If I am not mistaken - this year in TN Open was the highest turn over - 59 attendatns in 3 divisions ! We also had a very special guest from England, who just travelled all way down to play in this historic event - TN Open Checkers Tournament, 2006. In memory of Frederica, who always made a cake for checkers players in TN tourney, this year tradition was extended (even though Frederica not with us) and we had a nice cake.
Congratulations to new debutants of Master Division - Ryan Pronk and Jonathon Chappel, who did exetremely well in tournament. Before last round Ryan had 15 points - more than 50%, and Jonathon had 16 points, which gives him a good chance to finish 2nd or 3rd.
Hugh Burton finished with 19 points, but Larry Keen who has 16 points and plays 2-games round with J. Chappel (16) can reach him in points. So ... we don't know yet - who is a State Champ, and who finished 2nd and 3rd - it maybe either Burton, Chappel or Keen.
I comeup with 50% - 8 wins and 8 draws (24 points), and there is a good chance I hit 2700 ACF rating bareer!
The only game where I may have been in lost, but was lucky to draw was with Michael Holmes. I didn't have a serious competition in this event for the first place, but all games were very interesting and I learned something. From 16 games I played, 11 didrectly or undirectly (same openings or lines) covered in SIXTH. So ... one way to improve in checkers, is - write a book !
The only trouble I had during the tournament: Michael Holmes son (7) has the same first name - Alex, and any time Michael called "Alex!" - both of us turn our heads !
I hope Clayton Nash or someone else post here a full technical results of all 3 Divisions.
I am pleased to say that 6 regular copies and one bonus edition of SIXTH were pre-sold during the tournament. Many thanks everyone for support.
Regards,
Alex
I remember now Jon played in 2005 and did very well. I know - he is KY resident. My message about State Champ competition wasn't very clear. 
