Far from being world no.1, far from being Anand: Parimarjan Negi

New Delhi, June 8 (UNI) World's youngest Grandmaster Parimarjan Negi has said he had a long way to go before he could get to where his idol Vishwanathan Anand has reached -- to being the world number one.

''I am far from being the world number one,'' Negi said, on being asked whether he was the next 'Vishy' Anand in the making for India.

Speaking at the press club here yesterday to honour his achievement in the just-concluded World Youth Stars held at Kirishi in Russia, where he finished joint first, Negi said ''I want to get to 2600 ELO points now.'' The 13-year-old Delhi lad said, ''It was one of my best performances there.....I played some of the best young players in the event,'' adding with a sad face, ''Except the ending, it was satisfying because I was leading before the last round.'' The youngest International Master of the country has, however, not let success get to his head.

''There have been weaknesses in my game. I have identified the problem areas and am going to work with my coaches, especially on my openings.

Negi will be leaving for a three-week training sojourn to Athens under GM Nigel Short to hone his skills.

The chess prodigy echoed Anand's views that technology has helped youngsters and the game was getting younger.

''It's getting younger. The age of the world champions is coming down,'' adding, ''It won't be a surprise if an Under-25 guy wins the World championship now.'' However, his mother Paridhi Negi, is not yet ready to let go off her son like Anand has done.

His mother told UNI, ''I miss him when he is outside home but I have other responsibilities and my husband usually accompanies him on tours. I don't think we are ready to let him shift base as of now.'' Negi, a ninth grade student, also thanked his classmates and teachers for being considerate and co-operative although he had to miss most of the classes due to his chess engagements.

When reminded whether the crucial board examinations next year would deter him, Negi, who is a bookworm and music lover, says ''I get almost 90 per cent...Am doing quite well right now.'' UNI