On September 29, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev met with members of Uzbekistan's national chess and para-chess teams, their families, and coaches. The presidential press service reported that the meeting was held in a celebratory atmosphere.
The President congratulated the main men's national team on their victory at the 46th World Chess Olympiad in Samarkand and for earning the title of two-time Olympic champions. Uzbekistan participated in the competition with six teams — three men's and three women's. The main women's team finished in 13th place. Additionally, at the 3rd FIDE Para-Chess Olympiad, Uzbekistan's national team won a bronze medal for the first time.
The President announced that the champions — Javokhir Sindarov, Nodirbek Abdusattorov, Nodirbek Yakubboev, Mukhiddin Madaminov, and Shamsiddin Vokhidov — would be awarded Volkswagen Teramont Pro cars and cottages. Volkswagen Passat Pro cars and houses were also given to para-chess players Akhadkhon Kimsanboev, Marsel Shayusupov, Sirojiddin Zaynidinov, Sardorbek Mamarajabov, and Selbi Kakishova. "A car is necessary, but a house is also needed for future brides," the President joked.
The head coach of the main team, Rustam Kasimdzhanov, and the head coach of the Paralympic team, Samandar Shermukhamedov, were also awarded cars. In addition, each Olympic champion received $200,000, and their coaches received $50,000 each. Members of the para-chess team each received $50,000, and their coaches $12,500 each. Earlier, Gazeta reported that a separate decree awarded honorary titles, orders, and medals to the winners, prize-winners, and coaches.
"These results are not accidental. This is a school, this is a system, this is a new level of Uzbek chess," emphasized Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The head of state set the next goal: to turn Uzbekistan not only into an Olympic champion but also into a world chess center. He tasked officials with identifying talented children early in every region, district, and mahalla, assigning them strong mentors, and creating conditions for their regular participation in international competitions. A separate system will be created for the development of women's chess and para-chess.
Regional branches of the Tashkent International Chess Academy will open in Samarkand, Khorezm, and Fergana. The academy will train highly qualified coaches. The state will cover half of the tuition costs for players with a FIDE rating above 1500 studying in private clubs. Furthermore, international tournaments will be regularly held under the national brand Uzbekistan Grand Chess. The President proposed building a modern chess palace in "New Tashkent" with a 500-seat playing hall, a residential building, and sports grounds.
Source: www.gazeta.uz