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The Illini Samwich Capture US Amateur Team North Title Print E-mail
By Betsy Dynako   
February 25, 2014
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Championship team The Illini Samwich vs. runner-up No Draw, Photo Betsy Dynako

46 teams came out in force to the Hyatt in Schaumburg, Illinois to compete at the Amateur Team North, held a week later than the other Amateur Team competitions.

Two teams formed from the Illinois Chess Club came to the tournament, each of which filled in their rosters with high school friends.  The teams, Illini Samwich and No Draw, both sported perfect scores forcing them to face off in round four.  After managing to hold a draw, Rosen secured the win for the Illini Samwich. 

The final round of the event concluded with The Illini Samwich taking clear first place after a battle with 2013 Co-Champions. Michael Auger brought in a quick win for the Illini Samwich.  Angelo Young of 2013 Co-Champions dropped a queen on first board to Sam Schmakel, while Albert Chow ended his game with a blunder to Eric Rosen.  

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After a four-way tie for second place, No Draw placed second and Tri State Area finished in third.
 
One highlight of the event was the presenting of the University of Illinois college chess team that once again made it to the final four.  They received a grand round of applause from the players and spectators, who were happy to have Eric Rosen, Michael Auger, Akshay Indusekar and Xin Luo in attendance. 

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Though the U of I team is happy to be in the final four again, without backing from the university, the expenses take a toll on the college students’ bank accounts.  Eric Rosen explains, "It's quite difficult for a small organization like the Illini Chess Club at a big university to achieve the necessary funding to maintain a high quality chess club and team. We are greatly appreciative to everyone who has given us their generous support."  To learn more about the club, you can visit www.illinichessclub.org.

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Priyadarshan Kannappan of Lindenwood

In addition to the cash winnings, there were many prizes that were simply raffled off to the players, thanks to the generosity of ChessIQ.com Five gift packages of a water bottle, DVD and score book went to Sophie Taylor, Mark Pamaby, Aria Hosely, Chanisse Woods, and Daniel Wilson. A free stay at the luxurious Hyatt Regency Hotel went to Charles Yansih, and a free entry to the Greater Midwest chess tournament went to Krishna Venkatasubba.

Best Team Name
Alekhine’s Batteries
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Best Costume/Theme
Despicable Pete and His Minions
    
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Top Senior Team
Mates on the Board, Mates off Bored

Top College Team
U Chicago

Top Junior Team
Name to be Changed

Top Coach and Students
G-Squad

U1900
We Will Hrach You

U1600
Insert Name Here

U1300
Brain Maniacs

Top  1-3
The Illini Samwich - 5
No Draw - 4
Tri State Area - 4

2013 Co-Champions - 4
Name to be Changed - 4
Poopin Pawns - 4

Find full final standings on http://www.chessweekend.com/ 
 
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