Chess life january 2013

JANUARY 2013

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2 January 2013 | Chess Life

Chess LifeEDITORIAL STAFFChess Life Editor and Daniel Lucas [email protected] of Publications

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LETTER OF INTENT

A Promise For TomorrowIn future support of the work of the U.S. Chess Trust, I want to provide for futuregenerations and to ensure the continuity of services by the U.S. Chess Trust.

Therefore,

o I have made provision o I will make provision

to support the U.S. Chess Trust by:

o making a bequest or endowment provision in my Will

o creating a charitable remainder or lead trust naming the U.S. Chess Trust as a beneficiary.

o establishing an endowment or special fund at the U.S. Chess Trust.

o directing the trustees or directors of my foundation to continue beyond my lifetime making an annual gift to the U.S. Chess Trust.

o Making an outright gift to the U.S. Chess Trust during my lifetime in the sum of $_____________.

This Letter of Intent represents my commitment to the work of the U.S. Chess Trust.It does not represent a legal obligation and may be changed by me at any time.

Whatever the amount of your gift, when you leave a legacy for the future of theU.S. Chess Trust, you are an important part of the Promise for Tomorrow.

Please send with your name, address, phone, and email contact informationand email Barbara DeMaro at [email protected] (845-527-1167)

*Please note that there is a required amount in order to be listed as a Future Legacy Donor. Write or send an email to Barbara DeMaro, [email protected] for this amount. Donations

to the U.S. Chess Trust are tax-deductible. A 501(c)(3) organization. BD:08/03

CL_01-2013_masthead_JP_r5_chess life 12/7/2012 11:46 AM Page 2

January Preview / This month in Chess Life and CLO

Editor’s LetterNo, Jeff Foxworthy did not write our cover story this month, “Are you smarter than a SUPER GM?” Our roving international reporter GM Ian Rogers stands in ashost as he presents some of the key moments in games from the Bilbao Grand Slam Final (see page 20) and asks you to see if you can come up with a betterplan than did the world’s best. This includes world-number-one and our cover boy, GM Magnus Carlsen. Of course, you get to make your decision in the comfortof your own home, without the clock ticking and without the whole chess world watching your decision in real time over the Internet. Carlsen seems immuneto these distractions though, for as we were finalizing this issue, we learned that he had reached an unofficial rating of 2864, breaking Kasparov’s record by13 points. Suddenly Kasparov’s earlier prediction that Carlsen could reach 2900 doesn’t look as unlikely as when he first made this (outlandish?) prediction.With storylines such as these, this should be an exciting year in the chess world, so here’s to your chess life, and happy new year! -Daniel Lucas, Editor

CHESS LIFE ONLINE PREVIEW: JANUARY

Americans AbroadIn January, many of our top players go abroad, occasionally to escape frigid weatherbut more often to participate in elite chess competitions. Reigning U.S. ChessChampion Hikaru Nakamura will be playing in Tata Steel in Wijk aan Zee (January11-27, 2013), along with World #1 Magnus Carlsen and Italian-American GMFabiano Caruana. GM Gata Kamsky and our top two female players, Anna Zatonskihand Irina Krush, will be at the 2013 Tradewise Gibraltar Chess Festival (January 22-31). Reigning U.S. Women’s Champion Krush will be taking on a new role ascommentator in Gibraltar along with GM Simon Williams. Look for coverage of bothevents on CLO.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Chess: Look for U.S. Chess Scoop coverage of the LibertyBell Open over the long January 18-21 weekend and subscribe to USChessFederationat YouTube to be the first to catch all the new videos. Also find coverage of theGolden State Open, held the same weekend in northern California

Greg on Chess: Find new exclusive editorials by U.S. Chess League founder IM GregShahade, including a piece on the improvement of our latest generation of youngrising chess masters, such as World Youth Champions Sam Sevian and Kayden Troff.Both gold medalists are part of the Young Stars program in partnership withKasparov Chess Foundation and the Saint Louis Chess Club.

CLO Countdown: Because of the hurried pace of the chess news cycle, it’s easy tomiss some of the most interesting articles on Chess Life Online—last year’s Bestof CLO winner was “Choosing to Break 2200” by Matan Prilleltensky. Count downthe top ten articles from 2012 and let us know if you agree.

CONT

RIBU

TORS Howard Goldowsky Our interviewer of IM Jonathan Hawkins is the author of Engaging Pieces: Interviews and Prose for the Chess Fan and

the editor of Masters of Technique: The Mongoose Anthology of Chess Fiction. His next book, part memoir, will be about the challenges ofimproving at chess as an adult, as well as the relationship chess has with, among other things, science, psychology, Zen, and sport.

GM Ian Rogers Our Bilbao reporter is our regular contributor to both Chess Life and Chess Life Online of international events.

Betsy Carina Dynako GM Alejandro Ramirez is profiled by Dynako, a Chicago based event and portrait photographer with credits in chesspublications world wide as well as the Wall Street Journal and Sports Illustrated.

Al Lawrence “Faces Across the Board” is compiled monthly by Lawrence, the former executive director of both USCF and the World Chess Hallof Fame. He is currently director of the Texas Tech University chess program. His latest book, with GM Lev Alburt, is Chess for the Gifted and Busy.

www.uschess.org 3

GM Gata Kamsky and our top two female players, Anna Zatonskih andIrina Krush, will be hanging out with the Barbary monkeys at the Rockof Gibraltar for the 2013 Tradewise Gibraltar Chess Festival (January 22-31). Photo by Cathy Rogers

Follow Chess Life and Chess Life Online on Facebook! Get regularupdates as part of your newsfeed, post comments, and easily commu-nicate directly with the editorial staff.

CL_01-2013_CLO_AKF_r7.qxp_chess life 12/11/12 4:25 PM Page 3


Below: Sao Paulo, Brazil, hosted the first leg of the 2012 Grand Slam Final.

Chess Life JANUARY

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COLUMNSLOOKS AT BOOKS / AMATEUR TO IMMaking the Leap�By Howard Goldowsky

CHESS TO ENJOY / ENTERTAINMENTA Heart As Big As A PeaBy GM Andy Soltis

SOLITAIRE CHESS / INSTRUCTIONGetting There ÓFirstestÓWith The ÓMostestÓBy Bruce Pandolfini

BACK TO BASICS / READER ANNOTATIONS The Pin Is The AnswerBy GM Lev Alburt

ENDGAME LAB / INSTRUCTIONBasic BlundersBy GM Pal Benko

DEPARTMENTSJANUARY PREVIEW / THIS MONTH IN CHESS LIFE AND CLO

COUNTERPLAY / READERS RESPOND

FIRST MOVES / CHESS NEWS FROM AROUND THE U.S.

FACES ACROSS THE BOARD / BY AL LAWRENCE

USCF AFFAIRS / NEWS FOR OUR MEMBERS

KNIGHT’S TOUR / TOURNAMENT TRAVEL

TOURNAMENT LIFE / JANUARY

CLASSIFIEDS / JANUARY

SOLUTIONS / JANUARY

MY BEST MOVE / PERSONALITIES

Cover Story / 2012 Grand Slam Final

Are you smarter than a SUPER GM?By GM Ian Rogers

Carlsen adds a jewel to his crown; our reporter offersChess Life readers a chance to equal or better theworld’s best players.

Personalities / GM Alejandro Ramirez

Stoked!Text and Photos By Betsy Carina Dynako

Alejandro Ramirez, the first grandmaster from CentralAmerica, is adding color to the U.S. chess scene.

Correspondence Chess / 2008 Electronic Knights Championship

The Staff of LifeBy FM Alex Dunne

The 2008 Electronic Knights Championship

Problems / Benko

Saluting BenkoBy Stephen B. Dowd

Problemists offer a tribute to Pal Benko and 45 Years of Bafflers

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ON THE COVER Late in our press cycle we found out that GM Magnus Carlsen had broken Garry Kasparov’s record forhighest rating by reaching 2864 at the London Chess Classic (before settling at 2861 by the end of the event). All thisafter just having won his second Grand Slam Final, which GM Ian Rogers covers for us beginning on page 20. Photo by Ray Morris Hill taken at the London Chess Classic

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www.USCFSales.com (888) 512-4377 (CHESS)

Free Ground Shipping applies only to Domestic Orders in the 48 contiguous states and excludes Shipping/Taxes.

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WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP FORMAT

Interviewed by Macauley Peterson in the November 2012 ChessLife, GM Maurice Ashley calls for experimentation at the organi-zational level of major chess events. The aim would be to attractmore sponsorship and generate favorable publicity. Tournamentsdo this better than matches, the GM aver, as do I. The prestigiousmatch tournament events of St. Petersburg 1896 and WorldChampionship 1948 did exactly that.

So, in this inventive spirit, what can, what should, be done aboutfuture world championships?

The advantages of a world championship final of three playersinstead of two are worth enumerating. A single game playedeach day of a six-day week. A week comprising a full roundwith each player playing each opponent twice, once with whiteand once with black. Each player has two free days. The venuehas activity every day—with an option of Sunday for adjournedgames—and the arbiter will be fully employed, so sponsors getguaranteed value.

Journalists and commentators have a field day for gossip and vari-ety of technical content. With a final of three players instead of twothe elimination preliminaries will be less protracted.

Drawbacks? If players object to the preparation load, this will bethe same for each and should encourage emphasis on live over-the-board skill at the expense of labor-intensive searching fortheoretical novelties and over-reliance on memory: energies mustbe conserved. The players will soon come around when they seepublicity and sponsorship soar.

John RoycroftLondon, United Kingdom

CHESS LIFE’S NEW LOOK

Praise! Kudos! WOW!

As a reader of Chess Life for about 50 years, I love your stellarimprovements! “The Sicilian Defense” fiction piece by DarinKennedy was outstanding (October, 2012). The Chess Journalistsof America should have this on their radar for an award already.

It is this fiction addition that forced me to write this letter. I amthrilled that Chess Life took the leap to chess-related fiction!

Fiction is art and the chess covered in Chess Life magazine some-times reaches further than logic and is also art. The games shownare so often martial arts of the mind or mathematics in motion, butthen there are the games that are inspired, somehow moved by somedeeper aspect of the human character that touches our sense of won-der—and they are art!

For the last several months, I have been looking forward to eachnew issue as never before. Full color makes your copy the equalof every other magazine being printed today. The technical andtechnique of magazine publishing now matches anything else outthere in monthly printed journalism.

The content changes have been spectacular. The “Faces Acrossthe Board” is brilliant and helps bind the entire U.S. Chess com-munity together. The “My Best Move” column comes across as a“last word” or a “Now for the Rest of the Story” at the end of themagazine and is fresh, personal, fun, funny and revealing.

Revitalized—absolutely. Fresh, clear and bold—I’ve never been hap-pier to be a life member! Please keep it up and a sincere, “ThankYou!” to the dedicated USCF Publications Department.

Peter SpizzirriCary, Illinois

Counterplay / Readers Respond

Send your letters to [email protected] or post on the Chess Life Facebook group page. If Chess Lifepublishes your letter, you will be sent a copy of Test, Evaluate and Improve Your Chess (see ad below).


CORRECTIONSIn the November issue, we listed GMMaurice Ashley as becoming the firstblack master in 1993. Unfortunately, we left out the word “International.” As Daaim Shabbaz, webmaster ofthechessdrum.net wrote us:

“Maurice was preceded by many playersas national master, but he was the firstblack international master (1993) in theU.S. Walter Harris was the first [blackmaster] and he got the title sometimein 1963. He was in the 1959 U.S. JuniorOpen and 1959 U.S. Open and was a Fischer contemporary.”

We had some missing photo credits inthe November issue: The photo of BillHall and Chouchanik Airapetian on page4 was taken by Al Lawrence. The photo ofGM Viswanathan Anand on page 9 wastaken by Chris Roberts.

Chess Life regrets the errors.

CL_01-2013_Counterplay_AKF_r6.qxp_chess life 12/11/12 12:58 PM Page 6

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

n June of 2012, Corbin Seavers ofThe Potter’s House Scholastic ChessClub contacted me regarding theclub’s upcoming benefit dinner (which

was held on November 9, 2012) and itswebsite, www.pottershousechess.com. Fromweb surfing, I learned that Corbin was activein the anti-apartheid solidarity movement.Now he is the co-founder and director of ThePotter’s House Scholastic Chess Club. Iinterviewed Corbin via e-mail to find outhow his past influenced his decision tobecome involved in chess organizing.

What inspired you to start The Potter’s HouseScholastic Chess Club?During the summer of 2010, I taught 13young people chess at The Potter’s House

summer camp. The summer camp is spon-sored by Cable Missionary Baptist Churchand has been running for over seven years.

The response to my chess classes was suchthat Dr. Anthony Middleton, senior pastor atCable Missionary Baptist Church, stronglyurged me to turn The Potter’s House Scholas-tic Chess Club into a full-time scholasticchess program. That is exactly what I did inSeptember 2010 (our official founding monthand year).

The Potter’s House Scholastic Chess Clubwas a dream come true. Before that time, Itaught chess in other places around Louisville,Kentucky. I often hoped for the resourcesnecessary to build a full-time scholastic chessprogram. My role model was Chess-in-the-Schools, located in Manhattan, New York.

All I needed to get started was a base of oper-ations and that is exactly what Dr. Middletonoffered me. It easily can be said Dr. Middle-ton inspired and motivated me to start ThePotter’s House Scholastic Chess Club.

My other inspiration was my daughter,Sarah, my first and only child. At 7-years-old, Sarah started competing in rated tour-naments, including weekly open (cash prize)tournaments organized by local chess icon,Steve Dillard.

At local scholastic chess tournaments Inoticed far too few black students, partic-ularly too few black females, competing.Out of 150 players, you could count onone hand with two broken fingers the num-ber of black students participating andmore often than not there would be no

Reaching Fighting CapacityFrom anti-apartheid activist to chess organizerBy DR. ALEXEY ROOT, WIM


I

Participants in the Louisville Metro Police Department Chess Classic, held on July 7, 2012 at the downtown Louisville police gym. This match was between the LMPDand the Chess Ambassadors; other teams also competed. This tournament was sponsored by L&N Federal Credit Union, the LMPD Credit Union, The Fraternal Order ofPolice, and The Potter’s House Scholastic Chess Club.

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

www.uschess.org 9

>>> Put your favorite Face Across the Board in Chess Life! Send thename, reasons, and your contact info. to [email protected].

FACES ACROSS THE BOARD

By AL LAWRENCE

BILL CHENPENNSYLVANIA$1,000,000 in pokerwinningsChen, an analyst for tradingfirm SIG, is also a world-famous poker player and

co-author of The Mathematics of Poker. But when I phoned him, he was competing in the North Amer-ican Bridge Championship. “It’s one of my things,”he said. Chess is now another. Studying with pokerstar and former U.S. Women’s Chess Champ JenShahade, he’s taking our game seriously for the firsttime. “It’s much like poker. You can be dynamicand creative for a long period. Then, one mistake,and you lose all your chips.”

STEVE DILLARDKENTUCKYDirected 3,000 tournamentsNTD Dillard teaches sixchess-for-credit classes a day,

involving more than 100 Kammerer MS students. Hedirects weekly local tournaments and is in demand atnational events. At the National High School Cham-pionship in Lexington, he was Kasparov’s designatedgreeter. Running late, the two of them rushed into astanding ovation from the crowd of more than 1,000.“Garry turned to me and said, ‘Mr. Dillard, I didn’t realize you were so famous!’”

ED SCIMIACONNECTICUTCurler and Freelance Author Intrigued by its strategiesafter watching curling in theWinter Olympics, Ed is a

regular on the ice. “I know of no doping scandals inthe sport,” he laughed. Professionally, he provides allthe chess content for About.com, writing 10 articlesa month. A graduate of Syracuse University journal-ism school, he fills up his work schedule writingabout a wide range of topics. Another of his interests,laughably bad movies, inspired Scimia’s new book,So Bad, It’s Good, now available at Amazon.

black females other than Sarah.

What is your chess background?My chess background is rather modest.My late father taught me chess when Iwas 12 years old. I played on the highschool chess team for a year. My recordwas one win, one draw and one loss.During college I stopped playing. I wasmore interested in pursuing other inter-ests, namely girls and campus politics.

I never even thought about chess muchuntil my daughter, Sarah, came into mylife. I taught Sarah chess when she was6-years-old. She participated in her firstrated tournament at the age of 7. Shecontinues playing to this day.

My father really got caught up in thewhole Bobby Fischer era. He bought afancy set with Roman figures and sev-eral chess books. At the time Fischermeant nothing to me. My sports heroeswere Muhammad Ali, Pete Rose, andJoe Morgan.

I only cared about chess because my fathercared about chess. I only learned the gamebecause my father taught it to me. That iswhy today I tell fathers chess is one wayyou can build a common interest andhobby with your child. It brought my fatherand me closer together, and I can say thatit has definitely helped me in building acloser relationship with my daughter.

I saw how chess helped Sarah. It madeher more confident and, according toSarah, helped with her math too. Thispast year Sarah got straight A’s in math!The year before Sarah scored above thestate average on a math competency test.

Just as chess helped my daughter, Ibelieve that chess can help other lowincome and minority youth. The missionof The Potter’s House Scholastic ChessClub is to reach those youth.

How many children has the programreached?Since September 2010 we have easilyreached over 150 youth (during the schoolyear). We have taught 20 youth in ourchess camps. My goal is to reach over 180youth during the 2012-2013 school yearand 75-100 youth during the 2013 sum-mer months. One particular youth,“Mike,” stands out in my memory.

At an annual Martin Luther King, Jr.tournament, a group of my students said,“Coach, Mike needs you.” When I foundMike he was crying. He was upset overhaving lost his first three games. Mikeinsisted on my taking him home! He hadno interest whatsoever in playing the last

two rounds of the tournament.

I spoke with Mike, encouraged him,coached him, and said, I simply could notleave the tournament at this time. Hewould either have to sit out the last twogames or play the last two games. Mikedecided to play the last two games. I wasvery proud of him! Here are some excerptsfrom a letter Mike recently sent me: “I’vewon so many trophies. Listening to youradvice in chess. I know what I’m capableof when playing chess. You have con-tributed to me a lot.”

Success is not always about winning orlosing. It often is just hanging in thereand never giving up. That day Mike wasa champion in my eyes because hedecided not to give up. Today Mike hasseveral trophies in his bedroom becauseof that decision he made that fateful daynot to quit.

What is your background in the anti-apartheid solidarity movement?I am one of six founding members of theBerea College Students United AgainstApartheid. As I remember it, we startedthat solidarity campus organization inSeptember 1979 in commemoration ofSteven Bantu Biko’s assassination whilein South African police custody.

I later was a co-founder of The BishopTutu Refugee Fund based in Hartford,Connecticut in June 1985. The other co-founder was Nontombi Tutu, a stalwartPan Africanist who amongst other anti-apartheid heroes personally introducedme to Winnie Mandela, Johnson Mlambo,and Zwelakhe Sisulu.

I also self-published a small book,Apartheid: The untold story, back in 1992.Sometimes you can find copies of it atwww.alibris.com. My long-time, deep,and intimate involvement in the anti-apartheid solidarity movement taughtme several things. One was the impor-tance of offering struggling peoples theskills and the education they require toincrease their fighting capacity to changetheir lives, and the lives of their lovedones, for the better.

What I am doing through The Potter’sHouse Scholastic Chess Club is very sim-ilar in that objective. It is more thanabout the sport of chess, it is about offer-ing young people the skills and the toolsthey will need to successfully compete ina globalized 21st century economy. AtThe Potter’s House Scholastic Chess Clubwe also use the sport of chess as a con-duit to teach character development andthe value of higher education.

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Looks at Books / Amateur to IM


BRITISH IM JONATHAN HAWKINS HASlived the chess player’s dream. Ten years ago,as an 18-year-old 1700-player, he decided toget good—and then he did. He got very good.He recently broke the 2500-rating barrierrequired to earn the grandmaster (GM) title,and now, with two recent GM norms underhis belt, this self-taught once fledgling playeris one norm, one nice performance, awayfrom a miraculous achievement. “I am often asked by people to give advice

…” wrote Hawkins in his query letter toMongoose Press, “… so I began to reconstructthe path I took [to international master].” Thispath was laid out in instructive detail for hisnew book, Amateur to IM: Proven Ideas and

Training Methods (Mongoose Press, $29.95). Jam-packed with discussion about the

endgame, one could argue that its subtitlemisleads. Yet Hawkins writes ostensiblyabout the final phase of the game. Theendgame positions merely serve as ameans for a more general discussionabout thought process and systematictraining methods. The strength ofHawkins’ writing lies in how he systemat-ically builds up the reader’s under-standing of chess from simple ideas tocomplex ones. Through this approach hedraws important connections between theendgame, middlegame, and opening.Hawkins leads the reader along the same

path he himself took.Hours of deliberate practice along this

path produced for Hawkins a unifiedperspective of chess not often seen inplayers who train isolated skillsindependently. Isolated work on openingsand tactics were necessary for his growth,he says, but certainly not sufficient. Hefirmly believes that his unified approachto chess training, with the endgame at itscore, places every aspect of his chessability on a rock-solid foundation.

Amateur to IM includes three main parts.Part 1, “Thinking Techniques,” includes asample of “basic” positions that Hawkinsbreaks down using fundamental thinkingtechniques (“calculating with a goal inmind,” “planning,” “building-blockpositions,” and more). Part 2, “Principlesand Essential Theory,” builds upon Part 1,using a slightly more technical approach.(For example, Hawkins explains how subtlevariations in the Lucena and Philidorpositions relate to building blocks andfocused calculation.) Part 3, “EndgameExplorations,” covers advanced topics thatbecame interesting to Hawkins as he gotstronger. One such topic is how theCarlsbad pawn structure can evolve into anendgame, and for Queen’s Gambit Declinedplayers this chapter alone is worth theprice of the book. In October, I took the opportunity to

interview Hawkins by e-mail. I wanted tolearn more about his ideas, especiallythose regarding the interdependencebetween the three phases of a chess game.To my delight, Hawkins agreed tosupplement his answers with a lengthyand illustrative excerpt from his new book.The interview and excerpt follow, below.

Howard Goldowsky: Why do you feel that theendgame is important for an aspiring player'sdevelopment? JONATHAN HAWKINS: Ingeneral, players are well prepared in theopenings, tactically quite proficient, knowthe standard middlegame themes, but havea gap in their endgame knowledge. Thosefirst things I listed aren’t so difficult tostudy, but the endgame is. If your endgameis below the standard of the other facets ofyour game, you will be turning wins intodraws and draws into loses. [The endgame]also improves your understanding as awhole. For instance, [by studying theendgame] you will start to see the long-termconsequences of your decisions in theopening and in the middlegame.

How should a class-player divide his trainingtime between work on the opening,middlegame, endgame, tactics, and otherareas? Obviously it’s different for everyone.Just because two players have the same

IM Jonathan Hawkins photographed at the 2012 London Chess Classic by Ray Morris-Hill.

Making the LeapIM Jonathan Hawkins shows how to study efficiently using the endgame as your foundation. By HOWARD GOLDOWSKY

Amateur to IM: Proven Ideas and Training Methodsby Jonathan Hawkins372 pages (Mongoose Press, 2012) Available fromUSCF Sales (catalog number B0089EU), $29.95

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rating doesn’t mean their ability iscomposed the same way. It’s a cliché, buta true one, that in general players spendway too much time on openings. Don’t fallinto the trap of convincing yourself thatonce you organize your openingscompletely, then you will move onto otherareas of study. That day will never come.At least it still hasn’t for me. In terms ofmemorizing variations, especially [forplayers rated] below about 2000, I wouldtone [opening study] way down, maybe10% of your study time or less. Tactical puzzles/analytical training is

quite important. I would give 20% of timeto this. The remaining 70% is the partplayers find difficult. You need to study acombination of master games, your owngames, and be a student of the endgame.

How is the endgame linked to the opening andmiddlegame? Can you give an example fromAmateur to IM where you explain how endgameknowledge helps evaluate an opening ormiddlegame position? Decisions taken inthe opening (for instance, creating a certainstructure, creating a certain materialimbalance) create consequences often notfelt until the endgame. I will show you a nice example from my

book, which comes to mind. It’s actuallyquite a good positional lesson too.We start with a challenge for the reader.

The rules of the challenge are the following:Place a black bishop on any

(unoccupied) square on the board. Oncethe bishop is placed it will be White toplay. You can put the bishop on anysquare, d4, f4, c6, h1, wherever you like.The challenge is to find a square for thebishop which creates a drawn position.The obvious answer is Bd4:

The unit of e5+Bd4 looks very solid, butthere is a problem. The bishop iscondemned to a purely defensive role.Moreover, Black has no counterplay andno hope of fighting for the light squares.He must sit and wait. Black’s defensiveplan will be simple (keep the bishop andpawn connected and move the king) butnot necessarily successful. In fact, the position is a relatively easy

win for White. For example, with White tomove the game may proceed:

1. Kc4 Kd6 2. Rh3 Ke6 3. Rh6+ Ke7 4. Kd5 The light squares are extremely weak,

and White has no problem advancing intothe Black position.

4. ... Bc3 5. Rh5 Threatening Rxe5(+), after which the

result of the exchanges would be a lostking and pawn endgame.

5. ... Kf8 6. Kd6 Ke8 The most stubborn, after 6. ... Bd4 7.

Kd7 Bc3 8. Rf5+ Kg7 9. Ke6 White willcapture the e-pawn next move, and reachthe key square on d6.

7. Ke6 Kd8 8. Rh7 Bd4 9. Rg7! White waits until the bishop moves to an

unprotected square. The reason for this isgiven in the next note.

9. ... Bc3 10. Rd7+!

The point is that after 10. ... Ke8 11.Rc7! wins the bishop, so Black’s king isforced into a fatal cut.

10. ... Kc8 11. Rd5Followed by 12. Rxe5 and the white

king will reach the key square on f6. Whitewins.

What about placing the bishop on alight square such as d7?

(see diagram top of next column)This time the bishop can attack the e4-

pawn and cover light squares when thewhite king attempts to approach. This ismuch more important than the apparentweakness of the e5-pawn. Of course, ifWhite can attack e5 with both king androok the pawn will fall, but as we will seethis cannot be favorably achieved.

1. Rb6+ Ke7 2. Kc4 Be6+ 3. Kc5 Bf7 Already it is apparent White is experi-

encing much greater difficulties this time.The bishop, pawn, and king work togetherto cover both light and dark squares.

4. Rb7+ Kf6 5. Kd6 Initially it seems White is doing very

well, but the weakness of his e4-pawnprevents him from any further progress.

5. ... Bg6! 6. Rb4 Bh7 7. Kd5 Bg8+ 8. Kc5 Bf7In fact, the position is a draw. By combining

counterattack against the e4-pawn withrestricting the white king, Black is able to holdthe position. Note how the active bishopcombines with the pawn to work as a unit,controlling squares of both colors.

Keeping all of that in mind, let’s jumpinto this position:

This is a game Krishnan Sasikiran-Magnus Carlsen, Bosna Sarajevo, 2006after White’s 36th move. Black is down aclean Exchange (in material), but clearlyhas some compensation. The black piecesare actively placed, apart from the bishopon f7. The bishop on f7 does not combinewell with the black kingside pawns. Whiteis tied to the defense of the d4-pawn andhis bishop does not have an effective post.Both kings are exposed, but White’s moreso. If the black bishop could effectivelyroute to c6 then White could have someproblems. Weighing all of this up, it seemsBlack has reasonable play; however, I stillthink Black is happy to draw this position.White’s material could easily tell once theblack pieces are evicted from their posts. The logical attempt to improve the bishop

with 36. ... Be8 shows how quickly the

www.uschess.org 11




black pieces can be driven back [analysis]:

37. f3! Re6 38. Re1

Suddenly Black must give up the e-fileor allow exchanges.

38. ... Bc6 39. Rxe6 Qxe6 40. Rc3 Bd541. Bf4

White’s pieces begin to find good squaresand Black has no threats. Black retainssome chances as White’s king will alwaysbe weakened, but clearly the black positionhas gone downhill.Let us follow the game:

36. ... f4! An excellent move. Black realizes his

bishop must stay on the kingside, so hebegins building a strong structure in whichthe bishop will thrive. He will continuethis work with ... h7-h6 and ... g6-g5,constructing a bishop and pawn unitsimilar to what we have already seen.

37. Qg2 h6 Preparing ... g6-g5.

38. f3 To make progress White has to play

this advance sooner or later.

38. ... Re3 Showing another point to 36. ... f4,

preparing to exploit the weakness thatmay appear on e3. Black embarks onfavorable exchanges starting with thistemporary sacrifice.

39. Bxe3 It was also possible to decline the

sacrifice with a neutral move such as 39.h4. After this Black had prepared thetactical response 39. ... Rxd3 40. Rxd3Ne5! After which either the d4- or f3-pawnwill fall.

39. ... Nxe3This is the type of position Black was

aiming for with 36. ... f4.

40. Qf2 Nxd1 41. Rxd1 g5 The plan beginning with 36. ... f4 has

been a complete success. Black’s pawnstructure maximizes his pieces. Noticehow Black insisted on this structure,preparing himself for the endgame. Hisbishop and pawn unit gives rise to twoimportant trumps in his quest to draw:• If only the f3 and f4 pawns remain on theboard, the rook versus bishop endgame isa draw. Compare with the correct solutionto the ‘riddle’ earlier in this chapter.• Black has constructed the makings of oneof the ‘fortress’ positions with the pawns ong5 and h6. In a rook versus bishop endgamewith, for example, f3, h3 versus g5, h6,Black should be able to hold the position.

42. Qe2 Be6 43. Kh2 Qf5

Encouraging White to exchange queens.

44. Qxe5+ Qxe5 45. dxe5 Kg6 46. Rd8 Attempting to hold the e5-pawn will

lead to a position such as 46. Ra1 Kf547. Ra5 Bd7 48. Kg2 Bc6 where Whitewill be tied forever to the weak pawns onf3 and e5.

46. ... Kf5 47. Rh8 Kxe5 48. Rxh6 Bf5 49. Kg2Be6 50. Kf2 Bf5 51. h4 Attempting to improve the king with 51.

Ke2 Be6 52. Kd2 Bf5 53. Kc3 Be6 54. Kb4is also fruitless. After 54. ... Bd5 Whitecannot hold the f3-pawn.

51. ... gxh4 52. Rxh4 Be6 53. Rh5+ Kf6 54. Rc5Bb3 55. Ke2 Ke6 56. Kd3 Bd5

The bishop finds a strong diagonal. Withf3 under attack White cannot make anyfurther progress. Although some accuracyis still required, the position is drawn.

How do you pick specific training positions likethese? How do you incorporate and work withan engine? What are the engine's strengthsand weaknesses? Well, you don’t need tomemorize that many specific theoreticalpositions. Some are important. I detailwhat I consider to be vital in the book.Mainly it’s about amassing knowledge ofpatterns and principles.But let us say I have a specific position

(or class of position, such as a specificmaterial balance) that I want to master. Myusual method is to play the position severaltimes against a playing partner or anengine, without studying the position at all.In this way you see the problems in theposition really clearly. Afterwards I wouldstudy the analysis of the position andthen play it several more times.It’s tempting to say engines are weak in the

endgame, but in reality the best engines arejust very strong at chess, period. They willevaluate the vast majority of positions verywell. Of course they have a weakness inpositions where the static evaluation is lessimportant than whether or not one side canmake progress. For instance, in an opposite-colored bishop endgame the computer maytell you the side with an extra pawn is +1.50,which means very little. Similarly it maystruggle with a very technical position whenit cannot calculate to the end.

What kinds of metrics do you use to evaluateyour training progress? Certainly there are noendgame-specific ratings. True, but you cansee fairly easily whether or not you aremisplaying endgames and whether or notyou are converting winning positions andsaving drawing positions. Also you will knowyourself if you understood what you weredoing or not during the game.The goal is to become a better player in

general, anyway, so we want our overallrating to improve, thanks to our increasedchess knowledge and confidence.

Besides your book, what training tools or reference works would you recommend to aclass-player interested in endgame training?Endgame theory is fairly static, and there areplenty of good reference books out therewhich will give you the theoretical positions.Personally I enjoy the old works likeAverbakh’s Comprehensive Chess Endings,and Rook Endings by Smyslov and Levenfish,but there are modern books which will givethe same information. I wouldn’t recommendusing these to try to memorize a lot oftheoretical positions all at once, though.One position at a time and in sufficientdepth to be able to use it in a practical game.Otherwise it’s not very useful.Most of your time should be spent

increasing your ‘feel’ for positions. I foundShereshevsky and Slutsky’s Mastering theEndgame series very useful. For thosestronger players who are willing to workhard, Lutz’s Endgame Secrets is awonderful book.

Where do you see your future as a chess player?I’m pretty close to the GM title, so that’s mygoal for the moment. Beyond that, I don’treally think too much about it. I wouldcertainly like to write again. I have a lotmore to say on all kinds of chess topics.

What motivated you to write Amateur to IM? A lot of the book is based on positions andideas that I’ve studied myself over theyears, so in a way the project has been inproduction for a long time. Compiling thebook itself was a natural progression. I thought I had interesting things to say. I thought I was filling something of a voidin chess literature, and I thought I couldhelp guide players to improvement.

What were your most and least favorite partsof the writing process? Sometimes what youwant to write is crystal clear in your mindand you can’t type it fast enough. Thoseare the enjoyable parts. Several times I got really bogged down

in analysis because you have to get theassessment correct, and the computer isno help. You can spend two days analyzinga position, then on the third day you finda refutation which ruins everything. It’stough because all this time you havesomething completely different in yourmind that you really want to write about,bursting to get out.


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Benefactor Membership includes Life Membership, a special membership card, and recognition on a benefactor pageof our website and periodically in Chess Life. The cost is $3,000, or $1,500 to existing Life Members. Half the fundscollected will go to the USCF Life Member Assets Fund and half to assist USCF operations. Become a Benefactor at

uschess.org, by phone at 1-800-903-8723, or by mail to USCF, PO Box 3967, Crossvi l le TN 38557.

THANKS TO OUR BENEFACTORS!USCF BENEFACTOR MEMBERS AS OF DECEMBER 7, 2012:

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IN MEMORY OF: DAVID KAPLAN

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USCF Affairs / News for Our Members


SPECIAL REFEREES: THE FORGOTTEN RULE By Tim Just

A quick and easy way for tournament directors to deal with a player appeal, while still atthe tournament site, is to use a Special Referee. Special Referees are one phone call awayand can be used in place of an on-site Appeals Committee. A contact list of those expe-rienced national tournament directors, volunteering their time and expertise, is a buriedtreasure hiding in plain site on the USCF web page.

Phil Smith, USCF IT Director and Webmaster, suggests two really good ways to access thatlist: www.uschess.org/content/view/11939/668/ or alternatively, click on Clubs & Tournaments >Tournament Directors > Special Referees.

I suggest downloading and printing this list to keep with your other tournament supplies,like in your rulebook. If you have computer-adverse tournament director friends, do thema favor and print them a copy for their records. By the way, Special Referees on that listalso make pretty good consultants even when a player appeal is not on deck.

Special Referees—rule 21J—were invented in the latter half of the last century as an alter-native to the cumbersome on-site Appeals Committee process. In the pre-digital age thatlist of volunteers appeared in the printed Ratings Supplement. When the supplements ceasedpublication, and morphed into the downloadable monthly files we have today, we displaceda lot of extras including that list of Special Referee volunteers.

2012-2013 USCF COMMITTEE CHAIRSSee executive board liaisons, office liaisons and members of these committees here: main.uschess.org/docs/gov/reports/CommitteeList

Audit Bill [email protected]

Awards John Donaldson [email protected]

Barber K-8 Jon Haskel, co-chair Tournament of [email protected] Champions Stephen Shutt, co-chair

[email protected]

Bylaws Harold J. Winston, co-chair [email protected]

Guy Hoffman, [email protected]

Chess in Education F. Leon Wilson [email protected]

Clubs Bob Rasmussen [email protected]

College Chess Russell S. Harwood [email protected]

Correspondence Brad Rogers Chess [email protected]

Cramer Awards Frank Brady [email protected]

Denker Invitational Dewain Barber, co-chair [email protected] Haskel, co-chair [email protected]

Elections Ken Ballou [email protected]

Ethics Richard (Buck) Buchanan [email protected]

Finance Randy Bauer [email protected]

Hall of Fame Harold J. Winston [email protected]

Hall of Records Steve Immitt [email protected]

International Affairs Michael Khodarkovsky [email protected]

LMA Dr. Tim Redman [email protected]

Vice-chair Dr. Leroy Dubeck [email protected]

Military Chess Mike Hoffpauir [email protected]

Outreach Myron Lieberman [email protected]

PPHB John Donaldson [email protected]

Publications Ramon Hernandez [email protected]

Ratings Mark Glickman [email protected]

Rules David Kuhns [email protected]

Scholastic Council/ Jay Stallings, co-chair Committee [email protected]

Sunil Weeramantry, co-chair [email protected]

Senior Charles Hatherill [email protected]

States Guy Hoffman [email protected]

Top Players no chair named

TDCC Tim Just [email protected]

Vice-chair Jeff [email protected]

U.S. Open Hal Terrie III [email protected]

Women’s Chess Isabelle Minoofar [email protected]

COMMITTEE / CHAIRPERSON

COMING IN 2013!

THE PAUL MORPHY GRAND PRIX!LOOK FOR DETAILS

COMING SOON, AND CHECKwww.uschess.org/ratings/

MorphyGP/FOR CURRENT INFORMATION.

CL_01-2013_USCFAffairs_AKF_r7_chess life 12/11/12 10:42 PM Page 14

It’s Coming.

April 5-7 2013Nashville TN

See TLA on page 53SuperNationalsV

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Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment

EONS AGO, WHEN GIANT NEWSPAPEReditors trod the earth, they would sendreporters to train stations, steamshipdocks and airports when word leaked outthat a celebrity, even a minor “celeb,” wasdue to arrive. That’s how I ended up atKennedy Airport one afternoon waiting tointerview a passenger named ThomasAustin Preston Jr.Preston was a folk hero, at least among

poker folk, who knew him by his handle,Amarillo Slim. He was renowned for,among other things, this advice to ama-teurs who choose to risk their own cashmoney: “Look around the table,” Slim said.“If you don’t see a sucker, get up—becauseyou’re the sucker.”Slim was happy when my photographer

offered him a ride with us into Manhattan.But as we cruised along the Van WyckExpressway and I peppered him with ques-tions, he refused to give me anythingnewsworthy. “I’m here to see Santy Claus,”he said.So, I decided to use this unique oppor-

tunity to seek professional advice. Iexplained that I was always getting bluffedwhen there was a big pot. Slim narrowedhis eyes as he looked at me and said,“Well, then your heart isn’t as big as a pea.”That’s how I confirmed my official sta-

tus in the world of games: I’m a wimp. Inpoker, I get bluffed. In chess, I offer draws.

A draw?GM Andy SoltisGM Roman DzindzichashviliBoston 1988

(see diagram top of next column)But I didn’t dare offer a draw in this

position. I was dead lost: Two pawns downand with three minutes (compared withBlack’s half hour) to reach move 50. Thegame headed to its natural result with 35... Qc2 36. Qf3 f5 37. Qd5+ Kg7 38. Ne3.But instead of 38. ... Qxb2! and 39. ...

Ra2, which would have sealed the deal, heplayed 38. ... Qc6? 39. Qe6 d5? 40. Qxd5

Qxd5 41. Nxd5.Suddenly Black’s edge has evaporated.

He wouldn’t have anything after 41. ...Ra7 42. Nxb4, for example.Instead, he played 41. ... Re6??. I replied

42. Bxb4—along with a draw offer.He accepted and it wasn’t until the post-

mortem that I understood why: Black islost, e.g. 42. ... Rc6 43. Ne7! followed by44. Nxc6 or 44. Rxd7.Okay. I can find excuses for that one.

After all, I might not have seen that 42. ...B-moves 43. Nc7! with the seconds I hadleft. But what about the games like this,I asked myself?

Modern Defense (B06)GM Jon ArnasonGM Andy SoltisLone Pine 1981

1. e4 g6 2. d4 Bg7 3. Nc3 d6 4. f4 c6 5. Nf3Bg4 6. Be3 Qb6 7. Qd2 Nd7 8. 0-0-0 Qa5 9.Kb1 b5 10. e5 d5 11. Bd3 b4 12. Ne2 e6 13.Nh4 c5 14. dxc5 Nxc5 15. Bxc5 Qxc5 16. h3Bxe2 17. Qxe2 Ne7 18. g4 Nc6 19. Nf3 0-0 20.h4 a5 21. h5 Rfe8 22. hxg6 hxg6 23. Ng5 Nd424. Qf2I was only probably lost this time and I

had a luxurious 10 minutes to reach move40. It was time to get desperate—24. ... b3!25. cxb3 Nxb3 26. Qe1? Nd4 27. Qf2 Rab8 28.Rh7 Rb7 29. Bxg6 Reb8! 30. Bxf7+ Kf8 31. Qxd4.Next came 31. ... Rxb2+ 32. Qxb2 Rxb2+

33. Kxb2 Qb4+ 34. Kc2 Qc4+ 35. Kd2? Qxf4+ 35.Kc2 Qxg5 37. Bxe6 Qxe5.

Black threatens to mate (38. ... Qc3+and ... Qb2 mate) or win the bishop (38. ...Qxe6) or a rook (38. ... Qe4+). White mightbe able to fight on after something like 38.Rf1+ and 39. Rxg7 but Black has all thewinning chances. But I offered a draw.Wimpiness reveals itself at much

stronger levels than I played in. Super-grandmasters are so afraid of the MarshallGambit in the Ruy Lopez these days thatthey avoid it with scaredy-cat moves likeh3, a3 and d3. Some do the same in theSicilian Defense.After Peter Leko played passively as

White in a 2000 game, Garry Kasparovsneered, “As long as Leko plays a3, h3 inthe Sicilian Defense I cannot leave big-time chess!”Boris Spassky said to excel in chess you

needed a quality he called “spine.” In aJuly 20, 2001 interview with Izvestia henamed Alexei Shirov as the most creativeand talented young player of the day. “ButShirov has insufficient spine,” he added.Some would argue that wimp-out draw

offers are the result of psychological inflex-ibility. It’s the inability to reset yourselfemotionally when a lost or bad positionchanges dramatically.World Champion Vishy Anand told

Chess magazine in 2010 that there areplayers like Anatoly Karpov who haveplenty of resetting ability: “He could havea really bad position for the first 30 movesand then his opponent would make onemistake and Karpov will start playing fora win immediately.”

A Heart As Big As A PeaIt’s not as bad as losing a drawn position but ...By GM ANDY SOLTIS


CL_01-2013_soltis_JP_r7_chess life 12/7/2012 12:47 PM Page 16

On the other hand, Anand added, “Thereare other people that are so relieved athaving escaped that they cannot play fora win anymore.”

This is probably a form of the phenom-enon called Loss Aversion that I wroteabout some time ago. When you survive anear-death experience you can becomeso elated by the prospect of a draw that itnever occurs to you that you can play formore. For example:

King’s Indian Defense, Classical Variation (E95)GM Helgi GretarssonGM Andy SoltisBermuda International 1999

1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 d6 3. Nc3 Nbd7 4. e4 e5 5. Nf3g6 6. Be2 Bg7 7. 0-0 0-0 8. Re1 c6 9. Bf1 a610. h3 exd4 11. Nxd4 Re8 12. Bf4 Ne5 13. Rc1Nh5 14. Be3 c5! 15. Nc2 Be6 16. Na3 Nc6 17.Rc2 Be5 18. Rd2 Qf6 19. Rxd6! Bxd6 20. Qxd6Ne5 21. Qd2 Qd8 22. Nd5 Rc8? 23. Bg5 Qd724. Be2 Bxd5 25. cxd5 f6 26. f4! fxg5 27. fxe5Qd8 28. Bg4 Rb8 29. e6 Nf4

Amarillo Slim used to say he didn’t playcards, he played people. At this point wewere both in time pressure and we weren’tplaying chess, we were playing clock.

30. Nc4 h5 31. g3? b5? 32. Ne5 Nxe6? 33.Nc6! Qc7 34. Bxe6+ Rxe6 35. Nxb8 Qxg3+ 36.Kh1 Rf6 37. Rg1 Qh4

Now instead of 38. Qe3! g4 39. Rg3, thegame went 38. Rg2?? Rf3! 39. Nc6? Rxh3+ 40.Rh2 Qxe4+ 41. Qg2.

The strange thing is I knew I hadreached 40 moves, the time control. I couldhave taken 40 or 50 minutes to look formore than the perpetual check staringme in the face. So, instead of 41. ... Rf3!,winning, I played 41. ... Qe1+? 42. Qg1 Qe4+... and offered a draw.

But there was one example that wasworse. It was played back in the days ofadjournments, so I could have sealed mymove and ...

U.S. versus USSRVitaly TseshkovskyAndy SoltisWorld Student Team Championship, Dresden 1969

It was in a U.S.-USSR match, always abig deal during the Cold War. I had beendaring my opponent to find a mate in ourmutual time pressure. He could havedrawn by perpetual checks at variouspoints. But he never lacked spine andplayed 34. Qe3+? g5 35. Qf2 Qe4 36. Rf6+ Rg637. Rf8.

His attack was over and I was threepawns up. I could have given a few checksand sealed my 40th move. I’d have at least24 hours to find the win.

But by now you know what happened.I made the checks, 37. ... Qh1+ 38. Kd2 Qd5+39. Ke1 Qh1+ 40. Kd2 and offered a draw.

Why? The only explanation I can thinkof is ... Well, I already had one, from Amar-illo Slim.

Archival Chess Life PDFs and .pgn files are available on uschess.org, Chess Life Magazine,Downloadable Files.

www.uschess.org 17

Draw?Now it’s your turn to win drawn positions. In each of these six positions the player whose turn it wasto move accepted a draw—or offeredone that was immediately accepted.Your task is to find what they missed.In each case there is a move thatleads to a forced win of a decisiveamount of material—or, in one case,a mate. For solutions see page 71.

Problem IAchim Longwitz Hans Peter Lohsse

BLACK TO PLAY

Problem IV GM Istvan BilekIM Teodor Ghitescu

WHITE TO PLAY

Problem IIIM Victor Ciocaltea IM Wolfgang Pietzsch

WHITE TO PLAY

Problem V IM Ricardo CalvoIM Svend Hamann

BLACK TO PLAY

Problem IIIGM Sam ReshevskyFotis Mastichiadis

BLACK TO PLAY

Problem VI GM Garry KasparovGM Zoltan Ribli

WHITE TO PLAY

Chess to Enjoy / Entertainment

CL_01-2013_soltis_JP_r7_chess life 12/7/2012 5:40 PM Page 17

Solitaire Chess / Instruction

ONE ADVANTAGE OF CASTLING ONopposite sides of the board is that theplayers are freer to move the pawns on theside lodging the enemy king, since thatdoesn’t necessarily expose the player’sown king to attack. In such cases, winningis often a matter of beating the other playerto the punch. That is, by getting therefirst, one stops the defender in his or hertracks, and the counterattack never getsgoing. An example of that kind of one-sided battering is the game George AlanThomas versus Mario Monticelli (Black)from the encounter between England andItaly in the 1933 Folkestone Olympiad.Once Thomas began his assault, it was asif Black’s play stopped completely. Thegame began:

Ruy Lopez, Deferred Steinitz (C73)George Alan Thomas (ENG) Mario Monticelli (ITA) Folkestone Olympiad 1933

1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 d6 5.Bxc6+ bxc6 6. d4 f6 7. Be3 Ne7

Now make sure you have the above posi-tion set up on your chessboard. As youplay through the remaining moves in thisgame, use a piece of paper to cover the arti-cle, exposing White’s next move only aftertrying to guess it. If you guess correctly,give yourself the par score. Sometimespoints are also rewarded for second-bestmoves, and there may be bonus points—

or deductions—for other moves and vari-ations. Note that **means that the note toBlack’s move is over and White’s move ison the next line.**8. Qd2 Par Score 5White could also play 8. Nc3. Either

way, White is getting ready to castle queen-side.

8. … Ng6The move, 8. ... Rb8, seizing the half

open b-file, could be answered by 9. Nc3Rxb2 10. dxe5 fxe5 11. Nxe5, since 11. ...dxe5 runs into 12. Qxd8+ Kxd8 13. 0-0-0+, gaining the Exchange. Accept 2 bonuspoints if you saw it.**9. Nc3 Par Score 5White develops, still with the possibility

of queenside castling.

9. … Be7

10. h4 Par Score 5In anticipation of Black castling king-

side, White commences kingside operations.Of course he could have castled himself, onthe queenside, which gets full credit.

10. … 0-0Monticelli castles kingside, allowing his

knight to be driven to the corner, inas-much as he sees how he can bring it backinto play. All the same, he might havetried to hold his ground with 10. ... h5.**11. h5 Par Score 5

11. … Nh8

12. 0-0-0 Par Score 5There we have it. Both sides have cas-

tled on opposite wings of the chessboard.Let’s see who musters a stronger attackfirst.

12. … Nf7

13. Rdg1 Par Score 5

White wastes no time. He repositions hisqueen-rook to support a g-file advance, fig-uring to follow with a subsequent g2-g4and then perhaps to g4-g5.

13. … Bd7On 13. ... Bg4, White plays 14. Ne1,

followed by f2-f3 and g3-g4 (1 bonuspoint).**14. g4 Par Score 5

14. … exd4Black looks to meet White’s flank aggres-

sion with counterplay in the center, just asrecommended in the books. That policydoesn’t always work. Here Black gets thee5-square but it proves temporary.**15. Nxd4 Par Score 4

15. … Ne5Black doubly attacks g4.**

16. Qe2 Par Score 5And not 16. f3? (Deduct 2 points)

because of 16. ... c5 17. N-moves Nxf3.

16. … Qc8

17. Nf5 Par Score 5White threatens a big knight fork on e7.

17. … Re8Black avoids 17. ... Bxf5 18. gxf5, hand-

ing White the open g-file.**18. f4 Par Score 5This drives back the enemy knight while

opening the second rank for the queen toreach h2.

18. … Nf7

19. h6 Par Score 5One way or another, this last move

brings about a breach in Black’s castledposition. Notice that Black hasn’t exactlymustered an attack of his own on thequeenside.

Getting There “Firstest”With The “Mostest”Did your opponent just castle on the opposite side of the board? It’s on!By BRUCE PANDOLFINI


CL_01-2013_pando_JP_r7_chess life 12/7/2012 12:11 PM Page 18

Solitaire Chess / Instruction

19. … Nxh6On 19. ... Bxf5, there could follow 20.

gxf5 Nxh6 21. Rxh6 (1 bonus point). On 19.... g6, White has 20. Nxe7+ Rxe7 21. Bd4,winning the f-pawn (1 bonus point). Thesame goes for 19. ... gxh6, when White fol-lows with 20. Nxe7+ Rxe7 21. Bd4 Kg7 22.g5 hxg5 23. fxg5 (1 bonus point).**20. Nxg7! Par Score 6Accept only 5 points part credit for 20.

Nxh6+ gxh6 21. Rxh6. Black’s position ispretty shaky, but he can still offer adefense by ... Be7-f8 and ... Bf8-g7. Afterthe knight sacrifice, Black is hard pressedto ward off mate.

20. … Kxg7If 20. ... Bxg4, then 21. Nf5 and White

is winning. For example, if 21. ... Nxf5,then 22. Qxg4+ Kh8 23. exf5 Rg8 24.Rxh7+ Kxh7 25. Qh5 mate (1 bonus point).Or if 21. ... Kh8, then White has suchdelightful possibilities as 22. Nxh6 Bxe223. Nf7 mate (1 bonus point); or 22. Rxg4Nxg4 23. Qxg4 Rg8 24. Rxh7+ Kxh7 25.Qh5 mate (1 bonus point). But Whiteshouldn’t continue 22. Rxh6 because of22. ... Bxe2 23. Rg7 Qxf5!. Incidentally, 21.... Kf8 could be met by 22. Nxh6 Bxe223. Rg8 mate (1 bonus point).**21. Qh2 Par Score 5

21. … Nf7Possibly, this is Black’s best. Alternatives

might have been 21. ... Nxg4 22. Qxh7+Kf8 23. Qg6 (among others) 23. ... Bd8 24.Rh7 and mate coming up (1 bonus point);or 21. ... Ng8 22. Qxh7+ Kf8 23. f5, fol-lowed by Bh6+; or 21. ... Rh8 22. Qxh6+Kg8 (on 22. ... Kf7 23. g5 follows) 23. g5fxg5 (23. ... f5 24. g6) 24. Bd4 Qf8 25.Rxg5+ Bxg5 26. Qxg5+ Kf7 27. Qf6+ andQxh8 (1 bonus point).**22. Qxh7+ Par Score 5

22. … Kf8

23. f5! Par Score 5White threatens 24. Bh6+ Nxh6 25.

Qxh6+ Kf7 26. Qg6+ and mate next move(1 bonus point).

23. … Bd8Black vacates e7 for the king.**

24. Qg6 Par Score 5This is a good practical choice, threat-

ening 25. Rh7 and, if 25. ... Re7, then 26.Qg7+ Ke8 27. Qg8 mate (1 bonus point).You may take full credit for 24. g5, with lotsof good contingencies available. You mayalso take full credit for 24. Bh6+. Butaccept no credit for 24. Qxf7+ Kxf7 25.Rh7+ Kg8 26. Rgh1 Rf8 27. Rh8+ Kf7 28.R1h7+ Ke8, and the black king escapes.

24. … Ke7If 24. ... Re7, then 25. Rh8+ Nxh8 26.

Bh6+ Rg7 27. Qxg7+ Ke8 28. Qf8 mate (2bonus points).**

25. Rh7 Par Score 5The noose is tightening.

25. … Rf8

26. Bh6 Par Score 5White threatens to take first the rook

and then the knight.

26. … Be8

27. Qg7 Par Score 5The rook is indefensible at f8. If it goes

to g8 or h8, White just removes it. And on27. ... Kd7, there follows 28. Qxf8 Be729. Rxf7 Bxf7 30. Qxf7, leaving White apiece ahead. So ...

27. … Black resigned.

www.uschess.org 19

ABCs of ChessThese problems are all related to key positions in this month’s game. In eachcase, Black is to move. The answers canbe found in Solutions on page 71.January Exercise: Set up whatever pawnconfiguration you’re interested in. Placingthe kings in neutral posts, analyze or playout against a partner or software the position until you get a sense for it. Thenbegin adding pieces, minor pieces first,making sure to try out all possibilities(knight versus knight or knight versusbishop, and varying with light or darksquare bishops). After working minorpieces, move to situations of rook versusrook and queen versus queen. Try to avoidinitial setups where immediate tacticsdecide. Study enough of these arrangements and you should begin tograsp some of the positional essentials ofparticular pawn structures.

