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December 8, 2004*
Greetings Chess Friends,
This year's State Championship Tournament was one of the most combative and uncompromising events held in recent memory. Nothing was decided until the last move of the last game. It was often difficult to say if a player was "sacrificing" a piece or if the opponent was "winning" a piece, as post mortem analysis revealed "compensation" in practically all cases. All participants should be proud of their fighting spirit!
With an average rating of 1883, the path to the 2005 State Champion's title, won by NM Artem Ratchkovski of Fairbanks, was indeed thorny and full of surprises. Thorns and surprises came in the form of young local talent Mario Vinoya and Old Time Chess Warhorse and right hand man of state tournament organization, Chuck Sherwood. Mario held Artem to a comfortable draw in round 2, hence opening up the tournament in essence and in round 3 Chuck had 4 pawns for a piece at one point in their game, time trouble and Artem's cunning prevailed in the end however. Congratulations to our 2005 State Champion, Artem Ratchkovski!! As a five time Alaska State Champion he is very worthy of our admiration and praise, and as I'm sure he would agree, all of this years competitors played strong Chess! *December 13 Artem sends in the following annotated games from the State Championship - Ratchkovski vs Taffinder and Ratchkovski vs Sherwood. Enjoy Readers and Thanks Artem!!
Eighteen year old Mario Vinoya continued his climb up the "chess ladder of strength" with a very solid performance finishing at 2nd place. Mario fell a half point shy of a tie for 1st with a last round draw with the ever present Chuck Sherwood. This game was really something, if Mario won he would tie for 1st with Artem, if Chuck won he and Mario would tie for 2nd. It wasn't long before a material imbalance was seen in the game. Chuck was holding the knight and Mario had two pawns and an initiative for said beast. The battle raged on with perpetual checks being spurned in favor of the "whole enchilada". Not until flags were hanging on the chess clock, and it was obvious that there were no winning chances for either side, was the draw agreed in the last game of the tournament to finish. A real Chess Fight that kept the "analyst" busy and the audience entertained throughout. Congratulations to Mario and Chuck on their fine performances!
Rounding out the field was Doug Taffinder, Ryan Cassidy and Jonathan Erickson respectively. Doug Taffinder formerly of Clear AFB, in Alaska's interior, flew up from San Antonio, TX to compete in this years event. Doug is a great guy and a strong expert player that has represented Alaska in the "Governors Cup" in Sioux Falls, SD for several years now. If not for a great effort by Mario in round 3, allowing a dangerous passed protected pawn for what turned out to be a winning attack, Doug would have finished a little higher in the standings for sure. It was a delight to see him again and we hope he will join us again soon.
Alaska High School and last years Alaska Open Champion, Ryan Cassidy, faired well in this event despite being low man on the rating totem pole. Ryan was interviewed by Channel 11 News shortly after his round 4 loss. When asked "did you learn anything by playing chess today?" Ryan replied simply "Yes, I learned to keep my King with my pawns in the endgame." When asked "what's it like playing Chess in Alaska?", Ryan replied "it's like family!" Ryan didn't win many games in the tournament but he showed a great deal of flare for creativity in all his games, lacking only more experience and technique to convert his efforts into wins. Upon later examination of his round 2 game with Ryan, Mr. Taffinder remarked "maybe I shouldn't have forced him to sack a piece?!"
This years "red lantern" recipient was Jonathan Erickson. This was Jon's first USCF rated OTB tourney in 14 years! Jonathan's play undoubtedly suffered from years of rust. I certainly hope he was not too discouraged with his result as he showed his true "mettle" when he chose to play "up" in the Closed Section! Jon obviously has some practical Chess experience as he played the Albin Counter Gambit each time he was given the opportunity, and quite well I should add! Welcome to the "family" Jon and good luck in your next tournament! You've competed with Alaska's finest!!
The Open Championship was equally hard fought as well with Dick Clendaniel and Lloyd Hilling tying for 1st. Here's a few words from Co-Champion, Dick Clendaniel:
"A big thank you to Rick and Chuck for their efforts in staging the 2004 Alaska State Open and Closed Chess Championships. Also a special thank you to all the players who came forward to do battle. Those who participate are truly the ones who keep chess alive and make it possible to have thriving tournaments.
It is no small effort to put on such a tournament as I well know when I helped Eric Bohlen direct the 2002 Championship. Although Eric did most of the work in 2002, I am certain the strain hurt my playing efforts as I struggled with one of my worst tournament results ever. I often wonder how Chuck and Rick are able to play so competitively while they organize and direct tournaments.
I have played in every State Championship from 1998 to today without a great deal of success. I finished second in a small tournament in 1999 that couldn't really be called a full-blown state Championship and I did finish in a three-way tie with Scott Mason and Ron Campbell in 2000. Artem Ratchkovski finished first that year and Jim Hanlen took second. I had a very disappointing effort last year, although I was the top-rated player in the Open. Jesse Holganza cleaned my clock in one game, young Dylan Tucker got a draw against me and the overall winner Ryan Cassidy, let me have a draw when Ryan was clearly ahead.
And so I take a good deal of pleasure in tying with Lloyd Hilling for this years open title. The computer gave me the tie-breaker which seeds me into next year's Closed Section of the State Tournament, but Lloyd and I have decided to play for the first place trophy sometime in the next few months when I travel to Fairbanks. Lloyd had an excellent tournament and should have gone undefeated, but he touched a queen while he was in check. It was late in the game where he had a won position against Matthew Parshall. He was forced to move his queen in to harms way in front of his king, losing the game. Lloyd had solid wins against Brian Moore, Jesse Holganza, Harry Karmun and Allison Parshall.
Brian had a great tournament handing me my only loss. In our game, Brian made very accurate moves (Fritz loved his play choices) until he had created a position that left most of my pieces committed to trying to save a losing position. Fortunately for me I came out of it only two pawns down and with some chances, but Brian held on for the victory even though he was under some time trouble. In the final round I had a short game against one of the true chess battlers near my rating, Ron Campbell. Ron and I have met many times over the chess board and we always have good games, although Ron certainly has won most of those games. Ron and Brian had just come off a hard-fought draw in the previous round and I am sure that effort must have taken quite a bit from him.
Here is what it looked like: Ron Campbell vs Dick Clendaniel, Alaska Open Championship 2005. It was an interesting battle if short-lived. If Ron had moved Qc1 on move 11 protecting his bishop and the b2 pawn, he would have had a solid advantage. His knight sacrifice on g5 was dubious even if I didn't have mate. I wish I could have said I saw it all before he swaggered into the middle of my defenses, but I was able to see most all of my attack after 10. Nc7+. I didn't see the saving move of Qc1. I got that from Fritz.
Allison Parshall had a stunning tournament, tying with Ron Campbell at 3.5 points. She beat Michael Brooks, Scott Green, Henry Moradilla and drew with Harry Karmun. Her only loss was to Lloyd. She picked up over 200 rating points with her fine effort.
I only hope I don't embarrass myself too much next year against the top guns in the closed tournament. Ryan put up quite a standard for the open winner by taking a win and playing competitively in all of his games. I have a lot of work to do before next November! " ~Dick Clendaniel ~
Congratulations Dick and thanks for your comments. Lloyd Hilling of Fairbanks who has competed in Alaska Chess Tournaments for many, many years showed his combativeness throughout the tournament and is well deserving of the title, Co-Champion of the Alaska Open 2005, congratulations Lloyd and hope to see you again soon!
Finishing in a tie for 3rd and 4th place were Ron Campbell and Alison Parshall. Ron Campbell, a former State Champion himself, had what I know he feels was a disappointing result in the tournament. Ron has a very interesting style of play that involves aggression and creativity, sacrifices are rather common in his games, and is always playing to win the tournament. I hope that Ron is not too hard on himself as fatigue played a definite role in the later stages of the tournament for him. This was also Ron's first OTB competition since last years Fur Rondezvous Tournament and one can conclude that perhaps there was a little "rust" there as well. Congratulations Ron on your 3rd place finish and please don't make yourself scarce!
Alison Parshall a Junior player from Kenai, Alaska had a sparkling result, tying for 3rd overall and winning the "Booster Section" (U1300) trophy! Folks I'm telling you Alison was the sensation of the Open Tournament with her "former" rating of 881! She played solid Chess and may have finished even higher in the standings if Harry Karmun hadn't held on like a "pit bull on a pork chop" in their game! Congratulations Alison on a really great performance!! Look for Alison and her younger brother Matthew to continue to improve!
Nicholas Wells had a great performance winning the Junior division trophy with a plus score! Nicholas plays solid Chess and continues to improve like all of Alaska's Youth Players. He is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the Alaska Junior/Scholastic Championships scheduled for spring of 2005.Congratulations Nicholas!!
Winner of the Scholastic division, "Mr. Dangerous", Will Brooks (9 yrs old) showed his cunning at the Chess board when he and his older brother Michael met in round 3. At one point in the game Michael played one of those "trappy" although probably unsound moves that every player has made at one time or another. Young Will simply ignored the "free" bishop, preferring to avoid a knight fork and keep his queen! He went on to win the game in fine style! Congratulations Will and continued success!!
