Current Affairs - Persons

Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi shared the title of the 2024 World Blitz Chess Championship after a thrilling match in New York. The championship ended in a tie with a 2-2 score, followed by three sudden-death draws. This intense competition highlighted the exceptional skills of both players, showcasing their mastery of fast-paced chess. Additionally, China's Ju Wenjun won the Women's title, and India’s R. Vaishali reached the semifinals but was defeated by Ju Wenjun.

Hemanth Muddappa, known as the "Drag King," achieved a remarkable triple crown victory in the final round of the MMSC FMSCI Indian National Motorcycle Drag Racing Championship held at the Madras International Circuit (MIC). This accomplishment brought his total National titles to 15, solidifying his position as India's most decorated motorsport athlete. Despite racing with a fractured thumb, Muddappa showcased exceptional skill and determination, winning titles in multiple categories and representing Mantra Racing with distinction.

Koneru Humpy clinched her second Women’s World Rapid and Blitz Chess title, reaffirming her position as one of the top players in the chess world. She first won the championship in 2019 in Georgia and now joins China’s Ju Wenjun as the only woman to secure this prestigious title multiple times. Her victory against Indonesia's Irene Sukander highlights her remarkable skill and determination in the competitive field of chess. This achievement further cements her legacy in the history of the sport.

Kaamya Karthikeyan, a 17-year-old from Mumbai, achieved the extraordinary feat of becoming the youngest female to complete the Seven Summits Challenge, conquering the highest peaks on all seven continents. These include iconic mountains like Mt Everest (Asia), Mt Kilimanjaro (Africa), and Mt Vinson (Antarctica). This accomplishment highlights her remarkable endurance and determination in mountaineering. Additionally, she was honoured with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Shakti Puraskar in 2021, further recognizing her inspiring achievements and contributions to sports and adventure.

Vijayveer Sidhu from Punjab clinched his first national title in the men's 25m rapid-fire pistol event at the 67th National Shooting Championship. He triumphed over Rio Olympian Gurpreet Singh with a score of 28-25 in the final. Despite qualifying second behind Ankur Goel, who led the qualifications with 585 points, Vijayveer showcased exceptional skill and composure in the finals to claim the championship.