Upstep Academy Launches Grandmaster Accelerator Program to Elevate Competitive Chess Training
Upstep Academy Launches Grandmaster Accelerator Program to Elevate Chess Training
New Delhi, India – March 17, 2026 – In a groundbreaking move for competitive chess, Upstep Academy has unveiled the Grandmaster Accelerator Program (GAP), designed to help players break through performance plateaus and reach new heights in their chess journey.
For many aspiring chess players, the transition from mastering basic tactics to competing at higher levels can be daunting. After achieving a certain rating, progress often stalls, leaving players frustrated and unsure of how to advance. Recognizing this challenge, Upstep Academy aims to fill a significant gap in the chess training landscape by providing structured access to elite mentorship and strategic preparation systems.
A Personal Mission
The initiative is spearheaded by Abhijit Hatkar, a FIDE-rated player with over 2000 points, who has experienced the limitations of traditional chess training firsthand. “When I was a young player, I often wished there was a structured system that could guide me step by step toward higher level performance,” Hatkar shared. “GAP is something I have built for my younger self.”
The program focuses on teaching players not just the mechanics of the game, but also the mindset and strategies employed by Grandmasters during high-pressure tournaments.
Pilot Phase Success
Before launching GAP to a wider audience, Upstep Academy conducted a six-month pilot program with a select group of students. The results were promising, with participants reporting enhanced engagement and a deeper understanding of tournament preparation. One participant, Ram Gupta, noted, “I enjoy the sessions so much. I couldn’t believe that Grandmasters actually teach in such an interactive way.” Gupta’s progress was evident as he gained 136.4 FIDE rating points at the Athens of the East 5th International GM Open tournament.
Elite Mentorship and Structured Learning
A standout feature of GAP is its international panel of Grandmasters, including India’s first Grandmaster, Viswanathan Anand, and other notable chess professionals. Unlike traditional masterclasses, these experts engage in ongoing sessions, providing students with consistent exposure to advanced strategies and insights.
The program’s digital format allows students from around the globe to connect with mentors, breaking down geographical barriers. For instance, a student in Toronto can learn from GM Swayams Mishra in Odisha, while a player from Uttar Pradesh can receive guidance from GM Sahaj Grover in Budapest.
Addressing Psychological Factors
Beyond technical training, GAP also tackles psychological aspects that influence competitive performance. Led by Pankit Mota, a seasoned player with over 18 years of experience, the program incorporates sessions focused on mental resilience, decision-making under pressure, and aligning parents with their children’s development.
Mota emphasizes the importance of addressing these often-overlooked factors: “The psychological and performance gaps often determine whether a player reaches the podium or hits a plateau. GAP was designed to fill those missing pieces.”
Accessible Elite Training
In a bid to democratize access to high-quality chess training, Upstep Academy has positioned GAP at a lower cost compared to similar programs worldwide. This initiative aims to ensure that financial barriers do not hinder committed players from pursuing their chess ambitions.
As the Grandmaster Accelerator Program opens its doors to serious players beyond its initial student base, Upstep Academy is poised to reshape the chess training landscape, providing a structured pathway for aspiring competitors to achieve their goals.
For more information about the Grandmaster Accelerator Program, visit Upstep Academy’s website.
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