2nd Gideon Japhet Memorial 2014
Jul 26, 2014
The 2nd Gideon Japhet Memorial Open Chess Tournament 2014 took place on 16-24th July 2014 in Jerusalem, Israel, incorporating professional and amateur chess.
The fascinating Rapid Chess duel between top grandmasters Boris Gelfand and Peter Svidler was the most widely recognized part of the event. The final result of the duel is 5: 3 in favor of Peter Svidler.
There were four draws and four decisive games – three times black prevailed and one time white. Four decisive games among eight is a tribute for the fighting spirit and exemplary sportsmanship of Gelfand and Svidler.
Grandmaster Gelfand thanked the hosts for the initiative, and for the high level of hospitality and organization. He also explained that the duel with Svidler served as an excellent preparation and warm-up for him ahead of the chess Olympics that will begin on August 2 in Tromso, Norway.
Prior to the closing ceremony, Boris Gelfand gave a lecture and analyzed his game with Black pieces vs. Sergei Karjakin at the Candidates Tournament, while Peter Svidler chose to demonstrate his white pieces against Magnus Carlsen when the latter was 16 years-old.
Both players received an elegant gift engraved with silver and gold. The guest Peter Svidler complimented the organization about the wonderful conditions during his stay and emphasized that he really felt welcome. Although he visited Israel many times this was the first time he played in Jerusalem, mentioning “next year in Jerusalem”.
Boring match.