The United States Chess Federation

Jonathan,

Thanks for letting us (especially Ohioans) know what had happened! I had noticed from the intermediate results that you had dropped out, and hoped it wasn't anything serious. Since you're blogging, I assume you're nearly or completely recovered.

Best wishes for a speedy recovery, Jon. I know you would have rather been writing on the tournament but great story nonetheless. Looking forward to seeing more of your writings here.

I was the player to Jonathan's left during the night of the third round. He was really suffering with his headache, and I asked him several times if he was alright. As I played my game (yes, it was the white side of a King's Indian), the poor lad sank lower and lower at his board. But for once, I thought, the chess Gods were going to be kind to the young man as his opponent did not show for the game. As the first hour melted away, I was happy both that I was going to achieve a quick win, and Hilton would escape having to play a game in his condition. But, alas, as every tournament player knows, chess is too cruel to be that simple. At literally the last minute, Jon's opponent rushed into the hall and briskly played his move. Hilton resigned immediately, and I thought, once again that the hardest thing to win is a won game!
Larry Storch
Florida

Sorry to hear about your misfortune Jonathan. Way to keep your sense of humor though (it's in our moments of adversity that our true selves show through). Hope those variations in your head get configured back correctly quick like.