Probably too old to expect to seriously improve my game and I’m definitely spending too much time studying it. On the other hand it’s my only vice (besides a semi-weekly poker game and an occasional indulgence in peaty smokiness). Shelves straining under the load of too many chess books, half of them on openings I no longer play.

Took a long break from tournament play after college, returning to chess club activity about 5 years ago. Have gained 300 rating points in that time, closing in on my goal of Expert. Then I can look down my nose at all those Class-level patzers.

Highest tournament scalp: 2134 (G/45)

Best draw: 2245 (40/2)

Worst loss in the last 5 years: 1200 (yeah, that hurt)

I’ve defeated at least two junior players who have gone on to reach Master level; I hope one of them makes GM (while I avoid playing them again) so I can brag at the nursing home of my perfect score against one of the best chess players in the country.

Have attempted starting this blog over a half-dozen times. I think I like the process of installing WordPress and setting up the theme more than writing posts. GoDaddy I’m sure appreciates my patronage.

Hopefully I’ll keep on top of this one. Perhaps I won’t post more than a couple times a month, but if anything the blog should be a useful tool for keeping track of my repertoire and any interesting games. I promise never to Tweet or participate in a flash mob.

Header image attribution.