Hi everyone,
Time for another (slightly late) update! Last Friday we got an early flight to Auckland, New Zealand so early that we decided to pull an all nighter. Once in Auckland we went straight to the hotel/venue grabbed some Hells Pizza and L&P which had been sorely missed while away and had an early night. The tournament was held over the Queens Birthday weekend with 6 rounds 2 on each day. Gawain’s first opponent was tough,despite being the only non fide rated player in the tournament, he had beaten 2nd seed IM Russell Dive last year. He had a chance to sacrifice a piece for a strong attack but after declining to sacrifice he quickly lost. I managed to draw with the 4th seed IM Paul Garbett which was a good start to the tournament for me with a Grand Prix Attack. The tournament was a success for both of us with Gawain winning with 6/6 and me on 3.5/6 winning the women’s prize,a grade prize and lots of fide rating points . During the weekend Gawain also met my father which he was a bit nervous about and got to know my brother. We enjoyed being back in Auckland even if it was a only a fly in visit as we left to come back early morning Tuesday.
Back in Melbourne now with Victoria Open this weekend. We also ventured into the State Library of Victoria yesterday so that Gawain could use the chess book collection.
Gawain has also confirmed to play in the South African Open online which should be an interesting new experiment especially playing his games at 2.30 am.
Zonals aren’t far away as well and Gawain will be there supporting me, playing a simul and also Gold Coast Open. After that we hope some fun in the sun!
Hope to write good news in a couple of days for another Queen’s Birthday weekend tournament!
Sue