Men who keep the man going
Susan NinanSusan Ninan, TNN | Nov 9, 2013, 02.53 AM IST

They say god lies in details. It couldn’t be closer to truth if you’re part of a five-time world champion’s support staff. Hans Walter-Schmitt and Eric Van Reem who handle the logistics of Team Anand, know they have a demanding job to keep.

“I remember visiting Sofia six months before the World Championship to check whether the arrangements were in place, which included checking the light sockets as well. This time since it’s in Anand’s home city, it was easier for Aruna to oversee the affair,” says Eric.

A former chess player himself who dabbled with teaching, feels Anand’s biggest strength is his adaptability. “He can adapt himself to situations very quickly. He grew up on chess books and held strong in the computer generation. Also the fact that he has won the world title in all three formats is proof enough.”

With volcanic ash spewing European airspace and flight services being suspended, Team Anand was left with little option but to hit the road from Frankfurt to Sofia for the 2010 World Championship. “The trip was a memorable one. It helped us come together and grow closer as a team. We watched movies, played a bit of chess and engaged in small talk to while away time and ensure that fatigue did not set in with the 40-hour road journey.”

Settled in Germany now, the 46 year-old Dutchman met Anand in 2000 during Mainz chess classic, organized by Walter-Schmitt, and their relationship grew over the years. Apart from being a part of Anand’s team, Eric also works for Lufthansa airlines as a coordinator.

In fact, Anand’s German connect is strong and profound. He chooses to train in Bad Soden, a small but affluent town in Hesse, Germany, and also plays in Bundesliga chess.

Over the years, the Indian has turned defensive in his play, says his close aide. “Like Anand himself says, one cannot expect that a player will play the same way that he did 20 years ago. He is a lot less attacking now, and slowed down a bit.”

Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com

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