Please take time to read through the wonderful achievements of the Elaine Howie Fund "Top 12" finalists, below. All of them had such a great year! Awards were much-deserved.
Note: If any of the information is incorrect, please send me an email: checkmateupdate@gmail.com
I am also looking to contact the following players:
* Qiyu Zhou
* Yuanchen Zhang
* Michael Song
* Richard Wang
* Melissa Giblon
* Zong Yang Yu
If you know any of these juniors, please inform them of their award. They can contact me at the email above to claim their prize.
Good luck to all in 2012. Hope everyone had a happy Valentine's Day!
Thursday, February 16, 2012
2011 Elaine Howie Fund - Nicholas Lee (Gold)
Nicholas Lee, 2011 Alberta Youth Chess ChampionshipNicholas Lee
GRADE 7, Calgary, Alberta
School: Glenmore Ac.
Nicholas Lee is a grade 7 student from Calgary, Alberta. During 2011, he attended Calgary Chess Club as well as various tournaments across Alberta. Nicholas demonstrated significant progress in all fourteen events he took part in, reaching new heights at an incredible pace. Many times, he finished not just with great results, but amazing spirit and placements amongst much higher-rated players. Almost half his performances were at least 250 points above his pre-tournament CFC rating, and that doesn’t even account for his remarkable second place finishes at the Alberta Chess Challenge and Calgary Youth Chess Championship. These factors alone were enough to credit the “Gold Award” to Nicholas’ name. However, I knew I had made the right decision when his family sent a very touching letter describing Nicholas’ chess journey. Nicholas started playing chess only a couple years ago, in the fall of 2009, when he had just turned nine years old. Combining personal passion and a self-directed drive to compete and improve, he developed with increasing strength in a relatively short period of time. “The Elaine Howie Fund Gold Award is tangible affirmation of Nicholas’ hard work and improvement and provides reinforcement for his continued chess development.”
Nicholas would like to thank God, his family, and the Calgary chess community. Special appreciation goes to Tony Ficzere, Roy Yearwood, Simon Ong, and especially Dan Kazmaier – for their interest, encouragement and support of his tournament chess journey. Nicholas’ family would also like to congratulate all fund award winners.
Photo provided by Nicholas' family.
Full list of Nicholas' best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 14th in U14 (CFC 1474) and 25th in Grade 7 (CMA 1431) by the end of the year
· CFC +373, CMA +355
· Rating progress in all 14/14 tournaments in 2011!
· Representing Calgary Chess Club and various tournaments in Alberta
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Back2School Tournament
· 2nd place (3.0/4.0), Alberta Chess Challenge, Grade 6, winning two playoff games
· 2nd place (3.0/4.0), Calgary Youth Chess Championship, U12, performance rating of 1222 (121 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1101)
· 2nd place (3.5/5.0), Calgary Regional Chess Challenge, Grade 6, winning two playoff games
· 2nd place (4.0/6.0), Calgary Junior Knockout Championship & Reserves
· Tied for 3rd place (3.0/5.0), AYCC, U12, performance rating of 1423 (259 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1164)
· Tied for 3rd place (3.0/5.0), Schleinich Memorial Championship, performance rating of 1307 (180 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1127)
· Performance rating of 1733 (458 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1275), Calgary International
· Performance rating of 1692 (259 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1433), Alberta Junior Championship
· Performance rating of 1639 (417 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1222), Alberta Reserves Championship
· Performance rating of 1630 (267 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1365), Calgary Chess Club Championship
· Performance rating of 1587 (262 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1325), Edmonton International Reserves
2011 Elaine Howie Fund - Olivier Kenta Chiku-Ratte (Gold)
Olivier Kenta Chiku-Ratte
GRADE 7, Montreal, Quebec
School: Jean-Eudes (coll.)
Olivier Kenta Chiku-Ratte is a grade 7 student from Montreal, Quebec. During 2011, he participated extensively in a variety of events across Canada, including those at the Montreal Chess Club, Varenne Chess Club, and Ahuntsic Chess Club. At the international level, he set the stage with an admirable winning streak in the Under 12 section of the World Youth Chess Championship. Furthermore, as one of the most talented juniors in the country, he posted numerous fantastic results in CFC, FQE, and CMA events. Highlights include first place in the competitive Under 12 section of the Canadian Youth Chess Championship, first place at the Quebec Chess Challenge, second place at the Canadian Chess Challenge, second place at the Quebec Sponge Towels Championship, second place at the Quebec Open, and an incredible 2200 performance in the Open section of the Canadian Open. Olivier Kenta continues to strive to challenge himself and reach new heights. His efforts have not gone unnoticed. I will let these words, sent by a supporter (whom I will keep anonymous), speak for themselves: “He is an incredible player with a great talent and a very good fighting spirit...when people around here see him, they immediately think about Lesiege and Roussel-Roozmon, who looked like him at his age and are now grandmasters.”
As you can see, Olivier Kenta was a natural choice to receive the “Gold Award”. Congratulations!
Full list of Olivier Kenta's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 1st (FQE 2187) & 6th (CFC 2072) in U14 and 1st in Grade 7 (CMA 2246) by the end of the year
· CFC +396, FQE +101, CMA +140
· Representing Montreal Chess Club, Varenne Chess Club, and Ahuntsic Chess Club
· Participation in various secondary school matches
· Extensive participation in Open Sections within the CFC, FQE, and CMA!
