Knights Out
In the lead-up to the 2024 Darling Downs Open, we talk aggressive openings and Sicilian defence with the face of local chess, Les Lord, and discuss a sport in the middle of its own 'renaissance' moment.
Published 27 March 2024
Photography: Unsplash
There's an old chess saying that states, "tactics is knowing what to do when there is something to do, strategy is knowing what to do when there is nothing to do".
And whilst, as the great Chess Master Garry Kasparov explains, this is somewhat of an exaggeration, "because there is always something to do", it captures at its heart the very essence of Chess.
Tracing its roots back 1500 years to India, throughout Persian and then later the broader European world - taking the form of the game it is today sometime around the 15th century - Chess is a game of cunning, strategy and wit.
The game itself has seen a serious resurgence in popularity in recent years, thanks in no small part to the rise and ease of online apps and gaming and the release of shows like Netflix's 2020 series "The Queen's Gambit", which inspired a whole new era of fans.
"Those have both had a real impact on the accessibility and image of the sport", explains Les Lord, local chess coach and a name synonymous with Chess in the region. "But there's also an enduring beauty to the sport, and it's a testament to the game's universal appeal", he continues.
With the dates set for the annual Darling Downs Open, 2024 will see the event become Australia's 'richest' Chess Tournament, with a $30,000 prize pool, thanks to local businesses like Byron Capital, who see the value in the sport, both for its mental and educational benefits, but also for and the community that it fosters.
"It is an exciting time for Chess in the region", Les continues.
"The event itself is likely to see in excess of 350 players, many travelling from all over Australia and several flying in internationally. We've also had a number of high-profile players express their interest in competing, and we could see as many as 10 - 15 Grand Masters taking part."
"They are electric events chess tournaments, you wouldn't necessarily expect it, but it's a really competitive sport, and when you get that many people together, you walk in and there is a real sense of thrill in the air".
The competition is open to all players, Les explains, including a junior division, with players grouped according to their skill levels / ACF Ratings.
"Even if you are a chess novice or just starting out, you can still come and participate", Les says. ". . .We just may not make you face off with a Grand Master".
The Darling Downs Open is set to take place on May 2 - 6, with registrations open until March 31. Spectators will be able to view parts of the event through live streams at the venue or, better yet, sign up and get amongst the action from the event floor.
. . .with $30,000 on offer, we're off to polish up on our Caro-Kaan.
To enter, or to find out more information, click here.
