"I started when I was five, and grew up playing against adults and against men most of the time." — Judit Polgar

I had some superstitions when I was little. And a winning pen is always a good thing to have.

I started playing chess in the Eighties, but it is only recently that people have begun to appreciate the importance of physical exercise for chess players. You really need to be in good condition to be able to sit for four to six hours and still maintain your concentration.

I do hope in Ireland children in schools can experience the richness of chess and it's positive effects.

I'm convinced that if my goal hadn't been to be in the absolute best category I can, I would not have been able to be for 26 years the number one in the ladies' category.