Royal Knights of CHESS

Jonathan G. Cortes Wins 1st Place

2011-11-21T19:23:00.003-06:00

It was November 11, 2011, and I was driving to Stripes
that beautiful Saturday morning for some of their awesome
tacos. I had a feeling it was going to be awesome day
with great results for my chess students. One of them:
Jonathan G. Cortes who is new to the Royal Game would
participate in the Rancho Verde Chess Tournament. He had
competed in three others ( Garcia MS, Porter HS and
Paredes Elementary ) with good results. He is on his way to
becoming a true chess tournament player: he notates every
game, uses a chess clock, and study his chess notes.
I am very proud of him and believe he will become a very
strong chess player. One of his goals is to reach a 900 rating
this year and 1200 - 1300 rating next year. Another one
is to become a movie director. Jonathan is an eleven year
old 4th grader at Elgy Elementary. As his chess coach,
I can only say, " go for it Jonathan, you are a Champion.
Set your goals and dreams high. Yes! you can achieve
any goal you set your mind to do". Bravo Jonathan!!!
Bravo for winning 1st place in the Under 400 section.

Paredes Chess Tournament

2011-11-14T12:42:00.009-06:00

The Royal Knights arrived at Americo Paredes Elementary
on Saturday, November 5, 2011, to battle for checkmates.
This morning would bring 761 chess players in hopes of
winning a trophy. The pairings were all set thanks to James
Houghtaling and Remy Ferrari of Paperclip Pairings.
However, this tournament was not as strong as the past
three: Garcia MS, Oliveira MS, and Porter HS.

Some parents complained that it was unfair for their
Primary K-3 or Elementary K-5 children to complete

against older students, although all students were in the
same level of skill. The parents that complained do not
understand CHESS and the Person that make this new
change does not know that this change HURTS the chess
players that are going to complete in the State and
National Events. Our players complete against very strong
and well prepared chess players from all over the United
States. Our players must prepare by playing against stronger
players or players of the same strength
( rating not age or grade ) . I have the solution.
I know that the K-12 under 400 section is a must section
because the weakest chess players play in this section
and they have a CHANCE to win a trophy or medal. This
chess players are new to the game and NEED to be
SUCCESSFUL in order for us to build them up...
otherwise they might stop Chess. Our older chess players
( 4 - 12 graders ), must play against higher rated players
every single round thereby making it is hard and in most
cases impossible to win 2 points . K-5 under 1000 and
K-12 under 1000 sections why? In this sections there was
maybe one or two good matches and not for every player...
too many weak players in this sections. The weak players
must play in the K-12 Under 400. One section only
K-12 Under 1000 is best. There was one section that did
what it needed to do: K-12 Under 1300 . Now, for the
"OPEN", let me say that this section should be renamed
the "1400 and ABOVE" and please do not use the
word "OPEN" as then everyone can play in this section.
This section should be reserve for the strongest
chess players only. At this tournament there was
42 of 64 players under 1400,
some of the top boards complained that there is no
completion. Our "top boards" need to complete against
strong players every single round not only 1 or maybe 2.
New York is always playing against stronger
chess players and that is why they are ready and also so
strong. We need this change! In order to better prepare
our chess players they must play in strong chess
tournaments. I suggest the following 6 Sections:
KINDER ONLY division no 1st graders,
K-12 under 500 (beginners), K-12 (501 - 900),
K-12 (901 - 1199), K-12 (1200 - 1499) and for the
strongest players: "RESERVE 1500 and ABOVE" section
which would allow adults and college students but only
those who have ratings of 1500 and above... I know this
will better prepare our chess players. Let's think of our
chess players and what is best for them. The Chess Players
that go to State and National events need your help. This
game is about skill not age or grade and always will be.

Porter Chess Tournament

2011-10-29T01:00:00.002-05:00

As I was driving down the Expressway and taking the
International Blvd. exit, I received a call on my cell.
It was Bradley McCaleb asking where I was going
to be at. I answered, "at the cafeteria. but first, I
would stop for some morning tacos...and other goodies."
After the stop at Stripes, I continued to Porter High
School for their annual Chess Tournament. Once there
I walked to pay the entry fee for one of my chess students.
Mrs. Vasquez was taking care of business and Patty was
at the table taking the entry fee money. Today the first
round was running on time. Chess players were going
in all different directions trying to get to the different
places where the chess matches would be played.
I when to the cafeteria but it was super cold, so I set
up outside by the Porter Corral. It was awesome.
Little Jonathan came by and then Bradley followed
by Zachary Sunderland. I played a game with Vela'
powerhouse Brianna Guillen. After some interesting
moves, the bell rang for the second round. The wins
would continue to come in. That marked a new beginning
for some of my chess players. Jonathan Cortes would
win 4 points in the K-12 U400 section as well as
Dante Gracia. in the K-12 U1300 section Stillman's
Dominic Beltran would win 2nd place with 4.5 points
and reach a 1300 rating....while Donna's Idea College
Zachary Sunderland would win 4 points. In the
K-12 U1000 section Stillman's Daniel A. Vital would
take it all winning every round ( 5 points) and taking
home the first place TROPHY. Bradley McCaleb won
4 points. In the OPEN section Porter's Team Captian
Oziel Juarez won 3rd place and his team took the
first place team TROPHY. All Royal Knights earn
higher ratings. There was about 633 chess players
battling for the TROPHY that Saturday October 15, 2011.
But only, those who do the work and study WIN.

