Ukraine defeats Russia

[Larry1]

At the Women’s World Chess Championships, held in Sochi:

Ukrainian chess player Mariya Muzychuk, 22, on Monday beat Russian counterpart Natalia Pogonina, 30, in the final of the Women’s World Chess Championships held in Sochi from March 16 to April 7. The final score, after four games, stood at 2.5-1.5.

Having already beaten Pogonina four times in the tournament, Muzychuk could have sealed victory with a draw. But she told a press conference that her plan had always been “to fight,” according to a copy of the transcript on the tournament organizers' website.

Following her victory, Muzychuk has become the 15th Women's World Chess Champion, walking away with $60,000 in prize money.

http://www.themoscowtimes.com/news/article/ukraine-beats-russia-at-womens-world-chess-championships-in-sochi/518797.html

I remember some of the great Soviet and post-Soviet chess players, such as Kasparov, Karpov, and Spassky. And when I read about current chess competitions it seems that FSU and other Eastern European contestants do extremely well. Why do you think that is?

At the link there is a photo of Mariya, whose dating site profile reportedly says, "I prepare tasty dishes, make cozy home, and can beat you at chess".

[SANDRO43]

And when I read about current chess competitions it seems that FSU and other Eastern European contestants do extremely well. Why do you think that is?

Because chess is a popular and highly regarded pastime there ?

[lordtiberius]

You prefer checkers?

[Larry1]

You prefer checkers?

No, I prefer chess. It is a marvelous game.