English Chess Forum

Ray doesn't have the best reputation it would seem. Given how soon it has come out, was his motive for writing so hurriedly being he wanted to be the first to cash in on the match?

David McAlister wrote: ↑

Sun Dec 02, 2018 8:15 pm

Anyone want to have a go at English victories against these World Champions - Khalifman (FIDE Las Vegas 1999), Ponomariov (FIDE Moscow 2001), Kasimdzhanov (FIDE Tripoli 2004) and Topalov (FIDE San Luis 2005)?

A valid post, I would also like to know.

Point taken.

Gunsberg wasn't a British citizen at the time he played Steinitz, though, which I think is the criterion people are using here to determine whether these games count. I was thinking in terms of being English at the time of playing the reigning world champion in a classical format. I assumed Yates a...

The baronet, world No1 at badminton, died at 91, in a care home and nearly blind, 44 years ago today. Instead of this cheap jokey post, it would be better to mark the occasion by remembering his triumph at Hastings 1934-35 where he tied for first with Euwe and Flohr, became the only English player ...

I would expect to see such moves at club level but not amongst strong GMs.

I see Jobava is at it again. 1.b3 followed by 2.a4 and then castles queenside soon after.

You have a point I once beat a guy in Abu Dhabi, rated ELO 2001 who was more than proud of the fact that in the previous year he drew his first game with Shakir Mamadyrov in the first round who missed his flight and fell asleep in their game.

Some bizarre games for sure with a few players a mere 500-600 Elo points below their opponent having an easy time of it. I suppose some people think that if you are titled and with a rating so much nigher than your opponent you will just win automatically.

I do believe we are playing Angola in the first round.

I don't. I prefer to watch the closing ceremony and events after that because you are more likely to see a punch-up in those, especially if jealous English GMs are present.

The answer lies within yourself only. Analysis of your own reasons for playing and to what extent your play is in accordance with them will give you the most defining aspects of your play. There's nothing wrong with playing to avoid losing if that's what you want. You don't have to play for a win if...

And probably many many more. Thankfully I gave up on reading chess theory some time ago.

A difficulty or two with the Dutch Defence is that your first move isn't a developing move and that it will weaken your kingside, which is where your king will most likely end up. At club level I have always had good results with it but higher up the chain most players know how to play against the c...

More than one or two checks to follow in this position, can you guess exactly how many consecutive checks can be made? It's white to move.