Welcome to our next featured player,
Rahul
Rahul is currently in Grade Seven and began chess when he was in Grade One.
When did you start playing Chess? Why?
I began taking lessons with Coach Zach in 1st grade. A couple of my family friends had kids who played chess, and my parents thought it would help with my concentration and focus.
How old were you when you first beat your parent?
When I was nine years old, I was at the level where I could consistently beat my parents.
What is your most memorable game?
I do not have one specific favorite game, but one that may be a good candidate for it would be a simul with GM Timur Gareyev. This was the first simul I ever had with him, and I was amazed at his blindfold capabilities and how calm he was. This simul was published in The Denver Post, and I had the wonderful privilege to talk with them.
What is your favorite piece? Why?
My favorite piece is the pawn as it is one of the most important pieces in the opening and middle game. It can also be your most dangerous weapon in the endgame.
Is your favorite part of the game opening, middle game, or endgame?
My favorite part of the game is the opening
What is your favorite chess opening?
My favorite opening is the Sicilian Defense
Are you more of an aggressive or defensive chess player? Explain.
I would not consider myself an aggressive or defensive player. I consider myself a positional player. I generally do not take too many risks, and I am working on not being too passive.
What is your favorite chess memory?
My favorite chess memory is that simul with GM Timur Gareyev.
What is your goal for your chess in the next year or two years?
My goal in the next one or two years is to be more aggressive in the game and to increase my rating.
What is your favorite chess book?
My favorite chess book is My System by Aron Nimzowitsch
How do you think chess most helps you in day to day life?
Chess helps me calculate and analyze different scenarios and become a better problem solver. Chess club helps me with teamwork and sportsmanship.
What do you enjoy besides chess?
I enjoy competing in Mathcounts, competing in Science Bowl, playing the piano, and playing the tuba.