Profile of Irene Sukandar, Indonesian Chess Player Ranked 9th in the World Who Struggles Independently with Her Own Funds

Kapanlagi.com - Irene Kharisma Sukandar, a name now resonating in the international chess arena, has just made an extraordinary achievement by ranking in the top nine at the FIDE Rapid Chess Championship held in New York City. However, the journey to this remarkable achievement was not as easy as it seems. Without sponsorship support or government assistance, Irene has to self-fund her participation in various prestigious tournaments around the world.

As a female chess athlete daring to compete in a male-dominated arena, Irene proves that hard work and dedication can lead her to the elite ranks of the world. In the championship, she managed to collect a total of 7.5 points from 11 rounds, which also increased her rating by 21 points with an impressive performance reaching 2,494.

Behind her success, Irene faces various challenges, especially in terms of funding. "Praise GOD! Ranked 9th in the world! Rapid Chess World Championship, New York City - USA," expressed Irene enthusiastically on her personal Instagram account @irene_sukandar. Her inspiring story certainly serves as motivation for many to continue striving for their dreams, even when facing significant obstacles.

1. The Beginning of Irene Sukandar's Career Journey

Irene, who was born in Jakarta on April 7, 1992, has shown an extraordinary interest in the world of chess since childhood, triggered by the beautiful moment when she watched her father teach her brother, Kaisar Jenus Hakiki, to play this strategic game. Realizing his daughter's hidden talent, her father enrolled Irene in the Utut Adianto Chess School in Bekasi in 1999, where she practiced intensively every Monday to Friday for three to four hours.

Her dedication and perseverance paid off impressively; at the age of 11, Irene had already achieved remarkable accomplishments by winning two silver medals for Indonesia at the SEA Games in Vietnam in 2003. This achievement marked the beginning of her brilliant international chess career.

2. Becoming Indonesia's First Woman International Grandmaster

As time went by, Irene continued to shine in the world of chess, and her achievements could not be overlooked. In middle school, she successfully earned the title of Master from the World Chess Federation (FIDE), and at the age of 16, she soared to become one of the best chess players in the world by holding the title of Woman International Grandmaster (WGM) in December 2008.

Not stopping there, Irene also earned the title of International Master (IM), a rare achievement that added weight to her reputation on the international stage. As a mainstay of the Indonesian national team, she brought honor to the nation by contributing a silver medal at the Chess Olympiad.

With her intelligent game strategy and extraordinary ability to face tough opponents, Irene is now recognized as one of the best female chess players in the world, making her an inspiration for many.

3. Challenges and Struggles Without Sponsors

Although she has carved out many brilliant achievements, Irene's journey in the chess world is full of twists and challenges. Unlike athletes from other countries who are fully supported by federations and governments, Irene has to fight hard at her own expense to participate in various world championships.

This situation has made it difficult for her to face major tournaments, but her fighting spirit has never faded. With strong determination, Irene is committed to continue competing and bringing honor to Indonesia on the international chess stage. She hopes that in the future, attention and support for chess athletes will increase, allowing them to compete better.

4. Dedication to the World of Chess in Indonesia

Not only competing, but Irene also plays an active role in advancing the world of chess in Indonesia. With burning enthusiasm, she regularly holds training sessions, seminars, and coaching sessions for children and teenagers who want to delve into this strategy-filled game. Through her experience and knowledge, Irene is determined to create a generation of talented young chess players ready to elevate Indonesia's name on the world stage.

She believes that chess is more than just a game; it is a means to hone perseverance, mental resilience, and logical thinking skills. With high hopes, Irene wants to see more Indonesian children daring to challenge themselves and achieve brilliant accomplishments at the international level.

5. Questions and Answers About Irene Sukandar

1. What is Irene Sukandar's greatest achievement in the world of chess?

Irene Sukandar managed to rank in the top nine at the FIDE Rapid Chess Championship in New York City and became the first Woman International Grandmaster (WGM) from Indonesia.

2. Why does Irene Sukandar have to fund her own trips to international tournaments?

Irene does not receive sponsorship support or assistance from the government, so she has to use her personal funds to compete in various international events.

3. How did Irene Sukandar start playing chess?

Irene became interested in chess when she saw her father training her brother. She then began to train seriously at the Utut Adianto Chess School since 1999.

4. What makes Irene an inspiration for young Indonesian chess players?

Her dedication, hard work, and achievements in the world of chess without sponsorship support make her an inspiration for many young chess players in Indonesia.

(kpl/mni)