Daniel Semcesen's final GM-norm!

During tournaments, I want to avoid everything that occupies the mind. For that reason, I don't read books, check the mail, internet or answer the phone. It may be different for others, but it definitely improves my concentration.

Before Visma Chess in Växjö I was on vacation for a week without even checking the clock. However, there were still important things to do ... You can guess what occupies me at the picture - it is not the beautiful river.

I celebrated my birthday during the tournament in Växjö. Or well, when someone mentioned in the evening that it's Ulf Andersson's birthday, I understood that it's also mine. But what could have been a better way to celebrate than an unsound pawn storm which ultimately lead to mate?

Daniel Semcesen made his first GM-norm in 2009 and his second in 2010, but didn't get high ambitions. He kept his feet on the ground but lifted them a few months ago: he started walking on a slackline. Doing so requires full concentration, thus keeps other thoughts away and gives a meditative effect.

It's really impressive to watch him walking. And it may be one reason to his success in Växjö – he finally made his third norm. Now he ”only” needs 30 elo points to become grandmaster. I am so glad for him!

Aryan Tari played for his second GM-norm a week ago but lost the final game. However, he got his second IM-norm and will try for his last at the Norwegian Championship which started last weekend. I travel there for some days before it's time for the Swedish on Saturday.

I have heard that Quality Chess will not be able to finish the book before that tournament, but hopefully it will be out in the end of July.