Webster University Wins Sixth Straight PanAm Intercollegiate Championship

A Fellow of
,QƛLQLWH&KHVV

GM ALEXANDER SHABALOV
WINS EASTERN OPEN
March 2018 | USChess.org
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PAST WINNERS
1973 Walter Browne 1974 Bent Larsen 1975
Pal Benko 1976 Anatoly Lein 1977 John
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Angantysson 1980 Larry Christiansen 1981
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Spraggett 1984 Joel Benjamin 1985 Maxim
Dlugy 1986 Nick de Firmian 1987 Boris Gulko
1988 Maxim Dlugy 1989 Mikhail Gurevich
1990 Igor Glek 1991 Gata Kamsky 1992
Gregory Kaidanov 1993 Alex Yermolinsky
1994 Artashes Minasian 1995 Alex
Yermolinsky 1996 Alex Yermolinsky 1997
Alex Shabalov 1998 Alex Goldin 1999
Gregory Serper 2000 Joel Benjamin 2001 Alex
Goldin 2002 Kamil Miton 2003 Jaan Ehlvest
2004 Varuzhan Akobian 2005 Kamil Miton
2006 Gata Kamsky 2007 Varuzhan Akobian
2008 Evgeny Najer 2009 Evgeny Najer 2010
Viktor Laznicka 2011 Gata Kamsky 2012 Ivan
Sokolov 2013 Varuzhan Akobian 2014 Ilya
Smirin 2015 Aleks Lenderman 2016 Gabor
Papp 2017 Tigran Petrosian
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www.uschess.org 3
Chess Life
MARCH
38 Finishing the
Eastern Open with
a perfect score,
COLUMNS GM ALEXANDER
12 CHESS TO ENJOY / ENTERTAINMENT SHABALOV credits
A Poverty of Attention the little-known
By GM Andy Soltis
Pirc-Nimzo hybrid
14 BACK TO BASICS / READER ANNOTATIONS for his four wins
Horatius on the Bridge as black.
By GM Lev Alburt

16 IN THE ARENA / PLAYER OF THE MONTH

Cameron Wheeler at the North
American Open
By GM Robert Hess

18 LOOKS AT BOOKS / SHOULD I BUY IT?

Get Off My Lawn!
By John Hartmann

44 SOLITAIRE CHESS / INSTRUCTION

Positional Chess Can Wait
By Bruce Pandolfini

46 THE PRACTICAL ENDGAME / INSTRUCTION

Move of the Year, Endgame Edition
By GM Daniel Naroditsky

20 FISCHER’S LEGACY / TEN YEARS ON

Searching for Fischer’s Legacy
DEPARTMENTS BY MENACHEM WECKER
Bobby Fischer would have turned 75 this month. Ten years
6 MARCH PREVIEW /
removed from the death of the most controversial person in
THIS MONTH IN CHESS LIFE AND US
CHESS NEWS
US Chess history, we take a sober look at his legacy.

8
26
COUNTERPLAY / READERS RESPOND
FISCHER’S LEGACY / BOBBY FISCHER
9 US CHESS AFFAIRS /
TEACHES CHESS
NEWS FOR OUR MEMBERS
The Best Chess Book I Ever Stole
10 FIRST MOVES / BY SEAN ROBINSON
CHESS NEWS FROM AROUND THE U.S.
The behind-the-scenes story of Leslie Ault and the best-selling
chess book of all time, Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess
11 FACES ACROSS THE BOARD /
BY AL LAWRENCE

50 TOURNAMENT LIFE / MARCH

30 COLLEGE CHESS / 2017 PAN AMS
Webster Staves off SLU for Another
71 CLASSIFIEDS / MARCH
PanAms Title
71 SOLUTIONS / MARCH BY AL LAWRENCE
SLU, Texas Tech and UT-RGV secure remaining berths in
72 MY BEST MOVE / PERSONALITIES
Final Four.
THIS MONTH: GM ELSHAN MORADIABADI

ON THE COVER 38 COVER STORY / SHABALOV WINS

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

4 March 2018 | Chess Life

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

US CHESS NEWS PREVIEW MARCH CONTRIBUTORS

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

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

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

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

US CHESS QUEENS GET SOCIAL

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

6 March 2018 | Chess Life

Donate to US Chess
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Will Help US Chess Grow the Game
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Membership dues cover the basic operating costs for US Chess.

Our goals are to grow the game by funding initiatives to improve

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events, and growing and retaining women chess players in the game.

With your support, we can elevate chess to be a game for life.

Every dollar counts. Make your contribution today. uschess.org/donate

www.uschess.org 7
Counterplay / Readers Respond

U.S. Masters, Lombardy

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

The candidates for the 2018 US

Chess Executive Board election
are (in alphabetical order):

+)
,+&,#($,%*'* ,("

) &)+,&+++,#($
%*!!* ,"

+),&&
,#($,%*'*! ,"

++)+,+)+,#($
%*'''%! , "

Two Executive Board seats will be

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

Register to vote (or check your

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

Send your letters to letters@uschess.org. Letters are subject to editing for style, length, and content.

8 March 2018 | Chess Life

 US Chess Affairs / News for our Members

US CHESS Empowering people through

MISSION chess one move at a time.

Franc Guadalupe Retires from US Chess US CHESS ASSISTS

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

Our vision is to enrich the lives of all persons

US CHESS and communities through increasing the play,
VISION study, and appreciation of the game of chess.

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

Not Without Merit

Boy Scouts becoming Eagle Scouts via chess projects

10 March 2018 | Chess Life

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

DUNCAN GUTHRIE: SERVING VETS

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

www.uschess.org 11
Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment
A Poverty of
Attention
We are rich in games but forced to budget our attention time.
By GM ANDY SOLTIS
GM BOBBY FISCHER AND GM LAJOS
Portisch were talking shop. “Lajos, is it true
that you study eight hours a day?” Fischer asked.
“Why do you ask?” the Hungarian grand-
master responded, sounding a bit defensive.
“Don’t you study a lot?”
“Yes,” Bobby said. “But they think I’m crazy.”
Portisch, a top-10 player in his day, has told
this story many times. But in a 2016 interview
on chesspro.ru he added what Fischer said next.
Bobby wanted to know what Portisch spent
his time on.
“How many Steinitz games have you studied?”
Fischer asked.
Steinitz? Yes, Wilhelm Steinitz, who died
decades before anyone appreciated what a
Catalan Opening or Najdorf Sicilian was.
Fischer could have studied the games of any
great player. But he was giving special attention
to Steinitz. He adopted several of the first world
champion’s 19th century opening ideas but also
picked up positional insights.
THREE KNIGHTS GAME (C46)
Louis Paulsen
Wilhelm Steinitz
Baden-Baden, Germany (16), 08.02.1870
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Nc3 g6 4. Bc4 Bg7
5. d3 d6 6. Bg5 Qd7!?
You’ll be hard-pressed to find another example
of this position in databases. It illustrates one of
Steinitz’s—and Fischer’s—basic principles: The
“two bishops” are a significant advantage. Black
threatens to obtain them with 7. ... Na5.
In addition, Steinitz believed pawns shouldn’t
be pushed (like 6. ... f6) without very good
reasons.
7. a3 h6 8. Bh4 g5! 9. Bg3 Nge7
12 March 2018 | Chess Life
And this is a good reason. White’s g3-bishop
is temporarily out of the game. Paulsen’s efforts
to exploit Black’s advances on the kingside
boomerang.
10. h4 g4 11. Nd2 h5 12. Nd5? Nxd5 13.
Bxd5 Ne7 14. Bb3 f5!
Black has a significant edge. Fischer—and
Steinitz—would have smiled at the way some
computers say the best moves now are 15. Bh2
f4 16. f3 g3 17. Bg1.
15. exf5 Nxf5 16. Nf1 c6
The game gets sloppy now, since Black would
be nearly winning after 16. ... Qc6! (17. Rg1
e4). Instead, his edge grew slowly after 17. c3
Qc7 18. Qe2 Qb6 19. Ba2 Bd7 20. 0-0-0
0-0-0 21. f3 Nxg3 22. Nxg3 d5 and he even-
tually won.
In answer to Fischer’s question, Portisch said
he had studied “about a hundred” Steinitz games.
“For me, it’s a thousand,” Bobby said.
Portisch was astonished that Fischer had
even located that many. But today it’s easy to
find online databases offering nearly that many
Steinitz games. They also provide well over
2,000 Garry Kasparov or Alexander Alekhine
games, more than 3,500 Anatoly Karpov games
and 4,000-plus Viktor Korchnoi games.
And that’s a problem. It was best expressed
at the dawn of the computer age by an amateur
chessplayer and world-class polymath named
Herbert Simon. “A wealth of information
creates a poverty of attention,” he said. There
are simply too many great players and too many
worthy games demanding our attention.
We can tweak Simon. A poverty of attention
forces us to spend our attention wisely. The
question facing aspiring players today is: Whose
games should you study?
Here are a few study guidelines:
(a) Games in which one player is a master
are generally more instructive than when neither
player is. But rating can’t be the only criterion.
Today’s most error-free games—according to
computers—are played by computers. But
Komodo, Stockfish, Houdini, Fritz, Rybka, and
perhaps even AlphaZero can’t teach us. They
just show us that 17. Bf3 was best because of a
23-move variation of subtle retreats and feints.
(b) The games of some players are more
entertaining than enlightening and vice versa.
As GM Gennady Sosonko put it, you can learn
a lot from Reuben Fine’s games but you won’t
be delighted by them. On the other hand, you’ll
probably enjoy the games of the young Mikhail
Tal. But how much can they teach you?
When his career was winding down Tal opened
a chess school in his hometown of Riga for talented
kids. At the first meeting he told them: “For
pleasure you can read the games collections of
[Adolf] Anderssen and [Mikhail] Chigorin.” He
was referring to masters of bold attacking play.
“But for benefit you should study [Siegbert]
Tarrasch, [Paul] Keres and [David] Bronstein,”
he recalled in a book, Attack with Mikhail Tal.

Isle of Man Quiz
GM Magnus Carlsen may have taken
first place but Americans were the
collective stars at the annual Isle of
Man international open last fall. This
month’s quiz features sparkling wins
by five U.S. players, but there were
other quiz-worthy puzzlers played
by GM Fabiano Caruana, GM
Varuzhan Akobian, GM Jim Tarjan,
and IM Michael William Brown to
name a few. In each diagram you
are asked to find the fastest winning
line of play. This will usually mean
the forced win of a decisive amount
of material. But watch out for forced
mates. For solutions, see page 71.
There are several players in the Fine category.
You can learn from Salo Flohr and Peter Leko,
for example. But if you just want entertainment,
check out Rashid Nezhmetdinov or Alexander
Tolush.
(c) Don’t agonize over what your computer’s
analysis says. It will criticize 6. ... Qd7 in the
Steinitz game and give an alternative. But that
won’t teach you much.
You want to get ideas out of the games.
KING’S INDIAN DEFENSE,
FIANCHETTO VARIATION (E68)
Alexander Kotov
Efim Geller
USSR Championship, Moscow, Russia,
11.12.1949
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. g3 0-0 5.
Bg2 d6 6. Nf3 Nbd7 7. 0-0 e5 8. e4 exd4
9. Nxd4 Nc5 10. f3 Nfd7!
These days the easiest way to learn how to
play the black side of the King’s Indian Defense
(KID) is to ask your computer to show you
games played by Efim Geller, Bronstein and
Isaac Boleslavsky in the 1940s and 1950s.
They’ll be more instructive than most recent
games.
The same goes for several other openings.
If you want to learn how to play the Ruy Lopez
for either side, search for late-career Paul Keres
PROBLEM I PROBLEM II
GM Hikaru Nakamura
GM Helgi Olafsson
GM Boris Gelfand
IM Anna Zatonskih
WHITE TO PLAY BLACK TO PLAY
PROBLEM IV PROBLEM V
GM Dennis Wagner GM Aleksandr Lenderman
GM Hikaru Nakamura GM Francisco Vallejo Pons
BLACK TO PLAY WHITE TO PLAY
games. For the Queen’s Gambit Declined, Akiba
Rubinstein is the go-to guy.
What Geller, Bronstein et al taught the world
is that Black must have counterplay when play-
ing the King’s Indian and the only way to get it
is often by taking risks and making strange moves.
11. Be3 c6 12. Qd2 a5 13. Rad1 Ne5 14.
b3 a4!
If White, with his superior pawn structure,
is allowed to seize the initiative wiith h2-h3
and f3-f4, he will stand better.
15. Nde2 axb3! 16. Bxc5 Nxc4 17. Qc1
bxa2 18. Nxa2 Qa5! 19. Qxc4 Be6 20. Qc1
dxc5 21. Nac3 b5
Your computer may criticize Black’s moves
and prefer 17. ... b2 or 20. ... Qxc5+, for example.
And it will likely tell you that the game was
decided when White failed to play the favorable
22. e5! and 22. ... Bxe5 23. f4 Bg7 24. Bxc6.
Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment
PROBLEM III
GM Jeffery Xiong
IM Anna Zatonskih
WHITE TO PLAY
PROBLEM VI
Valerio Bianco
IM John Watson
BLACK TO PLAY
But it’s more important to understand the
inherent energy, the tactical flow of the KID.
22. Nb1? b4 23. Nf4 Bb3 24. Rd6 c4 25.
Rxc6 c3 26. Nd5 Bxd5 27. exd5 Qxd5 28.
f4 Qd4+ 29. Kh1 Ra2 30. Bf3 Rb2! 31. f5
Be5 32. Qe1 Rd8 33. Be4 Kg7 34. f6+ Kg8
35. Ra6 h5 36. Ra5 h4 37. Bxg6 Rxh2+!
38. Kxh2 Bxg3+ 39. Qxg3 hxg3+ 40. Kh3
fxg6, White resigned.
(d) You don’t have to study entire games. If
you want to improve your winning technique,
look at Akiba Rubinstein and José Capablanca
games after move 40. That’s when the most
instructive moves are played. Viktor Korchnoi
was already a grandmaster when he improved his
winning technique by looking at late middlegame
positions of Rubinstein, Vasily Smyslov, Mikhail
Botvinnik, and Tigran Petrosian and seeing how
they turned an advantage into a win.
(e) Once you’ve become familiar with the
great games of your favorite players, try to
learn what you don’t understand. When Bent
Larsen was young he immersed himself in the
convoluted moves of Aron Nimzowitsch.
Larsen’s advice to non-masters was: “Study
rather good games with good notes and learn
strange openings. Study something you don’t
have in your own style.” And when you’re done
with Nimzowitsch and Capablanca and Larsen,
too, take a look at Steinitz. A lot of great players
learned a lot from him.
www.uschess.org 13
Back to Basics / Reader annotations

Horatius on the Bridge

Calvin versus Three Brothers
By GM LEV ALBURT

THE WINNER OF THIS MONTH’S AWARD,

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

14 March 2018 | Chess Life

 Back to Basics / Reader annotations

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

I am not sure if 11. cxd5 (recommended by

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

With the powerful mate threat with the

powerful Rge7.
32. ... Rxg2+ 33. Kh3 Rh2+

10. ... d5

Now the queenside pieces are doomed and Calvin gives himself a very vulnerable pawn.
Black must defend against a four piece attack 11. cxd5 exd5 12. Qa4 Nb8 13. Ne5 f6 14.
with only three pieces. Nc6 Nxc6 15. Qxc6 Qd6 16. Qxd5+ Qxd5
17. Nxd5 Bd6 18. Rac1 c5

(see diagram top of next column)

Send in your games!
Back to Basics, c/o Chess Life
PO Box 3967 Crossville, TN
38557-3967
Or e-mail your material to
backtobasics@uschess.org
Defense begins.
19. dxc5 Bxc5 20. Rfd1 a5 21. Nc7 Rab8
22. Ne6 Rfe8 23. Nxc5 bxc5 24. Rxc5
Rxb2 25. Rxa5
(see second diagram next column)
Now, I am trying not to panic. I must develop
a plan to draw this game. The plan is: 1.
34. Kg3 Rhg2+ 35. Kf3 Rcf2+
If 35. ... Rgf2+, 36. Ke4 Rc4+ 37. Rd4, and
Black has a hard fight for a draw.
36. Ke4 Rxg4+, Draw agreed.
And I won first place!
Well done!

www.uschess.org 15
In The Arena / Player of the Month
Cameron Wheeler at
the North American
Open
At the highest levels of the game, one inaccuracy can lead to an
irreversibly bad position, which in turn can result in defeat.
By GM ROBERT HESS
THEY SAY WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS,
stays in Vegas. Cameron Wheeler, 17, proves
that slogan false: he has brought home oodles
of rating points from Sin City each of the past
three years. The North American Open has
been kind to Wheeler, who earned his final
two international master norms at the tourna-
ments in 2015 and 2016. In 2017, he defeated
a whopping 5 players rated over 2400 FIDE
and narrowly missed out on a grandmaster
norm. Wheeler’s eighth round victory over
fellow teenage IM Nicolas Checa is the type of
game that is frustratingly incomprehensible.
Black never did anything egregious, so how
was the game so one-sided?
ENGLISH OPENING (A11)
IM Cameron Wheeler (2477)
IM Nicolas Checa (2593)
27th Annual North American Open (8), Las
Vegas, Nevada, 12.29.2017
1. c4 Nf6 2. Nf3 c6 3. Nc3 d5 4. e3 a6 5. h3
I believe the game continuation to be a
surprisingly challenging move order for Black
to deal with, particularly if you are unfamiliar
with the nuances of the position.
16 March 2018 | Chess Life
The continuation 5. d4 b5 6. b3 Bg4 has been 9. ... Bd6
seen thousands of times, including in Checa’s
The try 9. ... cxd4 does not save Black a
seventh round game where he had white. Black
tempo. 10. Nxd4 Bd6. Not only is the knight
is happy to get the bishop outside the pawn
well-placed on d4, but now 11. Nxc6 bxc6 is
chain and trade it for a more active piece.
favorable for White, since the pawn on c6 is
5. ... e6
an easy target. In retrospect, this may have
Expanding on the queenside looks similar been easier to play.
to the analysis after 5. d4, but a vital difference 10. dxc5 Bxc5 11. Bd3 0-0
is that the light-square bishop struggles to find
comfort. In a rare game in this line, White The enticing 11. ... d4 may rid Black of his
crushed his opponent: 5. ... b5 6. b3 Bf5 7. Ba3 isolani, but the open position favors White,
Qa5 8. Bb2 e6 9. cxd5 cxd5 10. a4 b4 11. Nb5! whose bishops are superiorly placed. For
1-0 GM Vereslav Eingorn (2595) - IM Oleg example 12. exd4 Nxd4 13. 0-0 0-0 14. Ne4
Maiorov (2435), Swidnica 1997. (14. Na4 is also excellent.) 14. ... Nxe4 15. Bxe4
and White has a large advantage.
6. b3 c5
12. 0-0
This really is not a pleasant decision to make.
On one hand, Black gains space and can develop
the knight to c6. However, this is the second
time this pawn has moved and, more importantly,
Black gets stuck with an isolated pawn.
Especially since the pawn is committed to
a6, 6. ... dxc4 7. bxc4 is quite bad for Black.
White’s center is strengthened and there are
holes to exploit; 6. ... Bd6 was the response
chosen by GM Dragan Solak against Magnus
Carlsen at the 2014 Olympiad. It may result
in passivity, but it forces White to bring the
action.
Just a dozen moves into the game and Black
7. cxd5 exd5
is in grave danger. How can this be? Material
Avoiding the isolani is worse than accepting is level, no pieces are immediately hanging, and
it, as after 7. ... Nxd5 8. Bb2 Black’s kingside there are no imminent checkmate threats. While
development is halted. this is all true, what can Black do here? Every
8. d4 Nc6 9. Bb2
candidate move has a substantial drawback.
12. ... Re8
A good lesson in retaining the tension.
Capturing on c5 would allow Black to develop Rooks love (half) open files. This is incontro-
his bishop in one turn. vertible. Yet, given the current dynamics of

the position, Black is better off putting his
bishop on e6, which blocks the e-file and limits
the productivity of a black rook on e8.
Connecting the rooks with 12. ... Qe7 was more
flexible. Black can figure out the rook’s square
of choice in the future. 13. Rc1 Be6 (A trap has
been set, and Black can easily fall into it: 13. ...
Rd8 14. Na4 Ba7 [14. ... Ba3 15. Qe2 is
promising for White.] 15. Bxa6! when White
snags a pawn. If Black tries to counter with a
bishop sacrifice of his own, 15. ... Bxe3 16.
Rxc6!! and White earns two minor pieces for
a rook.) 14. Na4 (14. Ng5 is also interesting.)
14. ... Bd6 favors White, but there is a lot left
to prove. In fact, this feels like the most stubborn
defense. (Trading off the powerful bishop is
more useful in theory than in practice, for 14.
... Ba3 15. Bxa3 Qxa3 16. Nc5 is uncomfortable
for Black.); 12. ... Be6 13. Ng5 is an unwelcome
sight from Black’s point of view. With tactics
threatening to remove the guard of h7, Black
is forced to part with his bishop pair and weaken
his kingside in the process.
13. Rc1
Undoubtedly tempting is 13. Na4, but the
offside knight helps Black obtain counterplay
in the center. White certainly remains better,
but the advantage can quickly evaporate as
shown by 13. ... Ba7 14. Rc1 Ne4.
13. ... Ba7 14. Ne2
In this structure it is often best to seize control
of the c5-square, though here 14. Na4 again
runs into 14. ... Ne4.
14. ... Qd6
When left with an isolated pawn, it is
important to utilize it. Doing so generally requires
an active knight supported by that pawn. This
may seem counterintuitive, since the knight was
previously defending the weakness. However,
sometimes the best defense is creating problems
for your opponent so that the pawn is immune.
14. ... Ne4 is certainly best. White needs to tread
carefully, lest the tides turn.
The following continuation is a good example
of how Black can counterstrike with 15. Nf4
(Nearly a century has passed since Aron
Nimzowitsch penned The Blockade, a masterful
book that systematized his insights on dealing
with various forms of pawn chains and passed
and isolated pawns. Blockading an isolani is a
well-known principle, and knights are the best
piece to use. However, currently the d-pawn
is not threatening to be pushed, so attacking it
is more worthwhile than stepping in front of
it. 15. Ned4 induces a capture on d4, after which
Black will play moves like ... Bb8 and actually
gain an initiative on the kingside.) 15. ... Bf5
16. Bb1 (16. Nh5 f6 17. Nh4 Be6 and after 18.
Nf4 or Qf3 White marches forward, though
Black is still very much alive.) 16. ... Nxf2! 17.
Rxf2 Bxb1 18. Rxb1 Bxe3 19. Nxd5 Bxf2+ 20.
Kxf2 Qa5 with a very unclear game.
15. Bb1 Rd8
Now it is too late to play 15. ... Ne4 because
White immediately wins no less than a pawn
with either 16. Nf4 Rd8 17. Qxd5 (if 17. ...
Qxd5 18. Nxd5 Nxf2 19. Rxc6! is a powerful
shot that secures two minors for a rook) or 16.
Bxe4 Rxe4 17. Nc3.
16. Nfd4 Bd7 17. Ng3
17. ... Ne7
In effect the losing move. It is unfeasible to
withstand endless pressure when your opponent
seems to have countless strong plans and you
have just a few non-losing moves.
The continuation 17. ... Nxd4 18. Bxd4 Bxd4
19. Qxd4 is better for White, but requires a
difficult grind to secure the full point. It is
common practice for players with an isolani
to jettison the weakness in order to enter a
pawn down endgame, in which there are often
decent drawing chances. Psychologically, a
nearly impossible move for a human to play is
17. ... g6 with the intention of preventing a
knight jump to f5. It is not in our nature to
voluntarily open up the long diagonal with a
bishop staring down our king. Yet Wheeler
would have no means of immediately exploiting
the airy kingside. Without the time to form a
battery, Black gains a vital tempo compared to
immediately trading everything on d4 (say after
18. Qd2 Nxd4 19. Bxd4 Bxd4 20. Qxd4 Bc6).
Because White needs to prevent Black from
playing ... d4 himself, in the line 18. Nxc6 Bxc6
19. Ne2 would be absolutely necessary to fight
for an advantage. However, the simple 19. ...
Ne4 restricts White’s progress.
18. Qf3
White’s play is too simple now. Not only
does Wheeler have full control of the board,
but Checa no longer has an opportunity to
liquidate.
18. ... Bb8
You couldn’t pay most players enough money
to seriously consider 18. ... g6 here. For starters,
the knight on f6 is en prise, inviting the “obvious”
In The Arena / Player of the Month
19. Ne6 (A fantastic tactical shot is 19. Rc7! and
19. ... Rdb8 is a decent attempt to hold every-
thing together, though 20. Ne6 Ne8 21. Ng5 f5
22. Rxd7 Qxd7 23. e4!! appears catastrophic for
Black. And 19. ... Rab8 20. Nc6! is fatal.) 19. ...
Qxe6 20. Qxf6 Qxf6 21. Bxf6 but it’s unclear
how to make progress: 21. ... Kf8 22. Rc7 Rab8
and Black is holding on by a thread.
19. Rfd1
The final piece has been brought into the
action and Black does not have a single useful
move. White has a plethora of strong ideas,
including Nde2-f4.
19. ... Ng6 20. Ndf5 Bxf5 21. Qxf5
With two bishops and an ongoing attack,
the end is already near.
21. ... Ne5
Losing on the spot. The alternative, 21. ...
Ne7, delayed what must have felt like the
inevitable. The knockout blow, though, is not
imminent. 22. Qf3 Ne8 and White can proceed
with many different moves, making this a good
position to analyze at home.
22. Nh5 Ned7
23. Rc8!
Technically this move is inaccurate because
23. Qg5 simply won no less than a piece, but
what a phenomenal concept.
23. ... Rxc8
Connecting the rooks does not help 23. ...
Bc7 24. Nxf6+ Nxf6 25. Bxf6 gxf6 26. Rxa8
Rxa8 27. Qxh7+ Kf8 28. Qh8+ Ke7 29. Qxa8.
24. Nxf6+ gxf6 25. Qxh7+ Kf8 26. Qh8+
Ke7 27. Qxc8 Qh2+ 28. Kf1 Qh1+ 29. Ke2
Qxg2 30. Ba3+, Black resigned.
Games like this are emotionally draining to
lose because there is no clear blunder to pinpoint
the loss on. At the highest levels of the game,
one inaccuracy can lead to an irreversibly bad
position, which in turn can result in defeat.
The key often is to minimize your opponent’s
positives rather than to eliminate your own
negatives. Not every threat can be thwarted,
but converting is a challenge when the path
forward is less evident.
www.uschess.org 17
Look at Books / Should I Buy It?
Get Off My Lawn!
Timman’s Titans is an elegy for what has been lost, for better and
for worse, in modern chess.
By JOHN HARTMANN
ONCE A HAVEN FOR THE GEEKS AND
oddballs among us, chess has taken on a new
and more positive valence in the modern social
imagination. Chess is marketed to parents as a
gateway to academic achievement for their
children and as a source of important non-
cognitive skills like “grit.” The current US Chess
mission statement—“empowering people through
chess one move at a time”—highlights the benefits
of playing more than it does the game itself.
Today’s leading players also bear the signs
of this shift. Top tournaments are broadcast
live across the world via YouTube and Twitch,
and the competitors explain their wins and
losses with sage-like equanimity, their sponsor-
ship deals prominently featured on their blazers.
“Lesser” grandmasters and masters are riding
the e-sport wave towards exclusive streaming
deals and video series. Scholastic chess has
become a growth industry: coaches and camps
proliferate, and it seems like half the players at
big tournaments are juniors.
Surely this newfound respectability is bene-
ficial for American chess. But is it an unalloyed
good? Is nothing lost when the chess world is
transformed into a wholesome, family-friendly
environment?
I think back to my first steps in the chess
world, back to evenings at the public library
in Merrick, New York, where I was the only
person in the room under 40, and where I lost
game after game to old Russian men who
regaled me with wonderful, unprintable jokes.
It was a space where the teenaged me wasn’t
quite supposed to be, but I was there anyway,
and I was learning to fit in.
You might think about your experiences at
large tournaments like the U.S. Open. The
reputable players play their games, go back to
their rooms, and get ready for the next round
on their computers. Gone are the days of all-
night blitz benders in the skittles room. Gone
are the days of the pub crawl and the hangovers
18 March 2018 | Chess Life
destroying the next day’s play. Worst of all, the
post-mortem is a relic, an antiquity, offered
only by the aged and accepted even less
frequently. Those that do occur are haunted
by a third party—the ubiquitious Stockfish app,
lurking, correcting, standing as the ultimate
authority.
(Is this the part where I tell the kids to get
off my lawn?)
Jan Timman’s newest book, Timman’s Titans:
My World Chess Champions, is many things at
once: a set of sketches of ten world champions,
a study of their styles and games, a catalogue
of Timman’s own dreams and memories. At
its heart, however, I think Timman’s Titans is
an elegy for what has been lost, for better and
for worse, in modern chess, and a deeply
personal remembrance of a world that no longer
exists. As with most elegies, and here I follow
Samuel Taylor Coleridge, it reveals equally the
greatness of its subjects and its author. This is
Timman’s best book to date.
Timman’s Titans consists of (a) personal
remembrances of each of the world champions
from Alexander Alekhine through Garry
Kasparov, (b) a discussion of their games and
careers, and (c) highlights of Timman’s own
games against the champion in question. The
analysis is insightful and extremely well done,
but the real reason to buy this book is for
Timman’s memories and memorials.
Timman knew all of the champions he
discusses save Alekhine, and he played against
six of them in serious competition. The chapter
on Alekhine, despite the handicap of never
meeting him, is a particular highlight. We
journey with Timman to Lisbon, Portugal,
where Alekhine spent his final years. We
accompany him on his wanderings through the
snowy town, and we are present as he stumbles
upon one of Alekhine’s own chess sets in a tiny
junk shop. Here, more than anywhere else in
the book, we get a sense of Timman the flâneur,
and the writing is evocative of no less than
W.G. Sebald or Teju Cole.
Of the nine remaining champions, Karpov
is the subject of the largest chapter, at just over
50 pages. This is not terribly unexpected, as
Timman faced Karpov more than anyone else
in his career—some 115 games, according to
my database. The chapter on Vasily Smyslov
reveals a shared love of studies and justifies
Genna Sosonko’s claim of a stylistic affinity
between the two men. For me, however, the
most interesting sections are those on Max
Euwe and Mikhail Tal.
Euwe was a friend of Timman’s parents, having
taught Timman’s mother mathematics in her
youth. It was through a book of Euwe’s games—
“a plain-looking book with a hard dark-blue
cover. ... The paper was thick, the letters were
large. Euwe was the hero.” (33)—that Timman
first seriously studied “real, serious chess.”
Books are a constant reference in Timman’s
Titans. We learn that a book on Botvinnik
(Botvinnik Teaches Chess by Hans Müller) was
an early influence, and Euwe’s Judgment and
Planning in Chess was an introduction to
“strategic planning.” Later books by Alekhine
(My Best Games of Chess, 1924-1937) and Smyslov
(Selected Games) were of great importance.
Euwe, whom Timman could never bring
himself to address by his first name, is described
as bearing a “colossal authority,” as indefatigably
hard-working and (despite the odd over-the-
board blunder) eminently logical. For his part,
Euwe tried to help Timman where he could,
setting up contacts for an early tour of the
Soviet Union, and quietly contributing rather
large sums of money to the “Timman Commit-
tee” that aimed to support an assault on the
world championship.
It is clear that that Timman greatly admired
Euwe, despite some sharp differences in person-
ality between the two men.Where Euwe was
solid and respectable, the young Timman was

a bon vivant, someone who “hung around in
shabby cafes ... surrounded by shady types” (55)
and who used a threadbare fur coat as a
makeshift sleeping bag. Discipline and sobriety
were not in his nature. Indeed, as Timman tells
us, his attempts to emulate Botvinnik’s “spartan”
training methods before his first grandmaster
tournament failed horribly, and it was only
after he returned to his “trusted, unhealthy”
lifestyle that he began to win.
Perhaps Timman’s admiration for Mikhail
Tal, “a type of romantic player that has disap-
peared,” (111) can be traced to their similar
outlook on life. He seems to take delight in
describing his first encounters with the seventh
World Champion, how he succumbed to the
famed “hypnotizing power of Tal’s eye” (110)
in their first game in 1971, and how he spent a
drunken evening getting the better of Tal in a
1973 blitz match.
It is hard to imagine such a thing happening
at one of today’s leading tournaments. Sure,
the Chessbrahs like to have a little fun while
streaming, and there are videos on YouTube
of bughouse games after big events at the Saint
Louis Chess Club, but as Timman correctly
notes, “[t]oday’s top player is a teetotaller ... It
is unthinkable that he would mingle in the
social circles around the tournament the way
Tal did. The top grandmasters of yesteryear
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sat at the bar like all the other visitors. Young
players who invited them to play a blitz game
would never be turned down.” (111)
For all of this, Timman was not blind to Tal’s
very real flaws, and in particular, his alcoholism.
He tells a story of one of the first times he saw
Tal “knocked out by alcoholic excess:”
Ischa Meijer (a well-known TV journalist at the
time in the Netherlands—translator’s note) had come
to Hastings to interview me. … Meijer described
how Tal interrupted our conversation, saying: “Jan,
don’t tell them about our lives.” The interviewer
reported: “A while later, he has to be carried off.”
My father, who had great respect for top chess
players, was upset by this short sentence. How did
the interviewer dare to write something like that?
But however painful this short sentence may have
been, it was the truth. To me it was more interesting
what Tal said before that. I remember the look in
his eyes—a touch of despair was visible when he
testified to our solidarity. (114)
I have to admit that I find the pathos of this
passage almost unbearable. It is testament to
the strength of Tal’s demons and the challenges
of living under the Soviet regime, but more
than that, it is emblematic of broader societal
changes in the intervening years. Our knowledge
of public health (rightly) stigmatizes smoking,
an activity that permeates Timman’s Titans, and
2018
SPRIING
NATI
T ONALS
See ww www.uschess.org/content/view w/10015/95 for
links to
o all of our national events for
f r complete event infformation.
Look at Books / Should I Buy It?
the “romance” of addiction is much withered.
Luckily for Timman and for us, he seems to
have learned to moderate his vices, allowing
him to write this book, and us to enjoy it.
This review was originally meant to have
included discussion of two other books, but
Timman’s Titans is so rich, so packed with stories
and insights, that twice my alloted page space
would not have done it justice. I do not think
it controversial to say that this is one of the
best chess books published in recent years, and
players of all strengths would find it of great
interest.
What may be more controversial are my
concerns—mild as they may be—over the
direction of modern chess. I offer this olive
branch to those who disagree with me: you can,
barring the unforseen, find me in the bar after
the evening rounds at this year’s U.S. Open in
Madison. Come visit. I’ll buy you a drink and
we can shoot the breeze while we play some
blitz or eavesdrop on someone’s postmortem.
Do me a favor, though. Don’t come too late.
I can’t stay out all night like I used to, and I’ll
have meetings and another round to get ready
for in the morning.
Timman, Jan. Timman’s Titans. New In Chess, 2016.
ISBN Paperback: 9789056916725. FAN. 320 pages.
(Available from uscfsales.com, catalog number
B0177NIC, $29.95)
f hotel details and
a
www.uschess.org 19
Fischer’s Legacy / Ten years on

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

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

20 March 2018 | Chess Life

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

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

22 March 2018 | Chess Life


work ethic with that of New England’s football team and legendary
coach Bill Belichick. “It’s kind of like the way the Patriots train,” she
says. “They know every game is going to be a tough game, and they
don’t take anyone for granted. If they win, it’s not a surprise; they had
to work for it. Fischer was along the same lines.”
When she considers the possibility of separating the chess player
from the man or woman, Burtman thinks of learning that Arnold
Schwarzenegger, the actor she had so loved in such films as The Terminator
and Conan the Barbarian, had cheated on then-wife Maria Shriver. She
hedged her decision: she’d see the early films, but not the ones
Schwarzenegger starred in post-infidelity. But she and her husband,
who grew up watching Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids and The Cosby Show
and who had met and secured autographs from Bill Cosby, had a tougher
time with him and others who have physically harmed people. “I’m still
grappling with that one,” she says.
Donari Braxton, a filmmaker who is reportedly a master, is able to
separate the man from the chess player. “As a black Jew, I learned pretty
quickly in life that compartmentalizing heroic actors from their often
less-than-heroic personas is a bit of a sine qua non, at least if you want
to enjoy things like art, chess, and history,” he says.
Overlooking—or at least looking beyond the tortured Fischer and
his mean-spirited words to eye the games he created—is easy for Braxton.
“Those games kind of populate your mind like old paintings on the
walls of your childhood home, because you grew up with them,” he
says. The question of whether Fischer ought to inspire young people
today is the same as whether composers
like the anti-Semitic Richard Wagner
or writers like the racist Joseph Conrad
can also inspire emerging artists. “One
[Fischer] was the oppressed
takes what one can from those who
create,” Braxton says.
one, and we agreed to give
That Fischer didn’t appear to make
anti-Semitic statements before he won him cover, also as gratitude
the 1972 Reykjavik match makes it
easier to enjoy his chess creations, say
Burtman and Brady.
for promoting Iceland when
Sitting behind a chess set in the great
hall of New York’s Marshall Chess Club nobody knew about it.
as two grandmasters, Irina Krush and
Giorgi Kacheishvili, taught students
on either side of the club, Brady pointed out where Fischer played the
“Game of the Century” on October 17, 1956. In 1965, when Fischer
played via teletype from the club because his visa to Cuba was blocked,
Brady was the referee. And he remembers coming out of the office to
inform club members when John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963.
“Everyone continued to play,” he says.
Having known Fischer from when the latter was a child, and having
been a friend of Regina’s, Brady felt betrayed when Fischer’s anti-Semitic
rants emerged. Brady never heard Fischer say anything anti-Semitic
prior to the 1972 match. It’s possible Fischer knew that Brady’s wife is
Jewish, but Brady doesn’t recall telling him.
Brady too raises the question of listening to Wagner’s music. “Do
you respect Bobby Fischer’s chess even though he was a self-hating
Jew?” he asks. “I went through tremendous problems with this, personally,
in my relationship with him.” Brady decided that he could listen to
Wagner and respect Fischer’s chess. “I was very disappointed,” he says.
“I considered him a friend.”
At the club, the corner immediately to the right when visitors enter
the main room is a kind of shrine to Fischer. A cartoon from the cover
of Chess Life, which Brady founded, hangs beside a poster from the
Iceland championship match. A lone black-and-white photo of Fischer,
his left hand to his temple as he looks down upon a position, hangs
Fischer’s Legacy / Ten years on
above a light. The Marshall Chess Club ran a large tournament honoring
the 45th anniversary of Fischer’s championship win last October, but
Brady knows that some of the club’s roughly 500 members, and others
in the chess world at large, want nothing to do with Fischer. Some
wouldn’t go to a tournament honoring Fischer, and some would like
the club to remove the photograph by LIFE photographer Carl Mydans.
“I understand that point of view,” Brady says.
In a speech that Brady gave at the club when Fischer—unbeknownst
to Brady—was on his deathbed, Brady appealed to his longtime friend.
“I ended it by saying, ‘The chess world misses you. The chess world
wants you. The chess world respects you. I respect you. Come on back
to the United States. You’re not going to go to jail. You’re going to get
out. Pay your back taxes and come back and re-enter the world of chess,
and start playing again.’ That sort of sums out how I feel,” Brady says.
“It’s like what do you do with a family member who turns out to be a
thief?”
WAS FISCHER MENTALLY ILL?
When the Illinois Chess Association promoted its March 10, 2018
Bobby Fischer Memorial (held the day after Fischer’s birthday, which
this writer happens to share), the association invited competitors to
“celebrate the 75th birthday of America’s greatest player!” and to “forgive
those things beyond his control.” The framing of that promotion of the
tournament, held at the University of Illinois at Chicago, raises the
question of whether Fischer’s controversial remarks really were beyond
his control.
Brady is unconvinced, as much as he
wishes he could believe that Fischer
was mentally ill. “I don’t think Bobby
was insane. I think he was outré. I
detested his politics. I detested his anti-
Semitism,” Brady says. “He didn’t have
visions. He didn’t have hallucinations.
He never hurt anyone or himself
physically.”
Fischer was more paranoid than
most, Brady allows, but that didn’t make
him necessarily mentally ill. “This makes
it worse, as far as I’m concerned,” Brady
says. “If you could say he was mentally
ill, you might be able to forgive the poor guy. He’s nuts. He didn’t know
what he was saying. I can’t say that. I think he turned mean.”
So why did Fischer denounce the United States, and what drew him
to read—and callously recommend subsequently that Jewish friends
read—the notorious Protocols of the Elders of Zion and other anti-Semitic
literature? How could he deny the Holocaust when talking to chess
friends who had fled the Nazis and to others who had lost family members
in concentration camps? Regina wrote to her son in blunt terms of Nazi
atrocities, and his sister Joan and her husband, Russell Targ, both Jewish,
had to ask him to leave so he wouldn’t spew anti-Semitic vitriol around
their three children.
In an October 2006 email exchange, Fischer’s former trainer Harry
Sneider, whom he met at the Worldwide Church of God, recalled
meeting the grandmaster at the church’s Ambassador College in 1972.
(Fischer later had a bad breakup with the evangelical church, which he
accused of cheating him.) When Fischer came to the college’s fitness
center to work out, he saw Sneider, a physical education faculty member.
“He took one look at my arms, my blonde hair, blue eyes, and asked me
if I was Latvian!” Sneider, who died in 2014, wrote me in 2006. “This
was a shock to me because he could predict where I was from.”
Fischer’s anti-Semitism saddened and perplexed his friend of nearly
35 years. “I’m totally devastated in Bobby’s decline to his hatred for the
www.uschess.org 23
Fischer’s Legacy / Ten years on

certain times in his life, but he cautions that Fischer

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

24 March 2018 | Chess Life

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

1972’s “The Ballad of Bobby

Fischer,” performed by Joe Glazer
IN HIS 1999 SONG, Music producer Hal Willner’s 1992
Mingus tribute album,
and his Fianchettoed Bishops, “THIS LIFE FOREVER,” Weird Nightmare:
featured spoken-word lines such

JAY-Z
as, “Despite his attempts to Meditations on Mingus,
innovate, Larsen was bent includes “Canon (No.
right out of shape.” 2),” a spoken-word
IMAGE BY VECTEEZY.COM
passage about jazz
During the 1972 World Championship, THE RAPPER, CALLS HIMSELF musician Charles
Soviet singer-songwriter Vladimir Vysotsky
wrote a two-song cycle, “The honor of the
“THE BOBBY FISCHER OF RAP.” Mingus and Fischer
chess crown,” about a Soviet worker’s meeting in
preparation for the match with Fischer. Bellevue Hospital.
PHOTO BY FLICKR USER SULAIMAN.ELLISON

