Final Award in Quick Composing TT-162 | Окончательные итоги блицконкурса TT-162

Greek Novotny | Греческий Новотный

Theme | Тема

36 entries were received from 20 authors representing 8 countries | На конкурс поступило 36 композиций от 20 авторов из 8 стран

EN <-> RU

Instead of Preface | Вместо предисловия

I have received 36 problems in anonymous form from TT Director Aleksey Oganesjan. The tourney was a success – both in quantity and quality of problems! Authors’ fudge and imagination have pleased me.

I have proposed this theme for section #2 of 19th Russian Team Championship, but apparently its organizers did not see a perspective. And in vain! It turned out that “Greek Novotny” combines perfectly with many modern themes: for example, Banny, Erokhin, le Grand, Lender, Salazar, Rudenko, Urania and not to mention Rukhlis, reciprocal change, simple and random changed mates.

I admit that after learning of this award some participants may complain about an incompetence of arbitrator because he is not an expert of #2 genre. At the same time, my preferences and criteria of evaluation (at least in “neighboring” #3 genre) is well-known – from my many awards of recent years. Besides that, the series of my articles about different questions of theory of composition was published in the magazine “Problemist Ukrainy”. Here is the citation from the article “New Classification” (“Problemist Ukrainy”, 2012, No 1):
The principle of equality of phases means all formal requirements (legality, solvability and unique solution) apply to all phases equally. Nevertheless, equality of phases does not mean an equivalence of phases because virtual phases (set play, tries) always have occupied and will occupy a subordinate position with respect to a real solution. The principle of expression of design obliges an author to line up a main play and a story in the way that a denouement would be demonstrated in a solution directly, otherwise harmony is broken!

I recall you this citation because I noted that sometimes a play in tries is more interesting and rich than in the solution. In #2 genre it is not made to point out the mates on moves that do not defends from all threats. In this award a doubling of mates by Novotny is no more than technical method. In this theme a main loading is in thematic “Greek” mate that coincides with a first move of try. So, I pay more attention to thematic mates and to related play. Salazar theme with “criss-crossed” performing is a first thing that comes to mind. Realization of Grimshaw interference of full value is undoubted merit (it “forestalls” a theme), but initially prepared try or variations of solution is a drawback.
In my experiences, now in #2 genre the emphasis is on harmony of phases and logic. Also following problems look good and are highly valued: problems with choice of key or with mates by moves of the same piece, with key-correction, threat-correction, dual-avoidance, “resuscitation” old themes and its syntheses, with new variations in a solution and etc. In any case I think that it will be interesting to learn a look at our creation from… the specialist of “neighboring” genre.

I have not included following problems in the award for different reasons:
- No 1А (wKg8/wRc5-bKd3) – the version of No 1В, that marked ny 1st Prize;
- No 8 (Kd8-Kd6) – in thematic phase 1.Sd4? (on intersection point of bR and bB): apart from 2.Raxd5#, parasitic 2.Sf7# (without interference) threatens too. But, according the conditions of the theme, mates would be with interferences of thematic black pieces. Such “twoness” is incompatible with the theme. In another (non-thematic) tourney an evaluation of this “dual” may be another;
- No 11 (Ke6-Kf4) – in thematic phase 1.c5? there is a dual on very important defense: 1...e3 2.Qb4/Qc4#. According a principle of principle of equality of phases, such dual is regarded as a significant (meaningful);
- No 14 (Ka8-Ke6), No 24 (Kf8-Kd7), No 34 (Ka7-Kc3) – these problems are not marked, but the theme is formally performed. The fact is that thematic “Greek” mates with capture of black piece lose the most important thing – a paradoxicalness that is sizable losses! But I am sure that these problems will be successful in another tourneys;
- No 22 (Kh7-Kf4) – weak loading of white pieces and refutation of the thematic try by capture of moving white piece;
- No 23 (Ka1-Kd6) – in thematic phase 1.Rf6? there is third parasitic threat 2.Bxe5#, apart from two thematic threats;
- No 25 (Ka6-Kc4) – the only thematic phase starts with a check – 1.Rb4?;
- No 10 (Ke7-Kf4), No 12 (Kc8-Kd3), No 21 (Ka2-Kc5), No 26 (Ke2-Ke4), No 31 (Ka4 Kc5) – single schematic performing of the theme. These problems are good, but its inferior to marked problems on the scale and complexity.

In view of big quantity of quality problems (a level of the tourney is very high) and in coordination with TT Director, I have decided to extend a prize “line” of distinctions.
Total I have marked 23 problems: Prizes – 9, Honorable mentions – 7, Commendations – 7.

As expected, I have received some notes for provisional award, including notes from experts of #2. All notes are considered. In some cases the arbitrator corrected comments to problems. But in some cases the arbitrator change ranks of some problems. And it is normal because it increases a purity of the award. Ranks of No 3, 9, 30 are downgraded; ranks of No 17, 28, 29, 36 are upgraded. Besides that, I add No 35 which was skipped by due to inadvertence. I apologize to the author for this… April Fool's joke.

