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2 January 2014 | Chess Life

 January Preview / This month in Chess Life and CLO

Editor’s Letter: Celebrating Columns

While we mourn the loss of Pal Benko’s 45-year run of “Endgame Lab” columns because of Benko’s retirement gambit
(see December 2013 issue), we at the same time celebrate our remaining columnists in this issue. We lead off with GM
Andy Soltis’ column “Chess to Enjoy,” which debuted on these pages 35 years ago this month. We asked him to
expand his column for this issue to feature-length, and the result is a fascinating look back at the consistently most
entertaining item in Chess Life these many decades. He answers some questions that have been asked many times,
such as, “Why did you wait so long to ditch descriptive notation?” Furthering our Soltis celebration, we have a review by
GM Ben Finegold of his new edition of Pawn Structure Chess on page 12.
With pure instruction aimed at the class player, GM Lev Alburt’s “Back to Basics” has grown into one of our most popular columns ever. We acknowledge
this with a version of his column, also in feature-length. A writer new to our pages, Chris Wainscott, writes about his trials and travails trying to turn himself
into a master-level player. Alburt offers his insights and advice in a format designed to help any struggling class player trying to improve. Our other
remaining columnist is Bruce Pandolfini and his “Solitaire Chess” column that includes “The ABCs of Chess,” which shares its genesis in the same time
frame as “Chess to Enjoy.” But what will we be doing with the space formerly occupied by “Endgame Lab”? We don’t want to rush to replace a legend and
so are carefully considering a number of options. If we do secure a new columnist, we would like it to be someone with a chance of having his own tribute
feature in 35 or 45 years.
Soltis is not the only one celebrating an anniversary this year. September 2014 will mark the 75th anniversary of the USCF. We plan a special issue for
September that will celebrate this. So here’s to the old, the new, and the current, but most of all, here’s to your chess life. -Daniel Lucas, Editor

CHESS LIFE ONLINE PREVIEW: JANUARY

U.S. Chess Scoop videos on YouTube

Look for U.S. Chess Scoop videos on our YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/user/USChessFederation, including a report from the Liberty Bell Open
over the Martin Luther King holiday weekend (January 17-20), and a piece where some average Joes of South Philly teach the rules of the game.

WIJK ATTACK:
Follow GM Hikaru Nakamura, seeded second in Tata Steel Chess 2014 (January 10-26, Wijk
aan Zee) and enjoy exclusive CLO coverage including a piece by GM Ian Rogers.

CHESS AND SCHOOL IN ST. LOUIS:

Last year’s Best of CLO winner Kostya Kavutskiy, writes about moving to St. Louis to attend
Lindenwood and how he combines the burgeoning chess culture of St. Louis with academics.

BEST OF CLO:
What was the best Chess Life Online article of 2013? See what our judges think in our yearly
countdown, where we pause to examine some journalistic highlights you have missed.

FM MIKE KLEIN The PopChess cover story is by the director of content for Chess.com and the 2012 Chess Journalist of the Year. He also teaches,
CONTRIBUTORS

freelances, bikes and snowboards, though never more than any two at the same time.

CHRIS WAINSCOTT “Beyond the Basics” is penned by a writer who grew up in Midland, Texas where he learned to play chess at the age of four at
the end of the Fischer boom. In addition to chess his hobbies include reading, listening to music, playing the guitar, and fishing. He writes a daily blog
at http://www.chessiq.com/blog/.

FM ALEX DUNNE The “Correspondence Chess Roundup” is by the correspondence chess director of the USCF. His monthly column “The Check is
in the Mail” is on uschess.org.

STEVE CHELLLIS Our cover artist writes: “I’m a painter. A painter who happens to be an artist. Sometimes I am wary to call myself an artist. This is
because I’m not exactly sure what an artist is anymore. There are the elements of art that I embrace such as transformation, timelessness, and
particularity. Artists used to be workers like everyone else. Just like the mason, the farmer, or the blacksmith. Nowadays they are fools, pranksters, and
con-men. I’ve played the part and have grown tired of playing cat and mouse.”

www.uschess.org 3
 LEGO® Chess, Collection of the World Chess Hall of Fame
Chess Life
JANUARY
COLUMNS
12 LOOKS AT BOOKS / PAWN STRUCTURE CHESS
Pawn Structure Chess
By GM Ben Finegold

14 CHESS TO ENJOY / ENTERTAINMENT

See Features listing to the right 14 Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment
COLUMN NUMBER 420
42 BACK TO BASICS / READER ANNOTATIONS
A Sicilian Battle at the World Open BY GM ANDY SOLTIS
By GM Lev Alburti Time Control Reached: Chess Life readers have been devouring
“Chess to Enjoy” for 35 years now. We celebrate this milestone
44 SOLITAIRE CHESS / INSTRUCTION
with a look back.
The Boot A Pest Gambit
By Bruce Pandolfini

Endgame Lab ended in the December 2013

18 Cover Story / Chess in Popular Culture
issue due to GM Pal Benko’s retirement. POPCHESS
BY FM MIKE KLEIN
DEPARTMENTS Chess surrounds our daily lives in both obvious and surprising ways.

3 JANUARY PREVIEW /
28 Instruction / GM Advice
THIS MONTH IN CHESS LIFE AND CLO
BEYOND THE BASICS
6 COUNTERPLAY / READERS RESPOND BY CHRIS WAINSCOTT WITH COMMENTARY BY GM LEV ALBURT
A class player sets the goal of reaching master and in a special
8 FIRST MOVES / feature-length version of GM Lev Alburt’s “Back to Basics” column,
CHESS NEWS FROM AROUND THE U.S. our popular columnist provides his thoughts on the author’s
methods and journey.
9 FACES ACROSS THE BOARD / BY AL LAWRENCE

10 USCF AFFAIRS / NEWS FOR OUR MEMBERS

34 Correspondence Chess / 2009 Electronic
Knights/2011 Absolute
46 KNIGHT’S TOUR / TOURNAMENT TRAVEL CORRESPONDENCE CHESS ROUNDUP
BY FM ALEX DUNNE
50 TOURNAMENT LIFE / JANUARY Recapping the 2009 Electronic Knights and 2011 Absolute
correspondence chess events.
70 CLASSIFIEDS / JANUARY
39 Problems / Benko
71 SOLUTIONS / JANUARY
HOW IS IT POSSIBLE?
BY GM PAL BENKO
72 MY BEST MOVE / PERSONALITIES
A New Year’s puzzle offering from GM Pal Benko.

ON THE COVER “The Game Is Rigged.”

Chess is an irresistible subject for
artists of all stripes. FM Mike Klein,
the 2012 Chess Journalist of the Year,
explores chess imagery in various
segments of pop culture in our cover
story beginning on page 18.
ART BY STEVE CHELLIS, WWW.CHELLISART.COM
AND WWW.BLUETAN.COM

4 January 2014 | Chess Life

Counterplay / Readers Respond
Playing to Win
AUTHOR RESPONSE
Thank you so much for reviewing Playing to Win in Chess
Life! While I was researching the book both Chess Life
and Chess Life for Kids were invaluable resources.
However, I must correct an error in the review. Abdul-
Alim writes that of the chess families in the study “none
were Asian or Indian.” This is simply incorrect. Because
race/ethnicity was a self-reported category to me, by
those who participated in the interview portion of the
study, some chose to identify as “Other” and a few who
I would have thought were Indian, for example, chose
to identify as “White.” Moreover, many children who
some may assume are Asian or Indian based on appear-
ance at a tournament may only have one parent who is
Indian or Asian (so their status was reported as “Mixed”).
Another demographic variable not reported in the review
is that only 41 percent of the chess families I interviewed
had parents who were both born in the U.S.—by far the
most diverse of the three activities featured in Playing
to Win (in addition to the academic case study of chess,
the artistic activity of dance and the athletic activity of
soccer were also included).
Additionally, as described in detail in the book, within
“Metro” I conducted months of fieldwork in both “Uptown-
Metro” and “Charter-Metro.” Uptown is far more affluent,
whereas Charter serves the population Abdul-Alim rightly
describes as so important in the scholastic chess landscape
today. While their parents’ narratives are missing, they
are represented throughout when I describe scenes I wit-
nessed at camps and at tournaments. However, the
explanation as to why interviews with their parents weren’t
included, in the second to last paragraph of the review—
that these less-privileged parents wouldn’t talk to me for
a “variety of reasons”—glosses over the very important
point, discussed on page 231, that they were not com-
fortable signing consent forms necessitated by this being
a study approved of by Princeton University’s Human
Subjects Committee. Additionally, as I explain, they often-
times were not present at events in the same way as
Uptown parents, making it difficult to connect.
It is true that the interview subjects were dominated
by more affluent families, who subsequently dominate
chapters three and four of the book, but the beautiful
diversity of chess is discussed in Playing to Win and as
Abdul-Alim alludes to in other parts of the review, I do
emphasize that among competitive after school activities
scholastic chess is conducive to this type of inclusivity in
a way that other activities—including dance and soccer,
which have higher participation costs—simply aren’t. This
is but one of the many reasons my own sons will start to
learn the game of kings as soon as possible.
Hilary Levy Friedman
via e-mail
Send your letters to letters@uschess.org or post on the Chess Life Facebook group page. If Chess Life publishes your letter, you will be sent a copy
of Test, Evaluate and Improve Your Chess by Kopec and Terrie. We regret that we cannot reply to all letters.
6 January 2014 | Chess Life
Chess Life cover contest:
CHESS IN AMERICA
Would you like to see your art work or photography featured
on the cover of Chess Life magazine, reaching tens of thousands
of readers across the United States and internationally?
Then enter our first Chess Life cover contest! The winning entry
will be our cover art on a fall 2014 or winter 2015 issue.
Deadline for entry is June 2, 2014. If we have enough interesting
entries, we will run a feature showcasing honorable mentions.
The decision of the editors is final. The only prize for the winning
entry is the cover exposure and 20 copies of the issue in which
it appears. The editors may decide not to award a winner.
THE DETAILS
Theme: Chess in America.
Send entry to chesslifecovercontest@gmail.com.
Size: 8 1⁄2 x 11, 300 dpi with .125 bleed
Send as a .jpg simply for our judging purposes. We can work
with other formats if we decide to publish your entry.
Keep in mind our logo placement in the upper left and UPC
code in the lower left! Cover text may be added by the editors.
WE FELL FOR IT
In the article “Paul Morphy Versus Rybka” by Alex Dunne (Novemberr
2013), he mentions that after 1. e4 e5 2. f4 exf4 that a laboratory
Rybka using 3000 cores running for four months determined that
only 3. Be2 draws and all other moves lose for White. That “news”
actually came from a 2012 April Fool’s day joke article by ChessBase,
which can be found here: www.chessbase.com/post/rajlich-busting-
the-king-s-gambit-this-time-for-sure.
They publish April Fool’s joke articles every year, and since they’re
posted on April Fool’s Day the trick only lasts a few moments until
the reader realizes what day it is. This one was a lot trickier because
they used a clever plan to throw off the readers who are wary about
what they read on ChessBase’s website on April 1. The article was
dated April 2nd, so how could it be an April Fool’s joke? Well, two
days later they came clean and said that they posted it on April 1,
23:55— in Pago Pago! That article can be found here: www.chess-
base.com/post/the-chessbase-april-fool-s-prank.
Scott Hogfoss
via e-mail
 THE BEST IN THE U.S.
GM Gata Kamsky | 2013 U.S. CHAMPION
GM Irina Krush | 2013 U.S. WOMEN’S CHAMPION
GM Daniel Naroditsky | 2013 U.S. JUNIOR CLOSED CHAMPION

THE BEST IN THE WORLD

GM Magnus Carlsen | 2013 SINQUEFIELD CUP CHAMPION

Who will Reign Supreme in 2014?

2014 U.S. Championship

2014 U.S. Women’s Championship
2014 U.S. Junior Closed Championship
2014 Sinquefield Cup

CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER OF SAINT LOUIS | 4657 MARYLAND AVENUE, SAINT LOUIS, MO 63108
314.361.CHESS (2437) | info@saintlouischessclub.org | saintlouischessclub.org
facebook.com/CCSCSL twitter.com/CCSCSL youtube.com/STLChessClub
First Moves / Chess news from around the U.S.

Jacqueline
Piatigorsky:
Patron, Player,
Pioneer

A new show at the World Chess Hall of

Fame (WCHOF) in St. Louis, Missouri
titled “Jacqueline Piatigorsky: Patron,
Player, Pioneer” uses artifacts from her
archive to tell the story of her fascinating
life and fantastic achievements in the
world of chess. The objects are part of a
generous donation to the WCHOF from
the Piatigorsky family. The exhibition
includes artifacts such as the Piatigorsky
Cup trophy created by Tiffany & Co. in
1963. The newly-restored cup will be
displayed alongside personal chess-
related items belonging to Mrs. Piatigorsky,
images of tournament play, rare artifacts
from the first Women’s Chess Olympiad,
and objects related to the progressive
Piatigorsky Foundation. Additionally,
the exhibition features interesting artifacts
related to inductees to both the World
and U.S. Chess Halls of Fame. Visit
www.worldchesshof.org for additional
information.
This page, top: Jacqueline at the 1957
Womens Chess Olympiad, Emmen. Collection
of the World Chess Hall of Fame, gift of the
Family of Jacqueline Piatigorsky. This page,
bottom: Piatigorsky Cup Trophy, Tiffany & Co.,
1963. Collection of the World Chess Hall of
Fame, gift of the Family of Jacqueline Piatigorsky.
Photo Michael DeFilippo.
Opposite page, top: Jacqueline Piatigorsky
Watches Bobby Fischer and Boris Spassky Relax
after their Drawn Game in the Penultimate
Round of the Piatigorsky Cup Tournament,
1966, Collection of the World Chess Hall of
Fame, gift of Jacqueline Piatigorsky, Photo Phil
Bath. Opposite page, middle: Jacqueline and
Gregor Piatigorsky, c. 1961, Collection of the
World Chess Hall of Fame, gift of the Family of
Jacqueline Piatigorsky. Opposite page, bottom:
Jacqueline Piatigorsky and Herman Steiner
during a Television Appearance, 1953, Collection
of the World Chess Hall of Fame, gift of the
Family of Jacqueline Piatigorsky.

8 January 2014 | Chess Life

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

FACES AT THE
KING’S

ACROSS
ISLAND
OPEN!

THE BOARD
By AL LAWRENCE
KHANH LE
OHIO
Endgames are
beautiful math
A native of Vietnam, Khanh,
like the others on this page,
came to chess through friendship. A math and physics
major at Ohio Wesleyan, he met Roy Dotson (below)
last year and now plays regularly in the Hanging
Pawn Chess Club in Delaware, Ohio—“a congenial
congregation of goofy chess zealots.” Initially a fan
of Chinese chess, Le started studying our version last
year when Dotson, who must be a good coach,
“taught me some basic principles.” Khanh scored 41⁄2
out of five to tie for first in the Under 1500 section in
his very first rated event.

ROY DOTSON
OHIO
Playing it forward
Roy started the Marysville
Chess Club eight years ago,
when, at 38, he started play-
ing on a handheld chess computer. “Little did I know
how terrible I was!” He enlisted life master Chuck
Diebert to help him get better. “Chuck not only
taught me chess but kept me inspired with his en-
thusiasm.” Among other volunteer activities, Dotson
holds an annual Memorial Day chess cookout,
teaches chess on Sundays for the Central Ohio Youth
Chess Federation, and is teaching his children Haylee
and Hayden chess. “My goal is to spread chess to
those willing to learn.”

JACOB
RAPPORT
OHIO
Jazzy chess for a
Frisbee player

Jacob learned chess as a child from his older brother

Nathan but played only a few tournaments until
2013, when “I made some friends at the chess club
at Ohio State University.” When injuries prevented
him from representing the University on its ultimate
Frisbee team, he took his competitive instincts to
the board. He graduated last May with a degree in
jazz piano. “I’ve only started to study chess the last
few months.” It’s working. Jacob tied for first in the
Under 1250 section.
Write to faces@uschess.org.

www.uschess.org 9
USCF Affairs / News for our Members

Online Rated Play

Starts In January!

2013-2014 USCF Committees

COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSON EB LIAISON
Audit Bill Brock, billbrock1958@gmail.com Allen Priest
Awards John Donaldson, imwjd@aol.com Randy Bauer
Barber K-8 Tournament of State Jon Haskell, Co-Chair jon@bocachess.com Mike Nietman
Champions Stephen Shutt, Co-Chair stephenshutt@yahoo.com
Bylaws Harold J. Winston, Co-Chair HJWinston@aol.com Allen Priest
Guy Hoffman, Co-Chair schachfuhrer@hotmail.com
Chess in Education F. Leon Wilson, FLeonW@chesslearn.com Mike Nietman
Clubs Bob Rasmussen, tobobras@gmail.com Chuck Unruh
College Chess Russell S. Harwood, russell.harwood@utb.edu Mike Nietman
Correspondence Chess Brad Rogers, bradleyrogers22@msn.com Gary Walters
Cramer Awards Frank Brady, bradyf@stjohns.edu Randy Bauer
Denker Invitational Stephen Shutt, Co-Chair, stephenshutt@yahoo.com Mike Nietman
Jon Haskel, Co-Chair, jon@bocachess.com
Election Ken Ballou, ballou@crab.mv.com Chuck Unruh
Ethics Kenneth Sloan, kennethrsloan@gmail.com Gary Walters
FIDE Events Francisco Guadalupe, flguadalupe@aol.com Mike Atkins
Finance Allen Priest
Forum no chair named Randy Bauer
Hall of Fame Harold J. Winston, HJWinston@aol.com Gary Walters
Hall of Records Steve Immitt, chesscentr@aol.com Mike Nietman
International Affairs Michael Khodarkovsky, mkhodarkovsky@yahoo.com Ruth Haring
Military Mike Hoffpauir, mhoffpauir@aol.com Gary Walters
Outreach Myron Lieberman, azchess@cox.net Chuck Unruh
PPHB John Donaldson, imwjd@aol.com Allen Priest
Prison no chair named Ruth Haring
Publications Ramon Hernandez, rahernan@optonline.net Randy Bauer
Ratings Mark Glickman, glicko@gmail.com Ruth Haring
Mike Atkins
Rules David Kuhns, E4e5@centurylink.net Mike Atkins
Scholastic Council/Committee Mike Hoffpauir, Co-Chair, mhoffpauir@aol.com Mike Nietman
Sunil Weeramantry, Co-Chair, pawntunes@gmail.com
Senior Bob Mahan, bbmahan@verizon.net Mike Atkins
States Guy Hoffman, schachfuhrer@hotmail.com Gary Walters
Top Players no chair named Ruth Haring
TDCC Jeff Wiewel, Chair, jwiewel@ntnusa.com Mike Atkins
Tim Just, Vice-Chair, Mrjust@yahoo.com
U. S. Open Hal Terrie III, halterrie@comcast.net Chuck Unruh
Website Advisory Committee (WSAC) Boyd Reed, blitzburgh64@gmail.com Mike Nietman
Ruth Haring
Women’s Chess Jennifer Skidmore, jmscamelot@gmail.com Ruth Haring
Other Liaisons:
Director of Prevention Programs Rachel Lieberman Staff

10 January 2014 | Chess Life

Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment
Column Number 420
First Time Control Reached: Chess Life readers have been devouring
“Chess to Enjoy” for 35 years now. We decided to celebrate this milestone
by inviting our columnist to take a look back.
By GM ANDY SOLTIS
ANY USCF MEMBER CAN WRITE A CHESS
Life column. In fact, I’ll bet that anyone
can write two columns.
It’s when you try to write the 100th col-
umn or so that it begins to get tough. For
me, this one is number 420.
Column number 1 appeared in January
1979 after Burt Hochberg, the longtime
Chess Life editor, asked me to try writing
about offbeat aspects of the game. I had
worked as a New York Post reporter for 10
years and written books and a weekly
newspaper column. But I had no idea what
a monthly magazine column would be like.
Burt only gave me two guidelines: “Make
it interesting,” he said. “And do it in
descriptive notation.” (More on that later.)
My immediate problem was: What is
“interesting”? Aren’t different players inter-
ested in reading about different things?
Doesn’t it vary according to the reader’s
rating? Or age? Personality? IQ? Shoe size?
I decided to trust my instincts: What
subjects, I wondered, was I interested in?
The answers I came up with were all
over the map: How much luck is there in
chess? Do great players play great chess
when they’re sick? How did English
become the dominant language of chess?
Is triangulation possible in middlegames?
Or Zugzwang? Do grandmasters ever make
illegal moves? Who are the greatest over-
achievers and under-achievers in chess?
Did world champions win or lose the last
game of their lives?
Each of these could—and did—become
a subject for “Chess to Enjoy.” (Why that
name? I had used it as a book title, Burt
liked it—and neither of us could think of
anything better.)
Very little, if anything, had been written
on these topics before. So research came
slowly. In the meantime, I began collecting
random bits of information in hopes I’d
be able to fit them into an appropriate
column. I ended my first Chess to Enjoy
with this puzzle:
What can a king, a knight, a bishop, a
pawn or a rook do but a queen cannot?
(Answer on page 71.)
I filed potential column material in manila
14 January 2014 | Chess Life
folders. I still do. If you look into my wooden
cabinets, you’ll find folders stuffed with,
among other things: U.S. Open bulletins,
printouts from Russian websites, press
releases about man-versus-machine match-
es, clippings from German and British
newspapers, and even copies of Chess Life
when it was an eight-page newspaper in
the 1950s. Whenever I came across a clever
quote by someone, a bizarre game or a
striking fact, I added it to my “interesting”
files. For example, this caught my eye and
appeared in an early column.
I’ll just move my piece here. Or there.
GM Ulf Andersson
IM Michael Basman
Hastings, 1974-75
Black’s next 12 moves were “passes”:
12. ... Ba8 13. Rfd1 Kh7!? 14. h3 Kg8! and con-
tinued 15. Kh2 Kh7 16. g4 Kg8 17. Bg3.
Bear in mind that White was one of the
world’s highest rated players at the time.
Yet Black treated his moves as if they
didn’t matter: 17. ... Bb7 18. e3 Ba8! 19. a3
Bb7 20. f4 Ba8 21. Rd2 and now, for variety,
21. ... Qd6 22. f5 Qd8! 23. Bf4 Bb7.
Black’s pieces are back where they were
in the diagram. Surely you can’t get away
with playing like this against an elite grand-
master. But 30 moves later ... White resigned.
I squirreled away material in my folders
without any idea of how it might be used.
The transcript of the press conference at
the end of the 1997 Deep Blue-Garry Kas-
parov match is there, along with the
minutes of chess cases brought before the
Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne,
Switzerland. The same goes for newsletters
of the Grand Masters Association, the text
of a chess stage play, “Knights of the Id,”
and all of the Belle program’s tournament
games, which programming pioneer Ken
Thompson gave me in the early days of
computer chess. Even the declassified mil-
itary analysis, signed by Reuben Fine, that
he did of anti-aircraft action against Japan-
ese planes during the Biak landing in May
1944. Will I ever find a use for this stuff?
I have no idea.
Researching my own books also pro-
vided material. For example, I was at the
Marshall Chess Club one day looking for
material for a biography of Frank Marshall,
when I found some of his handwritten
notes for what became My Fifty Years of
Chess. On a yellowing legal-pad page was
a story that inspired an April 1993 column
about how players dream.
A dreamy position
Carl Schlechter
Frank Marshall
Prague, 1908
This position was adjourned, to be
played off the next day. During the night
in his hotel room Marshall couldn’t find
a win after the likely 33. Qc8. He fell asleep
—and dreamed of Wilhelm Steinitz.

1979
Steinitz had been dead for eight years.
But he appeared in “a white shape” and
told Marshall to create a passed pawn
after 33. ... c5!.
The next day he won after 34. Qa8 Bxe3
35. Bxe3 cxd4 36. cxd4 c5! and 37. dxc5 Qc4+
38. Kf3 d4 39. Bf4 Qxc5. “I owe Steinitz much
but this is perhaps my greatest debt,”
Marshall wrote. The story was left out of
My Fifty Years in Chess, probably because
Marshall fans didn’t want to read about
a U.S. champion that flaky.
As my manila folders filled up I formu-
lated a few basic rules for Chess to Enjoy:
(1) NEVER REPEAT YOURSELF.
That’s almost impossible to adhere to.
But I decided to vary the subjects as much
as possible from month to month. In the
course of a year I usually write one or two
columns a year about openings, one or
two about some middlegame features, and
maybe one about the endgame. That wasn’t
a formula. It just worked out that way.
I also found I was writing about new
phenomena, like mouse-slips or how to
second-guess your computer, as well as
about things from the not-too-distant past
such as sealed moves, the Lone Pine tour-
naments, adjudication, New York’s Flea
House, wallboard boys, Shelby Lyman’s
1972 TV show and the National (Tele-
phone) League.
Annotation was another favorite topic,
and I wrote about how some masters write
“up” and others write “down” and how in
one famous game different annotators
would give the same move a “?,” a “!,” a
“!?” or a “?!”. In one of my favorite columns
I suggested using some of the under-uti-
lized keys on a keyboard to annotate a
game Informant-style—such as with “$”
to indicate when one player offers his
opponent a bribe.
(2) TRY TO HAVE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
IN EACH COLUMN.
Most chess columns are written for a
ratings-specific audience. Some are aimed
at 800 to 1200 players. Others at 1200
to 1600. Or 1600 to 2000. There’s at least
one magazine aimed at players rated over
2500—or who like to think they are.
I recognized this could be a problem
when I began a newspaper column in
1972: If it consisted just of analysis of
one game, I would be unintentionally
excluding a large chunk of readers. So
my newspaper columns told stories,
relayed news, offered insights. The diagram
would be a White-to-play-and-win, not a
footnote to the week’s game.
USCF members are a pretty sophisti-
cated lot so I decided to try the same with
Chess to Enjoy. Some readers may like
one of the games I include in a column.
Others may be interested in an anecdote
or some famous player’s quote. Or an
observation might strike them.
I knew from experience that no one was
going to like everything in a column. But
if I provided enough things to like, Chess
to Enjoy just might last.
And my third rule was:
(3) AS SOON AS YOU MAKE THIS MONTH’S
DEADLINE, THE CLOCK IS TICKING FOR NEXT
MONTH’S.
That’s something I learned from surviving
50-moves-in-two-hour time controls in
Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment
weekend Swisses. If I relaxed after the 50th
move and took a mental rest, I soon found
myself in time trouble all over again, trying
to reach the next control at move 75.
The same goes for columns. As soon as
I file, say, the July Chess to Enjoy, the
clock is ticking for August. My clock is
always ticking.
After a few years, I had started work
on dozens of potential columns in my
computer. Some were waiting for more
material, like a recent game to illustrate
a key point. Each would be based on one
those questions I kept wondering about:
Did any world champions compose prob-
lems? What were the greatest matches
that should have been played but didn’t?
How good are the children of world class
players? Is the Alapin’s Opening (1. e4 e5
2. Ne2) really bad? What about Marshall’s
forgotten variation of the French and Sicilian
Defenses (1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 c5!?
and 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. d4 d5)? Why are
trophies awarded at so many tournaments?
Did Arpad Elo play in tournaments?
Sometimes it took years before I felt a
file had enough in it to be ready for print.
For example, in 1987 I began a file about
how superstitious grandmasters are. The
column finally appeared last August.
Another file I’ve kept is titled “How much
chess” and contains notes of what various
great players regarded as the right number
of tournament games to play in a year.
I’ve been adding to it for 30 years. It’s still
not ready.
Some columns were inspired by my wife
Marcy, like when she asked whether I see
the colors of the pieces when I calculate
variations mentally. Why hadn’t I thought
about that before? Other columns were
inspired by readers. Keith Halonen of Rohn-
ert Park, California wrote me to ask: With
all the attention paid to prodigies, are there
late bloomers in chess? I responded in Jan-
uary 1986 with some notable examples.
But I also came to a curious conclusion:
Several great—and many non-great-play-
1989
www.uschess.org 15
Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment
ers—made the bulk of their progress in
the first eight years that they took chess
seriously. Over the years I’ve stumbled
upon other observations, such as how
most world champions were the second
oldest brother in their family. Or what I
called the Law of Diminishing Tactical
Sight—If you don’t see a tactical shot as
soon as it’s your turn to move, you’re not
going to see it after spending 10-20 min-
utes thinking.
Sometimes I challenged readers. In an
early Chess to Enjoy I showed four prob-
lems that have baffled the world for more
than a century and said anyone who solved
just one would become famous. In the
Eight Officers problem the task is to place
the eight first-rank pieces—a king, queen,
two rooks, two knights and two opposite-
colored bishops—on an empty board so
that every square is attacked. It sounds
easy ... until you realize that a square
occupied by a piece isn’t attacked by it.
Strangely, the closest to a solution any-
one has come up with is 63 squares.
Three readers sent me extensive mathe-
matical proofs that showed how 64
squares is impossible. And one of them
said he used a computer to study the
problem for 400 hours.
Another rule I set for myself was to
avoid the cop-out of annotating one of my
own games. In fact, I rarely annotate a
single game. I did it in 1983 when I ana-
lyzed the new record holder for longest-ever
tournament game. (It was a mere 193
moves. That number has been topped 20
times since then.)
Another of the exceptions proved embar-
rassing. In March 1985 I analyzed:
Two Knights Defense,
Wilkes Barre Variation (C57)
Christophe Van de Loo
M. Hessling
Weekend Tournament, Holland, 1983
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4
Nf6 4. Ng5 Bc5 5. Nxf7
Bxf2+ 6. Kxf2 Nxe4+ 7. Ke3
Qe7 8. c3 Nd4 9. Kxe4
Qh4+ 10. Ke3 Qf4+ 11. Kd3
d5! 12. Bxd5 Bf5+ 13. Kc4
b5+ 14. Kc5 Qh4 15. Nxe5
0-0-0 16. c4 Rxd5+ 17.
cxd5 Rd8 18. Nc3 Nc6 19.
Qa4!!?
Most of these moves
were played before and
deserve one or two excla-
mation points for reasons
that would require five
pages to explain. White’s
last move, which avoids
various mates, is “the
most stunning theoretical
novelty on record,” I
16 January 2014 | Chess Life
wrote. But now I wonder if 19. Qg4!! isn’t
better.
19. ... Qe7+ 20. Kxb5 Qxe5 21. Qc4 Nd4+ 22.
Ka4 Bd7+ 23. Ka5 Nc6+ 24. Ka6 Nb8+ 25.
Kxa7 c6 26. Nb5 Bf5 27. d4 Rd7+ 28. Ka8 Qe7
29. dxc6 Be4 30. d5 Bxd5 31. Qxd5 Rxd5 32.
Na7+ Kd8 33. Kxb8 Qc7+ 34. Ka8 Ra5 35.
Bg5+! Rxg5 36. Rad1+ Ke8 37. Rhe1+ Kf8 38.
Rd7 Qxh2 39. Ree7 Qxg2 40. Rb7 Rc5
41. c7! Qg4 42. Rf7+! Ke8 43. b4 Rc2 44. a4
h5 45. a5 h4 46. b5 h3 47. Nc6 h2 48. Rxg7!,
Black resigned.
Four years after this, USCF member
Bob Wolf wrote me to say that he and his
wife were in Holland when they showed
Chess Life to members of a club in Utrecht.
The local chess columnist used the game
in the Utrechtse Nieuwsbald. It was only
after that that Wolf learned the game was
composed. “But it’s still a great game as
far as I’m concerned,” Wolf wrote. Yeah,
but I had been hoaxed.
That’s hardly the only mistake I’ve made.
My blunders included getting the names
of the White and Black players reversed
and making dumb mistakes in analysis.
In case you haven’t noticed, I avoid chess
programs whenever possible. Several years
ago I wrote about my technological inep-
titude: I don’t have a website, a home
computer or even e-mail. In fact, I said, I
don’t even have a toaster.
That changed a month later. A Chess
Life reader mailed me a toaster.
Despite my “never repeat” rule I did
return to some favorite subjects, such as
the way that the game scores of great
players have been either lost or changed.
I recently noticed another example of this:
Saidy’isn’t so
IM Anthony Saidy
GM Bobby Fischer
U.S. Championship, 1963-64
This is the celebrated endgame that Fis-
cher needed to win to score a history-
making 11-0. In My Great Predecessors,
Garry Kasparov claims White blundered
after 47. ... Nh5 with 48. Be1?. Black went
on to win after 48. ... Kg4 49. Ke2 Ng3+ 50.
Kd3 Nf5! 51. Bf2 Nh4! and 52. ... Nxg2.
Kasparov gave a long line of analysis
that proves White can draw with 48. a5!
Kg4 49. Bf2. There’s nothing wrong with
his analysis. He just got the moves wrong.
Fischer actually played 47. ... Ne4! so
that Bf2 in Kasparov’s line just hangs
the bishop.
One of the first things I discovered about
Chess to Enjoy was that I could never
predict the response a column would get.
In February 1986, for example, I wrote a
simple survey of blindfold chess, giving
some celebrated examples.
What could be controver-
sial about that?
I found out quickly
when a member of the
USCF policy board (the
predecessor to our current
executive board) berated
me for 30 minutes over
the phone and indicated I
might be fired. My crime:
I didn’t mention George
Koltanowski who, I was
told, was synonymous
with blindfold play. He
was entitled to be men-
tioned whenever the words
“blindfold chess” appear
1999 in Chess Life, I was
informed.
 Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment

By now, you’ve probably got some ques-

tions of your own. For example:
2013 U.S. Championship Quiz
Why did you stick with descriptive for so long?
(You fossil!) Gata Kamsky joined a small, elite group when he won his fourth U.S. Championship title last
It wasn’t my call. Back in 1979 Chess Life May. Kamsky won his first four games, drew his next five and needed to win an Armageddon
was converting to algebraic but Editor Burt playoff with GM Alejandro Ramirez. This month’s quiz is based on the games from the St.
Hochberg felt some content should remain Louis tournament. Be warned: There is more than one way to win some of these positions.
in descriptive for the benefit of long-term
members, the most loyal of USCF members.
We’re looking for the fastest winning line of play. This will usually mean the forced win of a
Whenever a new editor took over Chess decisive amount of material, such as a rook or minor piece. Solutions on page 71.
Life—I’ve worked for 10 of them—I usually
asked if they wanted to switch Chess to
Enjoy to descriptive. Finally one of them,
Peter Kurzdorfer, said it was time. Problem I Problem IV
IM Kayden Troff GM Ray Robson
FM John Daniel Bryant GM Marc Arnold
Didn’t there used to be nine diagrams in the quiz?
Well, yes. There were two rows of four and
then one lonely diagram in a third row. Then
the layout was changed (not my call) to two
rows. For a while the quiz appeared with five
diagrams in one row and four diagrams and
a white space in the other. Nature—and edi-
tors—abhor a vacuum. So the quiz was
reduced to six positions, in two neat rows of
three apiece. (Why not eight? Or ten? Don’t
ask me. Again, not my call.)

And finally:

Do you still enjoy Enjoy? WHITE TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY

Of course. It’s a welcome break from the
real world. In my day job I often write about Problem II Problem V
depressing subjects, like poison gas in Syria, GM Joel Benjamin GM Alexander Stripunsky
murders in Brooklyn, terrorist attacks every- GM Alejandro Ramirez FM Jorge Sammour Hasbun
where, and Representative Anthony Weiner.
Chess to Enjoy is always fun. I still get to
ask myself questions, like:
How do players age? Are endgame com-
posers ever inspired by their own games?
When does a rook actually become more
important than a knight in a typical game?
What’s the greatest consultation game ever
played? Do great players usually win —or
draw quickly—on their birthday? Why are
world championship matches getting shorter?
And now it’s my call. I have to start work on
column number 421. My clock is ticking.
BLACK TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY
See our review of Soltis’ latest book, a new edition
of Pawn Structure Chess, on page 12. Here are
Problem III Problem VI
some other books by Soltis that are available at GM Yury Shulman GM Robert Hess
uscfsales.com: GM Benjamin Finegold GM Marc Arnold

Frank Marshall, United States Chess

Champion: A Biography with 220 Games
(1994)
The 100 Best Chess Games of the 20th
Century Ranked (2006)
Rethinking the Chess Pieces (2005)
Transpo Tricks in Chess (2007)
The United States Chess Championship,
1845-2011: Third Edition (2011)
What It Takes To Become A Chess BLACK TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY
Master (2012)

www.uschess.org 17
Cover Story / Chess in Popular Culture
18

BY FM MIKE KLEIN
SEVERAL YEARS AGO, I began the new year with the intent of chronicling
every mention of chess in popular culture. I expected to come across
one or two mentions per month, mostly from sports analysts feebly
rehashing that any modicum of coaching strategy is somehow a
“chess match.” Choosing to keep track via a running document
on my laptop, I found myself rushing back to the computer several
times per day. It turned out, once I started paying closer attention,
passive references to chess abounded in the media. After two
weeks, I gave up. While surely an anachronism for days
without smartphones, which would have made the effort
much easier, it also showed how prevalent our game is
beyond sports programs. Magazines, commercials, movies,
music and television news shows have all at times been
fascinated by the game’s intricacies, subtleties and
personalities.
Formerly, chess players were seen largely by
outsiders as hermetic quasi-intellectuals who
chose to manifest their genius in a somewhat
questionable way—away from society and without
a general benefit to it. Recently, all of that has changed.
Chess is now accepted in many jurisdictions as a pedagog-
ically-sound educational institution, alongside art and music
education. The game is also producing cool adherents, whose
pursuits off the board have made them known to a much
wider circle. Where does chess fit into this upward trend in
popular culture—is this recent activity a passing fad or
something more?
The secondary question is whether an increase in
prevalence necessarily makes a game or item more “cool.”
Does chess even want another “Fischer boom” when
our modern tergiversator culture hastily adopts,
blankets and then jettisons the next greatest fad?
Take another item whose popularity came out of
nowhere to appeal to everyone from children to
adults, from stay-at-home parents to working
professionals. In 2006, Crocs had the highest
initial public offering ever for a shoe company,
then in 2007 the company sold nearly a billion
dollars of foam sandals. The following year,
they lost almost $200 million as their stock price
lost three-fourths of its value.
While no one thinks chess will burn as bright or
fade as spectacularly as Crocs, a parallel can be drawn.
According to leading brand strategy consultant Laura
Ries, “A hot brand ends up in one of two different ways.
It burns bright too fast and fizzles. Brands like this are
known as fads. Or a brand burns hot then continues at
a steady simmer. Brands like this are known as iconic.”
According to this logic, chess fits perfectly into the
“iconic” realm—a great percentage of the country can
play a legal game, which is just enough to allow chess
idiom, anecdotes, feature articles and movies to break
through the porous wall between the insular chess
community and the mainstream pop culture. A parallel
may be Monopoly. Most everyone in the U.S. has
played, and although its heyday has come and gone,
the game resurfaces from time to time. Nearly every
major media outlet reported in February that the
game was modernizing by adding a cat piece and
removing the iron. Everyone could picture the
pieces and had an interest in the story. As the
view of chess is modernizing, so too is its coverage.

FACING PAGE: The Simpsons Chess Set, TM & © 1997 20th

Century Fox Film Corp. THIS PAGE, TOP TO BOTTOM: New
York Chess, ©2001 Big League Promotions, LEGO®
Chess, Super Mario™ Chess: Collector’s Edition,
TM & © 2009 Nintendo
Created and distributed by USAOPOLY, Inc.

www.uschess.org 19
Cover Story / Chess in Popular Culture

As a recent compilation post on Vimeo shows,

chess has at least been an ancillary feature of
more than 150 movies and television shows.
Employed judiciously by directors from Ingmar
Bergman to Roman Polanski, the game is usually a
character actor itself. Recently, the 64 squares have
received top-billing.
The landmark Searching for Bobby Fischer (1993)
put chess on the silver screen like no other movie.
Though dealing largely with family relationships and
nurturing of a prodigy’s talent, the depiction of the chess
coach was telling. Rendering Bruce Pandolfini as a disillu-
sioned recluse was Hollywood’s nod to the chess master as
societal backwater—voluntarily sequestered and at times
churlish toward the ignominy and financial hardship of his
game. Fast forward a dozen years to Knights of the South
Bronx (2005) and swap out Pandolfini for David MacEnulty
(and the Upper East Side for the Bronx). The film depicts the
chess coach as much more engaging, participating in public
exhibitions and inspiring others rather than facing his own
demons about his career choice (Pandolfini’s character clearly
yearns for more transformation than MacEnulty’s).
Hollywood continues to fine tune the story line of chess as a
panacea for lost youth. This June, another chess coaching movie
premiered at the Los Angeles Film Festival, also based on a true
story. Life of a King (2013) casts Cuba Gooding Jr. (probably much
more recognizable to younger audiences than Ben Kingsley was in the
1990s) as the convict-cum-heroic teacher (see sidebar on page 22).
Based on the life of Washington D.C. ex-con Eugene Brown, the game
goes further into the inner-city, this time saving even more desperate
youths. Unlike the other two films, where the actors closely approximate
the ages of their subjects, Gooding Jr. is about 20 years younger than
Brown—Hollywood wants a younger, hipper game.
Queen to Play (2009) advances chess’ reach by making a woman the chess
enthusiast, something unthinkable a few decades ago. The documentary
Brooklyn Castle (2012) melds the two themes—overly-dedicated inner-city
chess teacher (I.S. 318’s Elizabeth Spiegel, née Vicary), who also happens to be
female. But it differs in the large focus on the student, and only gives a passing
reference to Fischer himself. Pobo Efekoro quickly became the magnetic star. As
school president and unofficial captain of the team, his personality is not differ-
entiable from that of the traditional star quarterback. Amidst a spate of publicity
interviews upon the movie’s release, Efekoro initially flubs his answers on The Daily
Show before finding his footing and ably playing the foil to host John Stewart’s
banter. “Pobama,” his self-referential portmanteau, is heard in the film desiring a
very public life as a budding politician, although he could easily be polished into a
television personality. Chess players, it seems, do not have to go on to work on algorithms
for 40 years.
John Galvin, an administrator at I.S. 318 who is featured in the movie, explained the
cool factor: “One key thing that we do at the school is really celebrate the kids’ accom-
plishments. At our school we have a chess hall of fame, make regular school-wide
announcements about the accomplishments of our kids, and proudly display trophies and
banners of our victories. Of course, having a movie doesn’t hurt.” Upon winning the high
school nationals, The New York Times did not mince words in its article title: “At a Brooklyn
School, the Cool Crowd Pushes the King Around.”
In a rare step backward for the public’s consciousness of chess, venerable filmmaker Woody
Allen gave Larry David the occupation of chess teacher in 2009’s Whatever Works. Like most
New York-based films from Allen, the male lead is a cantankerous misanthrope, so perhaps this
can be written off as simply the writer-director’s oeuvre.
Many other movie stars play chess themselves, including Will Smith and Woody Harrelson (who
once drew Kasparov in an impromptu game with the help of GM Yasser Seirawan). The Queen’s
Gambit by Walter Tevis was set to become a movie in 2008, with Heath Ledger taking the helm at
director for the first time. Ledger, a former western Australia junior chess champion, died before
filming commenced.
Currently, Toby Maguire of Spiderman fame is currently in production in Canada in Pawn Sacrifice.
He plays Bobby Fischer during the 1972 world championship match; Liev Schreiber plays Spassky.

20 January 2014 | Chess Life

 Cover Story / Chess in Popular Culture

Chess in music is not as well known as movie references, but its appeal crosses the entire taste spectrum.
Prior to the 21st century, chess in song was mostly limited to the soundtrack to the musical Chess and
its whimsical 1980s hit “One Night in Bangkok” by Murray Head (hitting number three on the U.S.
charts). The song was not exactly supportive of the worthiness of chess pursuits—it mostly discussed
the alluring and lascivious attractions of the Thai capital. Lyricist Tim Rice was probably more
concerned with rhyming and meter than substance—why else would random references to Yul
Brynner and Somerset Maugham be used in the same song?
Recently, a wider array of musical acts has shown respect for chess. The former rap mega-group
Wu-Tang Clan had several members who devoted much time to playing, and their appreciation of
the game spilled over into their lyrics. In 1994’s Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), the song “Da
Mystery of Chessboxin” told listeners that “the game of chess is like a swordfight” and portended
future chess projects for several members of the group.
RZA, also known as Robert Diggs, participated in several of the Hip-Hop Chess Federation’s
early events (and held their belt). He also helped out 9Queens, the Arizona-based non-profit
that focuses on availing chess to women and children. In a biography of the musical group,
RZA claimed to play nearly every day. He helped start the brief endeavor wuchess.com and
claimed in an interview on uschess.org that GM Maurice Ashley estimated his strength at
1300 or 1400. “Not bad though, you know?” RZA said. He also claimed, somewhat regretfully,
to have missed a chance in Iceland to meet Bobby Fischer shortly before his death.
Another Wu-Tang Clan member, GZA, otherwise known as Gary Grice, is also a huge
fan of the game and an artistic infuser of chess. He visits the Chess Forum in New
York City regularly and released an LP in 2005 with DJ Muggs called Grandmasters
(which he said he could have become if he had played more as a child). The video for
“General Principles” is rife with chess scenes, and true to the song’s name, the
moves shown are strategically sound. The intro is a sample of a Kasparov lecture,
which is less idiomatic than previous Wu-Tang Clan chess references, but is
perfectly understood by the tournament chess player. “Castle, Qc2, if black takes
on c4, then White could play e4,” Kasparov advises. It sounds like a Queen’s
Gambit, and to show how arcane the chess reference, most song lyrics websites
botch the transcription by writing illegal moves or simply forgoing the algebraic
minutiae by writing “chess sample.”
If chess in music was relegated to only one genre, it could be seen a
niche subject for source material, but several other arena-filling acts have
found their own ways to highlight their interest. The Canadian indie-
group Arcade Fire, which is so popular that they had a rare encore after
the close of a Saturday Night Live episode, used the man-versus-machine
metaphor in their last album The Suburbs. Largely a polemic against
urban sprawl over natural beauty and the apocalyptic paranoia of
computer intelligence, the record’s 12th track “Deep Blue” uses the
unnamed first game of Kasparov’s match to bring home the point.
“You could have never predicted it could see through you/Kasparov,
Deep Blue, 1996.” The reference is probably to the fact that no
world champion had ever lost to a computer in regular time
controls (although the final game of the 1997 match would
have perhaps been an ever more apt metaphor—more on that
later). For the band, the stunning loss signaled the coming of
Y2K fears, the ubiquity of cell phones, and the proliferation
of pervasive technology.
With the hip-hop and indie genres well covered, which
singer can represent the younger teenybopper crowd?
Enter Carly Rae Jepsen, former reality television
contestant and opening act for Justin Bieber’s 2012
tour. She does not sing about chess so much as she
professes her love for it. Jepsen explained in a prior
interview that she made her stepfather teach her
the game so she could approach a boy in high
school. She was crushed by her crush but he
The Official Star Trek® Tridimen-
eventually asked her out. “I felt like that was a
sional Chess Set, TM ® & ©1994
victory in itself,” Jepsen said. Like all good
Paramount Pictures
students of the game, Jepsen is now seeking a
stronger opponent to play on her tour. “My
personal assistant sucks at it, so I win every
single time. Which can be an awesome
feeling, but it gets old.”

www.uschess.org 21
Cover Story / Chess in Popular Culture
CUBA GOODING, JR. STARS IN LIFE OF A KING
By Jamaal Abdul-Alim
BEFORE HE ACCEPTED THE LEAD ROLE in Life of a King—a soon-to-be-released movie about an ex-
convict who starts a chess club to help young people growing up in one of the most violence-plagued
neighborhoods in Washington, D.C—actor Cuba Gooding, Jr., never had much experience with the
game of chess.
Nor—at least until the end of shooting the movie—had he ever met the movie’s real life hero, Eugene
Brown, a respected figure on the D.C. chess scene and perhaps best known as the man who runs the
“The Chess House” on the city’s northeast side.
The fact that Gooding never met Brown until the movie was nearly done represents an unwanted
departure from Gooding’s preferred approach to portraying living individuals on the big screen.
“I had to step into the role just based on the script itself,” Gooding told Chess Life during a recent
phone interview. “I usually like to get to know the character.”
For instance, Gooding recalled how when he prepared to play Carl M. Brashear, the first black master
diver in the U.S. Navy and the central figure of the 2000 film Men of Honor, he “hung out with him
every day.”
But in Life of a King, Gooding said, time and circumstances did not allow him to meet Brown and
hang out with him in his element.
Gooding said he was in New Haven, Connecticut, finishing up Carry Me Home, a movie in which he
plays the leader of a family of runaway slaves, when his agent approached him with the script for
Life of a King. Gooding—who had shot The Butler before beginning his work on Carry Me Home—
said he wasn’t looking for work and had been planning to take a break.
“While I was on the shoot, my agent calls and said, ‘I know you’re burnt out, but we just got this script
with an offer,’” Gooding said of Life of a King. “They said, ‘Read it and tell us if you like it.’”
Gooding said he became so enthralled with the storyline that he read it from start to finish.
“I didn’t put it down,” Gooding said.
Although accepting the role requiref Gooding to begin shooting the day after he finished Carry Me
Home, he still took on the role. And while
Gooding praises Brown for being a positive
force in the community, he doesn’t pretend
that he took the role strictly or even primarily “I hope this story is healing and
because of the redemptive qualities of Life of
a King.
therapeutic not just for black
“I can’t say I have to be a good guy that gives
a positive message,” Gooding said, noting that
Americans but all Americans...”
he played infamous black drug lord Nicky
Barnes in the 2007 movie American Gangster.
“I felt in the whole it was a movie that has an
important story to tell,” Gooding said of Life
of a King. “But I’m an artist first,” he said, explaining that practical things, such as location of the
movie and, of course, money, are among top considerations for whether he takes a given role.
Satisfied with the script and the offer, the Boyz n the Hood actor soon got himself to a set in Los
Angeles to get fitted for a wardrobe to play the role of Brown, founder and CEO of the Big Chair
Chess Club.
Playing the role of a chess mentor with a mission may not have transformed Gooding into a chess
aficionado, but the experience has left him with a new appreciation for the game.
“I still don’t really play as much as I would enjoy to,” Gooding said. But he added: “It’s a fascinating
game.”
It’s also a game of which he knew next to nothing before he began working on the movie.
That’s where the expertise of IMs Daniel Rensch and David Pruess came into play. Both of the
chess.com officials were hired as “chess consultants” in order to school the Life of a King actors in
the rules of the royal game.
Rensch told Chess Life that prior to shooting the movie, Gooding didn’t know “ANYTHING” about
chess.
“So the fact that he pulled off this character was a great testament to his acting abilities,”
Rensch said.
But it was not without a series of blunders, or should we say, bloopers.
For instance, Rensch confirmed one time during the shoot when Gooding erroneously referred to a
bishop as a rook.
Rensch told director Jake Goldberg “we should cut,” prompting Goldberg to shout a curse word that
people often insert into their exclamation about how they know what they are doing.
“He was not happy,” Rensch said of Goldberg. “But in the end, Cuba agreed, so he let it go.”
Rensch and Pruess said they believe their expertise proved crucial to making Life of a King a better
22 January 2014 | Chess Life
chess movie than it would have otherwise been.
They say the task was all the more vital since the movie
was shot at a breakneck speed that essentially made it
the movie equivalent of a blitz game.
“The thing is, we were brought in as chess consultants on
the same day Cuba signed on to do the movie, about four
days before shooting started,” Pruess told Chess Life via e-
mail. “They simply did not have time to make script
adjustments, as the actors were barely having time to learn
the original version of the script.”
So here and there, Pruess said, the director would have the
actors ad lib a few corrected sentences created on the spot
by Pruess and Rensch.
“But they did not have the time in their schedule to really
make some improvements with some of the chess dialogue,”
Pruess said, explaining that he came up with some recommen-
dations to improve upon some of the chess lessons that
Brown’s character used to double as life lessons, but was
not able to implement them into the movie.
Life of a King does not represent the first time that the Big
Chair Chess Club has drawn attention. It was an ABC News
segment about Brown and the young people he was
mentoring through the game of chess that ultimately led
to Life of a King.
Brown still keeps contact with the young people he mentored
through his chess club and who went on to participate in
and win various chess tournaments. And while their chess
ratings may not have ever gotten very high, they are now
young adults who describe the Big Chair Chess Club as a
place of refuge during their youth, and credit Brown and
his message of “think before you
move” with helping them land
where they are today.
They are individuals such as
Wendell Hankins, 29, who worked
at Big Chair Chess Club during his
high school years and says his
decision to go to attend college
and study information technology
is due partly to Brown’s influence.
“Mr. Brown was part of my life. He
was a mentor to me,” Hankins
recalled. “Chess wasn’t just about the board. It was about
your whole life.”
Brown said he never imagined when he started playing
chess in prison that his life story would one day end up on
the big screen.
“The seed for this whole movie was planted in a cell in
prison,” Brown said. “To see it blown into what it did, I
was just amazed. Words can’t really describe.”
As one might expect, Life of a King does not entirely match
the reality of the story of Brown’s transformation from a
convicted criminal to a chess coach who goes on a mission
to steer young people from making the same mistakes he
made.
Brown told Chess Life that only about 85 percent of the
movie is “close” to what really happened. The rest, he
said, is Hollywood drama.
The young people portrayed in the movie are more like
composites of the young people he has instructed over the
years and the elements from which they hailed, not actual
individuals, Brown said.
Still, the violence that surrounds the young people
portrayed in the movie is rooted in an undeniable
reality.
Consider the fact that as of the writing of this article, one
homicide; 24 robberies, including 10 with a gun; and
nearly five dozen property crimes that range from burglary
to theft had taken place within 1,000 feet of the Big Chair
Chess Club, according to crimemap.dc.gov.
Like the neighborhood in which it is situated, the Big Chair
Chess Club does not have a formidable cash flow.
The organization took in $16,000 and $22,500 in 2012
and 2011, respectively, and Brown, as CEO, has never been
paid more than $8,000 during either of those years,
according to tax returns for the organization under its legal
nonprofit name, Chair Chess Club, Inc.
Brown—who has plans to expand Big Chair Chess Club—
said he initially had misgivings about the amount of
money for which he sold the rights to his life story—the
exact amount of which he declined to disclose.
However, he said when he visited the Los Angeles set where
he saw a replica of his Chess House, as well as Gooding
and a number of lesser known and unknown actors busy
at work, he let go any thoughts about not getting enough
out of the deal.
One female actress in particular told Brown: “Look at
how many people you put to work.”
“That right there alleviated any concerns,” Brown said,
adding that he was just happy to see that his life story had
brought blessings to other people.
Another factor to consider is no matter how much Brown
was or wasn’t paid for the movie, having his life story
featured in a Hollywood movie adds a layer of credibility
that has eluded Brown since he acquired a criminal record
that he says prevented him from ever being able to teach
in D.C.’s public schools.
What’s more, the movie about Brown’s life could continue
to put actors to work and yield other unforeseen benefits.
For instance, in the movie, Brown’s character—seeking to
motivate one of the young people he is mentoring through
chess—makes a fairly prominent reference to GM Maurice
Ashley, the first African-American grandmaster and someone
with whom he was previously unacquainted.
“Whenever I get a project that comes across my desk and
I don’t know about the person it frustrates me,” Gooding
said. “Maurice Ashley was one of those names that I think
it’s a travesty that not a lot of this is at least echoed in our
educational system.
“To say first black grandmaster of history is an important
fact that a lot of kids need to know.”
Asked if a movie should be made about Ashley’s journey
toward becoming the first African-American GM, Gooding
said he would consider playing the role if a filmmaker that
he respected shot the movie.
“I honestly think it would be an amazing movie and would
be open to portraying it,” Gooding said.
Asked what kind of impact he thought Life of a King
might have, Gooding said he has no way to know but
hopes that people are educated and inspired by Brown’s
story.
“I hope this story is healing and therapeutic not just for
Black Americans but all Americans, and not just Americans
but people abroad that can find inspiration,” Gooding said.