Oziel Juarez wins 1st Place

2011-10-17T21:20:00.000-05:00

It was a beautiful and sunny Saturday morning, as I
drove to Oliveira Middle School, with a must stop
at "Stripes" for some awesome TACOS. As I drove
by the school looking for a parking space, I noticed
Oziel Juarez walking in all determined to WIN
every round. I parked and walk in and started to work
with one of my new and promising chess students:
Jonathan Cortes who would play his first chess
tournament. While at the cafeteria, some other
students stopped by for last minute pointers and
advice. Round one started and then after some time
Little Jonathan runs in with his first win. It was an
awesome feeling, seeing him enjoy his victory.
Then walks in Ozzy, winning his game (Silician).
Dante Gracia and his little sister Omega both won
the first round as well as Melissa Medina. As the
day passed by,there was lots of wins in the Royal Knight
camp. As I when over games with Oziel, Jonathan,
Melissa, Zachary, and others... I told them one thing:
"look at the squares around the King and victory will
be yours. Use your weapons (tactics) and develop a
strong and powerful attack ( 3 or more pieces attacking
the opponent's King) and please look and protect your
king ."For lunch I had some Church's Fried Chicken
thanks to Mrs. Yesenia Martinez. The rounds continue
and the end came to a close. Porter Chess Team had
taken the 1st place team TROPHY and Porter's
Captain Oziel Juarez took the 1st place TROPHY
( he won every game).

BISD 1st Tournament by RATINGS

2011-09-26T23:44:00.002-05:00

It was 8:30 as we walked in the Main door of
Dr. Juliet V. Garcia Middle School. We were
greeted by the Gator cheerleaders, one of them
step up to show us the map of the building and pointed
us in the right direction, Oziel Juarez and I were
going to the Porter Room....Porter would win the
OPEN that day. This Saturday, September 24, 2011
BISD Chess held its first Tournament by Ratings.
This was done so that on every round chess players
were play against stronger opponents.
Of course all divisions were playing in the same
level. However, in chess only rating matters, not size,
not age, only skill. Round one was about to get started.
Chief TD Victor Flores and his staff did a great job.
As the rounds were finished I noticed that this idea
was the right one to help our players become stronger.
Before players were winning against weaker players,
but on this day, there were some UPSETS. It seem some
players could not handle the competition. Royal Knights
as usual always come out on top and this tournament was
not be the exception. Their Rating jumped up and trophies
were won. Ozeil Juarez, Porter HS 2nd place Open
Dominic Beltran and Melissa Medina both from Stillman
MS took the 4th place K-12 U1300 team trophy...Dominic
won 1st place while Melissa took 10th and both earned
higher ratings. In the K-12 U1000 section Rodolfo
Velasquez, Besteiro MS - 3rd place....Bradley McCaleb
from Weslaco took home the 5th place trophy,
while Zachary P Sunderland from Idea College Preparatory
took 6th. All three reach new higher rating as well.
Lucio's MS Xavier Torres took 9th with 3.5 points and also
increase his rating. Good Job Royal Knights!!!
There were 342 chess players all looking for checkmate...
some won, some lost, and some created draws...
Royal Knights are WINNERS and LEADERS.

Chess @ Alejandra's Restaurant

2011-09-21T08:59:00.000-05:00

It was 8:28 a.m. and the text when out:
"Chess @ Alejandra's" this morning?
Luis Matus and Eliud Ramirez returned
the text....and we are meeting at 10:15a.m.
They have great food --> so I will probably
have MOLE for lunch (my favorite).
so 1. e4! your move.

Chess Workshop Thursday

2011-09-20T11:49:00.001-05:00

This Thursday, September 22, I will give
a chess workshop at my house. The cost:
only $5 ( a one time low price). A new
chess season is about to begin....
Is your chess game ready for battle?
call or text 561-1034 Ray Martinez

CHESS and BBQ !!!

2011-09-15T23:42:00.000-05:00

I was working with one of my chess students
this afternoon, while I received a call about
a Chess Party....Hung up the phone and continued
to work on tactics with Melissa....Her game
is getting a lot stronger.....I am expecting
good results from her games...anyway, the
lesson ended and I went over to Ramiro's
for some Chess and chicken BBQ...
the food was good and the games were awesome.
The powerful "Torre Fuerte" chess team
was there - creating interesting positions
and working tactics and planning checkmates.
It was a great evening of chess....playing
chess under trees, enjoying the evening air.
we finished at night fall....Vive Torre Fuerte!!!
Vive Chess forever...

FRIDAYS: Chess @ the Mall

2011-09-10T14:59:00.001-05:00

It was 5:00 p.m. as we entered Sunrise Mall.
We started to set the chess boards and began
to play Chess. Matthew Cohen challenge
Oziel Juarez to a match (game 15) while I
played a few games with Harry. Then Luis
Matus and John Beaudry arrived on the scene.
Luis' game has really improved his game, his
tactics are stronger and he is beginning to see
things and squares like a true chess player.
Jon Beaudry came in playing 1. b4! the Sokolsky
which he plays very well and a interesting
opening to learn. Every week we play different
openings to get into different tactical positions.
Paredes' little Sara Lin arrived with her parents
and little brother ate some a meal and then
started to play chess with me...She's a
pretty good chess player upon checkmate
we analyze for ideas to better play the middle
game. Lesson: Outpost Square and how a
knight posted on the center gives opponents
a hard time. Once posted there a win is near.
Adolfo Balderas, Gus Falcon, and Christian
Muraira came in and some interesting matches
got started. This strong group of chess players
kept playing until 9:45 as Jon and Gus agreed
to a DRAW...we walked out until next week

