Pune, July 27, 2023: The first day of the Maharashtra State Under 11 Open and Girls FIDE Rating Chess Tournament 2023 witnessed intense competition as Arjun Prabhu from Mumbai Suburbs and Shourya Bagdia from Kolhapur emerged as joint leaders with 3 points each. The tournament, organized by Pune District Chess Circle, took place at Shree Ganesh Sabhagruha on Karve Road and saw a total of 240 players participating in the boys and girls under 11 categories.
In one of the exciting matches of the day, Advik Agrawal from Pune (1384) with 2 points, lost to Arjun Prabhu from Mumbai Suburbs (1196) while playing with black pieces. Meanwhile, Shourya Bagdia from Kolhapur (1183) with 3 points, displayed remarkable skills playing with white pieces to outwit Siddhant Salunke from Pune (1364) with 2 points.
The tournament was inaugurated by Dhyanchand Awardee Winner GM Abhijit Kunte, along with Mr. Niranjan Godbole, Secretary of Maharashtra Chess Association, and Mr. Bhushan Shriwas, Secretary of Chess Association Nagpur. The event witnessed the presence of Mr. Prakash Kunte, VP of PDCC, Chief Arbiter Dipti Shidore, Mr. Rajendra Shidore, and tournament director Vinita Kshotri.
In the 3rd round, some remarkable matches took place in both the Open and Girls categories. Notably, Shaunak Badole from Nagpur (3 points) secured victory against Anay Ghule from Mumbai Suburbs (2 points). Avirat Chauhan from Pune (3 points) won against Aarav Dhayagude from Pune (2 points). Abhay Bhosale from Kolhapur (3 points) emerged victorious against Advay Bende from Pune (2 points).
In the Girls category, Vedika Pal from Nagpur (3 points) defeated Divyanshi Khandelwal from Nagpur (2 points). Bhumika Waghle from Aurangabad (3 points) triumphed over Hiranmayee Kulkarni from Mumbai Suburbs (2 points). Swadha Datir from Yavatmal (3 points) secured a win against Devika Pinge from Mumbai City (2 points).
The tournament’s first day displayed immense talent and determination among the young participants, promising an exciting and competitive event ahead. As the matches continue, chess enthusiasts and supporters eagerly await to witness the emerging champions showcasing their skills and strategies on the chessboard.
