Tell us about your foray into the field of chess playing. How did it all begin for you?
I started playing chess, when I was six. My interest developed on seeing my father playing the game and it just kept growing and growing. However, it was only when he finally taught me the dynamics on how to play it well, that I slowly became an expert.
What other board games do you enjoy playing or have a command over?
I do play a lot of other board games too but I would say, it’s chess that has my heart.
Do you think it’s a lucrative profession for girls in terms of money?
Yes, why not. If you’re playing at an international level, your skill starts benefiting you enormously. I’ve seen people do online coaching or even chess coaching in general and earning so well from this and it’s like I said, when you’re a pro at something and are an expert in it, the world is yours.
Tell us about your experience in winning the Women’s Candidate Master at the 42nd Chess Olympiad.
It happened in 2016 in Baku, Azerbaijan. A lot of countries were participating but I won. The happiest moment for me was when the results were announced, they didn’t announce my name, instead they said, “Pakistan has won.” It felt so great to hear my country’s name like that. I felt that I had really done something for my country.
Who have been your strongest supporters?
My family, without a doubt, has been my strongest support. But I would say that my father and my paternal grandmother have supported me the most, due to which I am where I am today.
I won the 42nd Chess Olympiad in 2016 in Baku, Azerbaijan. A lot of countries were participating but I won. The happiest moment for me was when the results were announced, they didn’t announce my name, instead they said, ‘Pakistan has won.’ It felt so great to hear my country’s name like that. I felt that I had really done something for my country
What are you currently working on?
Well, I’m a student of Second Year at college. Every day, I play chess for three to four hours and the remaining three to four hours, I would study. That’s how there’s a fine balance between my studies and my passion. Right now, there’s an international contest coming up called the Western Asian Youth Chess Championship 2019 all set to take place in New Delhi, India from September 4-11. I’ve had the honour of being invited to contest by the All India Chess Federation. I’m trying my level best to be able to go and compete but I don’t have the means. I’m awaiting sponsorship. Pakistan’s Chess Federation doesn’t support.
You are the youngest Pakistani to achieve the title of Women’s Candidate Master. What according to you has been your biggest achievement so far?
According to me, the WCM title is the biggest that I’ve achieved. But I want to win International Candidate Master title in future.
Tell us about a memorable moment in your career.
Again, I think the 2016 42nd Chess Olympiad in which I won the title of Women’s Candidate Master and my country’s name was highlighted.
You hold the world record of arranging a chessboard in 45 seconds. Tell us a little about that.
It was great. You know, I arranged it with one hand only and not in 45 but 42 seconds. I had practised a lot but was very nervous as there were so many people there and the media hype was immense but my father had guided me so well that ultimately, I achieved what I had sought to.
What is your vision for Pakistan and what does it mean to be Pakistani for you?
I wish to see a Pakistan where sports and games of all kinds are supported and not just cricket. Chess needs special prominence as we have a lot of players but no support.
What motivates you to excel no matter what?
I always do a mental preparation before any match. I have to clear my mind. My father is there to guide me and he always tells me never to get confused. That’s where I derive
my confidence from.
We, at Daily Times, consider you one of our national heroes. Who are some of yours?
Late computer prodigy Arfa Karim without a shadow of a doubt is my hero.
Achievements
YOUNGEST WORLD CHAMPIONChess expert Mehak Gul holds the coveted and the highly prestigious title of Women Candidate Master that she won at the 42nd Chess Olympiad in Baku, Azerbaijan. She is the youngest Pakistani to achieve this title.
WORLD RECORD HOLDER
Mehak Gul holds the Guinness World Record of arranging a chessboard in 42 seconds with just one hand.
AIMING FOR THE MOON
Gul says she will not rest until she wins the title of International Candidate Master.
INTERNATIONAL STAR
Post being recognised and lauded for her intellect and acumen in Baku, Azerbaijan, she has been invited many times to countries abroad to participate in global chess championships. These days, she is looking forward to participate in the Western Asian Youth Chess Championship 2019 which is taking place in New Delhi, India.