I want to add a something else. Participants of the tourney showed three forms of doubling of the theme: two phase criss-cross (No 17, 18, 19, 27, 28, 29, 36), three-phase parallel (No 4, 13) and four-phase successive (No 1B, 35). In principle, all forms are equivalent. But it is important for me (as a #3 expert) to see maximal quantity of “Greek” mates in an actual solution (No 4, 13).

Award is the following | Отличия распределились следующим образом

1 Prize (as equal), 1-3 Place - No 13
Evgeni Bourd & Arieh Grinblat
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
1Q1R3B/4p3/p1KNPNp1/2Rpp3/2Pk1P2/p7/2PP2b1/3nr3
#2(12+10)
1 Prize (as equal), 1-3 Place - No 18
Vasil Markovcij
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
1br1r2q/7p/2B2P2/3N4/3PP2Q/2P2k1P/3K4/4n1R1
#2(10+7)
1 Prize (as equal), 1-3 Place - No 1B
Evgeny Permyakov
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
6K1/3p1Nbp/b2Q3r/2PN1B2/pP1BPP2/1PPk4/3p1R2/1nR1r3
#2(14+10)

1st Prize (as equal), 1st-3rd Place - No 13, Evgeni Bourd & Arieh Grinblat (Israel) 1Q1R3B/4p3/p1KNPNp1/2Rpp3/2Pk1P2/p7/2PP2b1/3nr3

1.Sde4? (X) – 2.Qxe5# (A), 2.Rdxd5# (B), 1...Bxe4 2.Qxe5# (A), 1...Rxe4 2.Rdxd5# (B), 1...exf6!
1.Sfe4? (Y) – 2.Bxe5#, 2.Rcxd5# (D), 1...Bxe4 2.Bxe5# (C), 1...Rxe4 2.Rxd5# (D), 1...exd6!
1.Qb4! – 2.cxd5#, 1...dxc4+ 2.Sde4# (X), 1...exf4 2.Sfe4# (Y), 1...a5 2.Sb5#, 1...Bf1 2.Rxd5#, 1...Se3/Sb2 2.Qc3#
Two tries with Novotny theme and solution with thematic “Greek” mates (2.Sde4#! и 2.Sfe4#!). It is a parallel doubling of the theme! It is important that a denouement of a story are namely in the solution. Also the author adds additional play and simple change-mates on captures by Novotny. But there are shortcomings too – symmetrical refutations; a large part of the play is ready initially… But there is a main thing – thematic power in performing of the theme. I am an active supporter of task designs in all genres.
EN <-> RU

1st Prize (as equal), 1st-3rd Place - No 18, Vasil Markovcij (Ukraine) 1br1r2q/7p/2B2P2/3N4/3PP2Q/2P2k1P/3K4/4n1R1

*1...Sg2 (x) 2.Rf1# (X)
1.Se3? – 2.Rf1# (X), 1...Bg3 2.Qxg3# (C), 1...Sd3!
1.Sc7? (A) – 2.e5# (B), 2.Qg3# (C), 1...Bxc7 2.e5# (B), 1...Rxc7 2.Qg3# (C), 1...Qg8!
1.e5? (B) – 2.Sc7# (A), 2.Qf4# (D), 1...Bxe5 2.Sc7# (A), 1...Rxe5 2.Qf4# (D), 1...Qxf6!
1.Qg5! – 2.Qe3#, 1...Kxe4 2.Sc7# (A), 1...Bf4+ 2.Qxf4# (D), 1...Sg2 (x) 2.Qxg2#, 1...Rxe4 2.Rf1# (X)
Urania and change-play by Rukhlis (author).
The solution with reciprocal change of key and one threat by Novotny is very well fit into the storyline. And the key is excellent, with giving two (!) flights! It is interesting that Urania theme became a part of main theme. The logic of play can be seen. Powerful and modern problem!
EN <-> RU

1st Prize (as equal), 1st-3rd Place - No 1B, Evgeny Permyakov (Russia) 6K1/3p1Nbp/b2Q3r/2PN1B2/pP1BPP2/1PPk4/3p1R2/1nR1r3

1.Be3? – 2.e5# (A), 1...Rxe3 (a) 2.Sf6# (C), 1...Rf6 2.Se5#, 1...Rh5 2.Qxa6#, 1...Sxc3 (b) 2.Rxd2 (D)#, 1...axb3!
1.Sf6? (C) – 2.Se5#, 2.Qxa6#, 1...Rxf6 2.Se5#, 1...Bxf6 2.Qxa6#, 1...Rxc1 2.e5# (A), 1...Bc4!
In two phases the key is also related with interference of black pieces (author) | В первых двух фазах вступительный ход также связан с перекрытием линии действия черной фигуры (автор)

