Chess champs ready for tournament

Allan Menham and John Harris of the Bundaberg Chess Club.

Mike Knott

SOME of Australia's best chess players will hone their strategies for this weekend's Bundaberg Weekender tournament.

Organiser Allan Menham and John Harris said the competition would have the strongest line-up the city had ever seen, with 30 already booked in.

While competition will be fierce, the man to beat will be International Chess Master Stephen Solomon.

“He has won the last three weekender tournaments and is looking to win it for the fourth time,” Mr Menham said.

Queensland Chess Association president Garvin Gray will also compete on the day, as will Czechoslovakian Jan Priborsky and Brodie McGlymont, Australia's most promising junior.

They will all have to look out for 13-year-old Queensland Chess Champion, Yi Liu, the youngest player to win the state title.

Due to increased numbers and local support, overall prize money has increased to $2000.

“We have just had a fantastic response,” Mr Harris said.

The tournament will be held at U3A, 80a Wongarra Street, behind the library and spectators are welcome.

For more information contact Mr Menham on 4151 7469.