10th CAS Allegro series 2008 - A prelude to the 13th July Third Quarter Allegro encounter

39 players turned up in the last CAS Second Quarter Allegro 2008 with the top 10 winners well entrenched amongst the who's who in the Klang Valley. We know the eventual champion Kamaluddin as well as Ian Udani, Fariz Shafruddin, Sumant Subramaniam, Ismail Ahmad, Shahanizzam, Chow Mon Ben , Ilhamuddin and even Ronnie ( ehr.. what was he doing in 10th place?). And we did have a surprise in 2nd placed Zaidan proving once again preparation and determination can do wonders. But these elite positions are never anybody's first name....

Norazman missed the top ten when he lost the 6th round to Ian Udani. He especially thrives in time-trouble but unfortunately succumbed to the hectic pace himself. Looking on next to Ian is Fadli aka 'Stonemaster' who scored a respectable 13th position, taking cognizance allegros is not his forte.

Young man Tariq is trying to pick up again after a short lay-off. His 12th position should be a strong impetus for him going forward




Rarely joins the local circuit but has a reputation in Rapid or Blitz. Razak Saidin was at 14th position but could spring a surprise if he can come in time or has the time to compete in this upcoming Allegro



This is our future hope, and he is quite comfortable playing and rubbing shoulders with the adults. Li Tian is steadily leapfrogging to his 15th position in the last Allegro and will be knocking at the top 10 any time.



Abdullah Che Hassan is a seasoned campaigner in the local circuit but he was pushed to a poor 20th placing in the last 2nd Quarter Allegro. However he is no pushover and should rebound if he makes his appearance in this Allegro next month


While the participations had a strong field the numbers however were poor in the last two outings. CAS has no choice but to review the championship and prize structure. There is now an understanding that there should not be unnecessary clash of events in the Klang Valley. The juniors or particularly the lower rated players were not seen to want to compete with the stronger counterparts which defeats the purpose of of trying to better oneself. Playing with a fellow players with almost similar ratings may only slower the process towards excellence. One way is to reintroduce the single tier game which should encourage players to move up rapidly.

It is fortunate that CAS has this time succeeded in securing sponsorship to continue with this event with better prize monies but will not otherwise risk too much without support of the players. It is important that both the Association and the members especially to reap long term benefits rather than treat this Allegro as a weekend outing. It is not just about winning prizes, albeit a good motivator, but this competition should serve as a practice ground.

This is your passion, so please sharpen your arsenal and decisively make a date this coming 13th July CAS Third Quarter Allegro 2008 at The Chess Network.