Jarod Bryan Becomes Six Time Champion

In a memorable final game Jarod Bryan bested Matthew Fishbein. In a complex middle game position after two draw offers were turned down by Fishbein, Bryan managed to find a way to have Fishbein tip his king over acknowledging defeat. It was great to see the young phenom push to become a clear first finisher. Fishbein played all five rounds against the top players in the state and and looks in great form as he prepares for the Denker Tournament of High School Champions later this summer.

A new young star burst on to the Maine chess scene this weekend as Medomak Valley freshman Joseph Powell came away in a clear second position after only losing to Fishbein and finishing 4.0. The sixteen year old came in with a 1223 rating and is expected to gain over 300 points after defeating players 1510, 1711, 1720, and 1800 rated. Quite an accomplishment for a third year player!

Finishing tied with Fishbein in third with 3.5 were Max Berube and John Brady.

Again the venue was great, and MECA looks forward to holding the 2015 championship there April 18-19, 2015.

Heading into Fourth Round, Jarod Bryan, Matthew Fishbein Tied

Five-time champion Jarod Bryan and two-time champion Matthew Fishbein are squaring off in the fifth and final round tied at 3.5 points apiece. Bryan's half point came from a third round bye while Fishbein drew Max Berube in the second round. Right behind the top-rated players in Maine with three points are Jon Buxton and Medomak Valley freshman Joe Powell. Powell is the surprise of the tournament having defeated  three opponents much higher than his 1223 rating with his only loss coming to Fishbein.

If the two masters draw there is a good chance for Buxton or Powell to sneak in for a share of the championship. There have been ties the last two years so that would not be uncommon.

Closed Championship 2014 Update

It is early morning Sunday, April 13, and the fourth round has just started. There was a logjam of six players at the end of round 3 resulting in two key matches: Matthew Fishbein vs. Gabe Borland and Jarod Bryan vs. Max Berube.  Fishbein and Bryan are the two masters and are the favorites heading in, but Berube did get a draw vs. Fishbein in round two to continue his recent hot streak.

There were 27 entries, and the competition has been friendly besides being intense. The venue was terrific, and we look forward to being back here again April 18-19, 2015.