UCU October 2006 Rapidplay
Gareth Annesley
The rapidplay tournament is normally a select one, it is favourable for some players, yet others prefer the longer time limit. Fifteen players were present, which was a reasonably impressive turnout due to the late confirmation of the tournament.
The event itself was a close one with Messrs Scannell, Annesley and Lavery - 3 heavyweights in this fastplay version of the game being the main competitors for the honour of 1st place. Annesley - the tournament winner - was forced to win the tournament from behind as his only slip occurred early on in round 2 to Lavery. Scannell - the outstanding favourite - was held to a draw in round 4 by Lavery and a 5th round defeat by Annesley all but ended his hopes. Lavery who was tied for the lead heading into the last round was beaten by Calum Leitch which resulted in both players' finishing in joint third place and ended Lavery's first place aspirations. This result paved the way for Annesley to win the tournament outright and once again to demonstrate the good form he showed at the end of last season.
Another Strong performance came from Anandagopal Srinivasan who picked up the u1500 grading prize.
Prizewinners
1st Gareth Annesley 5/6
2nd Stephen Scannell 4.5/6
3rd= Damien Lavery & Calum Leitch 4/6
Grading Prize (U1500) Ananda Srinivasan 4/6
