Interview with Chess Campeona

1. Stuart, How do you feel about your performance in the XXI Pan American Youth Tournament?

So far I think I've been playing OK, last night I messed up an easily won endgame though.

2. We know that every single opponent you have had has been strong, however, Which opponent impressed you the most in this almost first half of the event?

Probably my latest opponent, Giuseppe Leiva, although he did let me come back from a worse position to almost win.

3. When you enter the tournament hall, what goes through your mind? How do you motivate yourself?

I don't feel any tension or nervousness before the rounds, I just want to play my best and try to win.

4. After a round, what do you usual do?

Go to the area where the coaches are analyzing the games and go over it, then we usually eat.

5. This is your first Pan American, is it everything you thought it would be?

I didn't really come thinking about what to expect. The only thing I was surprised about was the small playing areas.

6. What would you change in this Pan American concerning organization and logistics?

The organizers broke up the players into little rooms because they didn't have a big hall to play in, maybe a different venue with a large playing space would be better.

7. Do you have what it takes to medal in this event?

Yes, no one in my section is far higher rated than me, it's quite closely packed. Also, many of the top players have lost or drawn games already and only 3 people are perfect so far, so if I play my best, I think I have a good chance.

8. Which delegation has impressed you so far?

I haven't really had a chance to judge and see the delegations and limited interaction.

9. How is the morale in the U.S. Team?

Overall pretty high as we have had relatively strong results so far. I think we all get along well together.

10. Who is coaching you on the U.S. Team and what does the coaching consist of??

After rounds, we go over the games, either with Aviv or Armen. Earlier today I had a preparation session with Armen, but it won't happen again due to the schedule of the rounds.

11. Which player on the U.S. Team has been the life of the party?

There hasn't been any one individual who's been more outgoing than the rest.

12. What are your impressions of what you have seen so far of Brazil as a country?

Haven't ventured out really. The people seem very nice however.

13. Currently we are getting 1,500 hits per day at www.chesscampeona.com, what would you like to tell our readers, especially those back home in the United States?

This event is definitely tough and a long way from home. Enjoyable, but certainly not a holiday :)





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