BOA Congress 25th & 26th Aug 2018

[George Neave]

I really enjoyed this tournament. Got three competitive games - I hope the format works out. I suspect you may have to lower it to a 2000 floor as I don't think there are enough active players above 2100 to make it sustainable, especially for the tournaments that are further out. 

From a junior perspective, I think it is actually quite beneficial. Juniors will be motivated to get into the top section. I have noticed a pattern where rating conscious juniors (and adults) enter the open as even if they lose all their matches, their rating does not go down. This results in them playing very negatively and groveling for a draw. It is much better in my opinion for them to play opponents that are of similar strength or slightly stronger where they play for a win. I would suggest the winner (adult or junior) of the U2200 section qualifies for the Championship section next year. This is what is done at the Tata Steel tournament in the Netherlands.   

I hope the championship section brings back the top players to the Scottish congress scene.

I agree with all of that. Prior to this event I had always thought that there should always be an open if only to ensure everyone is included since it's very difficult for any organizers to anticipate all player circumstances and find a formula that works for all. Simpler just to have an open and players can decide what is best for them. OK, that said, an open does have the disadvantages that Andrew mentions. Also, shock horror, it's not only about the juniors!!! It's about catering for everyone who wants to spend a weekend playing chess - including higher rated adults. So, that being said, I really enjoyed this event, Usually in an open, if you lose, you may get a mismatch next round which is not really a great way to spend your weekend. In this event, you lost then you got another tough game next round...perfect!

I do agree with Andrew that 2000 is a better cut-off, though, based on #active players > 2000 in Scotland.