Class VI student wins district-level chess championship; shares tips for beginners

Lakshit Pusri, a student of class VI from Apeejay School, Model Town, Jalandhar, won a district-level chess championship in the under-12 boy’s category, held by Byjus recently. The talented chess player is now gearing up for the upcoming state-level competition slated for this month. Introduced to the game by his parents as early as in U-KG, Lakshit says chess is his “passion” now. In an interview, he shares deets on his latest tournament, how he improves his concentration level, and more.

Excerpts from an interview.

Tell us about your recent championship.

I cleared five rounds to become the champion and each of them was quite challenging. There were more than 50 students in the competition and all of them played very well. I am very happy to have won this competition and for getting the much-needed encouragement to compete at the national and international levels.

Before this, I also won the state championship in the under-11 boy’s category recently, organised by Punjab State Chess Association, and qualified for the nationals.

How long have you been playing chess?

It has been six years now. My parents got me to learn chess when I was in U-KG and have always been encouraging. Over the years, I have played many chess tournaments including national and international ones. Chess is my passion now.

Do you have to practise every day?

I practise three-four hours every day to improve my game. I am taking online classes in chess thrice a week.

Who are your favourite players?

Magnus Carlsen from Norway, the current world chess champion, and American chess grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura.

How is the school supporting you in your journey?

Apeejay School, Model Town, gives me ample opportunities to participate in various activities like badminton, tennis, chess, and so on. My teachers and principal support me a lot, whether it is taking leaves for tournaments or keeping me updated with classwork or homework. That is the best thing about my school.

Any basic tips for beginners in chess?

The first thing one should learn is to sit with the chessboard and stay focused each time. Chess is a game of the mind, so you need to concentrate. In tournaments, a game can last for up to five to six hours. If that is your goal, you also have to learn to be patient, which comes with practice.

How can one improve concentration?

I do yoga and exercises like cycling and running to build my concentration level. It can also be improved by playing badminton and basketball. On the other hand, practising chess helps me focus better on my studies.

Are there any tricks to keep in mind while playing chess?

Before making a move on the board, you have to think of all possible variations of it. You have to calculate the opponent’s moves before making yours. You have to be mindful of your opponent’s strengths and weaknesses.

Is there any special prep right before a game?

There are some opening variations in chess that we have to solve as a warm-up exercise before the main game.