4/7/26:

IM Justin Sarkar - 4 GM norms and still chasing the FIDE 2500 milestone. High functioning autism.

I’m a quiet presence at tournaments. Live conversations and post-mortems can be difficult for me, even if it’s not obvious from talking to me. I may struggle to track variations in real time or see without a board. Thank you for understanding.

I teach through presence, not through words. Despite my challenges, I make a special point to greet new faces. I can do this only at tournaments, in person. I say their name, say mine, and keep it brief. These greetings are my way of contributing to the chess community - a deceptively simple gesture that helps me connect with others when longer interactions are hard.

“Short and sweet” is key, along with remembering names and faces. Younger players in particular often respond well when you acknowledge them, wish them well, and then go to play your games.

I live an hour and a half from the historic Marshall Chess Club, where I get plenty of chances to play. I also volunteer in online US Chess Blitz/Rapids.

I live out of the way but travel because in-person slow chess is where my strengths come alive.

GMJustin5