· Participation in the WYCC, U12, including an admirable winning streak at the start
· 1st place out of 45 players (6.5/7.0), CYCC, U12, performance rating of 2084 (355 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1729)
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Quebec Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· Tied for 1st place (4.5/5.0) and tied for 2nd place (4.0/5.0), Quebec Grand Prix Tournaments, U12
· 2nd place (7.5/9.0), Canadian Chess Challenge, Grade 6, after winning playoff
· Tied for 2nd place out of 60 players (6.5/9.0), Quebec Sponge Towels Championship, Open Section, performance rating of 2237 (139 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 2098)
· Tied for 2nd place (6.5/9.0), Quebec Open, performance rating of 2182 (236 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1946)
· Tied for 2nd place (3.0/5.0), Varennes Tournament, Invitational Section, CFC performance rating of 2324 (278 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2046), FQE performance rating of 2328 (151 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 2177)
· Tied for 2nd place (4.0/5.0), Ahuntsic Club Championship
· Tied for 3rd place (3.5/5.0), Oasis Tournament
· Tied for 88th place out of 152 players (4.0/9.0), Canadian Open, Open Section, performance rating of 2200 (355 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1845)
· Score of 5.0/5.0, K-6 Team Championship
· Performance rating of 2271 (223 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 2048), Saint-Jean Tournament
· Performance rating of 2073 (397 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1676), Ottawa Spring Open
· Now the highest-rated member of Team-Quebec
GRADE 7, Montreal, Quebec
School: Jean-Eudes (coll.)
Olivier Kenta Chiku-Ratte is a grade 7 student from Montreal, Quebec. During 2011, he participated extensively in a variety of events across Canada, including those at the Montreal Chess Club, Varenne Chess Club, and Ahuntsic Chess Club. At the international level, he set the stage with an admirable winning streak in the Under 12 section of the World Youth Chess Championship. Furthermore, as one of the most talented juniors in the country, he posted numerous fantastic results in CFC, FQE, and CMA events. Highlights include first place in the competitive Under 12 section of the Canadian Youth Chess Championship, first place at the Quebec Chess Challenge, second place at the Canadian Chess Challenge, second place at the Quebec Sponge Towels Championship, second place at the Quebec Open, and an incredible 2200 performance in the Open section of the Canadian Open. Olivier Kenta continues to strive to challenge himself and reach new heights. His efforts have not gone unnoticed. I will let these words, sent by a supporter (whom I will keep anonymous), speak for themselves: “He is an incredible player with a great talent and a very good fighting spirit...when people around here see him, they immediately think about Lesiege and Roussel-Roozmon, who looked like him at his age and are now grandmasters.”
As you can see, Olivier Kenta was a natural choice to receive the “Gold Award”. Congratulations!
Full list of Olivier Kenta's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 1st (FQE 2187) & 6th (CFC 2072) in U14 and 1st in Grade 7 (CMA 2246) by the end of the year
· CFC +396, FQE +101, CMA +140
· Representing Montreal Chess Club, Varenne Chess Club, and Ahuntsic Chess Club
· Participation in various secondary school matches
· Extensive participation in Open Sections within the CFC, FQE, and CMA!
· Participation in the WYCC, U12, including an admirable winning streak at the start
· 1st place out of 45 players (6.5/7.0), CYCC, U12, performance rating of 2084 (355 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1729)
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Quebec Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· Tied for 1st place (4.5/5.0) and tied for 2nd place (4.0/5.0), Quebec Grand Prix Tournaments, U12
· 2nd place (7.5/9.0), Canadian Chess Challenge, Grade 6, after winning playoff
· Tied for 2nd place out of 60 players (6.5/9.0), Quebec Sponge Towels Championship, Open Section, performance rating of 2237 (139 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 2098)
· Tied for 2nd place (6.5/9.0), Quebec Open, performance rating of 2182 (236 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1946)
· Tied for 2nd place (3.0/5.0), Varennes Tournament, Invitational Section, CFC performance rating of 2324 (278 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2046), FQE performance rating of 2328 (151 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 2177)
· Tied for 2nd place (4.0/5.0), Ahuntsic Club Championship
· Tied for 3rd place (3.5/5.0), Oasis Tournament
· Tied for 88th place out of 152 players (4.0/9.0), Canadian Open, Open Section, performance rating of 2200 (355 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1845)
· Score of 5.0/5.0, K-6 Team Championship
· Performance rating of 2271 (223 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 2048), Saint-Jean Tournament
· Performance rating of 2073 (397 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1676), Ottawa Spring Open
· Now the highest-rated member of Team-Quebec
2011 Elaine Howie Fund - Finalist Achievements (Silver)
Sergey Noritsyn
GRADE 3, Richmond Hill, Ontario
Sergey Noritsyn is a grade 3 student from Richmond Hill, Ontario. During 2011, he attended ten events in Canada, nine in which he performed well enough to progress his rating! He also participated in the Under 8 section of the World Youth Chess Championship. Other highlights of his year include a first place finish at the Canadian Youth Chess Championship and second place at the Canadian Open (U1600). Even more, as the youngest member of this year’s “Top 12”, Sergey has many years ahead of him. I wish him all the best as he continues to develop. Congratulations!
