Jennifer Yu Dominates Botez Chess Camp, Narrowly Avoids Last-Round Disaster

The 2024 Botez Chess Camp concluded with an exciting finish as two-time U.S. Women’s Champion Jennifer Yu narrowly avoided disaster in the final round to secure victory with a dominant 6/7 score. The tournament, which featured eight female chess players living together in a mansion in Malibu, California, offered a unique blend of competition and camaraderie.

Yu, a formidable force in the chess world, showcased her skills with a five-game winning streak after a shaky start. Her critical win over Dina Belenkaya in round five proved pivotal in securing her first-place finish. Despite facing a tough challenge from Julia Schulman in the final round, Yu managed to secure a draw and claim the top prize of $10,000.

Meanwhile, co-organizer Alexandra Botez put on a strong performance, winning her last four games to secure second place and a $5,000 prize. Anna Cramling and Dina Belenkaya shared third place, each earning $1,250.

The tournament was not without its off-the-board drama, but the players appreciated the event and the opportunity to compete and bond with fellow chess enthusiasts. Fans followed the action online, and the players expressed their gratitude for the experience.

Overall, the 2024 Botez Chess Camp was a success, showcasing the talent and competitive spirit of female chess players. The event provided a platform for players to showcase their skills and form lasting connections in the chess community. Congratulations to Jennifer Yu on her well-deserved victory, and kudos to all the participants for their impressive performances.