At the end of day one, GM Dejan Antic led on 4/4. GM Rogers had draws with Queensland juniors Moulthun Ly and Ben Lazarus. Moulthun and David Smerdon were on 3.5/4. In the U1600 division, Nenad Chelebichanin led on 4/4 and in U1000 Oliver McCarthy and Curtis Jack were also on 4/4.

Gold Coast Open report (see Arbiter Charles Zworestine's report here)

GM Dejan Antic from Serbia, has ended GM Ian Rogers' five year reign as Gold Coast Open champion with a convincing win on the weekend, scoring an undefeated 6/7. In his victory speech Dejan conceded that he was a little lucky in his first couple of games, but felt that he was at career best form over the remaining rounds. Dejan is currently in the process of applying for permanent residency in Australia and is currently teaching chess in Sydney schools.

GM Rogers and Moulthun Ly came second on 5.5.

Ben Lazarus, who is not playing much chess at present due to year 12 studies, had an outstanding tournament, drawing with GM Rogers. Gene Nakauchi confirmed his growing status with another draw with IM Stephen Solomon. 33 players participated in the open division.

Nenad Chelebichanin dominated the under 1600 competition with a picket fence 7/7. 33 players participated in the under 1600 comp.

Rhys Davies won the under 1000 event with a score of 6.5/7. Zane Weitenberg finished second on 6 with Robbie Peck third on 5.5. 45 players took part in the under 1000 competition.

Congratulations to Peter Bender and his team for organising a great tournament, and increasing the participation to a healthy 111.

Results