Well I’ve booked my hotel in Edmonton for the Canadian Open next month, and I’m registered in the Battle at the Border in Lloydminster this month. Now the only thing left to do is a little bit of preparation. I had hoped that I would have started before now but as usual I just can’t seem to find the time.
The one thing that I know I need to study is openings, but I’ve been struggling with which method is the best for me. I have used opening books exclusively for many years but found they can be very dry.
Lately, I also have looked at several opening DVD’s. While waiting at the Edmonton chess club, while my kids have played in scholastic tournaments, I had a chance to preview several of the Roman’s Lab videos. I was less than impressed with GM Dzindzichashvili’s style and lack of enthusiasm displayed in the DVD’s. I have also had a chance to watch a couple of the Foxy DVD’s at the Calgary Chess club. These I found much more to my liking. The enjoyment of the presenter in the lines was unmistakeable and made me eager to try out the lines recommended. I “copied” down some of the info, but when I looked at some of the same lines with Rybka, let’s just say that I was disappointed with the quality of the analysis. Even so I did get something out of them and have played those lines in many online blitz games since.
The most time efficient method for me might be to go through the opening book in a chess program, concentrating on lines that might be encountered, then to play through some database games in those same lines. I don’t know how much time I will have to do that before I play.
Another poll is open dealing with the BATB tournament.
2 comments:
That chess comic made me laugh out loud!
Now that I've had a chance to direct the Battle and not play (in 2007) and direct/play (2008), I can honestly say that I'd rather not play this year. There are so many things I can add to a tournament from an organizer's point of view that just aren't possible when I'm playing in it.
Regarding opening preparation: if I were you I'd make sure I had a system against both 1.e4 and 1.d4 that you could play against any opponent, and before each game I'd do some opponent-specific prep in that opening. One of the best things about the Open is only playing one game per day, which leaves plenty of time to prepare.
I don't think I will have any time for daytime preperation during the Open. I will be bringing my family with me and I'm sure we will have activities planned every day.
I think I will have to change my hotel. The Delta does not have a swimming pool and my kids will need something to do in the evenings.
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