Grapevine

Quickpen recounts Chess Olympiad experience

The post read, “The non-granting of visas to some of my teammates was enough discouragement. I felt it, but thanks to the Nigeria Chess, who did everything they could to ensure Nigeria was represented, but with a mixed team, which meant I’ll play in the open section with the men.

“This was an extra motivation just like my idol, Judith Polgar, who played with and against the men in most part of her career.

“At about 16, Polgar had already been playing against male players, and at 12, I’ve played in the open section and against male players in one of chess’ biggest competitions, the Olympiad.

“Despite missing the first three rounds, I went on to score 7 out of 8 games played in my first ever Chess Olympiad, playing against top and also unrated opponents.

“I want to do better than this, but at the same time I’m glad I was able to perform.