Outcome of World Championship Match in Frisian draughts to be decided on the final day following a nail-biting draw
HARLINGEN – The outcome of the World Championship Match in Frisian draughts will remain in the balance until the very last day. After a nerve-wracking ninth game, reigning world champion Marten Walinga and challenger Taeke Kooistra were once again level. With two games still to play, the overall score remains unchanged, meaning the world title will only be decided on the final day.
This year’s world title contest is not only being played at historic Frisian venues, but also bears a symbolic resemblance to the Elfstedentocht. From Leeuwarden via Workum to Harlingen, both players are, as it were, completing the match along the route through the eleven Frisian cities; each day, each game is named after one of the eleven cities. Prior to the ninth game, WFD board member Liuwe H. Westra drew a striking parallel with the classic speed-skating event.
“The journey only really begins from Harlingen,” he remarked with a wink. “Just like in the Elfstedentocht, headwinds often await from here on.”
The well-known Harlingen resident Wiebe van Dijk, a politician and singer, then provided some light-hearted entertainment by making the ceremonial first move. He explained that he used to play Frisian draughts himself, though he added with a sense of humour: “If you wanted to lose a game quickly, you really had to play Frisian draughts.” His remark drew plenty of smiles from those present.
On the board, however, there was no sign of light-heartedness. Both grandmasters opted for a sharp opening that clearly differed from the earlier games in the match. Following a minor inaccuracy by Kooistra, Walinga seemed to be slowly but surely taking control. His position improved steadily and the reigning world champion appeared to be heading for an important victory.
However, the course of the game took a surprising turn when a crucial exchange was completely overlooked. Suddenly, Kooistra managed to turn his difficult position around into a promising endgame. With only four pieces left on the board for each player, Walinga even seemed to have too little tempo left to reach safety.
As has so often been the case in this world title match, this endgame too proved to be full of hidden twists. Both players missed the strongest lines. After both players promoted a piece to a king, Kooistra had two extra pieces in the centre. The resulting position was found in the analysis room to be unwinable. Kooistra also came to that conclusion and decided to agree to a draw.
After nine games, the standings remain completely level. This means one thing is certain: the battle for the world title in Frisian draughts will only be decided on the final day of play. The tension in Harlingen is therefore greater than ever.
As a side event, a FRYSK! tournament was held at the Barentszwerf, with Liuwe Westra emerging as the winner.
Photo 1: Wiebe van Dijk makes the first move against Taeke Kooistra
Photo 2: Marten Walinga on the left, Taeke Kooistra on the right
Dit is een voorbeeld tekst.