English alternative band iLiKETRAiNS’

2006 song, “A Rook House For
Bobby,” is an ode to Fischer’s
1992 match with Spassky,
PAUL WALL,
ANOTHER RAPPER, CLAIMS,
after which he was unable to
return to the U.S.
“I’M BOBBY FISCHER
ON THE MIC MAKING CHESS MOVES,”
CHESS, WITH LYRICS BY TIM RICE AND
IN HIS 2005 SONG, “MARCH ‘N’ STEP.”
MUSIC BY ABBA’S PHOTO BY MIKAEL VAISANEN

BJÖRN ULVAEUS Not to be outdone,

another rapper,
AND BENNY ANDERSSON, The Game,
IS LOOSELY BASED ON THE 1972 refers to
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH himself
as “the
Bobby
Fischer
of hip-
hop” in
his 2005
song,
“Runnin’.”
PHOTO BY AVRO PHOTO BY EVA RINAL PHOTO BY BRADLEY G
THE BEST CHESS BOOK
I EVER STOLE
The behind-the-
scenes story of
 
 
and the
best-selling
chess book of
all time,
Bobby Fischer
Teaches Chess

By SEAN ROBINSON

B
less me chess players, for I have sinned.
I have a confession to make: Years ago,
never mind how many precisely, I
checked out a chess book from a local library
and realized I would keep it forever.
I didn’t know it then, but my selfish impulse
marked the beginning of a trivial quest that
bloomed into a lifelong obsession with chess
and chess books and a nagging desire to connect
with an author who taught me more about the
game than anyone before or since—an author
who also happens to be the ghost writer for
the best-selling chess book in publishing history.
The book I checked out was called The Chess
Tutor: Elements of Combinations. The author,
Leslie Ault, was a name on a dust jacket,
unknown to me at the time. Most chess authors
were unknown to me at the time. I was in
college, a rank amateur, a fish, a rube, a weakie.
I had two friends who played chess. Both of
them beat me like a drum. My temper in those
days was mythic: I was a board-sweeper, a table-
pounder, a sore loser who hated being outwitted.
My friends taunted me with the old line from
C-3PO in Star Wars: “Let the Wookiee win.”
Ault’s book was my antidote, my northern
star, one of the first chess books I ever acquired.
I still revere it.
Published in 1975, it’s a tactical manual and
puzzle book with light commentary. That flat
description fails to convey the effect it had on
me. It also fails to convey the curious genesis
and genius of the book—but more on that in a
moment.
Fast forward to the present. I’m middle-aged,
an investigative journalist. Chess is my refuge
from stories of murder and governmental
screwups. My mighty library approaches 800
volumes and fills three bookcases: master games,
opening manuals, middlegame manuals,
PHOTO CREDIT: COURTESY OF AULT
endgame manuals, scholarly history, and plenty
of crap. I’m no master and never will be, but
I’m a better player, a class-C dabbler. I study
less than I should and buy more books than I
need. That’s what addiction looks like.
Others know I’m a junkie—co-workers and
friends. On rare occasions, they seek book
recommendations, which I give. For kids and
beginners, I buy and hand off copies of Bobby
Fischer Teaches Chess, which remains the cheap-
est, fastest entry point I know: all diagrams, no
theory, but you get the hang of back-rank mates.
Fischer’s Legacy / Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess
One friend, a fellow book hound, is sharp.
He knows the game and plays well enough to
give me trouble. I recommend a few obvious
classics. Then I remember Ault’s Elements of
Combinations, and confess my ancient theft:
“My conscience rebels to this day,” I said,
“but this one is in my all-time top 10. It still
goes with me on every vacation. I think I learned
more in one shot from it than any book I own.
I wrote reams in it. I gouged my blue college
pen into a mistake on page 115.”
The mistake appeared in a puzzle derived
from Fischer-Eliskases, Mar del Plata, 1960.1
In a chapter about discoveries, Ault, asking
readers to guess Black’s 32nd move, had over-
looked a mate in two.
Spotting the mistake didn’t lessen my appre-
ciation of the book. It enhanced it: Chess books
could contain errors, and by god I’d found one.
Yeah, yeah—cue the scoffing from stronger
players. I know now that older books from the
pre-computer age contain analytical errors. I’ve
read enough John Nunn footnotes and Edward
Winter essays to figure that out—but 30 years
ago, I was young and dumb.
Over time, going through Ault’s book, I’d
begun to think of him as a professor, to argue
with him in my head. My battered copy of
Elements of Combinations contains numerous
notes written in initial triumph and crossed
out in crestfallen rage after finding holes in my
amateur analysis. Fortunately, my glorious
victory on page 115 remained pure, and my
affection for the book had deepened after years
of wider chess reading.
Soon enough, my sharp friend acquired Ault’s
book (a bit of a feat, since it’s rare and pricey
these days) and relayed his review. Like me,
he was hooked.
“Ault is amazing,” he said. “I keep him on
my nightstand and do a few problems each
night before bed.”
The words struck me: “I keep him on my
nightstand.” Not the book: him, the guy, my
favorite guru. Thus, my friend became the
newest member of the tiny cult.
I had realized over time how tiny it really
was as I acquired more books, devoured online
reviews, and sought the best teachers according
to expert consensus. Naturally I wanted to
improve, but I was also fascinated by chess
pedagogy and its masters.
The perfect book aimed at average players
is something of a Holy Grail among aspiring
amateurs who seek its mystic lore, and a lure
for con artists seeking a quick buck. My stack
includes scores of volumes devoted to the
category.
Some are earnest, some transparently cynical.
Noble attempts by the greats litter the literature
from its beginnings. Staunton, Steinitz, Lasker,
Capablanca, Nimzowitsch and Alekhine took
their shots, but they were geniuses first, teachers
second. It’s axiomatic that grandmasters, with
a few notable exceptions, don’t write well for
amateurs. They simply know too much. They
take the obvious for granted. They’ve forgotten
how to play stupid moves. The best books for
amateurs don’t come from the champs—they
come from the great teachers and coaches.
Potboilers by Fred Reinfeld and Irving
Chernev dominated the genre for much of the
20th century. A few of their works still stand
up. Writers such as Bruce Pandolfini and Dan
Heisman (heartily endorsed) swim in the same
waters. C.J.S. Purdy, the first World Corre-
spondence Champion, wrote beautifully for
average players (and he praised Reinfeld’s
diagram books as ideal learning tools).
Jeremy Silman is the clear king of the modern
era. I own three editions of his How to Reassess
your Chess, justly regarded as one of the best
books of all time for players seeking common-
sense advice. Silman’s later Complete Endgame
Course is a masterpiece of instruction.
To my mind, Elements of Combinations belongs
in the same category as the classics penned by
the authors above, but it’s never received its
due. While plenty of puzzle-based books exist,
the measure of instructional quality requires
more than wordless pages of mating diagrams.
The peculiar greatness of Ault’s book is its
sense of gradualism, the sweet spot of chess
instruction. Elements of Combinations divides
into 15 chapters, starting with basic tactics:
pins, forks, skewers, discoveries and such.
Nothing new, then or now, but Ault has a knack
for setting the degree of difficulty just above
the amateur’s horizon line: the mark of a great
teacher.
What’s more, the book adds a fiendish
wrinkle: Typically, Ault doesn’t tell you which
player has the move. He asks the reader to
decide the best moves for White and Black—
www.uschess.org 27
Fischer’s Legacy / Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess
TOP: AULT’S TWO KEY BOOKS. BELOW: THE AUTHOR’S NOTE IN ELEMENTS: “SPOTTING THE
MISTAKE DIDN’T LESSEN MY APPRECIATION OF THE BOOK. IT ENHANCED IT: CHESS BOOKS
COULD CONTAIN ERRORS, AND BY GOD I’D FOUND ONE.”
an uncommon feature in chess puzzle books,
and a sneakily effective method of teaching
defense.
For me, that element was a revelation, as
silly as it sounds. It’s easy enough in various
puzzle books to spot three-move mates, but
what if you’re trying to prevent those crushers,
to save yourself? What happens if you think
about the opponent’s moves as well as your
own? In short, what happens if you actually
28 March 2018 | Chess Life
start playing chess?
I didn’t have a formal rating when I acquired
Ault’s book back in the day. If I had, it wouldn’t
have been good: maybe 900, if I want to delude
myself. I’d say Ault’s book was worth 400 points
to my game, still the biggest single leap of
improvement I’ve ever experienced. After that
evolution, my old friends refused to play me
unless I gave them knight or rook odds.
These days, I’m comfortably average, class
C, working toward B, pounding on my end-
game knowledge—but I still return to Elements
for tactical refreshment. It never disappoints.
A separate factor adds serious geek value:
Elements might qualify as the most neglected
Fischer book ever published. Check the long
lists of Fischer literature yourself. You’ll be hard-
pressed to find any mention of Ault’s book —yet
half of its approximately 280 puzzles are drawn
from Fischer games, including a number of
examples from the 1972 World Championship
match with Boris Spassky. It ought to be regarded
as a sequel: Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess II.
As a matter of fact, that’s what it was supposed
to be: Ault, a national master and former U.S.
intercollegiate chess champion (1959), essentially
wrote Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess (BFTC) after
obtaining his Master of Arts. It doesn’t look like
it on the cover, which credits Fischer, Stuart
Margulies, and Donn Mosenfelder as the authors.
In reality, Margulies, a chessplaying executive,
obtained the contract, and Mosenfelder, another
chessplaying executive, was supposed to write
the book. A car accident hampered Mosenfelder;
Ault was handed the editing reins. Ault recounts
this story in his later book, The Genesis of Power
Chess (1993), which draws on the same instruc-
tional methods as BFTC:
“One of the executives, Stuart Margulies,
knew me from chess tournaments and figured
my chess ability would transfer to instructional
writing. Unknown to me, Stuart had a contract
along with Donn Mosenfelder (for writing)
and Bobby Fischer (for the name) to prepare a
basic ‘chess program,’ covering simple mating
techniques in step-by-step fashion with active
responding. After Donn was slowed down by
an auto accident, I was asked to help him
complete the manuscript on schedule.
“... I was given the job, nominally as ‘editor,’
to get it ready for publication. ... Our job was
to tidy up the text, make sure all analysis was
accurate, and work with Bobby Fischer in
integrating some of his own positions into
the text.
“While I knew Fischer by sight from various
tournaments in my teens, I had never met him
personally. At first he was suspicious and defen-
sive, but soon he became very helpful and
cooperative—all in all a fascinating experience
to work with a genius on the verge of becoming
a household name in America. The result, of
course, was Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess, which
continues in print today, certainly helped by
Fischer’s name but also I believe because of its
unique systematic presentation for beginners.”
Ault, born in 1940, was a contemporary of
Fischer’s. His older brother, Robin, was a
three-time U.S. Junior Champion from 1959-
61, and rather famously lost all 11 of his games
in the 1961 U.S. Championship (one of them
a Fischer sparkler2).
 Fischer’s Legacy / Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess

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

been right: where a teaching ‘frame’ was shown in a

“Sure, give my email to Sean, all the more
so as I have a current chess project,” Ault wrote.
The author I’d admired for years, a formative
figure in my life, a man I’d never met, was open
to a message. What’s more, he was still writing
about chess.
Oddly enough, I didn’t respond immediately.
I was afraid of sounding too gushy. I drafted a
note, rewrote it, rewrote it again, and finally
hit the send button a few weeks later.
“In real life, I'm a jaded investigative
window, and the correct answer choice allowed
the paper roll to be advanced to the next frame.
... I think Skinner would have been fascinated
with the pedagogical uses for computers.”
Here was a serious discovery: The most
famous behaviorist of the 20th century had
SOLUTION
contributed in a small way to the best-selling With White to move, the position is equal after 1. Rb2+
chess book of all time, envisioning the Q&A Nd2+ 2. Kxd2 Nd5 3. Rd5 Nf4 4. Ke3 Ne6 5. Rh5 Kg3 6.
learning structure popularized in chess books Rb5 Re1+. While with Black to move, Black is clearly
later refined by Leslie Ault, who was taking winning after 1. ... Ra8 2. Kc2 Rc8 3. Rb7 Kf3 4. Kd3 Rd8+
the same ideas and preparing a new book. 5. Kc2 Ke3 6. Rb6 Rc8.

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

30 March 2018 | Chess Life

 College Chess / 2017 PanAms

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

CARO-KANN,
ADVANCE VARIATION (B12)
Baren Gunsolus (1749, University of
Minnesota Twin Cities “B”)
Peter Gabrielides (816, Oberlin College)
2017 Pan-American Intercollegiate (2),
Columbus, Ohio, 12.28.2017
1. e4 c6 2. d4 d5 3. f3 Nd7 4. Bd3 e5 5.
Be3 Bd6 6. Ne2 Ne7 7. Nd2 0-0 8. c4 dxc4
PHOTO CREDIT: COURTESY OF WEBSTER UNIVERSITY
15. ... f5?! 16. e5?
16. Nxc4, discovering on the black bishop,
gives White a better game.
16. ... Nd5! 17. Bf2 Bc5 18. Nd4 Nxf4 19.
N2f3 Nxe5!! 20. Nxe5 Bxd4
Frank Marshall or Paul Morphy would have
preferred 20. ... Qg5! with the same fork-tactic
used in the game: 20. ... Qg5 21. Bg3 Bxd4+
22. Qxd4 Ne2+.
THE “BRAVE” AND “MOST
IMPORTANT GAME”
For four rounds, Webster “A” holds its grip
on table one and SLU holds court on table two.
Round five on Monday night sees the faceoff
of the 2700 intracity rivals. The match comes
down to one imbroglio on third board between
two former U.S. Championship contenders.
Who knows what happens when a Gorlok

9. Bxc4 b5 10. Bb3 Bb7 11. 0-0 a6 12. f4
21. Bxd4 Qxd4+ 22. Qxd4 Ne2+ 23. Kh1
exd4 13. Nxd4 c5 14. N4f3 c4 15. Bc2
Nxd4 24. Bd1 Rad8 25. a4 Rfe8 26. Nf3
Bxf3 27. Bxf3 Nb3 28. Ra2 Nd2 29. Rf2 (a
blunder in a lost position, allowing mate in
two) 29. ... Re1+, White resigned.
battles a Billiken? (Who knows even what
either is?)
RUY LOPEZ, BERLIN DEFENSE (C65)
GM Ray Robson (2731, Webster U. “A”)
GM Yaro Zherebukh (2717, Saint Louis U. “A”)
2017 Pan-American Intercollegiate (5),
Columbus, Ohio, 12.29.2017

1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nf6 4. d3 Bc5

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

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

www.uschess.org 31
College Chess / 2017 PanAms
With all three other boards on table one
drawn and sealed with a handshake, Robson
also offers a draw! Webster’s team captain is
willing to go into the last round with a less
than perfect score and tied with the new rival.
At the PanAms, players cannot consult anyone
about draw offers. Yaro declines, “Since I was
better.” He disdains the tying field goal and
goes for the touchdown. But perhaps both he
and Ray underestimate White’s loose-looking
position. Robson is, after all, the one with the
extra piece and an open g-file.
23. ... Re8 24. Nf5 Rd7 25. Qe3 Qxc4
The continuation 25. ... Qxe4+ 26. Qxe4
Rxe4 27. Rad1 Rxd1 28. Nh6+ Kh8 29. Nf7+
Kg8 30. Nh6+ is a way to reach the draw
scorned by “Yaro Z.”
26. Rae1 Qxa2 27. Qf3 Kh8 28. Bd4 Qf7
29. Ba1
29. ... g6
After 29. ... Qe6 30. Nd4 Qc4 31. e5 Rxd4 32.
Bxd4 Qxd4 33. Rd1 Qc4 34. exf6 gxf6 35. Rd7,
Stockfish 8 favors White despite the black
queenside pawn mass. Many human players
would agree. A notable opportunity for a
brilliancy follows 35. ... Bh6?, because of 36.
Qe3!!.
(see diagram top of next column)
Now 36. ... Qf7 37. Rxf7 Rxe3 38. Rxf6 Bg7
39. Rf7 Bh6 and 40. Rxc7 leaves White better.
30. Ng3
The continuation 30. Nh4 Bg7 31. Qh3 Kg8
32. f5 g5 33. e5! looks like more trouble than
Black could handle.
32 March 2018 | Chess Life
ANALYSIS AFTER 36. Qe3!!
30. ... Bc5 31. f5 Bd4
Yaro Z. is obviously wary of 31. ... Bxg1 32.
Rxg1 but perhaps it’s best: After 32. ... Rd6 33.
Qf4 Qe7, both sides are still in the game. But
who can assess such a position over the board?
After the exchange of dark-square bishops,
however, Black is lost.
32. Bxd4 Rxd4 33. fxg6 hxg6 34. Nf5!
gxf5 35. Qe3!!
As in the variation after move 29, moving
the queen just so is the only clearly winning
blow.
35. … Rd7 36. Rd1 Rg8
Worse is 36. ... Rxd1 37. Qh6+ Qh7 38.
Qxf6+ Qg7 39. Qxg7 mate.
37. Qh6+ Qh7 38. Qxf6+ Rdg7 39. Rd7
Even four (soon to be five) pawns up, it’s a
dismal plight for Black.
39. ... fxe4 40. Rgxg7 Rxg7 41. Rd8+ Qg8
42. Qh4+ Rh7 43. Rxg8+ Kxg8 44. Qd8+
Kf7 45. Qxc7+ Kg6 46. Qxc6+ Kf5 47. Kg2
Re7 48. Kf2 e3+ 49. Ke2 Re6 50. Qd5+
Kf6 51. h4 a5 52. h5, Black resigned.
It’s hopeless: 52. ... a4 53. h6 Re8 54. h7, with
the threat of Qg8, is good enough; or 52. ...
Ke7 53. Qg5+ Kf7 54. Qh6.
“It was the most important game of this
PanAms for our team, and a brilliant game by
Ray (Robson),” Webster’s Paul Truong said
after his team had a firm grip on the big, gold-
tinted, first-place trophy.
SLU Coach GM Alejandro Ramirez naturally
had a bit different, but stoical, take: “Yaro’s
decision to play on against Robson after being
offered a draw when all the other games had
finished in half-points was brave, but of course
it made us extremely nervous. And it didn’t
pay off this time.”
ROUND SIX: HAS UT-D CRACKED
THE CODE?
Organizers never had to move the Webster
logo from table one. As a result of Zherebukh’s
pressing for a win, only Webster “A” boasts a
perfect 5-0 score. UT-Dallas “B” stands in clear
second with 4½, having given up a draw against
UT-RGV “B” in round four and beaten UT-
RGV “A” in round five. Now it faces Webster
on table one. Eight other teams at 4-1, six of
them scholarship powerhouses, crack skulls,
scrambling for one of the spots in the Final
Four to move on to New York for the Easter
weekend playoffs.
Table one: UT-Dallas “B” (2560) versus Webster
“A” (2724)
Table two: SLU (2702) versus Harvard (2422)
Table three: UT-Dallas “A” (2593) versus UT-
RGV “A” (2650)
Table four: Webster “B” (2634) versus UT-
Dallas “C” (2529)
Table five: U. of Illinois “A” (2088) versus Texas
Tech “A” (2615)
Remarkably, three UT-Dallas teams are still
in the running for the Final Four, and one team
still has a shot for clear first! That encouraging
scenario is a result of UT-Dallas’ Program
Director James Stallings’ new strategy. With a
plethora of GMs at his disposal, instead of
loading up one team to have the highest rating,
Stallings put together three teams within a few
points of each other. “That way we’d have three
chances to qualify.” Any of a college’s teams
can win the Final Four spot for its school.
Sometimes you have a great plan, you execute
it well, and it all falls into place. “Hannibal”
Smith, flashing that toothy grin, would be
lighting-up his cigar. But his A-Team just blew
stuff up—they never had to contend with
tiebreaks. That is The University of Texas at
Dallas’ problem.
SWEEPING UP TIEBREAKS
After match points, the PanAms use the U.S.
Amateur Team East tiebreak, multiplying wins
against the opposing team’s final match-point
score. Thus, defeating a 4-2 team with a 4-0
sweep would add 16 tiebreak points. That’s
exactly what Texas Tech does against Illinois
“A” for the only last-round sweep among the
top teams. GM Pavlo Vorontsov, on third board
for Texas Tech A, quickly does his part by
sacking the house against an opponent who
lets his troops stray too far from the killing
 College Chess / 2017 PanAms

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

CLOSED SICILIAN DEFENSE (B23)

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

1. e4 c5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. Bb5 e5 4. Bxc6

dxc6 5. d3 Bd6 6. Be3 Nf6 7. Qd2 0-0 8.
h3 Nd7 9. 0-0-0 b5 10. f4 b4 11. Nce2 Qa5
12. Kb1 Nb6 13. b3 exf4 14. Nxf4 Be5 15.
Nf3 Bc3 16. Qf2 Rb8 17. Qg3?

Better was 17. Ne2!.

ANALYSIS AFTER 17. Ne2!

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

White resigned.

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

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

Death comes on stocking feet. After the

sacrifice of a knight and a queen, Vorontsov
makes a lethal “quiet move.” There’s no escaping
mate after ... Ra6 and ... Ra1. With not a single
friendly piece west of the d-file, the white king
goes to the gallows alone.
SLU’s GM Francesco Rambaldi wins a
sprightly round six game as Black in his team’s
3-1 defeat of Harvard, putting the Billikens in
PHOTO CREDIT: AL LAWRENCE

the 5-1 group, where it will all be about

tiebreaks to get into the Final Four.
QUEEN’S GAMBIT ACCEPTED,
CLASSICAL MAIN LINE (D27)
Bryan Hu (2305, Harvard University)
GM Francesco Rambaldi (2610, Saint Louis
University “A”)
2017 Pan-American Intercollegiate (6),
Columbus, Ohio, 12.30.2017
17. e5
This move hands Black all the edge a grand-
master needs. Instead, White could first use
his attacked bishop as a desperado: 17. Bxh6
gxh6 18. e5 Nxe5 19. Nxe5.
17. ... Nxe5 18. Bxf6 Qxf6 19. Nxe5 Qxe5
20. Qxe5 Bxe5 21. Bf1 Rac8 22. Rxd8+
Rxd8 23. Rd1 Rxd1 24. Nxd1 Kf8 25. g3
After 38. Bxd5 Kd2 39. Bf3, 39. ... a5 wins
simply.
Meanwhile, Webster “A” clinches first by
finally giving up a “team” half-point to UT-
Dallas “B,” which finishes as the only other
unbeaten squad. On table four, Webster “B”
squeaks by UT-Dallas “C,” and Texas Tech
blanks University of Illinois “A. ”

www.uschess.org 33
College Chess / 2017 PanAms

Chess, Hijabs, and The New York Times

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

In 2016, Dorsa was the second-

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

But even when Dorsa was studying

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

34 March 2018 | Chess Life


THE SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY SECOND-PLACE FINISHERS: (LEFT TO RIGHT) COACH GM ALEJANDRO RAMIREZ, IM DORSA DERAKHSHANI, GMS
FRANCESCO RAMBALDI, CEMIL CAN ALI MARANDI, YARO ZHEREBUKH, ALEXANDER IPATOV, DARIUSZ ŚWIERCZ, WITH TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR
KELLY BLOOMFIELD.
NAIL-BITING TO THE END
Games over, rather than disclosing tiebreak
order as soon as it’s calculated, Organizer Kelly
Bloomfield keeps the suspense alive to draw
the biggest crowd to a PanAms closing cere-
mony in recent years—and announces awards
in reverse order. The program directors of the
5-1 schools sit like kids waiting to unwrap that
Christmas package that may not be quite the
right shape.
Schools can have only one team in the Final
Four, so there are four scholarship teams
hoping to have one of the remaining three
PHOTO CREDIT: AL LAWRENCE
seats at the Final Four. SLU gets a berth. So
does Texas Tech, thanks to its last-round
sweep. Without even a drum-roll, UT-RGV
is the final qualifier, and UT-D, 10-time
winner of the event, is the hard luck school
of the 2017 PanAms. Despite having three
teams behind the ropes in the last round,
despite its “B” team’s going undefeated and
being the only squad to draw Webster “A,”
UT-D’s season is over.
Complete results and pairings are online at www.buckeyechess.com/2017PanAmTournament.html.
Qualifiers for the Final Four can send a team
made up of any of their student players they
choose, so rosters of the U.S. collegiate hopefuls
aren’t known. But here are the four schools,
with the players that clinched the spots for
their schools:
WEBSTER UNIVERSITY
GMs Alex Shimanov, Jorge Cori, Ray Robson,
Vasif Durarbayli
SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY
GMs Alexander Ipatov, Dariusz Świercz, Yaro
Zherebukh, Francesco Rambaldi, Cemil Can
Ali Marandi, IM Dorsa Derakhshani
TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY
GMs Andrey Baryshpolets, Sergei Matsenko,
Pavlo Vorontsov, IM Evgeny Shtembuliak
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS-RIO
GRANDE VALLEY
GMs Kamil Dragun, Andrey Stukopin,
Vladimir Belous, Carlos Hevia Alejano
College Chess / 2017 PanAms
A STORIED HISTORY AND MANY
TO THANK
The Pan-Am Intercollegiate Team Chess
Championship has been held every year since
1946. The PanAms are sanctioned by US Chess
but depends on volunteer organizers to run
the not-for-profit event. Chief Organizer Kelly
Bloomfield saw to it that this year’s event offered
the amenities of a first-class grandmaster
tournament for all—with a collegial reception,
a spacious playing site, and refreshments for
all the players every round. Chief Director
Grant Perks ran an on-time event with the
help of Bloomfield, who was Chief Assistant
Tournament Director as well as Organizer,
Kathy Lin, Ben Tancinco, Al Valentine, and
Aryan Balyan.
The 2017 PanAms was sponsored by Ohio
State University, with help from the U.S. Chess
Trust and Akuna Capital. The 2018 PanAms
will be held in San Francisco, organized by Bay
Area Chess.
www.uschess.org 35
 GM Irina KRUSH
IM Anna ZATONSKIH
WGM Tatev ABRAHAMYAN
IM Nazi PAIKIDZE
WGM Sabina FOISOR
WGM Jennifer YU
WIM Annie WANG
FM Maggie FENG
WGM Anna SHAREVICH
IM Dorsa DERAKHSHANI
WIM Akshita GORTI
IM Rusudan GOLETIANI

36 January 2018 | Chess Life

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

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

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

38 March 2018 | Chess Life

 Cover Story / Shabalov Wins Eastern Open

What a Piece
of Work is Shabba!

 
 Blitzes the Opposition
at the 44th Eastern Open
By TOM BECKMAN

T
he move to Tyson’s Corner, Virginia increased the turnout to 205 players in the six-section, seven-round Eastern Open
over December 27-30, 2017. GM Alexander Shabalov suffered no slings or arrows at this year’s six-section, seven-round
Eastern Open, finishing the tournament with a perfect score. The decisive game came in round four when GM Shabalov
downed GM Aleksandr Lenderman (last year’s winner) to take a full-point lead over the field. GM Lenderman took second
with 5½ points..
In addition to the main tournament, a day-long scholastic tourney drew 54 players in three sections, and the blitz tourney
consisted of 36 entrants. A lecture by Alex Lenderman on active and defensive prophylaxis showcased the event.
PHOTO CREDIT:

Due to the number of fine submissions, it was quite difficult to settle on the winners of the special prizes, the source for
this article. The number of special prizes were increased in the three categories: Best Played Game/Best Fighting Spirit, Brilliancy, and Opening
Innovation. A tournament e-booklet was sent out to all participants containing over 50 annotated and raw game scores, as well as brilliancies,
puzzles, and an opening survey.

www.uschess.org 39
Cover Story / Shabalov Wins Eastern Open
FEATURED GAMES
FROM THE 2017
EASTERN OPEN
All In: Both Alexs had perfect
scores going into round four and
it was likely that this game would
determine the eventual tourna-
ment winner. This game won the
second prize for Best Played Game.
QUEEN’S GAMBIT
DECLINED (D30)
GM Alexander Shabalov (2629)
GM Aleksandr Lenderman
(2689)
44th Annual Eastern Open (4),
Tyson’s Corner, Virginia,
12.29.2017
Notes by GM Alexander
Shabalov (AS), GM Aleksandr
Lenderman (AL), and Tom
Beckman (TB)
1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 a6!?
(AS) Wait a minute, this is
exactly what I played against
Lenderman a year ago at the same
tournament with the colors
reversed! While it is not a bad
move itself, Alex lamented his
choice after the game saying that
inclusion of 3. ... Nf6 4. Nc3 is
necessary if Black intends to play
this line. This is a little extreme
statement, no doubt influenced by
game result, and a lot of strong
players, including Mamedyarov,
would disagree. An out of form
(and out of luck) Magnus Carlsen
playing Black lost against his own
second and good friend, Jon Ludvig
Hammer, in the last round at
Stavenger 2015. An unenviable
situation for the champion. It is
therefore not a surprise that
Carlsen now chooses to play
something slightly different. ... 3.
... Nf6 4. g3 leads to a standard
Catalan after 4. ... a6 5. Bg2 dxc4,
and 4. Nc3 a6 is the move order
Black is looking for.
(AL) Black should wait for
White to play Nc3 before ventur-
ing ... a7-a6. Thus, if 3. Nc3, then
3. ... a6 is OK; or if 3. ... Nf6 4.
Nc3, then 4. ... a6 is OK.
4. Nbd2!?
(AS) Played after 20 minutes
thinking. I seriously considered
active options like:
40 March 2018 | Chess Life
1) 4. cxd5 exd5 5. Nc3 c6 6. e4
([TB] 6. Bf4 may be better)
6. ... dxe4 7. Ng5 Nh6 8. Bc4
Be7 9. Ncxe4 Bf5 10. d5 0-0
11. 0-0 cxd5 12. Bxd5 Nc6 13.
h3 Nb4 14. Bb3 Qd3 1/2-1/2
(14) Hammer, J (2630)-
Andreikin, D (2734) chess.
com INT 2017, or
2) 4. Bg5 1-0 (34) Hammer, J
(2677)-Carlsen, M (2876)
Stavanger 2015.
But in the end, I decided to stick
with my pregame plan: to check
out how Alex’s defense to the
Catalan is doing.
4. ... Nf6?!
(AS) And this is already a mis-
step. However, 4. ... c5 deserved
serious attention. It is hard to
believe, but the game can quickly
stir into uncharted territory as early
as move four in a major 1. d4
opening! After 5. cxd5 ...
1) 5. ... exd5 6. e4!? (Or 6. g3
Nc6 7. Bg2 Nf6 8. 0-0 Be6
with a kind of Tarrasch setup)
and now either:
a) 6. ... cxd4 7. exd5 with a
totally original and fresh
position, or
b) 6. ... Nf6 7. exd5 cxd4 8.
Bc4 b5 9. Bd3 Be7 10. Nb3
Qxd5 11. Nbxd4
2) (TB) 5. ... cxd4 6. Qa4+ b5 7.
Qxd4 exd5 with equal
chances.
(AL) Weaker is 4. ... dxc4 5.
Nxc4 b5 6. Nce5 f6 (6. ... Bb7 7.
a4) 7. Nd3 when White has a nice
edge.
5. g3!
(AS) That’s the point. While 4.
Nbd2 is a program move for
White, ... a6 without taking on c4
first does not look smart for Black.
(AL) This setup with Nbd2 and
g3 is probably just good for White.
That’s why it’s more accurate if
you want to play the systems with
... a7-a6, to play it only once
White’s knight is already on c3.
5. ... dxc4
(AS) 5. ... c5 now is a bit too late
as after 6. Bg2 Nc6 7. 0-0 cxd4 8.
cxd5 Nxd5 9. Nb3 White has a
pleasant advantage.
(AL) 5. ... c5 6. Bg2 Nc6 7. 0-0
cxd4 8. cxd5 Nxd5 9. Nb3 Be7 10.
Nbxd4 Nxd4 11. Qxd4 when
White has a little pull.
6. Nxc4 b5
(AS) There are two additional
options:
1) 6. ... b6 7. Bg2 Bb7 8. Nce5
Ra7 9. 0-0 Bd6 10. Bg5 0-0
a) 11. Qc1 and 1-0 (37)
Istratescu, A (2589)-
Secheres, A (2332) Corund
2017
b) (TB) Slightly better is 11.
Rc1 Be7 12. Qa4 h6 13.
Bxf6 gxf6 14. Ng4 f5 15.
Nge5 Be4 16. Qb3 Qd5 17.
Qe3 with a nice edge.
2) 6. ... c5 led to a famous
masterpiece in 7. Bg2 Nc6
a) 8. Nfe5 Nxe5 9. dxe5
Qxd1+ 10. Kxd1 Nd7 11.
a4 Rb8 12. a5 ([TB] Slight-
ly better is 12. Kc2 b6 13.
Rd1 Bb7 14. Bxb7 Rxb7 15.
Be3 when White has a
winning advantage) and 1-
0 (36) Andersson, U
(2640)-Lautier, J (2620)
Biel 1996, or
b) 8. 0-0!? cxd4 9. Bf4 Nd5?
10. Nxd4 Nxd4 11. Qxd4
winning.
7. Nce5 Bb7
(AS) Knowing how the game
went, it is easy to recommend 7.
... Bb4+ 8. Bd2 Bxd2+ 9. Qxd2 Bb7
10. Bg2 0-0 11. Rc1 Qd6 12. 0-0
but then Black has to forever
abandon any ambitions of playing
... c7-c5.
8. Bg2 Qc8
(AS) 8. ... Qc8 is an unfortunate
necessity as Nxf7 followed by Ne5+
was already in the air. No better
was 8. ... Bd5 9. 0-0 Be7 10. Bg5
h6 11. Bxf6 Bxf6 12. Qc2.
(AL) Alternatives are:
1) 8. ... Bd5 9. 0-0 h6 (9. ... Nbd7
10. Bg5 or 10. Nxd7) 10. Bf4
(10. a4) and Black is worse.
2) 8. ... Be7 9. Nxf7 Kxf7 10.
Ng5+ which is awful.
9. 0-0 Be7 10. Bf4 0-0 11. Rc1
Ra7
(AS) With simple moves, White
achieved almost a decisive advan-
tage and now has to choose from
a bunch of good plans.
(TB) Or 11. ... Be4 12. Ng5 Bxg2
13. Kxg2 Qb7+ 14. Kg1 Nd5 15.
e4 Nxf4 16. gxf4 and White is
much better.
12. Bh3
(AS) The computer also likes to
prepare for e2-e4, but does it more
precisely with 12. Nd3! Bd5 13.
Re1.
12. ... Bd5 13. Nd2 Qd8 14. Qc2
Nh5
(AS) After 14. ... Ba8 15. e4 Qxd4
16. Nxf7 Kxf7 17. Be3, White is
winning.
15. Be3 f5 16. f3
(TB) Here White has several
more promising options:
1) 16. Bg2 Nf6 17. Rfd1 a5 18.
Bxd5 Nxd5
2) 16. Nb3 stops ... c7-c5 and
puts Black in a permanent
bind.
3) 16. g4 fxg4 17. Bxg4 Nf6 18.
Bf3
16. ... Bd6?!
(AS) About 40 years ago, Mark
Dvoretsky was giving a lecture on
methods to change the course of a
bad/passive position during an
annual Russian junior camp in the
Armenian mountains. Had Alex
Lenderman been at the camp, he
would definitely choose to play ...
c7-c5 now or on the next move.
After 16. ... c5!? 17. dxc5, Black
can reach a reasonable position
with either:
1) 17. ... Bf6 18. Bd4 Nd7 19. f4
g5 20. c6 Rc7
a) 21. Qd3 Bxe5 22. fxe5 Rxc6
23. Rxc6 Bxc6 24. Rc1 Bb7

