Rising Star in Chess: Jacorey Bynum’s Journey to Success
Rising Star in Chess: Jacorey Bynum Captures Hearts and Minds
Lauderhill, Florida — At just 18 years old, Jacorey Bynum is making waves in the chess community, recently gaining attention not just for his skill but also for his captivating personality. The national master from Lauderhill has been a prominent figure in Florida’s chess scene for years, but his recent triumphs have propelled him into the national spotlight.
In 2019, the city of Sunrise honored Bynum by declaring September 28 as “Jacorey Bynum Day,” recognizing his remarkable achievements and commitment to community service. Fast forward to 2024, and Bynum made headlines again when he broke the 2200 national rating barrier, a significant milestone for any chess player.
Last year, he showcased his talent at SuperNationals VIII, finishing eighth in the K-12 Championship section, just half a point shy of the co-champions. His dedication to the game was further acknowledged when he received an $8,000 Maurice Ashley Fellowship in July, a testament to his ongoing excellence in chess.
However, it was a moment on January 27 that truly catapulted Bynum into the limelight. During Chess.com’s Titled Tuesday tournament, he achieved the unthinkable: checkmating the legendary Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen. The game featured a stunning queen sacrifice that not only earned a smile from Carlsen but also went viral, garnering attention from outlets like The Times of India and even Worldstar Hip Hop.
In an exclusive interview with Chess Life Online, Bynum reflected on his journey. “I first learned about chess from a Mortal Kombat game when I was four,” he shared. “But I really started playing at nine, and I was winning a lot, which made me want to compete in tournaments.”
Bynum became a national master at 16, a title that came with its own set of challenges. “The hardest part was overthinking how to achieve that milestone,” he explained. His advice to aspiring players? “Just play your best chess, no matter who you’re up against.”
His mentors have played a crucial role in his development. “Mo Hylton got me into chess tournaments, and FM Ramon Lorente was my first coach,” he said, recalling the early days of his chess journey.
Reflecting on his recent match against Carlsen, Bynum admitted to feeling nervous. “When he missed my trap, I thought I was missing something. I had to look at it over and over again,” he recalled. The response from the chess community has been overwhelming, with friends and fans reaching out to congratulate him almost immediately after the game.
As he prepares for the next chapter, Bynum is already in talks with colleges, hoping to find a school with a strong chess program. He plans to study psychology or forensic studies, but his ultimate goal remains clear: “My goal is to reach GM,” he stated confidently.
With his talent, determination, and a growing fanbase, Jacorey Bynum is not just a name to watch in chess; he’s a rising star destined for greatness.