By MARK REY MONTEJO
Teen sensation Nika Juris Nicolas has already accomplished one of her many goals as a chess player.
The 10-year-old Nicolas caught the attention of almost everyone in the sporting community two weeks back when she became the country’s first female National Master – thanks to her impressive showing in the National Youth and Schools Chess Championships Grand Finals held in Dapitan City.
In that event, Nicolas was the lone female player who competed in the Boys Under 11 Division and she did quite well, winning a silver in the Standard event, another silver in Blitz, and a bronze in Rapid.
When asked about her ultimate dream, Nicolas – without hesitation ˗ said she wanted to face current world champion Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen.
“Gusto ko po talaga makalaban si (Magnus) Carlsen,” said Nicolas.
Nicolas also mentioned in the virtual interview hosted by Judith Caringal of Radyo Pilipinas 2 that she wants to claim the GM title at the age of 14 and to win numerous international tournaments.
The young pride of Pasig also shared that she wants to adopt the playing style of her idols GM Eugene Torre and WGM Janella Frayna.
She is currently competing in the ASEAN Age Group Chess Championships in Bangkok, Thailand that started on June 17-27.
