SkaterGirl1995

Hello, my name is Michelle Earl (Hayes). I am 1995 National Roller Speed Skating Champion. I am no longer able to skate because of a disabling disease. I always wanted to learn chess. I learned the rules of chess June 14, 2014. I was 39 years old. I remember the date because I was so happy to meet someone who played chess.So now I study and practice every day my health allows. I can beat my chess engine at a rating of 2090, however, not consistently. I also play slow, OTB chess on ICC. I use a DGT board. I'm focusing on OTB because I am blind in one eye. I have to over come my lack of depth perception. My goal is to one day be a grandmaster. But I may never achieve it. However, I'm very determined to make that goal. I'll try until I'm no longer able to function.  My disease makes me very tired all of the time. I hope to build my strength so I can compete OTB again. No matter what happens, I enjoy chess. Even if it is just watching GMs play. I learn a lot by watching GM's play. You learn to see patterns. I will watch blitz games for about 2 hours a day. For me, this is a winning formula. Practice, study, watch. And of course, always analyze every game you play. You will remember your mistakes and grow as a player

Update on my health: I haven't been playing much because I'm having some major health issues. I may need heart surgery. My heart isn't working as well as it should be working. I also have a disease attacking my organs and nervous system. I'm having issues with my lungs and kidneys. So, I haven't had a lot of energy to play and study. I do play from time to time. When I do play I play quite well. I am now holding my own against my computer at 2200. Haven't won, but he hasn't slaughtered me either! So, my plans are to get better physically and still go for the GM title. They say it can't be done at my age, but I want to prove them wrong. Heck I won Nationals in speed skating when I should've never played sports. My heart condition could've caused me to go into sudden cardiac arrest! But yet I still earned the National title and the gold medal!