Vaishali Rameshbabu: India's 84th Grandmaster Triumphs in Spain
Vaishali Rameshbabu clinches the title of India's 84th Grandmaster, making history in Spain's IV El Llobregat Open tournament on 1 December 2023. Explore her journey, achievements, and the significance of this remarkable feat.
Introduction:
India's chess prodigy, Vaishali Rameshbabu, etched her name in history by becoming India's 84th Grandmaster. Her remarkable vi
ctory at the IV El Llobregat Open tournament in Spain showcased her exceptional skills and strategic prowess on the chessboard.
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| Vaishali Rameshbabu becomes India's 84th Grandmaster |
The Triumph in Spain:
Vaishali secured her Grandmaster title by surpassing the 2500 Elo rating mark during the IV El Llobregat Open tournament. In a defining moment, she defeated FM Tamer Tarik Celebes of Turkey in the second round. This victory solidified her status as a Grandmaster and marked her as a rising star in the world of chess.
Joining Elite Ranks:
At 22 years old, Vaishali joins the elite ranks of Indian chess, becoming the third woman in the country to achieve the Grandmaster title. She follows in the footsteps of Koneru Humpy, who achieved the title in 2002 at the age of 15, and Harika Dronavalli, who earned it in 2011 at the age of 20.
Sibling Grandmasters:
Vaishali, along with her younger brother Praggnanandha, created history by becoming the first brother-sister pair to achieve the prestigious Grandmaster title. This achievement adds another layer to the chess legacy of the Rameshbabu family, as Praggnanandha had earned the title at the age of 12 in 2018.
Journey to Grandmaster Title:
Vaishali met the Grandmaster criteria in various tournaments, including the Extracon Open 2019, Fischer Memorial 2022, and Qatar Open 2023. Currently ranked 11th globally and 2nd in India in the women's rankings, she boasts a live rating of 2501.5.
FIDE and Chess Achievements:
The International Chess Federation (FIDE), recognized by the International Olympic Committee in 1999, played a crucial role in Vaishali's journey. Vishwanathan Anand, FIDE's vice president, hails from Tamil Nadu, the Indian state with the highest number of Grandmaster titles.
Pune International Marathon:
In other sporting news, Kemei Elias Kaprono of Kenya emerged victorious in the 37th Pune International Marathon. The theme, "Run for environmental protection," emphasized the significance of environmentally conscious sports events. Pune Municipal Corporation rewarded the winners with Rs 25 lakh, continuing a tradition that has been running since 1983.
Conclusion:
Vaishali Rameshbabu's ascent to becoming India's 84th Grandmaster is a testament to her dedication and skill in the world of chess. Her journey, coupled with her brother Praggnanandha's achievements, adds another chapter to the rich tapestry of Indian chess history.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Who is Vaishali Rameshbabu? A: Vaishali Rameshbabu is an Indian chess player who recently became India's 84th Grandmaster.
Q: How did Vaishali achieve the Grandmaster title? A: Vaishali achieved the Grandmaster title by winning the IV El Llobregat Open tournament in Spain on 1 December 2023.
Q: Is Vaishali the first woman Grandmaster from India? A: No, Vaishali is the third woman from India to achieve the Grandmaster title, following Koneru Humpy and Harika Dronavalli.
Q: Who is the youngest male chess Grandmaster? A: R Praggnanandha holds the title of the youngest male chess Grandmaster.
Q: What is the significance of the Pune International Marathon? A: The Pune International Marathon emphasizes environmental protection and has been held since 1983, attracting participants from various walks of life.
Q: What is FIDE, and what role does it play in chess? A: FIDE (International Chess Federation) is a global sports organization recognized by the International Olympic Committee. It plays a crucial role in organizing and governing international chess competitions.
Conclusion:
Vaishali Rameshbabu's journey to becoming India's 84th Grandmaster is a celebration of talent, dedication, and family legacy. Her achievements, along with her brother Praggnanandha, contribute to the vibrant chess narrative of India.
