Hammersmith teamed up with the 4NCL Sharks (featuring several of our strongest players) to play in the UK Team Open tournament, a part of the Global Chess League Season 2: with Magnus Carlsen, Hikaru Nakamura, Alireza Firouzja, Hou Yifan, the sibling duo Praggnanandhaa and Vaishali, and many other top GMs gathering in London, it was an amazing atmosphere to play chess!
On Saturday 5th of October, the teams gathered in Friends House near Euston for a prompt start at 1:30pm, following some introductory words from the GCL CEO Sameer Pathak, and tournament organiser Peter Hornsby who explained the rules. Even though we were all together in person, the tournament was to be played online in a 3+2 Arena format. This would ensure more games for everybody and the top 2 teams with highest total scores would then play each other in an OTB Rapid (10+5) match.
Back, L to R: Ash, Veronica, Kevin, James, Peter, Ben Front, L to R: Gaston, Zain, Leon, Tom
And off we went! Almost immediately, our own IM Peter Roberson (playing on his phone, while most people were using laptops!) took a clear lead over the rest of the field, which he safely kept until the end of the scheduled 90 minutes of play. It was fair to say our team had most of the strongest players, but other teams had brought many more people than us and the standings would be decided by total points, so we all had to stay focused the whole time!
Individual scores at the online arena
In the end, we took first place in the Arena by 45 points, and had 5 of the top 6 individual scores (aforementioned Peter, IM Tom Rendle, Gaston Franco, FM James Moreby, and Zain Patel). An amazing performance! We were keen to know who we would play against in the final match, only to find a rather unlikely tie for second place! It was decided that Eton College and Alpha Chess would play an OTB rapid match as well as a sort of semi final to determine who would play against us.
Online Arena final standings
Alpha Chess won the playoff, and the final match started, played over 10 boards. Our opponents were all juniors, but not without strength or experience, and all the games were extremely challenging! Our players were up to the task and achieved a 6.5-3.5 victory, with GMs Gawain Jones and Kateryna Lagno presenting the prizes – we’re the #1 Chess Club in London!
The Hammersmith Sharks receiving their prize from GMs Gawain Jones and Kateryna Lagno
Even leaving the results aside, it was an extremely enjoyable afternoon for everyone involved. Many thanks to Peter Hornsby for organising and to our captain Tom Rendle (who also made an appearance on ITV London News later that day) for bringing together such a strong team. Looking forward to further success stories for Hammersmith Chess Club!
The 2024/25 League Season has officially started this month and Hammersmith is once again presenting 16 teams on 4 different leagues. We expect to play 184 matches throughout the season, meaning a total of 1,100 games (!) for our members, with opportunities for players of all levels from beginner to master.
As usual, we have some Hammer vs Hammer clashes in the divisions where we entered more than one team, and these typically happen at the start of the season before playing other clubs.
Every Thursday we would typically welcome everyone for either rated or unrated standard or rapid games against other members, but given space constraints for this particular date, your best bet if you want a game will be to join one of our teams.
Our team captains are collecting expressions of interest and will contact the selected players for each team, please fill in this form if you’d like to play.
Please be reminded that both Club Membership and ECF Membership (at least Bronze level) are required for participating in League Matches. If you have not yet done so, please join or renew your memberships.
Thank you to all our players who continue to bring success to our club, and especially to all team captains for coordinating their respective teams, looking forward to some exciting games! The fight for the next Game of Season Award has started!
A major change in Junior Hour for 2024/2025, and the launch of a brand-new chess initiative for Women and Girls at Hammersmith Chess Club. Both these initiatives will start officially on Monday 9th September 2024.
As some of you may already know, Luna Eastham and Luke Lau are both standing down from their positions as Junior coaches. On behalf of the Committee and all Hammersmith members, I want to thank them both for all their hard work over the past 12 months. They are true Hammers.
To fill such a void, we needed to find the right person. To that end, I am delighted to announce that Tom Villiers – Hammer, vastly experienced chess trainer and 2200+ FIDE rated Candidate Master – has agreed to head up Junior Hour coaching at Hammer. I know he will do a fantastic job.
In addition to this exciting development, Hammersmith CC is launching an exclusive Women’s and Girls’ Hour on Monday 9th September. This will start at 5pm, and like Junior Hour be based on school term dates. Tom Villiers will provide coaching from 5:30pm each Monday for the attendees, and there will be other surprises throughout the year.
This is a bold initiative. Its origins lie very much with the altruism of a Hammer member, as well as with huge contributions from Ana, Veronika and Sarah. This is a hugely exciting development for Women’s and Girls’ Chess at our club.
