Smerdon - The King of Chess

IM David Smerdon had a productive trip to the Gold COast last weekend, winning the 2008 Surfers Paradise Open. Organised by the modestly named Kings of Chess club, this event was attempted to combine the weekend chess format, with a FIDE rated event. 

The 6 round tournament attracted a strong field, with GM Darryl Johansen, IM's Stephen Solomon and Peter Froelich and WIM's Arianne Caoili, Alexandra Jule and Narelle Szuveges also taking part.

 Smerdon scored a perfect 5.5/6, with the half point coming from a first round bye. On his way to outright first Smerdon defeated  both Froelich and Caoili and finished a full point ahead of Froelich and Solomon.
One innovative idea for the tournament was a brilliancy prize, which is to be judged by GM Alexi Shirov. Quite possibly Smerdon will win this prize as well, for this game against Nik Stawski.