What do you do when you are not playing chess?
I’m a fundraising consultant and enjoy teaching English to adult international students.
What is your role in the club?
I have been a member for over 20 years, was Secretary for several years and became Chairman in 2010. Over the years I’ve captained a number of teams. I now give online beginner sessions to juniors and captain one of our teams.
Why did you join the club?
I tried three other clubs before I joined. I found this to be the friendliest, and Fridays to be more convenient than midweek evenings.
What do you like about chess?
I like being completely absorbed in a game at the end of a week, and the adrenalin rush on the rare occasions I see a combination and execute it successfully.
What’s the best thing about being a member?
Playing in matches against other clubs.
Who is your chess hero?
Garry Kasparov.
What chess book have you found most helpful?
My System, by Aron Nimzowitsch.