The cost of attending this extra hour will be as follows:
For Women (age 18+) the yearly cost will be £80. This includes entrance to this hour, full Hammer membership and attendance on both Thursday and Monday nights if desired.
For Girls (age under 18) the yearly cost will be £50. This includes entrance to this hour, full Hammer membership and attendance on both Thursday and Monday. The extra payment for Junior hour will remain £100.
I ask all Hammers to help promote this initiative for Women’s and Girls’ Chess, and make it a massive success.
On the 8th of August three members of Hammersmith Chess Club, John White, Adam Cranston and myself, Frank Valle, donated some of our time to play 16 inmates from Wormwood Scrubs prison. We were joined by a South African medical student called Cheshni who shares our passion for chess.
This was organised and led by Peter Sullivan (thank you Peter) who liaises with different prisons trying to do activities to make the live of the inmates a bit better.
John took on 8 players in a simul, while Adam was placed on board 1, myself on board 2 and Cheshni on board 3.
The result of all the games was probably the least important, although the only defeat on the day came from my side when in a clear winning position I hung my queen. I ended up with 9 wins and 1 loss overall.
There were some good tough games for each of us. The prisoners were very polite, but tended to play very aggressive chess, often looking for quick wins. It was clear that many of them had some real potential, ready to be uncorked once a few strategic concepts have been learned.
We alternated opponents so everyone had the opportunity to play against one of us. For the 2-3 hours we spent playing chess, we could feel how they really appreciated us being there, not judging anyone for what they have done to end up in such a place, but what they probably don’t know is that it was as rewarding for us as it was probably for them. Peter was so impressed to see the behaviour and respect they showed to us. We were touched when they gave to each of us a laminated Chess board with the following writing on the sides:
“HMP Wormwood Scrubs Chess”
“Hammersmith Chess Club visits Wormwood Scrubs”
“A big welcome to Hammersmith Chess Club 8th August 2024”
This was my very first time inside of any prison, and I have no doubt that I will come back again if this can help them in any way.
From your Spanish friend and opponent (a weak one by the way).
Hammers these long summer days are great but they will soon come to an end. That loss is compensated for in part by one of the few comforts – that the new chess season looms ever closer.
The new Hammer year starts on the 1st of September and hence my missive.
It is time to pay your annual subscription to Hammer…. All club memberships lapse on the 31st August.
As you know the membership fee is unchanged.. all the leagues, events, GM lectures, internal tournaments for 50 weeks of the year are all covered by your membership. It is incredible value for money.
So please make our new treasurer Christof a happy man by paying ASAP.
I would also ask you all to also pay your ECF Membership fee – this has slightly changed this year so please check out the ECF website and get the right membership for you.
Thank you and let’s build on our amazing success from 2023/24 and grow this amazing club.
Hammersmith Chess Club hosted their Awards Night for the 2023/24 Season joined by GM Daniel King, who presented the best game prize and showed interesting positions from the 10 nominated games. Tournament winners and best players of the Season were also given prizes.
GrandMaster Daniel King presenting the Best Game of the Season
With his usual captivating style, Danny gave a highly entertaining lecture as he took us through the best games played by our members during the Season, with lots of tactics and interesting ideas. He kept repeating how hard it was for him to make a decision on which one should win the award!
In the end, he narrowed it down to the top 3: the games submitted by Club President John White, First team player Marco Gallana, and Hammer Hedger Captain Gianmaria Mazzaracchio. DK showed these 3 games in more detail before announcing the winner: for the second year in a row, Marco wins the Best Game of the Season! See more details and all the nominated games on the link above.
L to R: Thomas Knowland, Adam Cranston, John White, Daniel King, Cian Ward, Marco Gallana, Bijan Lotfi
In addition, there were many other prizes given out on various categories, listed below. All the winners took home a book and a certificate:
The “Mike Mackenzie” President’s Award: Adam Cranston
First Team Player of the Season: Luke Lau
Player of the Season: Maria-Alexandra Ciocan
Junior Player of the Season: Cian Ward
Sledgehammer Champion: Thomas Knowland
Rockhammer Champion: Bijan Lotfi
Handicap Blitz Champion: Thomas Bonn
Game of the Season: Marco Gallana
There couldn’t be a best way to end such a successful season, congratulations to all the winners!
The King (Grandmaster Daniel King) is returning to the MindSports centre to grace our club once again to deliver a lecture from 7:30pm on the greatest Hammersmith Club Members games of the year.
Monday 22nd of July, starting 7:30pm is the Hammersmith Chess Awards Night, where GM Daniel King is going to be giving lecture to club members, along with presenting the coveted “Game of the year” award.
Speaking to GM King he has shared: “I am struggling to come to a decision. I have had a careful look at all 10 games and I have narrowed it down to 3. This morning I played through those three games several times, and I still can’t make my mind up!”