Problem IDouble Attack

Problem IVMating net

Problem IIFork

Problem VMating net

Problem IIIPin

Problem VIMating net

TOTAL YOUR SCORE TO DETERMINEYOUR APPROXIMATE RATING BELOW:

Total Score Approx. Rating95+ 2400+

81-94 2200-239966-80 2000-219951-65 1800-199936-50 1600-179921-35 1400-159906-20 1200-1399

0-05 under 1200

CL_01-2013_pando_JP_r7_chess life 12/7/2012 12:12 PM Page 19


ORWAY’S BRILLIANT 21-YEAR-OLD Magnus Carlsen continuedhis stunning run of tournamentsuccess, defeating U.S.-born Ital-

ian Fabiano Caruana, 20, in a blitz playoffmatch in Bilbao, Spain, to take his secondGrand Slam Final title.The 2012 Grand Slam Final featured

the winners of the most elite tournamentsof 2012: Carlsen (Tal Memorial winner),Levon Aronian (winner of Wijk aan Zee),plus Caruana and Sergei Karjakin, jointwinners of Dortmund 2012. Add the win-ner of the 2012 World Championshipmatch, Viswanathan Anand, and theGrand Slam Final became a serious end-

of-season event.The only big name missing was Vladimir

Kramnik (winner of the London Classicin December 2011), because the formerworld champion refuses to play in tourna-ments split between continents. (In 2012the organizers gave a 10-day breakbetween the first half in São Paulo and the

N

GM MAGNUS CARLSEN

Text by GM IAN ROGERS | Photos by CATHY ROGERS

Are you smarter t Carlsen adds a jewel to his crown; our reporter offers Chess Life r

CL_01-2013_Bilbao_AKF_r10.qxp_chess life 12/11/12 3:02 PM Page 20

www.uschess.org 21

second half in Bilbao to overcome any jet-lag, but still this was not enough toovercome Kramnik's objections.)Despite the rarefied field, Carlsen and

Caruana dominated the 2012 Grand SlamFinal with no other player finishing abovea 50% score—Aronian and Anand wononly one game between them!

Carlsen’s title was a new jewel in analready glittering crown. Since 2009Carlsen has won 10 super-tournaments,winning every tiebreaker in which he hasbeen involved during that period.Carlsen also moved his rating to within

four points of Kasparov’s long-standing2851 record—though rating inflation

makes rating comparisons over time mis-leading, with even Kasparov admittingthat his 2851 may not have been superiorto Bobby Fischer’s 1972 figure of 2785.In Bilbao, Carlsen managed to overhaul

the big lead Caruana had established dur-ing the first half of the tournament in SãoPaulo, avenging his first round loss to

GM FABIANO CARUANA

t han a SUPER GM? readers a chance to equal or better the world’s best players.




Caruana and also beating World ChampionAnand in a key penultimate round game.“I felt I played really well,” was Carlsen’ssummary—rare self-praise from the Nor-wegian who is always one of the biggestcritics of his own play.Despite eventually losing the Grand Slam

title to Carlsen, Caruana also walked awayfrom the tournament with great honor.Over the 10 rounds Caruana scored

victories over the top two players in theworld, Carlsen and Aronian; the latter vic-tory in round nine enabling Caruana tokeep pace with Carlsen.Going into the last round Caruana and

Carlsen were level on points but Carlsenfaced the formidable Aronian while Caruanawas paired against tailender Paco Vallejo.Yet, to the astonishment of the specta-

tors, after 25 minutes of play in the finalround Caruana had allowed Vallejo, 30, toforce a draw leaving the way clear forCarlsen to draw his own game and thenwin the playoff.Only later it emerged that the previous

night Vallejo—depressed by his poor form—had announced his retirement and wasplanning to go back to his home island ofMallorca and reassess his life.Though Caruana did not say it openly,

all indications are that the chivalrous Ital-ian did not want to beat Vallejo in whatmight be his final game and, at the possi-ble cost of the Grand Slam title, gaveVallejo a chance to end the tournamentwith an honorable draw.Some criticized Caruana’s lack of killer

instinct, but many more offered praise,for the Italian’ performance off and on theboard.Canadian GM Kevin Spraggett even

dared to suggest that 20-year-old Caruanamight be the man to take ViswanathanAnand’s world title—though Caruana willhave to wait at least three years since heis not placed in the 2013 Candidates tour-nament. Certainly after a great result inthe Tal Memorial, a win in Dortmund andnow success in the Grand Slam Final,Caruana has established his place amongthe world elite; now ranked as numberfive in the world yet almost two yearsyounger than Carlsen.

••••••••••••••Are You Smarter than a Super-Grandmaster?From the very first round, the armchaircritics, with computer programs such asHoudini running by their side, werescathing about the number of errors madeby the competitors in the Grand SlamFinal.Certainly the world’s best players make

mistakes—they have blood, not silicon,

in their veins—but many of the so-calledblunders were far from obvious to non-computers.Test yourself on the following positions

—can you find the correct move and dobetter than the world’s best?

São Paulo Grand Slam Final Round 1GM Fabiano Caruana (FIDE 2773, ITA)GM Magnus Carlsen (FIDE 2843, NOR)

Carlsen, pushing hard for a win withBlack over the past 40 moves, has allowedCaruana to complicate matters with anExchange sacrifice—just at the point whenCarlsen had only two minutes left on hisclock (plus 10 second increments) to fin-ish the game.Indeed, Carlsen tumbled to defeat from

here—can you do better?

SOLUTION:

81. ... Rb2? Carlsen misses one last chance to hold thegame, with the unlikely 81. ... Rb3+!! 82.Kxe4 (82. cxb3? cxb3 actually wins forBlack.) 82. ... Rc3! when Black can take thec-pawn and survive.

82. d5! Rxc2 83. d6!Now Black’s rook cannot get behind thepassed d-pawn quickly enough.

83. ... c3 84. d7 Rd2 85. d8=Q Rxd8 86. Bxd8 h4!“The only chance,” said Caruana, whoused most of his remaining time to makesure of a clear path to victory.

87. gxh4!87. Bxh4? c2 88. Kd2 e3+ 89. Kxc2 e2would be an unfortunate accident.

87. ... g3 88. f6! c2 89. Kd2 e3+ 90. Kxc2 e2 91.Ba5!, Black resigned.After 91. ... Kh3—the king cannot step onto the f-file without allowing White to queenwith check—92. Kd2! g2 93. Bb6—Whitehas succeeded in covering all the blackpawns and his f-pawn will be the winner.

That was tricky, I agree. How aboutsomething easier?

(see diagram top of next column)

São Paulo Grand Slam Final Round 5GM Levon Aronian (FIDE 2816, ARM)GM Fabiano Caruana (FIDE 2773, ITA)

Aronian (White) is two pawns up, with15 minutes left and “completely winning”as the Armenian grandmaster said. Sohow should White finish the job?

SOLUTION:

55. h6+?“I had too many ways to win,” was Aronian'sexplanation for this failed combination. 55.Rf5 would hold the extra pawns with a slowbut sure win.

55. ... Kxh6 56. Rf5 A humble admission of error. Aronian hadintended 56. Nxc6!? but realized too latethat after 56. ... Kg5! 57. Rg4+ Kf5 58.Nd4+ Ke5 his pieces are so tangled up thathe must lose one of his extra pawns.

56. ... Kg7 57. f4 Rb1+ 58. Kc3 Rb3+ 59. Kd4Rb4+ 60. Ke3 Rb3+ 61. Kf2 Rc3Now White can make no progress and Aron-ian gave up trying a dozen moves later.

62. Nd7 Kg6 63. Rf8 Ra3 64. Nb6 Be4 65. Ke2Bf5 66. Rd8 Be4 67. Nc4 Rc3 68. Rd4 Bd5 69.Ne5+ Kf5 70. Nd7 Be6 71. Kd2 Rf3 72. Nb8 Bd573. Na6 Rxf4, Draw agreed.OK—that one wasn’t fair. Who wants

puzzles where the boring move is correctand the combination is wrong? So here’ssomething completely different:

Bilbao Grand Slam Final Round 9GM Magnus Carlsen (FIDE 2843, NOR)GM Viswanathan Anand (FIDE 2780, IND)

continued on page 26


www.uschess.org 23

AS THE WORLD CHAMPION DREWgame after game at the Grand SlamFinal in Sao Paulo and Bilbao, chessfans started wondering whether theywere watching a form slump by GMViswanathan Anand or something worse.The bare statistics of Anand’s recent

results are worrying enough. The Indianhas not won a classical tournament forfour and a half years and had only wontwo classical games since the 2011 GrandSlam Final twelve months ago— a periodwhich included his successful world titledefense against GM Boris Gelfand.Statistics can be misleading—Anand,

42, also only lost three games in theperiod—but his percentage of draws hasreached worrying proportions, especiallyin an era with anti-draw regulations.Last November Anand completed the

Tal Memorial tournament in Moscowwith nine consecutive draws and his runof draws from the end of the world titlematch through to Sao Paulo and Bilbaohas been even longer, capped off in round

nine by a loss to GM Magnus Carlsen.The chess world has not seen such

poor tournament results from a worldchampion since GM Tigran Petrosian inthe 1960s.Anand dismisses some of the routine

explanations for his mediocre results,such as being distracted by having ayoung child.Yet Anand does admit, reluctantly, that

age may be becoming a factor, though notin the sense that he can no longer calcu-late with clarity and depth.Rather, Anand has struggled to find a

way to use the initiative which is sup-posed to come with the white pieces andthe first move in an era of computerenhanced preparation.When asked at a Sao Paulo press con-

ference immediately after a lacklusterdraw against GM Levon Aronian whenwas the last time he had broken downAronian’s opening choice, the Berlin Wall,Anand was forced to admit, sheepishly,“2003.” (“The Berlin Wall is really killing

1. e4,” Anand said later. “Can you believethat ... Be6-c8 is the latest fashion andWhite can't seem to do anything?”)Indeed Anand has expressed his admi-

ration for the way Aronian, alone of thetop players when playing White, con-tinually comes up with new ideas tocreate problems for his opponents. (Cer-tainly Anand’s remarkable statementthat he felt he would learn a lot from aworld title match against Aronian orCarlsen shows just how far ahead hefeels his two most likely challengers arein playing 21st century chess.)The following game extract, from the

first leg of the Grand Slam Final in SaoPaulo, shows one of Anand’s currentproblems—an uncharacteristic impetu-ousness when passively placed.

Sao Paulo Grand Slam Final Round 3GM Fabiano Caruana (FIDE 2773, ITA)GM Viswanathan Anand (FIDE 2780, IND)

Caruana, with White, has just played17. Rc1, with the obvious threat of 18.Nd5.After long thought, Anand decided to

call Caruana’s bluff:

17. ... Re8?! 18. Nd5! exd5

18. ... Qd8 was safer.

19. cxd5 Qb6 20. Bf2! Qxb2 21. dxc6 bxc622. Rxc6Anand had calculated this far and

wanted to play 22. ... d5 23. Bd4 Qb7 butupon reaching the position noticed 24.Qc2 “when I have to resign” said Anand.(An exaggeration, but 24. ... Nh5 25.Rb1 Qa8 26. e5! is indeed ugly.)Instead Anand was forced to try the

humble ...

22. ... Rdd8

... but after ...

23. Rxa6... found himself a pawn down for

nothing, after which the World Championneeded all his defensive skills to hangonto a draw, and ultimately finish infifth place of the six players.

What’s eating Viswanathan Anand?Cover Story / 2012 Grand Slam Final


CarlsenFrench DefenseGM Magnus Carlsen (FIDE 2843, NOR)GM Fabiano Caruana (FIDE 2773, ITA)Sao Paulo Grand Slam Final (6), 10.08.2012

Prior to this game, the first to be playedin Bilbao after the Sao Paulo leg of theGrand Slam Final, Carlsen was trailingCaruana by a point and a half, and onlya win would do for the Norwegian.

1. e4 e6 2. d3 “I was a bit surprised by his choice of

the French and so avoided main lines,”said Carlsen. “Sometimes in order to cre-ate a fight you need to choose lines thataren’t necessarily the most thoroughlyanalyzed.”

2. ... d5 3. Nd2 Nf6 4. Ngf3 Nc6 5. c3 5. g3 would allow Black to equalize

immediately with 5. ... dxe4 6. dxe4 Bc57. Bg2 0-0 8. 0-0 e5.

5. ... Bd6 6. Be2 0-0 7. 0-0 a5 8. Re1 e5 9.exd5 Nxd5 10. Nc4 Re8 11. Bf1 Bg4 12. h3Bh5 13. g3 Nb6 14. Nxb6 cxb6 15. Bg2 b5 Criticized by Carlsen, who was more

worried about 15. ... a4, though Caruanawondered how he was supposed to fol-low up after 16. a3.

16. a4! b4?!

Now Caruana drifts into a difficultposition. Black should have tried 16. ...bxa4 17. Qxa4 Bc5, or perhaps better 15.... Bc5 a move earlier, since then Be3would enable Black to exchange a piecewhich causes him trouble later in thegame.

17. Be3 Bc7 18. Qb3 h6 19. Qc4 bxc3 20.bxc3 e4 Carlsen thought that this mini-combi-

nation was almost forced, but felt thatthe resulting endgame would be tricky forBlack.

21. dxe4 Bxf3 22. Bxf3 Ne5 23. Qe2 Nxf3+

24. Qxf3 Qd3 25. Kg2 Qxe4 26. Bd4 Qxf3+27. Kxf3 b6 28. Rab1 Rac8

“I thought I should be able to holdthe endgame,” said Caruana. “It doesn’tseem like a losing position.”

29. Re4 g6?! A few moves later Caruana realized

that he should not have allowed White topush h4-h5 but the moment to nipWhite’s kingside expansion in the budwas now, via 29. ... h5! since an attemptto win the h-pawn with 30. Rh4 g6 31.g4 fails to 31. ... Bd8.

30. g4! Kf8 31. h4 Rxe4 32. Kxe4 Re8+ 33.Kd3 Re6 34. Be3 Kg7 35. Rb5 Bd8 36. h5!


“Now Black is tied down to the defenseof his h- and b-pawns and the win is amatter of technique,” said Carlsen.

36. ... Rd6+ 37. Kc4 Rc6+ 38. Kd5 Re6 39.Bd4+ Kf8 40. f4! Bc7 41. f5 Rd6+ 42. Ke4Rc6 43. Rb1 Ke8

“43. ... g5 loses to 44. Kd5 Rd6+ 45. Kc4Ke7 46. Re1+ Kd7 47. Bg7,” explainedCarlsen.

44. hxg6 fxg6 45. Rh1 Kf7 46. Kd5 Rd6+ 47.Kc4 gxf5 Now Carlsen finishes the game with a

forcing sequence but after 47. ... g5 48.Re1! the white king will walk to b7 andend any resistance.

48. gxf5 Bd8 49. f6! Bxf6 Hoping for solace in a bishop ending,

but in any case 49. ... Kg6 50. Rg1+leads to an invasion on g7.

50. Rxh6 Be7 51. Rxd6 Bxd6 52. Kb5 Ke653. Bxb6 Kd7 54. c4 Kc8 55. Bxa5

(see diagram top of next page)This endgame has been known to be

winning for White since a famous Fis-cher-Keres game from Zurich 1959.White’s only task is to avoid Black giv-ing up his bishop for the c-pawn.

55. ... Kb7 56. Bb4 Bf4 57. c5 Ka7 58. c6 Kb859. a5 Ka7 60. a6 Ka8 61. Bc5 Bb8 62. Kc4



The titans meet for their São Paulo game.


www.uschess.org 25


Bc7 63. Kd5 Bd8 64. Ke6 Bc7 65. Kd7 Ba566. Be7!, Black resigned.

(see final diagram top of next column)

CaruanaRuy Lopez, Archangelsk DefensesGM Sergey Karjakin (FIDE 2778, RUS)GM Fabiano Caruana (FIDE 2773, ITA)Sao Paulo Grand Slam Final (2), 09.25.2012

1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 Nf6 5.0-0 b5 6. Bb3 Bc5 7. c3 d6 8. d4 Bb6 9. Be3 “I had not played this line for a while,

and I predicted that he would play the 9.Be3 system, since it is quite fashion-able,” said Caruana, who had come wellprepared.

9. ... 0-0 10. Nbd2 Bb7 11. Re1 exd4!? 12.cxd4 Nb4

13. Qe2 “The critical move,” said Caruana.

“After 13. Qb1 (the main line) 13. ... c514. a3 Nc6 15. d5 Ne7, the queen is notso well placed on b1 because I have theplan ... h7-h6, ... Nh7 and ... f7-f5.”

13. ... c5 14. a3 Nc6 15. d5 Ne7 16. h3 Re817. Bc2 Ng6 18. b3?! “White should play on the queenside

with 18. a4,” explained Caruana, “whenI was going to play 18. ... c4, threaten-ing to take on e3 and d5. Then Whiteshould play 19. Qd1, intending Nf1-g3and later making use of the d4-square.

Maybe Black is slightly worse but it is notvery clear.”

18. ... Ba5 19. Rab1 Karjakin later regretted allowing the

bishop to come to c3, saying “I shouldhave played something like 19. Qd3.”

19. ... Bc3 20. Rec1 b4 Caruana’s first serious think of the

game—until this move he had used only11 minutes to 45 for Karjakin. “I willhave to play ... b5-b4 sooner or laterafter 21. Bd3,” explained Caruana.

21. a4 Both players agreed that White should

have tried 21. axb4 after which Caruanawas intending 21. ... Bxb4 22. Bd3 a5“and if 23. Qd1 I again have 23. ... Ba6,”explained Caruana.

21. ... a5 22. Bd3 h6 23. Qd1? “A horrible move,” said Karjakin. “I

completely forgot about 23. ... Ba6, whenmy position is terrible. “Caruana was sur-prisingly optimistic for White, saying “After23. Qf1 I thought that it should be objec-tively equal, although I like my position—itis very comfortable. However I didn’t seeany clear plan for Black—maybe ... Ra7followed by ... Bc8 and ... Rae7. BasicallyWhite can’t move; the only question is ifBlack has an active plan.”

23. ... Ba6! 24. Bc2 A humble retreat, after which Black’s

a6-bishop dominates the board and toadd to his woes Karjakin had only 18minutes remaining. However 24. Bxa6Rxa6 25. Qc2 Ra7 followed by 26. ...Rae7, leaves the e4-pawn doomed.

24. ... Ra7! 25. Kh2 Rae7


26. g4

“A mistake,” said Caruana, “thoughhis suggestion 26. Kg1 was hardly inspir-ing.”

26. ... Nxe4! 26. ... Qd7 was also strong but “I

wanted something more forcing,” saidCaruana, who used only seven of his 48remaining minutes deciding on thisExchange sacrifice.

27. Nxe4 Rxe4 28. Bxe4 Rxe4 29. Qc2 “29. Rxc3!? bxc3 30. Qc2 was kind of

interesting,” said Caruana, but I thinkthen 30. ... Ne5!! is winning, e.g. 31.Qxe4 Bd3 32. Qf4 Ng6 33. Qg3 Bxb1while if 31. Nxe5 I just play 31. ... Rxe532. Qxc3 Rxd5 and his king is veryweak.”

29. ... Qe7 30. Rg1 In growing time trouble, Karjakin




BILBAO MASTERS FINAL 2012: SAO PAULO, BRAZIL—SEPTEMBER 24-29, OCTOBER 8-13

PLAYERS RATING COUNTRY 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 POINTS

GM Fabiano Caruana 2773 ITA 3 3 1 3 1 0 1 1 3 1 17

GM Magnus Carlsen 2843 NOR 0 3 1 1 1 3 3 1 3 1 17

GM Levon Aronian 2816 ARM 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 11

GM Sergey Karjakin 2778 RUS 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 1 10

GM Viswanathan Anand 2780 IND 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 9

GM Francisco Vallejo-Pons 2697 ESP 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 6

Bilbao Rule: Win 3 points, Draw 1 point, Loss 0 points.

Carlsen has justplayed the very effective positional move24. g4!, cutting the black knight out of thegame. However 24. g4 also created athreat—if you work out what it is and stopit, you will be doing better than the WorldChampion.

SOLUTION:

24. ... Rc6? 25. Nh3!!

Not the world’s most obvious attackingmove, but once you see the threat of 26.Qh6 followed by 27. Ng5, the power is

obvious—in fact both Carlsen and Anandagreed that Black is now doomed.

It was small consolation to Anand thateven without 24. ... Rc6 Black was probablyalready close to lost since against betterdefensive moves (such as 24. ... Rf8 or 24.... Qd6) White can double on the e-file, playNd3, Kg2 and slowly advance on thekingside, while Black’s only conceivableactive plan ... a7-a5-a4 is likely to be toolittle, too late.

25. ... Ne8 26. Qh6 Nf6 27. Ng5 d3Black can avoid mate with 27. ... Qa6 28.Re5 Qc8 but after 29. Rfe1 Qf8 30. Qxf8+Kxf8 31. Nxe6+ White wins two pawnsand the game.

28. Re5! Kh8Otherwise 29. Nxh7! would win.

29. Rd1 Qa6 30. a4, Black resigned.Despite the playing session being little

more than two hours old, Anand saw noreason to continue as he cannot preventRxd3, Rde3 and Nxe6. “That was really

fun!” said Carlsen to the Norwegian mediasoon after the game; “A big disappoint-ment,” said Anand, who was losing aclassical game to Carlsen for only the sec-ond time. “Sometimes you feel like ascientist, sometimes you feel like an artistand sometimes you feel like an imbecile!”

It's true—attacks starting with a back-wards knight move are not exactly easy tosee. Can’t one of these guys miss some-thing simple—like a forced checkmate?Now that you mention it ...

Bilbao Grand Slam Final Round 9GM Sergey Karjakin (FIDE 2778, RUS)GM Francisco Vallejo Pons (FIDE 2697, ESP)


In this crazily complicated position,Vallejo (Black) had only seconds left onhis clock for four moves. He could trythe fancy 37. ... Qxc5!? 38. dxc5 Re7, orthe direct counter-attack 37. ... Qb2.Which should he choose?

rushes to his doom by allowing a sec-ond Exchange sacrifice. “He should play30. Re1 but it looks pretty awful,” saidCaruana. “I can play 30. ... Bxe1 31.Rxe1 Qe8! (avoiding 32. Bg5!) and later... c5-c4.”

30. ... Rxe3! 31. fxe3 Qxe3

A remarkable position where Black’sbishops dominate White’s rooks.

32. Rbf1 Be2! 33. Qf5 33. Qc1 Qxc1 34. Rxc1 Bxf3 is hope-

less for White.

33. ... Bd3

“Now his queen is cut off,” said Caru-ana. 33. ... Nh4 34. Nxh4 Be5+ was alsovery strong.

34. Qd7 Be5+! 35. Kh1 On 35. Nxe5 Qxe5+ 36. Kh1 Be4+ 37.

Rg2 Nf4! cuts out all counterplay.

35. ... Be4! 36. Qe8+ Nf8, White resigned.

continued from page 22


www.uschess.org 27


SOLUTION:Vallejo played ...

37. ... Qb2?? ... and was mated after ...

38. Qc8+, Black resigned.No doubt you were able to do better, but suchwas his shame at missing such an obviousmate that he announced his retirement thatevening on Facebook.

Admittedly Vallejo was already despondentabout his performance in São Paulo andBilbao, having missed another mate in thefollowing game ...

São Paulo Grand Slam Final Round 3GM Levon Aronian (FIDE 2816, ARM)GM Francisco Vallejo Pons (FIDE 2697, ESP)

The question is simple: Should Vallejo(Black) take a draw by checking with hisrook on a1 and a2 or can he try for morewith 30. ... Qxh2!?

SOLUTION:Vallejo, running short of time, took therepetition of moves with ...

30. ... Ra1+ 31. Kg2 Ra2+ 32. Kf1 Ra1+ 33. Kg2Ra2+... and the game was drawn.

Vallejo admitted that he had also beentempted to play 30. ... Qxh2, which hebelieved would oblige Aronian to force adraw with 31. Rg7+ Kxg7 32. Qe7+ whenBlack cannot escape the checks.

At the post-game press conference,Brazilian GM Gilberto Milos pointed out

that 30. ... Qxh2 would actually haveallowed 31. Ne5+!! fxe5 32. Rc7+, withmate to follow.

Vallejo looked shocked that he had almostwalked into this, but Aronian was equallysurprised, since he had intended 31. Rg7+and was not at all sure that he would havenoticed the forced mate. “I saw that I wasmaking a draw,” said Aronian, “but maybeI would see the mate.”

“Actually, I was very lucky,” admittedVallejo, “since I was not sure whether toforce a draw or let him do so with 30. ...Qxh2 31. Rg7+.” (He was even luckier thatthe online spectators never realized that hecame so close to blundering.)

Apart from Caruana’s upset win in roundone, the biggest howls of disapproval by theonline chess fans came when the two topplayers in the world were going head tohead ...

São Paulo Grand Slam Final Round 4GM Magnus Carlsen (FIDE 2843, NOR)GM Levon Aronian (FIDE 2816, ARM)

Carlsen (White) was well ahead on theclock—40 minutes to 13—and he spent 11minutes on the clock before playing thesurprising ...

27. Bf4!!?... answered quickly by Aronian with

the equally remarkable ...

27. ... Bc3!!?Your question—what were they thinking,

and can you find any improvements?

SOLUTION:Carlsen’s move had the idea 27. ... exf4?28. Qxf3 but, as the world number onerealized as soon as he had made his move,something was terribly wrong.

Aronian briefly looked at 27. ... R8xf4!?28. gxf4 Nxf4 and saw that it was refutedby 29. Ra8+ Kh7 30. Ng5+. So, somewhatshort of time, Aronian quickly replied ...

27. ... Bc3!?... with the aim of making the previousvariation playable by decoying the knightaway from control of g5.

However by now every chess computerwas screaming out that 27. ... R8xf4! ...

would have won, since after 28. gxf4 Nxf429. Ra8+ Black has 30. ... Bf8! and matewill be forced after 31. Rg1 Qxh2+!! 32.Kxh2 Rh3.

Carlsen admitted that after his mistake hewas shaking for the rest of the game, whichconcluded ...

28. Qxf3 Bxa1 29. Qg2 Qf5 30. Bd2 Bd4 31. h3Bc5 32. Bc3 Be7 33. Re1 b5 34. Kg1 b4 35. Bb2Bd6 36. h4 Be7 37. Kh2 Ra8 38. Ra1 Rxa1 39.Bxa1 Nc5 40. Nd2 Bf6 41. Bb2 b3 42. Nxb3Nxb3 43. cxb3 Qxd3 44. Qxc6 Qc2 45. Qe8+Kh7 46. Qxh5+ Kg8 47. Qe8+ Kh7 48. Qh5+,Draw agreed.The scorn on chess comment boards

was palpable—“Blunder of the month,”“Shocking,” “Embarrassing,” etc., etc.,though one or two people defended theelite grandmasters on the grounds thatthey were fallible humans.Yet there was two places where the play-

ers were fully appreciated—at IbirapueraPark in São Paulo as well as the Alhóndigain Bilbao.Without the tyranny of the computer

assessments, the players’ ideas were admiredand appreciated by the commentators andthe hundreds of fans who watched the gameslive every round (including during an unsea-sonal cold spell in São Paulo).The players did their part; exposing

their flaws at post-game press conferenceswin or lose, while also posing for multiplephotos with fans—no doubt soon to bedisplayed as a modern form of autographon Facebook.At the conclusion of each half primary

commentators Gilberto Milos (in Brazil)and Leontxo Olasagasti Garcia (in Spain)made a point of thanking each of the play-ers for competing hard and fearlessly. Thethanks were amplified by the audiencewith rousing rounds of applause.The armchair critics may not have been

impressed, but you can see from thesesix examples that, without computer help,it is not so easy to prove yourself smarterthan a super-grandmaster?

Read more about the final at: www.bilbaomastersfinal.com/en/home/ and more from GM Ian Rogerson Chess Life Online, uschess.org, September andOctober archives.

CL_01-2013_Bilbao_DLF_r11.qxp_chess life 12/11/12 10:38 PM Page 27


GM Alejandro Ramirez with Moira Kamgar and Elliott Liu

When Ramirez was asked what he was wearing, he gave his suit lapel a proud tug and announced it was his “pimp suit.”

CL_01-2013_Ramirez_AKF_r8_chess life 12/11/12 4:06 PM Page 28


he purple-appareled grandmasterknows how to make an entrance. Ale-jandro Tadeo Ramirez Alvarez, knownin short as Alejandro Ramirez, entered

dinner fashionably late with fellow playerElliott Liu. While Liu had suited up and donnedsun glasses, GM Ramirez took things to awhole other level. He dressed in a purple hatand purple snakeskin-style shoes, tipped ingold, which sandwiched a matching purplesuit, shiny pale silk tie and dress shirt. Punc-tuated by his confident peacock-like walk,there was no missing his arrival.

The dinner was hosted by Ankit Guptaat one of the top three restaurants in LosAngeles, Providence Los Angeles, as a wel-come for the VIPs to the First MetropolitanChess International. When Ramirez wasasked what he was wearing, he gave hissuit lapel a proud tug and announced itwas his “pimp suit.”

Los Angeles is a long way from Ramirez’sCosta Rican roots, but he has no troubleadapting to life in America. He is a fun lov-ing, outgoing young man enjoying histwenties. As GM Robert Hess describesRamirez, “He is a pretty cool guy and fitsin with many different crowds.” Ramirez isenjoying the scene while taking a year offpost-college for chess. He is currently call-ing Dallas home.

So far, he is succeeding in the chess goalshe has set for himself for the year, but he is

most interested in “just [being] a happyperson.” And so he often is seen smiling andtaking time for friends. Even during tourna-ment play, it is hard to tell from looking athim whether his game is still in progress,unless he is actually sitting at the board. Hiseasy-going, relaxed style comes not onlyfrom his upbringing but also from the con-fidence he has in his game.

Ramirez learned the game as a childfrom his father on an old wooden set whenhe was four years old. He recalled with asmile the first lessons he had with hisfather, “He taught me the en passant rulewrong.” Ramirez’s father may not havehad all of the rules of chess down, butwithout him Ramirez would not be theplayer or person he is today.

Ramirez said, “My dad was instrumen-

tal in my development as a person and asa chess player. Despite the fact that hecan’t really see tactics or see more than afew moves ahead, he has a deep under-standing of psychology and can sensepositions quite well. If I explain a game tohim, he can infer things I can’t see, suchas the mood of the player, the causes forblunders and many others. We workedtogether close to two hours a day every dayfor two years.”

After working so closely together, Ramirezhas many memories of his training ses-sions with his father. One lesson comes tomind from when he was 14 years old. “Iremember showing [my father] a game froma long time ago between Naiditsch andNakamura. I didn’t think too much aboutthe game, but when I analyzed it with him,he was able to see many things I couldn’t.It’s probably a session I won’t forget, as itopened up my mind to new ideas beyond theboard. We came up with so many systemsof play and psychological processes thatI’ve lost track. It’s honestly hard to explainto an outsider.” Ramirez and his father nolonger work together but, “Of course, oursessions that we had so many years ago stillhave their stamp on me today.”

Ramirez reflected, “I've loved chess sinceI started playing in tournaments, moreor less when I was around seven years old.I didn’t take it seriously until I was at

www.uschess.org 29

Stoked!Alejandro Ramirez, the first grandmaster from

Central America, is adding color to the U.S. chess scene.

Text and Photos By BETSY CARINA DYNAKO

T



least 13 though, as before that I had otherdistractions, such as school and videogames and who knows what else. I didn’treally learn to love the game until after Ibecame an IM, when I dedicated muchmore time to it. What I love about thegame can’t really be summarized easily,but I suppose that some of the things thatattract me are its simultaneous complex-ity and simplicity, the ability to create,and how it requires so much of the play-ers that you can see their personal faultsand traits by looking at the games closely.”Ramirez’s father noted how his son had

developed a love of the game and theydecided that a sponsor would be needed inorder to allow Ramirez to make a career orany lasting success of it. Ramirez recalled,“It is very difficult to convincepeople to sponsor anything thatisn’t soccer in my country. Ilucked out, and a chess playingfan talked to one of his clientswho happened to be the CEO ofGBM, an IBM Alliance Com-pany. It struck his interest andan interview was scheduled. Idazzled and got money.”Ramirez continued, “The GBMSponsorship was key to mycareer. Without I don’t think Iwould be where I am now, nei-ther academically norchess-wise.”In the U.S., funding like Ramirez

received would likely have been used inpart to hire a host of coaches to work withthe young up-and-coming player, but thatwas not the road that Ramirez took. “Iguess that’s one of the unique things aboutme. I’ve never worked with anyone. I neverhad a coach—besides my dad. I’ve alwaysworked alone. It’s been quite detrimentalto my career but I didn’t have that manychoices in Costa Rica.”It is hard to believe that Ramirez’s train-

ing choices caused much detriment to hisgame when you look at what he hasachieved. After reaching the title of FIDEmaster at age nine and being awarded thetitle of international master at age 13, hewent on to grandmaster at age 15. Ramirezis the first grandmaster from Central Amer-ica, and not only was he 15 when he wasawarded the grandmaster title, he was onemonth younger than Bobby Fischer waswhen he became a grandmaster. For CostaRica, Ramirez—like Fischer for the U.S.—became an important national chess figurein his country.As chess in the 1970s enjoyed increased

popularity in the U.S., following Fischer’shistoric Cold War win, the success ofRamirez inspired the same in Costa Rica.“I was immensely popular in Costa Rica.Because we are so small and we rarelyhave a success story, the fact that I becamea GM so early and was winning tourna-ments made me kind of a celebrity. I used

to be a motivational speaker to low incomeschools in Costa Rica. Basically I wentaround telling kids what to do if theywanted to be successful, on how I did it andhow they could do it, too ... The national U-14 championship went from 30 kids toover 100 when I got my GM. No [serious]chess players came out of this, but hope-fully I inspired someone to become good atsomething. I gave many speeches, I thinkI even have a hall named after me in someschool in my home country.”Ramirez feels any other comparisons

between him and Fischer should end there.“I never met the dude, so it’s hard to answer[how we are alike]. I’m not that similar tohim, from what I’ve heard. I’m very social,I’m not world champion, I have many inter-

ests, I think I’m not crazy. Actually besidesplaying chess and achieving the GM title ata young age, we don’t have much in com-mon. Maybe that we both did it without GMhelp and relatively alone?”As a young teen, Ramirez believed he

would make chess his career but eventu-ally he changed his mind. “I wanted abigger perspective in life, I also wanted toexperience new fields.” This desire formore led Ramirez to the U.S. in pursuit ofhigher education. “I wanted to go to [auniversity], but I couldn’t in Costa Rica,because I never graduated high school.With my resume and my high SAT scores,UT Dallas either didn’t care or looked theother way and offered me a lot of money.It was a match made in heaven.”For a young man as intelligent as

Ramirez to elect not to finish high schoolbut then pursue a college education maynot make sense to a lot of people, butRamirez has an explanation. “It (highschool) was a waste of time. I dedicated itto chess. When I went back to school it tookme weeks to catch up. I don’t think I missedvery much in those years when I did notattend the traditional education system.”His education choices may leave a bad

taste in the mouths of adults who held theyoung Ramirez up as an example ofachievement to their own children. How-ever, Ramirez doesn’t feel he owes it toanyone to set an example by graduatinghigh school; he actually feels the opposite.“I hope more kids stop going to high

school. Don’t take this in the wrong way—I don’t want them to quit and get a min-imum wage job, or to quit and do nothing.I want them to quit and pursue a dream,a goal. Go and take college classes, learnabout robotics, start programming, starta business, pursue a sport. The schoolsystem is too slow, you could be usingthose years to really bolster somethinguseful. I feel people that come out of highschool don’t know how to do anything,and that’s scary. When I was 17, I had askill. I played chess. Maybe I wasn’t top inthe world, but I already knew that theworst case scenario was I could teachchess to make a living. Not too many peo-ple at 17 have that—a useful skill. So toanswer your question, I hope I set an

example by not going.”Leaving high school was

right for Ramirez, but sowas his desire to attendcollege. “I’m very happythat I decided to go to col-lege. I started college as aphysics major and hatedit. I even interned in thenanotech lab at my uni-versity, which is awesomeif you are into it, but I was-n’t. Then I read that therewas this class where youhad to play a game as your

first assignment. Being a long time videogame addict, I jumped on the opportu-nity, got to know the program and fell inlove with it. I now have a masters degreeand got to work on an extremely importantvideo game project. I’m stoked for May15th, when Diablo III comes out, as thatis the biggest game I’ve worked on. I thinka person can reinvent themselves manytimes during their lives. Now maybe I willbe a chess player, maybe I will use mydegree, maybe I will do something else. I’mnot focused on chess just because it’s theonly thing I know how to do.”Video gaming playing and programming

has not detracted from chess at all forRamirez, and it seems chess has onlyenhanced his gaming career. “With manyof the games that I work with and playthere are many parallels. It would be thesubject of an interesting but lengthy arti-cle on how Starcraft specifically relatesto chess. Starcraft is a real-time strategygame—as opposed to chess, which is aturn based strategy game/sport/science,whatever—and it borrows so many differ-ent concepts from chess that it is uncanny.Actually, I believe that my competitiveexperience and my understanding of over-all strategy was what allowed me to get myinternship at Blizzard [Entertainment].”Despite being a permanent resident liv-

ing in America for over six years now,Ramirez is seen by many as new to Amer-ican chess. “I play in the U.S. almostexclusively and I’m involved with U.S.


“My dad was instrumental in my development as a person and as a chess player.”


Chess politics to a minor degree. CostaRica’s chess federation has never sup-ported me in one way or another, so I feltI didn’t owe them anything. The only thingI’m missing out is playing the Olympiadevery year, but honestly I’m hoping toqualify for the U.S. eventually.” To thisend, Ramirez changed hisfederation in 2011 fromCosta Rica to the USA.

Since he is now officially anAmerican player, Ramirez wasable to qualify for the 2012U.S. Championship, aboutwhich he couldn’t be moreexcited. “I’m stoked. This isthe strongest tournament Ihave ever played, and I’mexcited to win some games.”On the flip side, Ramirez wascareful about making a pre-diction about his performance,“I don't know. I’ll just quoteYury [Shulman] and say that‘I’ll play chess and see.’”

As the Championship approached, manyof the players were working on their gamesand Ramirez was among them. “I’ve alwaysbeen self-dependent in chess, but I’m cur-rently looking for someone that would bea good fit as a coach/second. It seemsI’m getting to that point where doing all the

work myself is not worth it. I have ChessBase and magazines and infiniteresources. I just study. I don’t under-stand people that say they don’t knowwhat to study in chess. There’s so muchout there it’s just about sitting down anddoing it. I used to study with some of the

UTD team members, and I’ve had trainingsessions with other GMs for brief times,but nothing solid right now.”

GM Ben Finegold provided live commentaryfor the Championship in 2012. When askedto describe Ramirez’s game he said, “I havenever played Alejandro. He plays pretty bor-ing. I like that.” One person who played

Ramirez during the tournament was GMRobert Hess. When it comes to Ramirez,Hess offered this opinion, “Clearly he is avery strong player, as his FIDE is now about2600 plus. I have known him for a numberof years, and he never fails to impress me. Isee him being a force to be reckoned with in

the U.S. championships to come.He will compete for a spot on theOlympiad team in the near future.”

After hearing what other grand-masters think of Ramirez’s play, itis interesting to learn what he feelsare his strengths and weaknesses.“I don’t know (what they are). Ishould pay some GM to tell me. Ijust kind of play. My openingssuck though. I’m an awesomeendgame player, but it seems likeless and less games go into theendgame.”

While being able to detail histalents and shortcomings on theboard might not be his strongest

suit, Ramirez does know what he mostlikes and dislikes about being a player.“The schedule! I love the freedom I have ofnot having a 9-to-5. Also, the travels areamazing. You get to experience so many coolcultures and meet so many interesting peo-ple with such different viewpoints. I reallylove that. The worst parts are probably the

www.uschess.org 31


Playing U.S. Number-One GM Hikaru Nakamura at the 2010 U.S. Blitz Championship in St. Louis, Missouri.

For Costa Rica, Ramirez—like Fischer for the U.S.—became an importantnational chess figure in his country.


travels, that is, when they accumulate oneafter another and you want to be home. Thepay is not fabulous, which is another badthing. Also I’ve heard from other players thathaving a family isn’t the easiest, againbecause of the constant travel. But on theother hand, I’ve also met many GMs who

play professionally and have not had aproblem with that.”For now Ramirez is focused on enjoying

all of the things there are to love aboutchess. “My life is overall very happy. Peo-ple keep asking me if I’m miserable or if Idon’t like my life because I’m not 2800. It’sjust so ridiculous. I love my life so much.I love my friends, my activities, where I live,my family, chess, video games, randomactivities. It’s like I have something to lookforward to every day.” When it comes towhat makes him the most happy, “I get mygreatest peaks from victory—in chess orany other competition and in girls. I guessboth are pretty standard. Solving thingsalso makes me incredibly happy.”If you run into Ramirez at a tourna-

ment, just try not to kill his joy, as he hassome opinions about being asked bystrangers how to improve their own games.“That must be the single most annoyingquestion I get at tournaments. What some-body needs to improve their game is soindividual that when I give an answer, itmay or may not be what that person needs.It would be more useful if they said some-thing like, ‘Hey, can I hire you for a fewhours so you can go over my games andyou can tell me what I need to work on thenext few months?’ But, of course, peoplewant the free five-minute answer. UsuallyI just tell them to study tactics and readsome Kotov. Those things are quite basic.Sometimes I think people want me to tellthem to study 50 Karpov games and theywill gain 200 points.”As his post-college year off continues,

Ramirez wants to enjoy himself, but healso has goals beyond chess. “I’m a prettysocial guy. I go out, visit friends, explore newplaces. If not, you’ll find me in my room try-ing to perfect some skill. I was trying tobecome the only Grandmaster Starcraftand chess player in the world (yes, there isa Grandmaster Starcraft rank!) but I’m stillquite far from that one. I’m only a Master,which is the rank below. I’d like to learn anew language soon, too, so I might start thatin the next few weeks.”Should Ramirez not “wow” during his

future tournaments as he hopes, he is prettysure it will not be from lack of preparation.“Diablo III comes out in May and that will

be consuming. I’m actually upset, since itcomes out during the U.S. Championship.[Blizzard Game Director] Jay Wilson will bethe death of my tournament.” Hopefully forhimself and his fans, he will be able to findsome balance between the two games.Regardless of his final outcome at the tour-nament, Ramirez is ready to be a part of U.S.chess for the longterm. He is looking forwardto a long life in the States, playing in morechampionships and one day earning a spoton the U.S. Olympiad team.

Ramirez annotates his favorite game forChess Life’s readers:

King’s Indian Defense, Classical Variation (E90)GM Alejandro Ramirez Alvarez (FIDE 2594, USA)GM Alexander Shabalov (FIDE 2590, USA)UT Dallas GM Invitational, Richardson, USA (6),03.15.2011

1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. e4 d6 5. Nf30-0 6. h3

I am no great opening expert, so once ina while I like throwing in a variation thatis in ‘vogue’ and try to figure out whatthe current players are thinking. By nomeans do I claim that I have any idea why6. h3 was played, I simply knew it hadbeen tried a few times before that year. Therest I would figure out over the board!

6. ... Qe8 A rather rare move, but I wasn’t aware

of this fact at the time. Of course I knewsome of the typical plans for Black, and Ifigured the point of 6. ... Qe8 was to avoidpotential trades after ... e7-e5 and pins on


Ramirez at a Glance

Awarded the title of FIDE master at age nine.

Awarded the title of international master at age 13.

Awarded the title of grandmaster at age 15.

October 25-November 11, 2002: Alejandro becomes known to the world

at large during the 2002 Chess Olympiad in Bled, Slovenia, when, at the age of 13, he drew the Russian super-Grandmaster

Alexander Morozevich.

His grandmaster title was ratified by FIDE at the January 2004 Assembly,

becoming the first and only grandmasterfrom Central America.

August 2011: Tied for first in the 2011 U.S. Open.

January 2012: Finished second-fourth in the

2012 Northern California International.

February 2012: Scored 6-0 at the 2012

World Amateur Team in New Jersey.

May 2012: Finished second-ninth

in the 2012 Chicago Open.

October 2012: Finished third-fifth in the 2012

Spice Cup Open.

November 2012: Coach of the U.S. World Youth team.

Starcraft specifically relates to chess.Starcraft is a real-time strategy game[that] borrows so many different concepts from chess that it is uncanny.




the h4-d8 diagonal.

7. Be3 Na6 White has many options as to how to

continue. Of course, I was aware that myopponent was planning to play ... e7-e5 onthe next move, so I had a few choices onhow to proceed. First, I noticed that after ...e7-e5 I would have three key ideas: keep thetension, push d4-d5 or trade on e5. Sincethe first was less appealing, it boiled downto preparing the d5 push or setting myselfup for some kind of edge after trading on e5.I chose the latter, but GM Anatoly Karpovin one blitz game against GM Judit Polgarchose the former.

8. Rc1!? I love my thinking with this move. As

weird as it sounds, I feel I’m rather strongwhen I’m forced to develop my pieces with-out mechanically shuffling wood accordingto how some book told me to do it. MaybeI should switch to Chess960! 8. a3!? e5 9. d5 Nc5 10. Nd2 and we see

the point of a3—now ... a7-a5 does not pre-vent b2-b4. Very clever by the ex-worldchampion! However my idea is not bad atall either.

8. ... e5 9. dxe5 dxe5 10. c5 This was, if you will, the point of Rc1.

White is planning to trade off on a6, whichmeans that Black is forced to play b6. Thebishop will go directly from f1 to c4 and beon its most useful square after that, insteadof hanging around miserably on e2.

10. ... b6 11. Bc4 Pretty standard. White doesn’t care

about being down a pawn because hisstructure is much superior.

11. ... Nxc5

Black had no better move.

12. Bxc5 bxc5 13. 0-0 Rb8 14. Qd2 Kh8 15. b3

With the better structure, I only have todo two things. The first is restrict Black’sactivity—specifically I can’t let the gameopen up too much because of Black’s pairof bishops. The second is gobble up theblack pawns and queen one of my own.

15. ... Nh5!?

In typical Shabalov fashion, he tries tostrike as soon as possible. I don’t need toreact to this just yet. 15. ... Bb7 16. Qe3Qe7 17. Rfd1 h6 was more stable andsteady, but White’s initiative is buildingwhile Black is playing random moves. Itseems that Shabalov’s play is looser but atleast poses troubles. More than one of myopponents has suffocated to death bybeing Zugzwanged in the middle game.

16. Qe3 f5 17. Qxc5 Nf4 Black gave back the c5-pawn with lit-

tle fight, but his pieces look to be quitethreatening.

18. Rcd1 I played this rook to avoid the following

variation 18. Rfd1 fxe4 19. Ng5 Nd3 20.Bxd3 exd3 21. Rxd3 Bf5 and I thoughtBlack had more activity than he deserved,even if White is still better.

18. ... Bb7 White is also much better after 18. ...

fxe4 19. Ng5 or 18. ... Ne6 19. Qxa7.

19. Qxc7 White is not only doing quite well in his

“step 2” (gobble and queen) but the activ-ity of Black’s pieces has been kept to aminimum. At no point is taking on e4beneficial to Black.

19. ... Ne6 20. Bxe6 Qxe6 21. Rd6 Qc8 22.Qxc8 22. Qe7 is a terrifyingly “computer” move.

I didn’t half consider this during the game,to be honest.

22. ... Rfxc8 23. Nd5 Rd8!

Shaba always fights back as well as hecan. With the active rook gone, he stillhopes to open up his bishops to createtrouble for White.

24. Rxd8+ Rxd8 25. Ne3! I must say, I’m extremely proud of this

move. Although it seems mundane andthat it gives Black a ton of choices, themove creates an unbelievable amount ofproblems for my opponent, as there is noeasy solution out of the resulting endgames.

25. ... Rf8

Protecting the pawn, but now the knightsswarm. 25. ... fxe4 26. Ng5 Rd7 27. Rc1White’s knights dominate the bishops andthe majority on the queenside will eventu-ally win easily; 25. ... f4 26. Nd5! Bxd5 (Nobetter is 26. ... h6 27. Rc1 Kg8 28. Rc5) 27.Rd1! and White emerges up a pawn in awinning endgame; 25. ... Kg8 26. exf5 Bxf327. gxf3 gxf5 28. Nxf5 gives Black plenty ofhope, but White is still up a pawn. Also heisn’t forced to immediately take on f5; 25.... Bxe4 26. Ng5 Bd5 27. Rd1 Bf6 28. Rxd5Rxd5 (28. ... Bxg5 29. Rxe5 was probablythe best line for Black.) 29. Nxd5 Bxg5 30.Nb4 e4 31. Nc6 a6 seems like a near hope-less endgame as White can simply roll hisqueenside forward. Maybe it isn’t so clear,but would a human really go into this?

26. Ng5 Bc8 27. Rc1 Kg8 White is also winning after 27. ... h6 28.

Nf7+!.

28. Nd5 Bb7 29. Ne7+ Kh8 30. Rc7 Bxe4 31.Rc8 I had already calculated the end, so I

played this pretty move. More normal moveslike Rxa7 also win without complications.

31. ... Bh6 The only move that doesn’t get mated

instantly. 31. ... Rxc8 32. Nf7 matewould’ve been fun to play.

32. Nxe4 fxe4 33. Rxf8+ Bxf8 34. Nc6 Bc5 35.b4!

It takes the computers a while to realizethat White doesn’t have to take on e5 by anymeans and can simply advance the pawns.Once they are sufficiently far advanced,the sacrifice on a7 decides the game.

35. ... Bb6 36. a4 e3 37. fxe3 Bxe3+ 38. Kf1Kg7 39. Ke2 Bg1 40. b5 Kf6 41. a5 Ke6 42.Nxa7, Black resigned. 42. ... Bxa7 43. b6 Bxb6 44. axb6 Kd7

45. Ke3 Kc6 46. Ke4 is a very obviouslywon king and pawn endgame. I chosethis game because this is the kind ofgame I like to win. Some precise moveshere and there, no hard calculations, lotsof restricting of your opponent’s counter-play, a winning endgame and finally:collecting the point.

www.uschess.org 33



King’s Indian Defense (KID), Sämisch Variation (E87)Wilbur Tseng (2344)Tim Corkum (2114)2008 Electronic Knights

1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. e4 d6 5. f30-0 6. Be3 e5 7. d5 White establishes the Sämisch pawn

wall, a white barrier that sets Blackthe problem of where to find space forhis pieces.

7. ... Nh5 The alternative (and slightly more pop-

ular) line is 7. ... c6.

8. Qd2 Qh4+


9. Bf2 It is noteworthy that Tseng rejects 9. g3

Nxg3 10. Qf2 Nxf1 11. Qxh4 Nxe3. Statis-tically White scores 60% in recent games

(2010-2012) against this line. But Tseng plays a game of control and chooses toreject this line in favor of the more solid9. Bf2 as after 9. g3, Black can play 9.... Qe7 anyway. But Tseng is known to be an excellent researcher. He has donehis homework and has prepared a line to give him strong chances againstCorkum’s KID.

9. ... Qe7 10. Nge2 f5 11. exf5 The first indication that something

is up. White willingly breaks up the

Sämisch wall.

11. ... gxf5 12. 0-0-0 Na6 All this had been seen in Leonid

Shamkovich-Dragoljub Janosevic, LonePine 1979 which continued 13. Re1 with aslight edge to White.

13. h3 With the obvious attacking idea of 14. g4.

13. ... f4 Black swaps the hole on e4 for the one

on g3 and safety for his king, but it is anillusion—the kingside will be opened upanyway.

14. Rg1! Kh8 15. g4 fxg3 e.p.Black is forced into this capture as 15.

... Nf6 16. Kb1 to be followed by Nc1 andBd3 when White dominates e4 and thehole on g3 is only a memory.

16. Nxg3 Nf4 Black chooses activity over the more

The Staff of LifeThe 2008 Electronic Knights ChampionshipBy FM ALEX DUNNE


AT THE TOP LEVEL correspondence chess can be hard work. This is a position from the semi-final round. White is Wilbur Tseng, the champion-to-be in the 2008 Electronic Knightsfinals. Black is Tim Corkum who needs to hold this game to qualify for the finals. Tseng, whois a researcher in molecular biology at Northwestern University has meticulously worked outa win against the expected 48. ... Ke5. The win at this point in the Electronic Knights was espe-cially important as he had already given up two draws, one in the preliminary round to RobertFass and one in the semifinal also to Robert. The Electronic Knights is a very unforgiving tour-nament. Too many draws and first place may just slip from your grasp. Wilbur Tseng is not the kind of chess player to let things easily slip from his grip. Previ-

ously in USCF play he has won master-level Walter Muir, John Collins, Express and Trophytournaments. Internationally he has finished first (5½-½) in the Russian Preliminary to the2010 Alpert Cup. This time he has set his sights on the 2008 Electronic Knights. But he hassome tough competition.First, though he has to wait for Tim Corkum to make his move in the above diagram. Let

the reader decide what is Black’s best chance. Here is the game up to this point.BLACK TO PLAY

CL_01-2013_CC_AKF_r8_chess life 12/11/12 10:29 PM Page 34


passive 16. ... Nxg3, and for the next 30moves or so, activity is what he gets.

17. Kb1 Nxh3 18. Bxh3 Bxh3 19. Nh5 Bf5+ 20.Ka1 Bg6 21. Nxg7 Qxg7 22. Rg3 Rf4 23. Ne4Qf7 24. Ng5 Qf5 25. b3 Qc2

Black has an extra pawn, but his kingis not safe and his knight is in exile. Untilthese problems are solved, the button onh7 is not a factor.

26. Qxc2 Bxc2 27. Rh1 Rf6 28. Be3 Re8 29.Rh6 Ref8 30. Rxf6 Rxf6 31. f4! Bg6 Nor does 31. ... Nb4 help much—32.

fxe5 dxe5 33. Ne6 c6 34. d6! Rxe6 35.Bc5 Nd3 36. d7.

32. fxe5 dxe5 33. Nf3 Nb4 34. Bg5 Ra6 35. a4Nd3 36. Bd8 e4 37. Nh4 Kg7 38. Bxc7 White has regained his pawn and the d-

pawn is very strong, but Black is not outof it yet.

38. ... Rf6 39. Kb1 Rf3! Corkum continues his mantra of activity—

and rightfully so. The goal is an oppositecolored bishops endgame, but is it enough?

40. Nxf3 exf3 41. Rg1 f2 42. Rf1 Bf5 43. Bg3Bh3 44. Rxf2 Nxf2 45. Bxf2 a6 46. Kc2 As we approach the diagram at the top

of the article, you need to consider yourwinning chances.

46. ... Kf6 47. Kc3 Bg4 48. b4 And here we are. This game, which

started on September 2011 has nowreached August 2012. After nearly a yearof digging and scratching for an edge,Tseng has analyzed a win after 48. ... Ke549. Bg3+ Ke4 50. b5 axb5 51. axb5 andBlack is in Zugzwang as he cannot stopd5-d6 and the white king from going to b4when White will have two passed pawnsrunning toward the end zone. For exam-ple, 51. ... Bd7 52. d6 h5 53. Kb4 Bg4 54.Kc5 Kd3 55. Kd5 Bd7 56. Be5 Kc2 57. c5Bxb5 58. Ke6 Kb3 59. d7 Bxd7+ 60. Kxd7when the Nalimov endgame tablebase givesa forced mate for White in 28 moves.

