Let's make this birthday one to remember.

61 years old (Born on March 11, 1964)

Happy Birthday, Joel Benjamin! May your day be filled with more joy than the moment you clinched the title of U.S. Grandmaster of the Year back in 1998—when chessboards trembled at your approach and pawns whispered legends about your moves.

From dominating tournaments to inspiring countless players, you've proven that age is just a number—but rating points are forever. Here's hoping this year brings you as many victories off the board as on it, and may every cake slice come with an extra helping of checkmate-worthy sweetness. Keep making brilliant moves; after all, you're still our favorite grandmaster!