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Takudzwa Chitsiga Sports Reporter
ZAMBIAN International Master, Gillian Bwalya, is expected to bring in the much-needed competition to local players when they take part in the 2021 Zimbabwe Open Chess tournament at Joina City this weekend.
Bwalya will battle it out for the US$1 000 first prize with the local players in the Open section, which is the main category.
The Zambian is likely to face competition from South Africa-based Zimbabwean International Master, Rodwell Makoto, who has confirmed his participation.
Makoto is expected to compete together with reigning Namibia Open and Zimbabwe National Chess Champion, Jemusse Zhemba.
Also expected is Spencer Masango who is still basking in the glory of winning the Botswana International Open last week and will shift focus to win on home soil.
The women’s section has a first prize of US$800 and the third category is the development Under-16 section.
A number of big local names are expected to register before deadline day today.
Minerva Risk Advisors, one of the biggest insurance entities in Zimbabwe, have injected a total of US$10 000 for this prestigious event.
The Zimbabwe Open Chess Tournament is being sponsored by Minerva Risk Advisors while New World Property Managers have availed the entire Fourth Floor of Joina City.
Zimbabwe Chess Federation president, Collen Tongowona, said they are excited about this event and they are working hard to see that it is a success.
“It has been a difficult time for sports due to the Covid-19 pandemic which is the reason why a few tournaments have been held. It’s great to see chess events being hosted and as a federation it gives us satisfaction to see our sport thrive.
”We are grateful to Minerva Risk Advisors for coming through to be the anchor sponsor of the Zimbabwe Open Chess Tournament and a Platinum Partner of Zimbabwe Chess Federation, which is our highest level of partnership in supporting chess. This is the beginning of great things for chess in Zimbabwe.
“We have more Platinum Partners who support us, which are Pulse Pharmaceuticals, Crystal Candy Zimbabwe and finally New World Property Managers, the custodians of Joina City. All that we are waiting for now is to see who shall walk away with the top prize,” said Tongowona.
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