Some topics of interest from the International Directors report

[andybburnett]

Apologies for not spotting this thread earlier. Perhaps there is a way to 'tag' someone when you need or would like a response from them? Sending PM's/emails/etc is incredibly time-consuming

As International Director I would obviously like to have some funding available, for 'seniors' and 'adult' events, but I understand the financial situation we are in and support the approach CS are taking, with only a little to add to what Jim Webster posted above in reply to George Neave.

The big events such as Euro teams, Olympiad, Euro and World senior teams and individuals, Euro Individual open and women are all expensive affairs (the Olympiad actually the least expensive as  accommodation is provided for free) and even being on a relatively healthy financial footing, CS would be unlikely to make a huge dent in the costs to Scotland representatives.

The players and prospective players have all been made aware of the situation. I've also spoken to Jim Webster, David Congalton and Andy Howie among others about funding for adult international events should the situation change and we are all of the same opinion - if or when there is money available, CS will help out to the best of its ability.

In the meantime, grants from the ECU and FIDE have been and are being sought, the possibility of 'fundraising events' (such as simultaneous exhibitions/seminars for example) are being considered, and all other possible sources or ideas will be looked into.

Any questions please feel free to ask

Andy Burnett

(CS International Director)

Andy - For my clarity - is CS putting any funds towards the Olympiad? If not, I wonder what is taking priority over this. As I said in my initial post, I understand funds are scarce but would nevertheless like to understand what is given priority over this.

Hi George, There is no CS funding available for any adult (including senior) international team or individual events at this time, including this year's Olympiad.

Someone else will have to answer whether there are funds being spent elsewhere or not or where and how (I was unable to attend the most recent management board meeting, for example, so don't know if anything was discussed on this topic, and I wouldn't be the person to make a statement on such things anyway).

Despite adult international chess being my remit, and personal interest in many ways, I can't disagree with David Deary's recent post - although the number he offers may be (very) arguable.

If and when funds are available, I'll do my best to ensure that International chess gets its share, as I agree that juniors have to have something to look up to/look forward to (Murad and Clement in the Olympiad Open team, Ali and Monica in the Women's team (AGAIN!) shows what's possible).

It's not only international teams/individuals/successes which are important, of course, (league chess/congress chess/SNCL/CS competitions/etc. are all very important) but obviously this has to be a part of a full and healthy chess community in Scotland.

Hope this helps to make things  a bit clearer,

Andy B.