48. ... b5!, Draw agreed. Corkum’s final active thrust reduces

the game to a draw—49. cxb5 axb5 50. a5Ke5 51. a6 Bc8 52. a7 Bb7 is a draw.

www.uschess.org 35

Wilbur TsengAlthough this is Wilbur’s first majordomestic correspondence chess success,it mirrors a path of success in numerousfields. “Food,” Tseng writes, “is very sim-ilar to chess in its complexities andnuances.” This may explain why he is achef and restauranteur owning severalrestaurants and bakeries throughoutthe Midwest. And if that is not enoughfood for thought, Tseng’s passion isexploring the brain as he is a consultantfor Research and Development at Neu-rocare at Northwestern University. Wilburdid his undergraduate work at North-western University in engineering wherehe was a Dean’s Scholar, and his grad-uate work in neuroscience where hediscovered the molecular pathway differ-ences between spatial and temporalmemory. He has been published andpeer reviewed in articles in The Journalof Neuroscience, Hippocampus, Learning& Memory, and European Journal of Neu-roscience.In his free time he enjoys listening to

live jazz bands in the Chicago area, andhe volunteers his time with the YouthChess Foundation of Chicago whichprovides a valuable service in free chesstournaments to low income Chicagopublic school students.In conclusion, Wilbur would like to

share two thoughts with the reader.In correspondence chess, we can

beat the aliens even if they do havesuper- duper supercomputers.It isn’t until you die that you fully

understand the value of what you have.

Robert FassRobert Fass finished third this year(2008). Add that to his second place fin-ish in the 2004 Electronic Knights andyou know he will be gunning for firstplace next time! Robert is a lawyer prac-ticing commercial litigation in New YorkCity. He started playing correspondencechess (then only postal) in the early ‘70s.Back then Robert believed he had anadvantage because he had a great libraryof chess books. After law school he tooka long break from chess, picking up agame here and there to keep his hand in.Missing correspondence play, he startedup again in the ‘90s. And how things hadchanged due to the Internet and comput-ers! Databases are now available that

put his old library to shame. Computerscan help create and organize one’s owndatabase of favorite openings eventhough the computer is not allowed togenerate moves in USCF play. The Fritzprogram is creating an online databasefrom computer and player analysis. Allof these things result in stronger corre-spondence players than existed whenhe first started playing. Robert stillbelieves, however, that there is a place forthe human brain in correspondencechess. His greatest reservation aboutusing computers is that not all playerscan afford one. But all in all, he notes,that he has as much fun playing in theInternational Correspondence ChessFederation (ICCF) with a computer as hedoes in the USCF without one. But whatthe USCF desperately needs is the chessserver currently in beta testing. E-mail isunreliable, and makes it hard to keepaccurate records. He believes many moreplayers will be attracted to correspon-dence chess when the server is available.He looks forward to his next games withhis many USCF and ICCF friends.

Gary WaltersGary Walters is a civil litigator, focusingon dispute resolution concerning finan-cial institutions and other businesstransactions, in Cleveland, Ohio. Waltersbegan correspondence chess play in themid-nineties, but a military career as aU.S. Army major postponed his postalplay. He graduated with a law degreefrom Cornell in 1999 and returned tocorrespondence chess in 2007 with apassion with over 300 correspondencechess games in the last few years. Garyis also hopeful that the USCF will ulti-mately provide its own web server forcorrespondence chess play. Second placewas secured by Walters. Gary earned hismasters rating with three first place fin-ishes in Walter Muir events and then atie for first in the 2009 Absolute. Only hisloss to champion Harry Ingersol pre-vented Gary from repeating as 2010Absolute champion where Gary finishedin second place. And now a second placefinish in the 2008 Absolute Champi-onship marks Gary as one of our mostsuccessful correspondence players.Gary has also seen success in the

field of chess politics as he sits on theexecutive board of the United StatesChess Federation.

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No Electronic Knights Championshiphas ever produced a perfect score for thewinner. Every draw is nearly as fatal to thewinner’s chances as a loss. Going into thefinal round, Gary Walters had the leadwith 11-1 (6-0 in the preliminary round).Tied at 10½-1½ were Tseng, Fass andCorkum. Still in contention at 10-2 wereMichael Buss, Barry Endsley, MichaelHensley, and William Morris. Gary Walterswas in top form in his final section. The fol-lowing game shows some brilliant flashes.

French Defense, Classical System (C11)Gary Walters (2338)Leo Malagar (2108) 2008 Electronic Knights Final

1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. e5 Nfd7 5. f4c5 6. Nf3 Nc6 7. Be3 Qb6 8. Na4 Qa5+ 9. c3cxd4 10. b4 Nxb4 11. cxb4 Bxb4+ 12. Bd2Bxd2+ 13. Nxd2 0-0 14. Bd3 b5 15. Nb2 Nb616. 0-0 Nc4 17. Nbxc4 Oddly enough this game so far has fol-

lowed Thordarson-Tseng, 2007 Swift Quadwhich ended abruptly after 17. Bxh7+Kxh7 18. Qh5+ Kg8 19. Nf3 g6 20. Qh6and White withdrew.

17. ... bxc4 18. Bxh7+ Kxh7 19. Qh5+ Kg8 20.Nf3 g6 21. Qh6 Qc7 If Black only looked at the statistics in

choosing this line, he would find a dismalrecord for Black. In seven master gamesfrom 2010–2012 Black scored only threedraws. But things are not quite so bad.

22. f5! f6! 23. fxg6 Qg7

This is the position Malagar has playedfor. In the two games it has appeared in,Dmitry Frolyanov-Alexandre Danin, RussiaCup 2010 and Merijn Van Delft-ThibaultLouis, Vins du Medoc 2012, Black hasscored two draws.

24. Qh4! But this is an improvement over those

two games where 24. Qh5 was played.The g6-pawn is bait. White’s three piecesoverwhelm the black king after 24. ... Qxg625. exf6 Qxf6 26. Ng5 Qg6 27. Rxf8+ Kxf828. Rf1+ Kg8 29. Nh3 Bb7 30. Nf4.

24. ... Qh8 25. Qxd4 Ba6 26. Nh4

The e-pawn is immune—26. ... fxe5 27.Qg4 Rfe8 28. Rf7 puts too much pressureon Black.

26. ... f5 27. Nxf5! Rxf5 28. Rxf5 exf5 29.Qxd5+ Kg7 30. Qd7+ Kh6 31. Rd1

31. ... Bb5 White mops up after 31. ... Qxe5 32.

Qh7+ Kg5 33. h4+ Kg4 34. g7 Qe3+ 35.Kh1 Bb7 36. g8=Q+ Rxg8 37. Qxg8+ Kxh438. Qh7+ Kg4 39. Qxb7.

32. Qe7 Re8 33. Qh4+ Kxg6 34. Rd6+ Kf7 35.Rf6+ Kg8 36. Qg5+ Qg7 37. Rg6 Qxg6 38.Qxg6+ Kh8 39. Qxf5 White has established an easily won

endgame which Walters went on to wineasily. Black undoubtedly has his rea-sons for continuing to play on, and it is hisright, but there is no reason to commentfurther on a wonderfully played game byWalters.

39. ... Rg8 40. e6 Be8 41. e7 Kg7 42. Qg4+ Kh843. Qxc4 Kg7 44. Qd4+ Kg6 45. h4 Kf7 46.Qc4+ Kg7 47. g4 Rh8 48. Qd4+ Kg8 49. h5Rh7 50. Qd5+ Kg7 51. Qg5+ Kf7 52. Qg6+Kxe7 53. Qxh7+ Bf7 54. g5 Ke8 55. g6 Be6 56.Qxa7 Bd7 57. h6 Ke7 58. h7 Kd6 59. h8=Q,Black resigned.Walters appeared to have excellent

chances for a first-place finish. But corre-spondence chess is different fromover-the-board chess. In over-the-boardchess the game is over in a few hours.Sometimes in correspondence chess thecares and problems of the world can inter-fere. That interference occurred in Walter’sfinal game against Michael Hensley. It wentunreported despite numerous inquiries toboth players. A call for adjudication wassent out in February 2012, but no answer

was forthcoming. Finally the game wasdeclared a draw by Rule 16d: If neitherplayer submits the adjudication materialwithin one week after the tournament’send date, the game is scored as a ratabledraw.

Arguably the player with the toughestschedule was Robert Fass. Fass enteredtwo sections, qualifying for the semifinalsin both, and making it to the finals in onesemifinal section and barely missing (4-2)qualification in the other. During his runhe had to face Tseng three times (!) andCorkum twice. A draw with William YoungIII in the final cemented his claim on thirdplace. Robert was kind enough to submitthis game with his notes noting that heused books, databases, computer analy-sis and his own opinions.

Sicilian Defense, Classical Variation (B64)Robert Fass (2342)Gerald Weiner (2231)2008 Electronic Knights FinalNotes by Fass

1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nc3 Nc6 The Classical Sicilian rears its head.

6. Bg5 e6 7. Qd2 Be7 More popular is 7. ... a6.

8. 0-0-0 0-0 9. f4 h6 10. Bh4

10. ... e5 According to Richard Palliser: “10. ...

Nxe4 doesn’t work here on account of 11.Bxe7 Nxd2 12. Bxd8 Nxf1 13. Nxc6 bxc614. Be7 Re8 15. Rhxf1 Rxe7 16. Rxd6 and


“Food is very similar to chess in its complexities and nuances.”

~WILBUR TSENG

CL_01-2013_CC_AKF_r8_chess life 12/11/12 10:50 PM Page 36


White emerges with a pleasant, long-termadvantage.”

11. Nf5 Bxf5 12. exf5 Qa5 13. Bc4 Nd4 An uncommon move.

14. Kb1 Rfc8

Black threatens to win material: ... Rxc4.

15. Bd3 Rc7 16. Rhe1 Rac8 17. Bxf6 Bxf6 Now there are opposite colored bishops

—aargh!

18. Ne4 Qxd2

19. Nxf6+ Much worse is 19. Nxd2? Nxc2 20. Re2

Nb4.

19. ... gxf6 20. Rxd2 Nc6 21. Be4 exf4 22. Rf1 Not 22. Rxd6? Re8 23. b4 Nxb4 and

Black is better.

22. ... Re8 23. Rxf4 Rce7 24. Bf3 Re1+ 25. Bd1d5 26. Rxd5 R8e2 Black threatens to win material with ...

Rxg2.

27. Rg4+ Kh7 28. Kc1 Rf2 29. h3 Rff1 30. Rd2b5 31. a4 White threatens to win material by axb5.

31. ... Ne5 32. axb5 Nxg4 33. hxg4

(see diagram top of next column)White now has a passed pawn on c2.

White's passed pawn will eventually provedecisive.

33. ... Kg7 34. b3 h5 35. gxh5 Rxf5 36. h6+Kxh6 37. c4 Rff1 38. Kc2 Rf4 39. Bf3 Re7 40.Kc3 f5 41. Kb4 Rh4 42. Ka5 Re3 Black threatens to win material: ... Rxb3.

43. Bd1

43. ... Kg5? Gerry’s first slip. Until this point White

had only a small advantage and should beable to hold. Better is 43. ... Re7.

44. Rd7 Rh2 45. Rxa7 Rxg2 46. Rd7 Ra2+ No better is 46. ... Re5? 47. Kb4 Kf6 48.

b6.

47. Kb4 f4 The position was bad and this mistake

only shortens the game. Better is 47. ...Re6 48. Bf3 f4 49. Rxf7 Rd6.

48. b6 Ra8 49. b7, Black resigned. White’s pawns are unstoppable, so after

a valiant fight, Gerry resigns.

The final round saw Tseng pull awayfrom his rivals. A 5½-½ push put himahead of Gary Walters (4½-1½) and RobertFass (4½-1½) with Tseng’s only draw com-ing at the hands of Robert Fass.Here is a game from the final, lightly

annotated by Tseng, showing Tseng’s Pet-rosian-like style as he demonstrates it issometimes mobility, not material, thatwins endgames.

Queen’s Gambit Declined (D66)Wilbur Tseng (2344)Andrew Bussom (2146)2008 Electronic Knights FinalNotes by Tseng

1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 d5 4. Nf3 Be7 5. Bg50-0 6. e3 h6 7. Bh4 Nbd7 8. Rc1 c6 9. Bd3 dxc410. Bxc4 a6 11. a4 b5 12. Bd3 Bb7 13. 0-0 b4

One of my international master friendsplayed 14. Ne4 on me in a blitz game onChessOK (we are both 2500 on there so wewere evenly rated ...) and even though Iwon the game as Black, there were someinteresting themes White had available, soI tried it in a correspondence chess game(Tseng-Voiculescu—20. ... g6 21. Bf3 Rc722. Nb3 Kg7 23. Nc5 Nxc5 24. Rxc5 Kf825. Rdc1 Rb8 26. Kf2 Ke7 27. R1c4 Ba828. e4 Rb6 29. e5 Kd7 30. b3 Ra7 31.Ke3 a5 32. h4 g5 33. hxg5 hxg5 34. Rc1Rb8 35. Rf1 Rf8 36. Bg4 Ke7 37. Rh1 Rd838. Rh6 Rf8 39. Rh5 Rg8 40. Rh7 Kf6and his pieces have all been severelyrestricted Petrosian-style.

14. Ne4 Nxe4 15. Bxe7 Nxf2 16. Bh7+ Kh8 17.Bxd8 Nxd1 18. Rfxd1 Rfxd8 19. Be4 Rac8 20.Nd2 (Following Tseng-Voiculescu.)

20. ... Rc7 21. Nb3 g5 22. Bf3 Rdc8 23. Nc5Kg7 24. Kf2 Nxc5 25. Rxc5 At this point the game was still very

similar to the game against Voiculescu.

25. ... f5 26. h3 Kf6 27. Rdc1 Rb8 28. g4 b329. gxf5 exf5 30. R1c3 Ba8 31. Ra5, Blackresigned.All of Black’s pieces are on the defensive

and their movement is severely restrictedas with the Voiculescu game—a similarmotif in both games.

At A Glance: Standings 2008 Electronic Knights The final standings of the 2008 Electronic Knights are based on a weighted point scale. A win in the first round is scored as1.00 and a draw as 0.50. In the second round the win is worth 2.20 points and the draw 1.10. In the last round a win is recordedas 4.50 and the draw 2.25.

1st, 41.25:Wilbur Tseng; 2nd, 37.25: Gary Walters; 3rd, 36.75: Robert Fass; 4th, 32.40: Edwin Meiners; 5th, 32.25: Tim Corkum;6th, 31.75: Barry Endsley; 7th, 30.00: Michael Buss; 8th, 27.15: Leo Malagar; 9th, 26.05: Gerald Weiner; 10th, 25.00: WilliamMorris; 11th, 22.75: Michael Hensley; 12th, 21.70: Sal Celauro; 13th, 21.15: William Young; 14th, 20.05: Andrew Bussom.

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Problems / Benko

Mirko Degenkolbe (Meerane, Germany)

WHITE TO PLAY AND MATE IN TWO

Mirko Degenkolbe (Meerane, Germany)

WHITE TO PLAY AND MATE IN THREE

Robert Lincoln (Egg Harbor, NJ)

WHITE TO PLAY AND MATE IN TWO

SalutingBenkoProblemists offer a tribute to Pal Benko and 45 Years of BafflersBy STEVEN B. DOWD

n the occasion of PalBenko's column reachingits 45th anniversary (see

the April 2012 issue), problemistsfrom around the world have sentdedication problems for him. Here are 11 of them (The first two are symbol problems to honor the anniversary with a “4” and a “5”):


1. 2. 3.

Benko early in his career.

O

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Problems / Benko

Zalmin Kornin (Curitiba, BRA)

WHITE TO PLAY AND MATE IN FIVE

Steven B. Dowd (Birmingham, AL)

WHITE TO PLAY AND MATE IN FIVE

Andrew Kalotay (NY) Twin – Kd7-g4

BLACK TO PLAY AND HELPMATE IN TWO (H#2)

Steven B. Dowd & Rolf Wiehagen (Kaiserslautern, GER)

BLACK TO PLAY AND HELPMATE IN TWO, TWO SOLUTIONS

Gianni Donati (Princeton, NJ) Proof Game in 18.0 moves

As a reminder, the goal of a proof game isto achieve the above position, which shouldbe reached by a unique sequence of moves.In addition to the above composition from

Donati, we have the following from him,introduced by Benko:In my 45 years as a columnist I have

received many good wishes. The best ofthem was in problem form, which I stillcherish and on this occasion I would like toshare it with my readers. For my 67th birth-day and the “Benko Bafflers” Anniversary (Itstarted in 1967), I got my initials “P” and “B”as well as the number 67 in excellent retroproblems from our best retro specialist,Gianni Donati.You just have to find White’s last move and

justify it. I wish you good detective workand enjoy its logic, as I have. Some hints: For“P”, the question is, “Is Bb1+ or Bxb1+ cor-rect?” For “B”: Here are more choices: Rxb2+,or e4+, Ke1+, or Kxe1+? For “67”: Now Qb3-a4+,or Qc4-a4+ is the last move?Generally, you must consider the number

of men on the board and how many piecesare taken. The pawns and their captures aremost important.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

STILL STRONG AFTER 10 YEARSGM Pal Benko’s and IM Jeremy Silman’s2004 book, Pal Benko: My Life, Games and Compositions, won book of the yearawards from both the Cramer Committeeand the British Chess Federation.

Despite being a decade old, the book still fascinates with its entertaining anecdotes, annotations, and compositions spread over 600 pages. On chesscafe.com, Taylor Kingston wrote:

“Pal Benko: My Life, Games and Composi-tions stands out in terms of bothquantity and quality. Physically it isbeautifully produced: a hefty, hardcoverbook, well bound and printed, with many photographs. It has about 130 fullgames, extensively annotated, and many additional fragments. These are interspersed within a colorful, engagingautobiographical narrative. There are 20pages of interviews with Benko and closefriends, followed by a 130-page survey(by IM John Watson) of Benko’s contributions to opening theory. Thebook concludes with 300 of Benko’s compositions: a variety of problems, puzzles, and endgame studies.”

Pal Benko: My Life, Games and Compositionsby GM Pal Benko and IM Jeremy Silman667 pages (Siles Press, 2004) Available from USCF Sales (catalog number B0005SI), $44.95

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Solutions1. (DEGENKOLBE)1. Qe5+ Rxe5 (1. ... Nxe5 2. Ng5 mate) 2. Nd6mate.

2. (DEGENKOLBE)1. Kc2! d6 2. Kb3 dxc5 (2. ... e4 3. fxe4 mate.)3. Rd3 mate.It’s no secret that Pal Benko is the bestcomposer of “symbol” problems (those thatshow shapes such as letters or numbers)in the world, and Mirko is a long-timeadmirer of Benko’s symbol problems andminiatures, especially twinned miniatures(for which Pal holds the world record),another favorite of his.

3. (LINCOLN) Bob’s entry looks simple but it cleverlyshows some thematic devices one doesnot expect in a miniature: Set Play: 1. ...Ng6 (a) 2. Bf3 (A) 1. ... Ng4 (b) 2. Bf7 (B)and the tries: 1. Be4? Ng6 (a) 2. Bf3 (A) But1. ... Ng4! (b); 1. Be6? Ng4 (b) 2. Bf7 (B);But 1. ... Ng6! (a); Try: 1. Bf7 (B)+? Ng6 (a)2. Bxg6 (C) But 1. ... Nxf7!; 1. Bf3 (A)+? Ng4(b) 2. Bxg4 (D) But 1. ... Nxf3!; 1. Bc6? Ng6(a) 2. Bf3 (A) 1. ... Ng4 (b) 2. Be8 (E) But1. ... Nxc6!

Solution: 1. Bb3! Ng6 (a) 2. Bd1 mate. (F)1. ... Ng4 (b) 2. Bf7 mate. (B)

This problem shows the Bartolovic theme(One try changes set mate [B] but not[A] and the key changes set mate [A] but

not [B]), and a 3x2 Zagoruyko (In thecourse of the solution, there are threechanges to two black defenses). Amazingwhat our world champion can do withonly seven pieces!

4. (KORNIN)1. Na6 bxa6 2. Rc6+ Kd7 3. Nh5 f6 4. Nxf6+ Kd85. Re8 mate is the main variation, and ifother moves, White plays 2. Rc7! matingwith the rook on e6. There are some smallduals in that line (such as playing eitherKd4 or Kc4), but Zalmen considers themminor—and he is a Loyd disciple regard-ing such duals.

This asymmetric problem (a problem start-ing with a symmetrical position but withasymmetric play) has the thematic try 1.Ng6? (knight to the other side), which isonly refuted by 1. ... fxg6!

He met Benko when he was a junior player,and learned so much from his meetingswith Benko that he is sure he will alsoremember theirs in Paraná State and alsoin Joinville, Santa Catarina, in 1977.

5. (DOWD)1. Qg6! Bxg6 2. Rh8 Rxe5 3. Ne4 Rxe4 (3. ...Bxe4 4. Rh1+ Bxh1 5. Ba4 mate.) 4. Ba4+Rxa4 5. Rh1 mate. The goal of the queen sacrifice is to openthe white rook’s control of the c-file.Move three shows another theme withwhich Benko has composed many anoutstanding problem, the mutual inter-ference strategy known as the Novotny.

The end also resembles a theme oftenused in helpmates, the Zilahi, where apiece sacrificed in one phase mates inanother, this dependent on whetherBlack captures with rook or bishop.Every white piece, with the exception ofthe Rc3, is sacrificed in the course ofthe solution.

6. (KALOTAY)a. 1. Qe7+ Ne4 2. Ke6 Nec5 mate.

b. 1. Qh4+ Rf2 2. Kg3 Rg2 mate.

Kalotay finished 10th in the 1966 U.S.Open and competed for Canada in thechess Olympiad. His collaborations withBenko are well-known and have won inter-national prizes. Here we have checks to thewhite king from the black queen, where awhite piece then blocks the check andunblocks the black king’s flight, whichthen unblocks the white piece, allowingthat previously blocked white piece todeliver the mate.

7. (DOWD AND WIEHAGEN)1. Bh8 Nd6 2. Bf6 Nc4 mate.

1. Bf8 Nf6 2. Bd6 Nd7 mate.Another classic h#2. Rolf is a FIDE mas-ter in composition, and considered one ofthe world’s foremost theoreticians in thehelpmate. Economy (this is both a minia-ture and a black minimal), harmony andbeautiful mates are a Benko trademark,and we hope this little “here and there”with ideal mates is worthy.

Problems / Benko

Gianni DonatiNYC Retros

Gianni DonatiLast move ?

Gianni DonatiLast move?


9. 10. 11.

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Problems / Benko

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8. (DONATI)1. d4 h5 2. Kd2 Rh6 3. Kc3 Re6 4. Kb4 Re5 5.dxe5 a6 6. Qd6 exd6 7. Bd2 Qf6 8. Bc3 Qf3 9.gxf3 Be7 10. Bh3 Bg5 11. Bg4 Be3 12. Nh3Ba7 13. Rd1 a5+ 14. Kxa5 Na6 15. Rd3 Be316. Nd2 Bg5 17. Rg1 Be7 18. Rg2 Bf8Gianni was a key feature of my article onBenko’s “students,” and he primarily com-poses proof games these days. This one ispretty tough, so if you couldn’t find theanswer, don’t feel bad. We all hope youhave enjoyed these problems and theirsolutions!

9: (Gianni Donati NYC Retros)White has two promoted bishops. Theypromoted at g8, since they could not exitfrom a8 or c8. To achieve these promotionsWhite captured three Black pieces (h7xg8;gxh->h7xg8). Note that Black’s pawn at g6came from g7, since h7xg6 would preventthe bishops from exiting. Thus White’s g-file pawn could not play down the g-file topromote without capturing. Black has 11units on the board, the Bc8 was capturedat home, and the promoting pawns madethree more captures, account for 15 Blackunits. The white king could not reach c7except by passing through h6, and if Blackhad already played g7-g6 before the whiteking approached, it could not enter theopposite side at all. Thus, the white kingstood at h5 when the black g-file pawn wasat home on g7, and when Black played g7-g6, the white king played Kh5-h6. Thiswould not be possible with the originalblack-square bishop standing at home onf8. Therefore that unit was captured athome (the bishop on d4 is a promotee)and White did not capture when he playedBa2-b1+.

10: (Gianni Donati Last move?)The bishop at b5 promoted at f1. To exit,the white e2-pawn had to move, so White’slast move was not e2-e4+. Black’s pawnsmade six captures (axb, cxb, fxexd, hxg,and gxf-f1=B), and White has 10 unitsremaining, so White’s last move was notKe2-e1, Ra2xb2. Therefore, retractKe2xNe1+, Nc2-e1+.

11: (Gianni Donati Last move?)White’s pawns have made eight captures.Since Black has eight units remaining, theextra white knight promoted at a8 withoutcapturing. To allow the a-file pawn to pass,Black’s pawns at a6 and b5 cross-cap-tured. Black’s last move cannot have beenb6-b5, because with a pawn at b6 the pro-moted knight could not leave a8. Therefore,retract Qa4-c4, Ka5-a4, b4xc5+.

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Back to Basics / Reader annotations

THIS MONTH’S GAME DEMONSTRATESthe importance of short calculations andof considerations like “his pawn isdefended three times and attacked threetimes, so, if I can deflect one of the defend-ers, that pawn should fall.” Anotherimportant theme is realizing small mate-rial advantages (or, conversely, defendingwhen down a pawn).William Mammen, the winner of this

game and this month’s award, provides usnot only with interesting variations butalso, most importantly, his thoughtprocess and his decision-making tech-niques. White’s moment of truth comes onhis 27th move.Writes William (Lev’s future notes are in

italics):Here is a game played recently in Indi-

ana. My higher-rated opponent won aprize at the World Open the previousmonth, so I faced a real challenge. Shift-ing priorities and reexamining an “ugly”move led to a win, along with not being toointimidated by a stronger opponent. Afterthe game, Richard was very gracious, evencomplimenting my play.

Ruy Lopez, Closed Defense (C92)William Mammen (1600)Richard De Credico (1786)Indianapolis Open (1), 8.17.2012

1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 Nf6 5. 0-0 Be7 6. Re1 b5 7. Bb3 d6 8. c3 0-0 9. h3Bb7 10. d4 Re8?!

So far it’s been standard Ruy Lopezfare. My dusty old edition of Modern ChessOpenings only gives lines with 10. ... Na5or 10. ... exd4.

In Encyclopedia of Chess Openings, 10.... Re8 (without “?!”) is one of the mainlines—used, for instance, in several Karpov-Kasparov World Championship matches.

11. Bc2 More common here are 11. Nbd2 or 11.

a4.

11. ... Bf8 12. Nbd2 h6I didn’t like ... h7-h6 for Black. With no

plans on my part to post anything on g5,I’m not certain ... h7-h6 had much value.A better alternative is 12. ... exd4.

I agree with everything except 12. ...exd4, which gives White a strong center fornothing in return—de facto exchanging thecentral e5-pawn for White’s c3-pawn. Bet-ter was 12. ... g6.

13. Nf1

13. ... Nb8The capture 13. ... exd4 now would be

much stronger than on the previous move,as after 14. cxd4 Nb4 White can’t “save” hisbishop.

14. Ng3 White can’t win a pawn with 14. dxe5

dxe5 15. Qxd8 Rxd8 16. Nxe5 Re8 17.Nf3 Nxe4 (or 17. ... Bxe4), but after thenext move a pawn is winnable, since e4 willhave one more defender.

14. ... g6?

This careless move loses a pawn.

15. dxe5 dxe5 16. Qxd8 Rxd8 17. Nxe5 Re818. Nf3 Nbd7

With all of the minor pieces and rookson the board, the pawn advantage isn’tenough to plan a victory party. Not just yet!Besides, three of my pieces are tied updefending the e-pawn, while two othersremain undeveloped. Changing the prior-ity from preserving the extra pawn tocreating some active play seemed a betterchoice, so I let Black have his way with thee-pawn.

19. a4!

I like William’s way of thinking even asI disagree (in this concrete case) with hisconclusion. I think that “the central strategy”(preserving the pawn) 19. Bf4, then 20.Rad1, promised White better winningchances than 19. a4.

The Pin Is The Answer The pin is the most common chess tactic; the double-attack is closebehind.By GM LEV ALBURT


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Back to Basics / Reader annotations

19. ... Nc5 To keep the a-file closed by 19. ... b4

deserves attention.

20. axb5 axb5 21. Bf4

Now my rooks are connected, the queen-side bishop developed and the blackc-pawn under attack. At this point it couldget more interesting.

21. ... Rxa1 22. Rxa1 Ncxe4 23. Nxe4 Nxe4

24. Bxc7 Bc5?!While 24. ... Bc5 looks menacing, it

soon gets Black in trouble. Instead 24. ...Bg7 puts the bishop in a safe place, whereit exerts pressure on White’s b2- and c3-pawns, making it difficult for either toadvance.

25. Bxe4 Rxe4 26. b4

26. ... Re7??Black’s last move wasn’t played with

double question marks or advertised as agame losing blunder, so I had to figure itout. A superior opponent wouldn’t offer toexchange bishops this way, unless to hisadvantage. Right?? (Call it the intimidationfactor.) After 27. bxc5 Rxc7, White can’t

defend the hanging c5-pawn, and ... Bxf3threatens to ruin my kingside pawn struc-ture. So I dismissed 27. bxc5 as too uglyto consider.[After considering, correctly, the most

promising, most forced line, 27. bxc5 Rxc7,William should have gone one step beyondsemi-generalities i.e. the hanging c5-pawnand looming ... Bxf3. He had to visualize theposition very clearly and look for White’soptions. In that case, he’d have discoveredthe winning pin much earlier (but it’s goodhe returned to this line later and found thewin.)

A rule of thumb: After a forced variationinvolving captures and checks is over, thinkahead for at least a half move!—L.A.]

Then I noticed Black’s bishop on c5 hadno safe squares, but trying to trap thebishop by moving my bishop fails (27.Ba5 Bd6 or 27. Bg3 Bb6). That left retreat-ing the white bishop and relying on theextra queenside pawn to win, which wouldbe no easy task and probably a draw.As a last resort, I hoped my rook on a1

could help. That thought changed every-thing! Now the “ugly” move didn’t look sougly.

27. bxc5 Rxc7 28. Ra7!

Not only is the c5-pawn safe from cap-ture now, it’s ready to advance, winning apiece.

28. ... Rd7Best. Black’s bishop and rook have a

way to get unpinned, and the c-pawnadvance is stopped.

29. Nd4The threat of c5-c6 is renewed! Nor can

Black blockade the c-pawn with 29. ...Bc6, since 30. Nxc6 guards the white rook.Very convenient.

29. ... Bc8 30. Ra8 Rd8 31. Nxb5, Blackresigned (in view of 32. Nd6 to follow). (see diagram top of next column)Black’s fatal mistake on move 26 was by

no means obvious to me. Keeping an openmind and taking enough time to under-stand the tactics made a world ofdifference.

As William noted, his opponent’s movescomes without “??” or “!?” signs to alert us.Neither, I’d add, does anyone whisper to usduring the game “Be alert—this is a criticalposition.” However, an experienced playerlearns to recognize those yellow and redalerts: a position likely to be critical, posi-tions where decisive blows are likely—andthus worth longer time to study. William felt,after 26. ... Re7, that he may get more fromthe position than simply a one-pawn edge(objective factors: up a pawn already; hang-ing pieces; possible pin). So he came backto his initial line, 27. bxc5 Rxc7, saw the pin,made sure everything worked—and madethe winning move.

Did you know that you can read archival issues ofChess Life? If you have not been downloading PDFsregularly, they are available on uschess.org, ChessLife Magazine, Downloadable Files. Issues arearchived through October 2008. Also available are.pgn game files.

Send in your games!If you are unrated or were rated

1799 or be low on your Chess Life(CL) label, then GM Lev Alburt invitesyou to send your most instructivegame with notes to:

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

GM Alburt will select the “mostinstructive” game and CL will awardan autographed copy of Lev’s newestbook, Platonov’s Chess Academy (byLev Alburt and Sam Palatnik) to theperson submitting the most in -structive game and annotations.Make sure your game (or part of it)

and your notes will be of interest toother readers. Do not send gameswith only a few notes, as they are oflittle instructive value and can’t beused. Writing skills are a plus, butinstructiveness is a must!

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Endgame Lab / Instruction

IN THE INTEREST OF LEARNING FROMothers’ mistakes, here are some gamesfrom the past year that feature basic blun-ders. Some of these occur even in thesimplest of positions, and even by grand-masters. So it is often worth playing outendgames to the very end even if youropponent has a slight advantage.

ShelterTakuma Sato-Duncan (1654)Murlin E. Varner, Jr. (1662)2012 U.S. Open - Weekend Swiss (5), 08.05.2012

This game should be drawn.

38. ... f6+ 38. ... Ke7 39. g4 Kd7 40. g5 Ke7 41. f5

f6+ 42. gxf6+ gxf6+ 43. Ke4 Kd6. At thispoint Internet commentators gave a mis-taken analysis with 44. Kf4? (44. Kd4 iseven) 44. ... h5? (44. ... Kd5! 45. h3 Kd4 andBlack wins easily keeping his pawn at h7.)

39. Kd5 g6?Unnecessary. In pawn endings, always

think twice before making any pawnmoves. The bomb-proof draw was 39. ...h6, when the king may retreat to h8 andcontinue on to g8 and h7. The only break-through would be via g5, but after thetrades White cannot achieve more than astalemate.

40. g4 h6?? A losing move; 40. ... Ke7 draws.

41. f5! g5 42. h3 Ke7 43. Kc6 Ke8 44. Kd6 Kf745. Kd7, Black resigned.

OppositionJeffrey T. Roland (1700)Jon Douglas Strohbehn (1539)2012 U.S. Open - Monday Quad (3), 08.06.2012

Both the position and material are equal.

50. ... Kc6 51. Kc4 Kd6 52. Kd4 Ke6 Yielding space; simpler is to keep the

opposition with 52. ... h6 53. h4 h5.

53. Kc5 h6? But at this stage this is a serious mis-

take. Black could have held on with anyking move, keeping the option of ... h7-h6or ... h7-h5 at a later moment.

54. h4! h5 If 54. ... Kd7 55. h5! Ke6 56. Kc6! (56.

hxg6 Kf6 57. Kd6 Kxg6 58. Ke6 Kh5! 59.Kxf5 stalemate) 56. ... Ke7 57. Kd5 Kf6 58.Kd6 Kf7 59. Ke5 Kg7 60. Ke6 wins.

55. Kc6 Ke7 56. Kd5? Still keeping the opposition, but 56.

Kc7! Ke6 57. Kd8! Kd5 58. Ke7 Ke4 59. Kf6Kf3 60. Kxg6 Kxg3 61. Kg5! was the win-ning path.

56. ... Kd7 57. Ke5 Ke7 58. Kd5 Kd7, Drawagreed.

Connected Passed PawnsGM Liren Ding (FIDE 2695, CHN)GM Alexander Onischuk (FIDE 2666, USA)40th World Chess Olympiad - Open


Theoretically, the extra pawn shouldnot be winning with the rooks in play but:

54. g4 Ra1 (?) Why not 54. ... hxg4? The less pawns,

the easier it is to hold on.

55. g5! A skillful move! White attempts to cre-

ate connected passed pawns.

55. ... Rh1?Black falls into a trap. Much better was

55. ... fxg5 56. Rd6+ Kf5 57. Rd5+ Kg6 (57.... Ke6 58. Rxg5 also leads to a book drawbut it is difficult to hold.) 58. hxg5 (58.Rxg5+ Kh6=) 58. ... h4 59. f4 h3 could havebeen the right course of play. The h-pawnin this variation gives Black enough coun-terplay to draw not like in the game whereit fell.

56. Rd6 Rxh4 57. f4! Rh1 58. Rxf6+ Kg7 59.Rh6 Re1+ 60. Kf2 Rh1 61. Kg2 Rh4 62. Kf3Rh1 63. Ke4 h4 64. Kf5 h3 65. Kg4 h2 66. Kg3,Black resigned.

Mate!GM Boris Gelfand (FIDE 2738, ISR)GM Hao Wang (FIDE 2742, CHN)FIDE Grand Prix London 2012

(see diagram top of next column)The white center pawns are worth more

here and the black king is in a worse posi-tion. Even so, the position objectively isdrawn.


Basic BlundersPlay out endgames to the bitter end; even the world’s best make errors.By GM PAL BENKO

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43. ... Rb2 44. f3 Rh2 45. Ke4 Rh3 46. Rb7 Kf847. Rd7 Ke8 48. Rc7 Kf8 49. f4 f5+??

A big mistake that makes the white kinga “super piece.” Either 49. ... Rh5 or thepatient 49. ... Ke8 could have held onsince White had no real threat.

50. Ke5! Rxe3+ 51. Kf6 Kg8 52. Rg7+ A superfluous move. After 52. Rc8+ Kh7

53. Kf7 White can take both the blackpawns because of the mate threat (either53. ... Kh6 54. Rh8 mate or 54. Rc1 threat-ening 55. Rh1 mate).

52. ... Kf8 53. Rh7 Kg8 54. Rh1? White could have reestablished the mate

threat with 54. Rg7+.

54. ... Re4 55. Rd1

55. ... Kh7?? Either 55. ... Rxf4, 55. ... Re3 or even 55.

... Kf8 are all satisfactory for a draw. Butthis way there is no longer an escape.

Who still says that helpmates can onlybe found in composed problems?

56. Kf7!, Black resigned since he getsmated.

Misstep GM Hikaru Nakamura (FIDE 2783, USA)GM Peter Leko (FIDE 2737, HUN)FIDE Grand Prix London 2012

The position is winning for White but itis easy to misplay.

61. Rb7? Either 61. Rc7, 61. a6 or even any for-

ward king move could have been winning.

61. ... Ke6! 62. Rg7

Here, 62. a6 is not any better since 62.... Rc1+ 63. Kb6 Kd6! is drawish. We cannotice the difference at this point. If 61.Rc7, the black king would not have hadtime to get closer.

62. ... Rc1+! 63. Kb6 Kd6! 64. Kb7 Rb1+! 65.Kc8 Rh1

Black has made the best defensivemoves possible. Here 65. ... Ra1 wouldhave been losing because of 66. a6!, butnow after 65. ... Rh1 66. a6 Kc6 is a draw.

66. Rg6+ Kc5 67. Kb7 Kb5 68. Rg5+ Kb4 69.a6 Rh7+ 70. Kb6 Rh6+ 71. Kb7 Rh7+ 72. Kb6Rh6+ 73. Kb7 Rh7+, Draw agreed.

(see next game top of next column)

Mutual mistakesMax EuweAlexander AlekhineWorld Championship Title Match 1935

A position similar to the others in thiscolumn happened between former worldchampions, but even they mishandled it.

1. Ke3 Rh2? Either 1. ... Kc2 2. Rc8+ Kb1, or 1. ... a3

2. Ra8 Ra1 3. Rc8+ Kb4 4. Rb8+ Kc5 5. Kf2a2 6. Ra8 Rh1 (the other motif) were win-ning.

2. Rc8+? The only move to hold on was 2. Ra8!

Rh4 (2. ... Kb3 3. Kd3 is even) 3. Rc8+ Kb24. Rb8+ etc.

2. ... Kb2 3. Rb8+ Kc1 4. Rc8+ Kb1 5. Rb8+ Rb26. Ra8 Rb3+ 7. Kd4 a3 8. Kc4 Kb2 9. Rh8Rc3+, White resigned.

Archival Chess Life PDFs and .pgn files are available on uschess.org, Chess Life Magazine,

Benko’s BafflersMost of the time these studies resemblepositions that could actually occur overthe board. You must simply reach a theoretically won or drawn position forWhite. Solutions can be found on page 71.Please e-mail submissions for Benko’sBafflers to: [email protected]

Problem I: Pal Benko, 1988

WHITE TO PLAY AND DRAW

Problem II: P. Benko, 1994

WHITE TO PLAY AND WIN

Endgame Lab / Instruction

CL_01-2013_benko_JP_r7_chess life 12/7/2012 6:46 PM Page 45

Knight’s Tour / Tournament Travel

THE LIBERTY BELL OPEN, WHICH MOVES TO A NEW LOCATION IN ITS 45THyear (Sonesta Hotel in downtown Philadelphia, formerly Crowne Plaza), is an unusual eventin a number of ways. It is the fastest growing major open tournament in the United States.It is the oldest annual open tournament in the Philadelphia area, and one of the oldestin the country, a long standing January tradition. It offers a good opportunity to visit his-toric sites and other attractions, including the real Liberty Bell. And perhaps mostunusual of all, it advertises “$20,000 projected prizes based on 320 paid entries” each year,but for the past seven years has drawn more than 320 each year, causing the prizes tobe raised in proportion!This event was originated in 1968 by the Philadelphia Chess Association and held that

year January 20-21 at the Warwick Hotel,drawing 82 players. Advance entry fee was$8 and prizes were $100 1st, others perentries. It was a five-round Swiss, playedat a time control of 48 moves in 2 hours.From 1969 to 1978, the event rotated

among several downtown hotels—the War-wick, Benjamin Franklin, Adelphia, andSheraton. The organizer and tournamentdirector was usually Jim Politowski. Ibelieve the tournament often had over 100players, but rarely if ever reached 200.In 1979 the event was not held, and it

was restarted in January 1980 by Conti-nental Chess Association at the oldSheraton Hotel at 17th & Kennedy Boule-vard. After a few years there, Philadelphiahotel space became too expensive, andthe event was moved to suburban ValleyForge in 1985. Turnouts were modest,and CCA turned over the event to SteveImmitt’s Chess Center of New York, whichheld the event at suburban Willow Groveand Trevose in 1986-88.Continental Chess once again began to

hold the tournament in 1989, at a great site(the Adams Mark Hotel), and Steve Immittcontinued to do a fine job as chief tourna-ment director, as he does to this day.However, from 1990 to 1996, despite anexcellent location, it failed to draw 200 play-ers. This was partly due to bad luck, as in1993 and 1994 the second weekend in Jan-uary was used, and both years it proved tobe the worst weekend of the winter, as hugeblizzards caused the loss of many entries.In 1995 the event was moved to February3-5, and believe it or not, it encountered theworst weather of that winter as anotherblizzard harmed entries. After this, a playertold me, “Why are you so stubborn, why doyou keep holding this tournament, can’tyou see that the same thing will keep hap-pening and you will keep losing money?”(There have been 17 Liberty Bells since,and no further bad weather). The 1996 five-round Liberty Bell had

$15,000 projected prizes based on 250entries and drew 190. Then in 1997, theevent was played on Martin Luther King,Jr. weekend with seven rounds and $20,000based on 290—and astonishingly, therewere 356 entries and the projected prizeswere raised! It has been a seven round Mar-tin Luther King, Jr. event ever since, drawingover 300 most years 1998-2008, over 4002009-2011, and an incredible 503 players in2012, a number exceeded by only five otheropen tournaments in the U.S.! Each year2006-2012, the projected prizes, based on320, have been raised. However, the mini-mum guarantee remains only $14,000—justin case of another blizzard.


A Unique EventBy BILL GOICHBERG

PHOT

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The Liberty Bell OpenJanuary 18-21, 19-21 or 20-21

CL_01-2013_KnightsTour_AKF_r6.qxp_chess life 12/11/12 1:05 PM Page 46

2012 Trophies Plus Grand Prix SummaryTrophies Plus awards $12,500 in cash prizes in the 2012 Grand Prix!

Trophies Plus: IT’S NOT JUST A TROPHY.

IT’S THE BEGINNING OF A LIFETIME OF ACHIEVEMENT.

Proud sponsor of USCF National Scholastic tournament awards since 1999.

Proud sponsor of the USCF 2007-2012 All-America Team.

315 W. 1st St., Templeton, Iowa 51463 | 800.397.9993 | www.trophiesplus.com

2012 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX STANDINGSThe following point totals reflect all rated event information as of December 3 for the 2012 Grand Prix. All Grand Prixupdates are unofficial and subject to change during the year or until year-end tabulation is complete.

CATEGORIES AND PRIZES

$12,500IN CASH PRIZES!

FIRST PRIZE: $5,000!

2nd: $2,500 | 3rd: $1,000

4th: $900 | 5th: $800

6th: $700 | 7th: $600

8th: $500 | 9th: $300

10th: $200

PHOT

O: PAU

L TR

UONG

OVERALL STANDINGSNAME STATE PTS.

1 GM Mikheil Kekelidze NY 371.68

2 GM Tamaz Gelashvili NY 368.86

3 GM Alexander Ivanov MA 282.33

4 GM Sergey Kudrin CT 258.09

5 GM Enrico Sevillano CA 248.99

6 GM Alexander Shabalov PA 218.50

7 IM Justin Sarkar NY 213.48

8 GM Aleksandr Lenderman NY 183.66

9 FM John Daniel Bryant CA 157.16

10 IM Jay Richard Bonin NY 119.74

11 GM Alexander Stripunsky NJ 114.96

12 GM Nikola Mitkov IL 107.66

13 GM Melikset Khachiyan CA 106.55

14 GM Eugene Perelshteyn MA 104.45

15 FM Thomas Bartell PA 100.23With a win at the 2012 Canadian Open Championship and with 6-1/2 out of7 points at the 2012 U.S. Masters, GM EUGENE PERELSHTEYN has movedinto the top 15 in the Trophies Plus Grand Prix race. Above, he holds the trophy for his 2009 SPICE Cup victory.

CL_01-2013_GP_AKF_r7.qxp_chess life 12/11/12 4:16 PM Page 40


Name State Pts.ULRICH, ANNE E WI 12609HOFFMAN, EVAN CA-S 12229MADDEN, KERRIGAN CA-S 9604ABE, MAHIRO NY 9145YU, JENNIFER R VA 7495PATEL, ADVAIT WV 7430PAPAGEORGIOU, EFTHYMIOS PHILIP NY 6796KOBLA, VISHAL VA 6692PROLEIKO, JULIAN MO 6597MEHTA, MOULIK A WI 6528SRINIVAS, RAHUL CA-N 6497CAO-DAO, VIVIAN VA 6484DOMMALAPATI, ABHINAY VA 6387GUO, MAXIMILLIAN OH 6355LIANG, AWONDER WI 6317GORTI, AKSHITA VA 6275ASARIA, DANIAL CA-S 6231GHATTI, SANJAY GA 6216HARI, YASASVI PA 5885LIANG, ADREAM WI 5753

Name State Pts.TAYLOR-BRILL, SETH NC 5694CHOW, COLIN CA-N 5591LI, HENRY DE 5475KOTHAPALLE, TANISH TN 5461ZENG, SHEENA KS 5431AVIRNENI, SAITHANUSRI GA 5410HEUBLUM, JACK E NY 5363TANG, CHARLES CA-N 5314DASIKA, ARCHIT CA-N 5287TANENBAUM, ZACHARY CHEN CT 5284DASARI, SRIHITHA GA 5227HONG, JASON ZHANG CA-N 5181BANDI, ROHIT CHOUDARY TX 5165ULRICH, THOMAS M WI 5119HARMON-VELLOTTI, CARL HONOR ID 5084SHUFORD, WILLIAM NC 5076YANG, JASON WA 5071KRISHNAN, AJAY CA-S 5062BUZEK, JAN WA 5039CHOWDHURY, NEIL WA 4984

2012 CHESSMAGNETSCHOOL.COM JUNIOR GRAND PRIX TOP OVERALL STANDINGS

ChessMagnetSchool.com is the sponsor of the 2012 Junior Grand Prix (JGP). Official standings for events received and processed by December 5, 2012 areunofficial and subject to change during the year or until year-end tabulation is complete. 2012 JGP prizes were not available as of press time and will be announcedat a later date. The method for calculating points has been modified; see uschess.org for the most up-to-date information.Chess Magnet School provides computer-based online chess training for both adults and children, including those who study independently and those whostudy under the guidance of a coach or teacher, as well as support for chess coaches and others who teach chess. Chess Magnet School has been a partnerwith USCF on a number of projects and activities since 2006, and has provided the free program that teaches the rules of chess to newcomers in the “New toChess” section of USCF’s website. USCF members are invited to learn more about Chess Magnet School at www.ChessMagnetSchool.com.

TO ENTER: 800-903-USCF(8723) OR FAX 931-787-1200 OR ONLINE AT WWW.USCHESS.ORGName_________________________________________ USCF ID#_______________________________________

Address _______________________________________ City___________________ State ___ ZIP ____________

Phone __________________________ E-mail____________________________________ Est. Rating __________

Credit card # (VISA, MC, Disc., AMEX) _________________________________________ Exp. date ________________

If using VISA, need V-code ________________ q Check here if you do not wish to have an opponent who is incarcerated.*Note: This may slow down your assignment.

MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO U.S. CHESS AND MAIL TO: JOAN DUBOIS, USCF, PO BOX 3967, CROSSVILLE, TN 38557

USCF’s 66th

ANNUAL

2013 Open Correspondence Chess Golden Knights Championship $800 FIRST PRIZE

(plus title of USCF’s Golden Knights Champion and plaque) 2nd place $500 • 3rd place $300 • 4th thru 10th place $100 • ENTRY FEE: $25

These USCF Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all USCF members who reside on the North American continent,islands, or Hawaii, as well as those USCF members with an APO or FPO address. USCF members who reside outside of the NorthAm erican continent are welcome to participate in e-mail events. Your USCF membership must remain current for the duration ofthe event, and entry fees must be paid in U.S. dollars. Those new to USCF Corre spond ence Chess, please estimate your strength:Class A: 1800-1999 (very strong); Class B: 1600-1799 (strong); Class C: 1400-1599 (intermediate); Class D: 1399 and below(beginner level). Note: Prize fund based on 200 entries and may be decreased proportionately per number of entries assigned.

USCF’s 10th

ANNUAL

2013 E-mail Correspondence Chess Electronic Knights Championship (Seven-player sections, one game with each of six opponents.)

$800 FIRST PRIZE(plus title of USCF’s Electronic Knights Champion and plaque)

2nd place $500 • 3rd $300 • 4th thru 10th place $100 each • ENTRY FEE: $25

These USCF Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all USCF members with e-mail access. Your USCF 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 year for each player is ten. Note: Prize fund based on 200 entries and may be decreased proportionately per number of entries assigned.

CORRESPONDENCE CHESS MATCHES (TWO PLAYERS)Two or six-game options. ENTRY FEE: $5.

Win A Correspondence Chess TrophyFour-player, double round-robinwith class-level pairings. 1st-place winner re ceives a trophy.ENTRY FEE: $10.

Victor Palciauskas Prize TournamentsSeven-player class-level pairings, one game with each of six opponents.1st-place winner receives $130 cash prize and a certificatesigned by Victor Palciauskas. ENTRY FEE: $25.

John W. Collins Memorial Class Tournaments Four-player, double round-robin with class-level pairings (unrateds welcome).1st-place winner receives a John W. Collins certificate.ENTRY FEE: $7.

E-MAIL RATED EVENTS (NEED E-MAIL ACCESS):Lightning MatchTwo players with two or six-game option. ENTRY FEE: $5.

Swift QuadsFour-player, double round-robin format.1st-place prize merchandise credit of $30.ENTRY FEE: $10.

Walter Muir E-Quads (webserver chess)Four-player, double round-robin webserver format tournament with class-level pairings.1st-place receives a certificate. ENTRY FEE: $7.

Please circle event(s) selected.

NOTE: Except for Lightning Matches, Swift Quads, WalterMuir E-Quads & Electronic Knights, players will use postoffice mail, unless opponents agree to use e-mail.

CHECK OUT USCF’S CORRESPONDENCE CHESS RATED EVENTS!

CL_01-2013_JGP_JP_r4_chess life 12/7/2012 11:52 AM Page 48

08-2012_ChessMag_inside1_Layout 1 8/29/2012 11:24 AM Page 1

Tournament Life / Information for Organizers, TDs, and Affiliates


ORGANIZING A 2012 GRAND PRIX EVENTTo qualify, an event must be USCF-rated (regularor quick) and meet these criteria:

• All USCF-rated players over 2199 must beeligible to play in the top (or only) section.

• The prize fund for which all masters areeligible MUST equal or exceed $300guaranteed; $150 be guaranteed to firstplace; no more than one prize under $100may count towards the Grand Prix (GP) total;and prizes below the maximum entry fee donot count towards the GP total.

• Class prizes for Under 2300 or a higher ratingrequirement qualify towards GP points, but ifthey exceed 25% of the total qualifying GPmoney, they count as 25% of the total.

• Other than entry fees and USCF dues, nocharges over $25 are permitted.

• The tournament must be submitted for theTournament Life section of Chess Life anddesignated by the submitter as a GPtournament.

• Only players who are USCF members duringthe tournament may earn GP points. Foreigngrandmasters, international masters, womengrandmasters, and women internationalmasters can play without being members,but they will not obtain GP points unlessthey join.

• Conditions concerning USCF GP tournamentsare subject to review and adjustment by theUSCF executive director.

The top prizes must be unconditionallyguaranteed (or if a GP event’s prize fund is basedon entries, only the absolutely guaranteedminimum payout counts for point awards) andan nounced in Chess Life.Even if prizes are raised at the tournament, noadditional points can be awarded because thebonus would be unfair to players who mayotherwise have entered. If you have questionsabout the Grand Prix, please contact WalterBrown at [email protected] or 931-787-1234ext. 142.

ORGANIZERS, TDS AND AFFILIATESTo speed up the processing of rating reports, USCFnow asks that wherever possible these reportshave IDs for every player. If you collect a newmembership, do not submit your rating reportuntil your disk and paper reports include thatplayer’s ID number.To assist tournament directors (TDs) in doingthis, we have made several enhancements to

our web server which will speed up on linemembership processing and give TDs a quickway to obtain USCF IDs for new memberships.We also recommend that TDs use the MemberServices Area to check for member IDs. The searchcapabilities of MSA have been enhanced to assistTDs in finding existing member IDs.For more details, please check the USCF website:www.uschess.org/rtgchange.php.

PROFESSIONAL PLAYERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS FUNDMany GP tournament organizers will contribute$1 per player to the Professional Health &Benefits Fund. All GP tournaments thatparticipate in this program are entitled to bepromoted to the next higher GP category—forexample, a 6-point tournament would become a10-point tournament. Points in the top categoryare promoted 50 percent.

NO TOURNAMENTS IN YOUR AREA?WHY NOT ORGANIZE ONE? It’s not much work to hold a small tournament,and there is little risk if you use a low-cost siteand avoid guaranteed prizes. You might evenmake a profit! Either a based-on Swiss withprojected prizes up to $500, a quad format, or atrophy tournament will virtually guarantee takingin more in fees than you pay out in prizes.The affiliation fee is just $40 a year. You will haveaccess to the TD/Affiliate area of our website.Remember, you can both run and play in a smallevent. Many of them wouldn’t be held if theorganizer/TD couldn’t play.Want to know more? Contact Joan Du Bois [email protected]. We’ll be glad to help you be part of the promotionof American chess!

SUBMISSIONSIf at all possible, please e -mail your TLAs. This willhelp to reduce errors.

[email protected]: 931-787-1200

TLA DepartmentU.S. Chess FederationPO Box 3967Crossville, TN 38557

TLAs received after the 10th of the deadlinemonth will not appear in the issue currentlybeing pro c essed.

