Singapore’s National Age Group Championship: A new era for chess unfolds
The Singapore National Age Group Championship held alongside the World Chess Championship turned out to be a huge success. The tournament was organized as part of the Singapore Chess Festival. The event saw 692 young players from 22 countries competing for top honors. This was the first time that a prize money was awarded to the winners. Highlight of this event was Satvik Kapoor's win in the U20 category, U16 champions Tay Yi Xiang and WCM Bernadette Kong who earned spots in elite competitions. The event reached its peak when legendary Viswanathan Anand presented the trophies to the players. All the players and families present were awestruck by the chance to meet the icon in person. Check out the article to know more about the event. | Photo: Tampines West CSN
A milestone moment for Singapore Chess
This year's National Age Group event reached new heights, as it was integrated into the Singapore Chess Festival, running concurrently with the World Championship match between Ding Liren and D Gukesh. This significantly elevated its status and added substantial number of strong participants from abroad.
A remarkable 692 youth players participated in the 2024 National Age Group events, competing for the title of National Champions in the U8, U10, U12, U14, U16, and U20 categories. This time, Singapore Chess Federation added prize money—$300 for 1st place, $200 for 2nd, and $100 for 3rd. (due to its status as a World Championship side event).
As it was held alongside the World Championship, it was not surprising to see participants from 22 countries, including 46 Indians. Among the Indian prize-winners were Anishka Biyani (GU8 6th), Aurik Joshi ( Open U10 - 4th) and Shaurya Kondru (Open U10 5th).
The following two ladies however topped the podium. Firstly, Aadya Gowda clinched 2nd in the
U12 Open event and emerged as the U12 Girl’s Champion.
A significant result was also attained by Kirthika B with her 3rd placing in the Open U14 category. This also secured her the GU14 Champion title.
The top five local players from each category qualified to join the prestigious National Training Program (NTP), the highest tier squad within the Singapore Chess Federation. Additionally, the top three players in the National Under 20 section and the Under 16 champions for both boys and girls received invites to compete in the finals of the Singapore National Championships. Notably, National Master norms were awarded to the National Under 20 champions for both genders. Ultimately, Satvik Kapoor emerged victorious as the U20 champion, finishing impressively with 8 out of 9 points, 1.5 points ahead of the competition.
I am thrilled to report that Tay Yi Xiang and WCM Bernadette Kong, whom I have the pleasure of coaching or assisting, emerged as champions in the U16 Open and Girls categories, respectively.
Yi Xiang provided some comic relief when he sent me pictures of his attire at the prize-giving ceremony. Donning a sharp suit, he explained earnestly, “I wore one every day to give the event and the game the respect it deserves.” It’s safe to say that Tay Yi Xiang certainly didn’t learn how to dress elegantly for prestigious chess events from his coach!
There were two VIPS who graced the event, namely GM Xie Jun who opened the proceedings and GM Vishy Anand who was the guest of honour, giving out the prizes to the winners.
The apex of the event for participants and their families was undoubtedly the moment when the legendary Viswanathan Anand presented the trophies to the prize-winners. His magnetic popularity was akin to that of a global superstar; as he prepared to leave, a near stampede ensued as parents and players rushed to capture selfies and obtain autographs. The scene resembled the frenzy one might witness if a VIP like Jay Chou or Taylor Swift were present.
Anand was warmly besieged by both parents and players as he made his way out of the Tampines Hub, leaving an indelible impression on everyone present. It was an event to remember, filled with excitement, competition, and the celebration of young chess talent.
2024 National Age Group Chess Championships on Chess-results.com
About the author
A chess author, editor, and coach for the past ten years after being a school teacher for 17 years, Tay is a former National Rapid and Cairnhill Open Champion and has represented Singapore in international events including the Asian Team Championships.