White Outside and Inside the Minster Inn

The Minster Inn Christmas Rapidplay took place on Thursday 17th December.

Some advance excitement was caused by rumours that two former Shepherds players were going to come out of retirement to play, but they along with a few others were kept away.

Those who did, though, battle it through the wintry conditions were rewarded with the usual exciting fest of attacking chess, even if round 1 did feature an unprecedented four draws!

Richard Mounce obtained a highly promising first-round position against second seed, Mark White, but the Minsterman is known for his tactical trickery and so it proved as the good Doctor’s position slowly crumbled.

After that Mark was unstoppable, blowing away Paul Barber, Laurence Cornhill and Jim Shemilt to finish on a most impressive 4/4. We must hope that this will lead to a long overdue return to form!

Jos Woolley once finished second on 3.5/4 at the Minster, and sadly that unfortunate feat was to be repeated. This time it was Adam Ismail’s turn, but Adam must still have been delighted to build on the back of a solid draw against Steve Whitehead to rack up a fine sequence of victories over Paul Anderson, the Doctor and Laurence.

Minster players are not supposed to do this well in their own tournament!

Finally, thanks as ever are due to Dave and Sally for looking after all the players so well. Don’t forget to pop into their fine pub should you find yourself in the Marygate area over Christmas!

Final Standings:

1. Mark White (Minster Inn) 4/4
2. Adam Ismail (Minster) 3.5
3. Joan Mestres (Minster) 3
4. Akis Nezis (Minster) & Jim Shemilt (York R.I.) 2.5