Under the gaze of Milo Butler's statue at least 20 Bahamas Chess Federation players are expected to compete for more than $300 in cash prizes and trophies, according to the Bahamas Chess Federation.
The major prizes will go to overall tournament winner, the best junior and the player who scores the most surprising victory. Prize monies will be spread through the field among the highest finishers.
With only 10 minutes per game, a round robin format will enable each player to play each other entrant, playing close to as many as 19 games, according to the Chess Federation's tournament director, Warren Seymour. If more than 20 register by the Thursday September 11th deadline then the field may be split in two groups of seniors and juniors.
Blitz is one of the most exciting forms of chess, which according to the Book of Mental World Records is enjoyed by at least 350 million people worldwide. Split-second decision-making, strong nerves under time pressure and a deep, intuitive knowledge of the game are the keys to successful blitz. Federation president Thierry Boeuf says the time pressure is often so intense that players must move in less than two seconds.
Along with Insurance Management, the major sponsor of the Chess-In-Schools program, Vitamalt is the Bahamas Chess Federation's biggest sponsor, having already sponsored the Vitamalt Classic Tournament on September 6. In addition, Vitamalt plans to send a select team of juniors to represent the Bahamas in the Florida International Chess Orange Bowl held in Miami in late December.
"Sure come along to watch the action," says Warren Seymour. "But if you intend to play, plan on getting or borrowing a clock," he advises. "Each game must be timed, and players must register by the Thursday deadline."
The Chess Federation advises parents and players to contact Warren Seymour at 325-6210 by Thursday to register or to ensure possession of a required clock. Students may also register at their schools with their regular supervising chess teacher.
On September 20 and 27, the Chess Federation will hold the Bank of the Bahamas Fall Classic at C. C. Sweeting Senior High School.
PHOTO:
On Saturday September 13, Vitamalt is putting on a show of blitz chess where players have to complete each game within 10 minutes. The tournament starts at 12 noon in Rawson Square. Last year under the Vitamalt tent (shown) Bahamian Chess Master Frankie Gibson held a chess exhibition where he played 20 players at the same time in a simultaneous match.
