ROOK, LINE AND SINKER: Dave Cutler, who has a solid Chess rating of 1250 (grandmasters are 2600-3200 while novices start at 500) is looking at starting a local Forbes Chess Club with regular outdoor games along Forbes picturesque lakeside. Pic submitted.
Local primary school teacher Dave Cutler grew up playing chess with his grandfather. It was something they just did and a memory he holds dear to this day. Chess, for the uninitiated, is not only a popular sport played across the world by approximately 600,000,000 people, but also mandatory in Armenian schools for children over six years and one of the few that allows anyone of any age, race, sex or denomination to play.
“Chess gives everyone a chance and helps improve memory function,” said Dave Cutler.
“It is a great way to connect with people of all abilities and walks of life and relies only on tactics and strategy – not strength, size or speed,” he said. “And most importantly, it’s fun!”
Cutler, who plays online and with local friends, is keen to push a Forbes Chess Club and start playing outdoors amongst the town’s amazing scenery. Having just travelled around Australia during the COVID pandemic with minimal disruption, he’s as qualified as anyone when he says Forbes is among the most beautiful towns in the country and ideal for outdoor chess matches.
“The Queen’s Gambit has sent the world a bit chess mad so now is as good a time as any to see if there is any interest in a regular catch up,” Dave said.
“It is also a great workout with some players losing up to 6000 calories from mental exertion while playing,” he said.
“I am happy for anyone to contact me and register their interest so we can start a local club. Who knows, we may find the next Bobby Fischer, Garry Kasparov or Beth Harmon!” Just don’t call it Lawn Pawn!
Contact Dave Cutler via 0431984933 or email david_cutler@hotmail.com Beginners through to expert level welcome!