Last chance for chess before school starts

2011-08-09T23:16:00.001-05:00

Chess workshop

August 15, 16, 17, & 18, 2011

Monday - Thursday

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon

3 hours each day

12 hours only $45

Brownsville Royal Knights

1304 Crestview Drive

corner of Boca Chica Blvd. & Crestview

(956) 561-1034 broyalknights@rgv.rr.com

Ray Martinez - chess coach

trainer in the art of thinking

Private Lessons available

children * teenagers * adults

“exercise for the brain”

Summer Chess Camp for beginners

2011-07-18T18:14:00.003-05:00

Beginner's Chess Camp II

July 25, 26, 27, & 28, 2011

Monday - Thursday

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon

3 hours each day

12 hours only $45

Brownsville Royal Knights

1304 Crestview Drive

corner of Boca Chica Blvd. & Crestview

(956) 561-1034 broyalknights@rgv.rr.com

Ray Martinez - chess coach

trainer in the art of thinking

opening principles * notation

endgame skills & drills * checkmate patterns

Private Lessons available

children * teenagers * adults

“exercise for the brain”

Friday's "Chess @ the Mall"

2011-04-23T21:06:00.001-05:00

Friday was a busy day for me, but all got taken of.
A morning chess class, then it was off to Weslaco
to train Bradley McCaleb. He's a new "candidate
top board", who will compete in Nashville, TN at
the High School National. After his lesson, I drove
to the Mall for the weekly "Chess @ the Mall".
Matthew A. Cohen was there with his mom having
some Chick-fil-A. He quickly started to help set up
the boards and we started to play a couple of games.
Then came the powerful chess team "Torre Fuerte".
Eliud Ramirez, Ramiro Barron, Luis Matus, Rafrel
and Jorge all ready for some chess matches.
Some of my chess students came in as well:
Guadalupe Lopez, Melissa Medina, Jonathan &
Osvaldo Cortez, Carlos Lerma, and all started to play.
Also present was Little powerhouse Jesse Guillen,
Oziel Juarez, Louie, and Dr. Dina Wahab who saw us
playing and decided to stay for a game. She just moved
from New York and will join us as her schedule allows it.
Two other college guys came in and started to play some chess.

"Chess @ the Mall" Friday

2011-04-21T09:16:00.002-05:00

Who wants to play chess? Well, be at Sunrise Mall
Food Court this Friday starting at 5:00 P.M. Bring
your set and clock for some exciting chess matches.
Eliud Raamirez, now known as "the Royal Bishop"
will be there to battle for the center, invade your
camp and make your King surrender. Many good
battles in your chess future to you "Royal Bishop".
Also attending Friday evening will be the powerful
church chess team: "Torre Fuerte"; their game is
aggressively improving. If you like Blitz games,
then little Jesse will be there with his clock. I know
many other chess players will be there as well. So
come early and stay later, but enjoy the
Royal Game of Chess.

World-wide Chess.com Chess Day

2011-04-05T00:34:00.001-05:00

Are you ready for a afternoon of chess?
On Saturday, April 16, 2011 Chess.com
will have a world-wide day of chess.
the Brownsville Royal Knights will host
the event at Sunrise Mall Food Court.
Make plans to attend and meet new chess
players from the area. I am elCaballeroBRK
on this chess site. Check out chess.com or
http://www.meetup.com/ChessCom/Brownsville-Royal-Knights/90590/?a=bn1_l1for more INFO.

Friday Evening: "Chess @ the Mall"

2011-04-01T23:34:00.004-05:00

Early Friday I started to text everyone: "Chess @ the Mall"
6:00 p.m. bring your set and play a game." The calls started
to come in. Oziel Juarez needed a drive, so we were
running late, but when we got there the action on the
64 squares began. I decided to play King's Gambit in all
my games. It's was great attacking the f7 square and
hunting my opponent' King.
Oziel Juarez started to play with Eliud Ramirez, while
I played Ramiro Barron and Dominic J. Beltran, yes
two boards (the idea was to have everyone playing).
Then Jorge came looking for a Blitz games and little
Jesse Guillen was ready for the challenge.
Brianna was there for one game against Anthony Guerra
and then when to the MOIVES. But Jesse took care
of business, even winning one game against one of the
adults without the use of his Queen. That's right - no
Queen on the board - He Won!!!!

Luis Matus, came in and played against many players.
He is developing his game. Rafrel, Matthew, and Ben
jumped into some matches. We started at 6:00 P.M.
finished at 9:30 P.M. Yes "Chess @ the Mall" is ALIVE
and ready for action. There were six boards going through
out the evening. Everyone had a chance to play everyone.
At the end of the evening , we went over the Knight and
Bishop with King vs. Lone King checkmate. I demonstrated
the use of the Deletang's Triangles and then when home.

