Elephant Chess Cup 5-Everything [Finals 6Dec 2am UTC]

[PotatoFarmers]

Elephant Chess Cup 5
hosted by Poafmersia

---

ECC4 | Signup Thread | Host Bid
Guide to Sports Roleplaying | Sports Roleplaying Questions Thread

Format:
The Elephant Chess Cup is a rapid chess event. Teams will be playing in teams of four (although you can also include one reserve player into your roster if you want to), on four separate boards. The player on board one will play the player on board one of the other team and so on, for four total matches in a matchup. The first listed team plays as White on the first and third boards; the second listed team plays as White on the second and fourth boards. For every win on a board, the team of the winning player gets one match point, half a point each for a draw. The team that gains more match points across four boards gets two game points for the team, and one each in the event of a draw. The time control for every match is 15+5, meaning that every player has 15 minutes to make all their moves and gains 5 additional seconds after making a move. For more information on the game of chess, here is the Wikipedia article on chess. Chess knowledge is absolutely not required for RPing this tournament, and RP grades are independent of the type of content for RPs.

ICly, the tournament will be held in a round-robin followed by a knockout stage format. The 24 participating teams are split into 4 pools of 6, with participants participating in a single round-robin format. The pool winners advance to the Quarterfinals, while the next 2 teams of each pool advance to the Round of Twelve.

Tiebreakers
In the pool stage, teams will be tie broken with the following tiebreakers:
1) Points (2 for a win, 1 for a draw)
2) Matchpoints (Raw score in every individual match)
3) Head-to-head points
4) Head-to-head matchpoints
5) Sonneborn-Berger Score (using Points)
6) Sonneborn-Berger Score (using Matchpoints)
7) Coin Flip (Scorinated game between tied teams)

In the knockout stages, should the result end in a 2-2 draw, additional matches will be scored. ICly, should the first fixture end in a tie, the entire team will repeat the fixture for a second time with exact same rules. Should a draw happen again, then individual players will do a 1v1, with the team listed first starting with white, and alternating after that, using blitz (3+2) rules until a winner is found.

Schedule:
The IC schedule is provided as follows:
Friday (Day 1) - Round 1-4 at 9.30am, 1pm, 3.30pm, and 7pm.
Saturday (Day 2) - Round 5 at 9.30am. Any play-off matches start immediately after Round 5 ends and may continue after lunch. Round-of-12 starts at 2pm; Quarterfinals at 7pm.
Sunday (Day 3) - Semifinals at 10am. Finals/3PPO at 3pm.

The OOC Schedule: (All times in UTC)
10th Nov: Release of Everything Thread
11th Nov: Finalisation of Pools
By 13th Nov: Finalisation of IC info
18th Nov: Round 1 (1v6, 2v5, 3v4)
20th Nov: Round 2 (6v4, 5v3, 1v2)
22nd Nov: Round 3 (2v6, 3v1, 4v5)
24th Nov: Round 4 (6v5, 1v4, 2v3)
26th Nov: Round 5 (3v6, 4v2, 5v1)
29th Nov: Round of 12 (Goldlocks 2 vs Michael 3, Cape 2 vs Kolamaki 3, Kolamaki 2 vs Cape 3, Micahel 2 vs Goldlocks 3)
1st Dec: Quarterfinals (Kolamaki 1 vs Goldlocks 2/Micahel 3, Michael 1 vs Cape2/Kolamaki 3, Goldlocks 1 vs Kolamaki 2/Cape 3, Cape 1 vs Michael 2/Goldlocks 3)
4th Dec: Semifinals
6th Dec: Finals/3PPO
Cutoffs will be between 12 noon and 1pm UTC (for Group Stage) between 2am and 3am UTC (for Knockouts).

(Note: When the Tea Cup begins, the cutoff for the Elephant Chess Cup may be delayed. It is guaranteed that the Tea Cup will cut off before the Elephant Chess Cup.)

Group Stage Pools:
Teams are split into 4 pools, which are named after the big 4 casinos in the city. The Goldlocks Casino; the Michael Casino; the Cape Casino; as well as the Kolamaki Casino.

Goldlocks
Cardenao
StrayaRoos
The Cordian Isles
Poafmersia
Greater Rostoria
Graintfjall

Michael
New South Yukon
Arjunnagar
Wolfstruppen
New Eestiball
Chartistan
West Barack and East Obama

Cape
Natanians and Nosts
TJUN-ia
Klakahollin
United Starsian Republics
Canadian Dominion
South Newlandia

Kolamaki
Lionsroar
Atheara
TeaFarmers
Waisnor
The Jovannic
Sannyamathland

RP Information:
(copied from Host bid)
Teams who successfully posted a roster will be given up to 1x max RP bonus depending on their roster quality/details. In addition, instead of a roster penalty, which cannot be done as we don't start with ranks, teams will also be given 1.5x max RP bonus as a base should they post their rosters before 1st cutoff to encourage teams to submit rosters. Should teams submit their rosters late, teams will be given a 1x max RP bonus instead once their rosters are in. This encourages you to post a roster before the first cutoff.

To assist in RPing, there will be additional prompts given in cutoff posts. These are prompts that can be related to anything, such as the weather, the day's headlines in Poafmersia, or anything under the sun. There is no penalty/bonus for following such prompts.

You may start posting rosters/RPs in this thread now! Apart from my IC info post, please do not reserve any posts/rosters, thank you.

For the newcomers to NS Sports, participating in a tournament in this forums for the first time, do have a read at the Guide to Sports Roleplaying, linked above! For more info on how to start a chess roster, I have linked some information in the spoiler below, explaining about RP permisions, style mods and all.

Before any tournament begins, it is common courtesy to post a roster. A roster may include: Background to your country; About the chess community in your country; Information about your players, and information about their character and style in playing chess; some of the special information others should know when roleplaying about the match between your team and their team.

In your roster post please include the ever useful RP permissions box to let your opponents know what you're okay with them doing in their post-match RPs. A common template is as follows:

RP PERMISSIONS
If my opponent roleplays first, they may:
Choose my starting lineup (if applicable): Y/N
Decide individual match results: Y/N (*We recommend a yes for easy RP purposes)
Godmod other events: Y/N

A typical roster would comprise of 4 players, and possibly 1 reserve. By convention, the first 4 players on the namelist are the regular starters, and should one player be subbed out for the reserve, the player list is moved up. Example: If Player 2 on the roster is subbed out, Player 3 plays in Player 2's position, Player 4 plays in Player 3's positions, and Player 5 plays in Player 4's position.

Edit Log:
12th Nov, 0600 UTC - Slight formatting adjustments; IC information delayed due to computer issues

[PotatoFarmers]

Elephant Chess Cup 5 @ Poafmersia - Host Information

Welcome to Poafmersia! The Ministry of Business and Trade (MBT), through the Poafmersian Tourism Board (PTB), has published various guides to Poafmersia, giving visitors from around the multiverse some information about the Poafmersian culture, heritage, and a guide to the various states and major cities in Poafmersia. The guides are often never exhaustive, and depending on the group of visitors and their purposes, PTB often customise these guides to allow them to be more informed prior to the nation of Poafmersia. In conjunction with the Ministry of Arts, Sports and Culture (MASC), the PTB has published this version of the sports guide - for fans and visiting teams coming to Poafmersia for the fifth edition of the Elephant Chess Cup.

---

All about Poafmersia
Poafmersia is a really huge country located in The North Pacific, with a size of 1.78 million square kilometers. Home to approximately 850 million residents, the country is well known for its really idealistic policies and governance system. Many Poafmers consider the nation to be at the forefront of "pioneering government policies", ranging from her environmental policies, her system of governance, as well as building a multicultural society. Even though the majority belong to the Jaffan race, Poafmersia is home to 27 ethnicities in total, according to government estimates. The true proportion of the ethnic groups, however, is not official tracked, under the "Ethnic Protection Act" which forbids collection of data related to ethnicity.

Transportation
Many visitors may find themselves unused to the transportation system in Poafmersia. The nation's emphasis on environmental protection has made public transport the main method of transport for Poafmers and visitors alike. While there are inter-city roads that are open for private vehicles, these vehicles are not allowed with many city limits, including Trimidau Island, City of Mancodas, City of Dalaris, Fiskadaha City, and Holhot, among other places. For small groups who require personalised transport, they would typically charter minibuses or electric taxis, which are readily available in big cities. Otherwise, the rail system or the public buses is the main method of travel.

