Richmond & Twickenham Chess Club sends its congratulations to GM Yuri Averbakh, born 8 February 1922, on the occasion of his 100th birthday this week.

Averbakh, the first Grandmaster to reach this landmark, was one of the world’s top 20 players for a decade, from 1954 to 1963. He was renowned for his solid style and his opening innovations such as the Averbakh Variation against the King’s Indian Defence. Most importantly he is also an expert on the endgame, and the author of the (in its time) definitive series Comprehensive Chess Endings.

Many of you will be aware of my interest in pawn endings, so here’s a simple and instructive position for you to solve.

White to play and draw. Do get in touch if you think you’ve found the solution.