.: 12:15-12:45pm. Rds.: 1-3:30-5:45- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! adult must be designated to supervise the student player between 8pm. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. NOV. 16, 23, 30, DEC. 7, 14, 46th Annual Bergen County Open rounds. Schedule (will be accelerated if possible). First Round: 12:01 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. (one game each Monday night) PM; Second Round: ASAP; Third Round: ASAP; Fourth Round: ASAP; Award Ceremony: ASAP (4:05 the latest). Schedule will be accelerated US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 5SS, G/90 d5. Bergen Chess Mates, United Methodist Church, 100 NOV. 16, 23, 30, DEC. 7, 14, 21, Marshall FIDE Mondays/ Dayton St., Ridgewood, NJ 07450. Two sections: Open and unrated if possible (*) Online Registration $30 Only if register one week before: www.ChessKidsNY.com/PCSChessProgram.htm (*) Fee U1800 section, $100-50 top U2000 $40. U1800 section, $100-50, top U1600, 6-SS, G/90 +30. Two sections. Open: Open to all players 1600+. FIDE U1400 $40 each. EF: $25, Sr. $20, all non-club members +$5. Reg.: 7- will increase automatically to $35 if register later. On site regis- tration the date of the event: $40 from 11:45 am to 12:00 noon. Rated. ($600 b/25) $200-150-100. U2000: $100-50. U1800: ($600 b/25) 7:45pm. Rounds begin at 8pm. www.bergenchessmates.com, Peter: $200-150-100. U1500: $100-50. EF: $60, MCC Mbrs $40. Reg.: 6:15- 201-394-3986. Information: email to Miguel Iniguez at: [email protected] Results will be posted online the same day of the event! 6:45pm. Rd: 7pm each Mon. Limit two byes; request by rd. 4. 23 W. NOV. 19, 3rd Thursday Quads 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716, www.marshallchessclub.org. 3 RR, G/25 d4. Effects Quick Rating, only. Quads grouped by Quick DEC. 12, The Greater Princeton Championship, Princeton Day Marshall Masters - New Prizes, FIDE Rapid Rated! School NOV. 17, Rating. All the King’s Men Chess & Games Center (Just 22 mins. from See Grand Prix. Phila/NJ bridges), 62 S. Broadway, Pitman, NJ. 856-582-8222. Prizes: 650 The Great Road. Trophies to top 8 in each U1000 section, top 3 in $25 1st per quad. Unr. cannot win more than $10. EF: $12.50, members Over 1000. Plaques to top 3 school teams. Trophies to all players. NOV. 19, Marshall Thursday Action! $10. Reg.: 6 -7:15 pm. Rds.: 7:30-8:30-9:30 pm. All: Visa/MC/Disc/Amex Sections for OVER 1000 rated players begin at 10:15 and must preregister: 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100, U2200: $75, U1900: $50. EF: OK w/$1surcharge. Info: [email protected]. Bring a clock! 3 rds. G/55 d5: NEAR MASTERS (players K-12 <1400), FUTURE MAS- $40, MCC Mbrs $25. GMs Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30- TERS (players K-12 1200-1400), CLOSED (K-12 1000-1200). ALL 10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. 23 W. NOV. 21, Central Jersey Chess Tournament AFTERNOON SECTIONS. G/25 d5 4 rds. Beginning at noon. (round 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716, www.marshallchessclub.org. Princeton Academy, 1128 Great Rd., Princeton. 6 sections: 4 rated, 2 times will be accelerated if possible):OPEN (Players K-12 U-1000), unrated. Open, U1200: K-12, 3SS, G/40 d5. U900, U600: K-8, 4SS, G/25 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! RESERVE (K-12 U-800), NOVICE II (K-8 U-600), NOVICE I (unrated K- NOV. 20-22, Marshall Junior Championship! d5. Intermediate (K-6), Beginners (K-2): 4SS, unrated, no clocks. Tro- 8),K-1 (unrated) NO SCORE K-1 (novice). PARENTS OF PLAYERS rated phies: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and top school or club team per section, medals to 5-SS, 40/90, SD/30 +30. Only open to MCC Junior Members. US Chess G/25 d5 3rds. Parents play free. Pre-registration online, $40 pay at the ratings used for pairings and prizes. FIDE Rated. Prizes: $500-250- all! $35 pre-reg online by 11/19, $45 on-site. Reg.: 1:15-1:45, sections door. Info and register online: www.pds.org/chess. On-site 11 to end between 4-6pm. Full details & pre-reg at njchess.com. 150: Top U18, U16, U14, U12, U10, U8 years old: $100 + Trophy. Trophy noon $50. Inquiries to Bonnie Waitzkin [email protected]. and Title of “2015 Marshall Chess Club Junior Champion” goes to the NOV. 21, Princeton Charter School DEC. 26-28 OR 27-28, 34th annual Empire City Open (NY) winner. Tie breaks decided by blitz playoff and Armageddon if necessary. Princeton Charter School at: 100 Bunn Dr., Princeton, NJ 08540. TIME See Grand Prix. EF: $75. Reg.: 5:15-5:45pm. Rds.: Fri: 6pm, Sat-Sun: 11am & 5pm. 1 CONTROL: G/30 d0 Swiss to 4 rounds. SECTIONS: Open above 1000; 4th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA) bye available, request by Rd. 3. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th U1000; U700; U500/Unrated (sections might be combined when necessary JAN. 8-10 OR 9-10, St., NYC. 212-477-3716. for pairings). Parental Supervision Required: The parents or another See Grand Prix. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! adult must be designated to supervise the student player between JAN. 9 OR 10 OR 9-10, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents rounds. Schedule (will be accelerated if possible). First Round: 12:01 the 50th Annual Greater NY Scholastic Championships - Since NOV. 23, 30, DEC. 7, 14, 21, 28th Nassau Amateur PM; Second Round: ASAP; Third Round: ASAP; Fourth Round: ASAP; 1966, US Chess Longest-Running Scholastic! (NY) 5SS, 40/80 d0. 1st Presbyterian Church, 1st & Main Sts., Mineola. 2 Award Ceremony: ASAP (4:05 the latest). Schedule will be accelerated See New York. sections. Amateur: U2000/UR. EF: $33 by 11/20. $$ (435 b/15) 195, if possible (*) Online Registration $30 Only if register one week U1800, 1600 each 120. Booster: U1400/UR. EF: $18 by 11/20. $$ (140 before: www.ChessKidsNY.com/PCSChessProgram.htm (*) Fee JAN. 15-18, 16-18 OR 17-18, 48th annual Liberty Bell Open b/10) 80, U1200/UR 60. All: EF: Non memb $11 more. All $8 more at will increase automatically to $35 if register later. On site regis- (PA) site. 2 byes 1-5. Reg to 7:15 PM. Rds.: 7:15 each Mon. Ent: Harold tration the date of the event: $40 from 11:45 am to 12:00 noon. See Grand Prix. Stenzel, 80 Amy Dr., Sayville, NY 11782. Information: email to Miguel Iniguez at: [email protected] Results FEB. 13-15, World Amateur Team & U.S. Team East NOV. 27, Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz (BLZ) will be posted online the same day of the event! See Nationals. See Grand Prix. NOV. 22, FCA Sunday G/60 Quads FEB. 26-28 OR 27-28, George Washington Open (VA) NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, 46th annual National Chess Congress 3RR. G/60 d5. 271 Fort Lee Rd., Leonia, NJ 07605. Prizes: Trophy or See Grand Prix. (PA) ($)65% per Quad. EF: $10(trophy),$20(cash). Reg.:11:00-11:45. Rounds: See Grand Prix. 12:00, 2:00, 4:00. Info: [email protected], 201-961-4029. MAR. 12-13, 49th annual New York State Scholastic Champi- onships (out of state welcome) (NY) NOV. 28-29, Marshall No-Draws Thanksgiving - NEW! NOV. 22, Lazy TD Quads & Non-Rated Swiss See New York. See Grand Prix. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. Reg.: 1:15- 1:45 p.m. Rds.: 2:00, 3:45, 5:30 p.m. Quads: 3-RR. EF: $25, $20 Members. MAR. 23-27, 24-27, 25-27 OR 26-27, 10th annual Philadel- US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Swiss for non-USCF members: 3- phia Open (PA) NOV. 29, 63rd Binghamton Open SS. EF: $5. Prize: 1 yr. USCF membership to the winner. Info: John See Grand Prix. 4SS, G/65 d5. Prizes: $300 b/24. Open-$100-$60-$30; Reserve-$50- Moldovan: [email protected], Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 $40-$20 (U1700). EF: Open $25, Reserve $20 (U1700). Cash only on or 848-219-1358, www.westfieldchessclub.com and westfieldchessclub. site. Schedule: Registration 8:45-9:15 AM. Rounds: 9:30-12Noon-2:30- blogspot.com Note: Pairings within each quad will be random. NEW MEXICO 4:45. Entry: payable to: “Cordisco’s Corner Store”, 308 Chenango St., Binghamton, NY 13901, (607) 772-8782, [email protected]. A State Championship Event! NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 2015 U.S. Class Championships (TX) See Nationals. Community Chess Club of Rochester NOV. 22, New Jersey K-12 Grade Championship DEC. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 5SS, G/30 d5. Brookdale College, 765 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, NOV. 26-29 OR 27-29, 51st Annual American Open (CA-S) Wed Night Chess! NJ 07738. Student Life Center, use Parking Lot #7 or #6; 4 miles from See Grand Prix. Note: 1 game rated per night, G/80 d5. Rochester Chess Center, 221 Garden State Parkway exit 109. 13 Sections: Play only in your grade! Norris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. 585-442-2430. EF: $5, CCCR members DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 25th annual North American $3. Reg.: 7-7:25 pm. Rd.: 7:30pm. www.rochesterchessclub.org. Grades K-12: Trophies to top 10 individuals, top 3 teams - top 3 from Open (NV) each school/grade; 50% of players receive trophy or medal! Rds.: 10am See Grand Prix. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! and ASAP. EF: $35 by 11/15, $55 at site. USCF mem req’d. Reg.: 8- Marshall Weekly Wednesdays FEB. 11-15, 12-15, 13-15 OR 14-15, 7th annual Southwest DEC. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, JAN. 6, 9:00am After 9:00am 1/2 pt bye rd. 1. Info: 732 259-3881 Hal sprech 6-SS, G/90 +30. Two sections. U2000: ($600 b/25) $250-150-100. [email protected] Ent: Please make checks payable to NJSCF and send Class Championships (TX) See Grand Prix. U1700: $100. U1400: ($600 b/25) $250-150-100. U1100: $100. EF: $60, to Hal Sprechman, 66 Cromwell Ln., Jackson, NJ 08527. Entries must MCC Mbrs $40. Reg:. 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7pm each Wed. Limit two include name, grade school, date of birth, USCF ID # & expiration, MAR. 4-6 OR 5-6, 23rd annual Western Class Championships byes; request by rd. 4. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., mailing address, phone number & entry fee, please include email address. (CA-S) NYC. 212-477-3716. Register online at: www.njscf.org until 11/20. See Grand Prix. DEC. 3, Marshall Thursday Action! NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, 46th annual National Chess Congress 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100, U2200: $75, U1900: $50. EF: (PA) NEW YORK $40, MCC Mbrs $25. GMs Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30- See Grand Prix. 10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. 23 W. TRM#97 Hamilton Chess Club Quads NOV. 7, 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716, www.marshallchessclub.org. NOV. 28, at SUNY, 1400 Washington Ave., Albany, NY 12222. Free. 8 sections. 3RR, 40/80 15/30 15/30 d0. Full K. McManimon Hall, 320 Scully Ave., 4SS, G/30 d5. Pre-register by Thurs 8:00 at www.chesstrm.org. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! EF: Prizes: Hamilton Twp., NJ 08610. Quads open to all. $10. $25 per DEC. 4-6, Marshall Amateur Championship/Jerry Simon Memo- Quad. Reg.: 9-10:30am. Rds.: 10:30am-1:30pm-4:30pm. OSA. Contact NOV. 8, TRM #209 rial email: hamiltonchessclub.com. W. Riverbank State Park, 145th St. & Riverside Dr., NYC 10025. 6 sections. 5-SS, 40/90, SD/30 +30. Open to all player U2200 and unrated. No Free Scholastic, 4SS, G/30 d5. Pre-register by Fri 8:00 PM at www. FIDE ratings over 2200. US Chess ratings used for pairings and prizes. NOV. 29, Leftover Turkey Under 18 Junior Open therightmove.org Check in by 9:15. 4SS, G/60 d5. FCA, 271 Fort Lee Rd., Leonia, NJ 07605. Prizes: Trophies FIDE Rated. Prizes: 1st-3rd place, Top U1900: Free Entry into the 99th Top 5. Entry Fee: $15; (1)1/2 pt. bye any rd. Must notify b/4 rd.1. Reg.: US Chess Junior Grand Prix! MCC Championship! 4th-10th place finishers (plus ties): Eligible for paid 9:00-9:45. Rounds: 10:00, 12:00, 2:00, 4:00. Info: frank@frankschess. NOV. 12, 19, DEC. 3, 10, 17, 8th Long Island CC Winter Open entry into the 99th MCC Championship! EF: $75, MCC Mbrs $50. Reg.: com, 201-961-4029. 5SS, G/90 d5. United Methodist Church, 470 East Meadow Ave., East 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: Fri: 7pm, Sat-Sun: 12:30 & 6pm. 1 bye available, Meadow, NY 11554. Open to all. $(b/20 pd. ent.): $100-80. Top U-2000, request by Rd. 3. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. Westfield G/45 Quads NOV. 29, U-1500/unr. $50 ea. EF(cash only): $35. Non-LICC members +$10. 212-477-3716. EF: 3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. $25, UNRATED FREE! Reg.: 7:15 – 7:30 PM, no adv. ent., Rds.: 7:30 PM ea. Prizes: Register: Rochester Chess Center Saturday Tourna- $20 Members. $60 to first in each section. 1:15-1:45 Thursday. No game 11/26. 2 byes 1-5. Skittles rm. Information: DEC. 5, 12, 19, 26, Rounds: Information: ments! p.m. 2:00, 3:45, 5:30 p.m. email John Moldovan www.lichessclub.com. [email protected], Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-219- 3-SS, G/60 d5. Rochester CC, 221 Norris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. 585- 1358, www.westfieldchessclub.com and westfieldchessclub.blogspot.com NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 14th Annual Turkey Bowl (FL) 442-2430. Prizes based on entries. EF: $15, RCC members $13. $2 less See Grand Prix. Central Jersey Chess Tournament for HS and Pre-HS. Reg.: 1-1:45 pm. Rds.: 2-4-6. One bye available, DEC. 5, Also, Princeton Academy, 1128 Great Rd., Princeton. 6 sections: 4 rated, 2 NOV. 14, Inaugural Seneca Lake Open request at entry. www.nychess.org. Youth tournament, G/30 d5, unrated. Open, U1200: K-12, 3SS, G/40 d5. U900, U600: K-8, 4SS, G/25 See Grand Prix. every Saturday morning 10am-1pm, trophies and prizes. EF: $5. d5. Intermediate (K-6), Beginners (K-2): 4SS, unrated, no clocks. Tro- NOV. 15, Marshall Scholastic Action! (U1400) - NEW DEC. 10, Marshall U2400 Action phies: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and top school or club team per section, medals to 3-SS, G/25 d5. Open to youth K-12. ($225 b/25): $100-50, U1100: $75. 4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to players rated below 2400 US Chess. ($375

