This is the key event of the International Chess Forum, which, in addition to the children's tournament, will include the International Scientific and Practical Conference "Chess in Schools: Best Practices and Technologies," the International Referee Seminar, and the International Seminar for Organizers of Chess Tournaments.
Premiering in 2022 on the Russian Chess Federation's calendar, the Intellect Academy Cup quickly garnered attention for its innovative format. With all matches broadcast online and expert commentary provided by international grandmasters, the tournament stands as a unique event in the world of chess.
This year, the Intellect Academy Cup blitz chess tournament made its debut on the Asian Chess Federation calendar, proudly earning the title of an international competition.
Hosted by the Intellect Academy, a school with a remarkable 100% chess participation rate among its students from a young age, the tournament runs from February 15th to 19th. Half of the students compete in tournaments, and 25% hold official chess ranks. This exceptional level of engagement is ensured by a strong coaching staff, including foreign specialists.
The Intellect Academy Cup tournament is attended by 26 teams representing Belarus, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Mongolia, Bulgaria, Kyrgyzstan, as well as the Russian regions of Khabarovsk and Altai Krai; the republics of Buryatia, Tyva, Khakassia, and Altai; and the Novosibirsk, Omsk, Sverdlovsk, and Kemerovo regions. Over 130 young chess players, aged 6 to 14, are competing.
The grand opening of the forum took place on February 15th at the Novokuznetsk Drama Theater. “Kuzbass has once again become the chess capital. For young players, this is a great opportunity to demonstrate their skills. I wish the forum participants success, vibrant victories, and positive emotions,” Sergey Alekseev, Deputy Chairman of the Kuzbass Government, remarked in his welcoming address to the competitors.
“We are grateful to SGMK for advancing education in Kuzbass. This is a powerful platform where teachers are trained to deliver high-quality chess tutoring to students across both urban and rural schools in our region,” Sofia Balakireva, Minister of Education of Kuzbass, said. “I am confident that chess will soon rank among the most beloved sports in Kuzbass, perhaps becoming even more popular than skiing and hockey.”
“And may the Intellect Academy Cup become the most coveted prize in the chess world for the winning teams,” Alexander Rybkin, Chairman of the Board of Directors of SGMK, said. He concluded by encouraging the participants to make friends, play, and grow stronger…