GM Maurice Ashley became a Grandmaster in 1999 and has since lamented frequently about his desire to see more Blacks earn  the highest honor bestowed on a chess player. Most people do not realize that the Brooklyn-based GM has done much more than become the world's 1st Black Grandmaster. He has been a coach, organizer, commentator and diplomat. Currently, he is in the midst of a nationwide chess tour extolling the merits of chess.

GM Maurice Ashley gives an encouraging word to budding chess players in Oakland, California.

Lately, GM Ashley has put a "call out"  for talented juniors from the Black community. There have been several to achieve notable  success at the scholastic level, but eventually drift away.  "I am trying to avoid situations like KK Karanja and Baraka Shabazz," says Ashley. Both Karanja (2100 at age 10) and Shabazz were considered incredible talents at young ages, and received raves from national media, but both abruptly left the scene.  The same was true for the less heralded sister-brother duo from Chicago, Bernadette and Harold Jr. who both were 1900 strength before reaching age 14.

Ashley offers  a criteria for identifying promising talent, but adds:

1. Under 14 years of age
2. Chess strength should be = (Age * 100 + minimum 500 rating points).
3. Tournament experience of over 2 years
4. Family supports the activity

"This is just a guide. Folks may know of a kid who does not fit these criteria, but is clearly a huge talent… Again, this is an urgent call to the community of black players and fans worldwide to send in names and information of young black players who seem to show a special talent for the game of chess," states Ashley.

Persons who are have information about promising young Black chess players can contact GM Maurice Ashley at FirstBlackGM@aol.com.

Posted by The Chess Drum: 9 May 2004