Hey everybody,

I am looking forward to the Chicago Open. I'll be playing in the 3 day. I just thought I would talk about preparation. I'd love to hear others' thoughts on how they get ready for a big OTB battle.

I try to focus on tactcs, tactics, tactics. Based on most articles I have read, or videos I've seen etc., the constant theme is that at the club level, tactics abilites(especially in the middlegame) are what is going to separate the winner from the loser. To this end, I have been reviewing and studying a couple tactics books that I feel help me see the board better. You can certainly start to notice trends and recurring GENERAL postions.

As far as my opening preparation is concerned, I long ago stopped trying to memorize a lot of openings many moves deep. I found that too difficult---not to mention a little boring. I play only a few openings and I try to have a couple variations on some predicatable responses, and then just take it from there.If I can get to the eighth or tenth move in good shape---develop pieces, fight for the center, castle( the basics)--then we are in the middle game now anyway.

As far as the end game goes---well, old Brian needs a little more work:)

Let me know what you folks think. I hope to see some of you at the Open.

Good luck,

Brian (xbg)

Midway Chess Club

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