Full list of Sergey's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 1st in U10 (CFC 1714) and 6th in Grade 3 (CMA 1388) by the end of the year
· CFC +252, CMA +750
· Rating progress in 9/10 tournaments in 2011
· Representing various CFC tournaments in Toronto, Guelph, and Hamilton
· Participation in the WYCC, U8
· 1st place (6.5/7.0), CYCC, U8
· 1st place (4.5/5.0), Guelph Winter Pro-Am, U1600, performance rating of 1681 (219 pts. above Sergey’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1462)
· Tied for 2nd place (7.0/9.0), Canadian Open, U1600, performance rating of 1666 (105 pts. above Sergey’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1501)
· Tied for 3rd place (3.5/5.0), Hart House Holidays Open, U1900
· Performance rating of 1894 (257 pts. above Sergey’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1637), Guelph Fall Pro-Am, U2000
· Performance rating of 1816 (307 pts. above Sergey’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1509), Hamilton Winter Open, U1900
· Performance rating of 1762 (167 pts. above Sergey’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1595), Toronto Thanksgiving Open, U2000
Zong Yang Yu
GRADE 7, Montreal, Quebec
School: Notre-Dame (coll.)
Zong Yang Yu is a grade 7 student from Montreal, Quebec. During 2011, he attended Montreal Chess Club and Chess ‘n Math’s Montreal Saturday Club, as well as various secondary school matches and other events around Quebec. He consistently posted top scores in these events. Particularly noteworthy were his first place finishes at the Quebec Sponge Towels Championship and Pepsico Junior Championship. Zong Yang clearly has excellent spirit for the game. Congratulations!
Full list of Zong Yang's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 3rd in U14 (FQE 1814) and 5th in Grade 7 (CMA 1951) by the end of the year
· FQE +542, CMA +463
· Representing the CMA Montreal Saturday Club, and Montreal Chess Club with consistent top finishes/high performances
· Participation in various secondary school matches
· Extensive participation within the FQE and CMA
· 1st place (8.0/9.0), Quebec Sponge Towels Championship, Section B, performance rating of 1870 (238 pts. above Zong Yang’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1632)
· 1st place (4.0/5.0), Pepsico Junior Championship, U12
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), two Quebec Grand Prix Tournaments, U12 and U14
· 1st place (7.0/8.0), Notre-Dame Holiday Tournament
· 1st place (4.0/4.0), Notre-Dame October Tournament
· 3rd place (4.0/5.0), Quebec Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· Tied for 3rd place (4.0/5.0), Santa Claus (Pere Noel) Tournament, Section C, performance rating of 1550 (278 pts. above Zong Yang’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1272)
· Tied for 3rd place (3.5/5.0), Quebec Class Championship, Section D, performance rating of 1672 (265 pts. above Zong Yang’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1407)
· Score of 5.0/5.0, K-6 Team Championship
John Doknjas
GRADE 7, Surrey, British Columbia
School: Lochiel U-Connect Education Centre
John Doknjas is a grade 7 student from Surrey, British Columbia. During 2011, he attended Langley Club, various elementary school matches, and many large events in BC. Of particular note were his first place finishes at the Canadian Chess Challenge, BC Junior Championship, BC Youth Championship, Canadian Open (U2000), and BC Chess Challenge. John continues to represent his family and province with amazing spirit. I’m sure he will excel for many years to come. Congratulations!
Full list of John's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 8th in U14 (CFC 2063) and 6th in Grade 7 (CMA 1944) by the end of the year
· CFC +160, CMA +272
· Representing Langley Club
· Participation in various elementary school matches
· 1st place (8.0/9.0), Canadian Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Fraser Valley Regional Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· 1st place (4.0/5.0), BC Junior Championship, performance rating of 2156 (120 pts. above John’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2036)
· 1st place (4.5/5.0), BCYCC, U12
· Tied for 1st place (7.0/9.0), Canadian Open, U2000, performance rating of 2106 (137 pts. above John’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1969)
· Tied for 1st place (4.5/5.0), BC Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· Tied for 2nd place (5.0/7.0), CYCC, U12
· Tied for 2nd place (4.5/6.0), BC Open, performance rating of 2269 (241 pts. above John’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2028)
· Tied for 2nd place (3.5/5.0), New Year Open, performance rating of 2123 (220 pts. above John’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1903)
· Tied for 11th place out of 86 players (4.0/6.0), Grand Pacific Open, performance rating of 2129 (195 pts. above John’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1934)
· Score of 5.0/5.0, BC Elementary Team Tournament
GRADE 3, Richmond Hill, Ontario
Sergey Noritsyn is a grade 3 student from Richmond Hill, Ontario. During 2011, he attended ten events in Canada, nine in which he performed well enough to progress his rating! He also participated in the Under 8 section of the World Youth Chess Championship. Other highlights of his year include a first place finish at the Canadian Youth Chess Championship and second place at the Canadian Open (U1600). Even more, as the youngest member of this year’s “Top 12”, Sergey has many years ahead of him. I wish him all the best as he continues to develop. Congratulations!
Full list of Sergey's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 1st in U10 (CFC 1714) and 6th in Grade 3 (CMA 1388) by the end of the year
· CFC +252, CMA +750
· Rating progress in 9/10 tournaments in 2011
· Representing various CFC tournaments in Toronto, Guelph, and Hamilton
· Participation in the WYCC, U8
· 1st place (6.5/7.0), CYCC, U8
· 1st place (4.5/5.0), Guelph Winter Pro-Am, U1600, performance rating of 1681 (219 pts. above Sergey’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1462)
· Tied for 2nd place (7.0/9.0), Canadian Open, U1600, performance rating of 1666 (105 pts. above Sergey’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1501)
· Tied for 3rd place (3.5/5.0), Hart House Holidays Open, U1900
· Performance rating of 1894 (257 pts. above Sergey’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1637), Guelph Fall Pro-Am, U2000
· Performance rating of 1816 (307 pts. above Sergey’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1509), Hamilton Winter Open, U1900
· Performance rating of 1762 (167 pts. above Sergey’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1595), Toronto Thanksgiving Open, U2000
Zong Yang Yu
GRADE 7, Montreal, Quebec
School: Notre-Dame (coll.)
