Author: Alexander Nikolaevich Aleksandrov (1918-1975); Tenis vitauts Melngailis, Reinholds Balinsh and Igor Nikolaevich Zhdanov signed
Year: 1946
Publisher: Latvian Chess Society
Place: Riga
Description:
Three of the thirteen original hand written score sheets in Aleksandrov's hand in Russian chess-notation. Octavo (8 1/4" x 6") Signed by him and his three opponents Tenis Melngailis, Reinholds Balinsh and Igor Zhadanov.
Fricis Aspenieks (1894-1941) was Latvia's chess champion in 1926 and 1934 and one of the strongest players in Latvia before WWII. He died from tuberculosis in 1941. The Memorial Tournament was held in Riga from December 10 through the 26th. Aleksandrov won with a score of 11 of 13, distantly followed by V Mezhgailis with 8 1/2; Tied for third through fifth was M Beilin, G Bezruchko and T Melngailis with a score of 7 points. J Kruzkop was clear sixth with 6 1/2. R Balinish was a half point behind and took seventh. Tied for eighth and ninth were M Zvirbulis and I Zhdanov with 5 each. Z Solmainis took tenth with 4 1/2. Eleventh and twelfth were I Blek and M Robs with 4. A Paklas with a score of 2 1/2 was last. A Bushkov withdrew and his score was not counted even though he and lost one, won one and equal two before withdrawing. Aleksandrov won both of these games with Melngails a French Defense, playing white; and with Zhdanov the Spanish playing black. He won against Reinholds Balinsh with white.
Condition:
Some edge wear with corners creased, some age toning else a very good set.