Humpy triumphs

HYDERABAD, JUNE.23. Koneru Humpy's dream run in Hungary ended on a high note as she lifted the Hotel Lipa International Grandmasters chess tournament with 8.5 points after her 20-move draw against Rajlich Vasik (ELO 2337) of United States in Hungary in the final round, according to information received here.

Though Humpy tied for the top slot with Horvath Adam of Hungary with 8.5 points, the Indian girl was declared winner by virtue of Berger Sownew Borg system.

A delighted Humpy told The Hindu that this could be the turning point of her career. In a message, she said that her first aim was to get the WGM title and after achieving it, she was really happy to win this very tough tournament besides getting the first GM norm in men's section.

In the 11th round game, Humpy, playing with white, faced Reversed Pirc Defence from the opponent. Though she needed just half-a- point to be the leader, the Bank of Baroda-sponsored girl looked keen for a win. She offered a pawn on the 13th move which was, however, refused by Rajlich. He played it safe and preferred queens exchange on the 14th move. Soon, there was an exchange of rooks too which made both of them settle for a draw later.

Earlier in a 10th round game, Humpy (black) registered a 45-move win over Emillio Fucak (ELO 2353).

On the 26th move, she sacrificed an exchange to leave the king in a mess. This saw the rival sacrifice his queen to defend his king. Slowly, Humpy came up with the right moves to emerge winner in queen-bishop ending with the opponent having only two rooks.

lFinal placings: 1. Koneru Humpy (India) 8.5 pts, 2. Horvath Adam (Hungary) 8.5 pts, 3. Varga Zoltan (Hungary) 7 pts, 4. Farago Ivan (Hungary) 7 pts.

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Section  : Sport
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