Congratulations and Thanks to all the players and support staff for their participation and contributions for this tournament!! A particular Thanks to Mrs. Miller for the delicious home made pies!! Above all we have to Thank "Integrity Solutions Incorporated" for their continued support for Alaska Chess, they save us a "bundle" on playing space rental and the accommodations are indeed excellent!! Cross tables and photos
In closing I must add that nominations for State Affiliate offices were accepted during the tournament. The Nominees are Don Brooks-President, Rick Everett(YHR)-Vice-President and Chuck Sherwood-Secretary/Treasurer. Unless other nominations are made before January 1, 2005 these nominees will assume their responsibilities during the Fur Rondezvous Tournament in February 2005.
Good Chess and until next time...
November 10, 2004
Hi Guys,
As the snows of the Alaska winter settle in, the 2004 State Championship and Thanksgiving are upon us once again. The State Championship brings with it the last OTB tournament of a busy 2004 Chess year.
Alaska Chess has seen eleven events this year, including Youth Simultaneous Exhibitions, Youth Chess Camps, both Scholastic and Open tournaments as well as various Club events thrown in for good measure. Possibly most important among these endeavors was the enhancement of Youth Chess. Evidence of this enhancement can be found in the September 2004 issue of Chess Life magazine on page 44. Alaska's most active USCF members are all youths! Congratulations to Ryan Cassidy, Matthew Parshall, Michael Brooks, Dylan Tucker and Alison Parshall for taking advantage of the opportunities presented to compete! All of Alaska's Chess Youth should Thank their parents and guardians for assuring their participation in as many tournaments as possible, we most certainly do!
This years State Championship promises to be the strongest OTB tournament in many years. Although I'm not much for rumors, with four master/expert strength players pledging to compete in the Closed Section this will make for a real donnybrook! No word yet if the current Alaska State Champ, FM Bryan Smith, will return from "back east" to defend his crown!? With these pesky master/expert class players huddled in the Closed Section the door will be wide open for another huge Chess fight in the Open Section of this years tournament! With that being said, Good Luck and Good Chess for those that "throw-down" for the...
2004 ALASKA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP Alaska's most prestigious and coveted Chess title !! |
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Hosted by: " Integrity Solutions Incorporated " November 26-28, 2004 |
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Playing Site: Map |
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CLOSED SECTION5 game round robin event for the six (five *) highest USCF rated entrants for the tournament. Time Control game/2 hours. Entry Fee $50 Registration 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Schedule Saturday, November 27 Sunday, November 28 Prizes * The 2003 Open Section winner was Ryan Cassidy. He received an automatic seed into this years Closed Section. At this point in time he has elected to participate. |
OPEN SECTION5 game swiss event for everyone. Time Control game/2 hours. Entry Fees Registration 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Schedule Saturday, November 27 Sunday, November 28 Prizes 1st place, 2nd place, 3rd place overall. Class prizes dependant on entries. |
Lest you think I've gone completely daffy, it simply must be mentioned that it requires some facsimile of organization to ensure Chess throughout Alaska. Volunteers, Sponsors included, for the cause are numerous and range from Fairbanks to Juneau to Kenai to Sitka! The folks that help with organization are so numerous that I feel we must throw out a "blanket hug of Thanks to all of you", rather than taking the chance of YHR missing someone's name! Please keep up the good work guys, Alaska Chess is moving forward in a very positive way because of YOU!!
Please note that nominations for the offices of the Alaska USCF State Affiliate, Far North Chess, will be accepted during the lunch break, 2 - 3:00pm, on Saturday November 27 of the State Championship Tournament. Current Officers are: President - Chuck Sherwood; Vice President - Rick Everett (YHR); Treasurer - Travis Norman.
Until next time, Good Chess and Happy Thanksgiving!!
October 27, 2004*
Junior/Scholastic Chess Shoot-out
"Twelve chess-slingers came out to battle in the Chess Shoot-Out this past weekend. Slingers could compete in G/40 Standard, Blitz or Bughouse. The Shoot-Out added seven more Scholastic players to the Alaska and USCF ranks! Let’s keep it going guys!
G/40
The four round G/40 tourney had two separate divisions. In the U19 division there were no surprises. Mario Vinoya made it through all four rounds unscathed. Dylan Tucker continued his strong and consistent play with clear second. Autumn Brooks got third with her win over her brother Michael in the final round. Autumn got Michael’s queen for free and never let go of her edge.
In the Scholastic division Will continued to show his strength among those in the elementary age group. Will scored 4 points. Two new young guns are going to be making some noise in the scholastic ranks. Chris Lacher (11) and Henry Thomas (8) took second and third respectively with scores of three and two. Both players did exceptionally well in their first tournament.
Blitz
All twelve players competed in a double round robin Blitz tourney. Mario Vinoya again came through unscathed with a perfect score of 22. Way to go Mario! Michael Brooks got second with 17.5, Dylan Tucker scored 17 and Autumn was the fourth highest scoring Junior with 13.
For the Scholastic participants two players were particularly strong. Will Brooks (9) scored 16.5 which was fourth overall and clear first for the Scholastics. Eight year old Henry Thomas had an amazing score of 14 for second amongst scholastics and fifth overall. Chris Lacher and Chendall Brooks took third and fourth with eight points each.
Bughouse
We wrapped up our tourney with a knock-out bughouse tourney which featured Ryan Cassidy. Thanks for coming when you could Ryan! Ryan and Dylan paired up and won the tourney with a defeat of Don and Chendall Brooks in the final round. The real battle for the championship was in the Semis where Ryan and Dylan got by Will and Autumn.
Closing
It was great to have so many new faces in the Scholastic division. Bo and Luke Bray played well and are sure to make some chess noise of their own in the coming months. We look forward to another Scholastic/Junior tourney in January!
Thanks to Rick Everett and Kevin Barrett for their help. I’d also like to thank the Brooks kids who always do most of the real work for me!"
"Don Brooks"
The 2004 Junior / Scholastic Chess Shoot-Out was a blast! Beware adults the Kids are coming and they mean business!! Thanks as always Don for another successful Youth Chess Event! It is my pleasure to assist you! Cross-tables and Photos
The Alaska State Championship is scheduled for Thanksgiving weekend as is tradition! Make plans now to fight for Alaska's most prestigious Chess title!! Again, many Thanks to Integrity Solutions Inc for having us!
* October 31
Thanks Dick Clendaniel for the Photos for the Annual Interior Fall Tournament!
Happy Halloween!
Until next time......
October 19, 2004
2004 Interior Fall Open Report
"Greetings All,
Our new Interior Fall Champion, Artem Ratchkovski, keeps the Interior Fall title a locally owned affair with a fine performance during this four round event. Taking place at the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus over the weekend of October 9th and 10th, this tournament would become one of the strongest held in Alaska in a very long time. The average of those competing with USCF ratings was a whopping 1708!
The tournament started with players from Kenai and Anchorage driving up the day before in excellent weather conditions. Once again, a number of us stayed at the Wedgewood Resort Hotel complex. The condo we reserved would easily accommodate four players and was only a short drive to the college campus. The units come with full kitchen, dining and living room area, three televisions along with two bedrooms and three dedicated beds while the living room couch also folds- out to twin bed size. Unfortunately, Rick Everett, president of the Alaska Chess League, had to drop out at the last minute, due to health issues, so one of our beds went unoccupied. At $105.00 per night, three or four players can easily foot the bill to rest in comfort while staying right on College Ave. during any Fairbanks tournament.
Friday night saw a few players stopping in for skittles at the Wood Center cafeteria and early registration. Artem, Travis Norman, George Lombardi, Mario Vinoya and myself mixed it up with each other as well as anybody else who wished a little warm up before the tournament. A bit of good spirited fact finding (or opening spying) is always fun and a great way to brush off some of the miles traveled. The evening saw Travis over to the condo for a long awaited visit of old friends and speed chess "riser" play late into the evening. Kind of like old times again.
Saturday morning brought a few surprises with Russ Riddlington, joining the competition for only the second time in a number of years, and Brentwood Reid turning up again to pit wits with some of the states best. Brentwood lists Homer as his permanent address and would have been the player having to travel the furthest distance to compete, but I understand his work takes him to the campus during this time of year saving him all the miles many of us were to put in. The first round did see a couple of upsets with Harry Karmun, while in time trouble, offering a happily excepted draw to YHR (your humble reporter) and Brentwood Reid falling victim to the new kid on the block, Anton Kulchitsky.
Top unrated player, Anton Kulchitsky, proved he was up to taking on the task of competing in a tournament with such a high average rating, and added to the strength of the event with a fine 2.5 point performance. Anton, a new USCF member, was presented as a "casual player from Russia", (as purported by Artem) but I've got news for all Alaskan players - Anton, like young phenom, Mario Vinoya, has just given notice. Anton's only loss, (coming at the hands of YHR) in an extremely tactical confrontation, was truly an enjoyable contest with minor piece and rook sacrifice offerings a common staple. Fair warning to all, "casual" Russian players are tough! Anton can mix it up, and will if challenged. Hopefully we will see more of him in the future.
