daniel chigunwe
Takudzwa Chitsiga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ALL is set for the third edition of the annual Crystal Candy Chess Championships, which will start from the zonal competitions this weekend.
The initial stages are expected to see over 450 school-going players from across the country’s 10 provinces.
Crystal Candy Chess Championships promises to be a thrilling showcase of wit and genius as the best young chess players from schools across the nation compete for the ultimate glory of their schools and provinces.
Sponsored by Crystal Candy Zimbabwe, the tournament will begin from cluster level, where schools within the same locality or educational district compete against one another.
The stage is crucial as it brings together budding chess players, many of whom are participating in their first formal chess competitions, encouraging teamwork and introducing students to the thrill of competitive chess.
After the clusters, the tournament will have the zonal competitions which provides an opportunity for players to test their skills against a wider pool of competitors.
It will be the district competitions scheduled between February 21 and 28, with each district agreeing on a single day within this range that is ideal for their matches. The provincial finals will be held between March 3 and 8. It is at this stage that the tournament reaches its peak, as winners will progress to the national finals set for March 15 and 16. The national championships do not only give winners some bragging rights but, also secure the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe in international chess tournaments. This year the finals will be held in Manicaland, with traveling days scheduled between March 14 and 17.
Online Reporter