19th April -
U145 Cup - Adastral v Saxmundham
N/S Cup - Ipswich v Bury St. Edmunds
26th April -
League Cup - Ipswich B v Adastral
3rd May -
U125 Cup - Ipswich v Clacton
All finals taking place at Ipswich Chess Club.
Tuesday, 12 April 2011
Monday, 11 April 2011
New Suffolk Chess Champion!
On 2nd/3rd of April the Suffolk Closed Championships took place at the Ipswich chess club.
Defending Champion Ian Wallis, faced Shaun Munson, Stephen Gregory, Alan Merry, Ted Matthewson and Martin Fogg.
The event was a 6 player all-play-all. The first round saw an interesting start with reigning champion Ian Wallis blundering on move 3! He survived however to draw versus Stephen Gregory.
Round 2 saw Alan Merry defeating top grade Shaun Munson. This result was to set the tone with Alan reaching 4 out of 4.
In the last round Ian faced Alan with the black pieces. Ian needed to win in order to catch Alan on points and win on the tie-break rule. At a glance the ending looked promising for Ian but Alan's passed pawns made a rush - and soon a draw was agreed.
Alan Merry became Suffolk Chess Champion.
This is all the more remarkable as Alan is the tender age of 14.
Congratulations to Alan!!
Full results can be found here:
http://www.c4results.org.uk/chess/php/DisplayEvents.php?EventCode=CWSCC1&SectionId=57
In the Challengers section there was again a 6 player all-play-all. Returning Ipswich Junior (from the 90's) Leif Dixon was the clear winner, edging leader of the first 3 rounds Colin Roberts. In the final round, Colin needed to defeat Leif in order to catch on points and win on tie-break. However, heading towards the ending Leif was a pawn up, and a draw was agreed. Well done to Leif, who received the new Challengers trophy and will receive an invite to the main Championship next year.
Results for the challengers are in the following link:
http://www.c4results.org.uk/chess/php/DisplayEvents.php?EventCode=CWSCC1&SectionId=58
Defending Champion Ian Wallis, faced Shaun Munson, Stephen Gregory, Alan Merry, Ted Matthewson and Martin Fogg.
The event was a 6 player all-play-all. The first round saw an interesting start with reigning champion Ian Wallis blundering on move 3! He survived however to draw versus Stephen Gregory.
Round 2 saw Alan Merry defeating top grade Shaun Munson. This result was to set the tone with Alan reaching 4 out of 4.
In the last round Ian faced Alan with the black pieces. Ian needed to win in order to catch Alan on points and win on the tie-break rule. At a glance the ending looked promising for Ian but Alan's passed pawns made a rush - and soon a draw was agreed.
Alan Merry became Suffolk Chess Champion.
This is all the more remarkable as Alan is the tender age of 14.
Congratulations to Alan!!
Full results can be found here:
http://www.c4results.org.uk/chess/php/DisplayEvents.php?EventCode=CWSCC1&SectionId=57
In the Challengers section there was again a 6 player all-play-all. Returning Ipswich Junior (from the 90's) Leif Dixon was the clear winner, edging leader of the first 3 rounds Colin Roberts. In the final round, Colin needed to defeat Leif in order to catch on points and win on tie-break. However, heading towards the ending Leif was a pawn up, and a draw was agreed. Well done to Leif, who received the new Challengers trophy and will receive an invite to the main Championship next year.
Results for the challengers are in the following link:
http://www.c4results.org.uk/chess/php/DisplayEvents.php?EventCode=CWSCC1&SectionId=58
Friday, 1 April 2011
Suffolk Junior Open 2011 - results
The Suffolk Junior Open took place on Sunday 13th March.
This well run tournament is held at the Woodbridge High School and decides all the Suffolk Junior Champion titles and also includes an adult section.
All games are rapidplay (30 mins) and runs for one day.
The complete results can be found here (on the Woodbridge School Chess club site):
http://www.woodbridgechess.com/content/Suffolk2011.txt
T.L.
This well run tournament is held at the Woodbridge High School and decides all the Suffolk Junior Champion titles and also includes an adult section.
All games are rapidplay (30 mins) and runs for one day.
The complete results can be found here (on the Woodbridge School Chess club site):
http://www.woodbridgechess.com/content/Suffolk2011.txt
T.L.
Thursday, 31 March 2011
Suffolk Championship & Challengers
The Suffolk Championship has had a withdrawal, and a replacement found from the Challengers.
The contestants are now: Ian Wallis, Shaun Munson, Stephen Gregory, Alan Merry, Ted Matthewson and Martin Fogg.
The Challengers has had a very poor response, just as last year.
In fact, a number of people have withdrawn this week as well as Martin moving up to the Championship.
People can enter at the last minute, but would apprectiate some notification.
Please e-mail on:
lunn31 at talktalk.net
Or phone/text on:
0788 247 0473
Cheers,
Tim
The contestants are now: Ian Wallis, Shaun Munson, Stephen Gregory, Alan Merry, Ted Matthewson and Martin Fogg.
The Challengers has had a very poor response, just as last year.
In fact, a number of people have withdrawn this week as well as Martin moving up to the Championship.
People can enter at the last minute, but would apprectiate some notification.
Please e-mail on:
lunn31 at talktalk.net
Or phone/text on:
0788 247 0473
Cheers,
Tim
Tuesday, 8 March 2011
Suffolk Chess: Under 160's success
Hi
We are still waiting for the results to be confirmed,but we belive the situation is as as follows. We won both our matches by 9 - 7 which means we have 6 match points (3 wins) and 34 game points. Norfolk finished with 4 match points (2 wins) and 34 game points. Which mean we finish in first place and go through to quarter-finals on 21st May. More information about that will follow when we have more details.
Our victory was due in part to a fantastic come back by Cambridgeshire in their match against Norfolk. Cambridgeshire were 3 points down at half-way stage, but eventualy won, 9 - 7.
see
http://www.c4results.org.uk/chess/php/DisplayEvents.php?EventCode=CWEAC1&SectionId=38
There were many fine performances yesterday, but Les managed to win both his games. His victory in the afternoon gave us the win against Cambridgeshire.
Thank you sincerely
From Jakob and Ed
We are still waiting for the results to be confirmed,but we belive the situation is as as follows. We won both our matches by 9 - 7 which means we have 6 match points (3 wins) and 34 game points. Norfolk finished with 4 match points (2 wins) and 34 game points. Which mean we finish in first place and go through to quarter-finals on 21st May. More information about that will follow when we have more details.
Our victory was due in part to a fantastic come back by Cambridgeshire in their match against Norfolk. Cambridgeshire were 3 points down at half-way stage, but eventualy won, 9 - 7.
see
http://www.c4results.org.uk/chess/php/DisplayEvents.php?EventCode=CWEAC1&SectionId=38
There were many fine performances yesterday, but Les managed to win both his games. His victory in the afternoon gave us the win against Cambridgeshire.
Thank you sincerely
From Jakob and Ed
Friday, 4 March 2011
Road to Chess Improvement - Part 1
Just a simple tip to start us off.
Firstly, join http://www.chesstempo.com/
It's free, you just have to register.
Then every day:
- try the 2 free endgame puzzles (suggest Practice not Theory in the settings).
When the solution pops up, click the different options on the tablebase to learn a thing or two.
- try and get in at least 15 minutes of tactical exercises (change settings to non-blitz).
If you get the puzzle wrong, go over the solution until you understand and only then move on.
Firstly, join http://www.chesstempo.com/
It's free, you just have to register.
Then every day:
- try the 2 free endgame puzzles (suggest Practice not Theory in the settings).
When the solution pops up, click the different options on the tablebase to learn a thing or two.
- try and get in at least 15 minutes of tactical exercises (change settings to non-blitz).
If you get the puzzle wrong, go over the solution until you understand and only then move on.
Wednesday, 23 February 2011
Concentration in chess
I wrote this sometime ago for the Suffolk Chess Journal but thought I'd repeat it here.
Please discuss in the comments if you have any opinions or advice on this topic.
"Do you ever maintain concentration right the way through a game, or, when you play, is your mind still on last night's television, work or school? Once we start the game, we have three to four hours of which to make the most use. You can't win a game by not thinking, so the more you do, then the greater the chance of winning.
I often find that my level of concentration picks up considerably when a game is almost lost, and survival is the order of the day. I tend to become more aware and spot tactics that I don't think I would have done. Unfortunately, when this increased level of play arrives, I am already close to losing. (With this in mind, I am currently trying to cultivate an ever more pessimistic view of my game).
Another situation when I have noticed my concentration improving, is while playing superior opponents. I am sure that most people find that they can raise their level of play when facing stronger players and give that 'little bit extra'.
The question I would like to ask is why isn't it possible to reach this increased intensity for every game?
This is a subject I have seldom heard mentioned with regard to chess. Mental preparation is common in many physical sports. Weightlifters psyche themselves before a lift, and 100-metre runners focus hard before a sprint. I feel sure that there are some methods that chess players can adopt. Perhaps more so, as the chess player needs to be in the right frame of mind before starting what some describe as 'mental gymnastics'. A real must is to avoid playing when we don't really feel like playing. As we may be tied to fixtures, however, it is more practical to cast off our attitude than withdraw from matches. I have played whilst being in this frame of mind and find that I make moves with barely any consideration and do absolutely no thinking in my opponent's time.
Sometimes I have tried to force myself to think in as much of the time that is available. Before some games, I have thought to myself, "think in your opponent's time, even if there is nothing to calculate". However, my effort is half-hearted; a couple of moves into the game and all my good intention are forgotten.
One method I can recall to help concentration is choice of opening. I sometimes adopt an opening that I have never played before. This is usually after I have been losing a few games. My argument goes, "I will probably lose, whatever I play, so why not play something new for the excitement". I find that the fear of venturing into the unknown forces me to concentrate on all the moves that are played by both sides. The down side, of course, is that I don't really know what I am doing, but at least I feel as though the game hasn't just passed me by.
Something I used to notice in my play, was when I had an advantage and 'knew' I was going to win; I would play aimlessly and withought thought. Expecting the game to win itself, I would often allow my opponent back into the game (usually to some obvious tactic). Another time I would fall for simple tactics was when I thought a game was purely positional and assumed there was plenty of time for 'slow manoeuvres'. It is good to realise these situations where you lose concentration so that you make an extra effort, and more importantly, never to assume anything.
I find that I am unable to play decent friendly games through my lack of effort. This is especially true against computers which I tend to regard as 'throw away games', in which I am not bothered about the result. I think this attitude in too many friendlies can carry over into serious games, through habit. Perhaps it would be a good training method to give every friendly our complete attention and commitment. This could be used as an exercise in concentration, and could be beneficial to playing serious games."
- TL
Please discuss in the comments if you have any opinions or advice on this topic.
"Do you ever maintain concentration right the way through a game, or, when you play, is your mind still on last night's television, work or school? Once we start the game, we have three to four hours of which to make the most use. You can't win a game by not thinking, so the more you do, then the greater the chance of winning.
I often find that my level of concentration picks up considerably when a game is almost lost, and survival is the order of the day. I tend to become more aware and spot tactics that I don't think I would have done. Unfortunately, when this increased level of play arrives, I am already close to losing. (With this in mind, I am currently trying to cultivate an ever more pessimistic view of my game).
Another situation when I have noticed my concentration improving, is while playing superior opponents. I am sure that most people find that they can raise their level of play when facing stronger players and give that 'little bit extra'.
The question I would like to ask is why isn't it possible to reach this increased intensity for every game?