1.Se3? – 2.e5# (A), 1...Rxe3 (a) 2.Bf6# (B), 1...Rf6 2.Se5#, 1...Rh5 2.Qxa6#, 1...Bb7!
1.Bf6! (B) – 2.Se5#, 2.Qxa6#, 1...Rxf6 2.Se5#, 1...Bxf6 2.Qxa6#, 1...Rxc1 2.e5# (A), 1...Sxc3 (b) 2.Rxc3# (E)
Pseudo-Erokhin and pseudo le Grand (twice), change of mates and defences (author).
It is the most widescale design: 4 phases of full value with developed play! Different types of change-mates and change-functions of moves are synthesized. The idea with pairwise play on e3 and f6 and the mechanism of realization look powerful and harmonic.
EN <-> RU
2nd Prize (as equal) - No 4
Mark Basisty
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
8/2rP4/q1r2PN1/1P1kB1PK/3PN1B1/b1PP3Q/3P1nnp/8
#2(14+8)
2nd Prize (as equal) - No 27
Valery Shanshin
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
1R5B/2p1n3/4r1b1/R5r1/pPkN2N1/8/2BPP3/K6Q
#2(11+7)
2nd Prize (as equal) - No 35
Marjan Kovačević
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
5rb1/6Np/B6Q/3p2N1/3p1RP1/2P1k1P1/K4b2/n3BRr1
#2(11+9)

2nd Prize (as equal) - No 4, Mark Basisty (Ukraine) 8/2rP4/q1r2PN1/1P1kB1PK/3PN1B1/b1PP3Q/3P1nnp/8

1.Sd6? (A) – 2.Se7#, 2.Be6#, 1...Bxd6 2.Be6#, 1...Rxd6 2.Se7#, 1...Sf4+ 2.Sxf4#, 1...Sxg4! (a)
1.Sc5? (B) – 2.Se7#, 2.c4#, 1...Bxc5 2.c4#, 1...Rxc5 2.Se7#, 1...Sf4+ 2.Sxf4#, 1...Sxd3! (b)
1.Bf3! – 2.Sxf2#, 1...Sg4 (a)/Sxh3 2.Sc5# (B), 1...Sxd3 (b) 2.Sd6# (A), 1...Rxf6 2.Sxf6#, 1...Sxe4 2.Bxe4#, 1...Sf4+/Sh4/Se1 2.S(x)f4#
Banny theme + doubling of the theme of the tourney (author)
It is another problem with the doubling of the theme. Legality is on the limit. There is a repetition of the mate on thematic captures (2.Se7#). But refutations of tries (1.Sd6? Sxg4! and 1.Sc5? Sxd3!) become defenses on which “Greek” mates are performed by Banny (1...Sxg4 2.Sc5# and 1...Sd3 2.Sd6#). It is great! It is also pleasant that almost all mates in the solution are new.
EN <-> RU

2nd Prize (as equal) - No 27, Valery Shanshin (Russia) 1R5B/2p1n3/4r1b1/R5r1/pPkN2N1/8/2BPP3/K6Q

1.Qe4? (A) – 2.Bd3#, 2.Se3#, 1...Rxe4 2.Bd3#, 1...Bxe4 2.Se3#, 1...Rb6 (a) 2.Sf5# (B), 1...Rb5!
1.Sf5! (B) – 2.d3#, 2.Rc5#, 1...Rxf5 2.d3#, 1...Bxf5 2.Rc5#, 1...Rb6 (a) 2.Qe4# (A) (1...Re5 2.Sxe5#)
Reversal-I (AB – BA). Twofold interference of Novotny (author).
Twofold realization of the theme with random change-mates on thematic captures by Novotny (onwards, not all authors managed to do it). Change-functions of keys and mating moves on 1...Rb6 increase a harmony. Reversal-I is the same as the Salazar – it’s a criss-crossed performing of the theme. It is noteworthy that the author managed to do it without half-battery.
EN <-> RU

2nd Prize (as equal) - No 35, Marjan Kovačević (Serbia) 5rb1/6Np/B6Q/3p2N1/3p1RP1/2P1k1P1/K4b2/n3BRr1

1.Rf7? – 2.Sf5#, 2.Qe6#, 1...Rxf7 2.Qe6#, 1...Bxf7 2.Sf5#, 1...Bxe1!
1.Rxd4? – 2.Bd2#, 1...Bxe1 2.Sf7#, 1...Sb3!
1.Se4? – 2.Bxf2#, 2.Bd2#, 1...dxe4+ 2.Rf7#, 1...Bxe1 2.Rff3#, 1...Rxf4 2.Qxf4#, 1...d3!
1.Sf7! – 2.Sf5#, 2.Qe6#, 1...Bxe1 2.Rxd4#, 1...Rxf7 2.Qe6#, 1...Bxf7 2.Sf5#
Another problem with 4 (!) thematic phases and twofold successive implementation of the theme. The problem is comparable to No 1B (1st Prize), but not all phases are equivalent – that is why a rank of distinction is lower. By the way, the problem is very difficult for solvers. The especially nice thing is “Greek” mate in the try 1.Se4? dxe4+ 2.Rf7#!
EN <-> RU
3rd Prize (as equal) - No 19
Dragan Stojnić
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
4Bn2/5b2/1p5r/2k1PNR1/2P3R1/2P4r/1K1QP3/4Nqb1
#2(11+8)
3rd Prize (as equal) - No 29
Valery Shanshin
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
b7/r7/pP1R4/R1N1B2k/p1B1P2P/r5pK/6Q1/2n1b3
#2(10+9)
4th Prize - No 3
Pavel Murashev
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
3N2B1/K1R5/3B4/pkp3r1/ppN2P2/P2Rp1pq/8/n4Q1b
#2(10+11)