Zong Yang Yu is a grade 7 student from Montreal, Quebec. During 2011, he attended Montreal Chess Club and Chess ‘n Math’s Montreal Saturday Club, as well as various secondary school matches and other events around Quebec. He consistently posted top scores in these events. Particularly noteworthy were his first place finishes at the Quebec Sponge Towels Championship and Pepsico Junior Championship. Zong Yang clearly has excellent spirit for the game. Congratulations!
Full list of Zong Yang's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 3rd in U14 (FQE 1814) and 5th in Grade 7 (CMA 1951) by the end of the year
· FQE +542, CMA +463
· Representing the CMA Montreal Saturday Club, and Montreal Chess Club with consistent top finishes/high performances
· Participation in various secondary school matches
· Extensive participation within the FQE and CMA
· 1st place (8.0/9.0), Quebec Sponge Towels Championship, Section B, performance rating of 1870 (238 pts. above Zong Yang’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1632)
· 1st place (4.0/5.0), Pepsico Junior Championship, U12
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), two Quebec Grand Prix Tournaments, U12 and U14
· 1st place (7.0/8.0), Notre-Dame Holiday Tournament
· 1st place (4.0/4.0), Notre-Dame October Tournament
· 3rd place (4.0/5.0), Quebec Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· Tied for 3rd place (4.0/5.0), Santa Claus (Pere Noel) Tournament, Section C, performance rating of 1550 (278 pts. above Zong Yang’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1272)
· Tied for 3rd place (3.5/5.0), Quebec Class Championship, Section D, performance rating of 1672 (265 pts. above Zong Yang’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1407)
· Score of 5.0/5.0, K-6 Team Championship
John Doknjas
GRADE 7, Surrey, British Columbia
School: Lochiel U-Connect Education Centre
John Doknjas is a grade 7 student from Surrey, British Columbia. During 2011, he attended Langley Club, various elementary school matches, and many large events in BC. Of particular note were his first place finishes at the Canadian Chess Challenge, BC Junior Championship, BC Youth Championship, Canadian Open (U2000), and BC Chess Challenge. John continues to represent his family and province with amazing spirit. I’m sure he will excel for many years to come. Congratulations!
Full list of John's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 8th in U14 (CFC 2063) and 6th in Grade 7 (CMA 1944) by the end of the year
· CFC +160, CMA +272
· Representing Langley Club
· Participation in various elementary school matches
· 1st place (8.0/9.0), Canadian Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Fraser Valley Regional Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· 1st place (4.0/5.0), BC Junior Championship, performance rating of 2156 (120 pts. above John’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2036)
· 1st place (4.5/5.0), BCYCC, U12
· Tied for 1st place (7.0/9.0), Canadian Open, U2000, performance rating of 2106 (137 pts. above John’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1969)
· Tied for 1st place (4.5/5.0), BC Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· Tied for 2nd place (5.0/7.0), CYCC, U12
· Tied for 2nd place (4.5/6.0), BC Open, performance rating of 2269 (241 pts. above John’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2028)
· Tied for 2nd place (3.5/5.0), New Year Open, performance rating of 2123 (220 pts. above John’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1903)
· Tied for 11th place out of 86 players (4.0/6.0), Grand Pacific Open, performance rating of 2129 (195 pts. above John’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1934)
· Score of 5.0/5.0, BC Elementary Team Tournament
2011 Elaine Howie Fund - Finalist Achievements (Bronze)
Melissa Giblon
GRADE 7, Thornhill, Ontario
School: Henderson Av. P.S.
Melissa Giblon is a grade 7 student from Thornhill, Ontario. During 2011, she attended twelve events in Canada, eleven in which she performed well enough to progress her rating! She represented Canada in the Under 12 Girls section of the World Youth Championship, and had a standout first place finish at the Canadian Youth Chess Championship. In addition to ongoing successes, the Giblon family has been extremely dedicated to chess for many years. Congratulations!
Full list of Melissa's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 28th in U14 (CFC 1528) and 21st in Grade 7 (CMA 1453) by the end of the year
· CFC +180, CMA +218
· Participation in the WYCC, U12 Girls
· Rating progress in 11/12 tournaments in 2011
· Participation in various elementary/secondary team tournaments
· 1st place (7.0/7.0), CYCC, U12 Girls, performance rating of 1586 (195 pts. above Melissa’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1391)
· Tied for 1st place (4.0/5.0), OGCC, Grade 6
· 2nd place (3.5/5.0), OYCC, U12 Girls
· 2nd place (4.0/5.0), York Region Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· Score of 4.5/5.0, Ontario Teams Chess Championship, K-6
· Score of 3.0/4.0, Ontario Teams Chess Championship, K-9
· Performance rating of 1685 (211 pts. above Melissa’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1474), Toronto Labour Day Open, U2000
Nicolas Robichaud
GRADE 9, Moncton, New Brunswick
School: Ste-Bernadette
Nicolas Robichaud is a grade 9 student from Moncton, New Brunswick. During 2011, he attended sixteen events in Canada, fifteen in which he performed well enough to progress his rating! He and his family are extremely committed to the game, travelling not just around the Maritimes, but across the country to events such as the Canadian Youth Chess Championship and Canadian Chess Challenge. Not only did he represent his province well in both these events, he brought a great, positive attitude. As quoted by his family, “Nicolas really enjoyed his experience as a member of team New Brunswick and his travel at Victoria BC for the CCC2011 (Canadian Chess Challenge), a wonderful experience at the other side of Canada.”
