The World Junior and World Women Championships for the Blind 2024 are in need of funds
AICFB is set to organize another major event for the blind and visually impaired chess players. The 12th IBCA World Junior and Woman Chess Championship will be held from 27th September – 07 October 2024. This prestigious event will be held in the Chancery Pavilion Hotel in Bangalore where the audience will witness past world champions, international masters, and FIDE-rated players in action. However, these events are currently lacking sponsors and the AICFB is seeking support from individuals, organizations, and the entire chess community to organize this historic event. Read the article to know more. Photo: AICFB
Beyond the Eyes
Chess is a game of vision. A chess player does not merely 'see' moves; he 'envisions' them. Vision in chess is not limited to the physical ability to see but extends into the mental ability to strategize moves. People believe that visually impaired players cannot participate in competitive sports. However, chess is a shining exception where they can compete on an equal level with their sighted counterparts. They can not only engage in the battle but also excel at it.
We should build relationships among sighted and vision-impaired players because we can all learn from each other!
– Donna Jodhan, a writer, an advocate and a chess player.
The All India Chess Federation for the Blind (AICFB) was established in 1997 and it has been at the forefront in promoting chess among the visually impaired. It’s a non-profit organization associated with the International Braille Chess Association (IBCA) which is the apex global body for blind chess and the All India Chess Federation (AICF). With the help of these associations, Indian blind chess players are integrated into the international chess community.
Be it their first international tournament Asian Chess Championship for the Blind in 2003, or the 14th Chess Olympiad for the Blind in 2012, AICFB has always hosted successful tournaments. They are set to organize another big international tournament - the 12th IBCA World Junior and Woman Chess Championship for the blind. The event will take place from 27th September to 7th October 2024 in Bangalore. The location for the venue will be the prestigious Chancery Pavilion Hotel, Residency Road, Bengaluru, India. This is the first time that the world junior championship for the blind has been organized outside Europe since 1951.
This is an individual competition that will host players from various countries with several delegates. People will see past world champions, international masters, and FIDE-rated players competing against each other. All the chess fans have the opportunity to witness the mutual respect these players have for each other as the visually impaired chess players will unite to celebrate the event. This will be more than just a tournament. It will be a celebration of the global chess community.
The tournament is in trouble
However, the tournament is currently in trouble as the sponsors which the AICFB had approached have backed out. Speaking to ChessBase India, Kishan Gangolli, the AICFB Vice President mentions, "We had reached out to both the State and Central governments for financial assistance, but unfortunately, we did not receive the support we were seeking. Additionally, while we anticipated sponsorship from leading corporate, the response did not meet our expectations." Organizing such an event on this scale will require immense effort and resources. AICFB is calling on individuals and organizations to help bring this prestigious event to life. They are seeking financial contributions to cover the following expenses:
The breakdown of Rs.20,50,000
After examining the expense details, it's clear that significant support is required to make this event successful. Your contribution to this will be pivotal in creating an extraordinary experience for the participants. The aim is to celebrate the power of chess and empower visually impaired athletes.
Impact of your contribution:
Everyone’s contribution to this remarkable event will showcase India's capabilities on the world stage. The major impacts will be:
• A seamless event: Funding will ensure a well-organized tournament, providing a memorable experience for participants and spectators.
• Promoting inclusivity: The Championship will highlight the achievements of visually impaired individuals, raising awareness and inspiring future players.
• Elevating India's standing: A successful championship will strengthen India's position as a leader in chess for the visually impaired.
Benefits of Sponsorship:
Partnering with IBCA will offer a unique opportunity to be part of a landmark event. By supporting this tournament, the partners will gain access to several valuable benefits that will align with their brand’s values and objectives:
• Brand association with a prestigious and historic sporting event.
• Positive publicity through extensive media coverage.
• Target a dedicated audience of chess enthusiasts and supporters of inclusion.
• Alignment with a cause that promotes empowerment and opportunity.
The sponsorship will directly contribute to the success of the World Championship, ensuring a world-class experience for all participants. The funds will be used for:
• Accommodation and hospitality for international players and officials.
• Cultural events and sightseeingtours for delegates.
• Technological support and equipment for smooth tournament operations.
• Live streaming of top matches for a global audience.
Your Support Matters
They are inviting you to be a crucial part of this exciting
journey. Your support will ensure that the event takes place. This
will not only promote blind chess but also foster inclusivity and empowerment. Your
involvement will contribute to an event that will leave a lasting impression on
the participants and audiences worldwide.
If you are ready to be a part of this historic event, click on this link to contribute. If you would like to speak to someone from the AICFB team, you can write to them at office@aicfb.in or call Kishan Gangolli at +919481934440
Important Links
12th IBCA World Junior and Woman Chess Championship for the blind
