2008 Tasmanian Junior Chess Championships : Under 18 Division

The best junior chess players in the state gathered over the weekend to contest the Tasmanian Junior Championships. The Under 18 field was by far the strongest assembled in recent years with 8 players who have previously competed at Australian Junior Championships and 10 rated players. With only six rounds of play every game was crucial. Alastair Dyer, 16 years from Sheffield, was the favourite for the U18 title but every other title U16 and U14 was evenly matched, meaning any slight lapse in concentration could make or break the hold on a title.


Round two was tough. Nina Horton missed a wining chance against Owen Short. Kevin Hendrey swindled a draw from the better play of Charlie Smith who kept himself composed under incredible time pressure. Andrew Fifield caused a minor upset over Mason Carter. Aaron Murphy and Nick Hunn drew.

In round 3 there was great entertainment again from Charlie Smith who chased Andrew Fifield’s king around the board whilst all pieces remained on the board. The king eventually marched to safety on the queen side and in an effort to pursue the attack Charlie lost his way and Andrew triumphed.

By the end of day 1, Alastair was ahead of the field with 4 wins from 4 games with Owen Short, Andrew Fifield and James Briant still in contention with 3 points apiece.

Day 2 saw some more excellent encounters with close matches against top seed Alastair, by Kevin and Mason; excellent games James vs Andrew (draw) and Jackson Jolly holding a lost position to win over Nina Horton; and Andrew and Owen (draw). Charlie Smith was on the unlucky side going down to Owen Short after playing very well.

Final results