Gunina wins Russian Championship U-20!

Valentina Gunina today became the new Russian champion among girls under 20. The championship took place in Dagomys, Russia from April 29 to May 9, 2009. Valentina took clear first place with 7,5 out of 10, thanks to her win in the last round against Elena Tairova, who was leading before that with 7 points.

I played with Valentina for the Russian National team in the First World Mind Sports Games in Bejing in October 2008.

I congratulate Valentina on this success and wish her all the best in the coming World Championship Girls U-20 which should take place in Argentina at the end of this year. I was also very happy to see the come-back of Elena Tairova who didn't play competive chess for a few months due to health problems. Despite her loss to Valentina in the last round Elena took second place.


Posted by Alexandra Kosteniuk
Women's World Chess Champion
www.chessblog.com

Photo source: Chesspics