Rook endings · advanced
Lucena position
Use the Lucena bridge to stop side checks and promote.
The rule
The rook reaches the fourth rank, then shields the king from side checks.
How to play it
- 1
Put the rook on the fourth
Put the rook on the fourth rank before exposing the king.
- 2
Step the king out
Walk toward the rook while the defender checks from the side.
- 3
Block and promote
Interpose the rook on the final check, then queen the pawn.
Study the line, then play it
Step through the example. Then play your moves from the same position.
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
Move 0 of 5
Starting position
Play through the line one move at a time.
Before you play
Moves to calculate
- 1.Read the checking file
- 2.Choose the king escape
- 3.Place the bridge on the matching file
Check each reply because
Each rook check determines where your king can step and where your rook must block.
Stop when
A side check changes files or the defending king approaches the pawn.
Common mistake
Moving the king out before the bridge is built allows endless checks.
Build the bridge, promote, and convert.
Start with a comfortable clock. Reduce it when the position feels familiar. Your record is 0/0.