Malcolm Mays (right) as "Tahime" and Blake Cooper

Griffin as "J. Thomas Gaines" in Life of a King. Photo
courtesy of Millennium Entertainment.
Cover Story / Chess in Popular Culture

Chess has also experienced an explosion in the last few years “There is more truth than poetry in the statement that chess
in magazine culture (the term “chess” has a full page devoted drives a man crazy,” White wrote. “After five or six weeks of play,
to it in the AP Style Guide). The most common offender is the men will all be literally on the verge of a breakdown from the
probably the news, features and literary veteran The New Yorker, intense concentration.” We are inclined to take him at his words—
a Zeitgeist of culture which has issued 97 references to chess that he meant “literally” instead of “figuratively” (he did co-author
just since the beginning of the the seminal style guide of the
decade (one more than they had English language), but this shows
in all of the 1900s). This includes how far chess players have come
profiles of Ugandan talent Phiona in their depiction. Another typical
Mutesi, a fictional piece entitled example comes from the issue
“Fischer vs. Spassky,” and an in- dated March 27, 1943 with a
depth look at the preternatural bewildering explanation of “Fairy
talents of Magnus Carlsen. The Chess.” The author is beguiled at
references creep into an array of what we currently call “chess
other works, including poetry composition” and instead of the
pieces, financial articles and book artistry of the help-mate or self-
reviews. mate, he can hardly hide the
The New Yorker’s obsession unworthiness of the endeavor.
with chess goes back into the After telling non chess players to
previous decade as well. Another skip the story entirely, he admits
145 references blanket the 2000s, to whispering about the sanity of
including a feature article on those who create chess puzzles.
Pandolfini (2001) and a trio of Reading them over, he and the
lengthy articles in a 12-month magazine staff “laughed our head
period beginning at the end of (sic) off.” More recent treatises by
2005. The chess program Hydra, The New Yorker have clearly
FIDE President Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, changed this view. Now, the game
and Kasparov’s political exploits is interesting not laborious. The
are covered meticulously in chess mind is fascinating not
nearly 30,000 words of detail. elusive. The chess master is
Not only was chess more engaging not reclusive.
dormant in the 20th century issues A newer Condé Nast publication
of The New Yorker (due not just to is also getting in on the act.
fewer features but also to many Wired magazine has run a
fewer analogous references), but handful of chess stories just
the portrayal of the game varied this year, including an in-
wildly. The recent articles are about depth portrait of Susan Polgar’s
younger, socially assimilated, university coaching and a story
topical individuals with lives on hackers who targeted an ad-
outside the world of chess. vanced chess-computing record that dealt with the expansion of
Compare with the magazine’s first foray into chess as the the famous “eight-queens problem.” Like Facebook CEO Mark
subject of a short feature article—a March 22, 1927 story Zuckerberg’s biopic The Social Network, the articles hint at the
unambiguously titled “Nuts” by E.B. White (of journalism school same career lineage—nerds whose brains eventually lead to great
mainstay Strunk and White fame). The writer uses half of his financial success, which is cool in the end. Contrast with Andrew
few words describing the physical torment that the chess players Bujalski’s award-winning movie Computer Chess, which premiered
experience and the similar exhaustion it gives to the spectators. at this year’s Sundance Film Festival and is also about chess
He seems to be experiencing pain just covering the local chess programming but is set in the 1980s. The period piece still relies
tournament, and never gets around to discussing any of the on a dated vision of chess players. The actors have thick glasses
players (Jose Capablanca and Alexander Alekhine would have and disheveled appearances. At one point a young man and a
been good fodder, while Frank Marshall played if he needed an young woman share a couch; searching for a pleasantry, all that
American angle). he can think to say is, “Do you like sports?” Crickets.
 Cover Story / Chess in Popular Culture

Books with chess themes have exploded

in popularity too, mostly forming more
modern depictions of the player. Few
current readers would want to endure
hundreds of pages about the agony of a
tournament-length chess game. (Could
Ulysses be published today? If you want
to know how much action is required to
satiate the modern audience in a one-
day period, witness the television series
24.) Just in the past ten years, more
than a dozen titles have either used chess
as a plot tool or focused exclusively on
the game.
Non-fiction works include Tim Crothers’
The Queen of Katwe, Mutesi’s pull-
yourself-up-by-your bootstraps story with
chess as the vehicle that gives an
impoverished girl’s world color and
opportunity. Michael Weinreb’s The Kings
of New York is a year in the life of Edward
R. Murrow High School’s chess team.
The “oddballs and geniuses” who are
depicted are the cool jocks of the school. Weinreb’s details of the players— fascination is probably the Kasparov versus
computer hacking, park hustling, girl chasing and egos conflicting—highlight computer matches. Famed statistical blogger Nate
the further distance the game has moved from the tired cliché of chess players Silver’s recent The Signal and the Noise covers the
as awkward introverts. The Chess Artist is J.C. Hallman’s personal foray into grandmaster’s ill-fated 1997 loss, revealing that
the competitive chess world—he weaves a tapestry of high-stakes tournament the stunning 8. Nxe6! in game six was more of a
with the players who play them, while also bringing more excitement to a fluke than was first reported. Mega-selling author
time scramble than anyone else. Paul Hoffman’s King’s Gambit differs in that Malcolm Gladwell also could not resist getting in
it is also a memoir, and better defines the inner struggle that chess players on the pop-chess action. His Outliers grouped
have with remaining competitive and quitting altogether. Like Hallman, erudite grandmasters with The Beatles in an attempt to
grandmasters are brought to life, and foreign intrigue (this time Libya instead show the hard work necessary for mastery.
of Hallman’s Kalmykia) make the case for the game’s colorfulness and excitement. The game has also seen a renaissance in the
Chess’ place in history is also being examined more closely as of late. Just world of fiction literature. Katherine Neville’s The
as authors will still be able to write a book about the Civil War hundreds of Eight (1988) was the standard bearer for many
years from now, so it also goes for chess. Stretching back a few millennia, years, with protagonist Cat Velis coming out of
Birth of the Chess Queen by Marilyn Yalom juxtaposes the rise of the power of her shell (she goes from wanting to work at her
the anthropomorphic queen with actual queens who were sovereign heads of office job even on New Year’s Eve to traipsing
around Algeria in search of lost treasure). The
intricate plot parallels a chess game, and some
of the same dramatic license was taken in last
year’s A Partial History of Lost Causes by Jennifer
“I have been the coolest person in the DuBois (like Hallman, a graduate of the Iowa
Writers’ Workshop—what are they teaching over
room and the lamest person. It just there?). The main female character, Irina, is much
bolder from the outset (but she is faced with a
depends on who is in the room!” terminal disease instead of Velis’ ennui). DuBois
also draws heavily on the current state of Russian
politics, with the chess game as a metaphor for
political intractability. The Yiddish Policeman’s
Union by Michael Chabon and The Luneberg
Variation by Paolo Maurensig both further the
state. The Immortal Game by David Shenk is a broader retrospective on the chess mystery motif with the actual moves and
game’s birth and advance across empires, and represents the most complete position providing a pivotal clue in the whodunit.
history since the oft-cited A History of Chess by H.J.R. Murray, written exactly Breaking Dawn, the fourth book by Stephenie
100 years ago. Meyer in the Twilight series, uses a chess theme
Focusing only on more recent times and satiating the general public’s fascination in its cover art. The author explained that she
with the Cold War, Bobby Fischer Goes to War by Dave Edmonds and John wanted to show the protagonist’s evolution from
Eidinow examines KBG files to flesh out more of the 1972 match with Boris pawn to queen (the book sold 1.3 million copies
Spassky (the closest thing chess has to a Gettysburg). The second-place public in the first 24 hours of its release).

Facing page, top: The January 21, 1961 cover of The New Yorker showing chess players in a bar or coffee house. Robert Kraus/The New Yorker. Bottom: The Muppet
Show Deluxe Collector’s Chess Set, TM & ©Henson. This page: Cartoon from the March 13, 1989 issue of The New Yorker, William Steig/cartoonbank.com.

www.uschess.org 25
Cover Story / Chess in Popular Culture

The Art of Learning are two self-help books through the prism
of chess. Chess players and their thinking continue to be used
as choice material in research studies—friends in academia
send me about one every month. I am also sent regular links to
For Ries, whose sons have also played tournament chess, the
articles about chessboxing, even though the once-nascent sport
game needs more than just pop culture mentions to be cool.
is entering its second decade. Chess had another run at Sundance
“There’s nothing that gets people more excited than celebrities
two years ago with the Bobby Fischer Against the World.
and superstars,” she said. “People don’t necessarily get excited
Ashley recently hosted a TED presentation, one of the most
about a game, they get excited about the people that play it.” Ries
in-vogue lecture circuits, and told his story on The Moth, a
brought up swimming and the Olympics. Casual fans that might
similarly topical radio show. GM Alexandra Kosteniuk graced
forget the butterfly stroke except for two weeks every four years
the pages of Vogue last year, while the World Chess Hall of
can still name Michael Phelps. Ditto Usain Bolt, Mary Lou Retton,
Fame continues to seek hybrids of chess and art or fashion.
Carl Lewis and the other champions of lesser-known sports.
The Hip-Hop Chess Federation has been expanding the reach
She could personally not name any grandmaster after Bobby
of its bold mashup of martial arts and chess combat. The BBC,
Fischer’s era, until now. Magnus Carlsen is on her radar, thanks
Fox Sports and Huffington Post have all run multiple stories on
to the continuous mentions of him in mainstream newspapers.
chess in the last year. In one of the more obscure television
“He’s young, he’s outgoing, he doesn’t wear a pocket protector
references, a poker commentator explained a professional’s bad
and fit the stereotype of the chess nerd,” Ries said. “That is
beat at the hands of an amateur by repeating (and referencing!)
enormously helpful for elevating chess in peoples’ minds.”
Aron Nimzowitch’s famous rejoinder, “Why must I lose to this
Carlsen’s 2012 segment on 60 Minutes did more to get the
idiot?” The reader will surely know even more examples.
public talking about chess than nearly any other piece of media.
Despite the overabundance of pop culture chess tie-ins, among
His blindfolded exploits and high-profile modeling contract
chess professionals, the jury is still out on cool. GM Magesh
removed all doubt that the latter-day grandmaster is unrecog-
Panchanathan thinks chess will not be cool until a majority of
nizable to Vladimir Nabokov’s Aleksandr Luzhin in 1930’s The
people understand it in-depth, which may never happen. “I
Defense (the 2000 film version updates the image slightly—the
guess being cool is relative,” he said. “I have been the coolest
tormented Luzhin still defenestrates himself, as several real-
person in the room and the lamest person. It just depends on
life grandmasters also have, but this time his wife completes
who is in the room!” IM Irina Krush attends a charity chess
his brilliant post-mortem combination).
event in Cincinnati each year, hosted by former NFL All-Pro
For chess to truly reach 1972 levels of excitement, Ries would
and current NBC commentator Cris Collinsworth. “The coolest
recommend a definite rival to Carlsen’s purported hegemony.
thing he sees all year is me and Greg Kaidanov playing blindfold
Fischer had Spassky and the Soviets. Kasparov had Karpov.
blitz,” Krush said. “He really gets a kick out of it. It's like magic
While there are a host of super-GMs who could rival Carlsen,
to him. So, isn’t chess cool?”
at least one has to become his near-equal. “We call it in marketing
Sometimes, chess can even be too cool. Several years ago, a
the law of duality,” Ries explained. “What makes a category
female chess teacher told me of the problem. When a guy would
exciting is not just one competitor but two. They balance each
approach at a bar and eventually turn the conversation toward
other. Even in mouthwash, it’s Scope versus Listerine. There’s
her occupation, her reply “chess teacher” would invite a flood
not one brand who appeals to everybody.”
of follow-up questions. The intrigue by the would-be suitor
Without any knowledge of the recent chess tournament
masked whether he was actually interested in her, or just her
coverage, Ries unwittingly affirmed that chess is making some
atypical job. To better gauge interest in her as a person, she
of the strides she would recommend. “What makes sports so
decided in the future to switch her answer. Her new reply?
exciting is the live commentary. It gives you the back stories to
“Math teacher.”
get you excited. Ex-players are the best commentators—they
give so much more insight.” Top-level chess events have already Bottom: Coca-Cola® Chess Set, The Franklin Mint ©1996. Opposite page, top
bettered coverage of live events in exactly this manner. to bottom: Doug Anderson, Hollywood vs. Broadway; Methane Studios, Dave
A host of other chess references in the mainstream have Matthews Band Posters; (left) Command Hair Spray, Playboy, June 1969;
helped in their own ways. Chess players have been on Jeopardy (right) Smirnoff, ©1997.
recently and “chess” was a category earlier this year. Kasparov
has appeared in several commercials, hawking soft drinks and
search engines. His How Life Imitates Chess and Josh Waitzkin’s
Cover Story / Chess in Popular Culture

www.uschess.org 27
 Chris Wainscott (center) at the 2013 Sinquefield Cup with (l-r) Hikaru Nakamura, Lev Aronian, Magnus Carlsen, and Gata Kamsky.

BEYOND THE BASICS

In a special feature-length version of GM Lev Alburt’s “Back to Basics”
column, a class player sets the goal of reaching master. Providing
his thoughts on the author’s methods and journey, Alburt offers
grandmaster perspective valuable for any player trying to improve.
By CHRIS WAINSCOTT with commentary by GM LEV ALBURT

In this special feature-length edition of GM Lev Alburt’s “Back to Basics” column, author Chris Wainscott details his goal of rising from
class player to master level. This is his starting point: He studies chess about 10-15 hours per week. When he solves problems, he
usually solves one or two out of 10. He plays about 10 games a month (either Game/60 or Game/100 time control). He meets with his
coach once every two weeks for two hours and they analyze his games and the coach’s games. GM Lev Alburt’s comments are in italics.

B ack when I was in high school and

was first taking chess seriously I would
always see people come in to the chess
club who were returning to the game after
an absence of 15 or 20 years. I never
understood this because to me chess was
something so beautiful and majestic that
I couldn’t imagine ever walking away.
In March of 1992 I was on top of the
world. I was 19 years old and had just
gone 4-0 and won my first tournament,
raising my rating to an all-time high of
1526. I assumed that my game would
continue to improve rapidly. It would only
be a matter of time before I became a
master! 19 years then passed before I
played my next game.
In January of 2011 I made my come-
back. During the preceding 19 years I had
played perhaps as many as five skittles
games. When I stopped playing I complete-
ly stopped playing.
After playing one rated game as a house
player (losing to an opponent rated 1199)
I played in my first tournament. I played
in the Reserve section and somehow went
5-0 and won that as well! First tournament
in almost 20 years and I picked up right
where I left off! I was unstoppable! Well
… not so fast.
Chess results fluctuate, often for no
apparent reason; so don’t overreact. Rather,
after 5-0, “it seems my real chess potential
is higher than I thought; let’s work hard to
fully realize it.” And, after failures: “let’s
learn from mistakes.” In both cases—the
common key—hard but enthusiastic work.
As I started to get back in to the habit
of studying and working towards
improving my game there were some
things that immediately became obvious
to me. The biggest was how technology
had changed the game. Back in the early
’90s I built my games database by going
to the library and hand copying games
out of whatever chess books they had. I
had read that this was something that
Paul Keres did, and so I figured if it was
good enough for Keres it was good enough
for Wainscott. Now you have millions of
games at your fingertips in the latest

28 January 2014 | Chess Life


ChessBase database. You also can find
any book you wanted for sale online rather
than being confined to whatever was in
the latest catalog that you had. I was
quickly learning that I was in danger of
being overwhelmed by information.
I realized just how real that danger was
a few months later as I had purchased
over 100 chess books and still had no
real plan as to how to improve. It was
time to decide where I wanted to be and
to map out what it would take to get there.
So I formulated a study plan. I picked
a list of openings to learn, chose some
endgame themes to work on, and then …
bought more chess books and didn’t follow
my new plan at all.
Having come to the conclusion that
saying I was going to do something and
actually doing it were two different things
I finally understood that it wasn’t going
to be an easy journey, but that if I
persevered I would make it. So I sat down
and designed a real plan.
The first thing I needed was a long term
goal that could be benchmarked with short
and intermediate term goals. Choosing
the long term goal was easy. I want to live
out my childhood dream and become a
master. Next I needed to determine how
best to benchmark that goal. Since my
rating was in the low 1500s it seemed to
make sense that I should set a goal of
when I felt I should be 1600, 1800, 2000,
and then finally 2200.
This was probably around March or
April of 2011, so I decided that by the end
of the year I wanted to be 1600. Then by
the end of 2012 I wanted to be 1800. After
that I knew that progress would slow so I
decided I would give myself three more
years to become an expert by the end of
2015, and then within five more years I
would be a master by 2020.
I’d put more emphasis on a different set
of questions. What do I need to know to
become an 1800 player? (More distant but
thus vague: an expert). How can I learn it?
Which books, which methods should I use?
The first step would be to get to 1600
over the next several months. My rating
had been bouncing between 1470-1520
for the majority of my return so I knew
that the first thing I would need to do was
to develop some consistency. One thing
which I was careful never to do was to
believe my own hype. For example, I have
often overheard players saying things like
“My rating is 1200, but I’m really playing
about 1500 strength.”
I took almost the opposite approach.
Since I was relearning everything from
scratch I felt more like I was 1500 playing
at 1200 strength. I was reading anything
I could about how to improve and the
two things that kept popping up were to
play as many games as I could and to
work on tactics.
So I set out to do those two things.
Amongst the books I had purchased were
a number of books on tactics. I worked
through several, but the ones that I kept
going back to were Chess Tactics for the
Tournament Player by Lev Alburt and Sam
Palatnik, and Chess Tactics for Champions
by Susan Polgar. Any time I had a few
free minutes I’d grab one of these books
and work through a handful of problems.
Within just a couple of months the
combination of solving tactical puzzles and
playing as much as I could manage yielded
some astonishing results. After having been
rated 1497 in mid-May I made it to 1623
at the end of July at the Green Bay Open.
We’ve all heard the motto “Success breeds
success.” Truer words were never spoken
and so I continued my work on tactics and
playing a large number of games. I also
decided at this time to refine my opening
repertoire a bit. I don’t much care for
opening study although I do play main line
openings. I was playing the Sicilian Najdorf
at the time and was starting to have to
play a lot of games against players rated
1900-2100 and getting crushed right out
of the opening as my opponents had a far
greater understanding of those positions
than I did and those openings lend them-
selves to tactical maelstroms which I was
not nearly as ready for as the higher rated
competition was.
The Rule of Thumb for non-experts: spend
about one quarter of your study time on
openings.
So I went back to the French Defense
which I had been playing as a teenager. I
figured that the more solid choice would
work in my favor. I also started to play the
Orthodox Queens Gambit Declined rather
than the Kings Indian for the same reason.
By October 2011 I made it to 1721 after
a nice showing at the Hales Corners
Challenge. I also finally made the decision
to get a coach. I had been on the fence
for a while about this, but finally knew
that it was time. So I started working with
Nolan Hendrickson, a young master from
the Milwaukee area where I live.
Between the decision to start working
with a coach, and my strong performances
over a few months I was once again on
top of the world and felt like the sky was
the limit! It was then that I committed
the cardinal sin I had so far avoided. I
got cocky.
Then reality set in. By April of 2012 I
had shed almost 100 rating points,
crashing to 1625. I was continuing to work
with Nolan, but it seemed that our lessons
had taken on the same flavor. He would
tell me to work on solving endgame studies
to improve calculation and I would ignore
him and do whatever I wanted.
Endgame studies can be beautiful and
some are indeed useful for practical players,
like this famous Reti study:
Instruction / GM Advice
WHITE TO PLAY AND DRAW
Solution on page 71.
Still, there are more efficient ways to im-
prove calculations (one hint—use mostly
positions from, or based on, real games).
By August of 2012 I was in total free
fall. My rating was down to 1560 and I
was beginning to wonder if I would reach
my 1500 floor. I couldn’t seem to win any
games against players rated 200-300 points
lower than me. Even my coach moved out
of town.
It was at that point that the real work
began. It was time to dig in my heels and
get my game back on track. The first thing
that I did was to take a long hard look at
my study habits. I had gone from diligently
working on tactics to hardly working on
them at all. I had come to the erroneous
conclusion that since I had done so much
work on them I didn’t need to keep it up.
I also realized that working with a coach
is a huge benefit that shouldn’t be ignored,
so I started working with Allen Becker, a
local 2100 player.
I was finally able to stop the bleeding
and begin my trip back towards my peak
rating. A couple of strong showings com-
bined with the hard work I was putting
in had me back over 1660 in just a couple
of months. From there I set the goal to
get to 1700 by the end of 2012. I didn’t
quite make it as I finished 2012 at 1689.
A month later in January of this year I
made it back over 1700.
It was then, after making such a steep
round trip that I decided it was time to
truly focus in on my goals and how best
to achieve them.
One of the first decisions that I came to
was that it was going to be important to
track my progress in a detailed manner so
I could chart what was and what was not
working. So I started a blog (http://onthe
roadtochessmaster.blogspot.com/).
I did so not only to track what was and
what wasn’t working, but also because I
needed something that would force me to
be honest with myself when I wasn’t
working on the things that I said I needed
to work on.
I also made the decision to go back to
my original loves, the Sicilian Najdorf and
the King’s Indian Defense. My two favorite
www.uschess.org 29
Instruction / GM Advice

could force him to trade his knight for my

pawn. I would then be forced to mate with
Sample From Chris’ Blog: The Plan two bishops. I wasn’t 100 percent sure I
remembered how to do so. In fact, I was
One thing that I think is very important to achieving my goal is to have a plan. After all, isn't maybe 25 percent sure I could pull it off.
the game itself about attempting to find and then execute a winning plan? Currently, much So I went back to basics and worked on
like in an actual game, I have both a short-term and a long-term plan ... mating with two bishops and now have
My long-term plan is currently this: 100 percent confidence that I can pull it
off if needed.
A good example how to expand our area
Fine Tune My Opening Repertoire
of solid knowledge.
I know that this is something that many players probably spend far too much time on. One thing I have learned through all of
In my case, I don’t think that I spend enough. Until the last month or so I almost never this is that there is not only one true path
studied openings at all. I mean ever. to improvement. Ask 10 masters how they
This doesn’t mean that I want to learn the latest topical lines of the Najdorf out to move 30. got there and you’re just as likely to get
10 different answers as you are any other
number. So what works for me might not
It just means that I want to gain a deeper understanding of openings in general and then put
work for you, etc.
together a repertoire that will fit my strengths. (Correct.—L.A.)
True. Listen to experts/writers, but do
Play Over Annotated Games it with a grain of skepticism. Try to find
This is my main focus right now and has been for the past three months or so. In that time out what works best for you.
I have played over 100-150 or so games. In addition to the move-by-move books that I Having said that there is exactly one
piece of advice that I would give because
I think this is appropriate to everyone
have been using (see my earlier posts) the main book I have been using for this is Tartakower's
whether you’re rated 500 or 2500. The
excellent work 500 Master Games of Chess.
I agree. Chris told me he chooses about half of the games because they fit his opening advice is to ask questions to players who
repertoire; the rest can be in any other opening. (Thus, being a French player, Chris likes are stronger than you.
Also, learn to address the right questions
to your Houdini/Fritz.
Korchnoi’s and Botvinnik’s books of annotated games).
One of the things I love about Tartakower's book is that it talks about strategic themes. So here I am now. In one manner of
looking at things I’ve made it no further,
Yes, the best books (for non-grandmasters, at least) are books with many words and few at least rating wise, than where I was 18
variations. months ago. However, in the proper way
of looking at things I’ve learned how to
Endgame Studies learn, which is a huge revelation. I feel
Right now I am not focusing on hard-core endgame work. Not too many of my games get to poised to continue taking steps on the
journey towards my goals. I know that
along the way there will be some setbacks.
an even endgame.
Some basic—and later not-so-basic—endgame knowledge is required for a would-be expert. Some will be avoidable, others will be
In fact, both Chris’s games in this issue were won and lost in the endgame. (In a game versus inevitable, but all of them will contain
Mr. Cooper, a master, Chris missed several opportunities to draw. Don’t forget the strategy as teachable moments.
I’m sure that many things (say, tactics,
or ideas from Tartakower’s book) are still
well: be a well-rounded player!
present in Chris’ inner mind and the time
Tactics spent to learn them isn’t wasted—far
Of course one of the most important aspects of improving is working on tactics. In addition from it.
to my favorite books, I use the tactics website www.chesstempo.com since it offers free I feel that as long as I embrace those
unlimited training. moments and commit to learning from
them I will eventually reach the top of the
mountain and get my title.
players of all time, Bobby Fischer and I’m actually not. For instance, a recurring
Garry Kasparov played them, as does my theme for my first month or so of blogging
current favorite Hikaru Nakamura, so why was that I would list tactics as something
English Opening,
not me? Yes, it means that I have to work I planned to work on and then I wouldn’t
Four Knights Variation (A29)
hard on my openings, but that’s OK. Isn’t actually go do the work. Since I was forced
Chris Wainscott (1710)
hard work what this is all about anyhow? to confront that on an almost daily basis
Dave Sagunsky (1686)
As a result of my blogging I have I was finally able to break the cycle and
Lover's Romantic Valentine Quad (2), G/100
formulated a long term plan that involves actually correct the issue rather than
playing over hundreds of annotated games continue the fallacy. 1. c4 e5 2. Nc3 Nf6 3. g3 Bc5 4. Nf3 Nc6 5. Bg2
along with working on my endgames. Another lesson has been that since I The Exchange combination starting with
In fact, see the sidebar “The Plan” for a blog about the games I play I tend to tear 5. Nxe5 brought White an advantage in
sample post I wrote in my blog. down the games and really discover Botvinnik-Keres, 1966. Later, however,
I have found that by clearly and weaknesses and areas of my game which Black’s play was improved upon, leading
concisely laying out what I want to do I need serious work. As an example, I played to sharp but basically even positiions.
am then able to actually do it much more a game in which I calculated a line which
efficiently than I would be otherwise. It’s would potentially leave me with two 5. ... 0-0
also much harder to fool myself and bishops and a pawn against a knight for
pretend like I’m doing something when my opponent. I knew that eventually I (see diagram top of next column)

30 January 2014 | Chess Life


6. 0-0
Ditto (see above—with different person-
alities, of course) for 6. Nxe5 Bxf2+.
6. ... d5 7. cxd5
From all four opportunities to capture on
e5 (on moves 5, 6, 7—now, and 8) 7. Nxe5
was the one which promised White some
real (about +/=) edge.
7. ... Nxd5 8. Nxe5
Entering into murky waters needlessly.
8. ... Nxc3
9. Nxc6
This is an unnecessary complication.
There is no reason to go into such a
complex line with the perfectly good 9.
bxc3 Nxe5 10. d4 Bd6 11. dxe5 Bxe5 12.
Qc2 which would have worked just fine.
This is an excellent position to train and
improve calculation! First Chris had to
visualize the position after his planned move,
the ambitious 9. Nxc6 Nxd1 10. Nxd8 (1½
moves deep); then, found 10. ... Bxf2+ 11.
Rxf2 (clearly, after 11. Kh1 Rxd8, Black is
at least equal) 11. ... Nxf2 12. Nxb7—
visualize and see that Black, ahead in
material, is clearly better. Time to reject 9.
Nxc6 and start analyzing 9. bxc3. Altogether,
four moves, most of them de facto forced—
not easy for the non-master, but doable (if
given 10-15 minutes; interesting how much
time Chris spent on crucial moves like 7.
cxd5, 8. Nxe5, and 9. Nxc6).
9. ... Nxd1 10. Nxd8 Nxf2
I wound up looking at this game with
my new coach a few days after it was
played and we came to the conclusion
that 10. ... Bxf2+ 11. Rxf2 Nxf2 12. Nxb7
Nh3+ 13. Kf1 Rb8 14. Nc5 would have
been much better for my opponent. (See
my note to 9. Nxc6—L.A.)
11. Nxb7 Bxb7 12. Bxb7 Rab8 13. Bf3 Nd3+
14. e3??
14. Kg2 is much better than the move
I played.
A bit better, and a likely draw.
14. ... Nxb2 15. d4 Bd6 16. Be2 Na4 17. Bd2??
Another bad move as this just hands
over the second rank to my opponent.
17. ... Rb2 18. Rfd1
18. ... Rbb8??
I have no idea why my opponent played
this, but after this move I was feeling
pretty good.
Despite White’s inaccuracies, 14. e3 and
17. Bd2, White isn’t in any real danger.
Perhaps, the most logical outcome would
be a draw after 18. ... Nc3!? 19. Bxc3 Rxe2
20. Re1 Rc2 21. Rec1.
Why 18. ... Rbb8 (indeed, a poor move)?
Probably Mr. Sagunsky first planned to
double his rooks on the b-file with 18. ...
Rfb8, realized that 19. Bc4 would threaten
to cut off his b2-rook and put it in some
peril—and decided, on impulse, to with-
draw that rook to safety.
Now White, with his two bishops in
an open, pawn-unbalanced position, is
clearly better.
19. Rab1 Nb6 20. Rdc1 Nd7 21. Bb5 Nf6 22.
Ba5 h6 23. Bc6
Here I was trying to channel my inner
Karpov. I wanted to keep the knight out
of e4 and I didn't want to rush to try to
go after the pawn on c7. Instead I wanted
Instruction / GM Advice
to get my central pawns mobile.
23. ... Rfd8 24. Rb3 Rxb3 25. axb3
I was slightly worried about making a
target out of the b-pawn, but it seemed
like the very act of doing so would turn
his a-pawn into a target for me.
25. ... Ng4 26. Rc3 Nf6
I was worried that he would play 26. ...
f5 and that this would make it hard for
me to get e3-e4 in.
27. Kg2 Kh7 28. Kf3 g5 29. h3 g4+ 30. hxg4
Rg8 31. e4
Roll on!—L.A.
31. ... Nxg4 32. Bd7 Nf6 33. Bf5+ Kh8 34. e5
Chris played the ending—better, yes,
but hardly won—very well, and now reaps
the rewards. Even being short on time (less
than five minutes left) he will handle skillful-
ly his opponent’s quite imaginative tactics,
and score soon.
34. ... Nd5 35. exd6 Nxc3 36. dxc7
Nice, but, to me, 36. Bxc3 seems simpler.
36. ... Nb5 37. Kf4 Nd6 38. Bd3 Kg7 39. Bb4
Nc8 40. Bc5 Kf6 41. d5 h5 42. Bf5 a5 43. d6
Rg5 44. Bd4 mate.
The inner Karpov did his job well.
English Opening,
Four Knights Variation (A28)
Chris Wainscott (1702)
Jeff Cooper (2211)
Waukesha Memorial 2013 (4), G/60
1. Nf3 Nc6 2. c4
Objectively 2. d4 gives White the best
chances to achieve an opening edge.
However, I understand Mr. Wainscott’s
decision to steer the game into his recently
adopted English.
2. ... e5 3. Nc3 Nf6
Now, after 4. g3—if Black replied 4. ...
Bc5—we’d have a position from a game,
Wainscott-Sagunsky, played a month before.
4. e4
(see diagram next page)
www.uschess.org 31
Instruction / GM Advice
Lev Alburt’s
Advice to Chris
(and perhaps many others)
• Study chess in a comprehensive way—
tactics, strategy, endgames, openings,
etc. Your intermediate goal is to learn
whatever you think an expert should
know (then, move upwards to master).
• Prior to planning what to study—
evaluate yourself, and ask your coach/
friend to evaluate you. If needed, review
games you’ve played in the last year or
two. For example, on a scale of 0 to 10,
your overall play should be 5. Give your-
self, say, 7 for tactics and 4 for openings.
Then move deeper: give yourself 9 for
seeing tactics for yourself and 5 or 4 for
anticipating your opponents’ tactics (if
you are, indeed, prone to overlooking
these). Don’t try to be precise (impossible
and unnecessary); don’t try to do it all
at once. Sometimes such an evaluation
by itself will suggest what to do! Repeat
when needed.
• Work on both the “gaps” in your knowledge
and on your strengths. Wouldn’t it be nice
to be able to say, confidently, “I play
bishops-of-opposite-color endings like a
strong master?”
• Play and analyze all your games—
first yourself, then with Houdini (mostly
for hidden blunders), then with your
coach. When playing with a Game/60 or
longer time control, write down the time
you and your opponent spend on each
move. This will provide you with a lot of
valuable information when analyzing
your game, e.g., in the game versus
Sagunsky, how long did Chris think on
moves 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. In the Cooper
game, how much on moves 4, 5, 7, 8,
12, 17, 21, 22, 27 and, of course, 45
(where he missed an easy draw): also on
the last move, 58. What was Mr. Cooper’s
time at that moment? How long did he
think before playing 57. ... Rb3? ?
• Most likely, a well-organized quest for
chess greatness should work wonders!
32 January 2014 | Chess Life
4. ... d6
After a natural-looking 4. ... Bc5, the
same archetypical exchange (meaning:
trade) sacrifice, Nxe5, which dominates
the fifth to eighth moves of the previous
game, is possible, and gives White an edge.
Black’s most common reply to 4. e4 is 4.
... Bb4, with equality. The somewhat
passive 4. ... d6 invites 5. d4! and now all
lines: 5. ... exd4 6. Nxd4 (space, center);
5. ... Be7 6. d5 (space, misplaced black
pieces—even 6. ... Ne7 isn’t possible; 5. ...
g6 (attempting to transfer into the King’s
Indian, but 6. dxe5!); even 5. ... Bg4!? 6.
d5 Nd4 7. Be3 Nxf3+ favor White. Yes,
Chris is more used to fianchettoing the f1-
bishop, but here one move (5. d4) is simply
the best, and should be played. More
generally, Chris needs to expand the range
of positions he’s comfortable in.
5. g3 Be7
I’d prefer 5. ... g6 (fianchetto). Master
Cooper, however, seems to like to
tease/provoke his opponents by his
unorthodox play in the openings.
6. Bg2 Bd7 7. 0-0
It feels like a better plan would have
been 7. d4 but I wasn't sure if my
opponent would have captured. I felt like
I would be OK after 7. ... exd4 8. Nxd4
but wasn’t sure what I should do if my
opponent didn’t capture on d4. I couldn’t
figure out if I should push the pawn to
d5 or maintain the tension. In hindsight
it seems like pushing the pawn would
have cramped my opponent and so he
would practically be forced to take. At the
time it didn’t seem so clear.
True, 7. d4 exd4 favors White (+=). Black,
however, can’t (as Chris noted) simply
allow d4-d5—after, say, 7. d4 Re8 8. d5
White’s advantage is huge (±)—compare
with the Classic King’s Indian. Thus,
besides 7. ... exd4, the only other move
Black should consider is 7. ... Bg4, leading
after 8. d5 Nd4 (see the difference between
this and other knight’s retreats?) 9. Be3
Nxf3+ 10. Bxf3, leading to a position where
White is probably somewhat better, but
only somewhat.
7. ... Qc8
8. Re1
Here, too, d2-d4 is the best. White
shouldn’t worry too much about allowing
the exchange of his not-so-active g2-bishop
for its black so-far-only-one-good counter-
part, e.g., 8. d4 Bh3?? 9. d5! clearly favors
White. Also, when playing a much stronger
player, having two seemingly equal options,
choose the one which leads to greater clarity.
(alternatively, one proven way to outplay a
weaker opponent in an equal position is to
muddy the waters in order to give him more
choices, more opportunities to go wrong).
8. ... 0-0 9. d3 Bg4 10. Qc2 Nh5 11. Nd5 Bd8
12. Ne3
12. Be3 would have completed development.
12. ... Be6 13. a3 h6 14. Qe2 Nf6 15. b4 Nh7
16. Bb2 Bg5
17. Qf1
This is an absolutely terrible move. Here
I could have played 17. Nxg5 Nxg5 18. h4
Nh7 19. b5 and carried out my attack on
the queenside while also dulling my
opponent’s attack on the kingside.
On moves 8-17 the master tried hard to
follow my advice above (notes to 8. Re1).
Avoiding simple but equal situations, he
made a number of provocative, dubious
maneuvers such as ... N(f6)-h5, ... h7-h6,
... N(h5)-f6-h7. By the way, after 17. Nxg5
Nxg5— see the last comment by Chris—
I’d play 18. f4! rather than 18. h4, and
expand with a view toward an attack on
the kingside.
17. ... Bxe3 18. Rxe3 Ne7 19. d4 f6 20. d5 Bd7
21. Rc1
This move seems to be unnecessary. It

would probably have been better to break
with the immediate c4-c5 rather than to
over-prepare like this.
21. ... Qe8 22. Bh3
At this point I have pretty much thrown
away any advantage I had. Better would
have been 22. c5 f5 23. Nd2 because my
light-squared bishop is ultimately protect-
ing my pawn on d5 via an x-ray.
22. ... f5 23. exf5 Nxf5 24. Bxf5 Bxf5 25. Nh4
Qh5 26. Nxf5 Qxf5
27. Rcc3
Another inaccurate move. In looking at
this position now it seems obvious to me
that the better idea is to play 27. f4 since
that keeps the knight off the g5-square
and gives me a nice active plan of playing
against the center.
After 17. Qf1, White is no longer better;
after 22. Bh3 he’s definitely worse. And
yes, a temporary (perhaps) pawn sacrifice
27. f4—if 27. ... exf4 28. Re7—is White’s
best chance, and seems to hold the position.
27. ... Ng5 28. h4 Nh3+ 29. Kg2 Qxf2+ 30.
Qxf2 Rxf2+ 31. Kxh3 Rxb2
32. Rf3
White’s chance to hold the emerging one-
rook (on each side) ending, pawn down,
are slim. Thus I’d be tempted to play the
aggressive (and risky) 32. c5!?.
32. ... Rf8 33. Rxf8+ Kxf8 34. Kg4 g6 35. Kf3
Rd2 36. Ke3 Rd4 37. Rc2
At this point in the game I’m just
shuffling my pieces aimlessly as I couldn’t
come up with any plan that felt useful.
With no promising active plans (e.g. 37.
c5? Ke7, winning), it’s okay to adopt a
holding the position, show-me-what-you-
can-do attitude.
37. ... h5 38. Rc3 Ke7 39. Kf3 Kf6 40. Ke2 e4
41. Ke3 Ke5 42. Ke2
42. ... c6
Also possible was 42. ... Kf5!?, in order
to meet 43. Ke3? with 43. ... Rd3+ forcing
a trade into a won pawn ending and
deserved attention. White’s best chance, a
counterattacking 43. Rc1 and 44. Rf1, most
likely wouldn’t succeed to draw.
43. dxc6 bxc6 44. c5
45. Rc1 (note that 45. Rxd3 exd3+ is a
check, and this check wins, as White has
no time to take first on d6—46. Kxd3 dxc5
47. bxc5 Kd5). 45. ... Rxa3 and Black should
win, albeit there are still reefs to avoid after
46. b5!?. Even stronger is 44. ... d5, e.g.
45. b5 Rd3! 46. Rc2 Rxa3 47. bxc6 Ra6!.
45. cxd6
Here I missed my first chance to draw
with 45. Ke3 Rd3+ (if 45. ... Rd1, simply
46. cxd6, and if 45. ... Ke5, trying to repeat
the position, then 46. b5, and now White
is much better—L.A.) 46. Rxd3+ exd3 47.
cxd6 Kxd6 48. Kxd3.
As is clear from my earlier comments to
45. cxd6, White has an easy draw with
45. Ke3—even a chance to win if Black
tries too hard to avoid an immediate draw
(with 45. ... Ke5??).
45. ... Kxd6 46. Ke3
46. Rc5—avoiding ... Rd3 with a check
—also looks okay, i.e., drawish, enough.
46. ... Ke5 47. Rc5+
Instruction / GM Advice
And here I miss my second and final
chance to draw with 47. Rxc6 Rd3+ 48.
Ke2 Rxg3 49. Ra6. I wasn’t sure of the
drawing technique after taking the pawn
on c6, and I was too scared of the check
on d3. A few days after the game I was
fortunate to get some time both with my
opponent and another national master
who showed me how I could have drawn
this. Lesson learned.
Strictly speaking, if 47. Rxc6 holds, so
does 47. Rc5+ Rd5 (as in the game—forced)
and now 48. Rxc6 leads to exactly the
same position as in Chris’ last comments
(to 47. Rc5+). And while he was scared of
... Rd3+, the alternative (what he allowed
in the game), ... Kf5, and then ... Kg4, was
clearly worse for White.
47... Rd5 48. Rc3 Kf5 49. Ke2
Even now may not be too late to hold,
or at least to make Black’s road to victory
quite difficult: 49. Rxc6 Rd3+ 50. Kf2.
49. ... Rd6 50. Rc5+ Kg4 51. Rg5+ Kh3 52.
Ke3?!
After this the rest is technique by my
opponent.
“The rest is technique”—but why? Well,
because of White’s 52. Ke3, allowing the
black rook to jump from d6 to g3 (via 52.
... Rd3 check), winning the g3-pawn and
then the h4-pawn, while simultaneously
protecting his own g6-pawn. Again—please
show me an easy win after 52. Kf2, and
especially after 52. a4!.
52. ... Rd3+ 53. Kxe4 Rxg3 54. Rc5 Kxh4 55.
Rxc6 g5 56. Ra6 Kg4
56. ... g4 wins easily.
57. Rxa7
57. ... Rb3
Much stronger was 57. ... h4.
58. Ra4
White still could fight (the strange-looking
58. Ra4 indeed equals immediate resigna-
tion): 58. Kd4 h4 59. Kc4 Rb1 60. a4 h3
61. Rh7 Kg3 62. b5 h2 63. a5 Kg2. The
only winning move; tempting 63. ... h1=Q
leads to a draw.
58. ... h4, White resigned.
www.uschess.org 33
Correspondence Chess / 2009 Electronic Knights / 2011 Absolute

Correspondence Chess Roundup

Recapping the 2009 Electronic Knights and 2011 Absolute
correspondence chess events
By FM ALEX DUNNE

2009 Electronic Knights Championship

The winner of the event was not a surprise. Wilbur Tseng repeated his 2008 victory, but not without some struggle. Tseng brought in a perfect preliminary round
and a perfect final round but was held to two draws in the semifinal round by Tim Corkum and Harold Brown. All in all it was another impressive performance by
Tseng who has won most of the important tournaments conducted by USCF—with the exception of the Absolute which even now he is contesting.
For those of you unfamiliar with Wilbur Tseng picture a modern Renaissance man who paints on the chessboard. Why a Renaissance man? A whiz kid in school,
winning more than 100 math and science competitions, a published author of many medical papers (a notable title is “Neurotoxic Lesions of the Dorsal Hippocampus
Disrupt Auditory-cued Trace Heart Rate (Fear) Conditioning in Rabbits” with co-authors Matthew McEchron and John Distehoft), owner of a Chicago restaurant (and
occasional chef), scientist at Northwestern University Medical School, and correspondence chess master, and all this at 33 years of age. Those are some strong
credentials along with two-time winner of the Electronic Knights Championship. Here is Wilbur Tseng at work:

Queen’s Gambit Declined,
Semi-Slav Variation (D31)
Wilbur Tseng (2342)
Salvatore Calvanico (1993)
2009 Electronic Knights Final
1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nc3 e6 4. e4
This potential gambit line has
few adherents among the top players
who generally seek soundness over
adventure.
4. ... dxe4 5. Nxe4 Bb4+ 6. Nc3
Statistically the scoring preference
(54 percent to 50 percent) is given to
6. Bd2 here. That gambit line can lead
to some wild fights as in Joop J. van
Oosterom-Viktor Vasilievich Tomkovich,
World Championship 15 Final which
saw 6. Bd2 Qxd4 7. Bxb4 Qxe4+ 8. Ne2
Na6 9. Bf8 Ne7 10. Bxg7 Nb4 11. Qd6
Nd3+ 12. Kd2 Nf5 13. Qxd3 Qxd3 14.
Kxd3 Nxg7 eventually drawn.
An immediate attack on the center
with 6. .... c5 as in Oliveira-Lafarge
Santorroman, Vinage Memorial 2007,
should transpose.
7. Nf3 0-0 8. a3 Bxc3+ 9. bxc3 Qa5
10. Be2!
Offering an indigestible c-pawn—
10. ... Qxc3+ 11. Bd2 Qb2 12. Bb4! and
Black’s queen is in major trouble. A
probable continuation could be 12. ...
Rd8 13. Rb1 Qa2 14. Qc1 c5 15. Bxc5
b6 16. Bb4 a5 17. Be7 Re8 18. Bxf6
gxf6 19. Nd2! e5 20. Ra1.
10. ... c5 11. 0-0!?
(see diagram top of next column)
Once again Tseng offers the c-pawn.
This time it looks edible but Black is
soon disillusioned.
11. ... Qxc3 12. Bd2 Qb2 13. Rb1!
Please, sir, may you have another?
What does White have for his two-
pawn offering? Complete mobilization
even though none of his pieces at first
appear threatening to Black. Yet right
now Black must attend to the threat of
15. Ra1 winning the queen.
14. ... Qa6 15. dxc5 Qc6
The queen was still not safe on a6—
the threat was Ne5 followed by Ra1.
16. Bf4 Qxc5
it only gets worse. Worth a try was 16.
... Nbd7 17. Bd6 Nxc5.
17. Rfd1 Ne8 18. Bd3
Those pieces that did not look so
threatening have in four moves buffed
up while Black’s two extra pawns have
little say.
18. ... f5 19. Rb5 Qe7 20. c5 e5
Black tosses a pawn back for
freedom but this only aids White’s
pieces. Even after Black’s best with
20. ... Nc6, White strengthens his
position with 21. Bc4 a6 22. Rb3 Na5
23. Rbd3 Nxc4 24. Qxc4 with an iron
grip on the position.
21. Nxe5 Nc6 22. Bc4+ Kh8 23.
Nxc6 bxc6 24. Rb3 a5 25. Re3 Qxc5
26. Qe2 Bb7 27. Rh3
With the threat of mate in two.
27. ... Nf6 28. Bd6 Qb6 29. Rb3,
Black resigned.

6. ... Nf6 13. ... Qxa3 14. Qc2 Black’s game was difficult but now Black must lose at least a rook.

Second place was won by Stephen McGregor of Houston, Texas, who also had a perfect first round. In round two he ceded two draws to Barry Endsley and Patrick Ryan.
Stephen, who was born March 4, 1958, has played chess since high school. He thought himself a very good player but his first tournament resulted in a humiliating
defeat at the hands of a 10-year-old. Of course Stephen was only 13 at the time, but it made him so angry he began studying the game instead of just relying on his
instincts. Consequently he fell in love with the game and has been playing ever since. In particular he loves blindfold chess and correspondence chess (CC). It has been
through CC through the years that he has made some good friends and learned about cultures outside the USA. Stephen is a certified public accountant.
What is a complete game of chess? It would have to have an interesting opening, enterprising play by both sides, a sacrifice or two, a mixture of attack and
defense, and a sharp yet delicate endgame. Here it is.

34 January 2014 | Chess Life


Ruy Lopez, Berlin Defense (C65)
Stephen McGregor (2167)
Barry Endsley (2285)
2009 Electronic Knights Final
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nf6 4.
0-0 Bc5 5. Nxe5 Nxe5 6. d4 a6 7.
Be2
7. Ba4 has fallen out of favor after
7. ... b5 8. Bb3 Bxd4 9. Qxd4 d6 10. c3
Bb7 when the position is unclear as in
the game Epiney-Ottenweller, Corres.
2002.
7. ... Nxe4 8. dxc5 Nxc5 9. Qd4 d6
10. f4 Ng6 11. Qxg7 Bf5
A very unbalanced position has
arisen. Black has a lead in development
and the better grip on the center; White
has the two bishops and the safer king.
A colossal struggle!
Third place was held down by Leroy Gay of Chicago, Illinois. Leroy was born on June 1, 1955, in Baltimore, Maryland. He joined a chess club in junior high and played
some team competition in high school. For a few years Leroy was a tournament director, but he turned to postal play for competition. He had to take long breaks
from chess due to family and other full time commitments. In the nineties he earned a black belt in karate and taught for a few years while working full time.
Leroy’s path to third place was steady— 4½ points in the preliminary section: a loss to Harold Brown and a draw with John Badger. He had a strong semifinal
section, ceding only a draw to William Young III, and he had an undefeated final, drawing masters Barry Endsley, Edwin Meiners, and Stephen McGregor.
The following game is annotated by Leroy. He notes he lost a lot of sleep over this game!
Sicilian Defense (B50)
John Badger (1899)
Leroy Gary (2092)
2009 Electronic Knights Semifinal
Notes by Leroy Gary
1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. Bc4 Nf6 4. d3
At this point I ordered and had rush-
shipped a couple of anti-Sicilian books.
4. ... Nc6 5. c3 g6 6. 0-0 Bg7 7. Bb3
0-0 8. Nbd2 b6
The move 8. ... b5 is also played.
Black can also play 8. ... e5 converting
the game to a Ruy Lopez type of
position with options for queenside or
kingside play was mentioned in one
anti-Sicilian book.
9. Re1 e5?
Not a total blunder. I didn’t realize
Prudence would suggest 12. Re1.
Aggression favors 12. g4!?.
12. g4!? Qe7 13. gxf5 Qxe2 14. fxg6
Qg4+ 15. Kh1 0-0-0 16. Qd4
GM Alexander Goloshchapov-Hans
Klip, Belgium 2003 continued 16. Nc3
Ne6 17. Qf6 hxg6 18. Be3 with rough
equality.
16. ... hxg6
Black has only one pawn for his
piece and lots of material gone, but
the exposed position of the white king
guarantees him counterplay. Is it
enough?
17. Qg1 Qf5 18. Nc3 Rh5
This is the best spot for the rook.
There has not been a lot of experience
with this position but Bueno-Ledezma
Alvarez, CADAP 2008 saw 18. ... Qxc2?
when White missed 19. f5! gxf5 20.
Qf2 and Kovicky-Leupold, ICCF 2012
witnessed 18. ... Rh3 when 19. Qg5! is
strong.
19. Rf2 Re8 20. Rg2
From his cramped quarters White
will be threatening of b2-b4 followed
by Qa7 after his first rank is secured.
20. ... b6 21. Qf1
There seems to be nothing wrong
until my next move that I had
incorrectly setup the board and was
thinking I was still on move eight. Now
I am a move/tempo down on the Ruy
Lopez positions.
10. Nf1 h6 11. Ng3
The Ruy Lopez positions are
problematic. Even though it will be my
fourth pawn move in a row, I decided
I should be able to equalize by pushing
in the center. Also ... I made a notation
error and sent John an illegal move
(11. ... e5). I felt lucky that it was not a
legal blunder. John’s reply was, “Hi,
Leroy—Think you already did ... e5 on
move nine. (It may be such a good
move you wanted to play it twice.)”
11. ... d5
I thought that if White tries to win
Correspondence Chess / 2009 Electronic Knights / 2011 Absolute
with 21. Be3 here, also. 41. Qg7+ Kd8 42. Rg2 bxc3 43. Bc1
Ra6 44. h4 Kc8 45. h5 Qd1 46. h6
21. ... b5 22. a3 Ne4
Qh5+ 47. Kg3 d5
How is Black to continue? After 22.
All of a sudden White looks like he
... Reh8, Black releases the center
is in trouble, but McGregor has seen
pressure and White can play Be3 and
deeper—The bishop is to be shucked
later Bg1. After 22. ... d5 23. b4 Ne4
and the black king has to face White’s
24. Bd2, White is OK.
queen and rook—very neat!
23. Nxe4 Qxe4 24. c3 Rh3 25. Bd2
48. Qg8+ Kd7 49. Qxd5+ Rd6 50.
Rf3 26. Qg1 Qc4 27. Qd4 Qc6 28.
Qf3 Qh1
Kg1 Re4 29. Qa7 Kd7 30. Rf1
White wins after 50. ... Qxh6 51.
Finally relieving some of the
Qxc3 Rg6+ 52. Kf2 Qh4+ 53. Kg1.
pressure of the black rooks as 30. ...
Rd3 fails to 31. Qf2! (not 31. f5? Rxd2!) 51. Kf2 Qxc1 52. Rg7+ Ke6
and White’s rooks become active after
The black king must come up—52.
f4-f5!
... Ke8 53. Qa8+ Rd8 54. Qc6+ leads
30. ... Rxf1+ 31. Kxf1 Qc4+ 32. Kg1 to mate.
Qa2 33. h3
53. Qe2+ Kd5 54. Qd3+ Kc5 55.
White constructs a hiding spot for Rxc7+ Rc6 56. Qxf5+ Kb6 57.
his king. Rxc6+ Kxc6 58. h7 Qb2+ 59. Kg3 c2
60. Qc8+ Kd6 61. h8=Q Qxh8 62.
33. ... Qxb2 34. Qxa6 Qb1+ 35. Kh2
Qxh8 c1=Q 63. Qe5+
Ra4 36. Qb7 Qd3 37. Rf2!
And so it comes down to this—the
White arranges for his queen to
Nalimov tables declare this is a win
come back into play after which the
for White in 47 moves.
extra piece starts to gain new life.
63. ... Kd7 64. Kg4 Qg1+ 65. Kf5 Qf1
37. ... f6 38. Qg2 Rxa3 39. Qg4+ f5
66. Kf6 Qf3 67. Qe6+ Kd8 68. f5
40. Qxg6 b4
Qh3 69. Kg7 Qg3+ 70. Kf8 Qa3+ 71.
Black’s ability to set new problems Kf7 Qd3 72. Qe7+ Kc8 73. Qe5 Kd8
for White is as impressive as White’s 74. Kg7 Qd7+ 75. Kf8, Black
ability to solve them. resigned.
the pawn that I would get it back in a
better position.
12. Ba4 Bb7 13. Bxc6 Bxc6 14.
Nxe5 Bb7 15. Ng4
I didn’t see this move on move 11
nor understood that White is starting
a kingside attack.
15. ... Nxg4 16. Qxg4 Re8
It is interesting re-visiting the game
with a computer. It likes my position.
Computers don’t lose sleep at night
This positional knight sacrifice is
worrying about the pawn compensation
the soul of the game. It is possible that
evaporating. White has been looking at it since move
17. e5 15. I have not used a computer to
analyze the sacrifice. Most computers
The computer likes the conservative are weak in positional sacrifice
17. Qd1. White has other ideas! evaluations.
17. ... h5 18. Nxh5 18. ... gxh5 19. Qxh5
www.uschess.org 35
Correspondence Chess / 2009 Electronic Knights / 2011 Absolute
White has three pawns for the piece
and a potential kingside attack either
via a pawn storm or a rook lift. With a
four to one pawn majority on the
kingside, he may have a won ending
if he can get there. I am feeling sick.
My options seem limited. My first
priority is to prevent getting mated. I
tried to force a queen trade or a retreat.
19. ... Qf6
The computer likes several moves
better: 19. ... Re6, 19. ... Qd6 or 19. ...
d4.
20. f4 Qg6 21. Qf3
White keeps the queens on the
board and prepares a pawn storm.
Black’s strategy is to survive. It would
be hard to get my rooks to bear on the
kingside without exposing my king
more. Therefore to attack I would have
to open a file in the center or the
queenside. Besides the pin on the
bishop at b7 Black cannot afford to
push either c- or d-pawn without a
forced pawn trade guarantee. White losing move. It suggests the awkward 32. Rxe4 Bxe4 33. f5 Kf8 34. Qc1
would love to permanently lock up the 24. Qxd4 holds better. Rb1 35. Qxb1 Bxb1 36. f6 Bh6 37.
queenside reducing Black’s chances. Rh5 Be3+, White resigned.
24. ... Rac8 25. Re3 Rc2
Black can’t force anything: 21. ... Rab8?
If 38. Kf1 then 38. ... Bd3+ 39. Ke1
22. f5 Qh7 23. Qg4 and White is close The rest of the game is just tactics.
Rxg2 protects Black’s king, threatens
to winning. Defense against the pawn I had a strong position. It was a few
mate, and forces trading the remaining
storm is necessary. mere moves before feeling that I
pair of rooks.
should win it.
21. ... Bc8
Deja vu. I thought that if White tries 26. Qf1 Rec8 27. Rg3 Qe4 28. Be3
to win the pawn that I would get it Of course 28. Rxg4, allows 28. ...
FINAL STANDINGS
back in a better position. For example Rxc1 29. Rxc1 Qe3+ winning easily. Tseng 44.00
22. Qxd5 Bf5 23. d4 Rad8 24. Qf3 cxd4 McGregor 39.50
25. cxd4 Rxd4. 28. ... Rxb2 29. Re1 Bf5 30. Rg5 Gary 36.85
Rcc2 31. Bd2 Rxd2 Meiners 34.50
22. d4? Endsley 33.85
Much stronger is 31. ... Qxd4+ 32.
This may be the losing move, since Be3 Qc3 33. Rg3 Bd3 34. Bxb6 Rxg2+. Corkum 31.10
it allows the opening of the c-file. I With a computer it is easy to see that Endsley 31.10
was clueless that I might be winning. the 31. ... Qxd4+ line does not have Young 28.90
22. h3 counters my move and supports any loopholes in it. During the game Bussom 27.25
a possible g2-g4. The idea behind 22. the nest of calcula tions was too Calvanico 26.65
d4 is to protect his e-pawn freeing his imposing. The simpler 31. ... Rxd2 Young 24.35
f-pawn to advance. leads to a trade of queens and rooks, Anderson 24.00
leaving Black two bishops up with Le Roux 22.85
22. ... Bg4 23. Qf2 cxd4 24. cxd4!? Walters 18.10
mate possibilities. It was easier to
The computer shows this to be the calculate.

