Chess, the age-old game of strategy and intellect, has enthralled generations of players across the globe. Of these, a remarkable individual stands out from the crowd, defying the odds and becoming an inspiring emblem of longevity and mental agility. Yuri Averbakh, the world's oldest grandmaster and a living chronicle of chess history, recently passed away at the age of 100. His life journey, shared by the Russian Chess Federation and FIDE, was as remarkable as his contributions to the game. Averbakh's legacy isn't defined by the fact that he never won the world chess championship, but by the multitude of roles he played: a grandmaster, trainer, international arbiter, chess composer, endgame theoretician, writer, historian, and honorary member of FIDE.
Born in Kaluga, 180 kilometers southwest of Moscow, Averbakh's life was a series of twists and turns. His family moved to Moscow when he was three, and his fascination with chess began. By seven, he was playing the game. This early start at school saved him from conscription when the war started. He was part of what he called a "tragic generation," as most of his peers perished at the front.
While pursuing his education during the war years, Averbakh was also honing his chess skills, earning the title of USSR Master of Sports in 1944. After the war, he worked at the Research Institute for Missile Aviation for five years, but his passion for chess ultimately prevailed. With the blessings of his department head, he committed himself fully to the game, becoming a grandmaster in 1952.
1974 - Averbach against a very young Garry Kasparov.
Averbakh's life in chess was not always smooth sailing. Despite hardships, including personal losses and professional disputes, he achieved significant success. His participation in the 1953 Candidates Tournament in Zurich was a notable highlight. Despite finishing in the middle of the pack, his involvement in one of history's most potent tournaments fortified his standing in the global chess community.
A young Averbakh. Photo: Russian Chess Federation.
Averbakh's chess career took him around the world, thanks to his proficiency in English. His victories spanned continents, from Australia and Jakarta to Rio de Janeiro and New Zealand. Despite these accomplishments, he stepped back from professional chess at the age of 40. His focus shifted to journalism, coaching, and promoting chess as a lifelong pursuit.
For Averbakh, chess was more than just a game; it was a way of life. Even after he retired from active play, he remained deeply involved in the chess community. He served as editor-in-chief of several chess publications and contributed to the development of the Chess Center at the Russian National Public Library for Science and Technology.
GM Yuri Averbakh (96 years old) and GM Boris Spassky (81-years)
Averbakh believed in the mental benefits of chess, especially for the elderly. He advocated for the game as a preventive tool against Alzheimer's disease and encouraged a balanced approach, combining chess with a healthy, active lifestyle. His dedication to the game and his active lifestyle contributed to his longevity.
As a theoretician, Averbakh contributed significantly to both the opening and endgame theory. His strategic insights benefited many renowned chess players like Spassky, Tal, Botvinnik, Keres, Smyslov, and even Kasparov. His approach to the King’s Indian opening, known as the Averbakh Variation, is a testament to his innovative thinking.
Soviet participants Petrosian, Kotov, Keres, Averbakh, and Geller. Photo: Russian Chess Federation.
Yuri Averbakh's death marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations of chess enthusiasts. His life and career serve as a vivid reminder that chess, like life, is about more than just winning. It's about the journey, the passion, the learning, and the people we touch along the way. His story underscores the profound impact chess can have on an individual's life, fostering a lifelong love of learning, strategic thinking, and personal growth. It is a reminder to all of us that the game of chess, like life itself, is a continuous journey of discovery, challenge, and intellectual fulfillment.
References:
Russian Chess Federation. (2023).
FIDE. (2023).
Kasparov, G. (2003). My Great Predecessors, Part II. Everyman Chess.
Bronstein, D. (1956). Zurich International Chess Tournament, 1953. Dover Publications.
Averbakh, Y. (2004). Centre-Stage and Behind the Scenes. New In Chess.
Neishtadt, I. (1996). The Zurich Chess Club, 1809-2009. Edition Olms.
Sosonko, G. (2014). Russian Silhouettes. New In Chess.
Kalendovský, J. (1981). In the Footsteps of the Masters. Batsford.
Averbakh, Y., & Chekhover, V. (1977). Comprehensive Chess Endings. Pergamon.