HB Global Interviews

One of the most rewarding aspects of going to a large chess tournament is the social interactions between the many different players. These exchanges can pertain to games played, discussion of a key game, or merely just friendly pleasantries. Of course, one of the conversations pervading the Minneapolis Convention Center was the impact the HB Global Chess Challenge.

The week-long tournament  was highly-anticipated with its unprecedented prize fund of $500,000. Apart from the generous prize offerings was the buzz of star players in attendance. Players came from over 30 countries all attempting to get a piece of the half-a-million dollar prize fund. The winner of the $50,000 1st prize was 21-year-old GM Zviad Izoria of the Republic of Georgia who scored 7½-1½.

Daaim Shabazz with GM Maurice Ashley before the 1st round of the HB Global.

The Chess Drum's Daaim Shabazz was able to  get interviews with GM Maurice Ashley and four of the participating players at the conclusion of the event. All made positive comments of the event and were seemingly pleased with the conditions and the level of competition. Each player was able to give a different perspective of their experience and demonstrates the worldwide impact that this tournament has had. The interview with Jorge Renteriá was done in Spanish and translated into English. Enjoy!!

Posted by The Chess Drum: 24 May 2005