The 2011 Absolute Championship

Isn’t it every chess-playing kid’s dream to play with the champions? The over-the-board (OTB) kids can dream of playing GM Viswanathan Anand or GM Magnus
Carlsen. Of course, in those dreams the chess-playing kid is victorious. What else are dreams for? In the 2011 Absolute Championship I had the chance to live that
dream. Of course I was a 70-year-old kid. It wasn’t OTB—it was webserver (even better!) and it wasn’t victorious, it was a crushing defeat. But what joy to mingle
my pawns and knights with the very best! So please let me share with you the best of the best, the winners of the 2011 Absolute Championship of the USCF.
The winner of the event was the Mighty Menke—John Menke—who is carving out a niche to be ranked among the best ever of U.S. CC players. John was one of
the oldest of the competitors—he was born February 23, 1940, but his play was very sharp. His score of 9½-2½ gave him a winning percentage of 79 percent; the
second best in Absolute history. Those of you familiar with John’s name know of his other accomplishments. I will restrict the list to just the first place finishes:
two CCLA championships, first place in the 2004 Electronic Championship, first place in the 2003 Golden Knights, an ICCM title in 2010, and now first place in the
Absolute Championship. This constitutes the triple crown and grand slam of U.S. correspondence play with the Absolute also serving as the Super Bowl. John was
kind enough to share some of his thoughts on his preparation for the 2011 Absolute.
The Opening: Everything depends on the opening. Playing the opening correctly is a balance between innovation and history. There are four main categories of
input here. 1) Databases. It is essential to have at least one large chess game database up to the current time so you know what has been played before, statistical
results, and example games so you can study them. 2) Published analysis by top players. ChessBase magazine provides some. 3) Opening books. My current
favorite electronic opening books are Rybka 4, Hiarcs 13 Pro, and Perfect 2012a. 4) Philosophy and attitude. Like GM Lajos Portisch said, the objective of the
opening is to get to a playable middlegame. True, but if we want to win a tournament, we have to try harder. We have to try to get a winning position out of the
opening. We don’t always succeed in each game, but it is the overall result that counts in a tournament. Holding a draw in a bad position is just as important as
winning a game on another board.
Finally, when all is said and done, lady luck plays a hand, too. Between good players some will be luckier than others. After winning a tournament, other players
are inclined to play cautiously against you in the future. It is very hard to win against a good player who is playing to draw.
In the following game Menke demonstrates that it is possible to win against a strong player. Gordon Magat may not have been playing for a draw, but in this game
it takes opening research, middlegame ingenuity, and endgame technique for Menke to score the full point.

Sicilian Defense,
Kan Variation (B43)
John Menke (2445)
Gordon Magat (2288)
2011 Absolute
Remember all those hours studying
king and pawn endgames? The trip from
gaining an edge to winning the game
can be a difficult journey, especially
when facing a strong and determined
opponent, and the knowledge gained
in those hours can become valuable
companions on that trip.
1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. d4 cxd4 4.
Nxd4 a6 5. Nc3 Qc7 6. Be2 b5 7.
0-0 Bb7 8. Re1
This move began showing up in
postal play around 1988. An early
example was Gelemerov-Tomasic,
1988 which showed the underlying
idea of 8. Re1: 8. Re1 b4 9. Nd5 exd5
10. exd5 Bd6 11. Bf3+ Ne7 12. Nf5
Kd8 13. Rxe7 Bxe7 14. d6 Bxd6 15.
Nxd6 Bxf3 16. Nxf7+ Ke8 17. Qxf3 Rf8
18. Bg5 Rxf7 19. Re1+ Kf8 20. Qxa8
h6 21. Qe4 Kg8 22. Bxh6 Nc6 23. Bg5
d6 24. Re3, Black resigned.
8. ... Nc6 9. Nxc6 dxc6 10. e5 Rd8
11. Bd3 c5 12. Qh5 g6
Areschchenko-Avruch, Kiev 2008
saw 12. ... c4 13. Be4 Bb4 drawn in
21. Black was very successful with 12.
... g6 in its first appearances (+0 =2 -
5) but beginning in 2008 White turned
it around with +4 =2 –1.
13. Qh3 Bg7 14. Bf4
This is Korchagina-V. Ni, 2009
European Championship, and has
scored +2 =4 in recent games. More
usual is 14. Bg5 as in Gofshtein-
Hellsten, Albacete 2001.
14. ... Ne7 15. a4 bxa4
Both 15. ... b4 and 15. ... c4 lead to
a small White edge. Magat’s choice

36 January 2014 | Chess Life


appears to give Black about the same
chance for equality despite the ragged
pawn structure. Black seeks compen-
sation in active piece play for the pawn
minus. Menke neatly negates this.
16. Rxa4 Rd4
The alternative 16. ... 0-0 is also
playable as in Ottesen-Stieger, ICCF
2012 after 17. Qe3 the game was
drawn at move 26.
17. Bxa6 Rxa4
This is new territory but not good
territory. White stands a little better.
Previously 17. ... Bxa6 was played in
Kraft-Fass, ICCF 2009.
18. Bb5+ Bc6 19. Bxa4 Bxa4 20.
Second place in the 2011 event was held by Steven van Enk. Steven was born in Veenendaal, Netherlands, on April 7, 1965. He learned the moves at age 10 and
started playing the game at 14. Steven notes that “that is a bit late to become really good, but who cares? Chess is fun at any level.” After he moved to the United
States, Steven played OTB chess. Whenever he went to the Westfield Chess Club in New Jersey, the organizer always announced him as “Vanattack,” an accurate
assessment of his attacking skills. After leaving New Jersey for Eugene, Oregon, he decided to play correspondence chess as he hadn’t found a good chess club.
Correspondence chess certainly agreed with Vanattack. As of the December 2012 correspondence rating list, Steven was ranked number two—just a bit behind,
you guessed it, John Menke. Steven pointedly admits that in international correspondence play he doesn’t do that well. He states that it is not just his lack of skill
and patience, but also the fact that help from chess computers is allowed according to international rules, adding, “Isn’t that silly?” Van Enk also has had success
on the OTB level. He became a FIDE master (FM), but it doesn’t go to his head. He notes that that international FM chess title indicates that you’re too much of a
patzer to become a grandmaster.
Queen’s Gambit Declined,
Ragozin Defense (D38)
Dana Daves (2366)
Steven van Enk (2436)
2011 Absolute
In days gone by an attacker conjured
up mating attacks almost out of no-
where. van Enk demonstrates those
days still exist.
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Nf3
d5 5. Bg5
This line, which dates back to the
days of Harry Nelson Pillsbury and
Emanuel Lasker, still finds favor in the
games of GM Levon Aronian and GM
Vladimir Kramnik.
5. ... Nbd7 6. cxd5 exd5 7. Qc2
The players have left the realm of
the Nimzo Indian and entered into the
Ragozin Variation of the Queen’s
Gambit Declined.
7. ... h6 8. Bh4 0-0 9. e3 c5 10. Be2
As Black intends to play ... c5-c4 in
this variation, White’s bishop does
better on e2 than d3.
10. ... Re8 11. 0-0 Bxc3 12. bxc3 c4
13. Nd2 Nf8
Now 14. e4 looks appetizing, but
Black is OK after 14. ... Ng6 15. Bg3 h5
16. h3 h4 17. Bh2 Nxe4 18. Nxe4 Bf5
19. f3 Rc8!
Nxa4 0-0
White is a clear pawn ahead but
there are technical problems. Menke’s
solution is instructive.
21. Qf3 Rb8 22. Re4!
The c-pawn is the target to force
the exchange of rooks.
22. ... Qc6 23. Rc4 Rb4
White gets two passed pawns after
23. ... Qxf3 24. gxf3 Rb4 25. Re4! Rxe4
26. fxe4 Nc6 27. Nxc5 Nxe5 28. Bxe5.
24. Rxb4 cxb4 25. Qxc6 Nxc6 26.
Kf1 Nd4
Black plays for activity as the white
king centralizes after an exchange of
14. Bf3 g5 15. Bg3 g4 16. Be2 Ng6
So far van Enk has been following
Ballow-van Enk, 2009 Absolute. Ballow
now played 17. Rae1 h5 18. f3 h4 19.
Bf2 h3 which was eventually drawn.
Daves unleashes the storm imme-
diately.
17. e4
The players are now on original
territory.
17. ... h5 18. f3 h4 19. Bf2 g3!
This pawn sacrifice strikes to the
core of the position. Black banks on
the coming increased activity of his
pieces.
20. hxg3 hxg3 21. Bxg3 Nh5 22.
Bh2 Qg5
This is Vanattack in action! Five of
Black’s six pieces take aim at White’s
Correspondence Chess / 2009 Electronic Knights / 2011 Absolute
minor pieces on e5 and would soon
focus on the weak b-pawn.
27. Nc5 Nxc2 28. Nd7!
Black’s kingside is put into a deep
king’s fortress.
23. Rfe1
To bring the bishop back to defend
g2.
23. ... Bh3 24. g4
This further weakening play will
have to be played anyway after 24.
Bf1 Ngf4.
24. ... f5!
Awesome! Black rips further into
White’s position as 25. exf5 Qe3+ 26.
Kh1 Qf2 27. Bf1 Rxe1 28. Rxe1 Qxe1
29. fxg6 Bxf1 is hopeless.
25. Kh1 Nhf4 26. Bf1
After this, White is lost. Defense is
the hardest part of the game. Some
survival chances are offered by 26. Rg1
but Black maintains a strong attack.
26. ... fxg4 27. Bxh3 Nxh3 28. Rg1
Nf2+
There is no room for thoughtless
greed by 28. ... Nxg1? 29. Rxg1 Qh5
30. Rxg4 when Black’s attack has
vanished. The king is the thing.
29. Kg2 Qh4 30. e5
Also failing is 30. Kxf2 Qxh2+ 31.
Ke3 g3 and the black pawn is a crusher.
The conclusion could be 32. Raf1 dxe4
33. fxe4 g2 34. Re1 Qg3+ 35. Ke2 Nf4+
36. Kd1 Qg4+ 37. Kc1 Nd3+ 38. Kb1
freeze while the black knight cannot
fight off White’s king by itself.
28. ... Nd4 29. Ke1 h6 30. h4 Nf5
31. g3 Nd4 32. Kd2 g5 33. Kd3 Nf3
34. Ke4 gxf4 35. Kxf3 fxg3 36.
Kxg3 h5
The king and pawn endgame is
clearly lost after 36. ... Bf8 37. Nxf8
Kxf8 38. Kf4 Ke7 39. Ke4 f6 (39. ... Kd7
40. Kd4 Kc6 41. Kc4 b3 [41. ... h5 42.
f3] 42. h5) 40. Kd3.
37. Nf6+ Kf8 38. f4 Bxf6 39. exf6
Ke8 40. f5 Kd7 41. Kf4 b3 42. fxe6+
Kxe6 43. Kg5 Ke5 44. Kxh5 Kxf6 45.
Kh6 Ke7 46. h5 Kf8 47. Kg5 Kg8 48.
Kf6, Black resigned.
Nxe1 39. Rxe1 g1=Q.
30. ... Nd3
Black threatens mate in two.
31. Kh1 Re7, White resigned.
There is no real defense to ... Rh7.
After 32. fxg4 Black cashes in by 32.
... Nf2+ 33. Kg2 Nxg4 34. Nf3 Ne3+.
Third place was held by the 2010
champion, Harry Ingersol. Besides his
victory in the 2010 event, Harry has
won the APCT King Championship and
finished second in the 2007 Electronic
Knights.
Open Catalan (E04)
Harry Ingersol (2356)
Steven van Enk (2436)
2011 Absolute
Ingersol ranks this as his favorite
game from the 2011 Absolute. He
notes that he always enjoys it when
he has a valuable reference book that
his opponent isn’t using. In this game
with Van Enk one of those situations
occurred. With 13. ... Qb4 van Enk ran
into a variation that Boris Avrukh had
described as having Black face an
unpleasant attack. Ingersol thinks that
Avrukh understated White’s advantage.
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 d5 4. g3
dxc4 5. Bg2
www.uschess.org 37
Correspondence Chess / 2009 Electronic Knights / 2011 Absolute

The Catalan is a modern opening White scores +8 =3 –0 in my CC 17. Qg5 b6 18. Bc3 Bb7 19. Rd2 26. Bd5 Rxd6 27. Qxh5 g6 28. Qe2+
with a very old idea. 150 years ago the database. Qa4 20. Rad1 Bd5 Be7 29. Qxc4 f5 30. Bf7+ Kf8 31.
great masters would play 1. e4 e5 2. Bg8 Ke8 32. Qf7+ Kd8 33. Bh7 Bf6
14. ... Bf8 34. Bxg6 Bxc3 35. bxc3 f4
f4 sacrificing a pawn for development
and the center. The Catalan is even This was the most popular contin- As good as anything. Now the white
more extreme, sometimes sacrificing uation, if that is the right word, scoring pawns begin to roll.
the whole queenside for development +4 =2 for White. Another try is 14. ...
and the center. It makes for exciting Kf8. Frijling-Masell, Netherlands 2012 36. g4 Rc8 37. Bf5 Rc5 38. h4 Re5
chess! continued 15. b3 Nxe5 16. Qf4 Bd6 17. 39. Bxd7 Rxd7 40. Qf6+ Rde7 41.
Nxd6 cxd6 18. a4 with a plus. h5, Black resigned.
5. ... a6 6. 0-0 Nc6 7. Nc3 Rb8 8. e4
Be7 9. Qe2 15. a3 Qb3
Offering yet another pawn. If Black The two draws came from 15. ...
FINAL STANDINGS
refuses it with 9. ... 0-0, White intends Qb6. When White tried 16. Qf4 and Menke 91⁄2
10. Rd1 and the thrust d4-d5 will be 16. Be3, but 16. Qe2 in Abramov- Van Enk 8.5
powerful. The game Ingersol-M. Fritz, Shapiro, Russia CC brought home Ingersol 8
ICCF 2010 saw 9. ... b5 10. Rd1 0-0 the point. Paul Morphy, Adolf Anderssen, and Rodriguez 71⁄2
11. d5 exd5 12. e5 d4 13. exf6 Bxf6 Mikhail Tal would be at home in this Concha 7
14. Qe4 Bb7 15. Nd5 which was in 16. Bd2 h5 position. So is Ingersol. Woodard 61⁄2
White’s favor. Brower 6
The first original move of the game. 21. Rxd5! exd5 22. Rxd5 Qc6 23. Greene 51⁄2
9. ... Nxd4 10. Nxd4 Qxd4 11. Rd1 An example of White’s attacking Rd6! cxd6 24. Nxd6+ Qxd6 25. exd6 Rizzo 51⁄2
Qc5 12. e5 chances is Geisler-Hribersek, Germany
Rh6 Daves 5
CC 2009: 16. ... Qxb2 17. Bc3 Qb6 18.
Less aggressive is 12. Be3, but Magat 41⁄2
Rab1 Qa7 19. Bd4 c5 20. Nd6+ Bxd6 Materially it is a slight Black plus.
doesn’t score badly for White either. Wilson 4
21. exd6 cxd4 22. Qxg7 Nf8 (22. ... Rf8 Positionally it is a full point on the
12. ... Nd7 13. Ne4 Qb4 14. Qg4 crosstable for White. Dunne 1⁄2
23. Re1!) 23. Rxd4, Black resigned.

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38 January 2014 | Chess Life

 Problems / Benko

How is it Possible?
A New Year’s puzzle offering from GM Pal Benko
By GM PAL BENKO

PROBLEM I PROBLEM II PROBLEM III PROBLEM IV

WHITE WINS IN 4 MOVES THE GAME ENDED IN 2 MOVES. THE GAME ENDED IN 2 MOVES. WHITE TO PLAY AND WIN IN
WITHOUT MOVING HIS PAWNS. BLACK TO PLAY. TWO DIFFERENT SOLUTIONS. 3 MOVES USING ONLY PAWN MOVES.
(BOTH PARTIES COOPERATING) BLACK TO PLAY.
Solutions on page 71.

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 USPQIJFT
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Show Off.

Show It Off.

2IÀFLDO
Awards 3URYLGHURIWKH

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Back to Basics / Reader annotations
A Sicilian Battle at the World Open
The Kings In Jeopardy
By GM LEV ALBURT
IT WAS AMAZING, AND ENCOURAGING,
to observe such a long, tough struggle in
a game played in the Under-1400 section
(our Game of the Month)! Some inaccura-
cies, yes, but no big tactical blunders or
obvious strategic errors. The winner of
the game and of the award, Stephen
Desmond, clearly believes in the power of
ideas, and this shows both in his play
and in his comments.
Writes Stephen (my further notes will
be in italics):
My old chess teacher, FM David Griego,
once told me that it is more important to
understand the ideas behind the openings
than to commit them to memory. These
ideas revolve around the main strategic
ideas in chess, as the great grandmaster,
Reuben Fine, has laid out: king safety,
force, mobility.
In this game my young opponent played
seemingly aggressive pawn moves in front
of his castled king.
As Griego always advised me—calculate
carefully before exposing your king—very
carefully.
Sicilian Defense (B42)
Abubakarr Kamara (1274)
Stephen Desmond (1394)
41st Annual World Open, 2013 (4)
1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6
Scheveningen, my standard defense.
3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6
42 January 2014 | Chess Life
5. Bd3 15. ... Qb8!
I expected 5. Nc3, the usual line. The point. Black will soon pressure e4
The way to take advantage of 5. Bd3 even more.
was to play 5. ... Nc6, with equality (also
good is the sharper 5. ... d5). Note that 5.
16. f5
e5 loses a pawn to 5. ... Qa5+. Looks aggressive but has no threats
after Black’s 16. ... e5.
5. ... d6 6. 0-0 a6 7. Nc3 Be7 8. h3
16. ... e5 17. Nde2 Qa8!
Black has seized the initiative aimed at
e4.
18. Ng3
I viewed this as a passive move—White
must fight to maintain the initiative.
Besides, 8. h3 isn’t needed to stop ... Ng4.
In such positions, White’s attacking plan
frequently starts with g2-g4; h2-h3 was
indeed unnecessary. Forced.
8. ... Qc7 9. Be3 0-0 10. f4 b5 18. ... Rfd8
Here I’d consider 18. ... Rfe8, and in the
A mobility move to complete Black’s
likely case of 19. Bg5, 19. ... Nfxe4.
development.
11. a3 Bb7 12. Qe2 19. Bg5 h6
Technically OK, but puts no pressure Putting the question to the bishop.
on Black. 20. Bxf6
12. ... Nbd7 13. Kh1 Nc5 14. Qf3? Perfectly happy to exchange a knight
for his bishop.
To voluntarily pin his e-pawn is short-
sighted. 20. ... Bxf6 21. Nh5 Bg5
Not here, no. In fact, I’d have played Qf3
on move 12.
(see diagram top of next column)
With tempo on the misplaced rook.
14. ... Rac8
Mobility again with an idea to gang up
22. Rcd1
on e4 by moving the queen to a8 and cre- I think that complications after 22. Qg4!?
ating a battery on the h1-a8 diagonal. favor White.
15. Rac1? 22. ... Rd7!
A move which I feel is played by rote. Anticipating the pressure on Black’s
15. Rfd1 is better. king.
 Back to Basics / Reader annotations
but I have attacking ideas and don’t want Wins a pawn with threats against
to expose her. White’s king.
The greedy 29. ... Qxd5 loses material
to 30. Bxb5!.
38. Rdg2
38. Qe4 was a better defense for White.
29. ... Rg8 30. Qf3
To hold the pawn.
38. ... fxg5 39. hxg5 Rxg5 40. Rxg5 Rxg5 41.
Rf1 Qg8
30. ... Re7
With the threat at ... e5-e4 winning a
piece.
31. Be4 Rg7

23. Qg4 Kh8 With the idea of doubling on the g-file.

Forced. 32. Rg1 Re8 33. g4?

24. h4 Bf6

With the threat of ... Rh5+, winning.

42. Qf3
Forced.
42. ... f6 43. Re1
Blundering in an already lost position.

Unsound, as it exposes his king.

25. Qf3
Why move the queen back into danger?
25. ... Rcd8
More interesting question—did the play-
ers see that the h4-pawn is hanging?
26. Nxf6?
Opening the g-file for Black’s counter-
attack!
26. ... gxf6 27. Qh5 Kh7
And Black’s king is safe, as f7 is pro-
tected.
28. Nd5?
28. ... Bxd5!
Removes the dangerous knight—again
with king safety in mind—White cannot
checkmate with a lone queen.
29. exd5
Here I could take a pawn with my queen
33. ... Reg8!
With pressure on the g-file.
34. Rd2
Sharp 34. g5 loses after 34. ... Nxe4 35.
g6+ fxg6 36. fxg6+ Rxg6 37. Qxe4 Qc8
leaves Black winning since both ... f5 and
... Qh3 mate are threatened.
34. ... Nxe4
Removing another threat to my king.
35. Qxe4 Kh8?
No need to move the king.
Except to avoid discovered checks after
g5/fxg5.
36. Qe3 Kh7
37. g5
Looks aggressive but fails.
After 37. Qe4, draw by repetition was a
likely outcome.
37. ... Qd8!
43. ... Rg3
Wins.
44. Qh5?? Qxd5+, White resigned.
White played passively in the opening
and Black equalized with no pressure for
White. White also foolishly opened up his
king to attack on the g-file.
Send in your games!
If you are unrated or rated 1799 or
below, 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
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GM Alburt will select the “most in-
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www.uschess.org 43
Solitaire Chess / Instruction

The Boot A Pest Gambit

Arnold Denker tries to rudely pester Sammy Reshevsky, but he is easily
brushed aside in this miniature from 1934.
By BRUCE PANDOLFINI

THE FIRST SIGNIFICANT USE OF THE 3. dxe5 Par Score 5 7. Nc6

Budapest Gambit (it actually was played
in a tournament in 1896) is credited to
Grandmaster Milan Vidmar (1885-1962),
who was successful with it in 1918. These
days, it’s usually thought to be too risky
to play in top level competition. That didn’t
stop future-GM Arnold Denker as Black
from trying to surprise Sammy Reshevsky
with it at a tournament in Syracuse in
1934. But it didn’t faze Reshevsky either.
He easily stopped Denker’s attack. In the
end, it was Denker who was surprised at
his quick loss. The opening moves were:
Budapest Gambit (A52)
Samuel Reshevsky
Arnold Denker
Syracuse, 1934
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e5
Now make sure you have the above posi-
tion set up on your chessboard. As you
play through the remaining moves in this
game, use a piece of paper to cover the
article, exposing White’s next move only
after trying to guess it. If you guess cor-
rectly, give yourself the par score.
Sometimes points are also rewarded for
second-best moves, and there may be
bonus points—or deductions—for other
moves and variations. Note that ** means
that the note to Black’s move is over and
White’s move is on the next line.**
…
In playing the Budapest, it’s likely
Denker was hoping to take advantage of
8. 0-0 Par Score 5
Reshevsky’s notorious lack of opening
knowledge.
8. Bd7
…
This is too casual. Better is 8. ... Be7,
followed by castling. After the text move
3. Ng4
…
This aims to recover the pawn. The alter- the black king never does get castled.**
native is 3. ... Ne4, centralizing and playing
for an attack.**
9. Nc3 Par Score 5
White develops, but he’s also following
4. e4 Par Score 5
through on a driving back process that
At the time, this was the recommenda- helps White protect e4.
tion. It shows that Reshevsky was not
altogether unfamiliar with opening theory.
9. … Be7
White promptly returns the gambit pawn
and plays for a big pawn center. Other
10. h3 Par Score 5
moves which earn full credit are 4. Bf4 Time to kick the knight back: the dark-
and 4. Nf3. square bishop wants access to e3.
4. … d6 10. … Nf6
Black is determined to make a true
gambit out of it, but this may be stretching
11. e5 Par Score 5
it. Simply 4. ... Nxe5, recovering the pawn, Reshevsky is still kicking and driving.
was the way to go.** The knight is pushed back to his starting
square, where it delays castling. Accept
1 bonus point if you had the whole con-
5. Be2 Par Score 5
Denker registers a partial success, since ception in mind when playing 10. h3.
Reshevsky avoids 5. exd6 Bxd6 6. Be2 f5
7. exf5 Qe7 8. c5 Bxc5 9. Qa4+ Nc6 10.
11. … dxe5
Qxg4 Nd4, with a strong attack for the
piece. Probably, White is fine with 8. Nf3
12. fxe5 Par Score 5
(instead of 8. c5) so take full credit for 5.
exd6. But fearing home preparation,
12. … Ng8
Reshevsky decides to play safe. If 12. ... Bc5+, then White simply plays
13. Kh2; and if 13. ... Nh5?, then 14. g4
5. … Nxe5
traps the knight (1 bonus point).**
6. f4 Par Score 5 13. Be3 Par Score 5
Developing and taking away Black’s
6. … Ng4
check on c5.
This is more aggressive than retreating
to c6 or g6, but it’s also more risky.**
13. … f6
Black tries to get rid of the e5-pawn so
his knight can come out. The downside
7. Nf3 Par Score 5
Accept only 2 points part credit for 7. is the weakening of the e8-h5 diagonal.**
Bxg4, when 7. ... Qh4+ recovers his piece.
The text stops Qd8-h4, while preparing
14. Bd3! Par Score 5
for castling. White immediately fastens onto the

44 January 2014 | Chess Life

 Solitaire Chess / Instruction

Problem I Problem II Problem III

ABCs of Chess Fork Fork Trapping

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.
January Exercise: It’s time to create
your own journal. Paper is OK, but
electronic is better. Whenever you
encounter something germane, classify
and append it to a useful section.
Include your own commentary, with Problem IV Problem V Problem VI
lots of diagrams to aid visualization. Mating net Mating net Mating net
Also, make sure to ask helpful
questions about the material. Let’s not
minimize categorization, however.
Being able to seize upon the key
feature of a situation is a sign of greater
strength and positional understanding.
Indeed, the more often you catalog, the
more relevant your chess play is likely
to become.

weakened g6-square. Not only does White 16. Bxf6

improve his bishop’s placement, he clears
…
Or Black could have played 16. ... gxf6,
the d1-h5 diagonal for his queen. If you’re
allowing 17. Qh5+ Kf8 18. Qf7 mate: The
concerned about losing a pawn, then
four move checkmate in 18 moves (1 bonus
accept only 2 points part credit for 14. exf6
point).**
Nxf6.
14. … fxe5 17. Qh5+ Par Score 5

Or Black could try 14. ... Nxe5. One 17. g6

line is 15. Nxe5 fxe5 16. Qh5+ g6 17.
…
Black tries to shout out the white queen.
Qxg6+ hxg6 18. Bxg6 mate. Accept 2
If instead he moves the king, it’s mate on
bonus points for seeing it.**
the move (1 bonus point).**
15. Ng5! Par Score 5
18. Bxg6+ Par Score 5
White threatens 16. Nf7, forking queen
The USCF will hold an election this year for three
No shutouts today. Add 1 bonus point
and rook (1 bonus point). Accept 1 bonus
at-large positions on the USCF executive board. For
if you saw the bishop sacrifice in advance.
point more if you analyzed 15. ... Bxg5
details, please refer to the call for nominations in

16. Qh5+, an echo of Black’s sixth move.

the November 2013 issue of Chess Life.
18. hxg6
If you took your analysis even further with
…
If 18. ... Kf8, then 19. Qh6+ Bg7 20.
16. ... Ke7 (16. ... g6 17. Bxg6+) 17. Bc5+
Bc5+ Ne7 (if 20. ... Kg8, then 21. Bf7 mate)
Ke6 18. Qf7 mate, you may tag on 2 bonus
TOTAL YOUR SCORE TO DETERMINE
21. Rf1+, with mate coming up (2 bonus
points more.
points).**
YOUR APPROXIMATE RATING BELOW:
15. … Nf6 Total Score Approx. Rating
19. Qxg6+ Par Score 5
The immediate idea is to block the king- 95+ 2400+
bishop file to stop Ng5-f7. So is this the 19. Ke7
triumphant return of the knight to f6?
… 81-94 2200-2399

Not exactly. When the knight was here 20. Bc5 mate Par Score 5 66-80 2000-2199
on move one it was good. Now it’s move 51-65 1800-1999
15, and the evaluation of such a placement
(see diagram top of next column)
36-50 1600-1799
is not the same.** Take full credit if you found, instead of
20. Bc5 mate, 20. Qf7+ and mate next
21-35 1400-1599

move. We always prefer mate in one, but

16. Rxf6! Par Score 6 06-20 1200-1399
White eliminates the knight so that h5 we don’t want to come down too hard on 0-05 under 1200
is weakened. mate in two. It’s got its own charm.

www.uschess.org 45
Knight’s Tour / Tournament Travel
BOSTON CHESS CONGRESS JANUARY 10-12 OR 11-12, 2014
CONTINENTAL CHESS HAS RUN OVER
2,200 tournaments in 28 states (and even
the Bahamas). But surprisingly, it had
never held one in the city of Boston. That
all changed in 2012, thanks to the impetus
of New England stalwart organizer/
promot er Stephen Dann and MACA
president and national tournament director
George Mirijanian, who helped inspire what
has today become known as the Boston
Chess Congress.
The inaugural 2012 event at the hotel,
called the Continental Amateur focused
exclusively on non-professional players
rated under 2250 or unrated. Not knowing
who would show up, Continental Chess
president Bill Goichberg let sound the chess
clarion call and 130 chess patriots respond-
ed. Continental Chess was off to a running
start in Boston!
In 2013 the tournament expanded to
eight class sections, including two separate
sections for players rated under 1300 or
unrated: one section only for players born
after 1994 and one just for players born
before 1995. Even the new USCF lifetime
title system was featured this time, as lower-
rated players eager for stronger opposition
could elect to play one section higher up
than they would otherwise be allowed,
providing they also had the necessary rating
and USCF lifetime title requirements. In
2013, masters were also eligible to play. All
this led to an increase in the turnout in
2013: there were 189 players.
GM Chao Li from China followed up his
46 January 2014 | Chess Life
Boston Strong
By Steve Immitt
American debut—a third place finish in
the super-strong 2012 North American
Open in December—with a convincing
victory in his second U.S. tournament. He
finished a full point ahead of the field,
posting a powerful 2829 tournament
performance to clinch his $1,067 prize for
finishing clear first in the Premier section.
A special Chess and Education Expo,
held concurrently with the main tourn-
ament, was organized by Stephen Dann
and George Mirijanian in 2012 and again
by Stephen Dann in 2013 and is planned
for this year too.
One common thread among many of the
players was the quality of the service
provided by the host hotel, the Hyatt
Harborside Hotel at Boston’s Logan Airport.
The complimentary coffee service provided
for the players throughout the weekend,
along with free parking for tournament
participants and free wi-fi, were very well
received. But perhaps most striking was
the absolutely scrumptious offering of cash
food sales. Not your typical hotel food
concession, the hotel chef himself was on
hand to make sure the players were happy
with the fresh soup and salad bar, freshly
made sandwiches and delicious homemade
chocolate-chip cookies for only $1, not to
mention the full-size, homemade calzones
throughout the weekend! During the Boston
Congress, the fork truly became the chess
players’ most welcome tool, both on and
off the chess board.
The Hyatt Boston Harbor (same hotel,
new name for 2014), a luxurious hotel on
the edge of the historic harbor, offers
sweeping views of Boston’s skyline, and
greatly reduced chess rates of only $79!
And even Paul Revere would probably be
pleased at how easy it is to get here:
1. By land, it’s almost adjacent to
Logan Airport, with free parking for
tournament participants, and a
24-hour complimentary hotel shuttle
to the MBTA’s Blue Line Logan
Airport subway station;
2. By sea, there’s a water taxi next door
which goes to downtown Boston and
Faneuil Hall;
3. By air, the hotel has a 24-hour compli-
mentary shuttle to Logan Airport.
The 2nd annual Boston Chess Congress
is scheduled for January 10-12, 2014, with
a $12,000 projected prize fund in six separate
sections. Once again it features something
new: a projected $1,400 in mixed doubles
bonus prizes! The three best male/female
two-player combined score “teams” among
all sections also compete for additional bonus
prizes of $800-$400-$200 (the team average
rating must be under 2200; both players
may play in the same or different sections).
Teams must register with the tournament
director (at no extra charge) before both
PHOTO: WIKIPEDIA
players begin round two. Being on a team
is optional (you do not have to have a team
to participate in the tournament)—but it
surely makes for a very fun event!
 2013 Trophies Plus Grand Prix Summary
Trophies Plus awards $12,500 in cash prizes in the 2013 Grand Prix!
2013 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX STANDINGS
The following point totals reflect all rated event information as of December 4 for the 2013 Grand Prix. All Grand
Prix updates are unofficial and subject to change during the year or until year-end tabulation is complete.

OVERALL STANDINGS
PHOTO: BESTY CARINA

NAME STATE PTS.

1 GM Aleksandr Lenderman NY 388.93

2 GM Mikheil Kekelidze NY 309.28

3 GM Alexander Ivanov MA 225.65

4 GM Sergey Kudrin CT 211.76

5 GM Melikset Khachiyan CA 175.03

6 GM Alexander Shabalov PA 156.81

7 GM Mackenzie Molner AZ 155.61

8 GM Tamaz Gelashvili NY 154.71

9 IM Ricardo De Guzman CA 154.33

10 GM Zviad Izoria NY 152.99

11 IM Justin Sarkar NY 144.90

12 GM Conrad Holt KS 138.02

13 GM Enrico Sevillano CA 137.91

14 GM Varuzhan Akobian KS 125.06

GM MIKHEIL KEKELIDZE played at the National Chess Congress and 15 GM Alejandro Ramirez TX 112.63
the famed Marshall Chess Club, helping him to remain in
second place in 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 USCF National Scholastic

IN CASH PRIZES! tournament awards since 1999.
Proud sponsor of the USCF 2007-2012 All-America Team.
FIRST PRIZE: $5,000!
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
2013 CHESSMAGNETSCHOOL.COM JUNIOR GRAND PRIX TOP OVERALL STANDINGS
ChessMagnetSchool.com is the sponsor of
Name State Pts. Name State Pts.
the 2013 Junior Grand Prix (JGP). Official
standings for events received and processed PETERSON, GIA CA-S 12767 ULRICH, RACHEL J WI 6249
by December 3, 2013 are unofficial and HOFFMAN, EVAN CA-S 8755 PARKER, JACKSON BOGDAN MA 6244
subject to change during the year or until GORTI, AKSHITA VA 8734 YE, GRANT CA-N 6107
year-end tabulation is complete. 2013 JGP
SINHA, SAHIL MD 8051 PALUSA, MAURYA CA-N 6090
prizes were not available as of press time
DASIKA, ARCHIT CA-N 8003 KOBLA, VISHAL VA 6078
and will be announced at a later date. The
method for calculating points has been PATEL, ADVAIT WV 7724 SONG, NOLAN XUHUI OH 6075
modified; see uschess.org for the most up- KOTHAPALLE, TANISH TN 7491 GUO, ARTHUR GA 6020
to-date information. ULRICH, ANNE E WI 7349 NIETO, MANUEL VALERIO WALDO 5989
Chess Magnet School provides computer- DASARI, SRIHITHA GA 7348 SODEM, VISHAL CA-N 5848
based online chess training for both adults LIANG, AWONDER WI 7334 TRIFALE, SHARVIL PA 5847
and children, including those who study WU, OLIVER CA-N 7168 POTULA, KAPISH GA 5844
independently and those who study under
PRASAD, ARVIND SAI OH 6970 LALWANI, JAY VA 5813
the guidance of a coach or teacher, as well
DAVYDOV, ALEXANDER MD 6799 MULLER, RAYMOND WIJAYA, II CA-N 5786
as support for chess coaches and others
who teach chess. Chess Magnet School has ROLDAN-LEVCHENKO, NIKITA MA 6727 CAO, YUTONG OH 5733
been a partner with USCF on a number of GREGORA, JAMES PETER CA-S 6646 DOMMALAPATI, ABHINAY VA 5667
projects and activities since 2006, and has ABAYANATHAN, SHIRAJA GA 6500 ZENG, SHEENA KS 5657
provided the free program that teaches NIEMANN, HANS MOKE CA-N 6411 KULKARNI, SOUMYA MI 5620
the rules of chess to newcomers in the
SAMADASHVILI, MARTHA NY 6397 VENKATARAJA, TRIYAKSHARI NC 5608
“New to Chess” section of USCF’s website.
AVIRNENI, SAITHANUSRI GA 6314 GHOSH, SHOURJYA OH 5593
USCF members are invited to learn
more about Chess Magnet School at SRINIVAS, RAHUL CA-N 6292 WU, LOGAN TN 5571
www.ChessMagnetSchool.com.

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www.uschess.org 49
Tournament Life / January

USCF National Bids

Events
Note: Tournament memberships not valid for National events
Note: Organizers previously awarded
options for USCF National Events
must still submit proposals (including
sample budgets) for their events.
SEE TLA IN THIS ISSUE FOR DETAILS
OVERDUE BIDS
2014 U.S. Amateur Team Championship South February 14-16 or 15-16 • Norcross,
Please contact the National Office if you
are interested in bidding for a National
Georgia
2014 World Amateur Team & U.S. Team East - 44th Annual February 15-17 • Parsippany, Event. The USCF recommends that
New Jersey bids be submitted according to the
2014 (31st Annual) U.S. Amateur Team Championship West February 15-17 or 16-17 • following schedule. However, bids may
Santa Clara, California be considered prior to these dates.
USCF reserves the right to decline all
bids and organize the event itself.
2014 U.S. Amateur Team Championship North February 21-23 or 22-23 • Schaumburg,
Illinois
2014 U.S. Junior Chess Congress February 28-March 2 • Irvine, California DEADLINE JULY 1, 2013:
2014 National High School (K-12) Championship April 4-6 • San Diego, California 2014 U.S. Amateur (East, West)
2014 All-Girls Championship April 11-13 • Northbrook, Illinois 2014 U.S. Cadet
2014 National Junior High (K-9) Championship April 25-27 • Atlanta, Georgia 2014 U.S. Game/15 Championship
2014 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 9-11 • Dallas, Texas 2014 U.S. Game/30 Championship
2014 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) June 12 • Las Vegas, Nevada 2014 U.S. Game/60 Championship
2014 U.S. Women’s Open June 12-13 • Las Vegas, Nevada 2014 U.S. Junior Closed
2014 National Open June 13-15 or 14-15 • Las Vegas, Nevada 2014 U.S. Masters Championship

FUTURE EVENTS (Watch for details) DEADLINE NOVEMBER 1, 2013:

2014 U.S. Amateur Championship North May 24-26 • Boise, Idaho 2014 U.S. Junior Open
2014 U.S. Amateur Championship South June 7-8 • Memphis, Tennessee
For the expanded list of national events
115th annual (2014) U.S. Open July 26-August 3 • TBA available for bid, see:
2014 U.S. Class Championship October 31-November 2 • Irvine, California www.uschess.org/content/view/12116/705/.
2014 U.S. Senior Championship September 14-21 • Cruise
2014 K-12 Grade Championship December 12-14 • Orlando, Florida
2015 National High School (K-12) Championship April 10-12 • Columbus, Ohio
2015 National Junior High (K-9) Championship April 24-26 • Louisville, Kentucky
2015 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 8-10 • Nashville, Tennessee
2015 National Open—TBA
2015 U.S. Game/10 Championship—TBA
116th annual (2015) U.S. Open August 1-9 • Phoenix, Arizona
2015 K-12 Grade Championship December 4-6 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida
2016 National High School (K-12) Championship April 1-3 • Atlanta, Georgia
2016 National Junior High (K-9) Championship April 15-17 • Indianapolis, Indiana
2016 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 6-8 • Nashville, Tennessee ATTENTION AFFILIATES
117th annual (2016) U.S. Open July 30-August 7 • Indianapolis, Indiana The United States Chess Federation has
2016 K-12 Grade Championship December 16-18 • Nashville, Tennessee partnered with R.V. Nuccio & Associates
2017 SuperNationals VI May 12-14 • Nashville, Tennessee Insurance Brokers, Inc. to provide USCF
affiliates with affordable annual liability
2017 K-12 Grade Championship December 8-10 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida and short term event insurance. The
2018 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 11-13 • Nashville, Tennessee liability coverage is available for
2018 K-12 Grade Championship December 14-16 • Orlando, Florida approximately $265 per year for a
$1,000,000 limit of insurance. Also
Rating supplements will be updated EACH MONTH on the USCF website, and each monthly rating available is contents property and
supplement will be used for all tournaments beginning in that month, unless otherwise announced in bonding insurance. For more information,
Chess Life. The USCF website at www.uschess.org also frequently lists unofficial ratings.The purpose please go to www.rvnuccio.com/chess-
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at their discretion, even without advance publicity of such a policy. please go to www.rvnuccio.com.

50 January 2014 | Chess Life


The Tournament Announcements on the following pages are provided for the convenience of USCF members and for informational purposes only. Unless expressly indicated otherwise, neither the U.S.
Chess Federation nor Chess Life warrants the accuracy of anything contained in these tournament announcements. Those interested in additional information about or having questions concerning any
of these tournaments are directed to contact the organizer listed. Chess Life will exercise all due diligence in providing accurate typesetting of non-camera-ready copy but assumes no responsibility for
errors made in such work.
Effective with TLAs submitted after November 10, 2010, the following additional rules apply to Grand Prix tournaments: 1) The guaranteed first prize must be at least $150. 2) No more than one prize
under $100 may count towards the Grand Prix point total. 3) Prizes below the maximum entry fee do not count towards the Grand Prix point total. Also include full time control noting increment or
time delay even if delay is zero (d0).
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix: A Junior Grand Prix event must have four or more rounds with a time control greater than 65 min. Please see: www.uschess.org/data page/JPG-Rules.php for com-
plete Rules.
SUBMISSIONS: E-mail your tla to: tla@uschess.org (Joan DuBois). For tla deadline schedule, formatting help and Grand Prix information see January 2013 CL pg. 50 and 51 or check
www.uschess.org/go/tlainfo. Payment can be done online through the TD/Affiliate area or sent to: U.S. Chess, TLA Dept., PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.
Nationals
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 14-16 OR 15-16, GEORGIA
2014 U.S. Amateur Team Championship - South
5-SS, G/120 d5 (2-day Option Rd. 1 G/60 d5), Garden Plaza Hotel, 6050
Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross, GA 30071. (Norcross is 5 miles North-
east of Atlanta perimeter.) 4-player teams (with one optional alternate).
Team average (4 highest ratings - January rating list) must be under 2200.
Winning team qualifies for National playoff online. EF per player: $45
by 2/9, $54 later. Special EF:Team (one entry must be made for all play-
ers) $170 by 2/9; $195 later. (any team changes $10) Scholastic teams
receive $15 off team entry fee. Prizes:Top 1st-3rd place teams; Top class
teams: U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400, U1100, U800. Top Senior Team (all
50 + above), Top Female Team, Top College Team (same school), Top High
School Team (same school) Top Middle School Team (same school, grades
6-8), Top Ele- mentary School (same school); Top Boards 1-3. Limit to 1st
50 Teams!! Schedule: 3-day: 1st round Fri. 7:30 p.m, 2-day 1st round 10,
Rounds 2-5: Sat. 1:30, 6:45, Sun. 9:30, 2:45. HR: $59.95! Free parking
and Free internet. 1-(770)-448-4000. Mention Chess. Tnmt. Info: L. Thad
Rogers 1-478-973-9389 or info@americanchesspromotions.com. Enter:
American Chess Promotions, 3055 General Lee Rd., Macon, GA 31204.
Online entry: Go to www.paypal.com/ and use info@americanchesspro
motions.com. NS. NC. W. G/120 rounds are JGP.
A Heritage Event!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 15-17, NEW JERSEY
World Amateur Team & U.S. Team East - 44th Annual
CELEBRATE COUNTRY MUSIC & USCF 75th! 6SS, 40/2, SD/1 d5. Par-
sippany Hilton, 1 Hilton Ct., Parsippany, NJ 07054. Chess Rate valid until
1/16. Reserve early 973-267-7373 or 1- 800-HILTONS. Morris/Essex train
to Morris Plains 1.5 miles. Open to 4- player teams with one optional alter-
nate. Team average (4 highest ratings—2014 January Rating list) must
be under 2200. EF: $160 postmarked by 2/5/14. ALL-$200 after or at
door.—all teams, any changes at site $25 charge. FREE ENTRY TEAMS
from West Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina. Check out offi-
cial website www.njscf.org. Prizes: 1-5th Place teams, plaque and 4
digital clocks;Top Team (DenisBarry Award) U2100, 2000, 1900, 1800,
1700, 1600, 1500, 1400, 1300, 1200, 1000 each plaque and 4 Digital
Clocks; Top college team (same school) 4 Digital Clocks & plaque ; Top
HS team (grades 9-12 same school), Top Middle School (grades 5-9
same school), Top Elementary School (grades K-6 same school), Top 2
Scholastic Teams (mixed schools okay) (Collins Award), Mixed Doubles
(2 males, 2 females-no alternates), Seniors (all players over age 50), Mil-
itary, each plaque & 4 Digital Clocks to top team; Company Team (same
employer), Family (4 family members), State teams—CT, DE, MD, MA, NJ,
NY (BenjaminAward), PA, VA, NC, RI each plaque top team; Special Plaque
to Top College (NJ, NY, Pennsylvania) Special Plaque Top High School
NJ, NY, PA, Plaque Top Coaches (four chess teachers), Top Blind team,
Top Future team, (all players under age 10), Top Military College, Top
New England team (mixed players CT, MA, ME, VT, NH, RI. Top
Parent/Child (2 pairs, one parent, one child), TopHistoric Club (four
members on team from Boylston, Franklin Mercantile, Marshall). Best
Player 1-4 and top alternate, All 6-0 scores each Digital clock. Biggest
Individual upset each round Engraved Cross pen; Entry fee refunded to
team with Best “Chess related” name, Sunday night—Best “Chess
Related costumes or gimmick”—1st-gourmet dinner for four. 2nd—
Gourmet dinner for 4. Reg. 9-12 .Sat2/15: Rds. 1-7:30, 11-6, 9-3:30.
Special Events!! Surprises and special give-aways each round. Sun-
day night—Bughouse $20 per team. Cash prizes. HR: Parsippany Hilton
NEWLY RENOVATED!, chess rates expire 1/16/2014. Rates $119 (up to
4 in room) 2nd hotel attached to Hilton also up to 4 in room $126 per night-
Hampton Inn—includes breakfast for 4 each day. Valentines Blitz 2/14-
7pm. $20 entry fee 2 person team team—prizes per entries. FREE!
Cake and Coffee for USCF 75th Diamond Anniversary. For help forming
teams and more information contact: noreen@deanofchess.com.
Chks payable to NJSCF, mail by 2/05 to: E.Steven Doyle, 17 Stonehenge
Rd., Morristown, NJ 07960. (Include Team name, Captain, players full
names, USCF Expiration, ID numbers and ratings in board order). No team
can include more than two GM’s. Include SASE for confirmation if wanted,
No registered or certified mail accepted. NS. NC. W. FIDE.
A Heritage Event!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 15-17 OR 16-17, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN
31st Annual (2014) U.S. Amateur Team Championship West
NOTE: Scholastic on Feb. 15 only, Blitz on Feb. 17 only. Santa Clara Con-
vention Center, 5001 Great America Pkwy. Free Parking! Hotel: $79
(single/double) or $89 (Triple/Quad). Biltmore Hotel & Suites, 2151
Laurelwood Rd., Santa Clara, CA 95054. Call 408.988.8411 or 800.255.9925
(booking id 29049). Reserve by Jan. 31 or rates may increase. Teams:
Four-player teams plus optional alternate, average rating of four high-
est must be under 2200, difference between ratings of board 3 & 4 must
be less than 1000. January 2014 Supplement, CCA min, & TD discretion
used to place players accurately. Main Event Prizes: Special 4 commem-
orative clocks (trophy for the reserve) and team trophy to the team for
top 3 overall teams, top team u2000, u1800, u1600, u1400, and u1200.
Trophies to all players of the top “industry” team (currently at the same
company), top “female” team, top “college” team (students/alumni of
a college), top “high school” team (students/alumni of a 7-12 school),
top “elementary school” team (students/alumni of a K-6 school), top
“club” team, and top “family” team (related by blood or marriage 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). Gift cer-
tificates for best 3 team names. Main Event EF: $220/team or $55/player
by 2/10. 2/11-13: $10 extra per player or team. Onsite or after 2/13: $20
extra per player ($80 extra per team). 3-day Sched: Onsite Registra-
tion at Sat 9:30-10:30a, Round Times at Sat & Sun 11:30a 5:30p, Mon 10a
3:30p. Time Control: 40/120 SD/30 d5. 2-day Sched: Onsite Registra-
tion at Sun 8:30-9a, Round Times at Sun 10a 12:30p 2:50p 5:30p, Mon
10a 3:30p. Time Control: G/61 d5 in Rounds 1-3, 40/120 SD/30 d5 in
Rounds 4-6 (merge in Round 4 with 3-day schedule). Info/flyer:
www.BayAreaChess.com/usatw. Scholastic Event Prizes: Trophies to
each player in Top 3 teams overall, Top u800 team, u600 team, u400 team,
and u200 team. Trophies to top “female” team, top “academic” team, and
top “club” team. Trophies to top two scorers on each board (1-4). Com-
memorative medals to all participants. Scholastic Event EF: $148/team
or $37/player by 2/10. 2/11-13: $10 extra per player or team. Onsite or
after 2/13: $20 extra per player ($80 extra per team). Discount:
$10/player ($40/team) if registering for 2-day schedule and scholastic
event. Sched: Onsite Registration: Sat 8:30-9a|Games at Sat 10a 11:30a
1p 2:30p 4:15p. Info/flyer: www.BayAreaChess.com/usatws. Blitz
Event: Registration Mon 7-8pm, Rounds 8:30-10:30pm. EF: $14, $16
onsite. 75% of entry fees returned as prizes. Contact: Organized by
Salman Azhar and Aamir Azhar. Directed by Tom Langland, John
McCumiskey, Jordan Langland, and others. Sponsored by Bay Area Chess.
Online entry at www.BayAreaChess.com/my/usatw or mail to Bay Area
Chess, 1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. For questions or help
in forming teams email ask@BayAreaChess.com. NS. NC. W.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 21-23 OR 22-23, ILLINOIS
2014 U.S. Amateur Team North
Open: 5SS, G/90+30/increment, 2-day: rd.1-2 G/60 d5. Hyatt Regency
Schaumburg, 1800 E. Golf Rd., Schaumburg, IL 60173. 847-605-1234
$89.00 chess rate single-double-triple-quad until 2/7/13, Free WiFI
included with Room! Please reserve early. Open to 4 player teams with
one optional alternate. Team average (4 highest ratings - January
Rating List) must be under 2200.EF: 3-day $160, per team if received
USPS or on-line 6 PM by February 7th, $180 if received USPS or on-line
6 PM by Feb. 15th, $200 on-line until Feb. 20th 6 PM and at door. Indi-
viduals wishing to play, send $40 and request to be put on a team by USPS
and on-line by 2/15 6 PM, $50 thereafter. Team changes on site or after
2/20 6 PM $20. Check out official websitewww.chessweekend.com
for more info and complete prize list.Prizes: Awards to top two
teams, top teams with average rating u1900, u1600, and u1300. Winning
team qualifies for national play-offs. Awards for Best Team Name, best
team composed of juniors (high school and younger), Top College team,
Top HS team, Top Senior team (50 and over),Best Coach and Students
team, Best costume. Prizes to top score on each board. Prizes are play-
ers choice of a selected clock or equivalent book store credit. Rounds:
3-day: on-site registration/check-in 5:30-6:30pm, rds.: 7pm, 10:00am
& 4:00pm, 10:00am & 3:30pm. 2-day: on-site registration/check-in
from 8:00-9:30am, rds. 10:00am & 1:00pm then merge with 3-day. Illi-
nois Blitz Championship on Saturday night, $25 by 2/20 USPS or
on-line, $30 at site. First round 8 PM, 2 games with each opponent, 5
rounds, see www.chessweekend.com for details. All: Checks made
payable to and sent to: ChessWeekend, 21694 Doud Ct., Frankfort, IL
60423. Please include Team’s name and roster (plus ID#), captain’s email
and phone number, and desired schedule. Info: www.chessweekend.com,
815-955-4793 before 8 PM. ChessIQ will provide Sets-Boards-Clocks.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 28-MAR. 2, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN
2014 U.S. Junior Chess Congress
5-SS, G/90 d5 (5-DSS G/45 d5, 6 & under, 8 & under - 2 games each round
for a total of 10 games: not JGP). Orange County Great Park, 6990
Marine Way, Irvine, CA. 92612 and Irvine Spectrum Doubletree Hotel, 90
Pacifica, Irvine, CA 92618, 949-471-8888, $95/night (When booking,
please mention “Chess Congress”). 7 SECTIONS (by age): 6 & under,
8 & under, 10 & under, 12 & under, 14 & under, 16 & under, 20 & under.
TROPHIES: Top 10 individuals and Top 5 clubs in each section. EF: $55
See previous issue for TLAs appearing January 1-14
by 1/20, $65 by 2/ 20, $75 after. RDS.: Sat: 10-2-6, Sun: 9-1. ENT: www.
hanleychessacademy.com (flyer available for download). SIDE EVENTS:
1. Top 100 USCF List Scholastic Invitational, 2/27-28, (This event at
same site). 5-RR, G/75 d5 (top 2 sections 3-RR, G/120 d5). 2. Chess Camp
2/28 9-noon (Under 1000 and 1000 & Above); Chief instructor - NM Joe
Hanley. $30 by 2/20, $40 after. 3. Bughouse (12 & under, 20 & under) 2/28
starting at 1pm, trophies to top 3 teams each section. $20/team by
2/20, $25 after. 4. Blitz G5 d0 (12 & under, 20 & under) 2/28 starting at
6:30pm (not 5pm), trophies to top 5 in each section. $10 by 2/21, $15
after. INFO: Joe Hanley, 714-925-3195 or hanleychessacademy@gmail.
com or Dewain Barber, 714-998-5508 or amchesseq@aol.com. Orange
County John Wayne Airport (SNA) 15 minutes from site. Free shuttle to
and from Irvine Spectrum Doubletree Hotel. Advanced Entries, Pair-
ings, Standings and all information at www.hanleychessacademy.com. NS.
NC. W.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 4-6, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN
2014 National High School (K-12) Championship
(Apr. 3 – Bughouse & Blitz) 7SS, G/120 d5. Town and Country Resort,
500 Hotel Circle North, San Diego, CA 92108, 619.291.7131 or 800.772.
8527. Chess Rate $125 until 12 March 2014. 5 Sections: K-12 Cham-
pionship, K-12 Under 1600, K-12 Under 1200, K-12 Under 800,
K-12 Unrated.March 2014 Rating Supplement will be used. Unrated
players may play in the Championship or Unrated section only. One half-
point bye for any round, except Rd. 7, if requested before Round One. EF:
$50 if by March 2, $70 if by March 23, $85 if by 9 PM CDT on April 2 or
$90 at site. Mailed entries must be p/m by March 30. $5 extra for all phone
registrations, $20 change fee for roster or section changes after March
23. Onsite registration: Thurs. 9 AM - 10 PM & Fri. 8 AM - 10 AM. Play-
ers registering after 10 AM will get half-point for Round 1. Awards: Please
see the Information Page on the web site for a complete list of all the
trophies. All participants will receive a commemorative medal at the com-
pletion of the final round. Teams: A team must have at least two players,
although no maximum number of players. The top four scores in any sec-
tion will count for the team score. All on team must attend the same
school. Opening Ceremony: 12:30 PM Friday. Main Event rounds: Fri-
day 1PM, 7PM; Saturday 9 AM, 2 PM, 7 PM; Sunday 9 AM, 2 PM. Awards
Ceremony: Approx. 7 PM Sunday. Special Events:National High School
Bughouse Championship: Thursday 11 AM; EF: (Onsite only) $25 per
team. Bughouse registration ends at 10 AM Thurs. National High School
Blitz Championship: Thursday 5 PM; EF: $15 per player, $20 after Mar.
23 or on site. Scholastic Meeting: 3 PM Saturday. Parents and Friends
Tournament: 4SS, G/30 d5, Saturday 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM,
4:30PM. [Onsite registration only – by Sat. 10 AM]. Rated and Unrated
sections. Trophies for Parents/Friends - participant and student combined
results. Please see the Tournament Information Page on the web site to
see when Team Rooms become available and for Team Room contact infor-
mation. ALL: Please bring clocks. Sets and score sheets provided. USCF
membership required. Questions: Ashley Knight aknight@uschess.org
or at 931.787.1234 ext 138. Mail entries to: U.S. Chess Federation, Attn:
2014 High School, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557. Additional details,
updates, corrections and on-line registration: www.uschess. org/tour
naments/2014/hs.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 11-13, ILLINOIS
2014 All-Girls National Championships presented by the Kasparov
Chess Foundation in association with the Renaissance Knights
Chess Foundation & USCF
First place winners of each section will qualify to play at the 2014
World Youth Championships.6SS, G/90 d5. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2875
Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook, IL (free Wi-Fi). 6 Sections: Under 8, Under
10, Under 12, Under 14, Under 16 & Under 18. Age as of 1/1/2014. EF:
$55 postmarked/online by 3/17, $75 by 3/31, $95 after/on-site. Do not
mail after 4/4. Opening Ceremony: 6pm, Friday. Rounds: Rd. 1 –
6:30pm Fri; Rounds 2-4 – Sat 10am, 2:30pm, 6:30pm; Rounds 5-6 – Sun
9am & pm. Awards Ceremony: Sun. 5pm. Trophies top 15 individual play-
ers and top 4 teams in the Under 8, 10, 12 & 14 Sections; top 10
individual players and top 3 teams in the Under 16 & 18 Sections. (top
3 players added for team scores). Bye: One 1/2-pt bye available, any
round, if requested before end of Rd. 2 and if player has not received a
full-point bye. Side Events: Bughouse Tournament – Fri. 1pm, EF
$30/team. Blitz Tournament – Fri. 3pm, G/5 d0, EF $20 by 4/4, $25 after
or on site. HR: single - quad $103 Reservations: (847) 493-6929. break-
fast included, Reserve early rate may increase (847) 493-6929. Entries:
online/info at: www.rknights.org/allgirls or mail to RKnights, Attn: All Girls,
PO Box 1074, Northbrook, IL 60065, include name, section, rating, USCF
ID#, date of birth, grade, school name city & state.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 25-27, GEORGIA
2014 National Junior High (K-9) Championship
(Apr. 24 – Bughouse & Blitz) 7SS, G/120 d5. Hyatt Regency Atlanta,
www.uschess.org 51
 2014
WORLD AMATEUR TEAM

&
U.S. AMATEUR TEAM
CHAMPIONSHIP EAST
FEBRUARY 15-17, 2014

PARSIPPANY HILTON, 1 HILTON COURT, PARSIPPANY, NJ 07054

“We’re getting ready for the Teams!”