Guaranteed Grand Prix points awarded for:Top Prizes 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th Tot

$300-$499 6 6

$500-$749 8 2 10

$750-$999 10 5 15

$1,000-$1,499 12 8 20

$1,500-$1,999 14 10 6 30

$2,000-$2,499 16 12 8 4 40

$2,500-$2,999 18 14 10 6 2 50

$3,000-$3,999 20 16 12 8 4 60

$4,000-$4,999 22 18 15 12 8 5 80

$5,000-$5,999 24 20 17 14 11 8 6 100

$6,000-$9,999 26 22 19 16 13 10 8 6 120

$10,000-$29,999 30 26 23 20 16 13 10 8 4 150

$30,000 & up 36 32 29 26 21 18 14 12 8 4 200$ (Enhanced) 54 48 44 39 31 27 21 18 12 6 300

Points involved divided equally (rounded to two decimalpoints) among tied players.

CHESS LIFE TLA DEADLINESCover TLA must be Tournaments Expecteddate received by beginning releaseJan. Nov. 10 Jan. 15 End Dec.Feb. Dec.10 Feb. 15 End Jan.March Jan. 10 March 15 End Feb.April Feb. 10 April 15 End MarchMay March 10 May 15 End AprilJune April 10 June 15 End MayJuly May 10 July 15 End JuneAug. June 10 Aug. 15 End JulySept. July 10 Sept. 15 End Aug.Oct. Aug. 10 Oct. 15 End Sept.Nov. Sept. 10 Nov. 15 End Oct.Dec. Oct. 10 Dec. 15 End Nov.

USCF MEMBERSHIP RATESPremium (P) and Regular (R)(U.S., CANADA, MEXICO)Type 1 yr 2yr 3yrAdult P $46 $84 $122Adult R $40 $72 $104Senior (65+) $40 $72 $104Young Adult P (U25)* $33 $61 $88Young Adult R (U25)* $26 $47 $67Youth P (U16)* $28 $51 $73Youth R (U16)* $22 $40 $57Scholastic P (U13)* $24 $43 $61Scholastic R (U13)* $17 $30 $42

Premium membership provides a printed copy of ChessLife (monthly) or Chess Life for Kids (bimonthly) plus allother benefits of regular membership. Regular member-ship provides online-only access to Chess Life and ChessLife for Kids; A tournament life announcement newslet-ter will be mailed to adults bimonthly and to scholasticmembers three times per year. Youth provides bimonthlyChess Life, Scholastic bimonthly Chess Life for Kids, oth-ers listed above monthly Chess Life. See www.us chess.orgfor other membership categories. Dues are not refundableand may be changed without notice.*Ages at expiration

CL_01_2013_organizer_JP_r1_chess life 12/7/2012 2:56 PM Page 50

Tournament Life / Information for Players

If not a member, add dues to advance entry fee orpay them with entry fee at site.U.S. Championship Qualifier. Tournament in whichqualification spots for the U.S. Championship areawarded.American Classic. Generally, an event that has beenheld by one organizer for the last three years andhas attracted more than 400 players each year.Heritage Event. Tournament held for at least 25years.Quick Chess. Tournaments with time controls ofG/5 to G/29. There is a separate “quick” or“overall” rating system that includes theseevents, and games played in these tournamentswill not affect a player's regular rating. Gamesplayed with a time control of G/30 through G/60will be rated in both the quick/overall system andthe regular system.

RATING CLASSESIn most events, you don’t have to win the tourna-ment to win a prize—you can win a class prize asa top scorer of your rating group, or a section prizein a section restricted to your rating group. Theserating groups are: Senior Master: 2400 & up • Master: 2200-2399 •Expert: 2000-2199 • Class A: 1800-1999 • Class B:1600-1799 • Class C: 1400-1599 • Class D: 1200-1399 • Class E: 1000-1199 • Class F: 800-999 •Class G: 600-799 • Class H: 400-599 • Class I: 200-399 • Class J: 199/belowSome tournaments use different groups such as1900-2099, and some have “under’’ prizes orsections including all below a specified level.

RATINGS INFORMATIONYou never lose your rating, no matter how long ithas been since you last played. If you return aftera long absence, please tell the director and USCFyour approximate rating and last year of play.If you have a FIDE rating, or a rating or categoryfrom any other country, no matter how many

years ago, you are not unrated. FIDE or foreignratings may be rejected or have adjustmentpoints added. If details are not announced,players wishing to use such ratings shouldcontact the organizer in advance. For foreign players with multiple ratings (USCF,FIDE, CFC, FQE, other foreign), the highest rating is used, with possible adjustment points added,unless otherwise announced. Ratings based on 4-25 games are called“provisional ratings” to indicate they are lessreliable than established ratings. However, suchratings are valid for pairing and prize purposes atall USCF-rated events, unless otherwise stated.A tournament director (TD) may assign anestimated rating to any player, and may expel animproperly rated player from an event.

HOW TO ENTER IN ADVANCEEntering by mail or online (if available) is easier forboth you and the tournament organizer and oftencosts less. Check the TLA ads for entering options.Along with entry fee, send full name, address,USCF ID number, expiration date, and sectiondesired (if any). Also, give your last official USCFrating from your magazine label (first 4 numberson top row). If you are unrated, or have a ratingfrom many years ago, be sure to indicate this. Your official USCF rating is on the top line of yourmailing label: Regular, Quick, and Correspondence.Mailed entries are usually not acknowledgedunless you enclose a self-addressed postcard. If entering online, print confirmation of entry.They are refundable if you withdraw before Round1 is paired, unless otherwise stated. For national events, refund requests must besubmitted in writing no later than 30 days afterthe tournament ends. Any requests made afterthis date may not be honored.

HOTEL-MOTEL RATES Rates listed are often special chess rates—youmust request “chess rates’’ or you will be charged

more. The chess rates may be unavailable if notreserved several weeks in advance, or if the blockof chess rooms is used up. Hotel-desk personnelare often poorly informed about chess rates—ifthat is the case, ask for the Sales Office or contactthe tournament organizer.

WHAT TO TAKE TO A TOURNAMENTAlong with a pen or pencil and your USCF ID card (or current Chess Life), take a chessboard, set, and clock if you have them. For prizes of $600 or more, bring your U.S. SocialSecurity card. If you have no Social Securitynumber, the organizer must deduct 30% fromyour prize for the IRS (this includes foreigners). Warning! The use of a cell phone in thetournament room is prohibited at mosttournaments. If your cell phone rings in a roomwith games in progress, you could be penalized,or even forfeited.

IF YOU MUST WITHDRAWIf you enter by mail and cannot attend, or mustdrop out of a tournament in progress, it isimportant you give notice before pairings arestarted, so no one is deprived of a game. Mailentrants should send withdrawal notices at leasta week beforehand—phone any later than this. To withdraw by phone on tournament day, callthe site and ask specifically for “the chesstournament.’’ E-mail withdrawals several days inadvance are acceptable if the TD’s e-mail addressis listed. Any later than this, both e-mail yourwithdrawal and call the tournament site as theTD might not have access to his (her) e-mailaccount. If you forfeit without notice, you may befined up to the amount of the entry fee.

TOURNAMENT DIRECTORSTournament director certification is an endorse-ment of professional competence only. Suchcertification does not in itself render any tournamentdirector an agent of the USCF, nor is any affiliate anagent of the USCF.

USCF MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EVENTS.

QC: Quick Chess events . |

$$Gtd: Guaranteed prizes.

$$b/x: Based-on prizes, x = number of entries needed to pay full prize fund. At least 50% of the advertised prize fund of $501 or more must be awarded.

Bye: Indicates which rounds playerswho find it inconvenient to playmay take 1⁄2-point byes instead. For example, Bye 1-3 means 1⁄2-point byes are available in Rounds 1 through 3.

CC: Chess club.

EF: Entry fee.

Ent: Where to mail entries.

FIDE: Results submitted to FIDE for pos-sible rating.

G/: Game in. For instance, G/75means each side has 75 minutesfor the entire game.

GPP: Grand Prix Points available.

HR: Hotel rates. For example, 60-65-70-75 means $60 single, $65 twin,$70/3 in room, $75/4 in room.

JGP: Junior Grand Prix.

Memb. Membership required; cost follows.req’d: Usually refers to state affiliate.

Open: A section open to all. Often hasvery strong players, but some eligible for lower sections canplay for the learning experience.

Quad: 4-player round robin sections;similar strength players.

RBO: Rated Beginner’s Open.

Rds: Rounds; scheduled game timesfollow. For example, 11-5, 9-3means games begin 11 a.m. & 5p.m. on the first day, 9 a.m. & 3 p.m. on the second day.

Reg: Registration at site.

RR: Round robin (preceded by numberof rounds).

SD/: Sudden-death time control (timefor rest of game follows). Forexample, 30/90, SD/1 means each player must make 30 movesin 90 minutes, then complete therest of the game in an hour.

SS: Swiss-System pairings (preceded by number of rounds).

T/Dx: Time delay, x = number of seconds.

Unr: Unrated.

W: Site is accessible to wheelchairs.

WEB: Tournaments that will use a player’s online rating.

TOURNAMENT LIFE ABBREVIATIONS & TERMS All tournaments are non-smoking with no computers allowed unless otherwise advertised byS and/or C (see below for explanations).

www.uschess.org 51

CL_01_2013_organizer_JP_r1_chess life 12/7/2012 2:56 PM Page 51

USCF NationalEvents Note: Tournament memberships not valid for National events

SEE TLA IN THIS ISSUE FOR DETAILS2013 U.S. Amateur Team Championship South February 15-17 or 16-17 • Sunrise, Florida2013 U.S. Amateur Team Championship North February 15-17 or 16-17 • Schaumburg,Illinois2013 30th Annual U.S. Amateur Team Championship West February 16-18 or 17-18 •Pleasanton, California2013 World Amateur Team & U.S. Amateur Team Championship East February 16-18 •Parsippany, New Jersey2013 SuperNationals V April 5-7 • Nashville, Tennessee2013 U.S. Game/10 Championship June 6 • Las Vegas, Nevada2013 National Open June 7-9 or 8-9 • Las Vegas, Nevada

FUTURE EVENTS (Watch for details)

2013 All-Girls National Championships April 26-28 • Chicago, Illinois2013 U.S. Senior Open May 28-June 2 • Tarrytown, New York2013 U.S. Junior Open May 31-June 2 • Tarrytown, New York2013 U.S. Cadet July 20-23 • Rockville, Maryland 114th annual (2013) U.S. Open July 27-August 4 • Madison, Wisconsin2013 K-12 Grade Championship December 13-15 • Lake Buena Vista, Florida2014 National High School (K-12) Championship April 4-6 • San Diego, California2014 National Junior High (K-9) Championship April 25-27 • Atlanta, Georgia2014 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 9-11 • Dallas, Texas115th annual (2014) U.S. Open July 26-August 3 • St. Louis, Missouri2014 K-12 Grade Championship December 12-14 • Orlando, Florida2015 National High School (K-12) Championship April 10-12 • Columbus, Ohio2015 National Junior High (K-9) Championship April 24-26 • Louisville, Kentucky2015 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 8-10 • Nashville, Tennessee116th annual (2015) U.S. Open August 1-9 • Phoenix, Arizona2015 K-12 Grade Championship December 4-6 • Orlando, Florida2016 National Junior High (K-9) Championship April 15-17 • Indianapolis, Indiana2016 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 6-8 • Nashville, Tennessee117th annual (2016) U.S. Open July 30-August 7 • Indianapolis, Indiana2016 K-12 Grade Championship December 16-18 • Nashville, Tennessee2017 SuperNationals VI TBA • Nashville, Tennessee2021 SuperNationals VII TBA • Nashville, Tennessee

BidsNote: Organizers previously awardedoptions for USCF National Events must still submit proposals (includingsample budgets) for their events.

OVERDUE BIDSPlease contact the National Office if youare interested in bidding for a NationalEvent. The USCF recommends thatbids be submitted according to the following schedule. However, bids maybe considered prior to these dates.USCF reserves the right to decline allbids and organize the event itself.

PAST DEADLINE JULY 1, 2012:2013 U.S. Amateur

(East, North, South, West)2013 U.S. Junior Chess Congress2013 U.S. Class Championship2013 National Youth Action (NYA)2013 U.S. Game/15 Championship2013 U.S. Game 60 Championship2013 U.S. Action G/30 Championship2013 U.S. Masters Championship2013 U.S. Junior Closed

DEADLINE JULY 1, 2013:2014 U.S. Amateur Teams (North,South, West)2014 U.S. Cadet2014 National Open2014 U.S. Game/10 Championship2014 U.S. Game/30 Championship2014 U.S. Game 60 Championship2014 U.S. Senior Open2014 U.S. Junior Closed

Rating supplements will be updated EACH MONTH on the USCF website, and each monthly rating supplement will be used for all tournamentsbeginning in that month, unless otherwise announced in Chess Life. The USCF website at www.uschess.org also frequently lists unofficial ratings.The purpose of unofficial ratings is to inform you of your progress; however, most tournaments do not use them for pairing or prize purposes. If you would otherwise be unrated, organizers may use your unofficial rating at their discretion, even without advance publicity ofsuch a policy.

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Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 15-17 OR 16-17, FLORIDA2013 U.S. Amateur Team Championship South5SS, G/120,d5 (2-day Option Rd. 1 G/60,d5). Holiday Inn and Suites, 3003 N.University Dr., Sunrise, FL 33322 (Sunrise is close to Ft. Lauderdale). 4-playerteams (with one optional alternate). Team average (4 highest ratings - Janu-ary rating list) must be under 2200. Winning team qualifies for National playoffonline. EF per player: $45 by 2/8, $54 later. SPECIAL EF:Team (one entry mustbe made for all players) $170 by 2/8, $200 later (any team changes $10). Teamsfrom outside Florida will receive $25 off team entry fee. Scholastic teams receive$15 off team entry fee. PRIZES: Top 1-3rd place teams; Top class teams:U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400, U1000, U800; Top Senior team (all 50 & above),Top Female team, Top College team (same school), Top High School team(same school), Top Middle School team (same school, grades 6-8), Top Elemen-tary School team (same school); Top Boards 1-4. Schedule: 3-day: 1st Rd. Fri.7:30, 2-Day 1st Rd. Sat. 10; Rds. 2-5 Sat. 1:30, 6:45, Sun. 9:30, 2:45. HR: $85until cut-off date, 954-748-7000. Free shuttle for Hotel guests from 7 a.m. to11 p.m. within 5 miles of Hotel. Free parking and Free Internet. Ent: Boca RatonChess Club, 2385 Executive Ctr. Dr., Ste. 100, Boca Raton, FL 33431. Online entry& add’l info: www.bocachess.com, 561-479-0351. G/120 rounds are JGP.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 15-17 OR 16-17, ILLINOIS2013 U.S. Amateur Team Championship NorthOpen: 5SS, G/90+30/increment, 2-day: rd.1-2 G/60. Hyatt Regency Schaum-burg, 1800 E. Golf Rd., Schaumburg, IL 60173. 847-605-1234 $89.00 chess ratesingle-double-triple-quad until 2/5/13, Free WiFI included with Room! Pleasereserve early. Open to 4 player teams with one optional alternate. Teamaverage (4 highest ratings - January Rating List) must be under 2200.EF: 3-day $140, per team if received USPS or on-line 6 PM by February 1st. $160if received USPS or on-line 6 PM by Feb. 13th, $180 after Feb. 13th and onsite.Individuals wishing to play, send $40 and request to be put on a team by USPSand on-line by 2/15 6 PM, $45 thereafter. Team changes on site or after 2/166 PM $20. Check out official website www.chessweekend.com for moreinfo and complete prize list. Prizes: Awards to top two teams, top teamswith average rating u1900, u1600, and u1300. Award for Best Team Name. Win-ning team qualifies for national play-offs. Prizes to best team composed ofjuniors (high school and younger). Prizes to top score on each board. Prizesare players choice of a selected clock or equivalent book store credit. Specialraffle with prizes for players staying at the Hyatt! Rounds: 3-day: on-site reg-istration/check-in 5:30-6:30pm, rds.: 7pm, 10:00am & 4:00pm, 10:00am &3:30pm. 2-day: on-site registration/check-in from 8:00-9:30am, rds. 10:00am& 1:00pm then merge with 3-day. Illinois Blitz Championship on Saturdaynight, $25 by 2/14 USPS or on-line, $30 at site. First round 8 PM, 2 games witheach opponent, 5 rounds, see www.chessweekend.com for details. All: Checksmade payable to and sent to: ChessWeekend, 21694 Doud Ct., Frankfort, IL60423. Please include Team’s name and roster (plus ID#), captain’s email andphone number, and desired schedule. Info: www.chessweekend.com, 815-955-4793 before 8 PM. North American Chess Association will provideSets-Boards-Clocks.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 16-18 OR 17-18, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERN30th Annual U.S. Amateur Team Championship WestScholastic on Feb. 16 and Blitz on Feb. 18 only. Hilton at the Club, 7050Johnson Dr., Pleasanton, CA 94588. Free Parking! Hotel: $79 - call 925-463-8000 or 800-774-1500 for chess rate. Reserve by Feb. 1 or rates may increase.Teams: Four-player teams plus optional alternate, average rating of fourhighest must be under 2200, difference between ratings of board 3 & 4 mustbe less than 1000. January 2013 Supplement, CCA min, & TD discretion usedto place players accurately. Main Event Prizes: Special commemorativeclocks to each player and trophy to the team for top 3 overall teams, top teamu2000, u1800, u1600, u1400, and u1200; top “industry” team (all playersfrom the same company), top “family” team (siblings, cousins, parents,uncle/aunts, grandparents), top junior team, and top academic team; top 2 scor-ers on each board (1-4). Gift certificates for best 3 team names. Main EventEF: $188/team or $47/player by 2/12. 2/13-15: $10 extra per player or team.Onsite only after 2/15: $20 extra per player ($80 extra per team). 3-daySched: Onsite Registration at Sat 9:30-10:30a, Round Times at Sat & Sun 11:30a5:30p | Mon 10a 3:30p. Time Control: 30/90 SD/60. 2-day Sched: Onsite Reg-istration at Sun 8:30-9am. Round Times: Sun 10am, 12:30pm, 2:50pm, 5:30pm;Mon 10am, 3:30pm. Time Control: G/60 in Rounds 1-3, 30/90 SD/60 in Rounds4-6 (merge in Round 4 with 3-day schedule). Info/flyer: BayAreaChess.com/usatw. Scholastic Event Prizes:Trophies to each player in Top 3 teams over-all, Top team u900, u800, u700, u600, u500, u400, u300, u200, Top scorer oneach board (1-4). Scholastic Event EF: $148/team or $37/player by 2/12. 2/13-15: $10 extra per player or team. Onsite only after 2/15: $20 extra per player($80 extra per team). Discount: $10/player if registering for 2-day andscholastic event. Sched: Onsite Registration: Sat 8:30-9am. Games at Sat10am, 11:30am, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm. Info/flyer: BayAreaChess.com/usatws.Blitz Event: Registration Mon 7-8pm, Rounds 8:30-10:30pm. EF: $12. 75% ofentry fees returned as prizes. Contact: Organized and directed by the KALM

team of organizers from Bay Area Chess and CalChess (Richard Koepcke,Salman Azhar, Tom Langland, John McCumiskey). Online entry atBayAreaChess.com/my/usatw or mail to Bay Area Chess, 1639A South MainSt., Milpitas, CA 95035. For questions or help in forming teams [email protected]. NS. NC. W.

A Heritage Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 16-18, NEW JERSEYWorld Amateur Team & U.S. Team East43rd Annual - Celebrate Grandmasters! 6SS, 40/2, SD/1. Parsippany Hilton,1 Hilton Ct., Parsippany, NJ 07054. Chess Rate valid until 1/16. Reserve early973-267-7373 or 1- 800-HILTONS. Morris/Essex train to Morris Plains 1.5miles. Open to 4- player teams with one optional alternate. Team average (4highest ratings—2013 January Rating list) must be under 2200. EF: $160postmarked by 2/5/13. ALL-$200 after or at door.—all teams, any changes atsite $25 charge. Check out official website www.njscf.org. Prizes: 1-5thPlace teams, plaque and 4 digital clocks; Top Team (Denis Barry Award)U2100, 2000, 1900, 1800, 1700, 1600, 1500, 1400, 1300, 1200, 1000 each plaqueand 4 Digital Clocks; Top college team (same school) 4 Digital Clocks &plaque; Top HS team (grades 9-12 same school), Top Middle School (grades5-9 same school), Top Elementary School (grades K-6 same school), Top 2Scholastic Teams (mixed schools okay) (Collins Award), Mixed Doubles (2 males,2 females-no alternates), Seniors (all players over age 50), Military, eachplaque & 4 Digital Clocks to top team; Company Team (same employer) OldTimers Trophy (all players over 65), Family (4 family members), State teams—CT, DE, MD, MA, NJ, NY (Benjamin Award), PA, VA, NC, RI each plaque top team;Special Plaque to Top College (NJ, NY, Pennsylvania), Best Player 1-4 and topalternate, All 6-0 scores each Digital clock. Biggest Individual upset each roundEngraved Cross pen; Entry fee refunded to team with Best “Chess related”name, Sunday night— Best “Chess Related costumes or gimmick—gourmetdinner for four. Best name using a GM name—Gourmet dinner for 4. Reg. 9-12 Sat 2/18: Rds. 1-7:30, 11-6, 9-3:30. Special Events!! Surprises andspecial give-aways each round. Sunday night—Bughouse $20 per team. Cashprizes. HR: Parsippany Hilton, chess rates expire 1/16/2013. Rates $119 (upto 4 in room) 2nd hotel attached to Hilton also up to 4 in room $126 per night-Hampton Inn—-includes breakfast for 4 each day. Back up hotel—SheratonParsippany-about 2 miles. 973-515-2000. $99 per night. For help formingteams and more information contact: [email protected] or Facebook:ATE-Team. Chks payable to NJSCF,mail by 2/05 to: E.Steven Doyle, 17 Stone-henge Rd., Morristown, NJ 07960. (Include Team name, Captain, players fullnames, USCF Expiration, ID numbers and ratings in board order). No team caninclude more than two GM’s. Include SASE for confirmation if wanted, No reg-istered or certified mail accepted. NS, NC, W.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!APR. 5-7, TENNESSEESuperNationals V2013 Elementary, Junior High and High School National Championships in onegreat event! 7SS, G/120 (K-1: G/90), Gaylord Opryland Hotel and ConventionCenter, 2800 Opryland Dr., Nashville, TN 37214. 615.889.1000 HR: $149 single-quad. All under one roof! 20 Sections (Select only one): High School: K-12Championship; K-12 U1600; K-12 U1200; K-12 U800; K-12 Unrated. Junior High:K-9 Championship; K-8 Championship; K-9 U1250; K-8 U1000; K-8 U750; K-9Unrated. Elementary: K-6 Championship; K-5 Championship; K-6 U1000; K-5U900; K-3 Championship; K-3 U800; K-1 Championship; K-6 Unrated; K-3Unrated. EF: $50 postmarked, faxed or online by 3/17/2013, $70 postmarked,faxed or online by 3/31/2013, $85 after 3/31/2013, $90 on site. DO NOT mailentries after March 31 – they will not be received in time. $5 extra for all phonedregistrations. $20 change fee for roster or section changes after March 31. USCFmembership is required (may be paid with entry). AWARDS:Trophies awardedin accordance with Scholastic Regulations and based on number of participants.Team score = total of top four (min. two) finishers from each section. March2013 rating supplement will be used. BYES: One 1/2 –pt. bye available inrounds 1-6 if requested prior to 10am, Fri (4/5). On site entries after 10 AM,Fri 4/5 will receive a 1/2-point bye for the first round and begin play inround 2. SCHEDULE: Rounds 1-2: Friday (4/5) 1:00 PM & 7:00 PM [K1 at 1:30PM & 6:30 PM] Rounds 3-5: Saturday (4/6) 9:00 AM, 2:00 PM, & 7:00 PM [K1at 9:30 AM, 1:30 PM and 6:30 PM], Sunday (4/7) Rounds 6-7 9:00 AM, & 2:00PM [K1 at 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM]. Awards Ceremonies, Sunday (4/7); approx-imately 7 PM [K1 at approx. 5:30 PM]. SIDE EVENTS: BughouseChampionships:Thursday (4/4) 11:00 AM, Register ON SITE ONLY by 10:00AM. EF: $25 per team of 2. Blitz Championships:Thursday (4/4) 5:00 PM. EF$15 postmarked, faxed or online by 3/31, $20 after 3/31 or on site. On site reg-istration ends at 4 PM. [The Blitz tournament will be playing ‘Touch-Move’ -see Blitz rules on the web page.] Please refer to the website:www.uschess.org/tournaments/2013/snv to register on-line, see up-to-the-minute registrations, for more information, updated details, corrections,any added events and other activities. Advance entries must include player’sname/information and all fees to be accepted. Roster changes are consid-ered new entries and will be charged according to date received. Listname, address, phone, section, grade, school (even if no team), email, birth-date, USCF ID number (enclose USCF dues if necessary). Players must be eligibleto play in accordance with USCF Scholastic Regulations. Entries may be faxedto: 931.787.1238. Mail Entries To: US Chess Federation ATTN: SuperNationalsV, P. O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557. Please note: Rule 12.5 has beenreplaced with Rule 12.6: Players entering an “Under” section in a USCFNational Scholastic tournament shall disclose at the time of registration

whether they have one or more ratings in another over-the-board rating sys-tem(s). The USCF may use this rating information to determine section and prizeeligibility in accordance with USCF rules 28D and 28E. This rule will be ineffect for the 2013 SuperNationals and future USCF National Scholastic Tour-naments that have one or more “Under” sections.

JUNE 6, NEVADATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 (ENHANCED)2013 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC)8SS, G/10. Riviera Hotel and Casino, 2901 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Las Vegas89109. $$6,000 Guaranteed Prize Fund. $1700-850-500, U2300 $500, U2100$500, U1900 $450, U1700 $400, U1500 $350, U1300 $300, U1000 $250, unrated$200. There must be 3 players eligible for each prize to be awarded. EF $69by 5/21, $79 by 6/3, $100 on site. REG 2-4 p.m. Rds: 5-5:30-6-6:30-7-7:30-8-8:30. Higher of regular or quick rating used. Bring clocks. 1/2 point byeavailable in any round (limit 2). HR $62 single or double ($89 Friday and Sat-urday nights). (800) 634-6753 or (702) 734-5110 – be sure to ask for theCHESS rates. ENT Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV89009-0925, on line www.VegasChessFestival.com or fax at (702) 933-9112. NS. NC. W.

An American Classic!A Heritage Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JUNE 7-9 OR 8-9, NEVADATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED)2013 National Open6-SS, 40/90, Game/30 + 30 second increment (2 day option rds 1-3 G/45).Riviera Hotel and Casino, 2901 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Las Vegas 89109.$80,000 Guaranteed Prize Fundwill not be reduced. Championship: $6500-3300-1600-800-500-350-350-350-350-350-250-250-250-250-250, under 25001600, under 2400 1200, under 2300 1000, $2,000 EXTRA for perfect score. Thewinner of the Championship section also receives a replica of the EdmondsonCup. Under 2200: $3500-1800-900-500-400-250-250-250-250-250-200-200-200-200-200. Under 2000: $3500-1800-900-500-400-250-250-250-250-250-200-200-200-200-200. Under 1800: $3500-1800-900-500-400-250-250-250-250-250-200-200-200-200-200. Under 1600: $3000-1500-800-500-400-250-250-250-250-250.Under 1400: $2000-1000-500-350-250-200-200-200-200-200. Under 1200:$1200-600-400-300-200-200. Unrated: $500-300-200. Plus Score Bonus($14,000 guaranteed) in addition to any other prizes, every player with 3-1/2points or more wins a $50 gift certificate. Plus score certificates will beawarded on site only. Players age 14 and under are eligible for best game prizesincluding the Freddie Award plus $200 (donated by Fred Gruenberg). Top 2 sec-tions FIDE rated. EF: $169 by 1/21, $199 by 5/21, $219 by 6/3, $240 on site.$40 less for seniors 65 and over. Add $120 for adults rated under 2100 or jun-iors under 2000 playing in the Championship Section. This is an open tournament- you may play in any section at or above your rating level; unrated players mayplay only in Unrated or Championship Section. Provisionally rated playersmay not win more than the amount of 3rd prize in any section except Champi-onship. CCA minimum ratings or other ratings may be used if higher than USCFJune Supplement. Reg: 2 p.m.-10 p.m. Thursday, 8-9:30 a.m. Friday. Rds: 11-5, 10-4:30, 10-4:30. 2-day schedule: Reg: 8-9 a.m. Saturday. Rds: 10-12-2-4:30merge with 3-day in round 4. Half point byes available in any round, but round5 or 6 byes must be requested before the start of round 2 and may not be can-celled. Chess sets and boards provided for tournament play only, not forskittles. Please bring chess clocks! The LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL CHESSFESTIVAL features the National Open, the U.S Game/10 Championship, theInternational Youth Championship, and other events. Many free extras andsurprises! Free parking. Free raffles with great prizes. Free GM Lectures. FreeGM analysis of your games. Grandmaster Chess Camp for all ages on Thurs-day. U.S. Game/10 Championship and Grandmaster Simuls Thursdayafternoon. Youth Tournaments Friday, Saturday & Sunday. BlitzTournamentsSaturday & Sunday. Poker TournamentMonday morning. Don’t be shut out—make your reservations early and be sure to ask for the CHESS rates— $62 single or double ($89 Friday and Saturday nights) guarantees a Signa-ture or remodeled room with new furniture, flat screen TV and more. Thecomplimentary resort package includes access to the Fitness Center, free WI-FI, discounts on selected show tickets and more with with no additional costonly if you are in our group. Cutoff for special hotel rate is May 20th. 1-800-634-6753 or (702) 734-5110 or online at www.vegaschessfestival.com/hotel/.ENT: Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925, on lineat www.VegasChessFestival.com or by fax at (702) 933-9112. Info: (702) 560-0955 and leave a message. NS W FIDE

JAN. 5, NEW JERSEYTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 Dr. Luvizminda Machan XII Open4-SS, G/45. EF: $40, members $30 and U1600 less $5, GMs free ($25 deductedfrom prize). $$G200-150-100-50. Prizes to U2000, U1400 and Biggest Upset (Tro-phies). Rds.: 1:30pm, 3:15pm, 5pm, 6:45pm. 2 byes available, commit prior to

Grand Prix

The Tournament Announcements on the following pages are provided for the convenience of USCF members and for informational purposes only. Unless expressly indicated otherwise, neither theU.S. Chess Federation nor Chess Life warrants the accuracy of anything contained in these tournament announcements. Those interested in additional information about or having questions con-cerning 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 noresponsibility for errors made in such work.

Effective with TLAs submitted after November 10, 2010, the following additional rules apply to Grand Prix tournaments: 1) The guaranteed first prize must be at least $150. 2) No more than oneprize under $100 may count towards the Grand Prix point total. 3) Prizes below the maximum entry fee do not count towards the Grand Prix point total.

SUBMISSIONS: If possible e-mail your tla to: [email protected] (Joan DuBois). For tla deadline schedule, formatting help and Grand Prix information see pg. 50 and 51 or check www.uschess.org/go/tlainfo.Payment can be done online through the TD/Affiliate area or sent to: U.S. Chess, TLA Dept., PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.

Nationals


Tournament Life / January

game 2. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Please visit www.chessmatesnj.com/ for details or call 732-499-0118.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 11-13 OR 12-13, MASSACHUSETTSTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 50 (ENHANCED)Boston Chess Congress5SS, 40/2, SD/1, d5 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, d5). Under 1300 Sections:5SS, G/65, d5, Jan 12-13 only. Hyatt Harborside at Logan Airport, 101 Har-borside Dr., Boston, MA 02128. Free parking. Prizes $15,000 based on 250 paidentries (U1500 & re-entries count 60%, U1300 40%), minimum $10,000 (2/3each prize) guaranteed. In 8 sections. Premier Section: Open to 2200/over,USCF Candidate Masters, and 2000/over on any Dec 2012 uschess.org top 100list. $1500-700-400-300, clear or tiebreak 1st $100 bonus. FIDE. Major Sec-tion: Open to 2050-2299 and USCF First Category players rated 1900-2049.$1200-600-400-300. FIDE. Amateur Section: Open to 1850-2099 and USCF Sec-ond Category players rated 1700-1849. $1200-600-400-300. Booster Section:Open to 1650-1899 and USCF Third Category players rated 1500-1649. $1200-600-400-300. Reserve Section: Open to 1450-1699 and USCF Fourth Categoryplayers rated 1300-1449. $1000-500-300-200. Under 1500 Section: $700-400-200-100. Adult Under 1300 Section (born 1994/before): $300-150-100,trophies to first 5, top U1000, U800, Unr. Junior Under 1300 Section (born1995/after): $300-150-100, trophies to first 5, top U1000, U800, Unr. Unratedmay not win over $100 in either U1300, $300 U1500, $500 Reserve, or $700Booster. Top 5 sections EF: 3-day $99, 2-day $98 if check mailed by 1/2, both$97 online at www.chesstour.com by 1/8, $110 at site. GMs free; $90 from prize.Under 1500 EF: 3-day $59, 2-day $58 if check mailed by 1/2, both $57 onlineat www.chesstour.com by 1/8, $70 at site. Under 1300 Sections EF: Adult $39,Junior $38 if check mailed by 1/2, both $37 online at chesstour.com by 1/8, $50at site. All: Late entry available online until 2 hours before first game. OnlineEF $5 less to MACA members; may join/renew at masschess.org. Re-entry $50,not available in Premier. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Phone entrythrough 1/8: top 5 sections $105, Under 1500 $65, Under 1300 $45, 406-896-2038, entry only, no questions. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used ifotherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry.Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed,phoned or at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. 3-Day Sched-ule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm. Rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 2-Day Schedule:Reg. ends Sat 10 am. Rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. Under 1300Schedules: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, Rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 10 & 1:30. Halfpoint byes available all rounds, limit 2 byes, Premier must commit before rd.2, others before rd 3. HR: $79-79, 617-568-1234, request chess rate, reserveby 12/23 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD#657633. Ent: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577(chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US). $15 service charge for refunds. Advanceentries posted at www.chesstour.com.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 11-13 OR 12-13, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERNTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 SCCF Century West Open5SS, 40/2, SD/1, d/5 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, d/5). Radisson LAX, 6225

West Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045. Prizes: $$10,000 b/165, 80% ofeach prize guaranteed! In 5 sections. Open: $$1700-750-400-300-200, U2400400, U2200 700-300-200. Premier (under 2000): $$750-300-200-100. Amateur(Under 1800): $$750-300- 200-100. Reserve (Under 1600): $$750-300-200-100.Booster (Under 1400/unrated): $$400- 200-100, U1200 150, Unr 150. (Unr. maywin Unr. prizes only.) EF: $99 by 12/10, $105 by 01/01 $109 at door. GM/IMfree, $99 from prize. Booster (U1400) section EF: $80 by 12/10, $87 by 01/01,$95 door. Re-entry $60 in all sections. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds.Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds.Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. All: Half point byes OK all, limit 2, must com-mit before rd 3. SCCF membership ($18, $13 jrs [or $3 no magazine jr version]required for rated Southern Californians.) HR: $99-99, 1-(800) 333-3333, codeMetropolitan, reserve by Dec. 20th. Parking $11/day. Free wireless, 24-hourairport shuttle. Info: [email protected]. Web site, Online entry:www.metrochessla.com Ent: Metropolitan Chess, PO Box 25112, Los Angeles,CA 90025-0112. $15 service charge for refunds.

JAN. 12, NEW JERSEYTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 Dr. Luvizminda Machan XIII Open4-SS, G/45. EF: $40, members $30 and U1600 less $5, GMs free ($25 deductedfrom prize). $$G200-150-100-50. Prizes to U2000, U1400 and Biggest Upset (Tro-phies). Rds.:1:30pm, 3:15pm, 5pm, 6:45pm. 2 byes available, commit prior togame 2. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Please visit www.chessmatesnj.com/for details or call 732-499-0118.

JAN. 13, NEW JERSEYTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)Cherry Hill January Open4SS, G/45. Wyndham Hotel, 1111 Route 73, Mount Laurel, NJ 08054. Phone:1-866-257-5990. Next to NJ Turnpike exit 4, I-295 exit. Open Section: Prizes(GTD): $200-$125-$100-$75, Best score under 1800: $100. Under 1600 Sec-tion: Prizes: $150, $100, $75 Scholastic Section: Trophies for places 1-2-3.Medals for all players above 50% score. EF: $35 online by 1/10, $40 at the door.Schedule: Registration ends 9:45. Rounds: 10am, 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm. Onlineentry: at http://cherryhilljanuaryopen.eventbrite.com . Contact: Dov Gorman,[email protected], cell: 703-989-6867.

JAN. 15, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)Marshall Masters!4-SS, G/25 d/5. Third Tuesday of every month. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC.212-477-3716. Open to players rated over 2100 (plus all players scoring over50% in any MCC Open or U2300 event since the prior month’s Masters). EF: $40,members $30, GMs free. $$G250-150-100. Prizes to U2400, U2300 and biggestupset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One by available (Rd 1 or4 only), request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

JAN. 17, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)Marshall Thursday G/30 Grand Prix4-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, mem-bers $25, GMs and IMs free (no deduction from prize). ($605/32, top 2guaranteed): $200-100-50, U2200 $95,2000 $85, U 1700 $75. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, request at entry. Checkwww.marshallchessclub.org for special additional weekly prizes.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 17-21, 18-21, 19-21 OR 20-21, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERNTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED)4th annual Golden State OpenCrowne Plaza Hotel, 45 John Glenn Dr., Concord, CA 94520 (free BART shut-tle). OPEN SECTION: 9SS, Jan 17-21 only, 40/90, SD/30, inc/30; GM & IM normsmay be possible. U2200, U1900, U1600, U1300 SECTIONS: 7SS, Jan 18-21,19-21 or 20-21, 40/2, SD/1, d5 (3-day option, rds. 1-2 G/75, d5, 2-day option,rds. 1-4 G/40, d5). U1000 SECTION: 7SS, Jan 20-21 only, G/40, d5. $25,000prize fund unconditionally guaranteed. In 6 sections. Open, open to all.$3000-1500-1000-600-500-400, clear or tiebreak winner $100, top FIDEU2400/Unr $1000-500. FIDE. Under 2200: $1500-1000-500-400-300, topU2000 $600-300. Under 1900: $1500-1000-500-400-300, top U1700 $500-250. Under 1600: $1200-700-400-300-300, top U1400 $500-250. Under 1300:$1000-600-400-300-200, top U1100 $400-200. Under 1000: $300-200-100,trophies to first 3, top U800, U600, Unr. Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) mayenter any section, with maximum prize U1000 $150, U1300 $400, U1600 $600,U1900 $800, Open EF: GMs, IMs & WGMs free; $150 deducted from prize. $700minimum prize to first 5 foreign GMs to enter if playing all 9 games; entry feededuction will not reduce prize to below $700. Free entries who enter inadvance must confirm entry on 1/17 in person at hotel by 6:30 pm Jan 17. For-eign FIDE rated players: $65 online by 1/14 or mailed by 1/3, $80 at site; $100deducted from prize. US players rated 2100/over by FIDE: $165 online by1/14 or mailed by 1/9, $180 at site. Others: $235 online by 1/14 or mailed by1/9, $250 at site. U2200 through U1300 sections EF: All $133 online by 1/14,4-day $134, 3-day $133, 2-day $132 mailed by 1/9, $150 at site. U1000 Sec-tion EF: $53 online by 1/14 or mailed by 1/9, $70 at site. All: Online late entryaccepted until 2 hours before your first game; same fee as at site. Phone EF($5 more than online EF) accepted through 1/14 (406-896-2038, entry only, noquestions). Special 1 yr USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with entry. Onlineat chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phonedor paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry (except Open)$60. Online or mailed EF $5 less to CalChess members. 5-day Open sched-ule: Late reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds. Thu 7 pm, Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 &6, Mon 10 & 4:30. 4-day schedule: Late reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30. 3-day schedule: Late reg. ends Sat 10 am,rds Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30. 2-day schedule: Late reg.ends Sun 9:30 am, rds Sun 10 am, 12 noon, 2 pm, 3:45 pm & 6 pm, Mon 10 am& 4:30 pm. Under 1000 schedule: Late reg. ends Sun 9:30 am, rds Sun 10,12, 2 & 3:45, Mon 10, 12 & 2. Byes: OK all, limit 2; Open must commit beforerd 2, others before rd 4. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if oth-erwise unrated. FIDE ratings used in Open Section. Foreign player ratingsin U2200/below sections: See chesstour.com/foreignratings.htm. HR: $89-89, 877-276-4600, 925-825-7700, reserve by 1/3 or rate may increase. Carrental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Ent: Continental Chess, c/oGoichberg, Box 661776, Arcadia, CA 91066 (chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US).$15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com.Bring set, board, clock if possible; none supplied.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 18-20 OR 19-20, FLORIDATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 Central Florida Class Championships5SS, G/120 (2-day: Rd.1 G/60). International Palms Resort, 6515 InternationalDr., Orlando, FL 32819 (across from Wet&Wild). $$7,000/ b130, 70% Guaran-teed. 6 Sections: Mast/Exp: $1000-400-200, U2200 $250. Class A: $600-300,U1900 $150. Class B: $600-300, U1700 $150. Class C: $600-300, U1500 $150.Class D: $600-300, U1300 $150. U1200: $500-300, U1000 $100, U800 $50. Ratedplayers may play up one class only. Unrateds limited to $70 unless Place prizein Mast/Exp. EF: 3-day $75, 2-day $74 by Jan 7, both $80 later and on-site. Re-entry $40. $15 less to students in grades K-8 in U1200 section. CFCC membdiscount: $10 ($5 for Jr/Sr memb) and part of CFCC Grand Prix with $600 addi-tional prizes.Trophies to top in each section (& Class X) also Class F, G, H, I, J& Unr in U1200 having more than one entry. Trophies and titles limited toFlorida residents. Reg.: ends 1/2 hr before 1st rd. Rd.1: 7pm Fri (2-day: 10amSat at G/60). Rds.: 2-5: Sat 1 & 6, Sun 9 & 2. 1/2 pt. byes if req’d before rd. 2(max 2). HR: $78 (No Resort Fee) (407) 351-3500; (Mention “Chess”); or athttp://tinyurl.com/Jan2013Hotel.(48-hr Cancellation penalty.) Reserve byDec 28. Free Shuttle, Parking, WiFi,and PM Beverage break. Ent: CFCC, c/oHarvey Lerman, 921 N. Thistle Ln, Maitland, FL 32751; or online: 2013CFclass.eventbrite.com by Jan 16.Info: 407-629-6946 or www.centralflchess.org.

A Heritage Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 18-21, 19-21 OR 20-21, PENNSYLVANIATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 (ENHANCED)45th annual Liberty Bell Open7SS, 40/2, SD/1, d5 (3 day option, rds 1-2 G/70, d5; 2 day, rds 1-4 G/35, d5).U900 Section plays 1/20-21 only, G/35, d5. Sonesta Hotel, 1800 Market St.,Philadelphia 19103. $$20,000 b/320 paid entries (U900 Section counts as 40%,U1100, U1300 & re-entries 80%), else in proportion, except minimum 70% ofeach prize guaranteed. In 2006 to 2012, the tournament had over 320 paidentries each year and the $20,000 projected prize fund was increased in pro-portion. In 9 sections. Open: $1700-1000-500-300-200, 1st clear or on tiebreak$100 bonus, top Under 2400 $800. FIDE. Under 2300: $1000-600-400-300-200.FIDE. Under 2100: $1000-600-400-300-200. Under 1900: $1000-600-400-300-200. Under 1700: $1000-600-400-300-200. Under 1500: $900-500-400-300-200.Under 1300: $600-300-200-150-100. Under 1100: $600-300-200-150-100.Under 900: $200-100-60-40, trophies to top 10. Unrated may enter any sec-tion, but may not win over $100 in U900, $300 in U1100, $500 U1300, $700U1500, or $900 U1700. Top 6 sections EF: 4 day $104, 3 day $103, 2 day $102if check mailed by 1/9, all $100 online at chesstour.com by 1/14, $110 phonedby 1/14 (406-896-2038, entry only, no questions), $120 (no checks, creditcards OK) at site. GMs free, $90 deducted from prize. U1300, U1100 SectionsEF: All $20 less than top 6 sections EF. U900 Section EF: $42 mailed by 1/9,$40 online by 1/14, $45 phoned by 1/14, $50 at site. All: Online late entry avail-able until 2 hours before your first game; same price as site entry. Unofficialuschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. No mailed credit cardentries. (except U900). Special 1 yr USCF dueswith magazine if paid with entry:Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed,phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Onlineentry $3 less to PSCF members. Re entry (except Open Section) $80. 4-dayschedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 &4:30. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 6,Mon 10 & 4:30. 2-day U1100 & up schedule: Reg ends Sun 9 am, rds Sun 10,12, 2, 4 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30. Under 900 schedule: Reg. ends Sun. 9 am, rdsSun 10, 12, 2 & 4, Mon 10, 12 & 2. Bye: all, limit 3, Open must commit beforerd 2, others before rd 4. HR: $98-98-98-98, 1-800-SONESTA, 617-806-4653,request Continental Chess rate, reserve by Jan 3 or rate may increase. Park-ing: Chess rate at Sonesta approx. $20/day (half of normal rate). GatewayParking at 1540 Vine, near Sheraton Hotel and 7 blocks from Sonesta, isapprox. $5/day Saturday & Sunday. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, useAWD#D657633 or reserve through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577 (DirectorAtChess.US, www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658.) $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries will be posted atchesstour.com. (All rounds except U900 are JGP).

JAN. 19, NEW JERSEYTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 Dr. Luvizminda Machan XIV Open4-SS, G/45. EF: $40, members $30 and U1600 less $5, GMs free ($25 deductedfrom prize). $$G200-150-100-50. Prizes to U2000, U1400 and Biggest Upset (Tro-phies). Rds.:1:30pm, 3:15pm, 5pm, 6:45pm. 2 byes available, commit prior togame 2. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Please visit www.chessmatesnj.com/for details or call 732-499-0118.

A State Championship Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 19-20, MICHIGANTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 2013 Michigan Master/Expert & Class Championships5-SS. Radisson Hotel Lansing, 111 N. Grand Ave., (517) 482-0188. HR: $98+taxby 1/11/13, after if space available. www.radisson.com/lansingmi - Code:CHESS13. 7 Sections: M/X, A, B, C, D, E (U1200), Novice (U1000/Unr - 1 daySat only). Most recent USCF rating supplement used for ratings. Players mustplay in class of their rating. Unrated players must play in Novice sect. Playersmay request to play up in class (or unrated players may request being seededinto a class) if their recent tournament history shows achievement into that class.TD must approve all requests and will assign a rating to the player within therating window of that class. EF: M/X, A, B, C, D, E: $40 (U18 $5 off); Novice:$25. Free entry to GM, IM, FM, & 2200+, advanced entry fee deducted fromprize. Advance entries must be received by 1/18/13. Credit Card paymentsaccepted via PayPal, contact TD for details. E-mail entries OK, but must pay byend of on-site registration. ALL on-site entries $10 more. Make checks payableto MCA. MCA memb req’d for Michigan residents, other states OK. Reg.: Sat,8-9am. Class Sect Rds.: Sat 10am-2:30pm-7pm, Sun 10am-3:30pm; NoviceSect Rds.: Sat only 10am-11:30am-1:30pm-3pm-4:30pm. Time controls:Class Sect: Sat G/120, Sun G/150; Novice Section: G/30 (Sat only). $$Gtd:$2705; M/X: $280-$180, X: $210 U2100: $110; Class A, B, C, D, E: $175-$115;U1900/U1700/U1500/U1300/U1100: $95; Novice: Trophies to Top 5 Overall,TopU800, Top U700, Top U600, Top Unr. Top Michigan finisher each class: StateChampionship title. Trophies for all place-winners. Ent & Info: Jeff Aldrich, 7453Whippoorwill Ln., Davison, MI 48423; [email protected]; (810) 955-7271.JGP for Class Sections only.


CONTINENTAL CHESS SCHEDULEVisit www.chesstour.com for late news,

results, games, minimum ratings, entries, etc. To

be added to our email list, see chesscalendar.com.

Most tournaments have alternate schedules

playing less or more days than listed below.

Asterisk means full details in this issue-

otherwise, see future issues or our website.

Events in red offer FIDE norm possibilities.

ONLINE ENTRY: www.chessaction.com.1/11-13: Boston Chess Congress, Boston MA*

1/17-21: Golden State Open, Concord CA*

1/18-21: Liberty Bell Open, Philadelphia PA*

2/23-24: NY State Scholastics, Saratoga Springs NY*

3/1-3: Pittsburgh Open, Pittsburgh PA*

3/1-3: Long Island Open, Ronkonkoma NY*

3/8-10: Western Class Championships, Agoura Hills, CA*

3/15-17: Eastern Class Championships, Sturbridge MA*

3/15-17: Mid-America Open, Saint Louis MO*

3/22-24: Southern Class Championships, Orlando FL*

3/27-31: Philadelphia Open, Philadelphia PA*

5/3-5: Vermont Resort Open, Rutland VT*

5/17-19: New York State Open, Lake George NY

5/24-27: Chicago Open, Wheeling IL*

6/21-23: Northeast Open, Stamford CT

6/27-7/1: DC International, Arlington VA*

6/28-30: World Open Senior Amateur & Women’s Open

6/29-30: World Open Under 13, Arlington VA

7/3-7: World Open, Arlington VA (DC area)*

7/18-21: Pacific Coast Open, Agoura Hills CA

7/19-21: Chicago Class, Wheeling IL

7/26-28: Bradley Open, Windsor Locks CT

7/26-28: Southern Open, Orlando FL

8/9-11: Cleveland Open, Cleveland OH

8/9-11: Continental Open, Sturbridge MA

8/14-18: Manhattan Open, New York NY

8/16-18: Indianapolis Open, Indianapolis IN

8/16-18: Central California Open, Fresno CA

8/23-25: Atlantic Open, Washington DC

8/31-9/2: New York State Championship, Albany NY

10//10-14: Continental Class, Arlington VA

10/18-20: Midwest Class, Wheeling IL

For later events, see chesstour.com.


Come Join UsAs we

Celebrate the Grandmasters!FEBRUARY 16—18, 2013

(President’s Weekend)

World Amateur Team &

43rd U.S. Amateur Team Championship East

Parsippany Hilton1 Hilton Court

Parsippany, NJ 07054(973) 267-7373 or 1-800-HILTONS

Reserve your room early!

SEE TOURNAMENT LIFE FOR COMPLETE DETAILS

We thank you for your continued support!

Dan

Sticky Note

Capitalize 'we'

Dan

Sticky Note

change em dash to hyphen


Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 19-20, NEW HAMPSHIRETROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED)Portsmouth OpenHoliday Inn Portsmouth, 300 Woodbury Ave., Portsmouth, NH 03801. In 2Sections:Open: 4SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30 Sec. Increment, Analog clocks play40/90, SD/60, FIDE rated. $$GTD: $500-250. U2250 $150, U2000 $150. U1750:4SS, 40/90, SD/30 + 30 Sec. Increment, Analog clocks play 40/90, SD/60, Opento 1749 & under. $$GTD: $400-200. U1500 $100, U1250 $100. ALL: EF: $50 inadvance, $55 at site. Reg.: Registration 9:00-9:45. Advance entries must be post-marked by 1/12/ 2013. Rds.: 10-4, 10-4. Accelerated pairings may be used. ENT:Alex Relyea, 49 Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex [email protected]. HR: $79 by 1 January, Mention Relyea Chess (603) 431-8000. www.relyeachess.com. NS. W.

JAN. 21, 28, FEB. 4, 11, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 24th Nassau G/60 Championship8-SS, G/55+5sec or G/60. 1st Presbyterian Church, 1st & Main Sts., Mineola.EF: $37 by 1/19, $44 at site, non-memb $10 more. $$ (800 b/25, top 2 G) 180-120, U2100, 1900, 1700, 1500, 1300/UR each 100. 4 byes 1-8. Rds.: 7:15-9:25each Mon. Rule 14H not used. [email protected]. Ent: Harold Stenzel,80 Amy Dr., Sayville, NY 11782.

JAN. 24, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)Marshall Thursday G/30 Grand Prix4-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, mem-bers $25, GMs and IMs free (no deduction from prize). ($605/32, top 2guaranteed): $200-100-50, U2200 $95,2000 $85, U 1700 $75. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, request at entry. Check www.marshallchessclub.org for special additional weekly prizes.

