Chess talent and has interest in chess, it is very easy to get into top 50 (or even higher) in rating in the USA without playing for years. My guess is that play for a year or two during high school years will get there.
I see many kids playing tourney every week since 5~6 years old and still at 2000 or below when reaching 16~17. He or he could have done a lot of other things such as sports with all the time spent on chess boards.
I see many kids playing tourney every week since 5~6 years old and still at 2000 or below when reaching 16~17. He or he could have done a lot of other things such as sports with all the time spent on chess boards.