Spring Break: "Chess @ the Mall"

2011-03-20T11:36:00.005-05:00

Anyone who was at Sunrise Mall Food Court this past
Friday March 18, 2011 witness at least 10 chessboards
near the main stage. The Royal Knights had set up a time
for casual play. It was 10:00 a.m. when Christian Muraira
and Ray Martinez walked into the food court. Porter's team
members Oscar Osornio and Matthew Cohen were there
waiting to began the day of Chess. Then came Oziel Juarez,
Hector Pena, Manuel Bryan Narcia and Christian Narcia.
The day of chess was starting. Later 3 adult chess players
from Sendas de Vida Life Center join us. They were Ramiro,
Eliud Ramirez and Luis Matus. The chess matches continue
right thru lunch, some ate Subway, Chick-fil-A, Frullati's,
Taco Palenque, but I had Chinese, and it was good. Later a
gentleman from Virginia stop by for a game. A boy from
Harlingen wanted to play, so I give him a lesson and played
with him 2 games. By this time Brianna and Jesse Guillen
came in to play. Brianna was playing very strong that day.
Jesse started to challenge the high school players and even
won some games. We all had a great time playing the game
we love. I left at 4:00 p.m. Perhaps "Chess @ the Mall"
will start again as it used to some 4 years ago. The idea is
to start a citywide chess club. There are chess players
everywhere. Every time I play at the Mall, I get to play chess
with people from around the city, valley, state and
even from other countries. A gentleman from Mexico
will join our group this Sunday for some chess matches.

2011 Region VIII Chess Championships

2011-02-01T11:10:00.007-06:00

1376 chess players from all over the Rio Grande Valley
gathered at Veterans Memorial High School to participate
in this year's Region VIII Chess Championships.
The Royal Knights came to Regionals to bring home the
TROPHY. All the chess players did an awesome job,
games were played and notated. Win, Lose, or Draw-->
the Royal Knights learned from each game. Royal Knights
believe as Bobby Fischer did, "I prepare myself well.
I know what I can do before I go in. I'm always confident."
and "I play honestly and I play to win. If I lose,
I take my medicine." If games are not analyse then what
do you learned. Nothing. The player will keep losing games.
This year as always my Royal Knights helped their school
chess teams win. Ratings went up and trophies were won.

Chess Players winning TROPHIES were:
Christian Muraira 3rd place   6 pts. Middle School Open
Maraya Garcia    5th place   6 pts.   Middle School JV
Melissa Medina      11th place   6 pts.    Elementary JV
Elian de los Santos   6th place   6 pts.    Elementary Open
Philip Martinez    7th place 5.5 pts. High School Open
Joshua Munoz          24th place 5.5 pts. Elementary JV
Bradley McCaleb   16th place 5.5 pts.   Elementary JV
Joshua Torres         18th place      5 pts.   Primary JV
Angel Saucedo        34th place      5 pts.   Elementary JV

Porter Chess Team took 3rd as well National Funding
State is coming up in 1 week ( February 12 - 13, 2011)
in Houston, Texas. Practice, Practice, Practice and study,
do drills and endgame exercises and of course play lots of
games. Get ready to win another TROPHY.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T12:08:00.000-06:00

To the mighty and strong chess players: the Royal Knights,
my warmest wishes full of happiness and joy to you all.
You have done a great job building your game up this year.
I am so proud of you all:

2010 Texas State Grades Championships

2010-11-15T13:38:00.004-06:00

The Royal Knights came to Brownsville's Veterans Memorial
High School to participate in 14th Annual Texas K-12 Chess
Championships in the hope of bringing home the TROPHY.
Jonathan Olivares, a six grader at Edinburg's South Middle
School was sick Friday, but still managed to win 5 points to
become a 6th grade Co-Champion but after tied-breakers took
home a 3rd place trophy. Ashley Pena, a fourth grader at
Edinburg's Canterbury Elementary has really improve her game.
She won 5 of her 6 chess matches to tie for 2nd place and
after tied-breakers took the 7th place trophy home.
Nathaniel Morales, Canterbury's top board and one strong
chess student played his way to a 6th place finish with 5 won
games and the 2nd grade trophy.
Elian de los Santos, a 2nd grader at Brownsville's Elgy
Elementary was sick with a fever Thursday and Friday before
the chess tournament but still managed to win the 8th place trophy.
Philip Martinez, senior class president and captain of the
Porter Chess Team took home the 4th place trophy.

       Teams that won a trophy:
          South Middle School
         6 grade              3rd place

         Canterbury Elementary
        Kinder                2nd place
       1st grade              5th place
       2nd grade             2nd place
        3rd grade             8th place
        4th grade             4th place
        5th grade             8th place

Royal Knights help Canterbury Win

2010-10-18T14:04:00.001-05:00

The Royal Knights came to Porter High School Chess Tournament
Saturday, October 16, 2010 to bring home "the Trophy".
Last year's State Champions (Canterbury K-1 team) took
1st Place with a commanding lead. This Primary Team will take
state again this year. Royal Knights includes:
Nathaniel J. Moralez, last year's Regional co-champion lead
the way with 4.5 points, Armando N. Ponce also 4.5 points,
Kristopher L. Solis 4.0 points, Nicolas Garcia last year's
National trophy winner added 4.o points and Justin J. Gonzalez
contribute 3.5 points. The team total score was 17.0 points.
Yes, the Royal Knights are the power behind this winning and
powerful Canterbury Primary Chess Team.

