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Lot #755
Bobby Fischer

Fischer lays out his playing conditions for the "next Netanya chess tourn"

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Estimate: $1000+
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Description

Fischer lays out his playing conditions for the "next Netanya chess tourn"

Unsigned handwritten letter by Bobby Fischer, one page both sides, 7.75 x 11, Eurobuilding Hotel letterhead, January 19, 1971. Letter to "Mr. Shahaf," president of the Israeli Chess Federation. In part: "Thank you very much for your invitation to participate in the next Netanya chess tourn. In the first place I don't know when the candidates matches are scheduled for since they haven't named any date or place yet. But they're talking about dates that might conflict with your tournament. Secondly how much…are you prepared to pay me as a participation fee? Enclosed is a copy of my letter of special playing conditions. These will have to be met in full for me to consider participating. I will need photos of the playing hall as a whole and close up photos of the lighting fixtures. Also a letter signed by a qualified ophthalmologist and lighting engineer stating that these lights are in accordance with my letter of playing conditions and also that they meet with their personal approval. Also I will need a complete list of the players that have accepted to play and also the precise playing schedule for rounds and adjourned games. Also I expect to be placed in the best hotel in Natanya with food and pocket money to match." In fine condition, with light overall handling wear, and two partial punch holes to one edge. Fischer had won the chess tournament at Netanya in 1968—his presence had been notable because he declined to participate in that year's US Championship when the organizers failed to meet his conditions for attendance, such as the issues of prize money and playing conditions in the venue. It appears that the same was now true at Netanya, as he did not participate in 1971.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autographs and Artifacts
  • Dates: #547 - Ended March 06, 2019





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