Page last updated: 31/01/2012

TAFCA LEAGUE & KNOCKOUT RESULTS & REPORTS: Mon 23rd Jan 2012

Div 1; Dundee/Victoria B 2.5, Castlehill B 1.5; Div 2; Perth B 1, Castlehill D 3; 

KO; Castlehill D 4, Glenrothes 4; "Reports"

SPENS CUP: Saturday 21st January 2012
Castlehill Chess Club are Troontasic! "Report"

LADDER ALLEGRO ^NEW!

Entries are now being taken for this seasons Ladder. Closing date for entries is Monday 23rd January 2012. "Entries so far"

SPENS CUP MATCH: Saturday 21st January 2012

Castlehill v Troon at Hamilton Chess Club  Good luck lads!  "More"

The 3rd INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO: Mon 16th Jan

Despite only having 7 players, Dundee & Victoria took the spoils on the night 10 - 5! "More"

PRAGUE OPEN 2012; 

There are 296 players from 37 countries and 4 continents entered. 

Mikey Grove from Castlehill Chess Club is playing at this big event. Come on Mikey!! (More)

TAFCA LEAGUE MATCH REPORT; 9/01/12

Division One; Castlehill "A" 2.5, Dundee & Victoria "C" 1.5; "report"

INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO

The 3rd Inter-Club Allegro takes place on Monday 16th Jan 2012 at Castlehill Chess Club "Standings"

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012

LADDER ALLEGRO ^NEW!

Entries are now being taken for this seasons Ladder. Closing date for entries is Monday 23rd January 2012. "Entries so far"

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP: 2011/12; Round 2 results & rd 3 draw!

Congratulations go to Keith Rose, Colin Young and Declan Shafi for winning against much higher rated players in round 2!
The closing date for round 3 matches is Thursday 26th January 2012. As there are a lot of matches during this short period, please contact your opponent ASAP to give yourselves enough dates to play with?

The 2nd TAFCA INDIVIDUAL ALLEGRO

What a tournament and what a last round! "more"

The 2nd INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO: 12/12/11

On an emotional night, Castlehill win 10-5 on the night! "more"

SAD NEWS: 10/12/11

It is with a heavy heart that I have the sad duty of informing you of the death of Mr. Jim Chalmers. "more"

TAFCA MATCH WITH AN EDGE!; Castlehill A v Castlehill C; Thurs 8th Dec

Bull Dog fight & dogged determination in two great entertaining matches! "more"

TAFCA MATCH REPORTS:

It`s A knockout for Castlehill "C" ! Also Castlehill B  got an A+ against Dundee & Victoria "C"!

 "Report"

SNCL - SUNDAY 27th NOVEMBER

Dundee City teams run riot in Dunfermilne, Win,Win,Win! .  "Report" 

OBAN CHESS CONGRESS; Fri-Sun; 18-20 Nov;

Robbie McLeod beats McNab and starts a three match victory run to make the grade! "More"

TAFCA INDIVIDUAL ALLEGRO: Saturday 17th December 2011

The 2nd TAFCA Individual Allegro takes place at Ninewells Hospital on Saturday 17th December. This is a 6 round Swiss, 25 minutes each player. For more info and to enter, click "here"

RANDOM KNOCKOUT: ^NEW

18 players entered this year; "Draw"  Prelims to be played by Monday 19th Jan 2012; 1st round by Monday 20th Feb 2012.

TAFCA MATCH REPORT; 14/11/11

Division One; Kinross v Castlehill D; The Stonewall, The Mob, The Husk & The Inebriated? "Report"

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP 2011-12 - Rd 2 Draw

First round Shock! After 20 years of trying Bruce Wallace(1350) finally gets the better of Jim Anderson(1704)! After the match, he was "All shook up", and Jim has left the building!  Round Two draw must be completed by Thursday 15th December 2011. "Results & Draw"

SNCL - Scottish National Chess League - Sun 30th Oct 2011

The joint venture between Castlehill & Dundee/Victoria  took the SNCL by storm on the first days play! " "Results/Tables"

RANDOM KNOCKOUT 2011-12

Entries are now being taken for this years Random Knockout competition. Closing date for entries is Thursday 17th November. "Entries so far"

The 1st INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO; Monday 24th October 2011

Castlehill take the match 9 - 6, but Dundee & Victoria lead the Individual!. "Results"

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHESS CONGRESS; Fri-Sun; 14-16 October 2011

Congratulations go to all Dundee city players who took part  in this years congress. Especially Mr. Babin & Mr. Wallace! "Report"

CASTLEHILL CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP 2011-12

A fantastic 25 players have entered this years club championship. 6 round Swiss; 36 moves in 75 minutes+15 minutes. "DRAW" 1st round to be played by Mon 7th November.

The 29th KONRAD WIERSBICKI MEMORIAL ALLEGRO 2011

Congratulations go to last years defending Champion for retaining his title with a fantastic 5 out of 5!   "Results"

LOTHIANS CONGRESS 2011: Sat & Sun, 1-2, October 2011(UPDATE!)

Castlehill run rampant at Lothian`s, well almost? Dmitriy Payada stuns the open field and takes 1st place above number 1 seeded player Alan Grant (2173)! Wow! "Report"

LOTHIANS CONGRESS 2011: Sat & Sun, 1-2, October 2011

Castlehill Players entered; OPEN - Dmitriy Payada(1944) & Mikey Grove(1851); MAJOR (u1700); Paul Shafi (1558) & Martin Chalmers (1537): MINOR (u1450); Declan Shafi (1000); Good Luck lads!

The 29th KONRAD WEIRSBICKI MEMORIAL 2011

This memorial allegro event takes place on Thursday 6th October, at Castlehill, 7:30pm sign-in, for. 7:45pm sharp start. 5-Round Swiss, 15 minutes each player. Open to all, but trophy goes to highest placed Castlehill member!  "Details"

The BOBBY GOW MEMORIAL CUP 2011

Congratulations go to Dundee & Victoria for retaining the Bobby Gow Memorial cup in a close match! "report"

GRANGEMOUTH CHESS CONGRESS

Castlehill player Robbie, turns back the years! "More"

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP 2011/12

Entries are now being taken for this years club championship. 6 round Swiss, 36 moves in 75 minutes+15 minutes quick-play. Email/phone/text, or put your name down on the form in club rooms. Closing date for entries is Friday 7th October.

