Coach NM Evan Capel

What do you do currently?
I work as a trader in an investment bank

When did you start to play chess?
11 years old. So, if you start chess at 6-10 years old, be thankful!

How did you get to know about the chess game?
My father introduced the game to me. However, the big change happened when my mother’s colleague introduced me to tournaments which I never knew existed.

How did you train for chess?
When I was young, I used to go the PCA clubhouse every week. Penang’s best players and coaches used to play there every week. I was the only kid playing there, and I would get smashed hard. I remember being called the ‘Santa Claus’ of chess because I would always give ‘free pieces’ to my opponents. But the constant sparring with stronger players really drove me to get good at the game. Also, playing chess online is the secret to my success. I have played thousands and thousands of games, seeing thousands of different patterns and positions repeatedly helped me a lot. Blitz? Please play a lot of blitz games because repetitiveness trains intuition. My online rating is around 2500 (blitz).

Did you take any chess coaching?
Yes from 11-13 years old.

Why do you continue to play chess?
Chess is the best sport. You can play at any age. You can play in a formal suit or in pyjamas. You can make friends easily, like easily. And the best part is that you can win a lot of prize money which is a good side income!

Is chess more of a passion or has it become a winning symbol to you?
Chess is a passion, but I must say winning in chess can get very addictive 😉

Who encourages you to play chess?
Parents and coaches play an important role. But self-motivation trumps all.

How many tournaments have you took part in?
Over 400 tournaments. I have taken part in almost every tournament I can get my hands on. While I was still schooling, I would travel and play chess tournaments every week.

Did you attend tournaments with your parents?
Of course. During my MSSPP and MSSM tournaments, my mother played an important role. She ensured I took rests and slept early between rounds. It was important for my focus and it led me to many victories.

What was your biggest win so far?
Winning Malaysia’s most prestigious tournament was the best day of my life to date. At 15 years old I became Malaysia’s youngest National Champion. I was awarded the title National Master (NM), for life.

3-time MSSPP and MSSM champion.
I have played over 400 tournaments with a lot of success.