• Member Since: Jul 24, 2010
• Last Login: May 27, 2012
• Profile Views: 2089
• Points: 5547
• Occupation: US municipal market research analyst
• USCF Rating: 2150

Began playing around age 6, trying to beat my older brother (of 5 years) for the next 6 years. Had my first tournament when I was 11 (with 992 rating) but did not play serious tournaments until freshman in Stuyvesant High School (GM Robert Hess is now my most admired player from my school, but GM Larry Evans graduated in 1950 and will always be among my favorite players/authors). Won 1985 World Open Under 1400 prize (Under 1600 section) with my friends investing in my entry fee. Mentored by GM Edmar Mednis in the American School of Chess (age x100 + 400 or higher rating requirement) in 1987 (his daughter also went to my school) and also by GM William Lombardy as high school chess coach in 1988. Top board of high school team in 1987 - 1988, part of winning team of 3 consecutive NY city and state championships from 1986 - 1988. Top college team (Cornell) in 1991 and 1992 in US Amateur East Championship, playing 3rd and 2nd board. One of my best chess moments was playing GM Lev Alburt in a simul and was the last board standing, and held my position to a draw playing him one-on-one. Stopped playing chess for 18 years after graduating from college and reaching a peak rating of 2164, but have always been told that I was much stronger than my rating. Now I want to spend some time teaching my son eventually to play one day. My goals in chess are to teach those that want to learn to reach their potential while making the game enjoyable and sociable for all!