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As part of its series of special, one-day rated tournaments, the Roanoke Valley Chess Club recently held the 2019 Walter Muir Tournament. This annual event took place on Saturday, August 3rd, at Westhampton Christian Church in Roanoke, Virginia.
We had three rounds in one section, with a time control of G/75 and a 25-sec. increment. Twelve players, including one with a USCF rating above 2000, battled over the boards in the sumptuously appointed Fireside Room.
At the end of three tough rounds, the indomitable William E. Villarreal emerged as clear 1st place winner with a perfect 3.0 score, as he imposed his 'Iron Will' on his opponents. Two players from Bluefield, WV - Harold Mitchell and Gilbert Stone -- shared 2nd/3rd place, each with 2.0 points each. Congratulations to our winners!
Our old friend USCF NM Andrew Rea helped us out yet again. Even though Andy had a major conflict - directing the US Open in Orlando - he provided invaluable assistance with pairings. No one noticed any problems, and everyone seemed to enjoy the chess competition!
The Roanoke Valley Chess Club sincerely appreciates everyone who participated and made this Saturday Special event yet another successful one in our series.
We also express our deep appreciation to the pastor and staff of Westhampton Christian Church, who have gone out of their way to make us feel especially welcome.
Finally, we pause to remember Walter Muir (1905-1999), a great friend, benefactor, and former President of the Roanoke Valley Chess Club. Walter was also very instrumental in developing postal chess in the U.S., and was a top postal competitor both nationally and internationally for several decades. Walter, an International Correspondence Chess Master, was known as 'The Dean' and 'The Grand Old Man' of American Correspondence Chess.
The RVCC conducts this event every year in Walter Muir's honor, with his annual endowment, which makes our largest chess tournament possible!