Between cities, there are inter-city railways, as well as cross-state buses, that allow for travel from one side of the country to other. For smaller counties and townships, there are also shuttle train and bus services that serve these areas. Because such places may be out of the place and may not be as well connected, residents in these places may be more likely to own private vehicles. There are rules and regulations in place governing the ownership of these vehicles, as well as the type of vehicles. Many major inter-city railways have express tracks for express services, that would allow for quicker travel alternatives. There are also 4 high-speed rail services that serve different parts of the country, namely the Mancodas-Fiskadaha Express (between Mancodas and Fiskadaha City); the Trimidau-Dalaris Rail (between City of Dalaris and Trimidau Island); the Holhot-Fiskadaha Line (between Fiskadaha City and Holhot, with selected stops at major cities such as Sarim, Jackinson and Paishi-jak); and the North-South Railway (starting at Madaris, stopping in the outer limits of Greater Mancodas, Fiskadaha City, before moving on to Georgetown, on the inner limits of the City of Dalaris).

Culture
Poafmersia is very welcoming to foreign visitors who are exploring the country. The people's openness to visitors was something that couldn't be taken for granted a decade ago - when Poafmersia was largely isolationist. Sports has been a major avenue where Poafmers have gained exposure to foreign nations, especially in football, which is the most popular and successful sport in Poafmersia. Other major sports include basketball, volleyball, hockey (both field and ice hockey), badminton and aquatics, though the skill level of the sportsmen largely varies.

In Poafmersia, racial and gender stereotypes are frowned upon. In many sports, men and women co-exist in national leagues, and gender neutral terms are largely preferred. As such, conversations that crosses the racial and gender lines will probably get you into trouble, so visitors should be careful of that. Care for the environment is something that is extremely unique in Poafmersia. Visitors in hotel rooms would be expected to sort out their waste between recyclables and non-recyclables. At restaurants and dining places, food wastes are chargeable, and diners are reminded to request for smaller portions if necessary. The country has largely eliminated use of plastic cups, cutlery and bags. At shopping malls, people bring recyclable bags or buy paper bags; at drink stalls, people bring their own bottles and tumblers. Visitors to Poafmersia are also expected to abide by these environmentally-friendly guidelines, and there are reminder announcements played at major ports of entry.

Host Location - Sarim Convention Centre (SCC), Sarim, Tikahs
Tikahs, the center of Poafmersia, home to Fiskadaha City, the capital of Poafmersia, is also the main financial hub of Poafmersia. This state is the most developed state in Poafmersia. Home of many developments, many financial headquarters, and offices. Tourists would mainly want to come to Tikahs for the amusement parks, the casinos. Businessman would come for Tikahs' numerous conventions, the various business meetings. It is also the main entry point into Poafmersia (through the Fiskadaha International Airport).

The tournament will be held at Sarim Convention Centre, which is also the typical host venue for the large-scale mindsports tournaments. Located 90 minutes by bus from Fiskadaha International Airport and 3 hours from the main city centre, Sarim Convention Centre is one of the 2 main MICE event locations in Poafmersia (the other being the smaller Mancodas Exhibition Centre), with Poafmersia aiming to use these 2 locations to set up a MICE tourism sector in the country. Sarim Convention Centre is part of the biggest tourist complex in the city, comprising of the Shoppes @ SCC (a shopping mall focusing on luxurious goods), the 4,500-room Jefferson Hotel, as well as the Goldlocks Casino. Sarim is also where the biggest belt of casinos are located in the country.

For visitors who are interested in watching the games, they will be replayed live online at pfchess.pf, an online site developed by the Poafmersian Chess Federation (PCF). This is also the site used for weekly online tournaments within the Poafmersian community. Interestingly, Poafmersia will also be holding a national schools tournament earlier in the week in the same location, with two categories of players - Under-12 primary school players, as well as Under-15 junior high school players.

About Chess in Poafmersia
The Poafmersian Mindsports Federation (PFMF) is now the official association with regards to mindsports in the country. Among the various associate members of the PFMF, the two main members are the Poafmersian Contract Bridge Association (PCBA), as well as the Poafmersia Chess Federation (PCF). The PCF has been leading the largest community of mindsports for the past few years, though just barely last year membership numbers were overtaken by the PCBA. Nevertheless, the PCF has a strong presence in the country. Most players in Poafmersia come through the various small clubs that are part of the PCF, and there is a huge variety of players, all of different age and calibre. In the country, there is more of an emphasis on the rapid and blitz modes, in contrast to the Classical Modes of play that may be more frequent elsewhere. As such, hosting the ECC is definitely going to garner some interest to Poafmers as a whole.

[Wolfstruppen]

Within the Wolfstruppan community, chess is considered a sport played by intellectuals. Everyone wants the chance to outsmart another in mental wits. It was first played by the Iron Lords themselves, who had brought over the game during an exploration of the multiverse. It was quickly assimilated into the culture, and society classified it as a wealthy man's pastime. Only very recently has Wolfstruppen decided to make a competitive sport out of it.

Wolfstruppen's Roster:

• Team Captain: Karkin Tain (The Moderate Defensive-Offensive Player) - The oldest member of the team, Karkin was born into the game, being taught by his father. He learned a few set plays but knows when to variate his plays.
• Murli Rai (Follows The Set Plays) - He studied the old famous chess players for most of his life, learning their set plays and following the books. He's not fast or slow, but he takes every move into consideration.
• Trayk Loper (Blitz) - Although he was not born into the game, he quickly learned from one of his teachers in school. He brought on speed, knowing how to blitz his opponents and keep his own mind focused on the moves and the game.
• Ren Kalk (Maverick, makes up his own set plays) - Born from poverty, Ren learned from many other chess players in the community. There he learned not to copy from set plays, but to create his own. His gambits confuse others but for the most part, he is not phased by his moves. Also has a tendency to stare at you.

Don't be scared by the fact that they are wolves... And tall...

If my opponent roleplays first, they may:
Choose my starting lineup (if applicable): N (I'm still confused on whether this will apply to this)
Decide individual match results: Y
Godmod other events: N

[Waisnor]

Waisnorian Chess Team

Waisnor isn't the most well-known nation in terms of chess players - during Soviet times, Waisnorian players very rarely got to represent USSR at Chess Olympics, and when Waisnor became an independent country, their results at Chess Olympics were pretty mediocre. But now Waisnorians are hoping to flip the situation in their favor and finally land themselves on the map of the chess world. And participation in Elephant Chess Cup 5 could be a great venue for that.

Roster:

1: Maxim Burko

He is one of the young Waisnorian chess players, who is already participating in some international tournaments, but is mostly known in Waisnorian chess circles. Prefers to play a more attacking kind of chess, switching to defensive strategies mostly when he is pressed on.

2: Nikita Supranovich

It can be said that Nikita is the most skilled and experienced chess player in all of Waisnor right now with 10 years of active chess playing. His preferred style combines elements of attack and defence, he is capable of switching from one to another almost without ease.

3: Heinrich Stepanov

Stepanov also has some level of experience in the Waisnorian chess team, while not as extensive as Supranovich. Nonetheless, he managed to score victories at several chess tournaments. He prefers playing more defensive chess, with an emphasis on sudden and sharp counter attacks.

4: Bronisław Szewczyk

Another one of the new generation of Waisnorian chess, he isn't that famous, even in chess circles, but his sudden rise to Waisnorian team isn't something which his opponents should disregard. His preferred style of play is mostly attacking one with some elements of defence.

Reserve: Igor Kuzmin

Reserve player for this tournament, Igor Kuzmin, has several years of active chess career behind him, and even though he did get many successful matches during that time, Igor hopes that this tournament would be lucky for him. He prefers playing in the defensive style, but some chess critics mote that he lacks the ability to make counter attacks like Stepanov.

RP PERMISSIONS
If my opponent roleplays first, they may:
Choose my starting lineup (if applicable): Y
Decide individual match results: Y
Godmod other events: Y

[Atheara]

ATHEARAN NATIONAL TEAM - Elephant Chess Cup V

The official roster for Atheara in the 5th edition of the Elephant Chess Cup.