Round two saw the demise of the brilliant young player, Mario Vinoya. Mario's rise to the top of Alaskan chess was finally slowed by his contest with Artem Ratchkovski. Artem reported slight, opening inaccuracies, on Mario's part, allowed him to slowly but surely, grind out the point. However, Artem was very complementary of Mario's play, commenting that after the opening play, Mario consistently found the best moved in staving off the inevitable and making the win quite difficult. Trying to get a report out of Mario proved impossible; you see - you have to beat Mario with a stick to get him to say anything at all! LOL. George and I both wondered many times if anyone was in the back seat riding with us to Fairbanks. Have no fear though, the young man speaks quite well with his piece play and responded by rebounding in the next two rounds to share second place money with YHR. The pairing of Lloyd Hilling and Travis Norman ended in a draw with Lloyd holding on in a 2 pawn deficit. Lloyd played tenaciously while Travis, who was constantly behind in time during the tournament, missed his opportunity in time trouble allowing Lloyd to take command of the position and force the draw.
Saturday night was another round of risers at the condo with Artem, George Lombardi and myself going over tournament finances and awards. Eight new and renewing members were added to the USCF family including one new member not even competing in the tournament!! (Please remember, new memberships and renewals through local affiliates, is a simple way to support Alaska Chess.)
Round three brought on the big confrontations that would finally leave the tournament up for grabs. Artem and Travis Norman drew in an ending that allowed neither player much hope for progress, while YHR and Anton Kulchitsky paired off in a fireworks contest that ended badly for Anton when he missed a forced queen swap ending his chances. Lloyd Hilling continued his rating point accumulations by defeating Russ Riddlington in fine style. This game was also ripe with tactical nuance and would be decided by tempo and nerves with both players' kings in jeopardy. Lloyd had the final say with unstoppable penetration of queen and bishop while Russ was only one move behind in an attack that would have also been decisive. After the round, reporters from the Fairbanks Daily News, interviewed Artem, Harry Karmun and myself with the resultant article yet another boon for Alaskan chess. Hopefully a full display of the article will be available on this web site soon. Fairbanks Daily News Miner - "Making all the right moves"
When the smoke cleared from previous round, three players held 2.5 pt. scores and three held 2.0. Due to color allocations, the computer paired Artem with U1800 winner, Lloyd Hilling, YHR with Travis Norman and Mario Vinoya would play U1600 winner Richard Clendaniel. While Dick had the better position in the ending, a misstep allowed Mario to swipe the full point from the contest. Travis and YHR drew in a Benoni - four pawns' attack, with YHR assembling a perpetual check position while staving off an eventual loss on the queenside. USCF Master Artem Ratchkovski, finally humbled Lloyd with a surgical pawn and piece strike on the kings' side that left Lloyd's king searching for a safe position which was not to be. Sooooooooo... the, Interior Fall tournament crown, would move from your humble reporter to Master Artem. Who woulda thunk!! LOL. Cross table results attached for your pleasure.
And least but not last, all concerned USCF members are reminded that elections for USCF affiliate offices are coming soon. The Alaska State Championship tournament will be the first opportunity, for those interested, to nominate members who will hold offices within the USCF affiliate. All USCF members will be effected by the results and should consider these elections a serious matter.
Your current officers are:
President - Charles (Chuck) Sherwood
Vice President - Richard (Rick) Everett
Secretary - Travis Norman
Give it some thought when you have the chance and talk this over at you local chess clubs. Participation in any election is important and the American way!
Hope to see you all at State!"
"Chuck Sherwood"
Scholastic Report
"Abbot Loop Elementary Chess Club"
"The Abbott Loop CC began back in September and has 30 students enrolled. This chess club takes place after school at Abbott Loop from 3:30-4:30. We usually have 12 boards going every week with instruction and friendly competition.
We begin each week with our one “league” game. As the students finish they play other students who are also finished. Due to the newness of chess for many of these students we have a unique, but time tested, scoring system. The scoring system below is helpful for these learning players as it rewards their progress in understanding the game. Most students become very motivated to learn mating patterns when they can’t score the 4 points they want!
Abbott Loop Scoring
Checkmate- 4pts
Significant Material Adv- 3pts
Draws/Stalemate 2pts
Loss 1pt
We also offer extra-credit points through “homework”. For example, one week asked the question, “What is the only piece whose check on the King cannot be blocked by moving a piece in the way?”. This went along with our Checkmate homework. During the last 15-20 minutes of class we have instructional basics.
Abbott Loop has also signed-up for the USCF sponsored Youth Chess Program. This program entitles the school to five free tournament chess sets and ten free memberships to qualifying students. We are hoping to sign-up 20 new USCF memberships through the Abbott Loop CC. This would certainly be a boost to Scholastic chess here in Anchorage.
Someday we would like to add a Scholastic section to this already great web site But that takes time and help.
Currently Michael Ross, Autumn and Michael Brooks and Lila Wilkinson have been assisting at the club. They are all great with children! Marie Lacher, the school representative has been a terrific help in coordinating so many details."
"Don Brooks"
The Scholastic/Junior Chess Shoot - Out is coming up this Friday and Saturday, October 22nd and 23rd. Youth players don't miss out, this is a road to Chess improvement you must take!!
The Alaska State Championship Tournaments will once again be hosted by Integrity Solutions Inc! Our Thanks to Dean Barnes can not be over emphasized!!
The Fur Rondy Tournament held in February, 2005 will once again be hosted by the NECA/IBEW Training Facility! Again, it's hard to Thank NECA/IBEW enough for their continued support over the years!
Well folks, I'm sorry to say that I had to skip the Interior Fall Tournament again this year due to health related issues. Issues that will be addressed this week as I prepare for another visit to the Hospital. While I'm disappointed that I wasn't able to compete, I'm comforted by the fact that Alaska's Chess Players and our Sponsors have united enough to assure that there will indeed be many more opportunities for us all to "thrash it out" over the Chess Board, and that my friends IS the Royal Game!
Thanks to everyone out there that supports Alaska Chess!!
Until next time...
September 30, 2004
Greetings Chess Players,
The big news this week for Tournament Chess Players is the Annual Interior Fall Tournament held each year in Fairbanks has been finalized. The 2nd tournament of the winter season promises to be an all out dog fight and possibly the strongest field of competitors seen in quite some time! The news is that red hot junior player Mario Vinoya and several others from the Anchorage and Kenai area are going to answer the call to arms and go kick some Chess butt in Fairbanks! :o) I'm sure the players in Fairbanks and vicinity have a completely different idea in mind and with such notable competitors as for instance Artem Ratchkovski, Travis Norman, Lance Roberts, Lloyd Hilling, Russ Riddlington, Harry Karmun and many others, "it ain't gonna be easy to collect Chess scalps!!" There is no doubt the 8th ACL Event of 2004 will be a great tournament!! Thanks again to Artem, Travis, Harry and the University of Alaska Fairbanks for providing Alaska's Chess Players another chance to compete and compete we shall! Gather up your gear people, and we'll see you in Fairbanks!
The Scholastic/Junior Chess Shoot - Out on the 22nd and 23rd of October is an event all of Alaska's Youth Chess Players should be looking forward too! Another event conducted by Don Brooks just has to be a blast! For two days it'll be fun filled Chess and you can count on that! I look forward to seeing all of you "youngsters" soon and Thanks again Don and Grace Baptist Church for helping fill the void for Alaska Youth Chess!!
There was a blitz tourney scheduled at Borders Chess Club last night but it wasn't held. Instead over a dozen(!) of us just decided to play some off hand games and banter about. I hadn't been to the Chess Club in quite awhile and wondered if you folks were still hangin' out at Borders on Wednesday nights? I have to say that I was pleasantly humbled with the welcome back from not only you guys but the management and workers at Borders as well!
What can I say, Thanks
and Until next time....
September 11, 2004
Hello Chess Friends,
The Labor Day Open 2004 was a Chess Tournament full of surprises right from the start. Friday night saw long time Alaskan Alan Thebodeau from the Willow area, returning to the tournament scene after a rather long absence due to employment responsibilities. Travis Norman of Fairbanks made the flight down for a tournament after what seems like forever. Scott Mason who lives in Washington State but works on and off in Alaska was able to join in. After we all gathered up at registration there were 19 of us, ready, willing and able to "get it on". We would have had the "magical" 20, but Alison Parshall of Kenai had to drop out due to illness (we hope you're doing better Alison). It's always great to see everyone again!
The 1st round saw a shocking result when Dylan Tucker rated 1108 defeated Andy Duren rated 1770! Although this game wouldn't be the only upset for the tournament, by any stretch of the imagination, Dylan's victory eventually resulted in his winning the Upset prize. I have to admit that I thought Dylan was playing a "little joke" as he does have a sense of humor, but alas it was true!! Congrat's Dylan!!
Although round 2 was uneventful for upsets the plot was indeed thickening and in round 3, out of a clear blue sky Alaska High School Champ Ryan Cassidy (1545) received a thorough "spankin" from Miss Autumn Brooks (976)! Folks, I was totally into playing good chess in the tournament and for me that means staying at my board and working hard, however I did manage to see the end of this game and it blew me away. A really great win Autumn! Ryan, being the young chess warrior that he is, rebounded hugely from this upset and won the Top Scholastic prize for the tourney. Congrat's Ryan!! Another upset came in round 3 when Kevin Barrett (898), (returning to tournament chess after a 30 year absence) defeated George Lombardi (1420) of Kenai Chess Challenge fame. This win helped Kevin capture the under 1200 prize. Great job Kevin and welcome back!
