To Hull And Back

AM traveling by train today for the Hull 4NCL International Congress, which is split into three sections: open, U2000 and U1700.

There are five rounds over three days, with my return to London scheduled for Monday.

Entries - I am in the U2000 - can be seen at https://www.4ncl.co.uk/fide/entrants_hullotb_2021.htm

Meanwhile earlier this week I received by email the following information about the congress's covid regulations:

Masks will be strongly recommended but not mandatory. 

Up to and including round 4 players facing an opponent with no mask will be allowed to claim a ½ point bye for both players before start of play. 

The ½ point bye option will be available if a player claiming a mask exemption can show the Chief Arbiter a mask exemption certificate and an up-to-date negative PCR test certificate before start of play. 

Players are encouraged to  use the NHS tracing app QR codes available at all entrance points. 

Players should not attend the congress if you are experiencing Covid-19 symptoms (as outlined on the Public Health England website: www.gov.uk/coronavirus) or if they are required to self-isolate following a visit abroad during the 14 days preceding the congress. 

Personal possessions should be kept to a minimum. 

Hands should be sanitised before and after handling personal possessions. 

Hand sanitiser will be available throughout the venue for players’ use. 

An enhanced cleaning regime will be in place, sufficient for pre/during/post event use. 

The venue will increase ventilation in buildings/rooms where possible. 

Venue equipment (tables and chairs) will be sanitised before use and/or if used by other hirers within 72 hours beforehand.