Player’s View of the Simultaneous Play, With Master Pandolfini

A good size crowd was in attendance at the Green County Chess Camp sponsored by chess coach and teacher, Lynn Chapman. The annual chess event was held at the Monte Casino School on July 22^nd. The chess camp included four well known instructors, players and organizers; NM Robert Tanner, NM David MacEnulty, Dr. Steve Wharry, and NM Bruce Pandolfini who came on the last day of the camp to educate, speak and enlighten the chess camp students and visitors. Mr. Pandolfini taught in the morning with the advanced group. He then gave a speech about chess in his era with many points on how to improve and enjoy the game. The chess adults really enjoyed his comments about Fischer, Evans and many of the older chess icons. After a fun and serious question and answer session, we were ready to challenge Mr. Pandofini in the simultaneous match. In the question and answer session, Mr. Pandofini stated that his last serious tournament was in 1975. Hence, we wrongly thought his chess was at best rusty.

While the students sat down to play, a Channel Eight reporter and cameraman stood watch at the southwest corner of the gym and then went around during the simul interviewing some of the players and Mr. Pandolfini. Early on, most of the players were down a pawn or a piece and about move ten one player stated, “I would like to play white’s side of the board now.” We underestimated Mr. Pandolfini and after a great deal of fun his score was a perfect record of no losses or draws. Mr. Pandolfini then went to the auditorium and graciously presented the camp awards to the students. Afterwards, he commented on the simul and encouraged us to study for a rematch next year. A huge thanks of appreciation to Ms. Chapman, Dr. Wharry, NM Mr. MacEnulty, NM Robert Tanner, NM Bruce Pandolfini and all the helpers and organizers of this event.