Come celebrate Country Music and USCF’s 75th anniversary
Enjoy the picking and grinning and do a little moving and checking!
For complete details see our TLA under National Events.

Sponsored by USCF and New Jersey State Chess Federation.

You don’t have to wear your Sunday-go-to-meeting-best,
but please bring your set and clock!

A HERITAGE EVENT A NATIONAL EVENT

Come meet Garry Kasparov on Sunday, February 16

for a Q & A and book signing for USATE participants!

265 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30303, 404.557.1234 or 800.233.
1234, Chess Rate $125 until 3 April 2014. 6 Sections: K-9 Championship,
K-9 Under 1250, K-9 Unrated, K-8 Championship, K-8 Under 1000,
K-8 U750.April Rating Supplement will be used. Unrated players may
play in the Championship or Unrated sections only. One half-point bye for
any round, except Rd. 7, if requested before Round One. EF: $50 if by 23
March, $70 if by 13 April, $85 if by 6 PM CDT on 24 April or $90 at site.
Mailed entries must be p/m by 20 April. $5 extra for all phone registra-
tions, $20 change fee for roster or section changes after 13 April. Onsite
registration: Thurs. 9 AM - 10 PM & Fri. 8 AM - 10 AM. Players register-
ing after 10 AM will get half-point for Round One. Awards: Please see
the Information Page on the web site for a complete list of trophies. All
participants will receive a commemorative medal at the completion of the
final round. Teams: A team must have at least two players, although no
maximum number of players.The top four scores in any section will count
for the team score. All on team must attend the same school. Open-
ing Ceremony: 12:30 PM Friday. Main Event rounds: Friday 1 PM, 7 PM;
Saturday 9 AM, 2 PM, 7 PM; Sunday 9 AM, 2 PM. Awards Ceremony:
Approx. 7 PM Sunday. Special Events:National Junior High Bughouse
Championship: Thursday 11 AM; EF: (Onsite only) $25 per team. Bug-
house registration ends at 10 AM Thurs. National Junior High Blitz
Championship:Thursday 5 PM; EF: $15 per player, $20 after 13 April or
onsite. Scholastic Meeting: 3 PM Saturday. Parents and Friends
Tournament: 4SS, G/30 d5, Saturday 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM, 4:30
PM. [Onsite registration only – by Sat. 10 AM]. Rated and Unrated sec-
tions. Trophies for Parent/Friends - participant and student combined
results. Please see the Tournament Information Page on the web site to
see when Team Rooms become available and for Team Room contact infor-
mation. ALL: Please bring clocks. Sets and score sheets provided. USCF
membership required. Questions: Ashley Knight aknight@uschess.org
or at 931.787.1234 ext. 138. Mail entries to: U.S. Chess Federation, Attn:
2014 Junior High, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557. Additional details,
updates, corrections and on-line registration: www.uschess.org/tour
naments/2014/jhs.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
MAY 9-11, TEXAS
2014 National Elementary (K-6) Championship
(May 8 – Bughouse & Blitz) 7SS, G/120 d5, K-1 G/90 d5. Hilton Ana-
tole Dallas, 2201 Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, TX 75207. 214.748.1200 or
888.370.0980. Chess Rate $120 until 16 April 2014. 9 Sections: K-6
Championship, K-6 Under 1000, K-6 Unrated, K-5 Championship, K-
5 Under 900, K-3 Championship, K-3 U800, K-3 Unrated, K-1
Championship. April Rating Supplement will be used. Unrated play-
ers may play in the Championship or Unrated sections only. One half-point
bye for any round, except Rd. 7, if requested before Round One. EF: $50
if by April 6, $70 if by April 27, $85 by 7 PM CDT on May 8 or $90 at site.
Mailed entries must be p/m by May 4. $5 extra for all phone registrations,
$20 change fee for roster or section changes after 27 April. Onsite reg-
istration:Thurs. 9 AM-10 PM & Fri. 8 AM-10 AM. Players registering after
10 AM will get half-point for Round One. Awards: Please see the Infor-
mation Page on the web site for a complete list of trophies. K-1 Cham-
pionship: All players in this section receive a trophy. All participants will
receive a commemorative medal at the completion of the final round.
Teams: A team must have at least two players, although no maximum
number of players. The top four scores in any section will count for the
team score. All on team must attend the same school. Opening
Ceremony: 12:30 PM Friday. Main Event rounds: Friday 1 PM, 7 PM;
Saturday 9 AM, 2 PM, 7 PM; Sunday 9 AM, 2 PM. Schedule for K-1: Fri-
day 1:30 PM, 6:30 PM; Saturday 9:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 6:30 PM; Sunday 9:30
AM, 1:30 PM. Awards Ceremony: Approx. 7 PM Sunday. Awards Cer-
emony for K-1: Approx. 5:30 PM Sunday. Special Events: National
Elementary Bughouse Championship: Thursday 11 AM; EF: (Onsite
only) $25 per team. Bughouse registration ends at 10 AM Thurs. National
Elementary Blitz Championship: Two sections: K-6 and K-3. Thursday
5 PM; EF $15 per player, $20 after April 27 or onsite. Scholastic Meet-
ing: 3 PM Saturday. Parents and Friends Tournament: 4SS, G/30 d5,
[Onsite registration only – by Sat. 10 AM] Rounds Saturday: 10:30 AM,
12:30 PM, 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM. Rated and Unrated sections. Trophies for
Parents/Friends - participant and student combined results. Please see
the Tournament Information Page on the web site to see when Team
Rooms become available and for Team Room contact information. ALL:
Please bring clocks. Sets and score sheets provided. USCF membership
required. Questions: Ashley Knight aknight@uschess.org or at 931.787.
1234 ext. 138. Mail entries to: U.S. Chess Federation, Attn: 2014 Elemen-
tary, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557. See the Information Page for
additional details, updates, corrections and on-line registration:
www.uschess.org/tournaments/2014/elem.
JUNE 12, NEVADA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 (ENHANCED)
2014 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC)
8SS, G/10 d2. Riviera Hotel and Casino, 2901 Las Vegas Boulevard South,
Las Vegas 89109. $$6,000 Guaranteed Prize Fund. $1700-850-500,
U2300 $500, U2100 $500, U1900 $450, U1700 $400, U1500 $350, U1300
$300, U1000 $250, unrated $200. Must be 3 players eligible for each prize
awarded. EF: $69 by 5/22, $79 by 6/9, $100 later. REG.: 2-4 p.m. Rds.:
5-5:30-6-6:30-7-7:30-8-8:30. Higher of regular or quick rating used.
Please bring digital chess clocks. 1/2 point bye available in any round (limit
2). HR: $65 single or double ($89 Friday and Saturday nights). (800) 634-
6753 or (702) 794-9412 – be sure to ask for the CHESS rates. ENT: Vegas
Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925, on line www.
VegasChessFestival.com or fax (702) 933-9112. NS. NC. W. FIDE.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JUNE 12-13, NEVADA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED)
2014 U.S. Women’s Open
5SS, G/90, inc 30. Riviera Hotel and Casino, 2901 Las Vegas Boulevard
South, Las Vegas 89109. $$2,000 Guaranteed Prize Fund. $500-300-
200, U2000 $200, U1800 $200, U1600 $200, U1400 $200, U1200 $200.
EF: $50. REG.: 8-9 a.m. Rds.: 10-2:30-7, 9-1:30. 1/2 point bye available
in any round (limit 1). HR: $65 single or double ($89 Friday and Saturday
nights). (800) 634-6753 or (702) 794-9412 – be sure to ask for the CHESS
rates. ENT: Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-
0925, on line www.VegasChessFestival.com or fax (702) 933-9112. NS.
NC. W.
An American Classic!
A Heritage Event!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JUNE 13-15 OR 14-15, NEVADA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED)
2014 National Open
6-SS, 40/90, SD/30, inc 30 (2 day option rounds 1-3 G/45 d5). Riviera Hotel
and Casino, 2901 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Las Vegas 89109. $80,000
Guaranteed Prize Fund will not be reduced. Championship: $6500-3300-
1600-800-500-350-350-350-350-350-250-250-250-250-250, under 2500
1600, under 2400 1200, under 2300 1000, $2,000 EXTRA for perfect score.
The winner of the Championship section also receives a replica of the
Edmondson Cup. Under 2200: $3500-1800-900-500-400-250-250-250-250-
250-200-200-200-200-200. Under 2000: $3500-1800-900-500-400-250-
250-250-250-250-200-200-200-200-200. Under 1800: $3500-1800-900-
500-400-250-250-250-250-250-200-200-200-200-200. Under 1600:
$3000-1500-800-500-400-250-250-250-250-250. Under 1400: $2000-
1000-500-350-250-200-200-200-200-200. Under 1200: $1200-600-400-
300-200-200. Unrated: $500-300-200. Plus Score Bonus ($14,000 guar-
anteed) in addition to any other prizes, every player with 3-1/2 points or
more wins a $50 gift certificate. Plus score certificates will be awarded
on site only. Players age 14 and under are eligible for best game prizes
including the Freddie Award and $350 in cash prizes (donated by Fred Gru-
enberg). Top 2 sections FIDE rated: USCF rules will be used. EF: $179 by
1/22, $199 by 5/22, $229 by 6/9, $250 later. $40 less for seniors 65 and
over. Add $125 for adults rated under 2100 or juniors under 2000 play-
ing in the Championship Section. This is an open tournament - you may
play in any section at or above your rating level; unrated players may play
only in Unrated or Championship Section. Provisionally rated players
may not win more than the amount of 3rd prize in any section except Cham-
pionship. CCA minimum ratings or other ratings may be used if higher than
USCF June Supplement. Reg.: 2 p.m.-10 p.m. Thursday, 8-9:30 a.m. Fri-
day. Rds.: 11-5, 10-4:30, 10-4:30. 2-day schedule: Reg.: 8-9 a.m. Saturday.
Rds.: 10-12-2-4:30 merge with 3-day in round 4. Half point byes available
in any round, but round 5 or 6 byes must be requested before the start
of round 2 and may not be cancelled. Chess sets and boards provided for
tournament play only, not for skittles. Please bring digital chess clocks!
The LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL features the
National Open, the U.S. Game/10 Championship, the U.S. Women’s Open,
the International Youth Championship, and other events. Many free
extras and surprises! Free parking. Free raffles with great prizes.
Free GM Lectures. Free GM analysis of your games. Free Daily Bulletins.
Grandmaster Chess Camp for all ages on Thursday. U.S. Women’s Open
Thursday and Friday. U.S. Game/10 Championship and Grandmaster
Simuls Thursday afternoon. Youth Tournaments Friday, Saturday &
Sunday. BlitzTournaments Saturday & Sunday. Poker Tournament Mon-
day morning. Don’t be shut out — make your reservations early and
be sure to ask for the CHESS rates— $65 single or double ($89 Fri-
day and Saturday nights) guarantees a Signature or remodeled room with
new furniture, flat screen TV and more. The complimentary resort pack-
age includes access to the Fitness Center, free WI-FI, discounts on
selected show tickets and more with no additional cost only if you are in
our group. Cutoff for special hotel rate is May 22nd. (800) 634-6753 or
(702) 794-9412 or online at www. VegasChessFestival.com/hotel.ENT:
Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925, on line
at www.VegasChessFestival.com or by fax at (702) 933-9112. Info:
(702) 560-0955 and leave a message. NS. W. FIDE.
Grand Prix
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 10-12 OR 11-12, MASSACHUSETTS
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED)
2nd annual Boston Chess Congress
5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, (NOTE CHANGE) rds 1-2 G/60 d10).
The Hyatt Boston Harbor, 101 Harborside Dr., Boston, MA 02128. Free park-
ing. Prizes $12,000 based on 220 paid entries (U1300 & re-entries
count 60%), minimum $8,000 (2/3 each prize) guaranteed. In 6 sec-
tions. Premier: Open to 2000/over or players with USCF life titles of First
Category or over. $1000-500-300-200, clear or tiebreak 1st $100 bonus,
top U2300 $600-300. FIDE. Under 2100: $800-400-300-200. Under
1900: $800-400-300-200. Under 1700: $800-400-300-200. Under 1500:
$700-400-300-200. Under 1300: $400-250-150-100. Unrated may not win
over $200 in U1300, $400 U1500 or $600 U1700. Top 5 sections EF: $87
online at chessaction.com by 1/8, $95 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 1/8,
3-day $93, 2-day $92 if check mailed by 12/31, $100 at site or online until
2 hours before round 1. GMs free; $80 from prize. Under 1300 Section
EF: All $40 less than above. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best
male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections: $800-
400-200. Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play in
different sections; teams must register at site (no extra fee) before
both players begin round 2; teammate pairings avoided but possible. All:
Online EF $5 less to MACA members; may join/renew at masschess.org.
Re-entry $50, not available in Premier. No checks at site, credit cards OK.
Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special
1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online at chesstour.com,
Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or at site, Adult
$40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. 3-Day Schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6
pm. Rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-Day Schedule: Reg. ends
Sat 10 am. Rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Half point byes available
all rounds, limit 2 byes, Premier must commit before rd. 2, others before
rd 3. HR: $79-79, 617-568-1234, request chess rate, reserve by 1/3 or
See previous issue for TLAs appearing January 1-14
rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #657633.
Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills,
NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com,
DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at chessac
tion.com (Online entries posted instantly).
A Heritage Event!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 11-12, WISCONSIN
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
49th Northeastern Open
SECTIONS: Three: OPEN, RESERVE (U/1500) and NOVICE (U/1000). All
are USCF-rated. FORMAT: OPEN and RESERVE: 5SS, T/C: 35/90, SD/60
d5. Rds. at: 10-2:30-7:30 and 10-3. One 1/2- point Bye any Rd. Full-pt Bye
to 2100+ in Rd. 1 if requested. NOVICE: 6SS, G/60 d5. Rds. at: 10:10-
1:00-3:30-6:30 and 10:10, 1:10. Two half-point Byes allowed! PLAYING
SITE: Holiday Inn—Neenah, 123 E. Wisconsin Ave., Neenah, WI 54956.
PH: 920-725-8441. ROOM RATES: $79 for 1-bed King or 2-bed double.
Must mention chess. REGISTRATION: 8:45 — 9:30 on 1/11/14. ENTRY
FEES: OPEN = $40, RESERVE = $25, NOVICE = $15 if mailed by 1/6/14.
All EFs are $7 more if e-mailed, phoned-in, or paid at site. Comp entry to
2200+ (WCA System) if pre-registered!. Checks payable to: Mike Selig
– TD. PRIZE FUND: OPEN: (b/60) $300, $200 $150, best 1900 $180,
1800 $170, 1700 $160, 1600 $150, U/1600 $120. RESERVE: (b/30) $120,
$100, $80, 1100/Under - $80. NOVICE: Trophies to … 1st Place, 2nd,
700/Under, 500/Under. Five $20 Upset Awards for Juniors only: 2 in Open,
2 in Reserve, 1 in Novice. ADVANCE ENTRIES: 49th Northeastern Open,
Mike Selig – Director, 2895 W. Fourth St., Condo ’B’, Appleton, WI 54914-
4330. TD e-mail: mselig@tds.net. PH: 920-739-7550.
JAN. 12, NEW JERSEY
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
1st Annual Steve Ferrero Memorial Grand Prix
4SS, G/60 d5. Dean of Chess Academy, 3150 Route 22 West, Branchburg,
NJ 08876. (908) 595-0066. GTD$ Open : $250-$175-$125-$100, U1700:
$50 gift card U1300: $40 gift card U1000: $30 gift card. Pre-Entry: $45
($35 members). Entries postmarked by 1/7/14 to Dean of Chess Acad-
emy, 3150 Route 22 West, Branchburg, NJ 08876 or enter online at
www.deanofchess.com. Onsite: $55 ($45 members). IMs and GMs free,
early entry fee deducted from prize. One 1/2 point bye if requested
before start of round 2. Registration: 9:00-9:45am. Rounds: 10:00am
& ASAP. All profits will be donated to Steve’s favorite charity, St. Jude Chil-
dren’s Research Hospital.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 17-19 OR 18-19, FLORIDA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20
Central Florida Class Championships
5SS, G/120 d5 (2-day: Rd.1 G/60 d5). International Palms Resort, 6515
International Dr., Orlando, FL 32819 (across from Wet&Wild). $$7,000/
b130, 70% Guaranteed. 6 Sections: (Top section FIDE rated.)Mast/Exp:
$1000-400-200, U2200 $250. Class A: $600-300, U1900 $150. Class B:
$600-300, U1700 $150. Class C: $600-300, U1500 $150. Class D: $600-
300, U1300 $150. U1200: $500-300, U1000 $100, U800 $50. Rated
players may play up one class only. Unrateds limited to $70 unless Place
prize in Mast/Exp. Event part of CFCC GP with $600 additional prizes.
Trophies to top in each section (& Class X), also Class F, G, H, I, J & Unr
in U1200 having more than one entry. Trophies and titles limited to Florida
residents. Special OCA Awards TBD. EF: 3-day $75, 2-day $74 by Jan 7,
both $80 later; plus $5 if paid on-site. $15 less to students in grades K-
8 in U1200 section. CFCC memb discount: $10 ($5 for Jr/Sr memb).
Re-entry $40. Reg.: ends 1/2 hr before 1st rd. Rd.1: 7pm Fri (2-day: 10am
Sat at G/60 d5). Rds.: 2-5: Sat 1 & 6, Sun 9 & 2. 1/2 pt. byes if req’d before
rd. 2 (max 2). HR: $80 (407) 351-3500; (Mention “Chess”); or at
http://tinyurl.com/Jan2014Hotel. Resort Fee removed at Checkin. 48-
hr Cancellation penalty. Reserve by Dec 27. Free Shuttle, Parking, WiFi,
and PM Beverage break. Ent: CFCC, c/o Harvey Lerman, 921 N. Thistle
Ln., Maitland, FL 32751; or online: https://onlineregistration.cc (Scroll
down to correct event), by Jan 16. Info: 407-629-6946 or www.central
flchess.org.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 17-20 OR 18-20 OR 19-20, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED)
5th annual Golden State Open
7SS. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 45 John Glenn Dr., Concord, CA 94520 (free BART
shuttle). 40/110, SD/30 d10 (3-day option, rds. 1-2 G/70 d10, 2-day option
except in Open Section, rds. 1-4 G/30 d10). $25,000 prize fund uncon-
ditionally guaranteed. In 6 sections. Open, open to all. $3000-1500-1000-
600-400, clear or tiebreak winner $100, top U2350/Unr $1000-500.
FIDE. Under 2200: $1600-800-500-400-300, top U2050/Unr $600-300.
Under 1900: $1600-800-500-400-300, top U1750 (no unr) $500-250.
Under 1600: $1200-600-400-300-300, top U1450 (no unr) $400-200.
Under 1300: $1000-600-400-300-200, top U1150 (no unr) $300-150.
Under 1000: $400-200-120-80, trophies to first 3, top U800, U600, Unr.
Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) may enter any section, with maximum
prize U1000 $150, U1300 $400, U1600 $600, U1900 $800. Mixed dou-
bles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score
among all sections: $600-300. Team average must be under 2200; team-
mates may play in different sections; teams must register at site (no extra
fee) before both players begin round 2; teammate pairings avoided but
possible. EF: $133 online at chessaction.com by 1/15, $140 phoned to 406-
896-2038 by 1/15 (entry only, no questions), 4-day $139, 3-day $138, 2-day
$137 mailed by 1/7, all $150 at site, or online until 2 hours before rd 1.
GMs free, $120 deducted from prize. U1000 Section EF: $53 online at
chessaction.com by 1/15 or mailed by 1/7, $70 at site or online until 2
hours before rd 1. All: Special 1 yr USCF dues with paper magazine if paid
with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20,
Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30,
Scholastic $20. Re-entry (except Open) $60. Online or mailed EF $5 less
to CalChess members. 4-day schedule: Late reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri
7 pm, Sat 12 & 6, Sun 12 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:30. 3-day schedule: Late reg.
ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 12 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:30. 2-day
www.uschess.org 53
Tournament Life / January

schedule: Late reg. ends Sun 9 am, rds. Sun 10 am, 12 noon, 2 pm, 3:45
pm & 6 pm, Mon 10 am & 3:30 pm. Byes: OK all, limit 2; Open must com-
mit before rd. 2, others before rd. 4. Unofficial uschess.org ratings
usually used if otherwise unrated. Foreign player ratings: See chess
tour.com/foreignratings.htm. HR: $92-92, 877-276-4600, 925-825-7700,
reserve by 1/3 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use
AWD #D657633. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY
12577. Questions: chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269.
$15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at chessaction.
com. Bring set, board, clock if possible; none supplied.
A Heritage Event!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, PENNSYLVANIA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 (ENHANCED)
46th annual Liberty Bell Open
7SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (3 day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10, 2-day option
in U2100 to U1000, rds. 1-4 G/30 d5). Sonesta Hotel, 1800 Market St.,
Philadelphia 19103. $$20,000 b/320 paid entries (re-entries, GMs &
U1000 section count 50%), else in proportion, except minimum 70% of
each prize guaranteed. In 2006 to 2013, the tournament had over 320 paid
entries each year and the $20,000 projected prize fund was increased in
proportion. In 7 sections. Open: $1700-1000-500-400-300, 1st clear or
on tiebreak $100 bonus, top Under 2300/Unr $800-400. FIDE. Under 2100:
$1000-600-400-300-200. Under 1900: $1000-600-400-300-200. Under
1700: $1000-600-400-300-200. Under 1500: $900-500-400-300-200.
Under 1300: $800-500-400-300-200. Under 1000: $300-200-120-100-80,
trophies to first 3, top U800, U600, Unr. Unrated may enter any section,
but may not win over $200 in U1000, $500 U1300, $700 U1500, or $900
U1700. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team”
combined score among all sections: $1000-600-400. Team average must
be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must
register at site (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2; team-
mate pairings avoided but possible. Top 6 sections EF: $108 online at
chessaction.com 10/19-1/15, $120 phoned by 1/8 (406-896-2038, entry
only, no questions), 4-day $114, 3-day $113, 2-day $112 if check mailed
by 1/8, $130 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hours
before rd. 1. GMs free, $100 deducted from prize. U1000 Section EF: All
$50 less than top 6 sections EF. All: Unofficial uschess.org ratings usu-
ally used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 yr USCF dues with magazine
if paid with entry: Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20,
Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30,
Scholastic $20. PSCF members: online entry $3 less. Re-entry (no
Open to Open) $80 (not $60). 4-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds.
Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 11 & 5, Mon 10 & 3:30. 3-day schedule: Reg
ends Sat 9 am, rds. Sat 10, 1:30 & 5, Sun 11 & 5, Mon 10 & 3:30. 2-day
schedule (no Open Section): Reg. ends Sun. 9 am, rds. Sun 10-12-1:30-
3-5, Mon 10-3:30. Bye: all, limit 3, Open must commit before rd. 2,
others before rd. 4. HR: $98-98-98-98, 1-800-SONESTA, 617-806-4653,
request Continental Chess rate, reserve by Jan 3 or rate may increase.
Parking: Sonesta Chess rate about $20/day (half normal rate). 1818 Mar-
ket Street, next door, about $12/day Sat & Sun, $12 Friday night, $30 Mon-
day. 1815 JFK Blvd, 2 blocks away, about $10/day Sat & Sun, $9 Friday
night, $25 Monday. 1540 Vine/1540 Spring, 7 blocks away, about $5/day
Sat & Sun, $5 Friday night, $18 Monday. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600,
use AWD#D657633 or reserve through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.
com or Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions:
DirectorAtChess.US, www.chesstour.com, 347-201-2269. $15 service
charge for refunds. Advance entries will be posted at chessaction.com
(online entries posted instantly).
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 17, 24, 31, FEB. 7, NEW YORK
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
Queens Winter Open
4-SS, G/90 (G/85 d5). All Saints Lutheran Church, 164-02 Goethals Ave.,
Jamaica, NY 11432. EF: $35, $5 less to QCC members. $200-$100 gtd to
top 2, more per entries. Up to two 1/2 pt byes ok with advance notice
(declare before Rd. 3). REG.: 7:30-8:00. RDS.: 8:15 each Friday. ENT (mail
by 1/11/14): Ed Frumkin, 445 E 14th St., #10D, NYC 10009.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 18-19, GEORGIA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
2014 Atlanta Winter Classic
SITE: Emory University, Winship Ballroom, Dobbs University Center. 404-492-
9039. Directions: http://ow.ly/rft2k. 7 SECTIONS: Master/Expert, A, B, C, D,
E & u1000. MEMBERSHIPS: Must be a member of the US Chess Federation.
CLASS ELIGIBILITY: January Rating Supplement used. Players must play in the
class in which their rating indicates. Unrated players must play in the Class E
section. FIDE ratings must be declared before round 1. ADVANCE ENTRY FEES:
M/X: $45, A, B, C, D, E: $45 Free entry to GM, IM, FM, & 2300+, advanced entry
fee deducted from prize. Advance entries must be paid by January 9. ALL entry
fees paid after January 9 will be $55. ADVANCE REGISTRATION: Online: http://
ow.ly/rftti. Frank Johnson (TD)/Joe Couvillion (TD) questions can be sent to
frankjohnson@chess-coach.net. ON-SITE REGISTRATION: Saturday: 8:00-
9:00am. ROUNDS: Sat 10am, 2:30pm, 7 pm; Sun 10am, 2:30pm. TIME CONTROL:
All Sections: G/120 d5. PRIZES: $2450 GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND: Master/Expert
(GPP 10): 1st $300, 2nd $200; Expert: $230 U2100: $120 Class A, B, C, D, E: 1st
$180, 2nd $120. u1000 $100. Byes: One 1/2 point bye allowed. Must commit
before Rd. 1. Prizes paid on site. Lodging: Emory Conference Center: 1615 Clifton
Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, (404) 712-6000. There is no special chess rate.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 18-19, VIRGINIA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)
4th Annual Sterling Chess January!
Embassy Suites Dulles–North; 44610 Waxpool Rd., Ashburn, VA 20147.
Six sections plus Quads. FIDE-Rated section,Jan 18-19 (open to all
FIDE-rated players and USCF 1600 and higher): 4SS, G/115 d5. $550 Gtd.,
$250/$150/$100; top U2000 $50. Rds.: Sat. 11:15, 3:45; Sun. 11:15, 3:45.
U1900 section,Jan. 18: 4SS, G/61 d5. $100/$60/$40; top U1700 $35.
Rds.: Sat. 11:15, 2:00, 4:30, 7:00. U1600,Jan. 18: 4SS, G/50 d5, $50/$30;
top U1400 $25. Rds.: Sat. 11:15, 1:45, 4:00, 6:15. U1300Jan. 18: 4SS,
G/40 d5, trophy for first, medals for second, top U1100. Rds.: Sat.
11:15, 1:15, 3:00, 4:45. U1000Jan. 18: 4SS, G/25 d5. Trophy for first,
medals for second, top U800. Rds.: Sat. 11:15, 12:45, 2:00, 3:15.
U700Jan. 18: 4SS, G/25 d5. Trophy for first, medals for second, top U500.
Rds.: Sat. 11:15, 12:45, 2:00, 3:15. Sunday Quads,Jan. 19: Four-player
sections based on rating. 3RR, G/75 d5. $25 for first each quad. Rds.:
Sun. 11:15, 2:30, 5:45. Byes: Half-point in swiss, any round; must com-
mit before end of second round. Players with more than one bye are not
eligible for prizes. No byes in quads. EF: FIDE-Rated $50; U1900 $35;
U1600 $30; U1300, U1000, U700, and Quads, $25. All, early bird rate $5
less till noon Wednesday 1/15, $5 more on site. Unrateds free. Doors open
10 a.m. Register online at www.meetup.com/sterling-chess-tournaments.
Pay on website. Info: paulserrano13@gmail.com. Top two swiss sec-
tions are Chess Magnet School JGP.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 18-19, MAINE
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED)
Saco Open
A Maine Chessplayer of the year event! Hampton Inn Saco/Biddeford, 48
Industrial Park Rd., Saco, ME 04072. Accelerated pairings may be used.
In 2 Sections, Open: 4SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30 Sec. Increment, Analog
clocks play 40/90, SD/60, FIDE rated. $$GTD: $500-250. U2250 $150,
U2000 $150. U1750: 4SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30 Sec. Increment, Analog
clocks play 40/90, SD/60, Open to 1749 & under. $$GTD: $400-200.
U1500 $100, U1250 $100. ALL: EF: $50 in advance, $55 at site. Reg.: 9:00-
9:45. Advance entries must be postmarked by 1/11/ 2014. Rds.: 10-4,
10-4. One half point bye available rounds 1-3. Must be requested before
round 1. HR: $89 by 12/19/2013 (207) 282-7222. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49
Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex Relyea relyea@opera
mail.com. www. relyeachess.com. NS. W.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 18-19, TENNESSEE
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
Tennessee Winter Open
5SS, G/120 d5. Henry Horton State Park, Chapel Hill, TN. $$Gtd. $2000
Prize fund. Sections: Kings (Open) $325-225-125, 1st 2000-2199 $125,
Top U2000 $100, Queens (U1800) $225-125-75, T1500-1599 $100, Top
U1500 $75, Rooks (U1400) $150-100-75, T1000-1199 $75, Top U1000 $50,
Top UNR $50, Pawns (U1000) Trophies top 5 Top 600-799, Top U600. Adult
UNR must play in Rooks* or Open section. EF: $50 by 01/07 ($60 at site),
UNR $25 ($35) *(UNR eligible for UNR prize in Rooks only), Pawns $15
($25), youth and school members for trophy only $25 ($35) IM and GM
Free entry ($50 taken from prize of 150 or more). On site reg. Sat 8:00-
9:15 CST, USCF and TCA Dues req. OSA Rds.: Sat. 10:00, 2:30, 7:00, Sun.
9:00, 1:30 Hotel: Henry Horton State Resort Lodge $75 rate. Info: Enter
on-line at TNCHESS.ORG or mail to: Chris Prosser, 733 Long Hunter Ct.,
Nashville, TN 37217 or RegionIII@aol.com, 615-399-8432, NS. NC. W.

FOXWOODS OPEN returns after 5 years!

Jan 22-26, 23-26 or 24-26 at fabulous Foxwoods Resort Casino
$80,000 projected prizes, $40,000 minimum, GM & IM norms possible!
Open Section: 9 rounds, Jan 22-
26, 40/2, SD/30, d10. Other sections: 7
rds, 40/2, SD/30, d10 (3-day option, rds
1-4 G/50, d10), Foxwoods Resort
Casino, in the woods of Southeastern
Connecticut. Free parking.
6 sections. Prizes $80,000 based
on 520 entries (seniors, re-entries, GMs,
IMs, WGMs & foreign FIDE count half),
else proportional; minimum $40,000 (half
each prize) guaranteed. FIDE ratings
used in Open, Jan. official USCF in other
sections. Junior GP pts available.
Open: $7000-4000-2000-1000-800-
700-600-500-400-300, top FIDE
U2400/Unr $3000-1500. FIDE, 200 GPP.
U2200: $5000-2500-1300-1000-700-
600-500-400-300-300.
U2000: $5000-2500-1300-1000-700-
600-500-400-300-300. Unr limit $2000.
U1800: $5000-2500-1300-1000-700-
600-500-400-300-300. Unr limit $1600.
U1600: $4000-2000-1200-800-600-
500-400-300-300-300. Unr limit $1200.
U1400: $3000-1500-900-700-600-
500-400-300-300-300, top Under 1200
(no unr) $1000-500. Unr limit $800.
Players with under 26 games rated
as of 1/14 official list may not win over
$1500 in U1400, $2500 U1600 or U1800.
If any post-event rating posted 5-day late reg. ends 1/22 6:15 pm,
1/21/13-1/21/14 was more than 30 pts rds Wed 7:15 pm, Thu 1 & 7:15, Fri 12 &
over section maximum, prize limit $1500. 6:15, Sat 12 & 6:15, Sun 10 & 4.
4-day late reg. ends 1/23 6:15 pm,
Online entry fee: $225 at chess Rds. Thu 7:15 pm, Fri 12 & 6:15, Sat 12
action.com by 1/20, $250 until 2 hours & 6:15, Sun 10 & 4.
before game. Note higher Open fees for 3-day late reg. ends 1/24 7:30 pm,
US players not rated 2200 or over. Rds.Fri 8:30 pm, Sat 10, 12:45, 3:30 &
Mailed entry fee: 5-day $235, 4-day 6:15, Sun 10 & 4.
$234, 3-day $233 if mailed by 1/13. NOTE! Saturday 6:15 pm, not 5:15.
Phoned entry fee: $235 by 1/20 Half-point byes: OK all, limit 4 (limit
(406-896-2038, no questions). No phone 2 in last 4 rds). Open must commit
entry after 1/20. before rd 2, others before rd 4.
Entry at site: $250.
Open Section entry fee: $100 more Bring set, board, clock if possible-
to US players not USCF or FIDE rated none supplied.
2200 or over. Unofficial uschess.org ratings
IMs/WGMs: $25 at chessaction.com usually used if otherwise unrated.
by 1/20, $50 at site; $150 from prize. Special room rates: MGM Grand,
Foreign FIDE rated players in Great Cedar Hotel or Two Trees Inn,
Open: $115 at chesstour.com by 1/20, $129-129. Grand Pequot Tower (closest
$140 at site or online at chessaction.com to tournament): $159-159. No resort fee.
by 5 pm 1/22; $100 deducted from prize. 1-800-FOXWOOD, must reserve by 1/8.
Special entry fee: Senior 65/over, all Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use
$100 less. Online EF $4 less to CSCA AWD #657633.
members. Re-entry $100; not available Blitz tournament 12/29 9:15 pm.
in Open Section. Entry: c h e s s a c t i o n .c om or
No checks at site; credit cards OK. Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury
Special USCF dues if paid with Mills NY 12577. $15 charge for refunds.
entry- see chesstour.com or Tournament Advance entries posted at chessaction.
Life. USCF membership required. com (online entries posted instantly).

54 January 2014 | Chess Life


Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 18-20, TEXAS
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED)
Texas Masters
5SS, G/90 inc/30. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S. Cottonwood Dr. #C, Richard-
son, TX 75080. FIDE and USCF rated but uses FIDE rules. Will use USCF
ratings and rules for awarding prizes. Default late forfeiture time is one
hour. TD may extend this time at TD’s discretion. EF: USCF +2400 $80,
USCF 2200-2400(or if you ever been rated 2200 USCF) $95, Fide rated
2000 and above is $130, U2200USCF/U2000Fide $200. USCF Membership
Required. $$b/25: 75% Guaranteed. $1600-800-400-200. U2400 $500.
Reg.: 1/18: 10:00-10:55 am. Rds.: Sat 11:20am, 5 pm; Sun 11:20am, 5
pm; Mon 10 am. One bye if requested before end of round 2 and before
given a full point bye or forfeit win. Players who withdraw or take a last
round zero point bye are ineligible for prizes. ENT: Dallas Chess Club, see
address above. 214.632.9000. INFO: Barb Swafford, info@dallaschess.
com, www.swchess.com. NS. NC.
JAN. 21, NEW YORK
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)
Marshall Masters!
4-SS, G/25 d5. Third Tuesday of every month. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St.,
NYC. 212-477-3716. Open to players rated over 2100 (plus all players scor-
ing over 50% in any MCC Open or U2300 event since the prior month’s
Masters). EF: $40, members $30, GMs free. $$G250-150-100. Prizes to
U2400, U2300 and biggest upset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-
9:30-10:45. One bye available (Rd. 1 or 4 only), request at entry.
www.marshallchessclub.org. NOW ALSO FIDE RAPID RATED!
An American Classic!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 22-26, 23-26 OR 24-26, CONNECTICUT
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED)
12th annual Foxwoods Open
Open Section, Jan 22-26: 9SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10. FIDE rated, GM & IM
norms possible. $500 MINIMUM PRIZE to FIDE 2500/over foreign GMs
who complete all games with no byes (limited to first 5 to enter at ches-
saction.com). EF $100 more to US players in Open Section if not USCF or
FIDE rated 2200/over. Other Sections, Jan 23-26 or 24-26: 7SS, 40/2,
SD/30 d10 (3-day option, rds. 1-4 G/50 d10). Foxwoods Resort Casino
& Hotel, Rt. 2, Mashantucket, CT 06339 (I-95 to Exit 92 to Rt. 2 West, or
I-395 to Exit 85 to Rt. 164 to Rt. 2 East). Free parking. 45 miles from T.F.
Green Airport (Providence, RI), 14 miles from Groton/New London Air-
port; for shuttle from New London Amtrak station call 1-800-USA-RAIL.
Bus transportation: 1-888-BUS2FOX. Free shuttle to Mashantucket Pequot
Museum, largest Native American museum in USA. Prizes $80,000
based on 520 paid entries (Seniors, re-entries, GMs, IMs, WGMs & for-
eign FIDE count as half entries), else proportional, minimum $40,000 (50%
of each prize) guaranteed. In 6 sections: Open: $7000-4000-2000-1000-
800-700-600-500-400-300, FIDE U2400/Unr $3000-1500. Clear or tiebreak
winner gets free room at 2015 Foxwoods Open, if held (if not held, prize
replaced by free room at Continental Class). Under 2200, Under 2000,
Under 1800: each $5000-2500-1300-1000-700-600-500-400-300-300.
Under 1600: $4000-2000-1200-800-600-500-400-300-300-300. Under
1400: $3000-1500-900-700-600-500-400-300-300-300, top Under 1200
(no unrated) $1000-500. No separate U1200 Section; players under 1200
play for both U1400 and U1200 prizes; receive larger if winning both. Prize
limits: 1) Players with under 26 lifetime games rated as of 1/14 official
rating may not win over $1500 in U1400, $2500 in U1600 or U1800.
Games rated too late for 1/14 list not counted. 2) If any post-event rat-
ing posted 1/21/13-1/21/14 was more than 30 points over section
maximum, prize limit $1500. 3) Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) can-
not win over $800 U1400, $1200 U1600, $1600 U1800, or $2000 U2000.
4) Balance of limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. EF: $225 online
at chessaction.com by 1/20, $235 phoned by 1/20 (406-896-2038, entry
only, no questions), 5-day $235, 4-day $234, 3-day $233 if mailed by
1/13, all $250 at site. Open Section $100 more to US players if not USCF
or FIDE rated 2200/over. GMs free in Open; $150 deducted from prize.
IMs & WGMs in Open: $25 at chessaction.com by 1/20, $50 at site or
online by 5 pm 1/22; $150 deducted from prize (no deduction from min-
imum prize). Foreign FIDE rated players in Open: $115 at chessaction.
com by 1/20, $140 at site or online by 5 pm 1/22; $100 deducted from
prize. Seniors age 65/over: EF $100 less, except for GMs, IMs, WGMs
& FIDE foreign. Online EF $4 less to CSCA members. No checks at site;
credit cards OK. Unofficial uschess.org ratings used if otherwise
unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with
entry: online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic
$15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholas-
tic $20. Re-entry: $100, no re-entry from Open Section to Open Section.
5-day Open Section schedule: Reg. ends Wed 6:15 pm, rds. Wed. 7:15
pm, Thu 1 & 7:15, Fri 12 & 6:15, Sat 12 & 6:15 (note change), Sun 10 &
4. 4-day Lower Sections schedule: Reg. ends Thu 6:15 pm, rds. Thu 7:15
pm, Fri 12 & 6:15, Sat 12 & 6:15 (note change), Sun 10 & 4. 3-day
Lower Sections schedule: Reg. ends Fri 7:30 pm, rds. Fri 8:30 pm, Sat
10, 12:45, 3:30 & 6:15, Sun 10 & 4. 4-day & 3-day merge & compete for
same prizes. Byes: all; limit 4 (limit 2 in last 4 rds), Open must commit
before rd. 2, others before rd. 4. Bring sets, boards, clocks if possi-
ble- none supplied. HR: MGM Grand, Great Cedar Hotel or Two Trees Inn,
$129-129, no resort fee. 1-800-FOXWOOD, must reserve by 1/8. Car
rentals: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633 or reserve car online
at chesstour.com. Ratings: FIDE used in Open, Jan. 2014 official USCF
in others. For foreign in U2200 & below, see www.chesstour.com/foreign-
ratings.htm. Highest of multiple ratings usually used. Players who fail to
disclose foreign or FIDE ratings may be expelled. Special rules: Play-
ers must submit to a search for electronic devices if requested by
Director. In round 4 or after, players with scores of over 80% and their
opponents may not use headphones, earphones or cellphones or go to
a different floor of the hotel without Director permission. Ent: Continen-
tal Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: 347-201-2269,
www.chesstour.com. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries will
be posted at chessaction.com.
A Heritage Event!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 24-26 OR 25-26, OHIO
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 (ENHANCED)
37th Cardinal Open, Columbus
5-SS, 40/120, SD/60 d5 (2-day rds. 1&2 G/75 d5). Sets provided, bring
clocks. 1 bye any round. $10,000 in 5 sections, 1st 4 prizes guaranteed,
others b/200 paid entries (re-entries=1/3), prizes added if more! OCA
Grand Prix. Open (FIDE) $1200-800-500-400, $100 bonus to 1st (clear or
tiebreak), all gtd; U2300 $480-320; U2100 $900-450-200-100; U1800
$900-450-200-100; U1500 $700-350-175-100; U1200 $700-350-175-
100; upset $50/section. Unrateds limited to 3rd prize except in Open. EF
$90 if recd by 1/17, then $100; re-entry $30; no checks onsite. Free to
IM/GM, $90 deducted from winnings (waived if 200 paid entries). OH res-
idents OCA membership reqd. 3-day: Reg. Fri 5-6:30pm, Rds. 7pm; Sat
10:45-5:45; Sun 9:30-4:30. 2-day: Reg. Sat 9-10:15, Rds. 10:45-2 then
merge w/3-day. Blitz tourny Sat eve. Enter FOTK Chess Club, 2720 Air-
port Dr., Columbus, OH 43219. Site: Embassy Suites Hotel, 2886 Airport
Dr., Columbus, OH 43219, 614-536-0209, $109/night chess rate thru Jan
17, 4/room, incl full bkfst & mgr reception. Full details/entry form:
www.neilley.com/chess, online entry available, info grant@neilley.com,
614-314-1102, leave message. NS. W.
A Heritage Event!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 24-26, NORTH CAROLINA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED)
Land of the Sky XXVII
5SS, 40/120,SD/30 d5 (U12 is G/90 d5). Crowne Plaza Resort Asheville,
One Resort Dr., Asheville, NC 28806. Weekend before Super Bowl. $20,000
b/320 $11,000 gtd. Open (FIDE-rated, 2/3 gtd): $2400-1200-600-500-
400. U2300 $600-300. Asheville (Under 2200): $1600-800-400.
1999-1900,1899-1800, U1800 $600-300 each; Unrated: $75. Buncombe
(Under 1700): $1600-800-400. 1599-1500, 1499-1400, 1399-1300, Under
1300 $600-300 each; Unrated: $75. U12 (Under 1200): $800-400-200.
U1000: $300-150 Unrated: $75. Biggest Upset in Tmnt: $25. EF (Open,
Asheville, Buncombe): $84 by 1/17. GMs/IMs free ($94 deducted from
prize). EF:(U12): $42 by 1/17. “No-prize” EF for under age 18 in
Asheville, Buncombe, U12: $21 (no discounts). Unrated EF in Asheville,
Buncombe, U12: $21 (no discounts, eligible for unrated prize only).
ALL: On-site entries $10 more. Discounts (pre-reg or on-site, one per
player): $10 off for players new to Land of the Sky, 2nd family member,
or Under 18. Add $21 to play in a section more than 200 points above your
rating. Rds.: 1st rd. either Fri 7pm or Sat 9am (G/90 d5), then Sat 1pm
- 7pm, Sun 9am - 3pm. One 1/2 pt bye avail rds. 1-4, declare by rd. 2.
BLITZ: 10RR, G/5 d0. Sat 10 am EF: $20. 100% of entry fees paid in prizes.
Top section USCF- and FIDE-rated. ENT: WW, PO Box 1123, Weaverville,
NC 28787, 828-645-4215, fax: 828-645-4216. HR: $89 for up to four
occupants. Reserve early at 828-254-3211 or 800-733-3211 and mention
tournament. INFO: Wilder Wadford, wwadford48@gmail.com www.
ncchess.org.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 24-26 OR 25-26, VIRGINIA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15
CAC Jan 2014 FIDE Open
Capital Area Chess, 4451 Brookfield Corporate Dr., Suite #201, Chantilly,
VA 20151. Prizes:$2500 b/o 60 paid entries. Open Section Place Prizes
GTD.3 Sections: Open (FIDE & USCF rated, uses USCF rules, USCF Rat-
ings and Rules for Prizes; GMs free (No Prize deducted). Other Sections
only USCF Rated - U1900, U1600. Format: Open & U1900 3-day: 5SS, G/90
+ 30sec inc. (2-day Round 1 G/65 d5 Rounds 2-5 G/90 + 30sec); U1600
play only 2-day – 5-SS Rd. 1 G/65 d5; Rds. 2-5: G/90 d5. Prizes - Open:
See previous issue for TLAs appearing January 1-14
$500-$250-$150. U2200/U2050 $110 each. U1900: $360-$180-$100
U1750 $100. U1600: $260-$130-$70 U1300/U1150/U1000 $60 each.
Clear winner in each section receive a free entry to any future CAC FIDE
Open. 3-day Schedule (Open/U1900): Registration ends 7pm Fri 1/24.
Rounds: Fri 7:30pm; Sat 1pm - 6pm; Sun 10am - 3pm. 2-day Schedule:
Registration ends Sat 1/25 9:30am. Open/U1900 Rounds: Sat 10am -
1pm - 6pm; Sun 10am - 3pm. U1600 Rounds: Sat 10am - 1pm - 5pm; Sun
10am - 2pm. EF: Open: $60 online by 1/17. $70 online by 1/23. $80 after
1/23 or onsite. (Discounts: CAC Members $10 less, Juniors or Addl.
Family member $5 less, U1600 Section $15 less). Re-entries allowed $40.
Checks postmarked by 1/15. One bye allowed if requested before com-
pletion of Rd. 2. Online registration: www.capitalareachess.com. Mail
checks to: Capital Area Chess, Inc., PO Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20153-
3582. 2014janopen@capitalareachess.com. Boards and sets provided;
Clocks supplied in Open Section only. Side Events: Saturday morning 8-
SS, G/5 d0 FIDE Rated Blitz.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 25, ILLINOIS
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
Bradley Winter Open
4SS, G/80 d5. Robert Michel Student Center, 915 N. Elmwood, Peoria, IL
61625. 2 Sections: Open & Reserve (U1400). EF: $20 by 1/23, $25 at
site, $2 disc’t ICA memb, $2 disc’t GPCF memb, free to Masters. $$Gtd:
$1,000. Open: 1st $200, 2nd $100, 3rd $50, Expert $50 & $25, Classes
A, B & C $50 & $25 each, Upset $50. Reserve (1400): 1st $75, 2nd $50,
Classes D & E $50 & $25 each, Upset $25. Reg.: 8-8:45. Rds.: 9,12, 2:45,
5:30. Bye: 1-4, www.gpcf.net. Ent: Murrel Rhodes, 1116 N. Parkside Dr.,
Peoria, IL 61606, 309-682-0675 day, murrel@gmail.com.
JAN. 25, VIRGINIA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
CAC Jan 2014 FIDE Blitz (BLZ)
8-SS, G/5 d0. Capital Area Chess, 4451 Brookfield Corporate Dr., Suite
#201, Chantilly, VA 20151. Prizes:$500 GTD: $200-$100-$50
U2000/U1800/U1600 $50 each. EF by 1/23 online: $25, Onsite $35. CAC
Members $5 less. Blitz rated, but the higher of regular, quick or blitz used
for pairings and prizes. USCF & FIDE Blitz Rated Reg. Ends 9:30am.
Rounds: 10am and ASAP. Three byes available – must be requested at entry.
Info: www.capitalareachess.com. Mail checks to: Capital Area Chess, Inc.,
PO Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20153-3582. 2014janopen@capitalarea
chess.com. Boards and sets provided; Clocks not supplied.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 25-26, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
2014 Paul Keres Memorial
6SS, G/61 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. 2 sections:
Open/U1800. EF: $70 at the door ($65 if notified by 1/24); $60 LACC mem-
bers ($55 if notified by 1/24); Siblings 1/2, $30 new LACC members, Free
new LACC Life members! Reg.: Sat 10-11:30 am. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each
day. Byes: Up to three 1/2-point byes available. 1-Day option I: Play 1
day- no 1/2 pt byes- 1/2 EF. 1-Day option II: Play 1 day & receive three
1/2 pt byes- Full EF. Prizes: $$ 1,500 (b/45, 50% Guaranteed). 1st-3rd
$400-200-100 U2000: $125. U1800: $200-100; U1600: $100–50-$25;
U1400: $100-50; U1200/unrated: $50. Ent: LACC, Box 251774, LA, CA
90025. Info: Mick Bighamian: (310) 795-5710; Mick@LAChessClub.com
or www.LAChessClub.com. Parking: Free in basement.
JAN. 26, CONNECTICUT
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)
Foxwoods Open Blitz (BLZ)
5SS, G/5 d0, double round, 10 games. Foxwoods Resort Casino (see Fox-
woods Open). Prizes $1500 based on 48 entries, else in proportion:
www.uschess.org 55
Tournament Life / January
$300-200-100, U2200/Unr $180-90, U2000/Unr $160-80, U1800 $140-70,
U1600 $120-60. EF: $40, at site only, no checks. Reg. ends 9 pm, rds. 9:15,
10, 10:40, 11:20, 12. Bye: 1. Blitz rated, but higher of regular or blitz used
for pairings & prizes.
A State Championship Event!
JAN. 27, FEB. 3, 10, NEW YORK
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
25th Nassau G/60 Championship
6-SS, G/55+5sec or G/60. 1st Presbyterian Church, 1st & Main Sts., Mine-
ola. EF: $37 by 1/25, $44 at site, non-memb $10 more. $$ (800 b/25, top
2 G) 180-120, U2100, 1900, 1700, 1500, 1300/UR each 100. 3 byes 1-6.
Rds.: 7:15-9:25 each Mon. Rule 14H not used. Captnhal@optonline.net.
Ent: Harold Stenzel, 80 Amy Dr., Sayville, NY 11782.
JAN. 31, NEW YORK
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)
Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz! (BLZ)
9-SS, G/5 d0. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. $$Gtd
500: $200-100, top U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50 each, EF:
$30, members $20. Blitz-rated, but the higher of regular, quick or blitz used
for pairings & prizes. FIDE Blitz Rated! Reg. ends 6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-7:30-
7:50-8:10-8:40-9-9:20-9:40-10 pm. Three byes available, request at entry.
www.marshallchessclub.org.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
A State Championship Event!
FEB. 1, PENNSYLVANIA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
2014 PA State Game/75 Championship
4SS, G/75 d5. O’Hara Student Center, University of Pittsburgh, 4024
O’Hara St., Pittsburgh PA 15213. 3 Sections, $$ (695G):Championship:
EF: $30 by 1/24, $40 later. $200-100, U2000 $75, U1800 $50. Premier:
U1600. EF: $25 by 1/24, $35 later. $90-60, U1400 $50, U1200 $40, U1000
$30; Trophies to Top 2, Top 2 U1400, Top 2 U1200, Top 2 U1000. Scholas-
tic: Grades K-12 U900. EF: $15 by 1/24, $25 later. Trophies to Top 7, 1-3
U600. ALL: Teams of 4 to 7 combined from all sections, Trophies 1st-2nd
schools, clubs. PSCF $5, OSA. Reg ends 9:30am. Rds.: 10-1-4-7. Ent/Info:
PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223, 412-
908-0286. W.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 1-2 OR 2, NEW YORK
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)
Marshall February Open FIDE GP
4-SS, 40/120, SD/30 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716.
EF: $50, members $30. $$625 gtd: $275-150, U2200 $105, U2000 $95. Reg
ends 15 min before Rd. 2 schedules:2 day 12:30-5:30 each day. 1day
10-11:15-12:30-5:30 (Rds. 1-2 G/25 d5). Limit 2 byes, request at entry.
FIDE rated! NO REENTRY. www.marshallchessclub.org.
FEB. 7-8, MINNESOTA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
2014 Rochester Grand Winter Open
Please see our website for more schedules. Harwick Cafeteria, 201 3rd
Ave. SW, Rochester, MN 55906. In 4 Sections, Premier: 5SS, G/60 d5, Free
entry for masters - $40 deducted from prizes for masters. Free entry only
applies to first entry. $$GTD: $300-200-100. U2000 $80; U1800 $80.
$40 rec’d by Feb 4; $50 at site. Rds.: Friday 7:30 P.M.; Saturday 10:00,
1:00, 3:30, and 6:00. Amateur: 5SS, G/60 d5, Open to 1600 & under.
$$GTD: $210-140-70. U1400 $60; U1200 $60. $30 rec’d by Feb 4; $40 at
site. Rds.: Friday 7:30 P.M.; Saturday 10:00, 1:00, 3: 30, and 6:00.
Reserve: 5SS, G/30 d5, Open to 1200 & under. Prizes: 1st-7th trophies.
$15 rec’d by Feb 4; $20 at site. Rds.: 10:00, 11:15, 1: 00, and 2:30. Ban-
tam: 4SS, G/30 d5, Open to 800 & under. Prizes: 1st-7th trophies. $15
18th annual MID-AMERICA OPEN
March 14-16 or 15-16, Clayton, MO (Saint Louis)
$20,000 projected prizes, $16,000 minimum guaranteed
5 rounds, 7 sections. Choice of 3-day schedule (40/110, SD/30, d10),or
2-day (rds 1-2 G/60, d10), both merge after round 2. Prizes based on 250
entries (re-entries & U1000 count half); 80% each prize minimum guaranteed.
Open Section: Prizes $2000-1000-500-300, clear/tiebreak win $100
bonus, top U2300/Unr $800-400. FIDE rated (USCF rules used), 100 GPP.
Under 2100 Section: $1400-700-400-200.
Under 1900 Section: $1400-700-400-200.
Under 1700 Section: $1300-700-400-200. Unrated limit $800.
Under 1500 Section: $1200-600-300-200. Unrated limit $600.
Under 1300 Section: $1000-500-300-200. Unrated limit $400.
Under 1000 Section: $400-300-200-100, plaques to first 3, top Under
800, Under 600, Unrated. Unrated limit $200.
MIXED DOUBLES PRIZES (all sections): $700-400-300-200.
FULL DETAILS: see “Grand Prix” in this issue or chesstour.com.
56 January 2014 | Chess Life
rec’d by Feb 4; $20 at site. Rds.: 10:00, 11:15, 1:00, and 2:30. ALL: Reg.:
https://onlineregistration.cc/. ENT: Jack Fulsom H:507.206.3712,
C:507.319.2565, https://onlineregistration.cc/. INFO: Jack Fulsom jful
som@charter.net. http://rochesterchess.com/ai1ec_event/2014-
rochester-grand-winter-open/. NS. NC. W.
A Heritage Event!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 7-9 OR 8-9, MARYLAND
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30
52nd Annual Baltimore Open
Baltimore Open 5SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30” incr, (Rnd. 1 G/90 +30” incr)
(2-day schedule: rds. 1-2 G/45+30”incr) U1300 & U1100 G/120 d5 (2-
day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d5). Sheraton BWI, 1100 Old Elkridge Landing
Rd., Linthicum Heights, MD 21090. $$Based on score. 7 sections: Cham-
pionship (min. rating of 1900) FIDE rated: 5.0 =$1600, 4.5 =$800,
4.0=$450, 3.5=$175 [min $1500 payout, top score group raised if less
than $1500]. U2100: 5.0 =$1500, 4.5 =$700, 4.0=$350, 3.5=$150.
U1900: 5.0 =$1200, 4.5 =$650, 4.0=$350, 3.5=$125. U1700: 5.0=
$1200, 4.5 = $600, 4.0= $300, 3.5= $100. U1500: 5.0= $1000, 4.5=
$500, 4.0= $250, 3.5= $100. U1300 & U1100: 5.0= $500, 4.5= $250,
4.0= $125, 3.5= $50. Additional prizes to clear 1st place, if no 5.0
in section (added to score prize) - Championship: $300; U2100 $200,
U1900 $150, U1700 & U1500: $100; U1300 & U1100: $50. Unrated may
not win over $100 in U1100, $200 U1300, or $400 in U1500. Sets and
boards provided. Clocks provided in the Championship & U2100 sec-
tions. Optionally, pairings can be texted to your phone. Free Sunday
morning continental breakfast for players. Free parking. EF: $95 by
1/24, $100 by 2/4, and $105 online only by 2/6, $110 at the door. Spe-
cial EFs: $35 less for U1300 & U1100; GMs free, $50 deducted from prize;
IMs $45 off EF, $20 deducted from prize. HR: $79, ($5 EF discount if stay-
ing at hotel). Rooms may not be avail after 1/24. 3-day schedule: Reg.
ends Fri 7pm, rds. Fri 8, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 9 & 3. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends
Sat 10am rds. 11, 2:15 & 6, Sun 9 & 3. U1300 & U1100 3-day sched-
ule Reg. ends Fri 7 pm, rds. Fri 8, Sat 11 & 4:00, Sun 9 & 1:00. U1300 &
U1100 2-day schedule Reg. ends Sat 10am rds. 11, 1:15 & 4:00, Sun
9 & 1:00. Ent: Michael Regan, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd., Towson, MD 21204.
Detailed rules, more information and registration at http://thebalt
open.com.
FEB. 8, IOWA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20
$1150 Expert+ Open and Broken Pawn Reserve (U2000)
Marshalltown Salvation Army (Enter in Back), 107 W. State St., Mar-
shalltown, IA 50158. $1150 Expert (Plus) Open - 100% Guaranteed:
3 Round Swiss G/90+30. Open to anyone who has ever been rated
2000 or above. Guaranteed Prizes: $500-$300-$200;$100 top scoring
Iowan,$50 Upset Prize. Please register by 2/4/2014 to ensure your par-
ticipation. Rds.: 10:00 - 2:00 - 7:00. Please direct eligibility and other ques-
tions to Tim Mc Entee at timmcentee@msn.com. Broken Pawn Reserve
(U2000): Open to 1999 & under. 4 Round Swiss G/45 d5. EF: $10 if reg-
istered by 2/4/2014; $15 after. Rds.: 10:00-12:00-2:30-4:30. 100% of
entries retuned as prizes 1st 40%, 2nd 20%, U1800 20%, U1400 20%. If
any players are waiting for their traveling companions from the Expert
Open to finish, a rated quick or blitz tournament will be held at 7:30pm.
Entries and information: Hank Anzis, 409 N Center St., Marshalltown, IA
50158, 641-752-1611. anzis@prodigy.net. www.centraliowachess.org. NS.
NC. W.
A Heritage Event!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 8-9, SOUTH CAROLINA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
40th Snowstorm Special
5SS, 30/90, SD/1 d5 (Rd. 1 G/90 d5). Holiday Inn Express, 120 Holiday
Dr., Summerville, SC 29483. Prize Fund: Open Section - $1000 b/30 ($500
Gtd.) U1401 Section - $250 b/15($125Gtd.). Open Section Prizes:
$400-200, u2000-200, u1600-200. U1401 Section Prizes: $175-75. EF:
$50 for Open Section if rec’d by 2/05, $60 at site, $25 re-entry. EF: $25
for U1401 Section; USCF req’d. Schedule: Reg.: Sat. 8-9am. Rd. 1: 10am,
2pm, 7:30pm, Sun. 9am, 2:30pm. Half pt. byes: avail. all rds., must
commit before Rd. 2 for Rds. 4&5 (irrevocable). HR: $95 (mention
“Charleston CC”) reserve by Jan. 8, 2014 (843-875-3300). Other info: Free
entry to Masters and above($50 deducted from any winnings). Info/Reg/
Pmt: Charleston Chess Club, c/o David Y.Causey, 741 Dragoon Dr., Mt.
Pleasant, SC 29464, email: chessbass@att.net.
A Heritage Event!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 8-9, ALABAMA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
Queen of Hearts - 42nd Annual
5SS, TC: G/120 d5. AUM Taylor Center, 7401 East Dr., Montgomery, AL
36117.OPEN (PF: $$GTD): $425-300-X:200-A:150-U1800: $150;
RESERVE(PF: $$ GTD): $250-175-125-D:125-U1200: $100. EF: $50; if
mailed by FEB 1st; $65 at site. Late REG.: FEB 8th, 8-8:30am. Rds: 9-2-
7; 9-2:30. SCHOLASTIC(K-12): 5SS, TC: G/30 d5. PREMIER (K-12;
U1200) and NOVICE (K-6; Not Rated): EF: $20/$15; if mailed by FEB
1st, $10 more at site. Trophy: Top 3; Medals 4th-6th. Rds.: 9-10:15-12-
1:15, 2:30. Checks payable to: Caesar Chess.ENT: Caesar Chess LLC,
5184 Caldwell Mill Rd., Suite 204-202, Birmingham, AL 35244 or email in
registration form information by FEB 4th. Info: CaesarChess@yahoo.com;
www.AlabamaChess.com; www.CaesarChess.com.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 8-9, FLORIDA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
Central Florida Chess Club Championship
5SS, G/120 d5. Wirz Park, 806 Mark David Blvd., Casselberry, FL 32707.
EF: $40. CFCC mem req at $20($10 Jr/Sr). $$GTD 800: 250-150-100,
U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400 each 75, plaques (if mem as of Jan 19) to
Club Champion, U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400, & top under age 16. Reg.:
Sat 9:30am. Rds.: 10-2:30-7, 9-2. CFCC elections 1pm Sun. Adv Ent: CFCC,
921 N. Thistle Ln., Maitland, FL 32751. Info: (407) 629-6946 or www.cen
tralflchess.org
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 9, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)
Fremont Grand Prix SuperSwiss (4SS, G/61 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Prize: $1,500 b/50. 70% guar.
1800+: $300-200-100, u2000 150-50. u1800: $200-100-50, u1600 150-
50, u1400 100 u1200 50. Feb 14 Supp & TD disc. Sched: Reg. 8-9. Rds.
9:30 12-2:30-5. EF: $45, Econ $35 2/3 prz. after 2/6 +15, playup $15,
Rated 2200+ $0 by 1/30. Info: BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. NS. NC.
W.
FEB. 13, NEW YORK
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)
Marshall Thursday Game 30 Grand Prix!
4-SS, G/25 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40,
members $25, GMs free. Prizes: ($$530 based on 32 paid entries; first
two prizes guaranteed:) $200-100-50, U2100 $95, U1900 $85. Reg.:
6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, request at entry.
FEB. 15, VIRGINIA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
Jack Frost Grand Prix
3-Round Swiss System Game/90 d5. ADDRESS:Westhampton Christian
Church, 2515 Grandin Road SW, Roanoke, VA 24015. GUARANTEED
PRIZES: Top Section: $125-$100-$75. Additional Sections: If Octago-
nals, Each is guaranteed $125-$100, If Hexagonals, Each is guaranteed
$100-$75, If Quads, Each is guaranteed $100. ENTRY FEE: If received
by February 10, $30.00. At site, $40.00. REGISTRATION: 8:30-9:30 on
2/15. ROUNDS: 10-2-6. BYES: One only per tournament; must request
before 1st round begins. ADVANCE ENTRIES: Roanoke Valley Chess Club,
P.O. Box 4141, Roanoke, VA 24015. PHONE: (540) 355-8185. EMAIL: rm
megginson@gmail.com. WEB PAGE: roanokechess.com. NS. NC. W.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 15-16, WISCONSIN
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
UW Winter Open
5-SS, TC rds. 1-3 G/120 d5, rds. 4-5 45/2, SD/1 d5. Union South, 1308
W. Dayton St., Madison, WI 53715, 608-263-2600. Reg.: 9-9:30 Rds.: 10,
2:30, 7:30; 10, 3:30. EF: $20 if received by 2/13, $25 at site. $$ $1000
GTD. 1st $200, 2nd $165, 3rd $135, A $100, B $90, C $80, D $70, E $60,
U1000 $55, Unr $45. Entries: Guy Hoffman, 1305D Tompkins Dr., Madi-
son, WI 53716-3279. Phone: 920-279-0701 NC. NS. WI Chess Tour Event.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 15-16, OKLAHOMA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
5th Jerry Hanken OCF Winter Open
5-SS, G/90+30 spm; $$G $1,060; Quality Inn-Stillwater, 2515 W. 6th Ave.
(Hwy-51), Stillwater, OK 74074, 1-405-372-0800; HR: 68-68 Wi-Fi. EF: FIDE
Open $50; Reserve $30 (deduct $10 if envelope postmarked before Feb.
12th). Please deduct $10 from ea EF if envelope postmarked on or before
Feb. 12. OCF $10 required; Reg.: 9-9:45 Sat AM; Rds.: 10-2:30-7; 9-
1:15. Two Sections: Open-FIDE $G 1st $300 U-2100 $150; U-1900
$150-100; U-1700 $100-80. Reserve U-1500: $100-80; 1 half pt bye rds.
1-5. Frank Berry, 402 S. Willis St., Stwtr., OK 74074, FKimBerry@AOL.com,
OCFChess.org.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 15-17 OR 16-17, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED)
3rd Annual Recession Buster Open
6-SS, 40/90, SD/60 d10 (2-day schedule rds. 1 thru 3 are G/60 d5). Mar-
riott San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, 2592 Lanning Rd., San Diego, CA

