Here we are in Ireland for another fun tournament in Kilkenny. This year we see GM Ivan Cheparinov (Second to GM Veselin Topalov) visit the tournament and there’s 7 GMs visiting. Kilkenny is a lovely town about 2hours drive south of Dublin. I’m not playing this weekend so will be playing tourist though I do intend to participate in the Blitz which is held on Sunday evening. I believe at that time there is also a free bar! (Where we see the usual suspects…)
Last night after a full day of travelling was Round 1. I don’t believe there were any upsets but I’ll double check that. The schedule is quite tough with 3 games today then 2 tomorrow. The time control is 105minutes for all moves. Combat this with a few too may pints and you get a very enjoyable social tournament! The Irish of course love their Guinness (or alcohol) and are a very welcoming and kind.
Snow arrived in Kilkenny overnight and earlier this morning making it a bit of a mission to explore. The Kilkenny Castle is a lovely place to visit or there are also the surrounding gardens and nearly River Nore.
Gawain has participated in Kilkenny for several years now and there is a reason why Kilkenny and Bunratty are both tournaments he wants to play! I don’t believe there is a website with results but I’ll ask and if anyone finds one please leave a comment with the link!