Pleasanton, CA, October 5, 2025: At just seven years and two months old, Varun Karthik Turaga has already achieved something remarkable — he is currently ranked number two in the United States for his age group in chess. The young player now has the opportunity of a lifetime: to represent the United States at the Under-8 World Chess Championship, scheduled to take place in Europe between June and July 2026.
According to the family’s GoFundMe appeal, this milestone is “the culmination of years of dedication, countless hours of practice, and a dream that inspires not only him but also other young players who see what is possible through hard work and passion.”
Varun’s journey began early. He first picked up a chess piece at age three and won his first tournament that same year. By age five, he had already won his first rated tournament, and since then, has played in around 50 tournaments, including becoming a two-time California State Champion.
His parents say chess has taught him discipline, patience, and creativity, qualities that “are evident in every aspect of his life.”
But the honor of representing his country on the world stage comes with considerable financial cost. The family estimates $28,000 will be needed to cover international travel, accommodation, coaching, training, tournament entry fees, and other related expenses.
Although Varun will be part of the official U.S. delegation, the U.S. Chess Federation does not cover travel or training expenses for young players. Families of qualifying competitors are responsible for funding the entire trip, including airfare, lodging, entry fees, and coaching. For many, community fundraising is the only way to make these opportunities possible.
The Turaga family has already invested about $21,000 in Varun’s chess journey so far, covering intensive training and travel to nearly 50 out-of-city tournaments. His long-term aspiration, the family shares, is “to strive to become the youngest grandmaster in the world,” a goal that will require “utmost preparation over the next four to four-and-a-half years.”
The projected $28,000 budget includes:
- $10,000 for travel and lodging for Varun and a parent during 14 days in Europe
- $9,000 for out-of-state tournaments leading up to the World Championship
- $6,000 for intensive coaching
- $3,000 for approximately 30 in-state tournaments
“This journey extends beyond a single child’s ambition,” the family notes. “It represents the possibilities that emerge when talent, commitment, and community backing unite.”
The GoFundMe campaign invites well-wishers to contribute or spread the word, emphasizing that “every donation, regardless of size, brings us one step closer to turning this dream into a reality.”
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in Varun,” the family concludes. “With your help, he will not only compete at the World Championships but also carry with him the encouragement of everyone who made it possible.”
Source: GoFundMe campaign “Help Varun Represent the U.S. at the World Chess Championship”
Cover photo: Varun Turaga/GoFundMe.
