Author: Jasmine Baer
Date: 14:22:53 03/05/04
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I'd like to include myself partially. Although even if I COULD afford a PC that would give me an Elo of 2900 at www.playchess.com, I wouldn't flaunt in in anyone's face. For me, it is less an obsession with building a monster computer and more an obsession of trying to squeeze as much performance out of my "normal" PC (P4 2.8Ghz) by constantly tinkering with a book that is driven by the performance of an individual program. I guess I'm saying that I like to challenge myself to see what I can come up with - I throw down the gauntlet to myself and say: "OK. How well can you make an engine perform having NO software knowledge, limited hardware knowledge (at least I built my own PC), a wife that won't let you spend much, a full time job, and still maintain your familial obligations?" Man, it is a great indoor hobby. I've learned way more about the Sicilian Najdorf than I ever thought I would because I keep tweaking Fritz 8's book to make him play the best line after 5...a6. Call me dorky, but I certainly enjoy myself. Now that winter is coming to an end, I'll be able to enjoy my outdoor hobbies so my chess time will diminish. But, now I have something to look forward to come November, when it gets just a tad cold to go careening down a hill on my mountain bike!
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