Sharjah

Sharjah schools introduce Chess: Nurturing future grandmasters

Sharjah is set to introduce chess in numerous schools as part of a broader initiative to foster interest in the game and discover new talents. The world’s largest chess club, the Sharjah Cultural Chess Club, in collaboration with the UAE Chess Federation, is spearheading this movement.

Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Hamid Al Qasimi, President of the UAE Arab Chess Federation and Chairman of the Sharjah Cultural Chess Club, highlighted the crucial role schools play in cultivating new chess players. “Schools are essential in preparing and qualifying new players. We are encouraging schools across Sharjah to promote chess among students to discover new talents,” he stated in an exclusive interview with Khaleej Times.

Sheikh Dr. Khalid shared his personal connection to the game, recalling his childhood visits to chess clubs with his father, the former Vice President of the UAE Chess Federation. He began playing chess at nine and continues to play daily, balancing his passion for the game with his responsibilities.

Chess is a strategic game that enhances critical thinking and practical skills, according to Sheikh Dr. Khalid. “The more strategies and plans a person has, the more successful they will be in this enjoyable mental game,” he emphasized.

Expanding Chess Clubs

The expansion of chess clubs is a key strategy to promote the game. Sharjah already boasts specialized chess clubs for both males and females. The Sharjah Cultural Chess Club also hosts a chess academy that nurtures the skills of both local and expatriate players. The academy has produced international champions like Safin Safarullah Khan, who is ranked second in Asia, and Shayan Mohammad Shayan, who is third in the world for the 12-year-old category.

Sheikh Dr. Khalid advocates for youth engagement in chess, citing its benefits in time management, planning, and mental development. “Chess enriches the mind and encourages thinking in unconventional ways, as players must anticipate unexpected moves from their opponents,” he added.

Sharjah will host the Arab Individual Chess Championship (men and women) and the Rapid & Blitz Chess Championship from November 7 to 17, 2024. These events will feature three playing systems: classical, rapid, and blitz, attracting participants from 22 countries affiliated with the Arab Chess Federation.

The Sharjah Cultural & Chess Club, with its history of hosting numerous world championships, aims to elevate the popularity and participation in chess across the UAE through these initiatives and tournaments.

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