By Sunday mourning and round 4 things were heating up for a furious finish. Mario Vinoya (1603) and Travis Norman (2117) were paired on board 1. Would the upset monster rear it's ugly head once again? You bet it would! Mario won what was a wild game. I was playing on board 2, down 2 gambit pawns and had my hands full with always dangerous Chuck Sherwood, glimpsing over at Mario's and Travis's game a few times, it appeared at one point that Mario had two rooks and some pawns vs 4 minor pieces. A pretty crazy position that Mario pulled through and won. Travis later told me that Mario sacrificed 4 different times in their game. Did I mention upset monster? New comer and unrated Ramakrishnan Venkatagiri upset Andy Duren once again. Outstanding job "Ram"! Poor Andy really took it on the chin this tournament. I have no doubt that he will rebound!
The upset monster couldn't rest even in round 5! Mario again took the spotlight on board 1 versus Scott Mason (1952). A tough game that Mario eventually won in a knight vs bishop ending. After this fine victory Mario Vinoya clinched 1st prize with a perfect score of 5-0! A huge congratulations to you Mario on a fine performance!! Rounding out the prize winners were Rick Everett (YHR) and Ramakrishnan Venkatagiri tying for 2nd and 3rd. "Ram" played in his 1st USCF rated tournament over Labor Day weekend and cranked off 4 consecutive wins after a 1st round loss. Congratulations "Ram", enjoy the trophy and don't worry about your membership it's been taken care of! We all enjoyed meeting you and you're always welcome! Winning the under 1800 prize was long time Chess supporter and tournament player Dick Clendaniel. Congrat's Dick, nice to see you in the winners circle!!
As always, We should of course Thank Chuck Sherwood for his director contributions. My apologies for any confusion concerning USCF membership renewals, etc. I simply didn't know USCF had changed it's membership categories. Local Channel 11 News came down Saturday night and interviewed Michael Brooks during the tournament. It was aired later that evening and I'm hoping to get a copy of the interview that we can use for a photo album as I forgot the camera on Sunday. Folks, I've played tournament Chess for over 30 years and I've never seen such an uprising of "under dogs" as there was at the Labor Day Open 2004! It made for an excellent competition that I hope everyone enjoyed. I'm always pulling for the "under dog" and I can tell you this, if you keep playing like you have been, you won't be an "under dog" for long!!
There is a pow-wow of sorts going on at UAF this weekend and it looks like there will be a tournament in Fairbanks over the October 16-17 weekend. I'll post the details when I get them and Thanks All You Guys in Fairbanks for throwing another tournament! On October 23-24 the Scholastic Chess Shoot-Out takes place, don't miss out Kid's, this'll be a blast for sure!
Until next time.....
August 12, 2004
"This year's Castle Defenders Chess Camp was a great time and a wonderful success! Thirty-seven enthusiastic chess players came together for this Chess first in Anchorage. Students traveled from Tok, Palmer, Chugiak, and more to join the locals for a two day Chess smorgasbord.
The Chess smorgasbord included six classes, four G/30 tournament games and two Blitz KO tournaments. Our teachers for the Swordsmen were Autumn Brooks and Lila Wilkinson. We had 14 young battlers in this class. Autumn and Lila did a fantastic job teaching their students the basic principles of chess. Several of their students needed to learn how to play. One such boy, who was convinced we were going to play checkers, went home after the first day and taught his grandma how to play!
Kevin Barrett instructed our Cavalier level class. We were especially appreciative of Ben Hoback's assistance in this class. Kevin and Ben worked with 14 hungry chess players ranging from 7-12 years of age. Kevin and Ben did a great job. Thanks guys.
Rick Everett taught our Monarchs - The Rulers of the Game. His style was especially appreciated by his students. There were nine Monarchs learning from our Camp expert. Rick took his students through some of Capa's games. It was very instructive. As director I had the opportunity to peek in on occasion. It was not easy to pull myself away! They also looked at Greek Gifts and other thematic positions.
The tournaments held a special excitement. We had three divisions in our G/30 tournament. The 5-8 year old division was won by Cody Weisz. Cody traveled all the way from Tok to take the prize with a perfect score. Second and third went to Chendall and Wynter Brooks respectively with a 3.0 score. The 9-11 year old division was won by Will Brooks with a perfect 4.0 score. Two Tok chessers took second and third with a 3.0 score, Gustavo Cruz and Karill Fusin. The 12 year old and up division featured the HS State champion, Ryan Cassidy. Everyone was gunning for him, but no one could find a chink in his armor. Ryan took first with a 4.0 score. Autumn and Michael Brooks took second and third respectively with a 3.0 score. Ryan got them both!
In the Blitz KO tourney we had two divisions. 5-10 year old and 11 year old and up. The format was each playing a game with black and white. In the event of an even score a third game was played with black getting draw odds. The 5-10 year old division began with 18, no holds barred, competitors. After a prelim and then the round of 16 and 8 completed we arrived at the final four. The final four pitted Will Brooks versus Mikalea Young and Zoe Cromwell versus Chendall Brooks. Both Will and Chendall advanced to the final with Will Brooks earning the championship.
In the 11 year old and up division we had 15 fearless competitors. After the round of 16 and 8 were completed we arrived at a final four of Aaron Wilkinson versus Ryan Cassidy and Michael Brooks versus Autumn. Ryan and Michael advanced and played in the final. Once again the HS champ held off the best effort of Michael and won the championship 2-0.
We would like to thank the rest of our non-teaching staff as well. Kim and Kacey Barrett were a tremendous help and I would not have kept my sanity without them. Annie Cromwell was our chief cook! She fed us well. We would like to thank Grace Baptist Church for their wonderful Family Life Center. It worked out great!"
G/30 |
Ages 5-8 |
9-11 |
12 and up |
|---|---|---|---|
1st |
Cody Weisz |
Will Brooks |
Ryan Cassidy |
2nd |
Chendall Brooks |
Gus Cruz |
Autumn Brooks |
3rd |
Wynter Brooks |
Karill Fusin |
Michael Brooks |
4th |
Caleb Clampitt |
Matthew Wilkinson |
Aaron Wilkinson |
5th |
Stephanie Bailey |
Riley Andrus |
Robb Miller |
6th |
Jordon Young |
Mari Easterly |
Nick Brotherton |
"Don Brooks"
The Castle Defenders Chess Camp was indeed a terrific event! Much thanks is due to Camp director Don Brooks for putting this event together. Don has priceless experience with Chess and Kids from his earlier days in his home state of Michigan. He is able to captivate the audience with just a few words and keep things upbeat at all times. He put together a fantastic support staff that was there for everything! His efforts resulted in the largest gathering of Kids and Chess in a very long time. The event was an action packed two days of Chess. Blitz Chess and G/30 games kept the participants pretty busy between Classes. This was my first experience as a Chess instructor (I use the term loosely) and I enjoyed it a lot. My students (again, loosely) were both eager and attentive in our analysis of a few games and positions throughout Camp. We had a position where we found a mate in six in a "Greek Gift" sacrifice, however we later discovered that there was actually a mate in 4! I'd say we learned from each other, and if that is what it means to be a Chess instructor, then by all means count me in for Castle Defenders Chess Camp 2005! Both Donald Brooks with his various Youth Chess events and George Lombardi of the Kenai Chess Challenge are both great assets to the Alaska Chess Community! If I might speak for Alaska's Chess Players, We Thank You!! Photos are HERE and my apologies if I've accidentally left someone out or misspelled your name.
The Labor Day Open is right around the corner and I hope everyone is hungry for another "knock-down, drag-out" OTB tourney! This annual event is the unwritten start of the "Winter Chess Season". I hope each of you are as excited as I am to lace up the gloves and have some fun. See you at the Super 8!
October will have another event for Youth Chess. The Scholastic/Junior Chess Shoot-Out will be held October 22nd and 23rd. Make plans now, it's gonna be another blast for Youth Chess! No word yet on the Interior Fall Tournament in Fairbanks, also scheduled for October.
On a less up-beat note Ben Hoback will be leaving Alaska for Washington state in a week or so. Although we wish Ben "happy travels" he will indeed be missed around the local Chess Clubs, Tournaments and various Chess events. Ben has been a great volunteer for Chess, never having to be asked to volunteer, instead just stepping forward and doing what ever was required. We'll miss you Ben and hope to make your acquaintance again someday soon.
Until I see you at Labor Day, Good Chess....
July 27, 2004
Hi Chess Fans,
The Kenai Chess Challenge has come to an end for another year. This years event saw a sizeable group of both kids and adults gather for the all day Chess Camp on Friday. Various subjects were addressed with the Queening of a lone pawn being the most prevalent. Coach Chuck Sherwood saw his efforts rewarded when he offered free ice cream for those that could solve the puzzle. His group of Kids got real interested in queening that pawn when they realized a delicious cone awaited them. Both ice cream and Chuck's pocket began to run dry after only a short while! The Kids know what it takes to queen a pawn and it ain't ice cream!!
