Welcome to our next featured player,
Austin
Austin is currently in the 5th grade and has been playing Chess since Kindergarten.
When did you start playing Chess? Why?
I started playing Chess when I was six years old in kindergarten. My teacher challenged my 3rd grade book buddy and I to learn to play chess.
How old were you when you first beat your parent?
I was nine years old when I first beat my dad.
What is your most memorable game?
My most memorable game was beating my dad. I just remember feeling proud of finally winning.
What is your favorite piece? Why?
My favorite piece is the knight because it moves around the board in a very interesting shape, and it’s the only piece that can threaten the queen without putting itself in danger.
Is your favorite part of the game opening, middle game, or endgame?
The opening is my favorite part of the game because it really narrows down the possibilities for the rest of the game.
What is your favorite chess opening?
My favorite chess opening is the Fried Liver Attack. I like the aggressiveness of it. It wins you material and I like that it’s 300 years old.
Are you more of an aggressive or defensive chess player? Explain.
I am more of an aggressive chess player because I really like the aggressive openings like the Fried Liver Attack and gambits and other aggressive moves.
What is your favorite chess memory?
My favorite chess memory is when I got 3rd place in a tournament about three years ago. I had never gotten a trophy before and it felt really good to make a big accomplishment.
What is your goal for your chess in the next year or two years?
My goals for the next year are to make it into the rated section of 800-1000 and to improve my notation during games.
What is your favorite chess book?
My favorite chess book is The Immortal Game by David Shenk.
How do you think chess most helps you in day to day life?
I think chess helps me most in my day to day life because it teaches you to look at a lot of different options. I am better about looking at more options when I’m in a tough situation.
What do you enjoy besides chess?
I also enjoy gymnastics, reading, math, science, Disney, and tennis.