Something different for the next two weeks! We will play a six round swiss tournament over 2 nights using Chess960 (or Fischer Random Chess). Chess 960 is a chess variant invented and advocated by former World Chess Champion Bobby Fischer, publicly announced on June 19, 1996 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. It employs the same board and pieces as standard chess; however, the starting position of the pieces on the players’ home ranks is randomized. The random setup renders the prospect of obtaining an advantage through the memorization of opening lines impracticable, compelling players to rely on their talent and creativity. The time control will be 15 + 0, 3 games per night over the six nights. Games wont be used for club rating purposes. These are some quotes about Chess960:
- “If accepted on a professional level, this innovation would mean a return to the golden age of chess: the age of innocence and creativity will return, without us losing any of the essential attractions of the game we love.” – Valery Salov
- “No more theory means more creativity.” – Artur Yusupov
- “The play is much improved over traditional chess because you don’t need to analyze or memorize any book openings. Therefore, your play becomes truly creative and real.” – Svetozar Gligorić
- “Finally, one is no longer obliged to spend the whole night long troubling oneself with the next opponent’s opening moves. The best preparation consists just of sleeping well!” – Péter Lékó
Hamilton Chess Club 