Kenneth Hobson (ogpin) - FIDE Master Extraordinaire
Meet Kenneth Hobson, known in the chess world as "ogpin" — a true titleholder with the distinguished rank of FIDE Master. Kenneth’s journey on the 64 squares is nothing short of a rollercoaster, filled with dazzling victories and the occasional humbling defeat, all embraced with the spirit of a true competitor.
Starting from modest rapid ratings barely breaking 1200 in early 2020, Kenneth quickly bulldozed their way up to a peak rapid rating of 2045 by May 2025 — proof that persistence (and a bit of stubbornness) pays off. Yet, it’s in bullet chess that Kenneth truly shines with breathtaking speed and tactical finesse, reaching an astonishing peak rating of 2502 in the same month. If the clock is ticking, Kenneth’s brain is already three moves ahead.
Kenneth’s blitz form is equally impressive, soaring to a peak 2290 rating, and their daily chess skills show steady consistency with a peak just shy of 1570. Whether it’s the frantic pace of bullet or the contemplative calm of daily games, Kenneth adapts and conquers.
Playing Style & Personality
A strategist with a flair for dramatic comebacks, Kenneth boasts a remarkable 76.85% comeback rate and demonstrates grit by winning more than half the games even after losing material. With a penchant for long battles (an average of roughly 62 moves in wins), Kenneth clearly enjoys the endgame storytelling — eventually steering most games to a checkmate or resignation. But beware: their 11.56% early resignation rate hints that sometimes Kenneth knows when to cut their losses, a wise trait in a game where time is precious.
Favorite openings include the mysteriously named "Top Secret" system, revealing either a buried treasure or a touch of enigma, as well as trusty classics like the Sicilian Defense variants and the Nimzowitsch Defense. And if you’re lucky enough to spar with Kenneth, expect the unexpected — wins and losses seem sprinkled with humor and unpredictability.
Memorable Recent Battles
Not long ago, Kenneth executed a flawless checkmate against ABDELAZEEZ-M in a brilliant display of the Alapin Sicilian Defense, concluding with a queen sacrifice that would make any expressionless chess engine shed a virtual tear of joy.
While not invincible, having recently suffered a tough loss to Roedor in a Four Knights Game Spanish Variation, Kenneth’s resilience and strategic creativity remain intact, continuing to fuel their climb on the chess ladder.
Opponent Beware!
Kenneth has battled countless foes, with notable rivalries and an eclectic array of opponents. From high win rates against challengers like “wildmadtiger” and “cruiserscreek” (100% each!) to learning experiences against grim reapers of the board, Kenneth’s record is a testament to their dedication and willingness to improve.
In sum, Kenneth Hobson is not just a player but a chess story still unfolding — one where every pawn push and queen’s gambit contributes to a legacy both impressive and uniquely their own. Whether you see them blazingly winning bullet rounds or thoughtfully outmaneuvering opponents in daily games, Kenneth invites us all to remember: in chess, as in life, it’s both the checkmate and the journey that count.