Atheara returns to the world of international chess by competing in the fifth edition of the Elephant Chess Cup. In Atheara, chess has always been considered a sport, a game for the intellectual mind to develop. It allows the brain to think thoroughly and clearly by seeing the possible results of decisions and plans. Chess is in fact, one of the most popular sports in Atheara, which means no wonder why there are a lot of quality chess players within Atheara. However, four specific players have been chosen to represent Atheara in this years edition. Here are those four players!

Alan Runner - 31 Y/O

Alan is the second oldest player on the team despite his appearance. Only just entering his early thirties, Alan has a lot to prove on the board and off of it. No matter the time, he has that good smile and bright laugh that anyone would have expected to come from a more good looking and charismatic man. Meanwhile when focusing on the board, Alan is sharp and precise. A bright face can immediately turn into a cold one when you're playing the game. He's the type of person to not only be on point in his moves, but also be the one to force move sequences into his favour. An accurate and forcing player.

Sevinska Kharachelsky - 44 Y/O

Sevinska meanwhile is the oldest player on the team. Her demeanor would make you think she's even older, however. When it comes to the person itself, Sevinska is a pleasant person to talk to, but doesn't often put her own input out. The type of person to listen a lot, but speak little. And although she is nice as a person, do not let this little trick fool you. When playing against her, Sevinska will be ruthless. She'll find a way to surprise you with some of the most ridiculous and thunderous moves. She can turn a disadvantage around in merely a split moment, even if you played the right move.

Danny Van Zulfigh - 26 Y/O

Danny is the second youngest player to be ever-present on the team. Danny is been the type to be somewhat strict on himself, mostly about small details such as what he drinks, etc. However, his strict personality doesn't transfer onto the board. When going up against him, make sure to be prepared. Danny always makes the game unpredictable, as you'll never read what's inside his head. Though most of the time, he's more of an aggressive player and tends to start out by opening things up with gambits, no matter what side he's playing. This is contributed to the fact that he started with chess on the streets.

Linna Hallstard-Konovida - 23 Y/O

Linna is the youngest player on this entire team. However, despite her young age, she has proven time and time again that her mind can challenge itself to be part of the best. Not only a great mind, Linna also is an intelligent person whilst retaining a lot of creative talents. Intelligent and creative, she loves ensuing chaos on the chessboard. Many of her opponents can never know which move is right, because Linna always seems to have more options on the board. She's a versatile wild card who can either play chaotically or orderly, passively or aggressively. Linna can do it all because she's proven she can.

RP PERMISSIONS
If my opponent roleplays first, they may:
Choose my starting lineup: Y
Decide individual match results: Y
Godmod other events: Y

[TJUN-ia]

Name: TJUN-ia
Trigram: TJU
Demonym: TJUN-ian/Jaguar
Nicknames: Jaguars/Jaguar Knights
Governing Body: TJUN-ia Chess Federation (TCF)

Chess...CHESS...C H E S S! You wouldn't think that a nation would care so much about what many would think to be a simple board game but when a nation hadn't won a team title until they delved into this sport, they will take anything you can get. Two years ago, the TCF wanted to go international and so they found 4 players, 3 Pros and a Semi-Pro (according to the TCF Rating System), to form the first group of Jaguar Knights to go to the biggest international competition we could find - the Elephant Chess Cup. On debut, we managed to win the Bronze in a bit of a surprise. Last year would be something else though, as the team combined forces for a 12-2-0 record to win the entire thing in their 2nd year, becoming the first team not named Bollonich or Graintfjall to win it all. Now the rules are simple: the gang is back, in Poafmersia, to defend their crown. If it falls, then some players may decide to leave the team. A new format awaits...but the Gang of 4 remains, ready to defend that crown.

---

TCF Rating System (Elo)
Professionals
Grandmaster of the International Community (GIC): 3001+
International Master (IM): 2751-3000
TCF Master (TM): 2501-2750
Candidate Master (CM): 2001-2500
---------------------------------------------------
Semi-Professionals
Class A (CA): 1801-2000
Class B (CB): 1601-1800
Class C (CC): 1401-1600
Class D (CD): 1201-1400
Class E (CE): 1001-1200
---------------------------------------------------
Amateurs
Class F (CF): 801-1000
Class G (CG): 601-800
Class H (CH): 401-600
Class I (CI): 201-400
Class J (CJ): 101-200
Rookie (R): under 100

This is how Chess is organised here in TJUN-ia, with 15 titles and 3 overall Tiers to cover all 500,000+ players who play Chess in TCF-affiliated or run tournaments and leagues. This system was created by the TCF to encourage more professionalism within the game and runs on a simple formula: 2 points per win, 1 for a draw, -1 for a loss and -2 for a loss in 30 or fewer combined moves (or the "15 each" rule). If you take part in any TCF-related event, then you can add to your Rating with 0 given to those making their TCF debuts at any given level. Because this system has only been in effect for about 8 years, only 1000 players total have reached the Professional Tier - with no one so far coming close to attaining the highest title of them all: Grandmaster of the International Community (GIC). However, it has been decreed that if anyone can claim an ECC for TJUN-ia, they would get GIC status on the spot - which would certainly be an incentive for many in the game. For our participation in any edition of the ECC, the TCF will be using a "3+1" mentality - Three Professionals, One Semi-Pro.

---

Board 1 - Yevgeny Solovyanenko

Age: 37
Place of Residence: Pivdennyy Kordon/Yuzhnaya Granitsa, NAU Zone
TCF Rating: Grandmaster of the International Community (N/A)
ECC4 Record: 7-4-1

One of the more powerhouse regions in the sport is the NAU, which always seems to take a liking to the sport alongside the CSTO and CEA. Yevgeny Solovyanenko is certainly a powerhouse in his own right, a cunning fox of a player who always thinks tactically and plays the game like that as well. He's certainly becoming the shining light of a city that is currently stunned with events over in U1 and U2, with their fellow Russians and Ukrainians engaged in unthinkable conflict. A majority in PdK-YG are appalled with what is going on and as a Ukrainian himself, you don't need to ask Yevgeny what his opinion is. But still, he has to play on. Ever since claiming his title, he's thought more and more about his place in the team and in his career as a whole...and his pride in being a Ukrainian TJUN-ian Champion. Heading to Poafmersia, he will hope to make his people proud above anything else.

---

Board 2 - Tshering Gyeltshen

Age: 20
Place of Residence: Trashiyangtse, CEA Zone
TCF Rating: Grandmaster of the International Community (N/A)
ECC4 Record: 7-4-1

Chess has a knack for not being a sport based on age, where anyone and everyone can become great if they can play the game well enough. That can certainly be shown in our 2nd player, with our 35-year-old Ukrainian being contrasted by...a 20-year-old Bhutanese player. Tshering Gyeltshen is his name and at 20 years old, he's won 4 CEA Championships in a region usually dominated by players from larger cities like Tiankong and Hindubharat. He's certainly done very very well for someone both so young and from a city like Trashiyangtse, mostly Buddhist and considered one of the happiest places in the entire International Community. With this in mind, many consider this young gun to be Chess' answer to one Joe Katsi - a player who always plays with a smile and plays for the love of the sport. He's certainly been on an adventure since claiming the crown, including going off on the NSSCRA trail to be with his good mates in Batu Tüvshinbayar and Lam Chow-Cheung, but his first love is still in this sport and he will hope to keep on playing the game that he loves his way.

---

Board 3 - Anne Christian-Warren

Age: 24
Place of Residence: New Adamstown/Adamstaun, UO Zone
TCF Rating: Grandmaster of the International Community
ECC4 Record: 5-5-2

Anne Christian-Warren is a very interesting player in her own right - one of the highest-rated female players in the TCF and a rare athlete in any sport from New Adamstown, making her Pitkerner. She certainly likes to be known as someone who represents her heritage and the blood of the HMS Bounty with pride, playing her game like a pirate as well - win no matter what, go for broke and all that jazz. She became a hero back in her home town after winning it all, and her strategy now becoming so famous that it's even included in official Chess strategy guides published in the International Community. She's earned the right to be considered a queen, a Lesbian Pirate Queen at that (she came out not long after the tournament was over), but now she wants to keep it that way...come hell or high water, as expected.

---

Board 4 - Margarita Altamiranda

Age: 28
Place of Residence: Ciudad Calamar, UAC Zone
TCF Rating: Grandmaster of the International Community
ECC4 Record: 7-3-2

Jumping from Class A to GIC is unprecedented in TCF history, but that's what winning the title has meant for Margarita Altamiranda. Margarita hails from Cuidad Calamar in the UAC zone - a city and region not really seen as a Chess powerhouse by any means. Despite that, she's certainly a talent and plays with that Latin flair we all expect - quick and powerful at the same time. Beng considered a professional for life certainly did wonders for her, especially back home, but now she wants to prove that she is worthy of the GIC status handed to her by being a Champion. That is her main aim here - to prove that she is worthy of these pretty lights.

