Getting back to normal

[Keith Rose]

Thanks all for the quick replies. Sounds like congresses are highly unlikely for 2020 (maybe Oban can squeeze in with  fair wind?) Also pleased to hear there is still a chance to finish the Richardson cup. I guess team events with the associated smaller number of players does present far fewer logistical challenges. Let's see how thing go over next few months on that one. Personally, while I do enjoy online chess I find it impossible to take it seriously. It is no substitute for the tension of a tournament hall filled with real people So looking forward to when we can get back to that!

Hi George, I’ve just seen your post. All the responses above are pertinent to Dundee of course but to answer for ourselves:
 

• At best we might find space for half the previous numbers, perhaps not even that. There would be cost implications.
  
• Congestion in the assembly area (where the Major/Minor pairing sheets & wallcharts are displayed) – there would be no chance of any kind of distancing.
  
• We considered that many players have to make advance arrangements for accommodation, time off work, childcare, family arrangements, etc.
  
• We were aware that matters could improve in time to stage the congress but ‘informed’ opinions seemed to be that some form of social distancing would be in place until the end of the year.
  

 
Given all this we wanted to have some clarity and certainty for those who might consider playing – particularly those who have to plan well ahead. Over cautious perhaps but rather that than risk late cancellation if matters don’t improve quickly enough.