| The Scoop Begins at the Philadelphia Open |
| April 2, 2010 | |
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The stars came out to the brand new Philadelphia Open (March 31-April 4), for a crack at the $70,000 guranteed/$100,000 projected prize fund. GMs Gata Kamsky, Ray Robson, Alexander Stripunsky, IM Robert Hungaski and FM Alec Getz are among those on perfect scores after three rounds. (After seven rounds, Stripunsky and Kamsky are tied for the lead with 6/7.) The official website, philadelphiaopen.net provides live games powered by Monroi, standings and more so bookmark it Easter weekend. The US Chess Scoop entered a quiet scene at the Sheraton on Wednesday, March 31, before class sections kicked off April 1. We talked to 15-year-old GM Ray Robson after his win over fellow native Floridan and Penn Student Troy Daly. 4308 We also chatted with IM Sam Shankland. Despite coming off a disppointing loss to Levon Altounian of Arizona in the Tournament of Champions, Sam was animated in describing his first round win. 4307 The first round was also marked by upsets, including a shocking one on board six, as Deepak Aaron of upstate New York took down GM Nick DeFirmian. The US Chess Scoop captured the moment on video: 4309 Although the class sections feature alluring prizes, there are always people who are more interested in experience and in playing as many FIDE rated games as possible. Andre Harding of New York talked to CLO about his first round draw against NM Glenn Bady. Check the official website for updated news and look for more US Chess Scoop videos from the Philadelphia Open. |