Not that writing a chess column qualifies as hazardous journalism, but sometimes trying to keep up with the news from the wide world of chess can be like trying to drink from the proverbial firehose.
Women's world chess champion GM Ju Wenjun and GM Lei Tingje, her Chinese compatriot and challenger in the 12-game title match now underway in Shanghai, are well matched.
The 3rd World Chess Championship between Wilhelm Steinitz and Isidor Gunsberg that ran from December 9, 1890 to January 22, 1891 was a closely fought match. At the end of 19 games, Steinitz emerged victorious, 6-4, to retain his title. Gunsberg's good result in this match was no coincidence. Gunsberg was one of the strongest players of his time though today he is almost forgotten. Eugene Manlapao takes a look at the life and career of this relatively unknown World Championship challenger. | Photo source: Wikipedia
Chess history will be made this year at induction ceremonies recognizing several exceptional contributors to the iconic game as the newest members of the U.S. and World Chess Halls of Fame. The first ceremony will honor 2022 U.S. Chess Hall of Fame inductees Daniel Willard Fiske, James Tarjan and John Watson, as well as 2021 World Chess Hall of Fame inductees Miguel Najdorf and Eugene Torre.
Paul Morphy needs no introduction. On the occasion of his 138th death anniversary, Eugene Manlapao revisits the exploits of the chess genius and the peculiar circumstances of his success that seemingly recurred in the rise of succeeding American champions.