92106. $$20,000 Guaranteed prize fund. In 6 Sections: Open, U2200,
U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400.Prizes: Open Sec: 1st $2,400-1,600-
1,200-900-600-500-400, BU2300 $1,000-600, U2200, U2000, U1800,
U1600 Sections, all $1,000-600-400-200 U1400 Section: $600-400-
200-100, BU1200 $300-150, Best Unr $100. Plus Best Game Prizes:
$75-50-25, one reserved for non-open sections. Reg.: 3-day: 8 - 9:30 AM,
Feb official rating list is used. 2-day: 8-8:30 AM Sunday. Rds.: 3-day: 10
AM & 4 PM all 3 days. 2-day: 9:00 AM, 11:15, 1:30 PM & 4 PM (merged)
on Sunday, then 10 AM & 4 PM on Monday. EF: $90 if received by 1/15/14
(Early Bird Special), or $100 between 1/16/14 and 2/10/14, $120 after
2/10 and $140 late registration at door on 2/15. No credit cards at
door, checks or cash only. Special rate of only $75 if U1400 or unrated,
$90 after 2/10 or $100 at door. Special rate for GMs and IMs: $20 if reg-
istered by 2/10, or $60 late entry at door. Re-entry from 3-day to 2-day:
$75, for players rated U2300 only. Open section will be FIDE rated except
for the 3 fast games in the 2 day. Unrated prize limits: U1600 $100, U1800
$200, U2200/2000 $300, place prizes only in the Open Section. Players
who forfeit any round are also ineligible for prizes. SCCF membership req’d
($18 Adult, $13 Jr, or $3 for Jr w/o mag) for all So Cal residents. Two byes
allowed, but must be requested at least one hour before round, and round
5 & 6 byes must be requested before rd 2 and are irrevocable. Ent:
SDCC, PO Box 120162, San Diego, CA 92112 or enter online at www.sc
chess.com. For more info call Bruce Baker at (619) 239-7166, or email
Chuck Ensey at chucnglo@aol.com. Hotel Rates: Special rate of only $119
(with free parking!) if booked by 1/15/14, book early as rates may go up
and rooms will definitely sell out, this is a small hotel, only 200 rooms,
so it is critical to book this great hotel EARLY. It’s just a few miles from
the airport has lots of fast food within walking distance, plus many fine
dining restaurants. Also separate one day Scholastic event on 2/15/14,
$15 EF, 5 rounds G/30 d5, starts at 10 AM, register 9 AM to 9:50.
FEB. 17, NEW YORK
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)
President’s Day Action GP!
5-SS, G/25 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $45,
members $25. ($600 GTD): $250-125, U2000 $85, U1700 $75, U1400 $65.
Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-1:15-2:30-4-5:15. Two byes available, request
at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.
FEB. 18, NEW YORK
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)
Marshall Masters!
4-SS, G/25 d5. Third Tuesday of every month. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St.,
NYC. 212-477-3716. Open to players rated over 2100 (plus all players scor-
ing over 50% in any MCC Open or U2300 event since the prior month’s
Masters). EF: $40, members $30, GMs free. $$G250-150-100. Prizes to
U2400, U2300 and biggest upset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-
9:30-10:45. One bye available (Rd 1 or 4 only), request at entry. www.
marshallchessclub.org. NOW ALSO FIDE RAPID RATED!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 21-23 OR 22-23, TEXAS
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30
Lone Star Open
5SS, 2-day or 3-day Schedules Avail. (Open Section is G/90, i/30, and FIDE
rated using FIDE rules; All other Sections are G/120 d5). Free entry for
GMs and IMs (EF deducted from winnings). Marriott North at Greenspoint,
255 N. Sam Houston Pkwy East, Houston (281-875-4000 or 281-875-
8991). SIDE EVENTS: Schol. Team & Ind., 4SS, G/30 d5, 1-day only, Feb.
22); 5-min. Blitz “CAJUN KNOCK-OUT” (Sat. night after Rd. 3). Separate
room for schol. players - A trophy or medal will be awarded to each schol.
player. 5 Sects. PRIZES: $10,000 b/200 full-paid ent. OPEN: $1400-800-
500-300-200; U2200: $700-400; U2000: $800-400-200-100-50; U1800:
$800-400-200-100-50; U1600/Unr*: $800-400-200-100- 50; U1300:
$400-300-200-100-50. *Unrated players may only win 50% of the prize
fund except in the Open Sect. where they must pay full EF and are eligi-
ble for full prize fund. Schol. Sects. (Team & Individual): Open, U1300,
U900, U500. Prizes: Trophies to top 7 individuals in each section (more
ind. trophies depending on pre-entries) and to top team in each section.
Every non-trophy winner receives a souvenir chess medal. Scholastic play-
ers may play in both adult and scholastic tournaments by registering for
both tournaments (either 2-day or 3-day schedule in the adult tournament)
and taking a 1/2-pt.bye for Rd. 2 in the adult tournament. USCF-recom-
mended computer tiebreaks will decide trophy and medal placements for
winners of all schol. sections. Free chess clock to oldest player and to
player who travels farthest to adult tourn. CAJUN BOUNTY: Defeat the
top ranked player and win free entry to our next tournament! EF: $79 by
2/14; $89 at site; Unr. (U1600) and Jrs. (under 19 yrs of age and play-
ing in U1300 or U1600 Sections) $49 by 2/14; $59 at site. Schol. EF: $20
by 2/14; $25 at site; Re-Entry Fee: $25 (avail. up to Rd. 4; 3 re-entries
or 2 Jr. entries count as one additional entry for prize fund). 3-day
Sched: Reg. Fri. 5:30-7pm, Rds. Fri. 8pm; Sat. 2-7, Sun. 10-3. 2-day
Sched: Reg. Sat. 8-8:30am, (Rds Sat. 9-2-7, Sun. 10-3. Both schedules
merge at Rd. 2. Schol. Sched: (All 4 rds G/30—one day only, Sat., Feb.
22). Reg. Sat. 11:30am-12:30pm, Rd. 1 at 1pm; Other rds will follow imme-
diately. Byes: Avail. all Rds. (commit before Rd. 3). HR: $79 for single or
double (281-875-4000 or 281-875-8991), reserve by Feb. 10 and mention
Cajun Chess tournament to assure group rate. ENT: On-line registration,
printable entry form, and more detailed info at www.cajunchess.com, or
mail entry form to Cajun Chess, 12405 Hillary Step Dr., Olive Branch, MS
38654. Info or Phone Ent: 504-208-9596 or 504-905-2971. Major credit
cards accepted (no checks at site). FIDE.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 21-23 OR 22-23, VIRGINIA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15
CAC Feb 2014 FIDE Open
Capital Area Chess, 4451 Brookfield Corporate Dr., Suite #201, Chantilly,
VA 20151. Prizes:$2500 b/o 60 paid entries. Open Section Place Prizes
GTD.3 Sections: Open (FIDE & USCF rated, uses USCF rules, USCF Rat-
ings and Rules for Prizes; GMs free (No Prize deducted). Other Sections
only USCF Rated - U1900, U1600. Format: Open & U1900 3-day: 5SS, G/90
+ 30sec inc. (2-day Round 1 G/65 d5 Rounds 2-5 G/90 + 30sec); U1600
See previous issue for TLAs appearing January 1-14
play only 2-day – 5-SS Rd. 1 G/65 d5; Rds. 2-5 G/90 d5. Prizes - Open: $8 adult, $6 under 19. Reg.: 8:30-9:35am Sat. 2/22, Rds.: 10-1:00-3:15-
$500-$250-$150. U2200/U2050 $110 each. U1900: $360-$180-$100 5:30. Bye: any rd. (limit 1) if req. w. entry. Ent: NHCA, c/o Hal Terrie, 377
U1750 $100. U1600: $260-$130-$70 U1300/U1150/U1000 $60 each. Huse Rd. #23, Manchester, NH 03103. Info: halterrie@comcast.net or
Clear winner in each section receive a free entry to any future CAC FIDE (603) 668-8368.
Open. 3-day Schedule (Open/U1900): Registration ends 7pm Fri 2/21. Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
Rounds: Fri 7:30pm; Sat 1pm - 6pm; Sun 10am - 3pm. 2-day Schedule: FEB. 22, OHIO
Registration ends Sat 2/22 9:30am. Open/U1900 Rounds: Sat 10am - TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
1pm - 6pm; Sun 10am - 3pm. U1600 Rounds: Sat 10am - 1pm - 5pm; Sun BRRRRR Pawn Storm XXII
10am - 2pm. EF: Open: $60 online by 2/14. $70 online by 2/20. $80 after 4SS, G/60 d10, at Dayton Chess Club. EF: $28 to 15 Feb then $38. EF
2/20 or onsite. (Discounts: CAC Members $10 less, Juniors or Addl. refunded to 2200 or higher who complete the schedule. GTD Prizes: Open
Family member $5 less, U1600 Section $15 less). Re-entries allowed $40. $250-151, U1900 $150, U1600 $149. Reg.: 10-1045. Rds.: 11-1:45-4:30-
Checks postmarked by 2/14. One bye allowed if requested before com- 7. OH Grand Prix Event-OCA mbrs $3 disc. DCC mbrs $3 disc.
pletion of Rd. 2. Online registration: www.capitalareachess.com. Mail
checks to: Capital Area Chess, Inc., PO Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20153- Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
3582. 2014febopen@capitalareachess.com. Boards and sets provided; FEB. 22-23, WASHINGTON
Clocks supplied in Open Section only. Side Events: Saturday morning 8- TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
SS, G/5 d0 FIDE Rated Blitz. 22nd Dave Collyer Memorial
5SS, G/115 d5. St. Anne’s Children’s Center Conference Room, W. 25 Fifth
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix! Ave., Spokane, WA 99201. Sleep-in Option: Players may play round 1 begin-
FEB. 21-23, 22-23 OR 23, NEW YORK
ning at noon with a G/60 d5. EF: $27 if received by 2/21; $33 at door Under
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED) 19 $5 less. $$GTD: $350-225-125. Ex — $100; A; B; C; D; E/Unr: $100-
NEW! Marshall February Super FIDE GP!
70; Biggest Upsets: $100-50 (non-provisional ratings only). One prize per
5-SS, 40/2 d5 SD/30 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. player except for biggest upset. Reg.: Feb. 22 8:30-9:30 am (sleep-in option
EF: $60, members $40. $$820 gtd: $300-150-100, U2200 $145, U2000
must register by 11:40). Rds.: 2/22: 10(or 12) — 2:30 — 7:00; 2/23:
$125. Reg ends 15 min before Rd. 3 schedules: 3 day 2/21 6pm, 2/22- 9:00; 1:30. Byes: one 1/2 point bye available. Players meeting at 9:45 Feb.
23 12:30-5:30. 2 day 2/22 11am, then merge with 3day (Rd. 1 G/25d5).
22. ENT: Spokane CC, c/o Kevin Korsmo, 9923 N. Moore, Spokane, WA
1 day 2/23 9-10:10-11:20, then merge with 2&3 day (Rd. 1-3 G/25 d5) 99208-9339. INFO: www.spokanechessclub.org, kmkorsmo@comcast.net.
Limit 2 byes, request at entry. USCF & FIDE rated. www.marshallchess-
NS. NC. W. Side Event: John Donaldson - Lecture & Simul - Feb. 21, 2014.
club.org.
FEB. 28, NEW YORK
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix! TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)
FEB. 21, 28, MAR. 7, 14, 21, NEW YORK
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)
Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz! (BLZ)
Queens Late Winter Open
9-SS, G/5 d0. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. $$Gtd
500: $200-100, top U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50 each, EF:
5-SS, G/90 (G/85 d5). All Saints Lutheran Church, 164-02 Goethals Ave., $30, members $20. Blitz-rated, but the higher of regular, quick or blitz used
Jamaica, NY 11432. EF: $40, $5 less to QCC members. $$200-$100 guar-
for pairings & prizes. FIDE Blitz Rated! Reg. ends 6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-7:30-
anteed to top 2, more per entries. Up to two 1/2 pt byes ok with advance 7:50-8:10-8:40-9-9:20-9:40-10 pm. Three byes available, request at entry.
notice (declare before Rd. 3). REG.:7:30-8:00. RDS.: 8:15 each Friday. ENT
www.marshallchessclub.org.
(mail by 2/15/14): Ed Frumkin, 445 E 14th St., #10D, NYC 10009.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 22, VIRGINIA MAR. 1, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)
CAC Feb 2014 FIDE Blitz (BLZ) Bay Area Chess Grand Prix SuperSwiss (4SS, G/61 d5)
8-SS, G/5 d0. Capital Area Chess, 4451 Brookfield Corporate Dr., Suite
1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Prize: $1,500 b/50. 70% guar.
#201, Chantilly, VA 20151. Prizes:$500 GTD: $200-$100-$50 1800+: $300-200-100, u2000 150-50. u1800: $200-100-50, u1600 150-
U2000/U1800/U1600 $50 each. EF by 2/20 online: $25, Onsite $35. CAC
50, u1400 100 u1200 50. Mar 14 Supp & TD disc. Sched: Reg. 8-9. Rds.
Members $5 less. Blitz rated, but the higher of regular, quick or blitz used 9:30-12-2:30-5. EF: $45, Econ $35 2/3 prz. after 2/26 +15, playup $15,
for pairings and prizes. USCF & FIDE Blitz Rated. Reg. Ends 9:30am. Rated 2200+ $0 by 2/19. Info: BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. NS. NC.
Rounds: 10am and ASAP. Three byes available – must be requested at entry.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
Info: www.capitalareachess.com. Mail checks to: Capital Area Chess, Inc., MAR. 1-2, MARYLAND
PO Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20153-3582. 2014janopen@capitalarea TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15
chess.com. Boards and sets provided; Clocks not supplied. UMBC Open - Alvin S. Mintzes Chess Tournament
FEB. 22, NEW HAMPSHIRE 5SS, 20/1, SD/60 d5. University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 1000 Hill-
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 top Cir., Baltimore (in Commons, 3rd floor). Held concurrently with
Queen City Tornado Maryland “Sweet 16” (Invitational)—winner to receive in-state fixed-dol-
4SS, G/60 d5. Radisson Hotel, 700 Elm St. (Granite St. exit off I-293), Man- lar tuition scholarship to UMBC. Open: (All) $$1260: $400-300-200
chester, NH. $$G 1,000 in 3 Sections: Open, open to all. EF: $36 if rec’d Gtd., Class prizes $120 ea. to top U2300, U2100, U1900. Free ent. to GMs,
by 2/20, $41 at site; free to GMs and IMs. $$G: $180-110-70; Top U2000 $50 deducted from any prizes. U1800: (U1800/Unr.) $$1080 b/40: $350-
$100. Under 1800, open to U1800 or Unr. EF: $36 if rec’d by 2/20, $41 250-150, Class prizes $110 ea. to top U1600, U1400, U1200 (b/4). No Unr.
at site. $$G: $130-70-50; Top U1500 $60. No Unr. may win over $70. Under player may win more than $250 in this section. All: EF: $50 if post-
1300, open to U1300 or Unr. EF: $32 ($28 to jrs. U21) if rec’d by 2/20, marked by 2/15, $60 later, $10 less if under age 20. Reg.: 8:30-9:30am
$37 at site ($33 jrs. U21). $$G: 100-50-35; Top U1100 $45. No Unr. may Sat., Rds.: 10-3-7:30pm Sat, 10:30-3:30pm Sun. Byes: Up to three 1/2-
win over $50. All, NHCA membership req’d of rated NH residents; dues pt. byes avail. in Rds. 1-5 if req’d at least 1 hr. before Rd. (before Rd. 2
23rd annual EASTERN CLASS
March 14-16 or 15-16, Host Hotel at Cedar Lake, Sturbridge MA
$20,000 projected prizes, $16,000 minimum guaranteed
5 rounds, 7 sections. Choice of 3-day (40/110, SD/30, d10) or 2-day (rds 1-2 G/60,
d10, then merges). Prizes based on 240 entries (re-entries & Class E count half), 80%
each prize minimum. Rated players may play up one section. Enter at chessaction.com.
Master Section (2200/up): Prizes $2000-1000-500-300, clear/tiebreak
win $100 bonus, top Under 2300 $800-400. FIDE, 100 GPP (enhanced).
Expert Section (2000-2199): $1400-700-400-200.
Class A Section (1800-1999/Unr): $1400-700-400-200.
Class B Section (1600-1799/Unr): $1400-700-400-200. Unr limir $800.
Class C Section (1400-1599/Unr): $1300-700-300-200. Unr limit $600.
Class D Section (1200-1399/Unr): $1200-600-300-200. Unr limit $400.
Class E Section (Under 1200/Unr): $500-250-150-100, trophies to first
3, top Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600, top Unrated. Unr limit $200.
MIXED DOUBLES BONUS PRIZES (all sections): $500-300-200.
FULL DETAILS: see “Grand Prix” in this issue or chesstour.com.
www.uschess.org 57
Tournament Life / January
for any Rd. 4-5 bye), but only at most one 1/2-point bye in Rds. 4-5. HR:
La Quinta Inn and Suites, 1734 West Nursery Rd., Linthicum, MD 21090,
410-859-2333, Ask for UMBC chess rate. www.lq.com (From I-95, take
Exit 47A onto I-195 towards BWI Airport. Take Exit 2A onto 295 north
towards Baltimore; take first exit, bearing right onto West Nursery
Road.) Directions to UMBC:Take Exit 47B off I-95 & follow signs to UMBC.
Park in Commons Drive garage. Ent: Dr. Alan T. Sherman, Dept. of CSEE,
UMBC, Attn: Open, 1000 Hilltop Cir., Baltimore, MD 21250. Make out
check to UMBC. For more information: ChessClub@umbc.edu, (410)
455-8499, www.umbc.edu/chess. NS. W.
A State Championship Event!
MAR. 7, PENNSYLVANIA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
2014 PA Quick Chess Championship (QC)
6SS, G/8 d3. Hotel Carlisle, 1700 Harrisburg Pike, Carlisle, PA 17015, Exit
52A NB/Exit 52 SB off I-81, Exit 226 off PA Turnpike. 3 sections, EF rec’d
by 2/18: Open: $12. U1500: $11. U1100: $10. $$ (750G): Open: 175-100-
50, U1800 $45, U1600 $40. U1500: 125-75-50, U1300 $40, U1200 $30,
Unr $20. U1100: Trophies: 1-12, U800, U600, U400, 1-2 Unr. All: EF: $20
after 2/18, PSCF $5 OSA. Reg.: 6-6:30pm. Rd 1: 7pm. Feb 2014 Reg rat-
ing used. Bye: limit 1, ask by rd 2. HR: Mention “PA States” for best rate;
800-692-7315 $75. Ent: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pitts-
burgh, PA 15223-2245. Info: martinak_tom_m@hotmail.com, 412-908-
0286. W.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 7-9 OR 8-9, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED)
21st annual Western Class Championships
5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Sheraton
Agoura Hills Hotel, 30100 Agoura Rd., Agoura Hills, CA 91301 (US-101 to
Reyes Adobe Road exit). Adjacent to the Santa Monica Mountains, 26 miles
west of Burbank, 12 miles from Malibu, 28 miles from Ventura. Free park-
ing. $$20,000 based on 230 paid entries (re-entries, Class E count as half
entries), minimum $16,000 (80% each prize) guaranteed. In 7 sections.
Master (over 2199): $1800-900-600-400, clear or tiebreak winner $100
bonus, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE rated but uses USCF rules. Expert (2000-
2199): $1400-700-400-200. Class A (1800-1999/unr.): $1400-700-400-200.
Class B (1600-1799/unr.): $1400-700-400-200. Class C (1400-1599/unr.):
$1200-600-300-200. Class D (1200-1399/unr.): $1100-600-300-200.
Class E (Under 1200/Unr.): $600-300-200-100, plaques to top U1000,
U800, U600, Unr. Rated players may play up one section. Prize limits:
Unrated may not win over $200 in E, $300 D, $450 C, $600 B, or $800 A.
Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” com-
bined score among all sections: $600-400-200. Team average must be
under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must reg-
ister at site (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2; teammate
pairings avoided but possible. Top 6 sections EF: $115 online at ches-
saction.com by 3/5, $120 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 3/5, 3-day $118,
2-day $117 mailed by 2/26, $130 online until 2 hours before game or at
site. GMs free, $100 deducted from prize. Class E EF: all $50 less than
above. No checks at site; credit cards OK. SCCF memb. ($18, under 18
$13 with magazine, $3 without) required for rated Southern CA residents.
All: Special 1 yr USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry: Online at
chessaction.com. Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed,
phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-
entry (except Master) $60. 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 6 pm, rds. Fri 7,
Sat 11:15 & 5, Sun 11:15 & 4:15. 2-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 10:15 am,
rds. Sat 11:15, 2 & 5, Sun 11:15 & 4:15. Byes: OK all rds., limit 2; Mas-
ter must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $95-95,
818-707-1220, reserve by 2/21 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis,
800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Questions: chesstour.com, 347-201-
2269, DirectorAtChess.US. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess,
PO Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance
entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly).
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 7-9 OR 8-9, GEORGIA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20
42nd annual WORLD OPEN
9 rounds, Hyatt Regency Crystal City, near DC - $250,000 projected prizes, $200,000 minimum!
Open Section: July 2-6 or June 30-July 6, FIDE norms possible
U2400, U2200, U2000, U1800, U1600: July 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 or 6/30-7/6
U1400, U1200, U900: July 2-6, 3-6 or 4-6
NEW Unrated/Provisional Section: July 2-6, 3-6 or 4-6
5-DAY & 7-DAY SCHEDULES: 40/2, SD/30, d10.
4-DAY SCHEDULES: rounds 1-2 G/60, d10, then merges.
3-DAY SCHEDULES: rounds 1-5 G/35, d10, then merges.
All schedules merge and compete for same prizes.
Also DC International June 26-30 and many side events. See Tournament Life or chesstour.com for details.
58 January 2014 | Chess Life
2014 Boris Kogan Memorial
5-SS. North DeKalb Mall, 2050 Lawrenceville Highway, Decatur, GA 30033.
$3,500 GTD. In 3 sections: Championship: FIDE and USCF rated. Must
be 1900 USCF and above! $500-350-200; under 2200 and under 2050 each
$200-100. Amateur: $350-200- 170; under 1800 and under 1600 each
$160 and $100. Reserve: $200-105, under 1200 $200-105. Unrated: Tro-
phies to top 5, Time Controls: Championship G/100 w 30 sec. inc.,
2-day G/90 d5. Others: G/120 d5, 2-day G/90 d5. Entry Fee: $59 3-day,
$58 2-day by March 4th; $63 at site. GMs and IMs Free. Unrateds: $30
March 08-09. Reentry except in Championship section $35. Bye: all
rounds (limit 2), must commit before 1st round. 3-dayschedule: Reg.:
ends 6:30 p.m., Rds.: 7, 1-7; 10-3:15. 2-dayschedule: Reg.: ends 10 a.m.,
Rds.: 1st at 10:30 a.m., then merges with 3-day. Info: info@ameri-
canchesspromotions.com or (478-973- 9389. Enter: American Chess
Promotions, 3055 General Lee Rd., Macon, GA 31204. Online entry: Go
to www.paypal.com/. and use info@americanchesspromotions.com W.
NS. NC. FIDE.
A Heritage Event!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 8-9, NEW YORK
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED)
2014 Marchand Open (36th Annual)
Dr. Erich Marchand “requested that his friends play chess in his memory.”
Please help us celebrate the 100th anniversary of Erich’s birthday and
the 25th anniversary of the Rochester Chess Center. 5SS, G/120 d5.
Location: Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square,
Rochester, NY 14607. $$10,750 Gtd. Open Section: $2000-1300-850-550-
300, Under 2200 & U2000 each $500-300. FIDE Rated. EF: $70. U1800
Section: $600-400-250. Under 1600 $400-250. EF: $65. U1400 Section:
$400-275-175. Under 1200 $275-175. EF: $60. U1000 Section: $260-190-
130-70. Under 800 $150-90-60. EF: $55. Unrated players in the U1800
section can only win $125, in U1400 & U1000 $55. IMs and GMs free if
registered by 3/10. All EF add $25 after 2/26/2014. NYSCA members
deduct $3. Great food available at site. Reg.: 8:30-9:15am. Rds.: Sat. 10-
2:15-6:30, Sun. 10-2:15. One 1/2 point bye available in rd 1, 2, 3, or 4 if
requested at entry. Info: 585-442-2430. Mail entry to: Rochester Chess
Center, 221 Norris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. www.nychess.org and www.
rochesterchessclub.org. Store: www.Chessset.com.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
A State Championship Event!
MAR. 8-9, PENNSYLVANIA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
2014 Ira Lee Riddle Memorial PA State Championship & PA Colle-
giate Championship
5SS, G/90 d5. Hotel Carlisle & Embers Convention Center, 1700 Harris-
burg Pike, Carlisle, PA 17015, Exit 52A NB/Exit 52 SB off I-81, Exit 226
off PA Turnpike. 3 sections:$$ (1875G): Open: 350-150, U2200 $125,
U2000 $100. U1800: 200-150, U1650 $125, U1500 $100. U1400: 200-150,
U1200 $90, U1000 $75, Unr $60. All: College Tr: 1-2 in each section, 1-2
team (top 4 over all sections). EF: $40 rec’d by 2/18, $50 after, PSCF $5
OSA. Reg.: 8:45-9:30 am. Rds.: 10-2-5:30, 9-1. Feb 2014 ratings used.
Bye: limit 1, ask by rd 2. HR: Mention “PA States” for best rate; 800-692-
7315 $75. Ent: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA
15223-2245. Info: martinak_tom_m@hotmail.com, 412-908-0286. W.
MAR. 13, NEW YORK
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)
Marshall Thursday Action Grand Prix!
4-SS, G/25 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40,
members $25, GMs free. Prizes: ($$530 based on 32 paid entries; first
two prizes guaranteed:) $200-100-50, U2200 $95, U2000 $85. Reg.:
6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, request at entry.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, MASSACHUSETTS
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED)
23rd annual Eastern Class Championships
5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Host Hotel at
Cedar Lake, 366 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01566 (I-84 Exit 3, near I-90).
Free parking. $$ 20,000 based on 240 paid entries (re-entries & Class
E count half), minimum $16,000 (80% each prize) guaranteed. In 7 sec-
tions: Master (2200/up): $2000-1000-500-300, clear winner or 1st on
tiebreak $100 bonus, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE (USCF rules used).
Expert (2000-2199): $1400-700-400-200. Class A (1800-1999/Unr):
$1400-700-400-200. Class B (1600-1799/Unr): $1400-700-400-200.
Class C (1400-1599/Unr): $1300-700-300-200. Class D (1200-1399/Unr):
$1200-600-300-200. Class E (Under 1200/Unr): $500-250-150-100, tro-
phies to first 3, top U1000, U800, U600, Unrated. Rated players may play
up one section. Prize limits: Unrated may not win over $200 in E, $400
D, $600 C or $800 B. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female
2-player “team” combined score among all sections: $500-300-200.
Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sec-
tions; teams must register at site (no extra fee) before both players begin
round 2; teammate pairings avoided but possible. Top 5 sections EF: $109
online at chessaction.com by 3/12, $115 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 3/10
(entry only, no questions), 3-day $113, 2-day $112 mailed by 3/5, $120
at site, or online until 2 hours before game. GMs free, $90 deducted from
prize. Class E EF: all $50 less than above. No checks at site, credit cards
OK. Advance EF $5 less to MACA members; may join/renew at mass-
chess.org. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise
unrated. Special 1 yr USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry:
Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15.
Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20.
Re-entry $60; not available in Master Section. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends
Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg.
ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Byes: OK all, limit 2;
Master must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $94-94, 800-
582-3232, 508-347-7393, request chess rate, reserve by 2/28 or rate may
increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or
reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.com or Con-
tinental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Questions: DirectorAtChess.
us, chesstour.com, chesstour.info, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge for
refunds. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted
instantly).
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, MISSOURI
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED)
18th annual Mid-America Open
5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Crowne
Plaza Hotel St. Louis-Clayton, 7750 Carondelet Ave., St. Louis, MO 63105
(I-64 W/US 40-W Exit 32B, 1.2 miles north on Hanley Rd.). $$ 20,000
based on 250 paid entries (re-entries & U1000 Section count half), min-
imum $16,000 (80% of each prize) guaranteed. In 7 sections: Open:
$2000-1000-500-300, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak $100 bonus, top
U2300/Unr $800-400. FIDE (USCF rules used). Under 2100: $1400-700-
400-200. Under 1900: $1400-700-400-200. Under 1700: $1300-700-400-
200. Under 1500: $1200-600-300-200. Under 1300: $1000-500-300-
200. Under 1000: $400-300-200-100, plaques to first 3, top U800, U600,
Unrated Prize limits: Unrated may not win over $200 in U1000, $400
U1300, $600 U1500, or $800 U1700. Mixed doubles bonus prizes:
best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sections:
$700-400-300-200. Team average must be under 2200; teammates may
play in different sections; teams must register at site (no extra fee) before
both players begin round 2; teammate pairings avoided but possible. Top
6 sections EF: $109 online at chessaction.com by 3/12, $115 phoned to
406-896-2038 by 3/10 (entry only, no questions), 3-day $113.50, 2-day
$112.50 mailed by 3/5, $130 online until 2 hours before game or at site.
GMs free; $90 deducted from prize. U1000 Section EF: all $60 less than
above. Online EF $3 less to MCA members. No checks at site, credit
cards OK. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise
unrated. Special 1 yr USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry:
Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15.
Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20.
Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. 3-day schedule: Reg.
ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day sched-

ule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. Byes: OK
all, limit 2; Open must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $93-
96, includes free full hot buffet breakfast and free parking, 888-303-1746,
314-726-5400, request chess rate, reserve by 3/7 or rate may increase.
Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online
through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box
8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Questions: DirectorAtChess.US, chesstour.com,
chesstour.info, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge fir refunds. Advance
entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly).
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 28-30 OR 29-30, FLORIDA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED)
12th annual Southern Class Championships
5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10), at renovated
Wyndham Orlando Resort, 8001 International Drive, Orlando 32819.
Free parking. Prizes $12,500 based on 185 paid entries (re-entries &
Class E Section count half), $10,000 (80% each prize) minimum guaran-
teed. In 7 sections. Master (2200/up): $1000-500-300-200, clear or tie-
break winner $100 bonus. FIDE (USCF rules used). Expert (2000-2199):
$1000-500-300-200. Class A (1800-1999): $1000-500-300-200. Class B
(1600-1799): $1000-500-300-200. Class C (1400-1599): $800-400-250-
150. Class D (1200-1399): $700-400-250-150. Class E (Under 1200):
$400-200-100, trophies to first 3, top U1000, U800, U600, Unr. Rated play-
ers may play up one section. Unrated may enter A through E, but may
not win over $200 in E, $350 D, $500 C or $650 B. Mixed doubles bonus
prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among all sec-
tions: $400-200. Team average must be under 2200; teammates may play
in different sections; teams must register at site (no extra fee) before
both players begin round 2; teammate pairings avoided but possible. Top
6 sections EF: $98 online at chessaction.com by 3/26, $105 phoned to
406-896-2038 (entry only, no questions) by 3/24, 3-day $103, 2-day $102
mailed by 3/19, $120 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until
2 hours before round 1. GMs free; $90 deducted from prize. Class E EF:
all $50 less than above. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid
with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20,
Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30,
Scholastic $20. Re-entry $60; not available in Master Section. 3-day
schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30.
2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30.
All: Half point byes OK all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd. 2, oth-
ers before rd. 3. HR: $99-99-99-99, 1-800-421-8001, 407-351-2420;
reserve by 3/14 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600,
AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: ches-
saction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15
service charge for refunds. Questions: DirectorAtChess.us, chesstour.com,
chesstour.info, 347-201-2269. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online
entries posted instantly).
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 28-30 OR 29-30, NEW YORK
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED)
8th annual Long Island Open
5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Ramada
Plaza Long Island MacArthur Airport Hotel, 1730 N. Ocean Ave., Holtsville,
NY 11742. Free parking, free shuttle from LIRR Ronkonkoma Station or
MacArthur Airport. Prizes $12,000 guaranteed & trophies. In 5 sec-
tions. Open: $1400-800-500-300, clear or tiebreak winner $100 bonus,
top U2300/Unr $600-300. Under 2100: $1000-500-300-200, top U1900/
Unr $550-250. Under 1700: $900-450-250-150, top U1500 (no Unr)
$400-200. Under 1300: $800-400-200-100, top U1100 (no Unr) $300, tro-
phy to top 3. Under 900: $100-50, trophy to first 5, top Under 700, Under
500, Under 300, Unrated. Unrated may not win over $300 in U1300 or
$600 in U1700. Mixed doubles bonus prizes: best male/female 2-
player “team” combined score among all sections: $400-300-200. Team
average must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections;
teams must register at site (no extra fee) before both players begin round
2; teammate pairings avoided but possible. Top 4 sections EF: $108 online
at chessaction.com by 3/26, $115 phoned by 3/24 to 406-896-2038, 3-
day $113, 2-day $112 mailed by 3/19, $120 at site, or online until 2
hours before game. GMs free; $100 deducted from prize. U900 Section
EF: $28 online at chessaction.com by 3/26, 3-day $33, 2-day $32 mailed
by 3/19, $40 at site. NYSCA members: advance or online EF $5 less; dues
$12/yr with 2 issues Empire Chess or $20/yr with 4 issues, may join with
online entry. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry.
Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15.
Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20.
Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends
Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg.
ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:30. All: Half point byes
OK all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR:
$75-75, 631-758-2900, reserve by 3/14 or rate may increase. Car rental:
Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chess-
tour.com. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham,
NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, chess
tour.info, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at
chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly).
A Heritage Event!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 11-13 OR 12-13, OHIO
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15
50th Cincinnati Open and First Ever Cincinnati Open Scholastic
Crowne Plaza Hotel, 5901 Pfeiffer Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242. OPEN: 5SS;
FiveSections: Open, U2100, U1800, U1500, U1200. Time Control:
40/120, SD/60 d5; 2-day rds. 1&2 G/75 d5. Prizes: Open: $600-450-325-
225; U2100: $450-325-225-175; U1800: $325-225-175-150; U1500:
$225-175-150-125; U1200: $160-140-120-100; prizes based on 100
entries, else proportional. (No unrated may win more than the third-place
prize amount except in Open.) Entry fee: If mailed/delivered by April 7,
U1200 $75, other sections $85, all $100 onsite. Re-entry $45. $10 loyalty
discount for those who played in 2013 Cinci Open; $3 discount for cur-
rent Ohio Chess Association members. Free entry to GMs/IMs; $85
deducted from prize. Registration: Friday, April 11 5:00-6:30; Saturday,
April 12 9:00-10:30. 3-day schedule: Friday 7:00, Saturday 11:00 and
6:00, Sunday 9:30 and 4:00. 2-day schedule: Saturday 11:00 and 2:00,
then merge with 3-day. Byes: Maximum two half-point byes, must com-
mit before round 3. HR: $79, suite $109, group code CIN, reserve by
3/28/2014, 1-877-227-6963. Bring sets and clocks.OPEN SCHOLAS-
TIC: Saturday, April 12 only. 5SS, rds. 1-4 G/45 d5; rd. 5 G/60 d5. Sections:
U1200, U900. Schedule: 10:00 am, 11:45 am, 1:30 pm, 3:15 pm and 6:00
pm. Entry fee: $40.00 — advance entry only, postmarked or hand-deliv-
ered by April 7; no onsite registration. Byes: Maximum of two half-point
byes; must commit before round 3. Prizes: Trophies to top ten in each
section. Organizers will provide all sets, boards and clocks. Above hotel
information applies. For either tournament: Mail advance entries to
Cincinnati Open, PO Box 499006, Cincinnati, OH 45249-9006. Registra-
tion form and complete information at www.Chessinnati.com. Questions:
Alan Hodge 513-600-9915, a.hodge195@gmail.com.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, PENNSYLVANIA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED)
8th annual Philadelphia Open
OPEN SECTION, APR 16-20: 9SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10. GM & IM norms pos-
sible, FIDE rated. OTHER SECTIONS, APR 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20: 7SS,
40/2, SD/30 d10 (3-day option, rds. 1-2 G/70 d10; 2-day option, rds. 1-
4 G/30 d10). At the luxurious Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 1201
Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, directly across the street from the
world famous Reading Terminal Market with over 100 food vendors.
Prizes $80,000 based on 500 paid entries (seniors, re-entries, GMs,
IMs,WGMs count as half entries, U1300 Section & Unrated/Provisional
Section as 50% entries, U1000 Section as 30% entries), else proportional,
minimum $60,000 (75% of each prize) guaranteed. In 8 sections: Open:
$7000-4000-2000-1000-800-700-600-500-400-400, clear or tiebreak first
$200 bonus, FIDE Under 2400/Unr $2000-1000. $500 MINIMUM PRIZE
to FIDE 2500/over GMs who complete all games with no byes (limited to
first 5 to enter at chessaction.com). Under 2200, Under 2000, Under
1800: each $5000-2500-1200-800-600-500-400-300-300-300. Under
1600: $4000-2000-1000-700-500-400-300-300-300-300. Under 1300:
$2000-1000-700-500-400-300-300-200-200-200. Under 1000/Unr: $800-
400-300-200-100, trophies to first 5, top U800, U600, U400, Unrated.
Unrated/Provisional Section: Open to unrated or under 1500 with less
than 26 lifetime games rated. $2000-1000-600-400-300. Unrated allowed
only in Under 1000/Unr or Unrated/Provisional sections. Mixed Doubles
Bonus Prizes: best male/female combined 2-player “team” score:
$1000-500-300-200. Open Section points count 80% to compensate for
Open having more rounds than other sections. Team average must be
under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams must reg-
ister (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2; teammate pairings
avoided but possible. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if
otherwise unrated. Prize limits: 1) If post-event rating posted 4/16/13-
4/16/14 is more than 30 points over section maximum, prize limit $1500.
2) Players with under 10 lifetime games as of 4/14 official list cannot win
over $800 in U1300, $1600 U1600, or $2400 U1800. 3) Unrated cannot
win over $300 in U1000/Unr Section. 4) Balance of any limited prize goes
to next player(s) in line. Open EF: Free to GMs, IMs, WGMs; $150
deducted from prize. US players FIDE or USCF rated 2200/over: $225
online at chessaction.com by 4/14, $231 mailed by 4/7, $250 at site. For-
eign FIDE rated players: $155 online at chessaction.com by 4/7, $161
mailed by 4/7, $180 at site. Others: $375 online at chessaction.com by
4/14, $381 mailed by 4/7, $400 at site. U2200 through U1600 Sections
EF: $225 online at chessaction.com by 4/14, 4-day $229, 3-day $228, 2-
day $227 mailed by 4/7, $250 at site. U1300 Section, Unrated/Pro-
visional Section EF: $125 online at chessaction.com by 4/14, 4-day $129,
3-day $128, 2-day $127 mailed by 4/7, $150 at site. U1000/Unr Section
EF: $65 online at chessaction.com by 4/14, 4-day $69, 3-day $68, 2-day
$67 mailed by 4/7, $80 at site. Phoned EF: All $5 more than online EF,
406-896-2038 (entry only, no questions), available only through 4/7.
Online late entry after 4/14: available until 2 hours before your first
game, same price as entry at site. EF $100 less to rated seniors 65/over
in Open through U1600. Special 1 year USCF membership with mag-
azine if paid with entry: Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult
$20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult
$30, Scholastic $20. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry:
$100, no re-entry from Open Section to Open Section. 5-day schedule
(Open only): Reg. ends Wed 6 pm, rds. Wed. 7 pm, Thu 12:45 & 7, Fri 11:45
& 6, Sat 11:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:45. 4-day schedule (except Open): Reg.
ends Thu 6 pm, rds. Thu 7 pm, Fri 11:45 & 6, Sat 11:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:45.
3-day schedule (except Open): Reg. ends Fri 10 am, rds Fri 11, 2:30 &
6, Sat 11:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:45. 2-day schedule (except Open): Reg. ends
Sat. 9 am, rds. Sat. 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:45. 4-day, 3-day, &
2-day merge & compete for same prizes. Byes: Half point byes OK all
rounds, limit 3 byes, limit 2 in last 4 rounds, Open Section must commit
before rd. 2, other sections before rd. 4. Bring sets, boards, clocks if
possible- none supplied. HR: $100-100-120, 215-625-2900, reserve by 4/4
or rate may increase. Parking: (NEW GARAGE WITH LOW RATES): PARK
AMERICA, 25 S. 12th St (12th & Clover), 1 block from Marriott, about
$8/day Sat & Sun, $17/day other days. Marriott valet parking, chess
rate about $29/day. Gateway Garage, 1540 Spring St. (3/5 mile from Mar-
riott), about $5/day Sat & Sun, $18/day other days. Car rentals: Avis,
800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633 or reserve car online at chesstour.
com. Ratings: FIDE April used for Open, USCF April for U2200 & below;
note that ratings after the April list (see above) may result in a $1500 prize
limit. Foreign player ratings: see www.chesstour.com/foreignratings.htm.
Special rules: Players must submit to a search for electronic devices if
requested by Director. In round 3 or after, players with scores of 80% or
over and their opponents may not use headphones, earphones or cell-
phones or go to a different floor of the hotel without Director permission.
Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803.
$15 service charge for refunds. Questions: DirectorAtChess.us, 347-
201-2269, chesstour.com. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com
(online entries posted instantly).
See previous issue for TLAs appearing January 1-14
A State Championship Event!
APR. 26, NEW HAMPSHIRE
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
New Hampshire Quick Chess Championship (QC)
8SS, GAME/25 Delay/3. Holiday Inn Portsmouth, 300 Woodbury Ave.,
Portsmouth, NH 03801. EF: $20 postmarked by 19 April, $25 at site.
NHCA Memb. Req’d: $8, Juniors $6. OSA. $$GTD: $200- 100. U2000 $100.
U1600 $100. Plaque and $100 bonus to top finishing NH resident. Reg.:
9:00-9:45. Rds.: 10-11-1-2-3-4-5:30-6:30. Byes available any round, limit
two. Must be requested before round four. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49 Technol-
ogy Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex Relyea relyea@operamail.
com. HR: (603) 431-8000. www.relyeachess.com. NS. W.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
MAY 2-4 OR 3-4, PENNSYLVANIA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED)
15th annual Pittsburgh Open
5SS, 40/110, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Ramada
Greensburg Hotel & Conference Center, 100 Ramada Inn Dr., Greensburg,
PA 15601 (near US-30). Free parking. $$G 7,000. In 5 sections. Open:
$700-400-300-200, clear or tiebreak winner $100 bonus, top Under 2300/
Unr $300-150. Under 2100: $500-250-150-100, top Under 1900 $250-125.
Under 1800: $500-250-150-100, top Under 1600 $250-125. Under 1500:
$400-200-120-80, top Under 1300 $200-100. Under 1200: $200-100-60-
40, plaques to first 3, top U1000, U800, U600, Unrated. Unrated may not
win over $100 in U1200, $200 U1500, or $300 U1800. Mixed doubles
bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player “team” combined score among
all sections: $400-200. Team average must be under 2200; teammates
may play in different sections; teams must register at site (no extra fee)
before both players begin round 2; teammate pairings avoided but pos-
sible. Top 4 sections EF: $78 online at chessaction.com by 4/29, $90 at
site, or until 2 hours before 1st game. Phoned to 406-896-2038 by 4/27
(entry only, no questions), $85. Mailed by 4/21: 3-day $83, 2-day $82. GMs
free; $70 deducted from prize. Under 1200 Section EF: all $40 less than
above. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry: online
at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed,
phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-
entry $60; not available in Open Section. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri
6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 am & 5 pm, Sun 10 am & 3:30 pm. 2-day sched-
ule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 am & 3:30. All: Half
point byes OK all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd. 2, others before
rd. 3. HR: $82-82, 724-836-6060; reserve by 4/17 or rate may increase.
Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, or reserve car online
through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham NY
10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com,
DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-2269. Advance entries posted at chessac
tion.com.
An American Classic!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
MAY 22-26, 23-26, 24-26 OR 25-26, ILLINOIS
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED)
CONTINENTAL CHESS SCHEDULE
Visit www.chesstour.com for late news,
results, games, minimum ratings, entries, etc. To
be added to our email list, see chesscalendar.com.
Most tournaments have alternate schedules
playing less or more days than listed below.
Asterisk means full details in this issue-
otherwise, see future issues or our website.
Events in red offer FIDE norm possibilities.
ONLINE ENTRY: www.chessaction.com.
1/10-12: Boston C hess C ongress, Boston M A*
1//17-20: G olden State O pen, C oncord C A *
1/17-20: Liberty Bell O pen, Philadelphia PA*
1/22-26: F oxwoods O pen, M ashantucket C T *
3/1-2: N Y State Scholastics, Saratoga Springs N Y *
3/7-9: W estern C lass C hampionships, Agoura Hills C A*
3/14-16: Eastern C lass C hampionships, Sturbridge M A*
3/14-16: M id-America O pen, Saint Louis M O *
3/28-30 Southern C lass, O rlando FL (new date)*
3/28-30: Long Island O pen, Holtsville N Y *
4/16-20: P hiladelphia O pen, P hiladelphia PA *
5/2-4: Pittsburgh O pen, G reensburg PA (new date)*
5/22-26: C hicago O pen, W heeling IL *
6/6-8: N ortheast O pen, Stamford C T
6/26-30: D C International, A rlington V A *
6/28-29: W orld O pen U nder 13, Arlington V A*
7/2-6: W orld O pen, A rlington V A *
7/18-20: Pacific C oast O pen, Agoura Hills C A
7/18-20: C hicago C lass, W heeling IL
7/25-27: C leveland O pen, C leveland O H
8/1-3: Southern O pen, O rlando FL
8/8-10: C ontinental O pen, Sturbridge M A
8/22-24: Atlantic O pen, W ashington D C
8/22-24: Indianapolis O pen, Indianapolis IN
8/30-9/1: N ew Y ork State C hampionship, Albany N Y
10/8-13: C ontinental C lass, A rlington V A
10/10-12: M idw est C lass, W heeling IL
F or later events, see chesstour.com .
www.uschess.org 59
Tournament Life / January

