The Hindu : Sport / Chess : Tejdeep — desperately seeking sponsors

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Friday, Jun 10, 2005

Sport

Sport - Chess

Tejdeep — desperately seeking sponsors

V.V. Subrahmanyam

HYDERABAD: Tejdeep Adabala, a silver medallist in team and individual events of the 2004 Asian under-14 chess championship, had the misfortune of missing the recent Asian under-16 championship in Uzbekistan due to lack of funds. His problem was compounded since the new policy of the Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) does not mention that State sportspersons participating in the Asian Youth Championships in different disciplines can get cash incentives.

The 15-year-old Tejdeep, son of a Police official A. Balakrishna, had applied in vain to SAAP for financial help of Rs.56,000. The youngster, coached by IM P.D.S. Girinath, is now wondering what lies ahead.

"It was a big setback. I thought it was a wonderful opportunity to take part in the Asian under-16 meet," he said. Hyderabad's I. Ramyakrishna won a silver medal in the girls' category in Uzbekistan.

Five years ago, Tejdeep won the classical and rapid titles in the State under-11 championship and has been a steady performer ever since.

"Provided the right kind of support, Tejdeep is bound to go to places," Girinath said.

Tejdeep, who has enrolled for Intermediate in Narayana College, was initiated into chess by his uncle Ganesh and learnt the nuances from his first coach J.N. Padma Rao. He is now badly in need of sponsorship.

"He can't even afford a laptop and needs at least Rs.2 lakh per annum to sustain his development," his father said.

With an ELO rating of 2086, Tejdeep's first target is the International Master title. His sister, Prema, a former University player, also had to quit the sport for lack of financial support.

With the Commonwealth championship coming up in August, Tejdeep is hoping for some financial assistance. With Girinath guiding his moves on the board, this young boy is hoping to script another wonderful chapter for Andhra Pradesh in chess.

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