Remembering beloved chess grandmaster, Bay Area native Daniel Naroditsky

Daniel Naroditsky, a prominent chess grandmaster from the Bay Area, died unexpectedly at 29, leaving a significant void in the chess community. His family announced his passing just two days after he shared a YouTube video announcing his return to creating instructional content. Alex Robins, Chess Director at the Mechanics' Institute, expressed that Naroditsky's death represents a "huge loss," recalling how he played at the club about a year ago. Known for his unique style and engaging personality, Naroditsky gained fame for winning games while blindfolded and was recognized for his contributions to chess literature, having authored books at ages 15 and 17. He won the under-12 world championship in 2007 and became a grandmaster at 17, inspiring many with his talent and humility.

Tributes from friends and colleagues emphasize his ability to make chess feel warm and relatable, transforming it into a sport that resonated with many. He was fondly remembered at the Mechanics' Institute, which houses a chair dedicated to him. His loss is deeply felt within both the local and global chess communities.