AGM & TROPHY PRESENTATIONS 

We are officially open for business for the new season after we held our AGM on Monday 5th September. More AGM news soon.   "Photos"

CASTLEHILL CHESS CLUB AGM

Monday 5th September, 2011, 7:45pm start, in our Chess Room at Stobswell Sports Club.
Please let  Keith Rose know if there is anything you want raised for discussion.

All trophies will be presented at the AGM. All trophy winners please attend!

Club Champion; Dmitriy Payada

Club R/Up: Alastair Dawson

Club Under 1600: Fergus Milne

Summer Champion; Jim Anderson

Summer R/Up; Mikey Grove

Knockout Champion; Martin Chalmers

Knockout R/up; David Robertson

Konrad Memorial Champion; Mikey Grove

Konrad Memorial R/Up; Rashid Lawal

Ladder Champion; Mikey Grove

Ladder R/up; Colin Edwards

5-Minute Grand Prix Champion; Colin Edwards

Ian McNab Memorial winner; Mikey Grove

Ian McNab Memorial R/Up; Andy Paulin

The BOB DUNN SUMMER COMPETITION

The round 5 (last) draw is now on the web site and on the club notice board. Deadline date Thur 25th August 2011. "Draw"

118th SCOTTISH CHAMPIONSHIPS (9th-17th July)

Castlehill were the only club represented in the Scottish Championships from the City of Dundee! Mikey Grove scores 5 out of 9 in open event! "Report"

FISCHER AGAINST THE WORLD

A great 2 hours of chess was had by all! In all 21 players entered. "Report" Chess Scotland on Bobby Fischer

FISCHER AGAINST THE WORLD + Chess Competition!

Bobby Fischer Against the World is Liz Garbus' new documentary, tracing the fascinating, inspiring and tragic life story of chess legend Bobby Fischer. DCA will be screening the film from 15 - 21 July "More"

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP 2010/11

Congratulations go to ????

BOB DUNN SUMMER 2011

The results for round three and the "DRAW" for round four. Deadline Thursday 28th July. New grades now apply! Please contact your opponent asap to arrange a match date.

BOBBY FISCHER AGAINST THE WORLD

Bobby Fischer Against the World is Liz Garbus' new documentary, tracing the fascinating, inspiring and tragic life story of chess legend Bobby Fischer. DCA will be screening the film from 15 - 21 July "More"

CLUB NIGHT OVERLOAD

Oh what a night! Castlehill Chess Club fit to burst! "more"

LADDER FINAL

Great play, a bloody nose, scare tactics and a slice of luck, but Mikey still triumphs! "Report"

LADDER FINAL

The Ladder final takes place on Thursday 16th June, 7:30pm "Top four in final"

5-MINUTE GRAND PRIX - Final standings

Colin Edwards defies the odds and for a second time becomes champion again!

"News report"

RANDOM KNOCKOUT FINAL: Thursday 9th June

Congratulations go to Martin Chalmers for winning the Random Knockout final against David Robertson! "more"

RANDOM KNOCKOUT FINAL 2011

Martin Chalmers (1456) v David Robertson(1387) - Thursday 9th June, 7:30pm

LADDER FINAL

The Ladder final takes place on Thursday 16th June, 7:30pm "Top four in final"

INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO (last)

Castlehill Chess Club retain there title an in fine style and make it two in a row with an 8-7 victory on the night  "MORE"

6th - 5-MINUTE GRAND PRIX

The last 5 Minute takes place Thursday 9th June, 7:30pm. (info)

LADDER UPDATE

The top four players in the ladder after Thursday 2nd June qualify for the Ladder final on Thursday 16th June (Table)

SUMMER (Bob Dunn)

The 3rd round "DRAW" Deadline Thursday 30th June (No extensions!)

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP 

The last round of the Club Championship "DRAW" Must be played by Thursday 30th June. (No extensions!)

FIDE Candidates Finals: Gelfand wins right to challenge Anand in 2012!

Link to Chessbase page

SPENS CUP FINAL - result and report here...

... rounds off a terrific season for the club    "Spens Cup page"

INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO: "Last man/women Standing"

The final Inter-Club allegro takes place on Monday 30th May, 7:30pm sign-in at Castlehill Chess Club. We need 1 point to retain title. All Castlehill players are requested to turn-up, represent and play for the club. Onward and forward! "Info".  

5-MINUTE  GRAND PRIX: Thursday 26th May

The 5th Grand prix takes place this Thursday, 7:30pm sign-In. "Standings so far"

GELFAND, GRISCHUK ADVANCE TO CANDIDATES FINAL

"Report"

5th INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO:    Dundee/Victoria 10 - 5 Castlehill on the night

Mikey Grove saves the day for Castlehill as D&V hit the ground running! "Report" 

5-MINUTE GRAND PRIX; Monday 9th May

Colin Edwards cruises to victory with 7 straight wins. Dmitriy Payada finishes second to keep his lead at the top of the leader board! "Table"

INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO

The 5th Inter-club takes place at Dundee/Victoria chess club on MONDAY 16th MAY, 7:30pm (Standings)

TAFCA INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONSHIP 2011

Castlehill delight at Individual. Mikey in the Grove; Charmlers brilliancy and Harvey's Challenge? "more"

5-MINUTE GRAND PRIX (No 4)

Monday 9th May 2011; 7:30pm sign-In. Come on down and support this event. "Leader board"

TAFCA INDIVIDUAL 2011

Come on and support this local league event. We want Castlehill Chess Club to have the most players entered. We have won the League Division 1 title and the Knockout Cup. Lets take the TAFCA Individual as well! .......Enter Now! Email Ray Noble to enter.......

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHESS CONGRESS 2011 ^Update

See "latest"  news and what's new for the forthcoming and brand leader in Chess Congress events! 

