It’s your move, Jacques
By Alan Hubbard
Sunday, 30 May 2010
The chairman of Russia’s Olympic Committee reckons it is time chess was added to the Olympic programme. Alexander Zhukov says he will be putting pressure on the IOC president Rogge for its inclusion, adding: “Regrettably, the IOC doesn’t want to add that sport to the Olympic programme, but we will insist.” Seems Mr Zhukov, a Kremlin cabinet member, is making the sort of offer that sounds more in keeping with the Russian mafia. It is to be hoped that it will be refused, even if there are some who would like to see the Games become more cerebral. But if they ever allow chess, where will it end? Scrabble? Backgammon? Poker? How about a spot of Sudoku? If squash can’t get in because it apparently lacks televisual appeal, what chance should chess have?
Source: http://www.independent.co.uk
Chess should be included.
The reporter doesn’t entirely grasp the point. While Scrabble and Poker definitely require skill, surely they have an element of luck. Chess does not, and is therefore different to the others. Chess should be included, it is cerebral but also requires physical fitness to endure.
Chess for olympics i hope so, it’s deserved.