Raptis wins 2009 Gresham Open

Nick Raptis beat veteran master Viktors Pupols in round 5 to take the1st place prize.

Story on event at http://www.pdxchess.com/

Chief TD Neil Dale reports:

This year ther was an added feature to this tournament, a special Christopher memorial prize of $200 for a perfect score. Alas, that did not come to pass, and Mother Nature threw a snit in the form of snowfall during the last round. Maybe next year this award can be claimed by someone. The only player with a chance for this prize was Viktors Pupols, but Nick Raptis put an end to his hopes in the last round, and with his win claimed clear first with 4 1/2 points.

Three players shared 2nd through 4th with 4 points each: Daniel Gay, Viktors Pupols and Radu Roua. This traditional first of the year tournament in Oregon offers a variety of other prizes, and to list all the money winners would be a tedious task, so I will mention some other things in connection with the tournament. The turnout of 38 ( I don’t count the internet entry who failed to show, and did not have the courtesy to notify us) was not the lowest in history. Blame the ecoonomy for the lack of a better turnout.

There were a number of upsets: previous multiple winner of this tournament, Carl Haessler was one of the victims; to his credit he continued on instead of withdrawing. Yun Teng was the only player rated below class A to score 3 1/2. Steven Witt had a great first day fo the tournament. Austin Sharp provided another upset in round one. Tony Midson was the only player rated below 1400 to garner 2 1/2. If someone feels slighted that I did not mention their achievements, my apologies. After all, you can’t please everyone.

The tournament was held in the Vista Dining Room at Mt. Hood Community College, and sponsored by the Portland Chess Club. Neil Dale and Mike Morris shared directing duties. Thanks to all who came to play.

Special thanks to Rusty Miller for sending us the information!