Chess Season 2010-2011

2010-08-22T22:23:00.002-05:00

A new chess season is upon us. Chess tournaments are
scheduled and pairings will be up soon.
"Will you bring back the point" as stated at Nationals.
I know you will....I believe in you....
Remember Royal Knights are Winners and Leaders.
My work in the upper Valley continues. My goal is
to balance the chess powers. The road to the
championship level is not an easy one, however strong
chess players are being develop. New champions are
coming from the Upper Valley....be prepare !

Brownsville Chess Club meets every Friday

2010-06-28T13:54:00.003-05:00

The Brownsville Royal Knights Chess Club
will start meeting on Fridays 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
The idea is to strengthen our Scholastic Division. I want to
provide students the resources they need to develop and
improve their chess game. I invite you to play a game of chess.

Playing last week was Philip Martinez 1724, Ray Martinez 1665,
Jon Beaudry 1544, Edgar Santoyo 1529, Brianna Guillen 1421,
Christian Muraira 1385, Ricardo Santoyo 1346, Jon S. Flores 1204,
Daniel Soto, Anthony Guerra, Jesse Guillen, Jorge Mares, and
Guadalupe Lopez.

Club member Jon Beaudry wanted to analysis some Sicilian Lines.
We stayed until almost 9:00 p.m. We open some books and went at it.

2010 Texas Scholastic Chess Championships

2010-02-23T22:15:00.013-06:00

1049 !!! 1049 travel to Dallas, Texas to complete in the state's scholastic chess tournament.
1049 !!! 1049 chess players making the best moves with hopes of winning the TROPHY.
1049 !!! 1049 chess players plus parents when to 400 N. Olive St. downtown Dallas, Texas.
The Royal Knights when to the chess boards to create checkmate
and win the point. This year the Royal Knights are among Edinburg's
Canterbury Elementary and South Middle School Chess Teams.
Brownsville schools like Elgy, El Jardin, and Porter High School all
have Royal Knights in their chess teams.
Royal Knights are team leaders and top board chess players.
The Royal Knights have always rule the K-1 Championship
division. This year was no different: Canterbury 1st place and
Elgy 2th place by half point. Canterbury's Nathaniel
Morales lead his team by winning 6 of 7 rounds,
Nicolas Garcia added 5 points, Noel Aguilar came in
with 4.5 points more. Other Royal Knights included:
Aaron Trevino 4 points, Carlos J. Guzman 4 points,
Ruben Pena 4 points and Natalie Pena 3 points.
The Elgy's K-1 chess team leader Dante Guillen
scored 5 ponits and trophy. Elian de los Santos
4.5 points, and Diego Guillen won 4 games.
The Egly Chess Team won 2th place with 19.5 points
The Canterbury Chess Team won 1st place at Regional,
won 1st place at State, and at Nationals, I believe they
will win Nationals Championship. In fact, coach Ray Martinez
believes this team will be a powerhouse next year.
The Primary JV chess players played for the last time in JV.
Why? Because Royal Knights play in the championship level
and because a Royal Knight becomes a stronger chess player.
Jesus A. Martinez, Jr. 4.5 points, Ashley Pena 4 points,
Noah Trevino 4 points, Kay Galarza 3 points,
Eduardo Heredia 3 points, and Blake Phillips 3 points.
Elementary Championship Division had some very strong
chess players. Victoria Mortera 4 points, Jonathan Olivares
3 points, Alexis Marquez 3 points, Bryan Navarro 2 points,
Jesse Leal 2 points, Julian Echevarria 1 point.
Elementary JV Division Xavier Torres 4 points,
Vanessa Guzman 3 points and Hannah Navarro 2.5 points.
Middle School Championship: Christian Muraira 4 points
Middle School JV Nathan Garcia took 4th place with 5.5
points and raising his rating to 1051, all South Royal Knights
raise their rating. Maraya Garcia 4.5 points, Abraham Cortez
won 2 points, Christina Garcia 1.5 points.
High School Division Porter took 5th place.
Team Captain Philip Martinez played against 3 players all
over 2000 points, he managed to win 4 of 7 games.
Benajamin Rovelo played an awesome tournament.
He raise his rating to 1387 and won 3.5 games.
Manuel Narcia 3 points, Andy Maldonado 2.5 points,
Alan Govea 2.5 points, Oziel Juarez won 2 points.
May your moves be awesome at Nationals--CHECKMATE!!

Top boards win Trophies at Regionals

2010-01-28T12:10:00.004-06:00

Everyone loves a winner, everyone loves a chessplayer,
everyone wants to win. But only those who work hard WIN.
Good job Royal Knights.
Trophy winners:
Kinder-1st division
Nathaniel Morales, Co-Champion     6.5 points   Canterbury
Joshua A. Torres, 9th place              5.5 points    El Jardin
Nicolas Garcia, 11th place               5.0 points    Canterbury
Dante Guillen, 19th place                 5.0 points     Elgy
Elian de los Santos, 21th place        5.0 points     Elgy

Primary JV division
Guadalupe Lopez, 4th place            6.0 points      Villa Nueva

Primary Championship division
Jorge A. Mares, 23th place            4.5 points         Hudson
Mateo Ramirez, 25th place             4.5 points          Martin

Elementary Championship division
Victoria Mortera, 8th place             5.5 points        Elgy

Middle School Championship division
Christian Muraira, 25th place          5.0 points        Harmony

High School Championship division
Philip R. Martinez,   9th place         5.0 points         Porter
Manuel B. Narcia, 15th place         5.0 points         Porter
Andy Maldonado, 16th place         5.0 points        Porter
Benjamin Rovelo, 21th place         4.5 points         Porter

Kinder - 1st division Rules

2010-01-28T10:59:00.006-06:00

The Royal Knights came to Porter High School to take home
the TROPHY. They had done the work: study openings,
endgame drills, and thinking exercises. Now was the time to
shine ... Royal Knights to move and WIN. Seven rounds later,
Edinburg's Canterbury Nathaniel Morales had become
the Kinder-1st division Co-Champion. He is the division's top
board and also is part of the top 100 under 7 USCF chess player
list in the USA.