www.uschess.org 67 CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:57 PM Page 68

Tournament Life / November

b/25): $150-100, U2100: $75 U1800: $50. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $25. Reg:. JAN. 8-10 OR 9-10, 2nd Gulf Coast New Year’s Open (FL) cc.com. Note: Only Championship Sections qualify for US Chess Junior 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or See Grand Prix. Grand Prix. 4 only. Request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., Marshall Saturday G/60 (Open & U1800) JAN. 10, Marshall Scholastic Action! (U1300) NYC. 212-477-3716. JAN. 9, 4-SS, G/55 d5. Two sections: Open: ($450 b/35): $175-125, U2400: 3-SS, G/25 d5. Open to youth K-12. ($225 b/25): $100-50, U1000: $75. EF: US Chess Junior Grand Prix! $75, U2100: $75. U1800 ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1500: $75. EF: $40, $30, MCC Mbrs: $15. Reg.: 8:15-8:45am. Rds.: 9-10:10-11:20am. No byes. DEC. 10, 17, JAN. 7, 14, 21, 28, Marshall Thursday Open MCC Mbrs $20. GMs Free. Reg.: 11:15-11:45am. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45- www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. 6-SS, G/90 +30. FIDE Rated. ($600 b/25): $250-150, U2100: $125. 7pm. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. JAN. 11, Marshall Sunday G/45 (Open & U1600) U1800: $75. EF: $60, MCC Mbrs $40. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7pm 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. 4-SS, G/40 d5. Two sections: Open: ($450 b/35): $175-125, U2200: each Thurs. Limit two byes; request by rd. 4. (Note: There are no games An American Classic! $75, U1900: $75. U1600: ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1300: $75. EF: $40, Dec. 24 or Dec. 31.) www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. MCC Mbrs $20. GMs Free. Reg.: 12:15-12:45pm. Rds.: 1-2:45-5:00- 212-477-3716. A Heritage Event! US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 6:45pm. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. A Heritage Event! JAN. 9 OR 10 OR 9-10, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents US Chess Junior Grand Prix! the 50th Annual Greater NY Scholastic Championships - Since US Chess Junior Grand Prix! DEC. 11-13, 18-20, 99th Annual Edward Lasker 1966, US Chess Longest-Running Scholastic! JAN. 13, 20, 27, FEB. 3, 10, 17, Marshall Weekly Wednesdays Memorial/MCC Championship! Beautiful hotel site: NY Marriott Hotel At Bridge, 333 6-SS, G/90 +30. Two sections. U2000: ($600 b/25) $250-150-100. 9-SS, 40/90, SD/30 +30. Open to MCC Members and Non-members Adams Street (near Borough Hall), Brooklyn, NY. Nearby subway sta- U1700: $100. U1400: ($600 b/25) $250-150-100. U1100: $100. EF: $60, rated 2200+ US Chess or FIDE, FIDE Title Holders, & Qualifiers from tions: Jay Street Metrotech (A, C, F & R trains), Hoyt Street (2 & 3 MCC Mbrs $40. Reg:. 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7pm each Wed. Limit two the Marshall Amateur Championship Dec 4-6. FIDE ratings used for trains), Borough Hall (4 & 5 trains), Court Street (R train). HR $149, byes; request by rd. 4. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., pairings and prizes. FIDE rated. Prizes $7,500 unconditionally guaranteed! call 877-513-6305 or 718-246-7000 by 12/18 (rooms may sell out early), NYC. 212-477-3716. $3000-1500-1000, U2400 FIDE: $1000-500, U2300 FIDE: $500. Title of mention chess. In 14 sections! Each section has its own age, grade “2015 Marshall Chess Club Champion” goes to highest-scoring MCC JAN. 15, Marshall U2200 Friday Night Action! and rating requirements (Championship sections open to all who are 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($300 b/25): $150-75, U1900: $75. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs Member. Entry Fee: $200. GMs/Foreign IMs: Free. Local IMs: $150. 5 Championship sections under grade and age limits). The are each $20. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for $25 less for MCC members. $25 more if received 12/11. (Foreign players 2 days, 6-SS, G/60 d/10, Rounds 10 am-1-4 pm Sat-Sun. Awards cere- who play all 9 rounds receive $75.) Schedule: Fri 12/11: 7pm, Sat round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. monies about 6:30 pm Sun. The 9 non-Championship sections are 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. 12/12: 12 & 6pm, Sun 12/13, 12 & 6pm, Fri 12/18: 7pm, Sat 12/19: 12 each 1-day, G/30 d10: Junior High Under 1000, Primary Under 1000, & 6pm, Sun 12/20: 12pm. Byes: 2 byes available, must commit before Primary Under 500, and K-1 Under 400 are Saturday: 10 am-12-1:30- JAN. 15, Marshall U2400 Action round 3; limit 1 bye in rounds 8-9. FIDE GM/IM Norms possible; must 3-4:30 pm; Awards ceremonies about 6 pm. High School Under 1900, 4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to players rated below 2400 USCF. ($375 b/25): play all rounds. Registration: Call MCC with credit card, mail check, or High School Under 1200, Elementary Under 1400, Elementary Under $150-100, U2100: $75 U1800: $50. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs $25. Reg.: 6:15- online. Limited to 70 players! Register early! www.marshallchessclub. 1000 and Elementary Under 600 are Sunday: 10 am-12-1:30-3-4:30 6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. pm, Awards ceremonies about 6 pm. All 3 Primary sections open to Request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. DEC. 12, 2015 Greater New Haven Open! (CT) grades 3/below born after 1/9/06. 1. Primary Championship (Sat- 212-477-3716. See Grand Prix. Sun), EF $58.30 postmarked by 12/18/15. 2. Primary Under 1000 US Chess Junior Grand Prix! Marshall Masters (Sat), EF $58.20 postmarked by 12/18/15. 3. Primary Under 500 (Sat), JAN. 15-17, 16-17 OR 17, Marshall Monthly U2300 DEC. 15, Both K-1 sections See Grand Prix. EF $58.10 postmarked by 12/18/15. open to grade 5-SS, 40/90 SD30 +30. Open to players rated below 2300 USCF. $800 1/below born after 1/9/08. 4. K-1 Championship (Sat-Sun), EF $59.30 Gtd: $300-150-100. U2100: $125; U1800 $125. EF: $60, MCC Mbrs $40. DEC. 17, Marshall Thursday Action! postmarked by 12/18/15. 5. K-1 Under 400 (Sat), EF $59.20 postmarked Reg.: Ends 15 min before round start. Rds:. 3-day: Fri. 6pm, Sat. & 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100, U2200: $75, U1900: $50. EF: by 12/18/15. Both Junior High sections open to grades 9/below born Sun. 12-5:30pm. 2-day: Sat. 11am (G/25 d5) then merge with 3-day in $40, MCC Mbrs $25. GMs Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30- after 1/9/00. 6. JHS Championship (Sat-Sun), EF $56.30 postmarked round 2. 1-day: Sun. 9-10:10-11:20am (G/25 d5) then merge in round 10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. Website: by 12/18/15. 7. JHS Under 1000 (Sat), EF $56.20 postmarked by 4. Max two byes, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. 12/18/15. All 4 Elementary sections open to grades 6/below born 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. DEC. 26, Marshall Saturday G/60 (Open & U1700) after 1/9/03. 8. Elementary Championship (Sat-Sun), EF $57.40 post- marked by 12/18/15. 9. Elementary Under 1400 (Sun), EF $57.30 JAN. 15-18, 16-18 OR 17-18, 48th annual Liberty Bell Open 4-SS, G/55 d5. Two sections: Open: ($450 b/35): $175-125, U2300: (PA) $75, U2000: $75. U1700: ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1400: $75. EF: $40, postmarked by 12/18/15. 10. Elementary Under 1000 (Sun), EF $57.20 MCC Mbrs $20. GMs Free. Reg.: 11:15-11:45am. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45- postmarked by 12/18/15. 11. Elementary Under 600 (Sun), EF $57.10 See Grand Prix. 7pm. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. postmarked by 12/18/15. All 3 High School sections open to grades FEB. 12-14 OR 13-14, 2016 U.S. Amateur Team Championship 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. 12/below born after 1/9/96. 12. High School Championship (Sat- South (FL) Sun), EF $55.30 postmarked by 12/18/15. 13. High School Under 1900 34th annual Empire City Open See Nationals. DEC. 26-28 OR 27-28, (Sun), EF $55.20 postmarked by 12/18/15. 14. High School Under See Grand Prix. 1200 (Sun), EF $55.10 postmarked by 12/18/15. Trophies each section FEB. 26-28 OR 27-28, George Washington Open (VA) DEC. 27, Marshall Sunday G/45 (Open & U1500) to Top 12, top 3 Unrateds and Top 6 teams (top 4 scores from same See Grand Prix. 4-SS, G/40 d5. Two sections: Open: ($450 b/35): $175-125, U2100: school = team, all on team must attend same school: no combined MAR. 11-13 OR 12-13, 17th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA) $75, U1800: $75. U1500: ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1200: $75. EF: $40, teams, even if one school “feeds” another). In High School U1200, See Grand Prix. MCC Mbrs $20. GMs Free. Reg.: 11:15-11:45am. Rds.: 12-1:45-4:00- plaques also to top 2 each grade: 7-9. In Junior High U1000, plaques 5:45pm. