29/05/2026
Alexander Tolush, a talented and notable Russian Grandmaster, was the subject of our 2026 ‘How good is your chess’ competition this week. But fame is not enough!
The skill with which he marshalled his pieces and the patience he exercised in building pressure on his opponent would have come to nought had Keith Jones been unable to construct a mighty chair tower to support our trusty demonstration board. Clever how a pencil and pen improvised for a hook. Clearly the Welsh are wizards though it should be noted there hasn’t been a Welsh world chess champion yet. Not a Lancashire one either. Come on juniors, we need to put that right!
Anyway, after the great construction by Heath Robinson Jones the competition got going. Members played through one of Tolush’s Russian championship matches and scored points (or didn’t) for finding his combinations and brilliances. On this occasion Ben Brown outscored everyone to win the night’s star prize, a box of liquorice all sorts (it being too hot for chocolate) whilst Isaac Wong produced a stellar performance to claim the junior prize.
Well done everybody. Next couple of weeks we shall gather for the 10 minute challenge.
Always something going on at Rossendale Chess Club. If you haven’t been before, come and join us. If you haven’t been for a while, come back. We’ll be thrilled to see you. Chess nights aren’t at all evil!
