Highlights from the 2024 Absolute Championship Tournament: Games, Puzzles, and Celebrations!

Timothy Harris Claims Victory in 2024 Absolute Championship

In an exciting conclusion to the 2024 Absolute Championship tournament, ICCF CCM Timothy Harris of Simpsonville, SC, has emerged as the champion, marking his first title in this prestigious event. Harris finished with an impressive score of 7½–4½, including three wins and nine draws, solidifying his place among the elite in correspondence chess. Congratulations, Timothy!

This issue of Check is in the Mail features a selection of games from the tournament, showcasing the strategic depth and creativity of the players. Notably, three of the six games included in this issue utilized variations of the Ruy Lopez opening, highlighting its popularity among competitors.

As a special treat for chess enthusiasts, all twelve games played by Harris during the tournament are available in a LiChess Study. While only six games are featured in this issue, the remaining games may appear in future publications, including three intriguing miniatures that could be showcased in the December 2026 issue.

Game Highlights

• Game 1: Harris faced Frederick Rhine in a draw using the E11: Bogo-Indian, concluding on his 31st move.
• Game 2: In a thrilling match against Chris Lewis, Harris executed a brilliant checkmate on his 28th move, employing the C65: Ruy Lopez: Berlin Defence.
• Game 3: Against Keith A. Rodriguez, Harris agreed to a draw after a tense battle in the B76: Sicilian Dragon.
• Game 4: Harris forced a resignation from Ferdinand Burmeister after a relentless 69 moves in the B06: Modern Defence.
• Game 5: Another draw was agreed upon with Jeff Reger, again utilizing the C65: Ruy Lopez: Berlin Defence.
• Game 6: Harris showcased his prowess by forcing David Porter to resign after 41 moves in the C84: Closed Ruy Lopez.

Puzzles and Interactive Features

This issue also includes a series of puzzles derived from the tournament games, allowing readers to engage with the material interactively. Solutions can be found at the end of the issue, and readers can access the puzzles online for a more immersive experience.

Looking Ahead

The next issue of Check is in the Mail is set to be released around June 1, 2026. Contributors are encouraged to submit US Chess Federation correspondence games for potential inclusion in future editions.

As the chess community celebrates Harris’s victory, it is a reminder of the enduring appeal of correspondence chess, a game that has evolved from its postal roots to embrace modern technology while retaining its rich strategic heritage.

For more information and to view the complete crosstable of the tournament, visit the ICCF website. Happy playing!