Congratulations to team Illinois for winning the first ever Illinois vs Indiana chess match, aka Border War, a two round g/60 fight for interstate supremacy. The battle took place at the Blakey Center in Glenwood, Illinois home to Glenwood Chess club, which is 10 min away from Munster Indiana, 20 min from Hammond, Schereville, and Dyer. “I cant believe how close we are,” quoted Mrs. Patel, a Munster resident who was very excited about Indiana’s chances.
This match was inspired by the epic series between Illinois and Wisconsin in the 1980s. It is hoped this will become an annual event.
16 players competed, 8 representing Illinois and 8 representing Indiana. Before the start of round one, each state chose their captain to help make their lineups. Matt Hollaway captained the Illinois squad, while Brian Harrigan captained the Indiana squad. There was a coin toss to determine which team started with white on board 1, and the match was on! After round 1 Illinois held a narrow lead 4.5 to 3.5. Harrigan, the Indiana captain, made some lineup changes for round 2, and tried to rally his team and will them on to victory. But it was not to be, Indiana fell to Illinois by a final score of 9.5 to 6.5.
Indiana has vowed to avenge this defeat!
Of special note in this event was the renewal of a USCF member, Geoff Lewis, who came out of a 26 year USCF chess retirement to participate in this match. Geoff stated he last played rated chess in the early 1970s! He has officially renewed his USCF membership. Welcome back, Geoff!
After the match there was a 10 round blitz tournament. 1st place went to Tam Nguyen with a perfect score of 10-0, 2nd place to Joe Emole 5.5. 3rd place went to Kymantas Alborovas with 4.5. Special thanks to Glenn Panner for his help organizing, donating the trophy, the rating fee, and for the inspiration. Ken Windmon and his staff directed the event. Glenwood Chess Club meets Tuesday and Thursday 4:30-8pm inside the Blakey Center 1 South Rebecca St. Glenwood IL, 60425. For more info email kennethwindmon@gmail.com or call 312-925-9447.