b) 21. Qd1 Bxe5 22. fxe5 Bxc6
23. e4 g4 24. Bg2 (TB), or
2) 17. ... f4 18. Bd4 fxg3 19. e3
gxh2+ 20. Kxh2 Qe8 21. f4
Bf6 (TB)
17. Bf2 Qg5?
(AS) Better is 17. ... c5 18. e4
Ba8 19. Rce1 (or 19. f4 cxd4 20.
Qb3) 19. ... Rc7 20. exf5 cxd4 21.
Qb1.
(AL) For better or worse, 17. ...
c5 18. e4 Ba8 had to be tried here
to get the rook from a7 into the
game. Since I didn’t play ... c7-c5,
I didn’t have real chances after that.
18. Bg2
(AS) Now it is all over. Like in
countless games before this one a
well prepared e2-e4 wins in a 1.
d4 opening.
18. ... Qh6 19. e4 Bb7 20. exf5
Rxf5 21. Ng4
(AL) 21. g4 also wins easily of
course.
21. ... Qg6 22. d5 Ra8 23. dxe6
Qxe6 24. Rfe1 Qf7
25. Bh3!
(AS) The key move that forces
Black to sacrifice an Exchange
without adequate compensation.
25. ... Rxf3 26. Nxf3 Qxf3 27.
Qb3+ Qxb3 28. axb3 Nd7 29.
Nh6+! gxh6 30. Bxd7 Nf6 31.
Be6+ Kg7 32. Bc5 Kg6 33.
Bxd6 cxd6 34. Rc7 Be4
(see diagram top of next
column)
(AS) Here comes a thematic
finish that reminds me of the
famous Reti-Alekhine Baden-
Baden 1925 finale.
35. Rxe4! Nxe4 36. Bd5 Re8
37. Bf7+, Black resigned.
Shabba’s Secret Sauce: Alex
had four games with Black in the
tournament, and he was very
consistent in his treatment of the
opening. However, it was a very
obscure variation, and—to this
author’s skeptical eye—it seemed
dubious at best. So, I asked Shabba
about it, and was floored by his
response:
NIMZOWITSCH DEFENSE
(B00)
GM Alexander Shabalov (2656)
FM James Schuyler (2396)
118th U.S. Open Championship
(9), Norfolk, Virginia, 08.06.2017
Notes by Shabalov.
1. e4 Nc6 2. d4 d6!
I must explain a little about this
move order, which New in Chess
called a Pirc-Nimzo hybrid, and
which I believe is accurate. My
personal journey into this line
began in August 2017 when James
Schuyler played it against me in
the last round of the 2017 U.S.
Open. I reacted with my standard
three pawns attack and quickly was
worse.
3. Nc3 Nf6 4. f4 e5 5. d5 Ne7
6. Nf3 exf4 7. Bxf4 Ng6 8. Bg3
Be7 9. Bb5+ Bd7 10. Bxd7+
Qxd7?!
The first step in a wrong
direction. After 10. ... Nxd7 11.
0-0 Bf6, Black is already better.
11. h3 0-0 12. Nd4 c6?!
And this is another false step as
Black helps White to get rid of his
e4 weakness.
13. 0-0 cxd5 14. exd5 Rfe8 15.
Nf5 Rac8 16. Qd4 Bd8 17. Kh1
Ne5 18. Rae1 Rc4 19. Qxa7!,
Black resigned.
Everyone in Virginia knows that
James has played this opening pretty
Cover Story / Shabalov Wins Eastern Open
much all of his life and in 2013
published a wonderful book (The
Dark Knight System, Everyman Chess)
on the subject. But because not too
many people know James outside of
the state, nobody paid attention.
Recently there were two events that
hopefully will change that.
First there was an article by
Jeroen Bosch in #6 New in Chess
magazine of 2017 that drew the
attention of a few players (includ-
ing myself, and I went 4-0 with it
at the Eastern Open! Thanks
Jeroen!) My biggest surprise came
when I started to analyze my games
from Tyson’s Corner and realized
that I was not the only one who
took note of Bosch’s suggestions.
There were a few other guys,
and—that’s right— one of them was
Magnus Carlsen, who employed it
with a great success at the World
Rapid and Blitz, occurring at the
same time as the Eastern Open.
GMs Viswanathan Anand and
Olexandr Bortnyk escaped after
being seriously worse and Sergei
Movsesian lost badly. What is the
main attraction of this line? In my
opinion, what Black does is to draw
opponents into a King’s Indian
structure, which is a challenge for
many 1. e4 players.
The following game is an nice
illustration of this concept. My
opponent had a great tournament,
beating a bunch of higher-rated
players, but in this game he just
could not get around without his
dark-square bishop.
PIRC-NIMZO HYBRID,
SCHUYLER’S DARK
KNIGHT SYSTEM (B00)
Missaka Warusawitharana
(2202)
GM Alexander Shabalov (2629)
44th Annual Eastern Open (7),
Tyson’s Corner, Virginia,
12.30.2017
Notes by Shabalov.
1. e4 Nc6 2. d4 d6! 3. c4 e5 4.
d5 Nb8 5. Nc3 g6 6. Be3 Bh6
Slightly better was 6. ... h5! 7.
Qd2 Bh6 8. Nf3 Nd7.
7. Qd2 Bxe3 8. Qxe3 Kf8 9.
Bd3
Or 9. c5 Nd7 10. cxd6 cxd6 11.
Be2.
(TB) 9. h4 h5 10. 0-0-0 Nf6 11.
Be2 Kg7 12. Rf1 is also interesting.
9. ... Kg7 10. Nge2 Nh6 11. h3
c6 12. 0-0-0
It seems that the idea to castle
long is a mistake in this structure.
White is unable to open files on
the kingside, while Black has all
the time in the world on the
opposite side.
12. ... cxd5 13. cxd5 Nd7 14. g4
f6 15. Rdg1
Weaker was 15. f4 Nc5 16. Kb1
Nxd3.
15. ... Nf7 16. Ng3 Nc5 17. Bc2
Bd7
Somewhat better was 17. ... b5!
18. Nxb5 Qb6 19. Nc3 Rb8 20. Nd1
Ba6.
18. Kb1
Or 18. b4 Na6 19. a3 Nc7 20.
Bd3 Rc8 21. Kb2 Na8.
(TB) White’s last chance for
counterplay was 18. h4!? Bxg4 19.
f3 Bc8! 20. Nf5+ Kf8 21. Nh6 Qb6
22. Qd2 with mutual chances.
18. ... a5 19. Rh2 b5 20. Bd1
Qb6 21. Rhg2 b4 22. Nce2
Rac8 23. Nc1 Kf8 24. h4 Ke7
25. g5?!
Another misstep. White creates
a weakness that will decide any
endgames in Black’s favor. He
should have started bringing his
pieces to defend his king.
25. ... fxg5 26. hxg5 Na4
(see diagram top of next
page)
27. Qd2? (Better is 27. Nf1!.) 27.
... Nc3+ 28. Ka1 Nxd1 29. Rxd1
Rc4 30. Qe1 Rhc8 31. Nf1 Bh3
32. Rh2 (Also losing is 32. Rg3
Qxf2.) 32. ... Bg4 33. f3 (No
better is 33. Ne3 Bxd1 34. Nxc4
Qd4.) 33. ... Bxf3 34. Nd2 Bxd1
www.uschess.org 41
Cover Story / Shabalov Wins Eastern Open
35. Nxc4 Rxc4 36. Qxd1 Nxg5
37. Qd2 Qg1 38. Kb1 Ke8!,
White resigned.
Old School: Please note that all
of Larry’s post-game calculations
and analyses were done without
benefit of a computer to check the
lines. In the search for truth, some-
times the computer can take the
mystery out of the game. This
game won first prize for Best
Played Game.
KING’S INDIAN
DEFENSE, CLASSICAL
VARIATION (E90)
FM Larry C. Gilden (2252)
IM Prav Balakrishnan (2495)
44th Annual Eastern Open (2),
Tysons Corner, Virginia,
12.28.2017
Notes by Gilden and Tom
Beckman (TB)
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7
4. e4 d6 5. Nf3 0-0 6. Be3
I have consistently played this
move from 2013 to the present. 6.
Be3 serves the purpose of restrict-
ing Black’s normal King’s Indian
plans. Now Black has the choice
of several responses:
1) 6. ... e5 is the usual response
when there follows 7. dxe5
dxe5 8. Qxd8 (8. Qc2) 8. ...
Rxd8 9. Nd5 Nxd5?! (9. ...
Rd7! is equal.) 10. cxd5 c6 11.
Bc4 cxd5 (11. ... Bd7 is
possible) 12. Bxd5 Nc6 13. 0-
0-0 or 13. Ng5.
2) 6. ... Nbd7 avoiding the
exchange of queens allows 7.
h3 when 7. ... e5 8. dxe5 dxe5
9. c5 has occurred in my
games.
3) 6. ... Ng4 played by Prav in
chasing the bishop creates
42 March 2018 | Chess Life
play somewhat like T.
Petrosian-Jacob Yukhtman,
26th USSR Championship
1959. Later, Petrosian played
13. Bg4 to exchange off his
bad bishop, and I played 18.
Bg4 with similar effect.
4) 6. ... c5 (TB) is recommended
by Stockfish and then:
a) 7. d5 a6 8. a4 Ng4 9. Bg5
Nd7 10. Be2
b) 7. dxc5 Qa5 8. Qd2 (8. Bd3
is also possible) 8. ... dxc5
9. Nd5 Qxd2+ 10. Nxd2
Nxd5 11. cxd5 Bxb2 12.
Rb1 Ba3 13. Nc4
5) 6. ... Na6 (TB) is recommend-
ed by John Nunn and Graham
Burgess in The New Classical
King’s Indian to avoid the
Exchange Variation, and
then:
a) 7. Be2 e5 (or 7. ... Ng4) 8.
0-0 transposes to the
Gligoric System
b) 7. h3 e5 8. d5 is the main
line of the Makogonov
System
c) Other ideas are 7. Qd2 or
7. Bd3
6. ... Ng4 7. Bg5 c5
In a G/45 tourney from March
2015, Trung Nguyen tried 7. ... h6
8. Bh4 Nf6! and no refutation was
forthcoming from me.
(TB) Also possible was 8. Bd2
e5 9. d5 f5 10. Bd3 Nf6 11. 0-0 fxe4
12. Nxe4 Bf5 with a slight edge for
White.
8. d5
I considered 8. dxc5, but Black’s
8. ... h6 chases White’s bishop from
attacking e7 (if 9. Bh4, then 9. ...
g5), and allows either 9. ... Qa5 or
9. ... dxc5 depending on where the
bishop goes.
8. ... h6
(TB) And here Black has a
somewhat better alternative: 8. ...
Bxc3+ 9. bxc3 f6 10. Bd2 Nd7 11.
Be2 Nge5.
9. Bh4
(TB) Of course, which way to
retreat the bishop is always the
question in this variation. Here 9.
Bd2 may be the better choice after
9. ... Nd7 10. Be2 Nge5 11. Nxe5
Nxe5 12. 0-0 b6 13. Qc2.
9. ... Nd7 10. Qd2
(TB) The non-committal 10.
Be2 may be slightly better.
10. ... a6 11. a4 Ngf6 12. Be2
Qb6?!
(TB) Here Black has two decent
options:
1) 12. ... g5 13. Bg3 Nh5 14. 0-0
2) 12. ... Qa5 13. Bxf6 Nxf6 14.
0-0 Bg4
13. 0-0
(TB) Here White should throw
in 13. a5! driving the black queen
back now.
13. ... g5 14. Bg3 Nh5 15. a5
I had several other possibilities
that I didn’t consider during the
game:
1) 15. h4 Nxg3 16. fxg3 g4 17.
Nh2 Ne5 18. Nd1 with com-
plicated play.
2) 15. Qc2 Qb4 16. a5 b5! and
Black stands well.
15. ... Qc7!
(TB) Larry thought that Prav
could successfully play 15. ... Qb4!?
as 16. Nxg5 Nxg3 17. hxg3 b5(!!)
works, but the following sequence
would have been much better for
White: 18. Nf3 cxb4 19. Rfb1! Rb8
and now a rope-a-dope with 20.
Ra4 Qb3 21. Ra3 Qb4 22. Qc1!
(guarding the rook) 22. ... Qb7 23.
Bxc4 when White is much better.
Black would have had to settle for
17. ... Ne5 18. Nf3 Nxc4 19. Bxc4
Qxc4 20. Na4 Rb8 21. Rfe1 Qb4
22. e5. So, the computer helps to
demonstrate that Prav played the
best move after all!
16. Ne1
(TB) An interesting alternative
is 16. h4 Nxg3 17. fxg3.
16. ... Nxg3 17. hxg3
17. ... e5?
This move doesn’t look right,
but it is correct at this point.
Evidently Prav properly feared the
buildup with f2-f4 and later e4-e5.
Besides, the fortress created is
difficult to breach quickly.
(TB) Burying the king’s bishop
looks wrong, and is wrong. Black
should have played on the queen-
side with 17. ... b6! 18. f4 gxf4 19.
gxf4 bxa5 20. Rf3 Rb8 21. Rg3 Kh8
22. f5 Qb6 with mutual chances.
18. Bg4!
Trading off the bad bishop in
blocked positions is correct as
usual.
18. ... b6 19. Nc2
I think that 19. axb6 was more
straightforward.
19. ... bxa5 20. Ne3 Nb6 21.
Bxc8 Nxc8 22. Ne2
White now engages in a bit of
unnecessary shuffling back and
forth. But eventually I got the idea
that my play was on the queen-side.
22. ... Ne7 23. g4
(TB) Also strong was 23. Qxa5
Qxa5 24. Rxa5 Rfb8 25. Rb1 f5 26.
exf5 e4 27. g4.
23. ... Rfb8 24. Ng3?!
This move allows Black play on
the queenside. White should prefer
24. Nc1.
24. ... Rb4 25. Ne2 Rab8 26.
Ra2 Qb6 27. Rb1 Ng6 28. g3
Ne7 29. Nc1 Qc7 30. Rba1
Black is without counterplay as
White slowly makes progress.
Note how White makes use of the
principle of two weaknesses over
 Cover Story / Shabalov Wins Eastern Open

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

At A Glance 44th Annual Eastern Open

Date: December 27-30, 2017 | Location: Westin Hotel, Tyson’s Corner, Virginia | 203 players | Top Finishers: Open, 1st, 7:
Alexander Shabalov; 2nd, 51⁄2: Aleksandr Lenderman; 3rd-5th, 5: Gabriel N. Petesch, Justin Paul, Jeevan Karamsetty; Under 2200,
1st, 6: Ali Mirafzali; 2nd, 51⁄2: Isaac Chiu; 3rd-4th, 5: Jeffrey Du, Boyang Zhao; Under 1900, 1st-2nd, 51⁄2: Matthew Orye, Arnav Tamna
Gupta; 3rd-7th, 5: Htay Aung Kyawe, Srihari Nesamani, John A. Mehler, Jonathan Naylor, Allen Merli Stern; Under 1600, 1st-2nd,
51⁄2: Carson M. Collier, Andrew Guo; 3rd-5th, 5:: Evan B. Bedor, Maxwell Ward, Oliver Alexander Heggli-Nonay; Under 1300, 1st, 5:
Sherlock Grigsby II; 2nd-3rd, 41⁄2: Peter J. Davis, Qirui Zhou; Under 1000, 1st, 6: Ryan Ho; 2nd-3rd, 51⁄2: Leo Chang, Aya Feliachi. |
Chief Tournament Director: Michael Atkins.

www.uschess.org 43
Solitaire Chess / Instruction
Positional Chess
Can Wait
Wilhelm Steinitz once said, “Chess is not for timid souls.” It is time
to bravely step into the fray with the first world champion.
By BRUCE PANDOLFINI
THE FIRST OFFICIAL WORLD CHESS
Champion was Wilhelm Steinitz (1836-1900).
Steinitz held the title from 1886-1894, when
he lost it to Emanuel Lasker, but probably
Steinitz was the best player on the planet for
longer than his eight official years at the top.
Perhaps more importantly, Steinitz was also
the first player to write about the principles of
positional chess, and for that reason it’s easy
think of him as a stodgy materialist. But his
early games were anything but careful and
boring, as the second game of his 1860 match
with Max Lange in Vienna shows. The fire-
works began rather quickly after:
SCOTCH GAMBIT (C44)
Wilhelm Steinitz
Max Lange
Vienna, 1860
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 exd4 4. Bc4 Qe7
5. 0-0 Ne5
Now ensure that the above position is 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
44 March 2018 | Chess Life
next move only after trying to guess it. If you
guess correctly, give yourself the par score.
Sometimes points are also awarded for second-
best moves, and there may be bonus points—or
deductions—for other moves and variations.
Note that

means that White’s move is on
the next line.


6. Nxe5 Par Score 5
Steinitz’s bishop was attacked, so he trades
knights to avoid losing a tempo.   10.
6. … Qxe5
The only move that makes any sense.


7. c3 Par Score 5
This opens the lines for attacking chances.
Of course Steinitz realized his e-pawn is
immune. If 7. ... Qxe4??, then 8. Re1 pins the
queen (1 bonus point).   11.
7. … c5
Defending the pawn in this way is not as
good as simply capturing a white pawn, 7. ...
dxc3, even though White would then develop
his knight in the act of recapturing.


8. f4 Par Score 6
White is pushing for a kingside attack. Black
must be mindful of Steinitz’s growing initiative.
8. … Qf6
At least Black is consistent. He plays to keep
his extra pawn.


9. e5 Par Score 5
White expands in the center with a gain of
time.
9. … Qb6
On 9. ... Qc6, White would have to play it
carefully as well, since 10. cxd4 cxd4 11. Qxd4
would signal bad news after 11. ... Bc5, pinning
the white queen (1 bonus point).


10. Kh1 Par Score 5
By moving the king off the a7-g1 diagonal,
White avoids some tactical tries along that line.
But probably more to the style of this game
would be 10. f4-f5, pressing the attack.
… Be7
A better try for Black was 10. ... Ne7, tem-
porarily closing the e-file and supporting ...
d7-d5.


11. f5 Par Score 6
White’s position is beginning to look more
menacing. 
… d5
Black tries to break the attack by surrendering
the d-pawn, but a more prudent defensive idea
was 11. ... h5, so that the king-rook could take
back on h6 (if necessary) without a disrupture
to the black kingside.


12. Bxd5 Par Score 5
Steinitz would later say in his life that “a
pawn is worth a little trouble,” but that’s not
what this capture is about. He’s simply answer-
ing the threat and keeping the lines open for
attack. 
12. … Nh6
Lange is attempting to get out his pieces,
but this development backfires. His kingside
now gets torn apart.


13. f6 Par Score 6
 Solitaire Chess / Instruction

PROBLEM I PROBLEM II PROBLEM III

ABCs of Chess Mating net Mating net Mating net

These problems are all related to key

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

March Exercise: It’s typical for chess

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

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


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


Black’s dark-square bishop is driven back.


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

22. Rd1+ Par Score 5

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


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

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

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

95+ 2400+
19. … Kc4
16. Qh5+ Par Score 5 81-94 2200-2399
Should White just take the rook? No! There’s 66-80 2000-2199
Time waits for no man. Steinitz goes for better.


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

20. … Rxe8

www.uschess.org 45
The Practical Endgame / Instruction
Move of the Year,
Endgame Edition
For your consideration, the world champion’s defensive gem
By GM DANIEL NARODITSKY
AMONG MY FRIENDS AND RELATIVES, I
am known as the proverbial alarm-snoozer.
One Sunday during exam week last quarter, I
slept through so many early morning alarms
that I finally woke up to my roommate standing
at my bedside and repeatedly stabbing me with
an imaginary knife. My math final that night
did not go very well.
One thing I will get up for at 5 a.m., however,
is the World Rapid and Blitz Championship.
This exhilarating event features almost all of
the world’s top players going at each other’s
throats to the tune of heart-stopping time
scrambles and, inevitably, tragic blunders.
This year, one of the endgames in the rapid
championship—which I had followed live—
featured one of the most beautiful defensive
resources that I have ever seen. At the risk of
jinxing it, let me say that this motif will be
seared in your mind for weeks to come.
WATER FROM A ROCK
GM Vladimir Fedoseev (FIDE 2771, RUS)
GM Magnus Carlsen (FIDE 2908, NOR)
World Rapid Chess Championship. Open.
(12), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 12.28.2017
AFTER 65. Nf3+
46 March 2018 | Chess Life
After a furious ascent that included a stunning Obviously, 68. ... Kb3 meets with 69. Nc5+.
victory at the 2017 Aeroflot Open, Russian GM This is somewhat of a stopgap blockade, but it
Vladimir Fedoseev has established himself as gives White just enough time to bring his own
one of the most promising talents in Russia. monarch to the rescue.
At the time of this game, he was leading the 68. ... a5 69. Nd2 a4
rapid with a massive 8½/11. At first blush, it
seems that he has held his own against the
World Champion. In fact, the time seems ripe
for a handshake. The king is tied to the g5-
pawn, the pawn ending after 65. ... Bxf3 66.
Kxf3 is a dead draw, end of story.
True to his ability to squeeze water from a
rock, Magnus sees past this myopic assessment
and plays his last trump card.
65. ... Kd5!
Why not? This move is not only a good
practical chance, but especially savvy given
Fedoseev’s acute time pressure: Fedoseev had 70. Ke4
a minute or so left and was playing “on Fedoseev played this move almost instantly,
increment.” The king’s intentions are decidedly and who can blame him? The king aims for
malevolent: the monarch intends to eat up d3, but the problem is that it temporarily
White’s defenseless pawns, relegating to his deprives the knight of its rightful place on e4!
subordinate the task of restraining White’s Carlsen now has a brief respite in which to
h-pawn. reorganize his forces and confront Fedoseev
with a whole new class of problems.
66. Nxg5
If Fedoseev had used Waze instead of
The point of this move is not so much to Google Maps to decide on a route for the
capture a pawn as to halt the king’s path with king, he would have undoubtedly sidestepped
some timely gymnastics. This does the trick, the trouble with 70. Ke3!. After 70. ... Kc5,
though 66. b3! was even more straightforward. White hits the king with 71. Ne4+. Black
The king has to detour with 66. ... Ke4, and has a few tries, but everything fizzles out
after 67. Nxg5+ Kd3 68. Ne6 Kc3 69. Nc5 White quickly:
achieves his aim with a tempo to spare. The
1) 71. ... Kc4 72. Nd6+ Kb3 looks intimi-
game would end following 69. ... Kxb4 70.
dating, but after 73. Nxb5 Kxb2 74. Kd4
Nxa6+ Kxb3 71. Nc7 b4 72. Na6 and White
Be8 75. Nc3 a3 76. Kc4 White brings the
liquidates the final pawn.
king to b4 and follows up with a check
66. ... Kc4 67. Ne4 Kxb4 68. Kf4 from either d1 or a4.

Practicum
Each month GM Naroditsky will present
two problems taken from actual games
that illustrate the theme of this month’s
column. Your task is to find the best line
of play. Problem I should be solveable by
a player at roughly a 1500 rating and
Problem II by a player roughly at a 2000
rating.
See the solutions on page 71.
2) 71. ... Kd5!? would probably have been
Magnus’ attempt. The “blunder” is, of course,
deliberate: the point is to lure the knight
offsides after 72. Nf6+ Kc4 73. Nxh5 Kb3.
But following 74. Kd4 Kxb2 75. Nf4 a3 76.
Nd3+ the knight is in time, and Black is the
one who must demonstrate caution.
70. ... Kc5! 71. Ke3 b4
Er-oh. All of a sudden, Magnus has erected
an impassable barrier along the h7-b1 diagonal.
... Bg6 followed by ... a4-a3 looms large, when
the king will be permanently cut off and the
knight, no longer able to jump to e4, will trip
over its own haunches. With time running
out, Fedoseev starts to flounder.
72. Ne4+ Kd5 73. Nd2 Bg6!
This is the critical moment, and, in many
ways, the reason I chose this endgame. Now,
it is not immediately clear why ... a4-a3 is a
decisive threat: White will, after all, be able to
restrain the pawn from b3. It turns out that
the ensuing position is lost for White, and that
should not be a surprise: once the knight is
reduced to utter passivity and the passer
advances past the sixth rank, White’s prospects
are not very promising.
But there doesn’t seem to be any conceivable
way to stop ... a4-a3, or to breach the diagonal
blockade. It transpires that the first of these
assumptions is correct, but the second, believe
it or not, is false. The drawing idea—rendered
all the more stunning by the fact that it is the
only path to salvation—is so jaw-dropping that
it took me a long, long time before I accepted
its objective value.
The theoretical underpinning of this idea can
be found in the following stem position, featured
in Karsten Müller and Frank Lamprecht’s classic
work, Fundamental Chess Endings:
(see diagram next column)
This is a draw with either side to move, and
regardless of the bishop’s color (!). See for
yourself: put a bishop on any square on the
PROBLEM I: 1500 LEVEL
GM Erald Dervishi
GM Gadir Guseinov
World Rapid Chess Championship
BLACK TO MOVE
EITHER SIDE TO MOVE
board, and the fortress remains watertight. At
the first opportunity, White’s king wriggles its
way to a1 and stays there, awaiting stalemate
or (with a dark-square bishop) liquidation to a
drawn king-and-pawn ending.
Now, back to the text. At first, it may be
difficult to understand the link between the
two positions. But as GM Alex Yermolinsky
explained to me many years ago, theoretical
positions will not necessarily arise in pure form
every time; the true endgame virtuoso knows
how to use theoretical positions as beacons of
light, guiding his play in outwardly dissimilar
positions. And in this case, just such an approach
can be used to uncork one of the most brilliant
ideas in recent endgame memory:
74. Nb3!!! No, this is not a typo. Yes, three
exclamation marks. What makes chess so attrac-
tive to me is that even the wildest ideas can be
understood with enough persistence and logical
thinking. This is just such an idea: after 74. ...
axb3 75. Kd2, we reach the exact same theoretical
position as the one shown above, with a few
inconsequential differences. You can even put
black pawns on b5, b6, and b7, and the situation
remains the same: White will push the h-pawn
until Black is forced to take it, and voilà!
Skepticism is encouraged, but the fact of the
matter is that 74. Nb3 is the only drawing move.
Now, if Black does not take the knight, then
White is well in time to stop the pawns, since
a direct route to the queenside is now open for
White’s king. Some illustrative lines:
The Practical Endgame / Instruction
PROBLEM II: 2000 LEVEL
GM Boris Savchenko
GM Peter Svidler
World Rapid Championship
WHITE TO MOVE
a) 74. ... a3 75. bxa3 bxa3 76. Kd2 Kc4 77.
Na5+ Kb4 78. Nc6+ Kc5 (78. ... Kb3 79.
Na5+ leads nowhere, since 79. ... Kb2 80.
Nc4+ is a draw) 79. Kc3! and it is time to
shake hands. Even if 79. ... Kxc6 80. Kb3
did not happen to win the pawn, it would
still be a draw since Black has the incorrect
bishop for the a-pawn.
b) 74. ... Kc4 75. Na5+ Kb5 76. Nb3 is prob-
ably the most unconventional repetition
of all time.
c) 74. ... Bc2 is useless: 75. Nd4 Bd1 76. Kd2!
with a draw.
Alas, with just a few minutes left on his clock,
Fedoseev did not exploit the opportunity.
However, I think it is safe to bet that a team of
500 grandmasters with two hours on the clock
would be quite unlikely to see it either.
74. Ke2?
The king takes the long route to c1, and
Fedoseev was relying on a cute stalemate trick
to save the day, but allowing the pawn to a2
simply places too large of a burden on White’s
pieces.
74. ... a3 75. bxa3 bxa3 76. Kd1 a2 77.
Nb3 Kc4 78. Na1 Kc3 79. Kc1 Bf5 80. h4
Bg6!
Zugzwang numero uno. Get rid of the pawn.
81. h5 Bxh5 82. Nc2 Be8 83. Na1 Ba4 84.
Nc2
This was Fedoseev’s intention all along, but
the king simply repositions itself.
84. ... Kb3, White resigned.
After 85. Na1+ Ka3 it is Zugzwang numero
dos, since 86. Nc2+ no longer works for obvious
reasons.
OK, maybe I overhyped it. But to me, ideas
like 74. Nb3 offer a direct refutation to the
common endgames-are-boring trope. No, they
are not. And they’re happy to punch you in the
face if necessary.
www.uschess.org 47
Grand Prix / Junior Grand Prix

FINAL 2017
GRAND PRIX STANDINGS 2018 AWARDS

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

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

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

48 August2018
March 2017 | | Chess
ChessLife
Life www.uschess.org 48
Tournament Life / March

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.+,"6 '%'64/)*$/6&1*//6&14(0523/15066August 17-21 • Greensboro, North Carolina PROFESSIONAL PLAYERS HEALTH AND
.+,"6 '%'6&-4//6&14(0523/150/66November 9-11 • Plymouth, Minnesota BENEFITS FUND
Many Grand Prix tournament organizers will
.+,"6,.6$4*6&14(0523/150/66December 14-16 • Orlando, Florida contribute $1 per player to the Professional
.+,"6436(*$54363)*$2--*54)*66December 27-30 • Burlingame, California Health & Benefits Fund. All Grand Prix tour-
.+,64)5234-6516%122-6#,.!6&14(0523/15066March 15-17 • Schaumburg, Illinois naments which participate in this program are
entitled to be promoted to the next higher
.+,64)5234-6352$6516%122-6#!6&14(0523/150/66April 26-28 • Grapevine, Texas
Grand Prix category—for example, a six-point
.+,64)5234-6-*(*3)4$6%122-6#!6&14(0523/150/66May 10-12 • Nashville, Tennessee tournament would become a 10-point (Enhanced)
,.+)164334-6#.+,!6 '%'60*366August 3-11 • Orlando, Florida tournament. Points in the top category are pro-
.+,6,.6$4*6&14(0523/150/66December 13-15 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida moted 50%.
.+.+64)5234-6516%122-6#,.!6&14(0523/15066April 3-5 • Memphis, Tennessee ATTENTION AFFILIATES
.+.+64)5234-6352$6516%122-6#!6&14(0523/150/66April 24-26 • Jacksonville, Florida US Chess has partnered with R.V. Nuccio &
Associates Insurance Brokers, Inc. to provide
.+.+64)5234-6-*(*3)4$6%122-6#!6&14(0523/150/66May 8-10 • Nashville, Tennessee
,.,/)64334-6#.+.+!6 '%'60*366August 8-16 • Saint Charles, Missouri
.+.+6,.6$4*6&14(0523/150/66December 11-13 • Orlando, Florida
.+.,6%0*$4)5234-/666May 7-9 • Nashville, Tennessee
,..364334-6#.+.,!6 '%'60*366July 31-August 8 • Cherry Hill, New Jersey
.+.,6,.6$4*6&14(0523/150/66December 3-5 • Orlando, Florida
.+..64)5234-6516%122-6#,.!6&14(0523/15066April 8-10 • Memphis, Tennessee
.+..64)5234-6352$6516%122-6#!6&14(0523/150/66April 29-May 1 • Grapevine, Texas
50 March 2018 | Chess Life
US Chess affiliates with affordable annual lia-
bility and short term event insurance. The
liability coverage is available for approximately
$265 per year for a $1,000,000 limit of insur-
ance. Also available is contents property and
bonding insurance. For more information, please
go to www.rvnuccio.com/chess-federation.html. For
event insurance, please go to www.rvnuccio.com.
 See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14

email: boyd.reed@uschess.org. Entries: U.S. Chess Federation, Attn.:

The Tournament Announcements on the following pages are provided for the convenience of US Chess members and for 2018 JHS Championship, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557 or online
informational purposes only. Unless expressly indicated otherwise, neither US Chess nor Chess Life warrants the accuracy of at www.uschess.org/tournaments/2018/jhs/. See web site for additional
anything contained in these tournament announcements. Those interested in additional information about or having questions information about the event, advance entries, awards, meetings, team
rooms, updates, corrections, and registration forms.
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. US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 20-22, ILLINOIS
&&4'3.#45.3)5-5-*(.334+5/&34152#4(415553)45&2,,2.05/++.3.20/,51*,4-5/%%,"5325 1/0+5$1. 2018 ALL-GIRLS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS PRESENTED BY
32*10/(403-55)45*/1/0344+5&.1-35%1.45(*-3545/35,4/-35 !5525(21453)/052045%1.45*0+4155(/" THE KASPAROV CHESS FOUNDATION IN ASSOCIATION WITH
THE RENAISSANCE KNIGHTS CHESS FOUNDATION & US CHESS
'2*03532/1+-53)45 1/0+5$1.5%2.035323/,!55$1.4-54,253)45(/.(*(54031"5&445+250235'2*03532/1+-53)4 Any player that achieves a perfect 6-0 score or wins the first
1/0+5$1.5%2.035323/,!5,-25.0',*+45&*,,53.(45'20312,5023.05.0'14(40352153.(45+4,/"54#405.&5+4,/"5.-54125
+! place trophy, in each age category, qualifies to represent the USA
at the 2018 World Cadets (U/8, U10, U/12) / World Youth (U/14,
5)4--5*0.215 1/0+5$1.55*0.215 1/0+5$1.54#4035(*-35)/#45&2*15215(214 12*0+-5.3)5/53.(45'20312, U/16, U/18) Championships. 6SS, G/90 d5. Hyatt Regency McCormick
14/34153)/05 5(.0!5$,4/-45-445www.uschess.org/data page/JGP-Rules.php &215'2(%,4345
*,4-! Place, 2233 S. Martin Luther King Dr., Chicago, IL 60616, (free Wi-Fi). 6
Sections/Trophies: Age as of 1/1/2018 Under 8 top 15 individuals,
SUBMISSIONS: E-mail your TLA to: tla@uschess.org (Joan DuBois). For tla deadline schedule, formatting help and Grand top 500 – 799, top U500, top 6 schools, Under 10 top 16 individuals,
Prix information check www.uschess.org/go/tlainfo and “Advertising” at uschess.org. Payment can be done online through top 700 – 999, top U700, top 6 schools, Under 12 top 16 individuals,
the TD/Affiliate area or sent to: US Chess, TLA Dept., PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557. top 900 – 1199, top U900, top 6 schools, Under 14 top 12 individuals,
top 1100 – 1399, top U1100, top 4 schools, Under 16 top 8 individuals,
23455)4--5*0.215 1/0+5$1.54#403-5+250235)/#4532504'4--/1.,"545')2,/-3.'5215 2*3)532*10/(403-! Top 1300 – 1599, top U1300, top 3 schools, Under 18 top 8 individuals,
)4"5+25)24#415)/#45325)/#453)4514*.14+50*(4152&512*0+-5/0+53.(45'20312,5.0521+415&215-')2,/-3.' Top 1500 – 1799, top U1500, top 3 schools, (top 3 players added for
team scores). EF: $60 mail/online by 3/19 $80 by 4/9, $95 after. Do
/0+5 "2*3)5 %,/"41-5 325 /.05  $5 %2.03-5 &215 %1.4-!5 215 (2145 .0&21(/3.205 %,4/-45 -445 3)45  $5 1*,4-5 /3 not mail after 4/13. $20 fee for roster or section changes after 4/13.
http://www.uschess.org/ datapage/JGP-Rules.php! $10 fee for refunds. Opening Ceremony: Fri 2:30pm. Rounds: Rd. 1 –
Fri 3:00pm Rounds 2-4 – Sat 10:00am, 2:30pm, 6:30pm; Rounds 5-6 –
Sun 9:00am & 1:00pm. Awards: 5:00pm. Bye: One 1/2 point bye available
US Chess Junior Grand Prix! for any round, except round 6, if requested at least 2 hours before the
Nationals APR. 6-8, GEORGIA
2018 NATIONAL JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL (K-9) CHAMPIONSHIP
start of the round 1. Side Events: Bughouse Tournament – Fri. 11:00
am, EF $30/team. Blitz Tournament – Fri. 7pm, G/5 d0, EF $20 by
US Chess Junior Grand Prix! 7SS, G/120 d5. Hyatt Regency Atlanta, 265 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, 4/9, $25 after or on site. HR: single - quad $159 Reservations: (888)
MAR. 9-11, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN GA 30303. Hotel Chess Rate $129. Guest rooms may be booked, NLT 421-1442. Reserve early rate may increase / sell out. Entries: online/info
2018 U.S. JUNIOR CHESS CONGRESS 3/12/2018 by calling (888) 421-1442 or (404) 577-1234, mention “US at: www.rknights.org/allgirls or mail to RKnights, attn: All-Girls, PO Box
5-SS, G/90 d5. BASIS Independent Silicon Valley School, 1290 Parkmoor Chess” or see www.uschess.org/tournaments/2018/jhs/ to book now! 1074, Northbrook, IL 60065, include name, section, rating, USCF ID#,
Ave., San Jose, CA. 95126. 7 SECTIONS (by age; as of September 1, 6 Sections: K-9 Championship, K-9 U1250, K-9 Unrated, K-8 Champi- date of birth, grade, school name city & state.
2017): 20 & under, 16 & under, 14 & under, 12 & under, 10 & under, 8 & onship, K-8 U1000 and K-8 U750. March Rating Supplement will be used.
under & 6 & under. TROPHIES: Top 10 individuals and Top 5 clubs in each One 1/2-point bye available (limit one) any round (except Round 7) if
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
section. (see flyer on web site for detailed rules on club eligibility) EF: $60 requested prior to the start of Rd. 1. Team score = total of top four APR. 27-29, OHIO
by 2/10, $70 from 2/11/18-3/4/18, $80 on 3/5/18 or after. RDS: Sat: 10- (minimum two) finishers from each school per section. K-9 Championship 2018 NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL (K-12) CHAMPIONSHIP
1:30-5pm, Sun: 9-1. BYES: 1, 1/2 bye available with exception of last first place individual and team, including ties, will be the National Junior 7SS, G/120 d5. Greater Columbus Convention Center, 400 North High
round. Irrevocable once requested. REGISTRATION: www.hanleyches- High School Champion. Schedule: Opening ceremony Fri. 12:45 pm. St., Columbus, OH 43215. Hotel: Hyatt Regency Columbus, 350 North
sacademy.com. SIDE EVENTS: 1. USCF Rated Blitz 7pm-10pm on Friday Rds.: Fri. 1 pm and 7 pm, Sat. 9 am, 2 pm and 7 pm, Sun. 9 am-2 pm. High St., Columbus, OH 43215 (adjacent to GCCC). Hotel Chess Rate
March 9, 2018. Sections: 12 & under & 20 & under. Trophies to top 5 in Awards Ceremony Sun., approx. 7 pm. EF: $50/participant postmarked $129. Guest rooms may be booked, NLT 3/23/2018 by calling (402)
each section. $20 by 3/4/18, $25 on 3/5/18 or after. 2. Grades K/6 Non- or online by 3/12, $70 postmarked or online by 3/26, $85 online by 592-6464 or (888) 421-1442, mention “US Chess”, or online at:
Rated Tournaments (Capture the King); No USCF membership required. 4/4, $90 on site; $5.00 extra for all phone registrations; $20 fee for https://aws.passkey.com/go/nshschess418. 6 Sections: K-12 Champi-
Two separate tournaments with their own trophies and entry fees...one roster or section changes after 3/26 or any onsite changes. Onsite reg- onship, K-12 U1900, K-12 U1600, K-12 U1200, K-12 U800 and K-12
on Saturday and one on Sunday. For players who have never played in a istration Thurs. 9 AM - 9 PM & Fri. 8 AM -11 AM. Players who register Unrated. April Rating Supplement will be used. One 1/2-point bye
chess tournament before but know how to play (see web site for all infor- or change sections after 11 am on Friday will receive a 1/2-point bye available (limit one) any round (except Round 7) if requested prior to
mation). Trophies: Top 5 both Saturday and Sunday. Top Club both Saturday for Rd. 1. Players must disclose any other, non-US Chess, over-the- the start of Rd. 1. Team score = total of top four (minimum two) finishers
and Sunday. 5-DSS. EF: $30 by 3/4/18, $40 on 3/5/18 or after for each board (OTB) ratings. Awards: Trophies to top individuals & top teams from each school per section. K-12 Championship first place individual
tournament. 3. Tactics Problem Tournament, 8:30pm-10pm Saturday March in each section. Every player receives a commemorative item! Full list and team, including ties, will be the National High School Champion.
10, 2018. $25 by 3/4/18, $30 on 3/5/18 or after. Sections: Open & Under of trophies on tournament Info Page. Side Events: Bughouse: Thurs. Schedule: Opening ceremony Fri. 12:45 pm. Rds.: Fri. 1 pm and 7 pm,
1200. Trophies: Top 4 in each section. TEAM ROOMS: $200 from Saturday 11 am, Reg. onsite only Thurs. 9 -10 am, $25/team. K-9 Blitz: Thurs. 5 Sat. 9 am, 2 pm and 7 pm, Sun. 9 am-2 pm. Awards Ceremony Sun.,
morning through Sunday evening. Please call 714-925-3195 to reserve. pm, Reg. onsite until 4 pm. Blitz EF: $15 by 4/4, $20 after or at site. approx. 7 pm. EF: $50/participant postmarked or online by 3/26, $70
NEAREST AIRPORT: Mineta International in San Jose (about 10 minutes Class trophies will be awarded in main event and in Blitz. Full list of tro- postmarked or online by 4/16, $85 online by 4/25, $90 on site; $5.00
from playing site). Advanced Entries, Pairings, Standings and flyer (available phies on tournament Info Page. General questions: Contact Susan extra for all phone registrations; $20 fee for roster or section changes
for download) at www.hanleychessacademy.com. QUESTIONS/INFO: Joe Kantor at 931.787.1234 ext. 136 or by email: skantor@uschess.org. after 3/26 or any onsite changes. Onsite registration Thurs. 9 AM - 9
Hanley, hanleychessacademy@gmail.com or 714-925-3195. W. Team Room questions: Contact Boyd Reed at 931.787.2244 or by PM & Fri. 8 AM -11 AM. Players who register or change sections after
11 am on Friday will receive a 1/2-point bye for Rd.1. Players must dis-
close any other, non-US Chess over-the-board (OTB) ratings. Awards:
Trophies to top individuals & top teams in each section. Every player
receives a commemorative item! Full list of trophies on tournament Info
TOURNAMENT LIFE: ABBREVIATIONS & TERMS Page. Side Events: Bughouse: Thurs. 11 am, Reg. onsite only Thurs. 9 -
10 am, $25/team. K-12 Blitz: Thurs. 5 pm, Reg. onsite until 4 pm. Blitz
EF: $15 by 3/26, $20 after or at site. Class trophies will be awarded in
All tournaments are non-smoking with no computers allowed unless otherwise advertised.
main event and in Blitz. Full list of trophies on tournament Info Page.
BLZ: Blitz rated. Memb. Membership required; cost follows. Usually refers General questions: Contact Susan Kantor at 931.787.1234 ext. 136 or
by email: skantor@uschess.org. Team Room questions: Contact Boyd
QC: Quick Chess events. req’d: to state affiliate. Reed at 931.787.2244 or by email: boyd.reed@uschess.org. Entries:
$$Gtd: Guaranteed prizes. Open: A section open to all. Often has very strong play- U.S. Chess Federation, Attn.: 2018 HS Championship, P.O. Box 3967,
ers, but some eligible for lower sections can play Crossville, TN 38557 or online at www.uschess.org/tournaments/
$$b/x: Based-on prizes, x = number of entries needed to for the learning experience. 2018/hs/. See web site for additional information about the event,
payfull prize fund. At least 50% of the advertised advance entries, awards, meetings, team rooms, updates, corrections,
prize fund of $501 or more must be awarded. Quad: 4-player round robin sections; similar strength and registration forms.
players. US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
Bye: Indicates which rounds players who find it incon-
venient to play may take 1⁄2-point byes instead. RBO: Rated Beginner’s Open. MAY 11-13, TENNESSEE
2018 NATIONAL ELEMENTARY (K-6) CHAMPIONSHIP
For example, Bye 1-3 means 1⁄2-point byes are Rds: Rounds; scheduled game times follow. For exam- 7SS, G/90 d5. Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, 2800
available in Rounds 1 through 3. ple, 11-5, 9-3 means games begin 11 a.m. & 5 p.m. Opryland Dr., Nashville, TN 37214. Hotel Chess Rate $166. Guest rooms
CC: Chess club. on the first day, 9 a.m. & 3 p.m. on the second day. may be booked, NLT 4/12/2018 by calling (888) 777-6779 or (615) 889-
1000, mention “US Chess” or book online at: https://aws.passkey.com/e/
dx: Time delay, x = number of seconds. Reg: Registration at site. 49533585. 13 Sections: K-6 Championship, K-6 U1400, K-6 U1000, K-6
RR: Round robin (preceded by number of rounds). Unrated, K-5 Championship, K-5 U1200, K-5 U900, K-3 Championship,
+xx: Time increment, xx = number of seconds added
K-3 U1000, K-3 U700, K-3 Unrated, K-1 Championship, K-1 U500/UNR.
after each move. SD/: Sudden-death time control (time for rest of game May Rating Supplement will be used. One 1/2-point bye available (limit
EF: Entry fee. follows). For example, 30/90, SD/1 means each one) any round (except Round 7) if requested prior to the start of Rd. 1.
player must make 30 moves in 90 minutes, then Team score = total of top four (minimum two) finishers from each
Ent: Where to mail entries. complete the rest of the game in an hour. school per section. K-6 Championship first place individual and team,
FIDE: Results submitted to FIDE for possible rating. including ties, will be the National Elementary School Champion. Opening
SS: Swiss-System pairings (preceded by number of ceremony Fri. 12:45 pm. Schedule for K-3 and higher: Rds.: Fri. 1 pm
G/: Game in. For instance, G/75 means each side has rounds). and 6 pm, Sat. 10 am, 2 pm and 6 pm, Sun. 10 am and 2 pm. Awards
75 minutes for the entire game. Ceremony Sun., approx. 6 pm. Special schedule for K-1 sections: Rds.:
Unr: Unrated. Fri. 1:30 pm and 5:30 pm, Sat. 9:30 am, 1:30 pm and 5:30 pm, Sun. 9:30
GPP: Grand Prix Points available.
W: am and 1:30 pm. Awards Ceremony Sun., approx. 5:30 pm. EF: $50/par-
Site is accessible to wheelchairs.
HR: Hotel rates. For example, 60-65-70-75 means $60
WEB:
ticipant postmarked or online by 4/23, $70 postmarked or online by
single, $65 twin, $70/3 in room, $75/4 in room. Tournaments that will use a player’s online rating. 4/30, $85 online by 5/9, $90 on site; $5.00 extra for all phone registra-
tions; $20 fee for roster or section changes after 4/25 or any onsite
JGP: Junior Grand Prix. changes. Onsite registration Thurs. 9 AM - 9 PM & Fri. 8 AM -11 AM.
Players who register or change sections after 11 am on Friday will
receive a 1/2-point bye for Rd. 1. Players must disclose any other, non-

