As 2026 begins, Loughborough’s Fairfield Prep School is still buzzing with pride over the extraordinary chess journey of one of its youngest talents.
Looking back at the 2025 season, few stories shone brighter than that of Tara Tamilselvan, the Year 5 pupil who turned heads across the UK chess community with her remarkable accomplishments on the national stage.
Picture credit: Tara Tamilselvan
In a competitive landscape usually dominated by seasoned adult players, Tara—only nine at the time—made a name for herself in one of the toughest arenas: the UK Open Blitz Championships qualifiers. These events, known for fast-paced, unforgiving play, attract some of the country’s most experienced competitors.
Yet in 2025, it was the Fairfield youngster who rose above expectations.
At her regional qualifier, Tara not only competed with confidence but excelled, finishing as the topperforming girl across the entire event.
Her sharp play and fearless approach allowed her to surpass several experienced women chess masters, earning her one of the most coveted prizes: a place in the UK Women’s Final.
With only 16 women nationwide progressing—one from each regional event—her qualification alone set her apart as one of the most exciting young talents to watch.
When the Women’s Final took place later that year, Tara entered as the youngest competitor by a considerable margin, facing a powerful line-up of 16 players that included 10 of the country’s top female chess masters.
The atmosphere was intense, the rounds numerous—15 in total—and the competition unforgiving.
Yet Tara proved she was more than ready for the challenge.
Over the course of the final, she recorded two impressive victories, including a memorable win against a highly ranked Woman FIDE Master. She added two hard-fought draws to her final tally—an exceptional achievement for any newcomer, let alone one still in primary school.
More importantly, the event offered her a level of experience and exposure that will continue to shape her development long after the final round was played.
Reflecting later on the milestone, her mother, Shalini Sathiyaseelan, shared how transformative the competition had been.
“The finals were an invaluable experience for Tara, giving her lessons and confidence that will support her enormously in future tournaments. We are very proud of everything she achieved,” she said.
Fairfield Prep’s Head, Mr Andrew Earnshaw, echoed that pride when looking back on Tara’s 2025 success. “To qualify for the Women’s Final at such a young age is extraordinary,” he said.
“Her ability to hold her own against some of the strongest female players in the country speaks volumes about her talent, determination and composure.
“Tara is a wonderful role model for young players at Fairfield, and we look forward to seeing her continue to flourish in the world of competitive chess.”
As 2026 unfolds, Tara’s achievements from the previous year stand not just as impressive milestones, but as early
chapters of what promises to be an exciting chess career.
