Max Illingworth is the 2014 Australian Chess Champion.
Illingworth — an International Master — 21 from NSW, beat fast-rising Australian star Anton Smirnoff in today's final round to win the title outright. After early setbacks in the 11-day tournament he finished strongly ahead of Australia's best talent including home-grown and overseas Grandmasters.
The Australian Chess Championship attracted over 190 entrants who chose to spend the first days of 2014 gettiing their kicks above the waistline. It's the most prestigious event on the Australian Chess calendar with over $13,000 in prizes, comprised of 4 different events; Australian Championship, Reserves, Challengers and Blitz Championships.
Sentimental favourite, FIDE Master Doug Hamilton, won the reserves, while visiting Grandmaster Hoang Thong Tu (Vietnam) won the Blitz tournament.
The 2014 Australian Chess Championships were held at Springvale Town Hall, Springvale, Victoria from 2nd to 11th January 2014. Photos and games can be viewed at the official website, here.
Photos: courtesy of Michael Low, and Scott and Anoma Crowley.
