IM Amon Simutowe closing in on GM title with win over GM Yudasin!

IM Amon Simutowe came to the US with hopes of winning his third and final norm for the GM title. In his first tournament (SmartChess.com International), he scored less than a favorable result and had a stretch of four straight losses. However, the "Zambezi Shark" finished on a high note with two wins and carried momentum over to the Mayor's Cup.  After last night's win over Israel's GM Leonid Yudasin, the 19-year old IM seems poised to score at least 3½ points out of his last five rounds to become part of the esteemed fraternity of international GMs.  Having enjoyed immense support of Black players in the U.S.,  which has included talks with GM Maurice Ashley, Amon seems to be gaining energy for the last  and final push toward his goal. Press on Amon!!!

Follow Amon's progress in the U.S.

Editor's note: I received an interesting letter from a Zambian who's following Amon Simutowe with great anticipation. Such is the sentiment for Zambians all over the world who are watching their "native son" make history in the hallowed halls of chess.

Posted by The Chess Drum: 22 June 2001