(Photo courtesy of chesshistory)

There are many things in life that that simply can’t be bowed, bent or broken:

• A rod made of steel
• A girl you like who doesn’t like you back
• House Martell

However, none of these things proved to be as difficult to bent as famous Danish Grandmaster – Bent Larsen.

Decades before his fellow Scandinavian colleague would dominate the chess world Larsen became one of the best players in the world. In the 1960s, and 1970s he competed successfully against the world’s elite, winning numerous tournaments and playing in the World Chess Championship Candidates several times.

The best evidence of his class is Fischer agreeing to play on board 2 – BELOW LARSEN – in the 1970 match between USSR and the Rest of the world.

He was not only known for his strength, but also highly entertaining and innovative style. He was constantly searching for fresh surprises early in the opening. He is mainly responsible for bringing the move 1 b3 to the fore; he also essayed 1 e4 e5 2 Bc4 as a way of avoiding the annoying Petrov’s Defence.

He was also entertaining off- the board. Just like Spassky, Tartakower or Tarrasch, he has enriched the chess cultural heritage with numerous memorable quotes, such as:

„The stomach is an essential part of any chess master!“

It is a pity that the terrible defeat at the hands of the same Fischer in 1971 forever tarnished his legacy.

Bent Larsen was much more than a 0-6 loser.

When he died several years ago, it was a great loss for the chess world.

Today would be the 84th anniversary of his birth!

(If you like posts as these, check our complete list of Chess Birthdays )