Endgame Studies # 6

Vitaly Kovalenko (1947-2014) is no more. The eminent Russian composer had a massive heart attack that turned fatal. In his chequered career the veteran composed more than 560 studies with a number of prizes to his credit. In later years he served as a judge in composing competitions. This was not without controversy. On one occasion his verdict was disputed by a participant who received the least number of points for his studies. He was supported by his federation and also some fellow-composers. However, his claim was not accepted (pdf). It’s hard to know who was right.

Be that as it may Kovalenko set himself high standards as a composer. He also collaborated with other chess artists. The following joint effort makes a stunning impression.

Yury Bazlov and Vitaly Kovalenko,

First Prize, Uralski Problemist, 1993-6

White to move