2nd Berlin U25-Open started with a blitz chess tournament

The first innovation was introduced at the second U25 Open even before the start of the tournament. The day before, there was not only the chance to register, but also a blitz chess tournament. This was open to all age groups, not just for U25. Quite a few participants took the opportunity to warm up after registration on Sunday evening. However, some other players who do not take part in the U25 Open were also attracted by the prospect of meeting strong opponents. The opening of the age limit ensured that 20 over-25 players took part in the tournament. Not only in terms of playing strength, with participants ranging from over 2400 ELO to no ELO at all, but also in terms of age, from 9 to 65 years, the field of participants was very mixed. There were 80 players from 17 nations, including 16 title holders. There were also title holders known throughout Berlin, such as FM Dirk Paulsen and FM Fabian Jahnz.

NA Niclas Hofmann, 2nd place IM Jonathan Carlstedt, 1st place IM Adar Tarhan, 3rd place GM Petar Genov, IA Dr. Andreas Junk

GM Petar Genov entered the tournament as the top seed. He had to relinquish this position after a draw in the second round against Yunong Elias Lu. After more players lost their spotless record in the course of the tournament, there were only two players left in the sixth round with a 100% score of 5/5. In the top duel, IM Adar Tarhan prevailed against FM Christian Polster and maintained his sole lead at the top of the table. As he was only half a point behind GM Petar Genov, a draw against him in the last round was enough for him to win the tournament. The latter ended up in third place, as IM Jonathan Carlstedt was able to overtake him with 6 points on rating. Hongchi Peng finished in 4th place with the same number of points.

NA Niclas Hofmann, 7th place Martin Yatskar, 6th place FM Christian Polster, 5th place CM Nikita Nechitaylo, 4th place Hongchi Peng, IA Dr. Andreas Junk

Other prize winners are CM Nikita Nechitaylo with 5.5 points, who defeated the best player of the organizing club, Daniel Rose, in the last round, as well as FM Christian Polster and Martin Yatskar with 5 points each. But there was also success outside the prize ranks, as the tournament was rated according to ELO Blitz.

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