Thej is Karnataka's first GM

Thejkumar M S is a relieved man. Following a prolonged period of wait and frustration, the Mysuru-based chess player has finally realised his goal.

By posting victories over Sanjeeb Parab of Goa and Athalye Varad of Maharashtra at the Fomento All India FIDE Rating chess tournament in Goa on Wednesday, Thejkumar became the first player from Karnataka to become a Grandmaster.

The seasoned campaigner, who required 1.70 Elo points to reach the 2500 mark needed for the GM title before the tournament, scripted a special day in Karnataka chess with his performance.

Having achieved the three norms for the GM status in 2008, it took Thejkumar nine years to obtain the coveted title.

“I am feeling happy and relaxed at the same time. It comes as a huge relief to me after the tough phase of frustration I underwent ever since I got all the three norms. I was close to achieving this on many occasions in the past but I couldn’t make it. My game was not at the best and it was difficult to get over the phase,” Thejkumar told DH.

Fresh chapter

The 36-year-old termed this development as a fresh chapter in his career. “It is a new beginning for me. I am planning to take a break before I start my journey to become a Super Grandmaster,” he offered.

It was not a smooth sailing for Thejkumar ever since he began playing chess at the age of 11. Financial hardships did affect him during the early days and Thejkumar thanks his parents and wife for offering constant support.

“I come from a middle-class family. My father, Shiva Ramegowda, a retired KSRTC official, was my first coach. I couldn’t afford to participate in all tournaments and I had to pick and choose. It was only after I became International Master in 2008 that I was sponsored by Google. In 2013, I was supported by Sami Technologies and my air fare was funded by the Department of Youth Empowerment and Services. It has been a journey filled with ups and downs and I thank my mother Lakshmi and wife Jayashree for always encouraging me,” he expressed.

Employed with the South Western Railway, Thejkumar sees more talented chess players emerging from Karnataka.

“Karnataka is still at the improving stage. The United Karnataka Chess Association is an active body that is doing its best to promote the game and recognise upcoming talents,” he noted.

DH News Service