We are surely in for a very interesting night ahead at the club. We look forward to seeing everyone there next Monday.
Alekhine once said: “Deux Fous gagnent toujours mais trois: jamais.” – Hammer Ben gives a recap below of Hammersmith’s tour to Paris, and while we may have been made the fools over the board, we won the unexpected prize of amazing friends and magical moments.
**Light Jazz and Heavy Losses: Hammers Paris Chess Trip 2024**
The Hammers’ recent excursion to Paris for their much-anticipated chess trip was a whirlwind of gastronomic escapades, musical interludes, and, of course, intense chess battles. The trip’s highlights included memorable moments of culinary competition, cultural exploration, and an arduous but enlightening chess tournament.
The Hammers abroad (from left to right): John, Ben, Benji, Chris, Matt, Gaston, Jen, Peter. [Missing from image but played for us: Tallulah & Wayne]**The Truffle Mozzarella Incident**
It all began with Matt’s misadventure involving truffle mozzarella. Blocked from indulging in this delicacy reminiscent of 14…Rf8 from Efim Bogoljubov vs Alexander Alekhine world championship match 1929 game 18, he retaliated in kind with 40.Nxe6+ the fork of the King and Rook a metaphor for withholding cheesecake from the rest of the team. This sparked a friendly but fierce food feud that weighed heavily on Hammers, leaving them somewhat depleted in spirit and energy as they headed into their Paris chess matches.
**Unreliable spirits**
The team visited Montparnesse Cemetery to discover John did not possess the innate wisdom of the other members to not make friends in a cemetery. Blessings were were requested from the spirits of Alekhine, Gainsbourg and President Chirac for good luck in the upcoming tournament.
**Light Jazz and Heavy Losses**
As the team settled in the Paris Blitz cafe, the gentle strains of light jazz provided an unexpected backdrop. The famously delicate Hammers found themselves mesmerized and slightly disoriented by music. The culmination of the previous evenings culinary conflict, light jazz music and ineffective spirits seemed to sap the vigor needed for the games ahead, ultimately contributing to a 6.5/16 loss. Despite the setback, new Hammer Jen shone brightly, securing 2 of those crucial points and proving her mettle amidst the chaos.
**Pete’s New Shirt**
To celebrate his participation, Pete went shopping and bought a rather fetching blue shirt. Well done Pete!
**Sushi and Defending John’s Honour**
The evening brought a reprieve with a spectacular sushi supper. On the way to a cocktail bar after their sushi feast, the Hammers faced an unexpected challenge. John, in his typical exuberance, inadvertently bumped into a group of local men. The atmosphere grew tense, but Gaston and Jen sprang into action with impressive swiftness. Jen’s fierce resolve and Gaston’s commanding presence quickly diffused the situation, ensuring John’s safety. Meanwhile, the rest of the group, unaccustomed to such impromptu combat, watched in awe and gratitude.
The least intelligent members of the tour ended up at karaoke, where the Hammers’ vocal talents (or lack thereof) were put on display, much to the bemusement of the Parisian locals.
The atmosphere was contemplative with philosophical questions of if we liked gasolina and if we wanted more.
**A Midnight Feast and a Hotel Cat**
The adventure continued with the group encroaching on a local’s 2:30am meal and birthday party at the hotel, catering to the nocturnal whims of the Parisians. John, in a moment of bewilderment slipped, channelled Johnny Wilkinsonlike strength and precision “accidentally” converting the hotel cat for 3 points.
**Cultural Exploration: Menagerie, Sainte-Chapelle, and Catacombs**
On the final day, Benji led an excellent tour of Menagerie du Jardin des Plantes, followed by a visit to Sainte-Chapelle. These cultural explorations were uplifting, infusing the team with the spirit of the French Revolution. They celebrated the overthrowing of the bourgeoisie with brioche lobster rolls and glacé du Grom.
The subsequent visit to the catacombs served as a poignant reminder of mortality. This somber reflection on life and death added depth to their journey, contrasting with the lighter moments of the trip. It was a fitting conclusion to their Parisian adventure, grounding them as they prepared to return home.
**Homeward Bound**
Stoically, the Hammers boarded the London-bound train, their spirits tempered by the knowledge of life’s fleeting nature. They left Paris with memories of skirmishes across the board and dining table, knowing that their experiences, though temporary , were treasured.
**Vincent’s Organizing Feats and the Swiss Connection**
Amidst the Hammers’ Parisian escapades, a special mention goes to Vincent, whose organizational efforts were nothing short of heroic. Faced with the challenge of recruiting players during a weekend brimming with other competitions, Vincent nonetheless succeeded in assembling a formidable lineup. His dedication was further underscored by his journey from Switzerland to join the team in Paris. As a token of appreciation and camaraderie, the Hammers extend an open invitation to Vincent and his Swiss compatriots for a return match in London, promising them a warm welcome and perhaps a truce in the truffle mozzarella wars.
