Interview with Robert Mcligeyo

Today I bring to you an exciting interview with Kenyan icon and strong chess player Robert Mcligeyo. I will present a summary of the insightful conversation that I was able to have with him on a Zoom call which he graciously accepted in spite of his busy schedule. 

PS: Some of the questions are inspired by Advaith Vijayakumar(Rodgy) who conducted a similar interview process.

Question 1: How did you first get into chess?

I learned chess through school and took it up by accident 

Question 2:  What was the hardest part about achieving the No.1 position in Kenya that an average chess player wouldn't consider?

The amount of work that is needed, I was only able to do it because I had a break between June to November and was able to study chess daily for 16-18 hours. Also combined with a series of good tournaments such as the Olympiad.

Question 3: How do you relax when not playing Chess?

I just do chess and school and sometimes I might watch a series.

Question 4: What has your transition from Lighthouse Chess Club to KCB Chess Club been like?

It has been good, the support is great and I have also good teammates. I also fondly remember Tom Amwai who was my coach during my formative years and shaped my chess, He is now working with the Mavens Chess Club and developing a strong junior team which I foresee will be in the Top 10 either in 2024 or 2025 One particular junior to look out for is Nathaniel Manyeki.

Question 5: What advice would you give to young aspiring Kenyan players who look up to you?

Never give up, never fear your opponents and just keep playing.

Question 6: What is a common piece of chess advice that you disagree with and why?

Blitz is not good for your chess; Blitz has helped me with tactics and time management.

Question 7: Which chess opening would you ban and why?

The London opening and the Colle system; makes chess players lazy because they can just make the moves easily.

Question 8: There is a delegation of Strong Kenyan Players taking part in the 2023 World Amateurs Open, What are your thoughts on Kenya's Chances?

I have been keeping an eye on them especially two players: Zadock Nyakundi and Lucy Wanjiru, I see that Kenya has a high chance of getting at least one medal.

Question 9: What is your favorite piece?

The knight because it is tricky, especially in blitz.

Question 10: How was it meeting Fabiano Caruana in real life?

It is actually funny, the playing hall was separated between the elites and the rest of us so I and Martin Njoroge decided to go and see how it looked, we were able to see Wesley So, Levon Aronian ...  I saw Fabi and asked him for a photo, He is such a nice guy and accepted.

Question 11: Who to you is the GOAT of chess?

Magnus Carlsen, but I would also consider Bobby Fischer

Question 12: Can anyone else reach No.1 with hard work? or does it require some talent? 

With Hard work, it is definitely possible.

Question 13: What is next for Robert Mcligeyo?

I shall be playing in the World Youth in Italy and will also go to Uganda to play in a tournament there. For the Nationals I might not play there because I have no motivation to play in the event.

Robert had just completed his A-Level exams the previous day and with preparations for the World- Youth still graciously accepted to give an interview another thanks to him for making time in his busy schedule.