Carlingford's Jim Holland can take some comfort in his second placing at the recent Rooty Hill Open Chess Tournament.

After all it was only defeat at the hands of Federation Master Lee Jones that stood between Jim and victory.

In what has been described as one of the tightest chess competitions in years, 10 of the 38 players in the competition, held at the Rooty Hill RSL Chess Club, entered the final round within one point of the lead.

"It was the tightest competition there has been for years," Chess Club president, Peter Cassettari said.

Jim Holland, playing in his first tournament for 27 years, staged a storybook finish to defeat club champion, Tony Bouchaaya of Doonside.

"I fumbled a bit in the first few games," Jim said.

He ended up winning six games, losing only to master Lee Jones.

Rooty Hill Chess Club has players coming from as far away as Parramatta and the Blue Mountains, and many from the Hills District.

Members rang from unrated social players to people like Australian Champion and International Master Gary Lane.

Some have made it a family affair. Brian Jones's son Lee is a Federation Master while Lee's sister, Nancy Lane, is a Women's International Master.

"Beginners are very welcome," club spokesman David Evans said. "You can always find someone at your level to play chess with you and, unlike cards, nothing is hidden on the chess board."

Players are graded according to their competition results and meet opponents of about equal strength, but unrated players can also play.

The Rooty Hill Open is for members and visiting players. The club also holds competitions throughout the year such as lightning tournaments in which the games must be completed in five minutes.

The club meets on Monday nights from 7.00 pm at the RSL. Sets and clocks are provided. Details from: David Evans on 4739-2785 or www.rootyhillchess.org.