45th Chess Olympiad Day 8: Photos that tell the tale
Many people might view team chess events as less significant because they believe chess is an inherently individualistic game. However, I believe that team chess events are actually more challenging. In individual matches, success depends on individual talent, whereas in team events, success depends on teamwork and mutual trust. The player has to consider whether their personal goal would be good for the team. We have seen in many games that when one team member lost the game, another team member pushed for a win. This shows the resilience and unity required in team play. This is why team events can be more complex than individual games. Moreover, they foster a strong sense of camaraderie that individual competitions cannot. The Chess Olympiad exemplifies this dynamic. Now, let’s have a look at some memorable pictures from Day 8. Photo: FIDE
1) Player's kindness
It's common to see chess players interacting with fans and giving autographs before and after games. After entering the hall, the players generally prefer to concentrate and avoid any distractions. However, at the Olympiad, you will see them giving autographs, just before the round starts or even after settling into their chairs. Have a look at the kind gesture shown by the players:
2) From Island to Olympiad
Nine women’s team made their debut at the 45th Chess Olympiad and St. Kitts and Nevis Women’s team is one of them. FIDE took a special initiative this year to empower more women to play chess. FIDE also extended financial support to these debutant teams covering their travel and coaching expenses. Coming from a small nation, these women carry pride in their country as they compete against seasoned players from around the globe.
3) The Underdogs
The Malaysian team is a mix of CMs and FMs. However, they have managed to outplay several GMs on the board. The team is definitely one of the underdogs at the Olympiad. While the main trophy may be out of their reach, their eyes are set on winning the category-wise prize! They truly represent the spirit of ‘Malaysia Boleh’.
4) From board to administration
FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky briefly joined the ChessBase India commentary during round 8. He shared insights into his career, the ongoing Olympiad, and the upcoming World Championship Match. A lot of people know him for the work he has done for FIDE. But he has an impressive record as a professional chess player. 1996 was the most important year in Sutovsky’s life, when he became a grandmaster, won the World Junior Chess Championship, and made a debut for the Olympiad as well. Sutovsky's transition from a great player to a leader in chess governance reflects his broad influence on the game.
5) Pioneer of Women's Chess
Nona Gaprindashvili from Georgia started playing chess when she was five years old. At the age of 12, she moved to Tbilisi to train under grandmasters. She was known for her aggressive style of play. She is truly considered a pioneer for women’s chess. You need to look at her achievements to know the reason behind this:
Nona’s achievements:
1) First woman to become a grandmaster in 1978.
2) She became the fifth Women’s World Champion in 1962.
3) She defended her title 4 times thereby retaining it for 16 years!
4) Shared first place at the Lone Pine International Tournament in 1977.
5) Winner of the Women’s Soviet Chess Championship in 1964. 1973, 1981, 1983 and 1985.
The teams which show combined supremacy in the Open and Women’s sections in the Olympiad win the ‘Nona Gaprindashvili Cup’.
6) Chess Heist Club?
We see chess players creating and breaking records every day. However, just like any other sport, chess has its good and bad side. While we always focus on the good side, sometimes, it’s important to show the bad side as well to make people aware of what is happening in the chess world. Earlier, Anish Giri was caught red-handed stealing a pawn during the Tata Steel Chess. Now, another grandmaster has been spotted in the same mischief during round 8! According to our inside sources, there is an underground club of grandmasters whose mission is to steal as many chess pieces as possible. While the motive behind this remains unclear, we suspect they might be doing it to support ‘The Gift of Chess’ organization.
7) Fun moments
What’s the Olympiad without some fun moments?
8) Fan zone
This is the fan zone at the 45th Chess Olympiad. It’s a fun, lively, and interactive atmosphere where fans can watch the live commentary and follow the games closely. It’s a perfect spot for fans to gather, play chess together, and soak up the Olympiad atmosphere. Stay tuned for such interesting photos from the last days of the Olympiad.
