Mahri Geldiyeva, born as Ovezova, is a trailblazing figure in the world of chess, not only for her native Turkmenistan but also on the international stage
She made history by becoming the first, and so far only, female grandmaster from Turkmenistan, a title she earned in 1998. Her journey to this prestigious rank is marked by numerous achievements and a relentless dedication to the game.
Geldiyeva's chess career began at a young age, showing promise and skill that quickly set her apart. Her early international success came in 1993 when she won a bronze medal at the World Junior Chess Championship in Kozhikode, competing in the U20 category. This achievement was a significant milestone, highlighting her as a rising star in the chess world.
The following years saw her continue to build on this success, with one of her notable achievements being a bronze medal at the Asian Women's Chess Championship in Kuala Lumpur in 1998. This accomplishment solidified her reputation as one of the top female chess players in Asia.
In 1999, Geldiyeva continued her impressive run by tying for second place at the International Women's Chess Tournament in Sari. That same year, she won the Turkmenistan Women's Chess Championship, a testament to her dominance in the national chess scene.
Her success in both national and international competitions is a testament to her skill and strategic acumen, setting a high standard for future generations of chess players in Turkmenistan.
Geldiyeva has been a stalwart representative of Turkmenistan in major team tournaments. She has participated in the Chess Olympiads seven times, spanning from 1994 to 2002, and then again in 2006 and 2010. During these Olympiads, she not only represented her country but also brought honor by winning two individual gold medals in 1996 and 1998.
Her participation in the chess tournament of the Asian Games in 2010 further demonstrated her consistent presence and competitiveness on the international chess scene. Additionally, she competed in the team championships of the USSR twice, from 1986 to 1991, showcasing her long-standing commitment and passion for the game.
Now at 50, Geldiyeva's legacy extends beyond her own achievements. She has transitioned into coaching, sharing her wealth of knowledge and experience with a new generation of chess players. Currently, she is based in the UAE, where she works as a chess coach. Her role as a coach is vital, as she not only imparts technical skills but also inspires young players with her story of perseverance and success against the odds.
Geldiyeva's journey is particularly inspiring given the challenges she faced as a female chess player from a country with limited international recognition in the sport.
Her accomplishments have paved the way for future players, providing a role model for young chess enthusiasts, especially girls, in Turkmenistan and beyond. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact that determination, passion, and hard work can have, regardless of the field or the challenges faced.
As a grandmaster, mentor, and pioneer, Mahri Geldiyeva's contributions to chess are profound and enduring. She continues to inspire and shape the world of chess, proving that with talent and determination, boundaries can be transcended and new paths forged.
Our hero
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