Has anyone ever developed a “logical and fair” chess Handicap System – that would make a match between any two players (within reason) as near as possible to each player having a “50/50” chance of winning? Think Golf and Bowling … and their Handicaps … … but, more accurately, perhaps think the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) … where there are over 200 classes of cars grouped in 15 categories … … … outside of the Pro classes, depending on the category, some use a “static” E.T. Index while others use a “dial-in” E.T. (elapsed time) chosen by the driver … … … when two cars of differing classes are matched, the difference between the Index/Dial-In determines how much of a handicap (head start) the slower driver receives … and first across the finish line wins!
I would like to be able to hold a similar chess tournament – difference in the players’ ratings determines the lower rated players advantage – where, for example, a Class “A” player would have as close as possible to a 50/50 chance of beating a Master … … … but, how? Time difference? Higher rated player starts minus a Pawn … or, minus a Bishop … or, even minus a QUEEN?!? Perhaps if the ratings are close there would be “White odds” – lower rated “automatically” plays with White pieces … or, “extra first move odds” … or, whatever would be fair and equitable. But, just what would make a Master and a 1500-rated compete on equal terms? If a Master one minute and the 1500 has two hours, wouldn’t the Master still probably win every time? But … take away pieces and perhaps ___________ … but, which and how many?
Anyone have ideas or advice?