Eleven-year-old, energetic and competitive Kiwi-Indian Gurmehar Singh was awarded the Certificate of Merit in National Junior Chess Finals last year, after securing the 12th position among 63 participants from across the country. The remarkable achievement at such a young age makes him stand out of the crowd. Born in New Zealand, Gurmehar says that he is lucky to have supportive parents who dote on him but have not spoilt him in any way.

Indian Weekender caught up with the little genius to find out more about him.

IWK: How and when did you develop an interest in chess?

Gurmehar Singh: My dad used to play chess with his uncle when he was a teenager. He introduced the game to me when I was seven years old. He taught me all of the basic moves and some good techniques. I also enjoyed the game and from then on, we started playing frequently.

IWK: Who is your idol?

GS: My idol is Magnus Carlsen. He is a world-renowned chess grandmaster. When he was 12 years old, he challenged a master, dominated him and won the game. Since then, he became famous and lots of people were impressed by his rare talent. I aspire to be like him.

IWK: Tell us about your achievements so far.

GS: On October 4, 2015, I was chosen to represent my school, Point View, in the National Junior Chess Finals. Our team was ranked fourth overall out of 12 teams, and I received a merit certificate. We were also placed third in two of the inter-school competitions. I have received many awards for my academic achievements too.

IWK: How do you manage your time between studies and your passion?

GS: I have set a timetable for all of the days of the week, which I religiously follow. I devote most of the time to my studies and then I do my daily fitness exercises. Then I devote about three hours a week practising chess moves. I also do gaming for half an hour every alternate day. The time management method I use is quite efficient and helpful.

IWK: What are your hobbies other than playing chess?

GS: I have an interest in soccer, cricket and basketball. When I was seven years old, our team stood first in Fencibles for soccer. I was also chosen the most improved player in Fencibles when I was eight years old. Two years ago, our cricket team, Firebirds, stood third in our division in Howick Pakuranga Cricket Club. Recently, I have developed an interest in basketball and intend to pursue it. I will probably join a club. I am also a green belt, blue stripe in Tae-Kwon-Do. I enjoy playing video games and reading books. Books help me to extend my knowledge about the various subjects.

IWK: What is your ambition?

GS: When I grow up, I want to become a doctor. I am engrossed in Biology and Science. I have always had a passion for Biology and I love helping people. I think these are the essential qualities of being a doctor.

Apart from being a doctor, I want to be a chess master and encourage other young children to take this genius game as a passion.