June 29, 2007

Preparing for a Chess Tournament

“Chess, like love, like music, has the power to make men happy.” – Siegbert Tarrasch. I rarely ramble about chess until now. Today, my team and I shall have our final session before we head off to Belize City tomorrow for the Nationals.

Three weeks ago, I accepted to coach the Muffles College High School chess club in preparation for a national tournament on June 30. Since then we’ve trained daily in the college library. We’ve been out of the country on occasion and the team has even received special lessons from national chess coach Mr. Glen Reneau.

It’s clear that there’s been a drastic improvement in their playing since day one. I’m impressed. Their decisions are more mature, they exhibit knowledge of the basic principles and theories, and their improved creativity has been a significant factor in current head-to-head results.

I guess the preparation has paid off. Unfortunately, there’s only one way to find out, and we’ll know that by tomorrow.

9 comments:

Beth said...

I am so glad for you. Spread the seeds of chest playing spirit, oh, great chest master.

I haven't played since you left Cayo. I don't think Elvin even plays.....

We need you back here to revive the spirit.

Leonardo Melendez said...

Chess not chest! Elvin says he can beat me on chess.

I should be heading down that side in July.

Unknown said...

PUN OF THE DAY- "chess" tournament haha.. I was confused for a w hile...

Everything has a reason why said...

hey hey- now i would love to see you and Elvin go at it at chess... i know he's good. congrats on your chess thing!!!

Beth said...

Sorry.... silly dyslexic typo....

Yeah, we spoke about and Elvin thinks he was a little rash about saying he could beat you, all in lght of the tournament...

Leonardo Melendez said...

@Beth: You're excused.

@Everything has a reason why: You'll know the verdict of that match between me and Elvin pretty soon.

Beth said...

by the way... when are you going to make that promised trip? I am waiting!!!!

Daniel H. Schluckebier said...

Hey Elvin, I am sure that when you get ur ass kicked on that chess match against the "Loe-N" you will end up just like me.

Writing poems of ur past and defeats.
Take my word, you need much more practice...

Ur friend Dan

Daniel H. Schluckebier said...

Hey Elvin, I am sure that when you get ur ass kicked on that chess match against the "Loe-N" you will end up just like me.

Writing poems of ur past and defeats.
Take my word, you need much more practice...

Ur friend Dan