This week’s puzzle shows White with a very promising attacking position, but how is he to finish Black off before he can set up a defence?
White to Play.
If you are struggling to find the solution and want a hint, read on!
HINT: When trying to find a combination always look at all checks and captures.
Read more…
The sixth RJ Shield tournament for 2009 was held on 30th August at the Oakleigh RSL and attracted a field of 51 players.
Vinay receives his trophy from IM Robert Jamieson
Not many people like queen endings. There are so many squares that they can move to. It’s so easy to become confused or bogged down in analysis. Rather than analysing, sometimes I find it’s easier to just think in general terms and try to come up with a idea. Take the following position for example.
Black has a Queen for Rook and pawn but his King is tied down to that pesky passed pawn. How is he to make progress?
Black to move.
What is the worst thing that could happen to a chess coach? Losing to one of your pupils rated 1200 rating points below you would go close. Let me set the scene.
I’m coaching a small group of players at one of Melbourne’s Grammar Schools and today we have an uneven number of players. After the lesson we usually play a tournament game and so I end up having to play the extra player myself so that everyone gets a game. The spare player today is rated around 1200 and let’s call him “Jack”. Read more…
It’s always nice to get positive feedback. Even better when it is unsolicited. We make sure Emma knows that her efforts are appreciated – not just by the customer, but by everyone in Chess Kids. Thanks Emma.
Hi David,
I just wanted to pass on some feedback to you.
Our family came into your shop on Saturday the 15th of August and were looked after by an absolutely delightful colleague/employee of your firm.
We could all tell that she was passionate about the game and took a genuine interest in making sure we went away with exactly what we were looking for. She also gave us some information on the RJ Shield competition for our 9 year old.
It was a pleasurable purchasing experience and we look forward to many years of enjoyment of our new chess set.
Kind regards,
Padam Chirmuley
Here is an interesting position from Karpov v Taimanov 1977. White has a dangerous passed pawn but Black has his pieces aggressively placed and has just played 1…Ra1 attacking the white queen. White must now choose between 2.Rb1 and 2.Qe2. Which would you play?
Karpov v Taimanov 1977 - White to play.