23rd annual Chicago Open
Open Section, May 22-26: 9SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10, GM & IM norms
possible, FIDE rated. Other Sections, May 23-26, 24-26 or 25-26: 7SS,
40/2, SD/30 d10 (3-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10; 2-day option, rds. 1-
4 G/30 d10). Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel, 601 North Milwaukee
Ave, Wheeling, IL 60090 (from Chicago, I-294 north to US-45 north; from
Milwaukee, I-94 east to Lake Cook Rd. to US-45 south.) Free parking. Free
lectures and analysis of your games by GM John Fedorowicz. $100,000
guaranteed prize fund. In 9 sections. Open: $10000-5000- 2500-1200-
900-700-600-500-400-400, clear or tiebreak winner bonus $200, top FIDE
Under 2500/Unr $2000-1000. FIDE rated, GM and IM norms possible.
Under 2300/Unr.: $5000-2500-1200-800-600-500-400-400-300-300.
Under 2100: $5000-2500-1200-800-600-500-400-400-300- 300. Under
1900: $5000-2500-1200-800-600-500-400-400-300-300. Under 1700:
$4000-2000-1000-800-600-500-400-300-300-300. Under 1500: $3000-
1500-1000-700-500-400-400-300-300-300. Under 1300: $3000-1500-1000-
700-500-400-400-300-300-300. Under 1000/Unr: $1000-700- 500-400-
300-300-200-200, unrated may not win over $500, trophies to first 10, top
U800, U600, U400. Unrated/Provisional Section: Open to unrated or
under 1600 with less than 26 lifetime games rated. $1000-700-500-400-
300-300-200-200. Unrated allowed only in Open, Under 2300/Unr,
Under 1000/Unr or Unrated/Provisional section. Prize limits: 1) If any
post-event rating posted 5/22/13-5/22/14 was more than 30 points
over section maximum, prize limit $1500. 2) Players with under 10 life-
time games rated as of 5/14 official list cannot win over $1000 in U1300,
$1500 U1500, $2000 U1700, or $2500 U1900. 3) Balance of any limited
prize goes to next player(s) in line. Mixed Doubles Bonus Prizes: best
male/female combined 2-player “team” score: $2000-1000-500-400-
300-200. Open Section points count 80% to compensate for Open having
more rounds than other sections. Team average must be under 2200; team-
mates may play in different sections; teams must register (no extra
fee) before both players begin round 2; teammate pairings avoided but
possible. Open EF: US players rated 2200/over by USCF or FIDE & all
foreign FIDE rated players:$227 online at chessaction.com by 5/20, $235
phoned to 406-896-2038 by 5/19, $235 mailed by 5/13. US players not
rated 2200/over by USCF or FIDE:$100 more. GMs, foreign IMs, for-
eign WGMs :Free, $200 deducted from prize. IMs, WGMs, foreign
GMs, foreign FMs: minimum prize $200 if completing all 9 games, with
no byes in rounds 6-9 (no entry fee deduction from minimum prize).
Foreign FIDE rated players below FM: minimum prize $100 if complet-
ing all 9 games, with no byes in rounds 6-9. U2300 to U1300 Sections
EF: $227 online at chessaction.com by 5/20, $235 phoned to 406-896-2038
by 5/19 (entry only, no questions), 4-day $234, 3-day $233, 2-day $232
mailed by 5/13; all $250 online until 2 hours before game or at site until
1 hour before game. No checks at site, credit cards OK. EF $80 less to
seniors age 65/over, except in U1000/Unr and Unrated/Provisional
sections. Under 1000 Section EF, Unrated/Provisional Section EF: $77
online at chessaction.com by 5/20, $85 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 5/19
(entry only, no questions), 4-day $84, 3-day $83, 2-day $82 mailed by 5/13,
all $100 online until 2 hours before game or at site until 1 hour before
game. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Online or mailed EF $5 less
to ICA members; join at il-chess. org. An ICA Tour Event. Special 1 yr
USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry: Online at chessaction.com,
Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site,
Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry: $100, no re-entry
from Open to Open. 5-day schedule (Open only): Reg. ends Thu 6 pm,
rds. Thu 7 pm, Fri 12:30 & 7, Sat 11:30 & 6, Sun 11:30 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:45.
4-day schedule (no Open): Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, Rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11:30
& 6, Sun 11:30 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:45. 3-day schedule (no Open): Reg. ends
Sat 10:30 am, Rds. Sat 11:30, 2:45 & 6, Sun 11:30 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:45.
2-day schedule (no Open): Reg. ends Sun 9 am, Rds. Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45
& 6, Mon 10 & 3:45. 4-day, 3-day & 2-day schedules merge & compete
for same prizes. Byes: OK all, limit 4 (limit 2 in last 4 rds), Open must com-
mit before rd. 2, others before rd. 4. Hotel rates: $107-107-107-107, 800-
937-8461, 847-777-6500, reserve by 5/8 or rate may increase. Car
rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through
chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings: See www.chesstour.com/foreign
ratings.htm. US player ratings: May official ratings used; FIDE ratings
used for Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if
otherwise unrated. Special rules: 1) Players must submit to a search for
electronic devices if requested by Director. In round 3 or after, players
with scores of 80% or over and their opponents may not use head-
phones, earphones, cellphones, or go to a different floor of the hotel
without Director permission. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham,
NY 10803. Questions: chesstour.com, chesstour.info, DirectorAtChess.US,
347-201-2269. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted
at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Bring sets, boards,
clocks if possible- none supplied.
JUNE 12, NEVADA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 (ENHANCED)
2014 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC)
See Nationals.
JUNE 12-13, NEVADA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED)
2014 U.S. Women’s Open
See Nationals.
JUNE 13-15 OR 14-15, NEVADA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED)
2014 National Open
See Nationals.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JUNE 26-30, VIRGINIA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED)
2nd annual DC International
9SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10. Hyatt Regency Crystal City, 2799 Jefferson Davis
Hwy., Arlington, VA 22202 (free shuttle from Reagan National Airport; see
World Open for rates & parking info). $$G 10,000: $3000-1500-1000-700-
600-500-400-300-200, top FIDE under 2300 or unrated $1200-600.
Minimum prize $800 to foreign GMs, $400 to foreign IMs or WGMs,
$200 to foreign FMs who complete all games with no byes (limited to first
5 foreign GMs, first 5 foreign IMs/WGMs, first 5 foreign FMs to enter
by 6/25 at chessaction.com). Minimum prize $300 to other GMs who com-
plete all games with maximum 2 half point byes (limited to first 5 to enter
at chessaction.com). Players who have forfeited without notice in past
CCA Internationals are not eligible for minimum prizes. IM & GM norms
possible; FIDE rated. EF: GMs, IMs, WGMs $50 online at chessaction.com
by 6/2, $75 online at chessaction.com by 6/25, $100 at site; $100
deducted from prize (no deduction from minimum prize). Foreign FIDE
rated players: $100 online at chessaction.com by 6/2, $125 online by
6/25, $150 at site; $100 deducted from prize. USA players FIDE rated
2200/up: $200 online by 6/2, $225 online by 6/25, $250 at site. Others:
$300 online by 6/2, $325 online by 6/25, $350 at site or online up to 2
hours before 1st round. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Special
1 year USCF dues with magazine: see World Open. Schedule: Late reg.
ends Thu 10:30 am, rds. Thu through Sun 11:30 & 6, Mon 11:30. Two half
point byes available (must commit before rd. 2); norm not possible if tak-
ing bye. HR: see World Open. Bring sets, boards, clocks if possible- none
supplied. Ent: chessaction.com. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions:
www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.us, 347-201-2269. Advance entries
posted instantly at chessaction.com. Invitations: GoAtChess.us. Use @
symbol instead of “At” in email addresses.
An American Classic!
A Heritage Event!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, VIRGINIA
TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED)
42nd Annual World Open
9SS, Hyatt Regency Crystal City, 2799 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arling-
ton, VA 22202 (a few miles from Washington, DC). Free shuttle from
Reagan National Airport, special chess rate for hotel valet parking $6/
day, parking about $7-15/day nearby if hotel garage is full. In 10 sections.
$250,000 projected prizes based on 1180 paid entries, $200,000 (80%
of each prize) minimum guaranteed. GMs, IMs, re-entries count as 50%
entries, Under 1200, Seniors in U1400/over as 60% entries, U900,
Unrated/Provisional Section as 25% entries. Free analysis of your games

GOLD AFFILIATES GOLD & SILVER

Cajun Chess
7230 Chadbourne Drive
New Orleans, LA 70126
Dallas Chess Club
200 S. Cottonwood Dr. Suite C
Richardson, TX 75080
PaperClip Pairings
c/o J. Houghtaling Jr & Remy Ferrari
6005 Forest Blvd
AFFILIATES
504-208-9596 972-231-2065 Brownsville, TX 78526, 956-459-2421
GOLD
Any affiliate that has submitted at least 50
cajunchess@yahoo.com info@dallaschess.com jejrhoughtaling@bisd.us

USCF memberships during the current or

www.cajunchess.com www.dallaschess.com

previous calendar year, or is the recognized

San Diego Chess Club
2225 Sixth Avenue
State Affiliate, is eligible to become a Gold
Chess Club and Scholastic Marshall Chess Club
Center of St. Louis San Diego, CA 92101, 619-239-7166
Affiliate. Gold Affiliates are honored in a spe-
23 W. 10th St.
4657 Maryland Avenue New York, NY 10011 chucnglo@aol.com
cial list in larger type in Tournament Life
St. Louis, MO 63108. 212-477-3716 http://sdchessclub.multiply.com
each month, giving the affiliate name,
314-361-CHESS admin@marshallchessclub.org
address, phone number, e-mail address,
info@stlouischessclub.org www.marshallchessclub.org Shore HS Chess League
and website. Gold Affiliation costs $350 per
www.stlouischessclub.org PO Box 773

year, and existing affiliates may subtract

New York City Chess Inc Lincroft, NJ 07738

$3 for each month remaining on their reg-

Continental Chess Chess NYC Programs shorehschessleague@yahoo.com

ular affiliation, or $20 for each month

Association c/o Russell Makofsky & Michael Propper
Silver Knights Chess
remaining on their Silver Affiliation. As of
PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, PO Box 189, 1710 First Ave
New York, NY 10012, 212-475-8130 3929 Old Lee Hwy Ste 92D
NY 12577.
info@chessnyc.com Fairfax, VA 22030, 703-574-2070
845-496-9658 August 6, 2007, by paying an annual payment
www.chessnyc.com www.silverknightschess.com
chesstour@aol.com of $500 (instead of $350), Gold Affiliate sta-
chess@silverknightschess.com
www.chesstour.com tus may be obtained with no minimum
ChessIQ
4957 Oakton Street, Suite 113 requirement for memberships submitted.
Skokie, IL 60077, 847.423.8626
sevan@chessiq.com SILVER
Any affiliate that has submitted at least 25
www.chessiq.com
USCF memberships during the current or
previous calendar year, or is the recognized
State Affiliate, is eligible to become a Silver
Affiliate. These affiliates will be recognized
SILVER AFFILIATES 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
Bay Area Chess (CA) Michigan Chess Association Success Chess School (CA)
www.BayAreaChess.com www.michess.org www.successchess.com
$150 per year, and existing affiliates may
subtract $3 for each month remaining on
Beverly Hills Chess Club (CA) Monmouth Chess School & Club (NJ) Vellotti’s Chess Kids (ID)
their regular affiliation. As of August 6, 2007,
www.bhchessclub.com www.monmouthchess.com www.VellottisChessSchool.com
Boca Raton Chess Club (FL) Oklahoma Chess Foundation Western PA Youth Chess Club (PA) by paying an annual payment of $250.00
www.bocachess.com OCFChess.org www.youthchess.net (instead of $150), Silver Affiliate status may
Sparta Chess Club (NJ) be obtained with no minimum requirement for
www.spartachessclub.org memberships submitted.

60 January 2014 | Chess Life


by GM Sam Palatnik 7/2-6; free GM lectures 9 am 7/4 & 7/5. Open Sec-
tion, July 2-6 or June 30-July 6: 40/2, SD/30 d10. Under 2400 to Under
1600 Sections, July 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 or June 30-July 6: 40/2, SD/30 d10
(4-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10; 3-day option, rds. 1-5 G/35 d10). Under
1400 to Under 900 and Unrated/Provisional Sections, July 2-6, 3-
6 or 4-6: 40/2, SD/30 d10 (4-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10; 3-day option,
rds. 1-5 G/35 d10.) Open: $20000-10000-5000-2500-1300-1000-800-
700-600-500, clear winner bonus $300, top FIDE U2500 $2000-1000. If
tie for first, top 2 on tiebreak play speed game 11:30 pm 7/6 for title &
bonus prize. GM & IM norms possible. FIDE rated. Under 2400/Unr:
$12000-6000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U2300/Unr
$2000-1000. FIDE rated. Under 2200: $12000-6000-3000-1500-1000-900-
800-700-600-500, top U2100 $2000-1000. Under 2000: $12000-6000-
3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U1900 $2000-1000. Under
1800: $12000-6000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U1700
$2000-1000. Under 1600: $12000-6000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-
600-500, top 1500 $2000-1000. Under 1400: $8000-5000-3000-1500-1000-
900-800-700-600-500, top U1300 $1600-800. Under 1200: $5000-2500-
1200-1000-800-700-600-500-400-400, top U1000 $1200-600. Under
900/Unr: $1200-800-600-400-300-300-200-200, trophies to first 10, top
U700, U500, U300, Unrated. No unrated may win over $400. Unrated/Pro-
visional Section: Open to unrated or under 1500 with less than 26
games rated as of the 7/14 official list. $1200-800-600-400-300-300-200-
200. Prize limits: 1) If any post-event rating posted 6/27/13-6/27/14
was more than 30 points over section maximum, prize limit $2000. 2) Play-
ers with under 10 lifetime games rated as of 7/14 official list cannot win
over $1000 in U1200, $1500 U1400, $2000 U1600, $2500 U1800, or
$3000 U2000. Games rated too late for 7/14 official list not counted toward
10 game total. 3) Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in
line.Mixed Doubles Bonus Prizes: best male/female combined 2-
player “team” score: $3000-1500-1000-600-400-300-200. Team average
must be under 2200; teammates may play in different sections; teams
must register (no extra fee) before both players begin round 2; teammate
pairings avoided but possible. Entry fee for U2400 through U1400 sec-
tions, and Open Section if foreign or USCF or FIDE 2200/over: Online at
chessaction.com: $318 by 5/15, $328 by 6/29, $350 until 2 hours
before first game. Phoned to 406-896-2038: $335 by 6/25. Mailed by
5/15: 5-day $325, 4-day $324, 3-day $323, 7-day $327. Mailed by 6/17:
5-day $335, 4-day $334, 3-day $333, 7-day $337. Do not mail entry after
6/17. At site until 1 hour before first game: all $350; no checks,
credit cards OK. GMs & foreign IMs in Open: free; $200 deducted
from prize. IMs, WGMs & foreign FMs in Open: EF $100 less, $100
deducted from prize. Open Section EF $100 more for US players not
rated 2200 or over by USCF or FIDE. Under 1200 Section EF: all $100
less than above. Under 900 Section or Unrated/Provisional Section
EF: $78 online at chessaction.com by 6/29, 5-day $85, 4-day $84, 3-day
$83 mailed by 6/17, $100 at site until 1 hour before game or online until
2 hours before game. Seniors 65/up: all EF $100 less in U1400 or above
sections. No checks at site; credit cards OK. Re-entry: $160, no re-entry
from Open to Open. $20 fee for switching section after 7/1. Special
1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry: Online at chessac-
tion.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or
paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. 5-day sched-
ule: Wed 7 pm, Thu 11 am & 5:30 pm, Fri 11 am & 5:30 pm, Sat 11 am &
5:30 pm, Sun 10 am & 4:15 pm. 4-day schedule: Thu 11, 2:15 & 5:30,
Fri 11 & 5:30, Sat 11 & 5:30, Sun 10 & 4:15. 3-day schedule: Fri 11, 1:15,
3:15, 5:30 & 8, Sat 11 & 5:30, Sun 10 & 4:15. 7-day schedule: Mon-Wed
7 pm, Thu-Fri 5:30 pm, Sat 11 & 5:30, Sun 10 & 4:15. All schedules merge
& compete for same prizes. Half point byes OK all, limit 4 (limit 2 in last
4 rds.), Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 5. Entries, re-
entries close 1 hour before your first game. Bring sets, boards, clocks
if possible- none supplied. HR: $97-97-107-117, 888-421-1442, 703-418-
1234, ask for chess rate, may sell out about May 31, two night minimum
July 4-5. Special car rental rates: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633,
or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings:
See www.chesstour.com/foreignratings.htm. US player ratings: Official
July ratings used; June FIDE ratings used for Open Section. Unofficial
uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special rules: 1)
Players must submit to a search for electronic devices if requested by
Director. In round 3 or after, players with scores of 80% or over and their
opponents may not use headphones, earphones, cellphones or go to a
different floor of the hotel without Director permission. Ent: Continen-
tal Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Questions: chesstour.com,
chesstour.info, DirectorAtChess.US. $15 service charge for refunds.
Advance entries will be posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted
instantly). Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied.
Regional
Alabama
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 11, North Alabama Open
4SS, TC: G/70 d5. UAH – Business Admin Bldg. 800 Ben Graves Dr.,
Huntsville, AL 35816. Open (PF: $$b/20): $275-150-X:125-A:100-
U1800:100; Reserve (PF: $$b/20): $200-125–100-D:100-U1200: 100;
Rds.: 9-12-3:30-6:30. EF: $40; if mailed by JAN 4th; $55 at site. Scholas-
tic: 5SS, TC: G/30 d5. EF: $20. Late EF: $30. Trophy: Top 3. Rds.:
9-10:15-12-1:15-2:30. Late REG: JAN 11th at 8am. Checks payable to:
Caesar Chess. ENT: Caesar Chess LLC, 5184 Caldwell Mill Road, Suite
204 - 202, Birmingham, AL 35244. Info: CaesarChess@yahoo.com; www.
AlabamaChess.com; www.CaesarChess.com.
JAN. 18, MLK Scholastic * 5th Annual (QC)
5SS, TC: G/15 d0. Phillips Academy 2316 7th Avenue North, Birming-
ham, AL 35203. Open(K-12), Middle (K-6): EF: $20; Novice (K-6; NR):
EF:$15, if mailed by JAN 11th. Trophy:Top 3 Individual, Medals 4th – 6th.
Side Event: MLK Blitz: 5SS, G/8 d2, EF: $20, Prizes ($$b/10): $90-40-20.
Late REG: JAN 18th at 8AM. Rds: 9- 9:30-10-10:30-11. Checks payable
to: Caesar Chess.ENT: Caesar Chess LLC, 5184 Caldwell Mill Road,
Suite 204 - 202, Birmingham, AL 35244 or email in registration form infor-
mation by JAN 15th and pay at site. Info: CaesarChess@yahoo.com;
www.AlabamaChess.com; www.CaesarChess.com.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 18, MLK Classic - 4th Annual
4SS, TC: G/70 d5. Frazer UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery, AL
36117. Classic (PF: $1,025; $$b/25): 300-175-X:125-A:125-B:100-
C:100-U1400:100. EF: $40, if mailed by JAN 11th. Rds.: 9-11:45-2:45-
5:15. Scholastic: 5SS, TC: G/30 d5. Knight (K-8; U1200); Novice (K-6; NR):
EF:$20/$15, Late EF: $10 more. Trophy: Top 3, Medals 4th – 6th. Late
REG: JAN 18th at 8AM. Rds.: 9- 10:15-11:45-1-2:15. Checks payable to:
Caesar Chess.ENT: Caesar Chess LLC, 5184 Caldwell Mill Rd., Suite 204-
202, Birmingham, AL 35244. Info: CaesarChess@yahoo.com; www.Ala
bamaChess.com; www.CaesarChess.com.
FEB. 8-9, Queen of Hearts - 42nd Annual
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 21-23 OR 22-23, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 28-30 OR 29-30, 12th annual Southern Class Champi-
onships (FL)
See Grand Prix.
Arizona
FEB. 27-28, Top 100 USCF List Scholastic Invitational (CA-S)
See California, Southern.
FEB. 28-MAR. 2, 2014 U.S. Junior Chess Congress (CA-S)
See Nationals.
Arkansas
FEB. 21-23 OR 22-23, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 18th annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
California, Northern
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
A State Championship Event!
JAN. 11-12 (NOT DEC. 7-8), CalChess State Grade Level Cham-
pionship
NOTE: Date changes from Nov. CL issue. SFO Airport Hyatt Reg, 1333
Bayshore Hwy., Burlingame, CA 94010. Hotel $119. Trophies: Top 30
players w + score (all in K) & top 10 teams in ea section K-12. Medals
to others. 13 sect based on grade (K-12). Reg. Sa/Su 8-8:30a. K-3: 5SS,
G/30 d5, Su 9 10:30a 12 1:30 3p. 4-12 (JGP): 6SS, G/65 d5 Sa/Su 9 11:45
2:30. Blitz: 8xG/5 d0 Su 5:30-7p, 3 sects (K-3 4-6 7-12). EF: by 1/4, K-3
$39, 4-12 $50, 1/5-8 +$20, 1/9-10 +$40. Blitz $12. USCF & CalChess
Mem reqd. Dec 13 Supp. Info: http://CalChessScholastics.org. NS. NC. W.
JAN. 17-20 OR 18-20 OR 19-20, 5th annual Golden State Open
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 18, Bay Area Chess4Less Kids Quads (PK-12, 3xG/30 d5)
1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies: Players w/plus
score. Sched: Check-in by 2:30p. Games: 3-5p. EF: 19 by 1/15, 34
onsite. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC.
JAN. 18, Bay Area Chess4Less Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies to all teams & play-
ers w/plus score. Sched: Reg. 9-9:45a. Games: 10a-2p. Disc EF: 19 by
1/15, 34 onsite. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC.
JAN. 19, Bay Area San Ramon Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, San Ramon, CA 94583. Trophies: Players w/plus
score. Sched: Check-in by 2:30p. Games: 3-5p. EF: 25 by 1/16, 40 onsite.
Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/sanramon. NS. NC. W.
JAN. 19, Bay Area San Ramon Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, San Ramon, CA 94583. Trophies: all teams & play-
ers w/plus score. Sched: Reg. 9-9:45a. Games: 10a-2p. EF: 33 by 1/16,
48 onsite. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/sanramon. NS. NC. W.
JAN. 20, Golden State Open Blitz (BLZ)
4SS, G/5 d0, double round, 8 games. Crowne Plaza Hotel, Concord (see
Golden State Open). Prizes $300 based on 20 entries, else in proportion:
$100-50, U2100 $60, U1800 $50, U1500/Unr $40. EF: $20, at site only,
no checks. Reg. ends 8:15 pm, rds. 8:30, 9, 9:30, 10. Bye: 1. Blitz rated,
but higher of regular or blitz used for pairings & prizes.
JAN. 25, Bay Area Blitz Championship (BLZ) G/4 +1
Santa Clara Convention Center, CA 95054. Reg. 6-6:45p, Games 7-9. 2
Sects: Prizes: Regular: 75% of EFs; Kids: trophies for plus score. EF $10,
after 1/22 $15. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/blitz. NS. NC. W.
JAN. 25, Santa Clara County Championship (PK-12)
Santa Clara Convention Center, CA 95054. Trophies: Top 10 players
w/plus score & Top 5 teams in 6 sects b/grade. Sched: Reg. 8-9. K-1 2
3 rounds (5SS, G/30 d5): 9:30-11-12:30-2-3:30. 4 5 6-12 rounds (4SS,
G/45 d5): 9:30-11:20-1:10-3. EF: $39 by 1/21. 1/22-23 +10, after 2/23
+20. Open to all USCF mems. Info: BayAreaChess.com/santaclara. NS.
NC. W.
JAN. 25, Santa Clara County Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Santa Clara Convention Center, CA 95054. Trophies: Players w/plus
score. Sched: Check-in by 4:45p. Games: 5-7p. EF: 25 by 1/22, 40 onsite.
Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/santaclara. NS. NC. W.
See previous issue for TLAs appearing January 1-14
JAN. 26, Bay Area Cupertino Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: Players w/plus
score. Sched: Check-in by 2:30p. Games: 3-5p. EF: 25 by 1/23, 40 onsite.
Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/cupertino. NS. NC. W.
JAN. 26, Bay Area Cupertino Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: all teams & players
w/plus score. Sched: Reg. 9-9:45a. Games: 10a-2p. EF: 33 by 1/23, 48
onsite. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/cupertino. NS. NC. W.
JAN. 26, Bay Area Foster City Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Foster City, CA 94404. Trophies: Players w/plus
score. Sched: Check-in by 2:30p. Games: 3-5p. EF: 25 by 1/23, 40
onsite. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/fostercity. NS. NC. W.
JAN. 26, Bay Area Foster City Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Foster City, CA 94404. Trophies: all teams & players
w/plus score. Sched: Reg. 9-9:45a. Games: 10a-2p. EF: 33 by 1/23, 48
onsite. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/fostercity. NS. NC. W.
FEB. 2, Bay Area Fremont Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5
Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Trophies: Players w/plus score.
Sched: Check-in by 2:30p. Games: 3-5p. EF: 25 by 1/30, 40 onsite. Info:
http://BayAreaChess.com/fremont. NS. NC. W.
FEB. 2, Bay Area Fremont Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Trophies: all teams & players
w/plus score. Sched: Reg. 9-9:45a. Games: 10a-2p. EF: 33 by 1/30, 48
onsite. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/fremont. NS. NC. W.
FEB. 8, Bay Area Cupertino Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: Players w/plus
score. Sched: Check-in by 2:30p. Games: 3-5p. EF: 25 by 2/5, 40 onsite.
Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/cupertino. NS. NC. W.
FEB. 8, Bay Area Cupertino Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: all teams & players
w/plus score. Sched: Reg. 9-9:45a. Games: 10a-2p. EF: 33 by 2/5, 48
onsite. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/cupertino. NS. NC. W.
FEB. 8, Bay Area Sacramento Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Trophies: Players w/plus
score. Sched: Check-in by 2:30p. Games: 3-5p. EF: 25 by 2/5, 40 onsite.
Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/sacramento. NS. NC. W.
FEB. 8, Bay Area Sacramento Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Trophies: all teams &
players w/plus score. Sched: Reg. 9-9:45a. Games: 10a-2p. EF: 33 by
2/5, 48 onsite. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/sacramento. NS. NC. W.
FEB. 9, 7th Annual CalNorth Youth Chess Age Level
Newark Pavilion, 6439 Thornton Ave., Newark, CA. Info & Entry Form at:
www.calnorthyouthchess.org/AgeLevel2014. Open to all scholastic play-
ers 13 and under who are USCF members. Age levels are 4-5, 6, 7, 8, 9,
10, 11, 12, 13. 1st Place through 15th Place trophies, plus those who tie
for 15th. Three extra trophies in each section for unrated players. Spe-
cial 4-9 Open age group for players over 1000 USCF rating, with a special
unique trophy for the 1st Place winner. Except for the Open 4-9 group,
you must play in your own age group. Age determination is based as of
February 1. 5 Rounds, G/30 d5 for those 9 and under. Ages 10 to 13 is 4
Rounds, G/60 d5, as well as the 4-9 Open section. Three academic school
team trophies in each age level except 4-5 and 4-9 Open. Chess medals
to all who do not win a trophy. Info: Carl Moy, CalNorthYouthChess@
gmail.com.
FEB. 9, Fremont Grand Prix SuperSwiss (4SS, G/61 d5)
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 15-17 OR 16-17, 31st Annual (2014) U.S. Amateur Team
Championship West
See Nationals.
FEB. 22, Bay Area Chess4Less Kids Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies: Players w/plus
score. Sched: Check-in by 2:30p. Games: 3-5p. EF: 19 by 2/19, 34
onsite. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC.
FEB. 22, Bay Area Chess4Less Kids Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
1639A South Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies to all teams & play-
ers w/plus score. Sched: Reg. 9-9:45a. Games: 10a-2p. Disc EF: 19 by
2/19, 34 onsite. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC.
FEB. 23, Bay Area Foster City Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Foster City, CA 94404. Trophies: Players w/plus
score. Sched: Check-in by 2:30p. Games: 3-5p. EF: 25 by 2/20, 40
onsite. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/fostercity. NS. NC. W.
FEB. 23, Bay Area Foster City Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Foster City, CA 94404. Trophies: all teams & players
w/plus score. Sched: Reg. 9-9:45a. Games: 10a-2p. EF: 33 by 2/20, 48
onsite. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/fostercity. NS. NC. W.
FEB. 27-28, Top 100 USCF List Scholastic Invitational (CA-S)
See California, Southern.
FEB. 28-MAR. 2, 2014 U.S. Junior Chess Congress (CA-S)
See Nationals.
MAR. 1, Bay Area Chess Grand Prix SuperSwiss (4SS, G/61 d5)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 2, Alameda County Championship (PK-12)
Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Trophies:Top 10 players w/plus
score & Top 5 teams in. 6 sects b/grade. Sched: Reg. 8-9. K-1 2 3
rounds (5SS, G/30 d5): 9:30 11 12:30 2 3:30. 4 5 6-12 rounds (4SS, G/45
d5): 9:30 11:20 1:10 3. EF: $39 by 2/26. 2/27-28 +10, after 2/28 +20.
Open to all USCF mems. Info: BayAreaChess.com/alameda. NS. NC. W.
MAR. 2, Alameda County Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Trophies: Players w/plus score.
Sched: Check-in by 4:45p. Games: 5-7p. EF: 25 by 2/27, 40 onsite. Info:
http://BayAreaChess.com/alameda. NS. NC. W.
www.uschess.org 61
Tournament Life / January
MAR. 7-9 OR 8-9, 21st annual Western Class Championships
(CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 8, Bay Area Sacramento Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Trophies: Players w/plus
score. Sched: Check-in by 2:30p. Games: 3-5p. EF: 25 by 3/5, 40 onsite.
Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/sacramento. NS. NC. W.
MAR. 8, Bay Area Sacramento Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Trophies: all teams &
players w/plus score. Sched: Reg. 9-9:45a. Games: 10a-2p. EF: 33 by
3/5, 48 onsite. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/sacramento. NS. NC. W.
MAR. 9, Bay Area Cupertino Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: Players w/plus
score. Sched: Check-in by 2:30p. Games: 3-5p. EF: 25 by 3/6, 40 onsite.
Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/cupertino. NS. NC. W.
MAR. 9, Bay Area Cupertino Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: all teams & players
w/plus score. Sched: Reg. 9-9:45a. Games: 10a-2p. EF: 33 by 3/6, 48
onsite. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/cupertino. NS. NC. W.
MAR. 16, Bay Area Chess Milpitas Blitz (BLZ)
10x G/4 d1. 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Reg.: 5-5:45p, Games
6-8. 2 Sects: Prizes: Regular: 75% of EFs; Kids: trophies for plus score.
EF: $10, after 3/12 $15. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/blitz. NS. NC.
MAR. 16, San Mateo County Championship (PK-12)
Courtyard Marriott, Foster City, CA 94404. Trophies: Top 10 players
w/plus score & Top 5 teams in 6 sects b/grade. Sched: Reg. 8-9. K-1 2
3 rounds (5SS, G/30 d5): 9:30 11 12:30 2 3:30. 4 5 6-12 rounds (4SS,
G/45 d5): 9:30 11:20 1:10 3. EF: $39 by 3/12. 3/13-14 +10, after 3/14
+20. Open to all USCF mems. Info: BayAreaChess.com/sanmateo. NS.
NC. W.
California, Southern
The Los Angeles Chess Club
The Most Active Club on the West Coast! (310) 795-5710 *
www.LAChessClub.com. Saturdays: 10am-10 pm (Intermediate class
+ 2 Tournaments). Sundays: 11-7 & 1-5 pm (Junior class + 2 Tour-
naments) – Details on our web site. Tuesdays: 7:30-9:30 pm
(Intermediate/Advanced Lecture). 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., Los
Angeles, CA 90025. (4 blocks W of 405, SW corner of Santa Monica
& Butler * 2nd Floor – above Javan Restaurant). Group Classes *
Tournaments * Private (1:1) Lessons.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 4&5, 11&12, 18&19, 25&26, LACC - Sat & Sun G/61
6SS, G/61 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. 2 Sections:
Open & U1600. EF: $55 ($35 LACC memb; siblings 1/2). Reg.: 11-12 pm.
Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day. Prizes: 1/2 collections. Parking: Free on
streets & basement. Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.
JAN. 4, 11, 18, 25, LACC - NEW Sat Nite Blitz $250 (BLZ)
7DSS, G/5 d0 (14 Games). 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd fl.
4 blks W of 405. EF: $20 ($15 LACC memb). Blitz-rated. Reg.: 6-6:30 pm.
Rds.: 6:30, 6:55, 7:20, 7:45, 8:10, 8:35, 9 pm. Prizes: $250 Guaranteed!
1st:$100; 2nd:$50; 3rd:$25; 4th:$15; U1800: $30; U1600 $30. Parking:
Free on streets &, BoA, or basement. Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChess
Club.com.
JAN. 4, 11, 18, 25, LACC - Saturday G/61
3SS, G/61 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 2 Sections:
21st annual WESTERN CLASS
March 7-9 or 8-9, Sheraton Hotel, Agoura Hills, CA
$20,000 projected prizes, $16,000 minimum guaranteed
5 rounds, 40/100, SD/30, d10 (2-day option, rounds 1-2 G/60, d10). In 7
sections (may play up one section). Prizes based on 230 paid entries (Class
E & re-entries count half); minimum 80% of each prize guaranteed.
Master Section (2200/up): Prizes $1800-900-600-400, clear/tiebreak win
$100 bonus, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE rated, 100 GPP (enhanced).
Expert Section (2000-2199): $1400-700-400-200.
Class A (1800-1999/Unr): $1400-700-400-200. Unr limit $800.
Class B (1600-1799/Unr): $1400-700-400-200. Unr limit $600.
Class C (1400-1599/Unr): $1200-600-300-200. Unr limit $450.
Class D (1200-1399/Unr): $1100-600-300-200. Unr limit $300.
Class E (Under 1200/Unr): $600-300-200-100, plaques to top Under
1000, Under 800, Under 600, Unrated. Unr limit $200.
MIXED DOUBLES PRIZES (all sections): $600-400-200.
FULL DETAILS: see “Grand Prix” in this issue or chesstour.com.
62 January 2014 | Chess Life
Open & U1600. EF: $30 ($20 memb, $10 no prizes; siblings 1/2). Reg.:
11-12 pm. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm. Prizes: 1/2 collections. Parking: Free on
streets & basement. Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.
JAN. 5, 12, 19, 26, LACC - Every Sunday Chess 4 Jrs.
4 separate events – 3 Sections: >900, <900, <500, 5SS, G/30 d5.
11514 Santa Monica Blvd. & Butler LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blocks West of 405.
EF: $30 ($20 LACC memb, siblings 1/2, Free new LACC members). Reg.:
12-1 pm. Rds.: 1pm & asap; Prizes:Trophies (top 3 each section) & medals;
each player receives a prize! Parking: Free on streets & basement.
Free pizza & juices. Info: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com or
Mick@LAChessClub.com.
JAN. 5, 12, 19, 26, LACC - Sunday G/61
3SS, G/61 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 2 Sections:
Open & U1600. EF: $30 ($20 memb, $10 no prizes; siblings 1/2). Reg.:
11-12 pm. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm. Prizes: 1/2 collections. Parking: Free on
streets, BoA, or basement. Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.
JAN. 17-20 OR 18-20 OR 19-20, 5th annual Golden State Open
(CA-N)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 19, January Boys Scholastic Championship
3 Sections: >900, <900, <500. 5SS, G/30 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd.
& Butler LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blocks West of 405. EF: $35 ($25 LACC memb,
siblings 1/2, Free new LACC memb). Reg.: 12-1 pm. Rds.: 1pm & asap;
Prizes: Trophies (top 3 each section) & medals; each player receives a
prize! Parking: Free on streets & basement. Free Pizzas & Juices. Info:
(310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com or Mick@LAChessClub.com.
JAN. 19, January Girls Scholastic Championship
3 Sections: >900, <900, <500. 5SS, G/30 d5. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd.
& Butler, LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blocks West of 405. EF: $35 ($25 LACC memb,
siblings 1/2, Free new LACC memb). Reg.: 12-1 pm. Rds.: 1pm & asap;
Prizes: Trophies (top 3 each section) & medals; each player receives a
prize! Parking: Free on streets & basement. Free Pizzas & Juices. Info:
(310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com or Mick@LAChessClub.com.
JAN. 25-26, 2014 Paul Keres Memorial
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 9, Palm Springs Chess Festival: Adults (18+)
5SS, G/30 d5. Palm Springs Pavilion, CA 92262. Sects of 16 players each
based on age/rating. Choice of cash or trophy prize sections. Cash Prize
b/16 player sect (EF $40): $200-100-60. Trophy Prize (EF $35): Players
w/plus score. Sched: Reg.: 9-9:45, Rds.: 10-11:20-1-2:20-3:40. EF after
1/31 +10, after 2/7 +20. Info: BayAreaChess.com/palms. NS. NC. W.
FEB. 9, Palm Springs Chess Festival: Youth (under 18)
5SS, G/30 d5. Palm Springs Pavilion, CA 92262. Trophies: Players w/plus
score, medals to others. 5 sects b/age: 4-7, 8-9, 10-11, 12-13, 14-18.
Sched: Reg.: 9-9:45, Rds.: 10-11:20-1-2:20-3:40. EF: $25, after 1/31 +10,
after 2/7 +20. Info: BayAreaChess.com/palms. NS. NC. W.
FEB. 15-17 OR 16-17, 3rd Annual Recession Buster Open
See Grand Prix.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 27-28, Top 100 USCF List Scholastic Invitational
NOTE CHANGES: (Open to 200 Paid Players). 5-RR, G/75 d5 (top 2 sec-
tions 3-RR, G/120 d5) Orange County Great Park Hangar 244 (Same
site as US Junior Congress), Irvine, CA. 92612. Open to players on a USCF
Top 100 list (On January or February 2014 List). Players will be divided
into sections by rating – top 2 sections are 4 players quads and the rest
are 6 players hexes. RDS.: Hexes Thurs: 10am-1:30pm, Fri: 9am-12:30pm-
3:30pm, Quads Thurs: 10am Fri: 9am-2pm. EF: $45 by 2/26, $25 less if
also playing in the National Chess Congress. PRIZES: Chess merchan-
dise valued at $100 1 st, $75 2nd in each Hex or Quad from vendor at
Congress. ENT: www.hanleychessacademy.com. INFO: Joe Hanley, 714-
925-3195 or hanleychessacademy@gmail.com.
FEB. 28-MAR. 2, 2014 U.S. Junior Chess Congress
See Nationals.
MAR. 7-9 OR 8-9, 21st annual Western Class Championships
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 8, Western Class Championships Blitz (BLZ)
4SS, G/5 d0, double round, 8 games, Sheraton Agoura Hills (see West-
ern Class). Prizes $300 based on 20 entries, else in proportion: $100-50,
U2100 $60, U1800 $50, U1500/Unr $40. EF: $20, at site only, no checks.
Reg. ends 9:15 pm, rds. 9:30, 10, 10:30, 11. Bye: 1. Blitz rated, but higher
of regular or blitz used for pairings & prizes.
APR. 4-6, 2014 National High School (K-12) Championship
See Nationals.
Colorado
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 8-9, Manitou Springs: Colorado Springs Open
5-SS, Rds. 1-2 G/90 d5; Rds. 3-5 G/90, 30 sec increment. Manitou Springs
City Hall, 606 Manitou Ave. One open section. EF: $35 if rec’d by March
6, $40 at site. $9 EF discount for juniors, seniors, unrated. Additional $5
discount for Supporting Members of Colorado Springs Chess Club. CSCA
required, ($15, jrs & srs 10), OSA. Cash prizes per entries. Registration:
8:30 - 9:30 AM. Rds.: 10, 2:30, 7:00; 9:00 AM, 3:00. Note: Daylight Sav-
ings Time starts Sunday morning. Entries to Richard Buchanan, 1
Sutherland Rd., Manitou Springs, CO 80829. Phone (719) 685-1984 or e-
mail buckpeace@pcisys.net . COLORADO TOUR EVENT.
Connecticut
JAN. 10-12 OR 11-12, 2nd annual Boston Chess Congress (MA)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 12, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 34th Annual
Greater NY Primary Championship! (NY)
See New York.
JAN. 12, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 48th Annual
Greater NY Elementary Championship - USCF’s Longest-Running
Scholastic! (NY)
See New York.
JAN. 12, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 48th Annual
Greater NY High School Championship - USCF’s Longest-Running
Scholastic! (NY)
See New York.
JAN. 12, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 48th Annual
Greater NY Junior High Championship - USCF’s Longest-Running
Scholastic! (NY)
See New York.
JAN. 22-26, 23-26 OR 24-26, 12th annual Foxwoods Open
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 26, Foxwoods Open Blitz (BLZ)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 1-2, 47th annual New York State Scholastic Championships
(NY)
See New York.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 23rd annual Eastern Class Championships
(MA)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 28-30 OR 29-30, 8th annual Long Island Open (NY)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 8th annual Philadelphia
Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 26-30, 2nd annual DC International (VA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 28-29, 6th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (VA)
See Virginia.
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
Delaware
APR. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 8th annual Philadelphia
Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
District of Columbia
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 18-19, DC Junior Open
U.S. Chess Center, 410 8th St. NW, Washington, DC 20004 Open to all under
age 19. 4-SS. EF: $20 if by 1/11, $30 at door. 7 Sections, Under Age 19,
Under Age 19 and rated Under 1100, Under Age 13, Under Age 13 and
rated Under 900, Under Age 13 and rated Under 700, Under Age 13 and
rated Under 500, Under Age 13 and rated Under 300. $100 prize for Under
Age 21 Champion. Trophies in all sections. Reg.: 12-12:45. Top Section:
G/85 d5. Rds.: 1 - 4, 12:30-3:30 This section determines the DC Scholas-
tic male and female Champions. Other 6 Sections TC: G/25 d5 with all
games played on Saturday. Info: (202) 857-4922. www.chessctr.org/DC
Junior.php.

