On International Chess Day, Celebrating Maurice Ashley – The First African American Chess Grandmaster
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Posted By: Hija Chang on July 24, 2026 Content Artist: Shourjyani Chatterjee Maurice Ashley became the first Black chess Grandmaster in 1999. He coached young players from Harlem and became a globally recognised chess commentator. Ashley's journey continues to inspire a more inclusive and accessible chess world. In 1997, Ashley was inspired by Tiger Woods’ historic Masters victory. He decided to focus fully on his own goal of becoming a Grandmaster instead of coaching. He travelled across North America and Europe, playing tournaments and working towards completing his final Grandmaster norms. On International Chess Day, Maurice Ashley’s story reminds us that chess belongs to everyone, and that sometimes, all it needs is for an individual to show resilience and carve the way out for the future generation. https://www.google.com/amp/s/revsportz.in/... If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Hija Chang
Management, See Moss Interactive Central State University class of 2021 Member Since January 2011 |
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