Out of Your Comfort Zone: Why You Should Play International Chess

I have some exciting news to share! The USCF (United States Chess Federation) just published an article about my experience competing in the Continental Women's Chess Championship earlier this year.

It was an incredible honor to play in the event back in late March, and I am thrilled to share the story with the broader chess community. I was also incredibly fortunate to collaborate on this piece with Megan Chen—an amazing player who has achieved the incredible feat of playing in a chess tournament in all 50 states!

You can read the full article here: Read the USCF Article Here

Why You Should Take Your Game International

Writing this article made me reflect on just how much we grow when we step away from our local chess clubs. If you’ve ever hesitated to play abroad, I highly encourage you to take the leap and get out of your comfort zone!

Here is why international tournaments are worth every bit of travel:

• Face New Competition: There is nothing quite like playing opponents from different countries in-person. You get exposed to diverse playing styles, opening preferences, and unique strategic approaches that you rarely encounter at home.
• Immerse Yourself in Culture: Chess is a universal language, but the world around the board is beautifully diverse. Traveling for tournaments gives you a firsthand look into a country's unique history, food, and culture.
• Personal Growth: Navigating a new country and competing at a high level builds a level of resilience and confidence that serves you well both on and off the board.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on the article! Drop a comment below if you've ever played abroad, or let me know what country is at the top of your chess bucket list.