SAINT LOUIS OPEN

The Saint Louis Open was held on April 26-27, 2008 in Sunset Hills at the Days Inn on South Lindbergh. Highest rating honors went to Jim McLaughlin at 2121. Being from the old school I remember all of the current strong experts had master level ratings, across the USCF as a whole. Due to the restructuring of the USCF rating system, everyone has lost at least 200 points on their legacy ratings. The tournament however was quite a success as we were able to boast seven experts and eleven Class A players. Listing the strongest players present were Bob Jacobs, Jim Voelker, Bob Holliman (who traveled all the way from Kansas City, MO), Waldo Odak, Kevin Dale Johnson, Josh Frank, Todd Plagemann, Steve Bange, and Nick Karlow - who is always trouble at the board for anyone! A total of 57 players turned out to battle for the title of the 2008 Saint Louis Open Champion.

Ed Baur and Thomas Rehmeier did a first class job running the tournament and ensuring that any perceived problems were resolved before they became issues. Prior to the start of the tournament Bill Wright provided information regarding the new Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis (CCSCSL). The facility is located in the Central West End at the intersection of Euclid and Maryland Ave. across from Starbucks and is slated to open this summer. Everyone is anxious to see the new facility. To have a stable environment to enjoy our pastime is truly a great benefit of being a member. From a TD’s perspective, no more setting up or tearing down tables and chairs. Great! Bill Wright also informed me that Charles Lawton, the highest rated player in the Saint Louis area (2365) joined the CCSCSL during the tournament. (more)