Young Prodigy Bodhana Sivanandan Wins UK Women’s Blitz Title

Ten-year-old Bodhana Sivanandan, an Indian-origin British chess talent, has captured the UK Women’s Blitz Championship in Leamington Spa. She delivered a commanding performance to finish with 13.5 points out of 15, securing the women’s first prize and outplaying a field of experienced competitors.

Impressive Victory in a Competitive Field

Sivanandan’s win came against seasoned players, including former champion Elmira Mirzoeva. A decisive moment occurred when Mirzoeva made a critical pawn error in a winning rook endgame during their late-round encounter, clearing Bodhana’s path to an unchallenged title win. Her result placed her far ahead of many senior participants and highlighted her sharp tactical play.

A Rapidly Rising Chess Star

The young prodigy has already built an impressive record. Last month, she achieved a major milestone by defeating former World Champion Mariya Muzychuk at the European Club Cup in Greece. Earlier this year, she became the youngest female player to beat a grandmaster after overcoming Peter Wells at the British Chess Championships, earning a Women’s Grandmaster norm in the process.

From Lockdown Beginner to Record Breaker

Born in London in 2015 to parents from Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, Sivanandan began playing chess during the pandemic. She has since broken several age-related records and represented England at the 2024 Chess Olympiad in Hungary, becoming the youngest athlete to represent the country internationally in any sport.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Bodhana scored 13.5/15 to win the UK Women’s Blitz Championship.
• She became the youngest female to defeat a grandmaster after beating Peter Wells.
• Sivanandan represented England at the 2024 Chess Olympiad at the age of nine.
• She earned a WGM norm after her victory over former World Champion Mariya Muzychuk.

New Generation of English Chess Talent

Sivanandan’s achievements mark her as a central figure in a promising new wave of English chess players. Her success continues to inspire young competitors, especially girls, and strengthens the growing presence of youth talent in major international tournaments.