Wednesday 13 / November / 2024
Muscat: At an age when most children are absorbed in video games and toys, eight-year-old Dahveed Sibi Kurisinkal is making the right moves in the game of chess, already achieving success in a world that requires a keen mind and a steady hand.
In just two years since he picked up his first chess piece, the Indian School Al Maabela (ISAM) student Dahveed has risen to impressive heights in the sport, claiming titles and earning recognition in the competitive school chess circuit.
“I remember feeling really excited when I won my first tournament. It made me want to practice even more,” Dahveed told Times of Oman, his enthusiasm unmistakable.
Dahveed has an impressive list of accomplishments that highlight his skill and dedication to the game of chess.
In 2023, he secured the Board Prize at the Oman CBSE Cluster Chess Under-11 Championship and played a pivotal role in leading his team to the runner-up position.
Beyond this success, he has also dominated in local Rapid Chess tournaments within the Under-9 category, clinching wins and showcasing his acumen.
“I enjoy the challenge of every game,” Dahveed said, “especially when I find a way to win that I didn’t think of before.”
The discovery of Dahveed’s talent began at just six years old, when Sajith Kumar, the ISAM physical education teacher, noticed his extraordinary ability.
Kumar’s encouragement and support were instrumental in guiding Dahveed onto a path of competitive chess.
Since then, Dahveed has taken his skills further, receiving individual training from various coaches through online sessions, allowing him to refine his strategies and deepen his understanding of the game.
Currently a third grade ISAM student, Dahveed balances his studies with his passion for chess, demonstrating maturity and commitment rare for someone his age.
His role model, Arjun Erigaisi, an inspiring young talent in Indian chess, influences his playing style.
Like his idol, Dahveed favours both the Rapid and Classical styles, adapting his approach to match the demands of each tournament.
Proud achievement in India
One of the highlights of Dahveed’s chess journey was his participation in the CBSE Nationals Chess Championship recently in the Indian city of Jalandhar, where he finished as individual runner-up among a top-class field in the Under-11 mixed category.
“I was proud to make it that far,” Dahveed said, “even though I was disappointed about the one game I lost. It made me realise I need to practice even harder.”
As Dahveed’s first coach, Kumar reflected on the talented player’s recent success with a sense of gratitude and pride.
He said: “Knowing that all the hours spent together in training, strategising, and refining skills have culminated in the victory is truly humbling. The success at the all-India level is a matter of pride, and it underscores the dedication we’ve poured into every practice session. But this isn’t just a win — it’s a moment that will be cherished forever.”
For Dahveed, chess is more than a pastime; it is a calling, and he has set his sights high. His ultimate goal is to earn the prestigious title of Grandmaster, a dream that reflects both his confidence and commitment to excelling in this challenging sport.
“One day, I want to compete with the best in the world,” Dahveed said with quiet determination. With the upcoming Under-9 National Championship in Pune, India, in December 2024, Dahveed is poised for yet another opportunity to test his skills against top players, with hopes of participating in future international and world championships as well.
Behind Dahveed’s journey stands a supportive family. The youngest of three siblings, Dahveed is the son of Sibi Babu, who works as General Manager of Al Hajiry Group, and Minu Sibi, employed at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital. His older brother, Aadam, in eighth grade, and his elder sister, Angel, in fourth grade, cheer him on, watching him pursue a path filled with strategic manoeuvres and big dreams. Both of Dahveed’s siblings are also into chess.
As Dahveed continues on his journey, it is clear that his love for chess, matched with his family’s support and his coaches’ guidance, has set him on a course for success. With a chessboard as his playground, Dahveed has already carved out a name for himself in the world of competitive chess, balancing the demands of this complex game with an ambition that’s propelling him toward his ultimate goal: to become a Grandmaster.
“I know becoming a Grandmaster will take a lot of hard work,” Dahveed said, “but I’m ready to give it my best.”
