We’re making a bit of a habit of dramatic finishes in the NCC, be it throwing away a draw in the very last game in 2018 to come sixth (though we still travelled to Greece), to stealing a win in the very last game last year to win the title outright. The 2024 tournament had a finish to match either of those, and the upshot is that, pending withdrawals, the club won’t be travelling to Serbia this autumn.
Continue ReadingRound 3 of the 2024 Blitz Grand Prix will be next week, not this week as previously advertised, as there’s a clash with a fairly major local sporting event (the Europa League final).
It’ll also be our last club night of the year, so pints in the Mill House after for anyone who wants to head along!
Meanwhile, the Cups are open for entry – games will get underway in June, with the aim to have the semi-finals/final in Elm Mount across a single Saturday. If you want on one of the teams, let me know. Note our group games will have to be away from home as we don’t have the use of the school in June.
The Club Championships will be starting in July then – the 1100 cap on juniors will probably have to rise to 1600 (strange and all as that sounds!)
After FIDE adjusted their ratings earlier this year to combat ratings deflation (after covid in particular), the ICU have done the same this month, with an added boost to bring ICU ratings more in line with FIDE ones. This has been done by a boost of 60% of the difference between your rating and 2000 for all those players rated under 2000. The new ratings list is here, and might take some getting used to!
Round 2 of the 2024 Blitz Grand Prix had the same outcome as round 1, meaning whatever happens, Wenle will be leading the standings after round 3 on 22nd May.
Continue ReadingA reminder the second round of the 2024 Blitz Grand Prix will be tonight from 8-10pm. Usual format – 6 rounds, with placings deciding points for the overall trophy, to be awarded later this year.
The standings after round one are here.
The 2024 Blitz Grand Prix is underway, with Wenle taking first honours with a 100% record.
Continue ReadingThe 2024 Blitz Grand Prix tournament will get underway next Wednesday – all welcome! Usual format – 6 rounds from 8-10pm
The season’s outcomes for our league teams are coming into focus as we reach the end of another season.
Continue ReadingThe past week has not been one of the best the club has enjoyed!
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