Local Tournaments Start Year In Exciting Fashion

The first two tournaments of the year in the Bangor area were filled with upsets and ended with familiar faces at the top. The John Bapst New Year's Tournament that was delayed to January 10 saw Fritz Eyerer upset Roger Morin before he was upset by current Bapst standout Aaron Spencer which resulted in Morin and Eyerer sharing top prize. While today at the Stillwater Montessori MLK Open, Barry Magda defeated Aaron Spencer in the 4th round for the title. The games in the third round between Magda and Steve Abrahams and Spencer and Curt Brock were both nailbiters that came down to the waning seconds before Abrahams and Brock resigned.

Both of these tournaments drew 25+ players. Only Spencer, Bapst coach Yuri Riabkov, and Dick Powell attended both events. Overall attendance was slightly down at both venues from previous years. Hopefully this is not a trend. There is no question that weather can be a factor this time of year, and I'm sure the economy does not help.

The next tournament in the Bangor area that is posted is the All Saints Tourney, February 20. It's possible there will be Valentine's Day Quads at UMaine, but I haven't heard anything yet. Roger and Lois Morin are hosting a tournament in East Millinocket February 6 if anyone wants to head north for some games.

2010 is off to a good start!

John Bapst Chess Tourney Reset for Sunday, January 10

There's good news. The John Bapst Chess Tournament has been rescheduled for Sunday, January 10 at the school. It may have to be moved to the library and adjacent classrooms, but it will take place at the school. We're excited to have it at the school and we will also sell concessions to help to support the John Bapst chess program. I hope that everyone can still attend this weekend and maybe a few more.

See you then - Andy

John Bapst Tournament Postponed

The John Bapst Chess Tournament has been postponed; we hope to hold it Sunday, January 10. I will confirm its new date and time Monday. Sorry for any inconvenience and I hope that everyone can still make it next weekend.

Bapst Tournament Still On

As of 4:00 on Friday afternoon, we are still planning on having the tournament at John Bapst on Sunday. A definitive decision will be made by 4:00 Saturday afternoon.