What did we learn from SEA games selection? Part 1.

If we get selection right, we will move forward. 

Now lets understand this first. Being able to control selection is why many have gone into associations. That is why it is very difficult to get proper selection criteria. Everyone wants to be able to influence that decision.

And so we see the funny PR campaigns, the inclusion of trainers pupils from outside the criteria and the "political appointees".

But what did we learn from SEA games selection? Did we not see that the senior squad are not as strong as they want us to believe? Did we not see that ratings cannot be the basis for Malaysia?

Why? Our ratings are not from hard fought battles in an open and strong field. Our ratings are not current. We have the culture of playing select tournaments to boost rating and not playing fighting chess. All these factors distort the results.

Do you see that tremendous energy has been released by SEA games selection? When Sumant made the senior squad, what did he show us? Did he not show us that the internet is a game changer in today's scenario? Remember we got the line to fight Mok from a friend overseas. Did he not show us that with proper competitor analysis and correct training, many players are in a position to replace the senior squad in a fair fight. Are you one of those that worked hard in improving your chess over the last year?

Lets look at it from this perspective. Once you are over 20 and was a National Junior, you could possibly be 1,2 or 3 years away from having a shot at the senior squad. But you will need a selection to be able to prove your worth.

In the past, only the current National Master has the chance. And even that not every time. And then they use ratings. So lets use the Olympiad as an example. Some say 6 places available. So there is one place for the entire chess community to fight for. And 5 places for the people in the associations to barter with. Does this sound right to you?

It is not about your chess is it? After 20, the decision is political. So it doesn't matter if you are now stronger than the senior team players. Your chances to play for Malaysia are now almost zero. I will explain more in my next few posts.

Please help me to forward this post to people that may be interested. I think we need to understand why Malaysian chess has almost disappeared from the International circuit. At least for the senior team.