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Home / Tagged "ChessOlympiad" (Page 3)

Tag: ChessOlympiad

Gukesh-Ding Super-Fight Fizzles as Ding Rests in Olympiad

Gukesh-Ding Super-Fight Fizzles as Ding Rests in Olympiad

By September 19, 2024 0

The highly anticipated clash between reigning World Champion Ding Liren and rising star D. Gukesh at the 44th Chess Olympiad in Budapest took an unexpected turn when Ding was “rested” by China for Round 7. In his absence, Wei Yi stepped up to face Gukesh, who has been in scintillating form with four wins and a draw in six rounds.

Despite the absence of Ding, Gukesh pressed for an advantage with White in an objectively drawish position. The Indian prodigy’s recent trajectory has been remarkable, propelling him into the top five while Ding has struggled, dropping out of the top 20 and failing to win a single game in Budapest.

Former World No. 4 GM Peter Svidler expressed surprise at Ding’s absence from Board 1 in such a crucial match. Ding’s recent defeat to Vietnam’s Quang Liem Le may have influenced China’s decision to rest him.

Five-time World Champion Viswanathan Anand believes Gukesh is now a clear favorite to become World Champion based on momentum and statistics. However, he cautioned that Ding is still a formidable opponent and the match in November will be a true test.

On Board 2, Yu Yangyi and R. Praggnanandhaa played a quick 17-move draw. P. Harikrishna was brought into the action for the first time since the opening round, replacing Vidit Gujrathi on Board 4.

In the women’s section, India defeated second seeds Georgia 3-1, maintaining their lead in the tournament. Vantika Agrawal pulled off a stunning victory against Bella Khotenashvili, showcasing her tactical prowess.

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Magnus Carlsen's Presence Brings Motivation and Pressure to Norwegian Chess Team

Magnus Carlsen’s Presence Brings Motivation and Pressure to Norwegian Chess Team

By September 18, 2024 0

Magnus Carlsen, the world’s top-ranked chess player, has joined the Norwegian team at the Chess Olympiad in Budapest. While Carlsen’s presence is a major boost for the team, it also brings its own set of challenges, according to team captain Odin Blikra Vea.

Vea, a Candidate Master who represented Norway at the Olympiad at age 19, was surprised when he was asked to lead the team. He and Carlsen grew up playing chess together, and Carlsen’s meteoric rise has had a profound impact on both Norway’s chess scene and Vea’s own career.

“Having Magnus on the team is a huge motivation for us,” Vea said. “He’s always thinking about what’s best for the team, and his fighting spirit and motivation have an impact on everyone.”

However, Vea also acknowledges that playing alongside the world’s best player can be daunting for the other team members. “They might be feeling the pressure to deliver for Magnus and not let him down,” he said. “As a teammate, you’re sitting beside Magnus, and you know he’s watching your moves, so there’s no hiding from the truth.”

Vea’s biggest scare during the Olympiad came in Round 3 when Carlsen arrived late due to a miscommunication. Carlsen cycled from his hotel to the venue in the rain and couldn’t locate the entrance, coming within four minutes of losing his game by forfeit.

Despite the challenges, Vea believes that Carlsen’s presence on the team is a positive force. “He’s a close friend, and we both have always loved to play sports together,” Vea said. “His love for chess is unmatched and has rubbed off on me and made me more relentless in the things I do.”

Vea is realistic about Norway’s chances of winning a medal at the Olympiad, but he considers India a strong contender for gold. “Although I’m not playing, I’m here at the heart of the battle,” he said. “As captain, it’s nice to have Magnus on my side.”

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India Dominates Budapest Olympiad, Poised for Record-Breaking Finish

India Dominates Budapest Olympiad, Poised for Record-Breaking Finish

By September 17, 2024 0

A decade ago, India made history at the Chess Olympiad in Tromso, Norway, winning its first medal since its debut in 1956. Led by K Sasikiran, the team finished third behind China and Hungary.

Fast forward to 2023, and India stands as the sole leader at the halfway mark of the Budapest Olympiad. With all their matches won so far, the team is poised for a record-breaking finish.