Nicolas also finished first place at the New Brunswick Chess Challenge, second place at the Nova Scotia Youth Tournament, and gave shining performances at the Charlottetown Open & Maritime Open. Congratulations!
Nicolas would like to send out a huge thanks to the Maritime chess community, and to his parents for supporting his experience (including travel opportunities). His family would like to congratulate the rest of the fund finalists as well.
Full list of Nicolas' best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 39th in U16 (CFC 1518) and 41st in Grade 9 (CMA 1318) by the end of the year
· CFC +254, CMA +300
· Rating progress in 15/16 tournaments in 2011
· Representing various tournaments across the Maritimes (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI), including the Maritime Team Championship
· Great commitment to chess – over half of his tournaments involved travel, including to the CYCC and Canadian Chess Challenge
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), New Brunswick Chess Challenge Championship, Grade 8
· 1st place (4.5/5.0), October seasonal tournament, performance rating of 1635 (167 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1468)
· 2nd place (4.0/5.0), Nova Scotia Youth Tournament, Section 2
· Tied for 2nd place (3.0/5.0), March winter tournament, performance rating of 1618 (308 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1310)
· 3rd place (3.0/5.0), Dec-Feb tournament, performance rating of 1556 (292 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1264)
· Performance rating of 1736 (374 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1362), Charlottetown Open
· Performance rating of 1628 (173 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1455), Maritime Open
· Performance rating of 1621 (216 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1405), CYCC, U14
Nikola Isaev
GRADE 11, Saint-Hubert, Quebec
School: Jean-Eudes (coll.)
Nikola Isaev is a grade 11 student from Saint-Hubert, Quebec. During 2011, he attended Chess ‘n Math’s Montreal Saturday Club as well as various secondary school matches and other events around Quebec. Highlights include first place finishes at the Quebec Sponge Towels Championship and Montreal Open. As the only senior student in this year’s fund, Nikola will serve as a great example for rising juniors. His great attitude towards the game will inspire both now and in the future. Congratulations!
Full list of Nikola's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 23rd in U18 (FQE 1676) and 24th in Grade 11 (CMA 1473) by the end of the year
· FQE +520, CMA +306
· Representing the CMA Montreal Saturday Club
· Participation in various secondary school matches
· 1st place (8.0/10.0), Quebec Sponge Towels Championship, Section C, performance rating of 1488 (156 pts. above Nikola’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1332)
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Montreal Open, Section C, performance rating of 1703 (169 pts. above Nikola’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1534)
· Tied for 3rd place (4.0/5.0), Santa Claus (Pere Noel) Tournament, Section C, performance rating of 1560 (404 pts. above Nikola’s pre-tournament rating of 1156)
· Tied for 3rd place (3.0/5.0), Florence Tournament, Section A, performance rating of 1787 (365 pts. above Nikola’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1422)
· Tied for 4th place (3.0/5.0), Pepsico Junior Championship, U16, performance rating of 1754 (103 pts. above Nikola’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1651)
· Score of 3.0/3.0, Secondary Team Championship
GRADE 7, Thornhill, Ontario
School: Henderson Av. P.S.
Melissa Giblon is a grade 7 student from Thornhill, Ontario. During 2011, she attended twelve events in Canada, eleven in which she performed well enough to progress her rating! She represented Canada in the Under 12 Girls section of the World Youth Championship, and had a standout first place finish at the Canadian Youth Chess Championship. In addition to ongoing successes, the Giblon family has been extremely dedicated to chess for many years. Congratulations!
Full list of Melissa's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 28th in U14 (CFC 1528) and 21st in Grade 7 (CMA 1453) by the end of the year
· CFC +180, CMA +218
· Participation in the WYCC, U12 Girls
· Rating progress in 11/12 tournaments in 2011
· Participation in various elementary/secondary team tournaments
· 1st place (7.0/7.0), CYCC, U12 Girls, performance rating of 1586 (195 pts. above Melissa’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1391)
· Tied for 1st place (4.0/5.0), OGCC, Grade 6
· 2nd place (3.5/5.0), OYCC, U12 Girls
· 2nd place (4.0/5.0), York Region Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· Score of 4.5/5.0, Ontario Teams Chess Championship, K-6
· Score of 3.0/4.0, Ontario Teams Chess Championship, K-9
· Performance rating of 1685 (211 pts. above Melissa’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1474), Toronto Labour Day Open, U2000
Nicolas Robichaud
GRADE 9, Moncton, New Brunswick
School: Ste-Bernadette
Nicolas Robichaud is a grade 9 student from Moncton, New Brunswick. During 2011, he attended sixteen events in Canada, fifteen in which he performed well enough to progress his rating! He and his family are extremely committed to the game, travelling not just around the Maritimes, but across the country to events such as the Canadian Youth Chess Championship and Canadian Chess Challenge. Not only did he represent his province well in both these events, he brought a great, positive attitude. As quoted by his family, “Nicolas really enjoyed his experience as a member of team New Brunswick and his travel at Victoria BC for the CCC2011 (Canadian Chess Challenge), a wonderful experience at the other side of Canada.”
Nicolas also finished first place at the New Brunswick Chess Challenge, second place at the Nova Scotia Youth Tournament, and gave shining performances at the Charlottetown Open & Maritime Open. Congratulations!
Nicolas would like to send out a huge thanks to the Maritime chess community, and to his parents for supporting his experience (including travel opportunities). His family would like to congratulate the rest of the fund finalists as well.