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. also to top 2 each grade: 4-6. In K-1 Championship, plaques also to top A Heritage Event! 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. 6 K/below (you can win both plaque + trophy). All players scoring 4 or US Chess Junior Grand Prix! A State Championship Event! US Chess Junior Grand Prix! more (5 or more in Championship) who don’t win a trophy receive a medal! Speed playoff for 5-0 or 6-0. Individual free entry prizes (each MAR. 12-13, 49th annual New York State Scholastic Champi- DEC. 28, JAN. 4, 11, 18, 25, FEB. 1, Marshall FIDE Mondays/ onships (out of state welcome) Championship section): Free entry to specified Continental Chess tour- U1800 Note corrected time control and schedule. 6SS, G/60 d10, open to naments thru 1/20/17 to 1st, thru 10/10/16 to 2nd, thru 8/25 to 3rd, 6-SS, G/90 +30. Two sections. Open: Open to all players 1600+. FIDE grades K-12; top NYS player & team in each section are NY champions. thru 6/15 to 4th. Individual free entry prizes (each non-Championship Rated. ($600 b/25) $200-150-100. U2000: $100-50. U1800: ($600 b/25) In 10 sections. HS & JHS Championships at Courtyard by Marriott, section): Free entry to specified Continental Chess tmts. thru 12/1/16 $200-150-100. U1500: $100-50. EF: $60, MCC Mbrs $40. Reg.: 6:15- 11 Excelsior Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (2/5 mile from Saratoga Team free 6:45pm. Rd: 7pm each Mon. Limit two byes; request by rd. 4. www.mar to 1st, thru 8/25 to 2nd, thru 6/15 to 3rd, thru 4/25 to 4th. Hilton). Other sections at Saratoga Hilton, 534 Broadway (I-87 Exit entry prizes: shallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. free entry to specified CCA tmts. thru 8/25/16 to 1st 13-N, 4 miles north on US 9), Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Team prizes team, thru 6/15 to 2nd team each section! Free entries courtesy of JAN. 1, Marshall New Year’s Ridiculousness Insane Person based on top 4 scores from same school; no combined school teams Continental Chess and are valid for CCA tmts. with 100% unconditionally allowed even if one school “feeds” another. Teams of 2 or 3 players Championship! guaranteed prize funds. Free entries do not include NYS Scholastics in See Grand Prix. allowed, but are at a disadvantage. Online entry fee at chessaction. Saratoga. See www.chesscenter.cc or www.gnyscc.com or www.chess- com, all sections: $44 by 2/19, $54 2/20-3/5, $60 3/6 to 3/11. Entry US Chess Junior Grand Prix! tour.com for complete details and restrictions. High School Mixed fee at site, all sections: $70. High School, open to grades K-12 born JAN. 1-3, Marshall Weekend FIDE Doubles (best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among after 9/1/96. EF $48.20 mailed by 2/19. Top NYS grade 9-12 qualifies 5-SS, 40/90 SD/30 +30. FIDE Rated. ($600 b/25): $250-125. U2200: all 3 High School sections after 5 rounds) Bonus Prizes: free entry to for Denker Tournament of HS Champions, top NYS grade K-12 girl $125; U1900 $100. EF: $60, MCC Mbrs $40. GMs Free. Reg.: Ends 15 specified CCA tmts. thru 8/25/16 to 1st team, thru 6/15 to 2nd. Team qualifies for National Girls Invitational. High School Reserve, open to min before round start. Rds.: Fri. 6pm, Sat. & Sun. 12:30-5:30pm. Max average must be under 2200; Mixed Doubles teammates may play in K-12 under 1200 or unrated. EF $48 mailed by 2/19. Junior High, open 2 byes, request by round 3. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th different sections and may attend different schools; teams must register to all in grades K-9 . EF $47.90 mailed by 2/19. Top NYS grade K-8 born St., NYC. 212-477-3716. on-site (no extra charge!) before rd. 2; teammate pairings avoided but after 9/1/00 qualifies for Barber tournament of K-8 Champions. Middle possible. All: January 2016 official ratings used, except unofficial ratings JAN. 2, Marshall Saturday U1700 School Reserve, open to K-8 under 1000 or unrated. EF $47.80 mailed at uschess.org usually used if otherwise unrated. TD reserves right to by 2/19. Elementary, open to all in grades K-6. EF $47.60 mailed by 4-SS, G/40 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100, U1400: $75. EF: $40, MCC Mbrs assign estimated ratings to players with non-USCF ratings. EFs $10 $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45am. Rds.: 12-1:45-4:00-5:45pm. One bye available, 2/19. Elementary Intermediate, open to grades K-6 under 1200 or extra per player postmarked 12/19-26. Entries $5 less per player if unrated. EF $47.50 mailed by 2/19. Elementary Reserve, open to request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212- 4 or more from same school in SAME ENVELOPE! Mailed entries: 477-3716. grades K-5 under 800 or unrated. EF $47.40 mailed by 2/19. Primary, list name, rating, ID# (non-USCF members enclose dues), school, grade, open to grades K-3. EF $47.30 mailed by 2/19. Primary Reserve, open JAN. 3, Marshall Morning Action! DOB, address, (specify section!). Checks to: Chess Center of NY, PO to grades K-3 under 600 or unrated. EF: $47.20 mailed by 2/19. K-1, 3-SS, G/25 d5. ($225 b/25): $100-50, U1800: $75. EF: $30, MCC Mbrs Box 4615, New Windsor, NY 12553. If necessary to confirm receipt, open to grades K-1. EF $47.10 mailed by 2/19. Postmarked 2/20-3/2: $15. GMs Free. Reg.: 8:15-8:45am. Rds.: 9-10:10-11:20am. No byes. enclose SASE. No mail postmarked after 12/26/15! All substitutions All EF $10 more. Do not mail entry after 3/2. Special 1 year US Chess www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. from advance entry list charged late fee. Switching sections subject to dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Young JAN. 7, Marshall Thursday Action! $15 extra charge. $15 service charge for each player refund. TD reserves Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or paid at site, Young Adult $25, 4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100, U2200: $75, U1900: $50. EF: right to reassign sections for advance entries with incorrect or unclear Scholastic $17. Trophies to top 15 players and top 7 teams each section, $40, MCC Mbrs $25. GMs Free. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30- registrations. Limit 2 byes (limit 3 in Championship), commit before rd. top 3 unrated in K-1 and each Reserve section, and top U1600, U1400, 10:45pm. Max one bye, for round 1 or 4 only. Request at entry. www.mar 3. Phone entries: $74 by credit card thru 1/4: 406-896-2191 (24 hours: U1200 (HS), U900, U700 (HS Reserve & Elem Intermediate), U1400, shallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. entries only, no questions), no phone entries after 1/4. Online entries U1200, U1000 (JHS), U700, U500 (MS Reserve), U1300, U1100 (Elem), at www.gnyscc.com: $55 thru 12/26/15, $65 12/27-1/4, $75 1/5-1/7. U500, U300 (Elem Reserve), U500 (Primary), U200 (Primary Reserve, JAN. 8, Marshall Friday Night Blitz (BLZ) Online team entry discounts thru 1/4 only, no team discounts by K-1). Speed playoff if perfect score tie. Free entry to NY State Champi- 9-SS, G/3 +2. ($500 b/35): $200-100, top U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, phone or at site. On-site entry fee: $85 until 8:30 am, $100 after 8:30 onship, Labor Day weekend 2016 (Albany), to top player each section, if U1800: $50. Highest rating (regular, quick or blitz) used for pairings & am; after 9 am you risk not playing rd. 1. Good luck attempting to change not already qualified for free entry from another event. Schedule: Reg. prizes. EF: $30, MCC Mbrs $20, GMs $20. Reg:. 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7- entries after 9am. Help with parking: http://nyc.bestparking.com/neigh- ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2, 5, Sun 9, 12, 3, Awards 5:30 pm. Half 7:30-7:50-8:10-8:40-9-9:20-9:40-10pm. Max three byes. Request at borhoods/downtown-brooklyn-parking and https://www.parkingpanda. point byes OK all, limit 2, must commit before rd. 2. HR: $129-129 at entry. Blitz rated. www.marshallchessclub.org. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. com/brooklyn-parking Questions, team rooms: [email protected], either hotel, Courtyard 866-210-9325, Hilton 888-999-4711, 518-584- 212-477-3716. [email protected] or 347-201-2269 (leave message, email 4000, two nights minimum, reserve by 2/6 or rate may increase; hotels JAN. 8-10 OR 9-10, 4th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA) is better). Jan 9-10 only: 718-246-7000. Sets provided by Little House often sell out a few months before the deadline. Free parking at Courtyard; See Grand Prix. of Chess— bring clocks! W. Info: www.chesscenter.cc, www.gnys free parking for overnight guests at Hilton. 7 days notice required for