This is a subject I have seldom heard mentioned with regard to chess. Mental preparation is common in many physical sports. Weightlifters psyche themselves before a lift, and 100-metre runners focus hard before a sprint. I feel sure that there are some methods that chess players can adopt. Perhaps more so, as the chess player needs to be in the right frame of mind before starting what some describe as 'mental gymnastics'. A real must is to avoid playing when we don't really feel like playing. As we may be tied to fixtures, however, it is more practical to cast off our attitude than withdraw from matches. I have played whilst being in this frame of mind and find that I make moves with barely any consideration and do absolutely no thinking in my opponent's time.
Sometimes I have tried to force myself to think in as much of the time that is available. Before some games, I have thought to myself, "think in your opponent's time, even if there is nothing to calculate". However, my effort is half-hearted; a couple of moves into the game and all my good intention are forgotten.
One method I can recall to help concentration is choice of opening. I sometimes adopt an opening that I have never played before. This is usually after I have been losing a few games. My argument goes, "I will probably lose, whatever I play, so why not play something new for the excitement". I find that the fear of venturing into the unknown forces me to concentrate on all the moves that are played by both sides. The down side, of course, is that I don't really know what I am doing, but at least I feel as though the game hasn't just passed me by.
Something I used to notice in my play, was when I had an advantage and 'knew' I was going to win; I would play aimlessly and withought thought. Expecting the game to win itself, I would often allow my opponent back into the game (usually to some obvious tactic). Another time I would fall for simple tactics was when I thought a game was purely positional and assumed there was plenty of time for 'slow manoeuvres'. It is good to realise these situations where you lose concentration so that you make an extra effort, and more importantly, never to assume anything.
I find that I am unable to play decent friendly games through my lack of effort. This is especially true against computers which I tend to regard as 'throw away games', in which I am not bothered about the result. I think this attitude in too many friendlies can carry over into serious games, through habit. Perhaps it would be a good training method to give every friendly our complete attention and commitment. This could be used as an exercise in concentration, and could be beneficial to playing serious games."
- TL
Friday, 18 February 2011
Suffolk Chess Closed Championship - 6 players in place!
A number of invitations went out for participating in Suffolk Chess Closed Championships, and we now have 6 players accept.
The 6 contenders in the all-play-all for the Suffolk title are:
Ian Wallis (181) the reigning Suffolk Champion of 2010
Shaun Munson (201)
Stephen Gregory (186)
Alan Merry (182)
Ted Matthewson (163)
Luke Hill (161)
For the Challengers section there are currently 8 players, but I am hoping for more players (24 limit) for a more workable Swiss competition.
The 6 contenders in the all-play-all for the Suffolk title are:
Ian Wallis (181) the reigning Suffolk Champion of 2010
Shaun Munson (201)
Stephen Gregory (186)
Alan Merry (182)
Ted Matthewson (163)
Luke Hill (161)
For the Challengers section there are currently 8 players, but I am hoping for more players (24 limit) for a more workable Swiss competition.
Friday, 11 February 2011
Suffolk Closed Championship
The Suffolk Closed Championship takes place on the 2nd & 3rd April.
After last years enjoyable weekend (Championship won by Ian Wallis & challangers won by Kevin Greenacre), the event will again be held at the Ipswich Chess club.
The Championship section to contest the title of Suffolk Chess Champion is a 6 player all-play-all. Invitations have been accepted and I will finalize the line up shortly.
The Challengers Section will be a swiss competition open those Suffolk players not gaining entry into the Championship. As there are a limited number of spaces in the room, places will be given to those accepting first. I estimate that we can get 24 players comfortably (perhaps more at a push).
There are still plenty of places available in the Challengers section, so please leave a comment here or e-mail me if you are interested in playing.
Timetable:
Saturday 2nd April (venue open 9:00am)
1st round: 9:30am - 12:30pm
2nd round: 1:30pm - 4:30pm
3rd round: 5:30pm - 8:30pm
Sunday 3rd April (venue open 9:30am)
4th round: 10:00am - 1:00pm
5th round: 2:00 - 5:00pm
Prize giving at 6:00pm at the latest (in the unlikely event of a play-off match).
Tim.
After last years enjoyable weekend (Championship won by Ian Wallis & challangers won by Kevin Greenacre), the event will again be held at the Ipswich Chess club.
The Championship section to contest the title of Suffolk Chess Champion is a 6 player all-play-all. Invitations have been accepted and I will finalize the line up shortly.
The Challengers Section will be a swiss competition open those Suffolk players not gaining entry into the Championship. As there are a limited number of spaces in the room, places will be given to those accepting first. I estimate that we can get 24 players comfortably (perhaps more at a push).
There are still plenty of places available in the Challengers section, so please leave a comment here or e-mail me if you are interested in playing.
Timetable:
Saturday 2nd April (venue open 9:00am)
1st round: 9:30am - 12:30pm
2nd round: 1:30pm - 4:30pm
3rd round: 5:30pm - 8:30pm
Sunday 3rd April (venue open 9:30am)
4th round: 10:00am - 1:00pm
5th round: 2:00 - 5:00pm
Prize giving at 6:00pm at the latest (in the unlikely event of a play-off match).
Tim.
Tuesday, 1 February 2011
Free bit of training software & games
Hi,
Thought this one was worth mentioning (think it used to be around £18):
There is currently a free training download (plus games) at http://www.chessok.com/?p=24620
It's based on Botvinnik's games and features a number of training positions.
The interface comes with the download which is called Peshka but does take a little time getting used to getting around.
Thought this one was worth mentioning (think it used to be around £18):
There is currently a free training download (plus games) at http://www.chessok.com/?p=24620
It's based on Botvinnik's games and features a number of training positions.
The interface comes with the download which is called Peshka but does take a little time getting used to getting around.
Monday, 31 January 2011
Suffolk's Bob Jones - mammoth sponsored cycle ride
To all players in the Suffolk Chess League
Apologies for this non chess-related email, but please read on!
I will be undertaking a mammoth cycle ride this coming summer. Starting (and finishing) in Ipswich, I will be cycling unaccompanied around the entire coastline of England, Scotland and Wales (and back into England again!), a distance of nearly 6,000 miles This will include a number of islands, including Orkney, Skye, Mull, Anglesey and the Isle of Wight. Most nights I will be camping, but a few friends have offered me a bed as I travel around the coast.
All this can be seen in more detail at my website – http://www.coastrider.org.uk/
I will be doing this to raise funds for two charities. My partner Bundy suffered a severe stroke in February 2009 which has left her with impaired speech and writing abilities, both crucial aspects of her job as a university lecturer. So one of the worthy charities for which I hope to raise a total of £3,000 is The Stroke Association. The second charity, The Meningitis Research Foundation, relates to my own illness back in 1995, when I was fortunate to survive meningococcal septicaemia. A further £3,000 is the target. The total target of £6,000 is roughly equal to a pound per mile.
I very much hope that you will wish to support my efforts, which should take just short of 100 days if I manage to maintain my 60 miles per day average schedule. I will be starting the ride on Saturday 30th April.
On the above website, you will see there’s a ‘Donate now’ page. Alternatively, you could go direct to either (or both) of the Just Giving websites:
Stroke Association - www.justgiving.com/coastrider1
Meningitis Research Foundation - www.justgiving.com/coastrider2
The benefit of donating online is that Gift Aid is added to your donation(s). However, if you prefer not to donate on line, I can add cash/cheque donations manually.
Please don’t feel under any obligation to sponsor me, but if you do I shall be very grateful. Also, please don’t feel that you have to donate to both charities; but if you can split the amount (however small) between the two charities, it will be much appreciated.
Best regards
Bob
Apologies for this non chess-related email, but please read on!
I will be undertaking a mammoth cycle ride this coming summer. Starting (and finishing) in Ipswich, I will be cycling unaccompanied around the entire coastline of England, Scotland and Wales (and back into England again!), a distance of nearly 6,000 miles This will include a number of islands, including Orkney, Skye, Mull, Anglesey and the Isle of Wight. Most nights I will be camping, but a few friends have offered me a bed as I travel around the coast.
All this can be seen in more detail at my website – http://www.coastrider.org.uk/
I will be doing this to raise funds for two charities. My partner Bundy suffered a severe stroke in February 2009 which has left her with impaired speech and writing abilities, both crucial aspects of her job as a university lecturer. So one of the worthy charities for which I hope to raise a total of £3,000 is The Stroke Association. The second charity, The Meningitis Research Foundation, relates to my own illness back in 1995, when I was fortunate to survive meningococcal septicaemia. A further £3,000 is the target. The total target of £6,000 is roughly equal to a pound per mile.
I very much hope that you will wish to support my efforts, which should take just short of 100 days if I manage to maintain my 60 miles per day average schedule. I will be starting the ride on Saturday 30th April.
On the above website, you will see there’s a ‘Donate now’ page. Alternatively, you could go direct to either (or both) of the Just Giving websites:
Stroke Association - www.justgiving.com/coastrider1
Meningitis Research Foundation - www.justgiving.com/coastrider2
The benefit of donating online is that Gift Aid is added to your donation(s). However, if you prefer not to donate on line, I can add cash/cheque donations manually.
Please don’t feel under any obligation to sponsor me, but if you do I shall be very grateful. Also, please don’t feel that you have to donate to both charities; but if you can split the amount (however small) between the two charities, it will be much appreciated.
Best regards
Bob
Tuesday, 25 January 2011
EACU Grand Prix - current standings: top 10
The EACU Grand Prix is a points system where individuals gain points from Congresses within the EACU, as well as major rapidplays and county matches. Points count from any section and level.
The current top ten is:
Player Club Total
David Spence Ipswich 11.5
Roger Smith Ipswich 11.0
Akiito Oyama Cambridge 10.0
David Redman Cambridge 10.0
Norman Hutchinson Linton 9.5
Chris Davison Cambridge 9.0
Peter Housden Bedford 9.0
Harunobu Oyama Cambridge 9.0
Nick Pert Sandhurst 9.0
Vicky Allen Stowmarket 8.0
Monday, 24 January 2011
Clacton Congress - 12th/13th Feb
Just a mention for a little known congress taking place in Clacton.
It is part of the Spectrum circuit (well known for their plush venues).
It's on 12th/13th Feb.
There are 2 sections:
under 165's
and under 125's.
Link to: www.spectrumchess.com/
for the on-line entry form.
Friday, 7 January 2011
Results from Chess Tournaments: end of 2010
Woodbridge Junior Open 2010:
http://www.woodbridgechess.com/content/wjo2010.html
Bury St Edmunds Congress 2010:
http://www.buryleaguechess.org.uk/congress2010/
Ipswich Junior Open 2010:
http://www.ijcc.org.uk/tournament_13.html
http://www.woodbridgechess.com/content/wjo2010.html
Bury St Edmunds Congress 2010:
http://www.buryleaguechess.org.uk/congress2010/
Ipswich Junior Open 2010:
http://www.ijcc.org.uk/tournament_13.html
Tuesday, 23 November 2010
Friday, 19 November 2010
Woodbridge Junior Open - including adult section
On Sunday 28th Nov, Woodbridge School is hosting a rapidplap tournament.
There are many age sections for juniors, and also an adult section.
See the link under upcoming event for the entry form.
Entries are required by Wed 24th.
There are many age sections for juniors, and also an adult section.
See the link under upcoming event for the entry form.
Entries are required by Wed 24th.
Tuesday, 5 October 2010
Tournaments in Suffolk this month
Firstly there is the Ipswich Junior Chess Club on Saturday 16th October, held at the Copleston School in Ipswich. This is the Ipswich Junior Championship but also includes a popular section for Adults.
This event helps fund the Ipswich Junior Chess Club (which runs Saturday mornings during term time), so I hope that we can give them as much support as possible.
Their site is:
http://www.ijcc.org.uk/
Then at the end of the month (30th/31st October), there is the excellent Bury St. Edmunds Congress, which this year takes place in brand new premises.
