Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Russian Chess Fed Supports Kirsan FIDE Presidency Candidature
Monday, December 16, 2013
London Chess Classic 2013: Jon Ludvig Hammer wins Open Section
London, Dec 15: Grandmaster and former world junior chess champion Abhijeet Gupta went down fighting against Jon Ludvig Hammer of Norway and had to settle for a tied seventh place finish in the open section of London Classic here today.
After a disappointing exit by former world champion Viswanathan Anand from the quarterfinal of the premier event, Gupta, too, could not make it to the podium as he lost his way against Hammer.
Hammer won the open section scoring 7.5 points and Abhijeet ended on 6.5. Among other Indians in the fray in the last round, Tania Sachdev and Eesha Karavade also ended on the losing side against Peter Sowray of England and Viorel Iordachescu of Moldova, respectively. Eesha finished the tournament on six points, while Tania scored five points out of a possible nine. Grandmasters D Harika and M Shyam Sundar finished on a positive note by winning the last round games with both scoring six points in all.
It was an anti-Grunfeld defense by Hammer that allowed Gupta to equalise early but the Norwegian kept pressing on the queen side. Gupta sacrificed two pawns to lure the white queen out but missed out on a forced draw vide a piece sacrifice in the middle game.
Once on top Hammer gave no chances.
Meanwhile, Hikaru Nakamura of United States deservedly won the premier event and took home a first prize of 50000 Euros defeating Boris Gelfand of Israel in the final.
Nakamura was at his creative best in the first game with white pieces where he outplayed Gelfand from a Grunfeld defense and then drew the second game easily to win the two games mini-match by 1.5-0.5.
Earlier in the semifinal, Nakamura put it across Vladimir Kramnik of Russia after surviving some scare in the first game. The American had things under control in the second game that he won to reach the final.
In the other semifinal, Gelfand accounted for English Michael Adams in a tense affair winning the first game and drawing the second to set up the clash with Nakamura.
The Indian challenge here had ended with the ouster of Anand who lost to Kramnik in the quarterfinal after a fine performance that saw him finish tied first in the preliminaries. -- PTI
Sunday, December 15, 2013
London Chess Classic 2013 Quarters: Kramnik Knocks out Anand
London: Former World Chess champion Viswanathan Anand bowed out of the London Chess Classic 2013 after losing the quarter-finals to Vladimir Kramnik of Russia 0.5-1.5 here at the Olympia.
Anand, who had shown fine form coming in to the quarters, ran out of steam in the second game with white pieces and found himself in a lost position in almost no time in the 1,50,000 Euro prize money tournament.
Michael Adams of England kept the local hopes alive by defeating Russian Peter Svidler in the tiebreaker while Boris Gelfand of Israel stole the limelight ousting Fabiano Caruana of Italy. In the other quarter-final, Hikaru Nakamura of United States defeated Nigel Short to cement his place in the semis.
It turned out to be a disappointing second game for Anand from the white side of a queen pawn opening. Kramnik opted for the age-old Tarrasch defense and Anand avoided routine theory that allowed the Russian to equalise without batting an eye.
Anand made a positional error on the 15th turn that gave Kramnik the initiative to look for more and the latter came up with some sterling manoeuvres to seize the advantage. Anand was already fighting a lost position after 20 moves and a final blunder cost him a piece and the game soon after.
While the second game was almost a no-show by Anand, the first game was a clear indication of his good form displayed thus far. Playing black Anand went for the Semi-Slav defense and looked a little worse out of the opening when Kramnik moved his queen over to the sixth rank.
However, Anand's response - a brilliant retreat ? left the spectators in no doubt that they were in for a spectacular treat in the mental boxing between two modern greats. The game ended in a draw in the ensuing endgame and it was a rather abrupt end to the contest when Anand failed to find his rhythm in the return game.
Nakamura, like Kramnik, cruised in to the semifinal defeating Short 1.5-0.5. The American won the first game with black and then drew with white making things look easy.
Michael Adams' early lead against Peter Svidler was squared off by the Russian in the return game but in the tiebreaker the English was spot on and won both his games in the ten-minute chess.
Boris Gelfand had a similar tale to tell in the tiebreaker against fancied Fabiano Caruana after both games under rapid time control ended in draws. In the open section, former world junior champion and Grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta put it across Jahongir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan to emerge in a three-way lead.
With one round still to come, the Indian shares the top honours on 6.5 points out of a possible eight along with Jon Ludvig Hammer of England and Vladislav Nevednichy of Romania. -- PTI
Anand, who had shown fine form coming in to the quarters, ran out of steam in the second game with white pieces and found himself in a lost position in almost no time in the 1,50,000 Euro prize money tournament.
Watch Live at the London Chess Classic 2013 official website.
Michael Adams of England kept the local hopes alive by defeating Russian Peter Svidler in the tiebreaker while Boris Gelfand of Israel stole the limelight ousting Fabiano Caruana of Italy. In the other quarter-final, Hikaru Nakamura of United States defeated Nigel Short to cement his place in the semis.
Photo: Ray Morris-Hill
It turned out to be a disappointing second game for Anand from the white side of a queen pawn opening. Kramnik opted for the age-old Tarrasch defense and Anand avoided routine theory that allowed the Russian to equalise without batting an eye.
Anand made a positional error on the 15th turn that gave Kramnik the initiative to look for more and the latter came up with some sterling manoeuvres to seize the advantage. Anand was already fighting a lost position after 20 moves and a final blunder cost him a piece and the game soon after.
While the second game was almost a no-show by Anand, the first game was a clear indication of his good form displayed thus far. Playing black Anand went for the Semi-Slav defense and looked a little worse out of the opening when Kramnik moved his queen over to the sixth rank.
However, Anand's response - a brilliant retreat ? left the spectators in no doubt that they were in for a spectacular treat in the mental boxing between two modern greats. The game ended in a draw in the ensuing endgame and it was a rather abrupt end to the contest when Anand failed to find his rhythm in the return game.
Nakamura, like Kramnik, cruised in to the semifinal defeating Short 1.5-0.5. The American won the first game with black and then drew with white making things look easy.
Michael Adams' early lead against Peter Svidler was squared off by the Russian in the return game but in the tiebreaker the English was spot on and won both his games in the ten-minute chess.
Boris Gelfand had a similar tale to tell in the tiebreaker against fancied Fabiano Caruana after both games under rapid time control ended in draws. In the open section, former world junior champion and Grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta put it across Jahongir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan to emerge in a three-way lead.
With one round still to come, the Indian shares the top honours on 6.5 points out of a possible eight along with Jon Ludvig Hammer of England and Vladislav Nevednichy of Romania. -- PTI
Saturday, December 14, 2013
London Chess Classic 2013: Anand tops Group, Enters Quarter Finals
London: Former World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand found his way to the knockout stage in the London Chess Classic with an easy draw against tailender Andrei Istratescu of France in the fifth round of the preliminaries that concluded here at the Olympia on Friday.