68 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/7/2015 3:57 PM Page 69

See previous issue for TLAs appearing November 1-14

room cancellation. Special car rentals: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD NOV. 27-29, Cleveland Classic 1st-70%, 2nd-30% AND will ADD PRIZES if 12 or more players per #657633. Online entry: www.chessaction.com. Mail entry: Continental See Grand Prix. section, FREE Coffee For All Entrants. REG.: Ends 6:55pm, Cash on site Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Include name, rating, US only. RDS.:7 pm, then ASAP. On Site: 484-866-3045 or bdavis@lehigh- NOV. 28, Cincy Tornado - Thanksgiving Chess Chess ID, USCF expiration (non-members enclose dues), section, school, Last Saturday of the Month. 2 Sections: OPEN & Under 1600. 4-SS, G/60 valleychessclub.org, www.lehighvalleychessclub.org/. grade, birth date, address of each player. Checks payable to Continental d5. EF: $30 if paid online/$35 at site. OGPrix Event/OCA deduct $3. North Penn Chess Club Chess. $15 per player service charge for refunds. $10 extra to switch Masters above 2200 Free EF & Lunch. Open b/15: $150-$75; Class Main & Richardson, Lansdale, PA. See www.northpennchessclub.org sections, all substitutions from advance list charged $70. Questions: Prizes based on entries. Master Bounty Prize: Best Final Result for schedules & info or 215-699-8418. DirectorAtChess.US (At = @)), 347-201-2260. Bring set, board, clock against 1# Rated Master pays $100 for win/$50 draw. $100 for if possible- none supplied. March official ratings used (except unoffical NOV. 14 OR 15, 2015 Red Rose Autumn Dual-Rated Beginner perfect score to 1# Rated Master. UNDER 1600 b/15: $150-$75; (U1200 & Unrated) web ratings usually used if otherwise unrated). TD reserves right to Class Prizes based on entries. Reg. Ends 9:45am. 1st Round: 10am. 1st Location: assign estimated rating to players with non-US Chess ratings. Baptist Church, 11195 Winton Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45218. www.chessearth. Two Tournaments Open to U1200 and Unrated / New Players! com, [email protected]. Last Saturday of Month. Frankin and Marshall College, Kaufmann Hall, Rms. 202 and 204, 800 MAR. 23-27, 24-27, 25-27 OR 26-27, 10th annual Philadel- Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17603. www.fandm.edu/map/kaufman- phia Open (PA) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! hall. Pick from Saturday or Sunday or both! Rounds: 4SS, 10am, 12pm, See Grand Prix. DEC. 12, Toledo December Swiss 2pm, 4pm. Time Control: G/45 d5. EF: $25, $30 on site. Prizes b/20: Open, 4SS, Rnd. 1 G/75 d5, Rnds. 2-4 G/85 d5. The University of Toledo U1200/Unrated: $100, $50, $30 U800: $50 $20. Bye: available if requested NORTH CAROLINA Health Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Cafe, 3000 Arlington before end of round 1. On-site Registration: 9:00-9:45am. Online Ave., Toledo, OH 43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF: Registration and Info: www.lancasterchess.com. Email:jere@lancast- NOV. 27, Turkey Turmoil $20 by 12/10, $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: erchess.com, 717-431-0199. Triangle Chess Center, 5920 S. Miami Blvd. Ste 203. Durham, NC 27560. $360 b/20, $100-50, 1st A,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James 4-SS, G/45 d5. Rds.: 9am-10:45 am-2 pm-3:30pm. EF: $25 by Nov. 20 / Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 2015 Red Rose Autumn Open $30 on site. Sections split every 12 players. Prizes: $125-75-30 b/12 in NOV. 14-15, DEC. 27-30, 2015 Pan American Intercollegiate Team Chess Location: Frankin and Marshall College, Kaufmann Hall, Rms. 202 and each section. Up to two half point byes available any round, must request Championship upon entry. http://chesspig.com/Turkey_Turmoil.html Info: Jeff Jones 204, 800 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17603. www.fandm.edu/map/ Rounds: (919)270-9948, [email protected] See Nationals. kaufman-hall 5SS Saturday 10am, 2pm, 6pm Sunday 10am, 39th Cardinal Open, Columbus 2pm. Time Control: G/90 d10. EF: $50 in advance on-line, $60 on-site. NOV. 27-29, Tobacco Road FIDE Open JAN. 29-31 OR 30-31, Prizes b/30: See Grand Prix. Open/Unrated: $300-150-75 U1800: $150-75 U1400: $100- See Grand Prix. 50. Bye: available if requested before end of round 1. On-site Registration: 15th Annual Queen City Classic Chess Tournament US Chess Junior Grand Prix! MAR. 11, 9:00-9:45am. Online Registration and Info: www.lancasterchess.com. G/30 d5. Paul Brown Stadium, Club West, Downtown Cincinnati, OH. 14 Email: [email protected], 717-431-0199. NOV. 27-29, Tobacco Road U1800 Booster School Sections, includes rated and non-rated. Grade K Non-Rated, 1 PCL November Quick Quads (QC) Triangle Chess Center. 5920 S. Miami Blvd. Ste 203. Durham, NC 27560. Non-Rated, 2 Non-rated, 3 Non-rated, K-3 Open, 4 Non-Rated, 5 Non- NOV. 15, HR: Comfort Suites, 5219 Page Rd., Durham, NC 27703. $69-79 (919)314- Rated, 6 Non-Rated, 4-6 below 800, 4-6 Open, 7-9 Non-Rated, 7-9 Open, 3RR, G/15 d3. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow EF: Reg.: 1200. 5-SS, G/105 i/30. Reg. & Rds.: Fri 7pm or Sat. 9:30am (G/75 d5) 10-12 Non-Rated, K-12 Open. US Chess membership is not required for Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15213. $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. 11- Info: / Sat. 1pm - 7pm / Sun. 9am - 3pm. EF: $50 by Nov. 20 / $60 on site. the non-rated and K-3 rated sections. Prizes: Trophies to all who score 11:15am. [email protected], 412-908-0286. W. Prizes: $1100 b/32. $$400 - $$200 - $$100, C , D , u1200 $100 ea. Up 3.5 points or higher, top three team trophies awarded and medals to NOV. 21, 8th Annual David Elliott Memorial Cup to two half point byes available any round, must request upon entry. all others. EF: $40 early bird fee from January 4 - February 12. $50 EF See Grand Prix. http://chesspig.com/Tobacco_Road_FIDE_Open.html. Make checks to after February 12. EF includes lunch, t-shirt, program/score book, medal. RTCC, send to the Chess Center. Info: Jeff Jones (919)270-9948, coach NOV. 22, 2015 PA State Game/15 Championship (QC) Registration closes Wednesday, March 4, 2016. NO ON-SITE REGISTRA- See Grand Prix. [email protected] TIONS. Schedule: Friday, March 11, check in from 5-6 pm. SIMUL at 6:30 NOV. 27-29, Cleveland Classic (OH) US Chess Junior Grand Prix! p.m. EF: $5 for tournament participants, $20 for Non-participants. SIMUL See Grand Prix. DEC. 18-20, Southeastern FIDE Championship - $3500 Guaran- features International Grandmasters Maurice Ashley, Gregory Kaidanov, teed! and . March 12 Check in 7-8:15 am. matches begin at 9:00 NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, 46th annual National Chess Congress 5SS, G/110;+30. Charlotte Chess Center & Scholastic Academy, 1800 am. Grandmasters will be available for questions and instructions all See Grand Prix. Camden Rd. Suite 108, Charlotte, NC 28203 - United States. $3500 Guar- day. Entry/Info: 1-866-PS-CHESS (772-4377) or www.queencityclassic.org NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, 2015 Motor City Open (MI) See Grand Prix. anteed in One Section!. Must be or have been US Chess or FIDE 2000+; MAR. 11-13 OR 12-13, 17th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA) Few Exceptions. Open to Must be or have been 2000+ US Chess or See Grand Prix. DEC. 5, W.Chester 1st Sat. Quads FIDE; Juniors May Be 1900+. FIDE rated. Limited to first 50 Entries. Our 26th year! 3RR, Game/80 d5. 