---

SCHEDULE (Group Cape - Sarim Convention Centre (SCC), Sarim, Tikahs, Poafmersia
Day 1
M1: vs Canadian Dominion (9:30 am)
M2: vs Natanians and Nosts (1 pm)
M3: vs South Newlandia (3:30 pm)
M4: vs Klakahollin (7 pm)

Day 2
M5: vs United Starsian Republics (9:30 am)

---

INDIVIDUAL RECORDS
YS: 0-0
TG: 0-0
ACW: 0-0
MA: 0-0

[Klakahollin]

RP PERMISSIONS
If my opponent roleplays first, they may:
Choose my starting lineup (if applicable): Y/N
Decide individual match results: Y/N (*We recommend a yes for easy RP purposes)
Godmod other events: Y/N

Skáksveit Klakahollins
Klakahollin Chess Team

Ægir Rasmusarson (51) - The Veteran

A veteran of the scene for more than thirty years, Ægir has never really been at the top of the leaderboards, but always in the top five. He is the emotional leader of the team, and the one to lead off on any match. Prefers aggressive tactics, but can often times play himself into corners - it's been his lifelong dream to overcome those corners. He's been considering retirement for a number of seasons, but remains at large.

Þórbjörg Nilsdóttir (29) - The Silent Killer

Entering the game at an older age - twenty-three before playing in a sanctioned match - Þórbjörg rose to prominence rather quickly, known more for her profound silence before and after matches as well as her lightning fast play. She doesn't do pre-match or post-match interviews, and hardly speaks to her friends - in fact, there are some who think she is actually unable to talk. No, that's not the case - she'd rather just let her play do the shouting instead.

Dúi Reysson (18) - The Child Prodigy

Dominating the youth scene from nine years of age, Dúi has grown up playing chess. Possessing great wit and the tendency to learn his opponent throughout the match, his biggest strength is his fearlessness. This will be the biggest level that he has played at, but he seems up to the challenge - and the future of Klakahollin chess is in his hands.

Áróra Auðgeirsdóttir (24) - The Knight

A veteran of multiple battles, Áróra retired from the Klakahollin armed forces when she suffered a severe injury to her right knee. She's turned her considerable mind to chess instead - and made a splash. She is the anchor, and will likely be the hardest one to overcome.

[West Barack and East Obama]

West Barack and East Obama National Chess Team

A Brief History of Obaman Chess

Due to the prohibition of team sports, many Obamen took to sports such as shot put or running. However, a select few decided to participate in chess. With many chess clubs established for the boffins to practice their moves, Obaman Chess is great with many grandmasters hailing from the nation. They will hope to prove their worth at this Elephant Chess Cup.

The Players

Bomhoff B Obamanovich, 65

The first ever Obaman Chess grandmaster, Bomhoff B Obamanovich is a legend. Always playing conservative tactics, he springs a surprise on his opponents through the elaborate traps he sets up for them. In the daytime, he's a professor of crustacean arts at Frederick Obamatown Culinary School, where he deals with prawns instead of pawns.

Abdul Hussein, 23

A prodigy, Hussein began his career in the deepest depths of chess.com, where his unorthodox yet aggressive tactics gained him notoriety. Known as an innovator, he receives scorn from older grandmasters but as long as he keeps winning he's on the team.

Oberma Kristofferson, 44

Based in Lozho, Oberma Kristofferson makes a living live streaming chess matches. Often accused of facilitating online gambling, Kristofferson has nevertheless earned his spot on the national team with his infamous 'Oberma Opening'.

Gemma Zobama, 32

Known as the trash talker of the team, Gemma Zobama earned a reputation of loudly insulting and cursing opponents to match her highly aggressive playstyle. She's been banned from several competitions due to her inability to stop talking, but her combination of mind games and sneaky moves easily distracts opponents into handing her Ws.

OOC:

RP perms, do whatever you like

[New Eestiball]

New Eestiballian ECC Roster
FIDE-style ratings
New Eestiball has historically been a good chess-playing nation, however it's never competed in the ECC. Several IMs are on this team. As was in WC91, all sports players are numbered doorknobs, after the incident where the hockey captain was sent a poisoned letter.
Board #1: 818 (2640) GM
818 is the strongest chess player in New Eestiball, and is a strong grandmaster. They will break from well-studied openings early, which has boosted them.
Favorite openings: Hungarian Opening (White) and Pirc Defense (Black)
Board #2: 453 (2581) GM
453 got their last GM norm at ECC4, and plays in the style of Tal, sacrificing to win.
Favorite openings: English Opening (White) and Sicilian Defense (Black)
Board #3: 186 (2489) IM
186, over the course of this tournament, could become a GM as well if they defeat 2 GMs and have an overall good tournament. They have a solid defensive strategy, but are not a strong attacking player, preferring traps.
Favorite openings: Vienna (White) and Slav Defense (Black)
Board #4: 253 (2427) IM
253 plays the Bird, and has won many games with it. They hope to be promoted to board 3 by the end of this.
Favorite openings: Bird's Opening (White) and Traxler Counter-Attack (Black)

Perms: all yes

[Graintfjall]

Nation name: Græntfjall
Adjective/demonym: Græntfjaller

Ánýá Klæðskera-gleði, a Kamdyr chess prodigy, has competed on the Græntfjaller men’s circuit for a number of years. The Kamdyr are a nomadic people who mostly inhabit, though do not particularly claim affiliation with, Græntfjall. Traditionally, they lived in yurts, migrating with the seasons, herding buffalos, unicorns, reindeer, dragons, and other animals. Today, many Kamdyr, especially the younger generations, have to some extent integrated with Græntfjaller society, getting jobs and apartments, attending schools and universities. All the same, the Kamdyr retain their distinct ethnic heritage; a notable example of this is that they are among the few exempted from the requirement that all Græntfjaller names be patronymic or matronymic.

The 33 year old achieved grandmaster status while studying mathematics at the prestigious University of Waltenberg, where she later pursued postgraduate studies in econometrics. Now an economist by day, she is one of the most accomplished female players in Græntfjall despite never having entered the National Women’s Championship. Regarded as a calm, composed, and defensively-minded player, she is known for her stalwart and effective defence; she is especially adept at rook endgames. She shows little interest in unusual openings, nearly always opening 1.e4 with white, usually with Lárentíus Arnbjörnsson.* She represented Græntfjall at the Garvida Chess Championship.

Reynir Ýrarsson is the current Græntfjaller men’s champion. A former civil servant – he worked in the Ministry of Transport and is considered the nation’s leading expert on potholes – he now competes full-time in chess. He also writes cryptic crosswords (under the nickname ‘Rowan’) for left-liberal Altendalur newspaper Vestrænnblaðið. His interests include opera, ornithology, and real ale. Reynir is a much more aggressive player than Ánýá, more interested in tactical innovation. He favors a 1.d4 opening with white.

Páll Heiðbergsson is a former chess prodigy who is Græntfjall’s blitz chess champion. A very aggressive player who is among the new generation to make use of computer analyses, frequently bringing prepared variations, Páll is sometimes criticized for not playing as well from simple positions. He works as a ticket clerk at the Græntfjaller National Opera, and is one of the relatively few openly gay men to represent Græntfjall in international sport. Páll switches up his openings a lot between 1.e4, 1.d4, 1.c4 and 1.Nf3, and usually uses prepared variations to promote relentless attack.

Teifion Bradwrsson is a former four-time national champion who was at one time Græntfjall’s youngest ever Grandmaster. Formerly known for his lightning quick style, he has mellowed in his older years and now plays a more balanced style. His unpretentious nature and lack of psychological trickery have made him a popular figure on the chess circuit. A trained electrical engineer by trade, he plays chess professionally now, coaching, and has written four books on chess. A very flexible and adaptable player who switches between 1.e4 and 1.d4 openings almost at whim.

