
Kostya Kavutskiy is a professional chess author, player, and coach currently residing in Mountain View, CA. He successfully completed his quest to earn his final IM Norm at the 2016 CCSCSL Autumn Invitational.
Kostya is a frequent contributor to US Chess, and his articles have ranked in the Best of US Chess top 10 several times:
- Kostya Kavutskiy on Breaking 2366 (2011, 3rd)
- Shahade at the US Chess School (2012, 1st)
- Kostya on Norm #1: Staying Present (2014, 9th)
The Judges Sound Off
"This is my #1 story of 2016. Despite failing to achieve his primary chess goal, the author graciously shares his travel experiences in Europe, both on and off the board. He objectively analyzes the highs and lows, inserting self criticism when deserved. The two articles combined are a long read (especially if you play through the games), but lessons to be learned are aplenty.
Favorite quote: 'There were some pretty heavy downs, but I tried to remind myself that this was what I signed up for—the experience to play chess all over the world, win, lose, or draw.' What a dream! Also check out the twin tactical victories by IM Marc Esserman and NM Thomas Riccardi, who independently essayed the same novelty 8… h5 and 10… b5 in the same side variation of the 2… e6 Sicilian at the same tournament."
-Michael Aigner
"Inspirational. Instructive. Entertaining. What more can I say? Kostya’s writing style brings every moment to life. Not only does Kostya provide extensively detailed insights into a number of games, but he also shares the many eventful experiences that took place off the board. The bit about Riccardi and Esserman unknowingly producing the same opening novelty was absolutely golden. Kostya’s piece actually inspired me to take a (slightly less epic) chess/Europe trip of my own last summer.
It’s very easy to relate to the ups, downs, and stresses of chess that Kostya describes. The roller coaster of emotions can be difficult to deal with, but Kostya does a great job on reflecting and pulling out the many valuable lessons. I’m looking forward to the future pieces Kostya will produce. Perhaps an Asia trip on the horizon?"-Eric Rosen
"Let’s take a chess road trip and there is no better guide than Kostya Kavutskiy! His chess compass took him to some of the most prestigious Open tournaments of 2016. He is candid about those good moments when everything is going well and those not so good moments when you miss a critical move. Lots of great chess analysis, solid chess annotations and ideas on opening preparation! Don’t miss the polar bear photo – one of my favorites!"
-Michael Ciamarra
"Kostya’s writing style is relatable, instructive and entertaining. He has a great way of connecting with his readers. Kostya openly shares his struggle getting his norms and his fear of failing, providing a very honest and reflective article. He communicates this struggle with humor and insight making this article my #1 pick. I felt like I was on this emotional journey with him. A truly great read!"-Jennifer Vallens
"These articles were so personal and covered such a huge stretch of time (relatively), but they were informative, as well. The articles make me want to do a giant chess road trip as well!"-Vanessa Sun
Best of US Chess 2016 Countdown
#1 - Kostya's Chess Eurotrip: Two Months, Four Tourneys, Six Cities and 38 Games of Chess: Part 1 and Part 2 by Kostya Kavutskiy
#2 - What Is Your Goal in Chess? by Vanessa West (Judging Article)
#3 - A Winner's Tale: GM Chirila on Millionaire Chess 2016 by Cristian Chirila (Judging Article)
#4 - Top Ten Lessons from the US Championships by Greg Shahade (Judging Article)
#5 - Alejandro on Americans in Iceland by Alejandro Ramirez (Judging Article)
#6 - Eight Lessons From the Junior High School Nationals by Pete Karagianis (Judging Article)
#7 - The Couch Potato's Guide to the World Chess Championship by Ian Rogers (Judging Article)
#8 - Joshua Colas: His Journey So Far by Daaim Shabazz (Judging Article)
#9 - World Championship: Editor’s Notebook by Daniel Lucas (Judging Article)
#10 - A List of One's Own: The New Top 100 Women Rankings by Maret Thorpe (Judging Article)
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