Dare to Mastermind & Crush Your Chess Destiny!

Magnus Carlsen’s chess domination continues! But even as the champion rules the board, a surge of chess passion ignites Denver, fueled by Carlsen’s recent Canadian visit and the global chess boom. Ready to join the movement? Summit School of Chess is your training ground!

Carlsen’s Canadian Conquest: The world’s best recently conquered Toronto, showcasing his mastery and inspiring chess enthusiasts across the nation. His visit highlights the thriving Canadian chess scene, and Denver stands poised to follow suit!

The Global Chess Revolution: Driven by The Queen’s Gambit, online platforms like chess.com, and even the cheating scandal, chess interest is skyrocketing worldwide. Denver isn’t immune – our community is buzzing with excitement!

Summit School of Chess: Denver’s Chess Launchpad: At Summit School of Chess, we nurture this passion. Our Grandmaster-level coaches ignite the spark of chess brilliance in players of all ages and skill levels.

Unleash Your Inner Champion: Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned strategist, Summit School of Chess has a program for you. Hone your skills, strategize like a grandmaster, and conquer the board!

Beyond Checkmate: Chess is more than just a game. It’s about critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience – skills that benefit you on and off the board. Summit School of Chess fosters these qualities, shaping well-rounded champions.

Join the Denver Chess Renaissance: Don’t miss out on this exciting moment! Come train at Summit School of Chess and be part of a vibrant chess community. We offer:

Denver’s chess future is bright, and Summit School of Chess is at the forefront. Contact us today and take your first step towards chess mastery!

Bonus: Follow us on social media for updates on events, workshops, and the Denver chess scene’s exciting journey! (Official Summit School of Chess Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/summitschoolofchess)

Dream Big, Denver! Tiny Titan Crushes Grandmasters, Fuels Chess Fever

Roman Shogdzhiev in action. Photo: Maria Emelianova/Chess.com.

The chess world’s abuzz with the phenomenal feat of 8-year-old Roman Shogdzhiev! This young prodigy, who hails from Elista, Russia, has sent shockwaves through the scene by defeating five grandmasters in the World Rapid and Blitz Championships. His story isn’t just a one-time wonder; it’s a beacon of inspiration for aspiring chess players, especially here in Denver, Colorado!

8-year-old Roman Shogdzhiev Beats Grandmasters (GM's)

Summit School of Chess ignites the spark of chess mastery in young minds just like Roman’s. Here’s how his incredible achievement resonates with our Denver community:

Denver’s Rising Stars: At Summit School of Chess, we believe every child possesses the potential for greatness. Roman’s triumph proves that age is no barrier to chess brilliance. Our passionate coaches nurture Denver’s future chess champions, providing them with the skills and strategies to conquer the board, just like this young prodigy.

From Pawn to Predator: Shogdzhiev’s raw talent and determination are an inspiration to our students. His story isn’t just about beating grandmasters; it’s about the dedication and love for the game that fuels such achievements. At Summit School of Chess, we cultivate this same passion, helping students unlock their hidden talents and transform into unstoppable chess predators.

Beyond Checkmate: Chess is more than just a game; it’s a journey of growth and self-discovery. Roman’s resilience and focus amidst competition set a powerful example for our young players. Summit School of Chess fosters not just chess skills but also life skills, like critical thinking, problem-solving, and sportsmanship.

Roman Shogdzhiev pictured with Magnus Carlsen - the world's strongest chess player.

Join the Denver Chess Revolution: Are you ready to unleash your inner chess champion? Summit School of Chess welcomes players of all levels, from curious beginners to aspiring prodigies. Our state-of-the-art training facilities and experienced coaches offer a dynamic learning environment where talent meets opportunity.

Be Inspired by Roman. Conquer the Board at Summit School of Chess!

Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Grandmaster-level coaching: Learn from the best! Our instructors are seasoned chess masters who share their expertise and passion for the game.
  • Age-appropriate programs: From our “Knights of the Future” program for young minds to advanced training for competitive players, we cater to every learning style and skill level.
  • Fun and engaging environment: Chess shouldn’t be a chore! We prioritize a positive and encouraging atmosphere where learning is a joy.
  • Competitive opportunities: Hone your skills and test your mettle in local tournaments and events.