Elína Nathansdóttir is the alternate. The young woman is Græntfjall’s women’s champion (though Ánýá is generally considered the stronger player, she does not compete in the women’s circuit). She holds a postgraduate diploma in the oboe and is a well regarded skier, and her multi-talented approach is reflected in her approach to chess where she favors a balanced style, being neither hyperaggressive nor hyperdefensive. She is somewhat conservative in her openings, nearly always playing 1.e4, but enjoys studying computer variations and can respond to unconventional openings when playing black.

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my lineup: No. Players are listed in board order.
Decide board results: Yes.
Decide moves made: Yes.
Godmod game events: No.
Godmod other events: No, but TG me if you have something in mind. I am open to any RP collaborations.

Not wholly intentionally, I have established a pattern of using Elephant Chess Cups to RP about military events. If this is something you would be interested in collaborating on, send me a DM/TG. If not, feel free to ignore that aspect of my RPing and concentrate on the chess.

* Lárentíus Arnbjörnsson was a priest who wrote the first known book on chess in the Græntfjaller language. A number of common chess terms are expressed differently by Græntfjallers (who have never heard of somewhere called Spain or some guy called Ruy López).

[South Newlandia]

Elephant Chess Cup 5 – South Newlandian roster

Chess is the 4th-most popular sport in South Newlandia, behind baseball, football, and the other football. Many children learn chess at a young age, and quite a few choose to pursue chess professionally. However, following the success of South Newlandia at the other sports, especially compared to the disappointing results the chess team was able to produce, chess was slipping in popularity further; but in Fermont, the team finally was able to showcase their abilities, finishing in a remarkable second place, falling short to TJUN-ia in the final. The Elephants will once again be trying to field a competitive a competive team; this time in Sarim, Poafmersia.
All South Newlandians usually feel more comfortable in open positions, which can be a weakness against skilled opponents. The four players know each other well; most of them have played in multiple ECCs already, and with a limited supply of chess players (mostly due to a limited supply of people in general) in South Newlandia, the strongest players tend to keep running into each other. The four are all good friends, and will be fighting for the team above their own score.

Board 1:
Cecilia Blossom, 28
Blossom used to be one of the biggest talents in South Newlandian chess history. Despite her young age, she had been taking the country by storm, including winning several local tournaments and becoming a role model for many South Newlandian children. Ultimately, she didn’t quite live up to her sky-high potential, but she is a very talented chess player regardless. She is easily able to keep calm under pressure, and likes to create chaos on the board, especially when up on the clock. Her opening repertoire includes the Italian with both colours; however, Blossom is also known to create chaos early by playing interesting side-lines.

Board 2:
Lisa Morgen, 35
Morgen is one of those players who are really, really fast. She’s not at the very top in Classical, but in the faster time controls, she really excels. She sometimes plays a bit too fast, but it works out well for her. Her favourite openings are the Caro-Kann with both sides, as well as the Slav with Black; she likes to sit back a bit at first and let the opponent come to her.

Board 3:
Adam Esteban, 19
The young talent of the South Newlandian team. He doesn’t have the experience the others on the team have, but he’s extremely talented, a great attacker that still gets carried away in his attacks too often, and finds himself in time trouble frequently. He likes to play really aggressively from the get-go, and you’ll likely see him employ fancy new openings he isn’t quite experienced enough in yet.

Board 4:
Robert Kane, 46
Kane is one of the more experienced South Newlandian professionals, and has a solid opening knowledge regardless of the situation. When he was a bit younger, he used to win national titles frequently, and he is still a good player and great mentor. He likes to play the English with white and e6-b6 setups with the black pieces.

If my opponent roleplays first, they may:
Choose my starting lineup (if applicable): Please use the lineup listed above.
Decide individual match results: Yes
Godmod other events: Please let me know first.

[South Newlandia]

“Poafmersia is really big, isn‘t it?”
“Well, sure; but maybe that’s just South Newlandia being very small. Still, yeah, it’s like two hundred - and then some - times bigger than Elephant Island.”
“I’ve read the brochure, it sounds like a very interesting country. I’ve heard all about how Poafmer people are very analytical, very data-driven; honestly, I’m surprised they haven’t been a regular to the ECC already.”
“That’s true for sure, but I’m excited to be there now; I’ve never been before. I heard it’s not far from TJUN-ia, though; same general region at least.”
“I really liked the way Poafmers seem, at least by the way they’re described here, they seem very polite and conscious about the environment and whatnot; sounds not unlike home. Well, when I first read it, it sounded like some people own Tumbrans; but that was just me stumbling over words.”
“Haha, yeah, I’m sure that’s not actually the case.”
“Have you done any special preparations for our opponents? It’s interesting, considering we know them in advance this time.”
“A little bit; the TJUN-ian team is obviously one I needed to look into. It’s going to be a tough start for us, with contest veterans Natanians and Nosts and the defending champs in the first three rounds. Hopefully, we won’t have too deep a hole to dig out of, there.”
“So, did you prepare anything against Christian-Warren?”
“A little bit. I’m going to play black, I believe? I’m going to look for a Caro-Kann there.”
“Also known as the Elephants opening, isn’t it?”
“Sure. Did you prepare anything against Altamiranda?”
“Not really. I’ll stick with the English.”
“No need to change things while they work, I suppose.”
“I agree.”
“Feel like playing a quick blitz game?”
“White or black?”
“I’d like to play black. I’ve looked into a new variation in the Quiet Four Knights English.”
“Oh, sounds exciting!”

[Graintfjall]

A few miles from the Akustaðuri Naval Base, a strong wind was whipping across the storm-darkened ocean. Spray buffeted a skein of geese, their powerful wings beating against the turbulent air currents. Roiling clouds blackened the horizon, momentarily lit by a jagged flash of lightning that sent the skein into a honking panic. Their ‘V’ formation drifted to port as they made for land, flapping hard toward the distant rock just visible through the sleeting rain.

---

After a long day of practice with the rest of the team, Ánýá Klæðskera-gleði headed back to her hotel room in Fiskadaha City. The others wanted to stay out and explore: Reynir had arranged a tour As of the city’s rail network communciations hub, and Teifion was going along with him; Páll and his boyfriend to catch the Cup of Harmony replays at a sports bar; while Elína wanted to go to the market and pick out a souvenir for her grandmother. Ánýá just wanted to relax: she could see the city another day. Besides, she was currently engrossed in a gripping detective novel. Detective fiction was extremely popular in Græntfjall (as it was in most countries, to be fair) and this one reflected the current penchant for “Nepharan noir”, full of brooding and troubled detectives in trenchcoats standing around in the rain calling each other cunts. As her hotel door opened, there was a crinkling sound. She looked down, and saw an envelope that had been slipped under the door, and was now caught under it. It was plain and bore only the handwritten letters “ÁKG”.

It was for her.

Wearily she unhitched the envelope and closed the door behind her. Before opening it she put on the coffee maker and changed out of her jacket, then sat down and slit the envelope with her Kamdyr knife. The envelope contained a letter. Ánýá began reading, and didn’t stop even as the coffee machine hissed and began bubbling over, spilling coffee across the desk. The letter was a response to a paper she had written a few months ago, modelling statistical outcomes in Græntfjall’s notoriously ageing and unreliable missile defense system. The letter’s author, who claimed to be a technician working at a missile base in the North Sea Islands, said that her analysis – which had been ridiculed by technical experts as alarmist and overwrought – was a lot closer to the mark than she might have realized. Ánýá frowned, and put aside the letter. She wasn’t interested in playing a game of global thermonuclear war right now. She just wanted a nice game of chess.

---

Technician 2nd Class Axel Sigurpálsson was dosing, a copy of Bird’s Opening (Græntfjall’s raunchiest chess-themed softcore magazine) splayed across his lap. A ripple broke the film that had formed across his long forgotten coffee as the first vibration shook the control panel. Then a beeping alarm burst to light, its insistent clarion instantly waking him. He spilled cold coffee across the centerfold of two women, one white, one black, engaging in an act that did not appear in all that many chess textbooks. The control room was bathed in red from a flashing light strobing rapidly. The klaxons kept on calling.

Remembering his procedure, Axel first checked the readout. He wiped sleep from his eyes and read it again. Then he slapped himself, hard, across his clean-shaven cheeks.

Each time, the readout read the same: incoming missile detected.

[TeaFarmers]

TeaFarmers Roster for ECC5
Unconventional sports is TeaFarmers' favourite, and indeed, TeaFarmers is honoured to be able to send a team to the 5th Elephant Chess Cup. Chess in TeaFarmers is unproportionately popular, although physical chess competitions have been on the decline and have been largely replaced by virtual competitions.

