USCF Game 30(W): Keddie-Kindred

Game 30 was the start of a new tournament at the King’s Island Open U1200 in 2002. It had been 4 years since I last played in one. I was in strange spirits heading into it. 2 weeks prior I lost my cat Mug to old age who I had for 17 years. I am a cat person and loved my cat very much so it was difficult to prepare for a tournament under this condition. This first game I play in round one might be one of the finest I’ve ever played. Game for Mug. I play a strange Sicillian where the pawns actually resemble an M. I play well and offer sacrifices to get to his king. One of my shortest victories. My opponent Jeremy Keddie was rated 1034 with a high of 1103.