The Hindu : Sport : It’s AICF’s turn to honour Anand

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Tuesday, Oct 23, 2007
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Sport

It’s AICF’s turn to honour Anand

Sports Reporter

Al Nahyan, Dravid shower praise on the champion

— Photo: R. Ragu

YET ANOTHER HONOUR: Viswanathan Anand being presented a memento by Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President, Asian Chess Federation, in Chennai on Monday, as former Indian cricket captain Rahul Dravid and AICF president N. Srinivasan look on.

Chennai: World chess champion Viswanathan Anand was felicitated by the All India Chess Federation at a function here on Monday in the presence of Asian Chess Federation (ACF) president Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Test cricketer Rahul Dravid, All India Chess Federation (AICF) president N. Srinivasan and Secretary D.V. Sundar.

Anand was presented a silver trophy by Al Nahyan, after Sundar announced a cash award of Rs. 10 lakh to the champion from the AICF.

“These receptions mean as much as the World Championship,” said Anand at the function.

“I’d like to thank the AICF and the Tamil Nadu State Chess Association. It’s amazing to see all the kids here. I hope I can win a few more tournaments so I can come back for a few more,” he added, while also appreciating Mr. Srinivasan’s efforts in taking Asian chess from strength to strength.

Dravid was lavish in his praise for the 38-year-old genius. “I initially felt I would be out of place sharing the dais with a truly great world champion, but I decided I wanted to meet him since I had never met him before,” said the former Indian captain.

“Three things make Anand very special. Firstly, winning the World Championship twice is an amazing statistic. It reflects his consistency, determination and the hunger for success. Secondly, he has shown the way for the rest of the country. He did it on his own, and has set a benchmark. It is a lot easier when you have a set path, which makes his achievements phenomenal.

“Finally, the tangible effect he has had on his sport has been huge. When I see these young kids (players who welcomed Anand) I can see in their eyes what Anand means to them. He has been an inspiration to all of us. I’d also like to congratulate his family,” said Dravid.

“I have always admired Rahul’s personality and his game,” said Anand.

“Whenever I watch him, I find his attitude and personality quite similar to mine. For one, we’ve both been called consistent.” Being an avid reader, Dravid requested Anand to come out with a book on his life and career that would inspire millions in the country.

Inspiring

ACF president Al Nahyan paid tribute to Anand for the World Championship win, and for being the world’s best player. “You will inspire many to strive for excellence, and Asia thanks you for that. On behalf of the ACF, I congratulate you for your spectacular victory.

Mr. Srinivasan, in his speech, said that Anand’s win showcased India as an emerging chess power.

He also praised the champion’s consistency, determination and character. “He has catapulted India to the force it is now. His exploits will benefit other sports in the country too,” he said.

Mani Shankar Aiyar, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports sent a message to Anand, expressing his disappointment at not being present for the felicitation.

“I am really heartbroken not to be able to join the felicitation in your honour in Chennai this evening. I had every intention of being there, but the sudden development of a medical problem required me to be hospitalised in Chennai from October 17 to 20 and then in New Delhi from October 20 till this afternoon. I am under strict medical advice to not travel by air for at least the next two months.”

“I trust we can make up for my not being with you this evening by organising a felicitation in your honour at Mayiladuthurai (Aiyar’s Lok Sabha constituency). Meanwhile, I have to content myself with thanking and congratulating you in absentia. My inability to be present on the occasion does not diminish one whit our pride and gratitude for the excellence of your achievement,” he said in the message.

Anand was welcomed by a host of Indian chess players, including women’s world No. 2 Koneru Humpy.

Nithyashree Mahadevan rendered the prayer song. Mr. Sundar proposed a vote of thanks.

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