Dr. Pavel Sulyandziga Wins Maine Senior Chess Championship
11.11.2024 Dr. Pavel Sulyandziga went four-for-four to win the 2nd Annual Maine Senior Chess Championship held on Saturday, November 9, 2024 at the Bangor High School Library in Bangor, Maine. Here's the illustrated tournament report with US Chess crosstables.
Thanks to Bangor High School, faculty member Jon Dearing, and tournament director Aaron Spencer for hosting this tournament.
>> US Chess Crosstable of this event <<
Dr. Pavel Sulandziga put up an impressive unbeaten and untied 4.0 points in as many games to take first at the 2024 Maine Senior Chess Championship.
Just off the leader's pace was Jarod Bryan with 3.5 points for clear second place and three players tying for equal third place: Ray Haines, Paul Carr, and Ed Hatch with 3.0 points apiece.
In the footsteps of the great Einstein himself, Dr. Pavel Sulyandziga.
Finishing in clear second place, multi-time Maine State Champion Jarod Bryan (right) faces off against Farmington Chess Club's Glenn Miller.
Paul Carr (right), here playing Jon Dearing, tied for third along with...
Ed Hatch (pictured here) and Ray Haines.
Lance Beloungie (left), who nicked the tournament's highest-rated player for a draw, plays Don Smallidge of the Waterville Chess Club.
Maine Chess Association president J. Paul Ciarrocchi (right) plays Roger Hardison in the final round.
Robert Moment (left) makes a move in his game vs. Gilbert Willette.
The Bangor High School Library was a beautiful venue for the 2024 Maine Senior Championship. Each board had its own table, the lighting was excellent, and the tournament room was completely silent (except for a few errant cell phones ringing that the tournament director quickly squelched).
Thanks to all who made this event possible.
Comments
No picture of me?
Hi John,
I snapped a few pictures at the start of round 4. I see you were unpaired for that round so I missed you. My apologies.
--Dan DeLuca
Posted by: John Ellison | December 1, 2024 11:24 AM
This tournament was beautifully run and I, personally, enjoyed it immensely. The location, the surrounding atmosphere, and friendly camaraderie, was just glorious.
I do have a few suggestions and questions.
In reporting the results, the winners of the prizes were named, but not the amounts. Also, who was awarded the "biggest upset"? They should be recognized for their achievement. And the prize for the "most senior" was not mentioned.
For suggestions, one minor problem that should be considered is the distance to the bathroom. With several seniors who are in the 60's and 70's and (ahem) 80's, the distance becomes more important with age.
Lastly, the short times for the games minimize the importance of the tournament. My senior comrades have supported chess over many decades, fostering tournaments into the future. Slowing the games down and making it a two-day tournament would recognize their significance.
These are just observations not complaints, as these people have made the tournament possible and I congratulate those responsible. Thanks again.
Posted by: Lance Beloungie | November 16, 2024 7:50 PM
Thank you for your ongoing announcements across the State. Much appreciated!
Posted by: Chris | November 12, 2024 8:40 AM