Players
Player 1: Josariwida, 58
The oldest player in the squad, he generally represents the trend of play in Poafmersia - that is, more defensive strategies and figuring out more conservative lines in chess. He prefers more classical openings and while that may be more familiar to the opponents, he makes tiniest of switches to ensure that he makes the advantage over opponents. Josariwida is also the TeaFarmers Annual Cup winner last year, though he was only second this cycle after losing the finals on a fourth tiebreak blitz game.

Player 2: Chesterine, 49
The best blitz player in TeaFarmers, though his rapids skill is not as fantastic as his classical, and he while he did defeat Josariwida this year at the annual, the last few cycles he typically fall at the semifinals stage. However, there was no reason not to let the national champion play in the national team, since it was advertised that the yearly national champion will be guarenteed a spot in the team.

Player 3: Paramaksura, 20
The three-time Under-21 winner for the TeaFarmers Annual Cup. Despite having scored 8th placed in the open category for the TeaFarmers Annual Cup, Paramksuara has particularly interesting playstyle, preferring attacking strategies rather than go for more defensive-oriented moves. Things like the Italian opening and the Vienna gambit are common openings that he has employed in his career, which is difficult for opponents at his age.

Player 4: Madelinia, 36
The young female is the only female on the squad, and also the only player who isn't a chess player full time. An economist by job scope, she has consistently been the best female player in the TeaFarmers chess scene, and does well especially by being unpredictable in her moves. While she does better in classical modes, she does think very fast in rapid and blitz modes too, and her unpredictability is what often causes opponents to choke in tournaments.

Reserve: Henria-Palin, 40
The bronze medalist at this year's championships, he struggled a bit in the national team selection after losing to both Paramaksura and Madelinia under rapids conditions. This meant that he was relegated to the reserve spot, but when called on, he will definitely be able to showcase his chess abilities.

Permissions

If my opponent roleplays first, they may:
Choose my starting lineup: Yes, but Henria-Palin wouldn't sub out Josariwida & Chesterine
Decide individual match results: Yes
Decide moves made: Yes.
Godmod game events: Strictly no for chess.
Godmod other events: Please TG me if you have something in mind.

[PotatoFarmers]

Poafmersia Roster for ECC5
You may have known about the Poafmersian Chess Team as a whole, but you don't know this - that Poafmers are actually experts in Rapid. Poafmers don't believe in having a reserve player - which makes the national team selection test absolutely difficult and the turnover absolutely crazy. Unless you are good.

Players
Player 1: Joe Waddup, 48
Three time rapids championship winner in Poafmersia. Crazy. Nobody in Poafmersia can beat him on rapids. He has a wide variety of playstyles, and you can't guess what he is doing next.

Player 2: Tean Massa, 49
Tean started playing chess since he was in his early 20s, and developed to be a strong thinker that he can adapt well in rapids & blitz. The first-choice player for blitz tiebreakers. Loves to counterattack, and can definitely get players who are struggling to think on the go.

Player 3: Nancy Linarian, 36
One of the strongest female players in the country, Nancy has made a name for herself with her unconventional mid-game plays. Prefers to go on the offensive in games.

Player 4: Rewan Handris, 37
Handris is a common surname in Poafmersia. Rewan prefers to play more conventional, classical time control games, but he has been adapting to play a bit more rapids, and he improved quite a decent bit when he managed to make the tournament top 4 for many consecutive rapid tournaments.

Permissions

If my opponent roleplays first, they may:
Decide individual match results: Yes
Decide moves made: Yes.
Godmod game events: Strictly no for chess.
Godmod other events: Please TG me if you have something in mind.

[The Jovannic]

The Jovannic Roster for the Elephant Chess Cup 5

The Chess Community of The Jovannic is relatively new. Although Chess has existed as a recreational game from approximately the early 1900s, A true competitive local tournament was only inaugurated in 2003. Now, The Jovannic has sent a team to the Elephant Chess Cup, in hopes of receiving a positive result from the internationally inexperienced squad.

---

Board 1: Bremin Loh

Home Province: Chan
Age: 32
National Tournament Golds: 3

An Online Tournament Challenger from 19 to his early 20s, Loh came into the physical scene with a bang, defeating former National Champion Nert Valoha 2.5-1.5 in the second round of the Chan Regional Open. He would produce further upsets and reach the semi-finals of the open, where he would finally lose to then national second seed Mason Tatriner 3.5-0.5. Starting his Physical career at 22, he would become the top 32 ranked chess players in The Jovannic by age 24, qualifying for the National Tournament. It would take him 4 years to achieve his first championship gold, but he has since won 2 of 4 editions after, including the most recent one.

Bremin Loh is a extremely sharp attacking player, and has no qualms playing gambits such as the Blackmar-Diemer.

Board 2: Horace Barley
Age: 48
National Tournament Golds: 5

Always one of the top Chess players in The Jovannic, Barley has held his own at the top for more than 15 years now. Making his first physical tournament appearance in the Bevista Open at 26, he worked through the ranks, winning his first tournament at the Sliver Cawley League at the age of 31. His brother Harald Barley had also scaled the upper ranks of Jovannic Chess, and they both combined would have a period of 4 consecutive National Tournament Golds from when Horace was 34-37. Winning 2 editions from that period, Horace Barley would win a further three editions, including the one before the latest edition, while Harald Barley has fallen off for a few years now and currently sits roughly 29th in The Jovannic.

Horace Barley usually plays a more technical and structured game, although he also likes to catch fragile defences by surprise.

Board 3: Amelia Broyleson
Age: 44
National Tournament Golds: 2

Only the second female player to win the National Tournament at the age of 38, she became a professional at the age of 21, and regularly challenged at regionals. For most of her 20s and early 30s, she would rank among the top 50, with the highest being 34th after her 2nd consecutive victory in the Juxe Regional and a 5-3 upset victory in the final against then 27th ranked Charlie Waston. She finally broke into the top 32 at age 34. Her second Tournament victory was at age 42, where she had upset the heavy favourite Bremin Loh in the final with a score of 4.5-3.5.

She likes a closed game, and is possibly the most drawish player in the roster.

Board 4: Zachary Ho
Age: 39
National Tournament Golds: 1

Rising to fame through the Bilipat Open, where he volunteered at 29 years old and reached the Quarter-finals, defeating the 1st and 5th seeds along the way. His heavy-hitting style of play led to him rapidly rising through the ranks, winning the National Tournament at 32. His ranking has ebbed up and down after that peak, but has still contended for trophies extremely consistently.

Reserve: Philokayna Toryin
Age: 53
National Tournament Golds: 1

Truly a veteran of the Jovannic Chess scene and first female National Tournament winner (4th edition at age 34), she has never again reached the heights of that fateful night 20 years ago, but has always remained a very dangerous opponent to many.

If my opponent roleplays first, they may:
Choose my starting lineup (if applicable): Y
Decide individual match results: Y
Godmod other events: Y but tell moi

[PotatoFarmers]

OOC: Sorry for the late cutoff; this shouldn't happen for next cutoff. Just some formatting/google sheet issue that I failed to notice prior to cutoff time. All entries above are accepted as pre-MD1 entries.

Anyways, here is a IC prompt for you:

Headlines of Poafmer Times, for Day 1
- Kibi Party split over whether state council reforms is good for country, party whip considers lifting the whip for individual MRs (Members of Ridimag) to vote on.
- All Gamers Club wins record sixth title in GPL; club aiming to be first club to hold both GPL titles when they play the GPLM finals against All Champions Gaming
- New Poafmersia Hockey Federation aims to host both the Ice Hockey League & Field Hockey League in Poafmersia. (One in Summer; One in Winter)
- Three people arrested in Poafmersia for feasting on Panjias, the first in the 155-year history of the "Panjias Protection Act". (Also found was elephant meat, snake meat, and rats.)