The congress website can be found at:
http://www.buryleaguechess.org.uk/congress2010/
The event is always impressive, and has something for everyone of all levels. You can normally expect a number of titled players in the top section to watch!
This event helps fund the Ipswich Junior Chess Club (which runs Saturday mornings during term time), so I hope that we can give them as much support as possible.
Their site is:
http://www.ijcc.org.uk/
Then at the end of the month (30th/31st October), there is the excellent Bury St. Edmunds Congress, which this year takes place in brand new premises.
The congress website can be found at:
http://www.buryleaguechess.org.uk/congress2010/
The event is always impressive, and has something for everyone of all levels. You can normally expect a number of titled players in the top section to watch!
Thursday, 2 September 2010
SCCA: County U140's Captain needed
After the recent AGM a number of posts were filled - details of which will appear in the Minutes that will be published shortly.
However, the U140's county team is missing a Captain.
Jakob had a very successful 2 years with the club, winning the national title and then reaching the semi-final. Jakob's grade has now moved on, so this winning side is without a Captain.
The following is a county list of players in the 120-139 bracket:
Stevens, Patrick A 139 Woodbridge School
McAllister, John WF 138 Adastral Park
Lambert, John E 137 Clacton
Phillips, Carl 135 Manningtree
Campbell, Peter J 135 Bury St Edmunds
Hemsworth, Gary 133 Felixstowe
Hill, Martin 133 Hadleigh Suffolk
Harrison, Paul 133 Bury St Edmunds
McCormick, Arthur 131 Saxmundham
Avis, Rupert 130 Hadleigh Suffolk
Kent, John 130 Sudbury
Wilden, Martin 129 Bury St Edmunds, Stowmarket
Sanderson, Adrian 128 Hadleigh Suffolk, Manningtree
Keffler, Y Peter AG 128 Clacton
Johnson, David 127 Hadleigh Suffolk
Paez, Alonso 127 Adastral Park, Ipswich
Alvin, Martin 127 Clacton
Kelly, Rob 127 Manningtree
Garcia, Laureano 126 Bury St Edmunds
Fitzsimons, Joe 125 Bury St Edmunds
Weidman, Mark J 124 Adastral Park
Woodcock, Keith D 124 Ipswich
Steele, Melvin 122 Clacton
Wild, Dave 121 Adastral Park
Welsh, Dave 121 Clacton
Please could someone, or maybe a duo, step forward and take on this role.
It would be a huge shame to have to withdraw the team from the EACU competition.
Tim
However, the U140's county team is missing a Captain.
Jakob had a very successful 2 years with the club, winning the national title and then reaching the semi-final. Jakob's grade has now moved on, so this winning side is without a Captain.
The following is a county list of players in the 120-139 bracket:
Stevens, Patrick A 139 Woodbridge School
McAllister, John WF 138 Adastral Park
Lambert, John E 137 Clacton
Phillips, Carl 135 Manningtree
Campbell, Peter J 135 Bury St Edmunds
Hemsworth, Gary 133 Felixstowe
Hill, Martin 133 Hadleigh Suffolk
Harrison, Paul 133 Bury St Edmunds
McCormick, Arthur 131 Saxmundham
Avis, Rupert 130 Hadleigh Suffolk
Kent, John 130 Sudbury
Wilden, Martin 129 Bury St Edmunds, Stowmarket
Sanderson, Adrian 128 Hadleigh Suffolk, Manningtree
Keffler, Y Peter AG 128 Clacton
Johnson, David 127 Hadleigh Suffolk
Paez, Alonso 127 Adastral Park, Ipswich
Alvin, Martin 127 Clacton
Kelly, Rob 127 Manningtree
Garcia, Laureano 126 Bury St Edmunds
Fitzsimons, Joe 125 Bury St Edmunds
Weidman, Mark J 124 Adastral Park
Woodcock, Keith D 124 Ipswich
Steele, Melvin 122 Clacton
Wild, Dave 121 Adastral Park
Welsh, Dave 121 Clacton
Please could someone, or maybe a duo, step forward and take on this role.
It would be a huge shame to have to withdraw the team from the EACU competition.
Tim
Wednesday, 1 September 2010
Suffolk Junior Chess report
Apologies to Adam Hunt and those at the meeting, but I missed an e-mail with Adam's report. Unfortunately no report was read at the meeting. I have e-mailed all members that I have a contact for.
Here is the report:
Junior Chess 2009-10
I apologise that I am unable to attend the meeting in person, but would like to send this report on junior chess in the past year. As has been the case over the past few years, the majority of junior chess in the county seems to be situated in small pockets, notably Woodbridge, Bury and Ipswich. The school chess competitions (Under 13, Under 16, Under 18) this year were all won by Woodbridge School, with Stephen Donaghy, the competition organiser deciding to step down at the end of the year. In the meantime until another volunteer steps in I am willing to attempt to run the competitions.
As usual junior tournaments have been held at Woodbridge (3), Bury and Ipswich with healthy numbers attending each event. Speaking only as spectator to the Woodbridge events it seems that the chess is of a reasonable standard through the age groups. Alan Merry continues to impress as the outstanding junior in the county (as I can attest having lost to him at the Great Yarmouth congress), with Anna York-Andersen the leading girl having recently represented England at the Faber cup.
Junior chess remains very much a regional activity in Suffolk, with no children as far I could tell playing in the British or the UK Chess Terafinal. This year, similarly to the last couple I didnt feel putting out an Under 9 or Under 11 inter-county team would have been worthwhile due to the limited numbers or juniors in the age groups, but on a more positive note the Abbey (the prep school to Woodbridge) finished =3rd in the EPSCA Under 9 national semi-finals and the Under 11 team finished =8th, which were outstanding achievements.
I would of course be interested to hear of any promising juniors in your areas/clubs. The more we can do to promote the game to youngsters the better.
Friday, 27 August 2010
Agenda for SCCA 2010 AGM
Suffolk County Chess Association
Agenda for the Annual General Meeting, to be held on Tuesday 31st August 2010 at the Ipswich Chess Club.
1. Apologies for absence
2. Minutes of previous meeting and Matters arising
3. Officer’s Reports
President
Secretary County ------------U120 Team
Treasurer’s Report ----------Women’s Chess
Competition Secretary -------Correspondence Chess
County First Team -----------Suffolk Chess Journal
County U160 Team ----------CountyResults Officer
County U140 Team ----------Suffolk Junior Chess
4. Election of Officers
President
Vice President -------------County U140 Team
Secretary -----------------County U120 Team
Treasurer -----------------Women’s Chess
Competition Secretary -----Correspondence Chess
County First Team --------Suffolk Chess Journal
County U160 Team --------County Results Officer
5. Voting at General Meetings
6. Constitution for SCCA – Approval or Timetable for completion
7. Fixtures List / Cup Competitions – Reporting Results of Matches
8. Suffolk Chess Journal / Alternative publication of Chess Events etc.
9. Any Other Business
Agenda for the Annual General Meeting, to be held on Tuesday 31st August 2010 at the Ipswich Chess Club.
1. Apologies for absence
2. Minutes of previous meeting and Matters arising
3. Officer’s Reports
President
Secretary County ------------U120 Team
Treasurer’s Report ----------Women’s Chess
Competition Secretary -------Correspondence Chess
County First Team -----------Suffolk Chess Journal
County U160 Team ----------CountyResults Officer
County U140 Team ----------Suffolk Junior Chess
4. Election of Officers
President
Vice President -------------County U140 Team
Secretary -----------------County U120 Team
Treasurer -----------------Women’s Chess
Competition Secretary -----Correspondence Chess
County First Team --------Suffolk Chess Journal
County U160 Team --------County Results Officer
5. Voting at General Meetings
6. Constitution for SCCA – Approval or Timetable for completion
7. Fixtures List / Cup Competitions – Reporting Results of Matches
8. Suffolk Chess Journal / Alternative publication of Chess Events etc.
9. Any Other Business
Minutes of the SCCA 2009 AGM
suffolk county chess association
Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of the Suffolk County Chess Association, held at the Ipswich Institute on Tuesday, 1 September 2009
Present: Tim Lunn, Adrian Sanderson, Rob Sanders, John Lambert, Michael Coughtrey, Jane Jennings, Dave Wild, Mark Bettley, Andrew Paige, Arthur McCormick, Mike Spalding, Steve Gregory, Adele Lunn, Michael Clapham, Bob Jones, Colin Roberts, Dave Robertson, Adam Hunt, Jim Buis, David Brown, Ben Dukes, Keith Woodcock and Mark Weidman.
1. Apologies: were received: from Kevin Greenacre, Laurie Pott, Steve Moss, Jakob Tulic, Scott Taylor and Alan Watkins.
2. Minutes of the AGM held on 16 September 2008: Colin Roberts considered that the Minutes in their note form were not a suitable record of the meeting. Tim Lunn noted his intention to record all important facts. Bob Jones proposed, Rob Sanders seconded the proposal and members agreed that the minutes be approved and signed. There were no matters arising.
3. Officers’ Reports:
3.1. President – Tim Lunn noted that he had nothing specific to report under this heading. He was concerned that there are posts still to be filled, which must be settled for the Association to operate effectively.
3.2. Secretary – Adrian Sanderson was pleased to note that an executive committee meeting had been held for the first time in several years and that we were at last making progress in preparing a Constitution document.
3.3 Treasurer - Adrian Sanderson presented written accounts for the year. He briefly outlined the accounts and provided a report, which explained that the surplus for 2008/09 had been boosted by the writing back of provisions for officers’ expenses provided over several years. Almost the whole of the Association’s income comes from Clubs’ team fees and is used to pay for game fees (ECF and EACU) and insurance. A discussion ensued as to whether SCCA was liable to pay any game fees relating to games played by direct members. Dave Wild and AS had been communicating with ECF understanding that no payment was required. Bob Jones said Thelma Merry had received clear information from ECF for the Bury League and he would ask her to speak to us. There should be a note on invoices to clubs to let them know if direct members are not required to pay game fees.
For many years the ECF charges for game fees in respect of Clubs internal games had not been recharged to individual clubs provided a club team was entered in the Suffolk League. BJ proposed that with effect from the start of season 2009/10 clubs must pay their own game fees for internal competitions. The proposal was approved.
AS noted that among the financial matters to be considered for the Constitution document raised at the Executive Committee meeting are whether the accounts should be audited and whether cheques needed to be countersigned. Following discussion it was proposed and agreed that both should be put in place when the Constitution document has been approved by members.
Proposal 8 of the Executive Committee that League team fees should be £40, SL Cup team fees remain at £12 with Knock-out Cup team fees £4 per team was approved.
3.4. Competition – Rob Sanders presented his first report as Competition Secretary.
It has been a sharp learning curve, dealing with many problems. Last year three divisions were proposed but with one team dropping out it was necessary to rearrange second and third into one division to ensure that teams were all able to play ten matches. Division 1 was competitive settled in February when a weakened Ipswich A went down to Ipswich B, the ultimate champions. Michael Clapham was Player of the Year with 8 out of 10.
Only by winning their final match, Division 2 was won by Bury Cannons B. Division 2 Player of the Year was Adam Hunt with 8 out of 8.
Two finals nights were held at the end of the season for all the Cup competitions.
The Suffolk League Cup was won by Ipswich B. Ipswich beat Bury Cannons to represent Suffolk in the Norfolk & Suffolk Cup. Adastral Park beat Manningtree for the u125 Cup and Bury Cannons won the u100 Cup beating Ipswich.
