I was planning to play in the New Mexico Open and I am wondering why there are two open sections? I cannot see New Mexico being able to field enough players for both sections. I would be driving from Colorado and a three day event adds about $100 to my tournament costs. (Food and lodging) Is there any chance that the two top sections could be combined? What are the plans if only a few people sign up for each of the top sections? I really love playing chess in New Mexico, but I am confused as to why the NMCO thinks that two open sections are good for the New Mexico Open.
Laurence Wutt
Larry,
Thanks for writing. For a lot of the background please see my comment to Ramzi’s earlier post. We are always taking a chance by having more sections; usually it works out. Historically mid- to higher-rated players are over-represented at our tournaments. Players with ratings below 1000 are under-represented; they make up more than half the active New Mexico players, and we have tried to attract more of them, but with only limited success. We have talked to enough people over the last half year or so that we think we will get adequate entries in both top sections.
Larry,
Brian Wall needs a roommate 😉