I have to attend a conference with my wife this W/E.  It's something that just came up this week.  Not that I mind, though, as I love my wife.  However, due to the conference, I will not be able to attend this tourney.  I'm a little bummed, but will get through it, as I my wife is great company.  Plus, I'm sure I'll get some kudos for going with her.

Print down the single page advertisement from the DBCC site (http://daytonabchcc.org/daytonabchcc/4th%20DBCC%20G50%20Open.htm), so that you have their contact numbers.  I had a tricky time finding the exact room/location the first time I went there.  Also, if you are using a GPS device, use it just to get to the campus.  Once there, you will have to figure out where the building is.  That's why I recommend having their numbers; just in case.

If you do attend, here's what little advice I can give.

• Tourneys are a strange thing.  There are quite a few chess eggheads at these things, and several are anal-retentive.  I can play chess all day for fun, but in a tourney, things are just different.
• Don't be intimidated by a much-higher ranked opponent.  Neither take for granted ANYONE who is younger than you, or closely-rated to you.
• ALWAYS do a blunder check.  Every game I have lost at this particular monthly tourney has been due to a blunder, NOT to my opponent's superior ability.  In fact, I have taken blundering to a whole 'nother level.
• If you have to, get up from the table and take a break.  Go for a walk; whatever.  Most chess nerds are glued to the board, unless absolutely necessary.  I don't "live" for chess, so I try not to worry about it too much.  However, I'm not the norm for chess players, so my advice may not fit your paradigm.
• One last thing; if ANYTHING happens out of the ordinary during one of your games, and you are unsure whether it's right or not, pause the clock, and get the TD (Tournament Director).  Paul is an older guy, in a wheelchair, but he is one sharp chess player.  He's a bit crusty, and a bit sharp-tongued, but he's definitely good.  He's been around the block a few times, so he'll be able to handle ANY issue that may arise.

Anyway, if you do go, have fun.  It is, after all, only a game.

This might be my first tourney.