International chess stars check in to Biel
Some of the world's top chess players are in Switzerland for the 33rd international festival in Biel. For the first time, their every move can be followed on the Internet.
This year’s competition is the strongest-ever for Switzerland, and is one of the world’s best tournaments.
More than 100 players, including 25 grand masters and 20 international masters, are taking part. The list includes the current world number 14, Peter Svidler of Russia, and the Israeli, Boris Gelfand, a former number three seed, who is currently ranked 15th in the world.
The list also includes the junior world champion, the 16-year-old Ukrainian, Alexander Galkin.
The competition, starting on Saturday, moves into top gear on Monday when the grand masters take to the tables.
Their every move will be followed for the first time on the Internet. The website of the world champion, Garry Kasparov, is broadcasting every move in the grand masters’ matches from 14.30 on Monday. Their moves will also be analysed by commentators.
The Internet coverage means the Biel competition will have a worldwide audience for the first time. The French-British television company, Canalweb, is also putting on the web an hour-long programme on the day’s events.
The organisers – the city of Biel and canton Berne – have a SFr680,000 budget for the tournament. Entry for spectators is free. More details, in three languages, can be found on the official website: www.schachfestival-biel.ch.
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