12-02 First Prize


Solution:
(a)   1.cxb3 e.p.+ Kxb6 2.e2 Rd3 3.Kb4 Rxd4#
(b)   –1.b2-b4  Rb4-b6+ & 1.Qb3 Rxe3 2.Sa2 Rxb3 3.Sbc3 Rxa3#
(c)    –2.Kb6-c5 Sb5-c3+ & 1.Rxb2 Rxf2 2.Kb4 Rxd2 3.a4 Rxb2#

      Eight captures by the bPs + the a-wP was captured on its file.

I never compose helpmates, but I wanted to participate in the following tourney:

TT31. RETROTWINS. Theme: In a h# 2-5, twinning results from retraction of an even number of last single moves (e.g. 2: retraction of white’s last move and black’s last move). The solution can start with white’s move (e.g. h#2.5 / 3.5 / 4.5). The retraction of moves is strictly determined by retroanalysis (not “arbitrarily chosen” in retractor-like fashion in order to ensure helpmate). Two or more twins are possible (e.g. b) after retraction of 2 last single moves, c) after retraction of 4 single moves, or b), c) after retraction of 2 last single moves, 2 variants, etc). Several aspects can be focused upon when composing thematic problems: theme rendition with minimum of pieces; best helpmate concept; best retro concept; repetition of retromoves in the helpmate solution; maximum harmony between retroplay and helpmate play, etc.

The tourney was judged by A. Frolkin.
This was the award.