Tom Shih (aka 911master)
Meet Tom Shih, a National Master who has proven that patience, practice, and a dash of mischief can work wonders on the 64 squares. Whether going full-speed in blitz or carefully plotting in rapid games, Tom is a force to be reckoned with — dodging checkmates and causing opponent heart palpitations alike.
Career Highlights
- Title: National Master
- Peak Blitz Rating: 2112 (Aug 2024)
- Peak Rapid Rating: 2150 (June 2023)
- Peak Daily Rating: 1200 (2014, because sometimes slow and steady is an art)
Playing Style & Stats
Tom likes to keep games interesting — averaging about 63 moves per win and a cautionary 80 moves per loss, proving once and for all that perseverance pays off (or maybe Tom just loves the sound of clock ticking).
An endgame enthusiast, Tom’s games have a long life expectancy with a 78% frequency of reaching the endgame — not for the faint-hearted! With a comeback rate of 85%, few can count Tom out, especially after a rough start. However, don’t let the charming smile fool you, the tilt factor of 12 shows Tom has emotions... just like the rest of us mere mortals.
Favorite Openings
The secret sauce? Sometimes it’s the 'Unknown Opening' with a cheeky 51% win rate in blitz, but Tom also dazzles with the Sicilian Defense Wing Gambit boasting a tasty 75% win rate. Cameo performances by the Caro Kann Defense and Nimzowitsch Defense Declined Colorado Countergambit Accepted add to the arsenal.
Recent Battles
Tom’s last memorable victory came from a spirited duel featuring the Nimzowitsch Defense — checkmate achieved with grace and style.
But even champions face stiff competition; the last loss was a classic time management tussle in the Scotch Gambit where every second counts (and Tom ran out of them!).
Fun Facts
- Tom’s win rate when playing with White is a confident 53.6%, showing a clear preference for starting on the sunny side.
- Favorite hour to play? The 9 AM slot, when the mind is sharp, and coffee is freshly brewed.
- Longest winning streak: 14 games. Longest losing streak: 12 games. A true rollercoaster ride.
Keep an eye on 911master — the board’s next surprise might be just a move away!