LAND TAKES 2009 HOUSTON CHESS CLUB ABSOLUTE CHAMPIONSHIP

Six was the lucky number as the sixth seeded player in both the Absolute and Under 2000 section emerged as the clear winner in their respective sections. Sixth seeded Chris Land upset FM Michal Kujovic (2347) and defeated previously unbeaten Gustavo Leon in Round 5 to take clear 1st in the 2009 Houston Chess Club Absolute Championship. First place was worth $425 and the championship plaque.

Sponsored by the Houston Chess Club, a record 58 players participated in the first Houston Absolute Chess Club Championship in 7 years. The tournament’s $1,500 advertised prize fund was increased to $1,800 as a result of the strong turnout.

In the 34 player Under 2000 section, the 6th seeded Jesus Sanchez defeated the two top seeds (Leo Bonnell and Courtney Barnes) enroute to a perfect score after four rounds. In Round 5, he accepted a draw to secure clear 1st and the $300 prize. Gabriel Mc Donald was undefeated as well (three wins and two draws) in taking the Under 1800 prize with 4 points. A seven way tie for 2nd at 3 ½ points resulted in $17.86 each being awarded to: Courtney Barnes, Leo Bonnell, Alan Rodenstein, David Huang, Steve Zarwulkoff, Kevin Xie, and Donnelly Ford. Top Under 1600 and $125 was won by Bo Huang, who also scored 3 ½ points. 1st Under 1400 was won by Alan Davis and was also worth $125. Finally, the Top Under 1200 at 1 ½ points was worth $33.33 each, and was shared by Dustin Chang, Carlos Valrand and Craig Sharp.

Other results in the 24 player Championship Section included Gustavo Leon taking clear 2nd with 4 points, and winning $250. A three way tie for the under 2200 resulted in $75 each awarded to Jeffrey De Jesus, Bob Shao and Matthew Michealides.

Venerable scholastic tournament director, Jim Liptrap deftly managed both sections which were held in the larger bridge club facility. Refreshments were provided both days and the tournament operated smoothly throughout. All participants in the Houston Chess Club Absolute Championship are eligible to renew or extend their club membership at 15% the normal rate until April 15, 2009.

The Houston Chess Club is located on 9000 Southwest Freeway Suite 290, south of the Gessner exit on the southbound access road. Tournaments are held on Wednesday (one game a month starting on the first Wednesday of the month), Friday (4 rounds Game/30), Saturday (3 rounds G/60) and Sundays (4 rounds G/45). Advanced lesions are given on Tuesday nights and Saturday morning. Discounts are available to club members. For more club information, call: 713-773-2437 or email dixonmark82@yahoo.com or the club website at www.houstonchessclub2000.com.

The next enhanced prize fund tournament at the Houston Chess Club is Big $400 Friday to be held Friday, March 27 starting at 7:00 PM with 4 rounds at G/45. 1st Prize is $200, 2nd is $100 and 1st Under 2000 is worth $180. Entries are $20 for juniors and club members and $30 for non members. An additional prize for Under 1800 will be awarded in entries warrant.