2nd Presbyterian Church, 114 S. EF: Chess Center Members $104 before November 30. Non Members MAR. 18-20 OR 19-20, 20th annual Mid-America Open (MO) See Grand Prix. Walnut St., West Chester, PA. EF: $20; $40, $50 for 3-0. Reg.: 9am. $114 before November 30. Juniors rated between 1900-2000 $125 Rds.: 9:30,12,2:30. Info: [email protected]. before November 30. CCCSA Members and Non Member $125 After Chess at the Moose November 30. Juniors rated between 1900-2000 $150 after November OKLAHOMA DEC. 6, 30. Free for IM/ GM; $104 deducted from winnings. No On-Onsite Moose Lodge 1336, 705 Stokes Mill Rd., East Stroudsburg, PA 18301- 9035. Entry; Must Pre-register. $$GTD: $1000-700-400-200. Best U2300 1st NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 2015 U.S. Class Championships (TX) Registration: 10:00-10:30. Time control: G/60 d5. Entry Fee: $12 $400 2nd $200; Best U2100 1st $400 2nd $200. 3-day schedule: Rounds: See Nationals. at site cash only. Prize 1st $35, if perfect 3-0 $40, additional prizes 7:30, 1-7:00, 10-4:00. 2-day schedule: 1st at 9:00 then merge with 3 added based on attendence. 3 round Swiss. Contact: Michael Laverty, DEC. 27-29, New Orleans Open (LA) 908-339-7105, [email protected]. http://poconoml.wix.com/ day. Deadline for early entry November 30; Deadline for all entry See Grand Prix. December 14. 1 allowed in any round 1-4. No byes in round 5. ENT: poconochess. Charlotte Chess Center & Scholastic Academy 980-265-1156 www.char- FEB. 11-15, 12-15, 13-15 OR 14-15, 7th annual Southwest DEC. 6, PCL December Quick Quads (QC) lottechesscenter.org. INFO: [email protected]. Class Championships (TX) 3RR, G/15 d3. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow DEC. 26-28, 45th Annual Atlanta Open (GA) See Grand Prix. Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11- See Grand Prix. 11:15am. Info: [email protected], 412-908-0286. W. DEC. 27-29, New Orleans Open (LA) OREGON DEC. 12, 36th Abel Bomberault Memorial See Grand Prix. 4SS, G/60 d5. Pittsburgh Chess Club, 5604 Solway St., Suite 209, Pitts- NOV. 26-29 OR 27-29, 51st Annual American Open (CA-S) burgh, PA 15217. EF: $20 postmarked by 12/8, $25 later, $4 extra to JAN. 29-31, Land of the Sky XXIX See Grand Prix. play up one section, $3 discount to PCC members. 2 Sections: Champi- See Grand Prix. onship, open to 1800-up: Trophies to 1st - 2nd - 1st U2000. Reserve DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 25th annual North American Open (NV) Section, open to U1800: Trophies to 1st - 2nd - 1st U1600 - 1st U1400 - 1st U1200/Unrated. Reg.: 9-9:45am. Rds.: 10 - 12:30 - 3 - 5:30. Info: OHIO See Grand Prix. 412-421-1881, www.pittsburghcc.org. Ent: Pittsburgh Chess Club, Attn: NOV. 6, DCC Friday Nite Quick #38 (QC) JAN. 1-3 OR 2-3, 2016 New Year Open Championship (CA-N) Bomberault Memorial, 5604 Solway St., Suite 209, Pittsburgh, PA 15217. 4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: 7:30/ See Grand Prix. Checks payable to Pittsburgh Chess Club. W. 8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF:$14 ($10 DCC JAN. 15-18, 16-18 OR 17-18, 7th annual Golden State Open DEC. 12, MasterMinds CC Swiss/Quads mbr). Info: [email protected], 937-461-6283. (CA-N) Lenfest Center, 3890 N. 10th St., Philadelphia, PA 19140. Quads: 3RR, NOV. 7, “Early Thanksgiving (19 Days)” Pawn Storm XXXII See Grand Prix. G/85 d5. EF: $30 cash; winner $100. Reg. ends 9AM. Rd. 9:30, 1, 4. Scholastic: See Grand Prix. 2016 U.S. Junior Chess Congress (CA-N) 4SS, K-12 Open, K-8 U1200, K-6 U800, K-3 U500 G/40 d5, JAN. 23 AND/OR 24, EF: $5 rec’d by Thurs. before, $15 on site. Reg. ends 9AM. Rd. 1 10AM 24th annual Kings Island Open See Nationals. NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, then asap. Mail Ent: payable to MasterMinds CC, 36 E. Hortter St., See Grand Prix. MAR. 4-6 OR 5-6, 23rd annual Western Class Championships Philadelphia, PA 19119. Info: mastermindschess.org or brad@master- A State Championship Event! (CA-S) mindschess.org NOV. 21, 2015 Ohio Grade Level Championships See Grand Prix. DEC. 26-28 OR 27-28, 34th annual Empire City Open (NY) 5SS, 13 separate Sections. Open to students enrolled in Ohio schools in JUNE 22-23, 2016 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Grand Prix. grades K-12 or home schooled in Ohio, age 19 and under. Sheraton See Nationals. Cleveland Airport Hotel, 5300 Riverside Dr., Cleveland, OH 44135. JAN. 2, LVCA $1000 Scholarships K-12 Championships EF: $30 if received by Nov 16 $35 after. Low income students $10 by JUNE 24-26 OR 25-26, 2016 National Open (NV) 5-SS, G/30 d5. EF: $30, $40 CASH ONLY after 12/30/15 AT SITE. $$1000 Nov 16 $15 after. No on-site registrations. Awards: Trophies to all See Nationals. in Scholarships to 1st-$400, 2nd-$200, 3rd-$100, $100 each top 3 scoring 3.5 or more, top three teams each section. Medals to all in Lehigh Valley players. Trophy’s to 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, Top U1400, U1200, sections K-8. See website for full details. Contact: Mike Joelson, 216- U1000, U800, U600, U400, UNR, $10-$20 in Random Prizes to every 321-7000, [email protected] Info/Forms: www.pro PENNSYLVANIA player. Rds.: 1:10pm then ASAP. Reg.: Ends 1pm. Site: St. Timothy’s gresswithchess.org Church, 140 So. Ott St., Allentown, PA 18104. Ent: Bruce Davis, 1208 Every Saturday - LVCA Quads/RBO U1200 Quads + G/7 d3 (BLZ) Linden St., Bethlehem, PA 18018, 484-866-3045, Email: bdavis@lehigh- NOV. 21, Parma Novemberfest (New Location - see www.lehighvalleychessclub.org) valleychessclub.org, Info: www.lehighvalleychessclub.org/. 4SS, G/45 d5. German Central Organization, 7863 York Rd. (1/4 mi. N G/40 d5 Quads, 3-RR. Reg.: 1-1:45, Rds.: 2 pm, then asap. 2 Sections: of Sprague), Parma, OH. Sections: Open, U2000, U1600. Reg.: 8-9AM. Open Section EF: $10. Prizes: $30 for 3-0 score, else $25 for 1st. RBO JAN. 9 OR 10 OR 9-10, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents Rds.: 9:30-11:15-1:30-3:15. Prizes (b/50): Open 1st $160, 2nd $80; Section EF: $10. Prizes: $30 for 3-0 score, else $25 for 1st. G/7 d3 the 50th Annual Greater NY Scholastic Championships - Since U2000 1st $120, 2nd $60; U1600 1st $120, 2nd $60; U1200 1st $60. (BLZ) Event Rd. 1: 6:15 pm or asap. Prizes: 50% of entries, 1st-70%, 1966, US Chess Longest-Running Scholastic! (NY) Ent: $20. Info & entries: William Wright, 19121 Wheelers Ln., 2nd-30%, more prizes if 12 or more. Bruce, 484-866-3045. Info: srdia- See New York. Strongsville, OH 44149 Phone: (440) 572-9565 E-mail: grubber@adel- [email protected]. JAN. 15-18, 16-18 OR 17-18, 48th annual Liberty Bell Open phia.net. Web www.parmachessclub.org/. Every Friday - LVCA 7 & 9 pm Blitz Events Open/U1200 (BLZ) See Grand Prix. NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, 2015 Motor City Open (MI) 8SS, G/5 d2. St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church, 140 So. Ott St., Allentown, FEB. 26-28 OR 27-28, George Washington Open (VA) See Grand Prix. PA 18104. EF: $5, Prizes: Open and U1200, Minimum 50% Returned. See Grand Prix.

