Wednesday, July 24

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Chess Prodigy Gukesh D’s Remarkable Journey
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Chess Prodigy Gukesh D’s Remarkable Journey

Indian chess prodigy Gukesh D has made headlines by winning the FIDE Candidates 2024, securing a spot to challenge for the world champion title. At just 17, Gukesh has achieved remarkable milestones, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to the game. His journey from a promising young talent to a top contender in the global chess arena is truly extraordinary. Early Beginnings Gukesh Dommaraju, known as Gukesh D, was born on May 29, 2006, in Chennai, India. His introduction to chess came at a very young age, inspired by his father's interest in the game. Recognizing his early talent, Gukesh's parents enrolled him in professional training to nurture his skills. By the age of seven, he was already participating in national and international chess tournaments​​. Rapid ...
Meet Sreeja Akula – India’s No.1 Women’s Paddler
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Meet Sreeja Akula – India’s No.1 Women’s Paddler

Sreeja Akula achieved a significant milestone last month by becoming India's top-ranked women's paddler. She has surpassed Manika Batra in the latest world rankings, marking a new high in her career and underscoring her consistent performance on the international stage. Sreeja Akula - Achieving the Top Rank Sreeja Akula's rise to the 38th position in the world rankings is a testament to her dedication and hard work. Her performances in recent tournaments have been outstanding, earning her points and recognition that propelled her to the top spot in India​​. Reaction from the Paddling Community The paddling community has celebrated Sreeja’s achievement, recognizing it as a positive development for Indian table tennis. "Sreeja’s ascent to the top is a result of her relentles...
Neeraj Chopra Clinches Gold at Federation Cup 2024
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Neeraj Chopra Clinches Gold at Federation Cup 2024

Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra added another accolade to his impressive career by winning the gold medal at the Federation Cup 2024. This victory marks a triumphant homecoming for Chopra, who continues to inspire young athletes with his exceptional performances. Neeraj Chopra's Performance at the Federation Cup Neeraj Chopra's performance at the Federation Cup was nothing short of spectacular. He clinched the gold medal with a remarkable throw, outshining his competitors and setting a high standard for the event. Chopra's consistent excellence in javelin throw has made him a formidable force in athletics. Significance of the Win This victory is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it reinforces Chopra's dominance in the sport and his readiness for upcoming inter...
All Draws in Round 1: A Strategic Start to the FIDE Candidates 2024
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All Draws in Round 1: A Strategic Start to the FIDE Candidates 2024

The opening round of the FIDE Candidates 2024 Tournament in Toronto might appear uneventful at first glance with all boards ending in draws. However, a closer look reveals a day filled with strategic maneuvering, fierce competition, and missed opportunities. Compatriots Clash, Underdogs Impress at FIDE Candidates 2024 The pairings, designed to have players from the same country face off early, set the stage for intriguing battles. In the all-Indian encounter, Vidit Gujrathi and D. Gukesh engaged in a tense fight, showcasing strong defense on both sides. Similarly, the lowest-seeded player, Nijat Abasov, earned respect by holding two-time defending champion Ian Nepomniachtchi to a draw. Missed Wins and Sacrificial Draws While all games ended in draws, there were missed oppo...
Bindyarani Devi Bags Bronze at Weightlifting World Cup
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Bindyarani Devi Bags Bronze at Weightlifting World Cup

Indian weightlifter Bindyarani Devi secured a bronze medal in the non-Olympic women's 55kg category at the IWF World Cup. Despite competing in a non-Olympic weight class, Bindyarani displayed her strength by lifting a total of 196kg, earning her a place on the podium. She also secured a silver medal in the clean and jerk section with a lift of 113kg. However, compared to her silver medal performance at the 2022 Commonwealth Games (203kg), this total falls short. This disparity highlights areas where Bindyrani can refine her technique and increase her lifting capacity. Bindyarani Devi Has a Chance to Re-strategize Bindyarani Devi's performance sparks a conversation about strategic planning for weightlifters: Finding the Right Weight Class: Focusing on the Olympic weight cl...
Legendary Athlete, Shiny Wilson, Nominated to Asian Athletic Commission
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Legendary Athlete, Shiny Wilson, Nominated to Asian Athletic Commission

