Originally posted by greenpawn34

Originally posted by greenpawn34

Originally posted by moonbus

Originally posted by Tygert
I really don't understand this thread. Sorry for being thick if there's a hidden message or something.

and let the children play

Originally posted by Tygert
I really don't understand this thread. Sorry for being thick if there's a hidden message or something.

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Originally posted by hedonist

I would just like to add;

Um where was I?

Oh yes. What sections should I be entering in tournaments?

I’ve come to a point in my life when I have the free time to start going regularly to weekend congresses again. Over the years my grade has dropped enough so that I could enter the minor sections if I wish. So what do I do? Play in the Minors and maybe win a few quid and boost my confidence, or jump back into the Majors and expect to take some beatings but have more enjoyable games and learn more?

Thanks in advance.
🙂

Originally posted by hedonist
Um where was I?

Oh yes. What sections should I be entering in tournaments?

I’ve come to a point in my life when I have the free time to start going regularly to weekend congresses again. Over the years my grade has dropped enough so that I could enter the minor sections if I wish. So what do I do? Play in the Minors and maybe win a few quid and boos ...[text shortened]... ct to take some beatings but have more enjoyable games and learn more?

Thanks in advance.
🙂

Hi Heddy,

I thought that is what you were trying to say.

I always advise play in the lowest one your grade allows you to play in.
(though I will defend anyone's right to play where they want.)

Let's say you are 1600, play in a 2000 tourney and get hammered a few times.
You stay at 1600 and there is a good chance you won't learn anything.

Some players will think you don't belong there, they will protest, in your presence
to the TC if given a draw against you.

"I've paid £30.00 entrace fee to face some decent opposition and I get this dope."

Do you think this lad will be going over the game with you.

Also you will be the bogey draw. The one to be avoided.
In the event of a tie for the prize money they sometimes use sum of
opponents grade to split up the money.
Anyone unlucky enough to be drawn against the 1600 player will also moan.
You simply being there can affect what people win.

You will be the tournament leper.

And you won't even get your full quota of games.
You will get a bye if the numbers are odd and even if the numbers are even
your last round opponent will feign sickness and go home early.
The thinkig rational being..

What is the the point of staying and playing a 1600 player - I have nothing at all to gain.

That, alas is the real world.

Play in the 1600 to get your eye back and if you are good enough
for a 2000 tourney your grade will rise to that level.
Despite the 'you only learn from losses' war cry you can and will learn from winning.

With the money you hope to pick up get a new haircut and some cool dude clothes.
That 1940's look went out in the.....1940's.

Originally posted by Fat Lady
The prize money is unimportant but the thrill of winning a tournament can't be beaten!

The last time I won a tournament was in Caceres, Spain. The first prize was 20,000 pesetas (about £110) and I spent twice that treating my friends to a celebratory meal that evening. That was almost twenty years ago and I don't suppose I'll ever win another one.