For the past 8 years, a Royal Knight has won the
Regionals championship except last year.
2003- Fernando L. Mendez, 1st Regionals , 1st State
2004- Jesus A. Ochoa & Andrea Perez Co-champions Regionals
2005- Christian Muraira, 1st Regionals, tied for 2nd State
2006- Edgar Santoyo, 1st Regionals, 3rd State
2007- Ricardo Santoyo, 1st Regionals, tied for 2nd State
2008- Maverick Reza, 1st Regionals, 2nd State
2009- Jesus Guillen, 2nd Place Regionals, 7th State
2010- Nathaniel Morales, Co-Champion Regionals, tied for 3rd State
Ray Martinez, coach of the Royal Knights also trains Nicolas Garcia,
Joshua Torres, Dante Guillen, Elian de los Santos, Mychal Olguin,
and Diego Guillen. The Kinder- 1st Championship is very special to
me because they are the future chess masters.
They are our FUTURE....They are AWESOME!!!
Canterbury's Kinder-1st Team won 1st Place - all the best !!!!
Remember Royal Knights are WINNERS and LEADERS.

13th Annual Texas Grade Championships

2009-11-23T11:13:00.004-06:00

This weekend, Noverber 21- 22, 2009, the big chess event happen
in Houston, Texas. It was the 13th Annual Texas Grade
Championships. The chess tournament was held at the
George R. Brown Convention Center next to the Hilton Americans.
The chess players came from all over Texas and the Royal Knights
were there to win and bring home the Trophy.
Three of my students came back home with a Trophy.
In the Texas Kindergarten division Dante Guillen took 5th place.
In the Texas 1st Grade division Nathaniel Morales took 2nd place.
In the Texas 5th Grade division Victoria Mortera took 9th place.
Only 10 trophies were awarded in each division. I am so proud
of you.....mighty Royal Knights. You are Winners and Leaders

CHESS Friday November 27

2009-11-21T11:50:00.006-06:00

A After Thankgiving Day Chess Workshop:
Here's your chance to play against other chess players
and practice your skills in a tournament setting.
6 hours of pure chess and PIZZA for lunch!!!
A Royal Knights chess tournament and chess workshop
"Top Boards" and "candidate top boards" only
cost: $45 per student $25 per additional family memeber
time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
food: bring your own snacks but lunch is on me ( PIZZA )
drop-off: early if needed--call before to set time
pick-up: if later ---call before to set time

Winners always NOTATE !!!

2009-10-03T18:03:00.006-05:00

One of the best ways to become a better chess player is to subject
your own games to intensive analysis. Studying your games helps
the learning process, thereby becoming the best way to chess mastery. Always notate your chess matches.
This is a very important part of your chess training program.
You are trying to improve your game, what better way than to dig
into your game and find out what you are doing right and wrong.
Build on the things you are doing right and fix the problems and
mistakes. You must approach your own games from a completely
objective point of view. It is always helpful to get help from a
stronger chess player or chess teacher to help find your mistakes
and good moves. Anytime you learn something about yourself,
you are giving yourself a chance to improve. By learning what
kind of chess player you are, you will know yourself better.
Study anything you do any time you wish to find a way to better yourself.

e4 ! The new chess season begins...

2009-09-22T13:56:00.012-05:00

It was September 19, 2009. This Saturday morning brought
306 chess players to Russell Elementary School with hopes
of winning all 5 chess games that day. A new chess season
was about to begin. Would the chess players be ready?
Would they remember the chess moves? Would they win,
lose, or draw? How many points would the chess team get?
And perhaps many other questions.... Ray Martinez, coach
of the Brownsville Royal Knights used this tournament to
evaluate his chess students to find weaknesses and strenghts.
How can I be a better chess coach? What plan will better help
my chess players win more games.
My plan is simple: focus on the individual chess player.
This year, I will not train any chess teams. I will instead dedicate
all my energy on training the individual chess player. This year
the Royal Knights are going old-school. New goals to reach
and conquer, new openings to learn, new ideas of attack to explore
and develop, and new drills, exercises, thinking skills and a
new logic - analyze system.

Susan Polgar Chess Daily News and Information: An inexpensive but effective way to help kids

2009-09-06T21:30:00.000-05:00

Susan Polgar Chess Daily News and Information: An inexpensive but effective way to help kids

Royal Knights Girls' Chess Team Wins World Championship Title

2009-06-13T12:25:00.018-05:00

"What happens in Las Vegas stays in Las Vegas" NOT!!!
Brownsville girls play chess....
they play the royal game to WIN !!!
The Brownsville Royal Knights traveled to Las Vegas
and stayed at the South Point - Hotel - Casino - Spa .
June 4 - 7, 2009 will forever be an unforgettable and
electrifying event in their career of chess.
The "Under- 11 chess team championships" are:
Brianna A. Guillen, Victoria Mortera,
Sarai Alejandra Guillen and Alexis Marquez.
The chess team code used for this tounament: BR001

1. Brianna---Susan Polgar World U-11 Girl's Champion
won 4.5 points and receives an automatic
qualifying spots to the 2009 Susan Polgar
National Invitational for Girls, the most
prestigious all-girls national championship
in the U.S. All qualifiers will receive free
accommodation and meals during the SPNI,
which will take place on July 26-31 at
Texas Tech University in Lubboc, Texas.

