David Findlay (Finlidor)
David Findlay, known in the chess world as Finlidor, is a formidable player whose blitz skills border on legendary. With a peak blitz rating of 2368 achieved in June 2024, he has battled through over 10,000 blitz games on Chess.com, showing both stamina and tenacity. His win rate hovers around the respectable mid-40%s against equally matched opponents, but don't underestimate his ability to capitalize on those slightly weaker than him - he wins over 60% of those games!
A Career in Moves
Starting from humble beginnings in 2017 with a blitz rating barely cracking 1300, Finlidor has risen steadily through the ranks. His rapid and bullet ratings showcase a multi-modal approach to chess – from the slower strategic builds to the lightning-fast tactical flurries, he's dabbled and excelled across formats. The peak bullet rating is a solid 2203 achieved as recently as April 2025, showing his quick-thinking remains sharp.
Playing Style & Strengths
- Endgame Pro: Playing more than 75% of games that reach the endgame, Finlidor has patience and finesse – often sealing victory in the late stages.
- Tactical Wizardry: His comeback rate of over 84% after setbacks proves resilience with a capital R. Lose a piece early? No worries, Finlidor’s still got it!
- Calculated Risk-Taker: He often wins with checkmates but also frequently wins by resignation – making opponents throw in the towel early.
Memorable Victories & Moments
One of Finlidor’s recent stirring blitz wins was against an opponent named GENSIXONFM, employing the Sicilian Defense Open Najdorf Amsterdam Variation. With precise moves like 18. Nf5 and a ruthless 24. f6, he pushed his advantage until the opponent was checkmated on move 60. This game showcases his sharpness in both opening preparation and endgame mastery.
Quirks and Fun Facts
If there’s one thing to tease about David’s style, it’s his penchant for the "Top Secret" opening — he’s played over 10,800 games with it in blitz alone! Maybe the secret sauce is his hair-raising opening name, or maybe he’s just messing with opponents. Also, his favorite time to play and dominate? 2 AM, when most are asleep, he’s hitting his prime with a remarkable win percentage.
Rivalries & Foes
David doesn’t shy away from a challenge. His most-played opponent is emiliochess with 42 duels fought, though his win rate there is a modest 38%. Some opponents, however, just can’t crack his code — like coachvikasverma and sapopipooo, against whom he boasts a 100% win record. Talk about consistency!
A Final Word
David Findlay is a colorful character in the online chess community — blending grit, humor, and a relentless drive for victory. Whether it’s blitz, bullet, rapid, or daily chess, Finlidor’s presence on the board is one to watch. So, if you ever see him online, be prepared — he’ll push you to your limits and maybe, just maybe, make you wonder if he’s secretly hiding some top-secret opening theory.