By William Stewart of OnlineChessLessons.NET
Original article on 5th Kings Chess Tournament – Final Round available on William’s site
The final round of 5th Kings was absolutely fantastic with Carlsen giving Karjakin a good run for his money. In the end Carlsen took the prize (just barely) after being slightly ahead on tie-breaker points. Carlsen is now #1 highest rated on this planet, and Karjakin the highest rated player in Russia. My USA favorite Nakamura finished 3rd for a solid win (though this tournament has clearly showed that he is still no match for Carlsen).
- Carlsen Draws Karjakin – Final Position
Magnus Carlsen is the official winner of the 2011 5th Kings Tournament in Bazna, Romania. Carlsen drew Karjakin via 3-fold repetition in 30 moves, winning the official title on 3rd tiebreaks. The game wasn’t terribly exciting as Carlsen opened with d4 and Karjakin responded with the Queen’s Indian. It seemed both players were content with sharing first place as they each played solidly and did not take any chances to push for an advantage. They finished with 6.5/10 (+1.5) being the only players in the event to finish with a positive score, dominating a tournament with an average ELO of 2758!
- Nisipeanu Forces Perpetual Check
- Ivanchuk Grinds Nakamura in 60 Moves
Original article on Bazna 2011 – Final Round available on William’s site
Nisipeanu actually did very well.
Ivanchuk was definitely not out of form in the last round.
And yes, Nisipeanu gained rating points!
It was one of the funnest tournaments I’ve seen in a long time. No acrimony, no dull draws..just played their hearts out.
Now THATS how you play chess! Congrats to Magnus and Seirgi. Great result for both!!!
Mike Magnan
Hikaru got Naka off his ass.