irnman wrote:
I am 62 years old and I hadn't played more than a handful of games when I was a 10 year old schoolboy. I retired last year and as a christmas present was given a chess set and a chess book as I wanted a winter hobby. 3 months on and I consider myself as reasonably competent when competing against my club members.I must say though that I can only play standard time games as I find short , blitz games totally overwhelming as I need thinking time. What I am saying is...It appears to me that age is not a limiting factor in gaining chess skill.You need a good understanding of the game, a good analytical mind and plenty practice.
It is a limiting factor but you can become reasonably strong starting later in life.
I am 62 years old and I hadn't played more than a handful of games when I was a 10 year old schoolboy. I retired last year and as a christmas present was given a chess set and a chess book as I wanted a winter hobby. 3 months on and I consider myself as reasonably competent when competing against my club members.I must say though that I can only play standard time games as I find short , blitz games totally overwhelming as I need thinking time. What I am saying is...It appears to me that age is not a limiting factor in gaining chess skill.You need a good understanding of the game, a good analytical mind and plenty practice.