In what has been arguably the most exciting U.S. Championship in history, the top two boards were blazing as both fans and players were buzzing about the prodigious battles on the top two boards. Alexander Stripunsky has lived up to his "Terminator" persona by torching the field including his last round opponent, Alexander Goldin. Stripunsky launched an incredible attack from no less than the Center Counter!

In the thrilling board #1 finale, Hikaru Nakamura was able to kill the army of ants swarming the board in the endgame.  In a peculiar ending, Nakamura's rook had to contain Ildar Ibragimov's bishop and several passed pawns scattered throughout board! The 16-year old  phenom used incredible technique in tense moments to enter a playoff against Stripunsky, who undoubtedly, was watching as were the 1000 "ICC hooligans" rooting for Nakamura.

After winning a first-round battle against Alexander Shabalov, Anna Zatonskih was able to hold her won against a strong opposition. However, fatigue may have taken its toll and she dropped her last three games falling out of contention for the women's crown. (Note: After Zatonskih's first-round win, the so-called "Battle of the Sexes" turned out to be a misnomer and furthermore an unfair billing.)

As Irina Krush also faltered toward the end, that left room for another 16-year old to emerge as a category winner. Tatev Abrahamyan, 16, who has been "lighting it up" in scholastic circles, entered a playoff against Rusudan Goletiani who beat Zatonskih in the last round. Unlike the other playoff game, these two players did not meet in this tournament, so preparation will be an important edge. Goletiani's experience may be favored over Abrahamyan's youthful exuberance.

(Photos by US Chessmaster Championship)

Posted by The Chess Drum: 5 December 2004