Celebrating Friendship and Competition: Senior Women Shine at the Saint Louis Chess Club
Seize the Day: Senior Women Shine at the Saint Louis Chess Club
St. Louis, MO — The inaugural U.S. Senior Women’s Championship at the Saint Louis Chess Club (SLCC) has proven to be more than just a battleground for chess enthusiasts; it’s a vibrant celebration of camaraderie, resilience, and shared passion among seasoned players. As the tournament unfolds over ten days, participants are not only competing fiercely but also forging lasting friendships, making the most of their time in the chess capital of the United States.
Glamour and Friendship
On July 13, the atmosphere was electric as players enjoyed a day of glamour, complete with hairstyling and makeup before interviews in the SLCC studio. Following their transformations, four players, along with US Chess Women’s Committee co-chairs Maureen Grimaud and Kimberly Doo, indulged in a delightful lunch at Drunken Fish, a nearby sushi restaurant. This blend of competition and social interaction has set a unique tone for the championship.
Support Beyond the Board
The spirit of camaraderie was palpable as players reached out to one another beyond the chessboard. WFM Olga Sagalchik and WFM Chouchanik Airapetian, both of whom bested WIM Alexey Root in earlier rounds, took the time to check in on her well-being post-match—a gesture that speaks volumes about the supportive environment fostered among competitors.
“I’ve never had opponents text me to ask if I’m okay after a loss,” Root shared, reflecting on the warmth and friendship that permeates the tournament. “It’s a reminder that we’re all in this together.”
Extra Rest Days and Unplanned Adventures
With the withdrawal of WCM Diana Lanni, some players found themselves with unexpected rest days, leading to spontaneous adventures. WGM Anjelina Belakovskia opted for a swim instead of watching the games, while Sagalchik turned a thunderstorm detour into a chance encounter with GM Fabiano Caruana at Whole Foods.
“I didn’t plan to meet him,” Sagalchik said, recounting the serendipitous moment. “But it was a nice surprise!”
Relaxation and Reflection
While some players chose to immerse themselves in the games, others, like Root, found solace in watching the tournament broadcasts from the comfort of their hotel rooms. “For me, writing about chess is more relaxing than playing chess,” she noted, as she balanced her time between swimming, laundry, and penning her experiences.
As the tournament progresses, the players are not just competing for titles but are also creating cherished memories that will last long after the final match. The closing ceremony on July 24, coinciding with Root’s 61st birthday, promises to be a fitting celebration of both achievement and friendship.
Round 5 Recap: A Competitive Landscape
As the tournament heads into its next phase, the standings have stabilized. WGM Anjelina Belakovskia and WFM Natalya Tsodikova are tied for first place in the Senior Women’s Championship, with WFM Olga Sagalchik closely trailing. The competition remains fierce, with decisive games highlighting the skill and determination of these remarkable women.
With the next round set to resume on July 20, the excitement continues to build. As players seize the day, they remind us all that in chess, as in life, it’s not just about the moves we make but the connections we forge along the way.