Goldlocks
Cardenao 1½–2½ Graintfjall
StrayaRoos 2½–1½ Greater Rostoria
The Cordian Isles ½–3½ Poafmersia

# Goldlocks                  Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  Pts 
1 Poafmersia                   1   1  0  0  3.5 0.5    2
2 Graintfjall                  1   1  0  0  2.5 1.5    2
  StrayaRoos                   1   1  0  0  2.5 1.5    2
4 Cardenao                     1   0  0  1  1.5 2.5    0
  Greater Rostoria             1   0  0  1  1.5 2.5    0
6 The Cordian Isles            1   0  0  1  0.5 3.5    0

Michael
New South Yukon 0–4 West Barack and East Obama
Arjunnagar 2–2 Chartistan
Wolfstruppen 3–1 New Eestiball

# Michael                    Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  Pts 
1 West Barack and East Obama   1   1  0  0    4   0    2
2 Wolfstruppen                 1   1  0  0    3   1    2
3 Arjunnagar                   1   0  1  0    2   2    1
  Chartistan                   1   0  1  0    2   2    1
5 New Eestiball                1   0  0  1    1   3    0
6 New South Yukon              1   0  0  1    0   4    0

Cape
Natanians and Nosts 1½–2½ South Newlandia
TJUN-ia 3–1 Canadian Dominion
Klakahollin 2–2 United Starsian Republics

# Cape                       Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  Pts 
1 TJUN-ia                      1   1  0  0    3   1    2
2 South Newlandia              1   1  0  0  2.5 1.5    2
3 Klakahollin                  1   0  1  0    2   2    1
  United Starsian Republics    1   0  1  0    2   2    1
5 Natanians and Nosts          1   0  0  1  1.5 2.5    0
6 Canadian Dominion            1   0  0  1    1   3    0

Kolamaki
Lionsroar 1½–2½ Sannyamathland
Atheara 3–1 The Jovannic
TeaFarmers 2–2 Waisnor

# Kolamaki                   Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  Pts 
1 Atheara                      1   1  0  0    3   1    2
2 Sannyamathland               1   1  0  0  2.5 1.5    2
3 TeaFarmers                   1   0  1  0    2   2    1
  Waisnor                      1   0  1  0    2   2    1
5 Lionsroar                    1   0  0  1  1.5 2.5    0
6 The Jovannic                 1   0  0  1    1   3    0

[South Newlandia]

“So, this Poafmer Times, I’ve got here – seems like that’s sort of their version of the Elephant Valley Mail. Got some interesting stuff in there.”
“Like what?”
“Honestly, the bulk today doesn’t really interest me. Something about politics. Something about some gaming tournament that seems very secretive on what kind of game is being played.”
“I hope it’s about Saskwatch. I like the elephant-like tank in that game.”
“Maybe. Something about this tournament, which, I have to say – I was already aware of. Something about both types of hockey. And something about, well, that’s interesting. Some arrests over Panjia-meat. Also – what! Those barbarians.”
“What?”
“Here, look.”
“Thanks. Oh, no. Oh, no! I can’t believe that.”
“That’s so sad. I really thought that that wouldn’t be a thing here.”
“Those poor animals. Just senseless slaughter.”
“Just really hurts my heart. Man, that ruins my day worse than not converting the winning position I had earlier.”
“Yeah, they say the King Indian never ends in a draw, but sometimes, after all the complications, nothing’s left. It’s a shame you missed that he had that knight locked off at the very end of the exchange sacrifice there.”
“I can’t even be mad, that was just a brilliant find by them. Congrats on your win, by the way!”
“Thanks! Got a bit lucky at the end there, with them under time pressure, but it’s still huge to pick up a win with black.”
“Absolutely. Have you talked to Lisa yet? I know she’s furious with herself for taking a loss there.”
“Yeah, she’s hyper-competitive like that. Don’t worry though, she doesn’t need – or want – to talk to anyone right now, all she’s focused on is bouncing back with the white pieces next game.”
“That’s the plan. We ideally don’t want another nail-biter like just now, with Lisa having to grind out a pawn-up rook endgame.”
“With TJUN-ia coming up soon, we need to have a little it of a cushion. Picking up two against Natanians and Nosts was clutch; but if we want to secure a place in the knockout round, we really can’t slow down.”
“I also need to read more about Poafmer chess. I find it all fascinating, how things work in other places.”
“Did you know that Bridge is actually a bigger mindsport here than chess is?”
“They consider bridge a mindsport? Where do they even build all these bridges to?”

[TJUN-ia]

So...time to defend the title, I suppose. Welcome to the 5th Elephant Chess Cup, coming to you live from Sarim Convention Centre in Sarim, Poafmersia. Your Jaguar Knights, if you don't remember, won it all last year after claiming bronze on debut before that...which has to be the quickest rise to glory we have ever seen in any sport. The 4 players who won TJUN-ia its first-ever crown are now back ready to try and keep hold of their throne and considering the strength we have in our designated group, Group Cape, things could certainly end up very interesting over the next few days. Things started bright and early here, with our opening contest against the Canadian Dominon starting at 9:30 am.

Board 1: GIC Yevgeny Solovyanenko bt Goose #1
Our sly fox in Yevgeny Solovyanenko has undoubtedly had a lot of time to think about the joy it brings to represent Pivdennyy Kordon with a crown on his head, especially in these times, but if there's one thing that he loves more than anything else, it's playing this sport. Against this Goose (it's the Canadian Dominion, they could be actual geese for all we know), the fox was back to his best and simply outwitted his foe in about 6 minutes. As clean a start as you'd like. Onto the next one.

Board 2: GIC Tshering Gyeltshen bt Goose #2
The Bhutanese young gun has certainly been on an adventure since winning the crown, their escapades with Lam Chow-Cheung and Batu Tüvshinbayar becoming more well-known as the months went on, but here they were back with the sport they loved the most...a sport they now dedicated to a "special someone" within their life. Who this person is remains to be seen but for now, he was back to his jolly self in dispatching this Canadian Goose with a big smile on their face and a calm handshake. Yep, that's Tshering all right!

Board 3: GIC Anne Christian-Warren bt by Goose #3
Ann Christian-Warren, the hero of New Adamstown and the Lesbian Pirate Queen herself, has certainly been through a bit of change since making her hometown proud...and now, she's back to doing what she loved the most - going ball to the wall with the pieces in the board. Sometimes it works and sometimes it does not and today, the Goose she faced simply knew how to handle it and got the job done. Still, 4 more group games to go for her to find her feet.

Board 4: GIC Margarita Altamiranda bt Goose #4
The former semi-pro has spent the last year getting used to her new Professional and GIC status, which she certainly used wisely in improving both her own life and that of her family back in Ciudad Calamar, but she was certainly looking forward to defending her crown this time around. Against her Goose opponent, her Latin flair would certainly be enough to win this contest via checkmate...so that's all good!

A 3-1 win is a good way to kick this one off, but things will certainly get tougher from here on out. We'll be back for the contest against Natanians and Nosts at 1 pm. GO JAG KNIGHTS!

---

SCHEDULE (Group Cape - Sarim Convention Centre (SCC), Sarim, Tikahs, Poafmersia
Day 1
M1: vs Canadian Dominion (9:30 am) W 3-1 (1st)
M2: vs Natanians and Nosts (1 pm)
M3: vs South Newlandia (3:30 pm)
M4: vs Klakahollin (7 pm)

Day 2
M5: vs United Starsian Republics (9:30 am)

---

INDIVIDUAL RECORDS
YS: 1-0
TG: 1-0
ACW: 0-1
MA: 1-0

[TeaFarmers]

Official Statement from Ministry of Foreign Relations, TeaFarmers
We refer to the incident 2 days ago, regarding the case of 3 foreigners being arrested in Poafmersia over possibility of infringing local laws on hunting and eating Panjias.

We would like to confirm that among the 3 foreigners, 2 of the said foreigners are people of TeaFarmers. This is the first time we know of Teamers being implicated a serious case of rule breaking. By our understanding, the crime of eating and hunting Panjias can get sentences of 10-20 years in jail. The Ministry, through our ambassadors and our Poafmersian counterparts, are trying to work out a solution to ensure the safety and secure of our people overseas.

The Ministry would like to take this time to remind our citizens to make sure that they remain compliant with laws overseas, and to avoid getting involved in sticky situations like the aforementioned incident.

[PotatoFarmers]

Poafmer Times
One suspect in Panjia-eating case in critical condition in Mancodas New Hospital
Mancodas - One of the suspects in the Panjias condition has been admitted to the Intensive Care Department in the Mancodas New Hospital after developing a high fever, suffering from nausea, and having purplish skin.

A police spokesman informed reporters than one of the three suspects arrested two days ago was transformed from the prison medical facility to the Mancodas New Hospital, after the suspect was suffering from nausea and a slight fever after admission to the prsion holding cell. "We are unable to comment on the medical condition of the suspect," said the spokesman. "We understand from the doctors that the suspect is in critical condition, and they are doing their best to take care of the suspect."

