Editor’s note:
Sharyl Leifeld wrote an article for our club in the January 2024 issue. She updates it below.
As we begin a new year, our club finds itself halfway through its fourth year. Just coming off a successful membership drive, we continue to grow. Our members represent, as envisioned by club founder Bob Spry, all levels of abilities from total beginners to one “expert.” (We are still hoping to attract a “master.”) This unique concept is designed to encourage every Landings resident to join in the “joy” of the game.
But how does this work? Come to any meeting and you will find more experienced players challenging each other, while beginners or returning players are also being coached. Naturally, games vary in length, but players often change opponents during the two-hour meeting (Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to noon, in the Bridge Room).
Bob Spry, our club founder, discovered chess while learning to play with his grandkids. And that inspired him to share this experience with his fellow Landings friends. Bob’s goal is to “teach beginners to play chess so they can enjoy the game with their children and grandchildren.” For most beginners, just the word “chess” is somewhat daunting, but in your first meeting you will quickly master the basic moves and have fun at the same time!
Some new members played in their youth, but soon (like riding a bike) that “muscle” memory returns. They remember basic patterns and continue to learn new strategies. One member is 93 years old, and he still remembers how he played chess in high school almost 80 years ago! We hosted a tournament during which club “expert” Tom Poulos played against ten opponents simultaneously – and he beat all of them! Tom is disarmingly shy, but don’t let your guard down! At the same time, he is one of our club’s biggest cheerleaders. He would “like to see more members of different levels, thus creating even more opportunities for all members.”
Our plans for the coming year include welcoming new visitors. If you have a grandchild who plays chess, bring them to a meeting. They are welcome to play with us!
So, please join us Tuesdays at 10:00 a.m.
And remember to protect your king! And your queen, too!