Don’t wait! Denver’s chess scene is thriving, and Summit School of Chess is your launchpad to success. Contact us today and take your first step towards chess mastery!

Bonus: Follow us on social media for updates on exciting events, workshops, and inspiring stories of young Denver chess talents!

Link to Summit School of Chess Official Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/summitschoolofchess

Carlsen Skips Candidates, Opening Doors for New Stars

Magnus Carlsen has once again made it clear he will not take part in the Candidates tournament. Photo: Maria Emelianova/Chess.com.

The chess world just witnessed a bombshell! Magnus Carlsen’s surprising withdrawal from the Candidates Tournament is sending shockwaves through the ranks. But in Denver, this news sparks a different kind of buzz – excitement!

Here’s why Denver chess enthusiasts are celebrating:

Local Tournaments Take Center Stage: With Carlsen out of the Candidates, the spotlight shifts to rising stars like Firouzja and Dommaraju. This opens doors for exciting opportunities in Denver! Local tournaments become prime testing grounds for their brilliance, and you can be part of the action! Hone your skills at Summit School of Chess, where Grandmaster secrets and championship strategies await.

Magnus Carlsen during his interview with Kaja Snare this week.

Denver: A Chess Community on the Rise: Forget Carlsen! Denver’s already bubbling with chess talent. From casual enthusiasts to aspiring champions, our city is a hotbed for passion and potential. With the Chess Olympiad looming on the horizon (hosted in nearby Wyoming!), Denver is drawing even more attention. Join the movement! Summit School of Chess welcomes players of all levels, offering a vibrant community and a path to chess mastery.

Carlsen’s Legacy: Embracing Diversity and Growth: While Carlsen won’t be battling in Toronto, his critique of the current format resonates with many. The call for shorter time controls and more inclusive formats opens exciting possibilities! Summit School of Chess embraces this diversity, offering rapid, blitz, and classical chess training for all levels.

Magnus Carlsen won his third "double," winning both the World Rapid & Blitz Championship, in Uzbekistan at the end of 2023. Here against Daniil Dubov in blitz. Photo: Maria Emelianova/Chess.com.

Ready to Make Your Move? Don’t wait for a knight’s advance! Summit School of Chess is your launching pad, offering expert coaching, friendly competition, and a thriving chess community. Come, unleash your inner champion and claim your spot on the Denver chessboard!

P.S. As a local Denver business, we at Summit School of Chess are dedicated to fostering a vibrant chess scene in our city. Follow us on social media and stay tuned for updates on upcoming tournaments, workshops, and special events!

Magnus Carlsen during the closing ceremony of the World Rapid Championship with Vladimir Fedoseev and Yu Yangyi. Photo: Maria Emelianova/Chess.com.

This revised version prioritizes Denver’s existing strengths and emphasizes the local opportunities for growth and excitement following Carlsen’s decision. It avoids unrealistic expectations and focuses on fostering a thriving local chess community.

I hope this revised take better reflects your vision and resonates with Denver’s chess enthusiasts!
P.S. Check out this article on chess.com for the full scoop

‍♀️ Your Chess Pieces Are Unequivocably & Irreversably DEAD! ‍♀️

National Master Jesse Cohen (CEO & Head Coach of Summit School of Chess) reveals the terrifying truth: some moves turn your beloved chess pieces into undead pawns trapped in a strategic graveyard.

In this video, Master Cohen dives deep into the advanced concept of “Zombie Pieces”: chess positions where pieces become utterly useless, their potential as good as devoured by a horde of bad decisions.

The Seventh Seal - Playing a Game of Chess with Death!A fun picture to add dark humor to this idea of "Zombifying" your opponents' pieces!

** But don’t despair!** Master Cohen isn’t just here to diagnose chess-piece rigor mortis. He’ll equip you with the antidote:

  • Identify the symptoms: Learn how to spot Zombie Pieces before they drag down your entire army.
  • Perform an autopsy: Master Cohen dissects classic examples of Zombie Pieces, exposing the fatal moves that led to their demise.
  • Vaccinate your game: Discover prophylactic strategies to keep your pieces healthy and kicking (figuratively, of course).

This video is perfect for:

  • Ambitious chess players: Take your game to the next level by understanding the concept of Zombie Pieces.
  • Strategists of all kinds: Learn how to avoid dead-end scenarios in any competitive situation.
  • Anyone who’s ever felt like their chess pieces are just… meh: Get your strategic mojo back with Master Cohen’s insights!

