The Best Games Of C H O’D Alexander – Signed By All The Competitors In The Alexander Memorial Chess Tournament Teesside September 1975

Author: Harry Golombek & William Hartston
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Price: £595
Publication Date: 1976
Edition: 1st edition
Size: Octavo
Binding: Original green cloth gilt. Dustwrapper.
Condition: Very good indeed in very good indeed dustwrapper.
Number of Pages: 167

Condition:

Binding nice and tight. Half-title slightly foxed and minor scuff to the front free endpaper otherwise pages very nice and clean. A very good indeed, tight, bright, clean copy in very good indeed, slightly faded, nicked, creased and rubbed dustwrapper. The Alexander Memorial Chess Tournament, held in Teesside, England, in September 1975, was won by Soviet Grandmaster Efim Geller. He secured first place with a score of 9½ out of 14 points. Following Geller, former World Champion Vasily Smyslov finished second with 8½ points. The tournament featured a strong international field, including notable players such as David Bronstein, Robert Hübner, and Vlastimil Hort, who each scored 8 points. Number 121/200 copies signed by all the competitors in the tournament: D BRONSTEIN, W. R. HARTSTON, E GELLER, V HORT, F. GHEORGHIU, R HUBNER, H. GOLOMBEK, L. KAVALEK, R. D. KEENE, G. SAX, W. LOMBARDY, V. V. SMYSLOV, A. J. MILES, M. STEAN, F. OLAFSSON and J. TIMMAN. Very scarce thus.

Conel Hugh O’Donel Alexander: A Short Biography

Conel Hugh O’Donel Alexander (1909–1974) was a remarkable British cryptanalyst, chess player, and mathematician whose contributions extended across multiple domains. Known for his crucial work at Bletchley Park during World War II and his achievements in British chess, Alexander became a national figure, celebrated both for his intellectual brilliance and his dedication to his country.

Early Life and Education

• Birth and Background: Alexander was born on 19 April 1909 in Cork, Ireland. He grew up in a family that valued education, and his intellect was evident from a young age.
• Education: He attended King Edward’s School in Birmingham, where he first displayed his talent for mathematics and chess. Alexander later won a scholarship to King’s College, Cambridge, where he excelled in mathematics and graduated with distinction. It was during his time at Cambridge that his prowess in chess began to draw attention, and he quickly became one of Britain’s leading players.

Chess Career

• Rise in British Chess: Alexander was one of the most talented chess players of his generation in Britain. He won the British Chess Championship twice, in 1938 and 1956, showcasing his deep understanding of the game and his strategic acumen.
• International Success: Alexander represented England in numerous Chess Olympiads, competing against some of the best players from around the world. He earned a reputation for his tenacity and ingenuity on the chessboard and became an International Master in 1950, a title awarded by FIDE, the international chess federation.
• Legacy in Chess: Alexander was more than just a player; he was a true ambassador for British chess. He wrote extensively about the game and mentored young players, helping to cultivate a stronger chess community in the UK. His contributions to British chess were lasting, and his influence is remembered and celebrated by British chess enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Bletchley Park and World War II Contributions

• Joining Bletchley Park: In 1940, at the outset of World War II, Alexander was recruited to work at Bletchley Park, the UK’s top-secret codebreaking centre. His mathematical skills and strategic thinking made him an ideal candidate for cryptanalysis, where his work would prove invaluable in the war effort.
• Breaking the Enigma Code: Alexander worked closely with the renowned cryptanalyst Alan Turing in Hut 8, where they focused on breaking the Enigma code used by the German navy. The German Enigma machine was designed to create coded messages that were nearly impossible to decipher without the correct settings. The success of the Bletchley Park team in breaking Enigma, particularly the naval codes, was instrumental in providing the Allies with critical intelligence, helping to turn the tide of the war.
• Leadership and Innovation: Alexander’s leadership skills were quickly recognised, and he was eventually promoted to lead Hut 8, Turing’s former section. His ability to manage the complex operations at Bletchley, along with his mathematical insights, made him an essential figure in the codebreaking process. His work contributed to the success of Allied naval operations, most notably in the Battle of the Atlantic, where decrypted German communications helped protect vital supply convoys from U-boat attacks.
• Post-War Intelligence Work: After the war, Alexander continued his career in cryptography, joining the Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ), the British intelligence and security organisation. He remained a leading figure in cryptanalysis and intelligence until his retirement, though the details of much of his work remain classified.

