Hello members,
I want to thank the US Chess Federation for its efforts to support this
tournament. Five players took home $1100 in prize money, and we had free food
for the weekend.
Three of the five participants live in Pittsburgh, so we particularly thank
Rick Miller who flew in from California and Henry Olynik who flew from New
York.
Should we be disappointed with the turn out? One year, in California, we had
three participants. Around 2003, when the USBCA was providing trophies to
participants, I recall bringing more prophies than we had players. So, the
turn out this year is comparable to some other years.
The question we need to resolve is whether there is anything we can do about
that.
I suggested rather strongly that the USCF hold the event every other year to
reduce the number of times players need to pay for travel. I am not sure that
would help. Is there strong interest in sitting down across the table from an
opponent and playing chess? We can play chess via computer without leaving our
home. Yet, for me, there is that challenge to fight for the national
championship.
Others have suggested doing something via the internet. So far, the USCF has
said no to that idea.
I received a message this morning from the USCF rejecting the every other year
suggestion and arguing that national championships should be held every year.
I would be interested in hearing your thoughts. You can send a message to this
list or contact me privately at ajpietrol@xxxxxxxxxxx
Take care.
Al
