Internet Chess Club to Host 2nd Anand Charity Simul

Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) April 18, 2007

The Internet Chess Club (ICC -- http://www.chessclub.com), the world's premier online subscription chess service, is again participating in a charity event featuring the world's #1 ranked chess player, Vishwanathan Anand. The World Rapid Chess Champion and former FIDE World Chess Champion is also a champion of causes closer to his heart. The Indian ace is a spokesperson for Vidyasgar, a non-profit organization that strives for inclusion of children with autism and cerebral palsy (http://www.vidyasagar.co.in).

ICC is auctioning off fifteen seats in a simultaneous exhibition with Anand (search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZinternetchessclub), which will take place on Saturday, April 21st, starting at 12:00pm ET (16:00pm GMT; 18:00pm CET). This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for chess enthusiasts from around the world to not only play the world #1, but also at the same time play their part in a fun-filled challenging day in aid of the charity.

"Coming to Vidyasagar is a very special feeling," said Anand. "It is a place where behind a child's laughter there is a story. Our responsibility is to make each of these stories have a happy ending. Cerebral palsy by itself is a complex problem, and each child's condition is a unique challenge. I would like to thank the ICC for joining forces with us once again. As a company, they have shown it is not just the bottom line, but a child's smile that could make all the difference.

"For me, it is a personal dream to see these children smile brighter -- and this is the best move we as a chess community can make together to help them."

In 2005, Anand and the ICC raised $7,000 for Vidyasagar. Those funds provided wheelchairs for 65 children and other orthoric aids that were urgently needed. This year, we're looking to raise $10,000 or more. "We are extremely honored to again join forces with the world #1, Vishwanathan Anand, in what promises to be a very successful day," said ICC president Joel Berez. "I'm sure our members will not only show their goodwill but will be thrilled to watch all the action unfold. Moreover, we believe that a charitable event such as this should be open to all within the chess community." Participation in this event is open to ICC members and nonmembers alike.

All proceeds raised on the day will go to Vidyasagar, a non-profit organization, the children of which have left a special message at YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqsPu36RTns

For further information on this fundraiser, see http://www.chessclub.com/resources/event/anand07/

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