Saturday 8 January 2011

Lothian Congress Part 1 - Today is not a good day to be an Adult.

It's Saturday and it is near to my birthday so that means it has to be the Lothians Congress.

The Lothians was the first ever real congress that I managed to win.  I remember it well, winning with a flourish and an 8 move combination forcing my opponents immediate resignation.  That was years ago and I am now one of the arbiting team (and have been for several years).

The run up to the tournament has not gone well, I had a nasty fall on Wednesday and I am walking with a limp as my left leg is sore.  This is hindering mobility and stopping me from going downstairs with my camera to annoy everyone.

In true Andy style I am taking it out on the Minor section.

The day started fine, Mike was late picking me up due to the weather (the usual, snow).  I have discovered that Mike has an unusual way of dealing with skids.  He hits the brakes and holds on for dear life.  I am alive and in one piece so I can't complain.

Today has been the day of youth.  I really feel sorry for the Adults who are playing.  The Kids are ripping them apart and we already have several results where a player has beaten someone 600+ points above them.  This is the part of being an arbiter I love.  I can watch the contorted faces as the realisation that that sweet innocent child sitting in front of you, is ripping you apart on the board.  I make it the kids are winning 3 for every 1 they lose and there are several adults who have lost to multiple kids :D

All in all it has been a really good tournament so far.  Colin is 2/2 so things are wonderful.  I am really looking forward to tomorrow and my last day in the thirties.

In fact, I think I will just cancel Monday, that way I can stay 39 for another year!!!