Don’t let your pieces suffer an eternal pawn-demic! Click the play button and resurrect your chess skills with National Master Jesse Cohen!

Bonus: Check out Summit School of Chess (https://summitschoolofchess.com/) to level up your game with expert coaching and resources!

P.S. Remember that the key to improving chess also comes with cultivating the right attitudes. Focus on deactivating, demoralizing, and subduing your opponents’ pieces in your own games. Be patient with yourself as you attempt to implement these ideas understanding it’s a very advanced strategy and it will take many attempts to get it right. Reward yourself consistently for your attempts! Have a cookie!!

Our Summer Chess Camp 2024 is coming up!!

We have daily Online Group Lessons for all players of all skill levels!

Our Monthly Chess Tournaments are great for testing your skills!

Get a School Chess Program today!

Join the official Summit School of Chess Club (on Chess.com)

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#chess #advancedchess #strategy #summitschoolofchess #jessecohen #zombiepieces #chesstips #chessstrategy #chessinstructional

Checkmate Destiny: Forge Your Chess Excalibur and Slay Giants

Checkmate the Rating Gap: How Underdogs Can Conquer Chess Giants

Ditch the fear, forget the draws. Here at Summit School of Chess, we forge underdog assassins, ready to crushing-blow chess giants and unleash your inner champion. No surprise tricks, just honed steel-trap minds wielding grandmaster secrets. Dominate the board, not your doubts! Join us and checkmate your destiny, one move at a time.

Tip #1: Believe in the Blitz: Chess is a minefield of blunders, even for grandmasters. Convince yourself you can find your opponent’s misstep and turn it into a glorious blitz-attack! Just witness Frank Marshall’s risky gambit in this classic game – one beautiful combo by Sidney Johnston, and history was made.

Tip #2: Trap the Ego: Watch out for tricky traps in the opening. Higher-rated players often crave wins so much they’ll set you up for a fall, hoping you’ll miss their subtle misstep. Use their arrogance as a weapon! Learn to force them to beat you, and watch their logic crumble under the pressure of a potential draw.

Tip #3: Embrace the Chaos: Keep things dynamic and unpredictable. The more complex the board, the easier it is for your opponent to stumble. Let them trip over their own plans, and punish them ruthlessly. Remember, every mistake is a stepping stone to your chess glory!

Ready to conquer the chessboard? Summit School of Chess awaits. Sharpen your mind, unlock your potential, and slay those chess giants with confidence!

P.S. Checkmate destiny with Summit School – visit us today and claim your victory!

The Most Effective Perspective on Coaching Students to Best Results

I’ve been a chess coach for the last 20 odd years but it was only in the last few that I had a conversation with a student who seemed to excel at everything he pursued. I had to know why.

Every coach wants to effectively train students to become champion and masters but I came to learn that focusing on immediate results is so detrimental to the student it often backfires horrifically.

I asked my student how it was possible that he achieved such high success rates over their peers at such a consistent and high level. He explained that often he would enter competitions ranging from chess, piano, martial arts and eventually tennis – outperforming his peers despite putting considerably less time and training prior to his performances. How could this be?

He explained that it came down to a few key elements and priorities insisted upon him by his very thoughtful parents.

  1. Stressing attitude and effort over immediate results. My student explained that the biggest corrections and scoldings from his parents came when he would decide to give up internally during a competition, often due to self discouragement, at having the beginning of a bad performance. His parents never placed emphasis on immediate results. It was perfectly acceptable to lose or not perform well if he maintained a determined attitude and pushed himself to put forth maximum effort. I found this astonishing because for so long I had focused on my students winning rates, their chess ratings and putting big expectations on their shoulders. The result? Chess students who develop performance anxiety and some students that quit the game altogether rather than face the possibility of losing or a “subpar performance” in their mind.
  2. His parents provided him unique opportunities to learn, grow, practice and push himself. He explained that due to a loophole his parents were able to get him a year off between junior and senior year of high school so he could live in Spain, train under some of the best tennis coaches in the world, and compete at the top levels for his age groups. I still have fond memories of my mother funding and/or traveling with me to chess tournaments around the country – having the opportunity to be exposed and face off against some some of the best and brightest players, receive coaching and advice from some amazing individuals and even travel to Australia on a chess exchange trip.
  3. Participating in competitions from a very young age regardless of the arena.

