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Ulster's Best Chess Players come to Bangor

"Chess Notes" from County Down Spectator, October 2003

Ulster's Best Chess Players come to Bangor

Thanks to the very generous sponsorship of Webb's Chemists, the 22nd Annual Bangor Chess Congress attracted a high class list of entries.

The Congress was held on Saturday 20th Sept in Groomsport Parish Halls, to whom also go thanks. Derek Webb (who is hoping to open a branch in the village) also presented the Eddie Webb Cup in honour of his father who is a founder member of Bangor Chess Club.

The Senior Tournament was shared by the Provinces two top players, Tom Clarke and Steve Scannell, both of whom have played in the British Championships. The "Eddie Webb Cup" went to Tom on the Tie Break Rule. Both players had 5 wins and a draw in the 6 rounds.

The Junior Tournament Trophy was won by Chris Black of the Royal Victoria Hospital Club, whose 5½ out of 6 score was equalled by American Michael Kane. Chris claimed the trophy on a TieBreak.

A notable feat was achieved by 16 year old local player Philip Todd who took third place in the Junior tournament with 4½ points. Philip plays for one of Bangor's League Teams and is a fine example of someone who has made giant strides in just one year.

The Bangor Club meets in the Groomsport Parish Hall every Thursday from 7.30 pm, and welcomes players of any age and ability from beginner upwards. It has over 30 Members, so you will always get a game and some help to improve your chess if you want. Enjoyment of Chess is the first aim of the club.

Players do battle
Players do battle
Chris Black, winner of the Junior Section, after tie-break with Michael Kane - both gained 5 points.
Chris Black, winner of the Junior Section, after tie-break with Michael Kane - both gained 5 points.
Des Moreland (white) resigns to the eventual senior tournament winner Tom Clarke (black)
Des Moreland (white) resigns to the eventual senior tournament winner Tom Clarke (black)
Tom Clarke, winner of the Senior section, after a tie-break with Steve Scannell - both scored 5 and a half points. Tom received the Eddie Webb Cup.
Tom Clarke, winner of the Senior section, after a tie-break with Steve Scannell - both scored 5 and a half points. Tom received the Eddie Webb Cup.
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