Chess event enters Guinness Book for most players at a venue

The event entered the 'Guinness Book of World Records' for most number of chess games played simultaneously at a single venue.

Over 20,000 players from across the city belonging to various age groups, played chess simultaneously at the GMDC ground here creating a world record which was previously held by Mexico City where over 13,000 players had participated in a similar event.

Adjudicator from the 'Guinness Book of World Records', Tarika Wara, who was present at the venue, said the feat now belongs to Gujarat.

Wara said it was an extraordinary day for her to see such overwhelming response to the event. She said that she was also amazed at the level of talent of the young players who participated in the 64-square game.

Anand described the event as one of the most important days of his life.

"I am incredibly proud to be part of such an event. I have never been involved in an event of this scale," Anand said while addressing the young chess aspirants.

The world champion said that he did not have words to describe his feeling as he felt very much overwhelmed with the response.

Anand said that he would like to take this collaboration with Gujarat government forward in order to popularise chess in other parts of the state.