Some important issues requiring clarification of the Rules arose, which will be considered later in the Agenda
3.5 County First Team – Tim Lunn reported that the county were East Anglian Champions having beaten Norfolk twice. Instead of competing with minor counties as in previous years, the first placed team was entitled to go to the Open Finals. Unfortunately this meant meeting a very strong Middlesex team, receiving an 11.5 : 4.5 thrashing. A card of thanks had been received from the Sue Ryder charity for a donation made (the venue was free so the board fees went to the charity as designated by the venue – BAE Systems, Baddow). TL said he was standing down as captain. Michael Clapham congratulated him for getting the team to the finals for the first time in many years.
3.6 County U 150 – Bob Jones noted that all four matches were only lost narrowly. 22 players took part, the team suffering because we had almost no-one in the 140 – 150 grading range. The team had done extremely well being outgraded by the opposition in this way.
3.7. County U 125 – Jakob Tulic with the help of John Lambert had produced a championship winning team. Results against Cambridge 9 : 3 and 6.5 : 5.5 and Norfolk 7: 5 and 5 : 7 meant the team were EACU u125 champions. In the next round it was 8.5 : 7.5 against Herts. The Quarter Final was 10 : 6 against Yorks leading to a Semi-final 9 : 7 against Warwicks and the Final against Kent ,which was won 10 : 6. John Lambert gave some insight into the problems and successes of the escapade particularly noting Phil Revell’s 4 out of 5 on board one, Luke Hill played all eight games and was unbeaten, Keith McMillan five from six matches, Martin Fogg four wins at national stages and Anna Egorova also unbeaten. When some of the youngsters in the squad were unavailable we were able to call on several lower graded players whose contribution was an essential part. The final was a brilliant day and JL had been glad to be with the team (most dressed in blue). For the record the National winning team was Phil Revell, Luke Hill, Anna Egorova, Ed Kirkham, Mark Bettley, Keith McMillan, Jakob Tulik, Melvin Steele, John Wheatley, Carl Phillips, John Lambert, Keith Woodcock, Martin Fogg, Mike Coughtrey, Dave Wild and Mark Weidman.
The question of re-imbursement of expenses to team-members in the case of long-distance travel was raised. It was agreed that this should be referred to the Executive Committee for detailed consideration.
Members were concerned about where extra expenditure should come from if not Club team fees. Bob Jones pointed out that for any “Event” sponsorship might well be available if it is well publicised. A comment about Health Authority interest in publicity may be relevant. Information about this would be forwarded to TL.
3.8. County U 100 – Adele Lunn reported that as Cambridge couldn’t play Suffolk could only play Norfolk. There were problems with date clashes and with gradings. AL is standing down as captain.
3.9. Women’s Chess – Jane Jennings noted that unfortunately the competition was down to five players. Anna won with 4 / 4, Adele second with 3 / 4, Vicky three. The others were Mary and Jane. JJ had E-mailed clubs for others without success. She asked members to put any female players in touch with her.
3.10 Correspondence Chess - Jim Buis said the email/correspondence team scored 6.5 out of 10 and were joint top with Surrey II but lost on Board count. He congratulated Bob Jones for winning his match six years on the trot.
3.11. Suffolk Chess Journal – Michael Clapham apologized that after producing an issue a year ago, he had not managed to get round to issuing another. He said that if we do not want to continue there may be subscriptions to return. Several articles are on hand so he has sufficient material to continue if the will is there. Colin Roberts commented it would be a shame if we lost SCJ. Articles, games and reports of County matches and league updates are very handy in this format. Mark Weidman suggested if articles etc. are submitted on line, they could be selected by the Editor as needed. General discussion about the relative merits of internet and hard copy formats ensued. It was agreed to accept MC’s offer to continue as SCJ editor and he asked that clubs/members supply him with games, articles etc. to enable him to do the job.
3.12 County Results – Dave Wild asked that he be sent all results promptly.
3.13 Suffolk Junior Chess – Adam Hunt noted that SJC is centred on Woodbridge and Bury although this year Ipswich has been a little more involved. The strength of junior players is higher than ever, increasing every year with stable numbers competing in tournaments. u9 and u11 teams were not run this year due to lack of parental support. Woodbridge school team were second behind Wellington College. In a match against Norfolk u18 had 6 : 6 result. Bob Jones commented it was a good result at Thetford. He would like to repeat next year. The potential is good with several good players coming through. AH said that in the UK Chess Challenge Anna had won her age group (also representing England Board 1) also mentioned Alan Merry representing country in u13.
John Lambert asked about progress in the Initiative – Chess Sets for Schools. AH said not yet going but the wheels are turning – coming to Woodbridge School,
BJ asked how SJC were budgeting. AH responded that finances are not in a particularly good state. Costs add up. Colin Roberts felt SJC needs more than money, organisational effort is required. Adele Lunn said Ipswich need experienced players to encourage juniors.
TL asked who represents SJC. AH said that there had been little interest so no meetings were being held. John Lambert noted that “Child protection” is now a consideration. BJ said coaches at Bury all have approval. He remembered that a long time ago we did very well with developing junior talent. After he left a committee was formed and SJC development drifted. Maybe a different sort of meeting is needed deciding how to get kids into clubs, particularly ways of drawing talent from schools. Bury hold an open evening each year at which 20 to 30 attend from which some join Bury Knights.
BJ recommended the executive committee should consider arranging a meeting where one person nominated from each club would attend to promote junior chess. It was agreed that this could be set up after E-mail discussions between interested members. TL felt that his Blog might be the appropriate means for members to comment.
After further discussion BJ agreed to circulate Bury Knights Child Protection Policy, which it might be appropriate to incorporate in the Constitution document.
4. Election of Officers - The following were re-elected en bloc: President (Tim Lunn), Vice-President (Colin Roberts), Treasurer (Adrian Sanderson), Competition Secretary (Rob Sanders), County First Team Captain (Alan Watkins), U160 (Bob Jones), U140 (Jakob Tulic), Women’s Organiser (Jane Jennings), Correspondence Secretary (Jim Buis), Editor of the Suffolk Chess Journal (Michael Clapham) and County Results Officer (Dave Wild).
Therefore nominations are still required for the following:
Secretary - any volunteers/ideas please to President
County U120 match captain.
Proposal 1 of the Executive Committee meeting concerning its structure was discussed. No formal vote was taken and it was agreed to defer a decision until considered at the proposed Constitution Meeting on 28 September.
5. Proposed Meeting to agree a Constitution for SCCA: Proposal 2 of the Executive Committee was considered. Colin Roberts felt that this document was extremely important and should not be rushed through. It must be carefully reviewed and worded before being presented to an Extraordinary General Meeting of SCCA. TL agreed to circulate draft document to all interested members by E-mail before the proposed Constitution Meeting.
It was proposed that all elected officers may attend the Constitution Meeting on 28 September 2009. The completed Constitution document will be set before an Extraordinary General meeting of SCCA to be held on a date at least a month thereafter. The proposal was approved.
6. SCCA Competition Rules: Proposal 3 of the Executive Committee was reviewed. It was pointed out that Club Secretaries rather than team captains should be responsible for registering players. Members discussed the danger of muddling Registrations (Rule 7) and Nominations (Rule 20), the problem with registering a new player who is available when another team member has not turned up, grading needed before commencing a match but it was agreed that there was no need to combine the two rules. RS said that providing he receives a list that allows him to know whether a player is registered with a club and a list of nominated players for each team there is no problem with the Rules if everyone has read them and is clear as to what is required. Forms would be filled in after this AGM following which RS would circulate. This procedure was accepted.
Rob Sanders informed members that last season several postponements were played at the end of April and Bury had run out of time. In accordance with rule 14 a new date for re-arranged matches should be set immediately. RS has put in a lot of effort to keep results up to date and noted ten instances during the season when no result was submitted on time by either captain. DW also needs results for grading so both teams need to submit match results promptly.
The proposal was amended to the following:-
In order to claim the points achieved, team captains must register the result of a match with the Competition Secretary and the County Results Officer within seven days.
The proposal was approved.
CR proposed thanks to RS following on from JL for the effort put into running the league.
7. Grading List Changes: Proposal 4 of the Executive Committee concerning the changes in Grade calculations was approved as follows:-
Following the changes in Grade Calculations it is proposed that for the Suffolk League Cup the limits set for maximum grades for individuals be set at 160 for Board 2 (previously 145), 140 Board 3 (120), 120 Board 4 (95) with any defaulted Boards graded as 119 (94). The total team grade limit should be 570 (500).
8. Fixtures List / Cup Competitions: Rob Sanders had reviewed the fixtures schedule for the coming season and considered that his proposed Suffolk Rapidplay Cup and the existing u125 and u100 Knock out competitions, which he felt did not give a wide enough range for players of differing grades, would not both fit into the programme. He would like to see every club take part in both the SL Cup and the Rapidplay Cup with more than one team where possible.
Dave Robertson pointed out that clubs with only low graded players have more difficulty in competing in these, whereas with the u100/u125 their team does have a chance. CR congratulated RS on a brilliant fixture list both League and u100/u125 cups have their merits but a four week Swiss might be better perhaps linking with the Bury League to give a final with a club from each league.
It was agreed that if the Rapidplay Cup was approved it would be run as a four round Swiss with two 30 minute games in each round.
DR felt that we had insufficient information about the running of a Rapidplay Cup at this stage. Seven votes in favour of the existing u100/u125 Cups against six votes in favour of the Rapidplay Cup. As proposal 6 of the Executive Committee had been rejected RS agreed to provide full details of how he proposed to run a Rapidplay Cup so that Clubs could reconsider before the next AGM.
Proposal 5 of the Executive Committee redesignating the u125 and u100 Cups as u145 and u125 respectively was approved
9. Suffolk Chess Journal: Michael Clapham will continue to produce the Journal while there are sufficient resources of articles, match reports, games and subscribers.
10. Any Other Business
a) Tim Lunn elaborated on Proposal 7 of the Executive Committee. He intended to invite up to twelve top graded players and run a smaller Swiss for qualification in the following year. The proposal “A self-financing closed Suffolk Championship between the top six graded players in the county, who wish to participate is proposed for the start of 2010 if this can be organised by the president following discussions with the likely participants” was approved.
b) Colin Roberts suggested that votes at the AGM should be regulated and a number of votes allocated to each club rather than one per person attending. He suggested that this point be considered for inclusion in the Constitution.
c) A Schedule of the Proposals of the Executive considered in this meeting are attached.
11. The meeting closed at 10:35 pm.
Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of the Suffolk County Chess Association, held at the Ipswich Institute on Tuesday, 1 September 2009
Present: Tim Lunn, Adrian Sanderson, Rob Sanders, John Lambert, Michael Coughtrey, Jane Jennings, Dave Wild, Mark Bettley, Andrew Paige, Arthur McCormick, Mike Spalding, Steve Gregory, Adele Lunn, Michael Clapham, Bob Jones, Colin Roberts, Dave Robertson, Adam Hunt, Jim Buis, David Brown, Ben Dukes, Keith Woodcock and Mark Weidman.
1. Apologies: were received: from Kevin Greenacre, Laurie Pott, Steve Moss, Jakob Tulic, Scott Taylor and Alan Watkins.
2. Minutes of the AGM held on 16 September 2008: Colin Roberts considered that the Minutes in their note form were not a suitable record of the meeting. Tim Lunn noted his intention to record all important facts. Bob Jones proposed, Rob Sanders seconded the proposal and members agreed that the minutes be approved and signed. There were no matters arising.
3. Officers’ Reports:
3.1. President – Tim Lunn noted that he had nothing specific to report under this heading. He was concerned that there are posts still to be filled, which must be settled for the Association to operate effectively.
3.2. Secretary – Adrian Sanderson was pleased to note that an executive committee meeting had been held for the first time in several years and that we were at last making progress in preparing a Constitution document.