3rd Prize (as equal) - No 19, Dragan Stojnić (Serbia) 4Bn2/5b2/1p5r/2k1PNR1/2P3R1/2P4r/1K1QP3/4Nqb1

1.Se3? (A) – 2.Qd4# (B), 2.Sd3# (C), 1...Qxe2 2.e6# (D), 1...Bxe8 2.Qd5# (E), 1...Rd6 2.Qxd6# (F), 1...Sd7!
1.e6! (D) – 2.Qd5# (E), 2.Qd6# (F), 1...Qxe2 2.Se3# (A), 1...Bd4 2.Qxd4# (B), 1...Rd3 2.Sxd3# (C) (1...Qxf5 2.Rxf5#)
Pseudo Lender connected with Odessa theme. Probably first time presented!? (author)
It is the only problem where “Greek Novotny” combines with Odessa theme. Mates with captures are slightly rough, but thematic synthesis is great!
I remind you that Odessa is “a pearl near the sea”, and it is the theme in chess composition – reciprocal change of mating pairs (mates-threats and mates on defenses from these threats).
Additionally: April, 1 (April Fools' Day) is official city holiday, together with April, 10 (Day of liberation of Odessa) and September, 2 (Day of the city). Why I say about Odessa?! The fact is the idea “Greek Novotny” has appeared namely in Odessa (it will be describe more detail in Afterword).
EN <-> RU

3rd Prize (as equal) - No 29, Valery Shanshin (Russia) b7/r7/pP1R4/R1N1B2k/p1B1P2P/r5pK/6Q1/2n1b3

1.Bc3? (A) – 2.Sb7# (B), 2.Qf3# (C), 1...Rxc3 2.Sb7#, 1...Bxc3 2.Qf3#, 1...Rf7 2.Bxf7# (D), 1...Bxe4 2.Sxe4#, 1...Rg7!
1.Sb7! (B) – 2.Bc3# (A), 2.Bf7# (D), 1...Rxb7 2.Bc3#, 1...Bxb7 2.Bf7#, 1...Rf3 2.Qxf3# (C)
Reversal-II (AB – BA). Twofold Novotny interference. Pseudo le Grand (CD – DC) (author)
Upon closer inspection I saw that the problem is comparable with previous No 19 in complexity and functional “saturation”. The fact is that Novotny threats from one phase split in another phase with transformation in a key and in a mate on a defense. It is great!
EN <-> RU

4th Prize - No 3, Pavel Murashev (Russia) 3N2B1/K1R5/3B4/pkp3r1/ppN2P2/P2Rp1pq/8/n4Q1b

1.Rd5? (A) – 2.Rb7# (X), 2.Rcxc5# (Y), 1...Rxd5 2.Rb7#, 1...Bxd5 2.Rcxc5#, 1...Rg7 2.Rdxc5#, 1...Qd7 2.Sxe3# (B), 1...Qh7!
1.Sb2? – 2.Bc4#, 1...Rd5 2.Rb7# (X), 1...Bd5 2.Rcxc5# (Y), 1...Qe6!
1.Sxe3! (B) – 2.Bc4#, 1...bxa3 2.Rb3#, 1...Qe6 2.Rd5# (A), 1...Rd5 2.Rb7# (X), 1...Bd5 2.Rxc5# (Y) (1...Rxg8 2.Rxc5#)
Half-battery, Novotny, Rudenko, Grimshaw, pseudo Salazar. In the solution there are two mates by Grimshaw – by first Rook, battery mates (including thematic mate with a play on the square of Black defences) – by second Rook. (author)
The theme of the tourney is realized once, but it is very spectacular, with rich play of sides! The content is enriched by tactics: Novotny, Grimshaw, interferences, pins. The “Greek” mate 2.Rd5# is especially nice! Also I liked beautiful defenses and refutations.
The rank of the problem is downgraded with considering of notes, but nevertheless the problem remains a Prize.
EN <-> RU
1st Honorable mention - No 20
Yury Gorbatenko
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
3Rn3/5P2/n2Nprb1/4k2N/K1Q2pP1/pp3P2/4r3/q7
#2(8+11)
2nd Honorable mention - No 15
Vasil Markovcij
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
3b2r1/Q1pP3b/nNk1P3/1p1R3P/2p2B2/8/6R1/2K4B
#2(10+8)
3rd Honorable mention - No 5
A. Vasilenko & M. Basisty
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
1n4R1/2B1R3/p2KB2p/2pP1N1p/r3pk1P/2N4q/3PQ3/6b1
#2(11+10)

1st Honorable mention - No 20, Yury Gorbatenko (Russia) 3Rn3/5P2/n2Nprb1/4k2N/K1Q2pP1/pp3P2/4r3/q7

