Chess ace Koneru Humpy is aiming for the world championship this year

S trategy requires thought and tactics require observation. These are two things that can get you sail ing smoothly through the game of 64 squares,” is what Koneru Humpy has been preaching at a children’s chess interactive meet in Nadira in Assam. Thinking beyond the black and white world of the chessboard, Humpy is involved in an interaction where she talks about the game’s rules and moves. “The children here are so eager to know about the game, it’s rules and moves. Some of them came up to me to tell me that the very look of the chessboard looks so captivating,” said the 21-year-old, adding “There ia a lot of interest in these young kids and they have so many questions about the game.” The experience though one of it’s kind, since it is her first visit to Assam, Humpy said, “Previously, I have been been to Mumbai, Delhi and Hyderabad too, to grace similar ocassions where I shared my knowledge of chess with the chess enthusiasts.” “I have been to Denmark to be a part of a coaching camp there,” Humpy added.
“It feels great that India is doing so well in the international arena as far as chess is concerned,” said the youngest Woman Grandmaster.

But she admits that things are a lot different in other countries. “There is a difference in the level of the game when you com pare it with other nations. Though not very evident to a lay person, a good player is able to distinguish the standard,” observed the chess ace.

She further justified, “Despite this setback, India has gained its recognition in the game and I hope the country reaches the heights of glory with more good players.” Getting back to her own chess world, she said, “I began the year with the Inter-Petroleum Sports Meet in Delhi, just as a warm up, where I represented ONGC. The important endeavour coming up for me is the Grand Prix Women tournament to be held at Istanbul, Turkey, in March.” She further added, “The Istanbul tournament is really crucial for me since it will serve as a qualification event for the world chess championship. Secondly, my rating which is 2621 right now has to be maintained.” “My rating may be on a decline because of my non-performance last year. In the latter half of the year, I failed to prove my potential. I don’t want this year to be on similar lines,” Humpy said.

“I have discovered my weak areas — opening report and tactics to be followed in the middle of the game — So I will work upon them. There is always a chance for improvement and I will give my best this year,” she concluded.