About 50 students and players joined the Seneca Hill Chess Club fun and special event today with chess Grandmasters Eric Hansen and Robin van Kampen. Reena Zhan, our homework helper, conducted an interview with the GMs. Questions were asked by the students about their chess life, chess accomplishments and more….
Lectures were given in two groups.
The first group had a little more serious and complex lecture with Eric. In the lecture, Eric showed them one of the games he played with another Grandmaster. His lecture focused on how to successfully perform a gambit, where you may sacrifice material so that you can get a better position on the board. Nearing the end of the lecture, he showed the students some complicated checkmates to finish a game.

Eric Hansen's lecture

GM Eric Hansen’s lecture

The second group was a lecture for our novice players. They were so much into Robin’s lecture that they moved away from the seat to get closer and closer to the demonstration board. Eventually, everyone was sitting on the floor right in front of Robin and the board.

 

 

GM Robin van Kampen's lecture

GM Robin van Kampen’s lecture

GM Robin van Kampen's lecture

GM Robin van Kampen’s lecture

The next activity was a game played by the two GMs and our teachers IM Artiom Samsonkin and FM Michael Humphreys. While spectating the game, the students have chances to predict the next move. Derek, Sarah and Kayton of group A were the lucky ones drawn among those who got the most correct answers. Christopher, Alex and Flora were the ones in group B. Kailee was the only one who got the final answer correct.

Game started.

Game started.

In the middle of the game.

In the middle of the game.

The event was ended with students getting autographs on the postcards and treats from the Grandmasters.
This is a fundraising event to support GM Hansen and GM van Kampen’s chess advancement. Thanks Reena, Michael and Artiom’s participation. Students were excited to see our teachers in action.

There will be many more photos, the game played by the GMs and teacher, and a sponsorship report to come.

Some students asked if they could play the Grandmasters. Sure! The Tandem Simul presented by GMs Hansen and van Kampen is scheduled on April 13, 3:30 to 5:00 at Oriole. Details here.