3.3 Treasurer - Adrian Sanderson presented written accounts for the year. He briefly outlined the accounts and provided a report, which explained that the surplus for 2008/09 had been boosted by the writing back of provisions for officers’ expenses provided over several years. Almost the whole of the Association’s income comes from Clubs’ team fees and is used to pay for game fees (ECF and EACU) and insurance. A discussion ensued as to whether SCCA was liable to pay any game fees relating to games played by direct members. Dave Wild and AS had been communicating with ECF understanding that no payment was required. Bob Jones said Thelma Merry had received clear information from ECF for the Bury League and he would ask her to speak to us. There should be a note on invoices to clubs to let them know if direct members are not required to pay game fees.
For many years the ECF charges for game fees in respect of Clubs internal games had not been recharged to individual clubs provided a club team was entered in the Suffolk League. BJ proposed that with effect from the start of season 2009/10 clubs must pay their own game fees for internal competitions. The proposal was approved.
AS noted that among the financial matters to be considered for the Constitution document raised at the Executive Committee meeting are whether the accounts should be audited and whether cheques needed to be countersigned. Following discussion it was proposed and agreed that both should be put in place when the Constitution document has been approved by members.
Proposal 8 of the Executive Committee that League team fees should be £40, SL Cup team fees remain at £12 with Knock-out Cup team fees £4 per team was approved.
3.4. Competition – Rob Sanders presented his first report as Competition Secretary.
It has been a sharp learning curve, dealing with many problems. Last year three divisions were proposed but with one team dropping out it was necessary to rearrange second and third into one division to ensure that teams were all able to play ten matches. Division 1 was competitive settled in February when a weakened Ipswich A went down to Ipswich B, the ultimate champions. Michael Clapham was Player of the Year with 8 out of 10.
Only by winning their final match, Division 2 was won by Bury Cannons B. Division 2 Player of the Year was Adam Hunt with 8 out of 8.
Two finals nights were held at the end of the season for all the Cup competitions.
The Suffolk League Cup was won by Ipswich B. Ipswich beat Bury Cannons to represent Suffolk in the Norfolk & Suffolk Cup. Adastral Park beat Manningtree for the u125 Cup and Bury Cannons won the u100 Cup beating Ipswich.
Some important issues requiring clarification of the Rules arose, which will be considered later in the Agenda
3.5 County First Team – Tim Lunn reported that the county were East Anglian Champions having beaten Norfolk twice. Instead of competing with minor counties as in previous years, the first placed team was entitled to go to the Open Finals. Unfortunately this meant meeting a very strong Middlesex team, receiving an 11.5 : 4.5 thrashing. A card of thanks had been received from the Sue Ryder charity for a donation made (the venue was free so the board fees went to the charity as designated by the venue – BAE Systems, Baddow). TL said he was standing down as captain. Michael Clapham congratulated him for getting the team to the finals for the first time in many years.
3.6 County U 150 – Bob Jones noted that all four matches were only lost narrowly. 22 players took part, the team suffering because we had almost no-one in the 140 – 150 grading range. The team had done extremely well being outgraded by the opposition in this way.
3.7. County U 125 – Jakob Tulic with the help of John Lambert had produced a championship winning team. Results against Cambridge 9 : 3 and 6.5 : 5.5 and Norfolk 7: 5 and 5 : 7 meant the team were EACU u125 champions. In the next round it was 8.5 : 7.5 against Herts. The Quarter Final was 10 : 6 against Yorks leading to a Semi-final 9 : 7 against Warwicks and the Final against Kent ,which was won 10 : 6. John Lambert gave some insight into the problems and successes of the escapade particularly noting Phil Revell’s 4 out of 5 on board one, Luke Hill played all eight games and was unbeaten, Keith McMillan five from six matches, Martin Fogg four wins at national stages and Anna Egorova also unbeaten. When some of the youngsters in the squad were unavailable we were able to call on several lower graded players whose contribution was an essential part. The final was a brilliant day and JL had been glad to be with the team (most dressed in blue). For the record the National winning team was Phil Revell, Luke Hill, Anna Egorova, Ed Kirkham, Mark Bettley, Keith McMillan, Jakob Tulik, Melvin Steele, John Wheatley, Carl Phillips, John Lambert, Keith Woodcock, Martin Fogg, Mike Coughtrey, Dave Wild and Mark Weidman.
The question of re-imbursement of expenses to team-members in the case of long-distance travel was raised. It was agreed that this should be referred to the Executive Committee for detailed consideration.
Members were concerned about where extra expenditure should come from if not Club team fees. Bob Jones pointed out that for any “Event” sponsorship might well be available if it is well publicised. A comment about Health Authority interest in publicity may be relevant. Information about this would be forwarded to TL.
3.8. County U 100 – Adele Lunn reported that as Cambridge couldn’t play Suffolk could only play Norfolk. There were problems with date clashes and with gradings. AL is standing down as captain.
3.9. Women’s Chess – Jane Jennings noted that unfortunately the competition was down to five players. Anna won with 4 / 4, Adele second with 3 / 4, Vicky three. The others were Mary and Jane. JJ had E-mailed clubs for others without success. She asked members to put any female players in touch with her.
3.10 Correspondence Chess - Jim Buis said the email/correspondence team scored 6.5 out of 10 and were joint top with Surrey II but lost on Board count. He congratulated Bob Jones for winning his match six years on the trot.
3.11. Suffolk Chess Journal – Michael Clapham apologized that after producing an issue a year ago, he had not managed to get round to issuing another. He said that if we do not want to continue there may be subscriptions to return. Several articles are on hand so he has sufficient material to continue if the will is there. Colin Roberts commented it would be a shame if we lost SCJ. Articles, games and reports of County matches and league updates are very handy in this format. Mark Weidman suggested if articles etc. are submitted on line, they could be selected by the Editor as needed. General discussion about the relative merits of internet and hard copy formats ensued. It was agreed to accept MC’s offer to continue as SCJ editor and he asked that clubs/members supply him with games, articles etc. to enable him to do the job.
3.12 County Results – Dave Wild asked that he be sent all results promptly.
3.13 Suffolk Junior Chess – Adam Hunt noted that SJC is centred on Woodbridge and Bury although this year Ipswich has been a little more involved. The strength of junior players is higher than ever, increasing every year with stable numbers competing in tournaments. u9 and u11 teams were not run this year due to lack of parental support. Woodbridge school team were second behind Wellington College. In a match against Norfolk u18 had 6 : 6 result. Bob Jones commented it was a good result at Thetford. He would like to repeat next year. The potential is good with several good players coming through. AH said that in the UK Chess Challenge Anna had won her age group (also representing England Board 1) also mentioned Alan Merry representing country in u13.
John Lambert asked about progress in the Initiative – Chess Sets for Schools. AH said not yet going but the wheels are turning – coming to Woodbridge School,
BJ asked how SJC were budgeting. AH responded that finances are not in a particularly good state. Costs add up. Colin Roberts felt SJC needs more than money, organisational effort is required. Adele Lunn said Ipswich need experienced players to encourage juniors.
TL asked who represents SJC. AH said that there had been little interest so no meetings were being held. John Lambert noted that “Child protection” is now a consideration. BJ said coaches at Bury all have approval. He remembered that a long time ago we did very well with developing junior talent. After he left a committee was formed and SJC development drifted. Maybe a different sort of meeting is needed deciding how to get kids into clubs, particularly ways of drawing talent from schools. Bury hold an open evening each year at which 20 to 30 attend from which some join Bury Knights.
BJ recommended the executive committee should consider arranging a meeting where one person nominated from each club would attend to promote junior chess. It was agreed that this could be set up after E-mail discussions between interested members. TL felt that his Blog might be the appropriate means for members to comment.
After further discussion BJ agreed to circulate Bury Knights Child Protection Policy, which it might be appropriate to incorporate in the Constitution document.
4. Election of Officers - The following were re-elected en bloc: President (Tim Lunn), Vice-President (Colin Roberts), Treasurer (Adrian Sanderson), Competition Secretary (Rob Sanders), County First Team Captain (Alan Watkins), U160 (Bob Jones), U140 (Jakob Tulic), Women’s Organiser (Jane Jennings), Correspondence Secretary (Jim Buis), Editor of the Suffolk Chess Journal (Michael Clapham) and County Results Officer (Dave Wild).
Therefore nominations are still required for the following:
Secretary - any volunteers/ideas please to President
County U120 match captain.
Proposal 1 of the Executive Committee meeting concerning its structure was discussed. No formal vote was taken and it was agreed to defer a decision until considered at the proposed Constitution Meeting on 28 September.
5. Proposed Meeting to agree a Constitution for SCCA: Proposal 2 of the Executive Committee was considered. Colin Roberts felt that this document was extremely important and should not be rushed through. It must be carefully reviewed and worded before being presented to an Extraordinary General Meeting of SCCA. TL agreed to circulate draft document to all interested members by E-mail before the proposed Constitution Meeting.
It was proposed that all elected officers may attend the Constitution Meeting on 28 September 2009. The completed Constitution document will be set before an Extraordinary General meeting of SCCA to be held on a date at least a month thereafter. The proposal was approved.
6. SCCA Competition Rules: Proposal 3 of the Executive Committee was reviewed. It was pointed out that Club Secretaries rather than team captains should be responsible for registering players. Members discussed the danger of muddling Registrations (Rule 7) and Nominations (Rule 20), the problem with registering a new player who is available when another team member has not turned up, grading needed before commencing a match but it was agreed that there was no need to combine the two rules. RS said that providing he receives a list that allows him to know whether a player is registered with a club and a list of nominated players for each team there is no problem with the Rules if everyone has read them and is clear as to what is required. Forms would be filled in after this AGM following which RS would circulate. This procedure was accepted.
Rob Sanders informed members that last season several postponements were played at the end of April and Bury had run out of time. In accordance with rule 14 a new date for re-arranged matches should be set immediately. RS has put in a lot of effort to keep results up to date and noted ten instances during the season when no result was submitted on time by either captain. DW also needs results for grading so both teams need to submit match results promptly.
The proposal was amended to the following:-
In order to claim the points achieved, team captains must register the result of a match with the Competition Secretary and the County Results Officer within seven days.
The proposal was approved.
CR proposed thanks to RS following on from JL for the effort put into running the league.
7. Grading List Changes: Proposal 4 of the Executive Committee concerning the changes in Grade calculations was approved as follows:-
Following the changes in Grade Calculations it is proposed that for the Suffolk League Cup the limits set for maximum grades for individuals be set at 160 for Board 2 (previously 145), 140 Board 3 (120), 120 Board 4 (95) with any defaulted Boards graded as 119 (94). The total team grade limit should be 570 (500).
8. Fixtures List / Cup Competitions: Rob Sanders had reviewed the fixtures schedule for the coming season and considered that his proposed Suffolk Rapidplay Cup and the existing u125 and u100 Knock out competitions, which he felt did not give a wide enough range for players of differing grades, would not both fit into the programme. He would like to see every club take part in both the SL Cup and the Rapidplay Cup with more than one team where possible.
Dave Robertson pointed out that clubs with only low graded players have more difficulty in competing in these, whereas with the u100/u125 their team does have a chance. CR congratulated RS on a brilliant fixture list both League and u100/u125 cups have their merits but a four week Swiss might be better perhaps linking with the Bury League to give a final with a club from each league.
It was agreed that if the Rapidplay Cup was approved it would be run as a four round Swiss with two 30 minute games in each round.
DR felt that we had insufficient information about the running of a Rapidplay Cup at this stage. Seven votes in favour of the existing u100/u125 Cups against six votes in favour of the Rapidplay Cup. As proposal 6 of the Executive Committee had been rejected RS agreed to provide full details of how he proposed to run a Rapidplay Cup so that Clubs could reconsider before the next AGM.
