Who: Mary Ann Gomes, an 18-year-old chess champion from Calcutta, who has been checkmating her opponents since the tender age of nine. She fought her way from being the champion at the Nationals (Under-9 Level) to be declared a Woman International Master by the World Chess Federation executive board. Recently presented with the title of World No. 3 (Under-18 Girls). “It’s a continuous creative process and requires a lot of dedication and hard work. There’s so much more to learn and achieve,” says Mary humbly.

Why: “My dad used to play, and consequently I grew interested in the game. I would pester him to teach me. Later, when he did teach me a few basic moves and rules of the game, he was sure I would forget within a few days. But to his surprise when I repeated everything perfectly, he decided to enrol me at Alekhine Chess Club. It all started then,” remembers Mary.

Her father had to quit his job due to a nerve ailment and decided to devote his time fully behind Mary’s chess career. Ever since, he has been her strongest pillar of support. Her experience has taught her how technical hurdles are sometimes more difficult to surmount than on-board problems.

“Since I have started playing chess, it has been an inseparable part of my life. And it really wouldn’t have been possible without the support that I got from my father. Usually he does most of my homework and we discuss it later. It definitely is an important part in the learning process,” she adds.

Where: Previously a student of Loreto, Sealdah, due to long hours of practice — six hours a day — and erratic tour schedules, she shifted to an open-school, Frank Correa Academy, where she got the support from the teachers and management. From arranging for re-tests and being flexible with her attendance, they have ensured her academic life has been hindrance-free. “Thanks to the flexibility allowed by my school, I can actually concentrate more on my game without worrying about school and exams too much,” she smiles.

And when it comes to sharpening her chess skills, she pays a visit to Dibyendu Barua Chess Academy every day to keep herself updated and in form.

Style: “I am a very attacking player, though the moves and style of play vary with the board position. There is no specific style that I am slave to. A player should be an all-rounder. And that is what I follow,” she explains.

Her influence comes from Hungarian chess champion and her mentor Judit Polgar, who is known for her attacking style, unflappable demeanour and aggressive play. The similarities go beyond the board. Their soft-spoken and modest demeanours belie their tigress-like temperaments on the board. “My online game against Kasparov has been by far the most exciting match. I am now eagerly waiting for an opportunity to play against Polgar. It would be a dream come true,” she says.

Next: Mary has already accomplished a lifetime of achievements. “The next big thing for me would be to become a Grand Master,” hopes Mary.