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Velammal MHS School Wins Gold at 2025 World Schools Team Championship
The 2025 World Schools Team Championship came to an exciting end in Alexandria, Virginia. The event was held at the scenic campus of Episcopal High School. Young chess stars from all over the world gathered to compete.
Velammal MHS School from India dominated the tournament. They won all eight matches and finished with a perfect score. This gold medal adds another big win for India in the chess world.
Velammal MHS School has a proud history of producing champions. Past students include Grandmasters R. Praggnanandhaa and Leon Mendonca. The team had already secured the top spot before the final round even began.
The fight for second place was much tougher. Seven teams were in contention before the last round. Kazakhstan’s National School of Physics and Mathematics won the silver medal. They tied on points with The Harker School from the USA but won on tiebreaks. The Harker School took bronze, just ahead of Astana 2 RSPM from Kazakhstan.
Outstanding Individual Performances
Board medals were also awarded to top players. Three players achieved perfect scores of 8 out of 8:
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Imangali Akhilbay (Kazakhstan – Board 2)
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Edisa Berdibaeva (Kyrgyzstan – Board 3)
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Pranav K. P. (India – Velammal MHS, Board 5 Reserve)
More Than Just Chess
After the games, players enjoyed trips to Washington, D.C. They visited the National Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum. These outings gave them a chance to relax and create lasting memories.
A Colorful Closing Ceremony
The closing ceremony was full of energy and joy. There was music, cheering, and a warm welcome from the hosts. FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich congratulated all the players for their hard work and sportsmanship. He spoke about the importance of friendship, creativity, and progress in chess.
A highlight video of the week brought big smiles as players saw themselves on screen. Officials and arbiters were thanked for their dedication. Board medals were handed out one by one.
Finally, the big moment arrived. Velammal MHS School stood proudly on the top podium. Confetti filled the air, and the Indian national anthem played. Flags were raised, and the championship was officially declared closed.
The 2025 World Schools Team Championship will be remembered for both its high-level chess and its message of unity and friendship.
Photos: Michal Walusza, FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