Proposal 5 of the Executive Committee redesignating the u125 and u100 Cups as u145 and u125 respectively was approved
9. Suffolk Chess Journal: Michael Clapham will continue to produce the Journal while there are sufficient resources of articles, match reports, games and subscribers.
10. Any Other Business
a) Tim Lunn elaborated on Proposal 7 of the Executive Committee. He intended to invite up to twelve top graded players and run a smaller Swiss for qualification in the following year. The proposal “A self-financing closed Suffolk Championship between the top six graded players in the county, who wish to participate is proposed for the start of 2010 if this can be organised by the president following discussions with the likely participants” was approved.
b) Colin Roberts suggested that votes at the AGM should be regulated and a number of votes allocated to each club rather than one per person attending. He suggested that this point be considered for inclusion in the Constitution.
c) A Schedule of the Proposals of the Executive considered in this meeting are attached.
11. The meeting closed at 10:35 pm.
Tuesday, 24 August 2010
Suffolk AGM Tues 31st August, Ipswich
Just a reminder that the Suffolk County Chess Association AGM is being held next week on Tuesday 31st August.
The meeting is taking place at the Ipswich Chess club, starting at 7:30pm.
There will be some e-mails shortly (and postings here) relating to the agenda and any proposals that may be put forward at the meeting.
We hope to see you there.
The meeting is taking place at the Ipswich Chess club, starting at 7:30pm.
There will be some e-mails shortly (and postings here) relating to the agenda and any proposals that may be put forward at the meeting.
We hope to see you there.
Sunday, 15 August 2010
Suffolk players at the British Championships
As most of you will know, the British Championships came to a close in Canterbury last weekend. There was excellent representation from Suffolk. The following report came from Bob Jones:
Suffolk 'ruled' at the British Championship at Canterbury, which concluded this evening (6 August). Apart from the runaway winner and out-and-out favourite Michael Adams, who scored 9½/11, sole second place on 8 points was secured by Ipswich-born Nick Pert, who won a mammoth 86-move last-round win against fellow GM Stephen Gordon.
In joint third place on 7½ points were Nick's twin brother Richard, and Woodbridge's Adam Hunt, who went through the tournament unbeaten and secured a (second) GM norm as early as Round 9. Adam played seven Grandmasters, beating one and drawing with the other six, a tremendous performance, gaining 29 Elo rating poUints.
Also playing in the British Championship was David Spence, who sadly lost his last three games to finish on 5 points.
Bob
A fantastic result by Adam with a 2624 performance!
Also from Suffolk playing at the British were:
Stephen Gregory (Ipswich)in the Major Open,
Paul Botham (Adastral Park) in the U180 Championship,
and Adam Taylor (of the Ipswich Junior Club) in the U12's.
(Sorry to anyone if I didn't spot you and you were there!)
The website for the Championships with results and all games in the Open can be found at:
http://www.britishchess2010.com/
Edit:
As mentioned by Bob,
Andrew Salmon (Clacton) took part in the Major Open.
...And how could I forget the Ipswich crew that took part in the weekend tournament: Luke Hill, Martin Fogg & Keith Woodcock (all Ipswich) headed down to Canterbury.
Suffolk 'ruled' at the British Championship at Canterbury, which concluded this evening (6 August). Apart from the runaway winner and out-and-out favourite Michael Adams, who scored 9½/11, sole second place on 8 points was secured by Ipswich-born Nick Pert, who won a mammoth 86-move last-round win against fellow GM Stephen Gordon.
In joint third place on 7½ points were Nick's twin brother Richard, and Woodbridge's Adam Hunt, who went through the tournament unbeaten and secured a (second) GM norm as early as Round 9. Adam played seven Grandmasters, beating one and drawing with the other six, a tremendous performance, gaining 29 Elo rating poUints.
Also playing in the British Championship was David Spence, who sadly lost his last three games to finish on 5 points.
Bob
A fantastic result by Adam with a 2624 performance!
Also from Suffolk playing at the British were:
Stephen Gregory (Ipswich)in the Major Open,
Paul Botham (Adastral Park) in the U180 Championship,
and Adam Taylor (of the Ipswich Junior Club) in the U12's.
(Sorry to anyone if I didn't spot you and you were there!)
The website for the Championships with results and all games in the Open can be found at:
http://www.britishchess2010.com/
Edit:
As mentioned by Bob,
Andrew Salmon (Clacton) took part in the Major Open.
...And how could I forget the Ipswich crew that took part in the weekend tournament: Luke Hill, Martin Fogg & Keith Woodcock (all Ipswich) headed down to Canterbury.
Tuesday, 27 July 2010
Suffolk's top scorer in 4NCL 2009-2010
Three players were the joint top scorers for the whole of the 4NCL 3 divisions.
Two of them were Grandmasters Chris Ward and Neil McDonald playing in division 1.
The other was Suffolk's very own (and newly crowned County Champion) Ian Wallis.
They all scored an excellent 9.5 out of 11.
Two of them were Grandmasters Chris Ward and Neil McDonald playing in division 1.
The other was Suffolk's very own (and newly crowned County Champion) Ian Wallis.
They all scored an excellent 9.5 out of 11.
Suffolk player in Faber cup
Bob Jones sent the following link:
See www.welshchessunion.org.uk/glorneyfabergilbert.html for Anna's achievements in this event which took place 21 - 23 July.
As you will notice, Anna York-Andersen was the 'best on board' for her competition.
See www.welshchessunion.org.uk/glorneyfabergilbert.html for Anna's achievements in this event which took place 21 - 23 July.
As you will notice, Anna York-Andersen was the 'best on board' for her competition.
Sunday, 25 July 2010
The New Grades are out!
Hello all,
that moment in the year most chess players anticipate/dread for, is here.
The new grades are out!
Find out the grades at the official site:
http://grading.bcfservices.org.uk/
Edit: and now available on Dave Wild's excellent grading site:
http://www.c4results.org.uk/chess/php/index.php?GroupId=3
Tim
that moment in the year most chess players anticipate/dread for, is here.
The new grades are out!
Find out the grades at the official site:
http://grading.bcfservices.org.uk/
Edit: and now available on Dave Wild's excellent grading site:
http://www.c4results.org.uk/chess/php/index.php?GroupId=3
Tim
Tuesday, 13 July 2010
Suffolk U160's are National County Champions!
Hi everyone
We WON 9½ - 6½. Wow, what a fantastic performance. We were outgraded by an average of more than four points per board (see attached results sheet).
1 Conrad SIMONS 155 ½-½ Louis BRIJMOHUN 159
2 Luke HILL 154 0-1 James BOWLER 154
3 Richard LAMONT 155 1-0 Andrew BAGLEY 156
4 Edward VENMORE-ROWLAND 155 1-0 Richard BOYLAN 156
5 Stuart TATE 146 1-0 Robert DEAN 152
6 David E BROWN 149 1-0 Paul HOWDEN 153
7 John WHEATLEY 150 ½-½ Randy DONAHUE 154
8 Martin FOGG 143 1-0 Ben CUARESMA 151
9 Yury TSISCHANKA e150 0-1 Paul JOHNSON 150
10 Robert W STEPHENS 146 0-1 Robin BROWNE 151
11 Philip W REVELL 142 ½-½ Rupert JONES 152
12 Colin A ROBERTS 140 0-1 David HIRST 144
13 Robert L JONES 139 1-0 Stan ALEXSANDROWICZ 144
14 Ed KIRKHAM 138 ½-½ Tim HILL 147
15 Jakob TULIC 138 1-0 Nick MAHONEY 145
16 Mark S BETTLEY 131 ½-½ Ian STRICKLAND 130
TOTAL Av 145.7 9½-6½ TOTAL Av. 149.9
Populations: Yorkshire - 4,559,800 Suffolk - 715,700 (according to Wikipedia)
So, we were also 'out-peopled' by over 6 to 1....
We started well, with Jakob Tulic winning early on. This was followed by a draw from Ed Kirkham and a loss by Colin Roberts. 1½ - 1½
Then a couple of losses by Bob Stephens and Yury Tsischanka. 1½ - 3½. Not looking good.
Under no pressure my opponent then blundered a piece and Mark Bettley salvaged a draw from a poor position. 3 - 4.
Then Luke Hill succumbed after unsuccessfully sacrificing two pieces, Phil Revell cleverly forced the Yorkshire captain to bale out with a perpetual check although the latter was a bishop ahead, and John Wheatley escaped with a draw, having earlier been the exchange down. 4 - 6.
Now there were just six games left, on Boards 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8. Then began an hour of Suffolk successes that will be remembered for many a year...
Richard Lamont, from a pawn ahead, converted nicely by forcing a win of the exchange.
Martin Fogg benefitted from an amazing oversight by his opponent who, when two pawns ahead, managed to hang his rook.
Edward Venmore-Rowland eventually converted a three-pawn advantage, although he found it difficult with opposite-coloured bishops on the board.
David Brown, with a pair of bishops against a lone rook, forced home a pawn which the rook had to take. A second pawn was then promoted, leaving his opponent with no hope.
(8 - 6)
Then, with just two boards still in play and a draw needed to secure the title, Stuart Tate won a tense battle, with both players having less than three minutes remaining, to make the score 9 - 6 to Suffolk!
With just Board 1 left, Conrad Simons offered a draw with only four seconds remaining on his clock. His opponent (with a bare queen) had been trying for half an hour to force Conrad (rook, knight and pawn) to move his king to the wrong square, in order to fork the rook and king. With the match result already determined, his opponent graciously accepted the draw offer. He would have easily won on time, of course.
NB: County players (at all levels) must remember Rule 10.2, when a draw can be claimed in the last two minutes. If Conrad had stopped the clocks earlier and claimed a draw, an arbiter would have watched the remainder of the game until his flag had fallen; he would undoubtedly have awarded a draw, as Conrad's opponent was clearly making no progress.
Final score: Suffolk 9½ Yorkshire 6½
The team, with the trophy:
(back row: John Wheatley, Conrad Simons, Mark Bettley, Ed Kirkham (hiding), Martin Fogg (probably kneeling), Ed Venmore-Rowland, Bob Stephens, Yury Tsischanka, Jakob Tulic.
front row: Bob Jones, Colin Roberts, Luke Hill, David Brown, Phil Revell, Stuart Tate, Richard Lamont)
Receiving the trophy from ECF Chief Executive, Chris Majer:
Well played everyone, including all those who played in previous rounds!
Bob
We WON 9½ - 6½. Wow, what a fantastic performance. We were outgraded by an average of more than four points per board (see attached results sheet).
1 Conrad SIMONS 155 ½-½ Louis BRIJMOHUN 159
2 Luke HILL 154 0-1 James BOWLER 154
3 Richard LAMONT 155 1-0 Andrew BAGLEY 156
4 Edward VENMORE-ROWLAND 155 1-0 Richard BOYLAN 156
5 Stuart TATE 146 1-0 Robert DEAN 152
6 David E BROWN 149 1-0 Paul HOWDEN 153
7 John WHEATLEY 150 ½-½ Randy DONAHUE 154
8 Martin FOGG 143 1-0 Ben CUARESMA 151
9 Yury TSISCHANKA e150 0-1 Paul JOHNSON 150
10 Robert W STEPHENS 146 0-1 Robin BROWNE 151
11 Philip W REVELL 142 ½-½ Rupert JONES 152
12 Colin A ROBERTS 140 0-1 David HIRST 144
13 Robert L JONES 139 1-0 Stan ALEXSANDROWICZ 144
14 Ed KIRKHAM 138 ½-½ Tim HILL 147
15 Jakob TULIC 138 1-0 Nick MAHONEY 145
16 Mark S BETTLEY 131 ½-½ Ian STRICKLAND 130
TOTAL Av 145.7 9½-6½ TOTAL Av. 149.9
Populations: Yorkshire - 4,559,800 Suffolk - 715,700 (according to Wikipedia)
So, we were also 'out-peopled' by over 6 to 1....