After scoring three wins in the first four games itself, Anand was destined to move to the quarter-final stage in this 16-players event split into four groups. With one round still to come in the prelims, Anand is likely to head his 'A' group with 11 points in his kitty under the Soccer scoring system in place here. (Photo: Ray Morris-Hill Read a fascinating interview with Ray Morris-Hill at our world chess championship 2013 website)
Michael Adams of England trounced compatriot Luke McShane and joined Anand on 11 points and the two meet in the next round to determine the group winner.
Michael Adams of England trounced compatriot Luke McShane and joined Anand on 11 points and the two meet in the next round to determine the group winner.
Traditionally a super tournament, the London Classic this time became a Rapid tournament as the world championship was held just two weeks before its commencement.
Anand will play as black against Adams in the decider for the first place in the last round having promoted himself to the knockout quarterfinals in the 16-players event split in to four groups.
Among other groups, Russians Vladimir Kramnik and Peter Svidler looked poised to qualify from the 'B' group while in the 'C' group Boris Gelfand of Israel and Hikaru Nakamura of United States already made the cut like Anand and Adams.
The situation in the 'D' group is also clear with Nigel short of England hitting form and the two qualifiers from here are Fabiano Caruana of Italy along with the English Grandmaster who holds a high repute.
Group A: Michael Adams 12, Vishy Anand 12, Luke McShane 4, Andrei Istratescu 4
Group B: Peter Svidler 11, Vladimir Kramnik 9, Matthew Sadler 7, Jonathan Rowson 4
Group C: Hikaru Nakamura 10, Boris Gelfand 9, Gawain Jones 7, Judit Polgar 5
Group D: Fabiano Caruana 16, Nigel Short 10, David Howell 5, Emil Sutovsky 0
Anand will play as black against Adams in the decider for the first place in the last round having promoted himself to the knockout quarterfinals in the 16-players event split in to four groups.
Among other groups, Russians Vladimir Kramnik and Peter Svidler looked poised to qualify from the 'B' group while in the 'C' group Boris Gelfand of Israel and Hikaru Nakamura of United States already made the cut like Anand and Adams.
The situation in the 'D' group is also clear with Nigel short of England hitting form and the two qualifiers from here are Fabiano Caruana of Italy along with the English Grandmaster who holds a high repute.
Group A: Michael Adams 12, Vishy Anand 12, Luke McShane 4, Andrei Istratescu 4
Group B: Peter Svidler 11, Vladimir Kramnik 9, Matthew Sadler 7, Jonathan Rowson 4
Group C: Hikaru Nakamura 10, Boris Gelfand 9, Gawain Jones 7, Judit Polgar 5
Group D: Fabiano Caruana 16, Nigel Short 10, David Howell 5, Emil Sutovsky 0
Friday, December 13, 2013
London Chess Classic 2013: Anand Extends Lead in Prelims
London: Former World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand continued with his winning ways and scored a second victory against Luke McShane of England to secure a commanding lead in the preliminary round of the London Chess Classic 2013, on Thursday, at the Olympia Centre.
On what turned out to be another fine day, Anand came up with some brilliant planning to score two back-to-back victories after earlier crushing Andrei Istratescu of France in the third round game and sealed his place in the knockout stage of the Classic this year reserved for the top two finishers.
With two games still to come in the preliminaries, the Indian ace is sitting pretty on ten points in the 'A' group, two ahead of Michael Adams under the Soccer-like scoring system in place here. McShane on four points is a distant third while Istratescu is yet to open his account.
Anand showed his class to beat McShane out of an Irregular Queen pawn opening. The middle game appeared even till Anand launched a king side attack and followed it up with a knight sacrifice that left McShane gasping. A few moves later, McShane had to part with his queen and it was all over in 38 moves. (Photo by Ray Morris-Hill)
Earlier in the third round, Anand crushed Istratescu from the black side of a Sicilian Alapin. Anand controlled the centre and came up with a well judged exchange sacrifice to march his way to victory after 50 moves.
Meanwhile in the 'B' group, Russian Vladimir Kramnik was joined by compatriot Peter Svidler on seven points after a tough day for the former.
Drawing with Sadler in round three, Kramnik lost to Svidler who is scripting a fine comeback after getting just one point from the first two games. The group is closely matched with Matthew Sadler in third place on five points and Jonathan Rowson not too far behind on four.
Boris Gelfand of Israel was joined by Hikaru Nakamura of United States in the lead in 'C' group on eight points and these two seem poised to make it to the knockout stage from here.
World's strongest woman player ever, Judit Polgar of Hungary, won her first game in the event defeating Gawain Jones of England but that took her to only four points for a joint third spot.
What Anand is doing in the 'A' group, Fabiano Caruana seems to be replicating in the 'D' group. The Italian made sure of his qualification in the next stage taking his tally to 10 points and he is now followed by highly regarded and former world championship challenger Nigel Short of England who is on seven points.
English David Howell still has some catching up to do here on five points while Emil Sutovsky is at the bottom having lost all four games so far. --PTI
Complete results round 3:
On what turned out to be another fine day, Anand came up with some brilliant planning to score two back-to-back victories after earlier crushing Andrei Istratescu of France in the third round game and sealed his place in the knockout stage of the Classic this year reserved for the top two finishers.
With two games still to come in the preliminaries, the Indian ace is sitting pretty on ten points in the 'A' group, two ahead of Michael Adams under the Soccer-like scoring system in place here. McShane on four points is a distant third while Istratescu is yet to open his account.
Anand showed his class to beat McShane out of an Irregular Queen pawn opening. The middle game appeared even till Anand launched a king side attack and followed it up with a knight sacrifice that left McShane gasping. A few moves later, McShane had to part with his queen and it was all over in 38 moves. (Photo by Ray Morris-Hill)
Earlier in the third round, Anand crushed Istratescu from the black side of a Sicilian Alapin. Anand controlled the centre and came up with a well judged exchange sacrifice to march his way to victory after 50 moves.
Meanwhile in the 'B' group, Russian Vladimir Kramnik was joined by compatriot Peter Svidler on seven points after a tough day for the former.
Drawing with Sadler in round three, Kramnik lost to Svidler who is scripting a fine comeback after getting just one point from the first two games. The group is closely matched with Matthew Sadler in third place on five points and Jonathan Rowson not too far behind on four.
Boris Gelfand of Israel was joined by Hikaru Nakamura of United States in the lead in 'C' group on eight points and these two seem poised to make it to the knockout stage from here.
World's strongest woman player ever, Judit Polgar of Hungary, won her first game in the event defeating Gawain Jones of England but that took her to only four points for a joint third spot.
