As part of FIDE’s Social Year of Chess, August is dedicated to Women in Chess – a month-long celebration of achievements, opportunities, and inspiration. At the heart of this initiative is the Women’s Chess Marathon, with events taking place across all continents.
During the third week of the Marathon, Nepal made its mark with one of the largest women’s and girls’ tournaments ever held in the country. Organised by the Himalayan Chess Academy, with Monalisha Khamboo, member of the FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess being an important force behind the event’s success, the tournament brought together 142 players, ranging in age from just 5 years old to 67 years old – a remarkable show of how chess unites generations.
A Celebration of Participation and Success
The tournament was a true festival of chess, giving space for both experienced competitors and rising stars. After an inspiring day of games, Precious Adhikari emerged as the Champion, followed by Nihana Shrestha in second place and Reshika Shrestha in third.
Prizes were awarded across multiple categories, from U-10 to veterans, highlighting the inclusivity of the event. Rukmani Jimi took the title in the S-50+ category, while young talents such as Anisma Tamang (U-10) and Sonalika Shah (U-16) demonstrated the bright future of Nepalese women’s chess. Awards for sportsmanship, rising players, and most improved competitors added a special touch, ensuring that every achievement was recognised.
The scale of participation, the range of categories, and the enthusiasm of players underscored the progress of women’s chess in Nepal and the commitment of local organisers to creating opportunities for all.
Distinguished Guests and Supporters
The tournament also received an extraordinary level of support from guests across sports, education, and culture – a testament to the growing recognition of women’s chess.
- Chief Guest at the Opening Ceremony: Palesha Goverdhan, Paris 2024 Paralympic Bronze Medalist
- Special Guest: Father Thomas Augustine, Principal of St. Xavier College
- Guest: Dipendra Lama, Film Director
At the prize-giving ceremony, honors were presented by:
- Member Secretary of the Nepal Sports Council
- Dipen Rai, Senior Vice President, Nepal Chess Federation
- Dinesh Maharjan, Chairman, Kathmandu Metropolitan City – 4
- Surendra Kumar Rai, President, Koshi Province Chess Association
- Gehendra Bahadur Chand, Vice Principal, St. Xavier College
Special prizes included unique experiences such as a stay at Kirtipur Hillside Resort for the champion and a two-night package from Hotel Ilam Height for the veteran winner, along with generous gift hampers from local partners.
A Milestone for Nepal
The Nepal Women’s Chess Tournament was not only a competition but also a strong statement about the value of inclusivity and community in chess. With its scale, diversity of players, and the impressive lineup of supporters, it has set a new benchmark for women’s chess in Nepal.
The event reflected the spirit of the Women’s Chess Marathon: creating safe spaces, building confidence, and inspiring girls and women to pursue their ambitions on and off the board.
✨ FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess warmly congratulates the Himalayan Chess Academy, Monalisha Khamboo, and all players, partners, and supporters for making this event a historic success. The #WomensChessMarathon continues across Asia, Australia, and Europe, spreading the message that women belong in chess – and their potential is limitless.