THE 3rd IAN McNAB MEMORIAL 2011

First place went to the mighty Grove! 19 players plus party and sledging? What more could Ian have asked for! "More"

THE BOB DUNN SUMMER TOURNAMENT:

The second round draw is now on the web site "draw" No major shocks in the first round? Matches to be played by Thursday 26th May 2011.

The 3rd IAN McNAB MEMORIAL; Thursday 28th April 2011

This is a opening themed tournament that does not go for grading; ("More Info") Please support this tournament in true McNab style!

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP 2010/11

The draw for round 5 is now up on the web. All matches must be played by Thursday 26th May; "draw"

SPENS GAMES - 5 of the 6 games of the Semi-final can be played through here

RANDOM KNOCKOUT; RESULTS & SEMI-FINAL DRAW

The Q/Finals of the Knockout was a white wash with all four matches played being won with the white pieces. Shook and horror last night (Mon 11th April) as David (Robertson) stoned Goliath (Colin Edwards) with the “wonder wall” in the Q/final match in the Random Knockout. Colin was left stunned and confused by the result believing it to be a mirage, while David lapped up the Oasis! 

"Results/Semi-Final draw"

CASTLEHILL DIVISION 1 CHAMPIONS 2011 - ^{We are the champions, we are the champions}

Castlehill A beat Dundee & Victoria B 4 - 0! To win the TAFCA Division 1 Championship 2011 and add to there TAFCA Knockout trophy. The double has been done. Well done lads! "match report"

EDINBURGH CHESS CONGRESS

Mikey Grove is Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious after last round win & Martin Chalmers shows there's life in the old dog yet! "report"

FACEBOOK

Remember you can follow Castlehill Chess Club on Facebook!

NANCY ELDER TOURNAMENT 2011

Mad opening, Mad middle game, mad ending, but it still ends in defeat for Mad Noble!

TAFCA LEAGUE NEWS!

Glenrothes beat Dundee/Victoria "A" in important league match! This gives Castlehill A a great opportunity to take the Division 1 title as long as they take care of business in there last match. Come on the "A" team!

SCOTTISH LIGHTNING COMPETITION; Sunday 27th March 2011

Dundee City "A" lose out to Hamilton "A" despite not losing a match! "report"

SNCL - Sunday 27th March 2011

Victory for both Dundee City teams in last match! "report"

TAFCA KNOCKOUT FINAL 2011; Mon 21st March

Castlehill romp to victory in a one-sided final! (Match report)

TAFCA LEAGUE MATCH REPORT: Mon 21st March

Castlehill B shook Division One title hopeful's Glenrothes A! (Report)

SUMMER TOURNAMENT 2011

16 entries for this years Summer. Deadline Monday 25th April 2011.  Good luck! (draw)

SNCL ROUNDS 5&6:27/02/11

Dundee City "A" won both there matches in division one to keep there slim hopes of taking the division one title from Hamilton A. Dundee City A beat Cumbernauld 4 - 1 and Giffnock and Clarkston 4.5 - 0.5 respectively.

They go into the last round 2 points behind leaders Hamilton A needing a helping hand from Edinburgh west to have a small chance. Of course Dundee City A must win there last match against Kingdom Kings to have even a small chance!

In division 3, Dundee City "B" suffered a set back in there bid for promotion losing to Oban 3 - 2 in there first match. It was a close one to call but in the end Dundee City "B" just fell short. They redeemed themselves in the second match beating Lanark 3.5 - 1.5.

Unfortunately due to Kingdom Knights winning both there matches we have lost out on a chance of promotion. Strangely it is still mathematically possible to be  relegated with one match to go. We play Kingdom Knights in the final match which if we draw or win we are safe but if we lose it will depend on how other matches go!

Match results & Tables  

TAFCA KNOCKOUT; Semi-Final - University Challenge, your starter for ten!

Castlehill C over came the defending champions St.Andrews A in there semi-final clash on Thursday 24th February at Castlehill Chess Club. 

In this time handi-cap tournament Castlehill were out graded on the top two boards and higher graded on the bottom two boards(Ungraded players). Roy Morris on board 3 got us off to a flying start winning both his games before anybody else had completed there first games! Ray Noble(white) over came his opponent eventually against a French Defense. (3-0). Fergus Milne (board 3) drew his first match (3.5-0.5) and Andre Babin (board 1) lost (3.5-1.5).  Fergus lost his second match (3.5-2.5) but Ray Noble secured the teams progress to the final with a Sicilian win!(4.5-2.5). Andre Babin managed to win the last game(5.5-2.5) with a holy grail tactic called the windmill. It was beautiful to watch and see it used in a real match, not just the text book! The TAFCA Knockout Final will be an all Castlehill affair with the other semi being between Castlehill "A" & "D".

TAFCA LEAGUE MATCH REPORT: Castlehill A v Dundee/Victoria A

Castlehill A have beaten arch rivals Dundee and Victoria A  2.5-1.5.

Castelhill's Mikey (Cool Hand) Grove was first to finish on board 4, mating the usually solid Jim Anderson in the opening!
Next to finish on board 2 was Daniel Rocks, securing a draw against the much higher rated David Findlay.
In an up and down game on board 3, Alastair Dawson blundered a winning position, only for Colin Edwards to blunder back shortly after the time control. Colin resigned soon after.

This tied the match at 1.5 points each.

On board 4, in his last match for the club, Castlehill legend FM Gunnar Jacob finally overcame Ed Spencer to secure victory for Castlehill.
Gunnar is returning to Germany after finishing his PHD at Dundee University. It was an absolute pleasure having someone of Gunnars character and chess ability at our club. 
We wish him all the best for the future.
Castlehill A are now top of TAFCA division 1 on 5.5 points out of 6 with 3 matches remaining. Our next match at Glenrothes may well decide who will be TAFCA champions in 2011.