www.uschess.org 51
Tournament Life / March
US Chess, over-the-board (OTB) ratings. Awards: Trophies to top indi-
viduals & top teams in each section. Every player receives a
commemorative item! Full list of trophies on tournament Info Page.
Side Events: Bughouse: Thurs. 11 am, Reg. onsite only Thurs. 9 -10 am,
$25/team. Blitz Sections: K-6 and K-3, Thurs. 5 pm, Reg. onsite until 4
pm. Blitz EF: $15 by 4/25, $20 after or at site. Class trophies will be
awarded in main event and in Blitz. Full list of trophies on tournament
Info Page. General questions: Contact Susan Kantor at 931.787.1234
ext. 136 or by email: skantor@uschess.org. Team Room questions:
Contact Boyd Reed at 931.787.2244 or by email: boyd.reed@uschess.org.
Entries: U.S. Chess Federation, Attn.: 2018 Elementary Championship,
P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557 or online at www.uschess.org/tour-
naments/2018/elem/. See web site for additional information about
the event, advance entries, awards, meetings, team rooms, updates,
corrections, and registration forms.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
JUNE 20-21, NEVADA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED)
2018 U.S. WOMEN’S OPEN
5SS, G/90, +30. Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, 3000 Paradise
Road, Las Vegas 89109. $$3,500 Guaranteed Prize Fund. $1000-600-
400, U2000 $350-200, U1800 $250-150, U1600 $200-100, U1400 $150-100.
EF: $99 by 5/31, $125 later. REG.: 9-9:30 a.m. RDS.: 10-2:30-7, 10-
2:30. Half point bye available in any round (limit 1). HR: $69 ($92 Friday
and Saturday nights) (800) 732-7117 ask for the CHESS rates. This
event kicks off the LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL on
Wednesday before the National Open. ENT: Vegas Chess Festivals,
PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925 or online at www.Veg-
asChessFestival.com. FIDE. W.
An American Classic!
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, NEVADA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED)
2018 NATIONAL OPEN
7-SS, 40/90, SD/30, +30 (3-day rounds 1-2 G/60, +10, 2-day round 1-
4 G/30, +5, Beginners Section G/30, +5). Westgate Resort & Casino,
3000 Paradise Road, Las Vegas 89109. $$100,000 Guaranteed Prize
Fund will not be reduced! In 8 sections, top 2 FIDE rated. Open: $8,000-
4,000-2,000-1,000-600-500-400-300-300-300, top under 2500 $2,500,
top under 2400 $2,400, Extra $2,500 for perfect score. The winner of
the Open section also receives a replica of the Edmondson Cup. Under
2300: $6,000-3,000-1,500-750-400-350-300-250-250-250. Under 2100:
$6,000-3,000-1,500-750-400-350-300-250-250-250. Under 1900: $5,000-
2500-1250-600-350-300-250-250-250-250. Under 1700: $4,000-2,000-
1,000-500-300-250-250-250-250-250. Under 1500: 3000-1500-700-350-
300-250-250-250-250-250. Under 1300: $2000-1,000-500-300-250-250-
250, top under 1000 (no provisional) $900. Beginners (unrated or rated
under 1000): 3 schedules with 6 rounds per day $200-125-75 each day
plus $300 overall (best 2 results). Plus Score Bonus: ($12,000 guar-
anteed) in addition to any other prizes, every player with 4 points or
more wins a $50 gift certificate. Plus score certificates will be awarded
on site only. Mixed Doubles: best male/female combined 2-player
team score: $1,500-750-350-250-150. Teammates may play in different
sections but must have average rating below 2200. The Freddie: Players
age 14 and under are eligible for best game prizes including the Freddie
Award and $400 in cash prizes (donated by Fred Gruenberg). Unrated
players may play only in Beginners or Open Section. Provisionally rated
players may not win more than 40% of top prize in any under section;
balance goes to next player(s) in line. CCA minimum ratings or other
ratings may be used if higher than US Chess June Supplement. EF:
$199 by 1/31, $229 by 5/31, $259 by 6/19, $280 later. Add $125 for
adults rated under 2200 or juniors under 2100 playing in the Open
Section. $40 less for seniors 65 and over. Beginners section only: $125
less for players in only 1 schedule, $60 less in 2 schedules. Reg.: 1
p.m.-6 p.m. Thursday. Rds.: 7:30, 11-5:30, 10-4:30, 10-4:30. 3-day sched-
ule: Reg.: 8:30-9:30 a.m. Friday. Rds 11-2 then merge with 4-day in
round 3 at 5:30. 2-day schedule: Reg.: 8:30-9 a.m. Saturday. Rds.: 10-
11:30-1-2:30 then merge with 4-day in round 4 at 4:30. Half point byes
available in any round; round 6 or 7 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 fea-
tures the National Open, 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 and free commemorative
DVD for all participants. Grandmaster Simuls and Chess Camp for
all ages on Thursday. U.S. Women’s Open Wednesday and Thursday.
Walter Browne Memorial Blitz Thursday 2:00 p.m. Youth Tournaments
Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Blitz Sectionals Friday, Saturday & Sunday.
Poker Tournament Monday Morning. Don’t be shut out - make your
reservations early and be sure to ask for the CHESS rates — $69 single
or double ($92 Friday and Saturday nights) guarantees a premium room
with new furniture, refrigerator, flat screen TV and more. The resort
package including access to the Fitness Center, free WI-FI, and more
is substantially discounted for our group. Cutoff for special hotel rate
is May 31; after that rates will increase significantly and there
may not be any rooms available. (800) 732-7117 or www.Vegas
ChessFestival.com/hotel. ENT: Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925,
Henderson, NV 89009-0925, online at www.VegasChessFestival.com.
Info: (702) 930-9550 and leave a message. FIDE. W.
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
JULY 28-AUG. 5, JULY 31-AUG. 5 OR AUG. 2-5, WISCONSIN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED)
119TH ANNUAL U.S. OPEN
Includes Traditional one game per day schedule (9 days), a 6-day slow
time control option, and 4-day option. 9SS, 40/120, SD/60 d5 (4-day
option, Rds. 1-6, G/60 d5; then 40/120, SD/60 d5). Madison Marriott
52 March 2018 | Chess Life
West, 1313 John Q. Hammons Dr., Middleton, WI 53582, HR: $115, Call
(608) 831-2000, mention “US Chess”. Reserve by June 30th or rate
may increase. $50,000 in prizes based on 500 paid entries, else
proportional, $40,000 (80% of each prize) minimum guaranteed.
A one-section tournament with Class prizes. Top U.S. player not otherwise
qualified qualifies for 2018 U.S. Championship. Choice of three sched-
ules: Traditional: 40/120 SD/60; d5. One round daily at 7 PM, except
Rd. 9, 3 PM 8/5. 6- Day Option: 40/120, SD/60 d5. 7 PM 7/31, 12
NOON & 7 PM 8/1-8/3, 7 PM 8/4, 3 PM 8/5. 4-Day Option: Rds. 1-6:
G/60 d5; then 40/120, SD/60 d5. 12 NOON, 3 PM, 7 PM, 10 PM 8/2; 12
NOON, 3 PM, 7 PM 8/3; 7 PM 8/4; 3 PM 8/5. All schedules merge after
Round 6 & compete for same prizes. Projected prizes: Top places
$8000-4000-2000-1500-1000-800- 600-500, clear or playoff winner $200
bonus. If tie for first, top two on tiebreak play Armageddon game (White
5 minutes, 2-sec delay, Black 3 minutes, 2-sec delay and gets draw
odds) for bonus and title. Class Prizes: Top Master (2200- 2399) $2500-
1200-800-500, Expert (2000-2199) $2500-1200-800-500, Class A (1800-
1999) $2500-1200-800-500, Class B (1600-1799) $2500-1200-800-500,
Class C (1400-1599) $2000-1000-600- 400, Class D (1200-1399) $1500-
700-500-300, Class E or below (under 1200) $1500-700-500-300, Unrated
$800-400-200. Half-Point Byes: must commit before Round 4; up to 3
byes allowed for 2000/up, 2 byes for 1400-1999, one bye for Under
1400/Unr. Limit 1 bye in last two rounds. Zero-point byes are always
available in any round if requested at least two hours before the round(s)
in question. Entry Fee: Online, $145 by 6/25, $165 by 7/16, $185 after
7/16. By mail, $147 postmarked by 6/25, $167 postmarked by 7/16,
$187 after 7/16; do not mail after 7/23! By phone, $150 by 6/25, $170
by 7/16, $185 after. No phone entries after 5PM Central 7/27 (close of
business at the US Chess Office)! At site, all $190; Free entry for GMs
and WGMs for main event only. All entries must be made at least two
(2) hours prior to the player’s first game. Current US Chess membership
required. July Rating Supplement used; unofficial ratings (at least
four games) used if otherwise unrated. CCA ratings used if above US
Chess. Foreign player ratings: usually 100 points added to FIDE or FQE,
200+ added to most foreign national ratings, no points added to CFC.
Highest of multiple ratings generally used. Entries: US Chess, ATTN:
2018 U.S. Open, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557. Online entry available,
see website. Phone entry: 800.903.8723. Not FIDE rated, No cell
phones. Bring a clock — none supplied. Sets/boards supplied for tour-
nament but not for skittles. Many meetings, workshops and seminars,
including: US Chess Committee Meetings 8/1-8/3, US Chess Awards
Luncheon 8/4 Noon, US Chess Delegates Meeting 8/4-5. Many side
events and other championships, including: U.S. National Blitz Cham-
pionship 7SS Double, G/5 d0, Rd. 1 at 12 NOON 8/4; U.S. Open
Weekend Swiss 5SS, G/60 d5, 12-3 Sat 7/28, 10-12:30-3 Sun 7/29;
U.S. Open Scholastic (see separate TLA for the Scholastic event);
Mon-Wed-ThuFri July 30, August 1, 2, 3 U. S. Open Quads (one-
day events) G/30 d5. Entry fee $20. Registration 9:30-11:30 a.m.,
Rounds at noon, 1:30 p.m. & 3:00 p.m. $50 to first in each quad. Tue
July 31 U.S. Open Quads (Tuesday Quads Only)G/60 d5. Entry Fee
$20. Registration 9 a.m.-10:00 a.m., Rounds at 10:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m.
and 3:30 p.m. $50 to first in each quad. U.S. Open Bughouse Sat.
10:30 AM 7/28. 19th Annual Golf Tournament for the US Open
Chess Players, (see tournament website for details). US Open Tennis
Tournament (see tournament website for details). In addition, three
other championships will also take place: the 2018 Denker Tournament
of HS Champions (see website for participants’ list), the 2018 Barber
Tournament of K-8 Champions (see website for participants’ list)
and the 2018 National Girls’ Tournament of Champions (see website
for participants’ list). Please check the U.S. Open website often for
updates, new information and corrections and other useful doc-
uments! http://www.uschess.org/tournaments/2018/usopen/
AUG. 4, WISCONSIN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15
2018 U.S. OPEN NATIONAL BLITZ CHAMPIONSHIP (BLZ)
7 Double Round (14 games) Swiss, 1 section, G/5 d0. Blitz rated, higher
of regular or Blitz rating used. Entry fee $40, free to Unrated players if
paying US Chess dues. Registration 9-11:30 a.m, round 1 begins at
noon. $2000 Guaranteed Prizes!: $$400-200-150, U2200 $200-100,
U2000 $200-100, U1800 $180-90, U1600/Unrated $140-70, U1400 $100,
U1200 $70. See also http://www.uschess.org/tournaments/2018/usopen
for additional details.
Grand Prix
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
A State Championship Event!
MAR. 10-11, DELAWARE
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
DELAWARE STATE OPEN CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP
Hilton, Christiana Hotel, 100 Continental Dr., Newark, DE 19713 (off I-
95). Ask for the special price to reserve room for the chess tournament.
302-454-1500. 6-SS Open, 5-SS U1600, G/90 d5. Open: $600, $300,
$150, U2200 $150, U2000 $150, U1800 $150, U1600 $400, $240, $140,
U1400 $140, U1200 $140, U1000 $140. Special DE Resident Prizes:
Delaware State Champion: Crystal Trophy + Free entry in next year’s
event, Delaware State Woman’s Champion: Trophy + Free entry in
next year’s event (may be in U1600 or open section based on perform-
ance), Top DE U1600 Trophy. Top DE Junior under age 18 Trophy. Reg.:
Advanced reg: Delaware Chess Association, 2400 N. Broom St., Apt.
203, Wilmington, DE 19802. 302-893-9519. TD: William Trueman. On-
site Reg: 8am - 9am. EF: Free entry to GM’s and IM’s ($50 deducted
from prizes), $65 by 3/06, $70 at the site. Rds.: Sat.10, 2, 6, Sun. 9, 1,
(5 open only). Half point Byes: 2 available. $ prizes b/40 in each
section. Email: trueman56@gmail.com
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 11, NEW JERSEY
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)
DR. DAVID OSTFELD MEMORIAL ICA OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP
4SS, G/61 d5. Bergen Academy, 200 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, NJ
07601. Open to All Ages With Rating above 1400. Prize Fund ($$b/40):
1st - 3rd $300, $250, $200, U2200, U2000, U1800, U1600 each $100
Best Under 13 Years Old $75, Best Over 55 Years Old $75. Reg ends at
9 AM. Only one 1/2-point bye allowed, if requested before the start of
round two. EF: Adv (pmk. By Mar 5th) $45, AT Site $50. GMs Free Entry.
For info, call 201 797-0330, email chessdirector@icanj.net or visit
icanj.net. Prize Fund Will Not Be Reduced Below 70%. Rds.: 9:30 AM,
11:45 AM, 2:15 PM, 4:30 PM. Enter online at: http://www.icanj.net/
chess_class_in_nj/ica_chess_tournaments/ or mail information to
Diana Tulman, 28 Canterbury Ln., New Milford, NJ 07646. Make checks
payable to: International Chess Academy. W.
MAR. 15, NORTH CAROLINA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
CHARLOTTE CHESS CENTER THIRD THURSDAY TRIPLE
Third Thursday of every month! 3 rounds, G/25 d5. Charlotte Chess
Center and Scholastic Academy, 1800 Camden Road, Suite 108, Charlotte.
EF: $30 online or on-site by 6:45pm, $25 for CCCSA members. In one
section, prizes 100% guaranteed. OPEN: $200-100. Top U1900 $50, Top
U1500/Unr $50. US Chess Regular rated, Quick rated, and FIDE
Rapid Rated! Rounds 7:00pm, 8:00, 9:00. Info/reg: www.charlot-
techesscenter.org, grant@charlottechesscenter.org.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, FLORIDA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED)
16TH ANNUAL SOUTHERN CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS
5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Wyndham
Orlando Resort, 8001 International Dr., Orlando 32819. Special parking
$5; free with guest room. Prizes $15,000 guaranteed. In 7 sections.
Master (2200/up): $1400-700-400-300, clear or tiebreak winner $100
bonus. Expert (2000-2199): $1200-600-300-200. Class A (1800-1999):
$1200-600-300-200. Class B (1600-1799): $1200-600-300-200. Class
C (1400-1599): $1000-500-300-200. Class D (1200-1399): $800-400-
200-100. Class E (Under 1200): $500-300-200-100. Rated players may
play up one section. Unrated may enter A through E, but may not win
over $100 in E, $200 D, $300 C or $500 B. Mixed doubles: best
male/female 2-player team combined score among all sections: $400-
200. Team must average under 2200; may play in different sections;
register at site (no extra fee) by 2 pm 3/17. Top 6 sections EF: $108
online at chessaction.com by 3/14, 3-day $113, 2-day $112 mailed by
3/7, $120 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hours
before rd. 1. GMs, IMs & WGMs free; $100 deducted from prize. Class
E EF: all $30 less than above. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually
used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine
if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult
$22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25,
Scholastic $17. 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 & 3:15.
2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 &
3:15. All: Half point byes OK all, limit 2, Master must commit before rd.
2, others before rd. 3. HR: $127-127-127-127 (no resort fee), includes
resort fee benefits (free wireless & entertainment in room, parking,
use of fitness center, etc). 1-800-421-8001, 407-351-2420; reserve by
3/2 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633,
or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.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). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, TEXAS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30
LONE STAR OPEN
5SS, (Open and U2000 Sections are G/90 i30, and FIDE rated; All other
Sections are G/120 d5). Free entry for GMs,IMs,WGMs and WIMs (EF
deducted from winnings). SIDE EVENTS: (Schol. Team & Ind., 4SS, G/30
d5, 1-day only, Sat. Mar. 17th); 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. DoubleTree by Hilton near IAH
Airport (Houston North – JFK Blvd. off of Beltway 8), 15747 John F.
Kennedy Blvd., Houston, TX 77032, Ph: 281-848-4000, $89 chess rate
(reserve by 3/2 and mention Cajun Chess Tournament). Free Parking!
Free airport shuttle service! Free wireless internet in all guestrooms!
Discounted Hotel Breakfast Coupons for all hotel room guests ($12 Hot
Breakfast Buffet – Guests are responsible for tax & gratuities). Hotel
check-in time is 3pm; check-out time is 12 noon. For guests who need
later check out on Sunday, you may stay in your room until 7pm for an
additional day rate of $69; otherwise, hotel will store luggage at no
charge on Sunday afternoon for those checking out at 12 noon. 5 Sects.
PRIZES: $10,000 b/200 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*: $8023z0-400-200-100-50; 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 eligible for full prize fund.
Schol.Sects. (Team & Individual): K-2, K-5, K-8, K-12. Prizes: Trophies
to top 5 individuals & top 3 teams in each section (more ind. trophies
depending on pre-entries). Every non-trophy winner receives a souvenir
chess medal. Teams may have as many players as they wish from the
same school in the same section but must have a minimum of 3 players
to be considered a team; the top 4 scores will count for final team score.
Scholastic Players may play in both Scholastic and Main Tourna-
ments if desired by registering for the Scholastic Tournament AND
a section in the 3-day Schedule of the Main Tournament with a
1/2-point Bye in the 2nd Round of the 3-Day Schedule. USCF-rec-
ommended computer tiebreaks will decide trophy and medal placements
for winners of all schol. sections. Free chess gift to oldest player and to
player who travels farthest to OPEN tourn. CAJUN BOUNTY: Defeat the
top ranked player in the OPEN sect. and win free entry to our next tour-
nament! EF: $95 by 3/9; $110 thereafter and at site; Unr. (U1600) and
Jrs. (under 19 yrs of age and playing in U1300 or U1600 Sections) $65

by 3/9; $80 thereafter and at site. Schol. EF: $20 by 3/9; $30 thereafter
and at site; Re-Entry Fee (no Re-Entry in OPEN and U2000 Sects): $35
(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. 7:45-8:30am, (Rds. Sat. 9-2-
7, Sun. 10-3. Both schedules merge at Rd. 2. Schol. Sched: (All 4 rds.
G/30 d5 - one day only, Sat., Mar. 17). Reg. Sat. 8:30am-9:30am, Rd.
one at 10am; Other Rds. will immediately follow. Byes for OPEN & U2000
Sects: Up to two 1/2-pt. byes available for any round except Round 5 (if
you cannot stay for Rd. 5 you must take a 0-pt. bye or simply withdraw
after Rd. 4); Byes for all other Sects. In Open Tourn: Up to two 1/2-pt.
byes avail. For any Rd. and must commit before Rd. 3. Byes for SCHOL.
Tourn: Only one ½-point bye allowed and must commit before Rd. 2. HR:
$89 (281-848-4000), reserve by 3/2 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.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20
CAL CHESS WOMEN’S STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
Double Tree by Hilton Berkeley Marina, 200 Marina Blvd., Berkeley.
Prizes: $1,500. 100% guar. 1st-3rd $500-300-200, u2000: 200. u1600
$150, u1200/unr 150. Mar 18 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: Fri 6:30-6:45. $60
Onsite. SCHED: 3Day Fri 7pm Sat 11am, 4pm Sun 11am 4pm 2 Day Sat
11am 1:30pm 4:00pm Sun 11am, 4pm merges with 3 day in Round 3.1
TC: G/90+30 2day Rds. 1, 2 G/60 d5 EF: 50, after 3/14 +10 WGMs,
WIMs WFM,s -$0 by 3/10. Info: www.Berkeleychessschool.org. FIDE
RATED.
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
CAL CHESS SENIOR STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
Double Tree by Hilton Berkeley Marina, 200 Marina Blvd., Berkeley.
Prizes: $1,000. 100% guar. 1st-3rd $350-250-100, u2000: 100. u1600
$75, u1400/unr 50. Mar 18 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: Fri 6:30-6:45. $60
Onsite. SCHED: 3Day Fri 7pm Sat 11am, 4pm Sun 11am 4pm 2 Day Sat
11am 1:30pm 4:00pm Sun 11am, 4pm merges with 3 day in Round 3.1
TC: G/90+30 2day Rds. 1, 2 G/60 d5. EF: 40, after 3/14 +10 GMs,
IMs, FMs -$0 by 3/10. Info: www.Berkeleychessschool.org. FIDE RATED.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, NORTH CAROLINA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED)
5TH ANNUAL RON SIMPSON MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT
5-SS, G/120 d5. Ramada Hotel & Convention Center, 2703 Ramada Rd.,
Burlington, NC 27215, (336) 227-5541, mention chess for $74 rate until
March 2, 2018. Full hot buffet breakfast included! $5,000 in total prizes
ALL UNCONDITIONALLY GUARANTEED! CHAMPIONSHIP: $800-400-
200-100; U2200 (class): 160-110; U2000 (class):150-105; U1800:
$600-400-250-200-150-100; U1600 (class): 160-110; U1400: $400-250-
150; U1200 (class): 160-100. EF: $79 if received by March 11th; $91
thereafter. RDS.: Round 1: Friday at 7:30 pm or Saturday at 10 am (G90;
d/5); then Saturday 2-7, Sunday 9-2. Two byes allowed (any round) must
be requested before Round 2. Advance Entry: Online registration is
available at www.carolinaschessinitiative.com. Alternately, mail checks
to: CCI, 105 N. Crabtree Knoll, Chapel Hill, NC 27514. Make checks payable
to: Carolinas Chess Initiative (CCI). On site entry: March 16th from 5-7
pm and March 17th from 8-9:30 am. Saturday Scholastic: Open to kids
rated U1000. 4 Rd-SS, G/30 d5. EF: $20 by March 11th, $25 thereafter.
Rounds: 10:30 am-12:30 pm-1:45 pm-3:00 pm. Trophies: top 5 in two
sections. Sections based on ratings. INFO: Walter High wmhigh@nc.rr.com.
No smoking or tobacco products including electronic cigarettes.
MAR. 17, MASSACHUSETTS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
BOYLSTON CHESS FOUNDATION
4SS, G/60 d5. Sections: Open & U1900. Entry fee: $35, $20 for BCF
members, $5 more if not registering online. Prizes: $400 Guaranteed:
Open $150-$100-50, U1900 $100. Registration: 9:15am – 9:45am.
Rounds: 10:00am, 1:00pm, 3:30pm, 6:00pm. Address: Boylston Chess
Foundation, 40 Norris St., Suite B101, Cambridge, MA 02140. Phone:
617-714-3022. E-mail:boylstonchess@gmail.com. Register online at:
https://boylstonchess.org/.
MAR. 17, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)
19TH ANNUAL BRUCE BOWYER MEMORIAL
4SS, G/45 d10. ** ESTONIAN HOUSE, 243 East 34th Street between
Second and Third Avenues. 212.684.0336.**Note: Saturday Grand Prix
and Sunday Scholastic • Info@ Facebook: Bruce Bowyer Foundation
or (Pat Bowyer) 516.641.4521. EF: $20. $$G: $250-$175-$125, U2200
$100, U2000 $75, U1800 $60. New: Mixed Doubles Bonus Prize: best
male/female 2-player team combined score: $100. Team must average
U2200; register (no extra fee) onsite by 1:30 pm; teammate pairings
avoided but possible. Reg.: 10am-10:45. Rds.: 11-1:30-3:45-5:45pm.
Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), must commit by 1:30PM. Ent: Cks or MO
payable to Pat Bowyer (be sure to specify “Grand Prix, Saturday”), c/o
APS, 3500 North State Road 7, Ste 400, Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33319. •
Payment must be received by March 13 latest. NO door ents. You
*MUST* bring clocks and sets, none will be provided.
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 17-18, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED)
40TH ANNUAL MARCHAND OPEN
Dr. Erich Marchand “requested that his friends play chess in his memory.”
5SS, G/115 d5. Location: Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan
Square, Rochester, NY 14607. $16,440 Gtd. Open Section: $3000- 2000-
1300-800-500-300. Under 2200 & U2000 each $750-450. FIDE Rated.
See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14
EF: $85. U1800 Section: $1100-750-450. Under 1600 $750-450. EF: reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.com or
$70. U1400 Section: $500-300-200. Under 1200 $300-200. EF: $60. Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Questions: Director
U1000 Section: $400-250-160. Under 800 $200-130. EF: $50. Unrated AtChess.US, chesstour.com, chesstour.info, 347-201-2269. $15 service
players in the U1800 section can only win $375, in U1400 $175 & U1000 charge for refunds. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries
$125. No limit in Open. Balance to next prize winners. EF refunded and posted instantly). Blitz tournament Saturday 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm.
$100 appearance award to all GM and IM if paid by 3/5/2018. All EF
A Heritage Event!
add $20 after 3/5/2018. NYSCA members deduct $3. All sections USCF US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
rated. Ratings as in March Supplement. Bring sets, boards, and clocks
– none provided. Food court and chess books & equipment sales available MAR. 23-25, VIRGINIA
onsite. No smoking allowed on The Strong campus. Free parking. Reg.: US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30
8:30-9:15am. Rds.: Sat. 10-2:15-6:30, Sun. 10-2:15. One 1/2 point bye 51ST VIRGINIA OPEN
available in rds. 1, 2, 3, or 4 if requested at entry. Optional first round 5SS, a VCF Cup Event, $$4000 Guaranteed! SITE: Washington Dulles
Friday, 3/16/2018 at 7pm played at Rochester Chess Center (register Airport Marriott Hotel, 45020 Aviation Dr., Dulles, VA 20166; www.mar-
by 6:30pm). Info: 585-442-2430. Mail entry to: Rochester Chess Center, riott.com, 703-471-9500, rooms $104 Chess Rate plus taxes, res. by
221 Norris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. Web: nychess.org. Store: Fri. 3/2 at 1-800-228-9200 or 703-471-9500. Two Sections. OPEN (FIDE-
chessset.com. rated): $750-475-325-230; Top X and A (based on USCF ratings) ea
$200. FIDE Rules, 30-minute default for late arrivals. AMATEUR (U1900,
US Chess Junior Grand Prix! USCF Rated): $500-300-200; Top B,C,D, ea $175, Top U1200 $165, Top
MAR. 17-18, MAINE Unr $130 (limited to $200 place award). Plaques to 1st Place in Open
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED) and Amateur. Trophies to Top U1000, U800, U600 and Unrated. 5 Rds.:
SACO OPEN Rd. 1 Fri 3/23, 7:30pm (G/90 inc/30); Rds. 2 & 3 Sat 3/24 10am (G/90
Hampton Inn Saco/Biddeford, 48 Industrial Park Rd., Saco, ME 04072. Inc/30) & 3pm (40/90, SD/30 inc/30), Rds. 4 & 5 Sun 3/25 10am &
Both sections will use FIDE pairing rules. In 2 Sections, Open: 4SS, 4pm (40/90, SD/30 inc/30). EF: $85 if rec’d by Sat. 3/17, $100 starting
40/90, SD/30 + 30 Sec. Increment. FIDE rated. $$GTD: $500-250. Sun. 3/18 and on site. VCF Mem req. for VA Residents ($15 Adults, $8
U2250 $150, U2000 $150. No analog clocks allowed in this section. Junior under 18 yo). Byes: One 1/2 point Bye allowed Rds. 1-4, must
U1750: 4SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30 Sec. Increment, Analog clocks play commit by Sat 9:30am. Re-entry $40, start Rd2 with 1/2 pt. Checks
40/90, SD/60, Open to 1749 & under. $$GTD: $400-200. U1500 $100, payable to Virginia Chess Federation. REG.: On-line at www.vachess.org,
U1250 $100, Unrated $75. ALL: EF: $52 postmarked by 3/10, $57 at mail to Mike Hoffpauir, ATTN: VA Open, 405 Hounds Chase, Yorktown,
site. Reg.: Registration 9:00-9:45. Advance entries must be postmarked VA 23693; On-Site Fri 3/23 5-6:45pm. Info: www.vachess.org, or andr-
by 10 March 2018. Rds.: 10-4, 10-4. One half point bye available rounds erea2@yahoo.com.
1-3. Must be requested before round 1. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49 Technology
Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex Relyea relyea@operamail.com. US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
www.relyeachess.com. HR: $89 by 24 February. Call 207-282-7222 MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED)
and mention Relyea Chess or https://secure3.hilton.com/en_US/hp/
reservation/book.htm?ctyhocn=PWMSCHX&corporateCode=000315 IM WALTER SHIPMAN MEMORIAL CHAMPIONSHIP
8308&from=lnrlink. W. Fri: BAC office 2050 Concourse Drive, #42, San Jose 95131; Sat & Sun:
Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America Pkwy. Park Free!
MAR. 18, VIRGINIA 5SS, G/90 +30 2-day rds. 1-2 G/61 d5. Park free. Prize: 5,000 b/90
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 (60% guar). 3 sects: 2000+ (FIDE) $1,000-500-200, u2300: 250-125-
DULLES MAR 2018 FIDE RAPID/USCF QUICK RATED (QC) & 100. 1600-1999: $700-300-100, u1800: 200-100, u1600: $700-300-100
U1400 SCHOLASTIC QUADS u1400: 125-100, u1200: 100. Unr max $100 exc Open. Mar 18 Supp &
Location: Washington Dulles Airport Marriott (Downstairs Reston Salon), TD disc. Reg.: F 6:30-6:45p & Sa 9:30-9:45a. Rds.: F 7p, Sa 10a, 3p Su
45020 Aviation Dr., Dulles, VA 20166. Two Sections. Open (FIDE) and 10a 2:30p. (2-day Sa 10a 12:30 & merge). EF: 109, Econ EF: 89 w 50%
U1800. 5-SS, G/15;10sec inc. Open MIN 1700 to play otherwise pay prz, after 3/15 +20. Playup +30. GMs/IMs- $0 by 3/10 (prize - EF).
$30 addl EF. Prizes: Open $$340 GTD: $200-100 U1900 $40. U1800
Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/champs.
$240 b/15: $120-60-30 U1500 $30. EF: $25-3/13, $30-3/16, $35
after/onsite, CAC $5 less. GMs/IMs Free-PrizeDedn $20. OnsiteRegn MAR. 24, CONNECTICUT
closes 9:15am. Round#1: 9:30am. Side Event U1400 Scholastic US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
Quads: EF $5 less 3- RR G/40 d5, Trophy/Medals. Mailed entries: PO 2018 Greater New Haven Championships!
Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20151 Checks payable to ‘Capital Area Chess’. at Elm City Prep, $1000 Prize Fund! b/30, $500 b/15. Open, U1700
Email information only: info@capitalareachess.com. Online Info/Regn/ 4/SS, G/60 d5, Rds.: 9-11-1:30-3:30. Rds.: 1 & 2 accl’rtd prngs if nec.
Adv Entries: capitalareachess.com. U1200, U1000, U800/UNR: 5SS, G/30 d5. Rds.: 10am then ASAP, Open:
MAR. 20, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
MARSHALL MASTERS
4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to 2000+ players. FIDE Rapid rated. $750 GTD:
$250-150-100; U2400: $125; U2300: $100; Biggest upset: $25. EF: $30;
Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour
before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for
Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchess-
club.org/register.
MAR. 23, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
MARSHALL $500 FIDE BLITZ (BLZ)
9-SS, G/3 +2. FIDE Blitz rated. USCF regular rating used for pairings &
prizes. $500 GTD: $200-100; U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50.
EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person
reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: Begin at 7pm and continue
ASAP. Max three byes; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, MISSOURI
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED)
22ND ANNUAL MID-AMERICA OPEN
5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Clayton 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). Free parking.
$$ 20,000 GUARANTEED PRIZES. In 6 sections: Major: Open to
1800/over. $2000-1000-600-400, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak $100
bonus, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE. Under 2100: $1500-700-500-300.
Under 1900: $1500-700-500-300. Under 1700: $1400-700-500-300.
Under 1500: $1200-600-400-300. Under 1250: $900-500-300-200. Prize
limits: Unrated may not win over $200 in U1250, $400 U1500, or $600
U1700. Mixed doubles: best male/female 2-player team combined
score among all sections: $800-400-200. Team must average under
2200, may play in different sections, register (no extra fee) by 2 pm
3/24. Top 5 sections EF:$113 at chessaction.com by 3/21, 3-day $118,
2-day $117 mailed by 3/14, $130 online until 2 hours before round 1 or
at site. GMs free; $100 deducted from prize. U1250 Section EF: all
$20 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 $35, Young Adult $22,
Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult
$25, Scholastic $17. Re-entry $60; not available in Major Section. 3-
day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 &
3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10
& 3:15. Byes: OK all, limit 2; Major must commit before rd. 2, others
before rd. 3. HR: $102-105, includes free full hot buffet breakfast. 888-
303-1746, 314-726-5400, request chess rate, reserve by 3/9 or rate
may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or
www.uschess.org 53
Tournament Life / March

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

US Chess Membership Rates:

Premium (P) and Regular (R)
(U.S., CANADA, MEXICO)

Type 1 yr 2 yr
Adult P $49 $95
Adult R $40 $75
Senior (65+) $40 $75
Young Adult P (U25)* $35 $65
Young Adult R (U25)* $26 $48
Youth P (U16)* $30 $55
Youth R (U16)* $22 $40
Scholastic P (U13)* $25 $45
Scholastic R (U13)* $17 $30
Premium membership provides a printed copy of Chess Life
(monthly) or Chess Life Kids (bimonthly) plus all other benefits
of regular membership. Regular membership provides online-
only access to Chess Life and Chess Life Kids. Youth provides
bimonthly Chess Life, Scholastic bimonthly Chess Life Kids,
others listed above monthly Chess Life. See www.uschess.org
for other membership categories. Dues are not refundable and
may be changed without notice.
54-55
*Ages at expiration

54 March 2018 | Chess Life


2-Day EF: $155 (No Open Section). Top Senior (65+) -$200; Club Champ.-
$600-300. ALL: Entries must be postmarked by 3/2 or pay late fee-$11,
do not mail after 3/23 or email after 3/27, $22 at site. Trophies 1st –
3rd (“A” – “D” sections). Unrated players are free entry but must join
USCF for 1 full year thru this tournament – Unrated not eligible for cash
prizes. 1st Unrated = trophy + 1 yr. USCF Mem. Senior discount (65+
yrs.) $10. Players may play up. Provisionally rated players may only win
½ of 1st place money (except Open Section 1 – 7). CCA ratings may be
used. Note: pairings not changed for color unless 3 in a row or cause a
plus 3 and if the unlikely situation occurs 3 colors in a row may be
assigned. SIDE EVENTS: Wed. (3/28) 7:00pm GM Sergey Kudrin – Clock
Simul with game analysis ($30); Thurs. (3/29) 6-7:15pm Lecture by IM
John Donaldson (FREE); 7:30pm- GM Alex Yermolinsky - Simul ($20);
7:30pm-Blitz (G/5 d0)) Tourney ($25) 80% entries = Prize Fund. Sat.
(3/31) (3-4:30pm) Free Game/Position Analysis - IM John Donaldson.
REG.: (3/29) 5-8pm (3/30) 9-10am and (3/31) 9-10 am. RDS.: (Fri) 12-
7, (Sat) 10-7, (Sun) 9:30-4:30. 2-Day (3/31) Rd. 1 (11:00 am), Rd. 2
(1:15 pm), Rd. 3 (3:45 pm), Rd. 4 merge with regular schedule – (7:00
pm). Byes available any round if requested by Rd.1 (Open Section 2
byes max). ENT: make checks payable and send to: SANDS REGENCY
(address listed above), postmarked by 3/2. $11 late fee if postmarked
after 3/2. Do not mail after 3/23 or email after 3/27. $22 late fee at
site. HR: (Sun-Thurs. $54.07!) (Fri. & Sat. $76.77!) 1-866-386-7829 Reser-
vation Code: CHESS318 (Reserve by 3/15/18 to get Chess rate. INFO:
Jerry Weikel, 6578 Valley Wood Dr., Reno, NV 89523, (H) 775-747-1405
or (Cell) 775-354-8728, wackyykl@ aol.com or check out our website
at: www.renochess.org. To verify entry check website.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 30-APR. 1, ILLINOIS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20
MIDWEST HOLIDAY CLASS
7-SS, in 6 Sections. T/L: G/90 + 30 sec increment. Sheraton Chicago
O’Hare Airport Hotel, corner of Higgins & Mannheim, Rosemont, IL.
Just 1 block north of the O’Hare Metra train stop. Prizes ($10,000
b/160): M $950-550-300, U2300 $200. X $750-400-225, U2100 $175. A
$750-400-225, U1900 $175. B $750-400-225, U1700 $175. C $750- 400-
225, U1500 $175. D & below $700-375-200, U1100 $175, U800 $150.
Upset prize Sections X-C $50. Unr may play in any section, but $400
prize limit & is ineligible for upset or under prize. ALL: RAFFLE PRIZES,
Including prize of free entry to 2018 Chicago Open, and prize of free
entry to 2018 US Open. EF: $92 by 3/16, 104 by 3/29, 120 at site. GM
Free. Play up 1 section $10. ReEntry $60. Reg.: 12:30-1 pm. Rds.: 1:30-
6:30, 9:30-2-7, 10:30-3. MAX of 2 Half Point byes, which should be
requested at registration & Round 7 byes are irrevocable. Hotel Rate of
$99 per night (plus taxes) available until March 16, 2018. Payment and
registration online at kingregistration.com/Midwest holiday class. NO
Credit cards accepted at site! Mail entry (payable to) Lawrence Cohen,
PO Box 6632, Villa Park, IL 60181. Additional info via e-mail at allamer-
icaschess@gmail.com. W.
MAR. 31, MISSOURI
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20
SATURDAY NIGHT SPECIAL (QC)
4SS, G/15 + 2 second increment. Chess Club & Scholastic Center of
Saint Louis, 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108. Free entries
for GMs and IMs. EF: $25. One Section. Prize Fund: $1,800 Uncondi-
tionally Guaranteed!! 1st-$500 2nd-$400 3rd-$300 All Players below the
top 1/3 compete for $150-$100-$50. Players in the bottom 1/3 also
compete for $110-$60-$30. Biggest Upset: $100. Reg.: 5-5:45. Rounds:
6, 6:50, 7:45, 8:45. One 1/2 point bye available in any round if declared
before round 1. Quick ratings will be used for Pairing and Prize Purposes.
TD has discretion to appoint ratings. Ent: 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint
Louis, MO 63108, or online at saintlouischessclub.org Info: 314-361-
CHESS, info@saintlouischessclub.org.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 31-APR. 1, GEORGIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20
1ST ANNUAL RON FINEGOLD MEMORIAL
Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Atlanta, 2500 Old Alabama Rd.,
Suite 11, Roswell, GA 30076. 3 sections: Open, U1800, U1400. 5 rounds,
G/90 d5. Registration: 8:00am-9:30am, March 31, or call (678) 628-
5615 by March 30 to register by phone. https://atlchessclub.com/ for
online registration. Rounds: Sat rounds: 10AM-2PM-6PM, Sun rounds:
10AM-2PM. EF: $55 for CCSCATL members if entered by March 30, $5
more at site. Non-Members pay $10 more each. (this means $65 non-
members paid by March 30, and $70 day of event). $2500 total prizes
Guaranteed. Open Section prizes: 1st -$600, 2nd -$400, 3rd-$200. 1st
U2000-$150. U1800 Section prizes: 1st-$300, 2nd-$175, 3rd-$100, 1st
U1600-$75. U1400 Section prizes: 1st-$250, 2nd-$125, 3rd-$75, 1st
U1000/UNR -$50. *Any player can play in the Open Section* *Any
player Unrated-1799 can play in the U1800 section* USCF RATED. Sets
and Clocks provided for all of our events!! GM and Senior TD Ben Finegold
will be the Chief TD. Visit our website: https://atlchessclub.com/.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 2, 9, 16, 23, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
111TH NASSAU GRAND PRIX
4-SS, 45/90, SD/30 d5. 1st Presbyterian Church, 1st & Main Sts., Mineola.
3 sections. Open: EF: $40 by 3/30. $$ (540 b/15, top 2 G) 180-120,
U2200, 2000 each 120. Booster: open to U1800/UR. EF: $30 by 3/30.
$$ (390 b/15) 165, 105, U1600 120. Novice: open to U1400/UR. EF:
$20 by 3/30. $$ (240 b/15) 100, U1200, U1000/UR each 70. All: 2 byes
1-4 (Last rd bye must be req before rd. 3 and is irrevocable). $10 more
for non-memb. EF $7 more at site. Reg ends 7:15 PM. Rds.: 7:15 each
Mon. Info only: captnhal@optonline.net. Ent: Harold Stenzel, 80 Amy
Dr., Sayville, NY 11782.
APR. 5, NORTH CAROLINA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
CHARLOTTE CHESS CENTER FIRST THURSDAY FIDE BLITZ -
MARNZELL HAND MEMORIAL (BLZ)
See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14
8 rounds, G/5 d0. Charlotte Chess Center and Scholastic Academy, 1800
Camden Road, Suite 108, Charlotte. EF: $30 online or on-site by 6:45pm,
$25 for CCCSA members. In one section, prizes 100% guaranteed. OPEN:
$250-150-100. Top U1800 $75, Top U1400/Unr $75. US Chess and FIDE
Blitz Rated! Regular US Chess ratings used for pairings and prizes. Rounds
7:00pm then ASAP, tournament should end by 9pm. Info/reg: www.char-
lottechesscenter.org, grant@charlottechesscenter.org.
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 6-8 OR 7-8, OHIO
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20
54TH CINCINNATI OPEN
Hilton Garden Inn, 5300 Cornell Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242. 5SS; Sections:
Open, U2100, U1700, U1300. Open section FIDE rated. Players may
choose to play up, but only one section. Time Control: Open section
40/90, SD/30, +30 except 2-day rds 1&2 G/75 d5. Other sections
G/120 d5. Prizes: Open: $800-550-400-300, top under 2200 $250-200;
U2100: $550-400-300-200, top under 1900 $200-150; U1700: $400-300-
200-150, top under 1500 $175-125; U1300: $300-200-150-125, top under
1100 $150-125; prizes based on 120 paid entries, else proportional. No
unrated may win more than the third-place prize amount except in Open
section. Entry fee: Advance $99, must be received by 9:00 am, April 6;
onsite $110; re-entry $50. $10 discount for all who played in 2017 Cincin-
nati Open, $5 discount for all others who played in any Cincinnati Open
2012-2016; $3 discount for current Ohio Chess Association members.
Free entry to GMs/IMs/WGMs/WIMs; $99 less applicable discounts
deducted from prize. Advance registration: Mail entries to Cincinnati
Open, 9180 Pinewood Dr., Loveland, OH 45140 or enter online at
www.chesscincinnati.com. Onsite registration: Friday, April 6 5:30-
6:30 pm; Saturday, April 7 8:00-10:00 am. Open 3-day schedule: Fri
7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 9 & 3. Open 2-day schedule: Sat 11 & 2, then merge
with 3-day. U2100, U1700 and U1300 sections: Fri 7, Sat 9, 2 & 7,
Sun 9 & 2; six rounds are scheduled; every player in these sections
must select one zero-point bye round so that all players play a five-
round schedule. Half-point Byes: Up to two optional half-point byes,
additional to zero-point bye, must commit before 5:00 pm Sat. HR:
$99/king bed, $110/two queen beds, rate includes breakfast for two.
Reserve by Thursday, March 22, 2018 to ensure rate and room. For
reservations, call 513-469-6900, or use link on our website to book
online. Bring sets and clock. Complete information, including online and
mail registration forms, at www.chesscincinnati.com. Questions:
info@chesscincinnati.com or call/text Alan at 513-600-9915.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 6-8, MISSOURI
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40
BILL WRIGHT SAINT LOUIS OPEN (FIDE RATED) $10K EVENT
5SS, G/90 + 30 second increment. Chess Club & Scholastic Center of
Saint Louis, 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108. Free entries
for GMs and IMs. EF: $100, $80 if registered by 4/3. Two Sections:
Open (FIDE Rated) & U2000. Prize Fund: $10,000 UNCONDITIONALLY
GUARANTEED!! Open Section: $1,500-$1,000-$800-$650-$300. Under
2250: $600-$400-$250. Under 2150: $350-$200. Under 2000 Section:
$1,000-$600-$350-$200. U1800: $500-$250. U1600: $400-$200. U1400:
$300-$150. Reg.: 3:00-6:30 on Friday Afternoon. Rounds: Friday: 7:00
pm. Saturday 12:00 pm, 5:00 pm Sunday 11:00 am, 4:00 pm. Two half
point byes available in any round if declared before Round 2. MCA Mem-
bership required from $5. OSA. Ent: 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis,
MO 63108, or online at saintlouischessclub.org Info: 314-361-CHESS,
info@saintlouischessclub.org.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 7, WISCONSIN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
HALES CORNERS CHALLENGE XXVII
4SS, G/60 d6. 2 Sections: Open & Reserve (under 1600). Hilton Garden
Inn Oshkosh, 1355 W. 20th Ave., Oshkosh, WI 54902, (920) 966-1300.
EF: $40-Open, $30 Reserve, both $10 more after April 5. Comp EF for
USCF 2200+. $$GTD: Open: 1st-$325, 2nd-$175, A-$100, B & below-
$75; Reserve: 1st $100, 2nd $75, D-$50, E & below $40. Goddesschess
prizes for females in addition to above prizes. Reg.: 8:30-9:30. Rds.:
10-1-3:30-6. Questions to: Chris Wainscott (414-839-5232, after 5:30
pm), or e-mail: chris.wainscott13@outlook.com. Entries to: Robin J.
Grochowski, 3835 E. Morris Ave., Cudahy, WI 53110, (414-861-2745),
e-mail: rgrochowski@wi.rr.com.
APR. 7, CONNECTICUT
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
CT STATE QUICK CHAMPIONSHIPS! (QC)
at West Haven Police Dept. $1000 Prize Fund! b/30, $500 b/15. Open,
U1700, U1200. 5/SS, G/25 d5, 1 & 2 accl’rtd prngs if nec. Rds.: 10am
then ASAP, Open: $300, $200, $100, $50. U1700 $150, $100, $50 ,
$50. Trophies to 1st Place Open, U1700, top 3 U1200. EF: $40
Online, $50 by 3/18, $80 on site. EF: Educational Technologies, 343
Beach St. #404, West Haven, CT 06516. Online EF save $10!
www.edutechchess.com or www.CTChess.com.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 7-8, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)
2ND ANNUAL BILL LITTLE MEMORIAL
5SS, rds. 1-3 G/90 d10, rds. 4-5 40/100, SD/30 d10. Proctors Theatre,
432 State St., Schenectady, NY 12305 (free parking in Broadway Garage).
$1700 guaranteed prize fund. In 3 sections. Open: $300-150-90, top
U2050/Unr $140-70. Under 1850: $200-100-50, top U1650 (no unr)
$120-60. Under 1450: $120-70-40, top U1250 (no unr) $60-30. Unrated
may not win over $70 in U1450. Mixed doubles: best male/female
combined scores among all sections: $100. Must average under 2200;
may play in different sections; register by 3 pm 4/7. Top 2 sections
EF: $62 online at chessaction.com by 4/5 or mailed by 3/30, $80 at site
or online until 9 am 4/7. Online entry $5 less to NYSCA members (may
join with entry). U1450 Section EF: all $20 less than above. No checks
at site, credit cards OK. GMs, IMs & WGMs free, $50 from prize. All:
Re-entry $40; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org
ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues
with paper magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult
$35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young
Adult $25, Scholastic $17. Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 3 & 7, Sun
10 & 3:15. Bye: all, limit 2; must commit before rd. 2. HR: Hotels/motels
within walking distance; see travel websites. Ent: chessaction.com or
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 chessaction.com (online entries
posted instantly).
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 7-8, ILLINOIS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15
54TH GREATER PEORIA OPEN
5 SS, G/90 inc/30. Mark Twain Hotel, 225 NE Adams St., Peoria, IL
61602. 2 Sections: Open & Reserve (1400 & Under). EF: $40 by 4/5,
$50 at site, free to Masters. $$Gtd: $1,320 (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th & Upset
in Open & 1st, 2nd, 3rd & Upset in Reserve). Class prizes are b/3 for X,
A, B, & C for Open section & E & F for Reserve section. Open: 1st $500,
2nd $240, 3rd $120, 4th $90, X, A, B & C $90 & $60 each, Upset $50.
Reserve (1400 & Under): 1st $120, 2nd $90, 3rd $60, Classes E & F
$90 & $60 each, Upset $50. Reg.: 8-8:45, Rds.: 9:30-2:00-6:30, 10:00-
3:00. Bye: 1-5, www.peoriaopen.org. Ent: Greater Peoria Chess
Foundation, 1116 N. Parkside Dr., Peoria, IL 61606, 309-981-7210.
APR. 8, CONNECTICUT
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
CT STATE RAPID CHAMPIONSHIPS! (QC)
at West Haven Police Dept. $1000 Prize Fund! b/30, $500 b/15. Open,
U1700, U1200. 7/SS, G/15 d5, 1 & 2 accl’rtd prngs if nec. Rds.: 10am
then ASAP, Open: $300, $200, $100, $50, U1700 $150, $100, $50,
$50. Trophies to 1st Place Open, U1700, top 3 U1200. EF: $40
Online, $50 by 3/18, $80 on site. EF: Educational Technologies, 343
Beach St. #404, West Haven, CT 06516. Online EF save $10!
www.edutechchess.com or www.CTChess.com.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 14-15, TEXAS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED)
2018 DCC FIDE OPEN IV
5SS, G/90 inc/30. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S. Cottonwood Dr. #C, Richard-
son, TX 75080. Two sections: Open and Reserve. Open: $$875G. FIDE
and US Chess rated but uses FIDE rules. Use US Chess ratings and
rules for pairings and for awarding prizes. Default late forfeiture time
is one hour. TD may extend this time at TD’s discretion. Note that
Foreign players must disclose their FIDE ID number before 1st round
in order to play. Note that USA Players with no FIDE ID must disclose
their email address. $$ $500-$250-$125. EF: 2400+ $125, 2000-2399
$90, 1600 -1999 $99, U1600 $125, Senior/Birthday during tournament/
Additional Family Member $55. Dallas Chess Club membership required
or pay $20 non-member fee. Small Minimum prize to the First three
GM/IM’s who apply. GM/IM must play all rounds to get minimum prize
(entry fee may be deducted from prize). Reserve: Open to players rated
below 2000 USCF. This section is not Fide Rated but is US Chess rated
and uses US Chess rules. EF: $40. 10$ non Dallas Chess Club membership
fee. The Reserve give back 10% in prizes and if at least 8 paid entries
and if there is a clear winner, then that winner receives free entry to
next DCC Fide Open. In the reserve section, Tournament reserves the
right to use Fide rules on electronic devices and on starting White’s
clock at start of a round and to use FIDE pairing rules. Also clocks will
be set to ‘halt at end’. Both: Reg.: Saturday from 9:45–10:15 am. Rds.:
Sat 10:45 am-3:10pm-7:16pm, Sun 9:45 am- 2:10pm. One half point Bye
allowed if requested before end of round 2 and before getting full point
bye. Withdrawals and zero point last round byes are not eligible for
prizes. Note that house players (if required) must pay $5 per round and
be US Chess members. ENT: Make/mail Checks payable to Dallas Chess
Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036-
4719. Info: 214-632-9000. FIDE .
A Heritage Event!
A State Championship Event!
APR. 15, MASSACHUSETTS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)
28TH MASSACHUSETTS G/60 CHAMPIONSHIP
4SS, G/60 d5. Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel, 181 Boston Post Road
West, Marlboro, MA 01752 (I-495, exit 24B, Rt. 20W, one mile from
exit). 508-460-0700 or 888-543-9500. $$ 2,500 b/100 paid entries
(U1200 counts 70%), $2,000 minimum (80% each prize). 6 sects. Open:
$300-175, top Under 2400 $150, top Under 2200 $150. Under 2000:
$250-125. Under 1800: $250-125. Under 1600: $200-125. Under 1400:
$200-100. Under 1200: $150-100, top Under 1000 $100. Unrated prize
limits: $75 in U1200, $100 in U1400, $125 in U1600, $150 in U1800,
$175 in U2000. EF: $34 if mailed by 4/10 or online by 4/13, $45 at site.
$10 discount to players in U1200 Section. GMs and IMs free. Reg.: 8-9
a.m. Rds: 10-1-3:30-6. Other: Bye 1-4 with entry, limit 1, must commit
before round 2, no half point byes for players receiving full point byes.
MACA memb. required for Mass. residents ($12 adult, $6 jr. U18, add
$8 for Chess Horizons subscription). Ent: Robert Messenger, 4 Hamlett
Dr., Apt. 12, Nashua, NH 03062 or online (PayPal) at www.MassChess.org.
Make checks payable to MACA. Info: 603-891-2484 or send email to
info@masschess.org. Day of the tournament call 603-557-1732. W.
APR. 17, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
MARSHALL MASTERS
4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to 2000+ players. FIDE Rapid rated. $750 GTD:
$250-150-100; U2400: $125; U2300: $100; Biggest upset: $25. EF: $30;
Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour
before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for
Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchess-
club.org/register.
www.uschess.org 55
Tournament Life / March

