The Foxwoods Open tournament is set for April 17th and the US$100,000 prize will certainly draw top Grandmasters from around the world.  Located on a Native American Reservation, the Foxwoods Casino and Resort has been host to some exciting chess in the past five years.

GM Maurice Ashley certainly enjoys playing at Foxwoods. He tied for 1st in 2000 and 2001, and last year, he qualified for the U.S. Championship. Along with the host of very strong GMs, IMs will also come seeking a spot in the 2004 U.S. Championship. IM-elect Stephen Muhammad plans to make the trip.

Last year's tournament went down to the last pawn push as six players ended with a share of 1st prize. Not a bad pay day! With the tournament growing each year, we can expect to see even bigger international stars this year. Stay tuned for more details as they become available.

Related Briefs

• Six-way tie at Foxwoods… GM Ashley qualifies for U.S. Championship!! (4 April 2002)
  
• Foxwoods 2002 is ready to rumble!! (18 March 2002)
  
• Foxwoods sees seven-way tie as GM Ashley impresses! (16 April 2001)
  

Donald Colbert (left) in interview with GM Maurice Ashley after last year's Foxwoods tournament. GM Ashley took joint second and qualified for the 2003 U.S. Championship in  Seattle. Photo courtesy of Andy Anderson.

Posted by The Chess Drum: 7 March 2003