(B) Gunnar Jacob(2359) 1 - 0 Ed Spencer (2214)
(W) Daniel Rocks(2039)  0.5 - 0.5 David Findlay(2197)
(B) Colin Edwards(1746) 0 - 1 Alastair Dawson(1750)
(W) Mikey Grove(1698) 1 - 0 Jim Anderson(1701)

Match took place on Monday 21st February at Castlehill Chess Club

SPENS CUP MATCH REPORT: 22/01/11

Castlehill were drawn a home tie against Kilmarnock in the first round of the Spens Cup. Half way venue was requested from Kilmarnock so we played in Stirling. Castlehill were dealt a blow the night before with one player dropping out leaving us with just 5 players for six matches. Already one down before we started the pressure was on our players. We were out graded on the top three boards, and we out graded them on the bottom two boards.

Dmitriy Payada struck the first blow for Castlehill with a fine win against a player graded 190 points higher. (1-1); Colin Edwards was second to finish with a great draw against a player graded 200 higher! (1½-1½):

Andy Paulin was next to finish in an up and down match. After his opponent missed the easy win, Andy clawed his way back to equality only to mismanage the ending and lose the match after all his hard work! (2½-1½): Ray Noble with the black pieces was never in trouble, but despite winning a pawn and graded 161 points higher than his opponent, he could not convert it to a win. (3-2): One game left and Castlehill needed a win to tie the match. Our main man was Mikey (cool hand) Grove a new member and first time Spens Cup player. Like he had been playing this all his life, he coolly dispatched his much higher graded opponent to tie the match.(3-3): The first tie-break system used was board count; (see Chess Scotland for rules on board count). This was enough for Castlehill to win on board count and so progress to the next round! Well played lads! Might make it at least a bit easier if we have 6 players the next time please?  Result Card

INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO REPORT; 16/12/10

15 players took part in the second Inter-Club Allegro.  Of the 15 only 4 (Four!) Dundee and Victoria players took part. This made the draw difficult and was a bit disappointing as it is meant to be a team event first and foremost. André Babin was in great form starting off with a win in round one against the number one seeded player from DV, Ed Spencer. He carried this form right to the end taking equal first place for Castlehill along with Dmitriy Payada(Castlehill), Mikey Grove(Castlehill) & Jim Anderson (Dun/Vic) were =3rd and Ed Spencer (Dun/Vic), R.Lawal, Paul Shafi (both Castlehill) tied for 5th place.  This gives Castlehill a commanding lead going into the third match at Dundee/Victoria in January.

(Inter-Club Tables)

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP Rd 2 DEADLINE;

Due to the bad weather and the fact that the Stobswell club was closed for a week and one extra Monday. I have decided to extend the deadline date of the club championship to Thursday 6th January 2011. Hope this helps. There will be no further extension to this round. This will cause problems later on but I am sure we will cope!

TAFCA INDIVIDUAL ALLEGRO 2010

The first TAFCA Individual Allegro took place on Saturday 11th December at Ninewells Chess Club. 22 players took part despite the weather. The top four players were over 2000+.

Peter Connstantinou(FM) (2336) representing St.Andrews Uni won the event with a perfect 6 out of 6. Ed Spencer (2205) representing Dundee & Victoria was the R/up on 5/6. The two grading prizes went to Martin Chalmers (1436) & Ray Noble (1345) both representing Castlehill Chess Club. The top under 16 Junior prize went to Calum Pretious representing Carse of Gowrie Chess Club.  Castlehill chess club had 9 players the most players represented. Dundee/Victoria 5; Carse of Gowrie 3; Perth, St.Andrews Uni 2; Perth, Kinross, and Glenrothes 1 each.       For more visit TAFCA web site

TAFCA CASTLEHILL MATCH REPORTS

On Monday 15th November the following matches took place;

League Division 1; Castlehill A v St.Andrews Uni A; The match ended a 2-2 draw with Colin Edwards securing the draw with a fine win over Sam Gower on board 2; Castlehill A were at home and facing one of the big guns in Division 1; St.Andrews Uni A had Peter Constantinou(FM) 2336 on board 1! On board 1 for Castlehill was Daniel Rocks (2039) a new member this year. Daniel put in a good performance but was in the end outclassed by Peter. Mikey Grove another new member had a fine win on board four to secure Castlehills first point. While a draw against St.Andrews was an OK result, it was however an opportunity missed as Castlehill A had to default on board 3 with a no-show from there player. One will never know what the result might have been had the player turned up?

TAFCA KNOCKOUT PRELIM; Castlehill C v Glenrothes:  Castlehill C were at home and put in a fine performance against a Glenrothes side without its top players from there league A team. All Castlehill players had a time-handi-cap against Glenrothes players; Despite this Castlehill C won 5.5 - 2.5 with Roy Morris beating Ian Morris to pass the winning line. This was indeed a time for a little celebratory Morris Dancing! Andre Babin won both his matches; Martin Chalmers 1.5 points, with Roy and Ray winning one, and losing one each. The "C" team won this event two years ago and are on course to do it again! 

SNCL REPORT BY ALASTAIR DAWSON

SNCL Match Report November 14th  2010

Dundee Chess Stars Flying High

Dundee's top chess players were flying high yesterday after 8 hours of grueling play at the Scottish National Chess League in Dunfermline. As the Christmas break approaches, the A team lie in 2nd place behind Hamilton as they battle for the national title. On Sunday, the A team put in two impressive performances beating East Kilbride 4.5 -0.5 in the morning and overpowering Kilmarnock in the afternoon session of play by the same score. In the morning in the absence of top star Peter Constantinou of St Andrews University, inspired performances from David Findlay, Chaski and Stephen Hogg put East Kilbride to the sword. Peter returned for the afternoon match and a win from him was soon followed by wins for Ed Spencer, David Findlay and Chaski. Also doing well are the Dundee B team, promoted this year to Division 3. In the morning, wins for Alastair Dawson and Dimitriy Payada secured the draw with Ayrshire. In the afternoon the team suffered a narrow 3-2 defeat to Edinburgh University, The star performance of the day was in this match where Gary Weir, despite being outgraded by over 250 points put in a thumping win against Edinburgh Board 1, Bozinakis. With the top two places available to secure promotion to Division 2, the B team are on course providing that they maintain their good form when the SNCL resumes in January. Special gratitude goes to Ray Noble who volunteered at short notice to travel through from Dundee to play in the morning for the B team and saving them from a Board default penalty.

