CHATTANOOGA, TN – East Brainerd Elementary rising fourth grader Sanjeev Vikram, age 9, has made national headlines after an outstanding performance at the 2025 Super Nationals Chess Tournament, one of the largest and most prestigious scholastic chess events in the United States.
Sanjeev earned a 3rd place rating position in the K-3 U1000 category, finishing with a remarkable score of 5.5 out of 7. His record included five wins, one draw, and one loss across three days of competition in Orlando, Florida. Sanjeev was the only student from Tennessee to place in his division, bringing home a medal presented by Grandmaster Awonder Liang.
Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly personally honored Sanjeev with a Chattanooga Badge for Excellence, commending his hard work and dedication. “Sanjeev’s success is a powerful reminder of the incredible potential within our community’s youth,” Mayor Kelly said in an Instagram post after meeting Sanjeev. “Chattanooga is proud of you!”
Sanjeev began playing chess in 2021, taught by his father, who is also a chess coach and founder of KnightLogic, a chess academy in Chattanooga. KnightLogic helps train chess enthusiasts across Hamilton County, including students from CSAS, CSLA, East Brainerd Elementary, and more. Along with his lessons, Sanjeev practices daily through both online and in-person games, often competing against older players and adults.
His disciplined training and love for the game have helped him earn numerous regional titles. Through focused practice, deep breathing to manage stress, and the support of his family, Sanjeev continues to grow as a chess player.
"My favorite part of this tournament was winning my last game and earning the medal. It was my last opportunity to win, so I was really focused. When I won, my dad was near me, and I hugged him and said, 'I won! I won! I won it for you!'"
Although East Brainerd Elementary does not currently have a chess club, Sanjeev hopes to help change that in the future and encourages other kids to explore the game. “It’s fun because it’s logical and interesting,” he said. “I’d tell other kids to ask their parents to sign them up for chess class and just to practice.”
Sanjeev is now preparing for his next tournament in Atlanta in the Under 1200 category and has set his sights on placing first at the next national championship.
Hamilton County Schools celebrates Sanjeev’s impressive achievement and wishes him continued success in his chess journey and beyond. His growth as a player, supported by his family, local chess community, local leadership, and school reflects our commitment to ensuring every community plays an active role in preparing students to be life-ready.