A Heritage Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 25-27 OR 26-27, OHIOTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED)36th Cardinal OpenEmbassy Suites Hotel (only 2 yrs old!), 2886 Airport Dr., Columbus, OH 43219,614-536-0209, www.columbusairport.embassysuites.com. $109/night chessrate thru Jan 7, up to 6 per room, includes full cooked breakfast & manager’sreception. Free shuttle to airport & local shopping/dining. 5-SS, 40/120, SD/60d/5 (2-day rds 1&2 G/75). Sets provided, bring clocks. 1 bye any round. $8,000in 5 sections, 1st 3 prizes guaranteed, others b/150 paid entries (re-entries=1/3, U1300 students = 1/2). Open (FIDE) $1200-800-500-300-250,1st 3 gtd; U2200 $550; U2100 $700-400-200; U1800 $700-400-200; U1500 $500-300-150, U1300 $300-200-100. Upset prize $50 each section. Unrated playerslimited to 3rd place $ prize except in Open. EF $90 if recd by 1/18, then $100;students in U1300 $25 less; re-entry $30; onsite entries cash only. Free toIM/GM, $90 deducted from winnings (waived if 150 paid entries). OCA mem-bership reqd of OH residents, part of the OCA Grand Prix. 3-day Schedule:Reg Fri 5-6:30pm, Rds 7pm; Sat 10:45-5:45; Sun 9:30-4:30. 2-day: Reg Sat 9-10:15, Rds 10:45-2 then merge w/ 3-day. Blitz tourny Sat night. Enter FOTKChess Club, 2720 Airport Dr., Columbus, OH 43219. Full details & entry formwww.neilley.com/chess, info [email protected], 614-314-1102. NS, W.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 25-27, NORTH CAROLINATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED)Land of the Sky XXVI5SS, 40/2,SD/30;d5 (U12 G/90;d5). Crowne Plaza Resort, One Resort Dr.,Asheville, NC 28806. Weekend before Super Bowl. In 4 Sections. $$20,000 b/320,$11,000 gtd. Open (FIDE-rated, 2/3 gtd): $2400-1200-600-500-400; U2300$600-300. Asheville (U2200): $1600-800-400; 1999-1900,1899-1800,U1800

$600-300 each; Unr: $75. Buncombe (U1700): $1600-800-400; 1599-1500,1499-1400, 1399-1300,U1300 $600-300 each; Unr: $75. U12 (U1200): $800-400-200;U1000: $300-150; Unr: $75. Upset: $25. EF (Open, Asheville, Buncombe): $84by 1/18. EF (U12): $42 by 1/18. Discounts (pre-reg or on-site, one perplayer): $10 off for players new to Land of the Sky, 2nd family member, or underage 18. All Sections: “No-prize” EF for under age 18 or Unrated EF in Asheville,Buncombe, U12: $21 (no discounts, unr elig for unr prizes only). All on-site entries$10 more. Rds.: 1st rd either Fri 7pm or Sat 9am (G/90), then Sat 1pm-7pm,Sun 9am-3pm. ENT:WW, PO Box 1123, Weaverville, NC 28787 INFO:Wilder Wad-ford, [email protected] 828-645-4215. HR: $89 for up to four occupants.828-254-3211 or 800-733-3211. More details and side events at www.ncchess.org.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 25-27 OR 26-27, ARIZONATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 (ENHANCED)Tucson Open and ScholasticsHoliday Inn Palo Verde, 4550 S. Palo Verde Rd., Tucson, AZ 85714, 520-746-1161.SECTIONS: Open, Reserve (U1800), & Booster (U1400). Scholastic tournamentheld the same weekend (K-6/U1000) visit website for more information!!SCHEDULE: (3-day) 5/SS, 40/2, SD/1; Reg.: 1/25 5:30-6:30 PM; Rds.: 7, 10-5, 9-4. (2-day) 5/SS, Rds. 1-2 G/90; Rds. 3-5 40/2, SD/1; Reg.: 1/26 8:30-9:30AM; Rds.: 10-1:30-5, 9-4. PRIZES: (Open) $$G: $500(plaque)-400-300; $$b/4X, A, B/below $150 ea. Trophy Top Jr. U20, Jr. U14, Sr. 50+; (Reserve) $$b/38:$250(plaque)-150(plaque); $$b/4 C, D/below $100 ea. Trophy to Top UNR, Jr.U14, Sr. 50+; (Booster)Trophy and clock to 1st Place, Trophy to 2nd - 5th Place,Top E, U1000/Unr and Jr. U11. EF: GM/IM are FREE! prizes to be reduced. (Open)$60; (Reserve) $45; (Booster) $30. LATE FEE: Additional $10 if entry receivedafter 1/23. DISCOUNT: $10 off EF for Juniors (under age 20) and Seniors (age50+) in Open and Reserve. ALL: 1/2 pt byes allowed for all rounds but mustbe requested prior to start of Round 2 (max 2). No Re-entries. HR: $72 (single)or $89 (suite) if by 1/11, mention “SACA”. Info: Karen Pennock, 520-261-6149, email: [email protected], web: www.sazchess.org/. Ent: Onlineregistration available at www.sazchess.org/store/store.php or postal mail(make checks payable to SACA) to: SACA, Attn: 2013 Tucson Open, PO Box 36149,Tucson, AZ 85740. NC. NS. W.

JAN. 26, NEW JERSEYTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 Dr. Luvizminda Machan XV Open4-SS, G/45. EF: $40, members $30 and U1600 less $5, GMs free ($25 deductedfrom prize). $$G200-150-100-50. Prizes to U2000, U1400 and Biggest Upset (Tro-phies). Rds.: 1:30pm, 3:15pm, 5pm, 6:45pm. 2 byes available, commit prior togame 2. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Please visit www.chessmatesnj.com/for details or call 732-499-0118.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 26, VIRGINIATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)Sterling Chess January Open and RBOHampton Inn & Suites Dulles, 22700 Holiday Park Dr., Sterling, VA 20166.Four sections: Open 4SS, G/61 T/D5, $300 Gtd., 150/100/50. Top U2200, $100;top U2000, $75, top U1800, $50. U1600 4SS, G/61 T/D5, $50 and trophy for first,$25 and medal for second. U1200 4SS, G/45 T/D5, trophy for first, medal forsecond. U800 4SS, G/25 T/D5, trophy for first, medal for second. Rds.: Openand U1600 11:15, 2:00, 4:30, 7:00. U1200 10:45, 12:45, 2:45, 4:45. U800 10:15,11:30, 12:45, 2:00. Doors open 9:15. EF: Open $45, early bird rate $40 till Thurs-day 1/24; U1600, U1200, and U800 $30, early bird rate $25 till Thursday 1/24.Unrateds free. Entries limited: Register online at www.meetup.com/ster-ling-chess-tournaments. Pay on website. HR: 79/89. Call 703-537-7800 andmention Sterling Chess. Bye: Half-point, any round. (Fourth round must com-mit before beginning of third round.) Players with more than one bye are noteligible for prizes. Info: news@serranoassociates. com. Top two sections areChess Magnet School JGP.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 26-27, FLORIDATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 Central Florida Chess Club Championship5SS, G/120. Wirz Park, 806 Mark David Blvd., Casselberry, FL 32707. EF: $40.CFCC mem req at $20($10 Jr/Sr). $$GTD 800:250-150-100, U2000, U1800,U1600, U1400 each 75, plaques (if mem as of Dec 26) to Club Champion,U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400, & top under age 16. Reg.: Sat 9:30am. Rds.: 10-2:30-7, 9-2. CFCC elections 1pm Sun. Ent: CFCC, 921 N. Thistle Ln., Maitland,FL 32751. Info: (407) 629-6946 or www.centralflchess.org.

A Heritage Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 26-27, NEW HAMPSHIRETROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 37th Queen City Open4SS, 40/90, SD/30, incr. 30 from move 1. Analog clocks play 40/90,SD/60. Com-fort Inn, exit 4 (Queen City Bridge) off I-293, Manchester, NH. 603-668-2600.HR: $80, mention “NH Chess”, reserve early. $$Gtd: 2,325. 4 sections: Open:EF: $46 by 1/24, GMs/IMs free. $300-200-100, U2100 $125-75. U1950: $200-100-75, U1750 $100-50. No Unr. may win over $75.U1650: $200-100-75, U1450$100-50. No Unr. may win over $75. U1350: $150-100-75, U1000 $100-50. NoUnr. may win over $75. All: EF: $46 by 1/24. Special EF for jrs U21 in U1350section only, $31 if by 1/24. All EF: $5 more if at site. Reg.: 8:30-9:30am Sat.,Rds.: 10-4:00, 9:30-3:30. One 1/2 pt. bye OK for Rds.1-3 if rec’d with ent. Ent:NH Chess Assoc., Hal Terrie, 377 Huse Rd. #23, Manchester, NH 03103. Info:603-668-8368 or [email protected]. W.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 26-27, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERNTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 LACC - January OpenOpen (6SS, G/61). 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. 2 Sections:U2300/U1800. EF: $70 at the door ($65 if notified by 1/25); $60 LACC mem-bers ($55 if notified by 1/25); Siblings $15 off, $40 new LACC members, Freenew LACC Life members! 20% off EF for each friend you bring in. Reg.: Sat 10-11:30 am. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day. Byes: Up to three 1/2-point byesavailable. 1-Day option I: Play 1 day- no 1/2 pt byes- 1/2 EF. 1-Day optionII: Play 1 day- receive three 1/2 pt byes- full EF. Prizes: $$ 1,500 (b/45, $750Guaranteed). 1st-3rd $300-200-100; U2000: $100; U1800: $200-100-50; U1600:$150–100; U1400: $100-50; U1200/unrated: $75; Ent: LACC, Box 251774, LA,CA 90025. Info:Mick Bighamian: Cell (310) 795-5710; [email protected] www.LAChessClub.com. Parking: Free street & BoA Parking or building base-ment ($5).

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 26-28 OR 27-28, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERNTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED)Winter Championship6SS, G/90. Open 5SS, G/90+30sec (2day rds 1-2 G55). 1639A S. Main St., Mil-pitas, CA 95035. Park free. Prizes: $5,000 b97 75% guar. 3 sects: 2000+(FIDE rated) $1,000 500 200, u2300: 200 100. 1600-1999 700 300 100, u1800:200 100 100, U1600 700 300 100, u1400: 100 100, u1200: 100 100. Unr max$100 exc Open. Jan 13 Supp, CCA min & TD disc. EF: $77 by 1/24, onsite +20.Playup +20. Econ: EF-20 w/ 60% prize. GM, IM, FM, NM, $0 by 1/19: prize-EF. Reg. F 6-6:45p & Sa 8-9:45 Rounds u2000: F 7p, Sa 10 1:30, Sun 9 12:304. 2000+: F 7p, Sa/Su 9 1:30 2-day: Rds 1-2 G/55 Sat 9 11:15a & merge) Info:BayAreaChess.com/champs. NS. NC.

A Heritage Event!JAN. 31, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)January New Yorker Masters Special Edition of USCF’s Longest-Run-ning Action Tournament!4-SS, G/25 + d5 or G/30 + d/0. Chess Center of NY at the historic NewYorker Hotel!, 481 Eighth Ave at 34th St, across from Penn Station, NYC(347-201-2269; Thursdays: 212-971-0101). 3 sections! Masters,open to currently or formerly over 2199 USCF or FIDE, or any player scor-ing 2 1/2 or more points in any “4 Rated Games Tonight!” since lastmonth’s Masters. $$ (1,250 b/40 total paid, minimum half each prize Gtd):$400-200-100, top U2400 150. Under 2200: $100-60-40, top U1800 $50.Under 1200 Section. Trophies to top 3. NEW!! $150 Mixed Doubles BonusPrizes (best male/female 2-player team combined score in any section):$100-50 (teammates’ average rating must be U2200; teammates may playin different sections, teammate pairings avoided but possible, teams mustdeclare by 8:15). Choice of 2 schedules! 7:00 Schedule, rds. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. 7:30 schedule, rd. 1 (G/15 + td/3) at 7:30 pm, scorecarries over into round 2 of 7:00 schedule at 8:15 pm. EF: Masters Sec-tion $40, Under 2200 Section $30, $10 less if you played in 10 or more“4 Rated Games Tonight!” tournaments since 1987, $5 less to attendeesof 5 pm Rohde/Bonin class, GMs free ($25 from prize), free to playerreturning after longest lapse since last tmt, specified Greater NY Scholas-tic Prizewinners free, Under 1200 Section free! Limit 2 byes (limit one byetowards class prize), must commit by 8:15 pm. Re-entry: $15, counts half.Reg. ends 20 min. before game. CCA ratings may be used. Help with NYCparking: www.primospot. com, www.iconparkingsystems.com. Spon-sorship: Name one of the 4RGTs after yourself, and see your name inuschess.org! Info: www.chesscenter.cc.

JAN. 31, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)Marshall Thursday G/30 Grand Prix4-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, mem-bers $25, GMs and IMs free (no deduction from prize). ($605/32, top 2guaranteed): $200-100-50, U2200 $95,2000 $85, U 1700 $75. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, request at entry. Check www.marshallchessclub.org for special additional weekly prizes.

FEB. 1-2, MINNESOTATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 2013 Rochester Grand Winter OpenNEW $1300 Guaranteed Prize Fund - Free Entry for Masters Sponsored byRochester Chess Club and Mayo Clinic Chess Club (MCCC). Chief TD: Sisira Ama-rasinghe; Asst TD’s: Jack Fulsom and Dan Voje. Organizer: Dennis Mays.Premier (open to all): 5-SS. TL: game/60 + 5 sec delay. EF: $40 rec’d byJanuary 29; $50 at site. USCF membership required. PZ: 1st – 3rd $300, 200,


7th

annual LONG ISLAND OPENMarch 1-3 or 2-3, Holiday Inn Islip Airport - $75 rooms!

$12,000 projected prizes, $8,000 minimum guaranteed

FREE PARKING, FREE LIRR SHUTTLE, FREE AIRPORT SHUTTLE

5 rounds in 5 sections; you play only those in your section. Choice of 3-day or 2-day schedule, both merge after rd 2. Prizes based on 160 paidentries (re-entries & U1200 Section count half). Enter at chessaction.com.

Open Section: Prizes $1500-700-400-300, clear/tiebreak win $100 bonus,

top U2300/Unr $500-250. FIDE rated, 60 GPP.

Under 2100 Section: $1000-500-300-200, top U1900 $400-200.



Under 1200 Section: $500-250-150-100, trophy to first 3, top U1000,

U800, U600, Unrated.

Unrated prize limits: $200 in U1200, $400 U1500, $600 U1800.

FULL DETAILS: see “Grand Prix” in this issue or chesstour.com.



100; U2000 $80; U1800 $80. RDS.: Standard - Friday* 7:30 P.M.; Saturday 10:00,1:00, 3:30, and 6:00 Castle -Thursday 7:30 P.M. rd 1 option at the Chess Cas-tle (www.chesscastle.com) 1-day G/30 + 5 sec option: Saturday 10:00-11:15,merge in round 3 Amateur (U1600): 5-SS. TL: game/60 + 5 sec delay. EF:$30 rec’d by January 29; $40 at site. USCF membership required. PZ: 1st – 3rd$210, 140, 70; U1400 $60; U1200 $60. RDS.: Standard - Friday 7:30 P.M.; Sat-urday 10:00, 1:00, 3:30, and 6:00 Castle -Thursday 7:30 P.M. rd 1 option at theChess Castle (www.chesscastle.com) 1-day G/30 + 5 sec option: Saturday10:00-11:15, merge in round 3 Reserve (U1200): 5-SS. TL: game/45 + 5 secdelay. EF: $15 rec’d by January 29; $20 at site. USCF membership required.PZ: 1st-7th trophies. RDS.: Saturday only, 11:00, 1:15, 3:00, 4:45, and 6:30. Ban-tam (U800/Unrated): 4-SS. TL: game/45 + 5 sec delay. EF: $15 rec’d byJanuary 29; $20 at site. USCF membership required. PZ: 1st-7th trophies.RDS: Saturday only, 11:00, 1:15, 3:00, and 4:45. Site:Mayo Clinic Harwick Cafe-teria, SW corner of 3rd Ave. SW & 2nd St. SW, Rochester, MN. Free parking onthe street or in all public (not Mayo Clinic) parking ramps. Enter the Harwickbuilding through the east entrance on 3rd Ave SW. Registration and AdvanceEntry: On-Site: Friday on-site for Premier and Amateur, MCCC club opens at6:45 PM, Rd 1 at 7:30 PM. Saturday Premier/Amateur sections, 8:45 – 9:30 AM;Reserve/Bantam, 10:00-10:45. Re-entry for 1-day options, $25 Premier $20 Ama-teur (must notify TD by 9:30 AM on Sat.). Advance Entry Website (preferred):https://onlineregistration.cc/. Advance Entry by Mail:Make checks payableto “Rochester Chess Club” or “RCC”, and mail with below registration formto: Sisira Amarasinghe, 619 Crane Creek Lane, Eagan, MN 55121,[email protected]; (864) 674-7472. Premier and Amateur Sections qualify forJGP.

FEB. 2, NEW JERSEYTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 Dr. Luvizminda Machan XVI Open4-SS, G/45. EF: $40, members $30 and U1600 less $5, GMs free ($25 deductedfrom prize). $$G200-150-100-50. Prizes to U2000, U1400 and Biggest Upset (Tro-phies). Rds.:1:30pm, 3:15pm, 5pm, 6:45pm. 2 byes available, commit prior togame 2. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Please visit www.chessmatesnj.com/for details or call 732-499-0118.

A State Championship Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 2, PENNSYLVANIATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 2013 PA State Game/75 Championship4SS, G/75d5. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pitt., 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh, PA15213. 3 Sections, $$ (695G): Championship: EF: $30 by 1/25, $40 later. $200-100, U2000 $75, U1800 $50. Premier: U1600. EF: $25 by 1/25, $35 later.$90-60, U1400 $50, U1200 $40, U1000 $30; Trophies to Top 2, Top 2 U1400, Top2 U1200, Top 2 U1000. Scholastic: Grades K-12 U900. EF: $15 by 1/25, $25later. Trophies to Top 7, 1-3 U600. ALL:Teams of 4 to 7 combined from all sec-tions, Trophies 1st-2nd schools, clubs. PSCF $5, OSA. Reg ends 9:30am. Rds.:10-1-4-7. Ent/Info: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA15223, 412-908-0286, [email protected]. W.

FEB. 7, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)Marshall Thursday G/30 Grand Prix4-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, mem-bers $25, GMs and IMs free (no deduction from prize). ($605/32, top 2guaranteed): $200-100-50, U2200 $95,2000 $85, U 1700 $75. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, request at entry. Checkwww.marshallchessclub.org for special additional weekly prizes.

A Heritage Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 8-10 OR 9-10, MARYLANDTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 51st Annual Baltimore Open5SS, 30/90, SD/30 + 30” incr, (Rnd 1 G/90 +30” incr) (2-day schedule: rds1-2 G/45+30”incr) U1500 & U1200 G/120 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/60; U12001-day option, rds 1-4 G/30) Holiday Inn Columbia, 7900 Washington Blvd.,Columbia, MD, 888-465-4329 $$Based on score. 5 sections: Championship(min. rating of 1700) FIDE rated: 5.0 =$1500, 4.5 =$700, 4.0=$350, 3.5=$150[min $1500 payout, top score group raised if less than $1500]. U1900 &U1700: 5.0= $1200, 4.5 = $600, 4.0= $300, 3.5= $100. U1500 & U1200: 5.0=$500, 4.5 =$250, 4.0 =$125, 3.5 =$50. Unrated may not win over $100 inU1200, $200 U1500, or $400 in U1700. Sets and board provided. Clocks pro-vided in the Championship section. Optionally, pairings can be texted toyour phone. Free Sunday morning continental breakfast for players.Free parking. EF: $90 by 1/25, $100 by 1/6, and $105 (online only) by 1/7, $110at the door. Special EFs: $35 less for U1500 & U1200; GMs free, $50 deductedfrom prize; IMs $45 off EF, $20 deducted from prize; $5 off EF if staying at hotel.HR: $84, ($5 EF discount if staying at hotel) limited number of free rooms Sat.night for GMs. Rooms may not be avail after 1/25. 3-day schedule: Reg. endsFri 7pm, rds Fri 8, Sat 11&6, Sun 9&3. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10am rds11, 2:15&6, Sun 9&3 U1500 3-day schedule Reg. ends Fri 7 pm, rds Fri 8, Sat11&4:00, Sun 9&2:00 U1500&U1200 2-day schedule Reg. ends Sat 10am rds11, 1:15 & 4:00, Sun 9&2:00 U1200 only 1-day schedule Reg. ends Sun 8:30amrds 9, 10:15, 11:30, 12:45 & 2:00. Ent: MCA, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd., Towson,MD 21204. Detailed rules, more information and registration at www.thebal-topen.com.

FEB. 9, NEW JERSEYTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 Dr. Luvizminda Machan XVII Open4-SS, G/45. EF: $40, members $30 and U1600 less $5, GMs free ($25 deductedfrom prize). $$G200-150-100-50. Prizes to U2000, U1400 and Biggest Upset (Tro-phies). Rds.: 1:30pm, 3:15pm, 5pm, 6:45pm. 2 byes available, commit prior togame 2. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Please visit www.chessmatesnj.com/for details or call 732-499-0118.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 9, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)New Yorker February Game/75!4-SS, G/75 + td/5. Chess Center at the New Yorker Hotel, 481 8th Ave at 34thSt., across from Penn Station, NYC: 347-201-CCNY (2269), Feb 9: 212-971-0101. EF: 11 am Schedule $35, 12:30 Schedule $34.50 postmarked by 2/1,$38 phoned by 2/6 to 406-896-2191 (credit card entries only), $34 online at

www.chesscenter.cc thru 2/6, $40 at site, GMs free ($30 from prize), freeto specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners! $$1,200 b/60 paid entries,minimum half each prize Gtd: $$ 300-200-100, top U2200/unr. $150, U2000 $130,U1800 $120; Mixed Doubles Prizes: best male/female duo combined scorerds. 1-4 (teammates’ average rating must be U2200, teammate pairingsavoided but possible, teams must declare by 1:30 pm): $125-75. NEW! Optional(G/25 + td/5) Bonus Fifth Round at 10:30 pm (Prizes are based on your scorein Rounds 1-4; Optional Bonus Prizes are based on your combined score in rds.1-4 + optional rd. 5)! Bonus 5th Round EF (no refunds): $10 extra before rd.2, $20 extra before rd. 3, $30 extra before rd. 4, $40 extra after rd. 4. $150Optional Fifth Round Bonus Prizes Gtd: $60-$40, U2000 $50. Limit 2 byes(1 bye if U2000), commit by 2 pm. Re-entry $20. Ent (mail by 2/1): Chess Cen-ter of NY, PO Box 4615, New Windsor, NY 12553. CCA ratings may be used. Reg.ends 30 min before game. Choice of 2 Schedules! 11 am Schedule: Rds. 11am-2-4:45-7:45 pm. 12:30 Schedule: rd. 1 (G/25 + td/5) at 12:30, thenmerges with 11 am schedule at rd. 2. Help with NYC parking: www.primospot.com, www.iconparkingsystems.com. Info: www.chesscenter.cc (online entrythru 2/6).

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 9, OHIOTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 BRRRRRR Pawn Storm XV4SS tmt, G/60, d/10. at Dayton Chess Club. EF: $28 until 2 Feb then $38. EFrefunded to players 2200 or higher who complete their schedule. GTD Prizes:Open $250-151, U1900 $150, U1600 $149. Reg.: 10-10:45. Rds.: 11-1:45-4:30-7. DCC mbrs $3 discount.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 9-10 OR 10, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)Marshall February GP4-SS, 30/85d5 SD/1d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $50,members $30. $$625 gtd: $275-150, U2200 $105, U2000 $95. Reg ends 15 minbefore Rd. 2 schedules: 2 day 12:30-5:30 each day. 1 day 10-11:15-12:30-5:30(Rds 1-2 G/25d5). Limit 2 byes, request at entry. NO REENTRY. www.marshallchessclub.org. FIDE (G/30 not FIDE rateable).

FEB. 10, NEW JERSEYTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA Winter 2013 Open ChampionshipBergen Academy, 200 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, NJ 07601. Open To All AgesWith Rating above 1400. 4SS, G/60. USCF Membership Required. 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. Prize Fund WillNot Be Reduced Below 70 %. Reg Ends at 9 AM Only one 1/2-point bye allowed,if requested before the start of round two. EF: Adv (pmk. By Feb 6th) $40, ATSite $45. GMs Free Entry. INFO 201 287 0250 or [email protected]. Rds.: 9:30AM, 11:45 AM, 2:15 PM, 4:30 PM. ENT: Make EF and/or USCF Membershipchecks payable to: International Chess Academy Mail To: Diana Tulman, 28 Can-terbury Ln., New Milford, NJ 07646. INFO: www.icanj.net. NS. NC. W.

FEB. 14, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY Edition of USCF’s Longest-Running ActionTournament - WITH MIXED SPECIAL DOUBLES PRIZES!!4-SS, G/25 + d5 or G/30 + d/0. Chess Center of NY at the historic NewYorker Hotel!, 481 Eighth Ave at 34th St, across from Penn Station, NYC(347-201-2269; Thursdays: 212-971-0101). 3 sections! Masters,open to currently or formerly over 2199 USCF or FIDE, or any player scor-ing 2 1/2 or more points in any “4 Rated Games Tonight!” since lastmonth’s Masters. $$ (1,250 b/40 total paid, minimum half each prize Gtd):$400-200-100, top U2400 150. Under 2200: $100-60-40, top U1800 $50.Under 1200 Section. Trophies to top 3. NEW!! $150 Mixed DoublesBonus Prizes (best male/female 2-player team combined score in any

section): $100-50 (teammates’ average rating must be U2200; teammatesmay play in different sections, teammate pairings avoided but possible,teams must declare by 8:15). Choice of 2 schedules! 7:00 Schedule,rds. 7-8:15- 9:30-10:45 pm. 7:30 schedule, rd. 1 (G/15 + td/3) at 7:30pm, score carries over into round 2 of 7:00 schedule at 8:15 pm. EF: Mas-ters Section $40, Under 2200 Section $30, $10 less if you played in 10 ormore “4 Rated Games Tonight!” tournaments since 1987, $5 less toattendees of 5 pm Rohde/Bonin class, GMs free ($25 from prize), freeto player returning after longest lapse since last tournament, specifiedGreater NY Scholastic Prizewinners free, Under 1200 Section free! Limit2 byes (limit one bye towards class prize), must commit by 8:15 pm. Re-entry: $15, counts half. Reg. ends 20 min. before game. CCA ratings maybe used. Help with NYC parking: www.primospot. com, www.iconpark-ingsystems.com. Sponsorship: Name one of the 4RGTs after yourself,and see your name in uschess.org! Info: www.chesscenter.cc.

FEB. 14, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)Marshall Thursday G/30 Grand Prix4-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, mem-bers $25, GMs and IMs free (no deduction from prize). ($605/32, top 2guaranteed): $200-100-50, U2200 $95,2000 $85, U 1700 $75. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, request at entry. Check www.marshallchessclub.org for special additional weekly prizes.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 15-17, VIRGINIATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 4th Annual Hampton Chess & Sports Festival5SS, G/2. Hampton Roads Convention Center, 1610 Coliseum Dr., Hampton. 2sections: Open & U1600. Prizes: $$2000 Increased with 60+ entries. OpenSection: $350-275-175 1800-1999 $150 U1800 $125. U1600 Section: $275-200-175 1200-1399 $150 U1200 $125. Free tee shirt & athlete badge to everyentry HR: See website for hotels. EF: $40 by 2/13 else $50. Reg.: 9:00-9:40.Rds.: Sat. 10-2:30-7, Sun. 10-2:30. Entries/Cks: Virginia Chess, 1370 S. BradenCres., Norfolk, VA 23502. Info: Ernie (757) 853-5296, [email protected]. Single half pt. bye available. VCF Cup Simul. Exhibition & BlitzTnmt on Fri. at 7pm EF: $15 each. This is part of a Sports Festival and your ath-lete badge gives you free entry to watch other sports. Scholastic event Sat. 2/18.

A Heritage Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 16-17, SOUTH CAROLINATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 39th Snowstorm Special5SS, 30/90, SD/1 t/d 5 (Rd. 1 G/90 t/d 5), New Venue: Holiday Inn Express,120 Holiday Dr., Summerville, SC 29483. Prize Fund: Open Section - $1000 b/30($500 Gtd.) U1400 Section - $250 b/15($125Gtd.) Open Section Prizes: $400-200, u2000-200, u1700-200. U1400 Section Prizes: $175-75. EF:$50 for OpenSection if rec’d by 2/13, $60 at site, $25 re-entry. EF: $25 for U1400 Section;USCF & SCCA req’d, OSA both sections. Schedule: Reg.: Sat. 8-9am Rd. 1: 10am,2pm, 8pm, Sun. 9am, 2:30pm. Half pt. byes: avail. all rds., must commit beforeRd. 2 for Rds. 4&5 (irrevocable). HR: $85 (mention “Charleston CC”) reserveby Jan. 15, 2013 (843-875-3300.) Other info: Free entry to Masters andabove($50 deducted from any winnings.) Info/Reg/Pmt: Charleston ChessClub, c/o David Y.Causey, 741 Dragoon Dr., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 (email: [email protected].

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 16-17, WISCONSINTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 UW Winter Open5-SS, TC rds 1-3 G/120 rds 4-5 45/2, SD/1. Union South, 1308 W. Dayton St.,Madison, WI 53715, 608-263-2600. Reg.: 9-9:30. Rds.: 10, 2:30, 7:30; 10,3:30. EF: $20 if received by 2/14, $25 at site. $$ $1000 GTD. 1st $200, 2nd

www.uschess.org 57

17th annual MID-AMERICA OPENMarch 15-17 or 16-17, Clayton, MO (Saint Louis)


5 rounds, 7 sections, play only those in your section. Choice of 3-day or2-day schedule, both merge after rd 2. Prizes based on 200 paid entries (re-entries & U1200 sections count half); 75% each prize minimum guaranteed.

Open Section: Prizes $2000-1000-600-300, clear/tiebreak win $100

bonus, top U2200 $900-500. FIDE rated, 80 GPP.

Under 2000 Section: $1400-700-400-200.

Under 1800 Section: $1300-700-400-200. Unrated limit $800.



Adult Under 1200 Section (born 1994/before): $300-150-100, trophy to

first 3, top U1000, Unrated. Unrated limit $150.

Junior Under 1200 Section (born 1995/after): $300-150-100, trophies to

first 3, top U1000, U800, U600, Unrated. Unrated limit $150.




$165, 3rd $135, A $100, B $90, C $80, D $70, E $60, U1000 $55, Unr $45. Entries:Guy Hoffman, 1305D Tompkins Dr., Madison, WI 53716-3279. Phone: 920-279-0701 NC. NS. WI Chess Tour Event.

A Heritage Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 16-17, ALABAMATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 Queen of Hearts - 41st Annual5SS, TC: 30/90; SD/30. AUM Taylor Center, 7401 East Dr., Montgomery, AL36117. OPEN ($$b/25): $325-200-150-A:125-U1800: $100; RESERVE ($$b/25): $275-150-125-E:100-U1000: $75. EF: $40; if mailed by FEB 11th; $50 atsite. Late REG.: FEB 16th, 8-8:40am. Rds: 9-2-7; 9-2:30. SCHOLASTIC (K-12):5SS, TC: G/30. PREMIER (UNR-1200) and NOVICE (K-6; Not Rated): EF:$20/$10; if mailed by FEB 9th, $10 more at site. Trophy:Top 3; Medals 4th-6th.Rds: 9-10:15-12-1:15, 2:30. Checks payable to: Montgomery Chess Club. ENT:Montgomery Chess Club, 2625 Burkelaun Drive, Montgomery, AL 36111. Info:[email protected], www.AlabamaChess.com. JGP notfor Scholastic K-12 section.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 16-17, OKLAHOMATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 4th Jerry Hanken FIDE Winter Op5-SS, G/90+30 spm; $$G $950; Quality Inn-Stillwater, 2515 W. 6th Ave (Hwy-51), Stillwater, OK 74074 1-405-372-0800; HR 68-68 Wi-Fi, EF: FIDE Open $50;Reserve $30 (deduct $10 if envelope postmarked before Feb 14th) OCF$10 required; Reg.: 9-9:45 Sat AM; Rds.: 10 - 2:30 - 7; 9 - 1:15 // Two Sec-tions: Open-FIDE $G 1st $300 U-2100 $150; U-1900 $150-100; U-1700 $150Reserve U-1500: $100 1st ; 1 half pt bye rds 1-5. Frank Berry, 402 S. Willis St.,Stwtr, OK 74074; [email protected].

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 16-18, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERNTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED)2nd Annual Recession Buster Open6-SS, 40/90, SD/60,d/10 (2-day schedule rds 1-3 G/60, d/5 then merges). Mar-riott San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, 2592 Lanning Rd., San Diego, CA 92106.$$18,000 Guaranteed prize fund. with 4 Sections. Prizes: Open Sec 1st$2,200-1,600-1,200-1,000-800-600, BU2300 $800-400, U2100 Section $1,200-800-600-400-300; U1700 Section $1,200-800-600-400-300; U1300 Section$700-400-300-200, BU1100 $300-150-100, Best Unrated $100. Plus Best GamePrizes: $75-50-25, one reserved for non-open sections. Reg.: 3-day: 8 to9:30 AM, Feb official rating list used. 2-day: 8-8:30 AM Sunday. Rds.: 3 day:10 AM & 4 PM all 3 days. 2- day: 9:00 AM ,11:15 & 1:30 PM Sun, then mergeswith 4 PM game. EF: $100 if received by 2/12, $120 at door. No credit cardsat door, checks or cash only. Special rate of only $75 if U1300 or unrated. Spe-cial rate for GMs and IMs: $20 if registered by 2/12, or $60 late entry at door.Open section will be FIDE rated except for the 3 fast games in the 2 day. Unratedprize limits: U1300 $100, U1700 $200, U2100 $400, place prizes only in the OpenSection. Players who forfeit any round are also ineligible for prizes. SCCFmembership req’d ($18 Adult, $5 Jr) for all So Cal residents. Two byes allowed,but must be requested at least one hour before round, and round 5 & 6 byesmust be requested before rd 2 and are irrevocable. Ent: SDCC, PO Box 120162,San Diego, CA 92112 or enter online at www.scchess.com. For more info callBruce Baker at (619) 239-7166, or email Chuck Ensey at [email protected] Rates: Special rate of only $115 (with free parking!) if booked by1/15/12, book early as rates may go up and rooms will likely sell out by mid-Jan. This great hotel a few miles from the airport has lots of fast food withinwalking distance, plus many fine dining restaurants.

FEB. 19, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)Marshall Masters!4-SS, G/25 d/5. Third Tuesday of every month. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC.212-477-3716. Open to players rated over 2100 (plus all players scoring over

50% in any MCC Open or U2300 event since the prior month’s Masters). EF: $40,members $30, GMs free. $$G250-150-100. Prizes to U2400, U2300 and biggestupset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available (Rd 1or 4 only), request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

FEB. 21, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)Marshall Thursday Game 30 Grand Prix!4-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, mem-bers $25, GMs and IM’s free (no deduction from prize!). Prizes: ($$530 basedon 32 players; first two prizes guaranteed:) $200-100-50, U2100 $95, U1900$85. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, requestat entry.

FEB. 22, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)NEW! Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz! (QC)Last Friday of every month. 9-SS, G/5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. $$Gtd 500: $200-100, top U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50each, EF: $30, members $20. Quick-rated, but higher of regular or quick USCFrating used for pairings & prizes. FIDE Blitz Rated! Reg. ends 6:45 pm. Rds.:7-7:30-7:50-8:10-8:40-9-9:20-9:40-10 pm. Three byes available, request atentry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

FEB. 23, NEW JERSEYTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 Dr. Luvizminda Machan XVIII Open4-SS, G/45. EF: $40, members $30 and U1600 less $5, GMs free ($25 deductedfrom prize). $$G200-150-100-50. Prizes to U2000, U1400 and Biggest Upset (Tro-phies). Rds.: 1:30pm, 3:15pm, 5pm, 6:45pm. 2 byes available, commit prior togame 2. 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Please visit www.chessmatesnj.com/for details or call 732-499-0118.

FEB. 23, NEW JERSEYTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 15 (ENHANCED)Viking Happy 75th Birthday Ken (a VPLM event)Somerset Holiday Inn, 195 Davidson Ave., Somerset, Exit #10 off I-287. OpenSection: 4-SS, G/45:d5. G$$: $250+T 150-100. Top Expert, Class A, B, &U1600 get $50 minimum to first only. No pooling. Trophies: Expert, A, B, Sr. &Jr. EF: $30 at entryfeesrus.com. U1750 Section: 4-SS, G/45:d5. $$b/23:$200+T, 150-50. Top C, D and U1150 get $50 minimum to first only. No pool-ing. Trophies: C, D & E. EF: $30 at entryfeesrus.com. K-8 Sections U1300 andU700: 5-SS, G/30,Trophies to top 10. EF: $18 at entryfeesrus.com. All: EF atsite $10 more. PLM members get $5 cash rebate. Bring your card. Reg.: 9-10a.1st. Round at 10a then ASAP. Mail early: Ken Thomas, 115 West Moore St., Hack-ettstown, NJ 07840. Info: 908-619-8621, [email protected]. NC, W. WEB.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 23-24, WASHINGTONTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 21st Dave Collyer Memorial5SS, G/115. St. Anne’s Children’s Center Conference Room, W. 25 Fifth Ave.,Spokane, WA 99201. Special “sleep in” option for round one — see website.Sleep-in Option: Players may play round 1 beginning at noon with a G/60 t/c.EF: $27 if received by 2/22; $33 at door, Under 19 $5 less. $$GTD: $350-225-125. Ex — $100; A; B; C; D; E/Unr: $100-70; Biggest Upsets: $100-50(non-provisional ratings only). One prize per player except for biggest upset.Reg.: Feb. 23 8:30-9:30 am (sleep-in option must register by 11:40). Rds.: 2/23:10(or 12) — 2:30 — 7:00; 2/ 24: 9:00; 1:30. one 1/2 point bye available. Play-ers meeting at 9:45 Feb. 23. ENT: Spokane CC, c/o Kevin Korsmo, 9923 N. Moore,Spokane, WA 99208-9339. INFO:www.spokanechessclub.org [email protected]. OTHER: John Donaldson lecture & simul — February 22, 2013. www.spokanechessclub.org. NS. NC. W.

FEB. 28, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)Marshall Thursday Game 30 Grand Prix!

4-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, mem-bers $25, GMs and IM’s free (no deduction from prize!). Prizes: ($$530 basedon 32 players; first two prizes guaranteed:) $200-100-50, U2100 $95, U1900$85. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, requestat entry.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 1-3 OR 2-3, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED)7th Annual Long Island Open5SS, 40/2, SD/1, d5 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, d5). Holiday Inn Long Island- Islip Airport, 3845 Veterans Memorial Highway, Ronkonkoma, NY 11779.Free parking, free shuttle from LIRR or Islip Airport. Prizes $12,000 based on160 paid entries, $8000 minimum (2/3 each prize) guaranteed; re-entries &U1200 Section count as half entries. In 5 sections. Open: $1500-700-400-300,clear or tiebreak winner $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr $500-250. FIDE. Under2100: $1000-500-300-200, top U1900 $400-200. Under 1800: $1000-500-300-200, top U1600 $400-200. Under 1500: $800-400-250-150, top U1300 $300-150.Under 1200: $500-250-150-100, trophies to first 3, top U1000, U800, U600,Unrated. Unrated may not win over $200 in U1200, $400 U1500, or $600U1800. Top 4 sections EF: $105 online by 2/26, $120 after 2/26 atchessaction.com, $110 phoned by 2/26 to 406-896-2038. 3-day $108, 2-day $107mailed by 2/20. $120 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site. GMs free; $100deducted from prize. U1200 Section EF: all $50 less than above. Special 1 yearUSCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry. Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30,Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, YoungAdult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry $60; not available in Open Section. 3-dayschedule: Rds. Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. 2-day sched-ule: Rds. Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. Late entry closes 1hour before first game at site, 2 hours before first game online. All: Half pointbyes OK all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $75-75, 631-471-0401, reserve by 2/15 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis,800-331-1600, AWD D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent:Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge forrefunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 845-496-9658.Advance entries posted at chesstour.com.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 1-3 OR 2-3, PENNSYLVANIATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED)14th Annual Pittsburgh Open5SS, 40/2, SD/1, d/5 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, d/5). Doubletree HotelPittsburgh Green Tree, 500 Mansfield Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15205. 3 miles southof downtown, 13 miles from Pittsburgh airport (free shuttle). Free parking.$$12,000 based on 150 paid entries (re-entries & U1200 entries count half),$8000 (2/3 each prize) minimum guaranteed. In 5 sections. Open: $1500-700-400-300, clear or tiebreak winner $100 bonus, top Under 2300/Unr $500-250.FIDE. Under 2100: $1000-500-300-200, top Under 1900 (no unr) $400-200.Under 1800: $1000-500-300-200, top Under 1600 (no unr) $400-200. Under1500: $800-400-250-150, top Under 1300 (no unr) $300-150. Under 1200: $500-250-150-100, trophies to first 3, top U1000, U800, U600, Unrated. Unratedmaynot win over $200 in U1200, $400 U1500, or $600 U1800. Top 4 sections EF:Online at chessaction.com, $108 by 2/26, $120 2/27 to 2 hours before 1st game.Phoned to 406-896-2038 by 2/26 (entry only, no questions), $115. Mailed by 2/20:3-day $113, 2-day $112. At site: $120 (no checks, credit cards OK). GMs free;$100 deducted from prize. Under 1200 Section EF: all $50 less than above.Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry: online at chess-action.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned orpaid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry $60; not avail-able in Open Section. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat11 am & 6 pm, Sun 10 am & 4:15 pm. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am,rds. Sat 11 am, 2:30 pm & 6 pm, Sun 10 am & 4:15 pm. All: Half point byes OKall, limit 2, Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $94-94-94-94, 1-800-395-7046, 412-922-8400; reserve by 2/15 or rate may increase.Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, or reserve car online throughchesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US,845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 1-3 OR 2-3, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERNTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED)March Championship6SS, G/90. Open 5SS, G/90+30sec (2day rds 1-2 G55). 1639A S. Main St., Mil-pitas, CA 95035. Park free. Prizes: $5,000 b97 75% guar. 3 sects: 2000+(FIDE rated) $1,000 500 200, u2300: 200 100. 1600-1999 700 300 100, u1800:200 100 100, U1600 700 300 100, u1400: 100 100, u1200: 100 100. Unr max$100 exc Open. Mar 13 Supp, CCA min & TD disc. EF: $77 by 2/27, onsite +20.Playup +20. Econ: EF-20 w/ 60% prize. GM, IM, FM, NM, $0 by 2/22: prize-EF. Reg. F 6-6:45p & Sa 8-9:45 Rounds u2000: F 7p, Sa 10 1:30, Sun 9 12:304. 2000+: F 7p, Sa/Su 9 1:30 2-day: Rds 1-2 G/55 Sat 9 11:15a & merge) Info:BayAreaChess.com/champs. NS. NC.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 2-3, MARYLANDTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 UMBC Open - Alvin S. Mintzes Chess Tournament5SS, 20/1, SD/60; D/5. University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 1000 HilltopCircle, Baltimore (in Commons, 3rd floor). Held concurrently with Maryland“Sweet 16” (Invitational)—winner to receive in-state fixed-dollar tuition schol-arship to UMBC. Open: (All) $$1050: $350-200-100 Gtd., Class prizes $100 ea.to top U2250, U2150, U2050, U1950. Free ent. to GMs, $40 deducted from anyprizes. U1800: (U1800/Unr.) $$765 b/40: $250-175-100, Class prizes $80 ea.to top U1600, U1400, U1200 (b/4). No Unr. player may win more than $200 inthis section. All: EF: $40 if postmarked by 2/22, $50 later, $10 less if under age20. Reg.: 8:30-9:30am Sat., Rds.: 10-3-7:30pm Sat, 10:30-3:30pm Sun. Byes:Up to three 1/2-pt. byes avail. in Rds. 1-5 if req’d at least 1 hr. before Rd. (beforeRd 2 for any Rd. 4-5 bye), but only at most one 1/2-point bye in Rds 4-5. HR:La Quinta Inn and Suites, 1734 West Nursery Rd., Linthicum, MD 21090, 410-859-2333, Ask for UMBC chess rate. www.lq.com (From I-95, take Exit 47A ontoI-195 towards BWI Airport. Take Exit 2A onto 295 north towards Baltimore; takefirst exit, bearing right onto West Nursery Road.) Directions to UMBC: Take Exit47B off I-95 & follow signs to UMBC. Park in Lot 9 or 16. Ent: Dr. Alan T. Sher-man, Dept. of CSEE, UMBC, Attn: Open, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD21250. Make out check to UMBC. For more information: [email protected],(410) 455-8499, www.umbc.edu/chess. NS, W.


22nd annual EASTERN CLASSMarch 15-17 or 16-17, Host Hotel at Cedar Lake, Sturbridge MA


5 rounds, 7 sections. Choice of 3-day or 2-day schedule, both merge after rd 2.Prizes based on 200 paid entries (re-entries & Class D or E entries count half), 2/3 eachprize minimum. Rated players may play up one section. Enter at chessaction.com.

Master Section (2200/up): Prizes $2000-1000-600-400, clear/tiebreak

win $100 bonus, top Under 2300 $600-300. FIDE rated, 80 GPP (enhanced).

Expert Section (2000-2199): $1200-600-400-200.

Class A Section (1800-1999): $1200-600-400-200.

Class B Section (1600-1799): $1200-600-400-200.

Class C Section (1400-1599): $1000-500-300-200.

Class D Section (1200-1399): $500-250-150-100, trophies to first 3.

Class E Section (Under 1200): $400-200-120-80, trophies to first 3, top

Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600, top Unrated

Unrated limit $150 in E, $250 D, $400 C, $600 B, $800 A.




A Heritage Event!MAR. 7, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)March New Yorker Masters Special Edition of USCF’s Longest-Running Action Tournament!4-SS, G/25 + d5 or G/30 + d/0. Chess Center of NY at the historic New YorkerHotel!, 481 Eighth Ave at 34th St., across from Penn Station, NYC (347-201-2269;Thursdays: 212-971-0101). 3 sections! Masters, open to currently orformerly over 2199 USCF or FIDE, or any player scoring 2 1/2 or more pointsin any “4 Rated Games Tonight!” since last month’s Masters. $$ (1,250 b/40total paid, minimum half each prize Gtd):: $400-200-100, top U2400 150. Under2200: $100-60-40, top U1800 $50. Under 1200 Section.Trophies to top 3. NEW!!$150 Mixed Doubles Bonus Prizes (best male/female 2-player team com-bined score among all sections): $100-50 (teammates’ average rating must beU2200; teammates may play in different sections, teammate pairings avoidedbut possible, teams must declare by 8:15). Choice of 2 schedules! 7:00Schedule, rds. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. 7:30 schedule, rd. 1 (G/15 + td/3) at7:30 pm, score carries over into round 2 of 7:00 schedule at 8:15 pm. EF:Mas-ters Section $40, Under 2200 Section $30, $10 less if you played in 10 or more“4 Rated Games Tonight!” tournaments since 1987, $5 less to attendees of5 pm Rohde/Bonin class, GMs free ($25 from prize), free to player return-ing after longest lapse since last tournament (minimum 1 year), specifiedGreater NY Scholastic Prizewinners free, Under 1200 Section free! Limit 2 byes(limit one bye towards class prize), must commit by 8:15 pm. Re-entry: $15,counts half. Reg. ends 20 min. before game. CCA ratings may be used. Help withNYC parking: www.primospot.com, www.iconparkingsystems.com Sponsorship:Name one of the 4RGTs after yourself, and see your name in uschess.org! Info:www.chesscenter.cc.

MAR. 7, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)Marshall Thursday Game 30 Grand Prix!4-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, mem-bers $25, GMs and IM’s free (no deduction from prize!). Prizes: ($$530 basedon 32 players; first two prizes guaranteed:) $200-100-50, U2100 $95, U1900$85. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, requestat entry.

A State Championship Event!MAR. 8, PENNSYLVANIATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 2013 PA Quick Chess Champ. (QC)6SS, G/7d3. Hotel Carlisle, 1700 Harrisburg Pike, Carlisle, PA 17015, Exit 52ANB/Exit 52 SB off I-81, Exit 226 off PA Turnpike. 3 sections, EF rec’d by 2/18:

Open: $12. U1500: $11. U1100: $10. $$ (750G): Open: 175-100-50, U1800 $45,U1600 $40. U1500: 125-75-50, U1300 $40, U1200 $30, Unr $20. U1100: Tro-phies: 1-12, U800, U600, U400, 1-2 Unr. All: EF: $20 after 2/18, PSCF $5 OSA.Reg.: 6-6:30pm. Rd 1: 7pm. Feb 2013 Reg rating used. Bye: limit 1, ask by rd2. HR:Mention “PA States” for best rate; 800-692-7315 $75. Ent: PSCF, c/o TomMartinak, 25 Freeport St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223. Info:[email protected], 412-908-0286. W.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 8-10 OR 9-10, CALIFORNIA, SOUTHERNTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 100 (ENHANCED)20th annual Western Class ChampionshipsNOTE NEW TIME CONTROL AND ROUND 4 TIME. 5SS, 40/110, SD/1, d5(2-day option, rds. 1-2 G/75, d5), Sheraton Agoura Hills Hotel, 30100 AgouraRd., Agoura Hills, CA 91301 (US-101 to Reyes Adobe Road exit). Adjacent to theSanta Monica Mountains, 26 miles west of Burbank, 12 miles from Malibu, 28miles from Ventura. Free parking. $$20,000 based on 230 paid entries (re-entries, Class E count as half entries), minimum $16,000 (80% each prize)guaranteed. In 7 sections. Master (over 2199): $2000-1000-500-300, clear ortiebreak winner $100 bonus, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE. Expert (2000-2199):$1500-800-400-200. Class A (1800-1999): $1500-800-400-200. Class B (1600-1799): $1500-800-400-200. Class C (1400-1599): $1400-700-400-200. ClassD (1200-1399): $1200-600-300-200. Class E (1000-1199): $600-300-200-100,trophies to top U1000, U800, U600, Unr. Rated players may play up one sec-tion. Prize limits: Unrated may not win over $150 in E, $250 D, $400 C, $600B, or $800 A.Top 6 sections EF: $115 online at chessaction.com by 3/6, $120phoned to 406-896-2038 by 3/6, 3-day $118, 2-day $117 mailed by 2/27, $130online until 2 hours before game or at site. Class E EF: all $50 less than above.GMs free, $100 deducted from prize. Unofficial ratings usually used if other-wise unrated. No checks at site; credit cards OK. SCCF memb. ($18, jr $10)required for rated Southern CA residents. All: Special 1 yr USCF dues with mag-azine if paid with entry: Online at chessaction.com. Adult $30, Young Adult $20,Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30,Scholastic $20. Re-entry (except Master) $60. 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 6pm, rds Fri 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10:30 & 4:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 10am, rds Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 10:30 & 4:30. Byes: OK all rds, limit 2; Mastermust commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $95-95, 818-707-1220,reserve by 2/22 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD#D657633. Questions: chesstour.com, 845-496-9658, DirectorAtChess.US.Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY12577. DirectorAtChess.us, 845-496-9658. $15 service charge for refunds.Advance entries posted at chessaction.com.

A State Championship Event!MAR. 9, CONNECTICUTTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 2013 CT State Open & Scholastic ChampionshipsOPEN, U1800: 4SS, G/60. Rds. 9PM, 12PM, 2:30PM, 5PM. $$2000 b/60:Open $500, $300; $200, 3 x $100,5 x $50, U1800 $300, $100, $50 Kinder-garten, 1st Grade, K-3, K-6, K-8 Championship sections, all 5SS, G/30, K-12Championship 4SS G/60. Trophies: Top 5 Individual in scholastic sec-tions, Top 3 Teams each section. CT Champion and U1800 Champion.Individual awards for CT Grade Champions K - 12. EF: $55 by 2/25, $75by 3/4, $100 site. GMs free. Check www.edutechchess.com or www.CTChess.com for registration flyer & more info.

A State Championship Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 9-10, PENNSYLVANIATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 6 2013 Carlisle Open & PA Collegiate Championship5SS, G/90d5. Hotel Carlisle & Embers Convention Center, 1700 HarrisburgPike, Carlisle, PA 17015, Exit 52A NB/Exit 52 SB off I-81, Exit 226 off PA Turn-pike. 3 sections: $$ (1400G): Open: 180-120, U2200 $100, U2000 $90. U1800:150-110, U1650 $100, U1500 $95. U1400: 150-110, U1200 $80, U1000 $65, Unr$50. All: College Tr: 1-2 in each section, 1-2 team (top 4 over all sections). EF:$30 rec’d by 2/18, $40 after, PSCF $5 OSA. Reg.: 8:45-9:30 am. Rds.: 10-2-5:30,9-1. Feb 2013 ratings used. Bye: limit 1, ask by rd 2. HR:Mention “PA States”for best rate; 800-692-7315 $75. Ent: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St.,Pittsburgh, PA 15223-2245. Info:[email protected], 412-908-0286.W.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 9-10 OR 10, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)Marshall March GP!4-SS, 30/85d5 SD/1d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $50,members $30. $$625 gtd: $275-150, U2200 $105, U2000 $95. Reg ends 15 minbefore Rd. 2 schedules: 2 day 12:30-5:30 each day. 1 day 10-11:15-12:30-5:30(Rds. 1-2 G/25d5). Limit 2 byes, request at entry. FIDE rated! NO REENTRY.www.marshallchessclub.org.

MAR. 14, NEW YORKTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 10 (ENHANCED)Marshall Thursday Game 30 Grand Prix!4-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, mem-bers $25, GMs and IM’s free (no deduction from prize!). Prizes: ($$530 based

www.uschess.org 59

Cajun Chess7230 Chadbourne Drive New Orleans, LA 70126

504-208-9596 [email protected]

Chess Club and ScholasticCenter of St. Louis

4657 Maryland AvenueSt. Louis, MO 63108. 314-361-CHESS

[email protected]

Continental Chess Association

PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577.

845-496-9658 [email protected]

Dallas Chess Club200 S. Cottonwood Dr. Suite C

Richardson, TX 75080972-231-2065

[email protected]

Marshall Chess Club23 W. 10th St.

New York, NY 10011212-477-3716

[email protected]

New Jersey StateChess Federation

c/o Roger Inglis, 49 A Mara Rd. Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034

973-263-8696, [email protected]

New York City Chess Incc/o Russell Makofsky230 Thompson Street

New York, NY 10012, 212-475-8130 [email protected]

North American Chess Association4957 Oakton Street, Suite 113Skokie, IL 60077, 888.80.Chess

[email protected]

PaperClip Pairingsc/o J. Houghtaling Jr & Remy Ferrari

6005 Forest BlvdBrownsville, TX 78526, 956-459-2421

[email protected]

San Diego Chess Club 2225 Sixth Avenue

San Diego, CA 92101, [email protected]

http://sdchessclub.multiply.com

Shore HS Chess LeaguePO Box 773

Lincroft, NJ [email protected]

Silver Knights Chess3929 Old Lee Hwy Ste 92D

Fairfax, VA 22030, 703-574-2070www.silverknightschess.comchess@silverknightschess.com

Tri-State ChessThe Chess Exchange325 East 88th Street,

New York, NY 10128, [email protected]

Village Chess Shop of NYCc/o Michael Propper230 Thompson StreetNew York, NY 10012212-475-9580

[email protected] www.chess-shop.com

Bay Area Chess (CA)www.BayAreaChess.com

Beverly Hills Chess Club (CA)www.bhchessclub.com

Indiana State Chess Associationwww.indianachess.org

Michigan Chess Associationwww.michess.org

Monmouth Chess School & Club (NJ)www.monmouthchess.com

Oklahoma Chess Foundationwww.OKchess.org

Our Lady of Sorrows Academy (AZ)[email protected]

Sparta Chess Club (NJ)www.spartachessclub.org

Success Chess School (CA)www.successchess.com

Western PA Youth Chess Club (PA)www.youthchess.net

GOLD & SILVER AFFILIATES

GOLDAny affiliate that has submitted at least 50USCF memberships during the current orprevious calendar year, or is the recognizedState Affiliate, is eligible to become a GoldAffiliate. Gold Affiliates are honored in aspecial list in larger type in TournamentLife each month, giving the affiliate name,address, phone number, e-mail address,and website. Gold Affiliation costs $350 peryear, and existing affiliates may substract $3for each month remaining on their regularaffiliation, or $20 for each month remainingon their Silver Affiliation. As of August 6,2007, by paying an annual payment of $500(instead of $350), Gold Affiliate status maybe obtained with no minimum requirementfor memberships submitted.

SILVERAny affiliate that has submitted at least 25USCF memberships during the current orprevious calendar year, or is the recognizedState Affiliate, is eligible to become a SilverAffiliate. These affiliates will be recognizedin a special list in Tournament Life eachmonth, giving the affiliate name, state, andchoice of either phone number, e-mailaddress, or website. Silver Affiliation costs$150 per year, and existing affiliates maysubtract $3 for each month remaining ontheir regular affiliation. As of August 6, 2007,by paying an annual payment of $250.00(instead of $150), Silver Affiliate status maybe obtained with no minimum requirement formemberships submitted.