What Anand is doing in the 'A' group, Fabiano Caruana seems to be replicating in the 'D' group. The Italian made sure of his qualification in the next stage taking his tally to 10 points and he is now followed by highly regarded and former world championship challenger Nigel Short of England who is on seven points.
English David Howell still has some catching up to do here on five points while Emil Sutovsky is at the bottom having lost all four games so far. --PTI
Complete results round 3:
Group A: Andrei Istratescu (Fra) lost to V Anand (Ind); Michael Adams (Eng) drew with Luke McShane (Eng).
Group B: Jonathan Rowson (Eng) lost to Peter Svidler (Rus); Matthew Sadler (Eng) drew with Vladimir Kramnik (Rus).
Group C: Gawain Jones (Eng) lost to Judit Polgar (Hun); Hikaru Nakamura (Usa) drew with Boris Gelfand (Isr)
Group D: Fabiano Caruana (Ita) drew with David Howell (Eng); Emil Sutovsky (Isr) lost to Nigel Short (Eng).
Round 4:
Group A: Anand beat McShane; Adams beat Istratescu.
Group B: Svidler beat Kramnik; Sadler beat Rowson
Group C: Polgar drew with Gelfand; Nakamura beat Jones
Group D: Howell lost to Short; Sutovsky lost to Caruana
Standings after four rounds:
Group A: 1. Anand (10); 2. Adams (8); 3. McShane (4); 4. Istratescu (0).
Group B: 1-2. Kramnik, Svidler (7 each); 3. Sadler (5); 4. Rowson (4).
Group C: 1-2. Gelfand, Nakamura (8 each); 3. Polgar (4); 4. Jones (1).
Group D: 1. Caruana (10); 2. Short (7); 3. Howell (5); 4. Sutovsky (0).
Group B: Jonathan Rowson (Eng) lost to Peter Svidler (Rus); Matthew Sadler (Eng) drew with Vladimir Kramnik (Rus).
Group C: Gawain Jones (Eng) lost to Judit Polgar (Hun); Hikaru Nakamura (Usa) drew with Boris Gelfand (Isr)
Group D: Fabiano Caruana (Ita) drew with David Howell (Eng); Emil Sutovsky (Isr) lost to Nigel Short (Eng).
Round 4:
Group A: Anand beat McShane; Adams beat Istratescu.
Group B: Svidler beat Kramnik; Sadler beat Rowson
Group C: Polgar drew with Gelfand; Nakamura beat Jones
Group D: Howell lost to Short; Sutovsky lost to Caruana
Standings after four rounds:
Group A: 1. Anand (10); 2. Adams (8); 3. McShane (4); 4. Istratescu (0).
Group B: 1-2. Kramnik, Svidler (7 each); 3. Sadler (5); 4. Rowson (4).
Group C: 1-2. Gelfand, Nakamura (8 each); 3. Polgar (4); 4. Jones (1).
Group D: 1. Caruana (10); 2. Short (7); 3. Howell (5); 4. Sutovsky (0).
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Viswanathan Anand starts off in style at London Chess Classic 2013
London: Indian ace Viswanathan Anand put the disappointing loss in the World Championship behind him and started his campaign in style by beating local Luke McShane in the first 'A' group game of the London Chess Classic that got underway here.
Anand's victory came after some precise calculation and deft manoeuvres on his 44th birthday, leaving McShane gasping from a point where he thought he had a chance.
The five-time world champion Indian thus started with three points under the Soccer scoring system in place here that gives a three points for a win and one for a draw.
Viswanathan Anand put the disappointing loss in the World Championship behind him and started his campaign in style by beating Luke McShane.
Anand was not the only one to start with full points as Michael Adams of England matched him on points at the expense of Andrei Istratescu of France in the same group.
With 16 players taking part this year, the Classic is divided in to four groups and the top two from each group will reach the knockout stage after a double round robin.
Anand heads the 'A' group on three points after the first round sharing the lead with Adams while McShane and Istratescu are yet to open their account.
Russian Vladimir Kramnik was lucky to score over compatriot Peter Svidler from a seemingly drawn endgame while wild card entrant Jonathan Rowson of England scored over country-mate Matthew Sadler from a similar situation in the 'B' group.
The 'C' group saw local hopeful Gawain Jones holding Hikaru Nakamura of United States to a draw while former world championship challenger Boris Gelfand of Israel got the better of highest rated woman Judit Polgar of Hungary.
In the 'D' group, English duo of Nigel Short and his former protege David Howell played out a draw while rating favourite Fabiano Caruana of Italy shot in to lead defeating Emil Sutovsky of Israel.
Anand played Michael Adams of England in the second round of his group and drew. -- PTI
[...] 1.e4 c6 2.♘f3 d5 3.♘c3 ♗g4 4.h3 ♗xf3 5.♕xf3 e6 6.♗e2 ♘f6 7.O-O ♗b4 8.e5 ♘fd7 9.♕g4 ♗f8 10.d4 c5 11.♗g5 ♕b6 12.dxc5 ♕xc5 13.♗e3 h5 14.♕g3 d4 15.♘e4 h4 16.♕f3 ♕d5 17.c4 ♕xe5 18.♗f4 ♕f5 19.♗d3 ♕h5 20.♘f6+ gxf6 21.♕xb7 ♘e5 22.♕xa8 ♗d6 23.c5 ♘f3+ 24.♕xf3 ♕xf3 25.gxf3 ♗xf4 26.b4 ♘c6 27.♗b5 ♔d7 28.♖fd1 e5 29.a3 f5 30.♔f1 ♔c7 31.♔e2 e4 32.fxe4 fxe4 33.♗xc6 d3+ 34.♔f1 ♔xc6 35.♔g2 ♔d5 36.♖g1 ♗e5 37.♖ad1 ♖g8+ 38.♔f1 ♖xg1+ 39.♔xg1 f5 40.♔g2 ♔d4 41.c6 f4 42.b5 ♗c7 43.♖b1 d2 44.♔f1 ♔d3 45.a4 e3 46.fxe3 fxe3
Anand's victory came after some precise calculation and deft manoeuvres on his 44th birthday, leaving McShane gasping from a point where he thought he had a chance.
The five-time world champion Indian thus started with three points under the Soccer scoring system in place here that gives a three points for a win and one for a draw.
Viswanathan Anand put the disappointing loss in the World Championship behind him and started his campaign in style by beating Luke McShane.
Anand was not the only one to start with full points as Michael Adams of England matched him on points at the expense of Andrei Istratescu of France in the same group.
With 16 players taking part this year, the Classic is divided in to four groups and the top two from each group will reach the knockout stage after a double round robin.
Anand heads the 'A' group on three points after the first round sharing the lead with Adams while McShane and Istratescu are yet to open their account.
