Oldřich Duras was a famous Czech chess Grandmaster and composer of endgame studies. Born on October 30, 1882, in Prague, his prolific career extended over five decades from the late 19th to the mid-20th century. He was awarded the titles of International Master and International Grandmaster by Fédération Internationale des Échecs (FIDE), the world chess federation, in 1950. Prior to this, he'd already earned the title of Grandmaster of Composition during his life, becoming one of few chess players to receive such a recognition for their endgame composition skills.
Duras earned a reputation as one of the best ten players in the world from 1906 to 1912. His significant accomplishments include winning silver medals in four different international tournaments: Ostend 1906, Prague 1908, Hamburg 1910, and San Sebastian 1911. He was also celebrated as Czechoslovakia's national champion thrice: in 1925, 1929, and 1931.
A stroke in 1950 left Duras partially paralyzed and impaired his speech, leading to his retirement. His health further declined, leading to his death on January 5, 1957. Despite his health struggles, Duras published several respected books on chess theory during his late life.
The Duras Gambit (1.Nf3 d5 2.b4), an example of his unique and creative approach to the game, is named after him. His accomplishments and contributions to chess theory and strategy remain significant in the chess world.