Overview - Holger Kiefhaber (Old_But_Slow)
Holger Kiefhaber, who often plays under the handle Old_But_Slow, is a FIDE Master and a longtime force on fast time controls. Best known as a Bullet specialist, Holger mixes calculated tactics with stubborn endgame endurance. Fans praise the combination of rapid intuition and a knack for comebacks.
- Title: FIDE Master
- Username: Old_But_Slow
- Preferred time control: Bullet
- Peak Bullet form: 2440 (2025-11-16)
Recent rating movement snapshot: [[Chart|Rating|Bullet|2025-11-2025-12]]
Playing Style and Strengths
Holger is a resilient practical player who often drags opponents into long, messy fights. Expect deep endgame battles, persistent pressure, and an ability to recover after setbacks.
- Endgame frequency - frequently reaches endgames, making long technical wins a specialty
- Strong comeback instincts - comeback rate is very high, reflecting tenacity under pressure
- Tactical resilience - often wins even after losing material, with a notable win rate after losing a piece
- Long decisive games - average moves per decisive game skew long, so do not expect quick resignations
- Rare early resignations - Holger usually fights on until the end
Favorite Openings and Repertoire
Holger's repertoire favors flexible Systems and dynamic defenses. Whether playing White or Black, he leans on familiar structures that provoke imbalances and practical chances.
- As White - frequent success with Sicilian Defense: Alapin Variation and the French Defense: Exchange Variation when transposed
- As Black - often employs the Modern Defense: Pterodactyl Variation and the Caro-Kann Defense: Exchange Variation
- Notable pocket lines - Colle System: Rhamphorhynchus Variation and the Scandinavian Defense where Holger has posted strong win rates
Blitz highlights include great results with the English Defense: Blumenfeld-Hiva Gambit and the Italian Game: Two Knights Defense.
Notable Streaks, Opponents, and Records
Holger has enjoyed some impressive runs and memorable matchups over recent seasons.
- Longest winning streak: 10 games
- Current winning streak: 3 games
- Longest losing streak: 7 games
- Most-played opponent: foldblinded - record 6 wins, 1 loss
- Other frequent opponents include jonathanbernardrowe and xalirezasbn2005x
Performance Patterns - When Holger is at his best
Time of day matters. Holger tends to hit peak form in the late morning and early afternoon. He also shows strong results on weekend days when the practice tank is full.
- Best hour to play: around 10:00
- Top weekday win rates: Tuesday and Wednesday show particularly strong numbers
- Good Bullet temperament - strong adjusted win rates in both Bullet and Blitz
Memorable Game Snapshot and Extras
A quick sample game to capture Holger's style - sharp opening, long middlegame, patient endgame. Use the viewer below to replay the sequence.
Replay:
Want a specific matchup? Check a recent highlight vs a frequent rival: foldblinded
More stats available on request, including deeper opening tables and PGN archives.
Fun Facts and Personality
Holger balances serious chess with a playful on-board persona. The handle Old_But_Slow is both a wink and a warning - games may look slow and steady, but he will pounce in the complications.
- Nickname origin: Slight self-deprecating humor about speed versus experience
- Typical first move as White: e4
- Check lover: rooks are the most frequent checking piece in Holger's games