Twenty million online viewers watch Kris Sanchez play chess

Belizean chess player Kris Sanchez made a name for himself on the international stage on Wednesday evening before an audience of roughly twenty million online viewers when he defeated his American opponent in a game of Blitz.  The challenge requires players to make their moves across the chessboard in as little time as possible, considerably different from the normal regulation time of one to three hours per player.  Both players were connected via satellite from the Caves Branch Jungle Lodge to Brooklyn, New York and within four minutes thirteen year old Kris, a resident of Stann Creek District, emerged victorious.  According to Ian Anderson, Chairman of Belize National Youth Chess Federation, the win is significant for the country because its players are now being recognized globally.  The match was officiated by Grandmaster Maurice Ashley following a selection process held last month in which Kris Sanchez was chosen to represent Belize.  There are also six players representing the Jewel in the Central American Games and in a tournament held recently Ivan Pixabaj defeated the team from Honduras.