Best

Alastair

GLASGOW CHESS CONGRESS 2010

No Castlehill players in the open; Ed Spencer (2214) from Dundee & Victoria was the top seed but unfortunately Ed did not have his best tournament. Losing his last three matches to players graded 2034, 1895 & 1765 meant Ed finished on only 1.5 out of 5 and way down the pecking order. Ed`s tournament performance was 1812!?

In the Challengers Paul Shafi(1559) was the only player from the Castlehill Chess Club. (Paul is also a member of Ninewells Chess Club). Paul finished on 2.5 out of 5 and his tournament performance was 1653. Well done Paul!

In the Major; Martin Chalmers (1456) our only representative finished on 3 out of 5 points. He was a bit unfortunate to lose on time a piece up but trying to mate with Queen & Knight. Tournament performance 1410.

In the Minor; Castlehill were represented by 3 players; Lisa Paton(1014), Robbie McLeod (997) and young Declan Shafi (870) (also Ninewells Club). Lisa and Declan did not have there best tournament finishing with 1.5 & 1 out of 5 respectively. Robbie on the other hand was playing out of his skin and finished on 3 out of 5 , with a tournament performance of 1304! Lisa & Declan 982 & 752 respectively. Well played Robbie. Your best result for a while.

SNCL REPORT BY ALASTAIR DAWSON

SNCL Match Report October 31st 2010-11-03
Dundee sent two teams to Dunfermline for participation in this year's SNCL. We have two teams this year. The first team is challenging for the overall title in Division 1. The second team, promoted this year to Division 2, is attempting to make a push for promotion to Division 2. The first team is star-studded. On Board 1 is Peter Constantinou, now in his last year at St Andrews University. Then comes two exceptionally strong players - David Findlay and Ed Spencer. David comes in on the back of 2nd place at the recent Dundee Congress and Ed as winner of last season's Grand Prix. Then comes Chaski. On board 5 is Stephen Hogg. This team on paper is probably the strongest in Scotland. For our Division 3 team, for Rds 1 and 2 we had Gary Weir, Alastair Dawson supported on 3 by a new talent, Dimitriy Payada. For our first match, Bruce Wallace served as Captain on Bd 4. On Board 5 for our first games, young Declan Shafi was offered a place on the team in order to gain more experience of  competitive play.

In the morning the first team had a tough battle against Edinburgh West, one of the toughest teams in the competition. As the match entered its final phase, following a text book ending win by Peter over Neil Farrell,  the score stood at 2 -2 with just Chaski's match left against Mayo. Chaski was the exchange down (R + B + pawns vs 2 Rs plus pawns). After turning down a draw from his opponent, he fought into a time scramble and, in the melee of pieces flying around he finally emerged with a Q promotion. The match was won 3-2.

In the meantime, the 2nd team was battling  out a tough match vs Corstorprhine. Despite a valiant effort from Declan, Bruce gained the first half-point, then a setback by Gary in time trouble was remedied with wins by Alastair and Dimitriy giving a drawn match. Dimitriy, in particular, did exceptionally well displaying great concentration throughout with his game against a tough opponent.

In the afternoon, the first team were drawn against the present champions and favourites, Hamilton. Things did not go so well this time with just Peter, Stephen and Chaski securing draws. So the team went down 1.5-3.5 a score that flattered to deceive given the close fought nature of each of the matches.
The afternoon match of the 2nd team was against Irvine. Some of the Division 3 teams are very strong- and Irvine is one of these with Richard Wiltshire (1990s) on Board 1. This time Bruce was again first to finish with a draw. Declan played an excellent game, was winning against a much stronger opponent, but succumbed in the ending. Gary secured a draw against Wiltshire, then Dimitriy followed by Alastair secured the tie (3-2) with two wins. So - all in all, a good day's work. There is a hectic chess schedule this year. The SNCL matches are coming thick and fast with Rds 3 and 4 to be played in Dunfermline on Sunday November 14th.

Alastair Dawson

Jeff Sonas has initiated a competition to see if the Elo Rating system can be improved upon. As Elo developed his system around 50 years ago without the benefit of modern technology and the amount of data we have these days he felt it might be time to test it against other approaches. It may turn out that the Elo system is still pretty good, Sonas programmed an "Elo Benchmark" entry and submitted it a week ago. It was #1 briefly (for a few hours) but as more people played with the data and submitted their own tries, it fell farther behind and right now (after only a week) it is #14 out of 80 submissions. The contest runs for three more months. The top ten finishers will receive prizes donated by Chessbase or Amazon gift vouchers, and Sonas will be writing up the results of the contest since people have to share their methodology in order to be eligible for prizes.

Details of the competition http://kaggle.com/chess

TAFCA KNOCKOUT FINAL

This Thursday 24th March will see Castlehill C take on Castlehill A in the TAFCA Knockout Final to be played at Castlehill Chess Club. Come on down and support Castlehill in the final! 

4th INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO: Monday 21st March

A night to remember for all the right reasons! 
D&V Close Gap on Castlehill on both fronts. "More Info" 

SPENS CUP SEMI-FINALS; Sat 19th March 2011

Castlehill Chess Club reach the final of the Spens Cup in style! "Match Report" 

TAFCA CASTLEHILL TEAMS MATCH REPORTS

Ninewells v Castlehill A & Glenrothes A v Castlehill C

INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO

The 4th Inter-Club Allegro between Castlehill & Dundee/Victoria takes place Monday 21st March at Castlehill Chess Club, 7:30pm. The club asks that all players from both clubs if possible turn up to play. (Match Info)

5-MINUTE GRAND PRIX; 

The 3rd 5-Minute took place Monday 14th March with 8 players taking part. Mikey Grove continued his form from the Glenrothes congress with 7/7 to take first place! "Leader Board & Results"

GLENROTHES CHESS CONGRESS REPORT

Mikey Grove & Dmitriy Payada show there promising talent at Glerothes! Congress report's

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND 4 DRAW

Deadline date is Monday 11th April "Draw"

TAFCA TIME-HANDI-CAP FINAL

This years TAFCA Knockout final will be an all Castlehill affair! "A" v "C" date tbc

4th - INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO; Monday 21st March

Please could all players make the effort to attend and help support our chances of retaining the Inter-Club title! "More Info"

THE BOB DUNN SUMMER COMPETITION 2011

Entries are now being taken for this tournament; "Tournament details" Closing date for entries is Sunday 20th March.

