The Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) will host a state-level chess event under its SAAP League at the Sri Srinivasa Sports Complex in Tirupati on February 21. The competition features 360 qualified young players across four age categories, following district-level trials. The league aims to support athletes aged 12 to 20 in 31 sports disciplines across 26 districts.
The Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) is set to initiate its flagship SAAP League with a state-level chess event on February 21 at the Sri Srinivasa Sports Complex in Tirupati. This event marks the chess segment of the broader league, which targets athletes between the ages of 12 and 20 and covers 31 sports disciplines throughout all 26 districts of the state.
District-level trials for chess drew 2,445 participants across Andhra Pradesh on February 17, from which 360 players qualified for the main competition. These qualifiers, winners of their respective district events, will vie in four age categories: Under-19, Under-17, Under-15, and Under-13.
Two-time Women’s World Rapid Chess Champion Koneru Humpy offered her best wishes to the participants, stating that "competitive platforms provide young players with the experience and confidence needed to excel at higher levels."
SAAP Vice-Chairperson and Managing Director S. Bharani emphasized the league's purpose, noting that "the SAAP League is committed to providing sustained opportunities for young athletes to grow, compete and perform." The initiative seeks to foster development among emerging talents in the state.