www.uschess.org 69 CL_11-2015_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 10/9/2015 2:34 PM Page 70

Tournament Life / November

MAR. 11-13 OR 12-13, 17th annual Pittsburgh Open US Chess Junior Grand Prix! JAN. 15-18, 16-18 OR 17-18, 7th annual Golden State Open See Grand Prix. DEC. 1, 8, 15, 22, Monthly - Tuesday Night Swiss (CA-N) 10th annual Philadel- 4SS, first 4 Tuesdays of every month. Time control: G/120 d5. Center64 See Grand Prix. MAR. 23-27, 24-27, 25-27 OR 26-27, EF: phia Open CC, 3201 Hillcroft St., Suite 2E, Houston, TX 77057. $25 members, 2016 U.S. Junior Chess Congress (CA-N) plus $7 registration fee for non-members. Prizes: 50% EF. Reg.: 6:30- JAN. 23 AND/OR 24, See Nationals. See Grand Prix. 6:55 p.m. First Tue. of month. Rds.: 7 p.m. Tuesdays. INFO WEBSITE: www.center64.com MAR. 4-6 OR 5-6, 23rd annual Western Class Championships (CA-S) RHODE ISLAND DEC. 12, Corpus Christi Chess Clinic Presents: December Chess Battle See Grand Prix. DEC. 12, 2015 Greater New Haven Open! (CT) See Grand Prix. 5 Rounds, G/30 d5. LOCATION: GARCIA ARTS & EDUCATION CENTER, JUNE 22-23, 2016 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) 2021 Agnes Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 78405. Plenty of parking available. See Nationals. JAN. 8-10 OR 9-10, 4th annual Boston Chess Congress (MA) RATED OPEN TOURNAMENT. MUST BE A CURRENT USCF MEMBER TO See Grand Prix. JUNE 24-26 OR 25-26, 2016 National Open (NV) PLAY. ALL AGES AND LEVELS OF PLAY WELCOME. TWO DIVISIONS: See Nationals. UPPER & LOWER. UPPER SECTION: RATING 1000 & UP. LOWER SEC- SOUTH CAROLINA TION: BELOW 1000. REGISTRATION BEGINS: 8:00 am. TOURNAMENT PLAY BEGINS: 9:00 am. FORMAL LUNCH BREAK AT THE END OF ROUND VIRGINIA NOV. 27-29, Tobacco Road FIDE Open (NC) TWO. FOOD AND BEVERAGES PROVIDED ON SALE FOR LUNCH. ENTRY See Grand Prix. FEE: $20.00 at the door or pre-register and pay via Paypal. Paypal e- NOV. 7-8, 20th Annual Northern Virginia Open! See Grand Prix. Tobacco Road U1800 Booster (NC) mail address: [email protected]. Room for 150 players. Bring NOV. 27-29, your own tournament board and clock. 1st place trophies for each See North Carolina. US Chess Junior Grand Prix! division will be presented at closing ceremony. For questions or further 23rd Annual David Zofchak Memorial New Orleans Open (LA) NOV. 21-22, DEC. 27-29, information, contact: Steve Blustein 361-429-0204. 5SS, G/2 d5. Site: Sleep Inn Lake Wright 6280 Northampton Blvd., See Grand Prix. DEC. 12-13, 2015 DCC FIDE Open XIV Norfolk, VA 23502, 757-461-6251 EF: $50 if rec’d. by 11/19, else $60. See Grand Prix. $1200 b/o 40 2 Sections - OPEN $160-$140-$120 - Top A $110 - Top B $100. U1600 $120-$110 - $100 - Top D/Unr $90 - Top E $80 - U1000 TENNESSEE DEC. 19-21, 2015 Dallas Absolute See Grand Prix. $70. A VCF Cup event. Reg.: 9-9:30. Rds.: Sat: 9:45-2:15-7, Sun: 9:30- NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 24th annual Kings Island Open (OH) 2:00. Mbr: VCF $10/$5. HR: $74 w/Free breakfast. Please reserve by See Grand Prix. DEC. 26-30, 26-29 OR 27-29, 25th annual North American 11/10. Entry & checks: Virginia Chess, 1370 S. Braden Cres., Norfolk, Open (NV) NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 2015 U.S. Class Championships (TX) VA 23502. Info only: [email protected], (757)362-6542. On- See Nationals. See Grand Prix. line entry and details www.vachess.org. NOV. 21-22, 56th Mid-South Open DEC. 27-29, New Orleans Open (LA) NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, 46th annual National Chess Congress See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. (PA) See Grand Prix. DEC. 26-28, 45th Annual Atlanta Open (GA) DEC. 30-31, DCC New Year’s Eve INSANITY See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. NOV. 27-29, Tobacco Road FIDE Open (NC) See Grand Prix. DEC. 27-29, New Orleans Open (LA) JAN. 8-10 OR 9-10, 6th Annual Austin Chess Club Champi- See Grand Prix. onship NOV. 27-29, Tobacco Road U1800 Booster (NC) See Grand Prix. See North Carolina. MAR. 18-20 OR 19-20, 20th annual Mid-America Open (MO) See Grand Prix. JAN. 9-10, 2016 DCC FIDE Open I FEB. 26-28 OR 27-28, George Washington Open See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. TEXAS JAN. 16-18, Texas Masters See Grand Prix. WASHINGTON NOV. 13-15 OR 14-15, 2015 U.S. Class Championships See Nationals. FEB. 11-15, 12-15, 13-15 OR 14-15, 7th annual Southwest NOV. 26-29 OR 27-29, 51st Annual American Open (CA-S) Class Championships See Grand Prix. NOV. 21, Many Springs 82 See Grand Prix. North Richland Hills Public Library, 9015 Grand Ave., North Richland Hills, NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, Washington Class Championships TX 76180. 3 Round Swiss, G/60 d5. EF: $20, 65% of EF returned as prizes. JUNE 22-23, 2016 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Grand Prix. See Nationals. Sections to be determined by participation. Registration: on-site 8:45- JAN. 1-3 OR 2-3, 2016 New Year Open Championship (CA-N) 9:05. First Round: 9:15AM, Second Round: 12:15PM, Third Round: JUNE 24-26 OR 25-26, 2016 National Open (NV) See Grand Prix. 2:30PM. Additional information: Aurelio Gonzalez at either 817-789- See Nationals. 8360, [email protected] or www.tarrantcountychessclub.org/. JAN. 23 AND/OR 24, 2016 U.S. Junior Chess Congress (CA-N) See Nationals. NOV. 26-29 OR 27-29, 51st Annual American Open (CA-S) See Grand Prix. UTAH JUNE 22-23, 2016 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) See Nationals. NOV. 26-29 OR 27-29, 2015 DCC Fide Open XIII Club 84065 See Grand Prix. See www.chessprep.org for club activities. JUNE 24-26 OR 25-26, 2016 National Open (NV) See Nationals. NOV. 28-29, San Antonio Turkey Shoot JAN. 1-3 OR 2-3, 2016 New Year Open Championship (CA-N) See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix. WEST VIRGINIA NOV. 27-29, Cleveland Classic (OH) See Grand Prix. November 20-25, 2015 Texas CHESS LIFE USPS # 102-840 (ISSN 0197-260X). MAR. 11-13 OR 12-13, 17th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA) 2015 UTDallas Fall FIDE Open. 9SS. G/90 +30sec from move Volume 70 No. 11. PRINTED IN THE USA. Chess See Grand Prix. 1. Embassy Suites Dallas – Park Central, 13131 North Central Life, formerly Chess Life & Review, is published monthly by the United States Chess Federation, 137 MAR. 23-27, 24-27, 25-27 OR 26-27, 10th annual Philadel- Expressway, Dallas, TX 75243. GM & IM norms possible! Min. phia Open (PA) 2000 FIDE or 2200 USCF required. Prizes $7,500 G: $$3000- Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557-3967. Chess Life & 1500-1000, U2500 $$1000, U2300 $$1000. EF: GMs, foreign IMs, Review and Chess Life remain the property of USCF. See Grand Prix. 2500+: Free; 2450-2499: $100; 2400-2449 $150; 2350-2399: Annual subscription (without membership): $50. $200; 2300-2349 $250; 2250-2299: $300; 2200-2249 $350; 2100- Periodical postage paid at Crossville, TN 38557- WISCONSIN 2199: $400; 2000-2099 $450; U2000: $500; Unr: $700; $75 3967 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chess Life (USCF), PO discount to all non-US Federation players. FIDE ratings used NOV. 27-29, Wm. Martz Memorial/North Central Open for EF/pairings/prizes. Tournament will be run using FIDE Rules. Box 3967, Crossville, Tennessee 38557-3967. Entire See Grand Prix. Non-US Federation players must have/provide a FIDE ID number contents ©2015 by the United States Chess Feder- ation. All rights reserved. No part of this publication NOV. 27-29 OR 28-29, 2015 Motor City Open (MI) or they cannot play. (New players can get a FIDE ID number for See Grand Prix. their Country’s Federation ) This tournament is open to players may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means elec- with FIDE Ratings above 2000 (a few special exceptions may be tronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise US Chess Junior Grand Prix! made at the discretion of the Organizers.) Note that anyone without the prior written permission of USCF. Note: DEC. 12-13, The Wisconsin Memorial rated USCF 2200 is also eligible to play but must pay Entry Fees Unsolicited materials are submitted at the sender's 5SS, Rds 1-3 G/120 d5. Rds. 4-5 40/120, SD/60 d5. Union South, 1308 according to their FIDE Ratings. To improve chances to make risk and Chess Life accepts no responsibility for W. Dayton St., Madison, WI 53715. EF: $22 (Juniors $18) by Dec. 8. $3 GM Norms, a maximum of one-third of the total field will be per- them. Materials will not be returned unless accom- more later or on site. $$b/50 and 4 per class: $160-110. A - $90, B - mitted to be U2200 FIDE. May use accelerated pairings if in the panied by appropriate postage and packaging. $80, C - $70, D - $60, E - $50, U1000 - $40, Unr - $40. Upset $50. Reg.: opinion of the Chief Arbiter, that would improve norm chances. Address all submissions to Chess Life, PO Box 3967, 9-9:30 AM 12/12. Rds.: 10-2:30-7:30; 10-3:30. ENT: Dennis Kosterman, Tournament is limited to a total of around 40 players. If Monroi Crossville, TN 38557-3967. The opinions expressed 28 Singleton Ct., Madison, WI 53711 608-770-3133. INFO: dennisk@tds. Units are provided, they must be used. Schedule: Onsite reg- are strictly those of the contributors and do not net, www.wischess.org. WI Chess Tour Event. W. istration if not full, 11/20 at 3pm-3:30 pm. Opening necessarily reflect the views of the United States Ceremony at 5:30 pm. Rds.: Rd on 11/20 at 6 pm; 11/21 at 10 MAR. 18-20 OR 19-20, 20th annual Mid-America Open (MO) Chess Federation. Send all address changes to: U.S. See Grand Prix. am and 5 pm; 11/22 at 10 am and 5 pm; 11/23 at 5 pm; 11/24 Chess, Membership Services, PO Box 3967, Crossville, at 10 am and 5pm; 11/25 at 9 am. Chief Arbiter: IA Francisco Tennessee 38557-3967. Include your USCF I.D. num- Guadalupe. HR: $92-$92-$92-$92 includes free breakfast, 972- ber and a recent mailing label if possible. This 234-3300 mention UTD to get $92 rate. Reserve by 11/1 or rate information may be e-mailed to addresschange@us NOTE may go up. Hotel will provide guests free rides (base on avail- chess.org. Please give us eight weeks advance notice. ability) to anywhere within 3 miles. Make checks payable to PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 41473530 Dallas Chess Club. ENT: Dallas Chess Club, 2709 Longhorn Trail, RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES The TLA abbreviations can be found online on Crowley, TX 76036. 214.632. 9000. INFO: Barb Swafford or Luis TO EXPRESS MESSENGER INTERNATIONAL P.O. the “Information for Players” page at main.uschess. Salinas, info@dallaschess. com or [email protected]. BOX 25058 LONDON BRC, ONTARIO, CANADA www.utdallas.edu/chess. NS. NC. FIDE N6C 6A8 org/go/tlainfo.

