Success for Team USA at 2024 FIDE Pan-American School Chess Championship in Paraguay

The 2024 FIDE Pan-American School Chess Championship held in Asunción, Paraguay, saw players from 19 federations across the Americas competing for top honors. Despite only three players from the United States making the trip, they made a significant impact by bringing home two gold medals.

WCM Irene Fei, a talented 11-year-old from Iowa, emerged victorious in the Under-13 Girls section, securing the top spot despite her young age. Her impressive performance not only earned her the gold medal but also the WFM title, making her the youngest WFM in the Americas.

Pennsylvania’s Tariq Yue and Florida’s Nathan Mintz represented the USA in the Under-13 Open section. Yue finished in a tie for fifth place, just missing out on a podium finish, while Mintz gained over 80 FIDE rating points with his strong performance.

Yue also competed in the Under-11 section for the rapid event and clinched a gold medal there as well. His strategic prowess was evident in a game where he dismantled his opponent’s King’s Indian Defense.

Overall, the American contingent showcased their talent and determination at the championship, bringing home two gold medals and making their mark on the international chess scene.