 |
Iser KupermanSoviet and American checkers player
Date of Birth: 21.04.1922
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Iser Kuperman: Soviet and American Draughts Grandmaster
- Transition to International Draughts
- World Champion
- 1963 Controversy and Seven-Time World Champion
- American Success and Legacy
- Legacy and Honors
Iser Kuperman: Soviet and American Draughts Grandmaster
Early Life and CareerIser Kuperman was born in the Soviet Union in 1922. His exceptional talent for draughts manifested early, and he received the title of Master of Sports in 1940. In 1945, he made his debut in the Soviet championship for Russian draughts and triumphed, successfully defending his title several times in subsequent years.
Transition to International Draughts
With the introduction of international draughts competitions in the USSR, Kuperman immersed himself in the study of the game. In 1954, he emerged victorious in the first Soviet championship on the large board. Four years later, he won the candidates tournament and challenged reigning world champion Marcel Delorme of Canada.
World Champion
In 1958, Kuperman defeated Delorme, becoming the first Soviet world champion in international draughts. He would retain his title four more times, winning matches in 1959, 1961, 1965, and 1967. Two additional titles were awarded to him without a match.
1963 Controversy and Seven-Time World Champion
A scheduled match between Kuperman and Baba Sy, the 1962 candidates tournament winner, did not take place in 1963. After Sy's tragic death, the FMJD in 1986 attributed the match's cancellation to the Soviet federation. Baba Sy was posthumously declared world champion, with Kuperman also retaining the title. This makes Kuperman an official seven-time world champion.
American Success and Legacy
In 1978, Kuperman emigrated to Israel and later the United States. He continued to excel in draughts tournaments, winning the Pan-American Championship four times and the American Association of Pool Checkers championship seven times. Notably, he became the most titled master in the latter game. Kuperman also captured the US International Draughts Championship on eight occasions.
Legacy and Honors
Iser Kuperman's contributions to draughts were immense. He was awarded the title of International Grandmaster in 1958 and was inducted into the Russian Hall of Fame in 2010. His exceptional skills and dedication left an enduring legacy in the game of draughts worldwide.