US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 19, 26, MAY 3, 10, 17, 24, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15
3RD ANNUAL LI CHESS CLUB ILAN KREITNER MEMORIAL
Open to all. $1500 GTD PRIZE FUND! 6SS, G/90 d5. United Methodist
Church, 470 East Meadow Ave., East Meadow, NY 11554. Open to all:
$1500 GTD: $500-$300. Top U-2000, U-1750, U-1500, U-1250/unr. $175
ea. EF: $50 LICC Members, $60 Non-LICC members. Reg.: 6:45 – 7:15
PM. Adv. Ent: in person at the LICC any Thursday evening prior to rd. 1.
Rds.: 7:30 PM SHARP ea. Thursday. 2 byes 1-6 (rd. 6 bye decl. before
rd. 3). Info:www.lichessclub.com.
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
A State Championship Event!
APR. 20-22 OR 21-22, INDIANA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
77TH ANNUAL INDIANA STATE CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP
OPEN: 3day 5/SS, 30/90, SD/60 d5, 2day Rd. 1 & 2 G/90 d5. RESERVE
(U1800): 5/SS, G/90 d5. Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Airport, 2501 S. High
School Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46241. HR: $112 by 3/21. Ph: 317-244-6861.
PRIZES: $$3,000(b/80) Open: 1st, $500+plaque (plaque - IN. res. only),
$400, Top X, A $300ea.; Reserve: 1st $500+plaque (plaque - IN. res.
only), $400, Top C, D/Under $300ea. REG.: 3day Fri.6-6:30PM, 2day
Sat.8:30-9:30AM. ROUNDS: 3day Rd.1 Fri. 7PM, Sat.10, 4, Sun. 9:30, 4;
2day Sat. 9, 12:30 then merge, 1/2pt bye available Rd. 1-4, request before
Rd. 2. Top bd. per section broadcast live at indianachess.org. EF: $55 by
4/13, $70 onsite, Reentry $25, player 13yrs and under $30 by 4/13, $45
onsite, $5 discount to ISCA members. ENTRIES: indianachess.org OR
Mail to: Mathew Leach, 4010 Parkwood Circle, Apt. 2A, Mishawaka, IN
46545. ISCA MEMBERSHIP MTG: Sun. 2:30PM.
APR. 21, PENNSYLVANIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15
4TH ANNUAL LVCA BRUCE ALBERSTON MEMORIAL $1500
GTD-RBO
5SS, G/30 d5. College Hill Moravian Church, 72 W. Laurel St., Bethlehem,
PA. 2 Sections: Open: $350 $250-$150, U2100/Unr-U1900-U1700- U1500-
$75 ea. U1200:1st-$100, 2nd-3rd-U900-Unr-$50 ea. Mixed/Fam. Doubles:
$75 ea. EF: $30 by 4/16, $35 CASH on site. GM/IM free; $30 from prize.
Reg: ends 10:45 am. Rds.: Sat-11,12:30, 2:30, 4, 5:30. 1/2 pt byes: limit
2. Info: www.lehighvalleychesscub.org, 484-866-3045. Checks payable
to: Bruce Davis, 1208 Linden St., Fl. 1, Bethlehem, PA 18018.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 21-22, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
2018 ANNUAL FRANK DOYLE OPEN
Exchange Bank, 444 Aviation Blvd., Santa Rosa, CA 95401. 4 Round
Swiss, G/120 d5. In 3 Sections, Open: 4SS, G/120 d5, $$GTD: $250-
175. Reserve: 4SS, G/120 d5, Open to 1899 & under. $$GTD: $200-125.
Booster: 4SS, G/120 d5, Open to 1499 & under. $$GTD: $150-100. Unr.
must play in Booster Section. Unrated players winning prizes will only
receive half of the prize. ALL: EF: $35 advance until 4/19, $45 at site.
No phone or e-mail entries. $10 fee to play up a section. Reg.: 04/21
8:30am - 9:30am. Rds.: Sat 10, 3; Sun 10, 3. ENT: Paul Stagnoli, 4233
Kintyre Rd., Santa Rosa, CA 95409- 4127. INFO: (707) 478-4385
paulgs@sonic.net. http://pstagnol.users.sonic. net/tournaments. Bring
your own equipment, none provided. No Cell phones allowed. W.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 21-23, IOWA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED)
12TH ANNUAL OKOBOJI OPEN (IASCA GP QUALIFIER)
1405 Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center. 1405 Highway 71 S.
Okaboji, IA 51355. TD Eric Vigil. 5 Rd Swiss, G/120 d5 in 3 day option. Rds.:
Friday 6:00 PM; Saturday 10:00 AM, 4:30 PM; Sunday 9:00 AM, 2:30 PM. 2
day option has G/90 d5 for rds. 1 and 2. Sections merge at Rd. 3. On site
registration 5:00-5:45 PM on 4-21 (3 day option) Rds.: 9:00 AM, 1:00 PM
4:30 PM; Sunday 9:00 AM, 2:30 PM. Entry fee: $55, if received by April 13,
2018. On site: $65 cash or $70 check. USCF membership required. On-site
available. IASCA membership required: $10. Other states accepted. Prize
info: Top 3 (guaranteed) $500 + Trophy, $300 & $150. U2000,U1800,U1600
- $100 (b/30). Make checks payable: Sibley Chess Club. 934 6th St., Sibley,
IA 51249, (712) 330-8254 or email jodene77@yahoo.com or pay on-line by
April 13. Onlineregistration.cc Additional info: $79 Hotel rate, if reserved
by March 21, call 1-800-727-4561. SIDE EVENT: Blitz Friday Night at 9:30
or 30 min after last game first round of Open: 5SS, G/5 d0. Rds.: ASAP.
Half pt bye any one rd. Prize info: $50 b/10 players. 1st-$25, (U1300) $20.
EF: $10 if recieved by April 13, $15 on site.
APR. 22, NEW JERSEY
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
WESTFIELD GRAND PRIX
4-SS. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. 3 Sections:
Open, U1800, U1200. Open: EF $40, $30 members, GM free (-$30 from
prize). Prize Fund: $900 b/30 paid section entries. 70% guaranteed.
Prizes: $240-200-160. U2400 $120, U2200 $100, U2000 $80. U1800: EF
$25, $20 members. Prizes, b/14: $80-60, U1600 $50, U1400 $40. U1200:
EF $25, $20 members. Prizes, b/14: $80-60, U1000 $50, U800 $40.
Register: 11:15 a.m. -12 noon. Rounds: 12:15, 2:00, 3:45, 5:30 p.m.
Byes: 1 per player allowed. Must declare before round 3. Info: westfield-
chessclub@gmail.com, www.westfieldchessclub.org/Events.html
APR. 27, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
MARSHALL $500 FIDE BLITZ (BLZ)
9-SS, G/3 +2. FIDE Blitz rated. USCF regular rating used for pairings &
prizes. $500 GTD: $200-100; U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50.
EF: $20; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person
reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: Begin at 7pm and continue
ASAP. Max three byes; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, FLORIDA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80
25TH SPACE COAST OPEN
5SS, Top section FIDE rated (USCF ratings used for pairings & prizes)
at G/90+30 sec. incr., All other sections but Class E/U1200 G/120 d5,
Class E/U1200 G/90 d5 (2-day Rd. 1 for all sections G/60 d5). Interna-
tional Palms Resort, 1300 N. Atlantic Ave. (Hwy A1A), Cocoa Beach, FL
32931. $$20,000 b/240 pd., $15,000 Gtd. 6 Sections: Master/Expert:
Open to 2000/over. $2000+trophy-1000-500-400, U2400 $1500+tro-
phy-750, U2200 $1400+trophy-700-400. Draw offers not permitted
before move 30 (Master/Expert section only). Class A: Open to 1600-
1999. $1200+trophy-600-300-200. Class B: Open to 1400-1799.
$1100+trophy-500-300-200. Class C: Open to 1200-1599. $1000+tro-
phy-500-300-200. Class D: Open to 800-1399. $900+trophy-450-200-100.
Class E/U1200: Open to U1200. $800+trophy-400-200, U1000 $500+tro-
phy-300, U800 $400+trophy-200, trophies to top Brevard County
scholastics players in K-3, K-5, K-8, K-12. Top Senior Prizes: Among
all sections, must be at least 55 on Apr. 27. $250+trophy-150-100. All:
Unr. may enter any section. Unr. may not win over $300 or trophy unless
place prize in Master/Expert section. Prizes for 1st-3rd brilliancy &
biggest upset rds. 1-4. EF: $114 by 4/22, $20 more later & onsite; $20
less if Unr. or under age 18. Re-entry $60 by rd. 3 (1/2 pt. byes for
earlier rds.). GM/IM free entry available online until 3/31, else $114
from prize. Special EF for Brevard County students in any section: $25
online by 4/22, $30 online by 5 pm on 4/26 or at site (counts as 1/4
entry for based on prize fund). Reg.: Ends 1/2 hr. before 1st rd. Rds.:
Rd. 1 7:30 pm Fri. (2-day 10 am Sat. at G/60 d5); Rd. 2 Sat. 1:15; Rd. 3
all sections but Class E/U1200 6:30, Class E/U1200 5:45; Rd. 4 Sun.
9:30; Rd. 5 all sections but Class E/U1200 2:30, Class E/U1200 1:45.
Up to 2 half point byes if req’d before rd. 2. Side events: Space Coast
Open Blitz. G/5 d0. Prizes: Cash prizes based on entries. EF: $20. Blitz
starts at 10:15 pm Sat. Other events: see www.spacecoastchessfoun-
dation.org. HR: $109, Oceanside $129, Loft $149. Resort fee waived.
800-206-2747 or 321-392-1647, reserve by 4/6. Group code SCC18. Ent:
Payable to: Space Coast Chess Foundation, c/o Jon Haskel, 2385 NW
Executive Center Dr., #100, Boca Raton, FL 33431. Online entry and
add’l info:www.spacecoastchessfoundation.org, jon@bocachess.com,
561-302-4377.
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, MASSACHUSETTS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED)
27TH ANNUAL EASTERN CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS
5SS, 40/100, 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 guaranteed prizes. In 7 sections: Master
(2200/up): $2000-1000-500-300, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak $100
bonus, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE. Expert (2000-2199): $1500-700-400-

GOLD & SILVER AFFILIATES

GOLD Any affiliate that has submitted at least 50 US Chess memberships during the
Bay Area Chess
2050 Concourse Drive #42
Continental Chess
Association
current or previous calendar year, or is the recognized State Affiliate, is eligible to become San Jose, CA 95131 P.O. Box 8482
a Gold Affiliate. Gold Affiliates are honored in a special list in larger type in Tournament Life 408-409-6596 Pelham, NY 10803
each month, giving the affiliate name, address, phone number, e-mail address, and website. ask@bayareachess.com director@chess.us
Gold Affiliation costs $350 per year, and existing affiliates may subtract $3 for each month www.bayareachess.com www.chesstour.com
remaining on their regular affiliation, or $20 for each month remaining on their Silver Af- Berkeley Chess School
filiation. By paying an annual payment of $500 (instead of $350), Gold Affiliate status Marshall Chess Club
1845 Berkeley Way
23 West 10th Street
may be obtained with no minimum requirement for memberships submitted. Berkeley, CA 94703
New York, NY 10011
510-843-0150
212-477-3716
SILVER Any affiliate that has submitted at least 25 US Chess
Advanced Chess
tournaments@berkeleychessschool.org
www.berkeleychessschool.org
admin@marshallchessclub.org
memberships during the current or previous calendar year, or is the www.marshallchessclub.org
Organization Cajun Chess
recognized State Affiliate, is eligible to become a Silver Affiliate. These
7339 Varna Avenue 12405 Hillary Step Drive Oak Hall School Chess Club
affiliates will be recognized in a special list in Tournament Life each
North Hollywood, CA 91605 Olive Branch, MS 38654 7257 NW 4th Boulevard, Suite 21
month, giving the affiliate name, state, and choice of either phone 504-208-9596 Gainesville, FL 32607
818-793-6302
number, e-mail address, or website. Silver Affiliation costs $150 per cajunchess@yahoo.com 352-316-1199
buroa4@yahoo.com
year, and existing affiliates may subtract $3 for each month remaining www.cajunchess.com timtusing@gmail.com
on their regular affiliation. Alternatively, for an annual payment of Chess Club and
$250.00 (instead of $150), the requirement for a minimum number PaperClip Pairings
Scholastic Center
c/o Remy Ferrari
of US Chess members will be waived. of Saint Louis
4 Jalapa Court
4657 Maryland Avenue
Brownsville, TX 78526
Dallas Chess Club (TX) Little House of Chess, Inc. (NY) Rochester Chess Center (NY) St. Louis, MO 63108
www.dallaschess.com littlehouseofchess.com http://www.chessset.com 314-361-CHESS 956-621-0377
rrferrari@bisd.us
En Passant Chess Club (TX) Los Angeles Chess Club (CA)
info@saintlouischessclub.org
td_edg@twc.com Rocks & Rooks Chess Club (TX) www.saintlouischessclub.org
www.LAChessClub.com 512-426-7841 San Diego Chess Club
Evangel Chess Club (AL) ChessNYC.com 2225 Sixth Avenue
www.evangelchurch.me Michigan Chess Association Michael Propper San Diego, CA 92101
(MI) Sparta Chess Club (NJ)
Foot Hill Chess Club (CA) www.spartachessclub.org P.O. Box 189, 1710 1st Avenue 619-752-4377
wade_tavorn@khsd.k12.ca.us www.michess.org
New York, NY 10128 chucnglo@aol.com
Jersey Shore HS Chess League Oklahoma Chess Foundation Western PA Youth Chess Club 212-475-8130 www.sandiegochessclub.org
(NJ) (OK) (PA) info@chessnyc.com
shorehschessleague@yahoo.com www.OCFchess.org www.youthchess.net www.chessnyc.com UPDATED 12-07-2017

56 March 2018 | Chess Life


300. Class A (1800-1999/Unr): $1500-700-400-300. Class B (1600-
1799/ Unr): $1500-700-400-300. Class C(1400-1599/Unr): $1300-700-
400-300. Class D (1200-1399/Unr): $700-400-200-100. Class E (Under
1200/Unr): $600-300-200-100, plaques to top 3, 1st U1000, U800, U600,
Unr. Rated players may play up one section. Prize limits: Unrated
may not win over $100 in E, $200 D, $400 C or $600 B. Mixed doubles
bonus prizes: best male/female 2-player team combined score among
all sections: $600-300. Team must average under 2200; may play in dif-
ferent sections; register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 4/28. Top 5 sections
EF: $115 online at chessaction.com by 4/25, 3-day $118, 2-day $117
mailed by 4/18, $130 at site, or online until 2 hours before round 1.
GMs free, $100 deducted from prize. Class D or E EF: All $50 less than
top 5 sections EF. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Online EF $5
less to MACA members; may join/renew at masschess.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 $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or paid at site, Adult
$40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. 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 & 3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat
11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. Byes: OK all, limit 2; Master must commit
before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $98-98-108, 800-582-3232, 508-
347-7393, request chess rate, reserve by 4/6 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 for
refunds. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted
instantly). Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, MICHIGAN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED)
15TH ANNUAL GREAT LAKES OPEN
Held at McCamly Plaza Hotel, 50 Capital Avenue SW, Battle Creek, MI
49017 (See Lodging below). Prize Fund: $5,600 (65% Guar.). FORMAT:
5-SS. 3 Sections: OPEN, U1800 U1400. 2-Day and 3-Day Schedules.
OPEN Section USCF and FIDE-rated. OPEN Section participants must
have USCF and FIDE memberships in addition to a State membership;
can be purchased on site or at online registration at http://www.online
registration.cc. (FIDE membership is free). USCF rating is used for PAIR-
ING and PRIZES. Up to two 1/2-point byes allowed; must be requested
prior to start of RD 2. SCHEDULES MERGE AFTER RD. 2. NO RE-
ENTRIES IN OPEN SECTION. Re-Entries in U1800, $50; U1400, $35.
USCF and a STATE Membership Required – can be purchased on site or
online at registration! Online registration available at http://www.online
registration.cc. NOTE: ONLINE REGISTRATION CLOSES AT MIDNIGHT,
THURSDAY, APRIL 26TH! CHIEF TD: NA and Senior TD Bradley Rogers
(bradleyrogers22@msn.com. Cell Phone and Headset Rules firmly apply;
Rules posted on site. ENTRY FEE: By April 20th (add $10 after, add $15
on site): OPEN Section: 3-DAY, $86. 2-DAY, $85. IM’s/GM’s Free! ($80
27th annual EASTERN CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS
April 27-29 or 28-29, 2018 - $20,000 guaranteed prizes!
5 rounds, Host Hotel at Cedar Lake, Sturbridge, Massachusetts
5 rounds, Host Hotel at Cedar Lake,
366 Main St (Rt 20 west), Sturbridge MA
01566 (I-84 Exit 3, near I-90). Free parking.
Experience 1790-1840 America at Old
Sturbridge Village (www.osv.org), visit
shops, galleries & restaurants.
Two schedule options: 3-day Apr 27-29,
40/100, SD/30, d10, or 2-day, Apr 28-29,
rounds 1-2 G/60, d10, then merges with 3-
day and competes for same prizes.
In 7 sections (rated players may play up
one section).
Master: $2000-1000-500-300, clear or
tiebreak win $100 bonus, top U2300 $800-
400. FIDE rated, 120 GPP (enhanced).
Expert: $1500-700-400-300.
Class A: $1500-700-400-300.
Class B: $1500-700-400-300.
Class C: $1300-700-400-300.
Class D: $700-400-200-100.
See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14
EF deducted from prize.) NO RE-ENTRIES IN OPEN SECTION. U1800
Section: 3-DAY, $66. 2-DAY, $65. Re-Entries, $50. U1400 Section: 3-
DAY, $46. 2-DAY, $45. Re-Entries $35. TIME LIMIT: 3-DAY: G/115 d5.
2-DAY: Rds.: 1-2, G-45 d5. Rds.: 3-5, G/115 d5. ROUNDS: 3-DAY: Fri:
7pm. Sat: 12, 4. Sun: 10, 3. 2-DAY: Sat: 11:30, 1:30, 4:00. Sun: 10, 3.
REGISTRATION: ON SITE: 3-DAY, Fri 4–6pm. 2-DAY, Sat 8:30–10am.
ONLINE at http://www.onlineregistration.cc until MIDNIGHT, THURS-
DAY, APRIL 26TH! MAIL-IN by Tues, April 24th: Holly Munsch,
Battle Creek Community Foundation, 34 W. Michigan (Not Jackson)
St., Suite 1, Battle Creek, MI 49017. $$: $5,600 Prize Fund (65%
Guar). OPEN: $2,600 (b/40, min. 5 per section): 1st, 2nd, 3rd: $800,
$450; $300. 1st, 2nd Top X, A, U1800/UNR: $200, $150 each. U1800:
$1,800 (b/40, min. 5 per section): 1st, 2nd, 3rd: $600, $350, $250. 1st,
2nd, TOP C, U1400/UNR: $175, $125 each. U1400: $1,200 (b/40, min.
5 per section): 1st, 2nd, 3rd: $500, $300, $200 each. TOP E, UI000/UNR:
$100 each. UNR eligible for Top or UNRATED Prizes ONLY. LODGING:
This AAA Four-Diamond Hotel is located in Downtown Battle Creek. Call
Toll-Free 1-888-622-2659 for Reservations or go online at http://www.
mccamlyplaza.com. Ask for the Great Lakes Open chess rate ($99/night)–
must reserve by April 6th for this great rate! Parking $8, unlimited in
and out privileges. Free parking in nearby areas on weekends. For direc-
tions to hotel, go online to http://www.mapquest.com or http://www.
yahoo.com/maps. reg. Info: Holly Munsch, (269) 962-2181. Email,
holly@bccfoundation.org. CHESS INFO: Ed Mandell, (248) 635-2375.
Email, allthekingsmench@aol.com.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 28-29, WISCONSIN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
ARPAD ELO OPEN
Chula Vista Resort, 2501 River Rd., Wisconsin Dells, WI. HR: $99 866-
320-7982 mention G22584. Reserve by March 28. 5SS. Open: EF $45
received by April 26, $50 at site. $$b/25: $400,$250, A $150, U1800
$140. Reserve (U1800): EF $30 received by April 26, $35 at site. $$b/25:
$125, $100, C $75, D $75, U1200 $75. TC: Rd1: G/90 d5. Rds. 2-5:
30/90. SD/60, d5. Rds.: 10, 2, 7:30; 10, 3:30. Registration: 9-9:30.
Ent: Guy Hoffman, 1305 D Tompkins Dr., Madison, WI 53716-3279. Info:
920-279-0701, www.wischess.org, schachfuhrer@hotmail.com. A WI
Tour event. W.
APR. 29, VIRGINIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6
DULLES APR 2018 FIDE RAPID/USCF QUICK RATED (QC) &
U1600 OPEN QUADS
Location: Washington Dulles Airport Marriott (Downstairs Reston Salon),
45020 Aviation Dr., Dulles, VA 20166. Open (FIDE) 5-SS, G/15;10sec
inc. Open MIN 1500 to play otherwise pay $30 addl EF. Prizes: Open
$$380 GTD: $200-100 U1900 $40 U1700 $40. EF: $25-4/24, $30-4/27,
$35 after/onsite, CAC $5 less. GMs/IMs Free-PrizeDedn $20. OnsiteRegn
closes 9:15am. Round#1: 9:30am. Side Event U1600 Open Quads:
EF $5 less 3- RR G/40 d5, Trophy/Medals. Mailed entries: PO Box
Class E: $600-300-200-100,plaques to
first 3, top U1000, U800, U600, Unrated..
Unrated may enter A to E with prize
limits: E $100, D $200, C $400, B $600.
Mixed doubles: Optional male/female
2-player “team” (average under 2200)
combined score among all sections: $600-
300. May be in different sections; enter (no
extra fee) by 2 pm 4/28.
Top 5 sections entry fee: $115 online
at chessaction.com by 4/25, 3-day $118, 2-
day $117 mailed by 4/18, $130 (no checks,
credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hrs
before game. Re-entry (Expert/below) $60.
Class D or E Section entry fee: all $50
less than top 5 sections entry fee.
Online entry fee $5 less to MACA
members; may join/renew at masschess.org
Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually
used if otherwise unrated.
223582, Chantilly, VA 20151 Checks payable to ‘Capital Area Chess’.
Email information only: info@capitalareachess.com. Online Information/
Registration/Adv Entries: capitalareachess.com.
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, MARYLAND
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30
64TH ANNUAL MARYLAND 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 & U1000 G/120 d5 (rds 1-2 G/60 d5),
(U1300 3-day option rds. 1&2 G/120 d5) Rockville Hilton, 1750 Rockville
Pike, Rockville, MD 20852. $$Based on score. 7 sections: Championship
(min. rating of 2000) FIDE rated: 5.0 =$1600, 4.5 =$800, 4.0=$450,
3.5=$175, 3.0=$50 [min $1500 payout, top score group raised if less
than $1500]. U2200 FIDE Rated: 5.0 =$1500, 4.5 =$700, 4.0=$350,
3.5=$150, 3.0=$40. U2000: 5.0 =$1200, 4.5 =$650, 4.0=$325,
3.5=$125. U1800: 5.0= $1200, 4.5 = $600, 4.0= $300, 3.5= $100.
U1600: 5.0= $1000, 4.5= $500, 4.0= $250, 3.5= $100. U1300: 5.0=
$500, 4.5= $250, 4.0= $125, 3.5= $50. U1000 (no adult UNR): 5.0=
$250, 4.5= $125, 4.0= $50, 3.5= $20. Trophies to top 10 & U800 in
U1000. If no 5-0 in section, then sole 1st @ 4.5 or shared 1st at
lower score receive bonus (added to score prize) - Championship:
$300; U2200 $200, U2000 $150, U1800 & U1600: $100; U1300 & U1000:
$50. Unrated limited to $100 in U1000, $200 in U1300, and $400 in
U1600. Sets and boards provided. Clocks provided in the Champi-
onship, U2200, U2000, U1800, and U1600 sections. Optionally,
pairings can be texted/emailed to your phone. Free Sunday morning
continental breakfast for players. Free parking for day guests. EF:
$99 by 4/20, $109 by 5/1, and $114 online only by 5/5, $120 later.
Special EFs: $55 less for U1000, $35 less for U1300, GMs free, $50
deducted from prize, IMs $45 off EF, $20 deducted from prize, HR: $119,
($5 EF discount if staying at hotel). Rooms may not be avail after 4/20.
3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 7pm, rds. Fri 8, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 9:30 &
3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10am rds. 11, 2:15 & 6, Sun 9:30 &
3:30. U1300 & U1000 schedule Reg. ends Sat 10am rds. 11, 1:15 &
4:00, Sun 9:30 & 1:30. U1300 3-day schedule Reg. ends Fri 7 pm, rds.
Fri 8, Sat 11 & 4:00, Sun 9:30 &1:30. Ent: MCA, 1827 Thornton Ridge
Rd., Towson, MD 21204. Detailed rules, more information and registration
at http://themdopen.com.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAY 5-6, ILLINOIS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED)
CHICAGO CHESS CENTER 2ND HAYMARKET MEMORIAL
Make class warfare nonviolent again! Student Center East, Univ. of
Illinois at Chicago, 750 S. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60607. $6,000 guar-
anteed! 4SS, 40/90, SD/30, +30 from move one. Accelerated possible.
1/2-byes available all rounds; must commit before rd.2. (Max. two byes;
for prize purposes, second bye on Sun. counts as 0.4 points). Rds.: 10-
4 Sat., 10-4 Sun. Three Sections: OPEN SECTION FIDE Rated! EF: $69
3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 6 pm, rds
Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 am & 5 pm, Sun 10 & 3:15.
2-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 10 am, rds
Sat 11 am, 2 pm & 5 pm, Sun 10 & 3:15.
Half-pt byes OK all rds (limit 2); Master
must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3.
Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess
Life: see Chess Life or chesstour.com.
USCF membership required..
Hotel rates: $98-98, 800-582-3232,
508-347-7393, reserve by 4/6.
Entry: chessaction.com or Continental
Chess, Box 8482, Pelham NY 10803. $15
service charge for refunds. Questions:
chesstour.com, director@chess.us, 347-201-
2269. Entries posted at chessaction.com
(online entries posted instantly). Bring set,
board, clock if possible- none supplied.
Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm, enter by
9:15 pm.
www.uschess.org 57
Tournament Life / March

by 4/21; $79 by 5/4, $90 onsite. U2000 may play up for additional $15.
GMs and IMs play for free; no prize reduction! $1200-600-300. Under
2300 $400. UNDER 2000 SECTION: Open to 1999 & under or unrated.
EF: $68 by 4/21; $78 by 5/4, $90 onsite. U1600 may play up for additional
$15. $600- 300-150. Under 1800 $400-200-120. Unrated may not win
more than $200. UNDER 1600 SECTION EF: $59 by 4/21; $69 by 5/4,
$80 onsite. $600-300-150. Under 1400: $250-130-100 Under 1200: $200.
Unrated may not win more than $100. ENT: www.chichess.org/events/
or mail to Chicago Chess Center NFP Inc., P.O. Box 180095, Chicago, IL
60618. REG.: 8:30-9:30 a.m. No phone entries. 20% discount for CCC
members. INFO: Bill Brock, 773-294-1709, info@chichess.org. Sets &
clocks provided. All-day parking at 760 W. Taylor available for $7. W.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAY 5-6, TEXAS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED)
2018 DCC FIDE OPEN V
5SS, G/90 inc/30. Dallas Chess Club, 200 S. Cottonwood Dr. #C, Richard-
son, TX 75080. Two sections: Open and Reserve. Open: $$875G. FIDE
and US Chess rated but uses FIDE rules. Use US Chess ratings and
rules for pairings and for awarding prizes. Default late forfeiture time
is one hour. TD may extend this time at TD’s discretion. Note that
Foreign players must disclose their FIDE ID number before 1st round
in order to play. Note that USA Players with no FIDE ID must disclose
their email address. $$ $500-$250-$125. EF: 2400+ $125, 2000-2399
$90, 1600 -1999 $99, U1600 $125, Senior/Birthday during tournament/
Additional Family Member $55. Dallas Chess Club membership required
or pay $20 non-member fee. Small Minimum prize to the First three
GM/IM’s who apply. GM/IM must play all rounds to get minimum prize
(entry fee may be deducted from prize). Reserve: Open to players rated
below 2000 USCF. This section is not Fide Rated but is US Chess rated
and uses US Chess rules. EF: $40. 10$ non Dallas Chess Club membership
fee. The Reserve give back 10% in prizes and if at least 8 paid entries
and if there is a clear winner, then that winner receives free entry to
next DCC Fide Open. In the reserve section, Tournament reserves the
right to use Fide rules on electronic devices and on starting White’s
clock at start of a round and to use FIDE pairing rules. Also clocks will
be set to ‘halt at end’. Both: Reg.: Saturday from 9:45–10:15 am. Rds.:
Sat 10:45 am-3:10pm-7:16pm, Sun 9:45 am- 2:10pm. One half point Bye
allowed if requested before end of round 2 and before getting full point
bye. Withdrawals and zero point last round byes are not eligible for
prizes. Note that house players (if required) must pay $5 per round and
be US Chess members. ENT: Make/mail Checks payable to Dallas Chess
Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036-
4719. Info: 214-632-9000. FIDE.
MAY 15, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
MARSHALL MASTERS
4-SS, G/25 d5. Open to 2000+ players. FIDE Rapid rated. $750 GTD:
$250-150-100; U2400: $125; U2300: $100; Biggest upset: $25. EF: $30;
Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour
before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for
Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchess-
club.org/register.
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAY 18-20 OR 19-20, NEW YORK
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED)
26TH ANNUAL NEW YORK STATE OPEN AND SENIOR
5SS, 40/100, SD/30, d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Tiki Resort,
2 Canada St., Lake George, NY 12845. $$G 3300. In 4 sections. Open:
$$ 400-200-150, top Under 2010/Unr $240-120, top Under 1810 $200-
100. Senior: open to under 1910 or unrated born before 5/20/68. $$
300-150- 100, top Under 1710/Unr $140-70. Under 1610: $$ 240-120-
70, Under 1410 $120-60, unrated limit $160. Under 1210: $120-60-40,
unrated limit $80, plaques to top 3, 1st U1000, U800, U600, Unr. Mixed
doubles: best male/female 2-player combined score among all sections:
$200-100. Team must average under 2200; may play in different sections;
register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 5/19. Top 3 sections EF: $79 online at
chessaction.com by 5/16, 3-day $83, 2-day $82 mailed by 5/10, $90
online until 2 hours before round 1 or at site. Under 1210 Section EF:
all $30 less than top 3 sections EF. All: Online entry $7 less to NYSCA
members (dues $12/year with 2 issues Empire Chess, $20/year with 4
issues, may be paid with entry fee). No checks at site, credit cards OK.
Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry- online at
chesstour.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or
at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. Re-entry $40, not
available in Open Section. GMs, IMs, WGMs free, $60 deducted from
prize. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun
10 & 3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5,
Sun 10 & 3:15. Half point byes OK all, must commit before rd. 2; limit 2
byes (limit 1 bye if under 1810/unr in Open). HR: $80-80, call 518-668-
5744 Mon-Fri 9 am-5pm, reserve by 4/28 or rate may increase. Car
rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online
through chesstour.com. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if
otherwise unrated. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box
8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Questions: www.chesstour.com, Direc-
torAtChess.us, 347-201-2269. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance
entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz
tournament Sat 9:30 pm, reg. ends 9:15 pm.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAY 19-20, TENNESSEE
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
BLUFF CITY OPEN
5ss, G/120 d5. Site: IBEW Local 474, 1870 Madison Ave., Memphis, TN
38104. Three Sections: Open, U1700, and U1000. $1700 Prizes are
based on 35 paid entries in top 2 sections. Open: $550, $300, $200.
U1700: $350, $200, $100. Entry Fee: $50 early by May 12, $60 late.
MCC Members $50 anytime; Masters: free (EF deducted from winnings).
Online entries per PayPal are accepted until registration end time on
Saturday at 8:45am. Website for pre-entries: www.memphischess.com
Rounds: Saturday: 9am-2pm-7pm; Sunday: 9am-2pm. U1000 Trophy
Section: 4SS, G/45 d5; Saturday only; Entry Fee: $15. Trophies for top
3 overall, top U800 and top U600. Round 1 at 9am, next rounds ASAP
(as soon as possible). On-site Registration: May 19, 2018 - 7:30am-
8:45am. Send mail entries to: MCC, P.O. Box 17864, Memphis, TN
38187. Email: gpylant@gmail.com.
An American Classic!
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, ILLINOIS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED)
27TH ANNUAL CHICAGO OPEN
Open Section, May 24-28: 9SS, 40/2, SD/30 d10, GM & IM norms
possible, FIDE rated. Other Sections, May 25-28, 26-28 or 27-28:
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 8 sections (unrated
allowed only in Open, U2300, U2100 or U1000). Open: Open to players
who are rated 2200/over by USCF or FIDE or pay $100 extra. $10000-
5000-2500-1300-1000-800-600-500-400-400, clear or tiebreak winner
bonus $300, top FIDE Under 2400/Unr $2000-1000. FIDE rated, GM
and IM norms possible. Under 2300: $5000-2500-1200-800-600-500-
400-300-300-300. Under 2100: $5000-2500-1200-800-600-500-400-
300-300-300; unrated limit $1000. Under 1900: $5000-2500-1200-800-
600-500-400-300-300-300. Under 1700: $5000-2500-1200-800-600-500-
400-300-300-300. Under 1500: $4000-2000-1000-700-500-400-300-300-
300-300. Under 1300: $4000-2000-1000-700-500-400-300-300-300-300.
Under 1000: $1000-500-300-200-200-150-150-100-100-100, unrated
limit $200, trophies to first 10, top U800, U600, Unrated. Prize limits:
1) If any post-event rating posted 5/22/17-5/22/18 was more than 30
points over section maximum, prize limit $1500. 2) Players with under
26 lifetime games rated as of May 2018 official list cannot win over
$500 in U1000, $1000 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. For Open Section, only rounds
1-7 counted towards mixed doubles. Team must average under 2200;
may play in different sections; register (no extra fee) before both players
begin round 2; teams including an unrated limited to $500. Open through
U1300 entry fee: $207 online at chessaction.com by 3/20, $227 by
5/23. 5-day $215, 4-day $214, 3-day $213, 2-day $212 mailed by 3/20,
all $20 more mailed by 5/12. All $250 online until 2 hours before round
1 or at site until 1 hour before round 1. No checks at site, credit cards
OK. Do not mail entry after 5/12. Open EF for titled players: GMs
free; $200 deducted from prize. IMs/WGMs $100, also $100 deducted

27th annual CHICAGO OPEN

May 24-28 (GM/IM norms possible), 25-28, 26-28 or 27-28, Memorial Day weekend
8 sections, prizes $100,000 unconditionally guaranteed!
Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel, Wheeling IL - free parking, free lectures by GM John Fedorowicz
Open section, 5/24-28: 9 rounds, 40/2, SD/30, d10.
U2300 to U1000 section: 7 rounds, 5/25-28, 40/2, SD/30,
d10 (3-day option 5/26-28, rds 1-2 G/60, d10; 2-day option
5/27-28, rds 1-4 G/30, d10). All merge & play for same prizes.
Open: $10000-5000-2500-1300-1000-800-600-500-400-
400, clear or tiebreak first $300 bonus, top FIDE U2400/unr
$2000-1000. FIDE rated, GM and IM norms possible.
Under 2300, Under 2100, Under 1900, Under 1700: Each
$5000-2500-1200-800-600-500-400-300-300-300.
Under 1500, Under 1300: Each $4000-2000-1000-700-
500-400-300-300-300-300.
Under 1000: $1000-500-300-200-200-150-150-100-100-
100, unr max $200, trophy 1st 10, top u800, u600, Unrated.
Unrateds allowed only in Open, Under 2300, Under 2100
or Under 1000 sections. Unrated prize limit $1000 in U2100.
FIDE ratings used for Open, May official USCF for others.
Unofficial web ratings usually used if otherwise unrated.
If any post-event rating posted 5/22/17-5/22/18 was
more than 30 pts over section maximum, prize limit $1500.
Under 26 games prize limit as of May list: U1000 $500,
U1300 $1000, U1500 $1500, U1700 $2000, U1900 $2500.
Mixed Doubles: Best male/female 2-player team
combined score among all sections:$2000-1000-500-400-300.
Must average under 2200. Only rds 1-7 of Open Section
counted. Enter before both players begin round 2.
Entry fee: $207 at chessaction.com by 3/20, $227 by 5/23,
$250 until 2 hrs before rd 1 or at site 1 hr before. Open Sect
$100 more for US players not rated 2200/over by USCF or
FIDE. Senior 65/up $100 less, except U1000. Online $5 less
to ICA memb. Mail or titled entry: see chesstour.com or TLA.
Under 1000 Section: $67 at chessaction.com by 5/23,
$90 online by 2 hours before rd 1 or at site until 1 hour before.
5-day schedule (Open only): enter Thu to 6 pm, rds Thu
7 pm, Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:15.
4-day schedule (U2300 to U1500): enter Fri to 6, rds Fri
7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:15.
3-day schedule (U2300 to U1500): enter Sat to 10 am,
rds Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:15.
2-day schedule (U2300 to U1500): enter Sun to 9 am, rds
Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:15.
Under 1300, Under 1000 sections: same as Under 2300
to Under 1500 (4-day, 3-day, 2-day options), except last round
Monday is 3:15 pm.
Half point byes OK all, limit 4 (2 last 4 rds). Open must
commit before rd 3, others rd 4.
Hotel rates: 1-4/rm $113, 800-937-8461, reserve by 5/10.
Full details: see TLA or chesstour.com. USCF memb.
required, see TLA or chesstour.com for special rates.
Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied.
$2500 guaranteed blitz tournament, Sunday 10:30 pm.

