Samarth J Rao shines again, clinches Silver at National Chess Championship for Specially-abled

Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh: Samarth J Rao, an MCom graduate and postal assistant at Honnavar Post Office, showcased exceptional skill and determination to secure second place at the 5th National Chess Championship for Specially-Abled Players. Held from June 24 to 28 and organized by Fire Chess School on behalf of the Chess Federation of Physically Disabled (CFPD) and the All India Chess Federation (AICF), the tournament featured 101 participants from over 13 states. Rao remained unbeaten across nine intense rounds, scoring seven points with five victories and four draws.

A two-time national gold medallist (2022 and 2024), Rao came close to achieving a historic hat-trick but settled for silver in a fiercely contested event. Despite narrowly missing the top spot, his stellar performance earned him a coveted place on the Indian team for the 24th IPCA World Chess Championship for the Differently-Abled, scheduled in Goa from July 21 to 31. Speaking about his son's achievement, Jagadish Rao expressed immense pride, saying Samarth's consistent excellence continues to inspire many across the country.