Serbian Grandmaster Aleksa Striković has arrived in Guyana to conduct an intensive six-week training programme with the national chess team ahead of the 2026 Chess Olympiad in Uzbekistan.
The Guyana Chess Federation said Striković, a trainer attached to the International Chess Federation, has begun working with the country’s top players as part of preparations for the Olympiad, which is scheduled for September 2026.
His arrival is being viewed as an important step in Guyana’s preparation, with the national team expected to face several strong chess nations at the global event.
The women’s team includes WCM Jessica Callender, Ciel Clement, Kataleya Sam, WCM Sasha Shariff and reigning National Women’s Champion WCM Aditi Joshi.
The men’s team includes former National Champion CM Taffin Khan, FM Anthony Drayton, reigning National Champion CM Sachin Pitamber, Kyle Couchman and Keron Sandiford.
According to the GCF, Striković brings decades of international experience and is expected to help improve the team’s tactical strength, confidence and overall preparation.
In an invited comment, Striković said his aim is to help the players improve by sharing his experience as both a coach and player. He also noted that proper preparation will be important ahead of the Olympiad.
GCF President Anand Raghunauth said the visit represents a major opportunity for local chess.
“The arrival of GM Striković is a tremendous opportunity for our players and for Guyana as a whole. His expertise and commitment will help our team rise to new heights as we prepare for Uzbekistan. This is a defining moment for Guyanese chess,” Raghunauth said.
The Confederation of Chess for the Americas has provided support for Striković’s stint in Guyana. He is also expected to provide training to interested members of the federation during his time in the country.
The GCF has encouraged the public to follow the team’s progress and support the players as they continue preparations for the 2026 Chess Olympiad.
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