Later on Friday evening Chuck Sherwood and Rick Everett (YHR) gave a Simultaneous Exhibition in which we alternated moves. That is to say Chuck made a round of moves on all boards and then I followed in the same fashion. This made for an interesting competition and though we eventually won all the games it was certainly no push over. Especially notable for the Simul are both Randy Parshall and Michael Brooks as their games lasted the longest and weren't really decided until late in the games. Friday was indeed a fun filled Chess day. We even managed to get in a few games of "bughouse chess" before the dinner break. I'm sure I can speak for Chuck when I say that we had a great time with both the Chess Camp and the Simul and look forward to doing it again next year!
Saturday mourning registration saw 14 players entering the main event and a school of salmon "five miles long" entering the Kenai River. Of the 14 entrants 9 were from Anchorage, thanks to the participation of the 4 Brooks family members. The excitement started in round 1 when Randy Parshall won the upset prize for the tournament by snaring Ben Hoback's queen. This was one of those "you're kidding" moments in a tournament as a rumor spreads. Congratulations to Randy for not only winning the upset prize but also the U1400 prize and over a hundred rating points to boot!
Round 2 saw a little more drama unfold as Don Brooks, Dad of the Brooks family, was up material with Randy Parshall. Don lost the thread of the game momentarily but was able to draw with two pawns down at one point. A very real Chess fight, Congrat's to both for a true "duke out".
Round 3 started with a hullabaloo as my second ostomy appliance failed in two consecutive days. Those in the know realize an ostomy appliance should last for at least five days, my new order however, couldn't last 24 hours it seemed. So instead of going to the tournament hall and "thashin it out" Chuck and I wound up on a path that led over "hill and dale" to find what had to be the only ostomy appliance on the Kenai peninsula! Thanks to the gentleman at the Soldotna Hospital Emergency Room! This fellow was the difference between going back to Anchorage or going back to the Tournament Hall. The tournament director and those in concern decided to score my game with Chuck as an unplayed draw. This left Jesse Holganza of Anchorage on top of the leader board with a perfect score going into the last round.
The drama continued in Round 4 as Ben Hoback pinned Chuck's queen to his king as he experienced a moment or two of "chess blindness". Jesse Holganza and I were locked up in an unbalanced position where I feared he would deliver a perpetual check if I weren't especially careful. Though down on time I eventually came upon a position where it was "swap queen's or else" and the honorable Jesse extended his hand. Mean while Bryan Moore (nice to see you again) was putting the cu de gras to Michael Beck. That left YHR in 1st place with Bryan, Jesse and Ben tying for 2nd - 4th. Rounding out the prize winners was youngster Alison Parshall who finished 1st in the Scholastic/Junior Section.
The Kenai Chess Challenge is always a blast whether one plays, coaches, observes, directs or organizes. I can guarantee you a good time if you participate in some fashion. There is Chess here for everyone! As always, Thanks to George Lombardi for giving Alaska's Chess Players another opportunity to compete. Next years Kenai Chess Challenge will be the 4th Annual event. With that being said we bid farewell and until next year to our Summertime Rondy the Kenai Chess Challenge. Photos are HERE. Cross-tables are HERE.
Next on the agenda is the Castle Defenders Chess Camp scheduled one week from this Friday. Designed with Chess for Kid's in mind this event is going to really be something special. Alaska has seen a renaissance of sorts with youth Chess thanks in particular to the Brooks and Parshall families and our new found friends in Tok and Girdwood, Alaska. This gathering of Alaska youth will have Chess, Chess and more Chess delivered in a fun and entertaining manner. We hope that everyone of you youngsters can make it to this event held Just for You!
The Labor Day Open is also on the menu, so start making plans now for the 1st tournament of the winter season!
Until next time.....
July 16, 2004
Hi Guys,
I hope everyone is ready for this years Kenai Chess Challenge, I know I am. I'm looking forward to seeing all of our Chess friends down on the Kenai Peninsula and beyond. Rumor has it that some players from Fairbanks and Anchorage (at least) will make the journey to this virtual Carnival of Chess, with it's Chess Camp, Simul's, Tournament and all around great Chess atmosphere. I also look forward to playing tournament Chess again without having the responsibilities and duties of the director/organizer distracting me in the back of my mind. We should all thank George Lombardi for his efforts to provide us all with another opportunity to compete at our Royal Game. Do yourself a favor and come to Kenai next weekend and "thrash it out" over the Chess Board!!
A couple of days ago when I was furiously busy trying to get a home network to actually network the door bell rang. Rather surprised, I found that UPS had a completely unexpected package for me. So I signed for the package and only mildly curious, tossed it on the couch, since my wrestling match with the network beckoned me. We were tied in a 2 out of 3 falls match. As the night wore on and the deciding go with the network seemed like it might last forever I forgot about the surprise package completely. Night grew into day and the network wrestling match ended in victory for Your Humble Reporter. It was finally time for some sleep after this true test of stamina and endurance. Awake five hours later and I'm back at the network just to make sure it wasn't some kind of dream, it wasn't, the network actually worked!
On my way for another cup of coffee, I flip on the TV news and notice our package lying on the couch. Now I'm curious, upon examination the package revealed only my address and the words "hand held game" stamped on it. After gathering up the required tools to break into so many of today's modern packaging schemes, I went at it. After a modest struggle I discovered an Excalibur Touch Chess Computer hidden in the box. After further exploration I found what has got to be one of the most shocking and unexpected letters I have ever read.
U.S. CHESS FEDERATION
July 2004
Dear 2003 MAP Winners,
On behalf of the U.S. Chess Federation and Excalibur Electronics I would like to thank you for participating in the 2003 Membership Appreciation Program. As you may know, the program was brought back because of a $5,000 donation made by Shane Samole, CEO of Excalibur Electronics. He wanted to show his support for organized chess in the U.S. and give USCF members an incentive to recruit new members and bring old ones back into the fold.
Enclosed you will find your Excalibur Touch Chess Computer for being one of the top 25 recruiters in the program. We appreciate all the members and affiliates that took part in the program bringing in many new and renewing members. All of the 2003 MAP winners will have their names on display for one year at the World Hall of Fame & Sidney Samole Chess Museum in Miami.
You can find the results of the program on page 45 in the March issue of Chess Life.
Once again thank you for your participation and support and hope to see your name again as part of the 2004 Program.
Sincerely,
Bill Goichberg
Executive Director
Well folks, what do you think of that? By playing in tournaments over the last couple of years you've helped put the words Alaska Chess (League) on display at the World Hall of Fame & Sidney Samole Chess Museum in Miami, Florida, USA! I personally think that it's pretty cool and hope that your continued devotion to Chess will never wane and that everyone in our Great State that provides the opportunity for people to play Chess continue to do so with new found exuberance. Maybe next year this state wide Chess community will finish in the top ten!?
Prior to my bitter but victorious struggle with the network I had another computer related fight installing our new search engine. While searching forums and the like for much needed information to complete my quest I came upon the following article:
THIS ALASKAN LIFE "The mystery of chessboxing" By Kyle Hopkins
Mr Hopkins' article is delightful and gives a good representation of the more popular chess Clubs in Anchorage. Keep up the good work people!
Until I see you in Kenai,
Good Chess - YHR
P.S. Avatars are now available on the Chess Forums
June 21, 2004
Greetings Chess Fans,
The Kids Summer Chess Bash for 2004 has come to an end. This years event saw KIds from Anchorage, Kenai, Girdwood and Tok (!) Alaska get together for a day of Chess at the Fairview Recreation Center here in Anchorage. The event was held in two sections, rated and unrated. The Rated Section drew eight players and the Unrated Section had six. The numbers worked out right and for once there were no pesky byes. Some what surprising was the participation of four players from Tok. We were all happy to make the acquaintance of these fine young people and their sponsors. Rest assured that Chess is alive and well in Tok due to the efforts of Michelle Stout and Ellis Humphrey among others. Likewise three Kids came in from Girdwood and two from the Kenai Peninsula. Thanks are due to the sponsors and parents as well as the Fairview Recreation Center for making this a successful and fun tournament!
The Rated Section saw Mario Vinoya winning the Gold Medal with a perfect score of 4-0. Mario has won 12 of his last 13 rated games! Silver medal winners include Michael Brooks and Matthew Parshall with Autumn Brooks winning the Bronze. A Huge Congratulations to all of you!!
The Unrated Section was won by young powerhouse Will Brooks, again with a perfect score of 4-0! Will has won his last nine games in a row! The Silver Medal was won by Sam Daniel on ty-breaks over Gustavo Cruz, who took the Bronze. Receiving Honorable Mentions were Cody Weisz, Tucker Jonas and Ruby Walden. Again, Thanks and Congratulations to all of you!! Photos are HERE. Cross-tables are HERE
The 3rd Annual Kenai Chess Challenge is the next event on the calendar. This is a wonderful tournament you shouldn't miss out on, if at all possible! We hope to one day see this event become in essence the Summer Time Rondy Tournament!! Thanks to George Lombardi for making this event happen, a true patron of Chess. A word about the playing site, the Old Town Village Restaurant. Considering the size and quality of the meals that are served at this establishment, I recommend paying the slightly higher entry fee. You just can't beat this deal. For instance they have a varied menu with a burger available that's the size of a dinner plate, and is not often eaten in one sitting! We hope to see all of you in Kenai next month!