This time, India’s dominance is not surprising. Its top players, aged 18-21, have been making waves individually, with jaw-dropping performances in the World Cup, Candidates, and World Championship.

The team’s strength lies in its youth and talent. The top three boards average an age of 19, with two of them ranked among the world’s top five. They have been crushing their opponents with machine-like precision.

Arjun Erigaisi, ranked fourth in the world, has a flawless 6/6 score. Gukesh, who missed the first round, has been equally dominant with four wins and a draw. His performances have caught the attention of world No.1 Magnus Carlsen and reigning world champion Ding Liren.

In Round 7, India will face China, with a potential face-off between Ding and Gukesh. China has been shaky in recent times, but remains a formidable opponent.

The Indian women’s team is also performing well, having beaten every team they have faced. Divya Deshmukh has been a standout performer, winning five of her six games and closing in on Elo 2500.

The Indian teams won bronze medals at the last Olympiad in 2022. This time, they are aiming for gold. With five rounds remaining, anything is possible. However, one thing is clear: India has emerged as a world-dominating chess nation, and the future looks bright.

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Ding Liren Concedes Gukesh as Favorite for World Chess Title Showdown

Ding Liren Concedes Gukesh as Favorite for World Chess Title Showdown

By September 16, 2024 0

Defending world chess champion Ding Liren has conceded that his Indian challenger, D Gukesh, is the favorite to win their upcoming title showdown in November. Liren’s admission comes as Gukesh has been in impressive form at the ongoing 45th Chess Olympiad, leading the Indian team to five consecutive victories.

“I can see my opponent (Gukesh) playing extremely well in this tournament. Maybe he is a favorite in the World Championship Match. He also has a higher rating than me,” Liren said in an interview with the International Chess Federation (FIDE).

Liren, who won the world crown in May 2022, has struggled for form in the past year. He took a break from the game due to depression and returned to action earlier this year at the Tata Steel Chess Tournament, finishing ninth.

Gukesh, on the other hand, has been on a meteoric rise. He became the youngest challenger to the world title at the age of 17 after winning the Candidates tournament in April.

The two will clash in Singapore from November 20 to December 15 for the coveted title and a prize fund of USD 2.50 million. Should Gukesh prevail, he would become the first Indian after Viswanathan Anand to claim the title.

Liren acknowledged the possibility of a close battle between India and China for the gold medal in the Olympiad. “We are two very strong teams. We have a chance to fight for the gold medal,” he said.

Gukesh, however, remained cautious, saying that all participating teams are strong. “All countries are strong, we have to come everyday with the right spirit…We have a nice mood in the team, it’s enjoyable,” he said.

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Indian Chess Team Extends Unbeaten Streak at Olympiad with Victory over Azerbaijan

Indian Chess Team Extends Unbeaten Streak at Olympiad with Victory over Azerbaijan

By September 15, 2024 0

The Indian men’s chess team continued their impressive run at the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary, securing a 2.5-1.5 victory over Azerbaijan in the fifth round. The win was spearheaded by in-form stars D Gukesh and Arjun Erigaisi, who extended their unbeaten streak in the tournament.

Gukesh, playing with white pieces on board one, outplayed Aydin Sulemanli in a quick and decisive game. Erigaisi, on board three, also showcased his dominance, overpowering Rauf Mamedov with a similar efficiency.

Praggnanandhaa, on board two, played another draw, but his contribution was crucial in ensuring India’s victory, regardless of the outcome of Vidit Gujrathi’s game against Shakhriyar Mamedyarov.

With this victory, the Indian men’s team maintained their perfect record, scoring ten points from five matches. They are now joined by Vietnam, who also continued their impressive performance with a 2.5-1.5 win over Poland.

In the women’s section, Grandmaster D Harika suffered a surprising defeat against Bibisara Assaubayeva of Kazakhstan, giving the latter an early lead. However, Vantika Agarwal played a strong game on board four, securing a clean victory with white pieces against Alua Nurman. Xeniya Balabayeva and Divya Deshmukh shared the point on board five.

Grandmaster R Vaishali came close to securing a second win for India, but ultimately settled for a draw.

