The capital hosted the traditional «KazChess Awards» for the second consecutive year, recognizing the best athletes, coaches, judges, and contributors to the development of chess sports in Kazakhstan. This year, the number of nominations expanded to 12 categories, up from nine last year.

The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Yermek Marzhikpaev, the President of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation, Timur Turlow, as well as renowned athletes, distinguished coaches, and others.

During the awarding ceremony, the Minister of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Yermek Marzhikpaev, delivered a congratulatory speech. He noted that chess has been dynamically developing in our country in recent years. There are 7,000 sections across the republic, engaging more than 200,000 individuals.

 «I would like to first and foremost highlight the importance of this event. It is organized to recognize the achievements of athletes in the development of chess in the country, and it contributes to the further popularization of this sport in the republic and internationally, improving the professional skills and competitiveness of athletes. The Head of State pays special attention to the support and development of chess in the country. Thanks to this initiative, a Comprehensive Chess Development Plan in the Republic for 2023-2027 has been approved» said Yermek Marzhikpaev.

The winners were selected through voting by the members of the Presidium of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation. The selection of winners took into account individual performances of athletes at international and national competitions.

Winners in various categories included:

- Best male athlete: Aldiyar Ansat

- Best female athlete: Ksenia Balabaeva

- Hope of the Year: Danis Kuandykuly

- Coach of the Year: Pavel Kotsur, Alexander Moiseenko

- «Өрлеу - 2024»: Zarina Nurgaliyeva

- Best referee: Kausar Bauyrzhan

- Best veteran among men: Aitkazy Baimurzin

- Best veteran among women: Irina Bulanova

- Best game of the year: Alisher Suleimenov

- Best chess commentator: Alexander Lyakhov

- Media Partner of the Year: Kursiv

- Best team: National Women's Team of the Republic of Kazakhstan

- Best TV channel: Qazsport

Additionally, by the decision of Timur Turlow, a presidential grant of 40 million tenge was established, awarded to Bibisara Asaubayeva.

It's noteworthy that the «Chess in Schools» project aimed at developing this sport has been implemented, with chess lessons being conducted in 983 schools, 110 of which include it as a mandatory subject. In 2023, the «Chess Caravan» national project aimed at popularizing chess among enthusiasts covered more than 2,000 participants.

Source: Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan