Mike learned chess at the age of 14. His interest rose dramatically during the 1972 Fischer-Spassky match as he began studying the game and playing in OTB clubs and tournaments. It wasn't until 1974 that Mike entered in his first CC event. Mike tells us that he met John W. "Jack" Collins, one of the greatest chess teachers of all time. Mike says that after he met Jack his rating went up 400 points! (I suspect Mike got a lesson or two from Jack!)

Mike has played in several prestigious USCF CC events not to mention having won the 1986 Golden Knights Championship. Mike notes that he believes CC has given him a better understanding of every important aspect of chess. Comparing it to OTB, Mike believes he is less likely to overlook those "little subtleties" that can occur in OTB competition! With CC, Mike is able to study his positions carefully which has led to his being able to win some of those chess titles. As of the time this bio was written (Dec. 1997) Mike was competing in the 1996 USCF Absolute, the 11th US Finals, the 12th USCCC prelims and also in the Latvia-USA match. Way to go Mike!