Thank you Benji for organising a wonderful trip.
By Hammer Ben
Ben – a new member at Hammersmith (3 visits at time of writing article). Thanks Ben for the great report!
Dear Members, the club’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) is approaching – this year it will be held on Monday 24th June at 7:30pm at the Mindsports Centre.
The Committee gives notice that the following members will stand for re-election:
President – John White
Secretary – Adam Cranston
Webmaster – Gastón Franco
Club Captain – Robin Sarfas
Junior Officer – Tom Townsend
Auditor – Nadim Osseiran
PR & Events Officer – Chris Skulte
We are sad to announce that Matteo Bezzini and Tom Rendle have decided to step down from the Committee this year. As Treasurer for several years, Matteo has managed the club’s accounts with care and professionalism. The club is in a healthier financial position than ever before, with income consistently outstripping record levels of expenditure. As Diversity Officer, Tom has led initiatives to improve access for minorities, relentlessly focussed on ensuring the club is welcoming to all. This a challenging and essential role within a sport that still faces significant challenges with gender, racial, and socioeconomic inequality. The Committee is grateful for Matteo and Tom’s contributions.
With this in mind, Christof Brixel plans to stand for election as Treasurer, and Anastasija Royce plans to stand for Diversity Officer. The Committee also intends to co-opt two further members to provide important experience and expertise, as per the regulations set out in the club constitution.
Any member who wishes to stand for a committee position, or to submit a motion for the meeting, should do so at least 21 days prior to 24th June – that is, 3rd June. If you want to support any of the committee roles, we would love to hear from you too, as there is a lot of work to run the club and any time is valued. There are a number of subcommittees reporting to the committee that are vital to the club, on which volunteers to help out are invaluable. We are constantly looking for members to help out in areas including (but not limited to) the following:
Operations
– Running club night events
– Point of contact and friendly face for new walk-ins
– Providing suggestions for different types of events to run
– Running occasional club nights on Mondays and Thursdays
Captaincy
– Captains for the 2024/25 season
Juniors
– Coaching at Monday night Junior Hour (6-7pm)
Events/PR
– Help with organising club tours, events and matches
Website/Social Media
– Writing articles for the website
– General maintenance of website
– Creating other useful pages for the website
– Creating content for our social media channels
Please contact Club Secretary Adam if you wish to stand for a committee position, submit a motion, or are willing to help out in any other way: adam1234321@gmail.com
Hammersmith Chess Club has hosted its club night on Mondays for as long as I can remember. Featuring a variety of activities including lectures, tournaments, and simultaneous exhibitions, as well as special events hosted by top GMs, these club nights have proven increasingly popular, indicative of the constant progress and prosperity of the club.
As we strive to offer more and more value to our members, we are very happy to announce the introduction of a second club night, to take place weekly on Thursdays at the Mindsports Centre.
Astute readers will note that the club already books a room on Thursday nights during the league season. Historically this has been used to host matches, with members invited to play internal games on non-match nights, subject to advance notice. We have taken the decision to extend this booking throughout the summer, aiming to establish a popular and vibrant second night for Hammers to congregate and enjoy our favourite pastime.
What can you expect on Thursdays?
The intention is for Monday and Thursday club nights to fulfil slightly different purposes.
Going forward, Mondays will mostly feature more collaborative and noisy activities: lectures, simuls, handicap blitz, GM special events etc.
Thursdays will typically feature slower chess in a quieter setting. Our more experienced members are invited to walk in to find opponents for casual chess or rated games in our internal tournaments. Additionally, Thursdays will have a particular focus on welcoming beginners. This is a demographic we know to be sizeable, but for whom Monday club nights can seem intimidating and not always accessible.
To this end, we will be hosting one-hour beginner classes at 6pm every Thursday. These will be free-of-charge to all paid-up members, through to at least 20th June 2024. After the classes, an experienced member will be on hand to pair players appropriately for slow games, and available to help analyse these games afterwards.
Launch Night
Our first Thursday club night will take place next week, on 25th April 2024. We will kick things off with a 5-round rapidplay (10+5) tournament, featuring two sections:
Open Section: ECF-rated, open to all Hammer members. Sign up here.
Beginner Section: Unrated, open to very recent beginners without tournament experience. Sign up here.
Both sections will have prizes for the winners as well as various category prizes.
How can you find out more?
Further announcements and the latest club night gossip will take place in our WhatsApp groups:
