13-09-2013, 07:46 PM
Back when I started playing chess in 2006, Robert's efforts at promoting chess and encouraging young players in Inverness provided an opportunity for me to start playing in congresses and other competitions, thus introducing me to a hobby that I, with no exaggeration, simply wouldn't have if it wasn't for Robert.
Robert had great optimism about chess in the local area - his enthusiasm and vision brought the NEJCA tournament to Inverness, the success of which undoubtedly led to our first congress just last weekend, an event which every participant would agree was a great addition to the Scottish weekender circuit. Many people, including some of us in Inverness, would have assumed that we were too geographically remote to attract meaningful numbers to the congress, but not Robert. The congress brought great pride to Robert and when I saw him last Friday before the first round he was sad that he couldn't make it to the event we all know he inspired, but we can be sure that his optimism was surely proven to be well-placed following its success.
Robert's efforts in helping and assisting juniors were well known in the local area. I still remember when a six year old Kai Pannwitz joined the club, Robert did everything he could to encourage and nurture a talent which is one of the great future prospects for Scottish chess, thus ensuring that his influence will be felt across the national chess-playing community for a long time to come.
Everyone who knew Robert in Inverness will know what I mean when I say that he was a friend to us all and someone who could put a smile on any player's face. He will be sadly missed by all of us in Inverness and beyond, Rest in Peace Robert
Robert had great optimism about chess in the local area - his enthusiasm and vision brought the NEJCA tournament to Inverness, the success of which undoubtedly led to our first congress just last weekend, an event which every participant would agree was a great addition to the Scottish weekender circuit. Many people, including some of us in Inverness, would have assumed that we were too geographically remote to attract meaningful numbers to the congress, but not Robert. The congress brought great pride to Robert and when I saw him last Friday before the first round he was sad that he couldn't make it to the event we all know he inspired, but we can be sure that his optimism was surely proven to be well-placed following its success.
Robert's efforts in helping and assisting juniors were well known in the local area. I still remember when a six year old Kai Pannwitz joined the club, Robert did everything he could to encourage and nurture a talent which is one of the great future prospects for Scottish chess, thus ensuring that his influence will be felt across the national chess-playing community for a long time to come.
Everyone who knew Robert in Inverness will know what I mean when I say that he was a friend to us all and someone who could put a smile on any player's face. He will be sadly missed by all of us in Inverness and beyond, Rest in Peace Robert