More responsibility on my shoulders, says Koneru Humpy

Hyderabad, Jan 26 (UNI) Chess Grand Master Koneru Humpy was delighted on getting coveted national award 'Padmashri' and also kept more responsibility towards society.

Talking to UNI over telephone from Vijayawada Humpy said, ''I was delighted when heard of getting prestigious Padmashri award.

I did not expect that I will get this civil award so early. Being a sportswoman I was thinking about Arjuna award in my early days, but Padmashri is something surprise. This will be definately increased responsibility on my shoulders towards society.'' On her return from Tadepalligudem in West Godavari district where she was one of the sports persons and celebrities attended 7 K Run (seven kilometers run), Humpy further said, ''this award will motivate me to play better in the coming days.'' Incidentally, Humpy playing her best in 2006 defeated former World Champion Anatoly Karpov in Rapid as well as in Blitze games at Capadagde in France.

Talking about her immediate plans Humpy said, ''I will take part in the Grand Masters tournament to be held at Visakhapatnam from 1st to 10th February. With one month rest I would take part in Dubai Open and planning to play series of tournaments in Europe during summer.'' Now-a-days Humpy with 2,567 ELO rating is the busiest person playing chess and modelling and promoting the real estate company between the gaps. She is not averse to movie offers with sports background. But, for the timebeing she set her target of reaching 2,600 ELO rating by year end.

UNI