The Panjia-eating case has garnered lots of attention, as it was the first time someone was caught for eating Panjias ever since the "Protection of Panjias Bill" was passed in 2004. In fact, there was some extra attention in various countries, as it was found that the 3 suspects are foreigners who are coming into Poafmersia for various international sports competitions. Some nations have noted about the elephant meat that was found on the 3 suspects, and they were discussing about the killing of elephants.

While hunting of animals (apart from Panjias) is not illegal under the law, it is worth noting that the posession of weapons, as well as the import of live or dead animal parts without a permit, is illegal. Police investigators would be trying to figure out just how these foreigners got posession of the elephant meat or the other wildlife.

Poafmers express horror at Panjia-eating case
Poafmers around the nation have expressed horror at the case of foreigners feasting on "meat of unknown origin", which included the well-loved wild Panjias, with some calling it "a horrible story for the wild animals in the country".

Many Poafmers took to social media to express their grief for the slain wild animals, noting that this was the first known case of wild animal hunting, and even eating of the Panjia, considered protected under the "Protection of Heritage Act 1998". Many would remember the time where Poafmers went on the streets to request that Panjias, a local breed of equines seen as important to the indigenious people, should be added to the list, and the subsequent passing of the "Protection of Panjias Bill 2004" that helped to add the Panjia into the list. More than a century later since the passing of the law, Poafmers are now struggling to understand the events of 2 days ago on the incident with wild animals.

Poafmers have questioned on whether more could be done to prevent such incidents from happening, though some have pointed out that this has never happened "in decades". Others wonder if the police has been doing lots of enforcement on the issue, or was there no enforcement of the law. Others just question whether the foreigners, whose identities remain unknown, have any idea about the Poafmersian laws before they come to the country.

[PotatoFarmers]

Cutoff for Matchday 2!

You aren't going to win if you just defend, you need to learn how to attack better to defend better.

This is a classic Poafmersian saying, and the national football team definitely agrees. In the context of chess, do you agree with this quote? If you don't want to use this quote in the context of chess, try using it in the context of whatever you want to use it in.

Goldlocks
Graintfjall 2–2 Poafmersia
Greater Rostoria 2–2 The Cordian Isles
Cardenao 2½–1½ StrayaRoos

  Goldlocks                  Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  Pts 
1 Poafmersia                   2   1  1  0  5.5 2.5    3
2 Graintfjall                  2   1  1  0  4.5 3.5    3
3 Cardenao                     2   1  0  1    4   4    2
4 StrayaRoos                   2   1  0  1    4   4    2
5 Greater Rostoria             2   0  1  1  3.5 4.5    1
6 The Cordian Isles            2   0  1  1  2.5 5.5    1

Michael
West Barack and East Obama 3–1 New Eestiball
Chartistan 1½–2½ Wolfstruppen
New South Yukon 2½–1½ Arjunnagar

  Michael                    Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  Pts 
1 West Barack and East Obama   2   2  0  0    7   1    4
2 Wolfstruppen                 2   2  0  0  5.5 2.5    4
3 New South Yukon              2   1  0  1  2.5 5.5    2
4 Arjunnagar                   2   0  1  1  3.5 4.5    1
  Chartistan                   2   0  1  1  3.5 4.5    1
6 New Eestiball                2   0  0  2    2   6    0

Cape
South Newlandia 2½–1½ United Starsian Republics
Canadian Dominion 1½–2½ Klakahollin
Natanians and Nosts 1–3 TJUN-ia

  Cape                       Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  Pts 
1 TJUN-ia                      2   2  0  0    6   2    4
2 South Newlandia              2   2  0  0    5   3    4
3 Klakahollin                  2   1  1  0  4.5 3.5    3
4 United Starsian Republics    2   0  1  1  3.5 4.5    1
5 Canadian Dominion            2   0  0  2  2.5 5.5    0
  Natanians and Nosts          2   0  0  2  2.5 5.5    0

Kolamaki
Sannyamathland ½–3½ Waisnor
The Jovannic 2–2 TeaFarmers
Lionsroar 1½–2½ Atheara

  Kolamaki                   Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  Pts 
1 Atheara                      2   2  0  0  5.5 2.5    4
2 Waisnor                      2   1  1  0  5.5 2.5    3
3 TeaFarmers                   2   0  2  0    4   4    2
4 Sannyamathland               2   1  0  1    3   5    2
5 The Jovannic                 2   0  1  1    3   5    1
6 Lionsroar                    2   0  0  2    3   5    0

[South Newlandia]

You aren't going to win if you just defend, you need to learn how to eat the pieces of your opponent to defend better

[TJUN-ia]

Welcome to the 5th Elephant Chess Cup, coming to you live from Sarim Convention Centre in Sarim, Poafmersia. The day got off to a good start with a nice 3-1 win over the Canadian Dominion and now, it's time for the lunchtime matchup against Natanians and Nosts. The general feeling around the Jaguar Knights was still pretty good, but a quote that circulated before this contest certainly got everyone talking: "You aren't going to win if you just defend, you need to learn how to attack better to defend better."

Board 1: GIC Yevgeny Solovyanenko bt N&N #1
For a sly fox like Solovyanenko, that quote is perfect - in both a Chess context and in the context of warfare in general. You can defend all you want, but true victories come from outsmarting your opponent out of their skin...which is exactly what he did here in the match. He didn't win because he was defensive, he won because he simply outsmarted his opponent by nudging them towards their own doom via checkmate. That's how Yevgeny likes to roll and so far, it's working.

Board 2: GIC Tshering Gyeltshen bt by N&N #2
Tshering Gyeltshen...well, he didn't really care about that quote. Sure, outsmarting his opponent was a fundamental part of this sport and it could be applied elsewhere, but that's not why he played chess. He played chess as it was a sport he fully enjoyed, one that allowed him to meet new people like his "special someone", and his love for this sport will stick no matter the result. Sure, he did lose here, but it wasn't a frustrating game at all...and that's all you can really say.

Board 3: GIC Anne Christian-Warren bt N&N #3
The quote didn't really matter to our Lesbian Pirate Queen, as outsmarting the opponent wasn't really a consideration of her "balls to the wall" strategy. She is a master at thinking up shit on the fly whenever she needs to and today, she used that skill to perfection to overcome a 3-piece disadvantage to win this contest. Sometimes, stuff just works...and she will certainly be happy with that.

Board 4: GIC Margarita Altamiranda bt N&N #4
The quote will certainly be written down by Altamiranda, who will certainly need all the advice she can get in the quest to survive as a newly-minted professional. In this contest, all she really needed to do was actually use that quote to full effect and actually outsmart her opponent in every facet of play. She was brilliant on the board today and maybe if she can keep this up, she may not feel like a liability on this team anymore.

Entering lunchtime at 2-0 was certainly exactly what the doctor ordered, but 3:30 will see the biggest test of them all coming up. South Newlandia, the team we beat to claim this crown, are in this group...and they are 2-0 as well. You don't need to tell us that SNL wants revenge, we can tell that from the glances their players give in our direction.
If you're going to watch a chess match today, then this one is the one you need to watch.
The question is, what will happen after all this time?
GO JAG KNIGHTS!

---

SCHEDULE (Group Cape - Sarim Convention Centre (SCC), Sarim, Tikahs, Poafmersia
Day 1
M1: vs Canadian Dominion (9:30 am) W 3-1 (1st)
M2: vs Natanians and Nosts (1 pm) W 3-1 (1st)
M3: vs South Newlandia (3:30 pm)
M4: vs Klakahollin (7 pm)

Day 2
M5: vs United Starsian Republics (9:30 am)

---

INDIVIDUAL RECORDS
YS: 2-0
TG: 1-1
ACW: 1-1
MA: 2-0

[New Eestiball]

How to Win at Chess, part 1 by Yettanotha Faik-Persson.
Taken from theimmortalgame.blogger.ee
This is part 1 of a series that will help you improve your chess skills.
Step 1. The Opening
Stick to things that are well-played. 1. e4, 1.d4, 1.c4. Maybe the occasional 1. Nf3 or 1.d3 in there somewhere, but not everyone can play the Bird. Stick to one line, and follow it. If your opponent plays d5, then capture; c5, then c3; and e5, then Nf3.