We have an update concerning the Thunderbird Open held this past April:
"Mr. Sherwood, I read your article about the Thunderbird Open and wanted to give you an update. The Air Force decided not to send two representatives from each base. Instead, they chose two representatives from Pacific Air Forces, which includes three bases in Japan, two in Korea, one in Guam, one in Hawaii, and two in Alaska. Major Michael Croslen from Hawaii and I were selected based on our ratings to compete in Biloxi in a field of sixteen players. When I get back I'll send you an email and let you know how it went." - Jeremy Thomas
Thanks and Good Luck Jeremy, we look forward to the tournament update!
Don Brooks, Camp Director for the Castle Defenders Chess Camp, slated for early August, sends us this:
Meager Claim to Fame
" Hey Rick, I got a meager claim to fame here that no one, including my family, is very impressed with :)
But I keep trying -- it's attached "
Definitely a worthwhile question Don, with an interesting answer(!?)
Thanks Again to all the players and supporters of Chess in Alaska for making the volunteer efforts of the Alaska Chess League worthwhile, for it is all of YOU we honorably serve!
Until next time, Good Chess!
June 5, 2004
Hi Guys,
I must apologize for the lateness of this update. Occasionally life, with it's many troubles and pleasures, is more important than ones chosen responsibilities. My health has been a major issue in my life since at least October of last year. However it seems that persistence has paid off at least partially. Although another surgery is planned for later this Fall, at least I have a better quality of life now than for the previous several months. So without further delay, lets get caught up on the Alaska Chess Scene!! YHR (Rick Everett-your humble reporter)
The Alaska Junior/Scholastic Championship, held on April 24th and 25th saw tons of swashbuckling Chess games played by our ever growing number of serious Youth competitors! All games played were thoroughly contested with the "sacrificers" winning lots of games. All the Competitors should be proud of their participation in Alaska's finest Youth Tournament, as we are all, Thankful too have you.
Champions of this years Tournament include Chendall Brooks who won the Pre-School - 1st Grade Section with a very respectable score of 2.5 - 0.5. The youngest group in this years Tournament was comprised of smart and mature children who displayed characteristics of sportsmanship not always seen in adult tournaments?! Their parents should be especially proud of them! Congratulations to Chendall for a fine performance, our youngest Champion!! Medal Winners include Tucker Jonas - Gold Medal, Michael Parshall - Silver Medal and Wynter Brooks - Bronze Medal.
The 2nd - 6th Grade Section saw Chendall's older brother Will Brooks crush his opposition with a perfect 5 - 0 score to win the Champions rights in this category. What's even more surprising is the fact that Will was a 3rd Grader competing in a field comprised of 6th Graders. An absolutely outstanding performance Will!! At this rate Will will be the man to beat in this Section for a few more years to come! Medal Winners include Will Dowd and Chad Speer - Gold Medal, Steven Dewalt - Silver Medal , Spencer Jonas - Bronze Medal and Laura Crews - Honorable Mention.
Alaska's Junior Champion in the 7th - 12th Grade Section this year is none other than Ryan Cassidy. Ryan too won his section with a perfect score of 5 - 0! This was in deed the most hotly contested section in the Tournament. Many games saw tremendous complications and the resulting nervous pressure as sudden death time control played its part. Several of Ryan's games were decided by one move knock-out blows as his opponents were overly engrossed in landing their own haymakers!? Ryan was simply better prepared to take advantage of his opportunities on his way to the Championship. Congratulations Ryan!! Medal Winners include Mario Vinoya - Gold Medal, Dylan Tucker and Michael Brooks - Silver Medal , Matthew Parshall - Bronze Medal and Alison Parshall, Jameel Vinoya, Josh Christman and Robert Miller - Honorable Mention.
A special note of THANKS to the Parents and ACL Support Staff! We can't get by without you!!
Cross-tables can be found HERE. Photographs are HERE.
The Summer Chess Calendar is full with the Kids Summer Chess Bash on June 19th. This is a wonderful opportunity for the Chess Kids to get together and have some fun! Hope to see you there!
The Kenai Chess Challenge on July 23rd, 24th and 25th is an annual event that is an absolute delight with Chess and good times on the menu! There is a "caravan" planned from Anchorage and we hope to see players from all over the state rally around the Kenai Chess Challenge 2004!!
Rounding out the list of Summer Chess Fun is a new event the CASTLE DEFENDERS CHESS CAMP on August 6th and 7th. This is a grand opportunity for the Kids to get Chess Instruction where they feel they need it most! We hope as always for a good turnout so that this event will become an annual gathering! Kids and Parents, make plans now to join in the fun!!
Thanks again for your patience, Enjoy Your Alaskan Summer!!
May 6, 2004
"Greetings Chess Fans,"
"Sorry for the delay in catching everyone up on the latest tournaments held during April - the Thunderbird Open, held at Elmendorf AFB on the 17th and the Alaska State Scholastic Championships held over the weekend of the 24th and 25th at the Super 8 Motel conference facility. The Alaska Chess League and Far North Chess would like to extend a big thank you to those of you who joined us and a reminder to all that the next, Alaska Chess League event will be the Kenai Chess Challenge held in July. Please stay tuned to this web site for an announcement of final details and location as our associate on the Kenai Peninsula, George Lombardi, endeavors to finish organization of this wonderful and welcome mid-summer event.
First off, the Thunderbird Open report. While this year's event was only a one-day - 4-round tournament held at G30 time intervals, it certainly proved to be a surprisingly hard fought contest. The intent of the tournament was for active military personnel to compete for qualification into the Armed Services National Championships in Biloxi Mississippi, but was held as an open event welcoming all who wished to do battle. With 14 players competing, the contest was split down the middle between active military and civilians/dependants - the top two active military contenders earning playoff births for Nationals.
Elmendorf's Community Recreation Center sponsored the event, providing an excellent venue with superb accommodations for the players and a pizza and soft drink lunch for all in attendance. Although there was some trouble getting through gate security to enter this military installation, with a little patience and cooperation, those who wished to compete did make it on board. Elmendorf's, Kashim Club was by far, one of the most comfortable and inviting locations it has been my pleasure to attend. Although the lighting was somewhat subdued, it was relaxing and provided an excellent atmosphere for this competition. I can only hope that we can use this same venue again in the near future and for the Thunderbird Open qualifier next year. The staff of the recreation center and the Kashim club spared nothing in providing all contenders with whatever was required including wood boards, wood sets and clocks as needed. Thank you very much, Fay and crew.
The surprise winner of the first annual Thunderbird Open was Anchorage's newcomer, Mario Vinoya. Steady and consistent in his play, Mario, proved his win of the unrated section and 3-point finish in the Fur Rondy was no fluke. Except in his fourth round contest, Mario held better positions from the opening and easily moved through the competition until meeting Del Christman in the final round. Del, while just recently rejoining the USCF ranks after a long lay-off, managed to achieve a significant advantage from the opening against Mario only to see it disappear after placing a rook en-pre in a faulty combination. One of those miscalculations that rusty chess players dread, yet all too often fall victim to while returning to Caisa after a long absence (YHR included). Unfortunate for Del, as the loss cost him a sure seat at nationals. Congratulations to Mario, obviously one of our top juniors and a splendid addition to competitive chess in Alaska.
Finishing second & third and qualifying for the two seats at nationals were Jeremy Thomas and Queen Rubio, respectively. After making a draw in the first round against 10th place finisher, Mike Gillispie, first place military qualifier, Thomas, played hard-nosed chess throughout the rest of the tournament including a spectacular fourth round upset of Charles Musselman, an early favorite. While Musselman played a spectacular 5-move forced mate against Jeff Bennett in the first round and appeared to be in fine form for the competition, like Del Christman, this last round loss also dashed his chances to earn an outright spot at nationals. Take nothing away from Thomas though, his conversion of an exchange up middle game against the time troubled Musselman, showed his concrete determination to achieve success against all odds.
While there is something to be said about the luck of the draw, don't let Queen Rubio's easier cross table results fool you; she can play chess! Newcomer to Alaska, Queen, will easily fit in as one of the top female competitors in Alaska and a strong opponent. Queen mentioned that she has competed at nationals before and there is no reason to doubt her qualifications to represent Elmendorf AFB, at this year's event. Queen simply mowed down the opponents she was paired with - and that, was that! Stopping Randal Williams' push to top in the fourth round won Rubio the third place plaque and a ticket to the big show. Congratulations to Jeremy and Queen for stepping up to the challenge.
Also stepping up and yet again displaying the strength of the youth movement in Alaska, was Michael Brooks. Finishing fourth on tie-breaks with 2.5 points, Mike took home the top scholastic finisher plague. With a brilliant win against Randal Williams in the first round, a draw against Del Christman in the second, only a loss to qualifier Jeremy Thomas in the third slowed down Michael as he defeated Gillispie in the fourth to take home the hardware once again. Michael was not the only noteworthy performance from the Brooks family at this tournament as younger brother, Will Brooks, finished with a very respectable 2- point performance. Will B. also entertained all with a speed chess game against Queen Rubio between rounds that caught many by surprise with his apparent strength. With a tenacious, battle until the end - fighting brand of chess, Will is coming on fast - LOOK OUT ALL!