Russian Vladimir Kramnik was lucky to score over compatriot Peter Svidler from a seemingly drawn endgame while wild card entrant Jonathan Rowson of England scored over country-mate Matthew Sadler from a similar situation in the 'B' group.
The 'C' group saw local hopeful Gawain Jones holding Hikaru Nakamura of United States to a draw while former world championship challenger Boris Gelfand of Israel got the better of highest rated woman Judit Polgar of Hungary.
In the 'D' group, English duo of Nigel Short and his former protege David Howell played out a draw while rating favourite Fabiano Caruana of Italy shot in to lead defeating Emil Sutovsky of Israel.
Anand played Michael Adams of England in the second round of his group and drew. -- PTI
McShane, L. (2684) - Anand, V. (2773)
Result: 0-1
Site: London ENG
Date: 2013.12.11
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Pro-Celeb Chess Event at London Chess Classic 2013
The Pro-Celebrity Challenge
The Pro-Celebrity Challenge will see stars of TV, music and sport team up with the Grandmasters and face off against another pro-celebrity team.
Games will be played with 10 minutes and 10 seconds on the clock and broadcast live. Lawrence Trent and Malcolm Pein will officiate. Each winning team receive £5000 for their favourite charity.
- Alex Zane has opted for Community Links
- Shingai Shoniwa has asked for her prize to go to the Philippines appeal
- Edgar Davids has his own foundation @Fountain
Edgar Davids: Dutch footballing legend whose club career took him to Ajax, Juventus and Spurs, and included 74 international caps for Holland. His dreadlocked hair and protective goggles made Davids one of the most recognisable players of his generation.
Alex Zane: Alex is an English television personality and DJ best known for presenting Rube Tube on Channel 4. Alex was a guest at the 2010 London Chess Classic.
Shingai Shoniwa: Singer and bassist for the Noisettes, an English indie rock band from London who are best known for the single “Don't Upset the Rhythm (Go Baby Go)”.
Games will be played with 10 minutes and 10 seconds on the clock and broadcast live. Lawrence Trent and Malcolm Pein will officiate. Each winning team receive £5000 for their favourite charity.
- Alex Zane has opted for Community Links
- Shingai Shoniwa has asked for her prize to go to the Philippines appeal
- Edgar Davids has his own foundation @Fountain
Edgar Davids: Dutch footballing legend whose club career took him to Ajax, Juventus and Spurs, and included 74 international caps for Holland. His dreadlocked hair and protective goggles made Davids one of the most recognisable players of his generation.
Alex Zane: Alex is an English television personality and DJ best known for presenting Rube Tube on Channel 4. Alex was a guest at the 2010 London Chess Classic.
Shingai Shoniwa: Singer and bassist for the Noisettes, an English indie rock band from London who are best known for the single “Don't Upset the Rhythm (Go Baby Go)”.
Shingai Shoniwa & Peter Svidler | Edgar Davids & Michael Adams | Alex Zane & Vishy Anand | TBC & Hikaru Nakamura
Lots of chess events happening at the London Chess Classic 2013: Check out their website.
Friday, December 6, 2013
Chess can take Kids off Social Media Madness: Boris Gelfand
Chess could help Indian parents heave a sigh of relief about their children being hooked to social media. Grandmaster Boris Gelfand, World Chess Championship Challenger 2012, has said he believes chess is the solution to many of the technology fixated modern generation.
“The ability to concentrate, focus, think ahead, respect rules and devote yourself to one thing and think deeply — these are all things which are missing in society but which chess has in abundance,” says Boris Gelfand. He was speaking to The JC.com.
According to the 2012 World Chess Championship Challenger, Jews have historically excelled at the game because it was firmly embedded in the life and traditions of the communities of Eastern Europe. He himself is from Belarus. Jewish children played the game as part of an essential element of their intellectual development.
Far from being elitist, he argues chess is the people’s game. “It is low cost. Even if you are poor, you can play without expensive equipment. Gelfand is visiting the UK this weekend to take part in the London Chess Classic tournament. He is also here to promote the Charity Chess in Schools and Communities, which aims to get more primary school pupils playing the game.
According to the 2012 World Chess Championship Challenger, Jews have historically excelled at the game because it was firmly embedded in the life and traditions of the communities of Eastern Europe. He himself is from Belarus. Jewish children played the game as part of an essential element of their intellectual development.
Far from being elitist, he argues chess is the people’s game. “It is low cost. Even if you are poor, you can play without expensive equipment. Gelfand is visiting the UK this weekend to take part in the London Chess Classic tournament. He is also here to promote the Charity Chess in Schools and Communities, which aims to get more primary school pupils playing the game.
He said: “I have met many successful people from different professions — scientists, lawyers, business people. They all say that the values that they learned playing chess as children helped them to achieve in later life.”
Thursday, December 5, 2013
World Chess Champion Carlsen Simul in LA: You Can be Lucky to Play
A Nordic Semiconductor press release states, "We invite you to participate in this competition where you have the chance in your lifetime to be one of the lucky twenty that will play one of the most brilliant brains living today. Along with the honor of playing the number 1 chess player in the world, you will be rewarded with a signed chess board among other prizes."
The skills required are not higher than just another hobby player. To participate answer a few simple questions and solve an easy chess puzzle. The lucky winners will be noticed well in advance. Closing date for entry is December 19, 2013, 12:00:00 PST.
The Chess Tournament will take place:Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall Connector, Room S228Thursday January 9, 3-6PM
Enter the chess simul entry contest at the Nordic Semi website.
* Carlsen's sponsors Nordic Semiconductor (Link from our Anand - Carlsen World Chess Championship 2013 coverage website)
Sunday, December 1, 2013
Real Madrid Wows World Chess Champion with Birthday Gift
Magnus Carlsen took the honorary kick off for the Real Madrid-Valladolid match (The Norwegian, who became world chess champion on 22nd November, turns 23 on Saturday, December 30, and received a shirt and watch as a gift from President Florentino Pérez). The World Chess Champion was personally invited by Real Madrid president Florentino Perez.
Magnus Carlsen is known as a Whites fan, took the honorary kick-off in the La Liga match between Real Madrid and Valladolid. The Norwegian, who is the second youngest champion in the chess history after Kasparov, received an ovation from the Bernabéu after winning the title by beating Viswanathan Anand, also a Real Madrid supporter, in Chennai (India).
Prior to the match, Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez gave him a shirt with his name on and an inscribed watch for his 23rd birthday. -- Courtesy Real Madrid official website (Lots of other photos by Ángel Martínez on this link)
The World Chess Champion wore a Real Madrid shirt with 'Magnus' printed on the back. The home team won the match 4-0 with three goals by Gareth Bale.
The World Chess Champion wore a Real Madrid shirt with 'Magnus' printed on the back. The home team won the match 4-0 with three goals by Gareth Bale.