Full list of Nicolas' best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 39th in U16 (CFC 1518) and 41st in Grade 9 (CMA 1318) by the end of the year
· CFC +254, CMA +300
· Rating progress in 15/16 tournaments in 2011
· Representing various tournaments across the Maritimes (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI), including the Maritime Team Championship
· Great commitment to chess – over half of his tournaments involved travel, including to the CYCC and Canadian Chess Challenge
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), New Brunswick Chess Challenge Championship, Grade 8
· 1st place (4.5/5.0), October seasonal tournament, performance rating of 1635 (167 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1468)
· 2nd place (4.0/5.0), Nova Scotia Youth Tournament, Section 2
· Tied for 2nd place (3.0/5.0), March winter tournament, performance rating of 1618 (308 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1310)
· 3rd place (3.0/5.0), Dec-Feb tournament, performance rating of 1556 (292 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1264)
· Performance rating of 1736 (374 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1362), Charlottetown Open
· Performance rating of 1628 (173 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1455), Maritime Open
· Performance rating of 1621 (216 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1405), CYCC, U14
Nikola Isaev
GRADE 11, Saint-Hubert, Quebec
School: Jean-Eudes (coll.)
Nikola Isaev is a grade 11 student from Saint-Hubert, Quebec. During 2011, he attended Chess ‘n Math’s Montreal Saturday Club as well as various secondary school matches and other events around Quebec. Highlights include first place finishes at the Quebec Sponge Towels Championship and Montreal Open. As the only senior student in this year’s fund, Nikola will serve as a great example for rising juniors. His great attitude towards the game will inspire both now and in the future. Congratulations!
Full list of Nikola's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 23rd in U18 (FQE 1676) and 24th in Grade 11 (CMA 1473) by the end of the year
· FQE +520, CMA +306
· Representing the CMA Montreal Saturday Club
· Participation in various secondary school matches
· 1st place (8.0/10.0), Quebec Sponge Towels Championship, Section C, performance rating of 1488 (156 pts. above Nikola’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1332)
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Montreal Open, Section C, performance rating of 1703 (169 pts. above Nikola’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1534)
· Tied for 3rd place (4.0/5.0), Santa Claus (Pere Noel) Tournament, Section C, performance rating of 1560 (404 pts. above Nikola’s pre-tournament rating of 1156)
· Tied for 3rd place (3.0/5.0), Florence Tournament, Section A, performance rating of 1787 (365 pts. above Nikola’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1422)
· Tied for 4th place (3.0/5.0), Pepsico Junior Championship, U16, performance rating of 1754 (103 pts. above Nikola’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1651)
· Score of 3.0/3.0, Secondary Team Championship
2011 Elaine Howie Fund - Finalist Achievements (Special Mention)
Qiyu Zhou
GRADE 6, Ottawa, Ontario
School: Huron St. J.P.S.
Qiyu Zhou is a grade 6 student from Ottawa, Ontario. During 2011, she attended RA Chess Club, Hart House Chess Club, and Annex Chess Club. Altogether, she participated in twenty events in Canada, seventeen in which she performed well enough to progress her rating! She also attended the World Youth Chess Championship with a sensational 12th place (tied for 9th place) finish. Qiyu was selected to receive the Youth Girls Award for her all-around success, including a first place finish at the Ontario Youth Chess Championship and second place finishes at the Canadian Youth Chess Championship and Ontario Chess Challenge. Congratulations!
Qiyu's family would like to give "many thanks for the great support from all members from Hart House Club, Annex Club, and RA Club, special thanks to Mr. Alex Ferreira from Hart House, Mr. Ted Winick from Annex Chess Club, Mr. Robert Hamilton & Mr. Gordon Ritchie from RA Club, for their high attention to her chess development".
Full list of Qiyu's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 3rd in U12 (CFC 1953) and 30th in Grade 6 (CMA 1280) by the end of the year
· CFC +334, CMA +422
· Rating progress in 17/20 tournaments in 2011
· Representing RA Chess Club, Hart House Chess Club, and Annex Chess Club
· 12th place (tied for 9th), WYCC, U12 Girls
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), OYCC, U12 Girls
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Toronto Qualifier, Grade 5
· Tied for 1st place (4.0/5.0), Seaway Valley Open, performance rating of 2223 (412 pts. above Qiyu’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1811)
· Tied for 1st place (4.0/5.0), Kingston Open
· 2nd place (6.0/7.0), CYCC, U12 Girls
· 2nd place (4.5/5.0), Ontario Chess Challenge, Grade 5
· 3rd place (4.5/6.0), Hart House Reading Week Open, U1900, performance rating of 1842 (165 pts. above Qiyu’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1677)
· Tied for 6th place (3.5/6.0), Ontario Open, U2000, performance rating of 1895 (222 pts. above Qiyu’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1673)
Yuanchen Zhang
GRADE 5, Markham, Ontario
School: Ashton Meadows P.S.
Yuanchen Zhang is a grade 5 student from Markham, Ontario. During 2011, he attended Scarborough Chess Club as well as various tournaments across Ontario and Quebec. Yuanchen was chosen as part of the “Top 12” for his remarkable 9th place finish in the Under 10 section of the World Youth Chess Championship. Other highlights include first place finishes at the Canadian Youth Chess Championship and Ontario Chess Challenge, as well as commendable performances at many regional events. Yuanchen is well-known to the chess scene and continues to excel. Congratulations!
