The chess world is showing increasing interest in what many now refer to as “Freestyle Chess.” This term is gradually replacing – or at least complementing – the older names Chess960 and Fischer Random Chess. Having served as Chief Arbiter at two such events this year – one in Weissenhaus, Germany in February and another in Paris, France in April – I encountered a number of unique challenges. These are worth sharing, as Freestyle Chess differs from classical chess in several subtle yet significant ways.

Allow me to go back in time for a moment. Chess 960 has its origins in the 18th century, at that time called “Schuffle Chess”. Although this form of chess traditionally fascinated chess players for the idea that one had to play the game without the preparation of a certain opening and thus relied on one’s own chess skills from the start, it remained a niche activity in the chess world for a long time.

The Arbiters’  Council asked Prof.  Kenneth W.  Regan to write a dissemination article about his system, to let every arbiter to get acquainted with this very important tool.  It has been written with the purpose to make the system understandable without any particular mathematical skill, in order to have the concept behind known to every arbiter.  The Arbiters’  Council warmly thanks Prof.  Regan for his precious job for the Chess community and for his kind cooperation with us!

On this column we have mentioned many times what is needed to be a good arbiter. We have focused on experience, as a key to success. We have spoken about best judgement, as an essential capability to run a smooth tournament. Today, we will focus on education and permanent learning.