Following an unremarkable performance at the Senior Open, I entered the 2024 Washington Open’s Adult section. This four-round side event, true to its name, features only adult players. The field comprised 14 competitors with ratings ranging from 1400 to 2100.
My goal for the first round was to seize early initiative and continually pressure my opponent. I was matched against Henry Louie, an experienced player with a 1300 rating that belies his skill. Henry is known for his defensive style, relishing in fortifying his position and frustrating his opponents’ strategies. We had faced each other twice before – our first encounter a couple of years ago ended in a draw, while I secured a hard-fought victory in our second match.
In this game, I played Black. Unfortunately, the passive tendencies from my previous tournament persisted. My moves lacked careful calculation and direction. Despite this, I managed to win, albeit in an unexpected manner. Late in the game, my opponent accidentally touched a piece, forcing a move that resulted in checkmate.