Personal Life and Characteristics

• Intellect and Modesty: Despite his impressive achievements, Alexander was known for his modesty and dedication. Colleagues and friends described him as a man of quiet strength, who carried a deep sense of duty and professionalism.
• Balancing Chess and Cryptography: Throughout his career, Alexander managed to balance his passion for chess with his work in cryptography. He would continue to participate in chess competitions and exhibitions, earning respect in both fields and gaining admirers who viewed him as a brilliant mind capable of excelling in multiple domains.

Legacy and Influence

• Honouring His Contributions: Conel Hugh O’Donel Alexander’s legacy is celebrated both in chess circles and in the intelligence community. In chess, he is remembered as one of the great British players and a pioneer who helped raise the standard of British chess on the international stage. The Alexander Memorial Chess Tournament was established in his honour after his passing, recognising his influence and dedication to the game.
• Impact on Cryptography and National Security: Alexander’s work at Bletchley Park has earned him a place among the great cryptanalysts of history. His contributions helped secure victory for the Allies in World War II, and his post-war work laid foundations for modern cryptographic methods used in intelligence.

Death and Commemoration

Conel Hugh O’Donel Alexander passed away on 15 February 1974. His contributions to chess and cryptography have not been forgotten, and he is celebrated as a true intellectual hero. Both fields owe a great debt to his brilliance, perseverance, and quiet determination. The legacy of his life’s work continues to inspire those who seek to push the boundaries of intelligence and strategy in both chess and cryptography.

Harry Golombek: A Short Biography

Harry Golombek (1911–1995) was an eminent British chess player, author, and chess correspondent who made substantial contributions to British chess through his competitive achievements, literary work, and extensive involvement in the chess community. Known for his skillful play, clarity as a chess writer, and devotion to the game, Golombek’s legacy endures as one of the pivotal figures in 20th-century British chess.

Early Life and Education

• Birth and Background: Harry Golombek was born on 1 March 1911 in London to a Jewish family. His parents were Polish immigrants, and he grew up in an intellectual environment that encouraged learning. Chess became a part of Golombek’s life early on, and he showed talent for the game as a young boy.
• Education: Golombek attended Wilson’s Grammar School in Camberwell, London, where he demonstrated a particular aptitude for languages and literature. He was largely self-taught in chess, studying books and analysing games on his own.

Early Chess Career

• Rise in British Chess: Golombek’s chess career began in earnest in the 1930s, during which he quickly made a name for himself. He was known for his calm and deliberate approach to the game, which helped him achieve success in several national tournaments.
• British Chess Champion: Golombek won the British Chess Championship three times, in 1947, 1949, and 1955. His victories were testament to his skill and dedication, and they established him as one of Britain’s top players during this period. His 1949 win was especially notable, as it was part of his resurgence in British chess after World War II.

World War II and Bletchley Park

• Cryptography and Codebreaking: During World War II, Golombek was recruited to work at Bletchley Park, the British codebreaking centre. Alongside other prominent British chess players such as Conel Hugh O’Donel Alexander, he worked on decrypting German communications. Golombek’s skill in logical thinking and problem-solving, essential qualities in chess, made him well-suited to the task of cryptography.
• Significance of His Work: Though much of Golombek’s work at Bletchley Park remains classified, it is known that he contributed to the decryption of German Enigma messages, an achievement that was instrumental in the Allied war effort. His experience at Bletchley left a profound impact on him, though he rarely spoke of it publicly, adhering to the strict confidentiality surrounding wartime intelligence work.