"It was super cool, it was great for a football fan," said Carlsen to the Norwegian newspaper VG in the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid, late Saturday night. "I had planned to stay home and relax, but this was something I could not say no to."
3-Second Chess Knights Tour Challenge: Beat Kosteniuk, Win Prizes
Try this chess challenge from the 12th Women's World Chess Champion, Chess Queen™ Alexandra Kosteniuk herself.
Writing on her blog www.chessqueen.com, GM Kosteniuk says, "I was teaching my daughter how to train moving the chess knight across the board as fast as possible, and she asked me to show how to do it fast. I recorded a short video about how I can do it in about 3 seconds (with slow motion). If there is anybody out there who can do it faster, I’m glad to announce that Chess King has offered several prizes to anybody who can do it faster than me. So practice your knight’s moves and speed, and send me by email the result (video or link to video), and you may win a prize! Good luck!"
Come on India, we are sure some talented Indian chess players can crack the 3-second limit for the chess knight's tour of the chess board!
Friday, November 29, 2013
Pak TV Star Fawad Khan plays Chess on Numm! (Wish him Happy Birthday)
In the scene, Wali beats Badey Sahab in the game, quite a signal that he is going to beat the feudal lord and the restrictive traditions of the region. In fact, Wali has already shown that by resolving the sugar mill dispute he is "playing things" his way... playing to win.
Fawad Khan excels in his portrayals of a range of characters. He has brought special charisma and glamour to the Pakistan television industry. As Fawad Khan has developed as an actor, his hard work and dedication has become obvious for all to see. It is both inspiring and infectious.
By the way don't forget to wish Fawad Khan a very happy birthday today, November 29 on the official Facebook Page of Numm. You can also watch the previous episode there.
Fawad Afzal Khan rose to prominence playing the role of Hassan in 2010 serial Dastaan for which he won Pakistan Media Award for Best Actor. Since then he has starred in a number of Pakistani serials, notably Akbari Asghari, Kuch Pyar Ka Pagalpan, Humsafar for which he won Lux Style Awards for Best Actor in 2013, Ashk, Zindagi Gulzar Hai and Numm.
Fawad Khan excels in his portrayals of a range of characters. He has brought special charisma and glamour to the Pakistan television industry. As Fawad Khan has developed as an actor, his hard work and dedication has become obvious for all to see. It is both inspiring and infectious.
By the way don't forget to wish Fawad Khan a very happy birthday today, November 29 on the official Facebook Page of Numm. You can also watch the previous episode there.
Fawad Afzal Khan rose to prominence playing the role of Hassan in 2010 serial Dastaan for which he won Pakistan Media Award for Best Actor. Since then he has starred in a number of Pakistani serials, notably Akbari Asghari, Kuch Pyar Ka Pagalpan, Humsafar for which he won Lux Style Awards for Best Actor in 2013, Ashk, Zindagi Gulzar Hai and Numm.
Khan made his film debut in 2007 with Shoaib Mansoor's Khuda Kay Liye which was the highest-grossing Pakistani film of 2007. Khan went on to win the Lux Style Award for Best Actor. In 2013 Khan appeared in Abdullah Kadwani's Armaan, which earned him Tarang Housefull Award for Best On screen Couple with Aamina Sheikh.
Khan was first known for being the lead singer of Pakistani rock band Entity Paradigm, but the band split up due to life commitments. His songs "Shor Macha" and "Rahguzar" did well in the charts, and was considered a critical and commercial success.
Numm (Urdu: نم) is 2013 Pakistani drama serial that portrays social issues. It is Directed by Ahson Talish, produced by Amjad Hashmi and written by Myra Sajid.
The show tells the story of strict customs and rituals of feudal and its impact. The plot revolves around three people Fawad, Sania and Kanza, which shows the effect of unwise traditions and old customs on this triangle relationship. Numm was on-aired on August 24, 2013 worldwide by Geo TV. Before releasing Numm teaser trailers were leaving very deep impact on people, the serial become the most watched serial due to his highly and acclaimed TV starlets cast. Ahson Talish also acted in small scenes as a male protagonist (Fawad Khan) father. The theme song of the drama is also gaining huge popularity among fans and viewers. Currently it is one of the highly rated and most watched serials on Pak television.
Fawad Khan will be seen in a lead role opposite Sonam Kapoor in the Hindi re-make of 1980s Hrishikesh Mukherjee film Khubsoorat. The film tells the breezy tale of an extrovert – a feisty girl (played by Sonam) who brings about changes in the regimented atmosphere of a household controlled firmly by its overbearing matriarch, according to apunkachoice.com.
Fawad Khan will be seen in a lead role opposite Sonam Kapoor in the Hindi re-make of 1980s Hrishikesh Mukherjee film Khubsoorat. The film tells the breezy tale of an extrovert – a feisty girl (played by Sonam) who brings about changes in the regimented atmosphere of a household controlled firmly by its overbearing matriarch, according to apunkachoice.com.
While Sonam plays the motor-mouth, Fawad will expectedly play the bachelor who falls for her. We cannot wait to see the on-screen chemistry between these absolutely gorgeous people! Rumour has it that Alia Bhatt was chosen to play the female lead but has now been replaced by Sonam, according to Oye! Times.
The shooting of Khubsoorat has already begun in Rajasthan. The film is being directed by Shashanka Ghosh and produced by Sonam’s father Anil Kapoor. -- Zainab Raza Undulusi
The shooting of Khubsoorat has already begun in Rajasthan. The film is being directed by Shashanka Ghosh and produced by Sonam’s father Anil Kapoor. -- Zainab Raza Undulusi
Kosteniuk Telethon Geneva Chess Goodwill Simul December 8
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Join Free Online Blitz Nov 23
* The tournament will start on November 23
* This is a blitz chess tournament in honour of the Anand - Carlsen World Chess Championship Match.
* It's FREE to join
RCA-Open 2013
3,500 USD in prizes
30 prizes &
18 “lucky winners”
FREE entry
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The basis for success in chess is to keep the right balance between learning, practice and fun. During the World Chess Championship Match, which started on November 9, you have the opportunity to learn much.
But you need not just be a viewer!
RCA Chess Open2013This will be a 13-round Swiss tournament, played with 3 minutes + 2 seconds increment per move. It is open to anyone – no serial number for playchess is required (free entry).
All you have to do is download the client on to your machine, create an account and play in the event. For details, see http://www.playchess.com. Here you will find instructions on how to download the software and create an account.
The event is a human-only tournament. It is forbidden to use a computer, especially an engine, as help for finding your moves. All games will be controlled and strictly monitored for engine use.
In order to improve your competitive mood, we are offering some attractive prizes, worth approximately 3,500 USD.