58 March 2018 | Chess Life


from prize. EF $100 less to seniors age 65/over, except U1000 Section.
Under 1000 Section EF: $67 online at chessaction.com by 5/23, 4-day
$74, 3-day $73, 2-day $72 mailed by 5/12, all $90 online until 2 hours
before round 1 or at site until 1 hour before round 1. No checks at
site, credit cards OK. Online EF $5 less to ICA members; join at il-
chess.org. An ICA Tour Event. Special 1 yr US Chess dues with
magazine if paid with entry: Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young
Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40,
Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. 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 & 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:15. 4-day schedule
(U2300 to U1500): Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, Rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11
& 6, Mon 10 & 4:15. 3-day schedule (U2300 to U1500): Reg. ends Sat
10 am, Rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:15. 2-day schedule
(U2300 to U1500): Reg. ends Sun 9 am, Rds. Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6,
Mon 10 & 4:15. Under 1300 & Under 1000 schedules: Same as U2300
to U1500 (4-day, 3-day, 2-day options), except last round Mon is 3:15.
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 commit before rd
3, others before rd 4. Hotel rates: $113-113-113-113, 800-937-8461,
847-777-6500, reserve by 5/10 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/for-
eignratings.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: Players must submit to a
search for electronic devices if requested by Director. See also
chesstour.com/devices.htm. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham,
NY 10803. Questions: chesstour.com, chesstour.info, DirectorAtChess.US,
347-201-2269. $15 service charge for refunds. Entries posted at ches-
saction.com (online entries posted instantly). Bring set, board, clock
if possible- none supplied.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAY 25-28, 26-28, PENNSYLVANIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30
EAST COAST OPEN
7SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30” incr, (Rnd 1 G/90 +30” incr) (3-day schedule:
rds. 1-2 G/45+30”incr); U1300 & U1000 G/120 d5 (rds. 1&2 G/60 d5)
(2-day schedule, rds. 1-4 G/30 d5) Philadelphia Marriott West, 111
Crawford Ave., West Conshohocken, PA 19428. $$ Based on score. 7
sections: Championship (min. rating of 2000) FIDE: 7.0 =$3300, 6.5
=$2100, 6.0=$1500, 5.5=$1000, 5.0=$500, 4.5=$175, 4.0=$70 [min
$1500 payout, top score group raised if less than $1500]. U2200 (min.
rating of 1800) FIDE: 7.0 =$3000, 6.5 =$2000, 6.0=$1300, 5.5=$800,
5.0=$450, 4.5=$150, 4.0=$50. U2000: 7.0 =$3000, 6.5 =$1900,
6.0=$1200, 5.5=$750, 5.0=$400, 4.5=$150. U1800: 7.0= $3000, 6.5
= $1800, 6.0= $1100, 5.5= $650, 5.0=$350, 4.5=$150. U1600: 7.0=
$2700, 6.5= $1500, 6.0= $900, 5.5= $550, 5.0=$300, 4.5=$125.
U1300: 7.0= $1200, 6.5= $700, 6.0= $350, 5.5= $225, 5.0=$120,
4.5=$50. U1000 (no adult UNR): 7.0=$500, 6.5=$325, 6.0=$175,
5.5=$100, 5.0=$55, 4.5=$30. Trophies to top 10 & top U800 in U1000.
Additional prizes to clear 1st place, if no 7-0 in section (added to
score prize) - Championship: $600; U2200 $450, U2000 $375, U1800 &
U1600: $300; U1300 $100, U1000 $50. Unrated may not win over $100
in U1000, $200 U1300, or $400 in U1600. Boards and pieces provided
in all sections. Clocks provided in the Championship – U1600 sec-
tions. Optionally, pairings can be texted or emailed. Free Monday
morning continental breakfast for players. Free parking for day
guests. EF: $149 by 5/11, $159 by 5/22, and $164 online only by 5/24,
$170 after 5/24. Special EFs: $75 less for U1300, $100 less for U1000;
GMs free, no deduction from prize; IMs $45 less. HR: $99, ($5 EF
discount if staying at hotel). Rooms may not be avail after 5/11. 4-day
schedule (Champ-U1600): Reg. ends Fri 7pm, rds. Fri 8, Sat 11 & 6, Sun
11 & 6, Mon 9:30 & 3:30. 3-day schedule (Champ-U1600): Reg. ends
Sat 10am rds. 11, 2:15 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 9:30 & 3:30. U1300 &
U1000 3-day schedule Reg. ends Sat 10am. Rds. 11, 1:15 & 4:00, Sun
11 & 4:00, Mon 9:30&1:30. U1300 & U1000 2-day schedule: reg ends
Sun 10am. Rds. Sun 11, 12:15, 1:30, 2:45, 4:00, Mon 9:30&1:30 Ent:
Michael Regan, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd., Towson, MD 21204. Detailed
rules, more information and registration at http://theeastcoastopen.com.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, VIRGINIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED)
6TH CHERRY BLOSSOM CLASSIC
Washington Dulles Airport Marriott, 45020 Aviation Dr., Dulles, VA
20166. A VCF Cup Event. $$12,500 GUARANTEED Prizes in 5 Sections
($$2,500 increase in Prize Fund from 2017 - 4th straight year with
an increase in prizes !!!). Open: $2000-1000-500-300 U2350 $400-
200. Clear 1st/Tiebreaker $100 bonus. U2200: $1300-700-400 U2050
$300- 150. U1900: $1000-500-250 U1750 $300-150 U1600: $800-400-
200, U1450 $200-100 U1300: $500-300-150 U1150 $200-100 Unrated
prize limits in all sections except Open. 7-SS in 4 sections (4-day or 3-
day): Open/U2200 (FIDE Rated), U1900 and U1600. 6-SS in U1300 (2-day
only – Sat and Sun). GMs, IMs & WGMs free, deduct $50 from prize
winnings; Addl conditions offered to the first 6 GMs/IMs who reg-
ister by May 5th. Contact Organizer by the deadline. Min Rating in
Open & U2200: 2000 for Open and 1750 for U2200 else pay $50 more.
EF: Top 4 sections $98 (Eary Bird rate) by Apr 8th, $105 by May 8th,
$110 by May 22nd, $115 by May 24th, $125 after and onsite. U1300
Section $15 less. Re-entry $60 for all players, no re-entry in Open.
T/C: Top 4 Sections: 4-day: Rd1 G/90;+30; Rds2-7 40/90;SD/ 30;+30.
3-day: Rd1 G/45;+30, Rds2-3 G/90;+30, Rds4-7 40/90;SD/ 30;+30.
U1300 only Sat & Sun G/90 d5. Rounds: 4-day: Reg. ends Fri 7 pm,
Rds. Fri 8pm, Sat/Sun 11am- 5:30pm, Mon 9:30am-3:30pm. 3-day: Reg.
ends Sat 10am, Rds. 1-3 Sat 11am-2pm-7pm and Rds. 4-7 follows 4-
day. (U1300 only 2-day Rds. Sat 11am-3pm-7pm, Sun 10am-2pm-6pm.)
Byes: Up to two 1/2pt byes available in all sections, must commit 1
hour before start of rd. 4 (by Sun 8:30am). HR $99/night if reserved by
May 10th. Reservations call 1-800- 228-9290 or 703-471-6700, mention
Cherry Blossom Chess Tournament. More information/ Online regis-
tration: www.cherryblossomchess.com. Mail checks (payable to Capital
See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14
Area Chess) to CHERRY BLOSSOM CLASSIC/ Attn. Capital Area Chess,
PO Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20171. Email info only: Anand Dommalapati,
cbc2018@capitalareachess.com. Boards and sets provided in ALL sec-
tions. Clocks supplied in the Open section. Four Side Events: Fri May
25th 8pm - Open Quick Rated; Sat May 26th - 6th Cherry Blossom
Classic Scholastic 10am, Scholastic Blitz 5pm & Open (FIDE)/Ama-
teur Blitz Tournament at 10pm.
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
A State Championship Event!
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, TEXAS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED)
73RD ANNUAL TEXAS STATE AND AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS
7SS. DFW Airport Marriott South, 4151 Centreport Dr., Fort Worth, TX
76155. $$ 8,350G. Championship: This section is FIDE rated and uses
FIDE rules. The tournament will use USCF ratings for pairings and prize
purposes. Must be rated 2000 or above regular (not quick, blitz or rapid)
by either USCF or Fide to play in this section or have had a provable 2000
or higher regular rating in the past. Defending Texas State Amateur Cham-
pion may also play in this section. Texas Scholastic High School Champions
(either South or North/Central) may also play in this section. Foreign
unrateds may play in this section and at TDs discretion may be required
to play in Championship section. G/90 with 30 sec. increment. Foreign
players must disclose their FIDE ID number before 1st round in order to
play in Championship section. Default late forfeiture time is one hour. TD
may extend this time at TD’s discretion. $$ 1,000-500-250, 2200-2399
$750, U2200 $750. Amateur: U2000 & unrated. Rds. 1-7 G/90 with 30 sec
increment. $$ 800-400-200. B $$ 600-300-150, C 500-250-125, U1400
$500- 250-125, U1200 $400, U1000 $300 Unrated $200. Both: TCA mem-
bership required. Other states accepted. EF: $89 if received by 5/16, else
$99. $80 Junior (U19) if received by 5/16 else $90, Senior (over 65)/Hand-
icapped/ additional family participant $53 if receive by 5/16 else $65. Add
$5 for CC phone entries; pre-reg. requires pre-payment. After 5/23 all
registration and changes on site only; all changes including withdrawals,
$10 after 5/23. 4 day: Reg. Friday 5/25, 6:15 pm-7:15. Rds. Fri: 7:45, Sat:
2:45 pm - 7:30, Sun: 11:30 am - 5:15 pm, Mon: 9:30 am - 2:15 pm. 3 day:
Reg. Sat. 5/26, 9-9:30 am, Rd. 1 at 10 am then merge with 4 day. Foreign
Unrated must play in Championship section. Registrations that do not
indicate 4 or 3 day schedule will be put in the 3 day. HR: $109/109/109/109,
817-358- 1700 or 800-228-9290 reserve by 5/13 and ask for Chess rate.
Rate includes breakfast for up to 4 hotel guests. Free Parking. Up to two
1/2 pt byes available if requested before end of rd. 2 and before receiving
full point bye, but byes for both rounds 6 AND 7 is not permitted. K-12
Scholastic on Saturday, 5/26. 5-SS, Rds. G/30 d5, EF: $29 by 5/16, $45
after; Pre-reg. requires pre-payment. After 5/23 all registration and
changes on site only; all changes $10 after 5/23. No refunds after 5/24,
$10 handling fee for refunds before 5/24. Registration 8:15-8:45 am, Rd.
1 at 9:30 am, rest ASAP with small lunch break. Sections: K-12 Champi-
onship and K- 12 U1000. Prizes: Trophies to top 12 individuals, top five
teams in each section. K-12 U1000 also top three unrateds. Medals to
those who do not win a trophy. Ent: Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara
Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036. Info: Barb Swafford,
214-632-9000, info@dallaschess.com www.dallaschess.com. W. FIDE.
MAY 26, VIRGINIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)
6TH CHERRY BLOSSOM CLASSIC FIDE BLITZ! (BLZ)
Side Event to the 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (May 25-28). Wash-
ington Dulles Airport Marriott, 45020 Aviation Dr., Dulles, VA 20166. 2
Sections - Open (FIDE) and Amatuer/U1800. Open: G/3;+2; 5-SS
Double. $$500 GTD $200-100 Top U2200/U2000 $100 each. Amateur/
U1800 (b/16; Section maybe combined with Open): $100-$50 Top
U1400/U1200 $50 each. EF: $25 by May 25th online, Onsite. $30 by
9:45pm. Rounds start 10pm. Max 1 byes allowed at entry. More infor-
mation/Online registration: www.cherryblossomchess.com. Mail checks
(payable to Capital Area Chess) to Cherry Blossom Classic, Attn. Capital
Area Chess, PO Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20151. Email info only: Anand
Dommalapati, cbc2018@capitalareachess.com.
MAY 27, ILLINOIS
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED)
7TH ANNUAL CHICAGO OPEN BLITZ (BLZ)
5SS, G/5 d0, double round, 10 games. Westin North Shore Hotel (see
Chicago Open). In 2 sections with $2500 guaranteed. Open: $400-250-
150, U2300/Unr $220-110, U2100/Unr $200-100. Under 1900/Unr: ,
$300-150-90, U1700/Unr $180-90, U1500 $120-60, U1300 $80. EF: $40
by 7 pm 5/27, $50 by 10 pm 5/27. GMs free; $40 from prize. Enter at
site only, no checks. $20 service charge for refunds. Reg.: ends 10 pm,
rds. 10:30, 11, 11:30, 12, 12:30. 1 bye allowed (1 point out of 2), must
give notice before rd. 2. Blitz rated, but higher of regular or blitz used
for pairings & prizes.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
JUNE 8-10 OR 9-10, CONNECTICUT
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED)
24TH ANNUAL NORTHEAST OPEN
5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Sheraton
Hotel, 700 Main St., Stamford 06901. Parking $10. $10,000 guaranteed.
4 sections. Major: Open to 1800/above. $1200-700-400, U2250 $600-
300. Under 2050: $1000-600-300, U1850 $500-250. Under 1650:
$800-500-300, U1450 $400-200. Under 1250: $600-400-200, U1050
$150, plaque to top 3, 1st U1000, U800, U600, Unr. Unrated limit $100
in U1250, $300 U1650. Mixed doubles prizes: best male/female 2-
player combined score among all sections: $400-200. Must average
under 2200; may play different sections; register (no extra fee) by 2
pm 6/9. Top 3 sections EF: $95 at chessaction.com by 6/6, 3-day $98,
2-day $97 mailed by 5/31, $110 at site, or online until 2 hrs before rd 1.
U1250 Section EF: all $30 less than above. No checks at site, credit
cards OK. GMs $90 from prize. CSCA members, online EF $3 less. Re-
entry $50, except Major Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually
used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 yr USCF with magazine if paid
with entry. At chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic
$15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. 3-
day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15.
2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 &
3:15. Bye: all, limit 2; must commit before rd. 2. HR: $105-105, 800-
408-7640, 203-358-8400; reserve by 6/1 or rate may increase. Ent:
chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803.
$15 service charge for refunds. Questions: Chesstour.com, Direc-
torAtChess.us, 347-201-2269. Entries posted at chessaction.com (online
entries posted instantly). Blitz Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, VIRGINIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 120 (ENHANCED)
7TH ANNUAL CONTINENTAL CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS
5SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10 (2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10). Westin Tysons
Corner, 7801 Leesburg Pike (VA-7), Falls Church, VA 22043. Free parking,
free shuttle to Tysons Corner Center and Metro. $20,000 guaranteed. 7
sections: Master (2200/up): $2000-1000-500-300, clear win or 1st on
tiebreak $100, top U2400 $800-400. FIDE. 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-
700-400- 200. Class D (1200-1399/Unr): $800-400-200-100. Class E
(Under 1200/Unr): $800-400-200-100, plaques to top 3, 1st U1000, U800,
Unr. Rated players may play up one section. Unrated limits: E $150, D
$250, C $350, B $500. Mixed doubles prizes: best male/female 2-player
team combined score among all sections: $800-400. Must average under
2200; may play different sections; register (no extra fee) by 2 pm 6/16.
Top 5 sections EF: $118 at chessaction.com by 6/13, 3-day $123, 2-day
$122 mailed by 6/6, $130 at site, or online until 2 hrs before rd. 1. GMs,
IMs & WGMs free in Master; $100 deducted from prize. Class D or E
Section EF: all $40 less than above. No checks at site, credit cards OK.
Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special
1 yr USCF with magazine if paid with entry. At chessaction.com, Adult
$35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic $15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young
Adult $25, Scholastic $17. Re-entry $50 (no Master Section). 3-day sched-
ule: Reg. Fri to 6 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. 2-day schedule:
Reg. Sat to 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. Bye: all, limit 2;
Master must commit before rd. 2, others before rd. 3. HR: $104-104, 1-
866- 716-8108, reserve by 6/1 or rate may increase. Ent: chessaction.com
or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Refunds, $15 service
charge. Questions: Director@Chess.US, chesstour.com, 347-201-2269.
Entries posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Blitz
Sat 9:30 pm, enter by 9:15 pm.
JUNE 20-21, NEVADA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED)
2018 U.S. WOMEN’S OPEN
See Nationals.
JUNE 21, NEVADA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED)
WALTER BROWNE MEMORIAL NATIONAL OPEN BLITZ
CHAMPIONSHIP (BLZ)
7 D-SS (14 games), G/3, +2. Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino,
3000 Paradise Road, Las Vegas 89109. $5,000 Guaranteed Prize fund!
Open: $1000-500-300. U2400 300, U2300 275, U2200 250, U2100 225,
U2000 200. Reserve (U1900): $500-300-150, U1800 250, U1700 200,
U1600 175, U1500 150, U1400 125, U1200 100. Open section FIDE blitz
rated. Must be 3 players eligible for each prize awarded. Unrated eligible
for under prizes in open section only. EF: $50 by 5/31, $60 later. REG.:
by 1 p.m. Rd. 1 at 2 p.m. www.VegasChessFestival.com. FIDE.
JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, NEVADA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED)
2018 NATIONAL OPEN
See Nationals.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
JUNE 28-JULY 2, PENNSYLVANIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED)
12TH ANNUAL PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL
9SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10. Philadelphia Marriott Downtown (see World
Open for location, rates, parking). $25,000 guaranteed prizes, in 3
sections. Only Premier is FIDE rated. US sections are not open to players
listed as foreign by FIDE. Premier uses June FIDE ratings for pairngs &
prizes, US sections use July official USCF ratings. Premier: open to
FIDE1900/over or USCF 2000/over and all FIDE rated foreign players.
GM & IM norms possible. Prizes $5000-2500-1300-800-600-400-300-300,
top FIDE under 2300 or unrated $1200-600. US Under 2100/Unr: $2500-
1300-700-500-400. US Under 1900/Unr: $2500-1300-700-500-400, unrated
limit $1000, top U1700 (no unrated) $800-400. Premier minimum prize
guarantees: $600 to foreign GMs, $300 to foreign IMs/WGMs (all must
complete all 9 games with no byes; limited to first 6 foreign GMs & first
6 foreign IMs/WGMs to enter by 5/25 at chessaction.com). Minimum
prize $300 to other GMs (including US) who enter at chessaction.com by
5/25 and complete all 9 games with no byes. Premier EF: GMs, IMs,
WGMs, foreign FIDE rated players: $50 online at chessaction.com by
5/25, $75 online at chessaction.com by 6/25, $100 at site; $100 deducted
from prize (no deduction from minimum prize). US FIDE Masters: $200
online by 5/25, $225 online by 6/25, $250 at site. US players USCF or
FIDE rated 2100/up:$300 online by 5/25, $325 online by 6/25, $350 at
site. US players USCF or FIDE rated 2000-2099: $400 online by 5/25,
$425 online by 6/25, $450 at site. Others: $500 online by 5/25, $525
online by 6/25, $550 at site. US sections EF: $250 online by 5/25, $275
online by 6/25, $300 at site. All: Mailed entry all $10 more; do not mail
entry after 6/15. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Special 1 year USCF
dues with magazine: see World Open. Schedule: Late reg. ends Thu 6
pm, rds. Thu 7 pm, Fri 1 & 7, Sat-Mon 11 & 5. Two half point byes available;
must commit before rd. 3; FIDE norm in Premier not possible if taking
bye. HR: see World Open. Bring set, board, clock if possible- none sup-
plied. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY
10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com,
DirectorAtChess.us, 347-201- 2269. Entry list: see chessaction.com; online
entries posted instantly. Invitations: Go@Chess.us.
www.uschess.org 59
Tournament Life / March
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
JULY 2-3, PENNSYLVANIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED)
7TH ANNUAL WORLD OPEN WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP
6SS, G/90 d10. Philadelphia Marriott Downtown (see World Open for
location, rates, parking). Open to all females. $2500 guaranteed prizes:
$1000-500-250, top U2000/Unr $300, U1700 $250, U1400 $200, plaques
to 1st, top U1200/Unr, U1000, U800. EF: $88 online at chessaction.com
by 6/30, $92 mailed by 6/15, $100 at site, or online until 8 am 7/2.
GMs, IMs, WGMs free; $80 from prize. Reg. ends 9 am 7/2, rds. 10, 2,
6 each day. Half point byes OK all rounds, limit 2 byes (limit 1 bye if
under 1400), must commit before rd 3. Special USCF dues: see World
Open. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box 8482, Pelham,
NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Entries posted at chess
action.com (online entries posted instantly).
JULY 3, PENNSYLVANIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED)
6TH ANNUAL WORLD OPEN ACTION CHAMPIONSHIP
6SS, G/30 d5. Philadelphia Marriott Downtown (see World Open for
location, rates, parking). Prizes $7000 based on 100 entries, otherwise
raised or lowered in proportion; minimum guarantee $4667 (2/3 of
each prize). GMs count as half entries. In 4 sections. Premier, open to
1900/above. Prizes $1000-500-300, top Under 2400 $600-300. Under
2200/Unr: Prizes $600-300-200, top Under 2000/Unr $400-200. Under
1800/Unr: Prizes $600-300-200, unrated limit $350, top Under 1600
(no Unr) $320-160. Under 1400/Unr: Prizes $400-200-100, unrated
limit $200, top Under 1200 (no unr) $210-110. Top 3 sections EF: $96
online at chessaction.com by 7/1, $100 mailed by 6/15, $110 at site.
GMs free, $90 from prize. Under 1400/Unr section EF: all $20 less
than above. Reg. ends 10 am 7/3, rounds 11, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9. Half point
byes OK all rounds, limit 2, must commit before rd. 3. Special USCF
dues: see World Open. $15 service charge for refunds. Entries posted
at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly).
An American Classic!
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, PENNSYLVANIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED)
46TH ANNUAL WORLD OPEN
9SS. Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 1201 Market St., Philadelphia, PA
19107, directly across the street from the world famous Reading Terminal
Market with over 80 food vendors. In 9 sections. $225,000 guaranteed
prizes. Unrated may enter only Open, U2200, U2000, or Unrated Sections.
Free analysis of your games by GM Sam Palatnik 7/4-8, free GM lectures
9 am 7/6 & 7/7. Open Section, July 4-8 only: Open to all rated 2200/over
USCF or FIDE, or must pay $100 more. 40/2, SD/30 d10. Under 2200 to
Under 1200 Sections, July 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 or 6-8: 40/2, SD/30 d10 (4-
day option, rds. 1-2 G/60 d10; 3-day option, rds. 1-5 G/35 d10). Under
900 Section & Unrated Section, July 6-8 only: G/60 d10, play separate
schedule. Open: $20000-10000-5000-2500-1300-1000-800-700-600-500,
clear winner bonus $500, top FIDE 2300-2449 $5000-2500-1500, top FIDE
2200-2299 $5000-2500-1500. Top FIDE U2200/Unr $5000-2500-1500. If
tie for first, top 2 on tiebreak play speed game 10 pm 7/8 for title &
bonus prize. GM & IM norms possible. FIDE rated. Under 2200/Unr:
$12000-6000-3000-1500-1000-800-600-500-400-400, top U2100 (no unr)
$2000-1000, unrated limit $2000. Under 2000/Unr: $12000-6000-3000-
1500-1000-800-600-500-400-400, top U1900 (no unr) $2000-1000, unrated
limit $1000. Under 1800: $12000-6000-3000-1500-1000-800-600-500-
400-400, top U1700 $2000-1000. Under 1600: $10000-5000-2500-1300-900-
700-600-500-400-400, top U1500 $2000-1000. Under 1400: $8000-4000-
2000-1300-900-700-600-500-400-400, top U1300 $1600-800. Under 1200:
$4000-2000-1000-800-600-500-400-400-300-300, top U1000 $1000-500.
Under 900: $600-400-300-200-100, plaques to top 10. Unrated: $600-
400-300-200-100, plaques to top 10. Prize limits: 1) If any post-event
rating posted 6/30/17-6/30/18 was more than 30 points over section
maximum, prize limit $2000. 2) Players with under 26 lifetime games
rated as of July 2018 official list cannot win over $1000 in U1200, $2000
U1400, $3000 U1600 through U2000. Games rated too late for July official
list not counted toward 26 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: $3000-1500-700-500-300.
Team must average under 2200; may play in different sections; register
(no extra fee) before both players begin round 2; teams including an
unrated limited to $500. Entry fee for Open through U1400 sections:
Online at chessaction.com: $308 by 4/15, $318 by 5/15, $328 by 6/30,
$350 at site until 1 1/2 hours before round 1, or online until 2 hours
before. Mailed by 5/15: 6-day $326, 5-day $325, 4-day $324, 3-day $323.
Mailed by 6/15: all $10 more. All $100 more for Open Section if not
rated 2200/over by USCF or FIDE. Do not mail entry after 6/15. No
checks at site, credit cards OK. GMs in Open: free; $200 deducted from
prize. IMs, WGMs in Open: EF $100 less. Under 1200 Section EF: all
$100 less than above. Seniors 65/up: all EF $100 less in U1400 or above
sections. U900 Section or Unrated Section EF: $68 online at
chessaction.com by 6/30, $73 mailed by 6/15, $80 at site until 9:30 am
7/6 or online until 9 am 7/6. No checks at site; credit cards OK. Re-
entry: $160, no re-entry from Open to Open. $20 fee for switching
section after 7/2. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with
entry: Online at chessaction.com, Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic
$15. Mailed or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $25, Scholastic $17. 6-day
schedule: Tue/Wed 7 pm, Thu 6 pm, Fri/Sat 11 am & 6 pm, Sun 10 am &
4:30 pm. 5-day schedule: Wed 7 pm, Thu-Sat 11 am & 6 pm, Sun 10 am
& 4:30 pm. 4-day schedule: Thu 11, 2:30 & 6, Fri/Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 &
4:30. 3-day schedule: Fri 11, 1:30, 3:30, 6 & 8:30, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 &
4:30. U900 Section, Unrated Section schedule: Fri 11, 2:30 & 6, Sat
11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 10, 1:30 & 4:30. 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. 3, others before rd. 5. Entries, re-entries close
90 minutes before round 1. HR: $115-115-135, 215-625-2900, reserve
early, chess block may sell out by early June. Parking: Marriott valet
parking, about $20/day (60% off regular rate) for first 100 valet parking
60 March 2018 | Chess Life
spaces sold. Gateway Garage, 1540 Spring St. (3/5 mile from Marriott, 1
block from Sheraton Hotel), about $7/day Sat & Sun, $20/day other days.
Special car rental rates: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633, or reserve
car online through chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings: See www.chess-
tour.com/foreignratings.htm. US player ratings: Official July USCF ratings
used; July FIDE ratings used for Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org
ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special rules: Players must
submit to a search for electronic devices if requested by Director. See
also chesstour.com/devices.htm. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental
Chess, Box 8482, Pelham, NY 10803. Questions: chesstour.com, chess
tour.info, DirectorAtChess.US. $15 service charge for refunds. Entries
posted at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). Awards:
Open through U1800 prizes awarded 7/8, others mailed by 7/23. Bring
set, board, clock if possible- none supplied.
JULY 4, PENNSYLVANIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)
7TH ANNUAL WORLD OPEN GAME/7 CHAMPIONSHIP (BLZ)
5-SS, double round (10 games), G/7 d2. Marriott Philadelphia Downtown
(see World Open). Prizes $1000 guaranteed: $300-150-70, U2100 $130-
70, U1800 $120-60, U1500/Unr $100. EF: $40, at site only, no checks.
GMs $40 from prize. Reg. ends 10:30 am, rds. 11, 12, 1, 2, 3. One pair
of 1/2 pt byes available, must commit before rd. 2. Blitz rated (will not
affect regular ratings), but higher of regular or blitz used for pairings &
prizes. $20 service charge for refunds.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
JULY 6-8, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED)
PACIFIC SOUTHWEST OPEN
5-SS, G/90 + 30 sec inc. At the Hilton Irvine/Orange County Airport,
Irvine, CA 92612. $10,000 in Guaranteed Prizes, 6 Sections. Prizes:
Open Sec 1st $1,600-1,000-600-300-100, plus BU2300 $400-200; U2200,
U2000, U1800 ALL: $700-300-200-100; U1600: $600-300-100 U1400:
$300-200, plus BU1200 $200-100, Book prize for Best unrated in each
section, if any. Not FIDE rated. Reg.: 6:30 - 7:45 PM Friday, July official
rating list used. No “fast” schedule or re-entries. One 1/2 point bye
available, but must commit before Rd. 4. Rds.: 8 PM on Friday, 10 AM
& 3 PM Sat and Sun. EF: $90 Early Bird Special if received by 5/31,
$100 from 6/1 to 7/01, $120 from 7/01 -7/05, $140 on event day. No
credit cards at door, checks or cash only. Special rate of only $60 if
U1400 or unrated. GMs, IMs, WGMs and WIMs all have free entry, but
$100 deducted from any prize winnings. SCCF membership req’d ($18
Adult; $13 Jr or $3 Jr w/o mag,) for all So Cal residents. Entries: SDCC,
PO Box 120162, San Diego, CA 92112 or enter online at www.scchess.com.
For more info call Chuck at 858-432-8006, or email me at chucnglo
@aol.com Hotel Rates: $139, 800-445-8667, if booked by 6/06/18.
This event is a State Championship Qualifier.
JULY 7, PENNSYLVANIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED)
WORLD OPEN G/10 CHAMPIONSHIP (QC)
5SS, G/10 d2. Marriott Philadelphia Downtown (see World Open). $1700
guaranteed prizes. In 2 sections. Open Section: $300-200-100, top
U2300 $220, U2100/Unr $200. Under 1900 Section: $200-100-50, top
U1700 $130, U1500 $110, U1300 $90. EF: $40, at site only, no checks.
GMs $40 from prize. Reg: 6-9 pm, rounds 9:30, 10:10, 10:50, 11:30,
12:10. 1 half point bye available, must commit before rd. 2. Quick-rated
(will not affect regular ratings); higher of regular or quick used for
pairings & prizes. $20 service charge for refunds.
JULY 8, PENNSYLVANIA
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED)
WORLD OPEN BLITZ CHAMPIONSHIP (BLZ)
5SS, G/5 d0 (double round, 10 games). Marriott Philadelphia Downtown
(see World Open). $3000 guaranteed prizes. In 2 sections: Open Section:
$500-300-200, top U2400 $220-110, U2200/Unr $200-100. Under 2000
Section: $400-200-100, top U1800/Unr $220-110, U1600 $160-80, U1400
$100, unrated limit $200. EF (at site only, no checks): $40 by 7 pm 7/4,
$50 after 7 pm 7/4. GMs $40 from prize. Reg. ends 9:30 pm, rounds
10, 10:45, 11:20, 11:55, 12:30. Half point bye available (1 point out of
2); must commit before rd. 2. Blitz rated (will not affect regular ratings);
higher of regular or blitz used for pairings & prizes. $20 service charge
for refunds.
JULY 28-29, WISCONSIN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10
2018 U.S. OPEN WEEKEND SWISS
5SS, G/60 d5. $1,150 Guaranteed Prizes: $200-100-50, U2200/Unrated
$160, U2000 $150, U1800 $140, U1600 $120, U1400 $100, U1200 $80,
Unrated $50. Entry fee $40, Unrated players free if paying US Chess dues.
On-site Registration 10:00-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Rounds at noon & 3:00
p.m. Saturday, 10:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m. & 3:00 p.m. Sunday. See http://
www.uschess.org/tournaments/2018/usopen/ for additional details.
JULY 28-AUG. 5, JULY 31-AUG. 5 OR AUG. 2-5, WISCONSIN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED)
119TH ANNUAL U.S. OPEN
See Nationals.
AUG. 4, WISCONSIN
US CHESS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15
2018 U.S. OPEN NATIONAL BLITZ CHAMPIONSHIP (BLZ)
See Nationals.
Regional
ALABAMA
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class
Championships (FL)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
A State Championship Event!
MAR. 24-25, Alabama State Scholastic Chess Championship
March 24th, Saturday Team: 4SS, Game/45 + 5 second delay for
Open & Jr. High Championship, All other sections 4SS, Game/30 + 5
second delay. March 25th, Sunday Individual: 4SS, Game/45 + 5
second delay for Open & Jr. High Championship, All other sections 5SS,
Game/30 + 5 second delay. Location: University of South Alabama,
Student Center, 307 N. University Blvd., Mobile, AL 36688. Round times:
Open & Jr. High 10:00, 12:45, 2:30, 4:15. All other sections 10:00, 11:15,
1:30, 2:45, 4:00 (5th round Sunday Only). Sections: TEAM - Primary(K-
3), Primary Club, Elementary(K-6), Elementary Club, Jr. High(K-9) and
Open (K-12). INDIVIDUAL - Primary (K-3), Elementary (4-6) Under 600,
Elementary (K-6), Jr. High Under-800, Jr. High (K-8), Open Under 1000,
Open (K-12). USCF and ACF required. EF: Team $50 by March 15th,
$100 thereafter, Individual $25 ($55 family) by March 15th, $35 by
March 20th, $60 thereafter. For online Registration and Payment refer
to https://alabamachess.org starting February 01,2018. Questions:
Balagee.Govindan@AlabamaChess.org
ARIZONA
UNITY CHESS CLUB
Dedicated to cultivating a sense of unity and learning through
chess! Contact Pedram Atoufi, President. (602)326-2727. 1660
S. Alma School Rd., #207, Mesa, AZ 85210, info@unity chess.com;
Monthly 4-round rated G/55; +5 Saturday tournaments. Weekly
Sunday rated G/30;+5 tournaments from 3-7pm. Monday night
tournaments G/90;+5 sec increment; play one round every Mon-
day night for the whole month. The strongest tournament in
Arizona is the 6th Annual Phoenix Open from November 24th-
26th! Group classes every Sunday on Tactics, Strategy, and more.
Private lessons and online lessons available with master coaches.
All ages and levels of playing welcome! See website for more
details.
MAY 5-6, 13th Susan Polgar Foundation National Open for Boys
and Girls (CA-N)
See California, Northern.
JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV)
See Nationals.
JUNE 21, Walter Browne Memorial National Open Blitz
Championship (BLZ) (NV)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV)
See Nationals.
JUNE 23-24, International Youth Championship (NV)
See Nevada.
ARKANSAS
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 24-25, Arkansas Open
5SS, G/90;+30. Mt. Sequoyah Retreat Center, 150 N. Skyline Dr., Fayet-
teville, AR. (479) 443-4531 or (800) 760-8126, M-F 9-5. Cottage Cabins:
1 King or 2 Queens $75 (no tax). Reserve by Mar. 16! EF: Open: $40 by
3/23; $50 at site; Reserve (U1600): $30 by 3/23; $35 at site. $$ Prizes
(b/40): Open: $225-125; U1800 $125; Reserve: $150-75; U1400 $100;
U1000 $50; Upset $50. Reg.: 8:15-9:15 Sat AM. Rds.: 9:30-2-6:30; 9-
1:15. Byes: One 1/2-pt bye Rds. 1-5 commit before Rd. 3 pairings.
Entries: Les Kline, 801 N. Rush Dr., Fayetteville, AR 72701. Info:
cl_kline@sbcglobal.net; (479) 595-5720. ACA (OSA).
CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN
MAR. 9-11, 2018 U.S. Junior Chess Congress
See Nationals.
MAR. 10, Foster City Luper$wiss90 (3SS, G/90 d5)
Foster City Courtyard Marriott, 550 Shell Blvd., 94404. Prizes: $1,300
b/50. 60% guar. 1900+: $200-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-
100, u1600 50-50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Mar 18 Supp & TD
disc. Reg.: 8:30-8:45. Rds.: 9-1-4:30. EF: 49, Econ 39 w 1/2 prz. after
3/3 +20, playup +20, GMs/IMs/NMs- $0 by 2/25. Info: http://BayArea
Chess.com/grandprix. W.
MAR. 10, Fremont DuperSwiss75 (3SS, G/75 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Fremont, CA 94538. Prizes: $1,300 b/50. 60% guar.
1900+: $200-100-100, u2000 50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100, u1600 50-
50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-50. Mar 18 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 8:30-8:45.
Rds.: 9-12-3. EF: 49, Econ 39 w 1/2 prz. after 3/4 +20, playup +20, Rtd
2200+ $0 by 2/25. Info: BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W.
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Cal Chess Women’s State Championship
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Cal Chess Senior State Championship
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 18, Palo Alto $uper$wiss61 (4SS, G/61 d5)
*NEW Location* Crown Plaza Palo Alto, 4290 El Camino Real, Palo Alto,
CA 94306. Prizes: $1,300 b/50. 60% guar. 1900+: $200-100-100, u2000
50-50. 1500-1899: $200-100, u1600 50-50. u1500: $200-100, u1200 50-
50. Feb 18 Supp & TD disc. Reg.: 8:30-8:45. Rds.: 9-11:30-2-4:30. EF:
49, Econ 39 w 1/2 prz. after 3/10 +20, playup +20 GMs/IMs/NMs -
$0 by 3/3. Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/grandprix. W.

MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, IM Walter Shipman Memorial
Championship
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 24-25, 2018 CalChess State Scholastic Team vs. Team
Championship
G/30 d5. Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America Pkwy.
Park Free! Teams: Four-player teams plus optional alternate. Mar 2018
Supplement, CCA min, & TD discretion used to place players accurately.
Sections: Elementary School Teams (K-Gr6) on Saturday only, Middle
School Teams (K-Gr8) & High School Teams (K-Gr12) on Sunday
only. All three sections are one-day events. Sched: Saturday only
section: Onsite Registration @ Sat 9-9:30a, Round Times @ Sat 10a-
11:30a-1p-2:15p-3:30p. Sunday only section: Onsite Registration @
Sun 9-9:30a, Round Times @ Sun 10a-11:30a-1p-2:15p-3:30p. Prizes:
Special 4 commemorative clocks and team trophy to the team for Top 3
overall teams. Clocks to top scorer on each board (1-4) in each section.
Event EF: $149/team or $39/player by 3/15. Late Fee: after 3/15: $10
extra per player or $40 per team. Onsite: $20 extra per player, $80
extra per team. Info:www.bayareachess.com/scholasticteam. Online
entry at http://www.BayAreaChess.com/my/scholasticteam or mail
to Bay Area Chess, 2050 Concourse Drive #42, San Jose, CA 95131.
For questions: ask@BayAreaChess.com. W.
MAR. 31, Bay Area Cupertino Quads (PK-12; 3xG/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: Players w + score.
Sched: Reqrd. Check-in 1:30-2p. Games: 2:15-5p. EF: 29, 44 after 3/24.
Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
MAR. 31, Bay Area Cupertino Swiss (PK-12; 4SS, G/30 d5)
Courtyard Marriott, Cupertino, CA 95014. Trophies: players w + score.
Sched: Reg.: 9:30-9:45a. Games: 10a -1:30p. EF: 34, 49 after 3/24.
Info: http://BayAreaChess.com/signature. W.
A State Championship Event!
APR. 6-8, 2018 CalChess State Scholastic Championship
Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America Pkwy., CA 95054.
Park free. Prizes: Huge Trophies to top 20 players w + score & top 5
teams and top 5 clubs (in ea section). Medals to all others. In case of
ties, tiebreaks will determine trophies. Sections based on grades AND
rating. Sched: 1-day event for all u800 sections: KG, K-Gr3 Rookie(unr),
K-Gr3 Beginner(u500), K-Gr3 JV(500-799): Saturday only 5SSxG/30 d5:
Rounds: 9:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm, 3pm, 4:30pm. K-Gr6 Rookie(unr), K-
Gr6 Beginner(u500), K-Gr6 JV(500-799), K-Gr8 Beginner(u800), K-Gr12
Beginner(u800): Sunday only 5SSxG/30 d5: Rounds: 9:30am, 11:30am,
1:30pm, 3pm, 4:30pm. 2-day event for sections: K-Gr3 Champ (800+),
K-Gr5 Champ (800+), K-Gr6 Champ (800+), K-Gr8 JV (800-1199), K-
Gr8 Champ (1200+), K-Gr12 JV (800-1599): Sat+Sun 6SSxG/75 d5.
Rounds: Sat & Sun 9am, 12n, 3pm. 3-day event for K-Gr12 Champ(1600+)
FIDE rated: 5SSxG/90+30: Fri 6pm, Sat 11am, 3pm, Sun 10am, 2pm
Side-event: Blitz: KG-Gr3, Gr4-6, Gr 6-8, Gr 9-12: G/5 d0; Sat 6-8p.
Bughouse (G/5 d0) Fri 6-8p. EF by 3/20: 1-day $53, 2-day $67. Playup
(by grade): +20, Late Fee: +10 after 3/20, +20 after 3/25, 4/3 &
Onsite +$40. Change Fee: $10 after 3/25, $20 after 4/3, $30 onsite.
Blitz/Bughouse: $12. Register: Online: until Friday 4/6 noon! Onsite
7:30-8am! No on-site Registration after 8AM. CalChess & USCF mem-
bership reqrd. Apr 18 Supp & TD disc to place players. Info/Reg:
bayareachess.com/states. Quest: ask@BayAreaChess.com. W.
APR. 21-22, 2018 Annual Frank Doyle Open
See Grand Prix.
MAY 5-6, 13th Susan Polgar Foundation National Open for Boys
and Girls
Livermore Community Center, 4444 East Ave., Livermore, CA 94550. 10
Championship sections based on age and gender: Under8, Under10,
Under12, Under14, Under 16 &18 separate sections for Girls & Boys.
Individual Trophies: Top 15 players. “Super Performance” trophies to
players tied for last place with a trophy award and the top player(s) in
each rating class who did not get a place trophy. Commemorative partic-
ipation medals to all others. Team Trophies: Top 3 Schools and Clubs in
each sections. Time control: G/60 d5. Schedule: Onsite Registration:
Saturday 8-8:30am. Rounds: Saturday 9:30am, 12:30pm, 3:30pm, and
Sun 9:30am, 12pm, 2:30pm. Byes: Rds. 4&5 byes must be requested
before Rd. 1. Entry Fee for 2-day event by 4/22: $54, Add $15 (4/23-
5/1), Add $30 (5/2-4), Add $40 for onsite. Side Events: 2 sections based
on grade and rating: K-Grade4 under500, K-Grade8 under800. Individual
Trophies: Top 10 players, medals to all others. Team Trophies: Top 3
Schools and Clubs in each sections. Time control: G/30 d5. Schedule:
Onsite Registration: Saturday 8-8:30am. Rounds: Saturday only: 9:30am,
11am, 12:30pm, 2pm, 3:30pm. Entry Fee for side event by 4/22: $47,
Add $15 (4/23-5/1), Add $30 (5/2-4), Add $40 for onsite. Other Special
Side Events: Q&A & 25-board Simul, Puzzle Solving Competition, Blitz
Championship. May 2018 supplemental for all sections. Change fee equal
to the late fee will apply for any changes, other than bye requests with
less than one week before the tournament. Out of state entries 20% off
(mail entry or email ask@bayareachess.com with USCF ID for online
entry coupon code). Chief Organizer: J. Sztaray. Organizers/TDs:, T. Lang-
land, J. McCumiskey. Sponsored by Susan Polgar Foundation. More info
& flyer: www.spfno.com. Register online at www.spfno.com/registration.
Mail entries to Bay Area Chess, 2050 Concourse Drive #42, San Jose,
CA 95131. Register early to save. Questions: ask@BayAreaChess.com,
408-409-6596. W.
JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV)
See Nationals.
JUNE 21, Walter Browne Memorial National Open Blitz
Championship (BLZ) (NV)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV)
See Nationals.
JUNE 23-24, International Youth Championship (NV)
See Nevada.
See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14
MAR. 24, 2018 Greater New Haven Championships!
CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERN See Grand Prix.
MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR.
THE LOS ANGELES CHESS CLUB
The Most Active Club on the West Coast! (310) 795-5710. * 31-APR. 1, 12th annual Philadelphia Open (PA)
LACC: www.LAChessClub.com; VCC: www.ValleyChess See Grand Prix.
Club.com; Contact: Mick@LAChessClub.com; Saturday & Sun- APR. 7, CT State Quick Championships! (QC)
days: 10 am-9 pm (Beginner/Novice & Intermediate classes + See Grand Prix.
3 Tournaments each day – Details on our web site. Tuesdays:
7:30-9:30 pm (Advance lecture). 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., APR. 7-8, 2nd annual Bill Little Memorial (NY)
Los Angeles, CA 90025. (4 blocks W of 405, SW corner of See Grand Prix.
Santa Monica & Butler * 2nd Floor – above Javan Restaurant) APR. 8, CT State Rapid Championships! (QC)
Group Classes * Tournaments * Private (1:1) Lessons. Note See Grand Prix.
our monthly major tournaments. Also, we have the best Weekly
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class
BLITZ tournament on Saturday nights at 6:30 pm!! Championships (MA)
VELLOTTI’S CHESS SCHOOL See Grand Prix.
Beginners Welcome! Now offering online lessons, Vellotti’s Chess MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD)
School makes chess FUN for both boys & girls from PreK thru See Grand Prix.
8th grade. Our Award-Winning Enchanted Chess adventure-
based system is currently used to train & develop thousands of MAY 18-20 OR 19-20, 26th annual New York State Open and
students into state and national champions. Super star International Senior (NY)
Master Luke Vellotti supervises the development of lesson plans See Grand Prix.
and also coaches more advanced students and titled players. Now MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
in two locations- Idaho and Southern CA. For more info about See Grand Prix.
Classes, Camps, and Tournaments, call (208) 713-2486 or email MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open (PA)
info@SuccessInChess.com. Visit us online at SuccessInChess.com See Grand Prix.
or SoCalChess.com to register for a FREE class today!
JUNE 8-10 OR 9-10, 24th Annual Northeast Open
MAR. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 31, Every Saturday & Sun- See Grand Prix.
day Chess 4 Juniors
JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 46th Annual World Open (PA)
9 separate events- 5SS, G/30 d0. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd. & Butler See Grand Prix.
LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blocks West of 405. EF: $30 ($20 LACC memb, No
prize 1/2 EF, siblings 1/2, Free new LACC members). Reg.: 12-1 pm.
Rds.: 1pm & asap; done by 4; Prizes: Trophies & medals; All players DELAWARE
receive prizes! Parking: Free on streets & BoA. Free healthy refreshments.
Info: (310) 795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com or Mick@LAChessClub.com. MAR. 10-11, Delaware State Open Chess Championship
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, LACC - Sat Nite Blitzathon G/5 (BLZ)
5 separate events- 7DSS, G/5 d0 (Blitz,14 Games). 11514 Santa Monica MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR.
Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blks W of 405. EF: $20 ($15 LACC memb). No 31-APR. 1, 12th annual Philadelphia Open (PA)
prizes 1/2 EF. Reg.: 6-6:30 pm. Register at LAChessClub.com and receive See Grand Prix.
a free gift. Rds.: 6:30, 6:55, 7:20, 7:45, 8:10, 8:35, 9 pm. Prizes: 1/2 MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD)
collections. Parking: Free on streets & BoA. Info: 310/795-5710 or See Grand Prix.
www.LAChessClub.com.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
MAR. 3, 10, 24, 31, LACC Saturday G/60 See Grand Prix.
4 separate events- 1 open section, 6SS, G/60 d5. 11514 Santa Monica
Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. EF: $30/ ($20 LACC memb; No prizes 1/2 EF). MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open (PA)
Reg.: 11-12 noon. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day. Prizes: 1/2 collections. See Grand Prix.
Parking: Free at BoA, streets, & basement. Info: 310/795-5710 or JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class
www.LAChessClub.com. Championships (VA)
MAR. 4, 11, 25, LACC Sunday G/60 See Grand Prix.
4 separate events- 1 open section, 6SS, G/60 d5. 11514 Santa Monica
Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. EF: $30/ ($20 LACC memb; No prizes 1/2 EF).
Reg.: 11-12 noon. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day. Prizes: 1/2 collections. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Parking: Free at BoA, streets, & basement. Info: 310/795-5710 or MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD)
www.LAChessClub.com See Grand Prix.
MAR. 17-18, 2018 Smyslov Memorial - U1800 only
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
(A sponsored event) 1 open Section. 6SS, G/60 d5. 11514 Santa Monica
See Grand Prix.
Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. EF: $75; $55 LACC members; No-prize players,
spouses/siblings, new members 1/2 EF. Reg.: Sat 10-11:45. Rds.: 12, MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open (PA)
2, 4 pm each day. Byes: Up to three 1/2-point byes. Last Rd. bye before See Grand Prix.
Rd. 5. 1-Day option I: Play 1 day- no 1/2 pt byes- 1/2 EF. 1-Day option JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class
II: Play 1 day & get three 1/2 pt byes- Full EF. Prizes: $$1,000 (b/40) Championships (VA)
$500 Gtd. U1800: $200-100-$25; U1600: $200-100-25; U1400: $150-
75-25; U1200: $50 in book prizes. Best attack: $25; Biggest upset: $25. See Grand Prix.
Info: (310) 795-5710; Mick@LAChessClub.com or www.LAChessClub.com.
Parking: Free on streets, BoA, or basement. FLORIDA
MAY 5-6, 13th Susan Polgar Foundation National Open for Boys
Boca Raton Chess Club
and Girls (CA-N) Friday night tournament games, one game a week for 4 weeks.
See California, Northern.
www.bocachess.com, 561-302-4377.
JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class
See Nationals. Championships
JUNE 21, Walter Browne Memorial National Open Blitz See Grand Prix.
Championship (BLZ) (NV)
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix.
JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV) MAR. 24, Village Quads
See Nationals. Open to all*. 3 round Quad G/60 d5. Captiva Rec Center, 658 Pinellas Pl.,
JUNE 23-24, International Youth Championship (NV) The Villages, FL 32163. Rds.: 10AM, 1PM, 3:15PM. EF: $5, prizes based
See Nevada. on entries. Unrateds free. Booster: $12, Prize 1-year membership in USCF,
JULY 6-8, Pacific Southwest Open nonrated. Reg.: 9AM at site. Adv. Reg.: online at: https://www.chess-
See Grand Prix. register.com or mail to Herbert Menendez, 3133 Jemima Ave., The Villages,
FL 32163. Email: TheVillagesChessClub@outlook.com. Note: * Lake, Sumter
and Marion county residents must reside in The Villages.
COLORADO APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 25th Space Coast Open
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV)
See Nationals. MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV) Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
See Nationals.
JUNE 23-24, International Youth Championship (NV) MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Nevada. See Grand Prix.
CONNECTICUT GEORGIA
MAR. 10-11, 51st annual New York State Scholastic MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class
Championships (out of state welcome) (NY) Championships (FL)
See New York. See Grand Prix.
www.uschess.org 61
Tournament Life / March
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 31-APR. 1, 1st Annual Ron Finegold Memorial
See Grand Prix.
APR. 6-8, 2018 National Junior High School (K-9) Championship
See Nationals.
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 25th Space Coast Open (FL)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 12, GrayKnight May 2018 Scholastic
5SS, G/30 d0. Frederica Academy, 200 Murray Way, St. Simons Island,
GA 31522. Prizes: Trophies to 1st, 2nd, 3rd, Team, & Upset in each of
the four sections: Section #1 – Primary – K-3; Section #2 – Elementary
– 4-5; Section #3 – Middle School – 6-8; Section #4 – High School 9-
12. USCF Membership Required. Other States Ok. Entry Fee: $18 If
before 05/10/18, $20 the day of the tournament. Registration: 8:30-
9:30a.m. Round 1 starts at 10:15a.m then each following round starts
25 minutes after the previous round ends. Pre-Register to: Donny
Gray, 8601 Beach Blvd. #923, Jacksonville, FL 32216, (706) 589-8131,
donny@grayknight.net.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Grand Prix.
IDAHO
JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV)
See Nationals.
JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV)
See Nationals.
ILLINOIS
MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, 22nd annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 30-APR. 1, Midwest Holiday Class
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 7, Chicago Chess Center Plus-Score #19
4SS, G/65 d5. Student Center East, Univ. of Illinois at Chicago, 750 S.
Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60607. Two sections: OPEN: Each player with 4
points wins $240, 3½ = $120, 3 = $60, 2½ = $30. UNDER 1800: Open
to 1799 & under or unrated. Each player with 4 points wins $160, 3½ =
$80, 3 = $40, 2½ = $20. ALL: EF: $36 by 4/1, $42 by 4/6, $49 onsite.
$15 play-up for under 1700 in Open. 20% discount for CCC members.
Rds.: 10-1-3:30-6. Accelerated possible. ENT: www.chichess.org/events
or mail to Chicago Chess Center NFP Inc., P.O. Box 180095, Chicago, IL
60618. REG.: 9-9:30 a.m. No phone entries. 1/2-pt. bye any round:
request before rd. 2. INFO: 773-294-1709, info@chichess.org. Sets &
clocks provided. All-day parking at 760 W. Taylor available for $7. W.
APR. 7, Chicago Chess Center Rated Beginners’ Open #16
5-SS. G/30 d5. Student Center East, Univ. of Illinois at Chicago, 750 S.
Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60607. Two Sections: Under 1200 & Unrated ,
Under 800 & Unrated. EF: $22 by 3/31, $28 by 4/6, $35 onsite. Prizes:
First place (or all scoring 4½ points or more): chess clock and book,
3½ points or more: two books. All players who compete the event will
receive a book! Free entry & US Chess membership available to a limited
number of City of Chicago scholastic players with financial need (honor
system). info@chichess.org for details. ENT: www.chichess.org/events/.
REG.: 9-9:30 a.m. No phone entries. Rds.: 10-11:15-1:15-2:30-3:45.
1/2-pt. bye any round: request before rd. 2. INFO: 773-294-1709 or
info@chichess.org. Sets & clocks provided. All-day parking at 760 W.
Taylor available for $7. W.
APR. 7-8, 54th Greater Peoria Open
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 15, Chicago Chess Center Plus-Score #20
4SS, G/65 d5. Student Center East, Univ. of Illinois at Chicago, 750 S.
Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60607. Two sections: OPEN: Each player with 4
points wins $240, 3½ = $120, 3 = $60, 2½ = $30. UNDER 1600:
Open to 1599 & under or unrated. $$ Each player with 4 points wins
$160, 3½ = $80, 3 = $40, 2½ = $20. ALL: EF: $35 by 4/8, $42 by
4/14, $49 onsite. 20% discount for CCC members. $15 play-up for under
1700 in Open. Rounds: 10-1-3:30-6. Accelerated possible. ENT:
www.chichess.org/events/ or mail to Chicago Chess Center NFP Inc.,
P.O. Box 180095, Chicago, IL 60618. REG.: 9-9:30 a.m. No phone entries.
1/2-pt. bye any round: request before rd. 2. INFO: Bill Brock, 773-294-
1709, info@chichess.org. Sets & clocks provided. All-day parking at
760 W. Taylor available for $7. W.
APR. 15, Chicago Chess Center Rated Beginners’ Open #17
5-SS. G/30 d5. Student Center East, Univ. of Illinois at Chicago, 750 S.
Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60607. Two Sections: Under 1200 & Unrated ,
Under 800 & Unrated. ALL: EF: $20 by 4/8, $27 by 4/14, $35 onsite.
Prizes: First place (or all scoring at or above 4½ points): chess clock
and book, 3½ points: two books. All players who compete the event
will receive a book! Free entry & US Chess membership available to a
limited number of City of Chicago scholastic players with financial need
(honor system): info@chichess.org for details. ENT: www.chichess.org/
events. REG.: 9-9:30 AM. INFO: info@chichess.org or 773-294-1709.
Rds.: 10-11:15-1:15-2:30-3:45. Sets & clocks provided. All-day parking
at 760 W. Taylor available for $7. W.
APR. 20-22, 2018 All-Girls National Championships presented
by the Kasparov Chess Foundation in association with the
Renaissance Knights Chess Foundation & US Chess
See Nationals.
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 15th Annual Great Lakes Open (MI)
See Grand Prix.
62 March 2018 | Chess Life
MAY 5-6, Chicago Chess Center 2nd Haymarket Memorial
See Grand Prix.
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago Open
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 27, 7th annual Chicago Open Blitz (BLZ)
See Grand Prix.
INDIANA
MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, 22nd annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 20-22 OR 21-22, 77th Annual Indiana State Chess
Championship
See Grand Prix.
A State Championship Event!
APR. 21, Indiana State Blitz Championship (BLZ)
Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Airport, 2501 S. High School Rd., Indianapolis,
IN 46241. 7/SS, G/3+2s incr. PRIZES: $$600 (b/32), $200, $100, U2000,
U1700, U1400 $100 ea. EF: $25 by 4/13 at indianachess.org OR by mail
(Mathew Leach, 4010 Parkwood Circle, Apt. 2A, Mishawaka, IN 46545),
$30 onsite until 8:30PM Sat., $5 discount to ISCA members. Rd.1 9PM,
following rds. ASAP.
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 15th Annual Great Lakes Open (MI)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 27, 7th annual Chicago Open Blitz (BLZ) (IL)
See Grand Prix.
IOWA
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 17, 2018 Iowa Class Championships
4-SS, Divided into Classes: M-X-A, B, C, & D and under. Players may
play up one class. Some sections may be combined. G/75 d5. Where:
Physician Clinic of Iowa, Community Room, 202 10th Street SE, 3rd
Floor, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402. Reg.: 8:15 to 9:00 am. On-line registration
at www.onlineregistration.cc Rounds: M-X-A, B, C, & D, 9:30 am-
2:30-5:00-7:30 pm. Entry Fee: $25 if postmarked by March 12th, $30
on site. On-site available. IASCA membership required, $10.00. Prize
Info: Class prizes, 1st place $50 + trophy, 2nd place $30 US Chess
Federation (USCF) membership required. On Site Available. IASCA
membership required, $15, $10 Jr. or Sr. On-Site Available. Send
Entry Fee to: Checks payable to Eric Vigil, 445 Galway Dr., Iowa City,
IA 52246. Include name, USCF ID, Section, phone #, email address.
Additional Info: Annual meeting at 1 pm. March 17, 2017.
APR. 21-23, 12th Annual Okoboji Open (IASCA GP Qualifier)
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 21-23 OR 22-23, 12th Annual Okoboji Reserve U1600
1405 Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center. 1405 Highway 71 S.
Okaboji, IA 51355. 5 Rd. Swiss, G/120 d5 in 3-day option. Rds.: Friday
6:00 PM; Saturday 10:00 AM, 4:30 PM; Sunday 9:00 AM, 2:30 PM. 2-
day option has G/90 d5 for rds. 1 and 2. Sections merge at Rd. 3. On
site reg: 5:00-5:45 PM on 4-21 (3-day option) Rds.: 9:00 AM, 1:00 PM
4:30 PM; Sunday 9:00 AM, 2:30 PM. Entry fee: $35, if received by April
13, 2018. On site: $45 cash or $50 check. Prize info: Top 3 (guaranteed)
$300 + Trophy, $100 & $50. U1400, U1250 $80. U1000 $50 (b/20).
Make checks payable: Sibley Chess Club. 934 6th St., Sibley, IA 51249,
(712) 330-8254 or email jodene77@yahoo.com or pay on-line by April
15. Additional info: $79 Hotel rate, if reserved by March 21, call 1-800-
727-4561. Onlineregistration.cc
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
KANSAS
MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, 22nd annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Grand Prix.
KENTUCKY
APR. 14, 2018 Green Grass
College Park Annex Building, 30 Wheeler Ave., Winchester, KY 40391.
In 2 Sections, Open: 4SS, G/45 d5, EF: $10. Unr: FREE. $$90% Rtd.
60% 1st,40% 2nd. Reg.: 9:15. Rds.: R1 9:45 am. Scholastic (Winchester
Scholastic Chess League): 5SS, G/30 d5, EF: $5 cash. Prizes: Trophies
to Scholastic 1st-3rd place in each section: K3, K5, K12. Reg.: 8:30.
Rds.: 9:15. Season end; Grand Trophies to teams and individuals. Ent:
Frank Walls register@winchesster.com. www.Winchesster.com.
APR. 21, 3rd Greater Louisville Open
4-SS, G/60 d5. Yussman Chess Center, 173 Sears Ave., Louisville, KY
40207. Entry Fee: $30 (by 4/18), $40 at site. Prize Fund: $800, based
on 40 entries;1st $180, 2nd $140; A, B, C, D/E each $75, $45. Regis-
tration: 8:00-8:45 a.m., rounds at 9:00, 12:00, 2:30, 5:00. Entries: pay
online at “louisvillechess.wix.com/play” (see calendar page) or mail to
the chess center, attn: Richard Williams.
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Grand Prix.
LOUISIANA
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class
Championships (FL)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
MAINE
MAR. 17-18, Saco Open
See Grand Prix.
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class
Championships (MA)
See Grand Prix.
MARYLAND
MARYLAND CHESS TOURNAMENTS
MD Chess runs scholastic tournaments 2 Saturdays per month
from September through June & open tournaments 2 Saturdays
or weekends per month throughout the year. Visit www.MD
Chess.org to find tournament announcements, tutors, coaches,
& camps; register online for tournaments; & subscribe to
scholastic and/or open e-newsletters. MD scholastic players
who compete in the Varsity section (exclusively for players
rated 1600+) of a MD-Sweet-16 Qualifier can qualify for the
$45,000 scholarship to UMBC awarded annually. The Uni-
versity of Maryland, Baltimore County’s chess team is a
perennial top-10 contender for the national championship.
MAR. 10-11, Delaware State Open Chess Championship (DE)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR.
31-APR. 1, 12th annual Philadelphia Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, 64th Annual Maryland Open
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class
Championships (VA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 27-JULY 1 OR JUNE 29-JULY 1, 8th annual World Open
Senior Amateur (PA)
See Pennsylvania.
JUNE 28-JULY 2, 12th annual Philadelphia International (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 30-JULY 1, World Open Warmup (PA)
See Pennsylvania.
JULY 2-3, 7th annual World Open Women’s Championship (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JULY 3, 6th annual World Open Action Championship (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 46th Annual World Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
MASSACHUSETTS
MAR. 10-11, 51st annual New York State Scholastic
Championships (out of state welcome) (NY)
See New York.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 14, 21, 28, APR. 4, 11, Evert Siiskonen Memorial
5SS, G/100 d5. Wachusett CC, McKay Complex, Room C159, Fitchburg
State University, 67 Rindge Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420. EF: $20 annual club
dues or $1 per game. Reg.: 6:30-7 p.m. Rds.: 7:15 p.m. each Wed. Byes:
1-4, limit two. Prizes: chess books to 1st-2nd, top U1900, U1700, U1500,
U1300. Info: George Mirijanian, 176 Oak Hill Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420,
miriling2@aol.com, 978-345-5011. Website: www.wachusettchess.org.
WEB: 3/14. Free parking. W. Cafe facilities. WiFi.
MAR. 17, Boylston Chess Foundation
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 24, 2018 Greater New Haven Championships! (CT)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR.
31-APR. 1, 12th annual Philadelphia Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 31, WN Winter 2018 RBO
No refreshments available onsite. Bring your own snacks. Map for dining
provided. 5SS, G/30 d5. West Newbury Town Hall Annex, 381 Main St.,
 See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14

West Newbury, MA 01985. Open to under 1200 or unrated. EF: $20 by 24
March, $25 on site. Prizes: Trophies for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, U900, U600, U300
and top unrated. Reg.: 9:15-9:45. Rds.: 10-11:15-1:15-2:30-3:45. 1 1/2
point bye rounds 1-4, must request by round 3. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49
Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: relyea@operamail.com.
www.relyeachess.com.
APR. 7, Chess Fool’s Day Open
4SS, G/60 d5. The Alumni House - Amherst College, 75 Churchill St.,
Amherst, MA 01002. EF: $30 on-site; $25 if postmarked by 4/2/2018;
$2 WMCA discount; Unrated FREE; USCF membership required.
$$450b/30 paying entries. Open 1st: $100; Top A: $90; Top B: $80; Top
C: $70; Top Under 1400: $60; Top Unrated: $50. REG.: 8:30-9:15am
Saturday 4/7/2018. RNDS.: 9:30am, 12:30pm, 3:00, 5:30. ENT: WMCA,
c/o Ed Kostreba, 45 Fairview, Palmer, MA 01069. INFO: Ron Gist (413)
695-7689 RonGist@ComCast.net. USCF Membership required. Please
bring set and clock. W.
APR. 7, CT State Quick Championships! (QC) (CT)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 7-8, 2nd annual Bill Little Memorial (NY)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 8, CT State Rapid Championships! (QC) (CT)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 15, 28th Massachusetts G/60 Championship
See Grand Prix.
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class Championships
See Grand Prix.
MAY 18-20 OR 19-20, 26th annual New York State Open and
Senior (NY)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 8-10 OR 9-10, 24th Annual Northeast Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 46th Annual World Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
MICHIGAN
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 15th Annual Great Lakes Open
See Grand Prix.
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Grand Prix.
MINNESOTA
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
MISSISSIPPI
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class
Championships (FL)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
MISSOURI
Friday Improve Your USCF Rating Night
The Kansas City Chess Club, 2 S. Water St., Liberty, MO 64068. 3SS,
G/30 d5 at 7PM - every Friday evening. Free Parking! Free Coffee! EF:
$10. Flyer at: www.kansascitychessclub.com.
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 17, Saint Patrick’s Day G/60 Play for Rating Event!
The Kansas City Chess Club, 2 S. Water St., Liberty, MO 64068. (Free
Parking) 3SS. G/60 d5. EF: $25 at Reg4Chess.com. $35 onsite. Reg.:
10AM. Rd. 1 @10:30AM. USCF & KCCA Memb Req. Info: Ken at
kcchess@gmail.com. Free Entry For ALL New and Unrated Players USCF
Players!
MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, 22nd annual Mid-America Open
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 31, Saturday Night Special (QC)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 6-8, Bill Wright Saint Louis Open (FIDE Rated) $10K Event
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 7-8, 2018 Missouri State University Open
Co-hosted by the MSU and Joplin Chess Clubs. 5-SS, G/90, +30. Plaster
Student Union Room 315, 1110 E. Madison St., Springfield, MO 65897. 1
Section, Open: $200-150, Class A, B, C, D, U1200/UNR $100 each.
5.0 Bonus: $40. Prizes: b/25 non-scholastic entries. EF: $30 by 4/6,
$40 at door. Scholastic (rating only) $15 by 4/6, $25 at door. Email
entry accepted for lower rate. MCA membership required, OSA Reg.:
8-9:30. Rounds: Sat 10, 2:30, 7; Sun 9:30, 2:30. Byes: One 1/2 point
bye if requested before round 3 Ent: martin.stahl@joplinchess.org with
cash on-site or mailed to Joplin Chess Club, 2609 New Hampshire,
Joplin, MO 64804. Checks payable to Martin Stahl. Parking: See www.mis-
souristate.edu/visitors/parking.htm or contact TD. Info: joplinchess.org,
martin.stahl@joplinchess.org, 417-483-1554
APR. 28, The Kansas City Chess Club Championship
Liberty United Methodist Church, 2 S. Water St., Liberty, MO 64068.
(Free Parking) 3SS. G/60 d5. EF: $25 at Reg4Chess.com. $35 onsite.
Reg.: 10AM. Rd. 1 @10:30AM. USCF & KCCA Memb Req. Info: Ken at
kcchess@gmail.com. Free Entry For ALL New and Unrated Players USCF
Players!
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
MONTANA
A Heritage Event!
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 7-8, 83rd Montana Open
DoubleTree, Billings, MT. 5SS, G/105 d5. $$$ based on entries. Details
at www.MontanaChess.org or mca@montanachess.org.
JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV)
See Nationals.
JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV)
See Nationals.
NEBRASKA
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
NEVADA
A State Championship Event!
MAR. 10, Nevada State Scholastic Girls’ Championship
5-SS, G/25 d5 round 1-3, G/45 d5 round 4-5. Las Vegas Chess Academy,
2560 Montessouri St., Suite 206, Las Vegas, NV 89117. Open to any
Nevada school age girl. Trophies for top players and teams. Every player
wins a medal! Winner represents Nevada in National Tournaments of
Champions. EF $30 if received by 3/5, $40 later. Reg.: Address above or
www.lasvegaschesscenter.com. On site by 8:30. Late registrants may
not be paired in round 1. Round 1 at 9:30. INFO: td0318@nevadachess.org.
A State Championship Event!
MAR. 17, Nevada State Scholastic Championship

22nd annual MID-AMERICA OPEN

March 23-25 or 24-25, 2018 - Clayton (Saint Louis), Missouri
$20,000 GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND!
CLAYTON PLAZA HOTEL (formerly Crowne Plaza) in the upscale suburb of Clayton, near Saint Louis
5 rounds, 40/100, SD/30, d10
(2-day option, rds 1-2 G/60, d10).
Clayton Plaza Hotel, 7750
Carondelet Ave, Clayton MO 63105 (I-
64 W/US 40-W Exit 32B, 1.2 miles N
on Hanley Rd).
Prizes $20,000 unconditionally
guaranteed.
In 6 sections- you face only those
in your section. Unrated will obtain
ratings.
Major: Open to 1800/up. $2000-
1000-600-400, clear/tiebrk 1st $100,
top U2300 $800-400. FIDE, 120 GPP.
Under 2100: $1500-700-500-300.
Under 1900: $1500-700-500-300.
Under 1700: $1400-700-500-300.
Under 1500: $1200-600-400-300.
Under 1250: $900-500-300-200.
Unrated prize limits: U1250 $200,
U1500 $400, U1700 $600. Balance
goes to next player(s) in line.
Mixed doubles bonus prizes:
best male/female 2-player combined
score among all sections: $800-400-
200. Team must average under 2200;
may play in different sections; register
at site (no extra fee) by 2 pm 3/24.
Top 5 sections entry fee: $113
online at chessaction.com by 3/21, 3-
day $118, 2-day $117 mailed by 3/14,
$130 at site or online until 2 hrs before
rd 1. No check at site, credit card OK.
Under 1250 Section entry fee: All
$20 less than above.
Online entry fee $3 less to
Missouri Chess Association members.
Re-entry (except Major) $60.
Special 1 yr USCF mem. with
magazine if paid with online entry,
Adult $35, Young Adult $22, Scholastic
$15. USCF membership required.
Unofficial web ratings usually
used if othrerwise unrated.
3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 6
pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10
& 3:15.
2-day schedule: Reg. Sat. to 10
am, rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15.
Half point byes OK all, limit 2;
Major must commit before round 2,
others before round 3.
All: Bring set, board, clock if
possible- none supplied.
Hotel rates: $102-105, includes
free full hot buffet breakfast & free
parking, 888-303-1746, 314-726-5400,
reserve by 3/9 or rate may increase.
Entry: chessaction.com or
Continental Chess, Box 8482, Pelham
NY 10803. $15 service charge for
refunds. Questions: director@chess.us,
chesstour.com, 347-201-2269.
Entries posted at chessaction.
com (online entries posted instantly).
Blitz tournament Sat 9:30 pm.

www.uschess.org 63
Tournament Life / March
K-3 and K5: 6-SS, G/25 d5. K-8 and K-12: 5-SS, G/25 d5 round 1-2,
G/45 d5 round 3-5. Las Vegas Day School, 3275 Red Rock, Las Vegas.
Open to any Nevada school age resident. Trophies for top players, top
teams, and more. Every player wins a medal! Winners of K-8 and K-12
represent Nevada in National Tournaments of Champions. EF $40
received by 3/5, $50 by 3/16, $70 on site. Reg.: Las Vegas Chess Acad-
emy, 2560 Montessouri St., Suite 206, Las Vegas, NV 89117 or
www.nevadachess.org. On site by 8:30. Late registrants may not be
paired in round 1. Round 1 at 9:30. INFO: td0318@nevadachess.org.
MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR. 31-APR. 1, 7th Annual Reno Larry
Evans Memorial - FIDE
See Grand Prix.
MAY 5-6, 13th Susan Polgar Foundation National Open for Boys
and Girls (CA-N)
See California, Northern.
JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open
See Nationals.
JUNE 21, Walter Browne Memorial National Open Blitz
Championship (BLZ)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open
See Nationals.
JUNE 23-24, International Youth Championship
6-SS, G/60 +5. Westgate Las Vegas Resort, 3000 Paradise Road, 89109.
In 4 Sections by age: 14 & Under Open, 14 & Under Reserve (under
1000), 9 & Under Open, 9 & Under Reserve (under 800). Trophies to
top 10 in each section plus class and team trophies. 1st Place in each
section wins a Computer loaded with valuable Chess Software and
hundreds of Videos, 2nd-4th win chess prizes valued at 250-150-100.
Unrated players may not win 1st in Reserve sections. EF $89 by 5/31,
$99 by 6/20, $120 later. Half point bye in any round (limit 2) if requested
in advance. Reg.: 8:30-9 a.m. Rds.: 10-1-3:30, 10-1-3:30. Youth Blitz:
6/22 6:30 p.m. ($20 by 5/31 $25 later). HR: $69, $92 Friday and Saturday
(800) 732-7117 Cutoff for special hotel rate is May 31; after that
rates will increase significantly and there may not be any rooms
available. ENT: Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV
89009-0925 or www.VegasChessFestival.com.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
MAR. 17, Middlebury Quick Chess for U1810 (QC) (VT)
See Vermont.
MAR. 24, New Hampshire Quick Chess Championship (QC)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class
Championships (MA)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Grand Prix.
NEW JERSEY
MAR. 3, ICA Super Saturday Quads
354 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS,
G/45 d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tour-
nament. Entry Fee: $25 all sections. Rounds: 1:30 and ASAP. Prize:
$60 1st place (each quad). Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@
icanj.net for more information.
MAR. 10, ICA Super Saturday Quads
354 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS,
G/45 d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tour-
nament. Entry Fee: $25 all sections. Rounds: 1:30 and ASAP. Prize:
$60 1st place (each quad). Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@
icanj.net for more information.
MAR. 10-11, 51st annual New York State Scholastic
Championships (out of state welcome) (NY)
See New York.
MAR. 10-11, Delaware State Open Chess Championship (DE)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 11, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA Championship in 5
Sections
4SS. Bergen Academy, 200 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, NJ 07601. All
players with 2.5 points or more will receive a trophy! USCF Memb Req’d
For Sections 3, 4 AND 5. For info, call 201 797 0330, email
chessdirector@icanj.net or visit icanj.net. ADV EF (pmk by Mar 5th) $35 At
Site $40. Reg ends 1/2 hr before 1st rd. Late entrants will receive a 1/2 pt
bye for rd. 1. In 5 Sections: Section 1 Junior Novice (not USCF rated):
Open to unr players K thru 2nd grade. Rds.: First Round 10:15 AM then
ASAP. Section 2 Novice (not USCF rated): Open to unr players K thru 4th
grade. Rds.: First Round 10:00 AM then ASAP. Section 3 G/45 d5 U800:
Open to players rated below 800 and unrated players K thru 12th grade.
Rds.: 9:45 AM, 11:30, 1:15, 3:00 PM. Section 4 G/45 d5 U1200: Open to
players rated below 1200 and unrated players K thru 12th grade. Rds.:
9:45 AM, 11:30, 1:15, 3:00 PM. Section 5 G/60 d5 U1400: Open to All
Ages rated below 1400 or unrated. Rds.: 9:30 AM, 11:45, 2:00, 4:30 PM.
Enter online at: http://www.icanj.net/chess_class_in_nj/ica_chess_tour-
naments/ or mail checks to Diana Tulman, 28 Canterbury Ln., New Milford,
NJ 07646. Make checks payable to: International Chess Academy. W.
MAR. 11, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA Open Championship
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 11, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA U1600 Championship
4SS, G/60 d5. Bergen Academy, 200 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, NJ
07601. Open to all ages with rating below 1600. Prize Fund ($$ b/25):
64 March 2018 | Chess Life
1st - 3rd $200, $150, $100, TU1400 $50, TU1200 $50, Call 201 797-
0330, email chessdirector@icanj.net or visit icanj.net for more info.
ADV EF (pmk by Mar 5th): $40. At Site $45. Reg ends 1/2 hr before
1st rd. Late entrants will receive a 1/2 pt bye for rd. 1. Rds.: 9:30 AM,
11:45 AM, 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM. Enter online at: http://www.icanj.net/
chess_class_in_nj/ica_chess_tournaments or mail to: Diana Tulman,
28 Canterbury Ln., New Milford, NJ 07646. Make checks payable to:
International Chess Academy. W.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 15, 22, 29, APR. 5, Kenilworth Spring Swiss
4-SS. G/61 d5. Kenilworth Recreation Center, 575 Boulevard, Kenilworth,
NJ 07033. EF: $12, $10 Kenilworth CC members. Prizes, b/16: $50-40,
U1900 $30, U1600 $20. Reg.: 8:00-8:25 p.m. Rds.: 8:30 p.m. on 3/15,
3/22, 3/29 & 4/5. Byes: 1 allowed, any round. Info: kenilworthchess-
club@gmail.com.
MAR. 17, ICA Super Saturday Quads
354 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS,
G/45 d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tour-
nament. Entry Fee: $25 all sections. Rounds: 1:30 and ASAP. Prize:
$60 1st place (each quad). Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@
icanj.net for more information.
MAR. 18, Westfield G/50 Quads
3-RR. G/45 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25,
$20 Members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 12:45-
1:20 p.m. Those registering after 1:20 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds:
1:30, 3:25, 5:20 p.m. Info: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, www.west-
fieldchessclub.org/Events.html
MAR. 24, 90th Central Jersey Chess Tournament
Princeton Academy, 1128 Great Road, Princeton. 3 rated sections –
Open, U1000, U600 – each K-12, 4 rounds, G/25 d5. 2 unrated sections
– Intermediate (K-8), Beginners (K-2): 4 rounds. Trophies to 1st-3rd
& top team per section, medals to all! $35 pre-reg online by 3/22. $45
on-site 1:15-1:45. Round 1 begins at 2:00pm. Register online:
www.njchess.com, Info: Grant Oen, newjerseychess@gmail.com.
MAR. 24, ICA Super Saturday Quads
354 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS,
G/45 d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tour-
nament. Entry Fee: $25 all sections. Rounds: 1:30 and ASAP. Prize:
$60 1st place (each quad). Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@
icanj.net for more information.
MAR. 25, Westfield G/60 Quads
3-RR. G/55 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25,
$20 members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 11:45
a.m.-12:20 p.m. Those registering after 12:20 will be charged $5 extra.
Rounds: 12:30, 2:45, 5:00 p.m. Info: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com,
www.westfieldchessclub.org/Events.html. Note: 3/18 event TBA. We’re
closed on 4/1.
MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR.
31-APR. 1, 12th annual Philadelphia Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 31, Hamilton Chess Club Quads
3RR, 40/80 15/30 15/30 d0. Full K. 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. OSA. More
information: hamiltonchessclub.com or 609-758-2326 leave message
or text 609-351-2437. W.
MAR. 31, ICA Super Saturday Quads
354 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS,
G/45 d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tour-
nament. Entry Fee: $25 all sections. Rounds: 1:30 and ASAP. Prize:
$60 1st place (each quad). Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@
icanj.net for more information.
APR. 1, NJ Children’s Chess School Open
New Jersey Children’s Chess School, 862 Degraw Ave., Forest Hill
(Newark), NJ 07104. 3-RR, G/45 d0, K-6, Reg.: 2-2:50PM. Awards: Tro-
phies to ALL. EF: $25 for registration by mail one week in advance, $30
at door Chess classes meet every Sunday 3-5:30PM. Info: Arkady Geller
973-483-7927 or chesscamp1@yahoo.com. Website: www.chesskidsnj.com.
First round begins at 3:00PM.
APR. 7, ICA Super Saturday Quads
354 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, NJ 07452 (Education building, 2nd floor). 3SS,
G/45 d5. Registration: On site before 1:20 PM at the day of the tour-
nament. Entry Fee: $25 all sections. Rounds: 1:30 and ASAP. Prize:
$60 1st place (each quad). Call 201-797-0330 or email chessdirector@
icanj.net for more information.
APR. 7, Princeton Day School
650 The Great Road. Sections for OVER 1000 rated players begin at
10:15 and must preregister: 3 rds. G/55 d5: ALL AFTERNOON SECTIONS
for unrated to 1000 rated players: G/25 d5 4 rds, beginning at 12:00
noon (round times 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-8), K-1 (unrated) NO SCORE K-1 (beginner). MORNING
SECTIONS are for OVER 1000 rated players, begin at 10:15 and must
preregister: 3 rds. G/55 d5: NEAR MASTERS (K-12 OVER 1400), FUTURE
MASTERS (K-12 1200-1400), CLOSED (K-12 1000-1200). PARENTS OF
PLAYERS rated G/25 d5 3rds. Parents play free. Plaques to top 3 school
teams and top 8 in each section under 1000, top 3 over 1000. Medals to
all players. Pre-registration online, $35 pay at the door: www.pds.org/
chess. On site registration $45. Inquiries to Bonnie Waitzkin Chessteach@
gmail.com.
APR. 8, Westfield G/50 Quads
3-RR. G/45 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25,
$20 members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 12:45-
1:20 p.m. Those registering after 1:20 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds:
1:30, 3:25, 5:20 p.m. Info: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, www.west-
fieldchessclub.org/Events.html.
APR. 14, Princeton Charter School
TOURNAMENT LOCATION: Princeton Charter School at:100 Bunn Dr.,
Princeton, NJ 08540. TIME CONTROL: G/30 d0; Swiss to 4 rounds. SEC-
TIONS: Open above 1000; U1000; U700; U300/Unrated. (sections will
be combined. Awards will be given to the top 3 in each section) Parental
Supervision Required: The parents or another adult must be designated
to supervise the student player between rounds. Schedule (will be
accelerated if possible) First Round: 12:01 PM. Second Round: ASAP.
Third Round: ASAP. Fourth Round: ASAP. Award Ceremony: ASAP
(4:05 the latest). Schedule will be accelerated if possible. (*) Online
Registration $30 Only if register one week before: www.ChessKid-
sNY.com/PCSChessProgram.htm. (*) Fee will increase automatically
to $35 if register later. On site registration the date of the event:
$40 from 11:45 am to 12:00 noon. Information: email to Miguel Iniguez
at: migini@gmail.com Results will be posted online the same day
of the event!
APR. 14, Saint Joseph Spring Scholastic
St. Joseph HS, 145 Plainfield Rd., Metuchen. Drive to cafeteria in rear
of school. K-8 (Current SJHS Students are eligible to play but not eligible
for prizes) 2 Sections: Open, Novice. Open: USCF Membership Required.
Novice: USCF Membership Not Required – perfect for newer players.
Time Control: 5-SS, G/25 d5. Rounds: 1st Round 10:00 then immediately
following. EF: $20. Prizes: Trophies to Top 3 players in each section.
Tiebreaks used. USCF Rule 34E. Register: 9:30 – 9:50. Lunch provided
on site for parents/students (included in reg. fee). Information:
jarrett_dewelde@hotmail.com. PLEASE BRING EQUIPMENT!
APR. 15, Westfield Spring Scholastic
Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. K-12. 3 Sections: Open,
U1250, U750. Open: 3-SS. G/40 d5. Rounds: 2:00, 3:45, 5:30 p.m. U1250
& U750: 4-SS. G/25 d5. Rounds: 2:00, 3:15, 4:30, 5:45 p.m. Prizes:
Trophies to Top 5 in each section. Tiebreaks used. See USCF Rule 34E.
EF: $25, $20 members. Register: 1:15-1:50 p.m. Info: westfieldchess-
club@gmail.com, www.westfieldchessclub.org/Events.html
APR. 22, Westfield Grand Prix
See Grand Prix.
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class
Championships (MA)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 29, Westfield G/45 Quads
3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25,
$20 Members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 1:15-1:50
p.m. Those registering after 1:50 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds:
2:00, 3:45, 5:30 p.m. Info: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, www.west-
fieldchessclub.org/Events.html
MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 6, Westfield G/45 Quads
3-RR. G/40 d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. EF: $25,
$20 Members. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. Register: 1:15-1:50
p.m. Those registering after 1:50 will be charged $5 extra. Rounds:
2:00, 3:45, 5:30 p.m. Info: westfieldchessclub@gmail.com, www.west-
fieldchessclub.org/Events.html
MAY 13, Mother’s Day Blitz (BLZ)
G/5 d2. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. 2 Sections:
Premier (8 highest-rated players), Quads (all others). Premier: 7-RR.
Prizes: $50-30-20. Quads: DRR (6 games). Prizes: $50 to 1st in each
section. Register: 1:15-1:50 p.m. EF: $21, $16 members. Rounds: All
sections 2:00, 2:20, 2:40, 3:00, 3:20 & 3:40 p.m. Final round of Premier
4:00 p.m. Info: http://www.westfieldchessclub.org/Events.html
MAY 18-20 OR 19-20, 26th annual New York State Open and
Senior (NY)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 8-10 OR 9-10, 24th Annual Northeast Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class
Championships (VA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 27-JULY 1 OR JUNE 29-JULY 1, 8th annual World Open
Senior Amateur (PA)
See Pennsylvania.
JUNE 28-JULY 2, 12th annual Philadelphia International (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 30-JULY 1, World Open Warmup (PA)
See Pennsylvania.
JULY 2-3, 7th annual World Open Women’s Championship (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JULY 2-3, 10th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (PA)
See Pennsylvania.
JULY 3, 6th annual World Open Action Championship (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 46th Annual World Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JULY 4, 7th annual World Open Game/7 Championship (BLZ) (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JULY 7, World Open G/10 Championship (QC) (PA)
See Grand Prix.
 See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14