5-MINUTE GRAND PRIX; Mon 14 March

The 3rd 5-Minute Grand Prix takes place on Monday 14th March 2011, 7:30pm sign-in. "Leaders"

CHESS WIDOW WINS

Bobby Fischers widow wins court battle!

CASTLEHILL TAFCA MATCH REPORT; 3/03/11

Glenrothes A v Castlehill A report by Colin Edwards team captain.

SNCL UPDATE:27/02/11

A case of good and bad news for our joint venture with Dundee/Victoria! "report"

TAFCA KNOCKOUT

Castlehill C pass University Challenge to make it an all Castlehill final!

RANDOM KNOCKOUT Q/F DRAW

Deadline for matches is Monday 11th April 2011 (DRAW)

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP Rd 3

Round 3 extended again!

TAFCA LEAGUE MATCH REPORT

Castlehill A edge towards league title after winning against arch rivals Dundee/Victoria A! (Match report)

TAFCA KNOCKOUT SEMI-FINAL

Castlehill C v St.Andrews A (holders) this Thursday 24th February. Come on down and support your club team! 

SNCL

The 3rd SNCL takes place Sunday 27th February 2011. (more)

NANCY ELDER COMPETITION

The round 1 draw once again pits a Castlehill player against the Dundee/Victoria player. (Info)

LADDER COMPETITION

The ladder has now started with 8 players entered. This years ladder is very strong player wise. All matches to be played by Thursday 26th May. Top four reach All-Play-All final. "Ladder"  "Rules"

5-MINUTE GRAND PRIX: Thursday 3rd Feb

Congratulations go to Dmitriy Payada for winning the 2nd 5-Minute Grand Prix. (Results & Table)

5-MINUTE GRAND PRIX

The 2nd 5-Minute takes place this Thursday 3rd February, 7:30pm sig-In. (Info)

SPENS CUP:SEMI-FINALS: Saturday 19th March 2011

Castlehill are at home to Edinburgh B. (Details)

SPENS CUP: 1st Round match

Stirling work for victory from Castlehill!  Result Card    Match Report

RANDOM KNNOCKOUT; 1st round Deadline

Deadline is Monday 21st February

SPENS CUP; Saturday 22nd January.

Match and team details

INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO: Monday 17th January

Oh what a night! Castlehill lost on the night by half a point but still lead by 19.5 points overall!

LADDER ALLEGRO;

Closing date for entries is Thursday 27th January. See Ladder page for more details.

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP:

Round 2 results & Round 3 Draw    Round 3 deadline Thursday 17th February.

RANDOM KNOCKOUT: Prelim Deadline

There are 3 outstanding matches in the prelims to be played by Thursday 20th January.

SPENS CUP; Saturday 22nd January 2011(Keith Rose Captain)

Our Spens Cup match against Kilmarnock will be played on Saturday 22 Jan. It takes place in Stirling at the Stirling Chess Club with a 1 pm start.  If interested in representing our club please contact myself (Keith Rose).

3rd INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO; 

Away to Dundee & Victoria on Monday 17th January 2011; Please attend (Inter-Club page info)

2nd INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO; Castlehill 13.5 v 3.5 Dundee/Victoria on the night

15 players took to the chess boards in battle. D&V running scared!

(Report) - (Inter-Club page info)

CLUB CHAMPIONNSHIP 

Due to bad weather and club closing for a week the championship Rd 2 has been extended "More"

2nd INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO

Castlehill are at home on Thursday 16th December 2010. We hold a 10 point lead from the first round. "info" Calling all players from Castlehill to battle stations, please attend on the night! This is not a drill?

TAFCA INDIVIDUAL ALLEGRO 2010: ^NEW

Tournament report    &   TAFCA web site

5-MINUTE GRAND PRIX Monday 22nd November 2010:

Seven players entered; Two way tie for 1st place; "Results"

TAFCA INDIVIDUAL ALLEGRO 2010: ^NEW

New TAFCA One Day Allegro Competition "Entry Form & Info"

RANDOM KNOCKOUT

19 players entered; 3 prelims to be played by Thursday 20th January 2011; 1st round to be played by Monday 21st February 2011. "DRAW"

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP;

Round 2 draw; To be played by Monday 20th December 2010

TAFCA CASTLEHILL MATCH REPORTS

SNCL 14/11/10

Match report  by Alastair Dawson

5-MINUTE GRAND PRIX Monday 22nd November 2010:

The 1st 5-Minute starts at 7:40pm. ^{New point system}; See rules for more info.

TAFCA INDIVIDUAL ALLEGRO 2010: ^NEW

New TAFCA One Day Allegro Competition "Entry Form & Info"

GLASGOW CHESS CONGRESS: 5-7 November

Castlehill players report

SNCL 31/10/10

Match report  Next match day is Sunday 14th November!

RANDOM KNOCKOUT 2010/11

Entries are now being taken for this event. Closing date for entries is Thursday 18th November. "more info"

1st INTER-CLUB ALLEGRO 2010; Mon 25th October 2010

 "Results & Report"

DUNDEE & ANGUS CHESS CONGRESS 2010

For results and winners

KONRAD WIERBICKI ALLEGRO MEMORIAL 2010

15 Players took part in this years event. A new player showed his true colours and beat the rest! "results"

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP 2010/11:

The 1st round draw of this years club championship has been made. "Check the draw"
Closing date for round 1 is Monday 8th November. What a fantastic response 27 players have entered this year!

