First IM norm at the Lince Andújar Open 2026. We played at the stunning Church of Santa Marina in Andújar, Spain. Consequently, this event became deeply memorable for my chess journey. It was not just about the final result. The entire experience was truly unforgettable.
A Well-Organised Chess Tournament in Spain
From the very beginning, this tournament felt incredibly special. The overall organisation was excellent. Everything felt highly professional from day one. The organisers clearly cared deeply about the players. They ensured everyone remained comfortable throughout the week.
Furthermore, they provided free water and fresh fruits during the games. This was highly appreciated because the Spanish heat was intense. The temperature hovered around 40°C every single day.
Tarun and I walked 25 minutes to the venue daily. Therefore, we often arrived feeling completely drained. Thankfully, the playing hall had brilliant air conditioning. Honestly, we would not have survived the week without it.
The organising team was highly active on social media. They posted great photos and updates after every round. This kept everyone fully engaged and excited. You can view their full updates on the their official website linceandujarchessfestival.com.
They even organised fun activities outside the main hall. We enjoyed painting and keychain-making during one afternoon. This added a wonderful, personal touch to the trip. On the final day, they handed out printed feedback forms. I found this gesture quite unique and incredibly thoughtful.
My Tournament Journey: Ups, Downs and Key Games
The tournament itself was an emotional rollercoaster. I played some very strong games overall. I successfully achieved good positions against remarkably tough opponents.
Against GM Omar Almeida Quintana, I reached a promising setup. Similarly, I had great chances against GM-elect Nikolzi Petriashvili.
Unfortunately, I was unable to convert those chances. Both of those hard-fought games eventually ended in draws.
Against IM Roberto Ledo, I fortunately saved a difficult endgame draw. I remained totally unbeaten until that specific point. However, I soon suffered a tough loss against IM Jorge Perez Marimon. This was a painful setback before the final rounds. I knew every single result mattered moving forward.
That loss was difficult because I knew every result mattered.
The Pressure of the Final Round
After the early ups and downs, everything came down to Friday. The situation was crystal clear. If I managed a draw or a win, I would succeed. I would finally secure my first IM norm.
It sounded simple on paper, but reality was different. My opponent was GM-elect Levin Guy. I knew the match would not be easy. I barely slept the night before due to nerves.
I had serious butterflies in my stomach all morning. I remembered being in similar, high-pressure situations before.
I had come very close to achieving milestones, only to miss out. I tried hard to calm my racing thoughts. I just wanted to fight until the very end without regrets.
The Broken Glass Before the Final Game
Something quite strange happened that final morning. We had to check out of our hotel early. While packing my bags, I accidentally broke a glass.
My immediate reaction was sheer panic. I thought to myself, “Oh no, why now?” For a brief moment, I wondered if it was bad luck.
Subsequently, I decided to change my entire perspective. I told myself this meant something much deeper. It was a reminder to break away from my old self. I needed to leave behind the version that had fallen short. That empowering thought stayed with me at the board.
The Final Game That Changed Everything
The final game was incredibly tense from start to finish. We reached a middlegame that felt roughly equal.
Photo: linceandujarchessopen
Later, we transitioned into an opposite-coloured bishop endgame. I felt the position was difficult but manageable. Then came the terrifying moment that almost broke me.
After Qe8, I felt all my hopes suddenly collapse. I genuinely thought my chances were slipping away. If I lost, the norm was completely gone.
Somehow, I refused to give up the fight. My clock was ticking down to mere seconds. I tried desperately to hold my nerves and emotions together. Finally, I managed to force a vital queen trade. At that exact moment, I knew I had done it.
First IM Norm
I officially earned my first IM norm. It is honestly hard to describe that incredible feeling. Relief, immense happiness, and pride all hit me at once.
The Perfect Ending
Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to stay for the prize-giving ceremony because we had to catch a flight from Málaga. But before leaving, the Chief arbiter presented me with my norm certificate, which made the moment even more special.
More Than Just Chess
Looking back, what made this tournament unforgettable was not just the norm, but the entire experience. Tarun and I had a wonderful time in Andújar. The food was amazing, the people were warm and friendly, and the tournament staff were incredibly welcoming.
You could really feel how passionate the organising team was about chess and about creating a great experience for all the players.
As a final kind gesture, Manuel dropped us to Córdoba Train Station after the tournament. He played some great Spanish music during the drive, and we enjoyed chatting with him on the way.
First IM Norm – Final Thoughts
The Lince Andújar Open 2026 gave me something I will always remember. Not just my first IM norm, but also an experience filled with challenges, lessons, emotions, and unforgettable memories.
This tournament reminded me that even when things look difficult and everything feels uncertain, what matters most is continuing to fight and believing in yourself till the very end.
This time, that made all the difference.
Incase you missed, checkout my recent chess reports:
- https://ictl.ie/blogs/inter-diaspora-premier-league-goodness-over-greatness/
- https://ictl.ie/blogs/hassloch-chess-tournament-2026/