In a display of remarkable stamina and precision, Belgian Grandmaster Daniel Dardha has reportedly established a new world record in the highly demanding format of a chess clock simultaneous exhibition. Facing fifty opponents concurrently, Dardha navigated the complex challenge to achieve a score that eclipses the previous benchmark.
The Unique Nature of the Clock Simul
Unlike a traditional simultaneous exhibition where the main player moves from board to board at their own pace and opponents wait, a clock simul introduces a critical time element for everyone involved. In this format, participants at each board have their own clock and can make their move at any point, immediately starting the simul player`s time for that specific game. The onus is then entirely on the simul player to circulate rapidly and make decisions under constant time pressure across numerous boards. It transforms the challenge from one primarily of strategic depth and endurance into a true test of rapid calculation, efficient board navigation, and time management under duress.
Dardha`s Record-Setting Performance
Against a field of fifty players, Daniel Dardha demonstrated exceptional control and consistency. His final tally was an impressive 43.5 points out of a possible 50. This score was comprised of 40 victories and seven draws, with just three losses across the marathon session. An 87% success rate in a format where opponents can pressure you on time the moment you leave their board is, frankly, rather extraordinary.
Surpassing the Previous Mark
Dardha`s achievement significantly raises the bar for clock simultaneous exhibitions. The previous record was held by Dutch Grandmaster Sipke Ernst, who, in November 2022, played against 47 opponents. Ernst`s score in that event was 35 points, translating to a 74% performance rate. Dardha`s score, both in absolute points and percentage, represents a substantial leap forward, showcasing a masterclass in managing fifty separate games under tight temporal constraints.
Setting the Scene
The record attempt took place in the cavernous setting of the De Brielpoort concert hall in Deinze, Belgium. His opponents, while numerous, were not mere novices; they possessed a respectable average Elo rating of 1834. Facing a pool of players rated at this level across 50 boards simultaneously, under clock pressure, adds a layer of technical difficulty to the physical and mental strain of the event itself.
Awaiting Official Confirmation
While the impressive score and the nature of the event strongly indicate a new world record, formal recognition is still pending. The necessary application documenting the event`s details, structure, and results has been submitted to the Belgian Chess Federation, which will handle the process of seeking official validation for this remarkable feat.
Setting a record of this nature requires not only immense chess skill but also exceptional physical stamina, mental fortitude, and a precise, almost clockwork-like, approach to navigating the boards. Daniel Dardha`s performance in Deinze stands as a testament to these qualities, marking a significant moment in the history of chess simultaneous exhibitions.
Callum Darby 
Finley Holt