2. Victoria---USCF rating 1215 won 4.o pionts
and took home the 3rd place trophy. She will
also travel to other "OPEN" chess tournaments
this summer.
3. Sarai and Alexis both fought hard and won 2.5
They will continue to improve their game and
complete this summer in local chess tounaments.

Royal Knights are WINNERS and LEADERS
June 4 to 7, 2009
South Point · Hotel · Casino · Spa
LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL CHESS FESTIVAL
Susan Polgar World Open for Girls and Boys

Susan Polgar Chess Daily News and Information: 5 qualified for the 2009 SPNI

2009-06-08T01:17:00.001-05:00

Susan Polgar Chess Daily News and Information: 5 qualified for the 2009 SPNI Brianna Guillen takes her place among the best!

SUPER NATIONALS at NASHVILLE, TN

2009-04-05T21:49:00.011-05:00

K-1 Championship Division
* Jesus Guillen......................5.o points ..........Paredes
Fernando Montanaro.......4.5 points...........Paredes
Amalur Ezti Trevino........3.5 points...........Paredes
Mateo Ramirez.................3.o points............Martin
Elizabeth Guajardo...........2.o points............Paredes

Primary under 800 Division

* Andres Hernandez...........4.o points............Paredes

Elementary under 900 Division

* Daniel Errisuri..................4.5 points............Paredes

Izar Mirea Trevino..............1.5 points............Paredes

High School Championship Division

* Philip R. Martinez.............4.5 points...........Porter

* Team Leader

By the way, awesome job Paredes K-1 Team. It is

an honor to coach and train you. You did it !!! I am

so proud of my Royal Knights.

Andres and Daniel , you guys got the job done!

You both lead your teams. Awesome job !!!!

Philip---I so proud of you, son. You are a true

"top board" . You reach your goal: 1700 rating

Daniel---your rating went up, well done !!!

This was a very strong and competitive chess tournament.

The Nation's BEST chess players were in attendance,

and the Royal Knights got the job done!!! However,

next year starts today.....You must work at your game.

Work the drills, do the puzzles, and play a strong game.

You will achieve even more than you can imagine.

I believe in you. Royal Knights are WINNERS and LEADERS !

2009 Texas Scholastic Chess Tournament

2009-03-23T20:32:00.017-05:00

The McAllen Convention Center was the site for this year's
State Scholastic Chess Tournament. San Benito ISD did an awesome
job organizing the large event. Everything was done just right!
Lots of parking, good music, and the area with lots of points of

interest: food, shopping, and just pure fun. The whole staff,

tournament directors, and pairing directors did a fantastic job.

For the Royal Knights, this weekend was just one more opportunity to
battle for the TROPHY and the honor of joining the state's best
chess players at the end of the tournament as WINNERS.
Kinder-First Division (155 players)
Jesus Guillen, Jr. --------Parades----8th place--------5.5 points
Fernando Montanaro-----Parades----9th place--------5.5 points
Mateo Ramirez-----------Martin-----20th place-------5.0 points
Jorge A. Mares-----------El Jardin---21th place-------5.0 points
Jesus A. Martinez, Jr.----Elgy--------28th place-------4.5 points
Amalur E. Trevino-------Parades-----66th place------4.0 points
Elizabeth Guajardo-------Parades-----68th place------4.0 points
Hailey Obregon----------Ortiz--------75th place------3.5 points

Primary Championship (92 players)
Sarai Guillen-------------Elgy---------22th place------4.5 points

Primary JV (141 players)
Melissa Medina----------Yturri-------12th place------5.0 points

Marc A. Guzman---------Ortiz--------24th place------5.0 points
Andres Hernandez-------Parades----28th place-------4.5 points
Policarpio Mora--------Morningside--35th place-------4.5 points
Xavier Torres-----------El Jardin-----57th place-------4.5 points

Elementary Championship (135 players)
Christian Muraira-------Castanada----11th place-------5.5 points
Victoria Mortera---------Elgy---------19th place-------5.0 points

Elementary JV (154 players)
Marrissa A. Flores------Yturri--------39th place-------4.5 points
Daniel Errisuriz---------Parades------90th place-------3.0 points
Middle School Championship (102 players)

Daniel Soto, Jr.----------LFResaca----34th place-------4.0 points

Nathan Smith-----------WCent-------75th place-------3.0 points

High School Championship (133 players)
Philip R. Martinez------Porter--------15th place------5.0 points

Trophies were awarded to the top 20 chess players of every division

Medals were then awarded to chess players placing 21st - 30th
Awesome job Royal Knights at State and all the best to you at

NATIONALS!!! NASHVILLE, here comes the Royal Knights!!!

