Chess Tournament Attracts 30 Players

A total of 30 players attended a US Chess Federation sanctioned tournament held in the Music and Antiques Rooms at the C.H. Booth Library, Saturday, February 20. 

The players were divided into five separate groups according to US Chess Federation ratings. The first section, consisting of players with Expert ratings, was won by Connecticut resident Derek Meredith, who finished with a 3-0 score. Ridgefield High School senior Tony Blum, also a US Chess Federation Expert, won the second group at 3-0. Group Three saw a three-way tie at two wins and one loss apiece for Bethel’s Ed Scimia, Quentin Mason of Waterbury, and high school student Avery Chen. Randall Shane of Bethel won the fourth group with three wins and no losses. 

All remaining players participated in one large section, each playing three games. Newtown Chess Club member Shahid Malik, participating in his first US Chess Federation tournament, won the group with a perfect 3-0 score.  Waterbury resident Ilirian Balla, also playing in his first tournament, finished second with two wins and one draw, for 2½ points. Three students, Newtown residents Kai Hedin and Tristan Villamil, along with Varun Baddam of Bethel, tied for the Top Under 1000 rating prize with two wins and one loss each.

Glenn Budzinski organized and directed the event for the Newtown Chess Club and the Booth Library.

Newtown Chess Club meets every Saturday afternoon from 1 to 4:30 pm, in the Music Room of the Library. All are welcome, regardless of age or ability, whether to play or watch. Casual play is featured. There are no dues and all equipment is provided.