As the traditional introduction to a new solving season, the 19th International Solving Contest (ISC) will be held this Sunday, January 29. A set of chess problems will be simultaneously offered to more than 500 solvers around the world at 11 AM CET. The ISC hybrid solving competition is becoming increasingly popular since it allows enthusiasts from many countries to participate without extra costs. In 2023, the ISC will reach 42 locations in 26 different countries.
This week, Daniel King looks at a problem theme appearing in practical games, incredibly, twice within a week. Living legend Vasyl Ivanchuk and rising star Arjun Erigaisi both played the ‘Novotny’! | Power Play is on air most Fridays. Watch it on-demand with a ChessBase Premium account. All the usual puzzles, games and instruction will be on offer.