SILVER AFFILIATES

GOLD AFFILIATES



on 32 players; first two prizes guaranteed:) $200-100-50, U2100 $95, U1900$85. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, requestat entry.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 15-17 OR 16-17, MISSOURITROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 (ENHANCED)17th annual Mid-America Open5SS, 40/2, SD/1, d/5 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, d/5). Under 1200 Sectionsplay March 16-17 only, G/100, d5. Crowne Plaza Hotel St. Louis-Clayton,7750 Carondelet Ave., St. Louis, MO 63105 (I-64 W/US 40-W Exit 32B, 1.2 milesnorth on Hanley Rd). $$ 16,000 based on 200 paid entries (re-entries & U1200Sections count half), minimum $12,000 (75% of each prize) guaranteed. In 7sections: Open: $2000-1000-600-300, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak $100bonus, top U2200 $900-500. FIDE. Under 2000: $1400-700-400-200. Under1800: $1300-700-400-200. Under 1600: $1200-600-300-200. Under 1400:$1000-500-250-150. Adult Under 1200 (born 1994/before): $300-150-100, tro-phies to first 3, top U1000, Unr. Junior Under 1200 (born 1995/after):$300-150-100, trophies to first 3, top U1000, U800, U600, Unr. Prize limits:Unrated may not win over $150 in U1200, $350 U1400, $600 U1600, or $800U1800. Top 6 sections EF: $107 online at chessaction.com by 3/13, $110 phonedto 406-896-2038 by 3/13 (entry only, no questions), 3-day $113.50, 2-day$112.50 mailed by 3/6, $130 online until 2 hours before game or at site. GMsfree; $90 deducted from prize. U1200 Sections EF: $47 online atchessaction.com by 3/13, $50 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 3/13 (entry only, noquestions), Adult $53, Junior $52 mailed by 3/6, $60 online until 8 am 3/16 orat site. Online EF $3 less to MCA members. No checks at site, credit cardsOK. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Spe-cial 1 yr USCF dueswith magazine if paid with entry: Online at chessaction.com,Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult$40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry $60; not available in Open Sec-tion. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 &4:30. 2-day U1400 & up schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds Sat 11, 2:30 &6, Sun 10 & 4:30. U1200 Sections schedule: Reg ends Sat 9 am, rds Sat 10,2 & 6, Sun 10 & 2. Byes: OK all, limit 2; Open must commit before rd 2, othersbefore rd 3. HR: $93-96, includes free full hot buffet breakfast and free park-ing, 888-303-1746, 314-726-5400, request chess rate, reserve by 3/8 or ratemay increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reservecar online through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.com or Continental Chess,Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. DirectorAtChess.US, 845-496-9658. Advanceentries posted at chessaction.com. $15 service charge for refunds.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 15-17 OR 16-17, MASSACHUSETTSTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 80 (ENHANCED)22nd annual Eastern Class Championships5SS, 40/2, SD/1, d/5 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, d/5). Host Hotel at Cedar Lake,366 Main St., Sturbridge, MA 01566 (I-84 Exit 3, near I-90). Free parking. $$16,000 based on 200 paid entries (re-entries & $50 off entries count half), min-imum $12,000 (75% each prize) guaranteed. In 7 sections: Master (2200/up):$2000-1000-600-400, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak $100 bonus, top U2300$600-300. FIDE. Expert (2000-2199): $1200-600-400-200. FIDE. Class A (1800-1999): $1200-600-400-200. Class B (1600-1799): $1200-600-400-200. ClassC (1400-1599): $1000-500-300-200. Class D (1200-1399): $500-250-150-100,trophies to top 3. Class E (Under 1200): $400-200-120-80, trophies to first 3,top U1000, U800, U600, Unrated. Rated playersmay play up one section. Prizelimits: Unrated may not win over $150 in E, $250 D, $400 C, $600 B, or $800A. Top 5 sections EF: $108 online at chessaction.com by 3/13, $110 phonedto 406-896-2038 by 3/13 (entry only, no questions), 3-day $113, 2-day $112mailed by 3/6, $120 online until 2 hours before game or at site. GMs free, $90deducted from prize. Class D or E EF: all $50 less than above. No checks atsite, credit cards OK. Advance EF $5 less to MACA members; may join/renewat masschess.org. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwiseunrated. Special 1 yr USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry: Online atchessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phonedor paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry $60; notavailable in Master Section. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds Fri 7 pm,Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds Sat 11,2:30 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. Byes: OK all, limit 2; Master must commit before rd2, others before rd 3. HR: $91-91-100, 800-582-3232, 508-347-7393, requestchess rate, reserve by 3/1 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600,use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: ches-saction.com or Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577.DirectorAtChess.us, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com.$15 service charge for refunds.

A Heritage Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 15-17, VIRGINIATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 30 45th Annual Virginia Open (Note date change)5SS. A VCF Cup Event! $3500 Guaranteed! SITE:Washington Dulles Airport Mar-riott Hotel, 45020 Aviation Dr., Dulles, VA 20166-7506; www.marriott.com,703-471-9500, rooms $89/ res. by 2/15 800-228-9200 chess rate. $3500PRIZES: 2 Sections, OPEN (FIDE rated): $620-410-310-250, Top X,A ea 190. AMA-TEUR(U1900) $420-210-160, Top B,C,D,U1200 ea 160, top Unr 100. Winner ofOpen and Amateur each also gets plaque and champion title! REG.: Fri 3/15(not 3/1) 6pm-7:30. ROUNDS: Fri 7:45pm (g/120), Sat 3/16 (not 3/2)-Sun 3/17(not 3/3) 10:00-4:30 (40/2, g/60) All rounds d/5. EF: $58 if rec’d by 3/12, $68at site. VCF Mem req. for Va. Residents ($10 Adults, U19 $5) One 1/2 pointallowed, commit before Rd2. Re-entry $40 avail, start Rd2 with 1/2 pt. Checkspayable to Virginia Chess Federation; ENT- mail to Andrew Rea, 6102 Lundy Pl.,Burke, VA 22015. Email [email protected], info only, no email entries. WEB/www.vachess.org. NS.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 22-24 OR 23-24, FLORIDATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED)11th annual Southern Class Championships5SS, 40/2, SD/1, d/5 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, d/5). Wyndham Orlando Resort,8001 International Dr., Orlando 32819. Free parking. Prizes $12,000 based on180 paid entries (re-entries & Class E Section count half), $9000 (3/4 each prize)minimum guaranteed. In 7 sections. Master (2200/up): $1200-600-300-200.FIDE. Expert (2000-2199): $1000-500-300-200. FIDE Class A (1800-1999):$1000-500-300-200. Class B (1600-1799): $1000-500-300-200. Class C (1400-

1599): $800-400-250-150. Class D (1200-1399): $700-400-200-100. Class E(Under 1200): $400-200-100, trophies to first 3, top U1000, U800, U600, Unr.Rated players may play up one section. Unrated may enter A through E, butmay not win over $200 in E, $350 D, $500 C or $650 B. Top 6 sections EF: $98online at chessaction.com by 3/20, $105 phoned to 406-896-2038 (entry only,no questions) by 3/20, 3-day $103, 2-day $102 mailed by 3/13, $120 (nochecks, credit cards OK) at site, or online until 2 hours before game. GMs free;$90 deducted from prize. Class E EF: all $50 less than above. Special 1 yearUSCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult$30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40,Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry $60; not available in Master Sec-tion. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 &4:30. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 10 &4:30. All: Half point byes OK all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd 2, othersbefore rd 3. HR: $85-85-85-85, 1-800-421-8001, 407-351-2420; reserve by3/8 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, orreserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: chessaction.com or Continen-tal Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds.DirectorAtChess.us, chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted atchessaction.com.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 27-31, 28-31, 29-31 OR 30-31, PENNSYLVANIATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED)7th annual Philadelphia OpenOPEN SECTION, MAR 27-31: 9SS, 40/90, SD/30, inc/30. GM & IM norms pos-sible, FIDE rated. U2200 TO U1300 SECTIONS, MAR 28-31, 29-31 OR 30-31:7SS, 40/2, SD/1, d/5 (3-day option, rds. 1-2 G/75, d/5, 2-day option, rds. 1-4G/40, d/5). UNDER 1000 SECTION, MAR 30-31: 7SS, G/40, d/5. At theupscale, luxury Loews Philadelphia Hotel, rated Four Diamonds by AAA,1200 Market St., Philadelphia, PA 19107. Prizes $75,000 based on 480 paidentries (seniors, re-entries, GMs, IMs, WGMs, U1300 Section count as 50%entries, U1000 Section as 15% entries), else proportional, minimum $50,000(2/3 of each prize) guaranteed. In 7 sections: Open: $7000-4000-2000-1000-800-700-600-500-400-400, clear or tiebreak first $200 bonus, FIDE Under2400/Unr $2000-1000. Under 2200, Under 2000, Under 1800: each $5000-2500-1200-800-600-500-400-300-300-300. U2200 is FIDE rated. Under 1600:$4000-2000-1000-700-500-400-300-300-300-300, top U1400 $1000-500. Under1300: $2000-1000-700-500-400-300-300-200-200-200, top U1100 $600-300.Under 1000: $400-200-100, trophies to first 5, top U800, U600, U400, Unrated.Prize limits: 1) If post-event rating posted 3/26/12-3/26/13 is more than 30points over section maximum, prize limit $1500. 2) Unrated (0-3 lifetime gamesrated) cannot win over $200 in U1000, $500 U1300, $1000 U1600, $1500U1800, or $2000 U2000. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if other-wise unrated. 3) Provisional (4-25 lifetime games rated) cannot win over$1000 in U1300 or $2000 U1600. 4) Balance of any limited prize goes to nextplayer(s) in line. Open EF: Free to GMs, IMs, WGMs; $150 deducted from prize.US players FIDE rated 2200/over, Life Masters or Original Life Masters:$225 online at chessaction.com by 3/25, $231 mailed by 3/18, $250 at site. For-eign FIDE rated players: $155 online at chessaction.com by 3/25, $161mailed by 3/18, $180 at site. Others: $375 online at chessaction.com by 3/25,$381 mailed by 3/18, $400 at site. U2200 through U1600 Sections EF: $225online at chessaction.com by 3/25, 4-day $229, 3-day $228, 2-day $227 mailedby 3/18, $250 at site. U1300 Section EF: $125 online at chessaction.com by3/25, 4-day $129, 3-day $128, 2-day $127 mailed by 3/18, $150 at site. U1000Section EF: $35 online at chessaction.com by 3/25, $37 mailed by 3/18, $50at site. Phoned EF: All $5 more than online EF, 406-896-2038 (entry only, noquestions), available only through 3/25. Online late entry after 3/25: avail-able until 2 hours before your first game, same price as entry at site. EF $100less to seniors 65/over in Open through U1600. Special 1 year USCF mem-bership with magazine if paid with entry: Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30,Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, YoungAdult $30, Scholastic $20. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry:$100, no re-entry from Open Section to Open Section. 5-day schedule (Openonly): Reg. ends Wed 6 pm, rds. Wed. 7 pm, Thu 12 & 7, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6,Sun 10 & 4:30. 4-day schedule (U2200-U1300): Reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds. Thu7 pm, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 3-day schedule (U2200-U1300):Reg. ends Fri 10 am, rds Fri 11, 2:30 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 2-dayschedule (U2200-U1300): Reg. ends Sat. 9 am, rds Sat. 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Sun10 & 4:30. 4-day, 3-day, & 2-day merge & compete for same prizes. Under1000 schedule: Reg. ends Sat. 9 am, rds Sat 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Sun 10, 12& 2. Byes: Half point byes OK all rounds, limit 3 byes, limit 2 in last 4 rounds,Open Section must commit before rd 2, other sections before rd 4. Bringsets, boards, clocks if possible- none supplied. HR: $98-98-123-123, 215-627-1200, reserve by 3/13 or rate may increase. Parking: Hotel has valet parkingonly, with a special chess rate of $30/day. Many parking lots nearby charge muchless, with rates lowest on the weekend. Gateway Garage, 1540 Vine St (1 blockfrom Sheraton Hotel) is about $5/day Sat & Sun, $18/day other days. Carrentals: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633 or reserve car online at chess-tour.com. Ratings: FIDE March used for Open, USCF March for U2200 &below; note that ratings after the March list (see above) may result in a $1500prize limit. Foreign player ratings: see www.chesstour.com/foreignratings.htm.Special rules: Players must submit to a search for electronic devices ifrequested by Director. In round 3 or after, players with scores of 80% or overand their opponents may not use headphones, earphones or cellphones or goto a different floor of the hotel without Director permission. Ent: chessaction.comor Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service chargefor refunds. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com. DirectorAtChess.us,845-496-9658, chesstour.com.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!APR. 5-7 OR 6-7, CALIFORNIA, NORTHERNTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 40 (ENHANCED)Spring Championship6SS, G/90. Open 5SS, G/90+30sec (2day rds 1-2 G55). 1639A S. Main St., Mil-pitas, CA 95035. Park free. Prizes: $5,000 b97 75% guar. 3 sects: 2000+(FIDE rated) $1,000 500 200, u2300: 200 100. 1600-1999 700 300 100, u1800:200 100 100, U1600 700 300 100, u1400: 100 100, u1200: 100 100. Unr max$100 exc Open. Apr 13 Supp, CCA min & TD disc. EF: $77 by 4/5, onsite +20.Playup +20. Econ: EF-20 w/ 60% prize. GM, IM, FM, NM, $0 by 3/29: prize-EF. Reg. F 6-6:45p & Sa 8-9:45 Rounds u2000: F 7p, Sa 10 1:30, Sun 9 12:304. 2000+: F 7p, Sa/Su 9 1:30 2-day: Rds 1-2 G/55 Sat 9 11:15a & merge) Info:BayAreaChess.com/champs. NS. NC.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!APR. 26-28 OR 27-28 OR 28, MICHIGANTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 10th Annual Great Lakes Chess OpenBattle Creek, Michigan, at the McCamly Plaza Hotel, 50 Capital Avenue, SW,Battle Creek, MI 48017. 3 Sections (OPEN, U1700, U1000), 2-day & 3-dayschedules only for OPEN and U1700, 5-SS. 1-day only schedule for U1000, 4-SS, OPEN & U1700 merge after RD 2. Up to 2 1/2 point byes allowed, must berequested prior to start of RD 3. USCF & State Membership required (canbe purchased on site) PRIZES: OPEN Section $2,050 (B/36min., 6 per prizegroup): $1,500, $700, TOP X, TOP A, TOP U1800/UNR $250 U1700 Section $950(B/36min., 6 per prize group): $400, $250, TOP C, TOP D, TOP U1200/UNR $125(UNR eligible for TOP or UNRATED prize only. ENTRY FEES: Due by April 12, 2013(after April 12th add $10, add $15 at the door) OPEN: 2 Day- $62, 3 Day- $63,U1700 2 Day- $52, 3 Day- $53 IM’s/GM’s FREE! (entry fee deducted from win-nings) Re-entry in U1700 section only $35 TIME LIMITS: 2 Day- RDs 1-2 G-60,RD 3 G/2hrs, RDs 4-5 40/2, SD 30; 3 Day- RDs 1-3, G/2hrs, RDs 4-5 40/2, SD30.REGISTRATION TIMES: 2 Day- 9am-11am, 3 Day-5:00pm-6:30pm; Rounds2 Day-Sat: 11:30am, 2:00pm, 4:00pm Sun: 10:00am, 3:30pm 3 Day-Fri: 7:00pm,Sat: 12:00pm-4:30pm, Sun: 10:00am-3:30pm. Online at: http://michiganchess-festival.com/register.php. Special Events: IM or GM Lecture $10 Sunday9:00am. HOTEL: Special Chess rate for hotel rooms $91 (ask for the Great LakesOpen Chess rate). Parking is $8 per day w/unlimited in & out privileges. Freeparking is available in local lots on weekends. Reserve a room at the hotel:www.mccamlyplaza.com or to reach a hotel reservation specialist focused onmaking reservations for this tournament, call (888) 622-2659. NOTE: Thisexcellent rate is available for a limited time, so PLEASE reserve your room atthe hotel promptly! Contact: Stan Beckwith, (269) 964-2927. Register: BattleCreek Community Foundation, 34 W. Jackson St., Suite 1, Battle Creek, MI 49017(269) 962-2181.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAY 3-5 OR 4-5, VERMONTTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 20 (ENHANCED)24th annual Vermont Resort Open5SS, G/120, d5 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/70, d5). Holiday Inn Rutland/Killing-ton, 476 Holiday Drive (near intersection US-4 and US-7), Rutland, VT 05701.Free shuttle to Amtrak, bus terminal or Rutland Airport. Free parking, free wire-less, heated pool, whirlpool, exercise room; restaurants within easy walkingdistance. $2500 guaranteed prizes. In 3 sections. Open: $400-200-150, topUnder 2050/Unr $230-120. Under 1810: $300-150-100, top Under 1650 $180-90, no unrated may win over $200. Under 1510: $200-130-70, top Under 1310$120-60, trophies to first 3, top Under 1100, Under 900, Under 700, Unrated;no unrated may win over $120. Top 2 sections EF: $65 online at chessaction.com by 5/1, $70 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 5/1 (entry only, no questions), 3-day $68, 2-day $67 if check mailed by 4/24, $80 at site, or online until 2 hoursbefore first game. Under 1510 Section EF: All $20 less than top 2 sections EF.All: No checks at site, credit cards OK. Special 1 year USCF dues with papermagazine if paid with entry. Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult$20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30,Scholastic $20. Re-entry $40, not available in Open. GMs & IMs free; $60deducted from prize. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds Fri 7, Sat 11& 4, Sun 9 & 1:30. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 9:30 am, rds. Sat 10, 1 & 4,Sun 9 & 1:30. Half point byes OK all, limit 2; must commit before rd 2. HR: $89-89, 802-775-1911, reserve by 4/19. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD#D657633, or reserve car online at chesstour.com. Unofficial uschess.orgratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Ent: chessaction.com or Continen-tal Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: DirectorAtChess.us,chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entriesposted at chessaction.com.

An American Classic!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAY 23-27, 24-27, 25-27 OR 26-27, ILLINOISTROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 200 (ENHANCED)22nd annual Chicago OpenOpen Section, May 23-27: 9SS, 40/90, SD/30, inc/30, FIDE rated, GM & IMnorms possible. U2300 Section, May 24-27: 7SS, 40/115, SD/1, d5. FIDE rated.U2100, U1900, U1700, U1500, U1300 Sections, May 24-27, 25-27 or 26-27: 7SS, 40/115, SD/1, d5 (3-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, 2-day option, rds 1-4G/40, d5). Adult U1100 & Junior U1100 Sections, May 25-27 or 26-27: 7SS,G/90, d/5 (2-day option, rds 1-4 G/40, d/5). Westin Chicago North ShoreHotel, 601 North Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling, IL 60090 (from Chicago, I-294 northto 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 JohnFedorowicz. $100,000 guaranteed prize fund. In 9 sections. Open: $10000-5000-2500-1200-1000-800-600-500-400-300, clear or tiebreak winner bonus$200, top FIDE Under 2500/Unr $2000-1000. FIDE rated, GM and IM norms pos-sible. Under 2300: $5000-2500-1200-1000-800-600-500-400-300-300. FIDErated. Under 2100: $5000-2500-1200-1000-800-600-500-400-300-300. Under1900: $5000-2500-1200-1000-800-600-500-400-300-300. Under 1700: $5000-2500-1200-1000-800-600-500-400-300-300. Under 1500: $4000-2000-1000-700-500-400-400-300-300-300. Under 1300: $3000-1500-1000-700-500-400-400-300-300-300; players with under 10 lifetime games may not win over$1000 in this section. Adult Under 1100 (born 1994/before): $1000-700-500-300-200-200, trophies to first 3, top U900, U700, Unrated. Junior Under 1100(born 1995/after): $1000-700-500-300-200-200, trophies to first 3, top U900,U700, U500, Unrrated. Prize limits: 1) If any post-event rating posted 5/20/12-5/20/13 was more than 30 points over section maximum, prize limit $1500. 2)Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) cannot win over $400 in U1100, $800U1300, $1200 U1500, $1600 U1700, $2000 U1900 or $2500 U2100. Unofficialuschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. 3) Balance of any lim-ited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Top 7 sections EF: $227 online atchessaction.com by 5/21, $230 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 5/23 (entry only,no questions), 5-day $235, 4-day $234, 3-day $233, 2-day $232 mailed by5/14; all $250 online until 2 hours before game or at site until 1 hour beforegame. No checks at site, credit cards OK. GMs in Open: Free; $200 deductedfrom prize. IMs & WGMs in Open: $30 online at chessaction.com by 5/21, $50after 5/21 or at site; $200 deducted from prize. Open Section EF $100 morefor US players not FIDE rated 2200/over. EF $100 less to seniors age 65/overin U1300 Section or above. Under 1100 Sections EF: $77 online atchessaction.com by 5/21, $80 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 5/23 (entry only, noquestions), Adult 3-day $83.50, 2-day $82.50 mailed by 5/14, Junior 3-day $83,2-day $82 mailed by 5/14, all $100 online until 2 hours before game or at site




until 1 hour before game. Online or mailed EF $5 less to ICA members; joinat il-chess.org. An ICA Tour Event. Special 1 yr USCF dues with magazine ifpaid with entry: Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholas-tic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic$20. Re-entry: $100, no re-entry from Open to Open. 5-day schedule (Openonly): Reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds Thu 7 pm, Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon10 & 4:30. 4-day schedule (U2300 to U1300): Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, Rds. Fri 7pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30. 3-day U2100 to U1300 sched-ule:: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, Rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30.3-day U1100 schedules: Sat 2 & 6, Sun 10, 2 & 6, Mon 10 & 2. 2-day U2100to U1300 schedule: Reg. ends Sun 9 am, Rds. Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Mon10 & 4:30. 2-day U1100 schedules: Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6,. Mon 10 & 2. U2100to U1100 schedules merge & compete for same prizes. Byes: OK all, limit 4(limit 2 in last 4 rds), Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 4. Hotelrates: $105-105-105-105, 800-937-8461, 847-777-6500, reserve by 5/10 or ratemay increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633, or reserve caronline through chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings: See www.chesstour.com/foreignratings.htm. US player ratings:May official ratings used; FIDE ratingsused for Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwiseunrated. Special rules: 1) Players must submit to a search for electronicdevices if requested by Director. In round 3 or after, players with scores of 80%or over and their opponents may not use headphones, earphones, cellphones,or go to a different floor of the hotel without Director permission. Ent: Conti-nental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: DirectorAtChess.US, 845-496-9658, www.chesstour.com. You may request “lowest possiblesection” if May rating unknown. $15 service charge for refunds. Advanceentries posted at chessaction.com. Bring set, board & clock if possible- nonesupplied.

JUNE 6, NEVADA2013 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC)See Nationals.

JUNE 7-9 OR 8-9, NEVADA2013 National OpenSee Nationals.

JUNE 9, NEVADATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 60 (ENHANCED)2013 National Open Blitz (QC) 7 D-SS (14 games), G/5. Riviera Hotel and Casino, 2901 Las Vegas BoulevardSouth, Las Vegas 89109. $$G 3,000. 2 Sections: Open $600-400-200. U2300,U2100 $200-100 each. Amateur (under 1900) $400-200-100, U1700, U1500,U1200 125-75 each. There must be 3 players eligible for each prize to beawarded. EF $40. REG by 9 p.m. Round 1 at 9:30 p.m. Higher of regular or quickrating used. HR $62 single or double ($89 Friday and Saturday nights). (800)634-6753 or (702) 734-5110 – be sure to ask for the CHESS rates. ENT VegasChess Festivals, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925, on line atwww.VegasChessFestival.com or fax at (702) 933-9112. NS. NC. W.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JUNE 27-JULY 1, VIRGINIATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 150 (ENHANCED)DC International9SS, 40/90,SD/30, 30 seconds increment. Hyatt Regency Crystal City, 2799 Jef-ferson Davis Hwy., Arlington, VA 22202 (free shuttle from Reagan NationalAirport; see World Open for rates & parking info). $$G 8000: $2000-1200-800-700-600-500-400-300, top FIDE under 2300 or unrated $1000-500. Minimumprize $700 to foreign GMs who complete all games with no byes (limited to first5 foreign GMs to enter). Minimum prize $300 to foreign IMs who complete allgames with no byes (limited to first 5 foreign IMs to enter) IM & GM norms pos-sible; FIDE rated. EF: GMs, IMs, WGMs free; $150 deducted from prize (nodeduction from minimum prize) Free advance entries must confirm entry 6/26by email or 6/27 at hotel. Foreign FIDE rated players: $127 online by 6/25,$150 online or at site until 10 am 6/27. USA players FIDE rated 2200/up: $235mailed by 6/18, $227 online by 6/25, $250 online or at site until 10 am 6/27.Others: $325 mailed by 6/18, $327 online by 6/23, $350 at tmt. All: No checksat site, credit cards OK. Special 1 year USCF dueswith magazine: see WorldOpen. Schedule: Late reg. ends Thu 10 am, rds Thu through Sun 11 & 6, Mon11. Two half point byes available (must commit before rd 2); norm not possi-ble if taking bye. Bring sets, boards, clocks if possible- none supplied. Ent:chessaction.com or Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577.$15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com, Direc-torAtChess.us. Advance entries posted at chessaction.com. Invitations: GoAtChess.us. Use @ symbol instead of “At” in email addresses.

An American Classic!A Heritage Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JULY 3-7, 4-7, 5-7 OR 1-7, VIRGINIATROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX POINTS: 300 (ENHANCED)41st Annual World Open9SS. Hyatt Regency Crystal City, 2799 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, VA22202 (a few miles from Washington, DC). Free shuttle from Reagan NationalAirport, special chess rate for hotel valet parking $6/day, parking about $7-10/day nearby if hotel garage is full. In 9 sections. $250,000 projected prizesbased on 1180 paid entries, $175,000 (70% of each prize) minimum guaranteed.GMs, re-entries count as 50% entries, IMs, WGMs, Under 1200, Seniors inU1400/over as 60%entries, U900 as 15% entries. Free analysis of your gamesby GM Sam Palatnik 7/3-7; free GM lectures 9 am 7/5 & 7/6. Open Section,July 3-7 or 1-7: 40/115, SD/1, d5. Under 2400 to Under 1200 Sections, July3-7, 4-7 or 5-7: 40/115, SD/1, d5 (4-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, d5; 3-day option,rds 1-5 G/45, d5). Under 900 Section, July 5-7: G/65, d5. Open: $20000-10000-5000-2500-1200-1000-800-700-600-500, clear winner bonus $300, top FIDEU2500 $2000-1000, top senior 65/over $1000. If tie for first, top 2 on tiebreakplay speed game 11:30 pm 7/7 for title & bonus prize. GM & IM norms possi-ble. FIDE rated. Under 2400/Unr: $13000-7000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U2300/Unr $2000-1000, top senior 65/over $800. FIDE rated.Under 2200/Unr: $13000-7000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500, topU2100 (no unr) $2000-1000, top senior 65/over $800. FIDE rated. Under2000/Unr: $13000-7000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U1900(no unr) $2000-1000, top senior 65/over $800. Under 1800/Unr: $13000-7000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U1700 (no unr) $2000-1000,top senior 65/over $800. Under 1600/Unr: $11000-6000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top 1500 (no unr) $2000-1000, top senior 65/over $800.

Under 1400/Unr: $8000-4000-2000-1200-1000-900-800-700-600-500, topU1300 (no unr) $1600-800, top senior 65/over $800. Under 1200/Unr: $5000-2500-1200-1000-900-800-700-600-500-400, top U1000 (no Unr) $1200-600,top senior 65/over $600. Under 900/Unr: $1000-700-500-400-300-300-300, tro-phies to first 10, top U700, U500, U300, Unrated. Prize limits: 1) Players withunder 10 lifetime games played as of 7/13 official list may not win over $500in U900, $1500 in U1200, $2500 in U1400 or U1600. Games rated too late for7/13 list not counted. 2) If any post-event rating posted 6/30/12-6/30/13 wasmore than 30 points over section maximum, prize limit $2000. 3) Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) cannot win over $300 in U900, $800 U1200, $1200 U1400,$1600 U1600, $2000 U1800, or $2500 U2000. 4) Balance of any limited prizegoes to next player(s) in line. Entry fee for Open through Under 1400: Onlineat chessaction.com: $318 by 4/15, $328 by 6/30, $350 until 2 hours beforefirst game. Phoned to 406-896-2038: $325 by 4/15, $335 by 6/30. Mailedby 4/15: 5-day $325, 4-day $324, 3-day $323, 7-day $327. Mailed by 6/18: 5-day $335, 4-day $334, 3-day $333, 7-day $337. Do not mail entry after 6/18.At site until 1 hour before first game: all $350; no checks, credit cards OK.GMs free; $200 deducted from prize. IMs, WGMs: EF $100 less, $100 deductedfrom prize. All Open Section EF $100 more for US players not FIDE rated 2200or over. Under 1200 Section EF: all $100 less than above. Under 900 Sec-tion EF: $48 online at chessaction.com by 6/30, $52 mailed by 6/18, $60online until 9 am 7/5, $60 at site until 10 am 7/5. Seniors 65/up: all EF $100less in U1400 or above sections, $20 less in U1200 Section. No checks at site;credit cards OK. Re-entry: $160, no re-entry from Open to Open. $20 fee forswitching section after 7/2. Special 1 year USCF dueswith magazine if paidwith entry: Online at chessaction.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic$15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20.Open to U1200 5-day schedule:Wed 7 pm, Thu 11 am & 6 pm, Fri 11 am &6 pm, Sat 11 am & 6 pm, Sun 10 am & 5 pm. U2400 to U1200 4-day sched-ule:Thu 11, 2:30 & 6, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 5. U2400 to U1200 3-dayschedule: Fri 11, 1:30, 3:30, 6 & 8:30, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 5. Open 7-dayschedule: Mon-Wed 7 pm, Thu-Fri 6 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 5. All aboveschedulesmerge & compete for same prizes. Under 900 schedule: Fri & Sateach 11 am, 2 pm & 5 pm, Sun 10 am, 1 pm, 4 pm. Half point byes OK all, limit4 (limit 2 in last 4 rds), Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 5.Entries, re-entries close 1 hour before your first game. HR: $95-95-105-115,703-418-1234, ask for chess rate, may sell out about May 31, two night mini-mum July 5-6. Special car rental rates: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633,or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings: Seewww.chesstour.com/foreignratings.htm. US player ratings: Official July rat-ings used; FIDE ratings used for Open Section only. Unofficial uschess.org ratingsusually used if otherwise unrated. Special rules: 1) Players must submit to asearch for electronic devices if requested by Director. In round 3 or after, play-ers with scores of 80% or over and their opponents may not use headphones,earphones, cellphones or go to a different floor of the hotel without Directorpermission. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Ques-tions:www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 845-496-9658. You may request“lowest possible section” if July rating unknown. $15 service charge forrefunds. Advance entries will be posted at chessaction.com. Bring set, board,clock if possible- none supplied.

AlabamaChess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 19, MLK Classic 3rd Annual4SS, TC: G/75. Frazer UMC 6000 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery, AL 36117. Clas-sic (PF: $575; $$b/20): EF: $30; Rds: 9- 11:30-2:30-5. Scholastic: Novice (K-6;NR); Primary (K-3; NR): EF: $10, if mailed by JAN 12th. Trophy:Top 3 Individ-ual, Medals 4th – 6th. Late REG: JAN 19th at 8AM. Rds: 9- 10-11-12:30-1:30-2:30. Checks payable to: Caesar Chess. ENT: Caesar Chess LLC, 5184 Cald-well Mill Rd., Suite 204 - 202, Birmingham, AL 35244. Info: [email protected]; www.AlabamaChess.com; www.CaesarChess.com.

JAN. 19, MLK Scholastic - 4th Annual5SS, TC: G/30. Phillips Academy, 2316 7th Avenue North, Birmingham, AL35203. Open (K-12), Middle (K-6): EF: $20; Novice (K-5; NR): EF: $10, ifmailed by JAN 12th. Trophy:Top 3 Individual, Medals 4th – 6th. Late REG: JAN19th at 8AM. Rds: 9- 10-11-12:30-1:30-2:30. Checks payable to: Caesar Chess.ENT: Caesar Chess LLC, 5184 Caldwell Mill Rd., Suite 204 - 202, Birmingham,AL 35244. Info: [email protected]; www.AlabamaChess.com; www.CaesarChess.com.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 26, North Alabama Open4SS, TC: G/75. UAH – University Center. 1410 Ben Graves Dr., Huntsville, AL35816. Open (PF: $$b/20): $250-150-X:125-U2000:100-U1800:100; Reserve(PF: $$b/20): $200-125–U1300:100-U1100:100; Rds.: 9-11:30-2:30-5. EF:$30; if mailed by JAN 19th; $40 at site. Scholastic: 5SS, TC: G/30. EF: $20.Trophy:Top 3. Rds.: 9-10-11-1-2. Late REG: JAN 26th at 8am. Checks payableto: Caesar Chess. ENT: Caesar Chess LLC, 5184 Caldwell Mill Rd., Suite 204- 202, Birmingham, AL 35244. Info: [email protected]; www.Alaba-maChess.com; www.CaesarChess.com.

FEB. 2, Super Bowl Scholastic5SS, TC: G/30. Oak Mtn Intermediate School, 5486 Caldwell Mill Rd., Birm-ingham, AL 35242. Open (K-12), Middle (K-6): EF: $20; Novice (K-5; NR): EF:$10, if mailed by JAN 26th. Trophy: Top 3 Individual, Medals 4th – 6th. LateREG: FEB 2nd at 8AM. Rds: 9-10-11-12:30-1:30. Checks payable to: CaesarChess. ENT: Caesar Chess LLC, 5184 Caldwell Mill Rd., Suite 204 - 202, Birm-ingham, AL 35244. Info: [email protected]; www.AlabamaChess.com;www.CaesarChess.com.

FEB. 16-17, Queen of Hearts - 41st AnnualSee Grand Prix.

MAR. 22-24 OR 23-24, 11th annual Southern Class Champi-onships (FL)See Grand Prix.

ArizonaChess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!Tuesday Night Open4 or 5 round, USCF rated tournament. ROUND TIMES: 7:00pm. One gameevery Tuesday of the month. Time Control: 40/120,SD/60;d5. PRIZES: 1stPlace and Class Prizes based on number of entries. ENTRY FEE: $45; TOREGISTER: chessemporium.com, call 602-482-4867. SITE: 10801 N. 32ndSt., Suite 6, Phoenix, AZ 85028.

JAN. 25-27 OR 26-27, Tucson Open and ScholasticsSee Grand Prix.

MAR. 8-10 OR 9-10, 20th annual Western Class Championships(CA-S)See Grand Prix.

JUNE 6, 2013 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) (NV)See Nationals.

JUNE 7, National Open Scholastic Trophy Tournament (NV)See Nevada.

JUNE 7-9 OR 8-9, 2013 National Open (NV)See Nationals.

JUNE 8, National Open Blitz Sectionals (QC) (NV)See Nevada.

JUNE 8-9, International Youth Championship (NV)See Nevada.

JUNE 9, 2013 National Open Blitz (QC) (NV)See Grand Prix.

California, NorthernJAN. 17-21, 18-21, 19-21 OR 20-21, 4th annual Golden StateOpenSee Grand Prix.

JAN. 19, Bay Area Chess4Less Quads3xG/30. 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies: Players w/plusscore. Sched: Check-in by 3p. Games: 3:20-6p. EF: $19 by 1/17, $34 onsite.Info: BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC.

JAN. 19, Bay Area Chess4Less Swiss4SS, G/30. 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies for plus score &teams. Sched: Reg. 9-10a. Games: 10:15a-2p. Special EF: $19 by 1/17, $34onsite. Info: BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 26, Saturday Night Marathon5SSxG/90 (+30s for 1800+). 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Sched:Sats 6:30p (exc Feb 16). Prizes: 60% of EFs. EF: $35 members, $47 non-mem-bers. $0 NMs & higher. Sections: 1800+ (FIDE rated), u1800, u1200. Info:BayAreaChess.com/weekly. NS. NC.

JAN. 26-28 OR 27-28, Winter ChampionshipSee Grand Prix.

FEB. 3, Sixth Annual CalNorth Youth Chess Age LevelNewark Pavilion, 6439 Thornton Ave., Newark, CA. Info & Entry Form at:www.calnorthyouthchess.org/AgeLevel2013. Open to all scholastic players 13and under who are USCF members. Fifteen place trophies in age levels 4-5, 6,7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13. Plus those who tie for 15th. Three extra trophies in eachsection for unrated players. Special 4-9 open age group for players over an 800U.S.C.F. rating. Except for the open 4-9 group you must play in your own agegroup. Age as of February 1. Game 30 for those 9 and under except 4-9 Openwhich will be game 60 as well as all 10 through 13 age players. Three academicschool trophies in each age level except 4-5 and 4-9 Open. Chess medals to allwho do not win a trophy. Info: Alan M. Kirshner, Ph.D., [email protected], (510) 659-0358.

FEB. 3, Chess4Less SuperSwiss (4SSxG/60)4SS, G/60. 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Prize: $1,000 b44. 1700+:$200 100, u1900 150 50, u1700: 200 100, u1500 100 50, u1300 50. Sched: Reg.:8-8:45. Rounds: 9 11:15 1:30 3:45. EF: $37 by 1/31. $52 onsite. Info:BayAreaChess.com/lessswiss. NS, NC.

FEB. 9, East Bay Chess4Less Quads3xG30. Hillside Elem., 5980 Marcella St., San Leandro, CA 94578. Trophies forplus score. Sched: Check-in 3p. Games: 3-6p. EF: $19 by 2/7, $34 onsite. Info:BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC. W.

FEB. 9, East Bay Chess4Less Swiss4SS, G/30. Hillside Elem., 5980 Marcella St., San Leandro, CA 94578. Trophiesfor + score. Sched: Reg. 9-10. Games: 10:15-2. EF: $19 by 2/7, $34 onsite.Info: BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC W.

FEB. 16-18 OR 17-18, 30th Annual U.S. Amateur Team Champi-onship WestSee Nationals.

FEB. 23, Bay Area Chess4Less Quads3xG/30. 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies: Players w/plusscore. Sched: Check-in by 3p. Games: 3:20-6p. EF: $19 by 2/21, $34 onsite.Info: BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC.

FEB. 23, Bay Area Chess4Less Swiss4SS, G/30. 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies for plus score &teams. Sched: Reg. 9-10a. Games: 10:15a-2p. Special EF: $19 by 2/21, $34onsite. Info: BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC.

MAR. 1-3 OR 2-3, March ChampionshipSee Grand Prix.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 2, Saturday Night Marathon5SSxG/90 (+30s for 1800+). 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Sched:Sats 6:30p (exc Feb 16). Prizes: 60% of EFs. EF: $35 mem, $47 non-mem. $0NMs & higher. Sections: 1800+ (FIDE rated), u1800, u1200. Info:BayAreaChess.com/weekly. NS. NC.

Regional

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MAR. 23, Bay Area Chess4Less Quads3xG/30. 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies: Players w/plusscore. Sched: Check-in by 3p. Games: 3:20-6p. EF: $19 by 3/21, $34 onsite.Info: BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC.

MAR. 23, Bay Area Chess4Less Swiss4SS, G/30. 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Trophies for plus score &teams. Sched: Reg. 9-10a. Games: 10:15a-2p. Special EF: $19 by 3/21, $34onsite. Info: BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC.

MAR. 30, East Bay Chess4Less Quads3xG/30. Hillside Elem., 5980 Marcella St., San Leandro, CA 94578. Trophies forplus score. Sched: Check-in 3p. Games: 3-6p. EF: $19 by 3/28, $34 onsite. Info:BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC. W.

MAR. 30, East Bay Chess4Less Swiss4SS, G/30. Hillside Elem., 5980 Marcella St., San Leandro, CA 94578. Trophiesfor + score. Sched: Reg. 9-10. Games: 10:15-2. EF: $19 by 3/28, $34 onsite.Info: BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC W.

APR. 5-7 OR 6-7, Spring ChampionshipSee Grand Prix.




California, SouthernThe Los Angeles Chess Club(The premier chess club in Southern California) (310) 795-5710 *www.LAChessClub.com Beginner/Novice Class: Sundays: 12-1 pmIntermediate Class: Saturdays: 10:30 am - noon Advanced Lecture: Tues-days: 7:30-9:30 pm Tournaments every Saturday and Sunday EverySunday Chess 4 Juniors Tournament 3-Sections:>1000, <1000, <600.Everybody receives a prize (trophies & medals) + Free pizza & juices.Details: www.LAChessClub.com, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Ange-les, CA 90025 (4 blocks 405 West, SW corner of Santa Monica & Butler* 2nd Floor) Group Classes * Tournaments * Private (1:1) Lessons.Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 5&6, 12&13, 19&20, LACC - Sat & Sun G/616SS, G/61. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. 2 Sections: Open &U1600. EF: $55 ($35 LACC memb; siblings 1/2). Reg.: 11-12 pm. Rds.: 12, 2,4 pm each day. Prizes: 1/2 collections. Parking: Free at BoA and streets ($5basement). Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.

JAN. 5, 12, 19, 26, LACC - Every Sunday Chess 4 Jrs.4 separate events – 3 Sections: >1000, <1000, <600, 5SS, G/30. 11514 SantaMonica Blvd & Butler LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blocks W 405. EF: $30 ($20 LACC memb,siblings 1/2, Free new LACC memb). Reg.: 12-1 pm. Rds.: 1pm & asap; Prizes:Trophies (Top 6) & medals; each player receives a prize! Parking: Free at BoA,streets or underground ($5). Free Pizza & juices. Info: (310) 795-5710 orwww.LAChessClub.com or [email protected].

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 5, 12, 19, 26, LACC - January Saturday Swiss Ladder G/1204SS, G/120. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. 2 Sections: Open &U1600. EF: $40 ($30 LACC memb; siblings 1/2). Reg.: 1-2 pm 1st Sat. (1/5).

Rds.: 2-6 pm 4 Saturdays. Prizes: 1/2 collections. Parking: Free at basement.Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.

JAN. 5, 12, 19, 26, LACC - Sat Nite Blitz (G/5) (QC)5DSS, (10 Games). 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blks 405 West.EF: $10. Q-rated. Reg.: 6-6:30 pm. Rds.: 6:30, 6:50, 7:10, 7:30, 7:50 pm.Prizes: 1/2 collections. Parking: Free at BoA or basement ($5). Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.

JAN. 5, 12, 19, 26, LACC - Saturday G/613SS, G/61. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 2 Sections: Open &U1600. EF: $30 ($20 memb, $10 no prizes; siblings 1/2). Reg.: 11-12 pm. Rds.:12, 2, 4 pm. Prizes: 1/2 collections. Parking: basement ($5). Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.

JAN. 6, 13, 20, 27, LACC - Sunday G/613SS,G/61. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 2 Sections: Open &U1600. EF: $30 ($20 memb, $10 no prizes; siblings 1/2). Reg.: 11-12 pm. Rds.:12, 2, 4 pm. Prizes: 1/2 collections, Parking: Free at BoA and streets; base-ment ($5). Info: 310/795-5710 or www.LAChessClub.com.

JAN. 11-13 OR 12-13, SCCF Century West OpenSee Grand Prix.

JAN. 12, SCCF CWO ScholasticsLAX, CA. 5-SS, G/30. Radisson LAX Airport, 6225 West Century Blvd., Los Ange-les, CA 90045. Open to gr. 12-below. Reg.: 8:30-9. Rds.: 9:30-11-12:15-1:45-3.EF: $20 if received by 01/01, $25 door. Info: [email protected]. On-lineent: www.metrochessla.com. Ent: Metropolitan Chess, PO Box 25112, LosAngeles, CA 90025-0112.

JAN. 17-21, 18-21, 19-21 OR 20-21, 4th annual Golden StateOpen (CA-N)See Grand Prix.

JAN. 26-27, LACC - January OpenSee Grand Prix.

FEB. 16-18, 2nd Annual Recession Buster OpenSee Grand Prix.

MAR. 8-10 OR 9-10, 20th annual Western Class ChampionshipsSee Grand Prix.







ConnecticutJAN. 11-13 OR 12-13, Boston Chess Congress (MA)See Grand Prix.

MAR. 1-3 OR 2-3, 7th annual Long Island Open (NY)See Grand Prix.

MAR. 9, 2013 CT State Open & Scholastic ChampionshipsSee Grand Prix.

A State Championship Event!MAR. 9, 2013 CT State Scholastic ChampionshipsKindergarten, 1st Grade, K-3, K-6, K-8 Championship sections, all 5SS,G/30, K-12 Championship 4SS, G/60. Trophies: Top 5 Individual inscholastic sections, Top 3 Teams each section. Individual awards for CTGrade Champions K-12. EF: $55 by 2/25, $75 by 3/4, $100 site. Checkwww.edutechchess.com or www.CTChess.com for registration flyer &more info.

MAR. 15-17 OR 16-17, 22nd annual Eastern Class Champi-onships (MA)See Grand Prix.

MAR. 27-31, 28-31, 29-31 OR 30-31, 7th annual PhiladelphiaOpen (PA)See Grand Prix.

MAY 3-5 OR 4-5, 24th annual Vermont Resort Open (VT)See Grand Prix.

JULY 3-7, 4-7, 5-7 OR 1-7, 41st Annual World Open (VA)See Grand Prix.

DelawareChess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!Newark Chess Club4-SS, G/75. USCF-rated games every Thursday 7-10 PM. 345 School Bell Rd.,Bear, DE 19701. For a full year of weekly games $22 for in-state players, $15out-of-state! www.newarkchessclub.blogspot.com, [email protected].


District of ColumbiaChess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 19-20, DC Junior OpenU.S. Chess Center, 410 8th St. NW, Washington, DC 20004 Open to all under age21. 4-SS. EF: $30 if by 1/12, $20 at door. 6 Sections: Under Age 21, Under Age21 and rated Under 1000, Under Age 13, Under Age 13 and rated Under 800,Under Age 13 and rated Under 600, Under Age 13 and rated Under 400. $100prize for Under Age 21 Champion. Trophies in all sections. Reg.: 12-12:45. TopSection: G/90. Rds.: 1- 4, 12:30-3:30 This section determines the DC Scholas-tic male and female Champions. Other 5 Sections TC: G/30 with all games playedon Saturday. Info: (202) 857-4922. www.chessctr.org/DCJunior.php. Only TopSection is JGP.

FEB. 2, DC Girls Open4-SS, Game/30. US Chess Center, 1501 M St., NW, Washington, DC 20005. EF:$20 if by 1/25, $30 at site. Open to any girl in K-12, not only from DC. $100 Sav-ings Bond to first place, trophies to top 5 in each of 2 sections by age. Reg.:12-12:45. (202) 857-4922. www.chessctr.org/girls.php

FEB. 3, Metro First Sunday Quads3-RR, G/90. U.S. Chess Center, 410 8th St. NW, Washington, DC 20004. EF: $20$$ $40 each quad. Scholastic sections. EF: $10, Trophy prizes. Reg.: 9:15 -9:45. (202) 857-4922. www.chessctr.org/quads.php

FloridaChess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!Boca Raton Chess ClubFriday nights, G/85,d5 Tournament, one game a week for 4 weeks.www.bocachess.com, 561-479-0351.

Epicure Grand Prix Series at Miami Country DayScholastic and Non-Scholastic Sections. More info at: www.bocachess.com orcall 561-479-0351.

JAN. 18-20 OR 19-20, Central Florida Class ChampionshipsSee Grand Prix.

JAN. 26-27, Central Florida Chess Club ChampionshipSee Grand Prix.

FEB. 15-17 OR 16-17, 2013 U.S. Amateur Team ChampionshipSouthSee Nationals.

MAR. 22-24 OR 23-24, 11th annual Southern Class Champi-onshipsSee Grand Prix.

GeorgiaMAR. 22-24 OR 23-24, 11th annual Southern Class Champi-onships (FL)See Grand Prix.

IdahoChess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!A State Championship Event!FEB. 16-18, 2013 Idaho Closed State ChampionshipIDAHO RESIDENTS ONLY! Chief TD: Barry Eacker. Shilo Inn, 1586 Blue LakesBlvd. No., Twin Falls, ID 83301. 6SS, 30/120, SD/60. Annual ICA Business mtgbeginning at 8 AM prior to rnd 3. Rounds: 9, 4, 10, 4:30, 8, 3. One 1/2 pt Bye,Rounds 1-5. Must Notify TD before rnd 2. Reg & Ck in: 7:30 -8:30 Sat Feb 16.One Section: Open. EF (USCF and ICA memb req.): $35 (includes $10 ICAMembership) if registered by February 13, 2013. $30 (includes $10 ICA Mem-bership) for Seniors (60+) and Juniors (under 18) if registered by February 13,2012. $50 (includes $10 ICA Membership) for EVERYONE if registered after Feb-ruary 13, 2013. Prizes: Trophies or plaques, 1st, 2nd, 3rd Overall – 1St ,X;1st-2nd, A thru F; 1St Junior; 1St Senior; 1St Unrated. HR: $79 incl tx, 1-4 per-


20th annual WESTERN CLASSMarch 8-10 or 9-10, Sheraton Hotel, Agoura Hills, CA


5 rounds, 40/110, SD/1, d5 (note change). 2-day option, rounds 1-2 G/75,d5. In 7 sections (may play up one section). Prizes based on 230 paid entries(Class E & re-entries count half); minimum 80% of each prize guaranteed.

Master Section (2200/up): Prizes $2000-1000-500-300, clear/tiebreak

win $100 bonus, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE rated, 100 GPP (enhanced).

Expert Section (2000-2199): $1500-800-400-200.

Class A Section (1800-1999): $1500-800-400-200.

Class B Section (1600-1799): $1500-800-400-200.

Class C Section (1400-1599): $1400-700-400-200.

Class D Section (1200-1399): $1200-600-300-200.

Class E Section (Under 1200): $600-300-200-100, trophies to top Under

1000, Under 800, Under 600, Unrated

Unrated limit $150 in E, $250 D, $400 C, $600 B, $800 A.




sons, $15 ea additional person. FREE bkfst ea hotel guest. 866-539-0036. Askfor Darlene or mention State Chess Championship. Contact: Barry Eacker, [email protected], 208-733-6186, 963 Delmar Dr., Twin Falls, ID 83301. www.idahochessas-sociation.com. NC,NS, W.

IllinoisChess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 26, Bradley Winter Open4 SS, G/80, T/D5. Robert Michel Student Center, 915 N. Elmwood, Peoria, IL61625. EF: $14 by 1/24, $17 at site, $2 disc’t ICA memb, $2 disc’t GPCF memb,free to Masters. $$Gtd: 75% of EFs. Reg.: 8-8:45. Rds.: 9-12-2:45-5:30. Otherinformation: Bye 1-4, www.gpcf.net. Ent:Wayne Zimmerle, 514 W. Loucks #2,Peoria, IL 61604, 309-692-4480 day, 309-686-0192 night, [email protected].

FEB. 2, Greater Chicago Junior High Championship! Presented byKasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights5-SS, G/30, open to all grades 9/below. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2875 MilwaukeeAve., Northbrook, IL. 2 Sections: 1. Varsity: open to all. Trophies: top 5 play-ers, top rated Under 1200, top 2 schools. 2. Junior Varsity: open to Under 1000.Trophies: top 5 players, top Unrated, top 2 schools. Any player who scores 4or more points and doesn’t win a trophy will receive a medal! EF: 35 by 1/14;$45 by 1/28; $55 by 1/31 or $60 on-site. D, on-site entry receives 1/2 point 1stround bye. All entries $5 less per player if 4 or more from same school regis-tered at same time! Register for both days and save $10. RDS: 10, 11:30, 1:00,2:30 & 4:00. Awards Ceremony: 5:30pm. Byes: One 1/2-pt bye available, anyround, if requested before end of Rd.2 and if player has not received a full-pointbye. HR: $85 per night Double or King - 847-298-2525 or www.crowneplaza.com/northbrookchi and use group code KR3. Entries:mail to RKnights, PO Box 1074,Northbrook, IL 60065, include name, section, rating, USCF ID#, grade, schoolname city & state, or online/ info at: www.renaissanceknights.org/greaterchicago.

FEB. 2, Greater Chicago Primary Championship! Presented byKasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights5-SS, G/30, open to all grades 3/below. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2875 MilwaukeeAve., Northbrook, IL. 2 Sections: Varsity: open to all. Trophies: top 5 players,top rated Under 800, top 2 schools. Junior Varsity: open to Under 600. Tro-phies: top 5 players, top Unrated, top 2 schools. Any player who scores 4 ormore points and doesn’t win a trophy will receive a medal! EF: 35 by 1/14; $45by 1/28; $55 by 1/31 or $60 on-site. D, on-site entry receives 1/2 point 1st roundbye. All entries $5 less per player if 4 or more from same school registered atsame time! Register for both days and save $10. RDS: 10, 11:30, 1:00, 2:30 &4:00. Awards Ceremony: 5:30pm. Byes: One 1/2-pt bye available, any round,if requested before end of Rd.2 and if player has not received a full-point bye.HR: $85 per night Double or King - 847-298-2525 or www.crowneplaza.com/northbrookchi and use group code KR3. Entries:mail to RKnights, PO Box 1074,Northbrook, IL 60065, include name, section, rating, USCF ID#, grade, schoolname city & state, or online/ info at: www.renaissanceknights.org/greaterchicago.

FEB. 3, Greater Chicago Elementary Championship! Presented byKasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights5-SS, G/30, open to all grades 6/below. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2875 MilwaukeeAve., Northbrook, IL. 2 Sections: 1. Varsity: open to all. Trophies: top 5 play-ers, top rated Under 1000, top 2 schools. 2. Junior Varsity: open to Under 800.Trophies: top 5 players, top Unrated, top 2 schools.. Any player who scores 4or more points and doesn’t win a trophy will receive a medal! EF: 35 by 1/14;$45 by 1/28; $55 by 1/31 or $60 on-site. D, on-site entry receives 1/2 point 1stround bye. All entries $5 less per player if 4 or more from same school regis-tered at same time! Register for both days and save $10. RDS: 9, 10:30,12:00, 1:30 & 3:00. Awards Ceremony: 4:30pm. Byes: One 1/2-pt bye avail-able, any round, if requested before end of Rd.2 and if player has not receiveda full-point bye. HR: $85 per night Double or King - 847-298-2525 or www.crowne-plaza.com/northbrookchi and use group code KR3. Entries: mail to RKnights,PO Box 1074, Northbrook, IL 60065, include name, section, rating, USCF ID#,grade, school name city & state, or online/ info at: www.renaissanceknights.org/greaterchicago.