Winner: ChessBase12 Mega-PackagePlace 2: USD 300 Voucher for products of RCA
Place 3: USD 250 Voucher for products of RCA
Place 4: ChessBase 12 Starter-Package
Place 5: USD 200 Voucher forproducts of RCA
Place 6: USD 150 Voucher for products ofRCA
Places 7 & 8: ChessBase Mega-Database 2014
Places 9 &10: USD 100 Voucher for products of RCA
Places 11 & 12: DeepFritz 14
Places 13 & 14: USD 75 Voucher for products ofRCA
Places 15 to 20: 6-month premium membership toplaychess.com
Places 21 to 30: 6-month standard membership toplaychess.com
Luckywins for places 35, 45, 55, 65, 75, 85, 95, 105, 115, 125, 135, 145,155, 165, 175, 185, 195 and 205: 3-month classic membership.
You can observe the above-mentioned ChessBase products (prizes) here: LINK
RCA = Remote Chess Academy, and you can check its products here: LINK
Voucher is equivalent to the money that you can spend on a purchase of RCA products
The sign-up link again: sign up here.
RCA Chess Open2013This will be a 13-round Swiss tournament, played with 3 minutes + 2 seconds increment per move. It is open to anyone – no serial number for playchess is required (free entry).
All you have to do is download the client on to your machine, create an account and play in the event. For details, see http://www.playchess.com. Here you will find instructions on how to download the software and create an account.
The event is a human-only tournament. It is forbidden to use a computer, especially an engine, as help for finding your moves. All games will be controlled and strictly monitored for engine use.
In order to improve your competitive mood, we are offering some attractive prizes, worth approximately 3,500 USD.
Winner: ChessBase12 Mega-PackagePlace 2: USD 300 Voucher for products of RCA
Place 3: USD 250 Voucher for products of RCA
Place 4: ChessBase 12 Starter-Package
Place 5: USD 200 Voucher forproducts of RCA
Place 6: USD 150 Voucher for products ofRCA
Places 7 & 8: ChessBase Mega-Database 2014
Places 9 &10: USD 100 Voucher for products of RCA
Places 11 & 12: DeepFritz 14
Places 13 & 14: USD 75 Voucher for products ofRCA
Places 15 to 20: 6-month premium membership toplaychess.com
Places 21 to 30: 6-month standard membership toplaychess.com
Luckywins for places 35, 45, 55, 65, 75, 85, 95, 105, 115, 125, 135, 145,155, 165, 175, 185, 195 and 205: 3-month classic membership.
You can observe the above-mentioned ChessBase products (prizes) here: LINK
RCA = Remote Chess Academy, and you can check its products here: LINK
Voucher is equivalent to the money that you can spend on a purchase of RCA products
The sign-up link again: sign up here.
Monday, October 28, 2013
India, France have Highest Number of Rated Chess Players in the World
Strangely, 35,200 is the same as France, the leader for over ten years. But India is growing steeply and France moderately. This had to happen. This week, one can expect India to surge ahead of the French number and never look back! Asia set to rule world chess.
About four decades back, India had just Manuel Aaron on the rating list. People still remember him since his name was the first entry in the rating list for many decades. For many years he was the only Indian and later among the few Indians.
Since, Anand won the World Junior in 1987 and then went on to became World Champion in Tehran 2000, the numbers tended to grow sharply. More players took to the game in the summer of 2001 and the progress kept growing.
Anand might be the primary cause for all this but the organisers, particularly, the All India Chess Federation did plenty of ground work. Rated events were organised all over the country and particularly more in the state of Tamil Nadu, Anand's home state.
In Europe, when Veselin Topalov emerged, Bulgaria's mobile networks supported elite events. In India it was even more basic. NIIT together with many state Governments supported school chess. On its part, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu went several steps ahead and cleared the way for chess in schools programme. Children in the age group 7-17 play chess in Tamil Nadu. Many states have chess in schools programme, but Tamil Nadu is one step ahead. They also practically implement it.
Two years back, India had overtaken the Germans and the Russians in the rating list. Earlier this year, the Indians went past Spain. Now, when experts were expecting India to get the better of France around March 2014, this sudden surge in the chess activity related to the world championship has helped India go past or equal France in October.
India's growth style is pyramid. The base is broad. A recent study related article in The Economist said more Indians play chess than any other nation. This number comes as no surprise. But that it came a few months ago needs to be analysed, since we might be observing a 2013 wave on the back of this Anand v Carlsen match, which could be several times bigger than the 2001 Anand wave after he won the world title in 2000.
The AICF and its administrators have laid a perfect platform for chess to grow in the land which invented the game. Our style will soon be copied by leading lights and European nations. Anand is in his final phase of preparation and not available to react to this good news. "It is all team effort," said V. Hariharan, Honorary Secretary of the All India Chess Federation while reacting to this news. "This is great news," said Bharat Singh, CEO of the AICF. D.V. Sundar, Vice President of FIDE was delighted about the timing of this achievement as India is making the final touches to the organising of the Anand v Carlsen match from Nov 7-28. (AICF Press Release – 28.10.2013)
Friday, October 25, 2013
Carlsen's Form vs Anand's Experience
Given the statistics, Anand holds the advantage. The two have played 29 games so far in the Classical format with Anand winning six and Carlsen clinching three while the remaining 20 ending in draws.
The November 9 to 28 match can be best described by a famous line -- An unstoppable force meeting an immovable object.
Carlsen is the unstoppable force, having broken all records, scaled one peak after the other like no one else and won almost everything except the World championship at a young age of just 22 years.
Anand, on the other hand, has been the immovable object at the top of World Chess for nearly 22 years.
It was in 1991-92 that the Tiger from Madras won the Reggio Emilia tournament ahead of Soviet greats such as Garry Kasparov and Anatoly Karpov and announced his arrival in a fitting manner in the elite chess circles.
Carlsen was one year and one month old then.
Anand's perseverance, ability to adapt to new challenges and creativity has helped him stay on top for all these years.
This has resulted in five World Championship victories coming in knockout, match tournament, and three one-on-one matches, making him not only the undisputed champion of the world but also one of the legends of the game.
Carlsen grew up watching Anand at the top and in some of the games that the Indian won between them, he was quite severe.
Carlsen seems to have learned all the lessons well. Psychologically especially and this explains his results against Anand in the last few years. The Norwegian has won all his three games post 2009 and has beaten Anand in the last two encounters.
While the top players are hardly intimidated by rating differences, for the layman the gap between ratings (95) seems too much in favour of Carlsen.
The 2870 (highest ever) rating has come from some phenomenal results and says a lot about Carlsen's ability to play for a victory in all situations.
The stamina, ability to calculate, to play very long games, tiring out opposition, almost hypnotising opponents into making mistakes have been crucial to his stupendous success.
And going by current form, the Norwegian holds a definite edge over Anand.
It's almost an intriguing that the five-time world champion Indian starts an underdog against someone half his age.
