Evi Yuli Ana, an English student at Universitas Dian Nuswantoro (Udinus), claimed that playing chess was similar to solving a puzzle. For this reason, Evi took an interest in this particular sports branch. Playing chess helps her stimulate her brain and hone her problem-solving skills, which could be useful in everyday life.
Evi has accumulated many accomplishments, including a gold medal at the 2023 Student National Sports Week in South Kalimantan in the Women’s Single Blitz Chess Category and a gold medal at the ASEAN University Games in the Women’s Group Classic Category. Recently, at the 2024 Chess Olympics in Budapest, Hungary, Evi successfully earned a prestigious title, namely, ‘Women FIDE Master’ (WFM), with a total of 8.5 points out of 11 matches.
Evi, born in 2002, stated that her preparation for the Chess Olympics was even more intense and harder than usual. “In addition to independent practice, I also participated in TC (Training Center), which is based in SCUA (Utut Adianto Chess Academy), Bekasi for one and a half months before I departed for the Chess Olympics,” she continued.
Furthermore, Evi revealed that it took extra patience and attention span for a chess player to be competent. Not only that, it is also necessary for the player to possess problem-solving skills, as every step affects the results of the match.
“In chess, we must also plan strategies to defeat the opposing player. Without a strategy, one will be adrift in the middle of the match, with nothing to be destined to,” she uttered.
Evi’s Motivation to Keep Playing Chess
Her interest in chess has emerged since her childhood, even before Evi received any form of formal education. Her first exposure to chess was through her late father.
“Seeing my father, I began to take an interest in chess. My motivation to be a chess player is to use this sports branch as a gateway to limitless accomplishments I can earn,” she explained.
Despite her busy schedule, Evi, a student from Sukorejo, does not abandon her studies. Currently, Evi is trying to learn how to manage her time even better.
“I manage my time by creating a schedule. I have planned and tried my best to fulfill the schedule I created. In the schedule, I have also planned when I will study, practice, and other things like sports and entertainment,” she explained.
For the time being, Evi hoped to keep up and improve her accomplishments, as well as her skills to properly represent the Women’s Fine Master she earned recently.
“Don’t be afraid to try and start a new thing. Don’t also be afraid to struggle in your youthful years, as this is the time for you to keep fighting for a better future. Pursuing accomplishments through your talents will not hinder your academic performance. It will only further support your academic performance in the future. Get up and earn achievements!” she concluded. (Humas Udinus/Ika. Foto: Humas Udinus)
