The 2006 Bent Larsen Prize
February 8, 2006
Dear US Championship Participants,
A hearty welcome to each and every one of you! The organizers of the US Championship proudly announce the return of an exciting additional prize for this year's event. We want to give special recognition to players who consistently bring fighting spirit to the tournament, who decline the easy and perhaps convenient draw, and find ways to carry their games to exciting and successful conclusions. Professor Jim Roberts, Co-Founder of America's Foundation For Chess, his wife Pam and their children, Jacob and Emma, have generously agreed to donate a $5,000 cash prize to reward the player who "brings it to the table" when it matters.
They consider that the legendary and always gracious Bent Larsen of Denmark is the player who has best captured this ideal of over-the-board courage. The $5,000 prize, as well as recognition as the "Bent Larsen Prize Winner," will go to the most combative player at this year's event; the participant whose performance stands out for eschewing early draws and for fighting hard throughout the event. To be eligible a player will have to finish with an even or plus score, and particular attention will be paid to fighting spirit shown in the final two rounds. The $5,000 will be shared if it is considered that two or three players jointly deserve this special award.
The winner or winners will be chosen by Jim Roberts in association with the organizers of the US Championship. Their decision will be final. Last year the award went to GM Alex Fishbein; read about it here.
Wishing you all a successful and combative tournament!
The Organizers, on behalf of Pam, Emma, Jacob and Jim Roberts
(Foto: U.S. Chess Championship 2006)