As usual, the cross-table/standings is posted on the tournament results page for your review. Plans are underway to alter the Thunderbird Open format next year. Increasing the number of rounds and time interval was just a couple of the suggestions fielded from the competitors at the end of the contest. These suggestions and others are being considered by the recreation center staff who also seemed quite pleased to add chess to their list of activities offered to the active military and their dependants. The Alaska Chess League and Far North Chess are proud to have had the opportunity to offer our expertise in directing this event and have assured the organizers that we are available whenever and wherever our armed services request us. Thanks again to all who competed, we hope to see many of you at the Kenai Chess Challenge this summer.
Stay tuned for a report on the Scholastic Championships following shortly".
Chuck Sherwood
March 26, 2004
Hi Guys,
There is good news for you regular tournament players out there. The Thunderbird Open will be held out on Elmendorf Air Force Base on April 17th. It will be a four round, game 30, non-rated, one day event. The top 2 active duty military finishers will be eligible to participate in the Armed Services Championships held in Biloxi, Mississippi later this year. There are at least eight players pre-registered for this event according to the tournament host on Elmendorf. Sounds like fun and with a non-rated event there's not much to lose, so what are you waiting for?
Good news for the Kids out there, the Alaska Scholastic Championships are slated for April 24th and 25th. This years tournament will be held at the Super 8 Motel here in Anchorage. Unfortunately the venue had to be changed this year because of budget cuts within the Municipality of Anchorage. The Fairview Recreation Center is currently closed on Sundays. However, that is not to say there want be any Chess going on there, as the Summer Chess Bash for Kid's will be held at the Rec Center on June 19th. Both highly entertaining and competitive competitions. Good luck guys and gals!!
Next, on July 23rd, 24th and 25th the 3rd Annual Kenai Chess Challenge takes place. This is a great tournament run by George Lombardi who lives just outside of Kenai. There is a tournament, a simultaneous exhibition and various lectures and lessons offered each year. Did I mention that the Kenai River is full of fish during this time of year? So, if you're into Chess and/or the great Alaska outdoors this is simply an opportunity you can't miss!
NM Artem Ratchkovski has given another Scholastic Simul in Fairbanks. Artem is a great guy and does various things for the Fairbanks Chess community. Without him I feel they would be a little lost up north, as he sets a fine example not easily followed!!
It seems at least a couple of Alaska's very own have been recognized in our national chess magazine "Chess Life". Ben Hoback has busted an Al Horowitz endgame in our first example, A futile bishop? Great job Ben!
Next is Chuck Sherwood for his win against GM Yermolinsky in last years National Open in Vegas. It seems that those free lessons I've been giving Chuck are finally showing some fruit! Just kidding of course, please see Claiming his Fame for complete details. Killer job Chuck!!
Ryan Cassidy has sent in a game from the Fur Rondy that he is particularly proud of, and rightly so. Please click here for the annotated game.
Andrew Duren has sent in an annotated game from the Rondy as well. For the "very instructional" game please click here.
Robert Carley has been at it again and sends us the game data bases for the Alaska State Championship and the Alaska Open Championship held this past November. Again, Thanks Rob, Andy, Chuck, Ben, Artem and Ryan, as your contributions to Chess and the web site are "priceless".
Finally I should take a moment to mention the Borders Chess Club and some of our regular and devoted members. My young friend Scott Greene won a game from what I believe was his first expert (yours truly) the last meeting I was able to attend. It seems that young Scotty has not only learned to not leave his pieces hanging but instead looks for his opponent to leave his hanging!! Great job Scotty, keep working like you have been on your Chess game and you'll soon find yourself with more expert scalps I'm sure!
And in closing, I would like to mention that another regular and devoted young member Nate Link has written a couple of poems that have actually been published! There are some really sharp kids playing Chess at Borders! I'll leave you with Nate's poems, my favorite is "Warrior on a Battlefield".
Silent Thoughts of a High School Student
Why are my thoughts not on my future,
why is my mind thinking of elsewhere?
I ask what I might do in the future,
will I be my father's son or will I burn a new path asunder?
In my mind, I picture nothing people tell me,
that's where to start.
My journey is starting forgotten of all help,
I go with only my hope for progress
upon the slate that is my life.
Warrior on a Battleground
As I lay here on the muddy ground
Thankful for what small peace I've found
I think of all of those I'd trust with my very life
then the memory of those I've lost brings sadness to my eyes
My men they trusted my words of judgment
they stayed faithful to me
they were my friends and comrades what's more they were family
A spark of anger fills my eyes
as I watch the battle rage on
my memories fade as I rest where I lay gathering my energy
for my honor I clutch my sword
for my men I clutch my shield
I roll to my feet and rush forward with a warriors battle cry
"ONWARD TO VICTORY"!
Nate Louis Link
Until next time.........
February 26, 2004
Greetings chess fans,
The 2004 Fur Rondezvous chess tournament is now in the books and as we close out the tournament with USCF rating reports and new/renewing membership applications, I take this chance to thank all of you who took part in this historic, annual event. The Rondy tournament has taken place every year since 1960 (if my history is correct) making this tournament the 44th annual occurrence of this gathering of new and old Alaskan chess players. This year saw Wayne Gordon flying in from Salt Lake City, Utah to win the event, while travelers from as far away as Bethel, Fairbanks, the Pan Handle and Kenai Peninsula all added to the ranks of those who attended.
The winner of this year's event, Wayne Gordon is an "old time" Alaskan living outside our great state these days, whose presence in Alaskan tournaments was frequent during the 70's, 80's and 90's. In fact Wayne's last Rondy appearance in 1996, saw him finish ahead of such players as USCF Masters, Artem Ratchkovski and Robert Curry, expert Rick Everett and young and upcoming FIDE Master, Brian Smith. While not playing up to his usual standards in the 35th annual Rondy in 1995, Wayne finished in the 3rd position in 1994 behind such notables as International Grandmaster, Dmitry Gurevich, and International Masters, John Donaldson and Georgi Orlov. In 1993 Wayne had a fine 2nd place finish behind IM Orlov, while 1992 saw him tied in the 3rd position with Women's International Grandmaster, Irina Levitina. Needless to say, Wayne has had some outstanding performances in the past and it is certainly nice to see him check back into Alaskan chess with this 4.5 pt. performance in the new millennia. We hope the $350.00 - 1st place prize check Wayne takes away, will help with some of his travel expenses.
Artem Ratchkovski and Ben Hoback tie in the 2nd & 3rd, position for this year's event, scoring a respectable 4.0 points each with Artem winning the tie break and taking home the 2nd place trophy. Artem and Ben split second and third place money taking away $187.50 each for their efforts this year. Doug Koch and Ron Campbell round out the top 5, with Doug taking the fourth position on tie breaks. Although their score of 3.5 points was also achieved by Lloyd Hilling from Fairbanks and Jesse Vizcocho, from Anchorage , our "average opposition" and "head to head" tie break methods, placed them in the 6th and 7th positions respectively. Doug and Ron took home the 4th - 5th place money sharing $150.00, while Jesse and Lloyd took home $60.00 apiece winning 1st- place class prizes.
In the junior division, a straw pole was held prior to the first round and the youth/scholastic competitors decided to compete in their own tournament, (separated from the adults) with Ryan Cassidy and newcomer Mario Vinoya remaining to compete in the Open section. While Ryan did not cash in, in the Open at 2.5 points, unusual for him these days, his score was still quite respectable. Mario joins organized chess competition this year for the first time and in his first tournament, wins the unrated section, outright, with 3.0 points! I spy shades of a young Rafael Castaneda in this young man. Ryan finishes 19th and Mario places 12th in the Open section. Needless to say both Ryan and Mario are powerful youth players whose presence will certainly be felt in upcoming tournaments.
The youth/scholastic division also saw an unrated winner as 14 year-old, Patrick Brinnich-Langlois from Bethel Alaska, weighed in with a perfect score of 5.0 points to take first place honors. Patrick astonished all with his entry into the tournament, coming out of nowhere to take this section by force. Hopefully we will see more of him as his presence certainly augments the already strong youth movement in Alaska chess players. Matthew Parshall, from the Kenai Peninsula, scored 4.0 points, winning clear second surprising everyone with his tenacious play. Scott Green and Dylan Tucker (Dylan also competes out of Kenai.) shared the 3rd - 4th place positions respectively, lending credence to the scores above them as both of these antagonists are youth competitors of considerable strength. Autumn and Michael Brooks as well as Alison Parshall score 2.5 points each to tie in the 5th - 6th - 7th positions respectively. Autumn takes away the "Best Ladies Performance" award even though missing an opportunity for a clear win against Alison - their game ending in a draw; these two have yet to define who will dominate between them. Clearly the two top female competitors in Alaska at this time, we hope more ladies will endeavor to compete at classical time frames and build the ranks of Alaska's female competitors.
Jake Lawson, Will Brooks, Josh Piltz and Robert Miller, close out the youth tournament. Although Josh Piltz dropped early due to illness, Jake, Will and Robert filled the bottom half of the tournament with lively games and good sportsmanship and will all certainly benefit from their experience at the 2004 Fur Rondezvous. The performances of our youth warriors during the Rondy provides a fine dress rehearsal to the upcoming Youth/Scholastic State Championships slated for later this year. We have a problem at this time with a location for this tournament but will resolve this issue shortly and provide the stage where these individuals will define who's-who for the year 2004 in youth chess.
