R Vaishali Sets Sights On Consistency And Candidates Qualification

Indian chess Grandmaster R Vaishali has set her sights on two key objectives this year -- to deliver a series of consistent performances and secure a coveted spot in the prestigious Candidates Tournament. The past year has already proven to be a remarkable chapter in the 23-year-old's career, with a series of career-defining milestones. These include becoming only the third woman from India to earn the esteemed Grandmaster title, playing a vital role in India's gold-medal-winning performance in the women's event at the Chess Olympiad, and clinching a bronze medal at the World Blitz Championship.

"My main goal is to show consistent performance and play some good games," Vaishali told PTI.

"Of course, by the end of the year, I aim to qualify for the Candidates Tournament. I had the opportunity to play in the Candidates last year, and I hope to qualify for it again." The Women's Candidates Tournament determines the challenger for the World Chess Championship.

Reflecting on her bronze at the Blitz World Championship, Vaishali said the result was especially important for her confidence, following a series of disappointing tournaments.

"It was an important result for my confidence especially, because I had a few bad tournaments in a row and it was nice to end finally with a good result last year.

Despite these highs, Vaishali also experienced some lows that cost her valuable rating points.

However, she views these challenges as valuable learning experiences.

"I would say it was a mixed year. I achieved some good results, but I also lost some rating points. It was a very interesting experience," she reflected.

"I had the chance to compete in strong round-robin tournaments and participate in prestigious events like the