FEB. 3, Greater Chicago High School Championship! Presented byKasparov Chess Foundation & Renaissance Knights5-SS, G/30, open to all grades 12/below. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2875 MilwaukeeAve, Northbrook, IL. 2 Sections: 1. Varsity: open to all. Trophies: top 5 players,top rated Under 1400, top 2 schools. 2. Junior Varsity: open to Under 1200.Trophies: top 5 players, top Unrated, top 2 schools. Any player who scores 4or more points and doesn’t win a trophy will receive a medal! EF: 35 by 1/14;$45 by 1/28; $55 by 1/31 or $60 on-site. D, on-site entry receives 1/2 point 1stround bye. All entries $5 less per player if 4 or more from same school regis-tered at same time! Register for both days and save $10. RDS: 9, 10:30,12:00, 1:30 & 3:00. Awards Ceremony: 4:30pm. Byes: One 1/2-pt bye avail-able, any round, if requested before end of Rd.2 and if player has not receiveda full-point bye. HR: $85 per night Double or King - 847-298-2525 or www.crowne-plaza.com/northbrookchi and use group code KR3. Entries: mail to RKnights,PO Box 1074, Northbrook, IL 60065, include name, section, rating, USCF ID#,grade, school name city & state, or online/ info at: www.renaissanceknights.org/greaterchicago.

FEB. 15-17 OR 16-17, 2013 U.S. Amateur Team ChampionshipNorthSee Nationals.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 9, 11th Annual Mark Oestreich Memorial TournamentTime control 30/70, then 40/60. No sudden death. Salem Community Center,416 Oglesby St., Salem, IL. EF: $15.00. Prize fund: $360.00, based on 30. 1st$80, 2nd $40. A,B,C, D/E/Unr $60.00 each. Reg.: 8:00-9:15. Rounds: 9:30, 1:00,5:00. Entries: Jim Davies 314-721-4967, 7358 Shaftesbury, St. Louis, MO63130. [email protected].

MAR. 15-17 OR 16-17, 17th annual Mid-America Open (MO)See Grand Prix.

MAY 23-27, 24-27, 25-27 OR 26-27, 22nd annual ChicagoOpenSee Grand Prix.

IndianaOrange Crush Chess Club Friday Night Blitz (QC)Donatos Pizza, W 10th & Indiana Ave. (location info: 317-231-9700). USCFrated. Show your OCCC card for free upsize. Reg.: 6-6:25pm, starts at 6:30pm.Type: 3 RR Quad, G/5d2, QC. EF: $10.00, $$ b/4-Quad 1st $25.00, $30 for clubmembers. Ent: Donald Urquhart, 1010 N. Central Ave., #304, Indianapolis, IN46202. Info: Don at 317-679-2813 or email [email protected].

FEB. 2, Fort Wayne CC Winter Open4SS, G/55. Allen Main Public Library, Conf. Room A, 900 Library Plaza. Free park-ing on street. Reg.: 9-9:40. Rds.: 9:40am, 12noon, 2pm, 4pm. EF: $30 pre-reg.check to D.S. or cash only at site. Prizes: b/20, 1st $100, 2nd $50, B $50, C $50,D $50, E/Unr. $50, must have 3 per class. Ent: Dan Steininger, 6025 S. HannaSt., Apt 207, Ft. Wayne, IN 46816. Info: (260) 755-3765.


MAY 23-27, 24-27, 25-27 OR 26-27, 22nd annual ChicagoOpen (IL)See Grand Prix.

IowaMAR. 15-17 OR 16-17, 17th annual Mid-America Open (MO)See Grand Prix.


KansasMAR. 15-17 OR 16-17, 17th annual Mid-America Open (MO)See Grand Prix.

KentuckyFEB. 2, Lexington Monthly (1st Saturday G/60)3SS, G/60;d5. Expansive Art, 125 E. Reynolds Rd., Lexington, KY. Directions:Take New Circle Rd. to Nicholasville Rd. Head towards the Mall/Best Buy, turnleft at E. Reynolds Rd. Shop is in the Crossroads shopping center. Prizes:Class Prizes with 90% of entries returned. Reg.: 11:45-noon. Rds. 1st Rd. atnoon, subsequent rounds ASAP (you will have some to get somethingto eat). EF: $1 per 100 rating points (e.g. a player rated 1483 would pay $14EF) Contact: Matthew Gurley (859)-537-1060; [email protected].

FEB.16,2ndAnnualNativityAcademyScholastic Chess TournamentNativity Academy, 529 E. Liberty St., Louisville, KY 40204. Onsite reg.: $10 anda material donation for local homeless shelters. Sections: K-4, K-6, K-8 and

K-12. Prizes: Awards for top 3 winners in each section. Contact: [email protected] or www.pottershousechess.com for additional details.


LouisianaMAR. 1-3, SPNO Boys & Girls Scholasticat Holiday Inn Downtown/Superdome, New Orleans, LA. 6 Rd. SS G/45 d/5scholastic up to 9 sections: USCF Rated Secs. grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8 & 9-12, sep.for Girls & Boys; 1 Unrated K-12 Reserve sec. Side events: 3 hour chess camp(max. 30); GM Polgar Simul (max 25 bds.); Blitz Championship, 2 secs., K-6 and7-12; Bughouse; Puzzle Solving Championship; “Breakfast with Susan” atBrennan’s Restaurant (former home of World Champ. Paul Morphy). Sched-ule: Rds. Sat., 3/2 - 10 a.m., 12, 2 p.m.; Sun 3/3 - 11 a.m., 1, p.m., 3 p.m.; Sideevents: Fri 3/1 - Camp 2-5 p.m.; Puzzles, 6 p.m., Bughouse 7 p.m.; Sat. 3/2 -Blitz 4.p.m., Simul 7 p.m.; Sun. 3/3 - Breakfast 8:30 a.m.; side event awardsbefore rds 4 & 5; main event awards 4:45 p.m. Prizes: Over $100,000 in Web-ster U. Scholarships, tablet computers & chess prizes; Trophies to top 5 ea. sec.(more poss. in lg secs.; top 20% based on pre-reg. as of 2/10); Side eventawards: Blitz - top 3 boys & top 3 girls ea. sec. Bughouse - top 3 teams. Puz-zles - top 3 Boys & Girls in rating gps. Under 800, Under 1500 & Open. All playersreceive commemorative medals. Team awards: top 3 school & top club teamea. sec. of main event & blitz (Student may rep. only 1 team; commit by rd 2).Reg. fees: All secs. of G/45 Main Event: $45 by 1/10/13 ; then $55 by 2/1/13;$65 thereafter. Camp - $40 by 1/10/13; then $50. Puzzles $10 by 2/1/13; then$15. Bughouse - $20/team by 2/1/13; then $30. Blitz - $15 by 2/1/13; then $20.Simul - $25: “Breakfast with Susan” Sunday Brunch at Brennan’s Rest. (PaulMorphy home) $55 adults; $30 children. Host hotel: Holiday Inn DowntownSuperdome, King or 2 Doubles $149/nt, 2 night min. til sold out or 1/18/13.Overnight Parking $15; free wi-fi, fitness center, pool; 10% food & bev. disct.if staying on-site. To reserve call 1-800-535-7830 & request Polgar ChessRate. Alt./Overflow hotel: SpringHill Suites downtown, 301 St.Joseph St., (1 milefrom Holiday Inn): King + sofa sleeper or 2 Queens + sleeper, $209/nt. til soldout or 2/8/13. To reserve call 1-888-364-1200 & request Polgar Chess Rate.Details and registration available soon at: www.polgarevents.com andwww.cajunchess.com. Email questions to: [email protected].

MaineMAR. 15-17 OR 16-17, 22nd annual Eastern Class Champi-onships (MA)See Grand Prix.

MarylandMaryland Chess AssociationOpen & scholastic tournaments in Maryland listed at www.mdchess.com.

www.uschess.org 63



JAN.18-21, 19-21 OR 20-21, 45th annual Liberty Bell Open (PA)See Grand Prix.

JAN. 26, 2013 Mid-Atlantic Scholastic Team Championships4SS. Dumbarton Middle School, 300 Dumbarton Rd., Towson, MD 21212. 4-player,fixed-roster teams. 8 Sections: High School Championship (9-12) G/45, trophiesto top 5. High School JV (9-12, all players rated under 1000) G/30, trophies totop 5. Middle School Championship (6-8) G/45, trophies to top 5. Middle SchoolJV (6-8, all players rated under 1000) G/30, trophies to top 7. Elementary SchoolChampionship (K-5) G/45, trophies to top 7. Elementary School JV (K-5, all play-ers rated under 600) G/30, trophies to top 10. Primary School Championship(K-3) G/30, trophies to top 8. Sets and board provided. Pairings can be textedto your phone. EF: $80/team by 1/12, $100/team by 1/22, $120/team by 1/24,$140/team at the door (1/2 point bye likely in rnd 1). $40 off all team entrancefees for Title I schools. More info, rules and online registration at http://midatl-team.mdchess.com. Ent: MCA, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd., Towson, MD 21204.

FEB. 2, Kasparov Chess Foundation Presents 5th Annual GreaterMid-Atlantic Scholastic Chess ChampionshipsBaltimore Polytechnic Institute & Western High School, 1400 W. Cold Spring Ln.,Baltimore, MD 21209. Open to K-12 players. 8 Sections. 4 sections are 5-SS,G/40 d/5: HS Championship (grades K-12, rated 700+, trophies to top 8 play-ers & 3 teams), MS Championship (grades K-8, rated 700+, trophies to top10 players & 4 teams), ES Championship (grades K-5, rated 700+, trophiesto top 10 players & 5 teams), PS Championship (grades K-3, any rating butno unrated players, trophies to top 10 players & 3 teams). 4 sections are 5-SS,G/30 d/5: K-12 U1000 (grades K-12, rated under 1000 or unrated, trophiesto top 10 players & 5 teams), K-8 U800 (grades K-8, rated under 800 orunrated, trophies to top 10 players & 5 teams), K-5 U600 (grades K-5, ratedunder 600 or unrated, trophies to top 17 players & 8 teams), K-3 U400 (gradesK-3, rated under 400 or unrated, trophies to top 10 players & 3 teams). Rds.:Rd 1 for all sections: 9:30 AM; subsequent rounds ASAP. # of rds, time con-trol, & # of trophies might change, based on number of players. EF: $30, by1/20 (online or received mail); $40, by 1/29 (online or received mail); $50, by7 PM, 1/31 (online); $60, 8:30 - 9AM, 2/2 (1/2 point bye likely in Round 1). Entry:Online registration at www.mdchess.com/tourneyreg. Mail registration:include player’s name, USCF ID #, USCF exp. date, section, grade, school, phone#, email address, & check (made payable to Maryland Chess Association). Mailto: Maryland Chess Association, c/o Mike Regan, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd., Tow-son, MD 21204-1841. Sets, boards, & scoresheets provided; bring chess clock& pencil. Food available for purchase. Info:www.mdchess.com, [email protected] & 410-794-6312 (M).

FEB. 8-10 OR 9-10, 51st Annual Baltimore OpenSee Grand Prix.

MAR. 2-3, UMBC Open - Alvin S. Mintzes Chess TournamentSee Grand Prix.


JUNE 27-JULY 1, DC International (VA)See Grand Prix.


MassachusettsJAN. 11-13 OR 12-13, Boston Chess CongressSee Grand Prix.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 13, 20, 27, MAR. 6, 13, George E. O’Rourke Memorial (1929-2007)5SS, G/105, d/5. Wachusett CC, McKay Campus School, Room C159, FitchburgState University, 67 Rindge Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420. EF: $20 (club dues for2013) or $1 per game played. Reg.: 7-7:10 p.m. Rds.: 7:15 p.m. each Wed. Byes:1-4, limit two. Prizes: chess books. Info: George Mirijanian, 176 Oak Hill Rd.,Fitchburg, MA 01420, [email protected], 978-345-5011. Website:www.wachusettchess.org Online ratings as of Feb. 13 will be used. W.

A Heritage Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 16-17 OR 17, 88th Western Massachusetts/ConnecticutValley Chess ChampionshipThe Alumni House - Amherst College, 75 Churchill St., Amherst, MA 01002. In2 Sections, Two-Day: 5SS, G/90. EF: $30. $25 postmarked by 2/11/2013.One-Day: 5SS, 1-3 G/45; 4&5 G/90, EF: $25. $20 if postmarked by 2/11/2013.ALL: USCF Membership Required, $2 discount for WMCA members; $5 for WMCAmembers under 18. 1st overall: revolving trophy and keeper; trophy to top X,A, B, C, D, E, UNR. Limit of one 1/2 point bye; specify round with entry. ENT:WMCA, c/o Ed Kostreba, 45 Fairview St., Palmer, MA 01069. INFO: Ron Gist(413)695-7689, [email protected]. NS. NC. W.

MAR.15-17OR16-17, 22nd annual Eastern Class ChampionshipsSee Grand Prix.



MichiganJAN. 19-20, 2013 Michigan Master/Expert & Class ChampionshipsSee Grand Prix.

MAR. 1-3 OR 2-3, 14th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA)See Grand Prix.

APR. 26-28 OR 27-28 OR 28, 10th Annual Great Lakes Chess OpenSee Grand Prix.


MinnesotaFEB. 1-2, 2013 Rochester Grand Winter OpenSee Grand Prix.


MississippiFEB. 9, 2013 Game/45 Championship5SS, G/40 d/5. Country Inn & Suites, 3051 White Blvd., Pearl, MS 39208. HR:$79/night. Call 601-420-2244 and ask for the Mississippi Chess Association Tour-nament rate. Registration: 8am-9am. Rounds at: 9:15, 11:00, lunch, 1:15, 3:00and 4:45 Prizes b/75% entries, $250 guaranteed. Pre-entry Fee: Adults $20and Scholastic 12th grade or lower $10 if received by Feb 1, 2013. Onsite EntryFee: Adults $30 and Scholastic 12th grade or lower $20. MCA membershiprequired for adults $5 annual fee. No Smoking and no computers. Contact: RalphMcNaughton, 407 Boehle St., Pearl, MS 39208. Phone 601-278-9670 or emailat [email protected]. For pre-entries mail your entry fee made out to theMississippi Chess Association, USCF number, and estimated current rating to:Ralph McNaughton, 407 Boehle St., Pearl, MS 39208.

MissouriFEB. 2, Wilhelm Steinitz Open3SS, G/70d/5. UMC Memorial Union, Room S203, 518 Hitt St., Columbia MO.Directions: From I-70 exit 126, south on Providence, east on Rollins, north onHitt. Reg.: 9:30-10:15. Rds.: 10:30, 1:15, 4:00. EF: $3, no prizes — just the sat-isfaction of playing well. Two ratings-equivalent sections if 18+ players. Info:[email protected]. W.

MAR. 15-17 OR 16-17, 17th annual Mid-America OpenSee Grand Prix.

MAY 23-27, 24-27, 25-27 OR 26-27, 22nd annual Chicago Open(IL)See Grand Prix.

MontanaChess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 26-27, Joyces January ThawOpen. 5SS, G/90.Holiday Inn, 22 N, Last Chance Gulch, Helena, MT 59601. Phone(406) 443-2200. Ask for chess room rate. EF: $25, Jrs-$15. USCF & MCA mem-bership required, OSA. (Tournament EF waived for new members.) Reg.:10-10:40. Rds.: 11, 2:30, 6:00/9AM, 12:30. $$: 1st-$75, 2nd-$50, biggestupset $35 (nonprovisional). Contact:Murray Strong, 406-459-6684. [email protected], www.montanachess.org.

NevadaJAN. 17-21, 18-21, 19-21 OR 20-21, 4th annual Golden StateOpen (CA-N)See Grand Prix.


JUNE 6, 2013 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC)See Nationals.

JUNE 7, National Open Scholastic Trophy Tournament5-SS Game/30. Riviera Hotel and Casino, 2901 Las Vegas Boulevard South, LasVegas 89109. Open to players 18 and under. In 3 sections: U1800, U1200, andU800. Unrated players in the U1200 section and all players in the U800 sectionmust be age 11 or under. Trophies to top 5 in each section, top 2 in each odd200 point rating group and unrated. There must be 3 players eligible for eachprize to be awarded. EF $39 by 5/21, $44 by 6/3, $50 on site. REG 9-9:30 a.m.RDS 10-11:30-1-2:30-4. Blitz 6:30 p.m. ($15 by 5/21 $20 on site) HR $62 sin-gle or double ($89 Friday and Saturday nights). (800) 634-6753 or (702)734-5110 – be sure to ask for the CHESS rates. ENT Vegas Chess Festivals,PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925, on line www.VegasChessFesti-val. com or fax at (702) 933-9112. NS. NC. W.

JUNE 7-9 OR 8-9, 2013 National OpenSee Nationals.

JUNE 8, National Open Blitz Sectionals (QC)12-RR, G/5. Riviera Hotel and Casino, 2901 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Las Vegas89109. Sections of 12-15 players with rating range less than 200 points when-ever possible. $100-60, 2nd half $40, in each section. EF $20. REG by 9 p.m.Round 1 at 9:30 p.m. Higher of regular or quick rating used. HR $62 single ordouble ($89 Friday and Saturday nights). (800) 634-6753 or (702) 734-5110 –be sure to ask for the CHESS rates. ENT Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925,Henderson, NV 89009-0925, on line at www.VegasChessFestival.com orfax at (702) 933-9112. NS. NC. W.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JUNE 8-9, International Youth Championship5SS, Game/60, d5. Riviera Hotel and Casino, 2901 Las Vegas Boulevard South,Las Vegas 89109. In 4 Sections by age: 14 and Under, 14 and Under Reserve(rated below 1000), 9 and Under, 9 and Under Reserve (rated below 800). Tro-phies to top 10 in each section plus class trophies and team trophies. 1st Placein each section wins a Computer loaded with valuable Chess Software and hun-dreds of Videos, 2nd-4th win chess prizes valued at $250-150-100. Unratedplayers may not win 1st in Reserve sections. EF $69 by 5/27, $79 by 6/3, $90on site. 1/2 point bye in any round (limit 2) if requested in advance. REG 8-9a.m. RDS 10-1-4, 10-1. Blitz 6/7 at 6:30 p.m. ($15 by 5/21 $20 on site) HR $62single or double ($89 Friday and Saturday nights). (800) 634-6753 or (702) 734-5110 – be sure to ask for the CHESS rates. ENT Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925, on line www.VegasChessFestival.comor fax at (702) 933-9112. NS. NC. W.

JUNE 9, 2013 National Open Blitz (QC) See Grand Prix.

New HampshireJAN. 19-20, Portsmouth OpenSee Grand Prix.

JAN. 26-27, 37th Queen City OpenSee Grand Prix.



New JerseyNJCCS Quads - First Friday Every Month!New Jersey Children’s Chess School, 862 DeGraw Ave., Forest Hill(Newark), NJ 07104. Open to K-8. 3-RR, G/35. EF: $20 for rated above1400, $25 for R>1200, $30 for others. $5 off for registration by mailone week in advance. Reg.: 6-6:50PM. Rds: 7-8-8:50 PM. Awards: Tro-phies to ALL. Chess classes meet every Friday 6:30-9PM. Website:www.kidschesscamp.com. Info: Arkady Geller, 973-483-7927 or [email protected] Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 2, 9, 16, 23, Chess Mates Wednesday G/90 (4SS, Monthly)Monthly 4SS, Rd. starts at 7pm. EF: $30/$25. Prizes: 70% of EF. Prizes: 1st,2nd & Class Prizes (based on the # of participants). 2 byes are available. 1531Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. (732)499-0118.www.chessmatesnj.com.

JAN. 5, Fair Lawn Saturday QuadsICA, 9-10 Saddle River Rd., Fair Lawn, NJ 07410. 3 RR, G/60. EF: $25. Prize:$50 to first in each quad. Reg.: 12:45-1:15 PM. Rds.: 1:30 PM, 3:45, 6:00. ENT:Info Diana 201-797-0330, [email protected]; www.icanj.net. ICA provideslunch.

JAN. 5, Dr. Luvizminda Machan XII OpenSee Grand Prix.

JAN. 6, Chess Mates Sunday Quad G/30Quad: G/30: Starts at 10:30am, 11:45, and 1pm. EF: $20/$15. Prizes: $55 tofirst in each section.1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Also Lessons:2:30pm–7:30pm w/GM Yudasin. Please visit www.chessmatesnj.com/ fordetails or call 732-499-0118.

JAN. 12, Princeton Day School650 The Great Road. Plaques to top 3 school teams and top 6 in each section.Medals to all players. Four sections for OVER 1000 begin at 10:15 and must pre-register: 3 rds.G/55/5: OVER 1400 NEAR MASTERS (K-12), FUTURE MASTERS(Players K-12 1200-1400), CLOSED (K-12 1000-1200) ALL AFTERNOON SEC-TIONS. G/25/5 4 rds. Beginning at 12:00 noon. (round times will be acceleratedif possible): OPEN (Players K-12 U-1000), RESERVE (K-12 U-800), NOVICE II(K-8 U-600), NOVICE I (unrated K-6), K-1 (unrated) NO SCORE K-1 (unrated).PARENTS OF PLAYERS rated G/25/5 3rds. Parents play free. Pre-registrationonline $35, pay at the door. Info and register online:www.pds.org/chess. On-site 11-12 noon $45. Inquires to Bonnie Waitzkin [email protected].

JAN. 12, Dr. Luvizminda Machan XIII OpenSee Grand Prix.

JAN. 12, Ewing Chess Club Quad #43RR, G/90, d5. Ewing Community Center, 999 Lower Ferry Rd., Ewing, NJ08628. Open EF: $14. Prizes: $35. per Quad. REG.: 8:45-9:45AM. Rds.: 10:15,1:30, 5PM. Train/Bus Access. Contact: Mike [email protected], 609-468-4792. NS. NC. W.


JAN. 13, Chess Mates Sunday Quad G/30Quad: G/30: Starts at 10:30am, 11:45, and 1pm. EF: $20/$15. Prizes: $55 tofirst in each section.1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Also Lessons:2:30pm–7:30pm w/GM Yudasin. Please visit www.chessmatesnj.com/ fordetails or call 732-499-0118.

JAN. 13, Cherry Hill January OpenSee Grand Prix.

JAN. 18-21, 19-21 OR 20-21, 45th annual Liberty Bell Open(PA)See Grand Prix.

JAN. 19, 2013 Monmouth and Ocean County K-8 Scholastic Cham-pionship4SS, G/30. Holy Family Elementary School, 1141 East County Line Rd., Lakewood,NJ 08701. 3 Sections: Championship: 4 Player Teams. Coaches set the orderaccording to strength of the players. Trophies to top 5 teams and top 3 play-ers each board 1 - 4. Future Masters: Trophies to top 10, Top 5 teams (3players). Unrated Future Masters: Trophies to top 10, Top 5 teams (3 players).ALL: Entry fee $25 if received by 1/12, $35 at site. Reg.: Sat. 8-9am. Rds.: 10:00am and ASAP. ALL: Entry fee $25 if received by 1/12, $35 at site. Reg. Sat. 8-9am. Rds.: 10:00 am and ASAP. ENT: NJSCF, P.O. Box 1511, Jackson, NJ 08527.Make checks payable to Hal Sprechman or pay online at www.characterkings.orgby 1/17. Info: Hal Sprechman, 732-259-3881, [email protected].

JAN. 19, Dr. Luvizminda Machan XIV OpenSee Grand Prix.





JAN. 20, Chess Mates Sunday Quad G/30Quad: G/30: Starts at 10:30am, 11:45, and 1pm. EF: $20/$15. Prizes: $55 tofirst in each section.1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Also Lessons: 2:30pm–7:30pm w/GM Yudasin. Please visit www.chessmatesnj.com/ for details or call732-499-0118.

JAN. 20, Westfield Winter ScholasticWestfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. K-12 3 Sections: Open, U1250,U750. Open: 3-SS. G/40;d5 Rds.: 2:45, 4:25, 6:05 p.m. U1250: 4-SS. G/25;d5.Rds.: 2:45, 4:00, 5:15, 6:30 p.m. U750: 4-SS. G/25;d5. Rds.: 2:45, 4:00, 5:15,6:30 p.m. Prizes:Trophies to Top 5 in each section. Tiebreaks used. EF: Advance$20, $15 members, At site $30, $25 members. Send advance entries to JohnMoldovan, 510 4th Ave., Garwood, NJ 07027 by January 17. Make checkspayable to: Westfield Chess Club. Reg.: 2:00-2:30 p.m. Info: Please present iden-tification on entering the building. John Moldovan: [email protected], Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-219-1358, westfieldchessclub.blogspot.com and www.westfieldchessclub.com.

JAN. 26, 2013 Mid-Atlantic Scholastic Team Championships (MD)See Maryland.

JAN. 26, Dr. Luvizminda Machan XV OpenSee Grand Prix.


JAN. 27, 4th Sunday G/60 Quads3 RR, G/60 t/d5. 1st round 1pm. All The King’s Men Chess & Games Cen-ter (Just 22 mins. from Center City Philadelphia), 62 S. Broadway, Pitman,NJ, 856-582-8222. EF: $25, members $20. Prizes: $50 1st per quad. Reg.:10:30-11:30 onsite, or pre-register at www.ATKMchessSets.com/quads4.Bring a clock!

JAN. 27, Chess Mates Sunday Quad G/30Quad: G/30: Starts at 10:30am, 11:45, and 1pm. EF: $20/$15. Prizes: $55 tofirst in each section.1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Also Lessons: 2:30pm–7:30pm w/GM Yudasin. Please visit www.chessmatesnj.com/ for details or call732-499-0118.

JAN. 27, Westfield Quads3-RR. G/40;d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. Prizes: $50 tofirst in each section. EF: $20, $15 Members. Reg.: 1:30-2:00 p.m. Rds.: 2:15-4:05-5:55 p.m. Info: Please present identification on entering the building. JohnMoldovan: [email protected], Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-219-1358, westfieldchessclub.blogspot.com and www.westfieldchessclub.com.

JAN. 30, Chess Mates Blitz G/5 RR (QC)Round Robin, Rd. starts at 7pm. EF: $30/$20. Prizes: 70% of EF. Prizes: 1st,2nd, 3rd & Class Prizes (based on the # of participants). 1531 Irving St., Rah-way, NJ 07065. (732)499-0118. www.chessmatesnj.com.

FEB. 2, Dr. Luvizminda Machan XVI OpenSee Grand Prix.

FEB. 2, Fair Lawn Saturday QuadsICA, 9-10 Saddle River Rd., Fair Lawn, NJ 07410. 3 RR, G/60. EF: $25. Prize:$50 to first in each quad. Reg.: 12:45-1:15 PM. Rds.: 1:30 PM, 3:45, 6:00. ENT:Info Diana 201-797-0330, [email protected]; www.icanj.net. ICA provideslunch.

FEB. 3, Chess Mates Sunday Quad G/30Quad: G/30: Starts at 10:30am, 11:45, and 1pm. EF: $20/$15. Prizes: $55 tofirst in each section.1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Also Lessons: 2:30pm–7:30pm w/GM Yudasin. Please visit www.chessmatesnj.com/ for details or call732-499-0118.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 6, 13, 20, 27, Chess Mates Wednesday G/90 (4SS, Monthly)Monthly 4SS, Rd. starts at 7pm. EF: $30/$25. Prizes: 70% of EF. Prizes: 1st,2nd & Class Prizes (based on the # of participants). 2 byes are available. 1531Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. (732)499-0118.www.chessmatesnj.com.

FEB. 8-10 OR 9-10, 51st Annual Baltimore Open (MD)See Grand Prix.

FEB. 9, Dr. Luvizminda Machan XVII OpenSee Grand Prix.

FEB. 9, Fair Lawn Saturday QuadsICA, 9-10 Saddle River Rd., Fair Lawn, NJ 07410. 3 RR, G/60. EF: $25. Prize:$50 to first in each quad. Reg.: 12:45-1:15 PM. Rds.: 1:30 PM, 3:45, 6:00. ENT:Info Diana 201-797-0330, [email protected]; www.icanj.net. ICA provideslunch.

FEB. 9, Princeton Day School650 The Great Road. Plaques to top 3 school teams and top 6 in each section.Medals to all players. Sections for OVER 1000 rated players begin at 10:15 andmust preregister: 3 rds.G/55/5: OVER 1400 NEAR MASTERS (K-12), FUTUREMASTERS (Players K-12 1200-1400), CLOSED (K-12 1000-1200) ALL AFTER-NOON SECTIONS. G/25/5 4 rds. Beginning at 12:00 noon. (round times willbe accelerated if possible): OPEN (Players K-12 U-1000), RESERVE (K-12 U-800), NOVICE II (K-8 U-600), NOVICE I (unrated K-6), K-1 (unrated) NO SCOREK-1 (unrated). PARENTS OF PLAYERS rated G/25/5 3rds. Parents play free.Pre-registration online, $35 pay at the door. Info and register online:www.pds.org/chess. On-site 11-12 noon $45. Inquires to Bonnie Waitzkin [email protected].

FEB. 10, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA Winter 2013 Open Cham-pionshipSee Grand Prix.

FEB. 10, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA Winter 2013 ScholasticChampionship in 5 SectionsSITE: BERGEN ACADEMY, 200 HACKENSACK AVE., HACKENSACK, NJ 07601. 4SS,EVERYONE PLAYS 4 GAMES, ALL PLAYERS WITH 2.5 PTS OR MORE WILLRECEIVE A TROPHY! USCF Memb Req’d For Sections 3, 4 AND 5. Info: 201 2870250 or [email protected]. ADV EF (pmk by Feb 6th) $25 At Site $30 Reg ends1/2 hr before 1st rd Late entrants will receive a 1/2 pt bye for rd 1. In 5 Sec-tions: Section 1 Junior Novice (not USCF rated): Open to unr players K thru2nd grade. Rds.: First Round 10:15 AM then ASAP. Section 2 Novice (not USCFrated): Open to unr players K thru 4th grade. Rds.: First Round 10:00 AM thenASAP. Section 3 G/45 U800: Open to players rated below 800 and unr play-ers K thru 12th grade. Rds.: 9:45 AM, 11:30, 1:15, 3:00 PM. Section 4 G/45U1200: Open to players rated below 1200 and unr players K thru 12th grade.Rds.: 9:45 AM, 11:30, 1:15, 3:00 PM. Section 5 G/60 U1600: Open to All Agesrated below 1600 or unrated. Rds.: 9:30 AM, 11:45, 2:00, 4:30 PM. ENT:MakeEF and/or USCF Memb chks payable To: International Chess Academy. Mail To:Diana Tulman, 28 Canterbury Ln., New Milford, NJ 07646. INFO:www.icanj.net.

FEB. 10, Chess Mates Sunday Quad G/30Quad: G/30: Starts at 10:30am, 11:45, and 1pm. EF: $20/$15. Prizes: $55 tofirst in each section.1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Also Lessons:2:30pm–7:30pm w/GM Yudasin. Please visit www.chessmatesnj.com/ fordetails or call 732-499-0118.

www.uschess.org 65

Overall Affiliate StandingsName State CountCONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN NY 1044PAPERCLIP PAIRINGS TX 916SILVER KNIGHTS CHESS VA 511BAY AREA CHESS CA 397SUCCESS CHESS SCHOOL CA 372EN PASSANT CHESS CLUB TX 243WESTERN PA YOUTH CHESS CLUB PA 239GATEWAY CHESS LEAGUE MO 221BOCA RATON CHESS CLUB FL 213NATIONAL SCHOL CHESS FOUND INC NY 212Small State Affiliate StandingsName State CountMAINE ASSOC OF CHESS COACHES ME 111WELLS MEMORIAL SCHOOL NH 48SIOUX EMPIRE CHESS FOUNDATION SD 47METRO CHESS DC 46CMC- LLC RI 41OMAHA CHESS COMMUNITY NE 40NEW MEXICO SCHOL CHESS ORG NM 29MESA CHESS CLUB NM 27WETZEL COUNTY CHESS CLUB WV 17WEST VIRGINIA SCHL CHESS ASN WV 16State Chapter Affiliate StandingsName State CountMICHIGAN CHESS ASSOCIATION MI 404MARYLAND CHESS ASSOCIATION MD 220TEXAS CHESS ASSOCIATION INC TX 93MINNESOTA ST CHESS ASSN MN 86MASSACHUSETTS CHESS ASSOC MA 82NEW HAMPSHIRE CHESS ASSN NH 67WASHINGTON CHESS FEDERATION WA 59OKLAHOMA CHESS ASSOCIATION OK 57NEW JERSEY ST CHESS FED NJ 51WISCONSIN CHESS ASSOCIATION WI 33

Adult Membership StandingsName State CountCONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN NY 856MARSHALL CHESS CLUB NY 135CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CTR MO 99SAN DIEGO CHESS CLUB CA 93BOCA RATON CHESS CLUB FL 66JERSEY SHORE HS CHESS LEAGUE NJ 64DALLAS CHESS CLUB TX 62LOS ANGELES CHESS CLUB CA 58ROCHESTER CHESS CENTER NY 52GATEWAY CHESS LEAGUE MO 50Scholastic and Youth Membership StandingsName State CountPAPERCLIP PAIRINGS TX 874SILVER KNIGHTS CHESS VA 506SUCCESS CHESS SCHOOL CA 367BAY AREA CHESS CA 349WESTERN PA YOUTH CHESS CLUB PA 232EN PASSANT CHESS CLUB TX 231NATIONAL SCHOL CHESS FOUND INC NY 208LONG ISLAND CHESS NUTS NY 199CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN NY 188GATEWAY CHESS LEAGUE MO 171Member StandingsName State CountDOCKERY, JOHN T FL 56LUNA, GILBERTO LUIS, II FL 53KRANICH RITTER, TANIA FL 37SYGIEL, CHET KY 24YEE, JERRY B CA 20WHITFILL, SAMUEL JONATHAN TX 16SMITH, CHARLES A AL 15CAMPBELL, TIM V MO 15BERRY, FRANK K OK 14CHENEY, WILLIAM G AZ 14

PCT Gain Standings

State Dec11 Nov12 PCTWY 34 44 29.4AL 640 786 22.8OK 368 451 22.6

State Dec11 Nov12 PCTHI 139 165 18.7UT 410 486 18.5VA 3044 3504 15.1

State Dec11 Nov12 PCTGA 1627 1856 14.1WI 1165 1302 11.8CT 1302 1422 9.2

State Dec11 Nov12 PCTNH 394 428 8.6

Membership Appreciation Program (MAP)The MAP program continues in 2012. See details at main.uschess.org/go/MAP. Top standings will appear every two months in Chess Life.



FEB. 10, Westfield Quads3-RR. G/40;d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. Prizes: $50 tofirst in each section. EF: $20, $15 Members. Reg.: 1:30-2:00 p.m. Rds.: 2:15-4:05-5:55 p.m. Info: Please present identification on entering the building. JohnMoldovan: [email protected], Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-219-1358, westfieldchessclub.blogspot.com and www.westfieldchessclub.com.

FEB. 16-18, World Amateur Team & U.S. Team EastSee Nationals.

FEB. 23, Dr. Luvizminda Machan XVIII OpenSee Grand Prix.

FEB. 23, Viking Happy 75th Birthday Ken (a VPLM event)See Grand Prix.

FEB. 24, Chess Mates Sunday Quad G/30Quad: G/30: Starts at 10:30am, 11:45, and 1pm. EF: $20/$15. Prizes: $55 tofirst in each section.1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. Also Lessons:2:30pm–7:30pm w/GM Yudasin. Please visit www.chessmatesnj.com/ fordetails or call 732-499-0118.

A State Championship Event!FEB. 24, New Jersey Junior High School Championships5SS, G/30. Brookdale College, 765 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, NJ 07738. Stu-dent Life Center, use Parking Lot #7 or #6; 5 minutes from Garden StateParkway exit 109. 5SS, G/30. Section: JHS (K-9). ALL:Trophies to top 15 indi-viduals, top 5 teams. Rds.: 10am then ASAP. Top 4 scores constitute team score.EF: $30 before 2/17, $45 at site. USCF memb. req’d. Reg.: 8-9:00 am. After 9:00am, half-point bye for round one. INFO: 732-259-3881, [email protected]. ENT: Hal Sprechman, P.O. Box 1511, Jackson, NJ 08527 or onlineby Feb 22 at www.characterkings.org. Entries must include name, grade,school,date of birth, USCF ID #, & expiration date, mailing address, phone num-ber & entry fee. Checks made out to NJSCF.

A State Championship Event!FEB. 24, New Jersey State Elementary Championships5SS, G/30. Brookdale College, 765 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, NJ 07738. Stu-dent Life Center, use Parking Lot #7 or #6; 5 minutes from Garden StateParkway exit 109. 2 Sections: Elementary (K-6) & Primary (K-3). All:Trophiesto top 15 individuals, top 5 teams. Elementary & Primary: Top 5 in each grade.Rds.: 10am then ASAP. Top 4 scores constitute the team score for Elementary;top 3 for Primary. EF: $30 before 2/17, $45 at site. USCF memb. req’d. Reg.:8-9:00am After 9:00am 1/2 point bye for round 1. Info: 732 259-3881, Ent: HalSprechman, P.O. Box 1511, Jackson, NJ 08527 or online by Feb 22 at www.char-acterkings.org. Entries must include name, grade, school, date of birth, USCFID and expiration date, mailing address, email address, phone number and entryfee. Checks made out to NJSCF.

FEB. 24, Westfield Quads3-RR. G/40;d5. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. Prizes: $50 tofirst in each section. EF: $20, $15 Members. Reg.: 1:30-2:00 p.m. Rds.: 2:15-4:05-5:55 p.m. Info: Please present identification on entering the building. JohnMoldovan: [email protected], Bill Cohen: 732-548-8432 or 848-219-1358, westfieldchessclub.blogspot.com and www.westfieldchessclub.com.

MAR. 1-3 OR 2-3, 7th annual Long Island Open (NY)See Grand Prix.

A State Championship Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 2-3, New Jersey High School Chess Championship5SS, G/90. Union County Vocational-Technical School, 1776 Raritan Rd., ScotchPlains, NJ 07076. 3 sections: Varsity Championship (9-12): 5 player teamswith one alternate allowed. Coaches set order by player strength. Order mustnot be changed. Team avg. based on top 5 highest ratings. Trophies to top 10NJ teams. Trophies for top three players, boards 1-5. Rds.: Sat. 10-2-6, Sun.10-2. EF: $150-/team before 2/17. $185/team at site. $5 per change on site.Junior Varsity (9-12): 4 player teams with one alternate allowed. Team avg.based on top 4 highest ratings. Trophies to top 10 NJ teams. Trophies for top

3 players, boards 1-4. Rds.: Sat. 10-2-6, Sun. 10-2. EF: $120/team before2/24, $150/team on site. $5 per change on site. Booster (K-12): Trophies totop 15 individuals, top 5 teams, top 2 JHS teams, & top 2 elementary teams(K-6). Rds.: Sat. 10-2-6, Sun 10-2. Top 4 scores constitute team score. EF: $30before 2/18, $37 at site. All: USCF memb. required. Reg.: Sat. 8-9:00am. After9:00am, 1/2 Point bye for round one. Ent: Noreen Davisson, c/o Dean of ChessAcademy, 3150 Route 22 West, Branchburg, NJ 08876 or online at www.characterkings.org. Entries must include name, grade, school, date of birth, USCF IDand expiration date, mailing address, email address, phone number and entryfee. Checks made out to NJSCF.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 4, 11, 18, 25, Hackettstown Global Warming Swiss4SS, 30/90,SD 30, Community Center, 293 Main St., Hackettstown, NJ 07840.EF: $12. $$b/16: $75-40-25. U1800 $25. Reg.: 7 pm Mar 4. Rds.: 7:30 pm eachMonday. http://HackettstownChess.blogspot.com.

MAR. 9, Princeton Day School650 The Great Road. Plaques to top 3 school teams and top 6 in each section.Medals to all players. Sections for OVER 1000 rated players begin at 10:15 andmust preregister: 3 rds.G/55/5: OVER 1400 NEAR MASTERS (K-12), FUTUREMASTERS (Players K-12 1200-1400), CLOSED (K-12 1000-1200) ALL AFTER-NOON SECTIONS. G/25/5 4 rds. Beginning at 12:00 noon. (round times willbe accelerated if possible): OPEN (Players K-12 U-1000), RESERVE (K-12 U-800), NOVICE II (K-8 U-600), NOVICE I (unrated K-6), K-1 (unrated) NO SCOREK-1 (unrated). PARENTS OF PLAYERS rated G/25/5 3rds. Parents play free.Pre-registration online, $35 pay at the door. Info and register online:www.pds.org/chess. On-site 11-12 noon $45. Inquires to Bonnie Waitzkin [email protected].





New YorkChess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 5th Long Island CC Winter Open5SS, G/90 (d/5). United Methodist Church, 470 East Meadow Ave., East Meadow,NY 11554. Open to all. $(b/22): $170-120. Top U-1900, U-1600/unr. $100 ea.Best upset $10. Random pairings used (within ea. score grp.) EF: $35. Non-LICCmembers +$10. Reg.: 6:40-7:10 PM, no adv. ent., Rds.: 7:15 PM SHARP ea.Thursday. 2 byes 1-5. Info: www.lichessclub.com. NS.

JAN. 11-13 OR 12-13, Boston Chess Congress (MA)See Grand Prix.

JAN. 15, Marshall Masters!See Grand Prix.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 16, 23, 30, FEB. 6, 13, Marshall Wednesday U14005-SS, G/85d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $50, mem-bers $30. ($450/20): $240-120, U1100 $90. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds. 7 pm eachWed. Limit two byes, request by Rd 3. www.marshallchessclub.org.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 16, 23, 30, FEB. 6, 13, Marshall Wednesday U20005-SS, 30/85d5, SD/1d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF:$50, members $30. ($450/20): $240-120, U1700 $90. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds. 7pm each Wed. Limit two byes, request by Rd 3. www.marshallchessclub.org.

JAN. 17, Marshall Thursday G/30 Grand PrixSee Grand Prix.

A Heritage Event!JAN. 17, The Original “4 Games Rated Tonight!” Now At The NewYorker Hotel - USCF’s LONGEST-RUNNING ACTION TOURNAMENT -WITH FREE UNDER 1200 SECTION! 4-SS, G/25 + d/5 or G/30 + d/0, Chess Center at the historic New YorkerHotel!, 481 8th Ave at 34th St, across from Penn Station, NYC: 347-201-CCNY(347-201-2269;Thursdays after 6 pm: 212-971-0101;www.chesscenter.cc).2 sections! Open Section. EF: $30, $25 to attendees of 5 pm Rohde/Boninclass, GMs $25 from prize, free to player returning after longest lapse sincelast tmt. (minimum 1 year), specified Greater NY Scholastic Prizewinners free!Good Customer Discounts: $5 less to those who played in at least 4 “4Rated Games Tonight!” tmts. since 1987, $10 less if at least 10 4RGTs—Thank You So Much For Your Support Of This Tournament! $$ (630 b/32paid, minimum half each prize Gtd): 150-100-50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85.Under 1200 Section. EF: FREE! Trophies to top 3! Both: $150 Mixed Dou-bles Bonus Prizes! Best male/female 2-player team combined score in eithersection: $100-50 (teammates’ average rating must be U2200; teammates mayplay in different sections, teammate pairings avoided but possible, teamsmust declare by 8:15). Choice of 2 schedules! 7:00 Schedule, rds. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. 7:30 schedule, rd. 1 only is Quick-rated (G/15 + td/3) at 7:30pm, score carries over into round 2 at 8:15 pm. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000),commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Helpwith NYC parking: www.primospot.com, www.iconparkingsystems.com. Spon-sorship: Name one of the 4RGTs after yourself, and see your name listed inuschess.org! Info: www.chesscenter.cc.

JAN. 18, Marshall January Friday Quads3rd Friday every month. 3-RR, G/40d5. Open to all; quads formed by rating. Mar-shall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $25, members $20, $50 for eachwinner. Reg.: 5:15-5:45. Rds. 6-7:30-9. www.marshallchessclub.org.

JAN. 18-21, 19-21 OR 20-21, 45th annual Liberty Bell Open(PA)See Grand Prix.

JAN. 19, Marshall Saturday G/604-SS, G/55d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($540/36): $240-120, U2000 95, U1700 85. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds.12-2:30-4:45-7. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 19, Syracuse-Minoa Jan Open4SS. Rds.: 1&2 G/60, Rds.: 3&4 G/90. Minoa Municipal Bldg., 240 N. Main St.,Minoa, NY (Exit Kirkville Rd. E. from I 481, R. at second light). EF: $30. Prizes:b/20) $200, 125, Class 100. Reg.: 8:30-9:15. Rds.: 9:30, 12:00, 2:15, 5:30. Con-tact: Joe Ball 315-436-9008.

JAN. 20, Marshall Sunday G/454-SS, G/40d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Two sec-tions: A. Open ($360/24): $160-80, U2100 65, U1800 55. B. U1500 ($240/16):$120-65, U1200 55. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds. 12-1:45-4:00-5:45. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

JAN. 21, Marshall MLK Madness5-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($480/24): $200-100, U 2000 $70, U1700 $60, U1400 $50. EF: $45, members $25. Reg.:11:15-11:45. Rds. 12-1:15-2:30-4-5:15. Two byes available, request at entry.www.marshallchessclub.org.

JAN. 21, 28, FEB. 4, 11, 24th Nassau G/60 ChampionshipSee Grand Prix.

A Heritage Event!JAN. 24, The Original “4 Games Rated Tonight!” Now At The NewYorker Hotel - USCF’s Longest-Running Action Tournament - withFREE Under 1200 Section!4-SS, G/25 + d/5 or G/30 + d/0, Chess Center at the historic New YorkerHotel!, 481 8th Ave at 34th St, across from Penn Station, NYC: 347-201-CCNY(347-201-2269;Thursdays after 6 pm: 212-971-0101;www.chesscenter.cc).2 sections! Open Section. EF: $30, $25 to attendees of 5 pm Rohde/Boninclass, GMs $25 from prize, free to player returning after longest lapse sincelast tmt. (minimum 1 year), specified Greater NY Scholastic Prizewinners free!Good Customer Discounts: $5 less to those who played in at least 4 “4Rated Games Tonight!” tmts. since 1987, $10 less if at least 10 4RGTs—Thank You So Much For Your Support Of This Tournament! $$ (630 b/32paid, minimum half each prize Gtd): 150-100-50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85.Under 1200 Section. EF: FREE! Trophies to top 3! Both: $150 Mixed Dou-bles Bonus Prizes! Best male/female 2-player team combined score in eithersection: $100-50 (teammates’ average rating must be U2200; teammates mayplay in different sections, teammate pairings avoided but possible, teamsmust declare by 8:15). Choice of 2 schedules! 7:00 Schedule, rds. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. 7:30 schedule, rd. 1 only is Quick-rated (G/15 + td/3) at 7:30pm, score carries over into round 2 at 8:15 pm. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000),commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Helpwith NYC parking: www.primospot.com, www.iconparkingsystems.com. Spon-sorship: Name one of the 4RGTs after yourself, and see your name listed inuschess.org! Info: www.chesscenter.cc.


JAN. 26, Marshall Saturday U15004-SS, G/40d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($300/20): $160-80, U1200 60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 12:15-12:45. Rds. 1-2:45-4:30-6:15.One bye available, reequest at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 26-27 OR 27, Marshall January Open4-SS, 30/85d5, SD/1d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716.($400/24): $150-100, U2000 $80, U1700 $70. Reg ends 12:15. 2 schedules:2 day 12:30-5:30 each day, 1 day (Rds 1-2 G/25d5) 10-11:15-12:30-5:30. Limittwo byes, request at entry. NO REENTRY. www.marshallchessclub.org.

JAN. 31, January New Yorker Masters Special Edition of USCF’sLongest-Running Action Tournament!See Grand Prix.


46th annual NEW YORK STATE

SCHOLASTIC CHAMPIONSHIPS Feb 23-24, 2013 - Saratoga Springs, NY

6 rounds, G/61, d5 (except K-1), open to grades K-12 inany state (top NY player & team each section are NY champs).Team prizes based on top 4 scores from same school. 203trophies to be awarded, plus free entries for NY players!Reserve hotel room by Feb 2.

In 8 sections: High School (K-12), High School

Reserve (K-12 under 1200/unr), Junior High (K-9), Middle

School Reserve (K-8 under 1000/unr), Elementary (K-6),

Elementary Reserve (K-5 under 800 or unrated), Primary (K-

3), K-1 (G/25, d5, plays Sunday, Feb 24 only, 5 games).See TLA under “New York” for full details.




FEB. 2, Marshall Saturday Quads3-RR, G/55d5. Open to all, quads formed by rating. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St.,NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $25, members $20, $50 to 1st each quad. Reg.: 12:15-12:45. Rds. 1-3:15-5:30. www.marshallchessclub.org.

FEB. 2, TRM 70Albany High School, 700 Washington Ave., Albany, NY 12203. EF: Free. 4SS, G/30.Rd 1 at 10:00. 8 Sections. Register: www.maketherightmove.org by Thursdayat 8:00 PM.

FEB. 3, Marshall Super Sunday Action4-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, mem-bers $20. Two sections A. Open ($360/24); $160-80, U2100 $65, U1800 $55.B. under 1500 ($240/16): $120-65, U1200 $55. Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds. 12-1:15-2:45-4. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

FEB. 3, TRM 185Riverbank State Park, 145 St. & Riverside Dr., New York, NY 10031. EF: FREEScholastic event. 4SS, G/30. 5 sections. Rd 1 at 10:00. Player check-in requiredby 9:15 A.M. to play in round one. Register: www.therightmove.org by Friday8:00 PM. or begin in round 2. List will be posted on web.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 4, 11, 18, 25, MAR. 4, Dutchess County Championship5SS. G/90, 5 second delay. EF: $5.00. Rockefeller Hall, Vassar College, Pough-keepsie. Prizes:Trophies for first and second place overall, and for each classconsisting of 4 or more players. Adv. Ent: Michael O’Connor, [email protected] website: www.vassar-chadwick.com. NS.

FEB. 5, Marshall Tuesday Action4-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, mem-bers $20. ($360/24): $160-80, U2100 $65, U1800 $55. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

A Heritage Event!FEB. 7, The Original “4 Games Rated Tonight!” Now At The NewYorker Hotel - USCFs Longest-Running Action Tournament - withFREE Under 1200 Section!4-SS, G/25 + d/5 or G/30 + d/0, Chess Center at the historic New YorkerHotel!, 481 8th Ave at 34th St, across from Penn Station, NYC: 347-201-CCNY(347-201-2269;Thursdays after 6 pm: 212-971-0101;www.chesscenter.cc).2 sections! Open Section. EF: $30, $25 to attendees of 5 pm Rohde/Boninclass, GMs $25 from prize, free to player returning after longest lapse sincelast tmt. (minimum 1 year), specified Greater NY Scholastic Prizewinners free!Good Customer Discounts: $5 less to those who played in at least 4 “4Rated Games Tonight!” tmts. since 1987, $10 less if at least 10 4RGTs—Thank You So Much For Your Support Of This Tournament! $$ (630 b/32paid, minimum half each prize Gtd): 150-100-50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85.Under 1200 Section. EF: FREE! Trophies to top 3! Both: $150 Mixed Dou-bles Bonus Prizes! Best male/female 2-player team combined score in either

section: $100-50 (teammates’ average rating must be U2200; teammates mayplay in different sections, teammate pairings avoided but possible, teamsmust declare by 8:15). Choice of 2 schedules! 7:00 Schedule, rds. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. 7:30 schedule, rd. 1 only is Quick-rated (G/15 + td/3) at 7:30pm, score carries over into round 2 at 8:15 pm. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000),commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Helpwith NYC parking: www.primospot.com, www.iconparkingsystems.com. Spon-sorship: Name one of the 4RGTs after yourself, and see your name listed inuschess.org! Info: www.chesscenter.cc.

FEB. 7, Marshall Thursday G/30 Grand PrixSee Grand Prix.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 7, 14, 21, 28, MAR. 7, 2nd Long island CC Late Winter Open5SS, G/90 (d/5). United Methodist Church, 470 East Meadow Ave., East Meadow,NY 11554. Open to all. $(b/22): $170-120. Top U-2000, U-1500/unr. $100 ea.Best upset $10. Random pairings used (within ea. score grp.) EF: $35. Non-LICCmembers +$10. Reg.: 6:40-7:10 PM, no adv. ent., Rds.: 7:15 PM SHARP ea.Thursday. 2 byes 1-5. Info: www.lichessclub.com. NS.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 7, 14, 21, 28, MAR. 7, Marshall Thursday Open5-SS, G/115d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $50,members $30. ($450/20): $200-100, U2100 $90, U1800 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45Rds. 7 each Thurs. Two byes available, request by Rd 3. www.marshallchessclub.org.


FEB. 9, Marshall Saturday U18004-SS, G/40d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($300/20): $160-80, U1500 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 12:15-12:45. Rds. 1-2:45-4:30-6:15.One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

FEB. 9, New Yorker February Game/75!See Grand Prix.

FEB. 9-10 OR 10, Marshall February GPSee Grand Prix.

FEB. 10, New Yorker February Under 2000!(NOTE CORRECTIONS)! 4-SS, G/50 + td/5. Chess Center at the New YorkerHotel, 481 8th Ave at 34th St., across from Penn Station, NYC: 347-201-2269, Feb 10: 212-971-0101. EF: 11 am Schedule $35, 12 pmSchedule $34.50 postmarked by 2/1, both $38 phoned by 2/6 to 406-896-2191 (credit card entries only) or $34 online at www.chesscenter.cc thru2/6, all $40 at site, $10 less if also entering Feb 9 G/75, free to speci-fied Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners! $$630 b/32 paid entries,minimum half each prize Gtd: $$ 150-100-50 ($90 prize limit to unr), topU1800 $95, U1600 $85; Mixed Doubles Prizes: best male/female duocombined score (teammate pairings avoided but possible, teams mustdeclare by 1:30 pm): $100-50. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U1600), commit by

2 pm. Re-entry $20. Ent (mail by 2/1): Chess Center of NY, PO Box 4615,New Windsor, NY 12553. CCA ratings may be used. Reg. ends 20 min beforegame. Choice of 2 Schedules! 11 am Schedule: Rds. 11 am-1:30-3:30-5:30 pm. 12:00 Schedule: rd. 1 (G/25 + td/5) at 12:00, then mergeswith 11 am schedule at rd. 2. Help with NYC parking: www.primospot.com,www.iconparkingsystems.com. Info: www.chesscenter.cc (onlineentry thru 2/6).

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 11, 18, 25, MAR. 4, 11, Marshall Monday U16005-SS, G/85d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. ($450/20): $240-120, U1300$90. Reg.: 6:15-6:4., Rds. 7 pm each Mon. Two byes available, request by Round3. www.marshallchessclub.org.

FEB. 14, HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY Edition of USCF’s Longest-Run-ning Action Tournament - WITH MIXED SPECIAL DOUBLES PRIZES!!See Grand Prix.

FEB. 14, Marshall Thursday G/30 Grand PrixSee Grand Prix.

FEB. 15, Marshall February Friday Quads3rd Friday every month. 3-RR, G/40d5. Open to all; quads formed by rating. Mar-shall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $30, members $20, $50 for eachwinner. Reg.: 5:15-5:45. Rds.: 6-7:30-9. www.marshallchessclub.org.

