Chompin' Charlies Chess Challenge

The inaugural competition Tennant Creek Chompin' Charlies Chess Challenge began in February with eight competitors. Jay Madsen and Mike Baker were both fast out of the blocks winning their first four matches. Something had to give way when the two met in Round 5 and it was Madsen who came from behind to win the match 2-1. With Baker and Madsen streaking away by the halfway stage it was already a real battle for two minor finals places.
Annie Beilharz, the sole female competitor in the tournament, looked a good chance for a long way, but fell away dramatically losing three of her four final matches. But it was Paul Cockram and Tony Jefferies who, after sloppy starts, grabbed the third and fourth places. In fact, Jefferies would have grabbed 2nd place if not for a mistake ridden 2-0 loss to Baker in his final match. Danny Cashman showed the biggest improvement over the fourteen rounds and despite missing the finals, has plenty to look forward to next season.
To the finals; the elimination final was a grueling affair between Cockram and Jefferies. These two had been inseparable in the regular season and so it proved in the final. With best of five matches pushed to a sixth game, Cockram eventually winning 3.5 to 2.5. In the qualifying final, Madsen caught Baker on the hop with a crushing 3-0 victory.
With Madsen into the grandfinal, Baker and Cockram battled for the right to play for the title. The key to victory was playing white. The first four games were split 2-2 and in a gripping three-hour decider, it was Baker who prevailed over an over-cautious Cockram. With the grandfinal underway just as we go to press, Madsen with an unconventional opening (pawns to C4 and E4) held a strong midfield to take the opening game of the best of seven final.
A new competition is to start by the end of August with games being played on Saturday and Sundays. Anyone interested should call Jay on 8962 2252 or register at Chompin' Charlies. Even if you haven't played for years or feel you are not that good, give it a go, as we will have different grades.
Chompin' Charlies was pleased to host the 1999 Chess Challenge and invites all chess players to sign up for the next competition starting soon.
All players are welcome,
from novice to grand master.
Matches will be played on the weekend
in the thoughtful ambience of Chompin' Charlies forecourt.
For more information contact:
Jay on 8962 2252 or
Chompin' Charlies on 8962 2388.