The 28th KONRAD WIERBICKI ALLEGRO MEMORIAL

This years event takes place on Thursday 7th October 2010, 7:30pm. Just turn up on the night and support this long running tournament. "More"

THE 7th BOBBY GOW MEMORIAL: Monday 20th September 2010

Congratulations go to Dundee & Victoria Chess Club on retaining for the forth time in a row the Bobby Gow Memorial. But it was close! "INFO"

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP 2010/11

Entries are now being taken for this years competition. 6 round Swiss as normal, rule change at AGM means there will no longer be tied places, a tie-break system will be used to decide a winner for all trophies if necessary. Rules on web site will be updated asap. Enter by phone, text, email, Facebook or on the entry form o club notice board. "Club page"

THE 7th BOBBY GOW MEMORIAL; 20/09/10

The 7th Bobby Gow memorial takes place at Dundee & Victoria on Monday 20th September 2010, 7:30pm. Could all players please make this a night to remember. Lets do it!

CASTLEHILL CHESS CLUB AGM; 

Thursday 9th September 2010, 7:45pm; If you turn up and pay your membership fees on the night you can claim a £2 discount! Membership Fees before AGM are £15 ad £7.50 for Junior still at school.

BOB DUNN SUMMER CHAMPIONSHIP Round 4 "SHOCK!"

Alastair Dawson suffered a shock defeat at the hands of Harvey Duke in round 4 of the Summer tournament. Harvey lower graded by 555 points won against the odds against an opponent rated 1750 to his 1195.

Alastair was playing well when he seen a double Bishop sacrifice which should lead to mate. Being a reserved player by nature he took his time before committing himself to this course of action. He played it perfectly until the penultimate move. He should have played a Queen check first but instead made a move Rook. This allowed Harvey to create an escape route for his King and so just be two pieces up! It was a forced Checkmate by Alastair until he made that unfortunate Rook move (a Senior moment?).

Well played Harvey. You must be a contender for this seasons giant killer top ten!

CHESS CHAMPIONS BODY EXHUMED

The remains of Bobby Fischer, the American chess champion, may be exhumed from a cemetery in Iceland for a paternity test to settle a dispute over his estate.

Iceland's Supreme Court overturned a ruling by the District Court of Reykjavik last month and decided to allow the disinterment of Fischer's body to determine if he was the father of Jinky Young, 9, from the Philippines, Lawyers said yesterday that Fischer had transferred money to Jinky`s mother in 2006 and 2007.

Bobby Fischer from Chicago died aged 64 inn a Reykjavik hospital in 2008 - 35 years after he deposed the Soviet champion Boris Spassky in a high-profile match that came to symbolise Cold War rivalry. He left no will.

He had lived in Iceland since 2005, after falling out with US authorities. Fischer's estate is estimated to be worth about £1.4 million and is reportedly also being contested by a wife, two American nephews and the US Government, to whom he owed unpaid taxes.

(Report from the Times Newspaper)

THE FIDE WORLD CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP 2010

Anand retained the title of the World Chess Champion

 

The last classical game of the FIDE World Chess Championship was opened with Lasker variation of the Queen's Gambit Declined as Viswanathan Anand sought for a solid defence in which White would have only minimal chances to score a victory.

The opening went quietly until Anand moved the slightly unusual 16...Nf6. This was the moment where Veselin Topalov took a bit longer to decide on the middlegame plan.

Topalov allowed Black to trade the Be4 and in return he forced an isolated pawn on c5. But is was not easy to besiege this pawn as Black successfully coordinated pieces and obtained excellent counterplay.

White took some time to consolidate the position and avoid tactics on the back-rank and against the Knight on d2. Anand silently offered a moves repetition with Bd3-a6, but Topalov snubbed the offer.

White established the Knight on c4, while Black Bishop possessed a long diagonal from a8.

Exactly in this moment, Topalov erred in an attempt to prevent Black's e5-e4. He played e4 himself, but Anand did not hesitate long before breaking the formation with 30...f5 and 31...e4.

Topalov carelessly traded the pawn on e4 and fell under a strong attack. The Black battery Queen-Rook-Bishop worked perfectly in the pursuit after White King.

It looked like the game was over, and even Anand admitted that he couldn't see a defence for White, but Topalov found some remarkable resources and managed to prolong the game.

But with a series of precise moves, Anand managed to convert the advantage and bring victory home on move 56. The final score is 6,5:5,5.

Thus Anand retained the title of the World Chess Champion! Congratulations!

This article was taken from the official world chess championship;  www.anand-topalov.com 

The Inaugural Inter-Club Allegro Challenge

The first ever Inter-Club Allegro Challenge between Castlehill Chess Club and old local rivals Dundee and Victoria Chess Club was won by Castlehill Chess Club by 55 points to 36 points. A fantastic margin of victory when you consider we were out graded on average in all but one of the six matches. Our advantage was in numbers and at times very large numbers in comparison to Dundee and Victoria.

In total 118 players entered the 6 matches, with Castlehill providing 70 to Dundee and Victoria's 48. The average attendance for the matches was 20; lowest 16; Highest 24. The average grade for both clubs was Castlehill 1401; Dundee and Victoria 1489.

The matches were over 6 club nights home & away; 15 minutes each player, 5 round Swiss. This event was to help fill both clubs with a high number of players on the set night and so encourage more players to turn up on a more regular basis. This I think it achieved!

All nights were competitive to the last and it was only the last match away to Dundee and Victoria that was a bit of a slaughter 15 to 1.5 in Castlehill`s favor.  

This was the first one and so suffered a bit from teething problems. We will discuss rules etc at both clubs meetings and AGM`s

Congratulations go to Colin Edwards (Castlehill) for becoming the 1st Inter-Club Allegro Champion. He played brilliant chess through out the series. Well done also to John Robertson Jnr (Dun/Vic) who finished runner-up but well behind Colin!

Please feel free to email your comments on this event to me;  nobleray59@yahoo.com 

Scottish Championships

Edinburgh City Chambers hosts the strongest ever Scottish Chess Championships 11th to 19th July 2009. This International Open offers a prize fund of £5,200, 1st prize £1,200. In the Year of Homecoming Scotland, Belgium-based GM Paul Motwani and London-based GM Jonathan Rowson will be among the favourites. Event website Live Games and Reports

Congratulations go to Alastair Dawson (1811) on becoming joint Scottish Seniors Champion 2009 with 3½ out of 5 points!

