Letters to the Editor
Pasadena Star-News
February 5, 2008
Much has been written about Bobby Fischer. Only a few people knew him as well as I did. Through the 1972 world championship until his humble ending in Reykjavik, Bobby and I stayed in touch. I could write books about the unique genius that Bobby was. A true friend, like a brother, he and I connected in a very loving way. Bobby loved my family. And, I have been blessed by God with a great wife and children that now are adults and we are grandparents.
Bobby was privileged to be a part of the Church of God environment, compliments of Herbert W. Armstrong who was like a grandfather to me, and the world chess champion. Armstrong wanted to help Bobby in any way he could. Bobby was a young man of 29 in 1972 that needed direction, discipline and a family environment that Ambassador College could provide. The students reached out with love, encouragement, and support as well as the faculty, ministers and members.
There are very few geniuses that one gets to work with. I worked with him for 35 years. I have a lot of gratitude that I was given this very special opportunity to work with this very special person. There is not enough room to tell you the amazing things that I learned about what it takes to become a champion. With all this knowledge I became a world class level Olympic coach and currently am still helping others to become that best that they can be.
Thank you, HWA. Thank you, Bobby. Thank you to all those who helped him in his lifetime in Pasadena and around the world. Long live the legacy of the greatest chess player in history. Rest in peace, Bobby.
Harry Sneider
Arcadia