Course

The Vancura Defense

Drawing a rook-pawn-down endgame by attacking the pawn from the side.

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Level 1 — The Straight Side-Check Defence

Attack the pawn from the side, then switch to distant checks when the rook shields it to secure the draw.

Level 2 — The Cross-Counter Side-Check Defence

Attack the pawn from the side, then switch to distant checks when the rook shields it to secure the draw.

Level 3 — The Heavy Side-Check Defence

Attack the pawn from the side, then switch to distant checks when the rook shields it to secure the draw.

Level 4 — The Quiet Side-Check Defence

Attack the pawn from the side, then switch to distant checks when the rook shields it to secure the draw.

Level 5 — The Patient Side-Check Defence

Attack the pawn from the side, then switch to distant checks when the rook shields it to secure the draw.

Level 6 — The Distant Side-Check Defence

Attack the pawn from the side, then switch to distant checks when the rook shields it to secure the draw.

Level 7 — The Narrow Side-Check Defence

Attack the pawn from the side, then switch to distant checks when the rook shields it to secure the draw.

Level 8 — The Wide Side-Check Defence

Attack the pawn from the side, then switch to distant checks when the rook shields it to secure the draw.

Level 9 — The Hidden Side-Check Defence

Attack the pawn from the side, then switch to distant checks when the rook shields it to secure the draw.

Level 10 — The Bold Side-Check Defence

Attack the pawn from the side, then switch to distant checks when the rook shields it to secure the draw.

Level 11 — The Steady Side-Check Defence

Attack the pawn from the side, then switch to distant checks when the rook shields it to secure the draw.

Level 12 — The Sharp Side-Check Defence

Attack the pawn from the side, then switch to distant checks when the rook shields it to secure the draw.

Level 13 — The Long Side-Check Defence

Attack the pawn from the side, then switch to distant checks when the rook shields it to secure the draw.
Level 14 — Course Practice

Face every course position without guidance. Reveal a hint only when you need one.