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Jude AcersAmerican chess player
Date of Birth: 06.04.1944
Country:  USA |
Content:
- A Chess Legend: Jude Frazier Acers
- Showman and Record-Breaker:
- Controversy and Redemption:
- Post-Hurricane Life:
A Chess Legend: Jude Frazier Acers
Early Life and Achievements:Jude Frazier Acers (born April 6, 1944) is an American chess player best known for his public chess challenges in New Orleans, Louisiana. Hailing from Long Beach, California, Acers has become a resident of Louisiana for many years. He claims to be the first local chess master in New Orleans, rivaling the skills of 19th-century chess prodigy Paul Morphy. Acers has authored and co-authored several books on chess and has a passion for sharing his knowledge.
Showman and Record-Breaker:
Acers is an avid showman, traveling the country for simultaneous chess exhibitions. He holds two Guinness World Records for the most opponents played against simultaneously: 117 in 1973 and 179 in 1976. These remarkable feats demonstrate Acers' exceptional abilities and his dedication to the game.
Controversy and Redemption:
Despite his achievements, Acers' true strength has been questioned. His US Chess Federation (USCF) rating was frozen at 2399, one point short of the Grandmaster (GM) title. Concerns were raised that he had earned points against opponents who were significantly below tournament level. However, in 1995, a new USCF official seemingly unaware of the situation credited Acers with an additional point, elevating him to the coveted GM status.
Acers' first official rated tournament came in September 2007 at the World Senior Championship in Gmunden, Austria. He defeated veteran master Bill Hook in the first round, proving his worth. His recent Elo rating of 2289 at the 17th World Senior Chess Championship further cements his reputation as a formidable chess player.
Post-Hurricane Life:
Jude Acers narrowly survived Hurricane Katrina and spent time in a displaced persons camp. After New Orleans recovered, he returned to the city and resumed his chess challenges in the French Quarter. He has also contributed to the "Chess Informant" series of books published in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, providing commentary on American master-level chess games.