1.Sf5? – 2.Qxe2#, 2.Qxf4#, 1...Rxf5 2.Qxe2#, 1...Bxf5 2.Qxf4#, 1...Sc5+ 2.Qxc5#, 1...Re4 2.Qxe4#, 1...Qc1/Qd4 2.Q(x)d4#, 1...Sd6!
1.Qc7!! – 2.Sc4#, 1...Kd4 2.Sf5#, 1...Kd5 2.Sxe8#, 1...Sxd6 2.Qxd6#, 1...Sc5+ 2.Qxc5#
The theme is realized once, but... the Key delighted me! Tries and solution is also interesting, including subtle refutation of the try (come-and-go). There is even a “melody” of caprice: after 1…Sd6! Black shut-off a square “d5” and in the solution White themselves take off a guard “d5”.
EN <-> RU

2nd Honorable mention - No 15, Vasil Markovcij (Ukraine) 3b2r1/Q1pP3b/nNk1P3/1p1R3P/2p2B2/8/6R1/2K4B

*1...cxb6 2.Qa8# (B)
1.Rg6? (A) – 2.Rdg5#, 2.Rf5#, 1...Rxg6 2.Rdg5#, 1...Bxg6 2.Rf5#, 1...Sc5 (x) 2.Rd6# (X), 1...Sb4!
1.Sc8! – 2.Qa8# (B), 1...Kxd5 2.Rg6# (A), 1...Sc5 (x) 2.Rxc5# (Y)
Nice realization of the theme with all attributes of popular problem: slightly light construction, excellent key, wide play. The quantity of play is not big, but the theme is shown very “vividly”. The mate 2.Rg6# is especially beautiful – it is with interference of both thematic black pieces (Rg8-Bh7), and it underlines orthogonal-diagonal properties of Novotny theme. This problem fascinated me at first sight!
EN <-> RU

3rd Honorable mention - No 5, Anatoly Vasilenko & Mark Basisty (Ukraine) 1n4R1/2B1R3/p2KB2p/2pP1N1p/r3pk1P/2N4q/3PQ3/6b1

1.Sd4? (A) – 2.Kxc5#, 2.Qxe4#, 1...Qxc3 (a) 2.Rf7# (B), 1...Qxe6+ (x) 2.Kxe6# (1...Bxd4 2.Qxe4#, 1...Rxd4 2.Kxc5#), 1...Qf5!
1.Qxh5? – 2.Se2#, 1...Qxc3 (a) /Qf1/Qg4/Qh2/Qxc3/Qd3/Qe3 2.Qg4#, 1...Qf3 (y) 2.Qxh6# (1...e3 2.Kxc5#), 1...Qg2!
1.Rf7! (B) – 2.Ke7#, 1...Qxc3 (a) 2.Sd4# (A), 1...Qxh4 (z) 2.Sxh4# (1...Sd7 2.Kxd7#, 1...Sc6 2.Kxc6#, 1...Bd4 2.Qxe4#)
Thematic move is a part of Salazar theme. 3-phase change-play on moves of bK (one variation is with simple change-play and another – with random). Homogeneous keys in 2nd and 3rd phase are with unblocking squares for mating pieces (author).
There is non-thematic phase 1.Qxh5? with additional change-play on 1...Qxc3 2.Qg4#. In the solution there is a duel bQ-wS. Threefold black “come-and-go” (1…Qf5!) and twofold white “come-and-go” (1.Qxh5? – 2.Se2# and 1.Rf7! – 2.Ke7#). And, besides that, king battery mates is not trivially. But it would be better to show non-thematic phase 1.Qxh5? after solution.
EN <-> RU
4th Honorable mention - No 2
Evgeny Permyakov
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
4Q2q/1p3p1p/6b1/1p4r1/1P1N1P2/R1Pk3r/3NR1PP/3K4
#2(11+9)
5th Hon. Mention (as equal) - No 17
Vasil Markovcij
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
2b4K/b7/5N2/r7/1RP2P1k/2p1B2p/1r2Q2P/q7
#2(8+8)
5th Hon. Mention (as equal) - No 36
Valery Shanshin
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
2b1RK2/1npk1pP1/2p1N1r1/2P2P2/7b/7B/4Q3/8
#2(8+8)

4th Honorable mention - No 2, Evgeny Permyakov (Russia) 4Q2q/1p3p1p/6b1/1p4r1/1P1N1P2/R1Pk3r/3NR1PP/3K4

1.Sf5 (A)? – 2.Qe4#, 2.Qxb5#, 1...Bxf5 2.Qxb5#, 1...Rxf5 2.Qe4#, 1...Qxe8 2.c4# (B), 1...Qd4 2.cxd4#, 1...Qe5!
1.Qd7! – 2.c4# (B), 1...Qa8 2.Sf5# (A), 1...Rd5 2.Qxh3#
TT-162 theme + pseudo Erokhin (1.А? 1...x 2.B#; 1.! ~ 2.B#, 1...y 2.A#) (author).
“Acute” and tactically rich battle with wide play of Queens. The battery on 3rd line is a good idea. Pity that the key is with leaving out from a blow.
EN <-> RU

