Hello chess players,
Jim Thoune speaks with some passion about the importance of playing chess games
in person with other chess players. I used to play four or five live
tournaments a year, but heart problems have slowed that pace a bit. It is a
fun part of the game, so I too encourage you to get out into your community and
look for opportunities to play chess and develop those chess friendships.
I would also suggest that at least once in your life, try your hand at playing
for the national championship.
I offer a bit of history about that championship, and possibly others like Jim
Slagle may be willing to add his memories.
My first rated game was a loss to Jim Slagle in 1977 as he won our national
championship in New Jersey.
I came to the tournament again in the mid 1980s. By then, president Dick
McStraw persuaded his local Lions Club to pay for hotel rooms and food. We had
close to two dozen players when we had that kind of financial support. About
eighteen years ago, we still have seventeen players down in Texas.
When I became president a few years ago, I wanted to restore our over the board
championship by coming as close as we could to those old days. That has not
happened.
Instead, we have been very successful at helping chess players play chess from
the comfort of their home. That is a great step, and I am greatful for your
participation in those events.
We still must ask the question, what should we do regarding the over the board
championship?
Please give us your thoughts even if those thoughts are that you are not
interested.
If that is the answer, then maybe the over the board championship should pass
on.
Thanks for your feedback.
Al