70 November 2015 | Chess Life CL_11-2015_solutions_JP_r7_chess life 10/9/2015 10:33 AM Page 71

Classifieds / Solutions / November

CHESSMATE® POCKET & TRAVEL SETS U.S. Postal Service. Statement of Ownership, Man- agement, and Circulation (required by 39 U.S.C. Perfect chess gifts for the 3685). (1) Title of publication: Chess Life. (1) Publi- Classifieds chess lover in your life: cation number: 102-840. (3) Date of filing: September The finest magnetic chess sets available. 25, 2015 (4) Frequency of issue: Monthly. (5) No. of issues published annually: 12. (6) Annual sub- HANDMADE IN THE USA scription price: $50. (7) Complete mailing address Chess Life accepts classified advertising in these categories: 30-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE! of known office of publication (street, city, county, Activities, For Rent, For Sale, Games, Instruction, Miscel- state, and ZIP code) (Not printers): P.O. Box 3967, WWW.CHESSMATE.COM Phone: 425.697.4513 laneous, Services, Tournaments, Wanted. Only typed or 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557 (8) Complete mailing address of the headquarters of general busi- e-mailed copy is accepted. Absolutely no telephone ness office of the publisher (Not printers): PO Box orders. Rates (per word, per insertion): 1-2 insertions 3967, 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557. (9) Full $1.50, 3-6 insertions $1.25, 7 + insertions $1.00. Affiliates Wanted names/complete mailing addresses of publisher, pay $1.00 per word regardless of insertion frequency. editor, and managing editor (this item must not be No other discounts available. Advertisements with less * CHESS-PLAYER SCHOLARS * blank). Publisher (name/complete mailing address): than 15 words will cost a minimum of $15 per issue. Post in top 10% of high school class with USCF > 2000 Jean Hoffman, US Chess, PO Box 3967, 137 Obrien office boxes count as two words, telephone numbers as and SAT (math + critical reading + writing) > 2150 Dr., Crossville, TN 38557. Editor (name/complete mailing address): Daniel Lucas, P.O. Box 3967, 137 one, ZIP code is free. Full payment must accompany all for possible college scholarships to UMBC. Prof. Alan Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557. Managing Editor advertising. All advertising published in Chess Life is Sherman, Dept. of Computer Science and Electrical (name and complete mailing address): same as subject to the applicable rate card, available from the Engineering, Univ. of Maryland, Baltimore County, above. (10) Owner. (If owned by a corporation, its Advertising Department. Chess Life reserves the right name and address must be stated and also imme- 21250. 410-455-2666, [email protected] not to accept an advertiser’s order. Only publication of diately there under the names and addresses of an advertisement constitutes final acceptance. For a copy stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of these complete set of regulations & a schedule of of total amount of stock. If not owned by a corpo- ration, the names and addresses of the individual deadlines, send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: Instruction owners must be given. If owned by a partnership Chess Life Classifieds, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557. or other incorporated firm, its name and address, Ads are due two months prior (by the 10th) of the issue TOP-QUALITY BARGAIN CHESS LESSONS BY PHONE as well as that of each individual must be given. If cover date you want your ad to appear in. (For example: With more than 40 years of experience teaching the publication is published by a nonprofit organi- October CL ads MUST be submitted no later than August chess, the Mid-Atlantic Chess Instruction Center is zation, its name and address must be stated.) (Do 10th). You can e-mail your classified ad to Joan DuBois, not leave blank.): United States Chess Federation, the best in the business. We specialize in adult stu- [email protected]. PO Box 3967, 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557. dents. We offer 32 different courses as well as (11) Known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or individual game analysis. Center Director: Life Master more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other Activities Russell Potter. Tel.: (540) 344-4446. If we are out securities (if there are none, so state): none. (12) when you call, please leave your name & tel. #. Our For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at special rates section 423.12, DMM only). Webpage is at: chessinstructor.org. NEW: FREE pow- The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this erful analysis engines + FREE screen-sharing! organization and tax exempt status for Federal income tax purposes (check one): þ has not changed during preceding 12 months; ¨ has changed during “Do you know what your playing speed is? LEARN CHESS BY MAIL: preceding 12 months. (If changed, publisher must submit explanation of change with this statement.) Any Strength: Inquire about individual programs. (13) Publication Name: Chess Life. (14) Issue Date WWW.MSGT.INFO Alex Dunne, 324 West Lockhart Street, Sayre, PA for Circulation Data Below: September 2015. (15) 18840. [email protected]. Extent and nature of circulation. (a) Total number copies printed (net press run): average number copies each issue during preceding 12 months, YOU’LL SEE REAL PROGRESS by Studying with 27,277; actual number copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 26,119 (b) Paid and/or 3- Time U.S. Champ GM Lev Alburt! requested circulation: (1) Paid/requested outside- For Sale Private lessons (incl. by mail and phone) from $80/hr. county mail subscriptions: average number copies * WORLD’S FINEST CHESS SETS * Autographed seven-volume, self-study Comprehensive each issue during preceding 12 months, 24,748; Chess Course-only $134 postpaid! P.O. Box 534, actual number copies of single issue published near- *The House of Staunton, produces unquestionably est to filing date, 23,848. (2) Paid in-county the finest Staunton Chess sets. *Pay-Pal and all Major Gracie Station, NY, NY 10028. (212) 794-8706. subscriptions (include advertiser’s proof copies/ex - Credit Cards accepted. The House of Staunton, Inc.; change copies): average number copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 0; actual number copies 1021 Production Court; Suite 100; Madison, AL 35758. BEST LESSONS FOR UNDER 1600 of single issue published nearest to filing date, 0. *Website: www.houseofstaunton.com; phone: (256) Scholastic or Adult. 35+ years of proven results. (3) Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors, 858-8070; email: [email protected] www.ChessThinker.com. and counter sales (not mailed): average number copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 428; actual number copies of single issue published near- est to filing date, 1,125. (4) Paid distribution by other classes of mail through the USPS (e.g. First Class Mail): average number copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 343; actual number copies of PAGE 47 / LIQUIDATE, OR LIQUI-DON’T? single issue published nearest to filing date, 331. (C) Total paid distribution (sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), and (4),: average number copies each issue during PROBLEM I. Gossip correctly determined that 67. preceding 12 months, 25,519; actual number copies Solutions of single issue published nearest to filing date, Rxb6+ is the swiftest path to victory. After 67. .... 25,304. Free or nominal rate distribution; (15d (1), Kxb6 68. Ke3 Kc6 69. Kf4, Black resigned, since (2), (3); average number copies each issue during PAGE 17 / CHESS TO ENJOY preceding 12 months, 0; actual number copies of the king easily picks up the two pawns. PROBLEM single issue published nearest to filing date, 0. 15d II. Cornejo rejected 40. Nxd6!! on account of 40. (4); average number of copies each issue during PROBLEM I. U.S. Championship, 1974: 26. Bc4 Qf8 preceding 12 months, 200; actual number of copies ... Bxd3! 41. Kxd3 cxd6, and the pawn ending of single published nearest to filing date, 200. (e) 27. Qe6! (or 27. Qe7) and 28. Qxd7 wins. PROBLEM Total free or nominal rate distribution (sum of 15d II. Haifa, 1976: 45. Ne4+ and 46. Nd2! cages the appears completely winning. But after 42. h4! d5 (1), (2), (3), and (4): 200; actual number copies of 43. Kc3 Black has absolutely no way to make single issue published nearest to filing date, 200. bishop. Black resigned after 45. ... Kb6 46. Nd2! (f) Total distribution (sum of 15c and 15e): average a5 47. c4! Kc7 48. Ke6. PROBLEM III. Lublin, 1978: progress despite his extra pawn. number copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 25,719; actual number copies of single issue 48. Qe6! followed by 49. Rf6 and 50. Rg6+. Black published nearest to filing date, 25,504. (g) Copies not distributed: average number copies each issue resigned after 48. ... Bc5 49. Rf6 Bd4 50. Rg6+ PAGE 49 / ABCS OF CHESS during preceding 12 months, 1,558; actual number Bg7 51. g4! Qh7 52. Bh6. PROBLEM IV. Chicago, copies of single issue published nearest to filing PROBLEM I. Pin: The simple capture 1. ... Nxb3 date, 615. (h) Total (sum of 15f and 15g) average 1973: 28. Rh1! Kf8 29. Bg5! Rec8 30. Qh8+! Bxh8 number copies each issue during preceding 12 31. Rxh8+ Kg7 32. Bf6 mate. PROBLEM V. Lone wins a piece.. PROBLEM II. Trapping: Black traps months, 27,277; actual number copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 26,119. (i) Percent Pine, 1975: 25. Qe8+! Kxh6 26. Qh8+ Kg6 27. Rg4+ the bishop with 1. ... h4. PROBLEM III. Pin: The paid. 15c divided by 15f × 100), per cent on average and mates, e.g. 27. ... Kf5 28. Qe5+! Kxg4 29. h3+ invasion 1. ... Nd4 wins a piece. PROBLEMIV. no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 99.2; per cent on actual no. copies of single issue or 27. ... Bg5 28. Qg8+ Kf5 29. Qxg5+ (or 29. Re1!). Double Threat: Black wins with 1. ... Qg5, threatening published nearest filing date, 99.2. 16. Publication of Statement of Ownership. Publication of this PROBLEM VI. Plovdiv, 1976: 24. fxe6+! Ke7 (24. ... mate at g2 as well as 2. ... Nh3+. PROBLEM V. statement will be printed in the November 2015 Kg7 25. Rxe5! and 26. Rf7+) 25. Qxg6! Kd8 (25. ... Mating Net: It’s over in three moves: 1. ... Rxg2+ 2. issue of this publication. 17. I certify that the state- ments made by me above are correct and complete Nxg6 26. Rf7+ Kd8 27. Rd7 mate) 26. Rxe5! dxe5 Rxg2 Qxh3+ 3. Kg1 Qxg2 mate. PROBLEMVI. (signature and title of editor, publisher, business 27. Bxh6 threatening 28. Rd1+ Kc7 29. Rd7+ Kc6 Fork: Black wins the queen with 1. ... Rxb2+ 2. Rxb2 manager, or owner): Jean Hoffman (sig.), Publisher. P.S. Form 3526, July 2014. 30. Qe4 mate. Nc1+.

