KibBlitzing with National Grade-Level Champion...

Abby Marshall!
Current place of residence: Newport News, VA
Date of Birth: June 11, 1991
USCF Rating as of 12/6/08: 2154
WCL Junior Grand Prix Points: 55

Photo: Iryna Zenyuk (left) and Abby Marshall (right) in China.

- What is the craziest time you have ever had at a tournament?

China was all crazy times, going out at all hours, meeting all kinds of new people. One time, me and this other person, whom I was interested in, got left behind and we stayed out until 2:00 A.M. or so, hanging out in downtown Beijing.

- If you could go back and re-do any tournament you've ever played, which would it be and why?

World Mind Sports Games in China--no other tournament is even close. I felt that I played really well, just felt very relaxed and able to play my favorite openings (King's Gambit) and attack--all my strengths. The tournament was also brilliantly organized. There were individual events and team events, with a week off in between to party. I loved everyone on the American team and got to meet some cool people from other countries, which was pretty sweet.

- What is your favorite chess country?

China of course, everyone is really cool and friendly and I seem to play well there so far.

- What was your best tournament result ever?

Winning the National Championship was fun, but in terms of rating results, probably an invitational tournament I played in at the beginning of the summer, where I was the lowest rated player but won the tournament, beating two 2300s.

- What would you be if you weren't a chessplayer?

A rich and famous rockstar.

- How do you react to a loss?

I get pretty emotional about losses. I usually need to be alone cause I am in the worst mood and say dumb stuff I don't mean, but on the other hand I get over it pretty quickly too, so it goes both ways I guess.

- Kramnik seems to think you must look good to play well. How important is a chessplayer's wardrobe?

It depends on who is wearing the clothes.

- What is your favorite cereal?

Wheaties, breakfast of champions. Just kidding, I actually hate Wheaties. Maybe Frosted Cheerios?

- Who are your role models in chess?

Mikhail Tal is amazing, I love his games and style. Judit Polgar is awesome.

- What is the meaning of life?

I am a chessplayer, not a universal genius haha. ♦

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