The Gosford Winter Rapid Open is the second of the Big 3 tournaments hosted by Gosford Chess Club at the Central Coast Leagues Club.

“Oh yeah – it was fantastic!” – Richard Addison “The smoothest chess tournament ever” – Braiden Cox

We welcomed 65 players on the day, with 221 chess games played across seven intense rounds. The tournament hall was abuzz with the energy of players and spectators, some experiencing a chess tournament for the very first time.

Participants came from all across New South Wales and were thoroughly impressed by the professional playing conditions and welcoming atmosphere.

A huge thank-you to the Central Coast Leagues Club for their generous support, providing not only the venue but also refreshments throughout the day – the tea and biscuits were a hit!

The tournament was convincingly won by the talented youngster FM Reyaansh Chakrabarty, who delivered a flawless performance with a perfect 7/7 score.

Gosford Chess Club members had a strong showing. The up-and-coming Jack Addison drew with CM Jean Rusakov and claimed equal second in the U1600. Also playing were Rod, Flynn, Darryl, Joshua, Michael, Ben, Richard, Shane, Alistair, Allen, Colin, Rowan, Lenny, Nelum, Patrick M, Alex, Samarjeet and Partap. Congratulations to all other prize winners.

As with every successful event, it would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the entire Gosford Chess Club Committee.

Assistant Organiser: President Colin

Directors of Play: Rick & Braiden

Photographer: Jackson

Treasurer: Allen

And of course, Rod, Rowan, Joel, and Leonard, who each played a crucial role behind the scenes.

Special thanks to Gary for his support and provision of key resources.

We are proud of what we achieved together – and we’re already looking forward to the final tournament in the Big 3 series later this year.

Report: Patrick Christie (Gosford Chess Club Committee Member)

Patrick has done a short analysis of Reyaansh's game against Bayasgalan in round 6 from the FM's perspective, with some easy to understand ideas in the Exchange French and in general. Check it out!