Mikaela Arana She is a 6-year-old girl from Cusco who represents the great promise of Peruvian chess. Even at a young age, the little girl brought joy to Peru by becoming a champion XIX. South American Youth Festival in Brazil, in the under 6 years category. By winning the tournament, they qualified for the World Cup, which will be held in 2024.
The minor qualified for the tournament held in Florianápolis, Brazil after winning the Cusco Regional Stage and took first place on the national stage in Lima. In statements to La República, his mother, Carmen Bello, recounts the process they went through to reach the South American tournament.
“She traveled to Brazil as an official athlete. (…) I didn't have the idea of going to Brazil, but since my little daughter won and it was her first official status, the chess federation sent us confirmation.” “In August they called me to ask whether my daughter could travel to Brazil to compete,” said the mother. He added that the Peruvian Chess Association (FDPA) supported them with 50% of the accommodation and meals during the six days of competition in Brazil.
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XIX. South American Youth Festival in Brazil: tournament where Mikaela shone against the continent's best
This competition took place in Florianápolis from December 2nd to 8th of the same month. Here, Mikaela Arana established herself as the best U6 chess player as she competed against boys and girls from major countries such as Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and others. “It’s unbelievable how he’s done at such a young age. He played with children from Colombia, Brazil and Paraguay. As parents of chess players, we know who the master is, and the little sister of the Paraguayan master was one of the girls who wanted to compete with Mikaela,” said her mother.
Despite the fear, Mikaela gave her best and was crowned South American champion after her outstanding performance. Carmen Bello emphasized that she accompanies her children to all tournaments. Little Mikaela qualified for the World Chess Championship, which will take place in 2024. The venue and date of the tournament have yet to be officially announced due to the schedule International Chess Federation.
The championship venue is Florianópolis, Brazil. Photo: Courtesy
Bruno Arana, Mikaela's main inspiration for chess training
Bruno Arana is Mikaela's older brother and has also represented Peru in international chess competitions. She is 10 years old and is the little girl's main inspiration to pursue this sport. Both took part in the South American tournament in Brazil and posed with the Peruvian flag after the little girl's victory. Bruno constantly trains with his sister and his mother emphasizes that she is very proud that her children dedicate themselves to chess training.
Mikaela with her brother Bruno Arana. Photo: Courtesy
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Mikaela is looking for support for the trip to the World Chess Championship in 2024
Although there is no fixed date for the World Championships yet, little Mikaela has already qualified for this important event where she will test her talent against the best in the world. Speaking to La República, her mother says that they are looking for sponsors who can support their girl to take part in this competition.
“We also invite companies to support us. We don't just have football as a sport. There are many talented children in different fields and they are not getting the support they deserve,” he clarified. He adds that any amount of money is welcome for Mikaela's participation.
If you would like to support little Mikaela or know someone who is interested, you can contact the following telephone number: 993 010 885 (Carmen Bello, mother of the young athlete).