Sandton chess trio appeals for donations to reach provincial tournament
Three young sisters Anaamika, Arya, and Aditi Maharaj, from Sandton, have been selected to represent Gauteng at the prestigious Mzansi Inter-Provincial Chess Championship, but the cost of competing is a challenge.
From Sandton to the international chess stage, Anaamika (16), Arya (15), and Aditi (13) Maharaj have carved out a name for themselves in chess circles in South African and beyond.
The three sisters have not only placed in the top 20 at national and continental championships; they’ve competed internationally at the Tambo-Soncini Games in Italy.
Read more: Sandton chess stars seek support to attend Mzansi Inter-Provincial Chess Championship
Now, this talented trio has been chosen to represent Gauteng at the prestigious Mzansi Inter-Provincial Chess Championship in Gqeberha this December, a critical gateway to the elite South African Closed Chess Championship. However, while their passion and skills have opened doors, the financial burden of tournament fees, travel, and accommodation remains a significant hurdle for the family.
Speaking on behalf of the sisters, Anaamika said: “We’ve put in countless hours of practice, and being selected again for Gauteng feels like all the effort is paying off. It’s exciting and humbling to represent our province. We want to keep improving, aiming for international titles, and hopefully scholarships that chess might help us access.”
Their journey began with inspiration from their older brother, a provincial chess competitor himself, whose dedication motivated the sisters to pursue the game seriously.
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Looking ahead, Anaamika said: “I have big goals, not just winning, but improving my game, and, hopefully, earning a Fédération Internationale des Échecs (FIDE) title. I dream of playing in international tournaments and representing South Africa on an even bigger stage. I also hope that chess opens doors for tertiary education, maybe even overseas.”
Their father, Mahendra Maharaj, highlighted the challenges of supporting three competitive players under one roof. “It requires patience and compassion as they often play against each other. We have to encourage the one who lost, while congratulating the one who won.”
Maharaj said they are pleading for anyone who may be able to assist them reach the R60 000 goal to come forward, no matter how small the donation is. “We are currently sitting on R19 488. We are grateful to everyone that has already donated, and to those who are still to donate.”
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