Michael Basman facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Michael Basman |
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Basman in Cambridge, 2006
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| Full name | Michael John Basman |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Born | 16 March 1946 London, England |
| Died | 26 October 2022 (aged 76) |
| Title | International Master |
| FIDE rating | 2313 (October 2016) |
| Peak rating | 2410 (July 1971) |
Michael John Basman (March 16, 1946 – October 26, 2022) was an English chess player. He was also a chess writer and an International Master. He received the International Master title in 1980. Basman wrote many books and articles about chess.
He was famous for choosing very unusual or rarely played chess openings in his games. Some of these included the St. George Defence and the Grob. He also used an opening called The Creepy Crawly. This opening starts with moves like a3, then h3, followed by a quick c4.
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Michael Basman: A Unique Chess Player
Michael Basman was known for his exciting and different way of playing chess. He loved to surprise his opponents with moves they had never seen before. This made his games very interesting to watch.
His Unique Chess Style
Basman often used openings that most chess players avoided. For example, the St. George Defence was one of his favorites. A famous English Grandmaster, Tony Miles, once used this defense to beat the World Champion Anatoly Karpov. Basman also used the Grob opening for both white and black pieces.
His unique style helped him achieve great success. In 1973, he tied for first place in the British Chess Championship. He later lost a play-off match to William Hartston.
Playing Against Top Players
In 1975, England played a chess match against France. Michael Basman played on the top board for England. This meant he was considered one of England's strongest players. He played ahead of future Grandmasters like John Nunn and Jon Speelman.
He even managed to beat some Grandmasters. One notable win was against Jon Speelman. Basman used his special 'Killer Grob' defense in that game.
Helping Young Chess Players
Michael Basman cared a lot about young chess players. He wanted to help them learn and love the game. He created a very important chess tournament for kids.
The UK Chess Challenge
Basman started the UK Chess Challenge. This tournament is for young chess players of all skill levels and ages. It has four stages, allowing many children to take part. It is now known as the biggest chess tournament in the world.
A famous chess Grandmaster, Raymond Keene, once said that Michael Basman was "the most important person in British chess." This shows how much impact Basman had on youth chess.
About Michael Basman's Life
Michael Basman's father was an immigrant from Armenia. His family name used to be Basmadjian. When Michael was a child, the famous singer Cleo Laine even worked as his babysitter.
Michael Basman passed away on October 26, 2022, at the age of 76. He died from cancer.