We started well, with Jakob Tulic winning early on. This was followed by a draw from Ed Kirkham and a loss by Colin Roberts. 1½ - 1½
Then a couple of losses by Bob Stephens and Yury Tsischanka. 1½ - 3½. Not looking good.
Under no pressure my opponent then blundered a piece and Mark Bettley salvaged a draw from a poor position. 3 - 4.
Then Luke Hill succumbed after unsuccessfully sacrificing two pieces, Phil Revell cleverly forced the Yorkshire captain to bale out with a perpetual check although the latter was a bishop ahead, and John Wheatley escaped with a draw, having earlier been the exchange down. 4 - 6.
Now there were just six games left, on Boards 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8. Then began an hour of Suffolk successes that will be remembered for many a year...
Richard Lamont, from a pawn ahead, converted nicely by forcing a win of the exchange.
Martin Fogg benefitted from an amazing oversight by his opponent who, when two pawns ahead, managed to hang his rook.
Edward Venmore-Rowland eventually converted a three-pawn advantage, although he found it difficult with opposite-coloured bishops on the board.
David Brown, with a pair of bishops against a lone rook, forced home a pawn which the rook had to take. A second pawn was then promoted, leaving his opponent with no hope.
(8 - 6)
Then, with just two boards still in play and a draw needed to secure the title, Stuart Tate won a tense battle, with both players having less than three minutes remaining, to make the score 9 - 6 to Suffolk!
With just Board 1 left, Conrad Simons offered a draw with only four seconds remaining on his clock. His opponent (with a bare queen) had been trying for half an hour to force Conrad (rook, knight and pawn) to move his king to the wrong square, in order to fork the rook and king. With the match result already determined, his opponent graciously accepted the draw offer. He would have easily won on time, of course.
NB: County players (at all levels) must remember Rule 10.2, when a draw can be claimed in the last two minutes. If Conrad had stopped the clocks earlier and claimed a draw, an arbiter would have watched the remainder of the game until his flag had fallen; he would undoubtedly have awarded a draw, as Conrad's opponent was clearly making no progress.
Final score: Suffolk 9½ Yorkshire 6½
The team, with the trophy:
(back row: John Wheatley, Conrad Simons, Mark Bettley, Ed Kirkham (hiding), Martin Fogg (probably kneeling), Ed Venmore-Rowland, Bob Stephens, Yury Tsischanka, Jakob Tulic.
front row: Bob Jones, Colin Roberts, Luke Hill, David Brown, Phil Revell, Stuart Tate, Richard Lamont)
Receiving the trophy from ECF Chief Executive, Chris Majer:
Well played everyone, including all those who played in previous rounds!
Bob
Suffolk U140's: meet their match in National Semis
Dear members of Suffolk County team
The result of the match was Suffolk 6,5 and Hampshire 9,5
We did our best but our opponents were better - this time ! The results on 9 boards was a draw. Ed Kirkham and Laureano Garcia gave us two valuable victories but that was not enough.
On behalf of our deputy captain and myself I wish to thank you very, very much to all and each of you.
Jakob
The result of the match was Suffolk 6,5 and Hampshire 9,5
We did our best but our opponents were better - this time ! The results on 9 boards was a draw. Ed Kirkham and Laureano Garcia gave us two valuable victories but that was not enough.
On behalf of our deputy captain and myself I wish to thank you very, very much to all and each of you.
Jakob
Monday, 28 June 2010
Suffolk U160's do it again! Next stop, the Final!
Hi guys
What a tremendous result! We didn't just win, we thrashed them!
Despite being outgraded on 15 out of 16 boards, we managed to win 10 - 6. Leicestershire had a bad start when two of their team failed to turn up; it seems that the driver had forgotten, so the other guy was marooned at home.
Our initial 2 - 0 advantage soon became 4 - 0 when Richard Lamont on Board 4 completely outplayed his opponent, swiftly followed with a kingside demolition by Stuart Tate on Board 5. The result was never in doubt, being ahead 6½-1½ at one stage. The winning margin of 8½ points was achieved when Luke Hill won on Board 2. Conrad Simons had a tough match against a strong opponent on top board and Scott Taylor suffered a similar reverse on Board 3. The only other losses were sustained on the bottom two boards (Ed Kirkham and John Lambert).
Phil Revell had a nice trick up his sleeve which either mated his opponent or won his queen, whilst Colin Roberts was ahead very early and turned a fine position into a relatively straightforward point. Second last to finish was Martin Fogg who, playing with his usual calmness and assuredness, forced his opponent to resign with mate inevitable.
The remaining matches were drawn, featuring David Brown, Anna York-Andersen, Bob Stephens and myself. Sadly, Craig Hadrych and Dave Pearce didn't get a game, due to the defaults. But it was good that even if we had lost the two games that Leicestershire defaulted, we would still have won, albeit on board count...
So, well done to everyone - a real team effort. We now take on the might of Yorkshire (who beat Essex on board count) in the Final, in Leicester, on Saturday 10 July.
Regards
Bob (Jones)
Fantastic news.
A big congratulaions to Bob Jones and his team.
Good luck all in the final!
What a tremendous result! We didn't just win, we thrashed them!
Despite being outgraded on 15 out of 16 boards, we managed to win 10 - 6. Leicestershire had a bad start when two of their team failed to turn up; it seems that the driver had forgotten, so the other guy was marooned at home.
Our initial 2 - 0 advantage soon became 4 - 0 when Richard Lamont on Board 4 completely outplayed his opponent, swiftly followed with a kingside demolition by Stuart Tate on Board 5. The result was never in doubt, being ahead 6½-1½ at one stage. The winning margin of 8½ points was achieved when Luke Hill won on Board 2. Conrad Simons had a tough match against a strong opponent on top board and Scott Taylor suffered a similar reverse on Board 3. The only other losses were sustained on the bottom two boards (Ed Kirkham and John Lambert).
Phil Revell had a nice trick up his sleeve which either mated his opponent or won his queen, whilst Colin Roberts was ahead very early and turned a fine position into a relatively straightforward point. Second last to finish was Martin Fogg who, playing with his usual calmness and assuredness, forced his opponent to resign with mate inevitable.
The remaining matches were drawn, featuring David Brown, Anna York-Andersen, Bob Stephens and myself. Sadly, Craig Hadrych and Dave Pearce didn't get a game, due to the defaults. But it was good that even if we had lost the two games that Leicestershire defaulted, we would still have won, albeit on board count...
So, well done to everyone - a real team effort. We now take on the might of Yorkshire (who beat Essex on board count) in the Final, in Leicester, on Saturday 10 July.
Regards
Bob (Jones)
Fantastic news.
A big congratulaions to Bob Jones and his team.
Good luck all in the final!
Bury Area Chess League: AGM
The Annual General Meeting of the Bury Area Chess League took place last Thursday, 17 June, at Moreton Hall Community Centre, Bury St Edmunds. 17 members attended and Paul Kemp was elected Chairman, to replace Bob Jones who has completed his three-year stint. Stephen Pride was re-elected Match Secretary. These two are pictured below:
Regards
Bob (Jones)
Regards
Bob (Jones)
Monday, 24 May 2010
National
MATCH : Lincolnshire vs Suffolk
Lincs white on ODD boards
DATE : 23rd May 2010
SECTION : Minor Counties, quater finals
VENUE : New England Institute, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire
1 Nigel Birtwistle 202 0-1 Edmund Player 202
2 Paul Cumbers 194 1-0 Michael Cook 185
3 Kevin McCarthy 182 0-1 Stephen Gregory 183
4 Daniel Wells 179 1-0 Tim Lunn 178
5 Claudio Mangione 178e 1-0 Edward Matthewson 177
6 Nick Stead 177 1-0 Rob Sanders 177
7 Jason Dilley 177 1-0 Steve Ruthen 176
8 Nick Payne 176 1-0 Ian Wallis 174
9 David Coates 175 1-0 Michael Clapham 172
10 Harry Russell 173 1-0 Alan Watkins 163
11 Keith Palmer 171 1-0 Scott Taylor 156
12 Samuel Milson 168 0-1 Luke Hill 154
13 Denis Georgiou 166 0.5-0.5 Harold Thomas 154
14 Ian McDonald 163 0-1 Craig Haydrych 152
15 Geoff Collyer 160 1-0 Anna York-Anderson 149
16 Ivan David 152 0.5-0.5 Martin Fogg 143
TOTAL 11-5
A report from Captain Alan Watkins is to follow.
We were outgraded on the lower boards, but Suffolk pulled though with a few good results there.
A couple of wins on the top boards also, but it looks like the expression 'middle order collapse' seems most appropriate. A dissapointing result to which I contributed with the first loss of the day.
- TL.
Lincs white on ODD boards
DATE : 23rd May 2010
SECTION : Minor Counties, quater finals
VENUE : New England Institute, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire
1 Nigel Birtwistle 202 0-1 Edmund Player 202
2 Paul Cumbers 194 1-0 Michael Cook 185
3 Kevin McCarthy 182 0-1 Stephen Gregory 183
4 Daniel Wells 179 1-0 Tim Lunn 178
5 Claudio Mangione 178e 1-0 Edward Matthewson 177
6 Nick Stead 177 1-0 Rob Sanders 177
7 Jason Dilley 177 1-0 Steve Ruthen 176
8 Nick Payne 176 1-0 Ian Wallis 174
9 David Coates 175 1-0 Michael Clapham 172
10 Harry Russell 173 1-0 Alan Watkins 163
11 Keith Palmer 171 1-0 Scott Taylor 156
12 Samuel Milson 168 0-1 Luke Hill 154
13 Denis Georgiou 166 0.5-0.5 Harold Thomas 154
14 Ian McDonald 163 0-1 Craig Haydrych 152
15 Geoff Collyer 160 1-0 Anna York-Anderson 149
16 Ivan David 152 0.5-0.5 Martin Fogg 143
TOTAL 11-5
A report from Captain Alan Watkins is to follow.
We were outgraded on the lower boards, but Suffolk pulled though with a few good results there.
A couple of wins on the top boards also, but it looks like the expression 'middle order collapse' seems most appropriate. A dissapointing result to which I contributed with the first loss of the day.
- TL.
National County Chess: U160's march on to Semi's
From Bob Jones:
(on Saturday 22nd May) the Suffolk Under 160s triumphed 9 - 7 in their national quarter-final against Nottinghamshire. We will be playing Leicestershire in the semi-final, on either 19 or 20 June.
SUFFOLK Under 160 team – 22 May 2010
v Nottinghamshire
Board Name Grade Result Opponent’s grade
1 Conrad Simons 155 1-0 157
2 Luke Hill 154 1-0 156
3 Scott Taylor 156 1-0 156
4 Harold Thomas 156 1-0 152
5 Richard Lamont 155 1-0 151
6 Stuart Tate 157 ½-½ 150
7 David Brown 149 ½-½ 148
8 Anna York-Andersen 149 0-1 146
9 Craig Hadrych 152 ½-½ 145
10 Dave Pearce 150 0-1 145
11 Martin Fogg 143 1-0 144
12Bob Stephens 146 0-1 144
13 Colin Roberts 140 0-1 144
14 Bob Jones (capt.) 139 ½-½ 143
15 Ed Kirkham 138 ½-½ 140
16 Jakob Tulic 138 ½-½ 140
team total 9-7
(on Saturday 22nd May) the Suffolk Under 160s triumphed 9 - 7 in their national quarter-final against Nottinghamshire. We will be playing Leicestershire in the semi-final, on either 19 or 20 June.
