It was a very exciting final night, and only after 3 1/2 hours of blitz play the outcome was clear. Between the last two 16 games was necessary before the winner was announced. The last games were played with one minute each!

GM Dmitry Andreikin, Russia

Unfortunately the strong Russian can’t come to ACC as part of the first prize, because it clashes with the Junior World Championships.
It is now being investigated which of the trailing contestants will accept travel and accommodation, as well as 400 Euros. It’ll be clear in the next few days – and it may even be the talented 13-year-old Alexandr Bortnik from Ukraine, who shared 3rd-4th place.

Because we collect countries, we might hope for GM Alexandr Fier (pictured) from Brazil, who now is first or second in line. The rumors have it that the Indian GM Laxman in second place cannot take part either because of participation in another tournament.

Alexandr Bortnik, Alexandr Fier, Dmitry Andreikin, Internet Chess Club, Laxman, qualifier Hide

During this weekend, the Internet Chess Club (ICC) is holding a qualifier for the Arctic Chess Challenge, where the winner will get a free spot in our tournament with all expenses paid. More info about the qualifier here.

We have now reached the final play-off, resulting in this very interesting line-up (shown according to their ICC rating):

The finals are to be played at 3pm ICC time Sunday, May 30th (9pm Central European Time). You can follow the games live at ICC.

Internet Chess Club, qualifier Hide

On May 28th-30th, Internet Chess Club is holding a qualifier tournament for the Arctic Chess Challenge! The Artic Chess Challenge 2010 ICC Qualifier has a first prize consisting of an invite to the tournament with air fare, hotel w/ breakfast and a cash prize included. The qualifier also has several runner-up prizes. See all details at the ICC announcement.

Internet Chess Club, qualifier Hide