The rate of play is 1 hour 40 minutes for 40 moves, with a 30-seconds increment per move. Then it's 50 minutes per 20 moves with increment, etc. Alas, these sensitive electronic boards are still easy to confuse and they often show impossible move. Istanbul looks like a very dynamic city, with a typical eastern charm. I hope to see more of it during 2 free days, which we will have here.
People here look very friendly.
Russia is the top seed in men's event. England looks very good too - with Adams, Short, Hodgson, Speelman, Miles and Emms. The US team is seeded 7 th , but Americans are always very good at team events, so no doubt they will be fighting for medals. There were already a few surprises today.