2013 Greater Midwest Classic
Last weekend I contested the U1400 section of the first ever Greater Midwest Classic outside of Chicago. I believe the tournament attracted over 130 players, so let's hope we'll see a second annual Greater Midwest Classic next year.
More importantly (for me), I won sole third place in my section, going +4 =1 -1! My only loss was to a 659 rated player. But, a 659 who reportedly plays second board on his high school team and tied for fourth place in the event.
Lessons Learned
- Don't trust that an opponent's offered piece or pawn is sound. If you cannot prove that it is sound, take it!
- In the endgame, piece activity is crucial. (See 31. a4?!)
