US Women's Championship: Queen's Indian Krush

Krush gives Marinello a little endgame lesson.  After the exchange of Queens at move 28, the game is not won for Black, but the Bishop pair is vicious and the game is difficult for White, too difficult as it turns out.

U.S. Championship: Nimzo-Indian Classical

Hess is just fine on the black side of this Nimzo-Indian after Krush's novelty of 13.f5.  He's even in command of the game after14.Qe7.  From there, however, Krush manages a slow buildup until Hess collapses at 33.Qxf5. 

U.S. Championship: Day 1

Go to the USCF's website for the games and an update, but as always, go to TWIC to download game scores.

The surprise of the round was Krush's victory over Kaidanov.

Ray held is own in his game with Kamsky until 30...Red8. Black would have been okay after 30...e4. 31.b4 would still coming after 30...e4, but Black would have a Rook on the first rank that could swing over to defend the b pawn.