In Turkistan, Kazakhstan, a national chess championship for players under 18 unfolded from January 20 to 30, 2026, drawing nearly 1,000 young competitors from across the country. The event highlighted emerging talents, including a five-and-a-half-year-old girl who claimed victory in her age category. Astana's team dominated with 16 gold medals across classical, rapid, and blitz formats.
The championship took place at the Olympic Reserve Training Center in ancient Turkistan, transforming the city into Kazakhstan's chess hub for ten days. Participants represented all 17 regions and three cities of republican significance, competing in three disciplines: classical chess, rapid, and blitz.
The classical section began on January 20 with nine rounds under a 90-minute time control plus 30 seconds per move. Medals were awarded on January 27 across 14 age categories. A standout moment came in the U6 girls category, where Amina Saimasai, born June 29, 2020, secured the national title at just five and a half years old. She clinched the win one round before the end, demonstrating remarkable calculation and composure.
Rapid chess followed on January 28-29, featuring nine rounds with 15 minutes plus 10 seconds per move, separating boys and girls. Some classical leaders skipped this and blitz to prepare for adult tournaments, opening doors for newcomers. The fast-paced format led to shifting standings until the final rounds.
Blitz concluded the event on January 30 with nine rounds at three minutes plus two seconds per move. Here, quick instincts and resilience shone, with some players earning medals in all three formats—a sign of versatile talent.
Astana's delegation won the overall team Cup with 16 golds, underscoring its strong chess infrastructure. The tournament revealed Kazakhstan's youth chess scene growing younger and more competitive, with winners in U8, U10, and U12 categories poised for future success. This event not only preserved Turkistan's historic aura but also marked new chapters in the nation's chess legacy.