FEB. 2, Metro First Sunday Quads
3-RR, G/85 d5. U.S. Chess Center, 410 8th St. NW, Washington, DC 20004.
EF: $20 $$ $40 each quad. Scholastic sections. EF: $10, Trophy prizes.
Both: Reg: 9:15-9:45. (202) 857-4922. www.chessctr.org./quads.php.
Florida
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
Boca Raton Chess Club
Friday nights, G/85 d5 Tournament, one game a week for 4 weeks. www.
bocachess.com, 561-479-0351.
Broward Chess Club
909 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304. Every Friday Blitz,
USCF RATED.Hours: 7pm – 11pm, THU - SAT.Info: 954-530-6674.
WWW.BROWARDCHESSCLUB.COM.
Epicure Grand Prix Series at Miami Country Day
Scholastic and Non-Scholastic Sections. More info at: www.bocachess.com
or call 561-479-0351.
Pine Crest School Grand Prix Series in Boca Raton
Scholastic and Non-Scholastic Sections. More info at: www.bocachess.com
or call 561-479-0351.
JAN. 10-12, South Florida Regional Scholastic Championships
Organized by the FSCL and sanctioned by the FCA. Top 5 Teams and Top
10 Individuals in Open divisions qualify for the Florida Scholastic State
Championships, Mar. 14-16 in Orlando.6SS, Rds. 1-4 G/45 d5 and Rds.
5-6 G/60 d5. DoubleTree by Hilton Miami Airport & Convention
Center, 711 NW 72nd Ave., Miami, FL 33126. Phone: 305-261-3800 or 800-
353-1995. Chess rate $119. Sections: Open divisions K-1, K-3, K-5, K-8,
K-12; Rated divisions K-3 Under 500, K-5 Under 800, K-8 Under 900, K-
12 Under 1000; Unrated divisions K-3, K-5, K-8. Entry Fees: $40 per player
by Jan. 3rd, thereafter $50. Schedule: Jan. 10th Blitz registration 5:30-
7pm; Blitz tournament G/5 d0 7:30pm; On-site registration 6-9pm. Jan.
11th Opening ceremony 9am; Round 1 G/45 d5 9:30am; Round 2 G/45
d5 11:30am; Round 3 G/45 d5 2:15pm; Round 4 G/45 d5 4:30pm; Bug-
house registration 5-7pm; Bughouse tournament G/5 d0 7:30pm. Jan.
12th Round 5 G/60 d5 9:30am; Round 6 G/60 d5 12:30pm; Awards
ceremony 3:30pm. Prizes Open divisions: Trophies to Top 5 Teams and
Top 10 Individuals. Rated divisions: Trophies to Top 5 Teams and Top 10
Individuals. Unrated divisions: Trophies to Top 3 Teams and Top 5 Individ-
uals. Medals for all participants. Online registration: http://onlineregistra
tion.cc search for “South Florida Regional.” Mail entries to Elizabeth
Tejada, P.O. Box 22629, Hialeah, FL 33002. Checks payable to FSCL. Ques-
tions: tejada@fsclchess.org or 786-444-2467. Advance entries posted
at: www.fsclchess.org.
JAN. 17-19 OR 18-19, Central Florida Class Championships
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 7-9, North Florida Regional Scholastic Championships
Organized by the FSCL and sanctioned by the FCA. Top 5 Teams and Top
10 Individuals in each Section qualify for the Florida Scholastic State Cham-
pionships, Mar. 14-16 in Orlando. 6SS, Rds. 1-2 G/45 d5 and Rds. 3-6
G/60 d5. Tampa Airport Westshore Hilton, 2225 N. Lois Ave., Tampa,
FL 33607. Phone: 813-877-6688 or 800-445-8667. Chess rate $111. Sec-
tions: K-1, K-3, K-5, K-8, K-12. Entry Fees: $40 per player by Jan. 31st,
thereafter $50. Schedule: Feb. 7th Blitz registration 6-7:15pm; Blitz tour-
nament G/5 d0 7:30pm; On-site registration 6-9pm. Feb. 8th On-site
registration 8-9:30am; Opening remarks 9:45am; Round 1 G/45 d5
10am; Round 2 G/45 d5 12pm; Round 3 G/60 d5 2:00pm; Round 4 G/60
d5 4:30pm; Bughouse registration 5-6:45pm; Bughouse tournament G/5
d0 7pm. Feb. 9th Round 5 G/60 d5 9am; Round 6 G/60 d5 11:30am;
Awards ceremony 2pm. Prizes:Trophies to Top 5 Teams and Top 10 Indi-
viduals in all Sections. Medals for all participants. Online registration:
http://onlineregistration.cc search for “North Florida Regional.” Mail
entries to FSCL, P.O. Box 12197, Gainesville, FL 32604. Checks payable
to FSCL. Questions: bryerson@fsclchess.org or 352-284-8273. Advance
entries posted at: www.fsclchess.org.
FEB. 8-9, Queen of Hearts - 42nd Annual (AL)
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 8-9, Central Florida Chess Club Championship
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 21-23 OR 22-23, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 28-30 OR 29-30, 12th annual Southern Class Champi-
onships
See Grand Prix.
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
Georgia
JAN. 18-19, 2014 Atlanta Winter Classic
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 8-9, Queen of Hearts - 42nd Annual (AL)
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 14-16 OR 15-16, 2014 U.S. Amateur Team Championship -
South
See Nationals.
FEB. 21-23 OR 22-23, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 7-9 OR 8-9, 2014 Boris Kogan Memorial
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 28-30 OR 29-30, 12th annual Southern Class Champi-
onships (FL)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 25-27, 2014 National Junior High (K-9) Championship
See Nationals.
JUNE 26-30, 2nd annual DC International (VA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 28-29, 6th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (VA)
See Virginia.
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
Illinois
ChessIQ Academy & Chess Center
a friendly environment to learn and play chess! USCF rated tournaments
every week, Grandmaster lectures and simuls monthly, team events,
and scholastic camps. Private and group lessons available onsite and
at your location. Contact us at 847.423.8626 or sevan@chessiq.com.
Visit our website at www.chessiq.com for our full schedule of events.
Located at 5500 W Touhy Ave., Suite A, Skokie, IL 60077 across the street
from the Village Crossing Shopping Center.
JAN. 19, 97th Knights Quest
Come join the monthly Quest – now in its 9th year with prize$ and
free wi-fi. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2875 Milwaukee Ave, Northbrook, IL. Sec-
tions: Open&U1400 (K-12 & Adults), 4 rds. G/45 (G/40 d5); U1000 &
U600 (K-8) 4 rds. G/30 (G/25 d5). EF: $30 by 1/13, $35 by 1/17, $40 after.
Awards: Open $50 – 40 – 30, Trophies Top 6 U1400, U1000 & U600, Top
Team in U1000 & U600, participation award all U600. On-siteReg: 11:00-
11:30 am. Rds: 1 at 12:00 pm, rest ASAP. Online Reg/info: www.r
knights.org.
JAN. 25, Bradley Winter Open
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 1, Greater Chicago Junior High Championship! Presented by
Kasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights
5-SS, G/25 d5, open to all grades 9/below. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2875 Mil-
waukee Ave., Northbrook, IL. 2 Sections: 1. Varsity: open to all. Trophies:
top 5 players, top rated Under 1200, top 2 schools. 2. Junior Varsity: open
to Under 1000. Trophies: top 5 players, top Unrated, top 2 schools. Any
player who scores 4 or more points and doesn’t win a trophy will receive
a medal!EF: $35 by 1/20; $40 by 1/27; $45 by 1/31 or $50 on-site. On-
site entry receives 1/2 point 1st round bye. All entries $5 off to siblings
and team members when registered at same time! Register for both days
and save $15. RDS: 10, 11:30, 1:00, 2:30 & 4:00. Awards Ceremony:
5:30pm. Byes: One 1/2-pt bye available, any round, if requested before
end of Rd.2 and if player has not received a full-point bye. HR: $85 per
night Double or King - 847-298-2525 or www.crowneplaza.com/north-
brookchi and use group code GC4. Entries: mail to RKnights, PO Box 1074,
Northbrook, IL 60065, include name, section, rating, USCF ID#, grade,
school name city & state, or Online Reg/Info at: www.rknights.org.
FEB. 1, Greater Chicago Primary Championship! Presented by
Kasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights
5-SS, G/25 d5, open to all grades 3/below. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2875 Mil-
waukee Ave., Northbrook, IL. 2 Sections: Varsity: open to all. Trophies:
top 5 players, top rated Under 800, top 2 schools. Junior Varsity: open
to Under 600. Trophies: top 5 players, top Unrated, top 2 schools. Any
player who scores 4 or more points and doesn’t win a trophy will receive
a medal!EF: $35 by 1/20; $40 by 1/27; $45 by 1/31 or $50 on-site. On-
site entry receives 1/2 point 1st round bye. All entries $5 off to siblings
and team members when registered at same time! Register for both days
and save $15. RDS.: 10, 11:30, 1:00, 2:30 & 4:00. Awards Ceremony:
5:30pm. Byes: One 1/2-pt bye available, any round, if requested before
end of Rd.2 and if player has not received a full-point bye. HR: $85 per
night Double or King - 847-298-2525 or www.crowneplaza.com/north-
brookchi and use group code GC4. Entries: mail to RKnights, PO Box 1074,
Northbrook, IL 60065, include name, section, rating, USCF ID#, grade,
school name city & state, or Online Reg/Info at: www.rknights.org.
FEB. 2, Greater Chicago Elementary Championship! Presented by
Kasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights
5-SS, G/25 d5, open to all grades 6/below. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2875 Mil-
waukee Ave., Northbrook, IL. 2 Sections: 1. Varsity: open to all. Trophies:
top 5 players, top rated Under 1000, top 2 schools. 2. Junior Varsity: open
to Under 800. Trophies: top 5 players, top Unrated, top 2 schools. Any
player who scores 4 or more points and doesn’t win a trophy will receive
a medal!EF: $35 by 1/20; $40 by 1/27; $45 by 1/31 or $50 on-site. On-
site entry receives 1/2 point 1st round bye. All entries $5 off to siblings
and team members when registered at same time! Register for both days
and save $15. RDS: 9, 10:30, 12:00, 1:30 & 3:00. Awards Ceremony:
4:30pm. Byes: One 1/2-pt bye available, any round, if requested before
end of Rd.2 and if player has not received a full-point bye. HR: $85 per
night Double or King - 847-298-2525 or www.crowneplaza.com/north-
brookchi and use group code GC4. Entries: mail to RKnights, PO Box 1074,
Northbrook, IL 60065, include name, section, rating, USCF ID#, grade,
school name city & state, or Online Reg/Info at: www.rknights.org.
FEB. 2, Greater Chicago High School Championship! Presented by
Kasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights
5-SS, G/25 d5, open to all grades 12/below. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2875
Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook, IL. 2 Sections: 1. Varsity: open to all. Tro-
phies: top 5 players, top rated Under 1400, top 2 schools. 2. Junior
Varsity: open to Under 1200. Trophies: top 5 players, top Unrated, top 2
schools. Any player who scores 4 or more points and doesn’t win a tro-
phy will receive a medal!EF: $35 by 1/20; $40 by 1/27; $45 by 1/31 or
$50 on-site. On-site entry receives 1/2 point 1st round bye. All entries
$5 off to siblings and team members when registered at same time! Reg-
ister for both days and save $15. RDS: 9, 10:30, 12:00, 1:30 & 3:00.
Awards Ceremony: 4:30pm. Byes: One 1/2-pt bye available, any round,
if requested before end of Rd.2 and if player has not received a full-point
bye. HR: $85 per night Double or King - 847-298-2525 or www.crowne-
See previous issue for TLAs appearing January 1-14
plaza.com/northbrookchi and use group code GC4. Entries: mail to
RKnights, PO Box 1074, Northbrook, IL 60065, include name, section, rat-
ing, USCF ID#, grade, school name city & state, or Online Reg/Info at:
www.rknights.org.
FEB. 16, 98th Knights Quest
Come join the monthly Quest – now in its 9th year with prize$ and
free wi-fi. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2875 Milwaukee Ave, Northbrook, IL. Sec-
tions: Open&U1400 (K-12 & Adults), 4 rds. G/45 (G/40 d5); U1000 &
U600 (K-8) 4 rds. G/30 (G/25 d5). EF: $30 by 2/10, $35 by 2/14, $40 after.
Awards: Open $50 – 40 – 30, Trophies Top 6 U1400, U1000 & U600, Top
Team in U1000 & U600, participation award all U600. On-siteReg: 11:00-
11:30 am. Rds: 1 at 12:00 pm, rest ASAP. Online Reg/info: www.r
knights.org.
FEB. 21-23 OR 22-23, 2014 U.S. Amateur Team North
See Nationals.
MAR. 8, 12th Annual Mark Oestreich Memorial Tournament
Time control 30/70, then 40/60, d0. No sudden death. Salem Community
Center, 416 Oglesby St., Salem, IL. EF: $15.00. Prize fund: $360.00,
based on 30. 1st $80, 2nd $40. A,B,C, D/E/Unr $60.00 each. Reg.: 8:00-
9:15. Rounds: 9:30, 1:00, 5:00. Entries: Jim Davies 314-721-4967, 7358
Shaftesbury, St. Louis, MO 63130. jandadavies@sbcglobal.net.
MAR. 9, 99th Knights Quest
Come join the monthly Quest – now in its 9th year with prize$ and
free wi-fi. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2875 Milwaukee Ave, Northbrook, IL. Sec-
tions: Open&U1400 (K-12 & Adults), 4 rds. G/45 (G/40 d5); U1000 &
U600 (K-8) 4 rds. G/30 (G/25 d5). EF: $30 by 3/3, $35 by 3/7, $40 after.
Awards: Open $50 – 40 – 30, Trophies Top 6 U1400, U1000 & U600, Top
Team in U1000 & U600, participation award all U600. On-siteReg: 11:00-
11:30 am. Rds: 1 at 12:00 pm, rest ASAP. Online Reg/info: www.r
knights.org.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 18th annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
A State Championship Event!
MAR. 14-16, 2014 Illinois K-8 State Championships
7SS, Hyatt Regency Schaumburg, 1800 E. Golf Rd., Schaumburg, IL 60173,
(847)605-1234, rooms: $95 (single-quad), Free Wi-Fi at hotel, free park-
ing, Near Woodfield Mall. Four Sections – K-1 (G/25 d5), Grades 2-3
(G/40 d5), Grades 4-5 (G/55 d5), Grades 6-8 (G/55 d5). Entry Fee: $35
postmarked by 2/24/14 USPS (or $35 on-line by 2/24, 6 pm); $50 post-
marked 3/11/14 or On-Line by 3/13/14, 6 pm, or on-site by 3/14/14
(on-site entries after 3/14/14 cannot be guaranteed pairing for round 1,
instead they may receive 1/2 point bye round 1). Must be current USCF
member by 8:30 am, 3/15 to be paired. Checks payable only to Chess
Weekend. Awards: Individual: 1st –25th Place in each section (K-1, 2-
3, 4-5, 6-8) INDIVIDUAL SECTION WINNER WILL ALSO RECEIVE AN
IPAD MINI. Grade Awards: 1st-2nd each grade. Class Awards: 1st-2nd
Place with several classes per section. Commemorative medal or ribbon
to all players. Teams: 1st-10th Place in each section. Special Sportsman-
ship trophy! Schedule: Opening Ceremony Sat., 3/15/14 at 9:30 am. K-1:
Sat. 10-12:30-2-3:30, Sun. 9-10:30-12:30; Grades 2-3: Sat. 10-12:30-2:30-
4:30 Sun. 9-11-1; Grades 4-5 & Grades 6-8: Sat. 10-12:45-3:15-5:45 Sun.
9-11:30-2. Side Events:Bughouse Tournament – Fri, 3/14/14, 6:15 –
7:45 pm. EF at site only: $20 per team ($10 for individuals and we help
you create a team) FREE INDIVIDUAL BUGHOUSE ENTRY WITH RECEIPT
FOR BOTH BLITZ & PUZZLE SOLVING! Registration closes at 6 pm, Fri,
3/14/14. One section only, K-8. Bughouse Awards: 1st-3rd Place. Blitz
Tournament – 5 SS Fri, 3/14/14, 8-9:30 pm, $15 postmarked by 2/24/14
or on-line 2/24/14 until 6 pm, $20 on-site or on-line until 3/14/14. Reg-
istration on site closes at 7:30 pm, 3/14/14. Blitz Awards: Individual:
1st-5th plus class awards. Puzzle Solving Contest: Sat. 3/15/14, 6:30
pm, Puzzle Solving Prizes: 1st-5th overall; 1st-5th U1000, EF: USPS: $15
postmarked by 2/24/14 or On-line until 2/24/14, 6 pm. $20 on-line by
3/15/14, 6pm or at site. Awards Ceremony for Blitz/Bughouse/Puz-
zle Solving: Sun, 9 am. K-8 Awards Ceremony: Sun, 3/16/12, 5:30-7
pm. Enter tournament on line (except Bughouse) at http://chessweek-
end. com. Checks payable only to Chess Weekend (no checks to
USCF): Mail registrations with name-contact info-grade-birthday-team/
school-uscf ID & exp.-address-city-zip-e-mail address-coach name &
contact info to: Glenn Panner, 21694 Doud Ct., Frankfort, IL 60423.
Updated info/Hotels/On-Line Entries: http://chessweekend.com. $10
service charge for on-site changes, and all refunds. Book Vending by
Rochester Chess.
MAR. 29, Springfield Eleventh Annual David Mote Memorial Open
4SS, G/60 d5. Douglas United Methodist Church, 501 S. Douglas, Spring-
field. Reg.: 9-9:45. Rds.: 10-12:45-3:00-5:15. Lunch break at 12:15. EF:
$17 by 3/26, $20 at site, $2 less to SCC members. Prizes: $$400 b/30.
140-80, 1600-1999 60, 1200-1599 50, Under 1200 40, Unrated 30.
Ent/Info: David Long, 401 S. Illinois St., Springfield 62704. 217-726-
2584. Information and directions available at www.springfieldchess
club.com.
APR. 6, 100th Knights Quest
Come help us celebrate the 100th edition of Illinois’ longest and
most successful monthly tournament - see our website for details
and announcements on the festivities. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2875
Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook, IL. Sections: Open&U1400 (K-12 & Adults),
4 rds. G/45 (G/40 d5); U1000 & U600 (K-8) 4 rds. G/30 (G/25 d5). EF:
$30 by 4/1, $35 by 4/4, $40 after. Awards: Open $50 – 40 – 30, Trophies
Top 6 U1400, U1000 & U600, Top Team in U1000 & U600, participation
award all U600. On-siteReg: 11:00-11:30 am. Rds: 1 at 12:00 pm, rest
ASAP. Online Reg/info: www.rknights.org.
APR. 11-13, 2014 All-Girls National Championships presented by
the Kasparov Chess Foundation in association with the Renaissance
Knights Chess Foundation & USCF
See Nationals.
MAY 22-26, 23-26, 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Chicago Open
See Grand Prix.
www.uschess.org 63
Tournament Life / January
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
Indiana
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 18th annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 22-26, 23-26, 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Chicago Open
(IL)
See Grand Prix.
Iowa
FEB. 8, $1150 Expert+ Open and Broken Pawn Reserve (U2000)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 18th annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 22-26, 23-26, 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Chicago Open
(IL)
See Grand Prix.
Kansas
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 18th annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 22-26, 23-26, 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Chicago Open
(IL)
See Grand Prix.
Kentucky
JAN. 18, The Louis Braille Chess Memorial Open
“Out of the Darkness” Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 2825 Lex-
ington Rd., Louisville, KY (see www.mapquest.com for a map and
directions). Entry fee: 20 dollars on-site, 15 dollars pre-registration fee
Sections: under 2000, under 1600, under 1200, under 800, G/30 d5 and
3 rounds; Open section, G/45 d5, 3 rounds. Only the top 2 winners in each
section earn a cash prize. The tournament director reserves the right to
change sections and other conditions based on entries received. The tour-
nament takes place in The Dining Hall located in the Honeycutt Center.
Registration time is 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The first round starts at 11
a.m. Blind and visually impaired students are particularly welcome to com-
pete!! See www.pottershousechess.com for additional details. Contact
urbanlouisvillechess@yahoo.com for a pre-registration form.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 18th annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 22-26, 23-26, 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Chicago Open
(IL)
See Grand Prix.
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
Louisiana
FEB. 21-23 OR 22-23, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
Maine
JAN. 18-19, Saco Open
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 23rd annual Eastern Class Championships
(MA)
See Grand Prix.
Maryland
A State Championship Event!
JAN. 11, 2014 Maryland State Girls Chess Championship
Rockville Hilton, 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852 – held together
with the Chesapeake Open. Come out and play in an all-girl tournament
- limited to Maryland girl residents in grades K-12. Winner of Championship
section will be Maryland Girls Champion AND state representative to the
2014 National Girls Invitational Tournament. Individual & team prizes to
be determined. In 3 sections: Championship (National Qualifier) (≥
800): 3-SS, G/45 + inc 30”. Intermediate (U800): 4-SS, G/45 d5. Novice
(U400): 5-SS, G/30 d5. Number of rounds and time control may change
based on number of players. Sets and boards provided; please bring chess
clock. Check-in: 8:30-9:45am. Rds.: Rd 1 start - 10am. EF: $20 by 1/6;
$25 by 1/9; $30 at door. Ent: Online registration & further info at
www.mdchess.com Mail registration: if rec’d by 1/8; include name, sec-
tion, USCF number, grade, school, phone, and email plus check to MCA
c/o Chris Kim; 3903 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21218. Info: Chris Kim,
cyskim@gmail.com, 410-794-6312.
JAN. 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 46th annual Liberty Bell Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 1, Kasparov Chess Foundation Presents 6th Annual Greater
Mid-Atlantic Scholastic Chess Championships
Baltimore Polytechnic Institute & Western High School, 1400 W. Cold Spring
Ln., Baltimore, MD 21209. Open to K-12 players. 7 Sections. 4 sections
are 5SS, G/40 d5: Varsity: K-12 (rated 600+, grades K-12, trophies to
top 10 players & 4 teams), Varsity: K-8 (rated 600+, grades K-8, tro-
phies to top 10 players & 5 teams), Varsity: K-5 (rated 600+, grades
64 January 2014 | Chess Life
K-5, trophies to top 10 players & 6 teams), Varsity: K-3 (rated 600+,
grades K-3, trophies to top 8 players & 4 teams). 3 sections are 5SS, G/30
d5: U1000 K-12 (rated under 1000 or unrated, grades K-12, trophies to
top 10 players & 4 teams), U700 K-8 (rated under 700 or unrated,
grades K-8, trophies to top 27 players & 13 teams), U400K-3 (rated under
400 or unrated, grades K-3, trophies to top 14 players & 6 teams). Rds.:
Rd. 1 for all sections: 9:30 AM; subsequent rounds ASAP. # of rds, time
control, & # of trophies might change, based on number of players. EF:
$30, by 1/19 (online or received mail); $35, by 1/28 (online or received
mail); $40, by 7 PM, 1/30 (online); $50, 8:30 - 9 AM, 2/1 (half-point bye
likely in Round 1). Entry:Online registration at www.mdchess.com/tour-
neyreg. Mail registration: include player’s name, USCF ID #, USCF exp.
date, section, grade, school, phone #, email address, & check (made
payable to Maryland Chess Association). Mail to: MCA, 1827 Thornton Ridge
Rd., Towson, MD 21204-1841. Sets, boards, & scoresheets provided;
bring chess clock & pencil. Food available for purchase. Info: www.md
chess.com, tournaments@mdchess.com, & 240-426-5477 (M).
FEB. 7-9 OR 8-9, 52nd Annual Baltimore Open
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 1-2, UMBC Open - Alvin S. Mintzes Chess Tournament
See Grand Prix.
APR. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 8th annual Philadelphia
Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 2-4 OR 3-4, 15th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 26-30, 2nd annual DC International (VA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 28-29, 6th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (VA)
See Virginia.
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
Massachusetts
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 8, 15, 22, 29, FEB. 5, Reggie Boone Memorial (1926-2008)
5SS, G/100 d5. Wachusett CC, McKay Campus School, Room C159, Fitch-
burg State University, 67 Rindge Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420. EF: $20
annual club dues or $1 per game. Reg.: 6-7:10 p.m. Rds. 7:15 p.m. each
Wed. Byes: 1-4, limit two. Prizes: books. Info George Mirijanian, 176 Oak
Hill Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420, miriling2@aol.com, 978-345-5011. Web-
site: www.wachusettchess.org. Online ratings as of 1/8 used. W.
JAN. 10-12 OR 11-12, 2nd annual Boston Chess Congress
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 12, Boston Chess Congress Blitz (BLZ)
4SS, G/5, d0, double round, 8 games. Hyatt Harborside Hotel (see Boston
Chess Congress). Prizes $300 based on 20 entries, else in proportion:
$100-50, U2100 $60, U1800 $50, U1500/Unr $40. EF: $20, at site only,
no checks. Reg. ends 8:15 pm, rds. 8:30, 9, 9:30, 10. Bye: 1. Blitz rated,
but higher of regular or blitz used for pairings & prizes.
JAN. 22-26, 23-26 OR 24-26, 12th annual Foxwoods Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 26, Foxwoods Open Blitz (BLZ) (CT)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 1-2, 47th annual New York State Scholastic Championships
(NY)
See New York.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 23rd annual Eastern Class Championships
See Grand Prix.
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
Michigan
MAY 2-4 OR 3-4, 15th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 22-26, 23-26, 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Chicago Open
(IL)
See Grand Prix.
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
Minnesota
FEB. 7-8, 2014 Rochester Grand Winter Open
See Grand Prix.
MAY 22-26, 23-26, 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Chicago Open
(IL)
See Grand Prix.
Mississippi
JAN. 25, The Grand Picayune Open
5SS, G/40 d5. At the Club House at an RV park, 41 Mississippi Pines Blvd.,
Picayune, MS 39466. Reg.: 8am-9am. Rounds: 9:15, 11:00, lunch, 1:15,
3:00 and 4:45. Prizes b/80% entries. Pre-entry Fee: Adults $20 and
Scholastic 12th grade or lower $10 if received by Jan 18, 2014. Onsite
EF: Adults $30 and Scholastic 12th grade or lower $20. Contact: Ralph
McNaughton, 407 Boehle St., Pearl, MS 39208. Phone 601-278-9670 or
email at ralphmcn@comcast.net. For pre-entries mail your entry fee made
out to the Mississippi Chess Association, USCF number, and estimated cur-
rent rating to: Ralph McNaughton, 407 Boehle St., Pearl, MS 39208.
FEB. 8-9, Queen of Hearts - 42nd Annual (AL)
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 21-23 OR 22-23, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 22, 2014 Pearl Open
4SS, G/55 d5. 2 sections: Open and U1400 At the Country Inn & Suites,
3051 White Blvd., Pearl, MS 39208. 601-420-2244 HR: $79/night. Ask for
the Mississippi Chess Association Tournament rate. Reg.: 8am-9am.
Rds.: 9:15, 11:30, Lunch, 2:15 and 4:30. Prizes b/60% entries. Pre-
entry: Adults $20 and Scholastic $10 if received by Feb 15, 2014. Onsite:
Adults $30 and Scholastic 12th grade or lower $20 USCF membership can
be purchased onsite. MCA membership req’d. Contact: Ralph McNaughton
601-278-9670 or ralphmcn@comcast.net Pre-entries mail your entry fee
made out to MCA, (include USCF number) to: Ralph McNaughton, 407
Boehle St., Pearl, MS 39208. For more information go to www.mca
chess.org.
Missouri
JAN. 18, The 2014 Kansas City - Open City Championship
Holiday Inn Express, 9550 NW Polo Dr., Kansas City, MO 64153. Reg.:
11AM. EF: $20 Open 4SS, G/60 55. Youth 4SS, G/30 d5. EF: $20 Rd. 1
at Noon. Trophies:1st Place Open; U2000; U1750; U1500. Entry: Ken
Fee, 1537 Baker St., Liberty, MO 64068. 816-399-3703. Req. Memb: USCF
& KCCA. Free Entry ALL Unrated Players! Reg.: online at: www.kansas
city\chessclub.com.
FEB. 21-23 OR 22-23, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 18th annual Mid-America Open
See Grand Prix.
MAY 22-26, 23-26, 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Chicago Open
(IL)
See Grand Prix.
Montana
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 25-26, January Thaw
Open. 5SS, G/90 d5. Holiday Inn, 22 N. Last Chance Gulch, Helena, MT
59601. Phone (406) 443-2200. EF: $25, Jrs-$15. USCF & MCA member-
ship required, OSA. Reg.: 10-10:40. Rds.: 11, 2:30, 6:00/9AM, 12:30. $$:
1st-$75, 2nd-$50, biggest upset $35 (nonprovisional). Contact: Murray
Strong, 406-459-6684. murstrong@aol.com, www.montanachess.org.
Nebraska
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 18th annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 22-26, 23-26, 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Chicago Open
(IL)
See Grand Prix.
Nevada
JAN. 17-20 OR 18-20 OR 19-20, 5th annual Golden State Open
(CA-N)
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 27-28, Top 100 USCF List Scholastic Invitational (CA-S)
See California, Southern.
FEB. 28-MAR. 2, 2014 U.S. Junior Chess Congress (CA-S)
See Nationals.
MAR. 7-9 OR 8-9, 21st annual Western Class Championships
(CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 12, 2014 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC)
See Nationals.
JUNE 12-13, 2014 U.S. Women’s Open
See Nationals.
JUNE 13-15 OR 14-15, 2014 National Open
See Nationals.
New Hampshire
FEB. 22, Queen City Tornado
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 23rd annual Eastern Class Championships
(MA)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 26, New Hampshire Quick Chess Championship (QC)
See Grand Prix.
New Jersey
JAN. 12, 1st Annual Steve Ferrero Memorial Grand Prix
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 12, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 34th Annual
Greater NY Primary Championship! (NY)
See New York.

JAN. 12, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 48th Annual
Greater NY Elementary Championship - USCF’s Longest-Running
Scholastic! (NY)
See New York.
JAN. 12, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 48th Annual
Greater NY High School Championship - USCF’s Longest-Running
Scholastic! (NY)
See New York.
JAN. 12, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 48th Annual
Greater NY Junior High Championship - USCF’s Longest-Running
Scholastic! (NY)
See New York.
JAN. 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 46th annual Liberty Bell Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 18 (NOT JAN. 11), Princeton Day School
650 The Great Road. ALL AFTERNOON SECTIONS. G/25 d5 4 rds. Begin-
ning at 12:00 noon. (round times and awards will be accelerated if
possible): OPEN (Players K-12 U-1000), RESERVE (K-12 U-800), NOVICE
II (K-8 U-600), NOVICE I (unrated K-6), K-1 (unrated) NO SCORE K-1
(unrated).PARENTS OF PLAYERS rated G/25 d5 3rds. Parents play
free. Plaques to top 8 and 3 school teams. Medals to all players. MORN-
ING: Sections for OVER 1000 rated begin at 10:15 and must preregister.
Trophies top 3: 3rds.G/55 d5: Under 2000 (K-12 1600-2000),NEAR
MASTERS (K-12 1400-1600), FUTURE MASTERS (K-12 1200-1400),
CLOSED (K-12 1000-1200) Pre-registration online $35 pay at the door.
Info and register online: www.pds.org/chess On-site 11-12 noon $45.
Inquiries to Bonnie Waitzkin Chessteach@gmail.com.
JAN. 18, Saturday Morning G/30
3-RR. G/25 d5. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Prizes: $75 to first
in each section. EF: $30, $25 members. Reg.: 9:00-9:25 a.m. Rds.: 9:30,
10:40, 11:50 a.m. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118.
JAN. 18, 3rd Saturday Swiss
3-SS, G/55 d5. 2 Sections: Open, U1800. EF: $30, members $25. Prize
Fund: 70% of EF. Prizes: 1st, 2nd & Class Prizes (based on the # of par-
ticipants). Reg.: 12:35-1:25 p.m. Rds.: 1:30-3:45-6:00 p.m. Byes: 1 bye
available, must commit prior to game 2. No re-entry. 1531 Irving St., Rah-
way, NJ 07065. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118.
JAN. 19, Sunday Afternoon Scholastic
3-RR. G/25 d5. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Prizes: $35 to first
in each section. EF: $15, $10 members. Reg.: 3:00-3:25 p.m. Rds.: 3:30,
4:40, 5:50 p.m. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118.
JAN. 19, Westfield Winter Scholastic
Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. K-12. 3 Sections: Open,
U1250, U750. Open: 3-SS. G/40 d5 Rds.: 2:30, 4:15, 6:00 p.m. U1250: 4-
SS. G/25 d5. Rds.: 2:30, 3:45, 5:00, 6:15 p.m. U750: 4-SS. G/25 d5. Rds.:
2:30, 3:45, 5:00, 6:15 p.m. Prizes: Trophies to Top 5 in each section. Tie-
breaks used. EF: Advance $20, $15 members. At site $30, $25 members.
Send advance entries to John Moldovan, 510 4th Ave., Garwood, NJ
07027 by Jan. 16. Make checks payable to Westfield Chess Club. Reg.: 1:30-
2:15 p.m. Info: www.westfieldchessclub.com, John Moldovan: westfield
chessclub@gmail.com, Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-219-1358.
JAN. 20, Liberty Bell Open Blitz (BLZ) (PA)
See Pennsylvania.
JAN. 22-26, 23-26 OR 24-26, 12th annual Foxwoods Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 25, 4th Saturday Quads
3-RR. G/55 d5. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Prizes: $75 to first
in each section. EF: $30, $25 members. Reg.: 12:35-1:25 p.m. Rds.: 1:30-
3:45-6:00 p.m. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118.
JAN. 25, Central Jersey Chess Tournament
Note changes starting 2014. Princeton Academy, 1128 Great Rd.,
Princeton. 6 sections: 4 rated, 2 unrated. Open, U1200 K-12, 3SS, G/40
d5. U900, U600 K-8, 4SS, G/25 d5. Intermediate (K-6), Beginners (K-
2) 4SS, unrated, no clocks. Trophies: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and top school or club
team per section, medals to all! $35 pre-reg at njchess.com by 1/23,
$45 on-site. Reg.: 1:15-1:45, sections end between 5-7pm. Full details
at njchess.com.
JAN. 25, Hamilton Chess Club Quads
3RR, 40/80 15/30 15/30 d0. Full K. New Location: McManimon Hall, 320
Scully Ave., Hamilton Twp., NJ 08610. Quads open to all. EF: $10. Prizes:
$25 per Quad. Reg.: 9-10:30am. Rds.: 10:30am-1:30pm-4:30pm. NJ
State Chess Federation, no dues magazine Subscription per year, OSA.
Contact email: hamiltonchessclub.com. NS. NC. W.
JAN. 25, Saturday Morning G/30
3-RR. G/25 d5. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Prizes: $75 to first
in each section. EF: $30, $25 members. Reg.: 9:00-9:25 a.m. Rds.: 9:30,
10:40, 11:50 a.m. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118.
JAN. 26, Sunday Afternoon Scholastic
3-RR. G/25 d5. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Prizes: $35 to first
in each section. EF: $15, $10 members. Reg.: 3:00-3:25 p.m. Rds.: 3:30,
4:40, 5:50 p.m. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118.
JAN. 26, Westfield Quads
3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. Note
prize & price increase. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. EF: $25, $20
Members. Reg.: 1:30-2:00 p.m. Rds.: 2:15-4:05-5:55 p.m. Info: www.west-
fieldchessclub.com, John Moldovan: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com,
Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-219-1358.
FEB. 1, 1st Saturday Quads
3-RR. G/40 d5. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Prizes: $75 to first
in each section. EF: $30, $25 members. Reg.: 12:35-1:25 p.m. Rds.:
1:30, 3:15, 5:00 p.m. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-
0118.
FEB. 1, Saturday Morning G/30
3-RR. G/25 d5. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Prizes: $75 to first
in each section. EF: $30, $25 members. Reg.: 9:00-9:25 a.m. Rds.: 9:30,
10:40, 11:50 a.m. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118.
FEB. 2, Sunday Afternoon Scholastic
3-RR. G/25 d5. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Prizes: $35 to first
in each section. EF: $15, $10 members. Reg.: 3:00-3:25 p.m. Rds.: 3:30,
4:40, 5:50 p.m. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118.
FEB. 2, Westfield Quick Swiss (QC)
4-SS. G/15 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. Prize Fund:
$225 b/16 entries. Prizes: $60-40-30. U2100 $25, U1900 $25, U1700 $25,
U1500 $20. EF: $20, $15 members. Reg.: 1:00-1:25 p.m. Rds.: 1:30, 2:15,
3:00, 3:45 p.m. Info: www.westfieldchessclub.com, John Moldovan: west
fieldchessclub@gmail.com, Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-219-1358.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 5, 12, 19, 26, Wednesday G/90
4-SS, G/85 d5. 1 game per week. 2 Sections: Open, U1800. Prize Fund:
70% of EF. Prizes: 1st, 2nd & Class Prizes (based on the # of participants).
2 byes are available. Late-joins accepted until the start of round 3. EF:
$30, $25 members. Reg.: 6:45-7:10 p.m. Rds.: 7:15 p.m. on February 5,
12, 19, 26. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Info: chessmates@chess
matesnj.com, 732-499-0118.
FEB. 7-9 OR 8-9, 52nd Annual Baltimore Open (MD)
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 8, Dr. Luzviminda Machan Open
4-SS, G/40 d5. EF: $40, members $30, U1600 less $5. Prize Fund :
$490 b/$700 in EF. Prizes: $150-100-70, U2200 $50, U1900 $50, U1600
$50, Biggest Upset $20. Reg.: 12:35-1:25 p.m. Rds.: 1:30, 3:15, 5:00, 6:45
p.m. 2 byes available, commit prior to game 3. Re-entry $20, before
round 2 or 3 only. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Info: chessmates@
chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118.
FEB. 8, Princeton Day School
650 The Great Road. ALL AFTERNOON SECTIONS. G/25 d5 4 rds. Begin-
ning at 12:00 noon. (round times and awards will be accelerated if
possible): OPEN (Players K-12 U-1000), RESERVE (K-12 U-800), NOVICE
II (K-8 U-600), NOVICE I (unrated K-6), K-1 (unrated) NO SCORE K-1
(unrated).PARENTS OF PLAYERS rated G/25 d5 3rds. Parents play
free. Plaques to top 8 and 3 school teams. Medals to all players. MORN-
ING: Sections for OVER 1000 rated begin at 10:15 and must preregister.
Trophies top 3: 3rds.G/55 d5: Under 2000 (K-12 1600-2000),NEAR
MASTERS (K-12 1400-1600), FUTURE MASTERS (K-12 1200-1400),
CLOSED (K-12 1000-1200) Pre-registration online $35 pay at the door.
Info and register online: www.pds.org/chess On-site 11-12 noon $45.
Inquiries to Bonnie Waitzkin Chessteach@gmail.com.
FEB. 8, Saturday Morning G/30
3-RR. G/25 d5. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Prizes: $75 to first
in each section. EF: $30, $25 members. Reg.: 9:00-9:25 a.m. Rds.: 9:30,
10:40, 11:50 a.m. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118.
FEB. 9, Sunday Afternoon Scholastic
3-RR. G/25 d5. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Prizes: $35 to first
in each section. EF: $15, $10 members. Reg.: 3:00-3:25 p.m. Rds.: 3:30,
4:40, 5:50 p.m. Info: chessmates@chessmatesnj.com, 732-499-0118.
FEB. 9, Westfield Quads
3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. Note
prize & price increase. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. EF: $25, $20
Members. Reg.: 1:30-2:00 p.m. Rds.: 2:15-4:05-5:55 p.m. Info: www.west-
fieldchessclub.com, John Moldovan: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com,
Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-219-1358.
FEB. 15-17, World Amateur Team & U.S. Team East - 44th Annual
See Nationals.
A State Championship Event!
FEB. 23, New Jersey State Elementary Championships
5SS, G/30 d5. Brookdale College, 765 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, NJ
07738. Student Life Center, use Parking Lot #7 or #6; 5 minutes from
Garden State Parkway exit 109. 2 Sections: Elementary (K-6) & Primary
(K-3). All: Trophies to top 15 individuals, top 5 teams. Elementary & Pri-
mary: Top 5 in each grade. Rds.: 10am then ASAP. Top 4 scores constitute
the team score for Elementary; top 3 for Primary. EF: $30 before 2/16,
$45 at site. USCF memb. req’d. Reg.: 8-9:00am After 9:00am 1/2 point
bye for round 1. Info: 732 259-3881, Ent: Hal Sprechman, P.O. Box 1511,
Jackson, NJ 08527 or online by Feb 23 at www.characterkings.org .
Entries must include name, grade, school, date of birth, USCF ID and expi-
ration date, mailing address, email address, phone number and entry fee.
Checks made out to NJSCF.
A State Championship Event!
FEB. 23, New Jersey Junior High School Championships
5SS, G/30 d5. Brookdale College, 765 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, NJ
07738. Student Life Center, use Parking Lot #7 or #6; 5 minutes from
Garden State Parkway exit 109. Section: JHS (K-9). ALL:Trophies to top
15 individuals, top 5 teams. Rds.: 10am then ASAP. Top 4 scores consti-
tute team score. EF: $30 before 2/16, $45 at site. USCF memb. req’d. Reg.:
8-9:00 am. After 9:00 am, half-point bye for round one. INFO: 732-259-
3881, hsprechman@characterkings.org. ENT: Hal Sprechman,P.O. Box
1511, Jackson, NJ 08527 or online by Feb 22 at www.characterkings.org.
Entries must include name, grade, school, date of birth, USCF ID #, & expi-
ration date, mailing address, phone number & entry fee. Checks made
out to NJSCF.
FEB. 23, Westfield Quads
3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. Prizes:
$60 to first in each section. EF: $25, $20 Members. Reg.: 1:30-2:00 p.m.
Rds.: 2:15-4:05-5:55 p.m. Info: www.westfieldchessclub.com, John
Moldovan: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432
or 848-219-1358.
MAR. 1-2, 47th annual New York State Scholastic Championships
(NY)
See New York.
See previous issue for TLAs appearing January 1-14
MAR. 2, Westfield Octos
3-SS. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. Prizes per
8-player section: 1st $60, 2nd $35, Under prize $25. Under number deter-
mined by rating of 4th seed. EF: $25, $20 Members. Reg.: 1:30-2:00 p.m.
Rds.: 2:15-4:05-5:55 p.m. Info: John Moldovan: westfieldchessclub@
gmail.com, Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-219-1358, westfieldchess
club.blogspot.com and www.westfieldchessclub.com
MAR. 9, Westfield Quads
3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. Prizes:
$60 to first in each section. EF: $25, $20 Members. Reg.: 1:30-2:00 p.m.
Rds.: 2:15-4:05-5:55 p.m. Info: www.westfieldchessclub.com, John
Moldovan: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432
or 848-219-1358.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 23rd annual Eastern Class Championships
(MA)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 28-30 OR 29-30, 8th annual Long Island Open (NY)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 8th annual Philadelphia
Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 26-30, 2nd annual DC International (VA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 28-29, 6th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (VA)
See Virginia.
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
New Mexico
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 11-12, New Mexico Richard Sherman Memorial Senior Cham-
pionship Open
Open to all ages. 4/SS, G/120 (except for U1000, G/60) d5. Rio Rancho
Meadowlark Sr. Center, 4330 Meadowlark Ln. SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124.
Co-sponsored by the Meadowlark Chess Group and the New Mexico
Chess Organization. Sections: Open: EF $35. $$b/25 1st $175 Gtd., 2 nd
$125, U2000 $100. Reserve: U1800 EF $30, $$b/20 1st $125, 2nd $75,
U1600 $50. Booster: U1400 EF $25 $$b/15 1st $75 U1200 $25. Morphy:
U1000 EF $20, $$b/10 1 st $60, 2nd $35 Unrated only eligible for 50%
of prize in Reserve, Booster & Morphy. Rds. For Open, Reserve &
Booster: 9, 2, 9, 2. Rds. for Morphy (U1000): 9, 11:15, 2, 4:15 all on Sat-
urday, Jan. 11 Reg. Sat 8:00-8:30. No 1/2 pt. Byes. 0 pt. bye avail. each
rd. $10 late fee if entry not rec’d by noon Jan 10. $5 family discount after
1 full price entry. ENT: checks payable to NMCO, mailed to NMCO, P O Box
4215, Albuquerque, NM 87196. Paypalaccepted. See www.nmchess.
org. Entry form at above website. USCF memberships and renewals are
available on site. To qualify for prizes, players must submit an entry
form with valid USCF ID and complete, accurate contact information. W.
New York
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 2, 9, 16, 23, 6th Long Island CC Winter Open
4SS, G/90 d5. United Methodist Church, 470 East Meadow Ave., East
Meadow, NY 11554. Open to all.$(b/20): $85-60. Top U-2000, U-1500/unr.
$45 ea. EF: $30. Non-LICC members +$10. Reg.: 6:40-7:10 PM, no adv.
ent., Rds.: 7:15 PM SHARP ea. Thursday. 2 byes 1-4. Info: www.lichess
club.com. NS. Skittles rm.
JAN. 4, 11, 18, 25, Rochester Chess Center Saturday Tourna-
ments!
3-SS, G/60 d5. Rochester CC, 221 Norris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. 585-
442-2430. Prizes based on entries. EF: $15, RCC members $13. $2 less
for HS and Pre-HS. Reg.: 1-1:45 pm. Rds.: 2-4-6. One bye available,
request at entry. www.nychess.org. Also, Youth tournament, G/30 d5,
every Saturday morning 10am-1pm, trophies and prizes. EF: $5.
JAN. 8, 15, 22, 29, Community Chess Club of Rochester Wed
Night Chess!
Note: 1 game rated per night, G/80 d5. Rochester Chess Center, 221 Nor-
ris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. 585-442-2430. EF: $5, CCCR members $3.
Reg.: 7-7:25 pm. Rd.: 7:30pm. www.rochesterchessclub.org.
JAN. 10-12 OR 11-12, 2nd annual Boston Chess Congress (MA)
See Grand Prix.
A Heritage Event!
JAN. 12, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 34th Annual
Greater NY Primary Championship!
5-SS, G/25 + td/5 or G/30 + td/0, open to all born after 1/12/04 and
also in grades 3/below. Much larger and beautiful new hotel site: New
York Marriott At Brooklyn Bridge, 333 Adams Street (about 5 minutes
drive from the Brooklyn Bridge; near Tillary St. & Borough Hall:
http://goo.gl/maps/Mx1cM), Brooklyn, NY. Nearby subway stations:Jay
StreetMetrotech (A, C, F & R trains), Hoyt Street (2 & 3 trains), Bor-
ough Hall (4 & 5 trains), Court Street (R train). 3 sections: Varsity, open
to all. EF: $53.60 postmarked by 12/20/13. Trophies to top 12, top rated
U900, top 3 unrated, top 6 school teams. Free entry to specified Marshall
Chess Club tmts.except quads thru 8/1/14 to 1st, thru 7/1 to 2nd, thru
6/1 to 3rd. Novice: open to Under 700 or unrated. EF: $53.50 postmarked
by 12/20/13. Trophies to top 12, top 3 unrated. Free entry to specified
Marshall Chess Club tmts. except quads thru 7/1/14 to 1st, thru 6/1 to
2nd, thru 5/1 to 3rd. K-1, open to grade 1/below. EF: $53.40 post-
marked by 12/20/13. Trophies to top 12, top rated U500, top 3 unrateds,
top 6 schools. Free entry to specified Marshall Chess Club tmts. except
quads thru 7/1/14 to 1st, thru 6/1 to 2nd, thru 5/1 to 3rd. All: EF’s $7
extra per player postmarked 12/21-27, all $75 at site. Mail entries $5
less per player if 4 or more from same school in SAME ENVELOPE!
www.uschess.org 65
Tournament Life / January
All substitutions from advance entry list charged late fee. $15 extra to
switch sections, $15 charge for each player refund. Jan. 2014 ratings used,
but unofficial ratings at www.uschess.org will usually be used for play-
ers who would otherwise be unrated. All players scoring 4 or more who
don’t win a trophy will receive a medal! 8 weeks free entry, except
quads, to 1st team each section, 4 weeks free, except quads, to 2nd team
(top 4 scores from same school = team score). Free entry prizes cour-
tesy of Marshall Chess Club. Speed playoff for 5-0. Limit 2 byes (commit
before rd. 3). Mail entries: list name, rating, ID# (proof of current USCF
membership required, enclose dues if necessary), school, grade, birth-
date, address (specify section). Checks to: Chess Center of NY, PO
Box 4615, New Windsor, NY 12553. To confirm receipt, enclose SASE.
No mail postmarked after 12/27/13. Phone entries: $65 by credit card
thru 1/6: 406-896-2191 (24 hours: entries only, no questions), no phone
entries after 1/6. Online entries at www.gnyscc.com: $50 thru 12/27/13,
$57 12/28-1/6, $70 1/7-1/10. On-site entry fee: $75. On-site reg. ends
9:00 am. Rds. 10-12-2-3:30-5:15. Help with NYC parking: Icon Parking Sys-
tems Brooklyn parking: Parking Panda Questions, team rooms: chess
centr@gmail.com, littlehouseofchess@gmail.com or 347-201-2269
(Jan 12 only: 718-246-7000). Bring clocks!
A Heritage Event!
JAN. 12, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 48th Annual
Greater NY Elementary Championship - USCF’s Longest-Running
Scholastic!
5-SS, G/25 + td/5 or G/30 + td/0, open to all born after 1/12/01 and
also not yet in 7th grade. Much larger and beautiful new hotel site:
New York Marriott At Brooklyn Bridge, 333 Adams Street (about 5 min-
utes drive from the Brooklyn Bridge; near Tillary St. & Borough Hall:
http://goo.gl/maps/Mx1cM), Brooklyn, NY. Nearby subway stations:Jay
StreetMetrotech (A, C, F & R trains), Hoyt Street (2 & 3 trains), Bor-
ough Hall (4 & 5 trains), Court Street (R train). 3 sections: Varsity, open
to all. EF: $53.30 postmarked by 12/20/13. Trophies to top 12, top
U1200, top 3 unrated, top 6 school teams. Free entry to specified Mar-
shall Chess Club tmts. except quads thru 8/1/14 to 1st, thru 7/1 to 2nd,
thru 6/1 to 3rd. Junior-Varsity: open to Under 1000 or unrated. EF: $53.20
postmarked by 12/20/13. Trophies to top 12, top 3 unrated, top 6 schools.
Free entry to specified Marshall Chess Club tmts. except quads thru
7/1/14 to 1st, thru 6/1 to 2nd, thru 5/1 to 3rd. Novice, open to Under
700 or unrated. EF: $53.10 postmarked by 12/20/13. Trophies to top 12,
top 3 unrateds, top 6 schools. Free entry to specified Marshall Chess Club
tmts. except quads thru 6/1/14 to 1st, thru 5/1 to 2nd, thru 4/1 to 3rd.
All: EF’s $7 extra per player postmarked 12/21-27, all $75 at site. Mail
entries $5 less per player if 4 or more from same school in SAME
ENVELOPE! All substitutions from advance entry list charged late fee. $15
extra to switch sections, $15 charge for each player refund. Jan. 2014
ratings used, but unofficial ratings at www.uschess.org will usually be used
for players who would otherwise be unrated. All players scoring 4 or more
who don’t win a trophy will receive a medal! 8 weeks free entry, except
quads, to 1st team each section, 4 weeks free, except quads, to 2nd team
(top 4 scores from same school = team score). Free entry prizes cour-
tesy of Marshall Chess Club. Speed playoff for 5-0. Limit 2 byes (commit
before rd. 3). Mail entries: list name, rating, ID# (proof of current USCF
membership required, enclose dues if necessary), school, grade, birth-
date, address (specify section). Checks to: Chess Center of NY, PO Box
4615, New Windsor, NY 12553. To confirm receipt, enclose SASE. No
mail postmarked after 12/27/13. Phone entries: $65 by credit card thru
1/6: 406-896-2191 (24 hours: entries only, no questions), no phone entries
after 1/6. Online entries at www.gnyscc.com: $50 thru 12/27/13, $57
12/28-1/6, $70 1/7-1/10. On-site entry fee: $75. On-site reg. ends 9:00
am. Rds. 10-12-2-3:30-5:15. Help with NYC parking: Icon Parking Systems
Brooklyn parking: Parking Panda Questions, team rooms: chesscentr@
47th annual NEW YORK STATE
SCHOLASTIC CHAMPIONSHIPS
March 1-2, 2014 - Saratoga Springs, NY
6 rounds, G/60, d10, open to grades K-12 in any state
(top NY player & team each section are NY champs). Team
prizes based on top 4 scores from same school. 228 trophies to
be awarded, plus free entries for NY players! Reserve hotel
room by Feb 14 (earlier is better as it is likely to sell out).
In 9 sections: High School (K-12), High School
Reserve (K-12 under 1200/unr), Junior High (K-9), Middle
School Reserve (K-8 under 1000/unr), Elementary (K-6),
Elementary Reserve (K-5 under 800/unr), Primary (K-3), NEW
Primary Reserve (K-3 under 600/unr), K-1 (2 days this year).
See TLA under “New York” for full details.
66 January 2014 | Chess Life
gmail.com, littlehouseofchess@gmail.com or 347-201-2269 (Jan 12 only:
718-246-7000). Bring clocks!
A Heritage Event!
JAN. 12, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 48th Annual
Greater NY High School Championship - USCF’s Longest-Running
Scholastic!
5-SS, G/25 + td/5 or G/30 + td/0, open to all grades 12/below also born
after 1/12/94. Much larger and beautiful new hotel site: New York
Marriott At Brooklyn Bridge, 333 Adams Street (about 5 minutes drive
from the Brooklyn Bridge; near Tillary St. & Borough Hall: http://goo.gl/
maps/Mx1cM), Brooklyn, NY. Nearby subway stations:Jay Street-
Metrotech (A, C, F & R trains), Hoyt Street (2 & 3 trains), Borough Hall
(4 & 5 trains), Court Street (R train). 3 sections:Varsity, open to all. EF:
$52.30 postmarked by 12/20/13. Trophies to top 12, top U1700, top 3
unrated, top 6 school teams. Free entry to specified Marshall Chess
Club tmts. except quads thru 8/1/14 to 1st, thru 7/1 to 2nd, thru 6/1 to
3rd. Junior-Varsity: open to Under 1600 or unrated. EF: $52.20 post-
marked by 12/20/13. Trophies to top 12, top U1400, top 3 unrated, top
6 schools. Free entry to specified Marshall Chess Club tmts. except
quads thru 7/1/14 to 1st, thru 6/1 to 2nd, thru 5/1 to 3rd. Novice, open
to Under 1000 or unrated. EF: $52.10 postmarked by 12/20/13. Trophies
to top 12, top 3 unrateds, top 6 schools. Free entry to specified Marshall
Chess Club tmts. except quads thru 6/1/14 to 1st, thru 5/1 to 2nd, thru
4/1 to 3rd. All: EF’s $7 extra per player postmarked 12/21-27, all $75 at
site. Mail entries $5 less per player if 4 or more from same school
in SAME ENVELOPE! All substitutions from advance entry list charged
late fee. $15 extra to switch sections, $15 charge for each player refund.
Jan. 2014 ratings used, but unofficial ratings at www.uschess.org will usu-
ally be used for players who would otherwise be unrated. All players
scoring 4 or more who don’t win a trophy will receive a medal! 8 weeks
free entry, except quads, to 1st team each section, 4 weeks free, except
quads, to 2nd team (top 4 scores from same school = team score; no
combined schools, even if one school “feeds” another). Free entry prizes
courtesy of Marshall Chess Club. Speed playoff for 5-0. Limit 2 byes
(commit before rd. 3). NEW!! Mixed Doubles Bonus Prizes (best
male/female 2-player team combined scoreamong all High School sec-
tions): 12 weeks free entry to 1st team, 8 weeks to 2nd team, 4 weeks
to 3rd team (Mixed Doubles do NOT have to attend the same school, Dou-
bles teammates’ average rating must be U2000 and may play in different
sections, teammate pairings avoided but possible, teams must declare
by 12 pm). Mail entries: list name, rating, ID# (proof of current USCF
membership required, enclose dues if necessary), school, grade, birth-
date, address (specify section). Checks to: Chess Center of NY, PO
Box 4615, New Windsor, NY 12553. To confirm receipt, enclose SASE.
No mail postmarked after 12/27/13. Phone entries: $65 by credit card
thru 1/6: 406-896-2191 (24 hours: entries only, no questions), no phone
entries after 1/6. Online entries at www.gnyscc.com: $50 thru 12/27/13,
$57 12/28-1/6, $70 1/7-1/10. On-site entry fee: $75. On-site reg. ends
9:00 am. Rds. 10-12-2-3:30-5:15. Help with NYC parking: Icon Parking Sys-
tems Brooklyn parking: Parking Panda Questions, team rooms: chess
centr@gmail.com, littlehouseofchess@gmail.com or 347-201-2269
(Jan 12 only: 718-246-7000). Bring clocks!
A Heritage Event!
JAN. 12, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 48th Annual
Greater NY Junior High Championship - USCF’s Longest-Running
Scholastic!
5-SS, G/25 + td/5 or G/30 + td/0, open to all born after 1/12/98 and
also not yet in 10th grade. Much larger and beautiful new hotel site:
New York Marriott At Brooklyn Bridge, 333 Adams Street (about 5 min-
utes drive from the Brooklyn Bridge; near Tillary St. & Borough Hall:
http://goo.gl/maps/Mx1cM), Brooklyn, NY. Nearby subway stations:Jay
StreetMetrotech (A, C, F & R trains), Hoyt Street (2 & 3 trains), Bor-
ough Hall (4 & 5 trains), Court Street (R train). 3 sections: Varsity, open
to all. EF: $52.60 postmarked by 12/20/13. Trophies to top 12, top
U1500, top 3 unrated, top 6 school teams. Free entry to specified Mar-
shall Chess Club tmts. except quads thru 8/1/14 to 1st, thru 7/1 to 2nd,
thru 6/1 to 3rd. Junior-Varsity: open to Under 1200 or unrated. EF: $52.50
postmarked by 12/20/13. Trophies to top 12, top 3 unrated, top 6 schools.
Free entry to specified Marshall Chess Club tmts. except quads thru
7/1/14 to 1st, thru 6/1 to 2nd, thru 5/1 to 3rd. Novice, open to Under
700 or unrated. EF: $52.40 postmarked by 12/20/13. Trophies to top 12,
top 3 unrateds, top 6 schools. Free entry to specified Marshall Chess Club
tmts. except quads thru 6/1/14 to 1st, thru 5/1 to 2nd, thru 4/1 to 3rd.
All: EF’s $7 extra per player postmarked 12/21-27, all $75 at site. Mail
entries $5 less per player if 4 or more from same school in SAME
ENVELOPE! All substitutions from advance entry list charged late fee. $15
extra to switch sections, $15 charge for each player refund. Jan. 2014
ratings used, but unofficial ratings at www.uschess.org will usually be used
for players who would otherwise be unrated. All players scoring 4 or more
who don’t win a trophy will receive a medal! 8 weeks free entry, except
quads, to 1st team each section, 4 weeks free, except quads, to 2nd team
(top 4 scores from same school = team score). Free entry prizes cour-
tesy of Marshall Chess Club. Speed playoff for 5-0. Limit 2 byes (commit
before rd. 3). Mail entries: list name, rating, ID# (proof of current USCF
membership required, enclose dues if necessary), school, grade, birth-
date, address (specify section). Checks to: Chess Center of NY, PO Box
4615, New Windsor, NY 12553. To confirm receipt, enclose SASE. No
mail postmarked after 12/27/13. Phone entries: $65 by credit card thru
1/6: 406-896-2191 (24 hours: entries only, no questions), no phone
entries after 1/6. Online entries at www.gnyscc.com: $50 thru 12/27/13,
$57 12/28-1/6, $70 1/7-1/10. On-site entry fee: $75. On-site reg. ends
9:00 am. Rds. 10-12-2-3:30-5:15. Help with NYC parking: Icon Parking Sys-
tems Brooklyn parking: Parking Panda Questions, team rooms: chess
centr@gmail.com, littlehouseofchess@gmail.com or 347-201-2269
(Jan 12 only: 718-246-7000). Bring clocks!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 13, 20, 27, FEB. 3, 10, 17, Marshall FIDE Mondays
6-SS, G/120 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open
to all players 1600 or above. EF: $50, Members $30. ($500 b/28): $175-
125-100, U2000 $100. 2 byes OK, commit before round 4. Reg.: 6:15-6:45.
Rds.: 7PM each Monday. FIDE rated. FIDE ratings used for pairings and
prizes. Players w/o FIDE rating: USCF rating used for prizes. Limit 2 byes,
request by rd. 4. www.marshallchessclub.org.
JAN. 16, Marshall 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/25 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40,
members $25, GMs free. Prizes: ($$530 based on 32 paid entries: $200-
100-50, U2200 $95, U2000 $85. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-
10:45. One bye available, request at entry. NOW ALSO FIDE RAPID RATED!
JAN. 17, Marshall Friday U2000 Action!
4-SS, G/25 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40,
members $20. ($360/24): $160-80, U1800 $65, U1600 $55. Reg.: 6:15-
6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, request at entry. www.
marshallchessclub.org.
JAN. 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 46th annual Liberty Bell Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 17, 24, 31, FEB. 7, Queens Winter Open
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 18, Marshall Saturday G/60!
4-SS, G/55 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($540/40):
$240-120, U2000 95, U1700 85. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45.
Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshall
chessclub.org.
JAN. 18, TRM80
Albany HS, 600 Washington Ave., Albany, NY 12203. EF: Free. 4 Rds., G/30
d5. Many prizes, 8 sections. Registration & details: www.maketheright
move.org.
JAN. 19, Marshall Sunday G/45!
4-SS, G/40 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Two sec-
tions: A. Open ($360/26): $160-80, U2100 65, U1800 55. B. U1800
($240/18): $120-65, U1500 55. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-
11:45. Rds.: 12-1:45-4:00-5:45. One bye available, request at entry. www.
marshallchessclub.org.
JAN. 19, TRM#191
at Riverbank State Pk., 145th St and Riverside Dr., NYC 10025. EF: Free.
4 Rds., G/30 d5. Many prizes; 5 sections. Pre-reg and check-in required.
www.therightmove.org for registration & details.
JAN. 21, Marshall Masters!
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 22-26, 23-26 OR 24-26, 12th annual Foxwoods Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 23, Marshall 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/25 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40,
members $25, GMs free. Prizes: ($$530 based on 32 paid entries: $200-
100-50, U2200 $95, U2000 $85. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-
10:45. One bye available, request at entry. NOW ALSO FIDE RAPID RATED!
JAN. 25, Marshall Saturday G/60!
4-SS, G/55 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($540/40):
$240-120, U2000 95, U1700 85. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45.
Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshall
chessclub.org.
JAN. 26, Foxwoods Open Blitz (BLZ) (CT)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 26, Marshall Sunday G/45!
4-SS, G/40 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Two sec-
tions: A. Open ($360/26): $160-80, U2100 65, U1800 55. B. U1800

