Have you been in a simul?
A simul, short for simultaneous exhibition, is a special event where a chess master plays against multiple opponents.
For the chessmaster, a simul is a platform to showcase their intellectual faculties in the public eye.
For the players, it’s an opportunity. One comes away with lessons and a memory of challenging a chess powerhouse. Some bask in the glory of winning.
There are simuls that stood out in history. At age 8,Samuel Reshevsky from Poland, defeated all 20 players in Paris.
This astronomical feat caught the eyes of the entertainment world. Below is a photo of Reshevsky with actors Charlie Chaplin and Douglas Fairbanks on the set of the silent film, The Three Musketeers (1921).
In 1964, Bobby Fischer aged 21, competed against 50 opponents! He “won 47 matches, drew 2 and lost 1 (source: Rare Historical Photos).”
Fischer and Reshevsky were actually fierce rivals. Reshevsky however, was an accountant and writer unlike Fischer who devoted his life completely to chess.
Simuls continue to fascinate the public. These exhibitions are special because it renders the intensity of chess visible to the masses.
So if there’s a simul in your area, seize the chance. It may become a history worth sharing!
Simul Exhibitions in New York
AAU Chess (Amateur Athletic Union) is hosting a simul at the City Hall Park every Thursday evening with a chessmaster. Sign up here! The proceeds will benefit schools throughout NYC.
Checkmate & Chill at the Russian Samovar in Midtown, Manhattan hosts simul exhibitions bi-monthly. Featured chess masters had included grandmasters Dlugy, Krush and Rhode.
Summer is coming up in the east coast! That means better weather and more outdoor chess!
As a ChessMeet newsletter reader, you get a 15% discount off a Game Towel! Use promo code: “chessmeet” 😉. Get yours here.
By the way, May is skin cancer awareness month! Be sure to wear sunscreen and hats when you’re outdoors to protect your skin. Experts recommend a sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 or above (source: Pharmacy Times).
The Chess MVP Academy will host an online masterclass, featuring GM Ivanchuk. Register here.
Have a great chess week, everyone!
Best,
ChessMeet