Post-War Chess Career

• International Master Title: In 1950, Golombek was awarded the title of International Master (IM) by FIDE, the world chess federation, becoming one of the first British players to earn an international title. He went on to represent England in numerous Chess Olympiads, contributing to England’s standing in international chess and competing against some of the best players in the world.
• FIDE Arbiter and Judge: Golombek was a respected arbiter and served as the official arbiter for several major tournaments, including the Candidates Tournament and World Chess Championship matches. In 1954, he was awarded the title of International Arbiter by FIDE, and he officiated important events, such as the 1960 World Chess Championship match between Mikhail Tal and Mikhail Botvinnik.

Chess Writing and Broadcasting

• Prolific Author: Golombek was a prolific chess author and contributed to the understanding of chess strategy and tactics through his clear, instructive writing style. He authored numerous books, including Golombek’s Encyclopedia of Chess, The Game of Chess, and biographies of chess greats such as José Raúl Capablanca and Richard Réti. His work was appreciated for its precision, clarity, and accessibility, making it valuable to both beginners and advanced players.
• Chess Correspondent: Golombek worked as a chess correspondent for The Times newspaper in London, a role he held for several decades. Through his columns, he provided insights and analysis on high-profile matches and events, becoming a respected and influential voice in British chess journalism.
• Radio and Television Appearances: Known for his articulate and engaging style, Golombek also made appearances on BBC radio and television, where he discussed and analysed games. He contributed to making chess more accessible to the British public and played a significant role in promoting the game across the country.

Later Life and Legacy

• Contributions to British Chess: Beyond his achievements as a player, writer, and arbiter, Golombek was involved in the British Chess Federation and dedicated himself to fostering a greater interest in chess in the UK. He advocated for the development of young talent, sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring players.
• Honours and Recognition: In 1985, FIDE awarded Golombek the honorary title of International Grandmaster for his lifetime contributions to chess. Although Golombek never achieved the Grandmaster title through competition, the honour was a fitting acknowledgment of his impact on the game and his dedication to British chess.
• Health and Passing: In his later years, Golombek continued to write and follow the world of chess, though he eventually scaled back his activities due to health issues. He passed away on 7 January 1995 in London at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of intellectual integrity, passion for chess, and a body of work that has influenced generations of players and enthusiasts.

Influence on Chess

Golombek’s contributions to British and international chess are manifold. His writings remain widely respected for their depth and clarity, and his work as an arbiter and organiser helped elevate British chess to the international stage. His time at Bletchley Park, where he played a role in the crucial codebreaking efforts, added to his legacy as a national figure whose impact extended beyond the chessboard.

Summary

Harry Golombek was more than just a chess player; he was a true chess ambassador, a wartime hero, and a gifted writer whose insights helped bridge the gap between the intricate world of chess and the public. His legacy as one of Britain’s great chess minds endures through his books, his contributions to British chess, and the countless players he inspired and influenced through his lifetime of dedication to the game.

Efim Geller: A Short Biography

Efim Geller (1925–1998) was a Soviet chess Grandmaster and one of the strongest players in the world during his career, renowned for his expertise in opening theory, particularly in the King’s Indian Defence and Sicilian Defence, and his aggressive, sharp playing style. Geller was a six-time Soviet Chess Champion, a regular contender in Candidates Tournaments for the World Chess Championship, and one of the most respected players of his era. His contributions to chess theory and his victories over several world champions, including Mikhail Botvinnik, Bobby Fischer, and Tigran Petrosian, solidified his legacy as a chess giant.

Early Life and Chess Beginnings

• Birth and Background: Efim Petrovich Geller was born on 8 March 1925 in Odessa, Ukraine, then part of the Soviet Union. He showed an early talent for chess, though he also excelled in sports, particularly basketball. His decision to focus on chess allowed him to cultivate his strategic skills and creative approach to the game.
• Emerging Talent: Geller’s rapid progress in chess was evident by the mid-1940s. He became known for his strong positional understanding combined with a fearless attacking style. His analytical prowess made him a formidable opponent, particularly when it came to complicated, sharp positions.

