The 2009 U.S. Women’s Championship got underway on Sunday, October 4.
The random drawing of lots at the opening ceremony ensured that the five higher-rated players would each play one of the five lower-rated players in the first round, and four out of the five capitalized with a win.
IM’s Anna Zatonskih and Rusudan Goletiani were joined by WGM’s Camilla Baginskaite and Sabina Foisor in the winner’s circle and will head into day two in a cheery mood.
The fifth game of the day was the only peaceful finish as IM Irina Krush was held to a well-played draw by WIM Alisa Melekhina.
Photos By: Betsy Dynako
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