Alastair was seeded 5th out of 17 players. He started badly losing to a 1596 player then a draw with a 1496, but with 3 wins on the trot against grades of 1321, 1647 and a great result against an 1848. 

An Italian FM Marco Campini(2070) finished ahead of Alastair(1811) and Donald Heron (Wandering Dragons)(1799) but was ineligible for the Scottish Title. John Wilman finished with 1½ points and =13th.

 Seeded 11th he lost to a 1843, 1811(Alastair) and a 1496. John draw with a 1596 and lost to an ungraded player. Johns grade is 1647.

TAFCA Individual - Report by Ray Noble

The individual attracted a poor turnout this year with only 21 entries. Apart from that it ran very well and all players enjoyed themselves.

Top seed Ed Spencer graded 2134 won the championship with 4½ points, this despite a last match scare against Martin Gourlay(1730) who could have at least drawn against Ed but went for the win in time trouble because a draw got him now where. A win would have given him a tie for first place. In the end he lost the match and handed Ed the title of TAFCA Individual champion out right.

Presidents Cup winner Jim Anderson (1639) to some extent had a good draw overall, but had a great match against Manuel Carballo graded 2082 from Glenrothes. He was a little disappointed because he felt he had a win but got nobbled by a terrific move by the Glenrothes player which meant he had to settle for a credible draw.

As usual the under 1400 Shield was a close fought battle with 3 players tying for the title on 2½ point each: Lisa Paton, Bryan O`Rourke & David Cumming. Lisa in getting to 2½ points beat her brother Robbie McLeod in a free for all match which given there close rivalry could have ended in a family feud, especially as Robbie winds his Sister up something rotten. This time Lisa had the last laugh!

Robert Burnett beat me in the last round to secure the under 1600 grading prize of £20.

 Prize Winners

Individual Champion:: Ed Spencer (2134) (Dundee/Victoria) 4½ points (£60)

Runners up : Dr David Findlay (2111) & Jim Anderson (1639) (Both Dundee/Victoria) 4 points (£33 each)

Presidents Cup (u/1650) ; Jim Anderson (1639) 4 points

Under 1400 Shield: David Cumming (1121)(D&V); Bryan O`Rourke (1111) (Glenrothes) & Lisa Paton(1085) (Castlehill) 2½ points(£17 each)

Grading under 1600: Robert Burnett (1510)(D&V) 3 points(£20)

5-Minute tournament - Ray

Now the TAFCA season has finished we can at last crack on with the 5-Minute tournament. The last 5 rounds will unfortunately be squeezed into a short space of time. The following dates are set in stone so could all players when organising there other club matches please avoid these dates as it will be noisy and the 5-minute has priority on these nights.

 3rd-Thursday 29th May; 4th-Monday 9th June; 5th-Monday 23rd June; 6th-Monday 30th June; & 7th-Monday14th July

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP FOR THE BLIND

Takes place in Belgrade, Serbia, August 26 - September 4, 2010.
Scottish representative is Stephen Hilton of Inverclyde and Prestwick chess clubs. "Official web site"

BOB DUNN SUMMER TOURNAMENT;

Congratulations Jim Anderson on becoming Summer Champion; R/up Patrick Muhl, well done! The Summer has now been submitted to Chess Scotland for grading. (last two rounds 4-5).

CHESS CHAMPIONS BODY EXHUMED

The remains of Bobby Fischer, the American chess champion, exhumed from a cemetery in Iceland for a paternity test to settle a dispute over his estate is not the father of a child after all. DNA tests prove Bobby Fischer is not the daddy. Alto he will all ways be the daddy of chess to some!

CHESSBASE SCOTTISH GRAND PRIX 2010:

Congratulations go to Ed Spencer of Dundee & Victoria chess club for wining the top Candidates section for players graded between 1901 - 2150. He may not play for our club, but he represents the City of Dundee chess community. Well Done Ed!

SCOTTISH DEAF SINGLES CHAMPION 2010: 16/08/10

Graham Duff from Dundee & Victoria Chess Club won the Scottish Deaf Singles Championship 2010. Congratulation Graham on a great performance. More details to follow soon.

COMPETITION TO DEVISE NEW RATINGS SYSTEMS:14/08/10

Jeff Sonas has initiated a competition to see if the Elo Rating system can be improved upon. "more"

BOBBY GOW MEMORIAL 2010

The 7th Bobby Gow takes place at Dundee & Victoria Chess Club on Monday 20th September 2010, 7:30pm sign-in. Castlehill players please make yourself available for this event! "More Info"

CASTLEHILL CHESS CLUB; AGM

Thursday 9th September 2010, Club Rooms. Any proposals/thoughts for the AGM should be emailed to Keith Rose!

BOB DUNN SUMMER; UPDATE; 14/08/10

Congratulations go to, Champion; Jim Anderson;  Runner-Up; Patrick Muhl

THE 97th BRITISH CHESS CHAMPIONSHIPS; Update; 7/08/10

 M.Adams British Champion! Peter Constantinou draws again against a 2128 player? Despite a lose of results near the end Peter had a great tournament from a grading point of view! He gained 20 points in total.2 wins; 8 draws; 1 loss; Finished 23; seeded 20?  Official "Web Site"

THE 7th BOBBY GOW MEMORIAL 2010:

This event will be at Dundee & Victoria Chess Club on Monday 20th September 2010; 7:30pm "more"

THE 97th BRITISH CHESS CHAMPIONSHIPS; Update; 6/08/10

Micky Adams wins the British Championships with a round to spare! Peter draw again! 

Official "Web Site"

THE 97th BRITISH CHESS CHAMPIONSHIPS: Update; 5/08/10

Micky Adams was held to a draw but still leads by 1.5 points; Peter Constantinou drew his match against Donald Mason(2219) leaving him 3 points behind the leader Micky Adams. Official "Web Site"

THE 97th BRITISH CHESS CHAMPIONSHIPS: Update; 4/08/10