what does Phil Thomas play as black

[Hugh Brechin]

Recalling what the Moderator wrote the other day

Referred to by the title. I've arrived!

there can't be many examples of father-son chess combinations doing so well??

Probably not loads in Scotland at least, though Evgeny and Vladimir Sveshnikov have entered a lot of tournaments together and are both rather strong players. I can't be bothered checking, but I'm guessing they've at least both placed highly in international opens before. There are probably other examples.

Closer to home, I suppose the MacQueens might have managed it while Calum was on his way up the sections, but I don't remember it. Further back, I wouldn't be surprised if the Rutherfords had achieved something, though you'd need to allow father-daughter combinations there. Interesting achievement anyway - congratulations to both Thomases.