5th Honorable mention (as equal) - No 17, Vasil Markovcij (Ukraine) 2b4K/b7/5N2/r7/1RP2P1k/2p1B2p/1r2Q2P/q7

1.f5? (A) – 2.Qg4#, 2.Qh5#, 1...Rxf5 2.Qg4#, 1...Bxf5 2.Qh5#, 1...Rxe2 (a) 2.c5# (B), 1...Qd1!
1.c5! (B) – 2.Bf2#, 2.Qh5#, 1...Rxc5 2.Bf2#, 1...Bxc5 2.Qh5#, 1...Rxe2 (a) 2.f5# (A)
Twofold realization of the theme + Salazar (author)
Pure realization of twofold performing of the theme via white half-battery and reciprocal change “key-mate” (Reversal-I and Salazar). There is a repeated mate 2.Qh5# on thematic captures.
EN <-> RU

5th Honorable mention (as equal) - No 36, Valery Shanshin (Russia) 2b1RK2/1npk1pP1/2p1N1r1/2P2P2/7b/7B/4Q3/8

1.Sg5? (A) – 2.f6# (B), 2.Qe7#, 1...Bxg5 2.f6#, 1...Rxg5 2.Qe7#, 1...Re6!
1.f6! (B) – 2.Sg5 (A), 2.Re7#, 1...Bxf6 2.Sg5#, 1...Rxf6 2.Re7# (1...Sxc5 2.Rd8#)
Reversal-II (AB – BA). Twofold Novotny interference. (author)
Here is also a pure realization of twofold performing of the theme via white half-battery and reciprocal change “key-threat”. Change-mates on thematic captures by Novotny is pleasant.
EN <-> RU
Special Honorable mention - No 28
Valery Shanshin
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
3b4/3B1p2/6r1/4QP2/R5P1/2r4k/2P2B2/5K2
#2(8+5)
1st Commendation - No 16
Vasil Markovcij
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
1B1r4/b4R2/8/1N2P1n1/2P1k2P/R3pN1n/3P2P1/1K5Q
#2(12+6)
2nd Commendation - No 33
Rodolfo Riva
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
4b2K/2pQ2n1/1b2Bp2/r3kPNp/n3N2p/1pP2RP1/8/1q2B3
#2(10+12)

Special Honorable mention - No 28, Valery Shanshin (Russia) 3b4/3B1p2/6r1/4QP2/R5P1/2r4k/2P2B2/5K2

1.f6? (A) – 2.g5# (B), 2.Qh5#, 1...Bxf6 2.g5#, 1...Rxf6 2.Qh5#, 1...Rg5!
1.g5! (B) – 2.f6# (A), 2.Rh4#, 1...Bxg5 2.f6#, 1...Rxg5 2.Rh4# (1...Rc4 2.Qg3#)
Reversal-II (AB – BA). Twofold Novotny interference (author)
And here again we see twofold realization of the theme via white half-battery, but with reciprocal change “key-threat”. Thematic mates (as in previous problem) include in one of Novotny threat – it simplifies a combination. Also there is choice of play and random change-play on Novotny captures.
It is slightly schematic, but with maximal economy of material! I give a special HM for the most easy realization of the theme (Moscow material – 13-15 pieces)
EN <-> RU

1st Commendation - No 16, Vasil Markovcij (Ukraine) 1B1r4/b4R2/8/1N2P1n1/2P1k2P/R3pN1n/3P2P1/1K5Q

*1...Sxf3 (x) 2.gxf3#
1.Sfd4? (A) – 2.d3# (C), 2.Rxe3# (D), 1...Rxd4 2.d3# (C), 1...Bxd4 2.Rxe3# (D), 1...Sxf7 (a) 2.g3(B)#, 1...exd2!
1.g3! (B) – 2.Sxg5#, 1...Sxf7 (a) 2.Sfd4 (A)#, 1...Rxb8 2.d3# (C) (Sd6#??), 1...Bxb8 2.Rxe3# (D), 1...Rd6 2.Sxd6#, 1...Sxf3 (x) 2.Qxf3#
The TT-162 theme and Salazar theme with change of defenses and mates (author).
The author’s commentary is an exhaustive.
EN <-> RU

2nd Commendation - No 33, Rodolfo Riva (Italy) 4b2K/2pQ2n1/1b2Bp2/r3kPNp/n3N2p/1pP2RP1/8/1q2B3