($240/18): $120-65, U1500 55. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45.
Rds.: 12-1:45-4:00-5:45. One bye available, request at entry. www.mar
shallchessclub.org.
JAN. 27, FEB. 3, 10, 25th Nassau G/60 Championship
See Grand Prix.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JAN. 27, FEB. 3, 10, 17, 24, Marshall Monday U1600
5-SS, G/85 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. ($450/20): $240-120,
U1300 $90. Reg.: 6:15-6:45., Rds.: 7 pm each Mon. Two byes available,
request by Round 3. www.marshallchessclub.org.
JAN. 30, 5th Long Island CC G/10 (QC)
6SS, G/10 d5. United Methodist Church, 470 East Meadow Ave., East
Meadow, NY 11554. Open to all$(b/20): $85-65. Top U-2000, U-1700, U-
1400/unr. $50 ea. EF: $25. Non LICC members +$5. Reg.: 6:40-7:10 PM,
no adv. ent. Rds.: 7:15-7:45-8:15-8:45-9:15-9:45. 2 byes 1-6. Info: www.li
chessclub.com. NS, Skittles rm.
JAN. 30, Marshall 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/25 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40,
members $25, GMs free. Prizes: ($$530 based on 32 paid entries: $200-
100-50, U2200 $95, U2000 $85. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-
10:45. One bye available, request at entry. NOW ALSO FIDE RAPID RATED!
JAN. 31, Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz! (BLZ)
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 1-2 OR 2, Marshall February Open FIDE GP
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 1, 8, 15, 22, Rochester Chess Center Saturday Tournaments!
3-SS, G/60 d5. Rochester CC, 221 Norris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. 585-
442-2430. Prizes based on entries. EF: $15, RCC members $13. $2 less
for HS and Pre-HS. Reg.: 1-1:45 pm. Rds.: 2-4-6. One bye available,
request at entry. www.nychess.org. Also, Youth tournament, G/30 d5,
every Saturday morning 10am-1pm, trophies and prizes. EF: $5.
FEB. 2, PS 77 Lower Lab Chess Tournament - All proceeds go to
school
1700 3rd Avenue, New York, NY. Starter (unrated): 4-SS, G/25 d5 open
to unrated in K-1. Trophies to all. Learner (unrated): 4-SS, G/25 d5 open
to unrated in K-5. Trophies to top quarter, medals to others. Achiever:
4-SS, G/25 d5- open to U400 in K-3. Trophies to top quarter, medals to
others. Expander: 4-SS, G/25 d5 open to U800 in K-5. Trophies to top quar-
ter, medals to others. Sharper: 4-SS, G/40 d5 open to U1200 in K-8.
Trophies to top quarter, medals to others. Leader: 4-SS, G/55 d5- open
to 1000 to 1399 in K-12. Trophies to top quarter, medals to others.
Advancer: 3-SS, G/70 d5 open to 1300 to 1699 in K-12. Trophies to top
quarter, medals to others. Master: 3-SS, G/70 d5 open to 1600+ in K-
12. $$ prizes. All: Round 1 at 10:00am, then ASAP. Entry Fee: Online $35
by 9PM by Wednesday before, $45 by 6PM on day before, $55 at site. Free
entry to 1800+. Team plaque for each section except Starter and Mas-
8th annual PHILADELPHIA OPEN - new site!
April 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 or 19-20, Easter weekend at luxurious Philadelphia Marriott
Prizes $80,000 based on 500 paid entries, $60,000 minimum, IM and GM norms possible!
Open: 9SS, 40/2, SD/30, d10. Other
sections: 7SS, 40/2, SD/30, d10 (3-day
option, rds 1-2 G/70, d10; 2-day option, rds
1-4 G/30, d10).
Marriott Hotel, 1201 Market St, directly
across street from famous Reading Terminal
Market (over 100 food vendors). Chess rates
$100-100-120, 215-625-2900, reserve by4/4.
Parking: Marriott valet about $29.
Gateway Garage, 1540 Spring St (3/5 mile
walk) $5/day Sat & Sun, $18 other days.
7 sections. Prizes based on 500 paid
entries, else proportional (seniors, re-entries,
GMs, IMs, WGMs, U1300 Section,
Unrated/Provisional Section count half,
U1000 30%), with 75% min. guaranteed.
Open: $7000-4000-2000-1000-800-700-
600-500-400-400, clear/tiebreak 1st $200,
FIDE U2400/Unr $2000-1000. FIDE rated.
U2200, U2000, U1800 Sections: $5000-
2500-1200-800-600-500-400-300-300-300.
U1600 Section: $4000-2000-1000-700-
500-400-300-300-300-300.
U1300 Section: $2000-1000-700-500-
400-300-300-200-200-200.
ter. Blitz playoff for perfect scores. Team rooms for 3 schools with most
players. More info Email: ps77chess@gmail.com. Register at https://low-
erlabpta.wufoo.com/forms/z7x2m9/.
FEB. 2, TRM#192
at Riverbank State Pk., 145th St and Riverside Dr., NYC 10025. EF: Free.
4 Rds, G/30 d5. Many prizes; 5 sections. Pre-reg and check-in required.
www.therightmove.org for registration & details.
FEB. 4, Marshall Tuesday FIDE Action!
4-SS, G/25 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40,
members $20. ($360/24): $160-80, U2100 $65, U1800 $55. Reg.: 6:15-
6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, request at entry. www.
marshallchessclub.org. NOW ALSO FIDE RAPID RATED!
FEB. 5, 12, 19, 26, Community Chess Club of Rochester Wed
Night Chess!
Note: 1 game rated per night, G/80 d5. Rochester Chess Center, 221 Nor-
ris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. 585-442-2430. EF: $5, CCCR members $3.
Reg.: 7-7:25 pm. Rd.: 7:30pm. www.rochesterchessclub.org.
FEB. 6, Marshall 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/25 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40,
members $25, GMs free. Prizes: ($$530 based on 32 paid entries: $200-
100-50, U2200 $95, U2000 $85. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-
10:45. One bye available, request at entry. NOW ALSO FIDE RAPID RATED!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 6, 13, 20, 27, 3rd Long Island CC Late Winter Open
4SS, G/90 d5. United Methodist Church, 470 East Meadow Ave., East
Meadow, NY 11554. Open to all.$(b/20): $85-60. Top U-2000, U-1500/unr.
$45 ea. EF: $30. Non-LICC members +$10. Reg.: 6:40-7:10 PM, no adv.
ent., Rds.: 7:15 PM SHARP ea. Thursday. 2 byes 1-4. Info: www.lichess
club.com. NS, Skittles rm.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 7-9, 8-9 OR 9, NEW! Marshall February Super FIDE U2300!
Open to players rated below 2300 USCF. 5-SS, 40/2 d5 SD/30 d5. Mar-
shall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $60, members $40. $$820
gtd: $300-150-100, U2000 $145, U1700 $125. Reg. ends 15 min before
Rd. 3 schedules: 3 day 8/9 6pm, 8/10-11 12:30-5:30. 2 day 8/10
11am, then merge with 3day (Rd. 1 G/25 d5). 1 day 8/11 9-10:10-11:20,
then merge with 2&3 day (Rd. 1-3 G/25 d5) Limit 2 byes, request at entry.
USCF & FIDE rated. www.marshallchessclub.org.
FEB. 7-9 OR 8-9, 52nd Annual Baltimore Open (MD)
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 8, TRM81
Albany HS, 600 Washington Ave., Albany, NY 12203. EF: Free. 4 RDs., G/30
d5. Many prizes, 8 sections. Registration & details: www.maketheright
move.org.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 12, 19, 26, MAR. 5, 12, Marshall Wednesday U1400!
U1000/Unr Section: $800-400-300-200-
100, trophies to first 5, top U800, U600,
U400, Unrated. Unrated limit $300.
Unrated/Provisional Section: Open to
unrated or under 1500 with below 26 lifetime
games rated. $2000-1000-600-400-300.
Mixed doubles: $1000-500-300-200.
Unrated not allowed in U1300-U2200.
Prize limits: 1) If post-event rating
posted 4/16/13-4/16/14 is more than 30 pts
above section max, limit $1500. 2) Players
with under 10 lifetime games as of 4/14
official list cannot win over $800 in U1300,
$1600 U1600, or $2400 U1800.
Open entry fee: GMs/IMs/WGMs free;
$150 from prize. FIDE 2200/plus: $225 at
chessaction.com by 4/14, $250 at site.
Foreign FIDE: $155 online by 4/14, $180 at
site. Other: $375 online by 4/14, $400 at site.
U2200 to U1600 Section: $225 online by
4/14, $250 at site.
U1300 Section, Unrated/Provisional
Section: All $100 less than U2200 to U1600.
U1000 Section: $65 online at chessaction.
com by 4/14, $80 at site.
See previous issue for TLAs appearing January 1-14
5-SS, G/85 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $50,
members $30. ($450/24): $240-120, U1100 $90. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.:
7 pm each Wed. Limit two byes, request by Rd. 3. www.marshallchess
club.org.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 12, 19, 26, MAR. 5, 12, Marshall Wednesday U2000!
5-SS, 30/85 d5, SD/1 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716.
EF: $50, members $30. ($450/24): $240-120, U1700 $90. Reg.: 6:15-6:45.
Rds.: 7 pm each Wed. Limit two byes, request by Rd. 3. www.marshall
chessclub.org.
FEB. 13, Marshall Thursday Game 30 Grand Prix!
See Grand Prix.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 13, 20, 27, MAR. 6, 13, Marshall FIDE Thursdays!
5-SS, G/120 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $50,
Members $30. ($500 b/28): $175-125-100, U2000 $100. 2 byes OK,
commit before round 4. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7PM each Monday. FIDE
rated. Limit 2 byes, request by rd. 3. www.marshallchessclub.org.
FEB. 15, Marshall Saturday G/60!
4-SS, G/55 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($540/40):
$240-120, U2000 95, U1700 85. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45.
Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshall
chessclub.org.
FEB. 16, Marshall Sunday G/45!
4-SS, G/40 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Two sec-
tions: A. Open ($360/26): $160-80, U2100 65, U1800 55. B. U1800
($240/18): $120-65, U1500 55. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45.
Rds.: 12-1:45-4:00-5:45. One bye available, request at entry. www.mar
shallchessclub.org.
FEB. 17, President’s Day Action GP!
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 18, Marshall Masters!
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 20, Marshall 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/25 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40,
members $25, GMs free. Prizes: ($$530 based on 32 paid entries: $200-
100-50, U2200 $95, U2000 $85. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-
10:45. One bye available, request at entry. NOW ALSO FIDE RAPID RATED!
FEB. 21-23, 22-23 OR 23, NEW! Marshall February Super FIDE GP!
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 21, 28, MAR. 7, 14, 21, Queens Late Winter Open
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 22, Marshall Saturday U1800
4-SS, G/40 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($300/24):
$160-80, U1500 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 12:15-12:45. Rds.: 1-
Online late entry: available until 2 hours
before first game; same fee as at site. Phone or
mail entry: see Chess Life or chesstour.com.
Seniors 65/over in U1600/up, $100 less.
Re-entry (no Open to Open) $100.
5-day Open schedule: Reg. ends Wed 6
pm, rds. Wed 7 pm, Thu 12:45 & 7, Fri 11:45
& 6, Sat 11:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:45.
4-day: Reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds. Thu 7
pm, Fri/Sat 11:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:45.
3-day: Reg. ends Fri 10 am, rds. Fri 11,
2:30 & 6, Sat 11:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:45.
2-day: Reg. ends Sat 9 am, rds Sat 10, 12,
2, 3:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:45.
Half pt bye OK all, limit 3 (2 last 4 rds).
Open must commit before rd 2, others rd 4.
All: FIDE ratings used for Open, USCF
April for others, unofficial usually used if
otherwise unr. Bring set, board, clock if
possible- not supplied. USCF mem. required;
see Chess Life or chessaction.com for specials.
Entry: chessaction.com. Entries posted at
chessaction.com (online entries posted
instantly). $15 charge for refunds.
www.uschess.org 67
Tournament Life / January
2:45-4:30-6:15. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchess
club.org.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 24, MAR. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Marshall FIDE Mondays
6-SS, G/120 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open
to all players 1600 or above. EF: $50, Members $30. ($500 b/28): $175-
125-100, U2000 $100. 2 byes OK, commit before round 4. Reg.: 6:15-6:45.
Rds.: 7PM each Monday. FIDE rated. FIDE ratings used for pairings and
prizes. Players w/o FIDE rating: USCF rating used for prizes. Limit 2 byes,
request by rd. 4. www.marshallchessclub.org
FEB. 27, Marshall 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/25 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40,
members $25, GMs free. Prizes: ($$530 based on 32 paid entries: $200-
100-50, U2200 $95, U2000 $85. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-
10:45. One bye available, request at entry. NOW ALSO FIDE RAPID RATED!
FEB. 28, Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz! (BLZ)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 1, Marshall Saturday G/45!
4-SS, G/40 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Two sec-
tions: A. Open ($360/26): $160-80, U2100 65, U1800 55. B. U1500
($240/18): $120-65, U1200 55. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-
11:45. Rds.: 12-1:45-4:00-5:45. One bye available, request at entry. www.
marshallchessclub.org.
A Heritage Event!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
A State Championship Event!
MAR. 1-2, 47th annual New York State Scholastic Championships
6SS, G/60 d10, open to grades K-12 in any state (top NYS player & team
in each section are NY champions). Saratoga Hilton, 534 Broadway (I-87
Exit 13-N, 4 miles north on US 9), Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Team prizes
based on top 4 scores from same school; no combined school teams
allowed even if one school “feeds” another. Teams of 2 or 3 players
allowed, but are at a disadvantage. In 9 sections. Online entry fee at
chessaction.com, all sections: $43 12/1-2/8, $53 2/9-2/25, $60 2/26
to 9 am 3/1. Entry fee at site, all sections: $60. High School, open to
all in grades K-12. EF $46.20 mailed by 2/8. Top NYS grade 9-12 quali-
fies for Denker Tournament of HS Champions, top NYS grade K-12 girl
qualifies for National Girls Invitational. High School Reserve, open to
K-12 under 1200 or unrated. EF $46 mailed by 2/8. Junior High, open
to all in grades K-9. EF $45.90 mailed by 2/8. Top NYS grade K-8 quali-
fies for Barber tournament of K-8 Champions. Middle School Reserve,
open to K-8 under 1000 or unrated. EF $45.80 mailed by 2/8. Elemen-
tary, open to all in grades K-6. EF $45.60 mailed by 2/8. Elementary
Reserve, open to grades K-5 under 800 or unrated. EF $45.50 mailed by
2/8. Primary, open to grades K-3. EF $45.30 mailed by 2/8. Primary
Reserve, open to grades K-3 under 600 or unrated. EF: $45.20 mailed
by 2/8. K-1, open to grades K-1. EF $45.10 mailed by 2/8. Postmarked
2/9-19: All EF $10 more. Do not mail entry after 2/19. Entry at site: all
$60. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online
at chessaction.com, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or
paid at site, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Trophies to top 15 players
and top 7 teams each section, top 3 unrated in Primary, K-1, and each
reserve section, and top U1500, U1300 (HS), U900, U700 (HS Reserve),
U1200, U1000 (JHS), U700, U500 (MS Reserve), U1000, U800 (Elem), U500,
U300 (Elem Reserve), U500 (Primary), U200 (Primary Reserve, K-1).
Speed playoff if perfect score tie. Free entry to NY State Championship,
Labor Day weekend 2014 (Albany), to top player each section. Sched-
ule: Late reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2, 5, Sun 9, 12, 3, awards 5:30
pm. Half point byes OK all, limit 2, must commit before rd. 2. HR: $129-
129, 888-999-4711, 518-584-4000, reserve by 2/14 or rate may increase.
Free parking for overnight guests. 48 hours notice required for room can-
cellation. Backup hotel: Courtyard by Marriott, 2 blocks away, 518-226-
0538. Special car rentals: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #657633.
Online entry: www.chessaction.com, beginning 12/1. Mail entry: Con-
tinental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Include name,
rating, USCF ID, USCF expiration (non-members enclose dues), section,
school, grade, birth date, address of each player. Checks payable to
Continental Chess. $15 per player service charge for refunds. $10
extra to switch sections, all substitutions from advance list charged $60.
Questions: DirectorAtChess.US (At = @)), 347-201-2269. Bring set,
board, clock if possible- none supplied.
MAR. 2, Marshall Sunday G/60!
4-SS, G/55 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($540/40):
$240-120, U2000 95, U1700 85. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45.
Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshall
chessclub.org.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Marshall Monday U1600
5-SS, G/85d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. ($450/20): $240-120,
U1300 $90. Reg.: 6:15-6:45., Rds.: 7 pm each Mon. Two byes available,
request by Round 3. www.marshallchessclub.org.
MAR. 4, Marshall Tuesday FIDE Action!
4-SS, G/25 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40,
members $20. ($360/24): $160-80, U2100 $65, U1800 $55. Reg.: 6:15-
6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, request at entry. www.
marshallchessclub.org. NOW ALSO FIDE RAPID RATED!
MAR. 6, Marshall 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/25 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40,
members $25, GMs free. Prizes: ($$530 based on 32 paid entries: $200-
100-50, U2200 $95, U2000 $85. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-
10:45. One bye available, request at entry. NOW ALSO FIDE RAPID RATED!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 7-9, 8-9 OR 9, Marshall March Super FIDE U2300!
5-SS, 40/2 d5 SD/30 d5. Open to players rated below 2300 USCF. Mar-
shall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $60, members $40. $$820
gtd: $300-150-100, U2100 $145, U1800 $125. Reg ends 15 min before Rd.
3 schedules: 3 day 3/7 6pm, 3/8-9 12:30-5:30. 2 day 3/8 11am, then
68 January 2014 | Chess Life
merge with 3day (Rd. 1 G/25 d5). 1 day 3/9 9-10:10-11:20, then merge
with 2&3 day (Rd. 1-3 G/25 d5) Limit 2 byes, request at entry. USCF & FIDE
rated. www.marshallchessclub.org.
MAR. 8, Marshall Saturday U1600!
4-SS, G/40 d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. ($300
b/24): $160-80, U1300 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 12:15-12:45.
Rds.: 1-2:45-4:30-6:15PM. One bye available, request at entry. www.mar
shallchessclub.org.
MAR. 8-9, 2014 Marchand Open (36th Annual)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 13, Marshall Thursday Action Grand Prix!
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 23rd annual Eastern Class Championships
(MA)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 28-30 OR 29-30, 8th annual Long Island Open
See Grand Prix.
APR. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 8th annual Philadelphia
Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 2-4 OR 3-4, 15th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 26-30, 2nd annual DC International (VA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 28-29, 6th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (VA)
See Virginia.
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
North Carolina
JAN. 11 (NOT JAN. 18), 1st East Charlotte Octads
New Covenant ARP Church, 2541 Elkwood Circle (off Shamrock Drive),
Charlotte, NC 28205, 8 player sections according to rating, 3-SS, G/90 d5.
Prizes: 100-50-25 (87.5% RETURN!). EF: $25. Rds.:10-1:30-4:30. Reg.:
9:30. To preregister email Patrick R Sciacca, Esq., chief tournament
director, at eastcharlottechess@gmail.com.
JAN. 24-26, Land of the Sky XXVII
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 8, Hearts in Hendersonville
3SS, G/60 d5. 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC. Second Saturday
Series. EF: $5 Reg by 9:15. Info: Wayne Spon whspon@gmail.com.
JUNE 26-30, 2nd annual DC International (VA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 28-29, 6th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (VA)
See Virginia.
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
Ohio
JAN. 17, DCC Friday Nite Quick 2014
4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.:
7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes based on entries. EF: $10 ($8 DCC
mbr). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net/937-461-6283.
JAN. 18, Cincy Tornado: Discovered Check
4 SS tmt., G/60 d5 – Monthly Cincinnati Chess Tournament.New
Site: First Baptist Church, 11195 Winton Rd., Cinti, OH 45218 (on corner
of Sharon Rd. and Winton Rd.). EF: $25 if paid online or $30 at site. Visa-
MC-AMEX accepted at site. Based on 35 entries. Open: $200-$100; 1st
in Class A,B,C,D/under...each $100. Reg.: 9-9:45. Rds.: 10am-1:00-3:30-
6:00; one bye available. Register and Pay online at www.chessearth.com
all credit cards accepted or Mail Entry Fee to Robert Chenault: 793 Clin-
ton Springs Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45229. robert@chessearth.com. 513-
884-7027.
JAN. 24, DCC Friday Nite Quick 2014
4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.:
7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes based on entries. EF: $10 ($8 DCC
mbr). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net/937-461-6283.
JAN. 24-26 OR 25-26, 37th Cardinal Open, Columbus
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 31, DCC Friday Nite Quick 2014
4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.:
7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes based on entries. EF: $10 ($8 DCC
mbr). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net/937-461-6283.
FEB. 7, DCC Friday Nite Quick 2014
4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.:
7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes based on entries. EF: $10 ($8 DCC
mbr). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net/937-461-6283.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
FEB. 8, Toledo February Swiss
Open, 4SS, Rnd. 1 G/75 d5, Rnds. 2-4 G/85 d5. The University of Toledo
Health Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Cafe, 3000 Arlington
Ave., Toledo, OH 43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF:
$20 by 2/6, $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360
b/20, $100-50, 1st A,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James
Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450.
FEB. 14, DCC Friday Nite Quick 2014
4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.:
7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes based on entries. EF: $10 ($8 DCC
mbr). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net/937-461-6283.
FEB. 22, BRRRRR Pawn Storm XXII
See Grand Prix.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 8, Toledo March Swiss
Open, 4SS, Rnd. 1 G/75 d5, Rnds. 2-4 G/85 d5. The University of Toledo
Health Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Cafe, 3000 Arlington
Ave., Toledo, OH 43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF:
$20 by 3/6, $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360
b/20, $100-50, 1st A,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James
Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 18th annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 15-16, MOTCF: Midwest Open Team Chess Festival
5SS, Rd. 1 G/90 d5, Rds. 2-5 G/150 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St.,
Dayton, OH. Four players/team plus one alternate. Team ratings for pair-
ings determined by average of highest four ratings with imputed ratings
for players rated more than 400 points below team avg. Reg.: Fri Mar 14,
8pm-11pm & Sat Mar 15, 9-10am. Rds.: Sat 10:30, 2:00, 7:30, Sun 10 &
3:30. EF: $180/team prior to Mar 15. $220/team Sat at site. Prizes: (B/24
teams). 1st $1,050, 2nd $750, U2000: $700, U1800: $600, U1600 $500.
Top boards (1-4) $50. Hotel: Crown Plaza 1-4/$89, call 888-233-9527 ask
for MOTCF-Midwest Open Team Chess Festival rate, cutoff is March 1st
so reserve early. RegistrationForm: Include all team members, ratings,
ID numbers, and board order (switches limited to 50 rating points), down-
load online entry form. If team is registering at www.DaytonChessClub.com
use entry form provided. MC/V at site, no cks. Individuals may sign up
for “ad hoc” teams. This is an Ohio Grand Prix Event - OCA mbrs
receive a $3 discount – limit $12/team.
MAR. 22, 13th Annual Queen City Classic Chess Tournament
5SS, G/30 d5. Paul Brown Stadium, Club West, Downtown Cincinnati, OH.
14 School Sections, includes rated and non-rated. Grade K Non- Rated,
1 Non-Rated, 2 Non-rated, 3 Non-rated, K-3 Open, 4 Non-Rated, 5 Non-
Rated, 6 Non-Rated, 4-6 below 800, 4-6 Open, 7-9 Non-Rated, 7-9 Open,
10-12 Non-Rated, K-12 Open. USCF membership is not required for the
non-rated and K-3 rated sections. Prizes: Trophies to all who score 3.5
points or higher, top three team trophies awarded and medals to all oth-
ers. EF: $35 early bird fee and $50 EF after February 21st. EF includes
lunch, t-shirt, program/score book, medal. Registration closes Wednes-
day, March 14, 2014. NO ON-SITE REGISTRATIONS. Schedule: Friday,
March 21, check in from 5-6 pm. SIMUL at 6:30 p.m. EF: $5 for tourna-
ment participants, $20 for Non-participants. SIMUL features International
Grandmasters Maurice Ashley, Gregory Kaidanov, and Irina Krush. March
22nd Check in 7-8:15 am. matches begin at 9:00 am. Grandmasters will
be available for questions and instructions all day. Entry/Info: 1-866-PS-
CHESS (772-4377) or www.queencityclassic.org.
APR. 11-13 OR 12-13, 50th Cincinnati Open and First Ever Cincin-
nati Open Scholastic
See Grand Prix.
MAY 2-4 OR 3-4, 15th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 22-26, 23-26, 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Chicago Open
(IL)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 26-30, 2nd annual DC International (VA)
See Grand Prix.
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open
(VA)
See Grand Prix.
Oklahoma
FEB. 15-16, 5th Jerry Hanken OCF Winter Open
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 21-23 OR 22-23, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
Oregon
FEB. 27-28, Top 100 USCF List Scholastic Invitational (CA-S)
See California, Southern.
FEB. 28-MAR. 2, 2014 U.S. Junior Chess Congress (CA-S)
See Nationals.
Pennsylvania
Every Friday - LVCA 7 & 9 pm Blitz Events Open/U1200 (BLZ)
NOTE: Closed 3/7 & 5/18. 8SS, G/5 d2. St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church,
140 So. Ott St., Allentown, PA 18104. EF: $5, Prizes: Open and U1200, Min-
imum 50% Returned. 1st-70%, 2nd-30% AND will ADD PRIZES if 12 or more
players per section, FREE Coffee For All Entrants. REG.: Ends 6:55pm, Cash
on site only. RDS.: 7 pm, then ASAP. On Site: 484-866-3045 or bdavis@le
highvalleychessclub.org, www.lehighvalleychessclub.org/.
Every Saturday - LVCA QUADS/RBO U1200 Quads + G/7 d3
G/40 d5 Quads, 3-RR. Reg.: 1-1:45, Rds.: 2 pm, then asap. Site: Holy Trin-
ity Lutheran Church, 514 3rd Ave., Bethlehem, PA 18018. 2 Sections: Open
Section EF: $15. Prizes: $50 for 3-0 score, else $45 for 1st. RBO Section
EF: $10. Prizes: $30 for 3-0 score, else $25 for 1st. G/7 d3 (BLZ) Event
Rd. 1: 6:15 pm or asap. Prizes: 50% of entries, 1st-70%, 2nd-30%, more
 See previous issue for TLAs appearing January 1-14

prizes if 12 or more. Ph: 484-866-3045, Bruce. Info: srdiamondd@
yahoo.com.
JAN. 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 46th annual Liberty Bell Open
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 18, 10th William J. Browne Memorial Quads
changes/refunds after 2/18. Rds.: (Sat. 3/8 1-day sections): G/40 d5; JUNE 28-29, 6th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (VA)
10-Noon-2-4-6; (Sun 3/9 K-9 U1000): G/40 d5; 9-10:45-12:30-2:15-4; See Virginia.
(2-day sections): G/90 d5; 10-2-5:30, 9-1. Bughouse: Reg on-site only JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open
until Sat 3/8 8:30pm. Rds. begin Sat 3/8 8:45pm. EF: $20/team. HR: Men- (VA)
tion “PA States” for best rate; 800-692-7315 $75. Ent: PSCF, c/o Tom See Grand Prix.
Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223. Info: martinak_tom_m@

3RR, G/60 d5. Pittsburgh Chess Club, 5604 Solway St., Suite 209, Pitts-
burgh, PA 15217. EF: $12 by 1/15, $17 later, $2 discount to PCC Members.
Prizes: $30 to first each quad. Reg.: 10 -10:45am, Rds.: 11AM-1:30 PM-
4PM. No 1/2-point byes. Info: 412-421-1881, www.pittsburghcc.org.
Ent: Pittsburgh Chess Club, Attn: Browne Memorial, 5604 Solway St., Suite
209, Pittsburgh, PA 15217. Checks payable to Pittsburgh Chess Club. NC.
W.
JAN. 20, Liberty Bell Open Blitz (BLZ)
4SS, G/5 d0, double round, 8 games. Sonesta Hotel (see Liberty Bell Open).
Prizes $300 based on 20 entries, else in proportion: $100-50, U2100 $60,
U1800 $50, U1500/Unr $40. EF: $20, at site only, no checks. Reg. ends
8:15 pm, rds. 8:30, 9, 9:30, 10. Bye: 1. Blitz rated, but higher of regular
or blitz used for pairings & prizes.
JAN. 22-26, 23-26 OR 24-26, 12th annual Foxwoods Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 26, PCL January Quick Quads (QC)
3RR, G/15 d3. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow Blvd.,
Pittsburgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am.
Info: martinak_tom_m@hotmail.com, 412-908-0286. W.
FEB. 1, 2014 PA State Game/75 Championship
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 1, Kasparov Chess Foundation Presents 6th Annual Greater
Mid-Atlantic Scholastic Chess Championships (MD)
See Maryland.
FEB. 7-9 OR 8-9, 52nd Annual Baltimore Open (MD)
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 8, MasterMinds CC Swiss/Quads
Blair Christian Academy, 220 W. Upsal St., Philadelphia, PA. Quads: 3RR,
40/75 SD/30 d5. EF: $20 cash; $40, $50 for 3-0. Reg. ends 9AM Rd. 1
9:30AM then asap. Scholastic: 4SS, K-12 G/40 d5, EF $5 rec’d by Thurs.
before, $15 on site. Reg. ends 9:30am. Rd. 1 10AM then asap. Mail Ent:
payable to MasterMinds CC, 36 E. Hortter St., Philadelphia, PA 19119. Info:
mastermindschess.org or brad@mastermindschess.org.
FEB. 16, PCL February Quick Quads (QC)
3RR, G/15 d3. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow Blvd.,
Pittsburgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am.
Info: martinak_tom_m@hotmail.com, 412-908-0286. W.
MAR. 1-2, 47th annual New York State Scholastic Championships
(NY)
See New York.
MAR. 7, 2014 PA Quick Chess Championship (QC)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 8-9, 2014 Ira Lee Riddle Memorial PA State Championship
& PA Collegiate Championship
See Grand Prix.
A Heritage Event!
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
A State Championship Event!
MAR. 8-9, 2014 PA State Scholastic Championship
5SS. 216 Trophies!! (With 153 Individual & 63 Team). Hotel Carlisle, 1700
Harrisburg Pike, Carlisle, PA 17015, Exit 52A NB/Exit 52 SB off I-81, Exit
226 off PA Turnpike. 8 sections (Sat & Sun 3/8 & 9 unless indicated): EF:
K-3 Open: (Sat 3/8 only) $29. K-6 U800: (Sat 3/8 only) $28. K-6 Unrated:
(Sat 3/8 only) $27. K-9 U1000: (Sun 3/9 only) $27.25. K-6 Open: $30.50.
K-8 Open: $31.50. 7-12 U1000: $28.50. 7-12 U1300: $29.50. K-12 Open:
$32.50. All: EFs if rec’d by 2/18, $10 more rec’d 2/19-3/1, $20 more after
3/2. Feb 2014 ratings used. Bye: limit 1, ask by rd 2. Reg.: Fri 3/7 6-10
pm, Sat 3/8 10-11 am, Saturday entries get 1/2-bye. $5 charge for
Texas
hotmail.com, 412-908-0286, www.pscfchess.org/pascholasticchamp/.
W.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 23rd annual Eastern Class Championships Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
(MA) JAN. 18, Houston Chess Club - January
See Grand Prix. Prizes: 50% Returned. $120 (Top 1 Prizes Guaranteed.) Format: 5 Round
APR. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 8th annual Philadelphia SS, Sat schedule 3 rounds G/90 d5; Sun 2 rounds G/120 d5. EF: $50 +$10
club maintenance contribution; $50 HCC member. Maint Contrib waived
Open
See Grand Prix. for those traveling more than 75 miles one way. Free entry for Masters
and above. Entries To: HCC, 9000 Southwest Freeway, Ste.120, Houston,
MAY 2-4 OR 3-4, 15th annual Pittsburgh Open TX 77074. Telephone: 713-773-2437. Online entries to www.houstonchess
See Grand Prix.
club2000.com/. E-mail: TheLeonRulz@yahoo.com. Directions to site:
JUNE 26-30, 2nd annual DC International (VA) Going South along US 59 (Southwest Freeway) feeder, between S. Gess-
See Grand Prix. ner and Bissonet. Turn right at 1st intersection (in front of the Olive
Garden Restaurant). We are on the right in the center of the building fac-
JUNE 28-29, 6th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (VA) ing the Olive Garden. Side Events: Puzzle contest.
See Virginia.
JAN. 18-20, Texas Masters
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open See Grand Prix.
(VA)
See Grand Prix. JAN. 25, Many Springs 61
North Richland Hills Public Library, 9015 Grand Ave., North Richland
Rhode Island Hills, TX 76180. 3 Round Swiss, G/60 d5. EF: $20, 65% of EF returned as
prizes. Sections to be determined by participation. Registration on-site
JAN. 26, Foxwoods Open Blitz (BLZ) (CT)
8:45-8:55. First Round 9:15AM, Second Round 12:15PM, Third Round
2:30PM. Additional information:Tom Crane at either 817-296-4287, or
See Grand Prix. tcrane5000@yahoo.com.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 23rd annual Eastern Class Championships JAN. 25, The San Antonio Rampage Checkmate Festival
(MA)
One at AT&T Center Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78219. 5 SS RD., G/30 d5.
See Grand Prix. $$ 700 b/40: $ 175-$100; A, B, U1600ea $75-$50; U1400/unr, $50.00:
South Carolina
EF: $25.00 if rec’d by 1/23, $30.00 at site. Jr. U19 entry fee $20.00 if rec’d
by 1/23. Jr counts 2/3 toward “Based on.” Entry fees rec’d will be
returned as prizes minus “Seat4 Soldiers” contribution and normal ex-
FEB. 8, 9th Patrick D. Hart Memorial Scholastic penses (i.e. TD stipend, rating fee and supplies). Book and supply sales
4SS, G/30 d5. Holiday Inn Express, 120 Holiday Dr., Summerville, SC 29483. during registration. Reg.: 9:15 AM-10 AM. Rds.: 10:15-11:30-1:30-2:45-
EF: $20 if rec’d by 2/05/14; $25 at site. USCF membership req’d. Trophies 4:00. Half-pt. bye any 1 rd., notice before rd. 2. Entries: SACC, PO BOX
to 1st, 2nd & 3rd plus free 1yr USCF memberships to 1st (& ties) in each 690576, San Antonio, TX 78269-0576. Info: sanantoniochess.com, 210-
section. Reg.: 8-9:30am. Rds.: 10am, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm. In four USCF 384-4797, e-mail: lhrlouis@yahoo.com. NS. NC. W.
rated sections: K-3, K-5, K-8 & K-12. (Sections may be combined for pair-
ing purposes, if necessary.) Time control: G/30 d5. Special Non-rated FEB. 1, Winter Wonderland Chess Tourney
Beginners section - 4 rds., G/30 d5 Open to beginning scholastic play- at Lovejoy High School, 2350 Estates Parkway, Lucas, TX 75002. 5 Rounds,
ers. No USCF membership req’d. EF: $15 (Prize for top finisher/s - free G/30 d0. EF: $20 if postmarked by 1-20-14; $30 if postmarked by 1-25-
1 yr USCF membership). Adv. Ent: Charleston Chess Club, c/o David Y. 14. $50 afterwards. Make check payable to: LHS Sport of the Mind.
Sections: Primary K-3rd U200, Primary K-3rd U700, K-5th/6th U800, K-
Causey, 741 Dragoon Dr., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464. Email: chessbass@
5th/6th Open, Grades 6th – 12th U800, Grades 6th – 12th Open. Trophies
att.net
& Side Events! See www.LovejoyChess.org for flyer or contact: Check-
FEB. 8-9, 40th Snowstorm Special mateThis@gmail.com or 972-658-8537.
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 21-23 OR 22-23, Lone Star Open
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open See Grand Prix.
(VA)
FEB. 27-28, Top 100 USCF List Scholastic Invitational (CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
See California, Southern.
Tennessee FEB. 28-MAR. 2, 2014 U.S. Junior Chess Congress (CA-S)
See Nationals.
JAN. 18-19, Tennessee Winter Open MAY 9-11, 2014 National Elementary (K-6) Championship
See Grand Prix. See Nationals.
FEB. 8-9, Queen of Hearts - 42nd Annual (AL)
Utah
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 21-23 OR 22-23, Lone Star Open (TX)
JAN. 23 & FEB. 6, Riverton Dual Rated
See Grand Prix.
3-SS, G/25 d5. Johnson Garage, 1836 W. 12050 S., Riverton, UT 84065.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 18th annual Mid-America Open (MO) 1st =Book. EF: $5. Reg.: 6:45 Rds.: 7pm-8pm-9pm. RivertonKnight@com
See Grand Prix. cast.net. Allan Johnson 801-446-4231 also Feb. 20, Mar. 6.

TOURNAMENT LIFE All tournaments are non-smoking with no computers allowed unless otherwise advertised by S and/or C
(see below for explanations).
ABBREVIATIONS & TERMS
BLZ: Blitz rated. CC: Chess club. Memb. Membership required; cost follows. Reg: Registration at site.
QC: Quick Chess events. dx: Time delay, x = number of seconds. req’d: Usually refers to state affiliate. RR: Round robin (preceded by number
$$Gtd: Guaranteed prizes. EF: Entry fee. Open: A section open to all. Often has of rounds).
$$b/x: Based-on prizes, x = number Ent: Where to mail entries. very strong players, but some SD/: Sudden-death time control (time
eligible for lower sections can for rest of game follows). For
of entries needed to pay full FIDE: Results submitted to FIDE for pos- play for the learning experience. example, 30/90, SD/1 means
prize fund. At least 50% of sible rating. each player must make 30 moves
the advertised prize fund of
G/: Game in. For instance, G/75 Quad: 4-player round robin sections; in 90 minutes, then complete the
$501 or more must be similar strength players. rest of the game in an hour.
means each side has 75 minutes
awarded.
for the entire game. RBO: Rated Beginner’s Open. SS: Swiss-System pairings
Bye: Indicates which rounds players GPP: (preceded by number of rounds).
who find it inconvenient to play
Grand Prix Points available.
Rds: Rounds; scheduled game times
may take 1⁄2-point byes instead. HR: Hotel rates. For example, 60-65-70- follow. For example, 11-5, 9-3 Unr: Unrated.
For example, Bye 1-3 means 1⁄2- 75 means $60 single, $65 twin, means games begin 11 a.m. & 5 W: Site is accessible to wheelchairs.
point byes are available in $70/3 in room, $75/4 in room. p.m. on the first day, 9 a.m. & WEB: Tournaments that will use a
Rounds 1 through 3. JGP: Junior Grand Prix. 3 p.m. on the second day. player’s online rating.

www.uschess.org 69
Tournament Life / January
Vermont
MAR. 1-2, 47th annual New York State Scholastic Championships
(NY)
See New York.
MAR. 14-16 OR 15-16, 23rd annual Eastern Class Champi-
onships (MA)
See Grand Prix.
Virginia
Capital Area Chess
Weekend Scholastic & Open Tournaments, Weeknight Events (Monday
Night Quick & Friday Night Blitz Tournaments), Small Group Lessons for
Children & Adults, Lectures & Simuls and more. Visit our website at www.
capitalareachess.com for event schedules or contact by email at info@
capitalareachess.com. Location: Capital Area Chess, Inc, 4451 Brookfield
Corporate Dr., Suite #201, Chantilly, VA 20151.
VA Chess Federation Tournaments
Scholastic and Adult tournaments every month from Sept to May, see
www.vachess.org and www.vschess.org.
JAN. 18, Welcome New Year Scholastic Tournament
Format: 4 Rounds Swiss, G/30 d5. Sections: U500, U800, U1200, U1500.
Starts: 11am. Info online at: www.viennachessclub.com .
JAN. 18-19, 4th Annual Sterling Chess January!
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 19, CAC Sunday January Scholastic
Location: Capital Area Chess, 4451 Brookfield Corporate Dr., Suite
#201, Chantilly, VA 20151. Sections: K-12 Scholastic players: >1000,
<1000, <600. Trophies: Top 5 Players. Medals to 2.5 or above points.
Other Class Trophies in each section. Registration: 11:30am-12:30pm.
Format: 4SS, G/30 d5. Rounds: 12:45pm and ASAP. EF: $20 by 1/17,
Onsite $25. $20 check Postmarked by 1/12. CAC Members $5 less. Info
and online registration: www.capitalareachess.com. Mail checks to: Cap-
ital Area Chess, Inc., PO Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20153-3582. Boards
and sets provided. No clocks supplied.
JAN. 24-26 OR 25-26, CAC Jan 2014 FIDE Open
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 25, CAC Jan 2014 FIDE Blitz (BLZ)
See Grand Prix.
JAN. 26, 3rd Annual Silver Knights Cup Chess Championship
West Springfield HS, 6100 Rolling Rd., Springfield, VA 22152. Open to
grades K-8. In 4 Sections: K-1, K-3, K-5, and K-8. 5SS, G/25 d5. EF: $33
online by noon 1/22; $38 online by noon 1/24; $43 on-site until half-hour
before first round. Rds.: 10:00-11:30-1:00-2:15-3:30. Large trophies to
top individuals and teams, and participation trophies to all players. Free
game analysis by NM Jeremy Kane. Space is limited to first 240 players
that register, so check website for availability of on-site registration. See
www.silverknightschess.com for complete information or to register.
FEB. 1, Kasparov Chess Foundation Presents 6th Annual Greater
Mid-Atlantic Scholastic Chess Championships (MD)
See Maryland.
FEB. 7-9 OR 8-9, 52nd Annual Baltimore Open (MD)
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 8, Kingstowne Quad #99/Action-Plus #69
Kingstowne Thompson Center, 6090 Kingstowne Village Pkwy., Alexan-
dria, VA 22315. 2 events. Quad #99: 3RR, G/100 d5. EF: $10 if received
Classifieds
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tutes final acceptance. For a copy of these complete set of regulations & a schedule of deadlines, send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: Chess Life Classifieds, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.
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70 January 2014 | Chess Life
by 2/5, $15 at site. Prizes: medals to 1st and 2nd in each quad: gold to
1st if 3-0 score, else silver; bronze to 2nd. Rds.: 11-3-7. Action-Plus #69:
5SS, G/45 d5. EF: $15 if received by 2/5, $20 at site. Prizes: $$250/20:
$100-60, U1800-U1400-Unr. each $30. Rds.: 11-1-3-5-7. Both: Reg. 9-
10:30. Ent (checks payable to): Don W. Millican, P.O. Box 151, Newington,
VA 22122. e-mail (info only): dm407_92@hotmail.com. W (please
give 48-hour notice).
FEB. 15, Jack Frost Grand Prix
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 16, CAC Sunday February Scholastic
Location: Capital Area Chess, 4451 Brookfield Corporate Dr., Suite
#201, Chantilly, VA 20151. Sections: K-12 Scholastic players: >1000,
<1000, <600. Trophies: Top 5 Players. Medals to 2.5 or above points.
Other Class Trophies in each section. Registration: 11:30am-12:30pm.
Format: 4SS, G/30 d5. Rounds: 12:45pm and ASAP. EF: $20 by 2/14,
Onsite $25. $20 check Postmarked by 2/9. CAC Members $5 less. Info:
www.capitalareachess.com. Mail checks to: Capital Area Chess, Inc., PO
Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20153-3582. Boards and sets provided. No clocks
supplied.
FEB. 21-23 OR 22-23, CAC Feb 2014 FIDE Open
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 22, CAC Feb 2014 FIDE Blitz (BLZ)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 1, 4th Annual State Warm-Up
West Springfield HS, 6100 Rolling Rd., Springfield, VA 22152. In 6 Sec-
tions: K-1 U400, 2-3 U400, 4-8 U400, K-8 U700, K-8 U1000, K-8 Champ.
4SS, G/25 d5. EF: $22 online by noon 1/29; $27 online by noon 1/31; $32
on-site until half-hour before first round. Rds.: 1:00-2:00-3:00-4:00.
Trophies to top individuals and teams. Free game analysis. Space is
limited to first 240 players that register, so check website for availabil-
ity of on-site registration. See www.silverknightschess.com for complete
infor- mation or to register.
APR. 16-20, 17-20, 18-20 OR 19-20, 8th annual Philadelphia
Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 26-30, 2nd annual DC International
See Grand Prix.
Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!
JUNE 28-29, 6th annual World Open Under 13 Championship
6SS, G/60 d10. Hyatt Regency Crystal City, Arlington (see World Open for
location, rates). Open to all born after 6/29/01. In 4 sections. Open Sec-
tion: Trophies to top 10, 1st C, Under 1400/Unr; free entry in all CCA
tournaments 7/17/14-12/31/14 to 1st. Under 1400 Section: Trophies
to top 10, 1st Under 1200, Unrated; free entry in all CCA tournaments
7/17/14-9/30/14 to 1st. Under 1000 Section: Trophies to top 10, 1st
Under 800, Unrated; free entry in all CCA tournaments 7/17/14-9/30/14
to 1st. Under 600 Section: Trophies to top 10, 1st Under 400, top 3
Unrated; free entry in all CCA tournaments 7/17/14-9/30/14 to 1st. EF:
$42 online at chessaction.com by 6/23, $44 mailed by 6/17, $45 phoned
to 406-896-2038 by 6/17, $50 at site. Reg.: 6/28 to 10 am, rds. Sat. 11-
2-5, Sun. 10-1-4. 2 half point byes allowed, must commit before rd. 3. Ent:
chessaction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803.
Questions: chesstour.com, chesstour.info, DirectorAtChess.US, 347-201-
2269. $15 service charge for refunds.
JULY 2-6, 3-6, 4-6 OR JUNE 30-JULY 6, 42nd Annual World Open
See Grand Prix.
JULY 11-13, Blacksburg Senior Open (BSO 1)
5-SS, G/100 d5. Hilton Garden Inn Blacksburg, 900 Plantation Rd.,
Instruction
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Blacksburg, VA 24060. HR: $95/night chess rate if booked by 06/10/2014.
Phone 540-552-5005 and request “Blacksburg Senior Open” block rate,
or book online at www.blacksburg.hgi.com and enter the group code
CHESS. Two sections: Open and U1600. Prizes: (Based on 30 paid
entries) Open, $200-$100-$50; U1600, $150-$75-$25. EF: $45 if post-
marked by July 7; otherwise $50. Mail checks to Bob Mahan, 610 N. Main
St., Suite 215, Blacksburg, VA 24060. Schedule: Registration 6:00-7:00
PM Friday, Round 1 at 7:30 PM. Players electing to start on Saturday morn-
ing with a 1/2-point bye for Round 1 may register between 8:30-9:30 AM.
Saturday rounds are at 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, and Sunday rounds are
at 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Byes: All players may take up to two irrevoca-
ble 1/2-point byes, which must be requested at registration. All par-
ticipants must be USCF members and must be 50 years old by
December 31, 2014. Please visit www.chessforseniors.org for more
information.
Washington
FEB. 22-23, 22nd Dave Collyer Memorial
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 27-28, Top 100 USCF List Scholastic Invitational (CA-S)
See California, Southern.
FEB. 28-MAR. 2, 2014 U.S. Junior Chess Congress (CA-S)
See Nationals.
West Virginia
A State Championship Event!
MAR. 14-16, West Virginia Senior Championships
5-SS, G/100 d5, Charleston Marriott Town Center, 200 Lee Street East,
Charleston, WV 25301. HR: $114/night chess rate if booked by 02/20/
2014. Phone 1-800-228-9290 or 304-345-6500 and request “Senior
Chess Championships” (SCC) block rate, or book online at www.marriott.
com and enter the Group Code SCC. Two sections: Open and U1600.
Prizes: (Based on 30 paid entries) Open, $250-$150-$100; U1600, $150.
The top West Virginia finisher will be recognized as 2014 West Vir-
ginia Senior Champion.EF: $45 if postmarked by March 10; otherwise
$55. Mail checks to Bob Mahan, 610 N. Main St, Suite 215, Blacksburg,
VA 24060. Schedule: Registration 6:00-7:00 PM Friday, Round 1 at 7:30
PM. Players electing to start on Saturday morning with a 1/2-point bye
for Round 1 may register between 8:30-9:30 AM. Saturday rounds are
at 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, and Sunday rounds are at 9:00 AM and 2:00
PM. Byes: All players may take up to two irrevocable 1/2-point byes, which
must be requested at registration. All participants must be USCF
members and must be 50 years old by December 31, 2014. Please
visit www.chessforseniors.org for more information.
Wisconsin
ChessIQ Academy & Chess Center (IL)
Tournaments, lectures, simuls, and camps located in northern Illinois.
Visit www.chessiq.com for a full schedule of events.
JAN. 11-12, 49th Northeastern Open
See Grand Prix.
FEB. 15-16, UW Winter Open
See Grand Prix.
MAY 22-26, 23-26, 24-26 OR 25-26, 23rd annual Chicago Open
(IL)
See Grand Prix.
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PAGE 14, 17 / CHESS TO ENJOY
Solution to question: A queen cannot discover
check.
Problem I. Yes, 45. Qg4 wins eventually. But
45. Nh8! is faster (45. ... Bxh8 46. Qxf7 mate;
45. ... Ba2 46. Qh7+ and mates after 47. Rf7+
or 47. Qh6+). Problem II. 62. ... h5+! 63. Kh3
Nxf4+ and 64. ... Nxe2, or 63. Kxh5 Rxd5+
64. Kh6 Rxc5. Problem III. 32. ... Rxf5! wins
(33. Qxf5 Bd4+ 34. Kh1 Ng3+ 35. hxg3 Qh6+
and mates). Problem IV. 31. Nc8! threatens
32. Nxd6+/33. Nxe4 and 33. Qf6/34. Qe7 mate.
The game ended with 31. ... Qf3 32. Nxd6+
Kd7 33. Qb6 Rfc8 34. Nxc8 Rxc8 35. Qd4+,
Black resigned. Problem V. After 19. Bh4!
the attacked knight has no good move (19. ...
Nh7 20. f6! threatening Qd3xh7 mate or
Qd2xh6 and Qg7 mate). Black is also lost after
19. ... Qd8 20. Ng3 and 21. Nh5 or 21. Ne4, as
well as after 19. ... Kg7 20. Bxf6+ Kxf6 21.
Qxg4 Rh8 (else 22. Qh4+ Kg7 23. f6+ mates)
22. Ng3 Ne5 (to stop Nh5 mate) 23. Qe4! fol-
lowed by 24. Nh5+ or 24. cxd4. Problem VI.
White wins eventually after 46. Rf1 Nxe1 47.
Rxe1 Rc6 48. Rf1 but 46. Bg3! clears a path
for a queening pawn, e.g. 46. ... Nxg1 47. Bxf4
and 48. b7.
PAGE 29 / ENDGAME STUDY
1. Kg7 h4 2. Kf6 Kb6 3. Ke5 Kxc6 4. Kf4.
PAGE 39 / PROBLEMS / BENKO
Problem I. 1. Nf3 Kc6 2. Ne5+ Kb5 3. Nc6
Ka4 4. Nc3 mate. Problem II. 1. Kd5 e3 2.
Ke4 Qh5 stalemate. Problem III. a) 1. Kb6
Qb3+ 2. Ka5 Qb5 mate. b) 1. Kb7 Qb3+ 2.
Ka8 Qb6 stalemate. Problem IV. 1. a3 Kc5
2. d4+ Kxc4 3. e4 mate.
PAGE 45 / ABCS OF CHESS
Problem I. Fork: Black wins a piece by 1. ...
c4. If 2. Bxc4, then 2. ... Qa5+. Problem II.
Solutions / January
Fork: Black wins a piece by 1. ... Nxg4, when
2. Bxg4 is answered by 2. ... Qh4+. Problem
III. Trapping: The immediate 1. ... g5 snares
the knight. Problem IV. Mating net: Black
wins by 1. ... Qxg3+ 2. hxg3 Bxg3 mate.
Problem V. Mating net: Black triumphs with
scores with 1. ... Bh4+ 2. Ke2 Bc4 mate.
Problem VI. Mating net: Black’s queen deliv-
ers the blow by 1. ... Qh4+, followed by
mating at f2.
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www.uschess.org 71
 MY BEST MOVE

PHOTO: COURTESY OF CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CENTER OF SAINT LOUIS

GM JESSE KRAAI
AUTHOR OF
LISA, A CHESS NOVEL

ll my life I wanted to break stuff,

A
to avoid being with myself and
whatever situation I was in.
Chaos comes, people yell, and a
new whirling drama unfolds.
I’ve also played over 10,000 hasty pawn
breaks. The blood of pawns promises
escape, especially when they die in the
center. You don’t have to sit the knight
on d2 down on a couch and ask him
unpleasant questions: Why is everyone
else so upset with you? Why can’t you
make a positive contribution? All of the
old concerns are suddenly meaningless
after a break, for revolution has come,
and the contract of society will have to be
redrawn. The personal history of each

“
piece is erased as it struggles for meaning
within the new order.
That’s why I was never a very good
chessplayer. For chess is, ultimately, the

art of talking to your pieces. The pawns
are the shifting structures in which the
pieces discover their callings.
But, at least in the position below, I did
not play e3-e4. That break might create
a weakness on e6. But it will also open
the eyes of the chancellor on f8 onto my
king; it will allow his deputy on f6 to tram-
poline off h5 into f4; and maybe there is
some fork trick with ... d6-d5 after ... fxe4.
I really wanted to play e3-e4—I had
been planning it for moves. It seemed like
my only plan in the position, the only
thing I could do.
But I didn’t do it. I pulled my hand
back and began to talk to my pieces. They
told me about the break they wanted. Fif-
teen moves later it happened. With this
win, against SuperGM Hikaru Nakamura,
I achieved my final grandmaster norm
and the title.
Let the pieces do the talking
IM Jesse Kraai (2567)
GM Hikaru Nakamura (2755)
9th Annual Foxwoods Open (7), 2007
(See diagram top of next column)
12. a3!!
White will put a pawn on b4 next move.
For chess is, ultimately, the
art of talking to your pieces.
and then might dislodge the knight on c6
from the center with b5. My bishop on c4
will feel a lot better; she will have some
squares to retreat to. The knight on d2 is
also happy; for it will now have the b3-
square to jump to, maybe even c4 after the
bishop moves. The rook on d1 looks forward
to an unobstructed view of the center.
”
12. ... Rae8 13. b4 Nh5 14. Bb3 g5 15. Ne5
Nxe5 16. dxe5 Qf7 17. Nc4 d5 18. Nd2 b5 19.
Rf1 g4 20. Bd4 Rg8 21. g3 a5 22. c3 a4 23.
Bc2 Qg6 24. Bd3 Rb8 25. Kg2! Bf8 26. Rh1
Ng7 27. h3
This was the pawn break that Hikaru
did not foresee. All of Black’s pieces must
now curl up into an awful scrunch to
avoid the power of the rook on h1.
27. ... gxh3+ 28. Rxh3 h5 29. Rdh1 Be8 30.
Kf1 Be7 31. Nf3 Qg4 32. Bc5 Bxc5 33. bxc5
Rf8 34. Rh4 Qg6 35. g4 Qh6 36. g5 Qg6 37.
Rg1 Kg8 38. Nd4 Kf7 39. c6 Rb6 40. Bxb5 Kg8
41. f4 Bf7 42. c4 dxc4 43. Qxc4 Rd8 44. Qxa4
Be8 45. Kf2 Qf7 46. Rc1 Qe7 47. Rc3 Rd5 48.
Qc4 Qd8 49. a4 Rb8 50. Qb4 Kh7 51. Kg3 Bg6
52. Rh2 Be8 53. Kh4 Kg6 54. Rd2 Bf7 55. Rc4
Ra8 56. Nf3 Rb8 57. Rcd4 Qe8 58. Rxd5 exd5
59. Nd4 Be6 60. Qc5 Ra8 61. Ra2 Bf7 62. Bd3
Qf8 63. Qxf8 Rxf8 64. a5 Ra8 65. a6 Be6 66.
Rb2 Bc8 67. Rb7, Black resigned.

72 January 2014 | Chess Life

 ĨƌŽŵƚŚĞƉƵďůŝƐŚĞƌƐŽĨ
    A DĂŐĂnjŝŶĞ

sŝŐŽƌŽƵƐŚĞƐƐKƉĞŶŝŶŐZĞƉĞƌƚŽŝƌĞĨŽƌůĂĐŬ
      EĞǁ/ŶŚĞƐƐϮϬϭϯͬϳ
  
Tackling 1.e4 with 1…e5 ZĞĂĚďLJƐƵďƐĐƌŝďĞƌƐŝŶϵϳĐŽƵŶƚƌŝĞƐ
    
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$232 mailed by 5/13, all $250 online until 2 hrs before rd 1
or at site. $100 more for US players not rated 2200/over by
USCF or FIDE. No checks at site, credit cards OK.
Special entry fee: GMs, foreign IMs, foreign W GMs
free, $200 deducted from prize. IMs, W GMs, foreign FMs
in Open: minimum prize $200 if completing all 9 games, with
no byes in rounds 6-9. $80 less to seniors 65/over, except
U1000/Unr & Unr/Prov Sections. Online or mailed EF $5
less to ICA members; join at il-chess.org. An ICA tour event.
Under 1000/Unr Section, Unrated/Provisional Section
entry fees: $77 online at chessaction.com by 5/20, $85
phoned to 406-896-2038 by 5/19 (entry only, no questions),
4-day $84, 3-day $83, 2-day $82 mailed by 5/13, all $100
online until 2 hours before game or at site.
USCF membership required. Special dues, see Chess
Life TLA, chesstour.com or chessaction.com.
5-day schedule (Open only): Late entry to Thu 6 pm, rds
Thu 7, Fri 12:30 & 7, Sat/Sun 11:30 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:45.
4-day schedule (no Open): Late entry to Fri 6 pm, rds.
Fri 7 pm, Sat 11:30 & 6, Sun 11:30 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:45.
3-day schedule (no Open): Late entry to Sat 10:30 am,
rds. Sat 11:30, 2:45 & 6, Sun 11:30 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:45.
2-day schedule (no Open): Late entry to Sun 9 am; rds.
Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Mon 10 & 3:45.
Half point byes OK all rounds, limit 4 (2 in last 4 rds).
Open must commit before round 2, others before rd 4.
Hotel rates: $107 for 1-4/room, 800-937-8461, 847-777-
6500. Reserve by 5/8; rate may increase or hotel sell out.
All: Bring sets, boards, clocks- none supplied. $15 charge
for refunds. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries
posted instantly). Questions: chesstour.com, Director@
Chess.US, 347-201-2269. Junior GP points available.
Entry: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box
8482, Pelham NY 10803.