Achievements
‘A chance encounter with chess came disguised as a blessing’
This chess aficionado from Apeejay School, Rama Mandi, calls this sport his accidental calling
His favourite hour of the day unfolds over a black-and-white chequered board, eyes fixed on the queen, mind calculating every possibility. For Sahibjot Singh, chess is not merely a game but a pursuit of precision, patience, and purpose. A Class IX student at Apeejay School, Rama Mandi, he approaches each move with quiet determination, always strategising toward his prime objective. What began as a fleeting moment of curiosity soon transformed into an unwavering passion. In a candid conversation, he reflects on how a simple spark ignited an ambitious journey toward turning his love for chess into a meaningful career goal.
Share your recent achievement in chess.
I’m proud to share my recent chess achievement. In my last tournament, I secured 19th place and earned my first cash prize. As an unrated player, I performed strongly, defeating a 1493-rated opponent and drawing against a 1576-rated player, making it a truly memorable experience.
Who is your favourite chess player and why?
My favourite chess player is Gukesh Dommaraju. I admire his calm mindset, solid style, and precise, confident moves on the board. He inspires me greatly because he has achieved remarkable success at such a young age, proving that dedication, focus, and hard work can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.
What’s the most challenging part about this sport?
Chess is divided into three key phases: the opening, middlegame, and endgame. The opening requires strong preparation, the middlegame demands clear planning and accurate calculation, and the endgame depends on precise technique. Personally, I find the middlegame the most challenging, especially when my opponent launches a strong attack, and I must defend carefully under pressure.
How did your school support your journey in chess?
The school has always supported my chess journey by constantly motivating me to improve and aim higher. The teachers and staff encouraged me at every step and appreciated even my smallest achievements. Their recognition and positive support boosted my confidence and inspired me to keep working hard toward my goals.
Would you like to take up chess as a profession?
Yes, I would love to pursue chess professionally. The beautiful game played on 64 squares truly fascinates me, and I am deeply passionate about it. At present, I am among the top players in my category, which motivates me even more to work harder and build a successful chess career.