A few months back in South Africa, Garry Kasparov shared a hearty laugh drawing similarities to his victory over Anatoly Karpov in the 80s. However, Kasparov then won several matches and tournaments against (mostly) the younger generation.
Grandmaster Parimarjan Negi is probably right in his assertion, "I would trust a coin-toss more than any predictions." -- PTI
For cool chess stories surrounding the Anand - Carlsen World Chess Championship 2013 check: www.worldchesschampionship2013.com.
Saturday, October 19, 2013
Computer World Chess: Komodo wins Stage 2; Stage 3 Begins Today
Third place is for Gull 2.2 by Vadim Demichev with 12,0/19. It started as 8th seeded, but showed spectacular ability outplaying all lower rated competitors and getting a full point against the winner Komodo. With the same points as Gull, but with lower tiebreak, at fourth and fifth positions are Hiarcs. It is the top placed engine under 3000 elo and fared through the event with good start and strong finish.
Houdini 3, the absolute champion of the competition, remained at 5th position. The engine by Robert Houdart rated 3145 elo scored 11,5/19. A total of 10 engines qualify for Stage 3 (that starts October 19th at 12:00 CET). The remaining qualifiers are Bouquet with 11,5/19, Rybka with 11,5/19, Critter with 11,5/19, Naum with 10,0/19, and Junior with 8,5/19. (final standings all engines here)
Replay the games of Stage 1 / Replay the games of TCEC Stage 2 / See the current live game / Full list of participants / Information / Play online at Chessdom Arena
Stage 3 starts today!
TCEC enters the decisive stages of the competition, that will allow the chess world to evaluate which is the strongest engine at the moment. All 10 participants qualified at this stage deserve to be here – Komodo, Stockfish, Gull, Hiarcs, Houdini, Bouquet, Rybka, Critter, Naum, and Junior. It is a field with average ELO approaching 3100 and exciting chess is expected ahead.
To spice up things even more, the tireless tournament director Martin Thoresen has decided that Stage 3 will be thematic – the openings used by the engines will be taken from Candidates 2013, Sinquefield Cup, and King’s Tournament ! After seeing how the top chess players played out the strategy in the given situations, it will be curious to se what the engines will add to that.
Stage 3 starts October 19th at 12:00 CET Watch the live games here / Visit the official website
These are the evaluation graphs, time usage and the depth search of the engines. Onno was always a step ahead
Stage 3Stage 3 consists of the 10 engines that qualified from Stage 2. The format for Stage 3 is a double round robin and the openings are chosen per pair so that each engine will play both sides of the same opening against each other. The top 6 will move on to Stage 4 while the rest is out of nTCEC for the current Season. 90 games are played in Stage 3.
See predictions for Stage 3 here
Stage 4
Stage 4 consists of the 6 engines that qualified from Stage 3. It is a hexa round robin and will use the same book rules as in Stage 3, meaning that the openings are chosen randomly per pair so that each engine will play both sides of the same opening against each other. The top 2 will qualify to play the Superfinal, while the other 4 engines are out of nTCEC for the current Season. 90 games are played in Stage 4.
Superfinal
After Stage 4 has finished, the top 2 engines will meet in a Superfinal of 48 games. This match is played with 24 different openings so that each engine plays both black and white of the same position. The match will be presented with opening 1 used in games 1 and 2, then opening 2 used in games 3 and 4 etc. If the match is theoretically won for one side before game 48, the match will still continue until all 48 games have been played. In the case of a drawn match there will be a Rapid match of 12 games with a time control of 25′ + 10″. In case it is still tied there will be a Blitz match of 6 games with a time control of 3″ + 2′. When the Superfinal is over, the current Season ends.
The nTCEC Grand Champion
The winner of the Superfinal will be crowned the nTCEC Grand Champion and will keep this title until there is a winner in the next Superfinal. There is no automatic qualification for the reigning Grand Champion, it will have to go all the way through the next Season for it to be able to defend the title.
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Russian Chess Superfinal 2013: Peter Svidler, Valentina Gunina Champions
Peter Svidler and Valentina Gunina have won the Russian National Chess Champion 2013. Svidler wins the title for a record seventh time, while Gunina wins it for the second time. Svidler beat Ian Nepomniachtchi in the tiebreak. In the last round, Ian Nepomniachtchi was able to capitalise on a blunder by Vladimir Kramnik to catch up with Svidler as the latter drew a game with Sergey Karjakin.
(From top left) Peter Svidler, Ian Nepomniachtchi, Nikita Vitiugov, Alexandra Kosteniuk, Valentina Gunina and Natalia Pogonina. Photos: Boris Dolmatovski
Svidler and Nepomniachtchi then faced each other in a 15-minute rapid playoff which was won by Svidler 1.5-0.5. Also, Nikita Vitiugov was able to beat Vladimir Kramnik for the third spot on a better tiebreak score.
GM Valentina Gunina drew with GM Alexandra Kosteniuk to become the Russian Women's Chess Champion 2013. Kosteniuk ended just half-point behind the winner and is the Women's Vice-Champion of Russia 2013. Gunina and Kosteniuk went into the last round with only half point as a difference. While Gunina needed to draw to win the title, Kosteniuk needed a win. In fact, the 12th Women's World Chess Champion got out of the opening with a winning edge but, the hard-fought game drifted into a draw eventually.
Valentina Gunina and Alexandra Kosteniuk very much set the pace of the tournament ahead of the rest of the field which was bunched together a full point away.
The Russian Chess Championships (known as the Russian Super Final) for men and women was held from 5th to 14th October at the State Historical and Architectural Museum in Nizhny Novgorod. Both events were held according to the round robin system with 10 players each. The total prize fund for both groups is 6 million RUB (approx 138,000 EUR).
Final Standings (Men):
1. Peter Svidler 6.5 2. Ian Nepomniachtchi - 6.5
3. Nikita Vitiugov 4. Vladimir Kramnik - at 5.5
5. Dmitry Andrejkin - 5
6. Sergey Karjakin, 7. Ernest Inarkiev - 4.5
8. Aleksey Goganov - 3.5
9. Alexander Motylev - 2.5
10. Anton Shomo - 1
Final Standings (Women):
Valentina Gunina and Alexandra Kosteniuk very much set the pace of the tournament ahead of the rest of the field which was bunched together a full point away.
The Russian Chess Championships (known as the Russian Super Final) for men and women was held from 5th to 14th October at the State Historical and Architectural Museum in Nizhny Novgorod. Both events were held according to the round robin system with 10 players each. The total prize fund for both groups is 6 million RUB (approx 138,000 EUR).
