Chennai, Oct 30 (UNI) Chess prodigy and recent crowned World Youth Chess
Under-18 champion, Velammal's R Praggnanandha today dedicated his title
to two-year-old Sujith Wilson, who tragically died after being trapped in an
unused borewell near Manapparai in Trichy district, for more than 80 hours.
The 14-year-old Grandmaster, who was felicitated by the school management,
also observed a two minute silence and lit candles along with other students
as a mark of respect to Sujith.
The students and school faculty offered their condolences to Sujith's family.
He said 'we have been praying for the last four days. But unfortunately the
boy died'.
He also said that such incidents should not happen again in future.
About his next target, Praggnanandha said he would be participating in the
London Classic Chess tournament early next month.
'It will be a very strong field. I am working with my coach and preparing well
for the championship', he said.
Asked as to how he fancy his chances in the London Classic Chess, he said
he hoped to do well.
He also said the World Youth Chess title has given him a lot of confidence and
would like to carry forward that confidence.
After the London Classic, Praggnanandha said he would participate in an Open
chess tournament in Spain.
At the felicitation function, a giant Human Chess Board with the face masks of
Praggnaanandhaa and Sujith Wilson was also on display.
A cake cutting ceremony was organized for the chess wizard.
The interactive session on ‘Praggnanandhaa’s journey to success inspired the
students as it shed light on the little master’s epic journey to success.
A “Dare to Win Challenge” was also organized wherein the best players played
with the World Youth Chess Champion.

Making his debut in the World Youth Chess under-18 section, Praggnanandhaa
drew the final round against Valentin Buckels, once nearest contender to bag the
gold--his third world title, adding to the Under-8 title in 2013 and the Under-10 in
2015.
“I chose to play in the under-18 category, because I was looked for stiffer
competition. Being the second seed and winning the title feels good,” said
the soft-spoken champion.
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