Online Reporter
Laura Maposa
Youth Interactive Correspondent
MOSI-OA-TUNYA and Dominican Convent high schools were crowned the Crystal Candy Secondary School chess champions at Errymaple Group of Schools in Zvishavane last weekend.
The four-day tournament had several secondary and primary schools in the Midlands town and it was Matabeleland South’s MOSI-oa-Tunya who got the better of powerhouse Cheziya Gokwe High, who finished second.
Cheziya, who have been doing well in most school’s tournaments, were outplayed by a defient Mosiao-Tunya as Maryward came on third to claim the bronze medal.
Dominican Convent Harare, who has been dominating the girls secondary section, managed to amass 38,5 points and were ahead of Mpopoma who was second on 31,5 points.
The top three was completed by Maryward High who had 27,5 points while in the boys primary school, CZM of Gokwe in Midlands Province, dominated the proceedings to win gold medals on an impressive 32,5 points.
CZM was ahead of Budiriro 4 and Budiriro 3 primary schools who counted each other out after finishing on 29 points after the nine rounds.
Last year winners Gwehava, also of Midlands, finished a distant eighth position.
The girls section was won by Budiriro 3, who were outstanding as they took to the podium after getting the better of Haig Park and Budiriro 4, who finished second and third respectively.
Zimbabwe Chess Federation president Todd Mapingire was impressed by the level of competition exhibited at the finals. He also lauded Crystal Candy Zimbabwe for their continued support of the sport in the country.
“We are grateful for this tournament which serves as a platform to foster chess talent and promote healthy competition among students.
“We are truly grateful to Crystal Candy Zimbabwe for their invaluable support in making the tournament a resounding success and commitment to growing chess in Zimbabwe.
“Their commitment to nurturing young chess talent is commendable and aligns with ZCF’s vision of promoting chess as a sport and educational tool.
“As ZCF we look forward to future editions of this prestigious schools’ event, which will undoubtedly continue to encourage the growth of chess talent in the country,” said Mapingire.
Crystal candy representative Jimmy Psillos said they are happy with the partnership with ZCF and are looking forward to more tournaments of the same magnitude.
“On behalf of Crystal Candy, it is both an honour and a pleasure to have successfully hosted the Crystal Candy National Chess Finals, hosted proudly under the auspices of the Zimbabwe Chess Federation.
“At Crystal Candy, we believe in nurturing talent, supporting excellence, and inspiring the next generation of champions. Chess embodies these values — discipline, creativity, patience, and the power of strategic thinking. These are the same qualities that drive success in life, business, and community leadership.
To every player here today: whether you walk away with a trophy or not, you are already a winner. You have earned your place at the finals through hard work and dedication. Your presence here is a celebration of your potential, and we are proud to stand behind you,” said Psillos.
To the organizers, volunteers, and the Zimbabwe Chess Federation — we extend our deepest gratitude for your commitment to developing the sport of chess in Zimbabwe. Your tireless work makes events like these possible.