Final Standings (Men):
1. Peter Svidler 6.5 2. Ian Nepomniachtchi - 6.5
3. Nikita Vitiugov 4. Vladimir Kramnik - at 5.5
5. Dmitry Andrejkin - 5
6. Sergey Karjakin, 7. Ernest Inarkiev - 4.5
8. Aleksey Goganov - 3.5
9. Alexander Motylev - 2.5
10. Anton Shomo - 1
Final Standings (Women):
1. Valentina Gunina - 7
2. Alexandra Kosteniuk - 6.5
3. Natalia Pogonina - 5.5
4-6. Aleksandra Goryachkina, Baira Kovanova and Ekaterina Kovalevskaya - 4.5 points
7-8. Tatiana Kosintseva, Anastasia Bodnaruk - 3.5
9-10. Alina Kashlinskaya, Daria Charochkina - 3
You can find games and detailed tournament updates at the official website of the Russian Chess Federation.
The tournament was organised by the Russian Chess Federation in cooperation with the Charity Foundation of Elena and Gennady Timchenko with support from the Government of the Nizhny Novgorod region. Continuing with the tradition of 'Chess in the museums' begun by hosting the Anand-Gelfand World Chess Championship 2012 at the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow on the initiative of businessmen Andrei Filatov and Gennady Timchenko, the Russian Superfinal The venue for the prestigious tournament in Nizhny Novgorod will be the State Historical and Architectural Museum Manor Rukavishnikov. The Nizhny Novgorod State Art Museum also took part in the organisation of the tournament.
The tournament was organised by the Russian Chess Federation in cooperation with the Charity Foundation of Elena and Gennady Timchenko with support from the Government of the Nizhny Novgorod region. Continuing with the tradition of 'Chess in the museums' begun by hosting the Anand-Gelfand World Chess Championship 2012 at the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow on the initiative of businessmen Andrei Filatov and Gennady Timchenko, the Russian Superfinal The venue for the prestigious tournament in Nizhny Novgorod will be the State Historical and Architectural Museum Manor Rukavishnikov. The Nizhny Novgorod State Art Museum also took part in the organisation of the tournament.
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Sunday Photo Chess Trivia: Name the Girls Challenging Magnus Carlsen
Here are two photos of the very talented World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen across the chess board with two very interesting (and talented young ladies). Can you name the girls?
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Anand on the Mystery of his Name, Indian Talent and More (NDTV Video)
3rd Indonesia Chess Open R3: Avetik Grigoryan, Ivan Ivanisevic Lead
After the intense battles of the first two days of Indonesia Open 2013, round three was seemingly a relatively peaceful affair, but even if there were draws amongst the leaders on the top four boards, all were not with fights. GMs Alexander Moiseenko, Vaibhav Suri, Nigel Short, Vadim Malakhatko, John Paul Gomez, Aleksey Dreev, Gundavaa Bayarsaikhan, and Surya Sekhar Ganguly were therefore joined by GMs Antoaneta Stefanova and Igarza Renier Vazquez who had the only really quick draw and Hoang Thanh Trang who held off Jaan Ehlvest on 2.5/3.
On board five GM Ivan Ivanesevic won against GM Darwin Laylo and on board eight the unfancied, but very determined GM Avetik Grigoryan stopped giant killing local FM Anjas Novitas to take the lead. Ivanisvic and Grigoryan will play each other in Round 4 on the top board.
Notable other leading results include GM Eduardo Iturrizaga beating GM G N Gopal, GM Oliver Barbosa prevailing over IM Denny Juswanto, GM Sandro Mareco proving too good for IM Sadikin Irwanto, GM Ehsan Ghaem Maghami edging WGM Tuvshintugs Batchinmeg and Indonesia’s No. 1 GM Susanto Megaranto outplaying veteran countryman GM Cerda Barus to move back into contention, also with 2.5/3.
So we have two players on 3,0/3 and no less than 18 players with 2.5/3 going into round 4 and there are some exciting match-ups that might help determine the final winners! Watch live at official website.
FIDE Elections: Kasparov's Team
Tallinn, Estonia – Monday, October 07, 2013
Garry Kasparov today announced his candidacy for the presidency of the International Chess Federation, known by its French acronym FIDE. He plans to unseat 18-year incumbent Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, also of Russia, in the election that takes place in August 2014. Kasparov became the youngest world champion in the sport’s history in 1985 at the age of 22 and went on to hold the number one ranking for twenty years before his retirement from professional chess in 2005.
Since that time Kasparov has become one of the most prominent opposition voices in Russia and he is the current chairman of the NY-based Human Rights Foundation. His Kasparov Chess Foundation promotes chess in education, a mission that is a centerpiece of Kasparov’s FIDE campaign.
Tonight’s spectacular launch event, hosted in the ballroom of the Swissôtel in the center of Tallinn, coincided with this year’s FIDE Congress, which brings together delegates representing the national federations that make up FIDE’s 178 voting members. The event was hosted by renown Estonian entertainers Hanna-Liina Võsa and Mart Mikk, who were joined on stage by a jazz quartet. Kasparov spoke briefly to the several hundred attendees on his vision “to elevate the game of chess from the grassroots level, to spread the game in education and as a cultural touchstone as well as a successful commercial sport.”
Kasparov then introduced the rest of his ticket, which represents every continent and a mix of business and investment expertise, organizational backgrounds, and chess experience.
Jan Callewaert is a Belgian businessman and entrepreneur with extensive management experience. His passion for chess and its many educational benefits led him to join forces with Kasparov to co-found the Kasparov Chess Foundation Europe, of which he is president.
Ignatius Leong of Singapore is practically synonymous with chess in Asia. The current FIDE General Secretary, he is a renown international arbiter, organizer, and trainer with tremendous knowledge and relationships throughout the chess world.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Hamed of the United Arab Emirates moved from a long military education and career to becoming a prominent businessman in trade and transport, among other sectors. He owns several five-star hotels in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. He has a long-standing passion for chess as a player and patron. His educational foundation promotes chess in education in Abu Dhabi schools.
Afrika Msimang of South Africa is the president of the Kasparov Chess Foundation Africa and has a remarkable career record of policy, social activism, and teaching. She has been involved in the successful Moves for Life program, a chess education organization that enjoys the patronage of South African president Jacob Zuma.
Rex Sinquefield of the United States has turned his home city of Saint Louis into a global chess capital. An investor whose Dimension Fund Advisors oversees more than $300 billion, his Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis has hosted the US Championship and other elite events while developing programs for scholastic chess.
Each team member addressed the attendees, with Sheikh Mohammed and Sinquefield sending video greetings. Estonia then continued its warm embrace of Kasparov with Defense Minister Urmas Reinsalu coming to the stage to wish him luck and talking about the shared appreciation of the value of chess for kids, including his own.
A full report with video and photos of the event is available at the campaign’s official website, kasparov2014.com. There you can also find more information about the Kasparov campaign’s team and ideas. More detailed policy papers will be published there as the team reaches out to collaborate with the national federations and the chess world. Expect more frequent updates on Kasparov’s personal Twitter and Facebook.
