Instructor
Iurii Anikeev
World Champion 2023 in International Checkers!
About me
I am a dedicated and accomplished professional in the field of physical education and draughts, with a rich background in both academic and competitive arenas. Having completed my Master's degree in Physical Education, specializing in management of physical culture, from the Kharkiv State Academy of Physical Culture and Sports in 2006, I embarked on a journey that has spanned various roles and achievements in the world of sports.
Professional Journey
My career began at the Ministry of Sports of Ukraine in Kiev, where I served as an instructor for the national draughts team of Ukraine from 2004 to 2023. I further honed my skills as a coach and educator at the Kharkov National University of Radio Electronics' draughts-chess club “Shahrad” during 2007-2008. Expanding my horizons, I also took up the role of a coach-teacher in Shanghai, China, from 2009 to 2023, where I contributed significantly to the development of draughts in the region.
Sporting Achievements
My sporting journey is marked by several prestigious titles and honors, including being an Honoured Master of Ukraine, a Grandmaster International (GMI), and securing the World Champion title in 64 draughts in 2004. I have also been crowned the European Champion in 100 draughts in 2005 in blitz, and the World Champion in 100 draughts in 2016 and 2020 in rapid. In 2023, I won the most prestigious and coveted world champion title in international checkers in the classical game. My career as an athlete has seen numerous victories, both as a Ukrainian champion and as a competitor in international tournaments in 100 and 64 draughts.
Coaching Successes
As a coach, my achievements include guiding Liu Pei and Zhang You to victory in the Chinese Mind Games and the Asian championships in 64 and 100 draughts. Zhang You also clinched the World Champion title in blitz in 2023 under my mentorship.
A Lifelong Commitment to Excellence
I have been recognized as a Master of Sports of Ukraine since 1997, achieving international level status in 2003, and have been honored as an Honoured Master of Ukraine since 2005. My expertise in draughts is further evidenced by my GMI titles in 64 draughts since 2002 and in 100 draughts since 2007.
Throughout my career, I have also represented teams internationally, achieving notable successes in Brazil, the Netherlands, Russia, and Poland. My dedication to the sport is reflected in my continuous pursuit of excellence, demonstrated by my victories in junior world championships, European championships, and numerous international tournaments across the globe.
A Legacy of Passion and Perseverance
My journey in the world of physical education and draughts is a testament to my passion, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. I continue to strive for greatness, not only in my personal achievements but also in inspiring and developing the next generation of champions in the sport.