1.Sc5? (A) – 2.Qd5#, 2.Qd4#, 1...Rxc5 2.Qd4#, 1...Bxc5 2.Qd5#, 1...Qd1 (a) 2.Re3# (B), 1...Qd3 2.Sxd3#, 1...Sxe6 2.Qxe6#, 1...Bxd7 2.Sxf7#, 1...Sxc3 2.Bxc3#, 1...Qe4!
1.Re3! (B) – 2.Sf3#, 1...Qd1 (a) 2.Sc5# (A), 1...Sxe6 2.Qxe6#, 1...Bxe3 2.Qxc7#, 1...fxg5 2.Qxg7#, 1...hxg3 2.Bxg3#
Salazar theme. In the try the task of 5 full defenses against the Novotny threats. (author)
In the try we see 5 (!) full defenses against the Novotny threats – it is not often meet!
But pity that there are many captures. This can be avoided so (pointed out by V. Shanshin):
EN <-> RU
2nd Commendation - No 33
Rodolfo Riva (version Valery Shanshin)
TT-162, SuperProblem, 16-04-2016
b7/8/1KpN4/2R2R2/1pPkN2p/1Q6/2P2P2/2br3q
#2(9+8)
3rd Commendation - No 7
Anatoly Vasilenko
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
n7/1B1P4/2KR2PQ/1pB1N3/3Pk1P1/b4r2/2P1b2q/3N4
#2(12+7)
4th Commendation (as equal) - No 30
Ingemar Lind
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
rk3B2/p1p2p2/B5r1/N7/7p/p1Q3bK/1rR5/8
#2(6+10)

2nd Commendation - No 33, Rodolfo Riva (Italy) (version Valery Shanshin)b7/8/1KpN4/2R2R2/1pPkN2p/1Q6/2P2P2/2br3q

1.Sd2? (A) – 2.Qd3#, 2.Qe3#, 1...Qh3 2.Rf4# (B), 1...Qf3 2.Sxf3#, 1...Qe4!
1.Rf4! (B) – 2.Sf5#, 1...Qh3 2.Sd2#! (A), 1...Bxf4 2.Qb2#, 1...Qxe4 2.Rxe4#

3rd Commendation - No 7, Anatoly Vasilenko (Ukraine) n7/1B1P4/2KR2PQ/1pB1N3/3Pk1P1/b4r2/2P1b2q/3N4

1.Re6? – 2.Kd6# (A), 1...Qxh6 (x) 2.Sd3# (B), 1...Qxe5 2.Rxe5#, 1...Sc7 2.Kxc7#, 1...Sb6 2.Kxb6#, 1...Bxc5 2.Kxc5#, 1...Bc4!
1.Sd3! – 2.Kxb5#, 2.Sc3#, 1...Qxd6+ (y) 2.Kxd6# (A), 1...Rf5 2.Qe3#, 1...Rxd3 2.Kxb5#, 1...Bxd3 2.Sc3#
wK cross, pseudo Erokhin. (author)
The problem looks like No 5 (3rd HM), but Novotny intersection points is different. Here there is a wK cross additionally.
EN <-> RU

4th Commendation (as equal) - No 30, Ingemar Lind (Sweden) rk3B2/p1p2p2/B5r1/N7/7p/p1Q3bK/1rR5/8

1.Bd6? – 2.Sc6#, 2.Qxc7#, 1...Bxd6 2.Sc6#, 1...Rxd6 2.Qxc7#, 1...Rb7!
1.Qd4? – 2.Qd8#, 1...Bd6 2.Sc6#, 1...Rd6!
1.Qc6? – 2.Qe8#, 1...Rxc6 2.Sxc6#, 1...Rd6 2.Qxc7#, 1...Re6!
1.Qh8! – 2.Bg7#, 1...c5/c6 2.Bd6#, 1...Rd6 2.Bxd6#, 1...Re6 2.Be7#, 1...Bd6/Rg8 2.Sc6#, 1...Rh6 2.Bxh6#
Interesting interpretation of the theme with “full-dress” play in the solution. The form is especially good – without White pawns! It is pity that thematic “Greek” mate 2.Bd6# is on different defenses – that is why the main idea becomes less paradoxical.
EN <-> RU
4th Commendation (as equal) - No 6
Anatoly Vasilenko
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
4r2b/1p3B2/p1NN4/Bp6/1P1p2QR/2k4r/4P3/2K4n
#2(9+9)
5th Commendation - No 9
Ralf Krätschmer
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
3r4/1nQ1R1p1/3p2p1/3R4/1r3k2/7P/1b1PK2P/1B6
#2(8+8)
Special Commendation - No 32
Aleksandr Kostyukov
TT-162, SuperProblem, 05-04-2016
8/1qpN4/b1n1ppQ1/6pK/r4k2/r3p1Np/2PR1PP1/b1BB4
#2(10+13)

4th Commendation (as equal) - No 6, Anatoly Vasilenko (Ukraine) 4r2b/1p3B2/p1NN4/Bp6/1P1p2QR/2k4r/4P3/2K4n

1.Qe4? – 2.Qc2#, 1...Rd3 2.Qxd3#, 1...Rxe4 2.Sxe4#, 1...d3!
1.Qf5? – 2.Qc2#, 2.Qc5#, 1...d3 2.Qc5#, 1...Re5/Re6 2.Qc2#, 1...Rxe2! (a)
1.Se5? (A) – 2.Se4#, 2.Qxd4#, 1...Bxe5 2.Se4#, 1...Rxe5 2.Qxd4#, 1...Re6! (b)
1.Qc8! – 2.Sd8#, 1...Rxe2 (a) 2.Se5# (A), 1...Re6 (b) 2.Sxd4#, 1...Re7 2.Sxe7#, 1...Rxc8 2.Se4#, 1...bxc6 2.Qxc6#
The design is similar to No 30 (4th Comm.). Here the key is with Queen sacrifice. There is a similar shortcoming: thematic mate 2.Se5# is also on 1...Re5.
EN <-> RU

