Ankit Rajpara, a point away from International Grandmaster title

The dream which Rajparas saw nine years ago is on the verge of becoming a reality. Ankit Rajpara is one point away from International Grandmaster title.

The Mehsana-based chess player earned a staggering 19 ELO rating points and his sixth international norm at the Aeroflot Chess Open 2012 in Moscow on Sunday.

Gujarat has produced one Grand Master in form of Tejas Bakre and one Women IM Dhyani Dave.

“After playing the first 64-square game nine years ago, my parents put their energy supporting me. Today, I stand one point away from that glory. It gives me a great feeling. Moreover, I was the only Indian boy in this tournament to score an International Master norm,” remarked an elated Ankit, who is being supported by the Adani Foundation.

Aeroflot Chess Open witnessed three Open Tournaments (A, B and C) based on rating of the participants. Ankit was placed in Group B, where GM Emre Can of Turkey finished on top.

“It was a very tough competition. For the first time in my career, I faced seven IMs and two GMs in 9-round competition and had my own share of nervousness. But I thank my coach (GM) RB Ramesh who has been preparing me for three months before the tournament. He has been a great help,” said Ankit, who finished 56th in strong 130-players pool.

Ankit got the hint ‘the battle’, which lied ahead, in the very first round.