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Nine-Year-Old Chess Prodigy Shines at UK Open Blitz

12/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Nine-year-old Tara, a chess prodigy from Leicester, finished as the top-performing girl in the 2025 UK Open Blitz Championship qualifier and reached the women's final.
She began playing at age four and now aims to be the best in her age group and to become a psychiatrist.
Her mother, Shalini Sathiyaseelan, noted Tara's growth and coaching support.
Andrew Earnshaw, head of Fairfield Prep School, praised Tara's talent and composure.

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Story summary

Nine-year-old Tara, a chess prodigy from Leicester, finished as the top-performing girl in the 2025 UK Open Blitz Championship qualifier and reached the women's final.
She began playing at age four and now aims to be the best in her age group and to become a psychiatrist.
Her mother, Shalini Sathiyaseelan, noted Tara's growth and coaching support.
Andrew Earnshaw, head of Fairfield Prep School, praised Tara's talent and composure.