Pakistan’s Largest Youth Chess Event Concludes Successfully at Karachi Grammar School Karachi, Pakistan
The 3rd National Youth Chess Championship was held on the weekend of 22nd and 223rd February 2025 with resounding success at the Karachi Grammar School (KGS) Saddar Campus, making history as the largest youth chess event ever held in Pakistan. With over 250 young chess players from across the country, the championship highlighted the rising popularity of chess and the Chess Federation of Pakistan’s (CFP) commitment to developing young talent.
Mr. Hanif Qureshi, President of the Chess Federation of Pakistan attended as Chief Guest who delivered an inspiring opening speech: “I have had a dream, but now it is no longer a dream—it is turning into reality right before my eyes. Seeing over 250 talented young chess players from across Pakistan compete at this grand stage fills me with immense pride and optimism for the future of chess in our country.”
He commended the exceptional efforts of the organizing committee and team, led by Mr. Saleem Akhtar (Senior Vice President, CFP), Mr. Amer Karim GS CFP, Mr. Aijaz Samma, NM Muhammad Shahzeb and his Karpov Chess Club team, Ms. Saba Salahuddin, and Mrs. Saira Leghari for successfully executing this historic event.
The championship witnessed overwhelming participation from parents, players, school representatives, and distinguished guests who came together to celebrate and support the young chess talent of Pakistan. Notable personalities present included:
Mr. Sultan Ali Allana, Chairman of the Board, Habib Bank Limited (HBL)
Mr. Shahzad Roy, renowned musician, philanthropist, and founder of Zindagi Trust
Mr. Carl P. Lander, Principal of Karachi Grammar School
Mr. Rudiger Lotz, German Consul General, Karachi
Mr. Tariq Pervez, President of Pakistan Scrabble Association
Affan Salman, Reigning World Youth Scrabble Champion
Ali Salman, World Youth Scrabble Champion 2022
Bilal Asher, Reigning World Youth Scrabble Champion
The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including:
Mr. Jamil Mughal, McDonald’s Pakistan
Mr. Asad Vohra and Mr. Irfan, GreenO
Ms. Safina Chapra, Brain & Learning Pakistan
Adding to the championship’s prestige, Mr. Shahzad Roy praised the young participants for their dedication, encouraging them to strive for excellence. President CFP Hanif Qureshi also acknowledged Mr. Shahzad Roy’s transformative efforts in public education and his advocacy for chess as a powerful mind sport in schools.
The championship provided a platform for young players to hone their skills, develop critical thinking, and embrace the spirit of sportsmanship. The Chess Federation of Pakistan reaffirmed its dedication to expanding grassroots chess initiatives, ensuring wider access to the cognitive and educational benefits of chess across the country.
With Pakistan’s youth chess scene flourishing, the future of the sport looks promising, with many of these players poised to compete on national and international stages in the years to come. Here’s a summary of the winners and runners-up in each category:
Congratulations to all participants and winners for their outstanding performances at this prestigious event!
Muhammad Waqar
Development Officer
Chess Federation of Pakistan