National Women's Chess Championship: Bhakti claims maiden crown

Bhakti Kulkarni got the better of Mary Ann Gomes to clinch her maiden National Women's Chess title on Monday.

This is Bhakti's Kulkarni's first National Women's title. (File Photo)

Bhakti Kulkarni pipped Mary Ann Gomes to the National women's chess title on superior tie-break after the 11th and final round here on Monday.

Mary, leading Bhakti by half a point, lost sensationally to P. V. Nandhidhaa in 27 moves on the top board before the eventual champion battled to a 66-move draw against J. Saranya.

Bhakti topped a four-way tie at 8.5 points. Mary took the second spot, ahead of M. Mahalakshmi and Nandhidhaa.

Leading results 11 and final round: Mary Ann Gomes (8.5) lost to P. V. Nandhidhaa (8.5)/ J. Saranya (8) drew with Bhakti Kulkarni (8.5); S. Vijayalakshmi (7.5) lost to M. Mahalakshmi (8.5); Sakshi Chitlange (7) lost to Srija Seshadari (8); Nisha Mohota (7.5) bt P. Bala Kannamma (6.5)