7 July: According to informed sources, James was a reluctant late entrant for the Open Championship – he felt out of practice, the season is over etc. But enter he sportingly did, fearing the worst, as the Open section was so strong. But with 3/4 he played some great chess and won – much against his own expectations!

Picture with organiser Ian Clark. Ian himself came 2nd equal with Steve Peirson.

In a most competitive Major, there was a 3 way tie – Geoff Searing, Frank Pittman and Chris Leeson

There was an excellent performance in the Intermediate by Mihail Nutu, who won with 3.5/4.

And some outstanding play saw Jim Fox score 3.5/4 to win the Minor, with Wimborne colleague David Lane 2nd.

Below are the results from the 4 sections, plus photos from the presentation.

Special thanks to Ian Clark, the overall organiser and also Martin Simons who controlled the event and provided the cooked lunch. Nikki Forster was great, working hard organising drinks all day and managing a first class lunch.

These are the prizewinners as advised by Ian and he sent out their cheques Tues, 9 July

Here are some images – starting with the score tables and then moving to the presentation, trying to keep in order.

These photos, plus others are available by clicking on this link:  https://mikejay.smugmug.com/Dorset-Closed-7-July-19/

Very well done to all the players and the organisers!

and below Ian Clark thanked Martin Simons for all his work to make the Congress a success, especially controlling. Ian presented Martin with some well earned refreshments