Full list of Yuanchen's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 2nd in U12 (CFC 2029) and 2nd in Grade 5 (CMA 1774) by the end of the year
· CFC +191, CMA +264
· Representing Scarborough Chess Club as well as various CFC tournaments across Ontario and Quebec
· 9th place, WYCC, U10
· 1st place (6.0/7.0), CYCC, U10
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Ontario Chess Challenge, Grade 4
· Tied for 3rd place (3.5/5.0), Ottawa Winter Open, Section B, performance rating of 2068 (230 pts. above Yuanchen’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1838)
· Tied for 3rd place (3.0/5.0), Ottawa Autumn Open, Section B
· Tied for 3rd place (3.5/5.0), Guelph Winter Pro-Am, U2000
· Tied for 3rd place (5.0/9.0), SCC Spring Into Summer, Over 2000, performance rating of 2063 (131 pts. above Yuanchen’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1932)
· Performance rating of 2199 (212 pts. above Yuanchen’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1987), Hart House Holidays Open
Michael Song
GRADE 7, North York, Ontario
School: Denlow P.S.
Michael Song is a grade 7 student from North York, Ontario. During 2011, he attended Scarborough Chess Club as well as various tournaments across Ontario. Michael was chosen as part of the “Top 12” for his outstanding 3rd place finish in the Under 12 section of the World Youth Chess Championship. Very few Canadians have been able to reach such an amazing accomplishment at the international level. Michael also excelled at the national & regional levels with highlights including first place finishes at the Ontario Chess Challenge and Toronto Junior Championship. Congratulations!
Full list of Michael's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 3rd in U14 (CFC 2184) and 8th in Grade 7 (CMA 1859) by the end of the year
· Representing Scarborough Chess Club as well as various CFC tournaments across Ontario
· 3rd place, WYCC, U12
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Ontario Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Toronto Grand Prix event, U14
· Tied for 1st place (5.5/7.0), Toronto Junior Championship
· Tied for 1st place (5.0/7.0), SCC Jack Frost, 2000+, performance rating of 2323 (136 pts. above Michael’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2187)
· Tied for 1st place (3.0/4.0), London June Open
· Tied for 2nd place (5.0/7.0), CYCC, U12
· Tied for 2nd place (4.0/5.0), OYCC, U12
· 3rd place (6.5/9.0), Canadian Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· 3rd place (5.5/9.0), SCC Championship
· Tied for 4th place (3.0/5.0), Hamilton Summer Open, Top Guns, performance rating of 2252 (182 pts. above Michael’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2070)
· Performance rating of 2440 (331 pts. above Michael’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2109), SCC Falling Leaves, 1800+
· Performance rating of 2422 (287 pts. above Michael’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2135), Hart House Holidays Open
Richard Wang
GRADE 9, Edmonton, Alberta
School: Grandview Heights E.J.H.
Richard Wang is a grade 9 student from Edmonton, Alberta. During 2011, he attended Edmonton Chess Club as well as various tournaments across Alberta. Richard was chosen as part of the “Top 12” for his stellar 10th place (tied for 4th place) finish in the Under 14 section of the World Youth Chess Championship. Richard has proven time and time again that he is one to watch at the international level. Other events he excelled in include the Canadian Youth Championship & Alberta Youth Chess Championship (both first place finishes), the Edmonton Chess Club Capablanca Classic (first place & performance rating of 2470 - wow!), and the Northern Alberta Open (tied for first place). I’m sure we will see a lot more of Richard’s success in the future. Congratulations!
Full list of Richard's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 1st in U14 (CFC 2306) and 1st in Grade 9 (CMA 2317) by the end of the year
· CFC +42, CMA +15
· Representing Edmonton Chess Club as well as various CFC tournaments across Alberta
· 10th place (tied for 4th), WYCC, U14
· 1st place (6.0/7.0), CYCC, U14
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), AYCC, U14
· 1st place (4.0/5.0), ECC Capablanca Classic, performance rating of 2470 (160 pts. above Richard’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2310)
· Tied for 1st place (4.0/5.0), Northern Alberta Open, performance rating of 2378 (112 pts. above Richard’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2266)
· 3rd place (3.0/4.0), ECC Skeel Memorial
· Tied for 3rd place (3.0/5.0), Alberta Junior Championship
· Tied for 3rd place (4.0/8.0), Edmonton Championship
GRADE 6, Ottawa, Ontario
School: Huron St. J.P.S.
Qiyu Zhou is a grade 6 student from Ottawa, Ontario. During 2011, she attended RA Chess Club, Hart House Chess Club, and Annex Chess Club. Altogether, she participated in twenty events in Canada, seventeen in which she performed well enough to progress her rating! She also attended the World Youth Chess Championship with a sensational 12th place (tied for 9th place) finish. Qiyu was selected to receive the Youth Girls Award for her all-around success, including a first place finish at the Ontario Youth Chess Championship and second place finishes at the Canadian Youth Chess Championship and Ontario Chess Challenge. Congratulations!
Qiyu's family would like to give "many thanks for the great support from all members from Hart House Club, Annex Club, and RA Club, special thanks to Mr. Alex Ferreira from Hart House, Mr. Ted Winick from Annex Chess Club, Mr. Robert Hamilton & Mr. Gordon Ritchie from RA Club, for their high attention to her chess development".
