First of all, I want to say that it was nice to be a part of the GB team at the WCCC 2022 in Fujairah. This solving competition was only my second one, but a friendly atmosphere and great organization helped me to feel comfortable and perform at my best.
The Congress provided a wide range of solving competitions. All of them were highly competitive, and filled with intrigue until the very end. Firstly, I took first place among women in the Open Solving event. The format is slightly different to the main event, but in my opinion it was still a good chance to get some final practice before the World Chess Solving Championship (WCSC) that came after.
Secondly came the WCSC, which I think is one of the most important among solving competitions during the year, and so also the most nerve-inducing event for participants too. The director and judge provided us with a range of beautiful and interesting compositions. In the final standings I was the second placed woman. I am happy with this result, but I have already started to prepare for the next World Championship to get the first place!
Along with the main events I also enjoyed participating in the side events like the Quick Solving and Solving Show held in the evenings.
At the close of the WCCC I had the pleasure of playing in the 4th Fujairah Endurance International Chess Championship and ended with 5.5 points out of 7. With this excellent performance I again won the top prize for women.
I’m already looking forward to meeting my fellow competitors again at the big events next year and doing even better!
— Kamila Hryshchenko