When I started the first SPICE Cup in 2007, we worked hard to put together a category 12 event. In 2008, the SPICE Cup jumped to category 15. We were able to go even higher to category 16 in 2009. SPICE Cup 2010 remains at category 16(2631 average FIDE rating) but we have two 2700+ player for the first time (Almasi and Onischuk).
SPICE Cup 2011 will be category 17/18. The first confirmed player is Czech Republic’s young superstar Viktor Laznicka. I am also in discussion with 4-5 2700+ players at this moment for 2011. I hope to complete at least half the field soon.
I would like to thank Texas Tech University and sponsors / donors of the Susan Polgar Foundation for supporting this prestigious event. There is virtually no big international invitational round robin tournament in the United States. The SPICE Cup plays a very important role in giving American players a chance to excel.
Great choice.
Congratulations SPICE!
great job, if you could get Anish Giri or Negi that will be good. previously you had So here. So Giri and Negi would be continuing the story.