Kayin Barclay joins Drum Majors!

Chicago’s Kayin Barclay has been chasing the U.S. National Master’s title for the past couple of years. During the 13th FIDE Invitational, he had a strong score and eclipsed the magical 2200 barrier. Now at 2205, the 18-year old will enter Morehouse College and will be able to add yet another accomplishment to his chess resume.

Barclay joins the ranks of African-American players to attain National Master during his teen years. Others are Walter Harris, Leroy Muhammad, Howard Daniels, Elvin Wilson, K.K. Karanja, R.O. Mitchell, Shearwood McClelland, William Lopes and recently-added, Kassa Korley (youngest ever). Barclay will forever join the roll of those having reaching Master-level chess. He will also be listed as a “Drum Major” on The Chess Drum’s list of chess masters.