1. How long have you been playing chess?
Age 10
2. Who taught you how to play?
My dad, he would play me with his back to the board without his queen and win every time. Didn’t play for 40 years after that!
3. When did you get your first chess set?
About 15 years ago
4. Do you prefer to play as white or black?
Either
5. How would you describe your current ability and what is your goal?
I still consider myself a beginner ( I only started playing seriously August 2024) I have played 32 games since then and have a rating of 1462 which I think is probably pretty accurate
6. How do you motivate yourself to practice?
At my age (67) I have a lot of catching up to do! If anything I have to make myself stop practicing too much, it’s the quality rather than the quantity, I try to do an hour or so a day
7. How many games do you play in a typical week?
I try to play 3 timed longer games a week
8. Do you prefer to play chess online or over the board?
OTB every time!
9. What’s the most memorable game you have had so far?
My first evening at a chess club (after finally getting the courage up to do it) I had no idea of my level but I managed a draw and a couple of wins in blitz games against 1700 rated players. They were only friendly games (and I think they were being kind) but it gave me loads of confidence to continue
10. Who do you most admire as a chess player?
Magnus and maybe Capablanca
11. Do you have a favourite opening?
Stonewall systems
12. What advice would you give to anyone starting to play the game?
Enjoy your chess! Play the time controls and openings that you like and try to do a few puzzles each day