Full list of Qiyu's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 3rd in U12 (CFC 1953) and 30th in Grade 6 (CMA 1280) by the end of the year
· CFC +334, CMA +422
· Rating progress in 17/20 tournaments in 2011
· Representing RA Chess Club, Hart House Chess Club, and Annex Chess Club
· 12th place (tied for 9th), WYCC, U12 Girls
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), OYCC, U12 Girls
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Toronto Qualifier, Grade 5
· Tied for 1st place (4.0/5.0), Seaway Valley Open, performance rating of 2223 (412 pts. above Qiyu’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1811)
· Tied for 1st place (4.0/5.0), Kingston Open
· 2nd place (6.0/7.0), CYCC, U12 Girls
· 2nd place (4.5/5.0), Ontario Chess Challenge, Grade 5
· 3rd place (4.5/6.0), Hart House Reading Week Open, U1900, performance rating of 1842 (165 pts. above Qiyu’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1677)
· Tied for 6th place (3.5/6.0), Ontario Open, U2000, performance rating of 1895 (222 pts. above Qiyu’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1673)
Yuanchen Zhang
GRADE 5, Markham, Ontario
School: Ashton Meadows P.S.
Yuanchen Zhang is a grade 5 student from Markham, Ontario. During 2011, he attended Scarborough Chess Club as well as various tournaments across Ontario and Quebec. Yuanchen was chosen as part of the “Top 12” for his remarkable 9th place finish in the Under 10 section of the World Youth Chess Championship. Other highlights include first place finishes at the Canadian Youth Chess Championship and Ontario Chess Challenge, as well as commendable performances at many regional events. Yuanchen is well-known to the chess scene and continues to excel. Congratulations!
Full list of Yuanchen's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 2nd in U12 (CFC 2029) and 2nd in Grade 5 (CMA 1774) by the end of the year
· CFC +191, CMA +264
· Representing Scarborough Chess Club as well as various CFC tournaments across Ontario and Quebec
· 9th place, WYCC, U10
· 1st place (6.0/7.0), CYCC, U10
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Ontario Chess Challenge, Grade 4
· Tied for 3rd place (3.5/5.0), Ottawa Winter Open, Section B, performance rating of 2068 (230 pts. above Yuanchen’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1838)
· Tied for 3rd place (3.0/5.0), Ottawa Autumn Open, Section B
· Tied for 3rd place (3.5/5.0), Guelph Winter Pro-Am, U2000
· Tied for 3rd place (5.0/9.0), SCC Spring Into Summer, Over 2000, performance rating of 2063 (131 pts. above Yuanchen’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1932)
· Performance rating of 2199 (212 pts. above Yuanchen’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1987), Hart House Holidays Open
Michael Song
GRADE 7, North York, Ontario
School: Denlow P.S.
Michael Song is a grade 7 student from North York, Ontario. During 2011, he attended Scarborough Chess Club as well as various tournaments across Ontario. Michael was chosen as part of the “Top 12” for his outstanding 3rd place finish in the Under 12 section of the World Youth Chess Championship. Very few Canadians have been able to reach such an amazing accomplishment at the international level. Michael also excelled at the national & regional levels with highlights including first place finishes at the Ontario Chess Challenge and Toronto Junior Championship. Congratulations!
Full list of Michael's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 3rd in U14 (CFC 2184) and 8th in Grade 7 (CMA 1859) by the end of the year
· Representing Scarborough Chess Club as well as various CFC tournaments across Ontario
· 3rd place, WYCC, U12
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Ontario Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Toronto Grand Prix event, U14
· Tied for 1st place (5.5/7.0), Toronto Junior Championship
· Tied for 1st place (5.0/7.0), SCC Jack Frost, 2000+, performance rating of 2323 (136 pts. above Michael’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2187)
· Tied for 1st place (3.0/4.0), London June Open
· Tied for 2nd place (5.0/7.0), CYCC, U12
· Tied for 2nd place (4.0/5.0), OYCC, U12
· 3rd place (6.5/9.0), Canadian Chess Challenge, Grade 6
· 3rd place (5.5/9.0), SCC Championship
· Tied for 4th place (3.0/5.0), Hamilton Summer Open, Top Guns, performance rating of 2252 (182 pts. above Michael’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2070)
· Performance rating of 2440 (331 pts. above Michael’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2109), SCC Falling Leaves, 1800+
· Performance rating of 2422 (287 pts. above Michael’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2135), Hart House Holidays Open
Richard Wang
GRADE 9, Edmonton, Alberta
School: Grandview Heights E.J.H.
Richard Wang is a grade 9 student from Edmonton, Alberta. During 2011, he attended Edmonton Chess Club as well as various tournaments across Alberta. Richard was chosen as part of the “Top 12” for his stellar 10th place (tied for 4th place) finish in the Under 14 section of the World Youth Chess Championship. Richard has proven time and time again that he is one to watch at the international level. Other events he excelled in include the Canadian Youth Championship & Alberta Youth Chess Championship (both first place finishes), the Edmonton Chess Club Capablanca Classic (first place & performance rating of 2470 - wow!), and the Northern Alberta Open (tied for first place). I’m sure we will see a lot more of Richard’s success in the future. Congratulations!
Full list of Richard's best achievements in 2011:
· Ranked 1st in U14 (CFC 2306) and 1st in Grade 9 (CMA 2317) by the end of the year
· CFC +42, CMA +15
· Representing Edmonton Chess Club as well as various CFC tournaments across Alberta
· 10th place (tied for 4th), WYCC, U14
· 1st place (6.0/7.0), CYCC, U14
· 1st place (5.0/5.0), AYCC, U14
· 1st place (4.0/5.0), ECC Capablanca Classic, performance rating of 2470 (160 pts. above Richard’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2310)
· Tied for 1st place (4.0/5.0), Northern Alberta Open, performance rating of 2378 (112 pts. above Richard’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2266)
· 3rd place (3.0/4.0), ECC Skeel Memorial
· Tied for 3rd place (3.0/5.0), Alberta Junior Championship
· Tied for 3rd place (4.0/8.0), Edmonton Championship
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