5 FEBRUARY 1965, Page 10

Hors Concours Several light-years ago I presented their trophies to

the Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year—Gordon Pirie and Pat Smythe. No applications need be submitted for 1965. No pos- sible achievement could match my own per- formance in the fifteen-month cdrrespondence chess games I have just concluded with Philidor. True, I didn't actually win. In fact, I lost one game conclusively, but I DREW THE OTHER. The story will grow in the telling. When I write my memoirs, a stubborn draw will have become a flashing sacrifice win. Philidor (who has won the British Championship on half a dozen occa- sions) will be elevated to World Champion's class.