State Tournament at McAllen

2009-03-18T22:23:00.003-05:00

Best Wishes to the Royal Knights this weekend at
Texas Scholastic Chess Tournament. I know you all
will do awesome. You have done the drills, practice
your openings, and worked on the winning endgame
skills. Now all you have to do is listen to my lectures
while you are playing during each round---
"don't move until you see it."
Trust the Chess Theory and SUCCESS will be yours.
Here's to the Champions: the Royal Knights!

Ortiz Chess Tournament

2009-03-09T10:46:00.000-05:00

A sunny morning with just the right amount of wind creates
an awesome start to a chess tournament. The Royal Knights
once again with victory on their minds, came to Ortiz Elementary
Saturday, March 7, 2009 to position themselves among the
Valley's best chess players and take home a trophy.
1. e4 and The Royal Knights were off to a good start. Controling
the center with knights and bishops was the first thing on their
minds and then the attacks on their opponent's king began. After
their pieces were developed, the Rooks came charging toward
the 7th rank with ideas of CHECKMATE.
The Royal Knights did a great job. In fact, Jesus Guillen went
undefeated with a score of 5 points and became Co-Champion.
Fernando Montanaro, Jorge A. Mares, Alexis Marques,
Damian Tabares, Sarai Guillen, and Nathan A. Smith
all won 4 points placing them in the top 8 places or better.
I am so proud of you Royal Knights. Good victories are waiting
for you at State. I know you will be successful.

2009 Region VIII Chess Championships

2009-02-16T12:23:00.000-06:00

The biggest chess tournament in Brownsville, Texas happen
on February 14-15, 2009 with two days of championship level
chess and 7 rounds before the champions were named.
Dr. Americo Paredes Elementary did a great job hosting
this chess tournament in which 1183 chess players came to
Simon Rivera High School to win the biggest prize: Le Trophy
and honor to be named the Valley's best "chessplayer".
Among those present and willing to take the challenge were
the Brownsville Royal Knights. They battled for every square
and created wonderful moves to develop superior positions and
thereby conquered the opponent's king to win the game.
Some Royal Knights also won National trips to Nashville, TN.
* Individual National trip winners
# Team Members National trip winners

In the K-1 Championship section:
Jesus Guillen, Jr. -------------3rd place--- 6.0 points -----*#
Fernando Montanario --------8th place ---5.5 points------ #
Raul Santoyo ----------------14th place ---5.0 points -----#
Mateo Ramirez-------------- 32th place--- 4.5 points -----#
Hailley Obregon------------- 46th place ---4.0 points
Carlos de la Cerda -----------116th place--- 2.5 points

In the Primary Championship section:
Sarai Guillen------------------ 9th place----- 5.0 points
Alexis Marquez-------------- 36th place----- 4.0 points

In the Primary JV section:
Melissa Medina----------- Co-Champion -----6.5 points

In the Elementary Championship section:
Victoria Mortera --------------7th place ------5.5 points
Damian Tabares -------------11th place ------5.0 points
Christian Muraira------------ 14th place ------5.0 points
Brianna Guillen --------------24th place ------5.0 points --- #
Carlos Lerma -----------------89th place ------3.0 points
Daniel Errisuriz--------------- 97th place ------3.0 points ---#

In the High School Championshio section:
Philip Ross Martinez -----------3th place ------5.5 points ---- *#

Garcia Chess Tournament

2009-02-11T09:38:00.000-06:00

One week before Regionals and the Brownsville Royal Knights
took on one more chess tournament. Garcia Middle School
Chess Tournament was a success. Royal Knights were focus
on victory. The top boards quickly placed themselves
in position to achieve the goal: chekmate.

Winning first place:
Brianna Guillen, Elementary Champion undefeated 5 points
Philip R. Martinez, High School Champion 4.5 points
Jesus Guillen, K-1 division Co-Champion undefeated 5 points

other Royal Knights won 4 of out 5 games:
Sarai Guillen, Primary 4 points, 4th place
Christain Muraira, Elementary 4.5 points 3rd place
Raul Santoyo, K-1 division 4 points 5th place

Awesome job!!! RoyalKnights Good Luck at Regionals
Remember: control the squares around the KING...CHECKMATE!!!

Vela Chess Tournament

2009-01-25T14:04:00.000-06:00

The Brownsville Royal Knights went to Vela Middle School to
participate in 3rd Annual Texas Challenge Showdown
Chess Tournament held on Saturday, January 24, 2009.
Five rounds of championship Chess Matches would played.
The Royal Knights were on "top boards" very quickly
developing their pieces and winning their matches.
Sarai Guillen and Raul A. Santoyo won all their games
and became Co-Champions. Five other Royal Knights
won 4 out of 5 games: Victoria Mortera, Jesus Guillen,
Christian Muraira, Carlos A. Lerma and Daniel Soto.
Two other Royal Knights Top Boards played in higher divisions.
Brianna Guillen took on the K-12 Challenge and
Damian Tabares battled the K-8 chess players. Both players did well.
Awesome job Royal Knights. I am proud of you all.

2009 "year of strong top boards"

2009-01-02T20:03:00.000-06:00

The Brownsville Royal Knights is a group of chess students
being trained by Ray Martinez. They study chess games,
drill endgame skills, and practice chess patterns and openings.
Their chess standard is to win at least 4 points and become
strong chess players that play above than their rating.
Royal Knights Top Boards have won many tounraments.
They train hard to win at State and National events.
Their goals for 2009 are greater ratings, and winning
as many games as possible. Top Boards are playing for
5 points and playing on higher sections. Royal Knights
always seek stronger matches.