CORNWALL CHESS ASSOCIATION ANNUAL CHAMPIONSHIP CONGRESS 2002
This was our third year in the splendid playing conditions of the Tresillian Hall at Truro College. Our thanks to them for providing this excellent venue. As organiser I would also like to thank Roger Grey, Robin Kneebone and all those who helped in some way during the weekend.A brief account of each section follows, linked to pages containing full round-by-round results and games.
EMIGRANT CUP (17 entries)
The entry of 17 was slightly lower than usual. This was mainly due to the university and work commitments of some of the players (and the lack of consideration of the Hastings tournament authorities in clashing with our date!) Unfortunately Roger Grime, who would have been one of the leading contenders, was struck down by illness after rund 1 and had to withdraw. Once again several players eligible for the Falmouth Cup elected to play in the tougher competition.
In the absence of last year's top two seeds, Andrew Greet and Jeremy Menadue, an open contest was expected and this is exactly what took place. At the start of round 5 on Sunday morning there were 6 players on 3 or 2½. At the start of the final round David Saqui and James Hooker (both Penwith) were the joint leaders but, while James won his game quickly, David was unable to break down the resistance of Camborne's Philip Williams. Congratulations to James Hooker, therefore, who is the new Cornwall champion and wins the title for the first time.
Final positions, round-by-round results and games
FALMOUTH CUP (25 entries)
Restricted to players graded 125 or under, this year's competition saw an even closer struggle than the Emigrant. At the start of round 5 there were no fewer than 12 players on 3 or 2½. The decisive game of this round was a dour win in 72 moves by Ian Rescorla (Godolphin) over John Hollingworth (Camborne). There were 3 leaders going into the final round; Stefan Leaver lost his game, while Ian Rescorla defeated Maurice Richards to secure the title with 5 points.
Particular mention should be made of David Pollard's performance. The Godolphin "B" team player, playing in his first tournament, finished 2nd on 4½/6 and played a significant part in deciding the destination of the trophy.
Final positions, round-by-round results and games
PENWITH CUP (14 entries)
This year's competition was a triumph for age over youth. In a universally popular result Dr K. Hocking (Falmouth), a few days short of his 90th year, lifted the cup with a score of 5/6. In second place were two juniors, Owen Evans (Penwith) and Andrew Chadwick (Torpoint), and another octogenarian, John Beales (Newquay). This was a remarkable performance because he has only been playing seriously since joining the Newquay club two years ago.
Final positions, round-by-round results and games
A bulletin is available containing all the games from the Emigrant and Falmouth Cups and a selection from the Penwith. The cost is £2 with proceeds going to the County Association. If you wish to order one, please email me