My experience from the FIDE Candidates

I had the privilege to witness rounds 1 and 2 of the FIDE Candidates in Toronto 🇨🇦. It was amazing to see the grandmasters in real life, serious and ready to give their all. One thing I noticed was that even early on in their games, they would stand up and wander around the playing hall.

Honestly, I get offended when my opponent does this, but seeing that the professionals do this too have completely altered my perspective. It's actually good to take intentional breaks. One comes back refreshed with a new eye to the position. I am apt to try this next time I play on a 25-minute or so time control. 

I have managed thus far to do a puzzle on a daily basis here on Chess.com or Lichess for the past week and also do a rapit/blitz game. Maybe the FIDE Candidates has inspired me. Chess is really beautiful. I have memories of the magnificent chess sets and the chessmasters dressed for success. The people in the 'fan zone' were really into this amazing sport. I was honestly around this time wondering why I had spent so much time in chess, but attending in-person events like this renewed my enthusiasm. 

Based on this experience, I definitely recommend attending a major tournament. Seeing our 'heroes' in action whilst surrounded by a collective passion for chess is indeed unforgettable.