www.uschess.org 71 CL_11-2015_My-Best-Move_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life 14/10/2015 12:37 Page 72

My best Move ARCHIVAL

GM SAM PHOTO: SHANKLAND 7th-Ranked U.S. Player Gold Medalist (Reserve), 41st Olympiad U.S. Board 1, 2015 World Team Championship

t’s hard for me to remember any brilliant games I’ve played. For whatever reason all of my best wins over the years have seemed I pretty sedate in comparison to those of my colleagues. With this in mind, I had to dig deep for my “best move,” back to the final round of the 2008 U-18 World Youth, where as a FIDE master I won a beautiful endgame in the final round against GM Quang Liem Le to share first place.

THE NARROW PATH FM Sam Shankland (FIDE 2436, USA) GM Quang Liem Le (FIDE 2583, VIE) World Youth Chess Championships - Open 18, 10.30.2008

51. ... Rb8 use the d6-square to reach b8. 54. Kc4 Rxd7 (54. ... e4 55. Kxc5 e3 56. Kc6 White reaches c6 just White wins after 51. ... Ke6 52. b8=Q Rxb8 in the knick of time. 56. ... e2 57. Re1) 55. b8=Q! 53. Rxb8 h1=Q 54. d8=Q. Rxd1 56. Qe8+ Kf6 This is the only way to avoid AFTER 50. ... Kf5 52. Rd1 losing the rook directly. 57. Qh8+ Ke6 58. Qh6+ Ke7 59. Qxh2 Black can still make White work White has a similar threat—d8=Q and ending 51. Rb1!! in queen against rook, but of course he is up with an extra rook. technically lost. 53. ... e4? This fails to address White's idea is that he threatens 52. b8=Q Rxb8 52. ... Rd8 White’s threat: 54. Rh1! Ke6 55. Rxh2 Kd6 And 53. Rxb8 h1=Q 54. d8=Q, which would leave him previously with the king on c2 this would have And now we have the exact same position as up a rook, so Black's reply is forced. 51. Kc3? fails held for Black, but here he is too slow: 56. Ra2 the starting one, except that White got to move because Black is able to use d6. 51. ... Ke6! 52. And Ra8 is next. Kc4 (52. Rb1 This would be similar to the game his rook from e1 to d1 for free. 54. Rf1+!, Black resigned. but White has lost a very critical tempo: 52. ... e4 53. Kc3! 53. Kc4 e3 54. Kxc5 e2! and White is one tempo My distinguished opponent resigned and I White is now threatening to play Rh1 followed too slow to play both Kc6 and Re1. He even loses shared first in the World U-18 championship. by Rxh2. here.) 52. ... Kd6! And Black can cut across the d- 54. b8=Q? was tempting, but White is actually file to reach b8 with his king, holding a draw (52. 53. ... Rxd7 even losing here: 54. ... Rxd1 h1=Q. 54. Rxd7 ... Kxd7? 53. Rd1+); 51. Rh1? Taking the pawn is This is also poor. 54. ... h1=Q 55. b8=Q White is This looks like a nice tactic as White has two not fast enough here: 51. ... Ke6 52. Rxh2 Kd6! now a rook up, but he loses it to a : 55. ... tempting moves that both fail, but after Rf1+, it's And White is unable to prevent Black from Qc1+ 56. Kd3 Qd1+. retreating back with Kc7-b8, stopping the pawns. all over. 53. ... Ke6 is another resilient defensive His own king is in the way of his rook’s ability to idea, and the main reason White needed to play Whose Best Move would you like to see? Write to reach a2. Rb1 and Rd1. Here, the king is cut off and cannot us at [email protected].

72 November 2015 | Chess Life IBC_chess life 10/7/2015 7:15 PM Page 1 BC_Oct_Layout 1 10/7/2015 6:56 PM Page 1

7th annual Southwest Class Championships D DFW Airport Marriott South, Fort Worth, Texas Feb 11-15, 12-15, 13-15 or 14-15, 2016 (Presidents Day weekend) $30,000 guaranteed, GM & IM norms possible!

Master Section: 9 rounds, Feb 11-15. Mailed entries: 5-day $165. 4-day $164, 40/2, SD/30, d10. 3-day $163, 2-day $162 mailed by 2/3. Do Other sections: 7 rounds, 40/2, SD/30, not mail entry after 2/3. d10 (3-day option, rds 1-2 G/60, d10; 2-day Class C or D entry fee: $60 less than top option in B through E, rds 1-4 G/30, d10). All 4 sections entry fee. schedules merge & play for same prizes. Class E Section entry fee: $100 less DFW Airport Marriott South, 4151 than top 4 sections entry fee. Centreport Blvd, Fort Worth TX 76155. Master Section: GM, foreign IM/WGM Special room rates $100-$100, 817-358- free; $150 from prize. US IM/WGM & FIDE 1700, reserve by 1/29 or rate may increase. rated foreign: entry fee $50 less.. Free parking, free airport shuttle Re-entry (no Master to Master): $50. In 7 sections. Rated players may play up USCF memb. required.Special1yrdues one section. Unrated may enter A through E. with magazine: see TLA or chesstour.com. Master (2200/up): $3000-1500-1000-600- 400, clear/tiebreak win $200, top FIDE 5-day schedule (Master only): Reg. Thu U2300 $1400-700.FIDE rated, 150 GPP. to 6 pm, rds Thu 7, Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 & 6, Expert (2000-2199): $2000-1000-500- Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4. 300-200. 4-day schedule (Expert & below): Reg. Class A (1800-1999): $2000-1000-500- Fri to 6 pm, rds Fri 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 300-200. Unrated limit $800. 6, Mon 10 & 4. Class B (1600-1799): $2000-1000-500- 3-day schedule (Expert & below): Reg. 300-200. Unrated limit $600. Sat to 10 am, rds Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & Class C (1400-1599): $1200-600-400- 6, Mon 10 & 4. 300-200. Unrated limit $400. 2-day schedule (B, C, D, E only): Reg. Class D (1200-1399): $1200-600-400- ends Sun 9 am, rds Sun. 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6; 300-200. Unrated limit $300. Mon 10 & 4. Class E (Under 1200): $800-400-300- Half-point byes available all rounds, limit 200-100. Unrated limit $200. 2; Master must commit before rd 2, others Mixed Doubles bonus prizes: Best before rd 4. male-female 2-player combined score among all sections: $1000-600-400. Team Bring set, board, clock if possible- none average must be under 2200; teammates supplied. FIDE ratings used in Master, Feb may be in different sections; must register USCF in others, except unofficial USCF (no extra fee) before both players begin ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. round 2. $15 service charge for refunds. Entries are posted at chessaction.com Top 4 sections entry fees: $158 online (online entries posted instantly). at chessaction.com by 2/10, $170 phoned to Entry: chessaction.com or Continental 406-896-2038 by 2/8, $180 at site, or online Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills NY 12577. until 2 hours before first game. Blitz: starts Sun 10 pm, enter by 9:45.