Rayah Al- N'iemat

Rayah Al- N'iemat has represented Jordan on the international stage in a sport which is all about mind over matter - chess

Name : Rayah Adnan Falah Al-N'iemat
Age : 22
Sport : Chess
Career : student
Place of Residence: Al-Salt

1. How did you get into your sport?

My adventure began when I was 12; I used to visit the local championships with my brother when he was competing. At that time I started playing chess as a volunteer with the Health Ministry. I joined the Federation in 2001 and later won the Jordan Women’s Championship to qualify for overseas tournaments.

2. What have been your main achievements?

• First Place in the Jordan Women’s Championship 2005

• Fifth place in the Asian Indoor Games Vietnam 2009

• NParticipating in the world Chess Championship Russia 2010

• Second Place in Arab Championships Tunis 2005

3. What is the biggest highlight / moment of your career ?

Winning the Jordan Women’s Championship when I was the youngest player entered.

4. What are your ambitions / goals now?

To participate in bigger overseas championships and to compete against world champions.

5. How do you think your sport can be improved?

The sport needs more overseas participation and we need to invest in bringing more youngsters to the game and then helping to develop them.

6. How do you spend your time away from sport?

Studying and in the Jordan Chess Federation.

7. What are your main hobbies / interests?

Just playing Chess.

8. If you were given one million dinars how would you spend it?

I would support charity and establish a new academy to teach the skills of Chess at an international Level.

9. Who do you consider as your idol(s)?

My father on the personal level, and Coach Yuri Krudpa on the overseas level.

10. Who are your favorite overseas and local athletes?

Locally Sami Al-Safarini and overseas the Russian Champion Alexandra Kosteniuk.

11. What message or advice would you like to give youngsters coming into sport?

Keep practicing and develop your mental skills because chess this more than physical effort.

12. What is your Favorite food?

Mansaf.

13. Last words for your fans?

First, I would like to thank HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein and the JOC Secretary General for their support. Also a special thanks for HRH Prince Mohammad Bin Talal, the inspiration for all the chess players in Jordan. We promise that we will always do our best for our country.

Back