CHESSanity Alum Liran Zhou Becomes YOUNGEST NATIONAL MASTER EVER

On  August 13, 2017, at just 9 years, 3 months, and 22 days old, Liran Zhou became the  youngest  US Chess National Master ever. Previous record holder Christopher Yoo became an NM just shy of his 10th birthday: Liran  shattered the record by approximately 8 months.

Liran was a student at CHESSanity's "Novice" and "Future Masters" programs during the 2014-15 school year. We personally witnessed his exponential rise from a complete  beginner to a 1400-level player  in less than a year.  While we would like to claim some credit for Liran's historical achievement,  at the end of the day, it was his hard work and passion for the game that took him this far. Kudos to Liran and his family! We at wish him all the best in his future endeavors, whether in chess or elsewhere.

Liran Zhou, America's youngest National Master (photo courtesy of the Zhou family)

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To read more  and see some of Liran's games from his record-breaking tournament, please visit US Chess's official press release.