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

12th annual PHILADELPHIA OPEN

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

www.uschess.org 65
Tournament Life / March

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

Membership Appreciation Program (MAP)

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

Overall Affiliate Standings Adult Membership Standings

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

66 March 2018 | Chess Life


APR. 7, CT State Quick Championships! (QC) (CT)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 7-8, 2nd annual Bill Little Memorial
See Grand Prix.
APR. 7, 14, 21, 28, 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.
APR. 8, Marshall Rated Beginner (3 Rounds)
3-SS, G/25 d5. Only open to players without a rating or rated U1200.
($225 b/25): $150-75. EF: $15; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee.
($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Begin at 9am &
continue ASAP. No byes. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/
register.
APR. 8, TRM232
Riverbank State Park Theater, 145th St. & Riverside Dr., NYC 10025.
Preregister www.chesstrm.org/NYC/ 4/SS, G/30 d5. Check in by 9:15.
APR. 8, CT State Rapid Championships! (QC) (CT)
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 11, 18, 25, MAY 2, 9, 16, Marshall Weekly Wednesday
6-SS, G/90 +30. Two Sections: U2000: ($600 b/25) $250-150-100;
U1700: $100. U1400: ($600 b/25) $250-150-100; U1100: $100. EF: $40;
NonMCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour
before Rd. 1.) Rds.: 7pm each Wed. Max two byes; request by Rd. 4.
Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
APR. 12, Marshall Thursday Action
4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100; U2200: $75; U1900: $50. EF:
$25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg
hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye,
for Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
APR. 13, Marshall Friday Night Blitz (BLZ)
9-SS, G/3 +2. USCF regular rating used for pairings & prizes. ($500
b/35): $200-100; U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50. EF: $20; Non-
MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour
before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: Begin at 7pm and continue ASAP. Max
three byes; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/
register.
APR. 14, Marshall G/50 Open
4-SS, G/45 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2100: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC
Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before
Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry.
Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
APR. 14, Marshall U1900 Morning Action
4-SS, G/25 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1700: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC
Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before
Rd. 1.) Rds.: 9-10-11am-12:15pm. Max one bye; request at entry.
Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
APR. 14 NOT APRIL 7, TRM124
ML King MS, 918 Stanley St., Schenectady 12307. Free. Preregister
www.chesstrm.org. 4/SS, G/30 d5. Rd. 1 10:00.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
A State Championship Event!
APR. 14-15 OR 15, 2nd Annual NY State Girls Championship!
Open to all girls, out of state welcome, the NEST+m School, 111 Columbia
Street (between Delancey and E. Houston St), NYC. Subways: Delancey
Street (F train), 2nd Ave. Station (F, M trains). Online entries at
www.chessgirls.win: $55 thru 4/9/18, $65 4/10-12, $80 later or at site,
at least 1 hour before game ($5 less per player if 3 or more from same
school enter together online by 4/9). For details on mail or phone
entries see www.chessgirls.win or www.chesscenter.cc. In 7 sections.
Each section has its own age, (grade) and rating requirements (Championship
sections open to all who are under age (and grade) limits; unrated allowed
all sections). Open Championship, open to all girls born after 4/15/98
(top NYS K-12 girl qualifies for National Girls Tournament of Champions in
Wisconsin), K-6 Championship and K-3 Championship are each 2-
days: 6-SS, G/60 d10. Rounds: 10 am-1-4 pm each day. K-12 Under
1200, K-6 Under 900, K-3 Under 600 and K-1 Championship are each
5-SS, G/30 d5. Rounds: 10 am-12-1:30-3-4:45 pm Sunday. K-1 open to
grades 1/below born after 4/15/10. Both K-3 sections open to grades
3/below born after 4/15/08. Both K-6 sections open to grades 6/below
born after 4/15/05. K-12 Under 1200 section open to grades 12/below
born after 4/15/98. Trophies to top 12 each section and top 3 Unr. in
each 1-Day section. Grade plaques: top 3 K/below in K-1 section, top 3
scorers below 9th Grade in K-12 U1200, top 3 below 4th grade in K-6
U900, and top 3 below 2nd grade in K-3 U600 (you can win both plaque +
trophy). All players scoring 4 or more (5 or more in 2-Day sections) who
don’t win a trophy receive a medal! Speed playoff for 5-0 or 6-0. Plaques
also to top 4 teams each section (top 3 scorers from same school =
team, all on team must attend same school: no combined teams, even if
one school “feeds” another). Individual free entry prizes (in each 2-Day
Championship section): Free entry to 2 specified Continental Chess tour-
naments thru 12/31/18 to 1st! Free entries courtesy of Continental Chess
and are valid for CCA tmts. with 100% unconditionally guaranteed prize
funds. Free entries do not include NYS Scholastics in Saratoga. See
www.chesscenter.cc for complete details and restrictions. All: Out-of-
state eligible for prizes but top NYS player and team each section are NY
Champions. April 2018 official ratings used, except unofficial ratings at
uschess.org usually used if otherwise unrated. TD reserves right to assign
estimated ratings to players with non-USCF ratings. All substitutions from
advance entry list charged late fee. Section switches subject to $10 extra
See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14
charge per player after 4/12. $15 service charge for each player refund.
TD reserves right to reassign sections for advance entries with incorrect
or unclear registrations. Limit 2 byes, commit before rd. 3. HR: see travel
websites for nearby hotels in NYC. Info, help with entries, parking, etc:
www.chessgirls.win. Questions: director@chessgirls.win, chess-
centr@gmail.com or 646-232-3155 (or 347-201-2269: leave message,
email is better). Team rooms: teamrooms@chessgirls.win. Sets provided
by Little House of Chess— bring clocks! School purchase orders payable
to:Chess Center of NY, PO Box 4615, New Windsor, NY 12553. (Note:
US Chess Junior Grand Prix for Top 3 Championship Sections only.)
APR. 15, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1600)
4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2000:
$75. U1600: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1400: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC
Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before
Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry.
Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
APR. 17, Marshall Masters
See Grand Prix.
APR. 19, Marshall Thursday Action
4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100; U2200: $75; U1900: $50. EF:
$25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg
hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye,
for Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshall
chessclub.org/register.
APR. 19, 26, MAY 3, 10, 17, 24, 3rd Annual LI Chess Club Ilan
Kreitner Memorial
See Grand Prix.
APR. 20, Marshall Quick Chess (QC)
6-SS, G/10 +3. ($250 b/25): $125-75; U1700: $50. EF: $15; Non-MCC
Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before
Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-7:30-8:00-8:45-9:15-9:45pm. Max two byes;
request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 20-22, Marshall Monthly U2400
5-SS, G/90 +30. Open to players rated below 2400 USCF. $1,000 GTD:
$500-200; U2100: $150; U1800: $150. EF: $50; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional
$25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: 3-
day: Fri. 6pm, Sat. & Sun. 12:30 & 5:30pm. 1-day: Sun. 9-10-11am (G/25
d5) then merge in round 4. Max two byes; request at entry. Register
Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register
APR. 21, Marshall G/50 (U1700)
4-SS, G/45 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1500: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC
Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before
Rd. 1.) Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry. Register
Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 23, 30, MAY 7, 14, 21, 28, Marshall FIDE Monday/U1800
6-SS, G/90 +30. Two Sections: Open: Open to all players 1600+. FIDE
Rated. ($600 b/25) $200-150-100; U2000: $100-50. U1800: ($600 b/25)
$200-150-100; U1500: $100-50. EF: $40; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25
Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.:
7pm each Mon. Max two byes; request by Rd. 4. Register Online:
www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
APR. 26, Marshall Thursday Action
4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100; U2200: $75; U1900: $50. EF:
$25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg
hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye,
for Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshall
chessclub.org/register.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
APR. 26, MAY 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Marshall Thursday Open
6-SS, G/90 +30. ($600 b/25): $250-150-$75; U1900: $125. EF: $40;
NonMCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour
before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7pm each Thurs. Max two byes; request
by Rd. 4. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
APR. 27, Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz (BLZ)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 25th Space Coast Open (FL)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class
Championships (MA)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 28, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1800)
4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2200:
$75. U1800: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1600: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC
Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before
Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry.
Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
APR. 29, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1500)
4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1900:
$75. U1500: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1300: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC
Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before
Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry.
Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
APR. 29, Marshall Rated Beginner (3 Rounds)
3-SS, G/25 d5. Only open to players without a rating or rated U1200.
($225 b/25): $150-75. EF: $15; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee.
($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Begin at 9am &
continue ASAP. No byes. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/
register.
MAY 3, Marshall Guaranteed Action!
4-SS, G/25 d5. $350 GTD: $125-75; U2200, U1900: $75. EF: $15; NonMCC
Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before
Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye, for Rd. 1 or
4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/
register.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAY 4-6, Marshall PREMIER
5-SS, G/90 +30.Two Sections: FIDE: FIDE Rated. Only open to players
with a current published rating 2000+ (USCF or FIDE); NO exceptions.
Limited to 30 players. $1,750 GTD: $1,000-500. U2300: $250. EF: $100;
Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $50 Mbr + service fee. ($5 service fee for in-
person reg hour before Rd. 1.) First 5 GMs Free. U2000: Limited to 40
players. ($1,000 b/40): $500-200; U1750: $150, U1500: $150. EF: $50;
Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 service fee for in-person
reg hour before Rd. 1.) Rds.: Fri. 6pm, Sat. & Sun. 12:30 & 5:30pm.
Max two byes; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchess
club.org/register.
MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 10, Marshall Thursday Action
4-SS, G/25 d5. ($375 b/25): $150-100; U2200: $75; U1900: $50. EF:
$25; Non-MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg
hour before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45pm. Max one bye,
for Rd. 1 or 4 only; request at entry. Register Online: www.mar-
shallchessclub.org/register.
MAY 11, Marshall Friday Night Blitz (BLZ)
9-SS, G/3 +2. USCF regular rating used for pairings & prizes. ($500
b/35): $200-100; U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50. EF: $20; Non-
MCC Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour
before Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: Begin at 7pm and continue ASAP. Max
three byes; request at entry. Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/
register.
MAY 12, Marshall G/50 Open
4-SS, G/45 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2100: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC
Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before
Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry.
Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
MAY 12, Marshall U1900 Morning Action
4-SS, G/25 d5. ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1700: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC
Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before
Rd. 1.) Rds.: 9-10-11am-12:15pm. Max one bye; request at entry.
Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register
MAY 13, Marshall G/50 (Open & U1600)
4-SS, G/45 d5. Two Sections: Open: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U2000:
$75. U1600: ($325 b/25): $150-100; U1400: $75. EF: $20; Non-MCC
Mbr: Additional $25 Mbr fee. ($5 late fee: in-person reg hour before
Rd. 1.) GMs Free. Rds.: 12-2-4-6pm. Max one bye; request at entry.
Register Online: www.marshallchessclub.org/register.
MAY 15, Marshall Masters
See Grand Prix.
MAY 18-20 OR 19-20, 26th annual New York State Open and
Senior
See Grand Prix.
MAY 20, 1st Annual Grace Church School Scholastic Tourna-
ment
Format: 4-SS, G/40 d5. Sections: Rookie- Pre K- 1 (unrated, no clock),
Primary- K-3 U600, Elementary- K-6 U1000, Championship- K-12
EF: $40 postmarked by May 1, $50 if postmarked by May 13 $50 by
12:00 PM on May 19th or onsite, Time: 2:00 PM-6:00 PM. Trophies to
top 10 individuals and one team in each section. Grace Church High
School, 46 Cooper Sq., New York, NY 10003. www.premierchess.com,
www.facebook.com/premierchess. Inquiries to Evan Rabin at erabin66@
gmail.com.
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 8-10 OR 9-10, 24th Annual Northeast Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class
Championships (VA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 27-JULY 1 OR JUNE 29-JULY 1, 8th annual World Open
Senior Amateur (PA)
See Pennsylvania.
JUNE 28-JULY 2, 12th annual Philadelphia International (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 30-JULY 1, World Open Warmup (PA)
See Pennsylvania.
JULY 2-3, 7th annual World Open Women’s Championship (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JULY 2-3, 10th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (PA)
See Pennsylvania.
JULY 3, 6th annual World Open Action Championship (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 46th Annual World Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
JULY 4, 7th annual World Open Game/7 Championship (BLZ) (PA)
See Grand Prix.
www.uschess.org 67
Tournament Life / March

JULY 7, World Open G/10 Championship (QC) (PA) MAR. 23, DCC Friday Nite Quick (QC)
See Grand Prix. 4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.:
JULY 8, World Open Blitz Championship (BLZ) (PA) 7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF:$15 ($10
See Grand Prix. DCC mbr). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net, 937-461-6283.
MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, 22nd annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
NORTH CAROLINA MAR. 24, CWRU March Magnus
MAR. 15, Charlotte Chess Center Third Thursday Triple See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 5th Annual Ron Simpson Memorial MAR. 24-25, MOTCF: Midwest Open Team Chess Festival
Tournament 5SS, Rd.1 G/90 +10, Rds. 2-5 are 40/90, SD/30 +10. Four players/team
See Grand Prix. plus one alternate. LIMIT 36 teams. Location: Dayton Chess Club - 18 West
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class Fifth St – Dayton, OH 45402. Team (March) ratings for pairings determined
Championships (FL) by average of highest four ratings with imputed ratings for players rated
See Grand Prix. more than 400 points below team avg. Reg.: Fri Mar 10, 8pm-11pm & Sat
Mar 11, 9-10am. Rds.: Sat 10:30, 2:30, 7:00, Sun 10 & 3:30. EF: $272/team
APR. 5, Charlotte Chess Center First Thursday FIDE Blitz - if mailed or online prior to Mar 20, then $300/team including Fri/Sat at site.
Marnzell Hand Memorial (BLZ) Prizes (b/24 teams): 1st $1,600, 2nd $1,200, U2000: $1100, U1800: $1000,
See Grand Prix. U1600 $900. Top boards (1-4) $100. Hotel: TBD. Registration Form: Include
MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD) all team members, ratings, ID numbers, and board order (switches limited
See Grand Prix. to 50 rating points), please use online entry form at DaytonChessClub.com
if mailing entry. If registering at www.DaytonChessClub.com use online
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA) entry form provided. MC/V online and at site, no cks at site. Individuals may
See Grand Prix. sign up for “ad hoc” teams. Information call 937.461.6283 or email
JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net or check www.DaytonChessClub.com.
Championships (VA) MAR. 30, DCC Friday Nite Quick (QC)
See Grand Prix. 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:$15 ($10
NORTH DAKOTA DCC mbr). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net, 937-461-6283.
APR. 6, DCC Friday Nite Quick (QC)
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago 4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.:
Open (IL) 7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF:$15 ($10
See Grand Prix. DCC mbr). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net, 937-461-6283.
APR. 6-8 OR 7-8, 54th Cincinnati Open
OHIO See Grand Prix.
MAR. 2, DCC Friday Nite Quick (QC) US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: APR. 20-21 & 27-28, Dayton Chess Club’s 58th Championship
7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF:$15 ($10 6SS, 40/90, SD/60 +30. USCF/FIDE rated Open Tournament. Reg.:
DCC mbr). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net, 937-461-6283. Ends Apr 20, 7:45 p.m. EF: $40 adv/$60 after Apr 18th. Rds.: 1-3: Apr
MAR. 9, DCC Friday Nite Quick (QC) 20/21 – 8pm Fri, 10:30am, 5:30pm Sat.. Apr 27/28 Rds.: 4-6: 8pm Fri,
4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: 10:30am, 5:30pm Sat. Must be registered DCC member for minimum of
7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF:$15 ($10 3+ months. Prizes (b/20):1st $200, 2nd $160; u2000 $140; u1600:$100.
DCC mbr). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net, 937-461-6283. Register online today! (Under REGISTRATION tab)
MAR. 16, DCC Friday Nite Quick (QC) APR. 27-29, 2018 National High School (K-12) Championship
4SS, G/24 d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: See Nationals.
7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF:$15 ($10 APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 15th Annual Great Lakes Open (MI)
DCC mbr). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net, 937-461-6283. See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
MAY 12, Toledo May Swiss
Open, 4SS, Rnd. 1 G/75 d5, Rnds. 2-4 G/85 d5. University of Toledo
Health Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Cafe, 3000 Arlington
Ave., Toledo, OH 43614. Can split into multiple sections if enough players.
EF: $20 by 5/10, $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes:
$450 b/25, $100-50, Class prizes TBD based on split. Ent: jagz47@hot-
mail.com. 7031 Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450.
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class
Championships (VA)
See Grand Prix.
OKLAHOMA
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
OREGON
MAR. 18, Portland Chess Club Sunday Quads
PCC, 8205 SW 24th Ave., Portland, OR 97219. The live regular ratings
are usually used. G/50;inc15. EF: 15, 5 discount for PCC members and
each extra family member in the same household, free entry if it’s your
first US Chess rated tournament (must pay for US Chess membership).
US Chess membership required. Prizes: discounted entries, books, and
bonus trophy or medal for scholastics. Reg.: 9-9:45am. Rds.: 10am,
12: 30pm, 3pm. See more info. and rule variations used at pdxchess.org.
APR. 7, Southern Oregon Chess Tournament
Entry Fee: $25 if received in advance; $35 if registered on site (must
register at least 10 minutes prior to round 1). Prizes: 1st: $100-$50
and 2d $75-$25; under 1800 $50-$25 (prize winnings based on the
number of players) Schedule and Time Control: 3 Rounds/Game in
60 (5 second delay) 9:30am, 12pm, 2:30pm Please bring your own clock
and board Tournament Location: Diamond Medical Maintenance, 1020
Knutson, Medford, OR. Registration: US Chess Membership Required
Send entrance fees, USCF ID, rating, full name to: Ed Battistella, PO
Box 1081, Ashland, OR 97520. For more information contact Ed Battistella
at 541-552-0743 and edbattistella@gmail.com
MAY 5-6, 13th Susan Polgar Foundation National Open for Boys
and Girls (CA-N)
See California, Northern.
JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV)
See Nationals.

CHECK OUT US CHESS CORRESPONDENCE CHESS RATED EVENTS!

Correspondence Chess Matches (two players)
2018 Open Correspondence Chess Golden Knights Championship TWO OR SIX-GAME OPTIONS. ENTRY FEE: $5.

US CHESS $800 FIRST PRIZE ❑ WIN A CORRESPONDENCE CHESS TROPHY

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

68 March 2018 | Chess Life


JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV)
See Nationals.
JUNE 23-24, International Youth Championship (NV)
See Nevada.
PENNSYLVANIA
North Penn Chess Club
Main & Richardson, Lansdale, PA. See www.northpennchessclub.org
for schedules & info or 215-699-8418.
MAR. 10-11, Delaware State Open Chess Championship (DE)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 18, PCL March 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. 24, 17th Horizons for Youth Spring Scholastic RBO
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 24, 2018 PA State Game/29 Championship (QC)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR.
31-APR. 1, 12th annual Philadelphia Open
See Grand Prix.
APR. 7, W. Chester 1st Sat Quads
Our 29th year! 3RR, Game/80 d5. 2nd Presbyterian Church, 114 S. Walnut
St., West Chester, PA. EF: $20; $40, $50 for 3-0. Reg.: 9am. Rds.: 9:40,
1:00, 4:00. Info: WCCC1975@gmail.com
APR. 14, MasterMinds CC Swiss/Quads
Esperanza Academy, 421 W. Bristol St., Phila., PA 19140. Quads: 3RR,
G/85 d5. EF: $30 cash; winner $100. Reg. ends 9AM. Rds.: 9:30, 1, 4.
Scholastic: 4SS K-12 Open, K-8 U1100, K-6 U800, K-3 U500 G/40 d5, EF
$10 rec’d by Thurs. before, $25 on site. Reg. ends 9AM. Rd. 1 10AM then
asap. Mail Ent: payable to MasterMinds CC, 36 E. Hortter St., Philadelphia,
PA 19119. Info: mastermindschess.org or brad@master mindschess.org.
APR. 15, PCL April Quick Quads (QC)
3RR, G/15 d3. O’Hara Student Center, Univ. of Pitt., 4024 O’Hara St.,
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.
APR. 21, 4th Annual LVCA Bruce Alberston Memorial $1500
Gtd-RBO
See Grand Prix.
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 15th Annual Great Lakes Open (MI)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class
Championships (MA)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 8-10 OR 9-10, 24th Annual Northeast Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class
Championships (VA)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 27-JULY 1 OR JUNE 29-JULY 1, 8th annual World Open
Senior Amateur
6SS, 40/100, SD/30 d10. Marriott Philadelphia Downtown (see World
Open for location, rates, parking). Open to all born before 7/1/68 and
rated under 2210 or unrated. $3000 guaranteed prizes. In 2 sections.
Under 2210/Unr: $600-300-200, top U2010/Unr $350-200. Under
1810/Unr: $500-250-150, top U1610 (no unr) $300-150, unr limit $200.
EF: $88 online at chessaction.com by 6/25, $93 mailed by 6/15, $100
at site, or online until 2 hours before rd. 1. 5-day reg. ends 6 pm 6/27,
rds. Wed-Fri 7 pm, Sat 5 pm, Sun 10 & 3:15. 3-day reg. ends 12 noon
6/29, rds. Fri. 1 & 7 pm, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 10 & 3:15. Half point byes OK
all rounds, limit 2 byes, must commit before rd. 3. Special USCF dues:
see World Open. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box
8482, Pelham, NY 10803. $15 service charge for refunds. Entries posted
at chessaction.com (online entries posted instantly). July official USCF
ratings used.
JUNE 28-JULY 2, 12th annual Philadelphia International
See Grand Prix.
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
JUNE 30-JULY 1, World Open Warmup
5SS, G/90 d10. Marriott Philadelphia Downtown (see World Open).
Open to under 2100 or unrated (July official ratings used). Prizes $800
guaranteed: $200-100-50, U1900/Unr $120-60, U1700 $100-50, U1500
$80-40. EF: $40, at site only, no checks. Reg. ends 9 am 6/30, rds. Sat
10, 2, 6, Sun 10, 2. One half point bye allowed if under 1700, otherwise
two byes allowed; must commit before rd. 2.
JULY 2, World Open Monday Quad
3RR, G/90 d10. Marriott Philadelphia Downtown (see World Open). EF
$25 (no checks). $60 1st each section. Reg. ends 9 am, rounds 10, 2, 6.
JULY 2-3, 7th annual World Open Women’s Championship
See Grand Prix.
See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14
US Chess Junior Grand Prix!
JULY 2-3, 10th annual World Open Under 13 Championship
6SS, G/60 d10. Philadelphia Marriott Downtown (see World Open for
location, rates). Open to all born after 7/3/05. In 4 sections. Open
Section: Trophies to top 7, top 2 Under 1600/Unr; free entry in all CCA
tournaments 7/13/18-12/31/18 to 1st. Under 1400 Section: Trophies
to top 7, top 2 Under 1200, free entry in all CCA tournaments 7/13/18-
9/30/18 to 1st. Under 1000 Section: Trophies to top 7, top 2 Under
800, free entry in all CCA tournaments 7/13/18-9/30/18 to 1st. Under
600 Section: Trophies to top 7, top 2 Under 400, top Unrated; free
entry in all CCA tournaments 7/13/18-9/30/18 to 1st. EF: $48 online at
chessaction.com by 6/30, $51 mailed by 6/15, $60 at site. Late reg.
7/2 to 10 am, rds. Mon 11-2-5, Tue 10-1-4. Up to 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 3, 6th annual World Open Action Championship
See Grand Prix.
JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 46th Annual World Open
See Grand Prix.
JULY 4, 7th annual World Open Game/7 Championship (BLZ)
See Grand Prix.
JULY 5, 6, 7, 8, World Open Daily 2 pm Blitz (BLZ)
4 separate tournaments at Marriott Philadelphia Downtown (see World
Open). Each is a 4-SS, double round (8 games), G/5 d0. Prizes $$300
guaranteed: $100-50, U2100 $60, U1800 $50, U1500/Unr $40. EF: $20,
at site only, no checks. Reg. ends 1:45 pm, rds. 2, 2:45, 3:15, 3:45. One
pair of 1/2 pt byes available, must commit before rd. 2. Blitz rated (will
not affect regular ratings), but higher of regular or blitz used for pairings
& prizes. $10 service charge for refunds.
JULY 7, World Open G/10 Championship (QC)
See Grand Prix.
JULY 8, World Open Blitz Championship (BLZ)
See Grand Prix.
RHODE ISLAND
MAR. 24, 2018 Greater New Haven Championships! (CT)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 7, CT State Quick Championships! (QC) (CT)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 8, CT State Rapid Championships! (QC) (CT)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class
Championships (MA)
See Grand Prix.
SOUTH CAROLINA
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class
Championships (FL)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Grand Prix.
SOUTH DAKOTA
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
TENNESSEE
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, 16th annual Southern Class
Championships (FL)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open (TX)
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, 22nd annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 11-13, 2018 National Elementary (K-6) Championship
See Nationals.
MAY 19-20, Bluff City Open
See Grand Prix.
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Grand Prix.
TEXAS
MAR. 16-18 OR 17-18, Lone Star Open
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 23-25 OR 24-25, 22nd annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 14-15, 2018 DCC FIDE Open IV
See Grand Prix.
MAY 5-6, 2018 DCC FIDE Open V
See Grand Prix.
MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 73rd Annual Texas State and Amateur
Championships
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV)
See Nationals.
JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV)
See Nationals.
JUNE 23-24, International Youth Championship (NV)
See Nevada.
UTAH
MAY 5-6, 13th Susan Polgar Foundation National Open for Boys
and Girls (CA-N)
See California, Northern.
JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV)
See Nationals.
JUNE 21, Walter Browne Memorial National Open Blitz
Championship (BLZ) (NV)
See Grand Prix.
JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV)
See Nationals.
JUNE 23-24, International Youth Championship (NV)
See Nevada.
VERMONT
MAR. 10-11, 51st annual New York State Scholastic
Championships (out of state welcome) (NY)
See New York.
MAR. 17, Middlebury Quick Chess for U1810 (QC)
6SS, G/25 d3. Recreation Center, 154 Creek Rd., Middlebury, VT 05753.
Open to U1810/Unr. (Quick) except if Regular rating is above 1949. EF:
$29 if rec’d by 3/15 or $35 at site; both $12 less for non-Vermonter or
new USCF member. $$ b/32: 200-130, U1610 120, U1410 100, U1160
80, U910 70. Reg.: 9-9:45 a.m., Rds.: 10:10-11:40-1:40-3:00-4:30-5:50.
H-bye OK if requested by 1:15. Ent: Parker Montgomery, PO Box 831,
Middlebury, VT 05753-0831; vermonty64@earthlink.net, mobile 802-
349-7739.
APR. 7-8, 2nd annual Bill Little Memorial (NY)
See Grand Prix.
NO TOURNAMENTS IN
YOUR AREA?
WHY NOT ORGANIZE
ONE?
Do you need to go out of town for tournament
play? Would you and others in your area like
the convenience of an occasional event closer
to home? Organize one!
It’s not much work to hold a small tournament,
and there is little risk if you use a low-cost site
and avoid guaranteed prizes. You might even
make a profit! Either a based-on Swiss with pro-
jected prizes up to $500, a Quad format, or a
trophy tournament will virtually guarantee taking
in more in fees than you pay out in prizes.
The affiliation fee is just $40 a year. You will
receive the annual rating supplement and have
access to the TD/Affiliate area of our website.
Remember, you can both run and play in a small
event. Many of them wouldn’t be held if the
organizer/TD couldn’t play.
Want to know more?
Contact Joan DuBois at
joandubois@uschess.org. We’ll be
glad to help you be part of the
promotion of American chess!
www.uschess.org 69
Tournament Life / March
APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 27th annual Eastern Class
Championships (MA)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 18-20 OR 19-20, 26th annual New York State Open and
Senior (NY)
See Grand Prix.
VIRGINIA
MAR. 18, Dulles Mar 2018 FIDE Rapid/USCF Quick Rated (QC) &
U1400 Scholastic Quads
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 23-25, 51st Virginia Open
See Grand Prix.
MAR. 28-APR. 1, MAR. 29-APR. 1, MAR. 30-APR. 1 OR MAR.
31-APR. 1, 12th annual Philadelphia Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
APR. 29, Dulles Apr 2018 FIDE Rapid/USCF Quick Rated (QC) &
U1600 Open Quads
See Grand Prix.
MAY 4-6 OR 5-6, 64th Annual Maryland Open (MD)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic Rapid! (QC)
Side Event to the 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (May 25-28). Wash-
ington Dulles Airport Marriott, 45020 Aviation Dr., Dulles, VA 20166.
One Section - Open: 5-SS, G/15 d10. $400 b/25 $180-90-50 TopU1400/
TopU1200 $40 each. EF: $20 by May 24th online, Onsite $25 by 7pm.
Rounds start 8pm and ASAP. Max 1 byes allowed at entry. More infor-
mation/Online registration: www.cherryblossomchess.com. Mail checks
(payable to Capital Area Chess) to Cherry Blossom Classic, Attn. Capital
Area Chess, PO Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20151. Email info only: Anand
Dommalapati, cbc2018@capitalareachess.com.
MAY 25-28, 26-28, East Coast Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic
See Grand Prix.
MAY 26, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic Scholastic
Side Event to the 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (May 25-28). Wash-
ington Dulles Airport Marriott, 45020 Aviation Dr., Dulles, VA 20166.
4-or-5-SS. Sections: K-12 Open, K-8 U1000, K-5 U800, K-3 U600. K-12/K-
8: 4-SS, G/45 d5; K-5/K-3: 5-SS, G/30 d5. $32 by May 21st, $37 by May
25th, $45 onsite. Trophies to Top 5, Other Class Trophies and Medals.
Onsite Reg. closes 9:30am. Rounds 10am and ASAP. More information/
Online registration: www.cherryblossomchess.com. Mail checks (payable
to Capital Area Chess) to Cherry Blossom Classic, Attn. Capital Area
Chess, PO Box 223582, Chantilly, VA 20151. Email info only: Anand Dom-
malapati, cbc2018@capitalareachess.com.

 


 ADVERTISE


 
 
MAY 26, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic FIDE Blitz! (BLZ) APR. 27-29 OR 28-29, 15th Annual Great Lakes Open (MI)
See Grand Prix. See Grand Prix.
APR. 28-29, Arpad Elo Open
JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class
Championships See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix. MAY 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 OR 27-28, 27th annual Chicago
Open (IL)
JUNE 27-JULY 1 OR JUNE 29-JULY 1, 8th annual World Open
Senior Amateur (PA) See Grand Prix.
See Pennsylvania. MAY 27, 7th annual Chicago Open Blitz (BLZ) (IL)
JUNE 28-JULY 2, 12th annual Philadelphia International (PA) See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix. JULY 28-29, 2018 U.S. Open Weekend Swiss
JUNE 30-JULY 1, World Open Warmup (PA) See Grand Prix.
See Pennsylvania.
JULY 28-AUG. 5, JULY 31-AUG. 5 OR AUG. 2-5, 119th Annual
JULY 2-3, 7th annual World Open Women’s Championship (PA) U.S. Open
See Grand Prix. See Nationals.
JULY 2-3, 10th annual World Open Under 13 Championship (PA) JULY 29, 2018 U.S. Open Scholastic Championships
See Pennsylvania. Open to all US Chess members entering Grade 12 and below [includ-
JULY 3, 6th annual World Open Action Championship (PA) ing new members]. 4 Round Swiss in Four Sections: Junior
See Grand Prix. High - High School Championship: Open to players entering
Kindergarten through the 12th Grade in the fall. Open to all ratings.
JULY 3-8, 4-8, 5-8 OR 6-8, 46th Annual World Open (PA)
See Grand Prix. Junior High - High School Under 1200: Open to players entering
Kindergarten through the 12th Grade in the fall. Open to players
rated below 1200. No Unrateds! Elementary Championship: Open
WASHINGTON to players entering Kindergarten through the 6th Grade in the fall.
Open to all ratings. Elementary Under 1000: Open to players enter-
MAY 5-6, 13th Susan Polgar Foundation National Open for Boys ing Kindergarten through the 6th Grade in the fall. Open to players
and Girls (CA-N) rated below 1000. No Unrateds! If the sections are larger than
See California, Northern. expected, they may be split into multiple sections. Prizes: Trophies
JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV) to the Top 3 in each section. The number of trophies may increase
See Nationals. based on the number of entries. Schedule: Championship Sec-
tions:Round One at 12 NOON. Round Two at 1:30 PM. Round Three
JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV)
See Nationals. at 3:00 PM. Round Four at 4:30 PM. Awards Ceremony at 6:00 PM.
Time Control: Game/30 d5. Entry Fee: Online, $25 by 7/9, $35
JUNE 23-24, International Youth Championship (NV) after. By mail, $27 postmarked by 7/9; $37 postmarked by 7/16.
See Nevada. Do not mail after 7/16 - it will not be received! By phone, $30 by
7/9, $40 after until 7/20 by 5 PM CDT. Onsite, $40 until 7/29 by 10
WEST VIRGINIA AM EDT. See http://www.uschess.org/tournaments/ 2018/usopen/
for additional details.
MAY 25-28 OR 26-28, 6th Cherry Blossom Classic (VA)
See Grand Prix. AUG. 4, 2018 U.S. Open National Blitz Championship (BLZ)
See Nationals.
JUNE 15-17 OR 16-17, 7th annual Continental Class
Championships (VA)
See Grand Prix. WYOMING
JUNE 20-21, 2018 U.S. Women’s Open (NV)
WISCONSIN See Nationals.
APR. 7, Hales Corners Challenge XXVII JUNE 21-24, 22-24 OR 23-24, 2018 National Open (NV)
See Grand Prix. See Nationals.

 



 

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FRED WILSON CHESS BOOKS is moving after 38
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Classifieds / Solutions / March
Solutions
PAGE 13 / ISLE OF MAN QUIZ
Donate
PROBLEM I. 34. Rb8+, Black resigned (34. ... Bf8
35. Nf6+ and wins; 34. ... Kh7 35. Ng5+ and Nxe4).
to US Chess!
ss!
PROBLEM II. 35. ... Rc5! and ... Qc6+ wins the
knight. PROBLEM III. 40. Bd2+ mates in four
Yo
our Tax-Deductible
a
moves, e.g. 40. ... Kh5 41. Rf5+ g5 42. Rxg5+ Kh6 Donation Will Help
43. Nf5. PROBLEM IV. 40. ... Rc2! 41. Rf2 Nd3 or
Grow ChessIn The U.S.
41. Bf1 Nd3 (threatening ... Qh2 mate). PROBLEM
V. Fastest is 71. Rg2! (or 71. Rh2!) 71. ... Kc8 72.
Please consider making a
Rb2!, threatening Rb8 mate. PROBLEM VI. 29.
tax-deductable donation to
... Nc3! threatens 30. ... Rg5 and 30. ... Nxb1. Black
support US Chess, a 501(c)(3)
won after 30. Rb3 Rg5 31. Rxc3 Rxg3 32. fxg3
organization.
Qc5+ 33. Kh2 Qd4 34. Rb3 Bd5!.
PAGE 45 / ABCs OF CHESS Make a donation
PROBLEM I. Mating net: Black mates after 1. ... today at
Rd8+. If 2. Kc7, then 2. ... Rf7 mate; if 2. Ke6, then
2. ... Rf6 mate. PROBLEM II. Mating net: Black tri-
uschess.org/
/d
doonate
umphs with 1. ... f2+ 2. Kg2 Qg4 mate. PROBLEM
III. Mating net: We recommend 1. ... Qe1 mate!
PROBLEM IV. Mating net: It’s mate in two for Black:
1. ... Rf5+ 2. Qd5 Ne6 mate. PROBLEM V. Mating
NO TOURNAMENTS IN
net: Black mates by 1. ... Bxf2+ 2. Kxf2 Qh4 mate. YOUR AREA?
PROBLEM VI. Mating net: It’s mate with 1. ... Qf3+
2. Nxf3 exf3 mate.
WHY NOT ORGANIZE
ONE?
PAGE 47 / PRACTICUM Do you need to go out of town for tournament
play? Would you and others in your area like
PROBLEM I. Albanian GM Erald Dervishi appears to
the convenience of an occasional event closer
be close to eking out a draw, but the wily Guseinov
to home? Organize one!
ends his hopes with a cute tactical sequence: 49. ...
Ra3+ 50. Kf2 Ra2+ 51. Kg3 Rxg2+! 52. Kxg2 Bc6+ It’s not much work to hold a small tournament,
53. Kg3 Bxa8 54. Kxg4 Kf6!, White resigned. Black and there is little risk if you use a low-cost site
keeps the h-pawn alive, and the bishop is of the and avoid guaranteed prizes. You might even
make a profit! Either a based-on Swiss with pro-
right color. PROBLEM II. Svidler seems to have
jected prizes up to $500, a Quad format, or a
swindled his opponent, since he is attacking the
rook and threatening checkmate (!). But Savchenko
trophy tournament will virtually guarantee taking
in more in fees than you pay out in prizes.
spins a study-like mating net out of the blue: 80.
h6+! Kg8 (The continuation 80. ... Kh7 81. Rxf7+! The affiliation fee is just $40 a year. You will
Bxf7 82. Rxf7+ Kg8 83. h7+ Kh8 84. Kh5 wins for receive the annual rating supplement and have
White due to the presence of the a-pawn. 81. Rd8+ access to the TD/Affiliate area of our website.
Kh7 82. Raa8 Rxg4+ 83. Kh5!, Black resigned. A Remember, you can both run and play in a small
very elegant final position; there is no way to stop
event. Many of them wouldn’t be held if the
checkmate without giving up the rook on h4. organizer/TD couldn’t play.
Want to know more?
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CANADA N6C 6A8
www.uschess.org 71
 PHOTO CREDIT: COURTESY OF SUBJECT

 

GM Elshan
Moradiabadi
2001 Iranian Champion
2017 US Chess
Grand Prix Champion

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

72 March 2018 | Chess Life

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years to come.” – GM Glenn Flear “A thorough and convincing anthology.”
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336 pages, 470 diagrams, 105 full-color photos of the match.

LEARN FROM THE

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

ORDER YOUR AUTOGRAPHED COPY TODAY!

Send a check for $29 (this special price includes priority mail shipping within the USA)
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