KibBlitzing with FM-elect Sam Shankland

Date of Birth: 10/1/1991
Current Place of Residence: Orinda, CA
USCF rating as of 7/25/2008: 2398
IM Norms: 1, World Open 2008
Number of Grand Prix Points: 22.084
Number of Junior Grand Prix Points: 75

- How old were you when you learned to play chess?

Four, although I went to my first chess class at age 9. My first tournament at age 10; from ages 4-9 it was just like checkers or monopoly to me.

- If you weren’t a chessplayer, what would you be?

Maybe a spy or some kind of government agent. I wouldn't call myself a "chessplayer" yet either, at least not a professional--I'm still 16.

- Do you have any catchphrases?

You're getting crushed!(Not really) no, none in particular.

- Who will win the World Championship?

My money is on Anand.

- Is it better to lose a well-fought game against a strong player or to pull off an unlikely swindle against a weaker one?

Is money on the line? :) In general, I prefer to play a good game, although coming away from it with a full point is always nice.

- If you could travel back in time and play any tournament of your career over again, which would you choose?

U.S. Championship--it was the opportunity of a lifetime and I played horribly.

- What is your best character trait?

Knowing how to be both a compassionate, serious friend/good listener and a complete joker and when to be each of them.

- What is your worst character trait?

Too competitive.

- How late was the latest time you showed up for a tournament game? Did you still win?

I was Black against Daniel Naroditsky about a year and a half ago (we were both low-mid experts at the time). I showed up about 15 minutes late--it took place on a Tuesday night and my soccer practice ran late. And I did win the game.

- Do you play any chess variants proficiently?

I love bughouse and I'm pretty good at it OTB but not as much on ICC. ♦