Chess News!
JANUARY'S WEDNESDAY NIGHT CLASSIC HIGHLIGHTS
Round 1 Recap - Open Section
Round 1 of the Open section delivered exactly what you want in an opening round: decisive results at the top boards, early separation in the standings, and several instructive outcomes that set the tone for the rest of the event.
Top seed Shubh Misra (2049) started the tournament in strong form, converting the White pieces for a full point and immediately staking a claim at the top of the leaderboard. Close behind, NM Dmitry Kishinevsky (2021) also opened with a win, showing his usual experience and composure to stay right in the hunt.
On board three, Anthony R. Whitt (1843) made an excellent start, scoring a convincing Round 1 victory with White and keeping pace with the leaders. Emmett Lignell (1842) matched that result from the Black side, securing a solid win and ensuring the chase group remained tightly packed after the first round.
The middle of the table saw a quieter result, with Jared Hall (1218) taking a half-point bye to begin the event on ½.
The remaining boards were hard-fought but ultimately decisive. Andrew Pineda, Jerry Meisner, Robert Downes, and Maxwell Gulan each dropped their Round 1 games but will be looking to rebound quickly as the pairings continue to reshuffle in later rounds.
After one round, four players sit on a perfect score, setting up key clashes ahead. With rating gaps narrowing and momentum already in play, Round 2 promises sharper battles and early tests for the leaders.
Blitz Tournament Recap – Birthday Celebration!
The three-round blitz event wrapped up in high spirits as players gathered not for prizes or entry fees, but to celebrate National Master Dmitry Kishinevsky’s birthday and enjoy fast, competitive chess in a relaxed setting.
At the top of the table, Emmett Lignell (1842) delivered a perfect performance, going 3-for-3 to take clear first place. Emmett showed excellent tactical awareness and time management throughout the event, capping his night with a Round 3 win over NM Kishinevsky to finish undefeated.
NM Dmitry Kishinevsky (2021) finished on 2 points, opening with two wins before dropping his final game. Even on his birthday, Dmitry brought the usual fighting spirit and helped set the tone for a strong, friendly, and competitive blitz atmosphere.
A tight group followed just behind on 2 points, including Anthony R. Whitt (1843) and Robert Downes (1245). Whitt rebounded well after an early setback, while Downes turned in one of the standout performances of the night with multiple upset wins, showing that blitz rewards sharp tactics and confidence over rating.
The rest of the field remained competitive throughout all three rounds. Andrew Pineda, Jerry Meisner, and Maxwell Gulan each picked up important wins, while Jared Hall fought through a tough pairing slate in a fast-paced format that left no room for hesitation.
With no prizes on the line, the focus stayed exactly where it belonged—good games, good company, and celebrating a beloved coach, competitor, and friend of the local chess community. The event was a reminder of why blitz nights are a staple: fast fun, sharp lessons, and plenty of smiles between rounds.
Happy Birthday, NM Dmitry Kishinevsky—and thanks to everyone who came out to make it a great night of chess.
No tournament on Jan 10th or 17th at Hive5/Strategic Minds.
This Saturday Gryphon Games and Comics in Fort Collins is holding chess for those wanting to play on January 14th. We will also pause our regular schedule on 1.17 so that players can participate in the Denver Chess Club’s Tribute to MLK 2026 Major Tournament which is taking place in Denver in the 17th-18th Register Here. We encourage and support our community in playing big regional events