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14. October 2003: Interview with Darmen Sadvakasov by Colin Watson I was met by a pleasant young man, speaking very good English, originates from Astana , Kazakstan and really enjoying the tournament. He has two non playing brothers but a father who taught Darmen the game at the age of 4 years. I asked him a few questions: Q: When did you become a IM and GM? A: I was 16 when I became IM and I won my GM title in 1998 at the world junior championship. Q: How often do you visit your homeland? A: Not much I’m afraid as I travel quite a lot. But Kazakstan is a beautiful country. The old capital is wonderful and very historical, full of parks and lovely buildings. The new capital, Astana lies in the middle of the country and much investing has been done to create new development. Q: What do you do when not playing chess? A: I study chess a great deal, but when I can, I enjoy playing guitar, listening music, walking and watching the European football matches, especially the finals. Q: What’s the strangest venue you have played at? A: It has to be Las Vegas. People are playing in the Casino day and night, it seems odd playing chess were people just gamble all day long. Q: How many tournaments do you play a year? A: I normally play about 6 – 7 a year, but this year I have already played 10. Q: What’s your most memorable game? A: I have played many good games, two draws against Kasparov was very uplifting for me. But I recall a game in Moscow where I thought for 1 hour and 10 minutes on a sacrifice. Fritz said afterwards that it was dubious, but I won the game. Q: What about your 5 – 3 win over Korchnoi? A: Yes, this was a really big match for me, he is a legend, a great player and can still play at a very high level. The event was held in my home country and was very well organised, where there came many spectators. Q: What do you think of the FIDE world championship system? A: It is very good. Everyone earns money in this event , as it is very hard to earn a living playing chess , this is a big bonus. Q: I understand that you don’t eat our Danish pork? A: No I don’t , give me beef or horse meat anytime! Q: What do you think of the tournament? A: Very good, interesting mix of players. Everyone is very pleasant here, and your homepage is excellent. I love the location, lake, forest, it is wonderful. Q: Whats for the future? A: A. I am studying for a degree in The history of Kasakstan , so I would like to write a book at some time about chess throughout the years in my homeland. World champion would’nt be a bad thing either. I would like to thank Darmen for his time and for his hunger for chess, he has shown a real fearless attitude so far , so we look forward to seeing him play in the same manner throughout the rest of the tournament, best of luck. 14/10-2003 - Colin Watson |
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