Stewart Reuben has officiated and/or organised several top-level chess events held in Great Britain and other countries, including the World Chess Championship, the British Chess Championship and a number of Hastings Congresses. Also an author and a poker player, he even met and played Bobby Fischer: “Each game he won, he gained $1. Had I ever won one, I would have received $10”. | Photo: John Upham
Chess has been part of societies across the world. Its roots can be traced to ancient India, where it was known as ‘Chaturanga’, a game simulating battlefield
IIn the world of sports and intellect, Chess, or the ‘Game of Kings’ as it is known, holds a special place. From prodigies like
In 2024, the International Chess Federation (FIDE) will celebrate its centenary. As part of the celebrations throughout the year 2024, FIDE is planning numerous activities, including chess festivals, exhibitions displaying historical archives, documents and chess memorabilia. Organizers and federations are encouraged to plan their regular and special events using the hashtag #FIDE100.
At the world-class tournament in Buenos Aires in 1960, the then 17-year-old Bobby Fischer one of the tournament favourites delivered one of his worst tournament results. Facing Wolfgang Unzicker, an unfortunate touch of the h-pawn led to a quick loss. It was not until many years later that the reason for Fischer’s poor form was revealed.
With eleven opening articles, ChessBase Magazine #215 covers the usual broad spectrum and provides new repertoire ideas for every tournament player. For example, a concept against the Alekhine Defence: Sergey Grigoriants presents the "sharpest and most principled approach against the Alekhine Defence" with 5.f4! and is convinced that he has "proved White's advantage in all variations". Alekhine expert Christian Bauer attests our author an "excellent job. I now know why the variation 1.e4 Nf6 2.e5 Nd5 3.d4 d6 4.c4 Nb6 5.f4 dxe5 6.fxe5 Bf5 7.Nc3 e6 is bad for Black!".
Take a look! You can find the complete article with all games and analyses in the current CBM #215.