FEB. 16, Marshall Saturday G/60!4-SS, G/55d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($540/40): $240-120, U2000 95, U1700 85. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds.:12-2:30-4:45-7. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

FEB. 16, NEW! Marshall Saturday Quads!3-RR, G/70d5. Open to all; quads formed by rating. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St.,NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $35, members $25, $60 for each winner. Reg.: 10:15-10:55AM. Rds.: 11AM-1:30-4PM. www.marshallchessclub.org.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 16, Syracuse University Feb Open4SS. Rds.: 1&2 G/60, Rds.: 3&4 G/90. (Syracuse University, Hall of Languages,Room 101). EF: $30. Prizes: (b/20) $200, 125, Class 100. Reg.: 8:30-9:15. Rds.:9:30, 12:00, 2:15, 5:30. Contact: Joe Ball 315-436-9008.

FEB. 17, Marshall Sunday G/45!4-SS, G/40d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Two sec-tions: A. Open ($360/26): $160-80, U2100 65, U1800 55. B. U1500 ($240/18):$120-65, U1200 55. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-1:45-4:00-5:45. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

FEB. 18, Marshall Presidents’ Day Madness!6-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($480/28): $200-100, U 2000 $70, U1700 $60, U1400 $50. EF: $45, members $25. Reg.:11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-1:15-2:30-4-5:15-6:30. Two byes available, request at entry.www.marshallchessclub.org.

FEB. 19, Marshall Masters!See Grand Prix.

www.uschess.org 67

7th annual PHILADELPHIA OPENMarch 27-31 (Open), 28-31, 29-31 or 30-31 (other sections) - Easter weekend at Loews

Prizes $75,000 based on 480 paid entries, $50,000 minimum, IM and GM norms possible!

Open: 9SS, 40/90, SD/30, inc/30. U2200

to U1300: 7SS, 40/2, SD/1, d5 (3-day option,

rds 1-2 G/75, d5; 2-day, rds 1-4 G/40, d5).

U1000: 7SS, G/40, d5, March 30-31 only.

At luxurious Loews Hotel, 1200 Market

St, special chess rates $98-98-123-123, 215-

627-1200, reserve by 3/13.

Parking: Loews valet $30. Gateway

Garage, 1540 Spring St (3/5 mile walk) is

about $5/day Sat & Sun, $18 other days.

7 sections. Prizes based on 480 paid

entries, else proportional (seniors, re-entries,

GMs, IMs, WGMs, U1300 Section count

half, U1000 15%), with 2/3 min. guaranteed.

Open: $7000-4000-2000-1000-800-700-

600-500-400-400, clear/tiebreak 1st $200,

FIDE U2400/Unr $2000-1000. FIDE rated.

U2200, U2000, U1800 Sections: $5000-

2500-1200-800-600-500-400-300-300-300.

U1600 Section: $4000-2000-1000-700-

500-400-300-300-300-300.

U1300 Section: $2000-1000-700-500-

400-300-300-200-200-200.

U1000 Section: $400-200-100, trophies

to first 5, top U800, U600, U400, Unrated.

Prize limits: 1) If post-event rating

posted 3/26/12-3/26/13 is more than 30 pts

above section max, limit $1500. 2) Unr limit

$200 U1000, $500 U1300, $1000 U1600,

$1500 U1800, $2000 U2000. 3) Under 26

games limit $1000 U1300, $2000 U1600.

Open entry fee: GM/IM/WGM free;

$150 from prize. FIDE 2200/plus, Life

Masters, Original LMs: $225 online at

chessaction.com by 3/25, $231 mailed by

3/18, $250 at site. Foreign FIDE rated: $155

online by 3/25, $161 mailed by 3/18, $180 at

site. Others: $375 online by 3/25, $381

mailed by 3/18, $400 at site.

U2200 to U1600 Section: $225 online by

3/25, 4-day $229, 3-day $228, 2-day $227

mailed by 3/18, $250 at site.

U1300 Section: All $100 less than U2200

to U1600.

U1000 Section: $35 online at chessaction.

com by 3/25, $37 mailed by 3/18, $50 at site.

Phoned entry: $5 more than online entry;

406-896-2038, ends 3/25.

Online late entry: available until 2 hours

before first game; same fee as at site.

Seniors 65/over in U1600/up, $100 less.

Re-entry (no Open to Open) $100.

5-day Open schedule: Reg. ends Wed 6

pm, rds. Wed 7 pm, Thu 12 noon & 7 pm, Fri

11 am & 6 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30.

4-day: Reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds. Thu 7

pm, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30.

3-day: Reg. ends Fri 10 am, rds. Fri 11,

2:30 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30.

2-day U2200-U1300: Reg. ends Sat 9 am,

rds Sat 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30.

2-day U1000: Reg. ends Sat. 9 am, rds Sat

10, 12, 2 & 3:45, Sun 10, 12 & 2.

Half pt bye OK all, limit 3 (2 last 4 rds).

Open must commit before rd 2, others rd 4.

All: FIDE ratings used for Open, USCF

March for others, unofficial usually used if

otherwise unr. Bring set, board, clock if

possible- not supplied. USCF mem. required;

see Chess Life or chessaction.com for specials.

Entry: chessaction.com or Continental

Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills NY 12577.

$15 service charge for refunds. Advance

entries posted at chessaction.com.



Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 20, 27, MAR. 6, 13, 20, Marshall Wednesday U1400!5-SS, G/85d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $50, mem-bers $30. ($450/24): $240-120, U1100 $90. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7 pm eachWed. Limit two byes, request by Rd 3. www.marshallchessclub.org.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 20, 27, MAR. 6, 13, 20, Marshall Wednesday U2000!5-SS, 30/85d5, SD/1d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF:$50, members $30. ($450/24): $240-120, U1700 $90. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.:7 pm each Wed. Limit two byes, request by Rd 3. www.marshallchessclub.org.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 20, 27, MAR. 6, 13, 20, 27, Marshall Scholastic U1400Wednesdays!6 rounds Swiss, G/60d5. Open to players rated Under1400, grades K-8. EF: $50,members $30. Prizes:Trophies to top 3, best U1200, best U1000, best unrated.One year Marshall Chess Club Jr. Memberships to winner and highest scoringplayer U1200 ($160 value each!). Rounds: 4 pm each Wed. Limit two byes,request by Rd 4. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. www.mar-shallchessclub.org. USCF rated.

FEB. 21, Marshall Thursday Game 30 Grand Prix!See Grand Prix.

A Heritage Event!FEB. 21, The Original “4 Rated Games Tonight!” Now At The NewYorker Hotel - USCF’s Longest-Running Action Tournament - withFREE Under 1200 Section!4-SS, G/25 + d/5 or G/30 + d/0, Chess Center at the historic New YorkerHotel!, 481 8th Ave at 34th St, across from Penn Station, NYC: 347-201-CCNY(347-201-2269;Thursdays after 6 pm: 212-971-0101;www.chesscenter.cc).2 sections! Open Section. EF: $30, $25 to attendees of 5 pm Rohde/Boninclass, GMs $25 from prize, free to player returning after longest lapse sincelast tmt. (minimum 1 year), specified Greater NY Scholastic Prizewinners free!Good Customer Discounts: $5 less to those who played in at least 4 “4Rated Games Tonight!” tmts. since 1987, $10 less if at least 10 4RGTs—Thank You So Much For Your Support Of This Tournament! $$ (630 b/32paid, minimum half each prize Gtd): 150-100-50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85.Under 1200 Section. EF: FREE! Trophies to top 3! Both: $150 Mixed Dou-bles Bonus Prizes! Best male/female 2-player team combined score in eithersection: $100-50 (teammates’ average rating must be U2200; teammates mayplay in different sections, teammate pairings avoided but possible, teamsmust declare by 8:15). Choice of 2 schedules! 7:00 Schedule, rds. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. 7:30 schedule, rd. 1 only is Quick-rated (G/15 + td/3) at 7:30pm, score carries over into round 2 at 8:15 pm. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000),commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Helpwith NYC parking: www.primospot.com, www.iconparkingsystems.com. Spon-sorship: Name one of the 4RGTs after yourself, and see your name listed inuschess.org! Info: www.chesscenter.cc.

FEB. 22, NEW! Marshall $500 FIDE Blitz! (QC)See Grand Prix.

FEB. 23, Marshall Saturday U1600!4-SS, G/40d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. ($300 b/24):$160-80, U1300 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 12:15-12:45. Rds.: 1-2:45-4:30-6:15PM. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

A Heritage Event!A State Championship Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 23-24, 46th annual New York State Scholastic Champi-onshipsOpen to grades K-12 in any state (top NYS player & team in each section areNY champions). Saratoga Hilton, 534 Broadway (I-87 Exit 13-N, 4 miles northon US 9), Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Team prizes based on top 4 scores fromsame school; no combined school teams allowed even if one school “feeds”another. Teams of 2 or 3 players allowed, but are at a disadvantage. In 8 sec-tions; each is a 6SS, G/61, d5 except K-1 is 5SS, G/25, d5 playing Feb 24 only.Online entry fee at chessaction.com, all sections: $40 by 2/2, $50 by2/19, $60 2/20 to 2 hours before first game. Entry fee at site, all sections:$60. High School, open to all in grades K-12. EF: $43.20 mailed by 2/2. TopNYS grade 9-12 qualifies for Denker Tournament of HS Champions. HighSchool Reserve, open to K-12 under 1200 or unrated. EF: $43 mailed by 2/2.Junior High, open to all in grades K-9. EF: $42.90 mailed by 2/2. The higherrated (post-tournament) of the top NYS K-8 in JHS or top NYS K-8 in HS qual-ifies for Barber Tournament of K-8 Champions. Middle School Reserve, opento K-8 under 1000 or unrated. EF: $42.80 mailed by 2/2. Elementary, open toall in grades K-6. EF: $42.60 mailed by 2/2. Elementary Reserve, open to gradesK-5 under 800 or unrated. EF: $42.50 mailed by 2/2. Primary, grades K-3. EF:$42.30 mailed by 2/2. K-1, grades K-1. EF: $42.10 mailed by 2/2. Postmarked2/3-13: All EF $10 more. Do not mail entry after 2/13. Entry at site: all $60.Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online atchesstour.com, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site,Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Trophies to top 15 players and top 7 teamseach section, top 3 unrated in Primary, K-1, and each reserve section, and topU1500, U1300 (HS), U900, U700 (HS Reserve), U1200, U1000 (JHS), U700, U500(MS Reserve), U1000, U800 (Elem), U500, U300 (Elem Reserve). Speed play-off if perfect score tie. Free entry to NY State Championship, Labor Dayweekend 2013 (Albany), to top player each section. Schedule: Late reg. endsSat 10 am, rds Sat 11, 2, 5, Sun 9, 12, 2:30, awards 5 pm. K-1 schedule: Latereg. ends Sun 9 am, rds Sun 10, 12, 1:30, 3, 4:30, awards 5:45. Half point byesOK all, limit 2, must commit before rd 2. HR: $119-119, 888-999-4711, 518-584-4000, reserve by 2/2 or rate may increase. Free parking for overnight guests.48 hours notice required for room cancellation. Backup hotel: Courtyard by Mar-riott, 2 blocks away, 518-226-0538. Special car rentals: Avis, 800-331-1600,use AWD #657633. Mail entry: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills,NY 12577. Include name, rating, USCF ID, USCF expiration (non-membersenclose dues), section, school, grade, birth date, address of each player.Checks payable to Continental Chess. $15 per player service charge forrefunds. $10 extra to switch sections, all substitutions from advance listcharged $60. Questions: DirectorAtChess.US (At = @), 845-496-9658. Bringset, board, clock if possible- none supplied. (All rounds JGP except K-1).

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 23-24 OR 24, Marshall February U2300!4SS, 30/85d5, SD/1d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. EF: $45,Members $25. ($540 b/40): $240-120, U2000/unr $95, U1700 $85. Reg: ends12:15PM. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2 day, Rds 12:30-5:30 PM each day; 1 day, (Rds1-2 G/25d5) 10-11:15AM-12:30-5:30 PM Sun; both merge rd.3. Limit 2 byes,request at entry. NO RE-ENTRY. www.marshallchessclub.org.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 24, 45th Binghamton Monthly Tournament4SS, G/65 d/5. Prizes: $300 b/26. Open-$100-$60-$30; Reserve-$50-$40-$20(U1700). Trophies: 1-3 Reserve section. Advance Entry: EF’s Reduced!Open-$20 Reserve-$15 (U1700) $5 more on site-cash only on site. Schedule:Registration on site 8:45–9:15 AM. Rounds: 9:30-12Noon-2:30-4:45. FreeUSCF 90-day membership (call for details) Free chess set & board to all newplayers under 18 years of age. Mail Entry: checks payable to: “Cordisco’s Cor-ner Store”, 308 Chenango St., Binghamton, NY 13901 (607) 772-8782, [email protected].

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 25-APR. 1, Marshall FIDE Mondays!!6-SS, G/120d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. Open to all play-ers 1600 or above. EF: $50, Members $30. ($500 b/28): $175-125-100. 2byes OK, commit before round 4. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7PM each Monday. FIDErated. Limit 2 byes, request by rd. 3. www.marshallchessclub.org.

FEB. 28, Marshall Thursday Game 30 Grand Prix!See Grand Prix.

A Heritage Event!FEB. 28, The Original “4 Rated Games Tonight!” Now At The NewYorker Hotel - USCF’s Longest-Running Action Tournament - withFREE Under 1200 Section!4-SS, G/25 + d/5 or G/30 + d/0, Chess Center at the historic New YorkerHotel!, 481 8th Ave at 34th St, across from Penn Station, NYC: 347-201-CCNY(347-201-2269;Thursdays after 6 pm: 212-971-0101;www.chesscenter.cc).2 sections! Open Section. EF: $30, $25 to attendees of 5 pm Rohde/Boninclass, GMs $25 from prize, free to player returning after longest lapse sincelast tmt. (minimum 1 year), specified Greater NY Scholastic Prizewinners free!Good Customer Discounts: $5 less to those who played in at least 4 “4Rated Games Tonight!” tmts. since 1987, $10 less if at least 10 4RGTs—Thank You So Much For Your Support Of This Tournament! $$ (630 b/32paid, minimum half each prize Gtd): 150-100-50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85.Under 1200 Section. EF: FREE! Trophies to top 3! Both: $150 Mixed Dou-bles Bonus Prizes! Best male/female 2-player team combined score in eithersection: $100-50 (teammates’ average rating must be U2200; teammates mayplay in different sections, teammate pairings avoided but possible, teamsmust declare by 8:15). Choice of 2 schedules! 7:00 Schedule, rds. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. 7:30 schedule, rd. 1 only is Quick-rated (G/15 + td/3) at 7:30pm, score carries over into round 2 at 8:15 pm. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000),commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Helpwith NYC parking: www.primospot.com, www.iconparkingsystems.com. Spon-sorship: Name one of the 4RGTs after yourself, and see your name listed inuschess.org! Info: www.chesscenter.cc.

MAR. 1, NEW! Marshall Friday U2000 Action!4-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, mem-bers $20. ($360/24): $160-80, U1800 $65, U1600 $55. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.:7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

MAR. 1-3 OR 2-3, 7th Annual Long Island OpenSee Grand Prix.


MAR. 2, Marshall Saturday G/60!4-SS, G/55d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($540/40): $240-120, U2000 95, U1700 85. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds.:12-2:30-4:45-7. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

MAR. 2, NEW! Marshall Saturday Quads!3-RR, G/70d5. Open to all; quads formed by rating. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St.,NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $35, members $25, $60 for each winner. Reg.: 10:15-10:55AM. Rds.: 11AM-1:30-4PM. www.marshallchessclub.org.

MAR. 3, Marshall Sunday G/45!4-SS, G/40d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Two sec-tions: A. Open ($360/26): $160-80, U2100 65, U1800 55. B. U1500 ($240/18):$120-65, U1200 55. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-1:45-4:00-5:45. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

MAR. 5, NEW! Marshall Tuesday Action!4-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, mem-bers $20. ($360/24): $160-80, U2100 $65, U1800 $55. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.:7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

MAR. 7, March New Yorker Masters Special Edition of USCF’sLongest-Running Action Tournament!See Grand Prix.

MAR. 7, Marshall Thursday Game 30 Grand Prix!See Grand Prix.

MAR. 8, NEW! Marshall Friday U2200 Action!4-SS, G/25d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, mem-bers $20. ($360/24): $160-80, U2000 $65, U1800 $55. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.:7-8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

MAR. 9, Marshall Saturday U18004-SS, G/40d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($300/24): $160-80, U1500 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 12:15-12:45. Rds.: 1-2:45-4:30-6:15. One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.

MAR. 9-10 OR 10, Marshall March GP!See Grand Prix.

MAR. 14, Marshall Thursday Game 30 Grand Prix!See Grand Prix.

A Heritage Event!MAR. 14, The Original “4 Rated Games Tonight!” Now At The NewYorker Hotel - USCF’s Longest-Running Action Tournament - withFREE Under 1200 Section!4-SS, G/25 + d/5 or G/30 + d/0, Chess Center at the historic New YorkerHotel!, 481 8th Ave at 34th St, across from Penn Station, NYC: 347-201-CCNY(347-201-2269;Thursdays after 6 pm: 212-971-0101;www.chesscenter.cc).2 sections! Open Section. EF: $30, $25 to attendees of 5 pm Rohde/Boninclass, GMs $25 from prize, free to player returning after longest lapse sincelast tmt. (minimum 1 year), specified Greater NY Scholastic Prizewinners free!Good Customer Discounts: $5 less to those who played in at least 4 “4Rated Games Tonight!” tmts. since 1987, $10 less if at least 10 4RGTs—Thank You So Much For Your Support Of This Tournament! $$ (630 b/32paid, minimum half each prize Gtd): 150-100-50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85.Under 1200 Section. EF: FREE! Trophies to top 3! Both: $150 Mixed Dou-bles Bonus Prizes! Best male/female 2-player team combined score in eithersection: $100-50 (teammates’ average rating must be U2200; teammates mayplay in different sections, teammate pairings avoided but possible, teamsmust declare by 8:15). Choice of 2 schedules! 7:00 Schedule, rds. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. 7:30 schedule, rd. 1 only is Quick-rated (G/15 + td/3) at 7:30pm, score carries over into round 2 at 8:15 pm. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000),commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Helpwith NYC parking: www.primospot.com, www.iconparkingsystems.com. Spon-sorship: Name one of the 4RGTs after yourself, and see your name listed inuschess.org! Info: www.chesscenter.cc.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 14, 21, 28, APR. 4, 11, Marshall Thursday Members-OnlySwiss!5-SS, G/115d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. Open to MCCmembers only. EF: $30. ($450 b/24): $200-100, U2100 $90, U1800 $60. Reg.:6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7PM each Thursday. Limit 2 byes, request by rd. 3. www.marshallchessclub.org.


Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 24, 46th Binghamton Monthly Tournament4SS, G/65 d/5. Prizes: $300 b/26. Open-$100-$60-$30; Reserve-$50-$40-$20(U1700). Trophies: 1-3 Reserve section. Advance Entry: EF’s Reduced!Open-$20 Reserve-$15 (U1700) $5 more on site-cash only on site. Schedule:Registration on site 8:45–9:15 AM. Rounds: 9:30-12Noon-2:30-4:45. FreeUSCF 90-day membership (call for details) Free chess set & board to all newplayers under 18 years of age. Mail Entry: checks payable to: “Cordisco’s Cor-ner Store”, 308 Chenango St., Binghamton, NY 13901 (607) 772-8782, [email protected].





North CarolinaJAN. 25-27, Land of the Sky XXVISee Grand Prix.



OhioJAN. 18, DCC Friday Nite Quick 2013 (QC)4SS, G/24, d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.:7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF: $10 ($8 DCC mbr).Info: [email protected]/, 937-461-6283.

JAN. 25, DCC Friday Nite Quick 2013 (QC)4SS, G/24, d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: 7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF: $10 ($8 DCC mbr). Info:[email protected]/, 937-461-6283.

JAN. 25-27 OR 26-27, 36th Cardinal OpenSee Grand Prix.

FEB. 1, DCC Friday Nite Quick 2013 (QC)4SS, G/24, d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.:7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF: $10 ($8 DCC mbr).Info: [email protected]/, 937-461-6283.

FEB. 8, DCC Friday Nite Quick 2013 (QC)4SS, G/24, d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.: 7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF: $10 ($8 DCC mbr). Info:[email protected]/, 937-461-6283.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 9, Toledo Feb SwissOpen, 4SS, Rnd. 1 G/75, Rnds. 2-4 G/85. The University of Toledo Health Sci-ence Campus, Mulford Library Basement Cafe, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, OH43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF: $20 by 2/7, $25 at site.Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360 b/20, $100-50, 1st Class A,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd.,Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450.

FEB. 9, BRRRRRR Pawn Storm XVSee Grand Prix.




FEB. 15, DCC Friday Nite Quick 2013 (QC)4SS, G/24, d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.:7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF: $10 ($8 DCC mbr).Info: [email protected]/, 937-461-6283.

FEB. 22, DCC Friday Nite Quick 2013 (QC)4SS, G/24, d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.:7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF: $10 ($8 DCC mbr).Info: [email protected]/ 937-461-6283.

MAR. 1, DCC Friday Nite Quick 2013 (QC)4SS, G/24, d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.:7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF: $10 ($8 DCC mbr).Info: [email protected]/, 937-461-6283.



Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 9, Toledo Mar SwissOpen, 4SS, Rnd 1 G/75, Rnds 2-4 G/85.The University of Toledo Health ScienceCampus, Mulford Library Basement Cafe, 3000 Arlington Ave. ,Toledo, OH43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF: $20 by 3/7, $25 at site.Reg: 9-10 a.m., Rds: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360 b/20, $100-50, 1st Class A,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd.,Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450.



MAR. 23, 12th Annual Queen City Classic Chess Tournament5SS, G/30. Paul Brown Stadium, Club West, Downtown Cincinnati, OH. 14 Sec-tions, including Non-Rated: K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Non-Rated, 7-9 Non-Rated, 10-12Non-Rated. Rated: K-3 Open, 4-6 U800, 4-6 Open, 7-9 Open, K- 12 Open. USCFmembership is NOT required for the non-rated sections. Prizes: Medalsawarded to all participants. Trophies to all who score 3.5 points or higher aswell as top three team trophies in each section. EF: $35 January 2- February28. EF: $50 after March 1st. EF includes lunch, t-shirt, program/ score book,medal, and simul participation. Registration closes Wednesday, March 20,2013. NO ON-SITE REGISTRATIONS. Schedule: Friday, March 22, check infrom 5-6 p.m. FREE SIMUL at 6:30 p.m. for tournament participants, $20 for Non-participants. SIMUL features International Master Irina Krush, InternationalGrandmasters Maurice Ashley and Gregory Kaidanov. March 23, check in 7-8:30a.m., matches begin at 9:00 a.m. Grandmasters will be available for questionsand instructions all day. Info: 1-866-PS-CHESS (772-4377) or www.queenci-tyclassic.org.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 23-24, MOTCF: Midwest Open Team Chess Festival5SS, Rd.1 G/90, td/5, Rds. 2-5 G/150, td/5. Four players/team plus one alter-nate. Team ratings for pairings determined by average of highest four ratingswith imputed ratings for players rated more than 400 points below team aver-age. Reg.: Fri Mar 22, 8pm-11pm & Sat Mar 23, 9-10am. Rds.: Sat 10:30, 2:00,7:30, Sun 10 & 3:30. EF: $180/team prior to Mar 23. $220/team Sat at site.Prizes: (B/24 teams). 1st $1,050, 2nd $750, U2000: $700, U1800: $600, U1600$500. Top boards (1-4) $50. Hotel: Crown Plaza 1-4/$89, call 888-233-9527 askfor MOTCF-Midwest Open Team Chess Festival rate, cutoff is 9 March soreserve early. Registration Form: Include all team members, ratings, IDnumbers, and board order (switches limited to 50 rating points), download onlineentry form. If team is registering online at www.DaytonChessClub.com use entryform provided. MC/V at site, no cks. Individuals may sign up for “ad hoc” teams.This is an Ohio Grand Prix Event - OCA mbrs receive a $3 discount – limit$12/team.

MAR. 29, DCC Friday Nite Quick 2013 (QC)4SS, G/24, d5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.:7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes: based on entries. EF: $10 ($8 DCC mbr).Info:[email protected]/, 937-461-6283.

MAY23-27,24-27,25-27OR26-27,22nd annual Chicago Open(IL)See Grand Prix.

OklahomaFEB. 16-17, 4th Jerry Hanken FIDE Winter OpSee Grand Prix.

PennsylvaniaEvery Friday - LVCA 7 & 9 pm Blitz Events Open/U1200 (starting on9/14) (QC)8SS, G/5;d2. St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church, 140 So. Ott St., Allentown, PA 18104.EF: $5, Prizes: Open and U1200, Minimum 50% Returned. 1st-70%, 2nd-30%AND will ADD PRIZES if 12 or more players per section, FREE Coffee For AllEntrants. REG.: Ends 6:55pm, Cash on site only. RDS.:7 pm, then ASAP. On Site:484-866-3045 or [email protected], www.lehighvalleychess-club.org.

Every Saturday - LVCA QUADS/RBO U1200 Quads + G/7;d3, 5SS Event (NO RBO QUADS JAN 5, NO CLUB FEB 16) G/40;d5 Quads, 3-RR. Reg.: 1-1:45,Rds.: 2 pm, then asap. Site: Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 514 3rd Ave., Beth-lehem, PA 18018. 2 Sections: Open Section EF: $15. Prizes: $50 for 3-0 score,else $45 for 1st. RBO Section EF: $10. Prizes: $30 for 3-0 score, else $25 for1st. G/7;d3 Event Rd. 1: 6:15 pm or asap. Prizes: 50% of entries, 1st-70%, 2nd-30%, more prizes if 12 or more.Ph: 484-866-3045, Bruce. Info: [email protected].

Maryland Chess Association (MD)See Maryland.

JAN. 5, 6th Jan LVCA Scholastic K-12 Championship5-SS, G/30. EF:$30, $35 CASH ONLY after 1/2/13 AT SITE. Trophy’s to 1st, 2nd,3rd, 4th, Top U1400, U1200, U1000, U800, UNR, $10-$20 in Random Prizesto every player. Rds.:1:10 pm then ASAP. Reg.: Ends 1 pm. Site: Holy TrinityChurch, 514 3rd Ave., Bethlehem, PA 18102. Ent: Bruce Davis, 1208 Linden S.t,Bethlehem, PA 18018, Ph. 484-866-3045, Email: [email protected]. Info: www.lehighvalleychessclub.org/.

JAN. 18-21, 19-21 OR 20-21, 45th annual Liberty Bell OpenSee Grand Prix.

JAN. 19, 9th William J. Browne Memorial Quads3RR, G/60d5. Pittsburgh Chess Club, 5604 Solway St., Suite 209, Pittsburgh, PA15217. EF: $12 by 1/16, $17 later, $2 discount to PCC Members. Prizes: $30to first each quad. Reg.: 10 -10:45AM. Rds.: 11AM-1:30 PM-4PM. No 1/2-pointbyes. Info: 412-421-1881, www.pittsburghcc.org. Ent: Pittsburgh Chess Club,Attn: Mike Holsinger, 5604 Solway St., Suite 209, Pittsburgh, PA 15217. Checkspayable to Pittsburgh Chess Club. NC, W.


JAN. 27, PCL January Quick Quads (QC)3RR, G/15d3. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow, Pittsburgh,PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am, Rds.: 11:30am-Noon-12:30pm. Info: [email protected], 412-908-0286. W.

FEB. 2, 2013 PA State Game/75 ChampionshipSee Grand Prix.

FEB. 2, GMM Cumberland Valley Open & Scholastic4SS, G/45d5. Quality Inn, 1095 Wayne Ave., Chambersburg, PA 17201. Open:EF $20 by 1/26, $30 later. Prizes: $100-$50 based and class prizes based onentries. Scholastic: EF $15 by 1/26, $20 later. Prizes:Trophies to 1st, 2nd, TopU1200, Top Unr, Top School Free entries for unrateds. Reg.: 9am-9:30. Rds.:10-1-3-5. Info: gmmcc.org, [email protected], 717-729-2439. Entry:Checks payable to: George Matre Memorial Chess Club; mail to GMM, c/oAnthony Ciarlante, PO Box 50, Fayetteville, PA 17222.

FEB. 2, Kasparov Chess Foundation Presents 5th Annual GreaterMid-Atlantic Scholastic Chess Championships (MD)See Maryland.

FEB. 2, W.Chester 1st Sat. QuadsOur 24th year! 3RR, 40/75,sd/30,td/5sec. 2nd Presbyterian Church, 114 S.Walnut St., West Chester, PA 19382. EF: $20; $40, $50 for 3-0. Reg.: 9am; Rds.:9:30,1,4:30. Info:[email protected].

FEB. 8, Downingtown Winter Scholastic ChessFood and Drink Available. 4SS, G/30, d/5 - 2 sections, U600, Open. GlenmooreUnited Methodist Church, 1920 Creek Rd., Glenmoore, PA 19343. EF: $25online, $30 onsite. Credit cards accepted for online entry. Checks accepted onsiteif pre-registered. Prizes: Trophies are given to the top four in each section,awards given to beginners. Reg.: closes at 5 pm. One 1/2 pt. bye okay. Reg-ister online until noon on 2/8. Rds.: 5:30, 6:30, 7:30, 8:30. ENT:Wood EnrichmentServices LLC, 238 Delp Rd., Lancaster, PA 17601, 717-475-6473. INFO:Mark M.Wood, [email protected], http://chess.woodservices.org. Free gameanalysis provided by NM Peter Minear. NS. W.


FEB. 9, MasterMinds CC Swiss/QuadsBlair Christian Academy, 220 W. Upsal St., Philadelphia, PA. Quads: 3RR, 40/75SD/30,d/5. EF: $20 cash; $40, $50 for 3-0. Reg.: 9AM. Rd. 1 9:30AM then asap.Scholastic: 4SS K-12 G/40,d5. EF $5 rec’d by Thurs. before, $15 on site. Reg.

ends 9:30am. Rd 1 10AM then asap: 17 individual & 4 team trophies. Mail Ent:payable to MasterMinds CC, 36 E. Hortter St., Philadelphia, PA 19119. Info:mas-termindschess.org or Bradley Crable, 215-844-3881.

FEB. 23, 6th Annual State Warm-Up4 Rounds. Mother Teresa Regional Catholic School, 405 Allendale Rd., King ofPrussia. EF: $30 before 2/21, $35 before 2/23, $40 at site. Advance entrystrongly suggested. Reg.: 12:00–12:30. All: G/30 d5. Rds.: 1:00 then ASAP. 3Sections: K-12 Championship, K-6 U700. K-6 U400. Trophies to top players andschool teams in each section Ent: click “tournaments” at www.shin-ingknightschess.com. Inf: 484-948-5692, Joshua Anderson: [email protected]. W.

FEB. 24, PCL February Quick Quads (QC)3RR, G/15d3. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow, Pittsburgh,PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am. Info:[email protected], 412-908-0286. W.

MAR. 1-3 OR 2-3, 14th Annual Pittsburgh OpenSee Grand Prix.

MAR. 8, 2013 PA Quick Chess Champ. (QC)See Grand Prix.

MAR. 9-10, 2013 Carlisle Open & PA Collegiate ChampionshipSee Grand Prix.

A State Championship Event!Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 9-10, 2013 PA State Scholastic Championship5SS. 192 Trophies!! (With 136 Individual & 56 Team). Hotel Carlisle, 1700 Har-risburg Pike, Carlisle, PA 17015, Exit 52A NB/Exit 52 SB off I-81, Exit 226 offPA Turnpike. 8 sections (Sat & Sun 3/9 & 10 unless indicated): EF: K-3 Open:(Sat 3/9 only) $29. K-6 U800: (Sat 3/9 only) $27. K-9 U1000: (Sun 3/10 only)$27.25. K-6 Open: $30.50. K-8 Open: $31.50. 7-12 U1000: $28.50. 7-12 U1300:$29.50. K-12 Open: $32.50. All: EFs if rec’d by 2/18, $10 more rec’d 2/19-3/4,$20 more after 3/4. Feb 2013 ratings used. Bye: limit 1, ask by rd 2. Reg Fri3/8 6-10 pm, Sat 3/9 9:30-10:15 am, Saturday entries get 1/2-bye. $5 chargefor changes/refund after 2/18. Rds (Sat 3/9 1-day sections): G/40d5; 10-11:45-2-3:45-5:30; (Sun 3/10 K-9 U1000): G/40d5; 9-10:30-12:30-2-3:30;(2-day sections): G/90d5; 10-2-5:30, 9-1. Bughouse: Reg on-site only untilSat 3/9 8:30pm. Rds begin Sat 3/9 8:45pm. EF: $20/team. HR: Mention “PAStates” for best rate; 800-692-7315 $75. Ent: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Free-port St., Pittsburgh, PA 15223-2245. Info: 412-908-0286 [email protected], www.pscfchess.org/pascholasticchamp/. W. 2-day sections are JGP.

MAR. 27-31, 28-31, 29-31 OR 30-31, 7th annual PhiladelphiaOpenSee Grand Prix.



Rhode IslandMAR. 15-17 OR 16-17, 22nd annual Eastern Class Champi-onships (MA)See Grand Prix.

South CarolinaFEB. 16, 8th Patrick D. Hart Memorial Scholastic4SS, G/30. Holiday Inn Express, 120 Holiday Dr., Summerville, SC 29483(NewVenue). EF: $20 if rec’d by 2/13/13;$25 at site. USCF & SCCA memberships req’d.

www.uschess.org 69

14th annual PITTSBURGH OPENMarch 1-3 or 2-3, Doubletree Green Tree

$12,000 projected prizes, $8,000 minimum!

5 rounds, choice of 3-day or 2-day schedule. Prizes $12,000 based

on 150 paid entries (re-entries & U1200 Section count half), with 2/3

of each prize minimum guaranteed. In 5 sections:

OpenSection: Prizes $1500-700-400-300, clear/tiebreakwin $100

bonus, top U2300/Unr $500-250. FIDE rated, 60 GPP




Under 1200 Section: $500-250-150-100, trophies to first 3, top

Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600, Unrated.Unrated limit: $200 in U1200, $400 U1500, or $600 in U1800.




OSA, Trophies to 1st, 2nd & 3rd plus free 1yr USCF memberships to 1st(& ties)in each section Reg.: 8-9:30am. Rds.: 10am, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm. In four USCFrated sections: K-3, K-5, K-8 &K-12 (Sections may be combined for pairing pur-poses, if necessary.) Special Non-rated Beginners section - 4 rds, G/30 Opento beginning players. No USCF membership req’d. EF: $15 Prize for top finisher/s- free 1 yr USCF membership. Adv. Ent: Charleston Chess Club, c/o David Y.Causey, 741 Dragoon Dr., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464, Email: [email protected].

FEB. 16-17, 39th Snowstorm SpecialSee Grand Prix.

TennesseeChess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 12-13, Memphis Candidates 2013Site: IBEW, 1870 Madison Ave., Memphis, TN 38104. 5SS, G/120;d5. Top 6 fin-ishers join David Sichel and Graham Horobetz in 2013 City Championship.Entry Fee: $10 plus MCC dues if expired. ($30 Adults, $20 Under 19 years old).Registration: January 12 (7:30am to 8:30am). Rounds: 9-2-7; 9-2. TD: GaryPylant, [email protected],memphischess.com.


APR. 5-7, SuperNationals VSee Nationals.

TexasJAN. 12, Winter Wonderland Scholastic Chess TourneyLovejoy High School, 2350 Estates Pkwy., Lucas, TX. 5SS, G/30 No delay all sec-tions except HS. EF: $22 if P/M by 1/03/12, $50 after. On-site: 8:00 am with1/2 pt. bye for R1. R1 begins at 9:00 am. Sections: Primary K-3 U300 G/30no delay; Primary K-3 U800 G/30 no delay; K-5/6 U800 G/30 no delay; K-5/6Open G/30 no delay; MS G/30 no delay; HS G/30 no delay in R1, R2 & R3 andG/45 no delay in R4 & R5; Top 4 individual trophies, Top 2 teams in each sec-tion. 5th Place winner in each section receives a snow globe trophy! HomemadeChess Set Competition and Side Events! See www.LovejoyChess.org for details.Mail to: LHS Sport of the Mind, 2350 Estates Parkway, Lucas, TX 75002.For more info: [email protected] or 972-658-8537.

JAN. 19, Region III Scholastic Championships/Steven GrubbsMemorial5SS, G/30d5. Student Union Galaxy Rooms at The University of Texas at Dal-las, 800 West Campbell Rd., Richardson, TX 75080. Use University Driveentrance. Six rated sections Opened all PreK-12 players, but only players wholive in TCA Region 3 or who go to school in TCA Region 3 can win the titles. HighSchool (grades 9-12), Middle School (grades 6-8/9), Elementary (grades K-5/6),Elementary U800 (grades K-5/6 rated under 800), Primary (grades preK-3), andK-1 (grades pre-k-1). $$Trophies for rated sections: HS section: Top 10 ind.,top 3 teams; MS Top 10 ind., top 3 team. Elem: Top 10 ind., top 5 teams; ElemU800: Top 10 ind., top 5 teams; Primary: Top 10 ind., top 5 teams; K-1 Top 7 ind.,top team. EF for Rated Section: $25 if postmarked by 1/15; $39 thereafter andon site. Add $5 for phone entries. On site registration may result in 1/2 pointfirst round bye. US Chess Federation Membership required. Sections may becombined if there are not enough players in a section or if too many playersbelong to one school. Team flag may be turned off if one school has too manyplayers in the section. One Not rated sections: K-6 not rated Open. This sec-tion is opened to all players in Grades K-6. $$Trophies for K-6 not ratedsections: Top 10 ind, Top 5 teams. EF for not rated section is $15 if post-marked by 1/15, $25 thereafter and on site. Registration Form On siteregistration may result in 1/2 point 1st round bye. ALL: Reg: 7:30-8:30am, Rd1 posted at 9:15 am, all others ASAP with 35-minute lunch break. One 1/2 pt.bye if requested before end of Rd 2. Medals to all the participants. Tournamentis not elimination, play all 5 rounds. Pre-Registration requires prepayment withcomplete information. All changes after 1/17/13 to be made on site only, $10for changes made after 1/17/13. No credit cards accepted onsite. Special TCArules on which section a player can play in Rated Sections. See www.swchess.com/sce/tourney/tsc2006/tsc06.htm for some guidelines. Make Checkspayable to: Dallas Chess Club. US Chess Federation Membership is requiredfor all Rated sections. Not Rated sections do not require US Chess Federationmembership. Enter: Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036.Ph: 214.632.9000. E-mail: [email protected]. Note that seating is limitedand is on a first come first serve basis. Parking info at www.utdallas.edu/park-ing/index_parking.html. Due to construction, please keep checking UT DallasWebsite for parking information.

JAN. 26, Many Springs Open 50North Richland Hills Public Library, 9015 Grand Ave., North Richland Hills, TX76180. 3 Round Swiss, G/60; Inc 5. EF: $20, 65% of EF returned as prizes. Sec-tions to be determined by participation. Registration on-site 8:45-8:55. FirstRound 9:15AM, Second Round 12:15PM, Third Round 2:30PM. Additionalinformation:Tom Crane at either 817-296-4287, [email protected] orwww.tarrantcountychessclub.org/.

UtahJUNE 6, 2013 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC) (NV)See Nationals.






VermontMAY 3-5 OR 4-5, 24th annual Vermont Resort OpenSee Grand Prix.

VirginiaMaryland Chess Association (MD)See Maryland.

Arlington Chess Club’s Friday Action3SS, G/30. Held 1/month. For dates go to: www.arlingtonchessclub.com. 80%returned as prizes (b/entries). Reg.: 7-8pm. Rd 1: 8:15pm. EF: $15 ($10 for mem-bers), cash only. Arlington Forest United Methodist Church, 4701 Arlington Blvd.,Arlington, VA. Info only: [email protected].

Arlington Chess Club Ladder (Held Every Friday)30/90, SD/1. Monthly Prize: $50. Must join club to play. Yearly dues: $50adults, $40 for age 65+ or U18. Cash or check. Reg.: 7-8pm; no advanceentries. Arlington Forest United Methodist Church, 4701 Arlington Blvd., Arling-ton, VA 22203. Info only: [email protected]. W, NS. (If 4 rounds/gamesplayed in that one month they qualify for Chess Magnet School JGP.


JAN. 26, Sterling Chess January Open and RBOSee Grand Prix.

FEB. 2, Kasparov Chess Foundation Presents 5th Annual GreaterMid-Atlantic Scholastic Chess Championships (MD)See Maryland.

FEB. 2, Kingstowne Quad #89/Action-Plus #59Kingstowne Thompson Center, 6090 Kingstowne Village Pkwy., Alexandria, VA22315. 2 events. Quad #89: 3RR, G/100 d5. EF: $10 if received by 1/29, $15at site. Prizes:medals to 1st and 2nd in each quad: gold to 1st if 3-0 score, elsesilver; bronze to 2nd. Rds: 11-3-7. Action-Plus #59: 5RR, G/45 d5. EF: $15 ifreceived by 1/29, $20 at site. Prizes: $$250/b20: $100-60, U1800-U1400-Unr.each $30. Rds: 11-1-3-5-7. Both: Reg 9-10:30. Ent (checks payable to: DonW. Millican, P.O. Box 2902, Springfield, VA 22152. e-mail (info only):[email protected]. W (please give 48-hour notice).


FEB. 15-17, 4rd Annual Hampton Chess & Sports FestivalSee Grand Prix.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 16, VCF Cup TourLongwood University, Farmville, VA. 4SS, G/60, d/5. $$350 GTD, more if over20 players. 1st-3rd overall, $120-80-60; Top U1600 $50, Top U1200/Unr $40.Rds.: 10am, 1pm, 3:30pm and 6:30pm. EF: $25 if rec’d by 2/14, $35 on site.Checks payable to VCF; no credit cards. Reg.: 8-9:30AM. One half-point bye avail-able if req by 12:30PM 2/16. USCF memb. req’d, available at site. Event and hotelinfo at www.vachess.org or [email protected]. Ent.: See website.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!FEB. 16, Warmup for VA State Scholastic ChampionshipsLongwood University, Farmville, VA, same site as the 2013 VA State Scholas-tic Ch. 4SS. Two sections: K5 and K12. Rd. 1-2 G/40, d/5; Rds. 3-4 G/60, d/5.Rd. 1 10am, remaining rounds as soon as possible. EF: $10 if rec’d by 2/14, $15on site. Trophies 1st-3rd in K3, K5, K8, K12; Teams 1st-3rd in K5 and K12. USCFmembership required. Enter online at www.vschess.org, or by mail to Mike Hoff-pauir, ATTN: Longwood Scholastics, 405 Hounds Chase, Yorktown, VA 23693.Checks payable to VSCA. Event and Hotel info at www.vschess.org

MAR. 15-17, 45th Annual Virginia Open (Note date change)See Grand Prix.


JUNE 27-JULY 1, DC InternationalSee Grand Prix.

JULY 3-7, 4-7, 5-7 OR 1-7, 41st Annual World OpenSee Grand Prix.

WashingtonFEB. 23-24, 21st Dave Collyer MemorialSee Grand Prix.

WisconsinChess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!JAN. 19-20, 48th Northeastern OpenSECTIONS:Three: OPEN, RESERVE (U/1500) and NOVICE (U/1000). All are USCF-rated. FORMAT: OPEN and RESERVE: 5/SS, T/C: 30/90, G/60. Rds at:10-2:30-7:15 and 10-3. One half-point Bye any Rd. Full-pt Bye to 2100+ in Rd1 if requested. NOVICE: 6/SS, G/60, Rds at: 10:15-1:00-3:30-6:30 and 10:15,1:15. Two half-point Byes allowed! PLAYING SITE: Holiday Inn-Neenah, 123 E.Wisconsin Ave., Neenah, WI 54956. PH: 920-725-8441. Site has 24-hr pool, exer-cise/workout room, video game area and sports bar. ROOM RATES: $79 for1-bed King or 2-bed double. Mention chess. REGISTRATION: 8:30-9:30 onJan 19, 2013. ENTRY FEES: OPEN = $40, RESERVE = $19, NOVICE = $16 ifmailed by 1/15. All are $7 more if e-mailed, phoned-in, or paid at site. Checkspayable to: Mike Selig – TD. PRIZE FUND: OPEN: ($1400 b/60) $325, $225, best1900 $190, 1800 $180, 1700 $160, 1600 $150, U/1600 $120, U/1400 $60.RESERVE: $60, $40, Trophies: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, best 1200, 1100, 1000/Under,Unrated. NOVICE: $30, Trophies: 1st, 2nd, U/800, U/600, Unr. ADVANCEENTRIES: 48th Northeastern Open , Mike Selig – Director, 2895 W. Fourth St

#’B’, Appleton,WI 54914-4330.TD e-mail: [email protected]. PH: 920-739-7550.OTHER INFO: USCF Heritage event. First WCA TOUR EVENT of 2013! Fox RiverMall, with 183 stores, is only 4 miles from site!

FEB. 16-17, UW Winter OpenSee Grand Prix.

Chess Magnet School Junior Grand Prix!MAR. 2, 2013 March Madness!Olympia Resort, 1350 Royale Mile Rd., Oconomowoc, WI 53066. In 4 Sections:(Open, K-12, K-6 & K-3). USCF rated! Four rd swiss, G/60 d/5. Rds.: 10-1-4-7.Reg.: 3/2 8:30-9:30 AM. EF: $15 by 2/28, after 2/28 $18; new members $3 less.Prizes, Open: Donated Books. K-12, K-6, & K-3: Trophies to Top 3 players andOverall best team. All others in K-12, K-6 & K-3 will receive participant medals.ENT: Ben Corcoran, 2711 N. University Dr. #64, Waukesha, WI 53188. Ques-tions: [email protected] or 262-506-4203. INFO:www.benzochess.com



For Sale* WORLD’S FINEST CHESS SETS **The House of Staunton, produces unquestionably the finest StauntonChess sets. *Pay-Pal and all Major Credit Cards accepted. The House ofStaunton, Inc.; 1021 Production Court; Suite 100; Madison, AL 35758.*Website: www.houseofstaunton.com; phone: (256) 858-8070; email:[email protected]

“WHAT IF?” (SCORE!)Chess openings newsletter makes the “difficult” easier? Every 4 weeks. Topexplanations! $39.95. eMail/hardcopy available (USA). [email protected]

InstructionTOP-QUALITY BARGAIN CHESS LESSONS BY PHONEWith more than 40 years of experience teaching chess, the Mid-AtlanticChess Instruction Center is the best in the business. We specialize in adultstudents. We offer 32 different courses as well as individual game analy-sis. Center Director: Life Master Russell Potter. Tel.: (540) 344-4446. Ifwe are out when you call, please leave your name & tel. #. Our Webpageis at: chessinstructor.org. NEW FOR 2012: Two additional courses + FREEpowerful analysis engines + FREE screen-sharing!

LEARN CHESS BY MAIL: Any Strength: Inquire about individual programs. Alex Dunne, 324 WestLockhart Street, Sayre, PA 18840. [email protected].

YOU’LL SEE REAL PROGRESS by Studying with 3- Time U.S. Champ GM Lev Alburt! Private lessons (incl. by mail and phone) from $80/hr. Autographedseven-volume, self-study Comprehensive Chess Course-only $134 post-paid! P.O. Box 534, Gracie Station, NY, NY 10028. (212) 794-8706.

Wanted* CHESS-PLAYER SCHOLARS *in top 10% of high school class with USCF > 2000 and SAT (math + crit-ical reading) > 1400 for possible college scholarships to UMBC. Prof. AlanSherman, Dept. of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, Univ. ofMaryland, Baltimore County, 21250. 410-455-2666, [email protected]

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Solutions / January

www.uschess.org 71

PAGE 17 / CHESS TO ENJOY

Problem I. West German Championship 1970: 1.... Qb2+! 2. Kxb2 a1=Q mate. Problem II. BadLiebenstein 1963: 1. Rc1 Qf3+ 2. Kg1! and Rc8mates. The try 1. Rxa7 does not work since White’sking cannot escape after 1. ... Qf3+ 2. Kg1 Qd1+.Problem III. Dubrovnik 1950: 1. ... Nxf2! wins (2.Kxf2 Qxe3+ 3. Kf1 Qxd3+ and ... Qxd4. ProblemIV. Hamburg 1965: 1. Rf3 and Rxf6 or Nxf6 does it,e.g. 1. ... Qe8 2. Qh6+ Kg8 3. Rxf6, or 1. ... f5 2. Rh3mate or 1. ... Be6 2. Nxf6 Rxf6 3. Rxf6. ProblemV. Menorca 1974: 1. ... h3 2. Kh4 g1=Q! 3. Bxg1 Kg2

and White is in Zugzwang (4. Kg4 Ba8 5. Kh4 Bf3!).Problem VI. Skelleftea 1989: 1. Rxb5 forces 1. ...Bxe3 but then 2. Rd8! wins (2. ... Rxd8 3. Rd5! Qxc64. Rxd8+ or 2. ... Qxb5 3. Qd6 Re8 4. Qe7!).

PAGE 19 / ABCS OF CHESS

Problem I. Double attack: Black trades queensand castles, 2. ... 0-0-0+, winning a rook. Prob-lem II. Fork: Black gains at least a pawn with 1.... Qxd4. Problem III. Pin: After 1. ... fxe4, Blackwinds up a rook ahead (2. Bxe4 Bxh3). ProblemIV. Mating net: It is over after 1. ... Nf3 (or 1. ...Nc4) 2. Rxc1 Bxc3+ 3. Kb1 Nd2 mate. Prob-lem V. Mating net: Black wins with 1. ... Nh3+.If 2. Kf1, then 2. ... Rg1 mate. If 2. Kh1, then 2. ...Nxf2 mate. Problem VI. Mating net: Blackscores by 1. ... Rxh2+ 2. Kxh2 Qh4 mate.

PAGE 45 / BENKO’S BAFFLERS

Problem I. 1. Kd7! 1. Kf5? Kc4 2. Kg4 Kb3 3. c4Kxc4 4. Kxh4 Kb3 5. g4 Kxb2 6. g5 a3 7. g6 a2 8. g7

a1=Q 9. g8=Q Qh1+ 10. Kg5 Qg1+ wins the newqueen. 1. ... Kc4 2. Kc7 Kb3 3. Kb8 Kxb2 4. c4Draws. The white king only on b8 can secure hisqueen promotion. Problem II. 1. Re1 Rb3+ 2.Kg2! Rb2+ 3. Kh1! Kd8 4. e7+ Ke8 5. a4 Rb4 6.a5 Rb5 7. a6 Rb6 8. a7 Ra6 9. Rg1! Kxe7 10. Rg8!Rxa7 11. Rg7+ wins. The white king can findshelter in the corner from the checks.

CHESS LIFE USPS# 102-840 (ISSN 0197-260X). Volume 68 No. 1. PRINTED IN THE USA. Chess Life, formerly Chess Life & Review, is published monthly by the United States Chess Federation, 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN38557-3967. Chess Life & Review and Chess Life remain the property of USCF. Annual subscription (without membership): $50. Periodical postage paid at Crossville, TN 38557-3967 and additional mailing offices. POSTMAS-TER: Send address changes to Chess Life (USCF), PO Box 3967, Crossville, Tennessee 38557-3967. Entire contents ©2013 by the United States Chess Federation. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise without the prior written permission of USCF. Note: Unsolicited materials are submitted at the sender'srisk and Chess Life accepts no responsibility for them. Materials will not be returned unless accompanied by appropriate postage and packaging. Address all submissions to Chess Life, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557-3967. The opinions expressed are strictly those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Chess Federation. Send all address changes to: U.S. Chess, Membership Services, PO Box 3967,Crossville, Tennessee 38557-3967. Include your USCF I.D. number and a recent mailing label if possible. This information may be e-mailed to addresschange@ uschess.org. Please give us eight weeks advance notice. PUB-LICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 41473530 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO EXPRESS MESSENGER INTERNATIONAL P.O. BOX 25058 LONDON BRC, ONTARIO, CANADA N6C 6A8

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CL_01-2013_solutions_JP_r6_chess life 12/7/2012 1:10 PM Page 71

never imagined I would ever play amove sacrificing my queen for purelypositional reasons, without any mate-rial compensation whatsoever, but it

happened in the game Wesley Brandhorst-Lawrence Coplin played in the USCFAbsolute correspondence chess (CC) tour-nament for 2006. After somewhat carelesslypermitting my formidable and ingeniousopponent to set up a seemingly impreg-nable “fortress” position late in theendgame, I was on the verge of reluctantlyconceding a draw after an intense andexhausting game, when the sudden inspi-ration for this unusual sacrifice came to me.My “best move” turned out to be an outrightgift; none of the available captures workedas well, as proved later after the game wasover by the Nalimov tablebases. It hasremained an object lesson ever since:“Absolutely” exhaust the hidden, evenunlikely, resources of every troublesomeposition before conceding a draw or a loss.Of course, this is much more possible to doin CC play (where one usually has up tothree days average per move) than in thehurly-burly time scrambles of over-the-board, which I suppose is one reason whyI have restricted my chess adventures to CCplay since 1975.

Formidable Frustrating Fortress FoiledSIM Wesley T. Brandhorst (2444)SIM Lawrence Coplin (2414)USCF Absolute CC Tournament 2007

98. Qe4+! This queen sacrifice is required in order

to free the white king and results in anunusual endgame of queen versus bishopand knight. If instead the queen tries cap-

turing the knight, this permits the bishopto capture the last white pawn; if insteadthe queen tries capturing the bishop, thispermits the knight to reach c7 (via a6) tocapture the pawn queening on a8. Ask100 chess players to tell you what White’sbest 98th move is and 99% of them will notfind the truth in this position.

98. ... Nxe4 Forced. If 98. ... Kb5, then 99. Qb7+ Kc4

100. Qc6 Be5 101. Qxc5+ and the pawnqueens, or 100. ... Be7/Bf8 and the whiteking escapes to b8 and the pawn queens.

99. Kb7 Kb5 100. a8=Q Nc5+ At this point, Black invokes the 50–move

rule: White must either mate or capture a

piece in 50 moves or less or the game is a draw.

101. Kc8 Kc4 102. Kd8 Kd4 103. Ke8 Bf4 104.Kf7 Be3 105. Kf6 Ne4+ 106. Kf5 Nd6+ 107.Ke6 Nc4 108. Qf3 Nd2 109. Qd5+ Kc3 110. Qf5Kd4 111. Qg4+ Kc3 112. Kd5 Kd3 113. Qh5!The winning strategy (not found in any

book in my library) ensures that White willwin a black piece in the ensuing few moves.

113. ... Bf2 113. ... Bf4 is not the saving move

because of 114. Qe8.

114. Qe8!, Black resigned. Black now foresees that White will win

a piece (and the game) in the next fewmoves and decides graciously to resign.

SIM Wesley T. BrandhorstUSCF Absolute CorrespondenceChess Champion in 2002 and Co-Champion in 2003


I

MY BEST MOVE

PHOT

O: JO

HNNA

BRY

NN

“ Ask 100 chess players to tell you what White’s best 98th move is and 99% of

them will not find the truth in this position.”

CL_01-2013_MyBestMove_AKF_r7_chess life 12/11/12 7:29 PM Page 72

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Chess life january 2013

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