SUFFOLK Under 160 team – 22 May 2010
v Nottinghamshire
Board Name Grade Result Opponent’s grade
1 Conrad Simons 155 1-0 157
2 Luke Hill 154 1-0 156
3 Scott Taylor 156 1-0 156
4 Harold Thomas 156 1-0 152
5 Richard Lamont 155 1-0 151
6 Stuart Tate 157 ½-½ 150
7 David Brown 149 ½-½ 148
8 Anna York-Andersen 149 0-1 146
9 Craig Hadrych 152 ½-½ 145
10 Dave Pearce 150 0-1 145
11 Martin Fogg 143 1-0 144
12Bob Stephens 146 0-1 144
13 Colin Roberts 140 0-1 144
14 Bob Jones (capt.) 139 ½-½ 143
15 Ed Kirkham 138 ½-½ 140
16 Jakob Tulic 138 ½-½ 140
team total 9-7
Monday, 17 May 2010
National County Chess: Suffolk u140's win again!
Suffolk U140 squad led by Jakob Tulik began the defence of their 2009 (U125) National Championship Title by winning the 1/4 Final match against Staffordshire at Islop, on Sun 16th May 8½ -7½.
Suffolk were outgraded on 12 of the 16 boards and with several new faces.
Holiday commitments, exams, etc, of at least half a dozen regulars meant that we had to play the bottom eight boards all below 120 grade.
The top eight boards achieved 6½ / 8 with wins for Bob Jones, Ed Kirkham, Alonso Paez, John Lambert and Keith Woodcock, coupled with a win from Greg Ellis on board 16 and two further draws we achieved the 8½ points required to set up a semi final match against either Kent or Hampshire.
Suffolk Staffs
1. R.Jones (W)139 1-0 M.Wyza 137
2. J.Tulik 138 ½- R.Edmunds 136
3. E.Kirkham 138 1-0 J.Button 135
4. M.Bettley 131 ½-½ J.Day 134
5. A.Paez 132 1-0 R.Taylor 134
6. J.Lambert 122 1-0 S.Onions 130
7. K.Woodcock 122 1-0 F.Westlake 127
8. D.Picton 124 ½-½ T.Healey 131
9. C.Szentmihaly 117 0-1 R.Dolan 127
10. M.Steele 116 0-1 A.Meakin 126
11.J.Fitzsimons 121 0-1 B.Birchall 125
12. D.Wild 119 ½-½ A.Dobson 125
13. M.Weidman 113 0-1 J.Montague 124
14. L.Garcia 110 ½-½ D.Nesbitt 120
15. M.Coughtrey 113 0-1 K.Walklate 119
16.G.Ellis 113 1-0 P.Shaw 107
Total 8½ 7½
John Lambert
Suffolk U140 deputy capt
Suffolk were outgraded on 12 of the 16 boards and with several new faces.
Holiday commitments, exams, etc, of at least half a dozen regulars meant that we had to play the bottom eight boards all below 120 grade.
The top eight boards achieved 6½ / 8 with wins for Bob Jones, Ed Kirkham, Alonso Paez, John Lambert and Keith Woodcock, coupled with a win from Greg Ellis on board 16 and two further draws we achieved the 8½ points required to set up a semi final match against either Kent or Hampshire.
Suffolk Staffs
1. R.Jones (W)139 1-0 M.Wyza 137
2. J.Tulik 138 ½- R.Edmunds 136
3. E.Kirkham 138 1-0 J.Button 135
4. M.Bettley 131 ½-½ J.Day 134
5. A.Paez 132 1-0 R.Taylor 134
6. J.Lambert 122 1-0 S.Onions 130
7. K.Woodcock 122 1-0 F.Westlake 127
8. D.Picton 124 ½-½ T.Healey 131
9. C.Szentmihaly 117 0-1 R.Dolan 127
10. M.Steele 116 0-1 A.Meakin 126
11.J.Fitzsimons 121 0-1 B.Birchall 125
12. D.Wild 119 ½-½ A.Dobson 125
13. M.Weidman 113 0-1 J.Montague 124
14. L.Garcia 110 ½-½ D.Nesbitt 120
15. M.Coughtrey 113 0-1 K.Walklate 119
16.G.Ellis 113 1-0 P.Shaw 107
Total 8½ 7½
John Lambert
Suffolk U140 deputy capt
Monday, 19 April 2010
Suffolk has a Chess Champion again!
Suffolk has it first Chess Champion since 1998.
Well done to Ian Wallis!
Ian competed in the 6 player all-play-all, and was the fifth highest graded player of the 6.
With a tremendous 4.5 out of 5, Ian had a 212 grading performance for the tournament.
Full results details can be found at Dave Wild's grading site:
http://www.wildd.freeserve.co.uk/chess/2009/event/CWSCC0.html
In the last round Rob Sanders needed to beat Ian in order to catch him and to win on the tie-break system.
With the Black pieces Rob acheived a comortable position in the French and started to apply pressure on the Queenside. That pressure told, as Rob then went into a minor piece ending a pawn up. The game got to a critical position with a number of options to choose from. All spectators considered the game winning for Rob, but somewhat short of time, and Ian fighting hard and causing problems with his lone Knight, Rob had to commit to a plan and his advantage slipped away. A draw resulted.
This meant that Ian had become the Suffolk Champion!
The Challengers section was won by Kevin Greenacre who receives an invite to next years Championship section.
Well done to Ian Wallis!
Ian competed in the 6 player all-play-all, and was the fifth highest graded player of the 6.
With a tremendous 4.5 out of 5, Ian had a 212 grading performance for the tournament.
Full results details can be found at Dave Wild's grading site:
http://www.wildd.freeserve.co.uk/chess/2009/event/CWSCC0.html
In the last round Rob Sanders needed to beat Ian in order to catch him and to win on the tie-break system.
With the Black pieces Rob acheived a comortable position in the French and started to apply pressure on the Queenside. That pressure told, as Rob then went into a minor piece ending a pawn up. The game got to a critical position with a number of options to choose from. All spectators considered the game winning for Rob, but somewhat short of time, and Ian fighting hard and causing problems with his lone Knight, Rob had to commit to a plan and his advantage slipped away. A draw resulted.
This meant that Ian had become the Suffolk Champion!
The Challengers section was won by Kevin Greenacre who receives an invite to next years Championship section.
Suffolk U140 are East Anglian Chess Union Champions
From John Lambert:
"SUFFOLK U140 again EACU Champions
Jakob's U140 team, 2009's U125 English County Champions, retained the EACU Championship in March by comfortably beating Cambridgeshire. They now move on to play Yorkshire "A" or Staffordshire in the 1/4 finals."
"SUFFOLK U140 again EACU Champions
Jakob's U140 team, 2009's U125 English County Champions, retained the EACU Championship in March by comfortably beating Cambridgeshire. They now move on to play Yorkshire "A" or Staffordshire in the 1/4 finals."
Women Chess Players in the Bury League
There aren't many women who play chess in Suffolk - just nine at the latest count (including two from Cambridge).
Four of these happened to be playing at the same venue on 15 April at the Bury St Edmunds Chess Club. Pictured below: Vicky Allen, Jane Jennings (both Stowmarket); Heather Burgess (Cambridge City); Yvonne Freiherr (Bury St Edmunds).
Four of these happened to be playing at the same venue on 15 April at the Bury St Edmunds Chess Club. Pictured below: Vicky Allen, Jane Jennings (both Stowmarket); Heather Burgess (Cambridge City); Yvonne Freiherr (Bury St Edmunds).
Bob (Jones)
Monday, 22 March 2010
Suffolk U160's are EACU Champions!
Hi everyone
Following the matches today against Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, Suffolk have convincingly won the EACU Under 160 Championship. Narrow wins in both matches today meant that we won all four matches in the competition. There were two individual wins today for David Brown, Stephen Lewis and myself.
Although we fielded a weaker team (on paper) than in January, and we were outgraded by both Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, we beat Norfolk 9 - 7 and Cambridgeshire 8½-7½.
The latter match hinged on the final match between Craig Hadrych and Patrick Ribbands. At lunch we led easily, 5½-2½, but following a couple of blunders, the score crept to 7½-5½. Two more losses for Suffolk followed, leaving the match tied. Craig's a-pawn eventually promoted, forcing Patrick's resignation - and a win for Suffolk!
The result of the Norfolk match was never in doubt. We led 5-3 at lunch, and continued solidly all afternoon. I was pleased that my result against Les Gladwell gave us the winning point.
As EACU winners, we avoid having to play a qualifying round in the national u160 inter-county competition. We await our opponents in the Quarter-Finals on Saturday 22 May; it will be either Lancashire or a qualifying county from the Midlands, who have to play a Preliminary round on 17 April. See www.englishchess.org.uk/?page_id=36 for more details.
Will you please let me know if you will be available for 22 May. Clearly, we want to select the best possible team. This won't necessarily be based on grade; I will take current form into consideration, as well as performances over the four matches to date. The Under 140 team will also be playing on the same date against either Staffordshire or Yorkshire, so if you are graded under 140, then I expect you will want to play for them.
Well done everyone!
Regards
Bob
SUFFOLK u160 RESULTS
30 January 2010
Suffolk 10 – 6 Cambridgeshire
Suffolk 8½-7½ Norfolk
20 March 2010
Suffolk 8½-7½ Cambridgeshire
Suffolk 9 – 7 Norfolk
Congratulations to Bob and team.
The U160's (and U150's before that) have always performed well but just fallen short - and just losing out to the odd point or two.
So it's really nice to see them having such a good season.
Well done to the EACU U160's Champions!
And good luck in the National Stages.
Following the matches today against Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, Suffolk have convincingly won the EACU Under 160 Championship. Narrow wins in both matches today meant that we won all four matches in the competition. There were two individual wins today for David Brown, Stephen Lewis and myself.
Although we fielded a weaker team (on paper) than in January, and we were outgraded by both Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, we beat Norfolk 9 - 7 and Cambridgeshire 8½-7½.
The latter match hinged on the final match between Craig Hadrych and Patrick Ribbands. At lunch we led easily, 5½-2½, but following a couple of blunders, the score crept to 7½-5½. Two more losses for Suffolk followed, leaving the match tied. Craig's a-pawn eventually promoted, forcing Patrick's resignation - and a win for Suffolk!
The result of the Norfolk match was never in doubt. We led 5-3 at lunch, and continued solidly all afternoon. I was pleased that my result against Les Gladwell gave us the winning point.
As EACU winners, we avoid having to play a qualifying round in the national u160 inter-county competition. We await our opponents in the Quarter-Finals on Saturday 22 May; it will be either Lancashire or a qualifying county from the Midlands, who have to play a Preliminary round on 17 April. See www.englishchess.org.uk/?page_id=36 for more details.
Will you please let me know if you will be available for 22 May. Clearly, we want to select the best possible team. This won't necessarily be based on grade; I will take current form into consideration, as well as performances over the four matches to date. The Under 140 team will also be playing on the same date against either Staffordshire or Yorkshire, so if you are graded under 140, then I expect you will want to play for them.
Well done everyone!
Regards
Bob
SUFFOLK u160 RESULTS
30 January 2010
Suffolk 10 – 6 Cambridgeshire
Suffolk 8½-7½ Norfolk
20 March 2010
Suffolk 8½-7½ Cambridgeshire
Suffolk 9 – 7 Norfolk
Congratulations to Bob and team.
The U160's (and U150's before that) have always performed well but just fallen short - and just losing out to the odd point or two.
So it's really nice to see them having such a good season.
Well done to the EACU U160's Champions!
And good luck in the National Stages.
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