FM Alessandro Santagati Receives the Prestigious “Carrera Award”

Dear chess enthusiasts,

I am delighted to share with you a moment of great pride and personal satisfaction: the prestigious “Carrera Award” . This recognition is reserved for the best Sicilian players who have distinguished themselves with significant achievements during the year. I had the honor of receiving this award for my participation in the Italian Chess Championship , the most prestigious tournament for an Italian player. This achievement is particularly significant, considering that a Sicilian had not participated in over 20 years. Being part of this chess history is a great honor for me.

The award was collected by my brother on March 17, at the Ciminiere in Catania, during the prize-giving ceremony of the Italian Team Championship (Sicily division). Unfortunately, I could not be present in person due to other commitments, but the support of my family made this moment even more special.

A Year of Successes and Growth

My journey towards the Italian Absolute Championship began with the semifinals held from July 15 to 22 in Villesse (GO). With 50 participants from all over Italy and only three spots available for the final, the competition was intense and exciting.

I started the semifinal as number 14 on the board, not among the favorites, but my determination and desire to do well prevailed. My adventure began with a game against the talented CM Melissa Maione, which I won, giving an initial boost to my ranking.

The path continued with stimulating encounters against strong opponents, including CM Simone Pozzari and young talent Niccolò Casadio, achieving two well-deserved draws. A crucial moment was my victory against the strong FM Alessio Boraso, with an Elo of 2313, a hard-fought game that demonstrated my growth as a chess player.

As the tournament progressed, the emotions intensified. I faced FM Valerio Carnicelli and FM Giuseppe Lettieri, earning a draw and a victory, respectively. These matches were particularly crucial in bringing me closer to the top of the leaderboard.

The final game of the semifinals was crucial for my qualification to the finals. I challenged IM Artem Gilevych, the tournament favorite with an Elo rating of 2413. Despite the pressure, I gave it my all and secured a draw that allowed me to qualify for the finals.

The final of theItalian Chess Championship was held in Brescia from November 28 to December 9 Participating in the final was a unique emotion. I approached the tournament knowing that each game represented an opportunity to prove my worth, encountering high-level opponents.

The first round was delayed because I agreed to reschedule the match with FM Valerio Carnicelli, who was not feeling well. I could have taken the win and immediately had a point, but I came here to play and compete with the best. The tournament did not start in the best way, with the first useful result coming in the sixth round with a victory against IM Gilevych Artem, who was in great shape and unbeaten until then.

In the seventh round, I achieved a prestigious draw against GM Danyyil Dvirnyy, Italian champion in 2015. The last victory came in the ninth round against one of the favorites to win, GM Lorenzo Lodici. The combination that allowed me to win was defined by chess content creators on YouTube as “The Sacrifice of 2023.”

Reflections and Gratitude

Receiving the Carrera Award represents a beautiful recognition for a very positive year from a competitive point of view. TheItalian Chess Championship is the dream for every chess player, to be there playing with the best Italian players. In the early rounds, I struggled with players who were less highly rated on paper, but I managed to save several difficult positions, which was crucial.

The situation where I saw the queen sacrifice against GM Lorenzo Lodici was an incredible moment. I was in a desperate position and trying to slow down my end when I found this important twist that led me to victory.

I have learned to play solidly and not to fear more highly rated opponents. The consistency of training ultimately makes the difference. I worked especially on calculation and studying the games of grandmasters.

I want to express my deep gratitude to everyone who followed and supported my journey in this tournament. Every word of encouragement was a guiding light during the most challenging matches. Your support was the fundamental engine that fueled my determination in every game. I received many messages of support from many Sicilians, but also from other parts of Italy, which certainly helped me in difficult moments.

Every tournament is a new chapter in my chess adventure. I look forward with the same passion and dedication, aware that each game, each tournament, represents an opportunity to learn, grow, and share the beauty of chess with a passionate community. Heartfelt thanks for being by my side in this extraordinary chess adventure.

After the championship, I took a break and only played the team championship. My goal is to resume seriously in the summer, trying to significantly improve my level. I am in a training phase to achieve this goal.

Thank you all for your continued support!