<Dortmund> Betting for Dortmund Sparkassen: Winner is now open.

<Dortmund Exotics> Also, we have two exotics of a type we haven't done here before, "Head to Head Matchups." For example, the Dortmund Sparkassen: Head-to-Head: Leko vs Kramnik has three outcomes, "Leko", "Kramnik", and "Tie." We will compare the scores of the two players, and whoever has the most total points will be the winner. In the event that they both tie with the same number of points, we will look at their individual games against each other to break the tie. If it's still tied, then the "Tie" ticket will pay.

We also are offering Dortmund Sparkassen: Head-to-Head: Aronian vs Adams and will probably add a third soon.

<Norwegian Championships: Will Carlsen Win?> Regrettably, we had to refund the "Will Carlsen Win?" ticket as the bet would not be settled this leg. We apologize for that. In retrospect, very careful wording in the description of the bet might have prevented this.

<End of the Leg> We will announce the exact date that this leg will end shortly. It will probably be near the middle of September.

I agree that it's not a problem, as long as it's properly understood. Those who select "Tie" should understand that in a single round robin, they need the two players to draw their game.

To our disappointment, it seems that a certain user is hellbent on disrupting our little game by creating multiple accounts.

I would not make this allegation lightly. My analysis is based on several factors, not just IP addresses or other circumstantial evidence. While you can never be 100% certain about these things, I would offer 50:1 odds on being wrong in this case.

I'm not going to name any names and I would appreciate if you would not post messages speculating exactly who I am talking about it. However, several accounts have been flagged for cheating. If your account that is flagged for cheating, you will see a police officer waiting for you when you enter the game.

If you see the police officer, I urge you to email chess@chessgames.com and explain your case. Until you do that your account is on suspension.

Maximum bets.

Simply stated, the Bookie will only take bets up to a certain size. This size could be a fraction of your net worth. For instance, when you start the game with 1000 chessbucks, he may only accept a 200 chessbuck wager. Later, as your fortunes grow, he will raise your limit.

There are of course tiny details to work out. For example, if your net worth goes down should your maximum bet go down, or should I let you keep gambling at the levels you've grown accustomed to? Also, what fraction of your bankroll should be allowed in one bet--10% or 50% or somewhere in between? For bets like the Daily Double or the Pick Three, should the maximum bet be somewhat lower? Should the rules change at the very end of the leg?

I propose that this change would serve three purposes: (1) to reduce the element of luck in the game, (2) to make the final odds be more sensible (no more absurdly large bets to throw the odds out of whack), and (3) to discourage multiple-account cheating.

<Maximum bets> Would you also prevent someone from making multiple bets on the same outcome?