With this result, the Indian women’s team is likely to join Armenia and Mongolia in the lead with ten points.

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Refugee Chess Team Faces Visa Hurdle for Olympiad

Refugee Chess Team Faces Visa Hurdle for Olympiad

By September 15, 2024 0

Ngong Atem Tak, an 18-year-old refugee from the Kakuma camp in Kenya, is facing an uphill battle to participate in the Chess Olympiad in Budapest. Despite being a talented chess player and the U-18 champion at this year’s National Youth and Cadet Championships in Kenya, Ngong and his teammates from Kakuma are still awaiting visas in Nairobi.

The Kakuma camp, established in 1992, houses refugees from various African countries. Ngong, who was born in the camp, has found solace in chess, which he believes makes life bearable. The ‘Chess for Protection’ project, run by Fide in collaboration with UNHCR and the Kenyan chess federation, has been operating in Kakuma since 2021.

Latvian trainer Sergejs Klimakovs, who worked with the players from Kakuma, was impressed by their skills. “They can calculate complicated variations, think at least seven moves ahead,” he said. “Their strength took me by surprise.”

However, the team’s journey to Budapest has been fraught with challenges. Documents for international travel have been a hurdle, and six playing members were diagnosed with malaria after arriving in Nairobi.

Despite the obstacles, Klimakovs believes the team has the potential to surprise if they make it to Budapest. “They understand that any tournament they play might be their only chance,” he said. “In Kakuma, there are frequent power blackouts, there isn’t enough food, and geographically it’s not the easiest part of the world from a peace point of view …but nothing is enough to rob them of the will to play chess.”

The team’s participation in the Olympiad would not only be a testament to their talent but also a symbol of hope for refugees around the world.

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India Overcomes Challenges, Triumphs in Olympiad

India Overcomes Challenges, Triumphs in Olympiad

By September 15, 2024 0

India Faces Challenges in Olympiad, Emerges Victorious

The Indian chess team encountered its first significant challenges in the ongoing Olympiad, facing off against formidable opponents Serbia and France. The matches were characterized by extended play, intense competition, and dramatic moments, particularly on the women’s boards.

Tania Sachdev, amidst the chaos surrounding her, opted for an aggressive approach against International Master Natacha Benmesbah. Despite the complexity of her position, she set up a clever trap with e5, forcing her opponent to exchange rooks. Harika Dronavalli skillfully navigated a knight endgame, securing a full point and leading India to a 3.5-0.5 victory over France.

In the Open section, R Praggnanandhaa drew against Serbia’s strongest player, Alexey Sarana, while Arjun Erigaisi maintained his flawless record with a 4/4 score in Budapest. Erigaisi’s consistent performance has been a boon for India, providing a reliable source of points in each match.

The Indian women faced their toughest test yet against the French team. Captain Abhijit Kunte closely monitored the boards of Harika and Divya as the other games concluded. Iranian-French WGM Mitra Hejazipour posed a significant threat, putting Divya under pressure. However, the Indian player displayed resilience and managed to turn the game in her favor, securing a crucial victory.

Beyond the Indian boards, the Olympiad witnessed major upsets. Defending champions Uzbekistan fell to Vietnam, while legendary Vasyl Ivanchuk orchestrated an upset of top seeds USA by Ukraine. Ding Liren, the reigning world champion, drew his game against Armenia’s Haik Martirosyen, dropping to world No.18 in the live ratings.

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9-Year-Old Chess Prodigy Defies Racist Abuse to Make History

9-Year-Old Chess Prodigy Defies Racist Abuse to Make History

By September 12, 2024 0

Bodhana Sivanandan, a nine-year-old chess prodigy from Harrow, England, has become the youngest-ever player to represent her country at a major international sporting event. Her selection for the England women’s team at the Chess Olympiad in Budapest has sparked both admiration and a torrent of racist abuse on social media.

Despite the vile comments, Bodhana’s family remains unfazed. “We realize there’s no pleasing everyone,” said her father, Sivanandan. “There will always be people who feel she should play for India or those who believe she shouldn’t play for England.”

