06-08-2012, 12:14 PM
Hugh,
There is a lot of reason in your post.
Allthough I think that anyone who is the best in their country at any junior age group who have parents who wish them to compete should be allowed to go. Indeed I think a federation would find it difficult to stop them especially since FIDE would accept their entry. Would the federation stand in their way? and why would they wish to? Absolutely no need for grade limits in such a situation. Being the best Scot at that agegroup is sufficient qualification in my opinion. If we get to a position of strength where we have 10 competing for 3 places at each agegroup then this will naturally push the grades up in my opinion. Internal competition for these 3 places would see people challenging higher.
The system we have at present with organisers trying to create more opportunities and increase the coaching base is the best one.
Ultimately a pluralistic approach involving as many of the talents as possible will drive up standards, create more joy in playing and put Scotland on the Chess map.
Steps have been taken in the last few years to make that happen. I don't see any need to change tack other than getting the funding sorted out!
There is a lot of reason in your post.
Allthough I think that anyone who is the best in their country at any junior age group who have parents who wish them to compete should be allowed to go. Indeed I think a federation would find it difficult to stop them especially since FIDE would accept their entry. Would the federation stand in their way? and why would they wish to? Absolutely no need for grade limits in such a situation. Being the best Scot at that agegroup is sufficient qualification in my opinion. If we get to a position of strength where we have 10 competing for 3 places at each agegroup then this will naturally push the grades up in my opinion. Internal competition for these 3 places would see people challenging higher.
The system we have at present with organisers trying to create more opportunities and increase the coaching base is the best one.
Ultimately a pluralistic approach involving as many of the talents as possible will drive up standards, create more joy in playing and put Scotland on the Chess map.
Steps have been taken in the last few years to make that happen. I don't see any need to change tack other than getting the funding sorted out!