Rise in Soviet Chess and Grandmaster Title

• Soviet Championships: Geller was a prominent player in the Soviet Chess Championships, one of the most competitive national tournaments in the world. He won the Soviet title six times (in 1955, 1956, 1962, 1967, 1968, and 1979), a remarkable feat given the calibre of Soviet chess players, which included world champions and elite contenders.
• Grandmaster Title: In 1952, FIDE awarded Geller the title of International Grandmaster. This title recognised his consistent high-level play and solidified his status as one of the Soviet Union’s leading players.

World Championship Contender and Candidates Tournaments

• Candidates Success: Geller was a regular participant in Candidates Tournaments, which served as the selection process to determine the challenger for the World Chess Championship. Although he never won the title, he frequently placed highly in these elite events, competing against some of the best players in history. He was particularly successful in the Candidates Tournaments of 1953 and 1962.
• Notable Rivals and World Champions: Geller developed an impressive record against several world champions, including Mikhail Botvinnik, Vasily Smyslov, and Tigran Petrosian. He achieved a positive lifetime score against Bobby Fischer, one of the few players to do so, defeating him twice in tournament games. His strong play against Fischer included a famous win in the 1962 Candidates Tournament in Curaçao, where he exploited Fischer’s weaknesses in a complex middlegame.

Opening Theory and Contributions

• Sicilian Defence Expert: Geller was a pioneer in the Sicilian Defence, especially the sharp and aggressive lines of the Sicilian Najdorf. His analyses and innovations in these lines influenced generations of players, and many of his ideas are still used at the highest levels of chess.
• King’s Indian Defence: Another opening in which Geller made significant contributions was the King’s Indian Defence, particularly from the White side with 1.d4. He developed attacking plans and refined lines that became mainstays in opening theory. His ideas in the King’s Indian often led to complex, double-edged positions in which he excelled.
• Theoretical Influence: Geller’s opening analyses were widely respected, and his theoretical work was used by his Soviet colleagues, including world champions like Boris Spassky and Anatoly Karpov. He was often called upon to assist in preparing his compatriots for world championship matches due to his deep knowledge and meticulous preparation.

Playing Style and Achievements

• Aggressive and Creative: Geller’s playing style was both aggressive and highly creative. He excelled in positions that required complex calculations and wasn’t afraid to take risks for the initiative. This made him a dangerous opponent for any player, especially in the middlegame.
• Notable Tournament Wins: Geller won several prestigious international tournaments, including the 1973 Soviet Championship (where he finished first alongside Boris Spassky), the 1955 and 1961 USSR Championships, and the 1965 Havana tournament. His success in international events helped to elevate Soviet chess on the global stage.

Later Career and Legacy

• Senior Chess Success: Even in his later years, Geller continued to compete successfully. He won the World Senior Chess Championship in 1992, showcasing his enduring skill and passion for the game.
• Influence on Modern Chess: Geller’s contributions to chess theory, particularly in the Sicilian and King’s Indian Defences, have left a lasting legacy. His games are still studied by players looking to understand aggressive opening play and complex tactical play in the middlegame.
• Literary Contributions: Geller was also a chess writer, and his work on opening theory and game analysis was highly respected. His book Grandmaster Geller at the Chessboard contains many of his finest games and insights into his strategies.

Death and Lasting Impact

Efim Geller passed away on 17 November 1998 in Moscow, Russia. His legacy as a player, analyst, and opening innovator endures in chess literature and opening repertoires worldwide. Geller is remembered as one of the greatest Soviet chess players and a pioneer who pushed the boundaries of aggressive, tactical chess. His games are celebrated for their dynamism and creativity, and he remains a source of inspiration for players who seek to combine deep opening knowledge with sharp, imaginative play.

Vasily Smyslov: A Short Biography

Vasily Smyslov (1921–2010) was a Soviet chess Grandmaster and the 7th World Chess Champion, known for his exceptional positional play, deep understanding of endgames, and graceful, intuitive style. Smyslov was one of the strongest players of his era, competing at the highest level for decades and leaving a lasting legacy as both a player and contributor to chess theory.

