47 took part, with Gabor Horvath, the highest graded entrant emerging winner by half a point. But as Gabor is unattached to a Dorset club, the Dorset Rapidplay trophy is shared by the joint runners-up, Oscar Garcia (Poole) and Allan Pleasants (Weymouth).

The feedback is that is was another very friendly and sociable day, with both good company and good food. The Greyfriars venue in Ringwood, using 2 halls, one for playing and the other for relaxing and lunch, is popular. Special thanks to Martin Simons, who calmly and efficiently controls the Congress each year. His relaxed, but firm controlling style goes down very well with everyone. Also well done to Khristina who worked tirelessly on catering and Pam who provided cheerful support. 3 clubs, Southbourne, Wimborne and Ringwood combined to lend equipment and through Ian Clark, Dorset County Chess Association made available most of the clocks. For the first time, we had digital clocks available on every board. Ian’s own entry is eagerly awaited each year as he is our sole expert on the complexities of digital clocks!

The Congress depends heavily on donations each year to break even, so sincere thank to everyone who generously donated.

And very many thanks to all who took part and seemed to enjoy their day. It is the players who make it what it is. We do appreciate entrants from outside the immediate area taking part, especially from the Southampton and Salisbury clubs who provide different opposition and always enter into the spirit of the intended informal and friendly nature of the event.

The next Dorset Rapidplay with be on Sunday, 18 March 2018 and again at Greyfriars, Ringwood (BH24 1DW). As usual, entries will be welcome just before Christmas and encouraged through this website, although there will still be a paper entry form for those who prefer that method.

Kind regards,

 

Mike

(Mike Jay, Dorset Rapidplay Organiser)

17 March 2017

Final scores and placements:-

Copy of ResultsTable_120317b