The 2004 Fur Rondy did provide a bit of nostalgia with many players returning for the first time in years. Wayne Gordon, Willie Stone, Mike McKinney and David McGraw to name a few, made this a very special event. Still, many who have competed in the recent past, did not turn out and we can only hope that next year's event will bring a few more to the board in the spirit of friendly competition and the Rondezvous tradition. Although there were a couple of dicey moments at the Rondy this year, the performance by chief tournament director, George Lombardi, was outstanding. Assistant tournament directors Ben Hoback, Dick Clendaniel, and YHR comprised the balance of the all-volunteer staff this year; coming to the aid of the Fur Rondy organizers at the last minute as ACL president Rick Everett found himself unavoidably scheduled for minor surgery which would not allow him to attend the tournament. As one competitor noted, the dicey moments are what adds the spice to any tournament and churns the competitive blood in all of us.
Tournament cross tables and class results/prizes will be available shortly and posted on this web site as we finish off the inevitable mounds of paperwork associated with tournament close-out. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all, once again, and congratulate the winners and losers alike. 44 chess players competed this year and we certainly hope for more next year, as some of the old chess players return to the joys of OTB competition and new players join USCF rated events.
More to follow..............
Chuck Sherwood #11022022
President - USCF Affiliate Offices - Alaska
Vice President - Alaska Chess League
February 10, 2004
Hi Guys,
The Fur Rondezvous Chess Tournament is only 10 days away! I hope everyone has their plans in order to attend. We have early entrants from Anchorage, Fairbanks, Sitka and Soldotna/Kenai already. The Tournament will be held at the same place as last year. I'm not exactly sure, but this years Rondy has got to be at least the 40th consecutive tournament! I would like to personally invite everyone to attend this time honored tradition. If there is one tournament in Alaska you should attend it's the Rondy! They're the BEST!! Sponsors include the NECA/IBEW Training Center, Preston Gates & Ellis, Bush Landscaping, Robert Stoller-Attorney at Law, Kean & Associates, Mr. Lombardi, Hobby Craft Inc., Borders Books & Music, Bitoz Cafe & YHR.
~ The 2004 Fur Rondy Chess Tournament will be a 5 round, two section event ~
~ All games are played at game in 90 minutes per side ~
Location: NECA/IBEW Training Center
5800 B St
Anchorage, Alaska
For directions click HERE
Event Dates and Times:
February 20, 21 and 22, 2004
Registration: Friday, Feb 20, 5:00 PM-6:00 PM
Round 1: Friday, Feb 20, 6:30 PM
Round 2: Saturday, Feb 21, 10:00 AM
Round 3: Saturday, Feb 21, 2:00 PM
Round 4: Sunday, Feb 22, 10:00 AM
Round 5: Sunday, Feb 22, 2:00 PM
Closing Ceremony: Feb 22, 5:30 PM
Open Section The "Open Section" is the Main Event and will be USCF (United States Chess Federation) rated for current, renewing or new USCF members.
One 1/2 point bye per player for the tournament. You must notify the tournament director before the start of the 1st round.
Open Section Entry Fees: Adult $25, Youth $20 (ages 15-19), Scholastic $15 (age 14 and under), Senior $20 (age 65 and over), Military $20. Family entry fee discount: First entry - full price, all other family members 1/2 off. (All adults pay full price)
Prizes: $1,500 Prize Fund
Overall - 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th & 5th place trophy plus cash prize.
Class Prizes - Under 1800, Under 1600, Under 1400, Under 1200 & Top Unrated, medals plus cash prizes. 1st, 2nd & 3rd place medals for Youth and Scholastic winners. 1st place Ladies division. Class prizes dependant on number of entrants in each class.
Coffee House Section The "Coffee House" Section is intended for those chess players that have never been a USCF member and would like to experience the atmosphere of competitive Chess without the additional cost. If you've never been in a chess tournament, then this is the chance you've been waiting for!
Coffee House Section Entry Fees: Adult $25, Youth $20 (ages 15 -19), Scholastic $15 (ages 14 and under).
Prizes - Medals and cash prizes will be awarded based on entries in each individual section. 80% of entry fees returned as prizes.
The Fur Rondezvous Chess Tournament is proudly hosted by the Alaska Chess League and it's priceless sponsors! This Tournament has always been the Annual Chess gathering in Alaska for over 40 years. So make plans now to join in the competition, festivities and friendly surroundings.
For further information please contact Rick at admin@alaskachessleague.com or (907) 222-1370 or Chuck at Sherwoodak@aol.com or (907) 338-0044.
For more details click HERE.
I hope you enjoy the new homepage! Until next time.....!! LET'S RONDY !!.......
January 30, 2004
Greetings Folks,
The Borders Chess Club was indeed "Rockin and Rollin" with Chess this past Wednesday evening. There were at least eighteen players present. I say "at least", because we ran low on Chess sets (despite Border's having a few of their own available for us) and there were some players that waited for their turn at various tables. Playing strength was represented from expert to novice alike. I would like to take the opportunity to Welcome Mario to our ranks. Mario is a very pleasant young man (17 years old) that is immigrating from the Philippines. He is a strong player and we look forward to his participation both at the Chess Club and the upcoming Fur Rondezvous Tournament.
A special note of Thanks for Bitoz Chess Club that meets on Friday and Monday nights for flying our Fur Rondezvous poster. I wish all the Chess Clubs in Alaska would follow this example. I would like to ask all of Alaska's Chess players to spread the word about the Fur Rondy Tournament. Word of mouth is often the best advertisement one could ask for and more Chess Players is definitely "a good thing" for all of us!
An Extra Special note of Thanks to the Sponsors of the Fur Rondy Chess Tournament, we simply can't get by without you!!
All for now and don't forget LETS RONDY!
January 21, 2004
Hi Guys,The photo album for the Colin Sells Simul held on January 9th is posted. This was a very enjoyable event for all that participated. Thanks again to Mr. Sells! Mr. Sells is competing at the famous "Corus Chess Festival", let's all Wish Colin Good Luck and hope that he gives us some news of his adventure!!
Please take note that a family entry fee category has been added to the Fur Rondezvous Tournament. We hope to see a few more "families" competing this year!!
Fur Rondy announcements and Far North Chess news should be showing up in your postal mailboxes this week, provided that your mailing address is on record at the Alaska Chess League. If you don't receive an announcement and would like one, please provide your mailing address.
Fur Rondy Posters are also available upon request for those that have a good spot to hang one!
Although YHR is still undergoing "therapy" on a daily basis, I did finally make it to the Borders Chess Club last Wednesday evening. Yeah, you guess it there were Chess Players there before the usual club meeting time of 7:00! It was great to see all of you and I hope that the club begins to "Rock and Roll" even more as the Rondy approaches. Pass the word people Let's Rondy!!
January 5, 2004
Happy New Year Chess Freaks!
Where to start with the goods news is a little perplexing?!
How about, the Scholastic Simul, being given at the Family Life Center of Grace Baptist Church, this Friday night at 7:00, by "A-player" Colin Sells? The youngsters wouldn't want to miss this.
Or maybe I should have started with the announcement for the New Bitoz Cafe and Chess Club? The proprietor and friends of this new cafe are wild about Chess and have a very good thing going. Although the club is officially open, look for a decent sized crowd to be gathering soon. No Chess player in the Anchorage area will want to miss this.
Or I could have led out with the news of Rob Carley's stepping forward and requesting that he be given the "chore" of putting together tournament game databases, so that they could be published on our web site? Check out Labor Day 2003 and the Kenai Chess Challenge 2003 for a sample of what's to come. Everyone that enjoys this web site should Thank Rob for his effort! Welcome aboard Rob!!
Or perhaps the news that Vortekx, Internet, Gaming, Coffee and Computer Center has offered to start up a Free Internet Chess server? This project is still in its infancy stages, but promises future competition for Chess players of all strengths and ages on a statewide as well as global basis. Any software development, techno savvy, computer geek's (lovingly :o)) out there that are interested in developing a custom user interface for this project, please contact me.
Or at last, I could have started out with a reminder for the 2004 Fur Rondy, with its $1,500 guaranteed prize fund!!
Either way you stack it, with eight rated OTB events in 2003, (despite no Memorial Day tournament) 2004 promises too be even more prosperous than last year!! Let's all hope so and join together, spread the word and continue to grow as a Chess community!?
A devoted reader sent in this little jewel during Christmas, enjoy
"A man was going to check into a prestigious New York hotel. Entering the hotel one could not help but notice how beautiful, ornate and open the foyer was. As he walked up to the registration desk he heard quite a commotion going on. Looking over, in the direction of the noise he saw a large group of men standing around making all sorts of noise. Planning to check-in, the man was a little concerned with the men and the noise they were making. So he asked the hotel clerk if he knew anything about the loud men.
The hotel clerk responded with a little disgust in his voice. Oh yes. This happens every year. Our hotel hosts the Chess Championships. At the end of every tournament there are always some--- chess nuts boasting in our open foyer."
Again, Happy New Year!!
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