Things to look forward to in 2008

There are a number of chess events to look forward to this year.
The Australian Championship starts tomorrow with live coverage available from the link.
Of greater significance for Australian chess though will be the O2C Doeberl Cup, followed by the Sydney International Open , in lateMarch/early April. Already these events are are attracting strong fields with multiple GM entrants, and provide an opportunity for local players to earn IM/GM norms. More importantly, the continued success of these events means that Australian players don't have to look wistfully at overseas events and wonder we don't have such tournaments in Australia.
On the international calendar the Anand - Kramnik match will be the number one event of the year. However 2008 is an Olympiad year, so the Dresden Olympiad in November will also generate a lot of interest.
On the local scene there are a number of weekend tournament to play in, with the GP calendar showing 44 tournaments. One thing I hope to see is increased numbers for all events, and I hope that every chess player that reads this blog commits to playing in at least 3 weekenders this year, including 1 they've never played before.
But whether you play for fun, play for blood, or just like to sit back and watch, I'm sure there will be plenty of chess to keep you occupied for the next 12 months.