Wednesday, August 10

Shabalov Wins US Open Again

2-time US Open champion GM Shabalov
poses with TD Francisco Guadalupe
(Photo credit: Guadalupe)
Defending champion GM Alexander Shabalov emerged as the winner after a dramatic final day at the 2016 US Open in Indianapolis.  At first, Shabalov vanquished GM Aleksandr Lenderman on top board for his 8th victory in 9 rounds.  Then he defeated Israeli GM Gil Popilski in an Armageddon blitz playoff to claim the trophy.  15-year old IM Ruifeng Li, the tournament leader throughout the entire week, only managed a draw in the final round and finished in 3rd place.  Officially, 389 participants played in at least one round of the giant single section swiss.


Five shared the highest score from Northern California at 6.0 out of 9.  Congratulations to NM Michael Wang, NM John Langreck, FM Mark Pinto, and two young experts: Balaji Daggupati and Christopher Yoo.  11-year old Balaji is rated 2166 after an especially impressive run, defeating a pair of masters and losing only once, to top rated GM Illia Nyzhnyk. 9-year old Christopher finished perfect against opponents rated under 2200, and drew a master in the money round.   Well done guys!!
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