Wilson Magnet High School junior Sam Cherin, a Mets fan. Down by a rook, but as 1973 Mets manager Yogi Berra said: It ain’t over till it’s over. 4/23/16
Barons, Barons, what’s your cry?
V-I-C-T-O-R-Y
from Introductions 1981 Brighton vs. Webster (Democrat & Chronicle) Caption; “Dave Kramer of Brighton concentrates on his next move. He lost.”
— Brighton High School sports chant
For several years now, we’ve given our love many times to city chess and the Wilson Wildcat’s dynasty including last year’s win over SOTA in the playoff finals. SEE AT END
That championship season. Row 1: Mark McDonald, Regina Olshan, Ramy Nahas, David Siegel Row 2: Victor Barocas, Robert Rodic, Justin Gastel, Tim Elliott Row 3: Michael Weiss, Dave Silverman, Sandy Goldstein, Meyer Stolberg, Matt Wagman Row 4: Alan Sun, Alan Crane, Phil Ghyzel, Jeremy Salesin, Steven [sic] Shapiro, Dave Kramer [from Crossroads 1981, courtesy Brighton Memorial Library]
Final round. Brighton (left) v. Wilson (Eastridge High School, 4/23/16)
When I arrived today at Eastridge High School, the final round Wilson v. Brighton was underway. Despite playing undermanned, Brighton was ahead. Throughout the tournament, Brighton had only fielded three players, meaning boards 4 and 5 were automatic forfeits.
At first it was suggested the two players were missing because of Passover. Fair enough. But not true. One unnamable Baron had overslept. Baron, back in the day, we set multiple alarm clocks the night before that championship. The second Baron had another activity. No comment.
Brighton was awarded 1st place on points. Provided by Ron Lohrman of the Rochester Chess Center
Brighton’s 2016 chess trophies
But those two unnamables appeared to have dodged checkmate. On pivotal board 3, Wilson’s Sam Cherin was down a rook.
Wildcats with well deserved trophy
Moving to the Brighton table to take pics of our vast display of hardware, I felt secure. But then a flurry of excitement on the Wildcat side.
Cherin had rallied — and won. Wilson had successfully defended its crown. V-I-C-T-O-R-Y.
In the post match interview, I asked Sam if he had seen it coming. When down a rook, he was hoping for a stalemate draw. But Sam was able encircle Black’s king with queen and rook. Then winning back a rook. Then, pressing his attack, the game.
From Avalon to Westland to Claybourne to Edgemoor, disappointment reigns.
Tournament scoreboard. Provided by Ron Lohrman of the Rochester Chess Center
At first, I considered downgrading the two overactive oversleepers from Barons to Vassals. But upon reflection, understandable stuff happens. We all oversleep. We all have prior commitments to which we are bound. Seriously, your participation on the team is much appreciated. Next year.
Lev’s favorite player. Paul Morphy (1838 – 1884)
Congrats, Master Paciorkowski! The D & C only very so rarely reports that Lev lost, unlike this red Baron [Photo: Becky Wiggins (BHS teacher)
Only still in high school, Lev is unsure of his chess future, although he definitely plans to compete in college. Playing at the professional level takes a great deal of time and dedication. But there is no reason why Grandmaster can’t be next.
MORE BELOW ON CITY CHESS, CHESS IN GENERAL, BRIGHTON HIGH SCHOOL AND WILSON, BIG AND LITTLE
On the People’s Party with DJ Alykhan. And raising $500 for Chess, Rhymes and Wisdom
ON BHS
In search of Shirley Jackson and finding the Brighton High School Alumni author display case
Brighton High School remembers its New Wave/retro punk/Art punk past: The De Grads
A poem from former Degrad Jonathan Caws-Elwitt, BHS ’80. And advice to young writers.
Brighton fans celebrate hometown hero Ernie Clement in victory
ON WILSON
When President George H.W. Bush visited Wilson on May 18th, 1989
Wilson’s Owen Gabbey; two time baseball player of the year whose family believes in city schools
AND FROM “LITTLE WILSON” WHERE THE WILDCATS’ DYNASTY BEGAN
https://talkerofthetown.com/2015/09/24/rcsd-team-wins-again/
Warm snow pants make happy students at the Wilson Foundation Academy. With help from Brand Integrity
