The Talent Test December 25, 2001

We start with a two-part problem, one I have been using for many many years as a quicky test for the talent of chess players. Part one of the problem is fairly easy. But you must take the time to solve it if you want to enjoy the rest.

White to play and win

Please try to find the solution yourself, and make a note of the time you take to solve it. You will be interested to hear that Garry Kasparov was not able to solve this puzzle at all! So this is your chance to beat the greatest chess player of all time! Take your time, make sure you have everything right and then select one of the options given below.

• I'd play 1.h4 and race the black a-pawn to queens. It's a very simple win.

• 1.bxa6 is the best move. After the recapture there is no problem queening first and stopping Black from promoting on a1.

• The move 1.b6+ is best. For some reason it is necessary to sacrifice the b-pawn, after that the h-pawn wins the queen race.

• I'd move my king to c7. This is a strategic move that will win the game for White.

After you have taken a decision click on one of the options given above.