This ultimately resulted in the most awesome super power ever cultivated for a champion. He didn’t get NERVOUS regardless of whether he was competing at the highest levels.

I cannot stress this hard enough – cultivating a student that insists of maintaining a positive attitude, putting forth maximum effort and not feeling the stress of competition no matter the opposition, the medium, the stakes, etc – this is the most menacing opponent you can ever hope to face.

For this reason I often stress and positively reinforce my students for their efforts and attitudes. I actively tell them that their immediate wins and losses don’t concern me and that I’m much more interested in what strategies, techniques, emotions, attitudes that they made a goal to achieve during their live games and I heap HEAVY AMOUNTS OF PRAISE upon the students willing to try at all. I insist to them that practicing these things is master training and to be incredibly graceful and forgiving with themselves.

I compare this to a person who can juggle countless balls ignited by fire – that they will certainly drop the balls many times on the way to achieving this and not to expect to perfect or even reasonably demonstrate these skills during a live chess game but instead to keep trying, keep taking these master steps, be proud of themselves and don’t stop.

Strategic Moves: Elevate Your Game with Professional Chess Classes

Chess, a game of kings and queens, knights and bishops, possesses an allure that transcends generations. Beyond its ancient roots, it remains a vibrant battlefield where intellect, strategy, and skill collide. For those seeking to sharpen their tactics and ascend to greater heights, the realm of professional chess classes opens doors to a world of strategic mastery.

The Chess Odyssey Begins

Embarking on a journey to master chess often starts with a fascination for the game’s complexity. Whether you’re a beginner yearning to grasp the fundamentals or an intermediate player aspiring to hone your skills, professional chess classes serve as the guiding light illuminating the path to improvement.

The Art of Instruction

The essence of professional chess classes lies not just in playing games but in receiving guidance from seasoned instructors. These mentors, often chess maestros themselves, provide invaluable insights, dissecting intricate maneuvers, and unveiling hidden strategies. They foster a deep understanding of openings, middlegame tactics, and endgame nuances, paving the way for holistic improvement.

Tailored Learning for All Levels

One of the beauties of professional chess classes lies in their adaptability. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned player seeking to refine your techniques, these classes cater to diverse skill levels. Beginners delve into foundational principles, while intermediate and advanced players explore advanced strategies, allowing each student to progress at their own pace.

Beyond the Board: Building Skills for Life

Chess is more than a game; it’s a classroom for life skills. Professional chess classes instill qualities that transcend the board—patience, critical thinking, decision-making under pressure, and resilience. These attributes not only elevate your chess game but also permeate into various facets of life, enhancing problem-solving abilities and fostering a strategic mindset.

Embracing the Community

Enrolling in professional chess classes isn’t just about individual improvement; it’s an entry into a thriving community of like-minded individuals. The camaraderie amongst chess enthusiasts fosters a supportive environment, providing opportunities for practice, friendly matches, and collaborative learning, enriching the overall experience.

Conclusion: The Grandmaster Within

As you traverse the corridors of professional chess classes, remember that mastery is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the wisdom imparted by instructors, relish the challenges posed by opponents, and savor the victories and defeats alike. Each move, each lesson, refines your understanding and unveils the grandmaster within.

Unleash the Power of the King’s Gambit: A Strategic Journey

Chess, the age-old game of tactics and strategy, offers a myriad of openings, each with its own charm and complexity. Among these, the King’s Gambit stands as a bold and aggressive choice, capturing the essence of dynamic play and tactical brilliance. If you’re ready to dive into the world of daring moves and calculated risks, the King’s Gambit might just be your ticket to an exhilarating chess experience.

Understanding the King's Gambit

The King’s Gambit arises after the moves 1.e4 e5 2.f4, where White offers a pawn sacrifice to gain control of the center and quick development. By relinquishing the f4 pawn, White aims to create imbalances and seize the initiative early in the game.

Advantages and Challenges

Embracing the King’s Gambit offers several advantages. Firstly, it leads to open, tactical positions that favor players with a penchant for aggressive play. Secondly, it can catch opponents off guard, steering the game away from well-trodden paths of conventional openings.

