This past Tuesday, July 29th, the Woodbury Chess Club in Woodbury, New Jersey hosted a simul exhibition given by GM Abhimanyu Mishra.
Abhi is a 16-year-old American Grandmaster. He holds the record for the world’s youngest ever Grandmaster, having qualified for the title at just 12 years, 4 months, and 25 days.
The simul began at 7:00 p.m. with 16 players ranging in age from 10 to 80 years, with skill levels from intermediate to expert. They were all anxiously anticipating a win against Abhi.
It was not to be! During the first hour or so, everyone was holding their own—then a player resigned, then another, then another. After the second hour of play, there was one player left: Geoffrey Herman, the club’s top player.
It was give-and-take for a bit, but finally Geoffrey threw in the towel and resigned, giving Abhi a clean sweep win over all 16 players!
However, winning or losing wasn’t really the name of the game. The fact that you played GM Abhi at such a young age gives you bragging rights—especially if he goes on to become World Champion one day!
A good time, win or lose, was had by all. Abhi will be giving four additional simuls in New Jersey over the next several months.
Better luck next time, guys!!