Chess at the University of Hawaii.


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Game/45 Characterized by Upsets

Crosstable


Report David Klan

At 8:30am, outside the POST building, the tension was mounting as more and more players gathered near the locked door. A security guard rolled up and informed the eager participants that the building would not open until 11:00am. The dejected players started to balk until Beau arrived and used his tremendous wit and charm to persuade the security guard to let the entourage in. He didn't get to be UH Club President and Tournament Director by accident!

Some players probably wish that the doors never opened that day. Upsets by strong, young, underrated kids from the Mililani Chess Club left some adults sputtering at the end of the time-control in desperation. The first such win was by young John Iinuma (763), brother of the high school virtuoso, Paul, against Leon Angeles (1478). John was playing the white side of what looked like a French Defense.

Round 2 and John Iinuma was at it again, this time against Noah Canter (1738). All I have to say is if you're going to play e4, be well prepared for the Scandinavian defense. These kids play this line with confidence. To his credit, Noah had a slight advantage in the endgame, but the tables turned (almost literally!) when John forked the king and bishop then proceeded to clean up the board. Another endgame cheapshot was on the first board between Paul Iinuma(1482) and NM Cornelius Rubsamen(2198). As the master was contemplating a draw, Paul precariously perched his king next to his rook (protecting it), and Rubsamen swept in with a pawn check, winning the rook.

Randy Prothero(1469) and Chet Gionson(1743) had it out in round 3. Chet's passivity gave Randy a textbook attack on the kingside that he deftly exploited. My own third game was notable in that I had a winning combination in a Grand Prix attack against Noah Canter that disintegrated in my distraction. Be aware that his repertoire includes strong opening book, kibitzing games in progress, and a long list of expletives that can be muttered at any time.

Round 4 and Derek Kawamoto(913) had the best of Chet Gionson(1743) in another Scandinavian game. I had the pleasure of playing Derek at the last UH G/30 tournament and he's no guppy, as his rating might suggest. Given some time and a few more tournaments the kids ratings will swell, so don't equate their playing strength with their size, if you value your own rating. Their attacks are unforgiving and their defense is solid.

After an interesting day of gaming NM Rubsamen came out on top with a perfect 4.0/4. Gathered in the 3.0/4 crowd was Lorenzo Farinas(1806), Paul Iinuma(1482) and Randy Prothero(1469).

Also a special thanks to Michelle for the cookies!!!