Early Life and Chess Beginnings

• Birth and Background: Vasily Vasilyevich Smyslov was born on 24 March 1921 in Moscow, Russia. His father, an avid chess player, introduced him to the game, and young Vasily quickly showed promise.
• Rapid Development: Smyslov began competing in chess tournaments at an early age. His progress was rapid, and by his teens, he was one of the most promising players in the Soviet Union. In 1938, at the age of 17, he competed in the Soviet Championship and finished among the top players, establishing himself as a serious talent in Soviet chess.

Rise to Prominence and World Championship Contender

• Post-War Success: After World War II, Smyslov rose to the upper echelons of chess. His victory in the 1949/50 Candidates Tournament earned him the right to challenge the reigning World Champion, Mikhail Botvinnik.
• 1954 World Championship Match: Smyslov and Botvinnik faced each other in 1954 for the world title. The match ended in a draw, allowing Botvinnik to retain his title, but Smyslov demonstrated his strength and nearly captured the crown.
• Becoming World Champion (1957): In 1957, Smyslov earned another chance to challenge Botvinnik, this time defeating him 12½–9½ to become the World Chess Champion. His victory was celebrated for his consistent, poised play, and he was praised for his endgame technique and profound positional understanding.

Losing and Challenging for the Title

• 1958 Rematch: Smyslov’s reign as World Champion was short-lived. Under the terms of the championship at the time, Botvinnik had the right to a rematch the following year. In 1958, Botvinnik regained the title, defeating Smyslov 12½–10½. Though Smyslov lost, he remained one of the world’s elite players and continued to compete at the top level.
• Further Attempts: Smyslov remained a consistent contender for the world title, competing in Candidates Tournaments throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Though he never regained the title, his repeated challenges underscored his resilience and longevity.

Playing Style and Contributions to Chess

• Positional Mastery: Smyslov was known for his harmonious style, with a particular strength in positional play and the endgame. He approached positions with balance, rarely taking unnecessary risks, and was especially effective in converting slight advantages in endgames.
• Endgame Expertise: Smyslov’s skill in endgames was legendary, and he contributed much to endgame theory, especially in rook and minor-piece endings. His endgame prowess is often compared to that of José Capablanca, another player known for this skill.
• Theoretical Contributions: Smyslov made substantial contributions to chess opening theory. His work on the Grünfeld Defence, the King’s Indian Defence, and variations of the Sicilian Defence have had a lasting influence, and many lines still bear his name.

The 1975 Alexander Memorial Chess Tournament

• Strong Performance: Smyslov was among the participants in the Alexander Memorial Chess Tournament in Teesside in 1975, which honoured the late Conel Hugh O’Donel Alexander. He finished second with a score of 8½ points, just behind Efim Geller. Smyslov’s participation in this prestigious event highlighted his ongoing competitive relevance and his ability to perform at a high level even in his later career.

Later Career and Achievements

• Senior Chess Success: Smyslov continued to compete well into his 60s and 70s, even reaching the Candidates final in 1983 at the age of 62, where he lost to Garry Kasparov, the future World Champion. His longevity in competitive chess was remarkable, and he was respected for his tenacity and deep knowledge.
• World Senior Chess Champion: In 1991, Smyslov won the World Senior Chess Championship, further showcasing his skill and love for the game in his later years.

Personal Life and Music

• Talented Singer: In addition to his chess career, Smyslov was an accomplished baritone singer and considered a career in opera before choosing chess. He often sang at chess events and saw parallels between music and chess, describing both as pursuits of harmony and beauty.

Legacy and Impact

Vasily Smyslov is remembered as one of the most balanced and elegant players in chess history. His deep positional understanding, endgame skills, and contributions to opening theory have left a lasting legacy. He is celebrated as a true chess artist, whose play exemplified harmony, logic, and profound insight.

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