The first round was off to a great start. After everyone settled in, got their volunteer helpers by their side Dr Dirk Jordan welcomed everyone and the clocks were started. GM Thomas Luther, chairman of the FIDE Disabled Commission, made the ceremonial first move on the first board; FM Raphael Zimmer (Germany) against FM Stanislav Babarykin (Russia).
With 10 female players amongst the 70 players there were a few interesting games going on. Quite unexpectedly Jerzy Strzelecki of Poland won his game against IM Dmitrij Scerbin of Russia, along with a few more upsets. Only 4 draws made it a very decisive round which provided some great chess. With most of the rounds over by around 3pm the players had a chance to go over their games, as well as still have time to venture out and see something of Dresden.