Pacific Coast Open

So today is Evan's first day of the Pacific Coast Open in Agoura. Conveniently it is located minutes from our house. It is one our favorite tournament locations. We get to see so many local faces here and are able to socialize between rounds.

Unfortunately, today I witness one of the worst displays of Tiger parenting I have EVER seen. I saw and heard a dad screaming at his 9 year old son about how he needs to quit chess after he lost his first round of the game. He was berating him causing a scene in the hotel lobby, wiht his son fighting back tears. The father would not let up about how his child should quit chess altogether. After his father took his tantrum outside, a few other parents, including his mother sat in disbelief and tried to comfort the boy. Hopefully, he was able recover before his subsequent round. I only wish the father would take responsibilty for his actions, but my guess is that the dad has no idea of the potential harm his words will undoubtedly have on the boy's confidence and self worth, not to mention his love for the game.

I also heard of another parent who approached her son's opponent right before they were about to play and say something to the effect "Don't get mad if my son beats you". Who says that to someone before they play?

I just don't get people.

The good news is that Evan drew his first game and I got a chance to see my buddy, Grandmaster Timur Gareev. In his search for a mixed doubles partner, he convinced me to register and play in the tournament. Mind you, I am only rated about 500 and have never played in a tournament of this caliber, but I would be lying if I said I was not excited by the idea. Why should I watch when I can participate. If I don't really care abourt losing and approach the game with the attitude of doing my absolute best, I WILL do my absolute best. So here I am on a team with a Grandmaster. Who would have thunk. I hope I don't let him down. He told me as long as I win more than 50% of my six games, he will still respect me:-) Geesh....no pressure or anything!