Bodhana’s journey to chess stardom began during the pandemic when she discovered a chess set among her father’s belongings. She quickly became hooked and began making rapid strides in the game. At the age of eight, she became the Under-8 world champion.

Her talent has drawn attention from chess legend Judit Polgar, who recently spent time with Bodhana in Budapest. “I want to become a world champion and one of the greatest players in the world,” Bodhana told Polgar.

Despite her success, Bodhana remains grounded. “She doesn’t really take her wins too seriously nor do losses break her,” said her father. “She pretty much has a neutral reaction to both.”

Bodhana’s family is determined to support her chess aspirations while ensuring she has a well-rounded education. “You go to school only once in life,” said Sivanandan. “What you learn in school, whether it’s social skills or just having friends with whom you can talk to about things other than chess, is hard to replicate at home.”

Bodhana’s story is an inspiration to young chess players everywhere. It shows that with hard work and determination, anything is possible, regardless of age or background.

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Indian Chess Teams Dominate in Chess Olympiad Opener

Indian Chess Teams Dominate in Chess Olympiad Opener

By September 12, 2024 0

The Indian chess teams made a resounding start to the 45th Chess Olympiad, with the men’s team blanking Morocco 4-0 and the women’s team dominating Jamaica, conceding only a draw.

On the top board, R Praggnanandhaa set the tone for the Indian men, defeating Tissir Mohamed in a Sicilian defense game. Vidit Gujrathi, Arjun Erigaisi, and P Harikrishna also secured comfortable victories, giving India a perfect start.

In the women’s section, R Vaishali and Tania Sachdev scored impressive wins in the first time control. However, Divya Deshmukh faced a tough battle before securing a much-needed victory, while Vantika Agarwal was forced to concede a draw in the endgame.

Despite occasional hiccups, top-seeded United States also emerged victorious, defeating Panama 3.5-0.5. Wesley So was the only American unable to force a win, settling for a draw.

In the open section, 99 teams started with wins, earning two points each. A total of 182 teams were paired, while 15 teams were still en route to Budapest.

Praggnanandhaa’s victory against Mohamed was particularly impressive, as he capitalized on an advantage in the king side to secure the first point for India. Gujrathi also displayed his dominance, knocking down a pawn in the opening against Jacques Elbilia and never looking back.

Erigaisi faced a tougher challenge but ultimately emerged victorious, while Harikrishna overcame initial resistance from Anas Mosyad to secure the vital point.

In the women’s competition, Vaishali had no trouble converting her position with black pieces, while Sachdev maintained control throughout her game. Deshmukh proved her mettle in an equal position, but Vantika was forced into a drawn endgame.

The Indian men will face a spirited Iceland in the second round, while the women will take on a strong Georgian team.

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India Eyes First Chess Olympiad Gold in Budapest

India Eyes First Chess Olympiad Gold in Budapest

By September 11, 2024 0

India, the bronze medalist in the previous edition, is poised to make history at the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary. The Indian team, seeded second, is determined to secure its first standalone gold medal in the prestigious tournament.

Led by Vidit Gujrathi, R Praggnanandhaa, D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaise, and P Harikrishna, the Indian team boasts a formidable lineup. Despite the absence of legendary Viswanathan Anand, the team is confident in its ability to surpass its previous bronze medal performance.

The Chinese team, featuring reigning World Champion Ding Liren, is the third seed and a strong contender for the title. The tournament format consists of 11 rounds in both the open and women’s sections, with two match points awarded for each victory.

The Indian women’s team, seeded first, is also a strong contender for the podium. Led by D Harika and R Vaishali, the team has a mix of youth and experience. The absence of top Chinese players and the suspension of Russia and Ukraine has cleared the path for India’s women’s team.

The US team, led by Fabiano Caruana, is the top favorite in the open section. Despite missing Hikaru Nakamura, the US team remains a formidable opponent. The Indian men’s team, led by D Gukesh, also has a good chance of performing well.

With a strong team and a clear path to victory, India is poised to make history at the 45th Chess Olympiad. The tournament promises to be an exciting and competitive event, with India aiming to secure its first standalone gold medal.

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