Fantastic Simultaneous: Nigel Short wins all games....
Organiser Damien Cunningham enjoys the game
The event started with 30 sets looking expectant, pieces ready to move, name places, certificates with 'survived to move xx' which Nigel was very kind to sign. All professionally setup and the BBC camera crew and journalist checking their equipment and lighting.
Damien Cunningham explained the rules - touch move - move when Nigel comes to the table. Dont move on the first move. All players sat in their allocated boards. The BBC took their shot - a sweep of the room and a pan to the journalist whilst we sat in silence, waiting like excited kids.
Then Nigel started wishing players luck and shaking all our hands and the games were off. Kings Gambit, Two Knights, open positions, closed positions.
The BBC interviewed Nigel asking how do you become a great chess player? Answer plenty of hard study. They also interviewed Karina Kruk (Irish Champion). Excellent publicity for chess.
Then suddenly after 5 moves Damien Cunningham gives a chuckle and resigns. Having mistakenly touched the wrong piece. Nigels advice never organise and play! There is good humoured laughter around the hall.
Waiting for the next move.
John Cairns enjoying the game - one of the last players 'Standing' in fact Johns was the last game - with Nigel having 2 queens and a rook against Johns queen and rook.
Last players Standing included Ross Harris, Calum Leitch, Gerald Harvey, Steven Eachus, John Cairns, Ian Woodfield, Geoff Hindley, Karina Kruk.
Nigel humbly admitted this game had a drawn position but unfortunately Calum didnt play it correctly and lost.
The boards tell the story. 29 white kings sitting in the centre - 29 wins for Nigel Short.
Loud and long applause from players and spectators when the last game against John Cairns completed.
Nigel signing certificates and score sheets after the final game.
Enjoying a chat after the event.
Damien Cunningham took Nigel on a tour of Belfast and a visit to a local eatery.
Many thanks to Damien Cunningham and the committee for organising this brilliant event.
Thanks of course to Nigel Short for providing us an opportunity to get beaten by him - I survived 44 moves!
Further details and more pictures : http://ballynafeighchess.wordpress.com/nigel-short-simul/
