It was with great sadness that we learned of the death of Hammersmith player Ken Hedger last week. Ken had been at Hammersmith for a number of years and was a regular at Club Nights and in London League games. Our club Secretary and friend of Ken’s, Mike Mackenzie, has written a short tribute:
Ken, one of Hammersmith Chess Club’s great characters, passed away Sunday 12th June 2016.
Reflecting on his time at Hammersmith – he was unique, a snazzy dresser, he never once concerned himself with grades; he would play anyone, anywhere, on any board, and with his idiosyncratic style managed to fool even the best of players.
He would turn up armed with a completely new opening not found in any chess manual. It didn’t always work, but on occasions he would pull a rabbit from the hat.
He was a more than active chess player before he joined Hammersmith, captaining and serving on the Committees of other clubs. He was a familiar, well known face with all opposing teams.
I travelled many times with Ken and enjoyed his company immensely. His three loves were chess, cigarettes, and coffee.
He will be truly missed by all members old & new, by opponents, and by friends.
God bless you Ken.
Your friend, Mike Mackenzie.