However, every gambit comes with its set of challenges. Accepting the gambit (2…exf4) grants Black an extra pawn but exposes their king’s position. If Black mishandles the defense, White can swiftly seize the initiative and launch devastating attacks.

Key Variations and Strategic Ideas

The King’s Gambit is a rich battleground with various continuations and strategic concepts:

  1. Falkbeer Counter Gambit (2…d5): Black counters the gambit by striking at the center, aiming to challenge White’s pawn structure and equalize the game.
  2. Classical Defense (2…Nc6): Black opts for solid development, delaying capturing the pawn and focusing on piece mobilization.
  3. Declined Gambit (2…Bc5): Black declines the pawn offer, preferring to develop pieces and maintain control over the center.

Mastering the King's Gambit

To truly grasp the essence of this electrifying opening, diligent study and practice are essential. Understanding the underlying ideas, familiarizing yourself with various continuations, and analyzing master games are crucial steps in mastering the King’s Gambit.

Additionally, honing tactical skills and calculating accurately under pressure is fundamental when navigating the complexities of this aggressive opening.

Conclusion

The King’s Gambit is more than just a set of opening moves; it embodies the spirit of boldness and strategic ingenuity in chess. Embracing this gambit can lead to thrilling games, providing a platform to showcase your tactical prowess and creative thinking on the board.

Checkmate and Chicken McNuggets: McDonald’s Makes a Winning Play for Family Fun

We at Summit School of Chess were thrilled to read about McDonald’s on Kenmount Road in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, becoming the first in Canada to incorporate chess into their Family Fun Night! This initiative, spearheaded by avid chess player Randy Green, is a fantastic example of how to make chess accessible and engaging for all ages.

At Summit, we believe that chess is more than just a game; it’s a powerful tool that can enhance cognitive skills, problem-solving abilities, and creative thinking. It’s wonderful to see McDonald’s recognizing the value of chess and creating a welcoming atmosphere for families to come together and enjoy this enriching activity.

We commend Randy Green and the team at McDonald’s for their commitment to promoting chess and fostering a love for the game in their community. This initiative perfectly aligns with our mission at Summit School of Chess: to make learning chess fun, affordable, and accessible to everyone.

We encourage other businesses to follow McDonald’s lead and consider incorporating chess into their programs and events. By working together, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to discover the joy and benefits of playing chess.

Here’s what we can learn from McDonald’s successful Family Fun Night:

Chess is for everyone: No matter your age, skill level, or background, chess offers a fun and rewarding challenge. By providing accessible opportunities like McDonald’s Family Fun Night, we can remove barriers and encourage more people to give chess a try.

Make it fun and engaging: Chess can be intimidating for newcomers. McDonald’s approach of offering a relaxed and welcoming environment, combined with friendly guidance from experienced players like Randy Green, shows how to make chess learning enjoyable and inclusive.

Chess builds community: Playing chess together strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories for families. McDonald’s initiative demonstrates the power of chess to bring people together and foster a sense of community.

We at Summit School of Chess are excited to see the positive impact this McDonald’s initiative has on the St. John’s community and beyond. We hope it serves as an inspiration for others to follow suit and promote the amazing benefits of chess to a wider audience.

Join Summit School of Chess:

If you’re interested in learning or improving your chess skills, Summit School of Chess offers a variety of programs and classes for all ages and levels. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about how we can help you unlock the world of chess.

Together, let’s make chess a household name and a treasured activity for families and communities everywhere!

Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura is Innocent

Summit School of Chess stands in solidarity with Hikaru Nakamura in the face of recent cheating allegations. We believe that Hikaru is a highly respected and accomplished chess player, and we have no reason to doubt his integrity.

We are aware of the claims made by Vladimir Kramnik, and we understand that some may find his comments to be concerning. However, we believe that it is important to let due process take place and to avoid rushing to judgment.

We are confident that Hikaru will be able to clear his name, and we will continue to support him throughout this process. We believe that it is important to foster a fair and respectful environment for all chess players, and we will continue to do our part to uphold these values.

In the meantime, we encourage everyone to refrain from making any further accusations or speculation about Hikaru’s conduct. We believe that it is important to let the facts speak for themselves, and we are confident that the truth will ultimately come out.

Thank you for your continued support of Hikaru and Summit School of Chess.