5th Commendation - No 9, Ralf Krätschmer (Germany) 3r4/1nQ1R1p1/3p2p1/3R4/1r3k2/7P/1b1PK2P/1B6

1.d4? – 2.Rf7#, 2.Re4#, 1...Bxd4 2.Re4#, 1...Rxd4 2.Rf7#, 1...Re8!
1.Qb6? – 2.Qe3#, 2.Qf2#, 1...Bd4 2.Re4#, 1...Rd4 2.Rf7#, 1...Sc5!
1.Qc1! – 2.Qf1#, 1...Re4+/Rb3/Bd4 2.R(x)e4#, 1...Bxc1 2.Rf7#, 1...Be5 2.d4#
By the author’s design, White Queen twice plays into a blow of black thematic pieces (1.Qb6? and 1.Qc1!) with realization of a Grimshaw interference. But there is a drawback too: all play (except thematic mate 2.d4#) is ready initially. Nevertheless key, defense and thematic mate are very good.
I have received the claim: the try 1.Qb6? is without validity in view of dual threat 2.Qe3, 2.Qf2#. The principle of equality of phases is broken! The claim is reasonable, and initial dictinction of the problem is downgraded.
EN <-> RU

Special Commendation - No 32, Aleksandr Kostyukov (Russia) 8/1qpN4/b1n1ppQ1/6pK/r4k2/r3p1Np/2PR1PP1/b1BB4

*1...Be2+ 2.Se2#
1.Rd4+? (A) 1...Rxd4 2.Qxf6#, 1...Bxd4 2.Qe4#, 1...Sxd4!
1.Kh6? – 2.Sh5#, 1...e2 2.Rd4#! (A), 1...exf2 2.Rd3#! (B), 1...f5 2.Qxg5#, 1...Be2!
1.Rd3! (B) – 2.Se2#/Bxe3#, 1...Rxd3 2.Se2#, 1...Bxd3 2.Bxe3#
1.c4? – 2.Qe4#/Se2#, 1...Bxc4 2.Qe4#, 1...Rxc4 2.Se2#, 1...f5 2.Qxg5#, 1...Sd4!
Twofold realization of the theme. (author)
This design is similar in scope to No 13 and No 4 (1st and 2nd Prizes), but here thematic “Greek” mates (2.Rd3# and 2.Rd4#) are in the solution. The phase 1.Rd4+? Sxd4! starts with a check and refutes with a capture of this wR – it suggests a complexity of a realization. Check for additional change of move functions is acceptably. But refutation with capture 1…Sxd4 seems a bit steep.
There is every reason not to consider this phase as thematic (1.Rd4+ does not create Novotny threats). But here is at least single realization of the theme. But author was unable to do the most interesting and rich phase 1.Kh6! as solution – and it is very pity.
EN <-> RU

Instead of Afterword | Вместо послесловия

EN <-> RU

- About the name of the tourney: why namely «Greek» Novotny?
The fact is that in 2011 and 2012 the arbitrator was in wonderful city – Odessa. There the remarkable man and composer Yury Gordian lives in Greek Street, 14. I still have fond memories of the communication during home (and more!) gatherings and strolls the city (proofs are on the photos - here and here). During one of these strolls the idea appears: mate on square which in another variation (phase) there is Novotny interference. And Greek street and warmth communication prompted the name for this combination. Ah, Odessa...

- And another question: is the TT-162 new?
Only the name of the theme “Greek Novotny” is new. The idea itself was earlier – as all another “new” themes too. Shining example is the problem of Kovacevic – yacpdb/348510. If composers will like this idea than the name for it is ready – “Greek Novotny”...


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Sections | Разделы

#2 (twomovers | двухходовки)

Participants | Участники

Barth B. – No 24
Basisty M. – No 4, 5*
Bourd E. – No 13*, 14*, 34*
Gorbatenko Y. – No 20
Grinblat A. – No 13*, 14*
Kostyukov A. – No 22, 32
Kovačević M. – No 35
Krätschmer R. – No 8, 9, 10, 11
Labai Z. – No 21
Lind I. – No 30, 31
Markovcij V. – No 15, 16, 17, 18
Müller D. – No 25, 26
Murashev P. – No 3
Navon E. – No 23, 34*
Permyakov E. – No 1A, 1B, 2
Pitton P. – No 12
Riva R. – No 33
Shanshin V. – No 27, 28, 29, 36
Stojnić D. – No 19
Vasilenko A. – No 5*, 6, 7

The Winners Are | Победители

Evgeni Bourd

Arieh Grinblat

Vasil Markovcij

Evgeny Permyakov

Congrats! | Поздравляем!

Judge | Арбитр

Igor Agapov

Director and editor
Директор и редактор

Aleksey Oganesjan
alexeioganesyan@gmail.com

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