MARGAO
International Master Ethan Vaz of Goa delivered an outstanding performance to secure the silver medal at the 35th National Under-17 Open Chess Championship 2025–26, held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, from March 30 to April 7.
The 14-year-old remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, scoring an impressive 9 points from 11 rounds with seven wins and four draws. His remarkable consistency and composure earned him a podium finish and qualification to represent India at the World Youth and Asian Youth Chess Championships in 2026 in the Under-18 category.
Ethan’s achievement adds to an already stellar run this season. In December, he had clinched the gold medal at the National Junior (Under-19) Open Chess Championship, which also secured him a place in the World Junior and Asian Junior Chess Championships in 2026.
With these accomplishments, Ethan—currently the youngest International Master in India—has earned the rare distinction of representing the country in both the Youth (Under-18) and Junior (Under-20) categories at major international events, including the World, Commonwealth, and Asian Chess Championships in 2026.