Former Indian track and field star Shiny Wilson has been nominated as a member of the Asian Athletic Commission for a four-year term (2024-2028). This appointment marks a return to leadership for the decorated athlete, who boasts a stellar record of achievements. Who is Shiny Wilson: Achievements Shiny Wilson's athletic career is a shining example of dedication and excellence. She dominated the middle-distance circuit in Asia throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Here's a closer look at her impressive achievements: 1. Multiple Asian Games Medalist:  Shiny secured a silver medal in the women's 400m at the 1986 Asian Games in Seoul, running neck-and-neck with legendary Indian athlete P.T. Usha. The same year, she played a pivotal role in India's gold-medal winning 4x400m relay tea...
Mirabai Chanu: A Powerful Return Sets Sights on Paris Gold
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Mirabai Chanu: A Powerful Return Sets Sights on Paris Gold

Mirabai Chanu, India's weightlifting star, has marked a triumphant return to competition after a six-month injury layoff. Though not at her peak, her performance at the IWF World Cup secured her qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics. Mirabai Chanu: A Resilient Comeback Despite battling a hip injury, Chanu showcased her strength and determination. With a successful lift total of 184kg, she expressed confidence and satisfaction with her performance. She acknowledges the rigorous rehabilitation process and the unwavering support that helped her get back on the platform. Paris on the Horizon: Chanu's primary goal – securing her Olympic berth – has been achieved. Now, her focus shifts towards leaving a lasting mark at the Paris Games. Currently ranked second in her weight c...
These 5 Indians are Aiming for Chess Glory at Candidates 2024
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These 5 Indians are Aiming for Chess Glory at Candidates 2024

The chess world descends upon Toronto this April for the prestigious FIDE Candidates 2024 Tournament, and India has a historic opportunity. This year, a record-breaking five Indians – Praggnanandhaa, Gukesh, Vidit Gujrathi, Humpy Koneru, and R. Vaishali – will compete for the right to challenge the reigning World Champion. A First for Indian Chess Previously, only the legendary Viswanathan Anand had represented India in the Candidates. This year's strong Indian contingent reflects the nation's growing chess prowess. Candidates 2024: The Format and The Contenders The double round-robin format with extended time controls favors experienced players. Let's meet the Indian hopefuls: Praggnanandhaa: Known for his calm demeanor and ability to bounce back from setbacks, this 1...
Arjun Erigaisi Ascended to Indian Chess Throne
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Arjun Erigaisi Ascended to Indian Chess Throne

The facade of Indian chess has witnessed a historic shift. Prodigy Arjun Erigaisi, at the young age of 20, has dethroned the legendary Viswanathan Anand as the highest-ranked Indian chess player, according to the latest FIDE ratings. This ascension marks not just a changing of the guard, but the dawn of a new era in Indian chess. The Rise of Arjun Erigaisi Erigaisi's journey to the top has been nothing short of phenomenal. A chess prodigy since his youth, he earned the coveted Grandmaster title at the tender age of 14 years, 11 months, and 13 days, becoming the 32nd youngest person ever to achieve this feat. Since then, he has displayed remarkable consistency, steadily climbing the ratings ladder. His recent surge in March 2024 finally propelled him past the iconic Anand. Eri...
Mirabai Chanu: Battling Back Stronger for a Parisian Dream
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Mirabai Chanu: Battling Back Stronger for a Parisian Dream

Mirabai Chanu, India's weightlifting queen, is poised for a triumphant return to the competitive circuit. After a six-month hiatus due to a hip tendonitis injury, she sets her sights on the IWF World Cup in Phuket, Thailand, a crucial stepping stone towards securing her berth at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Mirabai Chanu Gears Up for Paris Olympics Chanu's journey to Paris hasn't been without hurdles. The silver medalist from the Tokyo Olympics battled through the pain barrier to compete at the 2023 Asian Games. However, her attempt at a clean and jerk lift ended in a heart-wrenching fall, leading to the injury that forced her to take a break. Despite the setback, the Manipuri lifter's fighting spirit remains undimmed. Ranked second in the women's 49kg Olympic Qualification Ranki...