In the high-stakes arena of the Central American and Caribbean Women’s Chess Championship 2023, Guyana’s Sasha Shariff emerged as a formidable competitor. Against a backdrop of seasoned opponents in Carolina, Puerto Rico, including Women FIDE Masters and International Masters, Shariff, a former National Women’s Chess Champion and one of the event’s underdogs, clinched victories against elite players from Honduras and Puerto Rico.
Though she finished fifteenth, Shariff’s performance skyrocketed her rating by 172 points beyond her current FIDE rank, signaling her potential as a chess force. Her skillful plays almost overcame International and Candidate Masters, showcasing her intellectual prowess in close matches.
Her standout performance unfolded in a swift 20-move victory over Puerto Rico’s Gabriela Vera Perez, where Shariff flawlessly navigated the Sicilian defense, forcing Perez to concede. In another notable match, she outplayed Yorelis Otero of Puerto Rico with strategic endgame prowess, resulting in a commanding win.
At just 20-years-old, Shariff is now recognized as a rising star in Caribbean chess. The Guyana Chess Federation celebrates her achievements and is committed to nurturing her talent with top-notch training, including coaching by WGM Martha Fierro, as they prepare for the next Chess Olympiad.
In a missive from the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF), Sasha Shariff indicated that she values the enriching experience and the tactical insights gained. Guyana Standard understands that she looks forward to elevating her game and inspiring more female participation in the sport.
