USCF National Master Dexter Thompson has spent his adult life engaging in the field of martial arts… both physically and mentally. "Master Thompson," as he is called in martial arts, holds a 4th-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, a 3rd-degree black belt in Moo Duk Kwan Tang Soo Do, and black belts in hapkido and aikido. The discipline to master each of these arts carries over to the chess board and Thompson has developed an equally stellar reputation in Japan for his chess prowess.

Since FM Loren Schmidt (native of Nebraska, USA) arrived in Japan and twice played 1st board for Japanese Olympiad team, not many foreign players have been able to make much of an impact in the Japanese chess circles. While Thompson has rung up an impressive collection of martial art accomplishments, the Detroit, Michigan native has also met success in Japanese chess. He is the current Kyushu Island Champion and the All Japan Golden Open Champion.

The Kyushu victory came after a two-year hiatus. Of course, the effects of such a long layoff can be fatal over the board. This happened in the Golden Open when Thompson lost from a good position in the first round, but reeled off seven straight wins for 7-1 and clear 1st. The martial arts master will begin training for upcoming Tae Kwon Do tournaments, but hopes to play in one more tournament this season.


The Chess Drum, NM Dexter Thompson to compete in Japan's Tae Kwon Do Championships!, 2 October 2001.

Posted by The Chess Drum: 19 May 2003